J WM. HUNT, 4 5 JEWELER AM flPTICM, \ K 7 WaST Main St., J 5 UNIONTOWN, PA, I CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY BOUGHT WITH THE INCOME OF THE SAGE ENDOWMENT FUND GIVEN IN 1891 BY HENRY WILLIAMS SAGE Cornell University Library F 159U58 H12 History of Uniontown : the county seat o olln 3 1924 028 864 142 All books are subject to recall after two weeks Olin/Kroch Library DATE DUE ^T'WT^ ^ ^U*f* h^ D^^^imi' GAYLC )RD PRINTED IN UJSJ>. Cornell University Library The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://archive.org/details/cu31924028864142 ^p "^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^1 1^ i^H ^' ' J^^^l ^ji^l^^t^tJ^ ^2N^^/^(J^^y^ A History of Uniontown THE COUNTY SEAT OF FAYETTE COUNTY PENNSYLVANIA By James Hadden Author of Washington's and Braddock's Expeditions 1913 Copyright, 1913, By JAMES HADDEN, Uniontown, Pa. lift i) PREFACE. IN presenting the following history of Uniontown to a reading public it is with the belief that such a work is desirable and that it will be given a cordial reception. Every town has a history peculiar to itself, and that Union- town has is eminently so. Should the founders of this town be permitted once more to walk its streets and view the changes that have transpired since their day they certainly would be convinced that they had builded far better than they knew or had fondly dreamed. The plan adopted in compiling this history is to take the reader a stroll over the town, locating the lots as originally laid out by the two Quaker brothers, Henry and Jacob Beeson, de- scribing the early buildings that occupied the same and reciting many reminiscences connected with the early residents. The data for this work has been collected from the public records, old newspapers, tradition, old residents and from every other available source. The author very gratefully acknowledges the many cour- tesies extended to him by the prominent citizens of the town, and for the interest they have manifested in the work, and that it may prove to be both entertaining and instructive is his most earnest hope. CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. PAGES. Geology — Prehistoric Race — Indians — Penn's Grant — Controversy with Virginia — Conflict between the French and English for Supremacy in the Missis- sippi Valley 1-''' CHAPTER H. Frontier Settlements — Advent of the Beesons — Found- ing of Uniontown — Erection of Fayette County — Incorporation of the Borough — List of Burgesses.. 8-20 CHAPTER III. East Main Street, Both Sides, from Redstone Creek to the Court House, Comprising Lots Nos. 1 to 20, in- clusive 31-35 CHAPTER IV. Main Street, South Side, from Meadow Alley to Morgantown Street, Comprising Lots Nos. 21 to 34, inclusive 36-75 CHAPTER V. East Main Street, North Side, from Court Street to North ieeson Avenue, Comprising Lots Nos. 35 to 42, inclusive 76-103 CHAPTER VI. West Main Street, North Side, from Middle Alley, now North Beeson Avenue, to Pittsburgh Street, Com- prising Lots Nos. 43 to 46, inclusive 104-123 CHAPTER VII. Jacob's Addition — Main Street, South Side, from Morgantown Street Westward to the County Home, Comprising Lots Nos. 1 to 3, and 15 to 20 inclusive . . 124-158 iv Contents. PAGES. CHAPTER VIII. West Main Street, North Side, from Pittsburgh Street West, Comprising Lots Nos. 4 to 8, and 31 to 33, inclusive, in Jacob's Addition — The Old Beeson Mill 159-300 CHAPTER IX. East Main Street, East of the Eastern Bridge, Compris- ing Lots Nos. 1 to 10, in Henry's Addition 301-316 CHAPTER X. Cheat or Morgantown Street, East Side, Comprising Lots Nos. 1 to 30, inclusive, in Henry's Addition 317-356 CHAPTER XI. Cheat or Morgantown Street, West Side, Comprising Lots Nos. 1 to 16, inclusive, in Jacob's Second Addi- tion, and Lots Nos. 31 to 30, inclusive, in Henry's Addition 357-388 CHAPTER XII. Peter Street — South Street — Mill Street — Berkeley Street — Union Street — Penn Street — Beeson Ave- nue — South Mount Vernon Avenue — Gallatin Avenue 389-315 CHAPTER XIII. Fayette Street 316-335 CHAPTER XIV. Market or Church Street, Beginning at Morgantown Street 336-357 CHAPTER XV. Pittsburgh Street 358-365 CHAPTER XVI. Additions to the Town 366-372 Contents. v PAGES. CHAPTER XVII. Establishment of the Courts of Fayette County — Her Judges — Her First County Officers — Disbarment of Eight Members of the Fayette County Bar — Diffi- culties with Judge Baird — Fayette County Court Houses— Her Jails— The Bar of Fayette County ... 373-4:17 CHAPTER XVIII. The Postal Service— The National Road— The Tele- graph Service — The Railroad Service — The Trolly Service — The Telephone Service 418-441 CHAPTER XIX. The Banks of Uniontown 442-456 CHAPTER XX. The Press 457-474 CHAPTER XXI. The Schools 475-482 CHAPTER XXII. Old Madison College 483-518 CHAPTER XXIII. Old Military Companies — War of the Revolution — War of 1812— War with Mexico— War of the Rebellion- War with Spain — Fourth of July Celebrations 519-565 CHAPTER XXIV. The Fire Department — Markets — Public Square — Mu- nicipal Building 566-584 CHAPTER XXV. The Whisky Insurrection — David G. Blythe and his Panorama of the Allegheny Mountains — Agricul- tural Exhibitions 585-608 vi Content's. PAGES. CHAPTER XXVI. The Colored Folks— The Cholera Scourge— Old Political Campaigns 609-633 CHAPTER XXVII. Dr. John F. Braddee— The Great Mail Robbery— Dr. William Purnell 633-638 CHAPTER XXVIII. Old Graveyards and Cemeteries 639-686 CHAPTER XXIX. Some of the Former Business and Professional Men of the Town — Industries and Utilities — Mills — Iron Works — The Coke Industry — Gas — Water — Light- ing the Town — Fayette County Fire Insurance Company 687-707 CHAPTER XXX. Churches — Great Bethel Baptist — Methodist Episcopal — First Presbyterian — Central Presbyterian, now Second Presbyterian — Cumberland Presbyterian, now Third Presbyterian — Methodist Protestant — Saint Peter's Protestant Episcopal — Saint Paul's A. M. E. — Saint John's Roman Catholic — John Wesley A. M. E. Zion — First German Baptist Brethren — First Brethren — Church of the Brethren — Salvation Army — Mount Olive — Minerd Chapel or Second Methodist Protestant — Saint Paul's Lutheran — Cen- tral Christian — Saint Mary's Slavonic Roman Catholic — Temple Israel — Mount Vernon Methodist Episcopal — Mount Rose Baptist — Tree of Life — Saint Joseph's Polish Roman Catholic — Saint John the Baptist Greek — Union — Hungarian Presby- terian — Presbyterian Slavish Mission 708-742 CHAPTER XXXI. Distinguished Visitors — General George Washington — General Lafayette — Honorable John C. Calhoun — James Monroe — General Andrew Jackson — Jennie Lind Contents. vii PAGES. — P. T. Barnum — John C. Fremont — ^James K. Polk — General William Henry Harrison — Henry Clay — General Sam Houston — Thomas H. Benton — General Winfield Scott — James Buchanan — General Zachary Taylor — Abraham Lincoln — John J. Crittinden — General Pillow — Davy Crockett — Santa Anna — John Quincy Adams 743-774 CHAPTER XXXH. Personal Sketches — Honorable Andrew Stewart — Colonel Alexander McClean — General Ephraim Douglass — Dr. Solomon Drown — Henry Clay Dean — " Crazy Billy " 775-807 CHAPTER XXXin. Secret Orders — A Masonic Lodge in 1802 — Laurel Lodge No. 315, F. & A. M.— Fayette Lodge No. 328, F. & A. M.— Union Royal Arch Chapter No. 165— Madison Lodge No. 419, K. of P.— Rising Star Lodge No. 533, L O. O. F.— Tunnaleuka Lodge No. 365, I. O. O. F. — Royal Arcanum Council No. 388 — Saint Omer's Commandery No. 3, Knights Templar — Uniontown Commandery No. 49, Knights Templar — Fort Neces- sity Lodge No. 245, L O. O. F. — Fayette Encamp- ment, No. 80, L O. O. F.— Laurel Lodge No. 9, L O. O. S. M.— Independent Order of B'nai B'rith, 471— Royal Order of Lions, Den No. 600 — Blue Lodge, Knights of Honor, No. 2614 — Protective Home Circle— Red Men— B. P. O. of Elks— Royal Order of Moose, No. 30 — Order of Owls, and Several Others — The Uniontown Hospital — The Old Henry Beeson Mansion 808-818 CHAPTER XXXIV. Uniontown's Centennial — Uniontown's Old Home Coming 819-834 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. PAGES. James Hadden Frontispiece Henry Beeson, Founder of Uniontown 16 Beeson's Town Lottery 48 Uniontown as laid out by Henry and Jacob Beeson 64 East Main Street, 1840 96 The Dawson Law Building 113 Jacob Beeson, Founder of Jacob's Addition and Jacob's Second Addition 144 The Thompson-Ruby Building 160 The Old White Swan Tavern 192 The Old Round Corner 308 The Old Beeson Mill 340 F. M. Semans' Japanese Garden 356 The Greenland House 388 The Old Episcopal Church 304 The First Presbyterian Church 336 The Fayette County Court House 353 Judge Thomas H. Baird 384 Judge John Bouvier 400 Bank Note of Union Bank 433 The First National Bank Building 448 The Old West School House 480 Uniontown High School Building 496 Jack Beeson's Medal 538 The Old Union Fire Engine 544 The Old Market House 576 The Municipal Building at Uniontown, Pa 593 John Hollcroft or " Tom the Tinker " 634 Dr. William Purnell 640 Hon. Albert Gallatin 673 Hon. Andrew Stewart 688 General Ephraim Douglass 730 Dr. Solomon Drown 736 "Crazy Billy" 768 The Old Henry Beeson Mansion 784 viii CHAPTER I. Geology — Prehistoric Race — Indians — Penn's Grant — Con- troversy WITH Virginia — Conflict Between the French and English for Supremacy in the Mississippi Valley. Uniontown lies three miles west of the western base of the Allegheny mountains and 79 degrees. 44 minutes west longitude, and 39 degrees 54 minutes north latitude and at the base of the court house is 999 feet above mean tide of the Atlantic Ocean. There is unmistakable evidence that the site of Uniontown has undergone marvelous geological changes in past epochs. From a seething mass of molten rock, through the varied strata, each reveals the wonderful changes that have transpired ages before vegetable or animal life was possible on this planet. Epoch after epoch has slowly stalked the earth, each leaving its stately steppings indelibly impressed upon the petrified strata by which the geologist is enabled to unfold a most marvelous history. When the great Appalachian range reared its mighty form from the slumbering deep and rolled back the waves of the Atlantic to the east, and the floods of the great lakes and gulf to the west, barrier after barrier was forced to give way, leaving deposits of marine fossils and water-worn stones in their wake. Excavations display a subsoil of gravel and pebbles that have been worn by the floods from the mountain side and have been deposited in the valley below. Beneath these gravel beds are the stratified rocks, the sandstone quarry beds, the marine fossil beds, the Uniontown coal bed, the latter being an inferior vein of coal of about three feet in thickness and confined principally to the vicinity of the town, disappearing to the west. Beneath this is shale, then the Great Limestone bed which averages eight feet in thickness, beneath which lies the Sewickley coal vein. The Pittsburgh or nine foot vein of coking coal lies some four hundred feet below the surface, and the oil producing or Seneca shale lies several thousand feet under Uniontown. Prehistoric Race and American Indian. That this country at a remote age was inhabited by a pre- historic race much superior in prowess and intellect to the 2 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. American Indian there is incontrovertible evidence. Their works of defense and implements of war which have been found indicate that this early race must have been numerous and to have occupied the land for many ages, and the repeated growths of forest trees that have occupied the site of their mounds and fortifications attest the fact that their builders have long since passed from the face of the earth, but when and by what means is altogether conjectural. These Mound Builders, as they were called, it appears, entered this country near the gulf, as their settlements there were the most numerous and grew scarcer as they passed north and east. Their remains are found as far north as West Vir- ginia, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa and Nebraska. In some of these states they had large towns and carried on weav- ing, spinning and other trades. It may be they disappeared by a scourge. When the white man first set his foot upon the shores of the new continent he found it inhabited by a race of beings whom he erroneously supposed to be natives of India, to rectify which the name of the new race was called the American Indian. This race, like the preceding one, having no written lan- guage, little of its history could be learned except by tradition; but from the abundance of the implements of war and of the chase that have been found, this race too must have been numerous or have occupied the country for ages before the ad- vent of the white man. A confederacy of Indian tribes known as the Five Nations, or as the French called them, the Iroquois, was composed of the Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida and Mohawk tribes, all occupying lands within the state of New York, to which was subsequently added the Tuscaroras tribe of Virginia, after which the confederacy was known as that of the Six Nations, which by their combined strength conquered many other tribes and re- duced them to vassals, among which were the Shawanese and Delawares. These, by permission of the Six Nations, roamed the valley of the Monongahela and its tributaries in quest of game and fish, and here located their camps, and it was with these that the pioneer settlers west of the Allegheny mountains came in contact, and against whose incursions they were obliged to defend themselves. It is estimated that the whole population of the various In- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 3 dian tribes inhabiting North America at the time of the advent of the white man was not more than a million; there are now approximately 300,000 on the reservations of the United States, of whom not more than 36,000 are pure-bloods who adhere to their primitive mode of life. Penn's Grant. The Crown of England was indebted to Admiral William Penn for services rendered his country and also for money loaned to the amount of 16,000 pounds, to liquidate which Charles II, on the 4th day of March, 1681, granted unto the son, William Penn, a charter for a tract of land on the new continent, which he named Pennsylvania. This tract was to extend from the Delaware river westward five degrees of longi- tude, and from twelve miles distant northward from New Castle, Delaware, unto the forty-third degree of north latitude, and bounded on the south by a circle drawn at twelve miles distant from New Castle northward and westward unto the be- ginning of the fortieth degree of north latitude. Charles the First had previously granted unto Cecilius Calvert (Lord Baltimore), June 20, 1633, letters patent for a tract of land in America lying under the fortieth degree of north latitude, and running from the Delaware river westward unto a true meridian of the first fountain of the Potomac. It will be observed that this grant to Lord Baltimore was for all the territory lying under the fortieth degree of north latitude, while that to William Penn was limited on the south by the beginning of the said fortieth degree, thus making an overlap of one whole degree of latitude, which would now include all the state of Delaware and much of the built portion of the city of Philadelphia. This vagueness of title gave rise to the dispute between the proprietories of Pennsylvania and the heirs of Lord Baltimore until the 10th day of May, 1732, when an adjustment of their differences was made, and controversy was suspended until July 4, 1760, when the former agreement was ratified. The services of Messrs. Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon, celebrated mathematicians and surveyors of London, were engaged, who arrived in Philadelphia November 15, 1763, and under whose able jurisdiction, the following year, the line was run and permanently marked, and peace between the two provinces secured. 4 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. French and English. While England lay dormant as to her interests west of the Alleghenies France was active in establishing her forts, missions and trading posts throughout the Mississippi valley, establish- ing her claims by prior explorations and settlements. To an- ticipate this action on the part of France a company was formed in 1748, known as the Ohio Land Company. Among the mem- bers of this company were Robert Dinwiddie, governor of Virginia, Lawrence and Augustine Washington, brothers of George Washington and John Hamburg, a wealthy merchant of London. This company secured a royal grant for a tract of five hundred thousand acres of land to be located on the Ohio river, and Governor Dinwiddie was also authorized to use the militia of the state to secure the company in its rights. Major George Washington was sent as an envoy to inquire into the intentions of the French in penetrating the Ohio valley. The French commandant informed Washington that the French had not only come to stay, but further, intended to eject every English trader from the Ohio valley. Immediate steps were taken to establish an English fort at the Forks, but the French descended the Allegheny river in such numbers that the un- finished fort was surrendered without a blow. The following spring a small force was sent out under the command of Major Washington to recover, if possible, what had been lost at the Forks, and upon the hills of Fayette county he encountered a French force under the command of Ensign Jumonville. Here the first conflict at arms took place in the great French and Indian war, and which was known in Europe as the Seven Years' war. Here Washington fought his first battle, and from here arose the star of Washington to attract the wonder and the admiration of the world. Although victory crowned this first engagement, about five weeks after, Washington was com- pelled to capitulate to a superior French and Indian force under the. command of de Villiers, a half brother to Jumonville. The following year General Edward Braddock was sent over to recover what had been lost to the French. He had under his command two regiments of English regulars to which were added several companies of provincials. He met a most dis- astrous defeat where the city of Braddock now stands, and upon the retreat of the remnant of his army the French flag floated in triumph from the Alleghenies to the Mississippi. This History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 5 triumphal possession, however, was of short duration, for in three years after, General John Forbes advanced on Fort Du- quesne with an army, upon the approach of which the French exploded their magazines, set fire to the buildings and fled by water and by land, leaving the Ohio valley in the possession of the English. Controversy with Virginia. Ambiguity in Penn's charter gave rise to a controversy with Virginia as it had with Maryland. The Forks of the Ohio was regarded as a stragetic point by both the French and the English for supremacy in the Ohio valley. The proprietories of Pennsylvania learning that the authorities of Virginia were preparing to build a fort at the Forks to repel an expected invasion of the French, instructed Governor Hamilton to assist in the undertaking, but at the same time exacting from Virginia an acknowledgment that such action would not prejudice the rights of the Pennsylvania pro- prietories. This appears to have been the first open declaration of the claims of the two commonwealths for the territory west of the Alleghenies. The controversy of jurisdiction over the territory west of the mountains thus begun, lasted, with more or less animation, frequently to the verge of hostility and blood- shed, until in June, 1780, when the two colonies ratified an agreement by which the boundary controversy was closed. Virginia had insisted that the western line of Maryland be extended due north to the fortieth degree of north latitude, thence along that line due west to five degrees of longitude com- puted from the Delaware. By compliance with this proposition Pennsylvania would have lost to Virginia a parallelogram 55.2 miles in length and 19.3 miles in width, including the historic spots of Washington's first battle field; the grave of Jumonville, the first officer who fell in the initial conflict between the French and English in the struggle for supremacy west of the Alleghenies; the site of Fort Necessity where Washington made his only surrender to a foe; and the grave of General Braddock, who met his defeat at the battle of the Monongahela, in his attempt to cap- ture Fort Duquesne, and would have thrown the site of Union- town seven and a half miles within her borders. This proposi- tion was rejected by Pennsylvania. Virginia always contended that the western line of Pennsyl- 6 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. vania would fall fifty miles east of the Forks of the Ohio and proposed that the line be run as follows: from the northwest corner of Maryland to Braddock's road ; by it to the Great Cross- ings of the Youghiogheny ; down that river to the Chestnut Ridge mountain ; along its crest to Greenlick Run branch of Jacob's creek; by the road and its continuation towards Pitts- burg to the Bullock Pens (a little north of the present site of Wilkinsburg), and thence by a straight line to the mouth of Plum creek on the Allegheny river, thus reserving unto herself all the valuable part of Western Pennsylvania. This proposi- tion was also promptly rejected by Pennsylvania. It will be remembered that Mason and Dixon having ex- tended their line from the northwest corner of Maryland to the third crossing of Dunkard creek without any authority from Virginia, that province did not recognize the line as the boun- dary of her jurisdiction, but continued all the while acting on the aggressive while Pennsylvania was acting on the defensive and in the meantime trying to hold jurisdiction west of the mountains. Notwithstanding Pennsylvania had established her courts of justice west of the mountains in 1773, Dr. John Connolly, a shrimp and willing dupe and cringing tool of Lord Dunmore, was sent to Fort Pitt in 1774, took possession of the fort and changed its name to that of Fort Dunmore, and issued his proclamation calling the militia together. For this act of im- perialism Arthur St. Clair, then a magistrate of Westmoreland county, issued a warrant and had him committed to the jail at Hannastown. He was soon released on bail, but returned in March with both civil and military power, and with one hundred and fifty armed men, arrested the justices of the Westmoreland court and sent them under guard to Staunton, Virginia ; released the prisoners and committed other acts befitting only a tyrant. At the mutterings of the Revolutionary war Dunmore skulked aboard an English man-of-war and his cringing cur followed. Augusta county, Virginia, was erected in 1738 and included all the territory west of the Blue Ridge mountains, the western part of which acquired the name of West Augusta district from the fact of its remote western location. Virginia's next move was to divide this West Augusta dis- trict into three distinct counties, to take effect in December, 1776. These counties were named Ohio, Monongalia and Yoho- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 7 gania; much of the former two and nearly all of the last was composed of Pennsylvania territory. The last took in what is now the county seats of Washington, Fayette, Westmoreland and Allegheny counties, and under this arrangement, civil and military authority was exercised from 1776 to 1780; but upon the completion of the Mason and Dixon line it was found that the greater part of Yohogania county fell within the limits of Pennsylvania, and what was left of it was absorbed by Ohio county, and Yohogania became extinct. The court for Monongalia county was held in a shop on the land of Theopilus Phillips in Springhill township ; that of Ohio, at Black's cabin near West Liberty, and that of Yohogania on the plantation of Andrew Heath, on the western bank of the Monongahela river, about where the line of Washington and Allegheny counties strike that river. Thus bitter contentions continued until a commission representing the two contending provinces met at Baltimore and on August 31, 1779, reached the agreement that the Mason and Dixon line should be extended to the distance of five degrees westward from the Delaware and this should be the southern boundary of Pennsylvania, and that a meridian drawn from the western extremity thereof should be the western limit forever. Thus ended the boundary contro- versy that had been waging so long between these two sister provinces. It remained yet to run and mark the line left un- finished by Mason and Dixon to the southwest corner. This, however, was done in 1782, and in the fall of 1784, after the most exacting and scientific manner then known, the perma- nent stone was set, and in 1786, the western boundary was finished to Lake Erie. CHAPTER II. Frontier Settlements — Advent of the Beesons — Founding of Uniontown — Erection of Fayette County — Incorporation of THE Borough — List of Burgesses. During the time the proprietories of Pennsylvania were contepding for their rights with Cecilius Calvert and the prov- ince of Virginia there were other important matters transpiring west of the mountains. What is now the territory of Fayette county became the home of the first white settlers in the Monon- gahela valley. Wendell Brown and his two sons, Maunus and Adam, who settled here in 1751 or '53, and Christopher Gist who followed a year later, were the pioneer settlers west of the Allegheny mountains. From this time forward immigration began to flow into the Monongahela valley, and by 1768, some one hundred and fifty families, comprising some eight hundred souls, had found new homes in the Redstone settlement. This caused the proprietories some anxiety lest it cause an uprising on the part of the Indians whose claims to this part of the com- monwealth had not as yet been extinguished. Commissioners were sent to warn the settlers off, and threatened those who re- fused to obey the warning with dire punishment, even death. Some removed but soon returned, not fearing an uprising of the Indians. At a council held at Fort Stanwix, N. Y., in the fall of 1768, between the proprietories of Pennsylvania and the Six Nations the Indian claims to all the southwestern portion of the prov- ince was purchased, thus giving rise to the name " The New Purchase " to this section of the state. The title from the In- dians being thus secured, a land office was opened in Phila- delphia on April 3, 1769, and titles were entered on the terms of five pounds sterling per hundred acres, and one penny per acre, per annum, quit rent. This quit rent was soon abolished by law. At the same time Virginia was issuing titles in the same terri- tory, but principally west of the Monongahela, at ten shillings per hundred acres. These titles, however, were considered valid by Pennsylvania, and within the first year after the opening of the land office 3,200 applications for land were filed, and for four or five years the tide of immigration was more or less steady. , History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 9 Advent of the Beesons and the Founding of Uniontown. When the prow of the good ship Kent, bearing her precious burden of 230 souls, plowed the waters of the Delaware in 1677, she bore to the shores of America some of the ancestry of the founders of Uniontown. Later, three brothers, Richard, Edward and William Beeson, emigrated from Lancashire, England, and landed at Baltimore in the year 1682, and vested lands in New Castle county, Delaware, now a part of the city of Wilmington. William soon returned to England. Richard, a grandson of the emigrant Richard, settled near the site of Martinsburg, Virginia, and erected a mill on Tuscarora creek, and here he was sur- rounded with the comforts of a refined home. His wife was Ann Brown and they were the parents of nine children, two of whom, Henry and Jacob, became the founders of Uniontown. Henry Beeson was born near the present site of Martins- burg, Virginia, May 19, 1743, and in 1765 he was married to Mary Martin, a daughter of William Martin. He followed the occupation of farming until he concluded to cast his lot in the new settlement west of the mountains. In the spring of 1768 a small family might have been seen silently wending their way along the Braddock road with a few pack horses loaded with blacksmith tools, bar iron, salt, dry goods, etc., together with a few articles of household goods as were essential to housekeeping in a new settlement. The leader of this little company, whose elastic step indicated the vigor of early manhood, could readily be distinguished by his garb as one of whose Christian faith was that of the Quaker belief. In the rear rode his faithful companion in whose bosom slept a babe of but a few months. Every step of this historic route bore reminders of the terrible disaster that had befallen the little army which had but a few years before traversed it. The rude bridges that had been thrown across the mountain streams were yet in place. The embankments forming the first battle- field of George Washington were still undisturbed. The heavy wheel-tracks were yet plainly visible. The dark sediment still remained in the beautiful spring where Colonel Dunbar had thrown his powder, and destroyed his ammunition after the de- feat of General Braddock, and the whole route lay strewn with military trappings lost or cast away by the retreating army. The echo of the terrible war whoop of the savage and the crack 10 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. of the deadly rifle have scarcely died away where now reigns the stillness of death. Upon reaching the crest of the mountains overlooking the beautiful Monongahela valley, a panoramic view of surpassing beauty lies before these delighted travelers. A short distance to the north is seen the little column of blue smoke floating above the Gist settlement. Away in the distance lies the settlement of Colonel William Crawford, a former neighbor, while still more to the west, shut out by the descending sky, floats the flag of protection over the little garrison at Redstone Old Fort or Fort Burd. More to the south lies the settlement of the Browns, while here and there the curling smoke locates the humble cabin of a frontier settler. This beautiful valley, so recently the scene of carnage and bloodshed, and overrun by scalping parties of savages marking their way with death and devastation, now lies as calm as the sleeping infant. A hasty glance over this grand view is all that time will allow. His heart bounds with delight as he knows that his journey will soon be at an end, and the eyes of the weary wife fill with tears of joy as she contemplates spending the night under the sheltering roof of the hospitable Gists, where before the sparkling backlog they expect to relate the incidents of their journey. If ever any one received a hearty welcome, Henry Beeson and his family were the recipients of such the day they arrived at the Gist settlement, and doubtless here they made their home until a location should be made on which to establish their home, which in those days consumed but little time. He soon selected a tract of 355 acres of land lying immediately west of what is now Morgantown street, and extending westward as far as the residence of the late John Gilmore. He selected as the site of his log house the beautiful location of the present residence of Mrs. Lenora T. Niccolls on West Main street. On this he erected a one-and-a-half story log building, and in a short time after leaving the dear old home in Virginia he was snugly settled in his new location. He set to work with com- mendable zeal to clear a place for his spring planting, and his wife, with no less prudence, traded her side saddle, for which she had now little need, to a German woman for a cow for which she had immediate use. Simple indeed were the wants of these first settlers. Their diet was principally hog and hominy. Johnny cake and pone were the bread for breakfast and dinner, mush and milk was a History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, 11 staple dish for supper. Butter was an article almost unknown, as bear's oil and gravy of fried meat supplied its place. Coffee was an unknown article in the frontier cabin. The green corn was rasped for cakes and the dried corn was beaten to hominy in a stump that had been hollowed by burning out the center. Fires were lighted by means of a flint and a scorched rag as tinder. All articles of clothing from cap to moccasin were manu- factured within the household. Henry Beeson soon determined to purchase also a tract of 333 acres lying contiguous on the east for which Thomas Douthet had made application June 4, 1769, but on February 17, following, had conveyed the same to Van Swearingen and he in turn, by indorsement March 15, 1770, conveyed the same to Henry Beeson. Soon after the purchase of the Douthet tract Mr. Beeson purchased another containing 375 acres lying con- tiguous on the east of the Douthet tract upon which Thomas Hatfield had already settled. This last tract was patented to Mr. Beeson on March 37, 1786, under the name of Beesontown. The first tract taken up by Henry Beeson and on which he located his home, was entered by Henry Beeson the 14th of June, 1769, under the name of Mount Vernon. Of this tract he sold to his brother, Jacob, February 13, 1784, 251 acres, includ- ing his improvements made in 1768, and a patent bearing date of March 28, 1786, was issued direct to Jacob Beeson. Henry sold the residue of this tract, 104 acres, on the south, to William Campbell, February 13, 1788. This included the present site of the Continental No. 1 coke works. The second tract, known as the Douthet tract, was patented to Henry Beeson under the name of Mill Seat, on account of the fact that Great Redstone creek traverses it in a north- westerly direction and afforded a most excellent site for a mill. Few of the pioneer settlers had the means even if they had the site, to build a mill, hence they were few and at great distances apart. Henry Beeson decided to erect a mill and selected as the site what is now the roadway of North Gallatin avenue between Peter and Penn streets, and the court records of April sessions 1774 show that this mill was patronized for twenty miles around. A full history of this mill is given elsewhere. The establishment of a mill was a great incentive for settle- ments in the neighborhood and Mr. Beeson soon conceived the propriety of laying off a town. With this object in view, a plat 13 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. was laid off extending from Redstone creek on the east to the western limit of Mr. Beeson's tract, now Morgantown street on the west. This plat comprised two streets and fifty-four lots. Owing to an angle in the principal street, caused by the contour of the ground, it was named Elbow street, and comprised forty- seven lots, nearly all of which had a frontage of seventy-two and a half feet and ran back one hundred and fifty feet; those on the north side from the creek to and including the Central Public grounds ran back to the creek. The other street was named Peter street, in honor of a very worthy friendly Indian who then lived in the neighborhood. This latter street ran parallel with Elbow street, on the north, and comprised seven lots, all of which were on the north side of the street. To announce the fact that Mr. Beeson had laid off a plat for a town for the accommodation of settlers who wished to locate in this neighborhood, on the 4th day of July, 1776, a day most memorable to every true American, the following notices were posted at the mill and other public places : " Beeson's Town Lottery." " Will be drawn on the 30th of this instant, July, at the mill of said Beeson between the hours of 10 in the forenoon and 4 o'clock in the afternoon. The purchaser is to pay forty shillings for each Lott that contains one-quarter of an acre, and so in proportion for those that fall short or exceed, within six months from the day the lottery is drawn, also be subjugated to a ground rent of half a Dollar per annum per Lott, & to build thereon an house Twenty feet square with a Shingle Roof and a Stone or Brick Chimney, within the space of three Years from said Lottery. Also to show due order in Building and other necessary Regulations for the ease and Convenience of the Inhabitants. The subscriber Obliges himself to make the Adventurer a Title in due form as soon as Circumstances will with propriety admit, or any degree of Regulation ensue so as to Yield assurance to purchasers. A plan of the whole will be seen on the drawing day, and Tickets given out if any remain on hand, otherwise those that choose to apply may be furnished with Tickets immediately." July 4th, 1776. Henry Beeson. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 13 This mode of disposing of town lots by lottery was quite prevalent in the early settlement of the country. Instead of ex- posing them at public outcry to the highest bidder, tickets were numbered to correspond with the number of the lots and any one drawing a number would have the first opportunity to pur- chase that lot at a fixed price. An original plat still in existence, shows that the lots were numbered consecutively on the south side of Elbow street from the eastern limit to Meadow alley, opposite the court house, and comprised ten lots. Returning to the eastern limit on the north side, beginning with No. 11 and including No. 20, com- prising ten lots. Beginning at Meadow alley, on the south side of Elbow street, and running westward to now Morgantown street, included lots 31 to 34. Returning to the present site of the court house, on the north side of Elbow street, running west, included lots 35 to 47. The triangular lot between lots Nos. 20 and 35, caused by the angle in the street, with the addition of lot No. 35 was generously donated by Mr. Beeson for public purposes and was known as the Central Public Grounds, and it is on these the present court house stands. Peter street com- prised lots 48 to 54 inclusive, all on the north side of the street. This original plat gives the names of the first purchasers or drawers of lots with the corresponding number of the lot, but from some cause very few ever received deeds for the same. Deeds for lots 23, 40 and 42 are recorded to John Collins in Westmoreland county, bearing date of March 7, 1780, and the consideration as 40 shillings; two of these, however, were sub- sequently conveyed by Mr. Beeson to other parties and the deeds recorded in Fayette county. Henry Beeson subsequently laid off two additions to the original town in order, as he states, to accommodate the growing demands for lots. One of these additions comprised the lots on the east side of Morgantown street, south of Fayette street and including the old Baptist burying-ground, and those on the west side down to Foundry alley. The other comprised a number of lots on both sides of East Main street, east of Red- stone creek. These with the original plan comprised the town as Henry Beeson founded it, under the name of " The Town of Union," to distinguish it from the township of Union. Mr. Beeson never recognized the name as that of Beesontown, but 14 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. on account of his being proprietor of the mill and the founder of the town it was popularly known as Beesontown. As previously stated, few of the original purchasers or drawers of lots received deeds for the same, and Mr. Beeson changed his manner of disposing of them. The Revolutionary war and Indian invasions caused a lull in settlements west of the mountains for some time, and Mr. Beeson concluded to put the fixed price of five pounds, Pennsylvania money, on each lot with the following requirements. Each lot purchaser was to build, within two years from the date of purchase, one good substantial dwelling house of the dimensions of at least twenty feet square, with a good chimney of brick br stone, and to keep the same in good repair from time to time, otherwise the lot would revert to Henry Beeson. The purchasers were also obligated to pay to Henry Beeson, his heirs or assigns forever a yearly rental of half a Spanish milled dollar or the value thereof. The purchasers of lots were released from the ground rent by the payment of the sum of eight dollars in ad- dition to the price of the lot. It is important to note that upon gaining their independence, the American colonies established their own denomination of money, and that the Pennsylvania pound mentioned in the pur- chase of the lots in Uniontown was equal to two dollars and sixty-six and two-thirds cents, and the Spanish milled dollar took the place of the English coin. Jacob Beeson. Jacob Beeson, a brother of Henry Beeson and one of the founders of Uniontown, was born near Martinsburg, Virginia, on June 1, 1741, and was a tanner by trade. His wife was Elizabeth Hedges, a member of a distinguished family. It is related that he refused to accompany his brother, Henry, at the time of his migration to this section, but came out a year or two later and located on a tract of 351 acres which was patented to him under the name of " Pointer," April 1, 1786, adjoining that of Henry on the north, and here erected his log house just one mile west of town. Jacob soon purchased from his brother Henry, 251 acres of his Mount Vernon tract, including his im- provements made in 1768, at the price of one dollar per acre, and moved into the house built by Henry, and established a tannery at a fine spring a short distance east of his house. This History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 15 tannery he conducted for many years, and the business was quite remunerative. He then built the present Gilmore mansion on the knoll overlooking the town and affording a fine view of the mountains in the distance. Into this Mr. Beeson moved his family and here resided until his death. Jacob Beeson finding a demand for lots in the town of Union, concluded to lay off what he termed Jacob's Addition. This consisted in extending the streets already laid off by Henry as far west as Jacob's run, at the west end of the town, and comprised nine lots on the south side of Elbow street, west of Morgantown street and eight lots on the north side, and six lots on the north side of Peter street. These were of the same size and sold on the same conditions as those of the original town. Jacob Beeson subsequently concluded to lay off what he called Jacob's Second Addition, which comprised a row of lots on the west side of Cheat street, now known as Morgantown street, extending from South street to Foundry alley, from the present John T. Robinson building to the late residence of Dr. F. C. Robinson, inclusive, and also comprised four lots on the west side and nine lots on the east side of Mill street. Mr. Beeson very generously deeded to the inhabitants of Jacob's Second Addition the piece of ground included between Jacob's alley, now Arch street. South street and Strawberry alley to be devoted to any public useful purpose they may elect. On this piece of ground was erected the market house, and is now oc- cupied by the City Hall, and is mentioned elsewhere. The Erection of Fayette County. The original counties of Pennsylvania were Philadelphia, Chester and Bucks, of which the western boundaries were in- definite. On May 10, 1729, the county of Lancaster was formed from a part of Chester, and on January 37, 1750, Cumberland county was formed from the western part of Lancaster, and on March 9, 1771, Bedford county was formed from the western part of Cumberland, and on February 26, 1773, Westmoreland county was formed from the western part of Bedford: each ex- tending to the western boundary of the province, wherever that might be. The project of forming the county of Fayette from the southern part of Westmoreland was agitated as early as 1781. 16 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Washington county had already been formed from a part of Westmoreland, and to be shorn of more of her territory met with bitter opposition on the part of many of her inhabitants. The burning of Hannastown by the Indians on Saturday, July 13, 1782, gave renewed impetus to the formation of a new county, and by an act passed by the General Assembly, Septem- ber 26, 1783, Fayette county was erected from that part of Westmoreland bounded as follows: Beginning at the Monon- gahela river where Mason and Dixon's line intersects the same, thence down said river to the mouth of Speers' run, thence by a straight line to the mouth of Jacob's creek, thence by the Youghiogheny river to the forks of the same, thence up the southwest branch of said river, by a part of Bedford county, to the Mason and Dixon line, thence by said line to the Monon- gahela river aforesaid. On February 17, 1784, an act was passed by which another portion of Westmoreland, which lay east and northeast of the Youghiogheny river, was added to Fayette territory, viz., all that part of Westmoreland county beginning at the mouth of Jacob's creek, thence up the main branch of said creek to Cherry's mill, thence along the road leading to Jones' mill until the same shall intersect the line of Bedford county, thence southwestwardly by the line of Bedford county aforesaid until the same intersects the Youghiogheny river, thence down the said river to the place of beginning. The area of Fayette county is 830 square miles, or 531,200 acres, the population is given as 167,449, and the valuation as- $94,000,000. Incorporation of the Town. Uniontown was incorporated as a borough by an act of the legislature of Pennsylvania, April 4, 1796, and was com- prised within the following boundaries, to wit: Beginning at a willow bush, on the lower end of a small island in Jacob's run; thence south forty-three degrees and three quarters east, sixty- seven perches, to a white oak; thence south seventy-nine de- grees and one quarter east, one hundred and five perches and six-tenths to a post; thence north twenty-nine degrees east, sixty-eight perches and five-tenths, to a wild cherry tree ; thence north, eighty-seven degrees east, two hundred and thirty-four perches, to a white oak; thence north, three degrees west, sixty-two perches, to a white oak; thence north forty-nine de- HENRY BEESON, Founder of Uniontown. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 17 grees and a half west, one hundred and twenty-eight perches, to a stone; thence north, eighty-seven degrees west, one hundred and thirteen perches, to a white walnut on the east side of Red- stone creek; thence up the same to a post opposite the niouth of Jacob's run; thence up the same, with the several courses and meanders thereof, to the place of beginning. In giving the course and distances in the above limits of the borough an error was made in the second course by stating the distance to be one hundred and five and six-tenths perches, wlien it should have read forty-four and seventy-six hundredths perches. In the re-incorporation of the borough in 1858, the same error was repeated. The boundaries of the borough were extended by an act of the legislature of March 31, 1869, by which were taken in a portion of land on the sotith which included the Old Henry Beeson mansion; and on the north, including what was known as Westburg; and on the west including a part of Union ceme- tei'y. Many additions have since been made to the borough, as mentioned elsewhere. At an early day the bofbugh was divided into two wards, known as the East aad West wards, and subsequently into four wards, and on May 31, 1911, it was divided into eight wards. List of Burgesses of the Town. Upon the incorporation of tJrliohtown as a boroug'h, April 4, 1796, General Ephraim Douglass was appointed as the first burgess; with Joseph Huston and Thomas Collins as assistants, and it is reasonably certain that from what is known of the character of General Douglass, he discharged the duties of this office " without fear or favor." Froni the fact that the borough records previous to May 16, 1843, were destroyed by fire at the time tlje old city hall was burned, the list of the burgesses of the town is necessarily very incomplete. John McCleary was burgess in 1833, and carried on his oc- cupation of repairing clocks and watdhes in connection with the duties of this office, which at this early date would not likely to have been onerous. Peter Uriah Hook was elected burgess May 2, 1843. He was well knoWn as a merchant, hotel proprietor and auc- tioneer. The salary of the office was ten dollars a year besides 18 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the costs as allowed to justices of the peace. The salary was paid at the close of the official year. Samuel McDonald, receiving 78 votes, was declared elected May 1, 1843. He was the proprietor of a book store, and was also the editor and proprietor of the Pennsylvania Democrat. John H. Deford succeeded McDonald on May 6, 1844. He was a member of the Fayette county bar. William Baily succeeded Deford May 5, 1845. He was a silversmith by trade and also a member of the bar. Jonathan D. Springer succeeded Baily May 4, 1846. He was a merchant and also a justice of the peace. Daniel Smith succeeded Springer May 3, 1847. He kept an iron store and served one term as postmaster and several years as a justice of the peace. William Stumph succeeded Smith May 1, 1848. He was a tailor by trade and also filled the office of a justice of the peace. He was re-elected May 7, 1849. Matthew W. Irwin succeeded Stumph May 6, 1850. He was a merchant of the town and served one term as postmaster. William P. Wells succeeded Irwin May 5, 1851. He was a member of the bar. The amount of the fines for the year of his incumbency was $18.50. He received the usual salary of $10 for his year's services, besides his share of the costs collected at his office. S. D. Oliphant succeeded Wells May 3, 1852 ; receiving 206 votes to J. H. Deford 2 votes. He was a member of the bar. Daniel Smith was again elected May 2, 1853, and re-elected May 1, 1854. E. P. Oliphant succeeded Smith May 7, 1855. He was a member of the bar. Benjamin Franklin Hellen succeeded Oliphant May 5, 1856. His competitor was William Stumph, who received but one vote. Of this election the newspapers stated — " There were but seventy votes polled— all by Know-Nothings. The Democrats made no nominations, and no Democrats voted. The Know- Nothing ticket was nominated secretly last Saturday. Of the eight persons elected seven were formerly Whigs and the other was for a time, a Democrat. Of the candidates for town council Rice G. Hopwood, Amzi S. Fuller and S. D. Oliphant each re- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 19 ceived one vote." The papers failed to mention who cast these single votes. C. E. Swearingen succeeded Hellen May 4, 1857. He was a merchant. Jesse B. Ramsey succeeded Swearingen May 3, 1858, ap- parently without opposition, and was re-elected May 2, 1859, and again May 7, 1860, and apparently without opposition each time. James G. Johnston succeeded Ramsey May 6, 1861. He was elected over two competitors. All three of the candidates were members of the bar. Mr. Johnston was also editor of the American Standard. Armstrong Hadden succeeded Johnston May 5, 1863, receiv- ing 123 votes to his competitor, James McKean, 131 votes. Mr. Hadden casting his vote for his competitor. Mr. Hadden had served three terms as postmaster. Thomas A. Haldeman succeeded Hadden May 4, 1863. He was a blacksmith by trade and also served as a justice of the peace. G. W. K. Minor succeeded Haldeman May 2, 1864, and was re-elected May 1, 1865. He was a member of the bar. J. Duncan Ramsey succeeded Minor May 7, 1866. He was a member of the bar. Marshall N. Lewis succeeded Ramsey May 6, 1867, and it appears that he held the office until 1873, when he was succeeded by John Holmes. Mr. Lewis was a saddle and harness maker by trade, and filled the office of a justice of the peace for several years. Eli Hewitt succeeded John Holmes February 16, 1875. He was a member of the bar, and was re-elected February 15, 1876. He was also a telegraph operator. George W. Foulke succeeded Hewitt February 20, 1877, and held the office three terms. He was a miller by trade, and filled the office of borough weighmaster for several years. Alexander McClean succeeded Foulke February 17, 1880, and was re-elected February 15, 1881. He was a harness maker and buggy trimmer by trade. Harry F. Detwiler succeeded McClean February 21, 1883, re-elected February 30, 1883, and again February 19, 1884. He was a member of the bar. 2*0 History of Vniontown, Pennsyh/mia. J©hn Bierer succeeded Detwikr February 17, 1885. He was a member of the bar. Jesse Reed succeeded Bierer February 16, 1886, and served ten terms continuously, when the law was changed, not allow- ing a re-election. He was a miller by occupation. Edgar Boyle succeeded Reed February 16, 1897 and filled the office for a term of three years. Frank Rutter succeeded Boyle February 20, 1900. Henry O. Francis succeeded Rutter February 17, 1903. R. D. Warman succeeded Francis February 20, 1906. He was a member of the bar. Robert S. McCrum succeeded Warman February 16, 1909. CHAPTER III. East Main Street, Both Sides, from Redstone Creek to the Court House, Comprising Lots Nos. 1 to SO, Inclusive. Lot No. 1 in the original plan of Uniontown lay some dis- tance west of Redstone creek, on the south side of Elbow, now known as East Main street, and was bounded on the west by a fifteen foot alley. Jonathan Miller was the first pur- chaser of this lot, together with all other land lying between it and Redstone creek on the east, in all comprising more than one and one-half acres. Redstone creek at the time of this purchase, April 24, 1797, was crossed by a foot-log, as no bridge was constructed over that stream until the construction of the National road, 1818. Mr. Miller purchased several other pieces of property- in the town, and appears to have been a tavern keeper in Brownsville up to 1821. The above described property later came into the pos- session of John M. Austin, Esq., who sold it off in parts. In 1830, when Market street, now known as Church street, was laid out it passed through a part of this property, leaving a part on the south side of the new street and a part still lining on Elbow street. John Casforus, a former ship builder and carpenter, erected a small frame house a short distance west of what is now the eastern bridge and occupied it as a residence. Edward Cronin, a blacksmith, built an addition to the west side of this house from lumber taken from the wagon shop which was at one time the property of Ephraim Douglass. John Seller erected a small store room west of the above for which purpose it is still used. Hugh Rogers purchased a part of lot No. 1 next east of the fifteen foot alley, and thereon erected a log house facing on Market street and here lived and carried on his business of blacksmithing in a shop in the rear for many years. He also erected a brick dwelling east of the log dwelling. After the death of Mr. Rogers, his son-in-law, James G. Watson, as blacksmith and Maurice Lonergan as woodworker, carried on wagon and buggy making in this shop for some years. Asa Rogers, a son of Hugh Rogers, continued to occupy this prop- si 33 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. erty, erected a new brick residence thereon and continued the blacksmithing. Lots Nos. 3, 3 and 4 were purchased by Robert Moore in 1788 and 1792, the price paid for the three lots was eleven pounds, equal to $39.33. No. 3 had a fifteen foot alley taken ofif the eastern side and all were badly damaged by the opening of Market or Church street. Judge John Dawson became possessor of these lots, a frontage of 302.5 feet on Elbow street. It subsequently became the property of his son, E. B. Dawson, who sold it off to different parties. Asa Rogers built a brick building on No. 3 and part of No. 3, and here he embarked in the grocery business in 1901. Samuel Loughman erected two frame dwellings on lot No. 3. A frame workshop was also erected on No. 3 which was later converted into a dwelling. On the western part of No. 4 is still standing an antiquated frame dwelling which had the appearance of having been built in the early history of the town. Nathaniel Brownfield pur- chased this property for a home for his son, Samuel, who oc- cupied it as such for some years. It was then traded in for other and better property to which the family moved. The old building is now used as a store room and dwelling. Next west of the above stood a blacksmith shop which at one time was owned and used by Ephraim Douglass in connection with his wagon and buggy manufacturing establishment. This build- ing was used for many years by different persons, among whom were Thomas A. Haldeman and Ed Cronin. John D. Ruby tore away the old blacksmith shop and erected on its site a modern brick dwelling which upon nearing completion was so badly wrecked by an explosion of natural gas that it was found necessary to rebuild it. West of the blacksmith shop, and separated by a narrow private alley, stood a frame wood shop used in connection with Eph Douglass' carriage factory. This shop stood on lot No. 5, which had been owned by James Buchanan, a surveyor of Lancaster county, Pa. Mr. Buchanan assigned to Eph Doug- lass. This shop was used for many years after the death of Eph Douglass by others who carried on wagon making. Ed- ward Cronin, above mentioned, tore away the old shop and erected on its site a neat two-story frame residence and oc- cupied it as such for several years and then sol€ it. Mr. Cronin was a large, muscular man and a splendid workman ; strictly History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 23 temperate in all things. He was a devout member of the Roman Catholic church and was a gentleman in every respect. West of the wood shop stood some frame buildings used by Eph Douglass as finishing shops for carriages, wagons and other work done in his shops. These were subsequently converted into dwellings and occupied as such. These were torn away in 1905 by Edgar S. Hackney and a block of substantial brick residences erected on the site. General Ephraim Douglass erected a large two-story brick residence on lot No. 6, and here resided many years before he removed to his farm two miles north of town. An extended sketch of General Douglass will be given elsewhere. After General Douglass' removal to his farm in now North Union township, his natural son, Eph Douglass, Jr., occupied this house as a residence. He was registered as a student at law in 1834 and was admitted, but his clientage was exceedingly limited. He advertised that at considerable expense he had established a coach and harness manufacturing establishment, October 15, 1824/ east of the court house. This he conducted for some time, and was continued under the management of his wife. His wife was Miss Ellen M. Young of Greensburg, by whom he had four children. The killing of Moses Shaw by Eph Douglass, May 3l, 1831, was one of the most noted events in the criminal history of the town. As a natural result of drink, the men had quarreled until angered and vile epithets freely exchanged, and it is said Shaw struck Douglass. Douglass then ordered his colored boy servant to go across the street to his home and bring him his spear cane. The boy did as he was commanded and Douglass started in pursuit of Shaw, who, knowing the temper of Douglass, fled through a blacksmith shop then occupying the corner now occupied by the residence of Mrs. E. G. Roddy, and up the alley to the rear, and while trying to climb the fence at the bend of the alley Douglass stabbed him to death. Shaw was placed on a stable door and carried home in a dying condition. The coroner's inquest found that Moses Shaw came to his death by three thrusts of a spear cane in the hands of Ephraim Douglass, Jr., Esq. He was tried October 25, 1831. The verdict was " Not guilty of murder, but guilty of man- slaughter." He ^wjafi sentenced to the penitentiary for ten years. After serving a 4art of his term he was pardoned on account 34 History of Unientown, Pennsylvania. of the age and prominence of his father. He returned to his old home, broken in spirit and shunned by his old associates. He died in the spring of 1839 and was buried in the Methodist Episcopal graveyard at the west end of Peter street. Soon after his burial, ghouls entered the graveyard at the still hour of midnight, opened the grave and with a large chisel and mallet cut off his head and took it to a nearby cabinet shop where the flesh was boiled from the grinning skull. His wife came some time after and removed the body to Greensburg. James Veech, as administrator of the estate of Eph Doug- lass, sold the tools and material along with the unfinished work in the shop, to Armstrong Hadden, June 1, 1839, who continued the business of wagon and carriage making in the Douglass shops as a tenant of Mrs. Douglass until the spring of 1840. Mrs. Douglass remained in the brick residence but a few years after the death of her husband, when she returned to her people, and subsequently sold the real estate. C. B. Snyder succeeded Mrs. Douglass in the ownership and occupancy of this house and he was succeeded by a number of tenants. This building was destroyed by fire. William Doran purchased the eastern part of this lot, Jan- uary 25, 1873, from Mrs. Elizabeth Stewart and erected thereon a frame dwelling and occupied it as such for several years. It is now the property of Mrs. Samuel Brownfield. A part of this lot became the property of Martin Dutton, and later that of Isaac Beeson. A frame dwelling was erected on this part of the lot by John Williams, a carpenter, and soon became the property of John Messmore, where he lived until his death, and his widow continued to occupy it for some time. On the lot next west of the Douglass mansion stood an old log house which was the residence of General Douglass before building the brick. This lot, No. 7', was first owned by Aaron Sackett, a tailor by trade, who resided and carried on his business here for some time. , This house consisted of one room and hall down and one large and one small room up, and the kitchen stood separate from the house, with a covered porch between. Armstrong Hadden occupied this house upon going to housekeeping in the summer of 1838, as a tenant of Eph Douglass, Jr. Just west of this house stood a blacksmith shop, which was often used by the same tenant as occupied History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. %5 the house. Charles King came from Connellsville and com- menced the blacksmithing business in this shop in 1837. He was succeeded in the same business by Joseph Fisher, John Howell, Patrick McDonald and others. Mrs. Eph Douglass fell heir to this property by the will of General Douglass, and it finally passed into the ownership of Daniel Kaine, Esq., in whose estate it remained for many years. Dr. A. M. Cramer purchased a part of the eastern part of this lot and erected thereon a large double brick dwelling in 1910. A small frame house stood about where the Hopwood- Hagan law office now stands and was occupied as a residence by John McCuen, the tailor, and others. Robert F. Hopwood, Esq., and A. C. Hagan, Esq., built a two-story brick building here and occupied the first floor as law offices and the second floor was used as dwellings and later as offices. Mary McDonald became the owner of lot No. 9 in 1785 in consideration of the natural love and affection Henry Beeson had for her. Mrs. McDonald was the widow of Dennis Mc- Donald, and after selling this property she purchased a portion of lot No. 38, facing on Peter street, in trust for the heirs of Dennis McDonald. She subsequently became the wife of a Mr. Bunton and lived in a small frame house on Peter street. She was the mother of Patrick McDonald, who was killed by being ejected from a bar-room; and Samuel McDonald, who was a printer and was editor of the Pennsylvania Democrat; and William McDonald, Esq., who was an editor and who was appointed postmaster July 13, 1841. Granny Bunton lived to a very advanced age and moved to Pittsburgh where she died. James Piper, Sr. came into possession of this property and kept a tavern in a log house which was weathcrboarded and painted red. His tavern was known as " The Jolly Irishman," and was kept here as early as 1801. It is related that his wife would sit in the bar-room with her wheel and spin, and keep notice of the receipts of the bar, and after Mr. Piper's death she continued the business for some time until 1819. James Piper had a sister who was the widow of Joseph Hedges, Sr., who in her widowhood taught school for many years, and many of the youth of the town were enrolled as her pupils; some of whom ascended the ladder of fame, and all loved to refer to Aunt Betsy Hedges with veneration as their first instructor. Aunt Betsy Hedges had one son, James Piper Hedges, who be- 26 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. came a prominent furniture maoufacturer and dealer of the town. James Piper, Jr., son of James Piper, Sr., became the owner of this property and was quite prominent in the affairs of the town. He was admitted to the bar in 1819, was district at- torney in 1824, was appointed register of wills and recorder of deeds in 1839, and was elected to that office October 8, 1839, and held the position until he was succeeded by Joseph Gadd, who was elected October 11, 1842. He established the Demo- cratic Shield in May, 1834, with Thomas Patton and Justin G. Morris as printers. The office of publication was in the western part of this house, and in 1847 the paper was absorbed by the Genius of Liberty. Mr. Piper was the first secretary of the Fayette County Mutual Fire Insurance Company, which com- menced business December 6, 1844. He owned property on the north side of town on Pittsburgh street, and erected the brick residence later owned by Jacob B. Miller and later by D. J. Jordan. On the eastern part of the Piper lot stood a two-story weatherboarded log house which was occupied for many years by Ruth Piper, a maiden sister of James Piper. She became old and feeble minded and blind and was sent to the County Home, where she fell from an upper porch sustaining injuries from which she died. Other tenants occupied this house, and the Uniontown News, owned and edited by Charles D. Conner, was issued for a time from this building. James Piper raised and commanded a company in the war of 1812, and served his country along the northern lakes. He removed west about 1850, and died soon after. The Piper lot is now occupied by the fine double brick residence of Miss Minnie S. Thorndell. Lot No. 10 was purchased by Matthew Campbell, January 7, 1784, for five pounds Pennsylvania money, and was bounded on the west by Meadow alley. Mr. Campbell had already erected a log tavern stand on the western corner of this lot before he received his deed for it. He applied for license at December court 1783, but at December court, 1785, and for some years after, he was licensed in Menallen township, and this lot was advertised for sale in 1819. The log building was either weatherboarded or torn away History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 37 and a frame erected in its place which was occupied for several years for different purposes. Among the attorneys who oc- cupied this as an office were James Todd, Andrew Stewart, Samuel Gaither, John H. Deford and others. Among those who kept store here may be mentioned D. and S. Witherow, Johnze Dicus and William W. Stumph, Jacob Stone and Samuel Griffin, John Casforus, Polly Sullivan and others. Ephraim Douglass, Jr., owned this property at one time and conveyed it to Seth Howell and Howell erected a brick building on the eastern part in which he kept a tavern for many years. It ap- pears that Douglass and Howell had been dickering on this lot from 1828 till 1833, part of the time it appears to be in the possession of Douglass and part of the time in the possession of Howell. The office of publication of the Genius of Liberty was lo- cated in a brick building on this lot, then owned by Eph Doug- lass, from April 1, 1832, to April 1, 1834. Seth Howell was generally known as Flinger Howell. A large swinging sign on a pole at the curb announced that his tavern was known as the Fulton House, and here he kept tavern for more than a quarter of a century. He had two sons, Amos and John. One daughter, Amelia, married John Crossland. He also had two daughters who were dwarfs and made their home with Amelia. Seth Howell and his son, Amos, married sisters by the name of Mc- Burney. Seth Howell moved to Pittsburgh where he died. WilUam Thorndell, Jr., leased the Fulton House for a num- ber of years from July 8, 1859, and afterward purchased the property and continued the hotel business there for a quarter of a century. He enlarged the building to three stories and otherwise improved it. Others who have succeeded Mr. Thorn- dell here in the hotel business were David Mahaney for three years, Michael Carter for a few years, and James Moran, who opened here in 1880, and purchased the property in 1882, paying $16,000, and sold it to T. Irwin Altman October 26, 1906, after running it twenty-six years, for $100,000. The hotel building has been added to, enlarged and improved by its different owners until it has reached its present proportions. The appearance of the front shows many additions. For more than a century and a quarter this lot has been occupied with a hotel. ^ History of Uniontown, Pernisyhtfima. 1;ast Main Street, North Side, from Redstone Crepk to the Court House. Lot No. 11 in the original plat of the town was the first lot west of Redstone creek on the north side of Elbow street, and fronted 100 feet on that street, and ran back to the margin of the creek. This lot was deeded to Col. Alexander McClean December 31, 1798. On this lot Hugh Graham erected a two-story dwelling from material taken from the old frame Methodist Episcopal church which stood at the west end of Peter street. This house stood back from, and considerably below the street. Edward Hyde, an Englishman, and a brickmason by trade, occupied this as a residence for some years. He was well and favorably known in the vicinity. It was he who ran into the court-room while court was in session, February 4, 1845, and excitedly called out "Wat in the 'ell are you doin? The court house is on fire." Court adjourned instanter, and the court house was destroyed. He died at his home here, November 16, 1847, and it was on the occasion of his funeral that the bell of the new court house was tolled for the first time. Lewis Vandiver, the well known plasterer, and John Hagan, the well known stone- cutter, each lived here for some years. Clarence McClure, a plumber and gas fitter, erected a two-story frame building, on a lease, on the front of this lot, in which he lived and carried on his business for five years. It has subsequently been used as a restaurant and dwelling. Samuel Oilman purchased lot No. 13, September 13, 1794. A long frame house, painted red, occupied much of the front of his lot, in front of which was a long uncovered porch or board walk, the boards of which were loose and made much noise on being walked over. John and Jacob Reynolds carried on the cabinet and furniture business, as well as the undertaking business here in 1815 to 1827. This lot was sold at sheriff's sale as the property of John Reynolds in 1837. Charles Reed announced that he would commence the weaving business in the house lately occupied by John and Jacob Reynolds, where he will weave carpets, table linen, etc., June 5, 1837. " Neddie " Cooper, another weaver, owned this lot and carried on his busi- ness here. After his death his widow married Gabriel Dessel- lems and still continued to carry on the weaving business. Gabriel was the well-known grave-digger in his day, and History of Untontozm, Pennsylvania. 39 although he had many friends, they would not give Gabriel a job as long as they could a^oid it. Gabriel prepared his own tombstone which stands at his grave in the old M. E. grave- yard and announces tliat he died February 11, 1869, aged 84 years, 9 months and 11 days. A small frame building stood back on this lot, built on posts and some little distance from the ground, in which Moses Shaw lived at the time he was stabbed to death by Ephraim Douglass, Jr. Daniel Collins, for many years a section hand on the Pennsylvania railroad, owned and lived in a frame house on the southeast corner of this lot which Hugh Graham had erected from lumber taken from the old M. E. church. John D. Ruby tore away the old Gabriel Dessellems house in which Benjamin Dessellems had lived for many years, and erected on its site a modern frame dwelling which he occupied for several years. Patrick Milligan purchased lots Nos. 13 and 14 in 1794. On the front of these lots were a number of frame houses which were occupied as tenant houses and work-shops. John Canon lived and carried on the wagon making business here for many years. His advertisement states that he had an experience of 35 years at the business. John P. Sturgis was also an occupant here for some time and carried on blacksmithing in a shop on the corner west. Thomas A. Haldeman was an occupant here for several years, and carried on wagon making in shops on the opposite side of the street. He also filled the office of justice of the peace. Joseph R. Marshall, the well known marble cutter, purchased a part of this lot and in 1883, tore away an old frame and erected a modern frame residence which he occupied for some years. Some of the old Canon houses still stand on this lot. William Shipley erected a brick store room next west of the old frames still standing. In this he kept store for some time, and it is still occupied as such. Diavid Brown purchased lot No. 15 in 1796. James Hankins of North Union township purchased this lot and erected thereon a two-story brick residence and occu- pied it as such. It was sold in 1863 by his executor to James Darby who occupied it as a residence until his death, and it is still in the occupancy of his widow. Dr. A. M. Kramer pur- chased the eastern portion of this lot and erected thereon a fine brick residence and dental office in which he lived and practiced his profession. 30 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. John Porter was the purchaser of Lot No. 16, April 4, 1796, for six pounds, Pennsylvania money, equal to sixteen dollars. A frame blacksmith shop stood on the western corner of this lot in which various blacksmiths at different times carried on their occupation. John P. Sturgis, a well-known blacksmith in the early history of the town, conducted his trade here for some time before locating on Pittsburgh street. Levi D. Stephens, a merchant of the town, erected the large brick residence still occupying this lot. Mr. Stephens was not a married man but built this property for renting purposes. Mr. Robert Boyle, a carpenter, and who was em- ployed on the building, was the first occupant of the house. Daniel Kaine lived here while building the residence of the late Senator A. D. Boyd. Alexander McClean succeeded Daniel Kaine as tenant here, having been burned out on Morgantown street by a destructive fire in 1851, and here kept a boarding house for the accommodation of students attending Madison college, for the space of five years. This was sold as the property of Levi D. Stephens and subsequeritly came into the possession of Col. Edward G. Roddy, Sept. 21, 1863, who moved his family into it. Col. Roddy was born in Addison, Somerset county. Pa., June 13, 1834. In 1843 he located in Uniontown, where he was employed in the dry goods business with Col. Ewing Brownfield. He then went to Uppermiddletown and took charge of a branch store and subsequently purchased it. In 1858 he returned to Uniontown and purchased the Genius of Liberty printing office, which paper he edited and continued to own until his death, June 13, 1867, being his 43rd birthday. His widow, who was Miss Lydia Jane, daughter of Rezin Beeson, still owns and oc- cupies the property. An old log house stood on the eastern part of this lot which was occupied at various times by diiiferent tenants. J. D. Boyd bought the eastern part and erected thereon a brick residence which he occupied for several years. Colonel Alexander McClean purchased from Henry Beeson the block of lots, Nos. 17, 18, 19 and 20 in the original plot of the town, being a frontage of 390 feet on Elbow or Main street, and extending back to Redstone creek " where it meanders or did meander at the laying out of the town." This block of lots extended from the residence of Mrs. Roddy westward and in- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 31 eluded much of the site on which the court house stands. There being no access to the rear of those lots, Col. McClean opened a fifteen foot alley, beginning at the southeast corner of lot 17, running back from Elbow street a short distance, thence west- wardly to the rear of the court house, this alley still remains private property. Edward Jones bought this lot in 1838 and occupied it for some time. A log house first occupied this lot and stood a considerable distance back from the street, and it is not improbable that this log building was the first jail built in Fayette county, as it is certain that the first jail was erected on one of Col. McClean's lots which he generously donated for that purpose. John A. Donne and others taught school in this old building, and after the erection of the Jones residence it came into the ownership of Isaac Beeson, and Mrs. Hanna Matilda Connell was Mr. Beeson's tenant. She was a sister of Joseph Pennock and of Mrs. Beeson and here kept boarders and taught school. She was a lady of fine accomplishments and a poet of high rank. She is mentioned elsewhere. Many tenants occupied this property. Mr. Beeson erected two small brick buildings on the front of this lot intended for law offices, but they were princi- pally used as dwellings. Rosy and Ann McDonald, maiden sisters, were tenants here for many years, and are well remem- bered by the older citizens of the town. Mrs. James R. Barnes purchased this lot and in 1900 erected a fine residence thereon and occupied it. John Witherow purchased lot No. 18 from Col. McClean in 1809. On this lot he lived and carried on hiS business as a wagon maker. His shop was on the front and his dwelling on the rear of the lot. He had interests in other property in the town. He served as sheriff of the county from 1817 to 1820. Mrs. Ann Stevens, widow of Samuel Stevens, purchased this property from John Witherow in 1813, and sold it to John M. Austin in 1830. Mrs. Stevens was the mother of Priscilla, the wife of John M. Austin. Mrs. Stevens died here at the age of 93 years. John M. Austin built the large brick mansion on this lot and from its completion occupied it as a residence and office, and left the old building standing which was used as an out- kitchen for many years. Daniel Kaine purchased this property and occupied it as a residence and law office until his death. 3'2 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. after which his heirs retained it for many years. During Mr. Kaine's residence here two attempts were made on his life : one in 1861, when the would-be assassin lay in wait until Mr. Kaine retired to his bed chamber, and with a rifle loaded with two balls shot ofif the upper part of Mr. Kaine's right ear. The would-be assassin was convicted and sent to the penitentiary. The second attempt was made some time later while Mr. Kaine was in his office at night. The ball from the would-be assassin's gun cut the septum of Mr. Kaine's nose. The perpetrator of this felonious assault was never apprehended. James I. Feather purchased this property from the Kaine heirs and made many repairs and improvements therein, since which it has been used for offices, etc. Colonel Alexander McClean erected a two-story log house on the western part of lot No. 19, a covered porch connecting it with a log kitchen in the rear. Benjamin Campbell, a silver- smith by trade, was induced to come from Hagerstown and settle in Uniontown, and he was the first tenant in this log house, in 1793. Here he resided and carried on his business for some years, when he purchased property at the western part of the town where he resided the remainder of his life. Several of his family were born in this house, among whom was his son Hugh, who became a prominent physician of the town. Thomas Hadden, who married Elizabeth, daughter of Col. McClean, became the occupant of this house in 1800, and pur- chased it September 3, 1806. He had a family of 13 children, all of whom were born in this house except the first. Mr. Hadden built a small brick office on the eastern corner of this lot and occupied it as an attorney and as a justice of the peace. After his death his family added another story and rear part to this small building and occupied it as a dwelling and rented the log building to various tenants, among whom was Rice G. Hopwood, Esq., who first went to housekeeping here; the widow of Dr. Benjamin Stevens and her daughter, Sophia Stevens; Daniel Huston; Joseph Gadd, clerk for the commis- sioners, who lived here several years ; Mrs. Durbins and family, and Samuel Betts. Daniel Kaine purchased 50 feet of the western part of this lot and sold it to Dr. R. M. Walker, who in 1889 erected the fine brick residence now occupied by his family. Dr. Walker died before the completion of his new home. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 33 Colonel Alexander McClean purchased lot No. 20, July 13, 1788, for two pounds Pennsylvania money, equal to $5.33. On this lot Col. McClean built for his own use the most pretentious residence at that time in the village. It stood a considerable distance back from Main street, and had a covered balcony at the upper windows on the west end, and the interior was finished in panel work, carved cornices and other ornamentation unusual in houses of that day west of the Allegheny mountains. Into this Col. McClean moved on coming to town from his planta- tion to assume the duties of the office of register and recorder of the county, and here spent the remainder of his days. An ex- tended history of Col. McClean is given elsewhere. On the front part of this lot stood a small frame building. When the uprising in western Pennsylvania known as the " Whisky Insurrection " occurred and General Lee, in command of some United States troops, was sent to quell the uprising, he arrived at Uniontown on the last day of October, 1794, and established his headquarters in this little building on the Col. McClean lot. He and his troops, however, remained but a few days and proceeded to " the seat of war " on the Monongahela river. Ezekiel Shelcutt carried on a bakery and confectionery here for a while, and Presley Miller carried on the tailor- ing business here in 1812, and Mrs. Maria King, widow of Samuel King, the first postmaster of the town, occupied this as a dwell- ing. The Genius of Liberty, published by John M. Austin and John Bouvier, was issued from this building from 1818 to 1820. In 1806 Thomas Meason purchased this lot and generously allowed Col. McClean to occupy it the remainder of his days. Andrew Stewart purchased this lot Nov. 20, 1821, and in 1835 he erected thereon a large two-story brick dwelling and office which he occupied as such for some years. While occupying this house he built a frame mansion on a commanding eminence at the eastern end of town, on property formerly owned by Dr. Solomon Drown. The building of what was known as Stewart's Row, in which Mr. Stewart lived while building this residence, and the building of this mansion, so involved him that he sold this residence and moved to his new mansion which was most beautifully located, and where after retiring from active life, he enjoyed the confidence and respect not only of this entire community, but of the nation. Mr. Stewart sold this property to Andrew Byers, February 34 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 8, 1840, for $6,000. Mr. Byers fitted it up for a hotel and was ready to accommodate the traveling public April 8, following. Mr. Byers styled his new hotel " The Clinton House," by which name it was ever afterwards known. Mr. Byers was honored by the patronage of two presidents-elect of the United States, as appears from the following items : The Pennsylvania Demo- crat of February 9, 1841, contained the following local news item : " General Harrison reached Uniontown on Tuesday, the 2nd of February, 1841, about 1 o'clock; the discharge of can- non having previously announced his approach. He passed nearly the whole length of Main street in an open barouche, so that the people might have a fair view of the venerable states- man and soldier whose name and deeds have been the subject of so much discussion within the past year. He alighted at the Clinton House amid a very large concourse of people, and as soon as order was restored, addressed them in a few remarks. He said that this was not the first time he had experienced the kindness of the people of Fayette county — they had come to his standard in the dark hour of their country's need during the late war, etc. He remained in town over night and departed next morning at 10 o'clock. He was accompanied by Cols. Todd and Chambers who were his aids at the battle of the Thames." Another item of local interest respecting the Clinton House was published in the Pennsylvania Democrat of February 33, 1849, and was as follows : " General Taylor and his suite, on their route to Washington City, where he will assume the duties of the office of President of the United States, arrived in Union- town Wednesday evening, February 21, 1849, and took lodging at the Clinton House, where hundreds were congregated to greet him. The committee of reception and marshalls and military escort met him a mile from town and received him from his coach into an open carriage in which he rode into town. The general was welcomed to our place by E. P. Oliphant, Esq., to which he responded briefly. He and his suite left town next morning for Cumberland." Mr. Byers was appointed to the office of high sheriff of Fayette county, November 7, 1811, and filled that office for three years. He sold this property to John T. Hogg, January 9, 1847. Stephen Snyder succeeded Mr. Byers as proprietor of the Clinton House, April 1, 1850, and conducted it until July, 1851, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 35 when he sold out to Zadoc Cracraft who had been burned out at the McCleary hotel, July 1st. Isaac P. Kerr succeeded Cracraft, April 1, 1854, and con- ducted it as a temperance house. Mr. Kerr was succeeded by his son-in-law. Major Jesse B. Gardner, a veteran of the Mexi- can war, in 1857, and he in turn was succeeded by John Bierer in 1859. In December of that year James H. Springer and Thomas F. Renshaw bought out Bierer, and on August 30, 1860, Renshaw withdrew and moved to Afton, Clayton county, Iowa, and Springer continued alone. Calvin Springer and Lock Stewart succeeded James H. Springer in 1863, and they dissolved partnership, February 10, 1864, and Charles E. Seidel and Frank M. Cook succeeded Calvin Springer, October 24, 1867. Since which came Bernard Winslow, and after him William R. Springer in 1878-79. Then came Joseph Wright, and he was succeeded by Webb C. Barnett, 1884-85-86. Barnett was succeeded by J. Russell Thornton, who after quitting the business was elected to the legislature. James I. Feather succeeded Mr. Thornton and continued the business until the property was sold to the county and torn away to make room for the erection of the present court house. CHAPTER IV. Main Street, South Side, from Meadow Alley to Morgantown Street, Comprising Lots Nos. 21 to 34, Inclusive. Mrs. Margaret Allen was the first purchaser of lot No. 31 which was the first lot on the south side of Elbow street west of Meadow alley, and immediately opposite the court house. This lot had a frontage of seventy-two and a half feet on Elbow street and ran back one hundred and fifty feet to South street, and the price paid was five pounds. The deed was dated August 16, 1787. Margaret Allen was familiarly known as Granny Allen and owned property and conducted a tavern east of the eastern bridge. A fuller notice of her will be given in that locality. A large frame building, having much the appearance of a barn, painted red, occupied this lot, doubtless erected and oc- cupied as a tavern by Granny Allen, perhaps before, and cer- tainly immediately after the date of this deed. After conduct- ing her business at this location for a few years, she purchased two small tracts east of the eastern bridge, on one of which she continued to conduct a tavern for many years. John Slack kept a tavern here at the sign of the Spread Eagle. He was licensed at September sessions, 1796, and closed in 1800, when he went to Wharton township and there kept a tavern on the old Braddock road, now known as the Washing- ton Springs tract. He was foreman on the jury that tried Philip Rogers for the murder of Polly Williams at the White Rocks, August 10, 1810. His daughter, Tamzon, married Ephraim McClean, who kept a tavern at the Summit House on the old National road. Dr. Robert McClure came from York county, Pa., and opened a tavern in this property in December, 1792, and of- fered his professional services to the public. He announced that he had opened a " shop " in the house lately occupied by Mrs. Allen, opposite the court house, where he will attend to the calls of such persons as may honor him with their confi- dence. He purchased this property in 1795, and owned it as 36 History of Unionfown, Pennsylvatda. 37 late as April, 1819, at which time he advertised it for sale and moved west. Judge Nathaniel Ewing purchased this lot and erected the large brick residence still standing thereon, in 1824-35. It was in course of erection when General Lafayette visited Union- town, May 26, 1825. This he occupied as a residence and law office until his death, and it still remains in the ownership of his heirs. A more extended notice of Judge Ewing will be found elsewhere. Lot No. 22 was sold to Peter Hook in 1783. Peter Hook was a hatter by trade and located here as early as 1781, as in that year Thomas McKinley was indentured to him to learn the art and mystery of hatting. On this lot Mr. Hook erected a good frame house in which he carried on his business of hatting, having in his employ several journeymen and apprentices. Among the latter was Benjamin Hellen, who not only served him well but subsequently established himself successfully in the business and became the son-in-law of Mr. Hook by marrying his daugh- ter, Isabella. After Mr. Hook retired from business and removed to his property at the head of Cheat street this building was occu- pied as a tavern. Samuel Salter kept a tavern here at or before 1800, and continued until 1811. Colonel Searight, in his most excellent history " The Old Pike," relates the following anec- dote: Chief-Justice Thomas McKean was a guest at the Salter tavern during a session of the Fayette county courts, and among other viands served at the table was roast pig. This dish appeared on the table too frequently to suit the palate of the dainty Judge, so one day he in peremptory tones ordered the dining- room girl to remove the dish, which order she promptly obeyed. Mrs. Salter, upon learning what had been ordered by the Judge, became indignant, and, returning the pig to the table, addressed the Judge thus : " You are Chief-Justice and run the court ; I am chief cook and run this dining-room, and this pig will stay !" And it did stay. Mr. Salter was succeeded by Jacob Harbaugh in 1811, and he continued until 1813. He had served as sheriff of Fayette county from 1808 to 1811. George Manypenny, an energetic and witty Irishman, occupied this stand and was first licensed in 1814, and his stand was known as the Manypenny tavern. He was engaged in other pursuits besides keeping tavern. 38 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. To illustrate the kind of amusements that entertained the early inhabitants of Uniontown, the following is given: " Museum — The proprietors of the Museum respectfully inform the ladies and gentlemen of Uniontown and vicinity that they will exhibit every day (Sundays excepted), for a short time, at the house of George Manypenny, panoramic views of the city of Rome as it now stands with its environs, and the ruins of ancient Rome. Likewise an elegant museum of wax works, consisting of figures as large as life of Major-General Jackson, Commodores Decatur and Perry, Captain Lawrence and his physician. Captain Wilcox with a barbarous looking Indian represented in the act of taking his scalp, at which time a soldier arrives and thrusts the savage through with his bayo- net. Cincinnati, Kentucky and Pittsburgh beauties, a lady with her family. Captain Montraville and Charlotte Temple, The God- dess of Liberty supporting the American Standard. Music on an elegant organ. Hours of exhibition from nine o'clock in the morning till nine in the evening. Each admittance, 25 cents, children half price. Profiles taken through the day. January 18, 1819." Manypenny concluded to quit the tavern business and on June 24, 1823, sold his tavern furniture at public sale. He died July 12, 1824. This old Manypenny stand was also occupied by George Ewing as a tavern for several years. He was a brother of David Ewing who conducted a drug and grocery store on the north side of Elbow street west of Middle alley. He was subsequently a prominent merchant of the town. The Lafayette Artillerists met at the house of George Ewing Saturday, June 6, 1827, to make arrangements to celebrate the National Independence — James Bunton, O. S. A court of appeals was held at the house of George Ewing July 25, 1829, by Captain Thomas Patton, captain of Lafayette Artillerists. A public meeting of the Democratic Central Com- mittee met at the inn of George Ewing on Saturday, July 16, 1836. A big political meeting was announced to be held at the public house of George Ewing on August 8, 1836. Daniel P. Lynch, who was sheriflf of Fayette county, 1820, married Eliza Rine and went to tavernkeeping in the old Many- penny stand and continued until the death of his wife when he History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 39 broke up housekeeping and he and his children made their homes with Betsy Fausett, a sister's daughter, and where he died. The old frame building of Peter Hook's lot was moved to lot No. 42, on the north side of Main street, about 1838, where a further account will be given. In 1841 a two-story brick building was erected on this site, the western part of which was for resiidence and at the east was for a law office. The first occupant of the residence was the Rev. Andrew Ferrier, president of Madison college, and he was succeeded by William Wilson. John Kennedy Ewing became a resident here soon after his marriage and resided here until his death. A small brick building was erected on the eastern part of this lot, No. 23, and was used for some years by different at- torneys as law offices. Col. Samuel Evans, who was admitted to the bar in 1821, had his office here for a greater part of his law practice. Alfred Patterson, Esq., first occupied the law office in the eastern part of this new building up to 1846. John K. Ewing was admitted to the bar in 1846, and he and Amzi Fuller formed a law firm and occupied this office for some time. Mr. Fuller withdrew, and upon the admittance of Edward Campbell to the bar in 1859, he became connected with Mr. Ewing in practice, and after the retirement of Mr. Ewing, who was appointed to the bench, 1864, Mr. Campbell continued to occupy the office for some time, when the room was no longer used as an office. In 1879 Judge John K. Ewing greatly enlarged and im- proved this property, adding more ground on the west and mak- ing it one of the most desirable resident properties on Main street. On the western part of lot No. 22 was a log building which stood two or three steps below the sidewalk. This was used, per- haps, originally, in connection with the frame adjoining on the east, but later by different tenants. Jeremiah Dotson announces that he is carrying on his business of tailoring in the house adjoining Samuel Salter's inn, formerly occupied by John Lind- say, July 12, 1815. Samuel Sly, a shoemaker was located here, and he was succeeded by Capt. Hugh Gorley in the same line of business, 1815 ; Walker and Wilson, silversmiths, were located in this property prior to 1822, and they were succeeded in that year by David D. Manship, who carried on tailoring. Nathan 40 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. G. Smith and William W. Lee succeeded Manship in the same business in 1823. Daniel Black, another tailor, was located here in 1827. He was a Presbyterian by faith, and was very much of a gentleman. He lived in a small frame house near the west end of South street. His wife was a sister to Mrs. Joseph Kibler and Mrs. Crawford Livingstone. James Winders owned and occupied this log property for some time where he carried on a confectionery store. He served as constable for many years. He was the father of a respectable family, among whom was a son, John, who was employed when a boy in a local tan-yard. One day a gentle- man from Detroit noticed the boy and remarked to his em- ployer " That is too bright a boy to confine his time to a tan- yard." The gentleman made arrangements to take the boy to Detroit and he becatae the Colonel John Winders, one of Detroit's most wealthy and prominent citizens. James P. Hedges purchased about 28 feet frontage of this lot, and in 1842 erected thereon a two-story brick building with basement, in which he opened his business as a furniture dealer. Mr. Hedges, although a most excellent man, was very unfortunate. His business was burned out on several, at least two occasions, the work of an incendiary, but he struggled on against adversity. The expense of erecting this brick residence proved too much of a burden for him to bear, and it was sold under the hammer, December 13, 1842, to Dr. Smith Fuller who received a deed direct from the administrators of James Wind- ers. Mr. Hedges moved to the West, and he and his family lived in a corn crib until he could build a house. Dr. Fuller moved into this property, and in 1849 he asso- ciated with him Dr. James Brownfield, a former student of medicine, and Dr. Fuller moved to the James Yerk house on Church street. It appears that Dr. Brownfield bought this property as on April 17, 1851, he advertised it for sale. Dr. Fuller again became the owner and kept his office in the base- ment. He later tore away the Hedges house and erected a new brick in its stead, with an office on the west side. Dr. Fuller subsequently purchased property on Fayette street from the heirs of Joshua B. Howell in 1866, and here resided until his death. Jacob Fell purchased this property from Dr. Fuller and occupied for some time as a residence. This property was History of Uniontovm, Pennsylvania. 41 purchased from Mr. Fell and fitted up for a residence for Col. Samuel Evans but he did not occupy it any length of time, and it remained empty for some time. Judge John K. Ewing tore away the building and extended his residence over a part of the lot. Jacob Downerd purchased lot No. 23 February 17, 1790, and a tavern was opened here by William Downerd, perhaps a son of Jacob, in 1801, and continued until 1808. He removed from Uniontown to the " Big Watering Trough " near the summit of Laurel Hill. He also took up land in the neighborhood of Walnut Hill in Georges township. A narrow driveway passed between the old red frame two- story building on this lot and the lot on the east. Benjamin Miller, a wagoner on the old road before the construction of the National road, kept a tavern here from 1823 to 1827, when he moved to the mountains, and in 1830 built the large brick tavern stand since known as the Marlow House, some miles east of Uniontown. He became a candidate for the Legislature, and pending his canvass he is said to have declared, " By the Eternal, if I am not elected I will go up on the hill over- looking Harrisburg and look down with contempt upon the capitol." He was given the opportunity, but never executed his threat. Harry Gilbert succeeded Ben Miller here in the tavern busi- ness and continued until 1848, in which year he announced that he would sell his household goods at public sale. Harry Gil- bert's wife was a Miss Amos of near Baltimore, Md. Their son, Corbin A., became one of the old teachers and educators of the county. Elizabeth H. married Rev. Dr. William Penny, a Baptist clergyman. Their youngest child, Joshua, was born in Baltimore and came here with his parents about 1839. He read medicine with Dr. Fuller and located at Carmichaels where he practiced until his death, January 13, 1907, over 80 years of age. He left two sons and three daughters, his wife having died thirteen years before. William Medkirk, who had been proprietor of the Union Hotel on the opposite side of the street, succeeded Harry Gil- bert in 1851. He had a son, George, who worked under Samuel Bryan in building the court house in 1846-47, and also the Bryan building soon after. An attempt was made in May, 1850, and again in August, 1851, by some adventurers from the United 43 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. States under the command of a Spaniard named Narcisso Lopez to revolutionize the island of Cuba. George Medkirk joined the last filibustering expedition, but both expeditions failed. The whole 450 men who landed were either killed in battle or taken prisoners. Of the latter 50 were shot, and shortly after- ward Lopez himself was garroted. Young Medkirk in relating his hair-breadth escapes and thrilling experiences said that when captured they were confined in a prison excavated under the ocean, and were taken out daily and marched in a circle and every certain number was taken out and shot, the number varying each time. Medkirk said that at one time the lot fell upon the man in front of him, and at another time the man just behind him was the unfortunate one. The govern- ment of the United States interfered and stopped the butchery and young Medkirk reached home to relate his experience to- his boy chums of Uniontown. In removing west William Medkirk fell from the boat on which he had taken passage and was drowned. This old building was subsequently used as store rooms for many years. Captain S. S. Snyder carried on a confectionery and bakery here for some time in the early 50's. Johnze Dicus threw the two rooms into one and carried on a feed, flour and bacon store in the 50's. James H. Springer and Thomas Sturgis bought out the store of Johnze Dicus about August 20, 1857. A wide hall separated the eastern and western rooms of this old building, and both rooms were frequently used by the same tenants. In this hall Springer kept two rows of whisky in barrels, to this Sturgis objected and withdrew from the firm, Calvin Springer taking his place. William Thorndell, Jr., soon purchased the interest of Calvin Springer. While in the oc- cupancy of Springer and Thorndell the building was burned, May 39, 1859. The property at that time was owned by Wil- liam Crawford. Ezekiel Shelcutt, who formerly carried on a bakery and cake and beer shop just east of the old court house, conducted his business for some years in an old building immediately west of the old Ben Miller tavern stand. His place was always popular and was a favorite resort for his many friends who whiled away their time enjoying his unequaled cakes and beer. He was odd in his manners, and always had an eye to business, driving his trade with considerable tact and success. Many of History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 43 our older citizens recall an incident that happened to Ezekiel Shelcutt on the occasion of a jollification with some of his friends. They had been imbibing pretty freely when Harry Jack, a stone-cutter by trade, put a paper wad into a gun and fired it into Shelcutt's anatomy. This proved to be a very serious practical joke, as the wad penetrated the flesh to such a distance as to cause considerable of a wound. This incident was the occasion of much talk, and was commemorated in verse. Charles A. Shelcutt succeeded his father, at the " Sign of the Star " in 1843, or took charge of his father's business, and he, in turn, was succeeded in the same business by Samuel S. Snyder, who carried on here for some itme. Johnze Dicus opened here in the grocery business with Tobias Sutton as an associate. Mr. Sutton was running a flour- ing mill up Redstone creek and here were the headquarters for the sale of the products of the mill. As before mentioned, Mr. Dicus occupied the two buildings and sold out to James H. Springer & Co., who were the occupants of the property when destroyed by fire. An old well pump stood at the curb on the line between lots 23 and 34 and was known in the early history of the town as the Knapp pump, from the fact that Jacob Knapp was the first purchaser of lot No. 24^ November 3, 1789, and doubtless he had the well dug near that date. This pump was kept in order by small contributions from the neighbors. The sub- scription lists, still extant, show that this pump was in opera- tion before 1800. This old well afforded an abundant supply of pure, cold water to the inhabitants of that vicinity and the thirsty public for more than a century, and even long after the city water was introduced; but at last when a new pump was needed this was among the last of the public wells to be aban- doned. A one-story brick law building was erected on the site of the old Ben Miller tavern, conjointly, by A. E. Willson and Edward Campbell in 1868, and was known as the Willson- Campbell Law Building. Charles E. Boyle later purchased the Campbell interest and the building was long known as the Willson-Boyle Law Building: Mr. Boyle occupying the eastern offices and Judge Willson and others the western. In this building many of the legal lights of the Fayette county bar read law under the able tutorage of Mr. Boyle. 44 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. This building was torn away in October, 1897, and on its site was erected the fine, stone front, Blackstone Building by Judges Nathaniel Ewing and S. Leslie Mestrezat. Col. Edward Campbell, in 1870, erected a two-story brick residence and law office on the site of the old Shelcutt store room and occupied the office while his father, Dr. Hugh Camp- bell, occupied the residence part. It was used later as a board- ing house. William A. Hogg, Esq., purchased this property, and had commenced to change it into law offices when he died. It is still known as the Hogg Law Building. The brick building now occupying the southeast corner of East Main street and South Gallatin avenue and occupied as law offices and business room was erected by J. D. Boyd and I. L. Johnson and known as the Boyd-Johnson Law Building. O. W. Kennedy purchased this property in 1901, and erected business rooms and dwellings along South Gallatin avenue to South street, making it a very desirable business section of the town. Lot No. 24 was purchased from Henry Beeson by Jacob Knapp, November 3, 1789. He evidently kept a tavern on this lot at a very early date, as he was licensed for such in 1788, and for several years subsequently. He was appointed high constable at the organization of the borough, April 3, 1796. The widow of Jacob Knapp, familiarly known as Granny Knapp, was the mother of William Crawford and lived in a little one and a half-story log house of two rooms which stood half way down on the lot. A small two-story brick house stood on the eastern part of this lot. In this Theophilus Bowie went to housekeeping and lived until he built his home on Union street. Here he lived and had his tin-shop in 1836. Dr. Alfred Meason lived here and had his office in the same in 1830. Dr. C. N. J. McGill removed to the office formerly of Dr. Meason, directly opposite the Genius of Liberty, March 30, 1836. A two-story frame building stood on the western part of this lot, next to a twenty foot alley. John B. Trevor occupied this frame during his term as prothonotary, January, 1833 to May, 1834. He was a smart man and a good orator, and had a personal resemblance to Henry Clay. He was Captain of the Union Volunteers, July 19, 1833. He was active in politics. In the fall of 1834, he announced that having recently formed History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 45 business relations which will require his removal to Phila- delphia, he offered liis household effects at public sale. He entered a banking house in Philadelphia, which failed, and Mr. Trevor, being a heavy stockholder, was financially ruined, which so broke his spirits that he never regained his usual vigor. It appears that John Dawson purchased the western part of this lot from Elizabeth Crawford and Jacob Knapp, Jr., et ux. fronting 43 feet on Main street, October 2, 1832, upon which he erected a two-story brick building, suitable for a dwelling and an office. W. D. Barclay purchased this lot from John Dawson, December 23, 1845, removed the frame building and erected a large brick dwelling and store room. The store room was next to the alley. In this Mr. Barclay kept a dry goods store for some time. In the eastern part of this building was a small room in which Mr. Barclay kept his office when he became the secretary of the Fayette County Mutual Fire Insurance Company, to which office he was elected by the Board of Directors to succeed James Piper, June 5, 1849. L. M. Kline, Robert Whigham and Theodore Marlin were doing business in the Barclay room previous to June 29, 1848, at which time Kline withdrew and Whigham and Marlin con- tinued at the old stand. John Hopwood of Monroe, auctioned off his stock of goods in the room of W. D. Barclay during March court, 1853. Moses Shehan opened a new clothing house in this room in 1851. After Mr. Barclay retired from active life the small office was used for many years by different attorneys, among whom may be mentioned Hon. Samuel A. Gilmore, G. W. K. Minor and others. W. D. Barclay was the efficient secretary of the Fayette County Mutual Fire Insurance Company for many years and during his incumbency the company was in a most flourishing condition. Mr. Barclay was an active and consistent member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. He was born Sep- tember 4, 1801, and died May 15, 1865. His heirs sold this property to Dr. R. M. Walker March, 1875, and here he made his home and practiced medicine for many years. On February 28, 1890, the borough condemned this property for the purpose of opening Gallatin avenue, and rented the building to the county for two years, in which the several courts were held, and the public records kept while the new court house was building. 46 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Between lots Nos. 24 and 26 was a space of one hundred and twenty- two and a half feet. Next west of lot No. 34 was a fourteen and a half foot alley, then a space of 35 feet through which the original mill-race ran diagonally, then came lot No. 25. John Wood purchased 63 feet frontage of the lot immedi- ately west of the alley, June 23, 1791, including the old mill- race. After many conveyances, this lot came into the pos- session of Jonathan Rowland, who on January 13, 1794, con- veyed it to Jacob Beeson, son of Henry Beeson, the founder of the town. He was born April 3, 1769. His first wife was Lydia White to whom he was married November 30, 1790, and by whom he had four sons and one daughter, viz. : Henry White, Jesse, Isaac, Mary, Richard. His second wife was Judith Ann Broughton, to whom he was married November 30, 1806, and by whom he had six children, viz. : Jacob, William Broughton, Lydia Ann, Job John, Strother McNeal, and Phebe S. His first wife died February 27, 1801, and his second wife died at Niles, Michigan, in 1869. Jacob Beeson established his store on this lot and here he lived and conducted his business until his death. General Eph- raim Douglass, in writing to General William Irving under date of February 6-11, 1784, in which he mentioned that Uniontown then had " five retail shops " it is supposed that the Beeson store was one of that number, and although Jacob Beeson is accredited with being the founder of the Beeson store which held the lead in the town for more than a century, it is not at all probable that a fourteen year old boy founded the store in 1783. The fact that he established his store in this property after purchasing it in 1794, and it was conducted by himself and his descendants, uninterruptedly, until 1897, is a record unprece- dented in the history of the town. It appears that Jacob Bee- son's son, Henry W., succeeded his father in the store in 1818, and that he soon withdrew and the father and another son, Isaac, continued the business until November 31, 1819, when a dissolution took effect. Jacob Beeson died February 13, 1820. His widow subsequently married a Mr. Lewis and later moved to Niles, Michigan, where she died in 1869. Jacob Beeson evidently associated with himself in business his two sons, Henry W. and Isaac; as Henry W. advertised himself as in business, December 21, 1814 and up to 1819, when History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 47 on December 31, of that year the firm of J. and I. Beeson is dissolved and each of the three members took one third of the stock of goods. The whole invoicing near nine thousand dollars, would indicate an immense stock for a store in that early history of the town. It is evident that Henry W. soon retired from business as on March 14, 1820, he requests that all accounts due him be settled with Isaac. Henry W. was engaged in merchandising farther west on Main street, as he erected a two-story brick building in 1830, and occupied it as a residence and business room until he sold it to his brother, Isaac, who soon thereafter erected the brick store room in which the business of the great and famous Bee- son store was conducted for many years. East of the store room and residence of Jacob .Beeson stood a frame building, also belonging to Jacob Beeson and was oc- cupied at various times by different tenants. John A. Donne, an old time school teacher, and an able man, taught in this building for some time, and the children of Jacob Beeson were among his pupils. He was an accomplished scholar and com- petent teacher. He lies buried in Mt. Olivet cemetery at Fred- erick, Md. R. R. Elliott, a barber, occupied this building in 1830 with his business which he advertised by the high sounding name of " Rasoretical Headquarters." Bill Blaney also carried on barbering here in 1835. Richard Beeson, son of Jacob, occupied this as a residence for a while and so did John Jackson, as a boarding house. Hon. R. P. Flenniken lived here for a short time, and when Isaac Beeson tore away the old frame and built a two-story brick residence in 1836, Mr. Flenniken became the first tenant, then followed Daniel Canon, Samuel Duncan, E. P. Oliphant, John Canon, Matthew Allen, Rev. W. F. Hamilton, whose wife was Louisa Beeson, daughter of Isaac Beeson, Dr. John Fuller and others. John R. Willson purchased this property and moved into it April 1, 1879, and lived here twenty-six years and sold it to Isaac N. Hagan who took possession April 1, 1905, and converted it into business rooms and built other busi- ness rooms facing Gallatin avenue. Judith Ann Broughton was the daughter of William Broughton, who fought under Col. George Washington in the campaign of 1754, and was at the surrender of Fort Necessity. She came to this country on horseback over bridle paths before 48 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. highways were constructed. She remained a resident of Union- town some years after the death of her husband and removed to Niles, Mich., where she died at an advanced age. Before the death of Jacob Beeson, his son, Henry W. took charge of the store, Nov. 26, 1818, with his brother, Isaac, as clerk, who before March 14, 1820, became the owner. The property in which Jacob Beeson hved and kept his store was a large frame building painted red. Richard Beeson purchased this property at the sale of his father's estate and he in turn conveyed it to his brother, Isaac. After the death of Jacob Beeson this property was oc- cupied as follows : In 1821, Hardesty Walker announced that he had removed his silversmith shop to the room lately oc- cupied by Jacob Beeson as a store. In 1826 the Genius of Liberty was published from this building, and again, from 1830 to 1834 it was issued from the same building. William Thorndell, Jr., located in Uniontown about 1840, and in 1841 purchased this property from Isaac Beeson and here established himself as a baker and confectioner, which business he conducted for about ten years when he was suc- ceeded by Simon S. Snyder in the same business, who con- tinued till the time of his death, March 28, 1853. Mr. Snyder was succeeded by George Ingles in the same business until he was accidentally killed while out gunning with a friend, June 23, 1855, and his widow continued the business a few years. Others have followed the same business here, among whom were H. V. Combs, Richard Stewartson, William B. Stewartson, and others. Jacob Fell purchased this property from William Thorndell March 20, 1866. Jacob Fell conveyed to Ernest E. Weniger, 1878. Mr. Weniger tore away the old red frame building and erected the present two-story brick residence and business rooms in which he lived for several years when he removed to Pittsburgh, since which his son Edward has occupied the property as a residence and store room. Mr. Weniger, conducted a bakery and con- fectionery, and by industry and frugality acquired considerable, valuable property. Samuel King purchased from Henry Beeson a part of lot No. 25, containing 45 feet on Elbow street, June 23, 1791. He was a native of Adams county and was located in Uniontown as early as 1789. He received the appointment of postmaster L%/o?iti J&m?/Ja//{/i lO^UVt 371^^^ — ^ •' 'T' '■ t/^''/-£ij^^»^^:MfA ^2„„x^: ryrf^rt G •-O^TTi^ i.\>r a/7y ■:Ji^-. ,/ :-^jfM'^''-'^^'^/<- BEESON'S TOWN LOTTERY. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 49 from President Washington, and opened the office January 1, 1795, in his store room. His first wife was Polly Coulter, a sister to Mrs. John Lyon, whom he married January 3, 1791, by whom he had three sons. His second wife was Mrs. Ann Marshall, a sister to Thomas Hadden, Esq., by whom he had one daughter who became the second wife of Judge John Hus- ton. Mr. King died August 5, 1803, and his widow died June 33, 1835. John Clark, who married Jane, daughter of Jacob Beeson, founder of the western part of the town, came from Western Virginia and carried on merchandising in the old Samuel King property. He died in early manhood and his widow, who was familiarly known as Aunt Jane Clark, survived him several years and was a woman of unusual intelligence. Hugh Thompson, Sr., succeeded John Clark as a merchant and owned the property. Having been east and returning in a buggy by the way of Bedford overtook R. L. Barry, then a boy, on his way to this place, took him in and brought him to Union- town, where he made his home and became one of its useful citizens. Samuel and Daniel Witherow kept store here for a while and Samuel was considered one of the most upright men who ever lived in the town. John L. Means, a well known tailor of the town, occupied this property in 1851, and advertised his business in the fol- lowing characteristic style : " Whereas in the course of human events it becomes necessary for John L. Means, fashionable tailor, to change his location, it is right and proper for him to announce through the medium of a newspaper his whereabouts, and in so doing he shall not arrogate to his establishment high sounding titles as is the custom of some ' ad captandum rogus ' but modestly state in ' propriapersona ' that his shop is directly opposite the hardware store on Main street, where in the Ian- gauge of the poet, Those who wish clothing made to please. And in the latest fashion. Shall have them fit with grace and ease. If they but bring the cash on, or any kind of country produce whatever." John Clark Beeson, a namesake of John Clark before men- tioned owned and occupied this property as a residence and car- 50 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ried on his business as a furniture manufacturer and dealer. While in his occupancy the store room, which was of logs and separate from the dwelling, fell down of a sudden and was re- placed by a brick building, and was later occupied by various tenants as a store room. Miss Julia Wood purchased this property from Mr. Beeson and occupied it as a residence and rented the business rooms for many years. After her death, which occurred February 17, 1899, it came into the possession of Alonzo C. Hagan, Esq., who tore away the old buildings and erected a fine three-story business block which was first ready for occupancy April 1, 1906. The first and second floors were fitted for business and the third for fraternity lodges. William and John Lee purchased lot No. 36 from Henry Beeson in 1789. They were brothers of Rebecca McClelland, mother of Joseph P. McClelland, and of Polly Phillips, wife of Rev. John Phillips. They owned other property in the town. They conveyed this lot to George Ebert who soon conveyed it to Reuben and Ellis Baily, who were Quakers by faith and natives of Chester county. Reuben settled in this town in 1793 or '93, and started a store ; and his brother, Ellis, came out in 1795 and joined him in business, in which they continued to- gether until 1812, when Reuben retired and Aaron Gregg became a partner with Ellis. This partnership was dissolved March 80, 1819, and Ellis retired from business in 1820. Reuben Baily was born February 19, 1772, and became a miller by trade. He bought a farm in the neighborhood of Uppermiddletown which he traded for a part of the William Campbell farm, immediately south of Uniontown. This farm he gave to his favorite nephew, Ellis Baily Dawson, a grand- son and namesake of his brother, Ellis. It was through Reuben Baily negotiations were transacted in procuring from the city of Philadelphia the first hand fire engine for Uniontown. This old engine bears the date 1798, and was purchased in 1802, and rendered valuable services until a steamer was purchased. It is still preserved as a relic. Reuben Baily never married, and died at the home of his brother, Ellis, in 1832, at the age of 60 years. Ellis Baily and wife had but one child, who became the wife of Judge John Dawson. Ellis Baily died November 10, 1853, in the 80th year of his age, leaving an aged widow. Dr. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 51 William H. Sturgeon occupied this property for a number of years as a residence and physician's office. The Ellis Baily residence and store room was a two-story frame building with the store room on the east of a hall and the parlor on the west. A small yard was on the east next to the Hugh Thompson property. This was enclosed by a high, tight board fence. In this yard stood for many years an enor- mous snow-ball bush which overhung the fence, and when in bloom was the admiration of passers-by. Captain James M. Hustead and Isaac W. Semans purchased this property, tore away the old buildings and erected a two- story brick store room in 1886, and here conducted a general store for sixteen years, when they sold to John F. Hankins and Robert Hogsett who conducted the business for five years, when they sold to the Wright-Metzler company. This new firm remodeled the building; altering the front, lowering the floors and improving the rooms in many ways and continued the business. James McCullock, a blacksmith and cutler by trade, pur- chased lots Nos. 27 and 28. The deed for the first is dated No- vember 1, 1783, and for the second, September 3, 1780. These two lots extended from lot No. 26 to Middle alley, now known as Beeson avenue. Mr. McCullock transferred lot No. 27 to George Ebert, who conducted a store here for many years. He was well and favorably known in the early history of the town, and died here September 16, 1827, aged 73 years, and his sons, Henry and John H. continued the business until after 1830. They also owned part of the land on which Church street was laid out. Henry Ebert entered his father's store while young and devoted himself closely to business. His first wife was Eliza Lamb, an estimable lady of Wheeling, who survived only two or three years after their marriage, and died August 20, 1889, in the 27th year of her age. His second wife was Elizabeth Phillips of this town, and in 1832 they moved to Tiffin, Ohio, where Mr. Ebert was ap- pointed associate judge by the legislature, and subsequently became clerk of court of common pleas, which office he held for a number of years. He died at his home in Tiffin, March 31, 1880, in the 80th year of his age, leaving a widow, but never had any children. George Ebert's widow moved to Tiffin with her son after she was 80 years of age and married again after removing to Ohio. 53 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. John H. Deford, Esq., purchased this property and occu- pied it for some time and had his office as an attorney in a small frame building on the east of the dwelling. He was one of the attorneys expelled from the Fayette county bar by Judge Thomas Baird, an account of which is given in full elsewhere. He made his last residence on Morgantown street in property formerly owned by L. W. Stockton. His first wife was Miss Biddle of Philadelphia, and a cousin of Charles Biddle. His second wife was a daughter of John Deford of Hopwood. Their fathers were brothers and their mothers were sisters. Many and various were the tenants of this residence and office until 1890, when Lloyd Mahaney bought part from Miss Julia Wood and part from Samuel Shipley and tore away the old buildings and erected a four-story hotel building known as the Hotel Mahaney, 1891. Here Mr. Mahaney conducted a public house until 1898, when it changed ownership and the name was changed to the Exchange Hotel, by which name it has been known since under various owners. A two-story frame building occupied forty-two and a half feet of the western part of lot No. 37, and contained a business room on the west, a parlor in the middle and a hall on the east, and a small alley separated this from the property on the east. General Thomas Meason became owner of this property and oc- cupied it as a residence and office for some years. He was a son of Col. Isaac Meason, the owner of the Mount Braddock farm, whose land extended from the line of North Union township to the Youghioghany river and comprised 6,400 acres. General Thomas Meason was born on the Mount Braddock farm in 1773, and read law with James Ross of Pittsburgh, and was admitted to the bar of Fayette county in 1798. In 1803 he was married to Miss Nancy Kennedy, a sister to Hon. John Kennedy. He rode from here to Washington city to offer his services in the war of 1813, but upon the way he contracted a severe cold which terminated fatally soon after his arrival at his destination and he was buried in the Congressional Burying Grounds. He was at one time the owner of the farm on which Fort Necessity was located, and the lot in Uniontown on which the present court house is partly built. One of General Meason's daughters married Joseph Williams who subsequently became chief-justice of Iowa. Richard Beeson purchased this property April 18, 1833. History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. 53 He was a brother of Isaac Beeson and a prominent attorney of the Fayette county bar. He removed to Pittsburgh where he became eminent at the bar. A fuller account of him is given in the chapter on the bar of Fayette county. James McKean was located in this property with a store in 1839, and later in his own property west of Middle alley. Mat- thew Irwin who was appointed postmaster in 1837, kept the post office a part of his term in this property. Mrs. Samuel King occupied this property as a boarding house and Senator Waitman T. Willy was a boarder with her while a student at old Madison college. Among the physicians who have had their offices in this property may be mentioned, Dr. Alfred Meason, Dr. Kirkpatrick, 1822; Dr. D. H. Johnson, 1844-45; Dr. R. M. Walker. Armstrong Hadden occupied this property in 1845 and kept the post office at the same time in the business room. David Clark purchased this property and occupied it as a residence and carried on the business of shoemaking for many years. He was well and favorably known in the community and it was said he could make a better fit by looking at a man's foot than most shoemakers could after a measurement. Henry Farwell succeeded Mr. Clark in the ownership of this property and he, too, carried on the shoemaking business. He was well known and highly respected. The National Bank of Fayette county purchased this property, tore away the old buildings and erected a two-story brick bank building and store room into which the bank was moved about April 1, 1878. In 1897 the building was very greatly enlarged and improved to meet the increasing business of the bank. L. N. Singley was the first occupant of the store room with a stock of dry goods, and since which it has been occupied by various tenants. James McCuUock purchased this lot. No. 28, as before stated, and here carried on his trade as a blacksmith and cutler on the western part of the lot next to Middle alley. John Lyon purchased thirty-six and a half feet of the eastern part of this lot and here lived and practiced law for many years in a frame building, having the parlor on the east, hall in the middle and office on the west. Two half millstones formed the steps at the two front doors. Further mention of Mr. Lyon is made in the chapter on the bar. His widow continued to occupy this property until her death, August 20, 1855. Miss Sophia 54 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Gadd purchased this property, having a frontage of thirty-six feet and three inches, February 13, 1868, and occupied it for many years as a residence and small confectionery. Upon her death she willed the property to her niece. Miss Alice E. Donaldson who continued the store, and after whose death the property was sold at public sale, December 30, 1899, to Charles H. Seaton for $15,000. Mr. Seaton removed the old buildings and erected a three-story brick business block, which was ready for occupancy in April, 1905, the eastern room being occupied by Charles F. Hagan with a confectionery, and the western room by R. E. Springer with a drug store. The upper floors being occupied as offices. The Union Bank of Pennsylvania purchased the western half of this lot from James McCullock on which he had his blacksmith shop and erected thereon a brick residence and bank- ing room. The residence opened on Middle alley, which name was now changed to Bank alley, and the banking room occupied the eastern part of the building into which the bank was moved in June, 1814, and remained during its brief career. A fuller history of this bank will be found in the chapter on the banks of Uniontown. A Mr. Huston of Maryland occupied the old bank building with a store in 1837. He also ran a distillery back of the court house, and a fulling mill at the west end of town. He failed in 1838, and his property was sold by the sheriiif. Daniel Smith conducted an iron store here in 1840, where he sold Oliphant and Duncan's iron, nails and castings. M. C. Baker conducted busi- ness here as a tailor in 1842, and William P. Wells had his office as an attorney here before 1848. Armstrong Hadden occupied this old bank room at two different times with the post office. The Bank of Fayette County occupied this room for several years. Robert P. Flenniken was an occupant of the residence part of this property for many years, and for much of the time he also occupied the banking room as an attorney's office. A fuller mention of Mr. Flenniken will be found in the chapter on the bar of Fayette county. The old bank property passed through a number of titles, among which was that of Robert Long and William Crawford. The Southwest Pennsylvania railroad company purchased this property from the Fayette County bank and after using History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 55 it for several years as a station, tore away the old building and erected the present station. Lot No. 29 was the first lot west of Middle alley, now South Beeson avenue, and was purchased from Henry Beeson by James McCuUock March 16, 1784, for five pounds. John Slack kept a tavern at the sign of " The Spread Eagle," near the center of the town, July 24, 1799, and by some it was thought that he was established on this lot. He subsequently kept a tavern on the summit of Laurel Hill on the old Braddock road, now known as the location of Washington Springs. Jacob Beeson came into possession of this lot, and he sold it to Chris- tian Tarr, February 3, 1791, and Mr. Tarr conveyed it back to Jacob Beeson, March 10, 1812. Christian Tarr was a man of considerable ability and busi- ness energy. He owned other property in the town. He was a potter by trade and carried on a pottery on this lot for some time. He was a member of the 15th and 16th congresses, 1817- 1821. He announced himself as a candidate for congress against Andrew Stewart and Charles Porter, in 1820. The election held October 10, 1820, resulted as follows : Christian Tarr, 1,518 votes ; Andrew Stewart, 1,500 votes ; Charles Porter, 457 votes. Tarr ran far ahead of Stewart in Brownsville, Franklin and Washington townships and some ahead in Connellsville and German township. Mr. Tarr returned to Jefferson township, and lived on what was later known as the J. S. Elliott farm, and for many years conducted a pottery there. He had on his place a colored man named Charles Smothers who had fought with Perry on Lake Erie, and for whom Mr. Tarr succeeded in obtaining from congress an allowance of prize money for his share at the capture of the British vessels. After Mr. Tarr's death his family moved to Ohio. Robert Skiles married Rachel Beeson, a daughter of Jacob Beeson, the founder of the western part of the town. Mr. Bee- son deeded this property to Robert Skiles, February 10, 1813, and Mr. Skiles erected thereon a two-story brick residence on the eastern part, lining on Middle or Bank alley, and a brick store room on the western part in which he carried on merchan- dising for several years. He subsequently connected the resi- dence and store room by erecting a two-story building between. Mr. Skiles was not only a leading merchant in his day, but a man of great generosity and a liberal supporter of the enter- 56 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. prises of the town. He made his brother, Isaac, a present of a valuable house and lot, now covered by the First National Bank building. He died childless, April 10, 1838, at the early age of 41 years. His widow continued the business in the same store room for a few years as R. Skiles and Company, with Jonathan Springer as her business manager. Mr. Skiles willed this property to his wife during her natural life, but she refused to occupy it on these terms and built a new residence on Church street to which she moved and spent the remainder of her days. Aunt Rachel Skiles, as she was familiarly known, was a lady of considerable means and her kindness and generosity were pro- verbial. She died at her home on Church street April 19, 1865. R. Skiles & Co. were succeeded in this room by Oliphant and Duncan with an iron store with, perhaps, Daniel Smith as man- ager, and they in turn were succeeded by S. and H. Rosenbach & Co. with a ready-made clothing store, in 1845. John F. Beazell occupied this room with the post office during his term of office, 1849-1853, and he was succeeded by Jonathan D. Springer who occupied it for many years with a hardware store and his office as justice of the peace. The front room of the Robert Skiles residence was for many years used as a business room. Samuel Harah and James F. Canon had a hat store here in 1827, where they sold their own manufacture of hats. James Gibson carried on merchandis- ing on the corner of Main street and Bank alley before he built and located farther west. Matthew Irwin kept the post office here during part of his term of office. Armstrong Hadden kept the post office in this room for some time, and James H. Springer occupied the residence and kept the post office in this room dur- ing his term of office, 1861-65. George W. Morrison was here with a hat and cap store. Other occupants of the residence were: Joshua B. Howell, Esq., Mrs. William Byers, Mrs. Samuel S. Austin, James T. Redburn, Thomas Renshaw, David G. Sperry, Dr. Andrew Patrick, and others. The intermediate building between the residence and the store room was for many years occupied as a residence by John F. Beazell, editor of the American Standard. On June 6, 1865, Jonathan D. Springer, as executor of the will of Robert Skiles, sold this property to Daniel Sharpnack, who, on March 31, 1871, sold part to Jabez Thorndell, and on April 1, 1873, he sold the remaining portion of the eastern part History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 57 to Ernest E. Weniger. Mr. Weniger moved into this property and carried on his business as confectioner and baker, and after his retirement, his son Ed. E. Weniger carried on a variety store until the building -wzs torn down. In March, 1900, Charles J. McCormick purchased the entire interest of Mr. Weniger in this property, and in May following he sold to Charles H. Gorley the middle part, fronting on Main street and extending back to South street, and to the Second National Bank of Uniontown the corner, fronting thirty feet and nine inches on Main street and running back on Beeson avenue eighty-one feet; and to Isaac Hagan the rear corner fronting sixty-nine feet on Beeson avenue and thirty feet and nine inches on South street. The Second National Bank erected a fine five-story brick banking house and offices in 1901. The first floor was occupied by~the bank and the upper floors were occupied as offices. Charles H. Gorley erected a two-story brick business room the full length of the lot, with dwelling apartments on the second floor. Isaac N. Hagan erected a three-story brick building on his lot, with dining rooms on the first floor and tenements above. William Hunt purchased nineteen feet frontage, including the old store room of Robert Skiles and the half of an alley that had been left between lots Nos. 89 and 30 for the accommoda- tion of the owners. Into this old store room Mr. Hunt removed his jewelry store 1869, and has since conducted a prosperous business. Mr. Hunt started to learn the jewelry business on May 1, 1852, with Henry W. S. Rigden whose shop was then located in the old Levi Downer building in the room since occu- pied by the James A. Searight Insurance Agency. He opened business for himself in Uniontown in 1858, and his business has been continuous and prosperous ever since. Jesse Clevenger, a blacksmith by trade, purchased thirty- three feet front by 150 feet back, off the eastern part of this lot, No. 30, from Henry Beeson June 7, 1794. He was joined on the west by Jacob Bickle at that time. This lot would include all the present Gilmore hardware store property and about half of the Moser drug store property. Zadoc Springer became owner of this property and after his death it became the property of his daughter, Ann, who was the wife of Noah Morrison, a carpenter by trade. A frame build- ing occupied the eastern part of this lot, leaving a narrow alley 58 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. between it and the Robert Skiles store room on the east, this alleyway belonging half to each adjoining property. The Union Bank of Pennsylvania commenced business in this frame building in October, 1813, and here conducted busi- ness until in June, 1814, when the bank was moved to its own new building erected for the purpose on the corner of Main street and Bank alley. Milton Baily and Hardesty Walker car- ried on their business as silversmiths here for some time, before 1837. When Jacob B. Miller founded the Pennsylvania Demo- crat, the predecessor of the present News Standard, the first issue emanated from the office in this building, July 35, 1837, and here it was continued for some years. John and W. Smith succeeded the Democrat with a dry goods store and they in turn were succeeded by James G. Morrow with a new drug store. The next occupant of this property as well as owner was James McKean, who was born in county Tyrone, Ireland, of Scotch-Irish parentage. He emigrated to this country in 1818 and located in Uniontown in October of the same year. He took a course of studies in Washington college with a view of entering the Presbyterian ministry, but his health failing, he removed to Pittsburgh and entered the mercantile business. In 1837 he returned to Uniontown and after a couple of years as- sisting his brother, Thompson McKean, in the management of an iron furnace, he again engaged in the mercantile business. He was one of the well known and highly respected merchants of the town. On Saturday morning, October 13, 1849, this property was entirely destroyed by fire. Mr. McKean soon erected a two-story brick business room and dwelling on the site of the old frame and rented out the business room and oc- cupied the residence part until his death, after which his family removed to Philadelphia. Upon the incorporation of the Bank of Fayette County, which opened business September 1, 1858, it occupied this room for about three years, when the old Union Bank building was purchased and the bank was moved to that property. John D. Boyle was the next tenant in this room in 1861, with a stock of boots and shoes, where he did business for several years, then removed to what is now known as the Clag- gett property and sold out to his brother, the late Hon. Charles E. Boyle. William Hunt succeeded in this room with his business as History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 59 a silversmith for a few years, and he was succeeded by Zadoc B. Springer who both owned and occupied it with a hardware store and as a residence. He put in a new front, added a third story, and extended the building farther to the rear. He did business here for several years. John Gilmore and O. K. Frey succeeded Mr. Springer here in the hardware business until the death of Mr. Gilmore, September 3, 1907; and Mr. Frey soon retired and the business has been conducted by other parties. After Mr. Springer retired the building was greatly enlarged and im- proved. The second and third floors being used as a photo- graphing establishment for some years. The property now of Altha L. Moser and occupied as a drug store and dwelling, fronting 33.5 feet on Main street, covers about 10 feet of the original Jesse Clevenger purchase of 33 feet, and about 13.5 feet of the lot on the west, known as the Jacob Bickle lot. Philip Dilts purchased of Henry Beeson a lot fronting 93 feet 10^^ in. on Elbow street which would include 39% feet of the western side of lot No. 30 and 54 feet 4^^ in. of the eastern side of lot No. 31. This would include from near the middle of the Altha L. Moser lot to the middle of the Harah property on the west. One Jacob Bickle owned 38 feet frontage of this lot on which stood a log house and a frame shop. This man must have been of an unpleasant disposition, as at September sessions, 1798, he was indicted for assault and battery, and at September sessions, 1801, he pleaded guilty of presenting a gun at David Ewing at the distance of twenty yards, and was sentenced that he be imprisoned in the jail of the county for the space of one month and pay the costs of prosecution. He was tried on the second oflfense at the same sessions and pleaded guilty of pre- senting an empty gun at James Redburn at the distance of 30 yards, and was sentenced to pay the costs of prosecution and be imprisoned in the jail of the county for two months after the expiration of the former sentence of one month, and there- after till he pay the costs of prosecution and to give security for his good behavior for one year after the expiration of his imprisonment, in the sum of $500. He again appeared at March sessions, 1803, and again pleaded guilty and was sentenced to pay all costs, pay a fine of $50 and be confined in the jail of Fay- ette county for twelve calendar months and give security him- 60 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. self in $1,000, and two securities in $500 each for his future good behavior. It appears that this property descended to the heirs of Jacob Bickle and was sold at sheriff's sale as the property of James Bickle, a saddler by trade, and William Bickle, m 1826. A Mrs. Fletcher and her daughter, Mary, at one time oc- cupied this property and conducted a small grocery and milli- nery store. The daughter married a minister of the gospel and moved away from the town. Hugh Espy, after being in the mercantile business else- where in the town came into possession of this property and announced that he had removed his store across the street to the stand lately occupied by Mrs. Fletcher, nearly opposite Dr. Hugh Campbell's " medical store," May 25, 1836. Mr. Espy conducted his store here for several years when he purchased a piece of land just one mile west of town, to which he removed his family and retired from the mercantile business and em- barked in the nursery business. Mr. Espy filled the office of county commissioner for the years 1827-44 inclusive, and was appointed treasurer of the county November 5, 1850, and was elected to the same office October 14, 1851, and died before the expiration of his term, February 25, 1852, after a lingering and very painful illness of cancer of the face, in the 60th year of his age. No one in the community was held in higher esteem as a gentleman and a Christian. His son, Samuel, became prominent as an educator in the schools of Pittsburgh. His widow continued the nursery business for some years and died May 28, 1867. The fine residence of W. W. Parshall, Esq., now occupies the site of the old Espy home. Jonathan G. Allen succeeded Mr. Espy in the mercantile business in this property, and while in his occupancy a fire broke out on Saturday morning, October 13, 1849, in the rear of his store room and destroyed not only this but also the ad- joining property on the east. After the destruction of this property by fire, the lot lay vacant for some time, when Isaac Beeson purchased it and erected thereon a three-story brick business room and dwelling above. This building was erected in 1853, and upon its com- pletion, Edmund Beeson, son of Isaac, occupied it as a hard- ware store and residence, removing the stock of hardware from the Commercial Row, where the business had been conducted since the completion of that building. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 61 In 1856 Henry White was placed in full control of this hardware store, and after conducting the business for several years he purchased the stock, in 1865, and associated with him in business Peter J. Stoufifer and added a full Hne of groceries to the business. In a few years Mr. Stouffer withdrew and Mr. White continued in this room some few years alone, when he removed his store to the east room of the Bryan Building. John C. Wood succeeded Mr. White in this room with a stock of hardware and furniture. Altha L. Moser purchased this property from the widow of Edmund Beeson, January 31, 1884 and occupied it as a residence and a full line of drugs, paints, wall paper, etc. In the after- noon of July 2, 1898, a fire broke out in an adjoining building and soon communicated with this and other property. This was one of the most destructive fires in the history of the town up to that date, the loss being estimated at over $135,000. As- sistance was received from Connellsville, but the fire was not gotten under control until this and the adjoining property on the west, known as the Willson Block, were damaged beyond repair. Plans for a new and better three-story building were soon placed in the hands of the contractor, and on the afternoon of Monday, December 19, following, Moser and Springer opened their doors with a complete stock of drugs in a handsomely ap- pointed and modern store room. On December 31, 1910, after a career of thirty-two years in the drug business, Mr. Moser re- tired and Ed. G. Weltner continued the business. Philip Dilts purchased from Henry Beeson part of lots 30 and 31 and which he conveyed to Jacob Bickle on which stood a log building in which a tavern was at one time kept, probably by a one John Huston, as he was a hatter and inn-keeper in the early history of the town, and at one time is said to have been connected with this lot. It was at this tavern doubtless that Washington was enter- tained over night on the 22nd of September, 1784, as related elsewhere. Hardesty Walker, a silversmith, elsewhere men- tioned, purchased this property from the Bickle heirs about 1835, and erected a two-story brick dwelling and here lived and con- ducted his business for some years, and in 1829, he associated with him in business William Baily to whom he sold the prop- erty in 1834, and who with his brother, Ellis Baily, continued 68 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. in the business, and Mr. Walker moved to his farm one mile east of Brownsville on the National road. Mr. Walker was well known and highly respected. He finally removed to Sidney, Ohio. On November 18, 1835, William Baily conveyed this property to Jesse Evans, a prosperous and well known iron- master of the county, and father of Colonel Samuel Evans and Mrs. Alpheus Poage Willson, and here the latter made her home for many years. This brick building was torn away and a fine brick and stone building known as the Willson Block was erected in 1891. The first floor of this new building was occupied by George Roth as a department store and the upper parts as dwellings. A fire broke out in the basement of this property about 1 o'clock, p. m., Saturday, July 2, 1898, which destroyed not only this building but communicated with the adjoining property on the east, and was the most disastrous fire that had ever occurred in the town up to this date. The loss was estimated at $136,000. There was much suspicion that the fire was of incendiary origin. The Fayette Title and Trust Company was incorporated in 1899 and purchased this lot and in 1900 erected the present three-story stone front business block. The Company using the eastern room for their business and renting the western room for other purposes, and the rooms above for offices. James Chaplain purchased from Henry Beeson the eastern half of lot No. 32, and 17% feet of the western part of lot No. 31, making a frontage of fifty-three feet nine inches on Elbow street. This lot comprised from what would now be the middle of the Harah property to near the middle of the old Beeson property. On this lot stood a frame two-story dwelling which was purchased by Dr. Adam Simonson who came from New Jersey and settled in Uniontown in 1795, and in 1802 he pur- chased lot No. 2, in Jacob's Addition. He married a daughter of Reverend Obediah Jennings, an able Presbyterian minister of the Dunlap's Creek church, and remained a practicing physi- cian here until his death in 1808. Once when Dr. Simonson was riding on horseback along a lonely mountain road and passing what he had often observed as a deserted cabin, he saw smoke issuing from the chimney. While he was passing a woman came running out to meet him and begged his assistance in behalf of herself, her husband and little daughter. They were an Irish family, traveling in their own conveyance to the then far western History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 63 town of Cincinnati, recently laid out. The husband had been overtaken by severe illness on the way and was obliged to take refuge in the cabin. Dr. Simonson dismounted, and upon ex- amination of the man found that he had smallpox in virulent form, but he did not hesitate. He rode home immediately, con- sulted with his wife as to what should be done. The good doCjtor prepared a room in a building in his own yard and had the family conveyed thither, where in a few days the man died. Mrs. Simonson was then the mother of three small chil- dren, but happily no one contracted the disease. Time passed on till two years elapsed. The little girl of ten years, who was very pretty and bright, had been sent to school, while the mother assisted in the household duties. She then resolved to resume her journey to Cincinnati, where she had a brother living. There she opened a boarding house, and the little girl occasionally wrote to the Simonson family to in- form them how they were getting along, which was always a favorable report, but as years passed on correspondence ceased. Not many years after the incident in the mountain occurred. Dr. Simonson was taken away by death, and it was more than twenty years thereafter that James Simonson, his son, was traveling from New Orleans north on one of the large steam- boats which in those days was such a favorite mode of travel before railroads were constructed. He was in poor health at the time, and met on board the boat a gentleman who showed him great kindness and took a deep interest in his welfare. This gentleman induced him to stop off the boat at Memphis and rest until he should be better, and he would introduce him to his brother and sister-in-law, one of the most charming and beautiful women of that part of the south. Mr. Simonson con- sented to do so, and upon his introduction to the lady in ques- tion, she at once showed great curiosity with regard to the name, which lead to inquiries, and it was found that she was the little girl whose parents had been befriended so many years before in Uniontown by Dr. and Mrs. Simonson. She was well educated and living in affluence, and was delighted to have the opportunity to bestow hospitality and attention upon the son of her former benefactors as long as he would need or accept it. Truly this was a case of " Bread cast upon the water." Mrs. Simonson's maiden name was Jane Carnahan. Her only brother was James Carnahan, who was for many years 64 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. president of Princeton college. At a very early age she came to Pennsylvania with her grandfather, the Rev. Jacob Jennings, who was born in New Jersey in 1774, studied medicine and practiced in that state for twenty years and then turned his at- tention to theology and was licensed to preach the gospel. He came to Pennsylvania about 1791 and was received into Red- stone presbytery April 17, 1793, and, accepted a call to the Dun- lap's Creek congregation where he continued until June, 1811. He died February 17, 1813. He was the father of Rev. Obediah Jennings, D.D., and of the Rev. Samuel K. Jennings, M.D., for some time a professor in the Washington medical college of Baltimore. Dr. Jacob Jennings had served as a surgeon in the Revolutionary war, and was wounded in the battle of Trenton. Mrs. Simonson was said to have been exceedingly beautiful and was only seventeen years of age when she became the wife of Dr. Simonson. After the death of her first husband she became the wife of Daniel Moore of Washington, Pa., a wealthy and prominent stage proprietor who purchased what is now known as the Gilmore mansion at the west end of town, as a home for his daughter, Rebecca, the first wife of L. W. Stockton, men- tioned elsewhere. Mrs. Simonson lived a long life of sympathy and charity to others and died at the age of more than eighty years. On this lot stood a two-story frame building from which the Genius of Liberty was issued while under the proprietor- ship of Jesse Beeson, from 1809 to 1818, John Lewis then fol- lowed with a saddlery and harness shop. Dr. Daniel Sturgeon at one time occupied this property as a residence and ofiSce, and while a tenant here he had in his employ a colored woman who had a young son who did chores about the doctor's ofiSce and house. This boy was sent across the street to David Ewing's store of an errand and for some misconduct Mr. Ewing attempted to chastise the boy when Dr. Sturgeon hearing the fracas, ran across to take the boy's part and he and Mr. Ewing got into a fight. The mother of the boy, who was ironing clothes at the time^ also ran across the street to take the part of her son; upon seeing the doctor and Mr. Ewing engaged in a fight she struck at Mr. Ewing with the smoothing iron which she carried in her hand but instead of hitting Mr. Ewing she struck the doctor a terrible blow which ended the fight. Samuel Young Campbell, brother of Dr. Hugh Campbell, TOMUlKlsorN/ fe UNIONTOWN AS LAID OUT BY HEXRY AND JACOB BEESON. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 65 purchased this lot, fronting 58 feet on Main street, from the heirs of Dr. Simonson, March 14, 1837, and immediately re- moved the old frame building to Morgantown street where it became the residence of Mrs. Eliza Murphy until her death, and was torn down in the spring of 1911. Mr. Campbell erected on this lot a large two-story brick residence and store room into which he moved his family and store in 1830. The parlor was on the west and the store room on the east of the hallway. Samuel Y. Campbell was a son of Benjamin Campbell, a silversmith, and came with his parents to Uniontown in 1792. He became a prosperous business man and an influential mem- ber of the Presbyterian church. He owned a branch store in Connellsville which was under the charge of David M. Whaley and styled D. M. Whaley & Co. Mr. Campbell's first wife was a Mrs. Trigg of Wytheville, Va., by whom he had one son, Alexander Hamilton Campbell, who became a prominent physi- cian of this town, and one daughter, Melvina, who never mar- ried and died in Baltimore about 1895. His second wife was Sarah Crozer by whom he had three children. He died at Up- land, after an illness of only two days, in 1856. It appears that Mr. Campbell retired from business for a short time after erecting this new property, as he advertised his new store room, lately occupied as such, and now vacant, for rent, December 30, 1835; and he announces that he has recommenced business with an entirely new stock, May 11, 1836. He had associated with him in business C. A. Gilbert, and in 1845 Mr. Gilbert withdrew and Mr. Campbell continued at the old stand. On December 9, 1847, Mr. Campbell advertised this property for sale, and his stock of dry goods at cost. In 1853 Moses Shehan occupied this business room with a tailoring establishment, and he, who was for many years a well known tailor of the town, advertised his business in the fol- lowing style : " New goods, new goods, of every grade, Both in the piece and ready made. And cheaper far than sold before At any other clothing store, ' Mong christian tribes or heathen clans. May now be had at Mose Shehan's. 66 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Fine clothes of every price and texture, Black, blue and brown and golden mixture, Cadet and drab and olive green. As handsome shades as e'er were seen. To suit the taste of every freeman. Who '11 call and buy from Moses Shehan. And cassimeres to match the cloths, Not soiled by age nor eat by moths, But fresh and fine and good and new. Of every shade and stripe and hue. To please the plain and fancy man Who patronizes Mose Shehan. Fine vestings, too, of style most splendid. With every rainbow color blended. Or plain, to screen the judge's chest. Of silks the finest and the best, Becoming too the princely yoeman. Can now be bought of Moses Shehan. These goods he'll sell by bolt or yard For almost cost, as times are hard, Or make them up Parisian fashion, If you will only bring your cash on. And plank it down, then you will see man, That none can sell as low as Shehan. ' But will they fit? ' some one may mutter, How can they miss? McCuen's the cutter. And by consent the greatest crook That ever man's dimensions took, And all who come will sing a paean To him who cuts for Moses Shehan." R. L. Barry occupied this property as a residence and busi- ness room in 1857. Alf. T. Clark, a Pittsburgh man, located in this room in 1859 with a stationery and lamp store. This was about the time when carbon oil was superseding the tallow candle, and Mr. Clark advertised his carbon oil at $1.15 per gallon. On February 8, 1860, Mrs. Annetta Harah purchased this History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 67 property from the heirs of Samuel Y. Campbell for $2,500, and her husband, John S. Harah, closed the alleyway, throwing it into the store room, into which he removed his stock of hats and caps and added a stock of boots and shoes and here con- tinued business until his death, November 8, 1905, since which time his sons have continued the business. Mr. Harah was born in the forks of the Monongahela and Youghiogheny rivers, near McKeesport, April 8, 1826. In 1848 he became associated with his father, Samuel Harah, in the manufacture and sale of hats and continued one of the leading merchants of the town until his death. Mr. Harah was a pleasant conversationalist and loved to relate anecdotes of the early history of the town. Upon the organization of the Dollar Savings Bank of Uniontown a room was fitted up in this property, and on January 1, 1870, that institution opened its doors for business and here continued until it closed its business July 19, 1878. A fuller account of this bank is given elsewhere. This room has since been occupied by various tenants. The western part of this property was converted into a store room and the whole has since been used for business purposes. John Chaplin purchased the eastern half of lot No. 32, June 8, 1793, and Samuel Sutton purchased the western half in 1794, and after passing through sundry hands it came into the possession of Henry W. Beeson, son of Jacob Beeson, merchant, and grandson of Henry Beeson, the founder of the town, in 1815, and prior to 1820 he erected on the eastern part a two-story brick residence and store room combined. He transacted mercantile business in a frame building on the west- ern part of this lot for a few years before he erected the brick. He soon sold out to his brother, Isaac, who in 1832, erected a two-story brick business room on the site of the frame building, and here established the famous Beeson store, which for many years was the leading store of the town. Henry W. Beeson moved to his farm in North Union township, on land taken up by James Stewart and subsequently owned by Colonel Alex- ander McClean, and where the Beeson coke works are now located. Here he erected a fine brick mansion and spent the remainder of his days much respected by the community. He died October 28, 1863. General Henry W. Beeson was a private in Captain Thomas Collins' company in the war of 1812, represented Fayette and 68 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Greene counties in the 37th congress, 1841-43, and was a staunch friend of the old National road, and with all his energies, op- posed the construction of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad through Pennsylvania west of Cumberland, and to this end he wrote many articles for publication, in which he stated the advantages and benefits of the great national thoroughfare to the farming districts over those of a railroad. Isaac Beeson, known as the prince of merchants of the town, conducted business here for many years, associating with him at different times the various members of his family, and resided in the brick residence that his brother, Henry W., had erected. In 1857 he purchased the Mount Braddock farm and moved his residence to that place, where he spent the remain- der of his life. He was born in Uniontown, September 39, 1795. His first wife was Louisa Caroline Pennock ; his second wife was Mary Ann Nicholson ; his third wife was Mary Kennedy and his fourth wife was Mrs. Eliza Gibson, the widow of James Gibson. He died on the Mount Braddock farm April 9, 1866. This property came into the possession of Charles H. Bee- son, son of Isaac, who occupied the residence part as a dwelling until his death; and his family still continued to occupy it as such until November, 1888, at which time they moved to their fine residence on South Beeson avenue, and the old residence was devoted to business purposes. April 3, 1894, this residence property was conveyed to Daniel Chisholm, who had been in business for fifteen years, and he remodeled it and put in a full line of dry goods, millinery, etc., thus this property passed out of the Beeson name after an ownership of seventy-nine years. A third story was added to the store room part in 1851. A small tramway ran through an alleyway at the eastern side of the store room, affording a convenient mode of conveying heavy merchandise from Main street through to the warehouse in the rear. This alleyway was later closed and converted into a store room in which Beesons carried a line of groceries, and was subsequently occupied by other tenants. In 1890 this store room part was conveyed by the heirs of Charles H. Beeson to the Young Men's Christian Association, and in 1907 this Association conveyed it to Josiah V. Thomp- son and John D. Ruby, who in February, 1909, conveyed the same to Lee, Joseph and Samuel Stern who threw the two History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 69 rooms into one and greatly enlarged the main store room and put in a full line of ready-made clothing and gents' furnishings. Lots Nos. 33 and 34 were thrown into one and composed a frontage of 80 feet on Elbow or Main street, and extended from the Beeson store room property to Cheat or Morgantown street, and had a frontage on Cheat or Morgantown street of IS? feet and a frontage of 193 feet on South street. This lot was sold to Abraham Faw, of Fredericktown, Maryland, by Henry Beeson, September 4, 1790, for 10 pounds Pennsyl- vania money, equal to twenty-six and two-thirds dollars. This lot had previously been in the possession of Colin Campbell and contained a brick one-and-a-half-story tenement, and a smith shop and a stable. A row of Lombardy poplars stood along the curbing in front of this property. John Tarr kept a tavern on this corner, having a license in 1796. The brick building stood on the western corner and a log building formed the rear. Abraham Faw and wife, on May 7, 1796, conveyed to Thomas Collins the western part of this lot, containing 43 feet and 6 inches frontage, and upon this Mr. Collins established him- self in the tavern business. A two-story frame house stood back on this lot which was used at one time by an old man named Hepburn as a school room on the second floor, and he lived below in the rear part. Hepburn had two daughters, Jane and Eliza, who assisted as teachers in his school, John Bierer, E. B. Dawson and William Beeson were among the pupils of this school. The part of the lot since occupied by the Huston drug store and the Claggett property was then the play ground for the children of this school, and contained apple trees and a grass plat. On the eastern part of lot No. 33, and next west of the Beeson store room, stood a frame building of which James Gibson was in occupancy when he purchased from Andrew Stewart, December 36, 1835, a frontage of about 38 feet, and on which Mr. Gibson erected the two-story brick building still standing and occupied the eastern as a store and the western part as a residence. He was for many years a prominent mer- chant of the town, having been in business some years before purchasing this property. His advertisement of May 23, 1833, announced that he had just removed his store to the new brick 70 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. store room next to Isaac Beeson's where he is now opening his stock of spring and summer goods, groceries, hardware, etc. An amusing incident occurred in Mr. Gibson's store while here. He had sold some tallow dips to a child of Edward Hyde and they proved entirely too soft for use and Mrs. Hyde de- termined to return them and, if necessary, give Mr. Gibson " a piece of her mind." When Mr. Gibson saw her enter the store he surmised her errand and called out that he would not receive the candles. " You can't help yourself, sir," she cried, and hurled the mass of grease at his head and walked out of the store never to return. Mr. Gibson retired from business in the fall of 184?', and removed to Pittsburgh where he became treasurer of the Penn- sylvania and Ohio railroad, which subsequently became the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and Chicago railroad. William A. West succeeded Mr. Gibson in this store room with a dry goods store, and on April 23, 1853, he announced that he had disposed of his stock to quit business, and requests settlement of all accounts, and Daniel Moser announces that as agent, he will sell the entire stock of goods recently owned by William A. West, at the old stand, April 39, 1853. C. E. Swearingen succeeded William A. West in this room with a stock of dry goods, and in 1854 he removed his store to Stewart's Row on Morgantown street in the room formerly occupied by P. H. Hellen, Mr. Hellen having moved into his new room in his new building known as Tremont Cor- ner. Daniel Huston, with his son-in-law, Henry R. Beeson, as agent, succeeded Swearingen in this room with a stock of groceries and provisions, but in a year or two he sold out to George W. Rutter. Mr. Rutter was here in 1858, but soon re- moved across the street into the Concert Hall building and he was succeeded in this room by Cornelius Claggett with a furniture and undertaking establishment, and he in turn was succeeded by his son, Thomas, and A. D. Johnson in the same business, since which time the room has been occupied by vari- ous tenants as a business room. The western part of the James Gibson building which was separated from the eastern part by a hallway, and was used by Mr. Gibson as a parlor, was subsequently converted into a busi- ness room and has been since used as such. John K. Fisher moved his stock of goods from Commercial History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 71 Row to this room April 1, 1849, and here associated with him Charles P. Austin and carried on merchandising for some years, and occupied the rear part as a residence. Mr. Austin withdrew from this firm March 6, 1851. Mr. Fisher conducted a branch store at Laurel Hill in 1854 under the management of his former clerk, William McCray. Mr. Fisher moved his store to the Benjamin Hellen room, west of Morgantown street, where he met with financial reverses and closed out his business and entered the army. William Hunt succeeded Fisher in this room and here first established himself in the jewelry business in 1858 where he remained for one year. Ferdenand Laughead followed Mr. Hunt in this room with a stock of ready-made clothing, where he conducted business and occupied the residence until 1863, when he was succeeded by John D. Boyle, who moved into this room from the James McKean room with a stock of boots and shoes. He soon sold out to his brother, the late Hon. C. E. Boyle, who also occupied the residence part of the property. Sanford Claggett, who had been the efficient clerk in William H. Baily's drug store for some years, took charge of the business for Mr. Boyle, who was wholly occupied with his immense law practice. He soon sold out to Mr. Claggett who on May 5, 1877 purchased the western part of the property, consisting of 32 feet, 1 inch, from Mrs. Eliza L. Beeson, formerly the widow of James Gibson, and Cornelius Claggett purchased the eastern part, consisting of 15 feet, 11 inches, from the same party. In this room Sanford Claggett successfully conducted his business until his death, December 22, 1894, when he was succeeded in the same busi- ness by his former clerk, Frank Hagans, who associated with him George Conn. Hagans and Conn conducted the business here for some years, when they closed out and retired. This room has since been occupied by Hatfield and Hook. The upper part was converted into business rooms and has been occupied as offices. Between the James Gibson property and the Tremont build- ing was a twenty-foot lot on which stood a frame building which was used at various times by the different tailors of the town. John Carpenter occupied this building as such in 1845-48. It was in the occupancy of Mr. Carpenter when Daniel Huston purchased it from Andrew Stewart, March 10, 1848. Mr. Huston 72 History of Uniontovm, Pennsylvania. tore away the old building and erected the present two-story brick on its site, and upon its completion he moved his stock of ready-made clothing and tailoring business into his new room, which he designated as " The Temple of Fancy and Fashionable Headquarters." In 1854 Mr. Huston associated with him in his business, his son, Henry, and in 1856 Henry withdrew. In 1863, Daniel Huston and his son, Samuel, opened a new drug and book store in this room, Daniel removing his store and tailoring es- tablishment to the Tremont Corner. This partnership continued until 1867, when Samuel purchased an interest in a large drug house in Tiffin, Ohio, when he retired from business here and moved to that place and William Huston took charge of the busi- ness and conducted it until 1880, when Frank Huston became proprietor and continued the business until 1910, when the prop- erty was purchased by George M. Baily and Mr. Huston moved his stock of drugs to his other store in Connellsville. Mr. Baily made many improvements on this property and has since oc- cupied it as a jewelry store. A brick building stood on the western corner of this lot and faced on Main street and a log building formed the rear. Abra- ham Faw and wife on May 7, 1796, conveyed to Thomas Collins the western part of this lot, containing 43 feet, 6 inches, frontage, and upon this Mr. Collins established himself in the tavern busi- ness. Thomas Collins was the son of John Collins elsewhere men- tioned as keeping the first tavern in Uniontown. He served as sheriff of Fayette county from November 1, 1796 to October 26, 1799, and was appointed postmaster at Uniontown April 1, 1802, by President Jefferson and kept the post office in his tavern. He was succeeded as postmaster by John Campbell, who was appointed to that office November 18, 1807. He raised and com- manded the first company of troops for the war of 1813, which was raised in Fayette county. He left here in August and com- menced service August 37, of that year. He served at Oswego, Sackett's Harbor and other points along the lake frontier under the command of Major-General Herkimer. His company was known as the Madison Rowdies, and when the major of his regi- ment was wounded. Captain Collins was promoted to fill that office. The time of his company expired August 26, 1813. Captain Collins' tavern was popular with parties attending History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 73 court and others who found the shade trees and grass plat a delightful place to while away the time in social intercourse. This hostelry was also a favorite place for gatherings and en- tertainments. There is still in existence two invitation cards to dances held at Collins' tavern. One of these reads as follows : " Union, Nov. 9, 1803. The company of Miss Molly Meason is requested at a dance on Tuesday evening, the 16th inst. at the house of Col. Thomas Collins in Uniontown : Thomas Hadden, James Morrison and William Lyon, managers." Molly Meason was a daughter of Col. Isaac Meason, the proprietor of the Mount Braddock farm and became the wife of Daniel Rogers of New Haven. The other invitation card read the same except as to the name, which in this instance was to Miss Patty Griffin. These invitations were printed on the back of common playing cards to conform to the then prevailing style and usage. Thomas Collins married Hannah Allen and had two daugh- ters : Nancy who died when a young woman, and Hannah who married Captain John Foster who was commissioned a captain in the Second Regiment of Infantry in the service of the United States, July 6, 1813, and who was considered the handsomest man in this part of the country, and while here recruiting for the service was thrown from his horse near Searights, and his horse falling on him, he was killed. He had two daughters, viz., Jane, who married Joseph Gray and Elizabeth who married Samuel Yarnell. His widow subsequently married William Barton, November 38, 1834, and they were the parents of four children, viz., Thomas, Benjamin, Hannah and Joseph. At one time one Patrick McDonald, a hatter by trade en- tered Capt. Collins' tavern and, it is alleged, used insulting lan- guage toward Mrs. Collins for which the Captain ejected him with such force that he fell on the sidewalk and sustained such injuries as to cause his death. He was the father of Samuel McDonald, once owner and editor of the Pennsylvania Demo- crat, and of William McDonald, an attorney at the bar, and held the office of postmaster from July 13, 1841, to May 19, 1843. Captain Collins ever after regretted this rash act done in a passion. On October 38, 1833, this property was sold at sheriff's sale, and Captain Collins moved to his farm one mile west of town on 'i'4 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the McClellandtown road. The property subsequently came into the possession of Hon. Andrew Stewart. The obituary of Capt. Collins published in the Pennsylvania Democrat of November 14, 1827, reads as follows: " Died — At his residence in Union township on Thursday the 8th inst., Col. Thomas Collins. Col. Collins was at one time high sheriflE of Fayette county. During the late war he commanded a volunteer company which rendered active and efficient service on the north- ern frontier. In the battle at Sackett's Harbor he received a severe wound in the breast from the efifects of which he never entirely recovered. Col. Collins was an esteemed and honorable man and a brave soldier." His widow died June 18, 1844. After Capt. Thomas Collins left this property George W. Rutter occupied the old tavern stand in 1825, with a stock of ready-made clothing and toys. This stock was from the store of Richard Barry, the stepfather of Mr. Rutter, and father of Robert L. Barry, who later carried on merchandising in the town. Mr. Rutter subsequently added dry goods and groceries to his stock, and his advertisement, dated October 31, 1827, states that he has also on hand 50 barrels of old rye whisky from the most approved distilleries, on hand and for sale. In 1830 Mr. Rutter associated with him a Mr. Spicer, who retained an interest but a short time. Here Mr. Rutter kept bachelor's hall in the rear of his store, having some woman to do his cooking until his mar- riage to Miss Mary Beeson, daughter of Henry Beeson, Jr., son of Henry Beeson the founder of the town, December 34, 1826. About 1830 Mr. Rutter retired temporarily from merchan- dising and was for some years engaged as clerk and bookkeeper for different individuals at which he was accurate and compe- tent. Jehu Brownfield succeeded Mr. Rutter in this property, but store keeping not being to his taste, he soon retired to his farm near the Tent meeting-house. Samuel Snyder followed Mr. Brownfield with a confectionery and ice cream parlors, in 1834, in connection with his other sales room west of the court house. Zalmon Ludington occupied this property in 1847, with a boot, shoe and leather store. Mr. Ludington ran a tannery in Wharton township, and James T. Redburn was his efficient clerk and manager in this store. Jonathan G. Allen commenced busi- ness in this property and was here at the time of the famous Braddee mail robbery. He removed to the Whitewash corner, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 75 thence to the Thomas Rankin room, thence to the Hugh Espy room where he was burned out, 1847; thence to the James F. Canon room, thence to the Campbell Row, thence to his farm in Franklin township in 1853. Jacob Stahl, also a clerk for Mr. Ludington, opened a shoe store here in 1849, and added the repairing of clocks and watches to his other business, and carried on the jewelry business elsewhere later. Benjamin C. Paine next occupied this room with a boot and shoe store in 1851. He was an extensive manufacturer and car- ried on his business at various places in the town for many years. His wife was Miss Stewartson, and he left two sons, Richard and Owen, and two daughters, Mrs. Donna Myers and Mrs. Mattie Kerr, both of Uniontown. In 1853, Peter H. Hellen erected on this corner a three-story business block, with rooms facing on Main and Morgantown streets. This he named the Tremont Building and moved his stock of goods from the Stewart Row on Morgantown street into this new building in January, 1854, and in one year Mr. Hellen sold out to Charles S. Seaton & Co. In 1858 Dr. Hugh Campbell moved his drug store into the Tremont Corner room while he remodeled his room in the Round Corner, and upon the completion of his improvements he moved back and was succeeded in this room by John Hagan with a stock of ready-made clothing and boots and shoes. Mr. Hagan closed out his business in 1859, and was succeeded by J. C. Light- cap with a stock of stoves and tinware. Lightcap was succeeded by Daniel Huston with a line of ready-made clothing and tailor- ing and gents' furnishings, 1864, and he was succeeded in 1868 by Myers Hollander in the same line of business, and he in turn was followed by George R. Messmore and Monkittrick. Messmore soon retired and the firm became Bayne and Mon- kittrick, in the clothing business. This firm was closed out by the sheriff in 1872. Armor S. Craig opened out here with a full line of groceries and provisions, and he was succeeded by Robert I. Patterson & Bro., they were succeeded by O. P. Markle and John C. Fulton in the same line. Robert Patterson had bought the Tremont Corner from James Veech February 23, 1869, and conveyed it to J. V. Thomp- son and John D. Ruby March 28, 1882, and Mr. Ruby moved his stock of groceries from the old Col. Roberts' building into this room, where he conducted a successful business for many years. The rest of the building has been used for business purposes. CHAPTER V. East Main Street, North Side, from Court Street to North Beeson Avenue, Comprising Lots Nos. 35 to 42, Inclusive. Lot No. 35 of the original plat of the town was bounded on the east by a public alley and on the south by Elbow street, and was deeded to John Kidd, March 8, 1780, for four pounds, " to be paid in Grain, Lining or other suitable or merchantable produce at the rate such commodities or articles were valued at or sold for at the commencement of the war, that at present sub- sists among us, or the value thereof in currency." This lot was released back to Henry Beeson for the sum of one hundred dollars and, along with the public alley mentioned, was added to the Central Public grounds, and what is now Court street was taken from the western side. Lot No. 36 is the first lot west of Court street, and was deeded to Jacob Harbaugh in trust for the children of Daniel Harbaugh, a son. May 6, 1800. Mr. Harbaugh lived in an old log building which stood on the front of this lot. His wife was Susan Downer, a daughter of Jacob Downer, and a sister of Jonathan Downer. He filled the office of high sheriflf of Fayette county, by appointment, from 1808 to 1811. He took charge of Pierson Sayers' tavern, in a frame build- ing adjoining on the west, during the latter's term as high sheriff of Fayette county, from 1805 to 1808, and then succeeded Sayers to that office. He owned property adjoining Jacob Dutton at the foot of Laurel Hill. He died July 17, 1813, and is buried in the old Methodist Episcopal graveyard. His widow married Jonathan Rowland. A frame building stood on the rear of this lot and faced the public grounds and was occupied at various times by different tenants. The widow Rine was an occupant here for several years. Her daughter Mary (Polly) married Miles Tiernan, a cabinet maker who carried on that business and made his home with Mrs. Rine. Her daughter Sarah Ann, became the wife of Daniel Huston, the well-known and prosperous tailor of the 76 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. It town. Her daughter Ellen, married John P. Tollman of Wheel- ing and former student at Madison college and who became cashier of a bank at Bridgeport, Ohio. She had previously made her home with Mrs. Mills, who was a sister to Grandma Rine, at Zanesville, Ohio. Jacob Harbaugh went out in the Crawford campaign and with Dr. Knight, John Slover and others to the number of twenty, who made search among the dead and dying for the grandson of Col. Crawford, but the youth was with Col. Williamson and the retreating army. John Sherrard and Jacob Harbaugh parted company with Crawford on the retreat and followed the route taken by the army, while Crawford took a nearer route. Sher- rard sighted an Indian in front and dismounted and took to a tree, notifying Harbaugh to do the same. Harbaugh, not seeing the Indian, stood on the wrong side of the tree and was killed, exclaiming : " Lord, have mercy on me for I am a dead man." The Indian then fled. Sherrard then exchanged saddles with Harbaugh's horse, and after proceeding half a mile, he was re- minded that he had left his provisions strapped to his old saddle and resolved to retrace his steps and secure his provision. He found Harbaugh had been shot through the right breast and was dead. During the interval of Sherrard's absence the Indian had returned, scalped Harbaugh and taken the horse and bridle, but had overlooked the saddle, provisions and blanket. Sher- rard secured these and resumed his journey. This was the 7th day of June, 1783. Sherrard here resolved to keep the 7th day of June a sacred day of fasting and prayer to Almighty God for his preservation the rest of his life, a promise he sacredly kept for 37 years. John Sherrard was born 1750, and died 32nd April, 1809, in his 59th year. The daughter, Eliza, married Daniel P. Lynch, who was sheriff from 1820 to 1833. Her sons were George, Macon, Ed- ward and David, who became a prominent minister in the Metho- dist Protestant church. Aunt Betsy Hedges was another tenant of this house, and taught a school of small children for many years. Her pupils, like their teacher, have all passed to the great beyond. Nancy and Mary McCahen, two maiden sisters, kept a small confectionery here and catered to the youth of the town in the way of sweetmeats, cakes and candy. Their taffy, the ingredients 78 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. of which they kept a profound secret, has never been equalled as to flavor in the history of the town. This lot became the property of Judge John Kennedy, from whom it passed to Ellis Baily and from him to his son-in-law John Dawson, who in 1833, erected the present brick building known as The Dawson Law Building. This building was erected especially for law offices and has been used as such almost ex- clusively ever since, and many of the legal lights of the Fayette county bar made their debut into the legal profession while oc- cupying offices in this building. The office of the Genius of Liberty occupied an upstairs room in this building in 1834, being owned and published at that time by Alonzo L. Littell. This doubtless was among the first, if not the first tenant in the new building. The law firm of Joshua B. and Alfred Howell was perhaps the most prominent and the longest in tenure of any who have occupied this building. George D. Howell succeeded his father, Alfred Howell, here in the practice of law; and others, still occupy a part of the building. In the rear of the Dawson Law Building, facing Court street, Daniel Sturgeon built a two-story brick building for law offices in 1889, which has been since occupied by himself and others for that purpose. John K. Ewing, Jr., and O. J. Sturgis erected a two-story brick building on the rear of this lot from which they published the News Standard from 1889 to 1893, since which time it has been occupied as various offices. It is now owned by Chas. F. Kefover, Esq., and occupied as law offices. Pierson Sayers built the frame residence next west of the Dawson Law Building in the year 1790, one year after the build- ing of a brick building on the west. Here he conducted a tavern in 1799. He was appointed high sheriff of Fayette county in 1805, during which, time Jacob Harbaugh conducted his tavern and became his successor in that office. Ellis Baily purchased this property from Pierson Sayers and subsequently for many years it became the home of his son-in-law. Judge John Dawson, with the exception of his residence at Oak Hill from 1846 till 1865, when the property was occupied by James P. Hedges as a furniture establishment for two years, and by ex-sherilif Eli Cope after his term of office as high sherilif of the county. Judge History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 79 Dawson returned to this house in 1865, and died here January 16, 1875. The history of the Dawson family is briefly stated as fol- lows : Nicholas was born near the site of Washington City and came with his father, George Dawson, who settled near the present site of the Youngstown coke works, in 1768. They were planters and brought their slaves with them. Nicholas Dawson served in the revolutionary war and also went with Colonel William Crawford against the Indians and shared in that dread- ful defeat of June 5, 1782. He became separated from the army and was traveling in the opposite direction when he was met by some of his friends who tried to persuade him to reverse his course and accompany them. This he refused to be per- suaded to do. They at last told him of his imminent danger and that he would certainly be taken by the Indians and be tortured ; and that it would be better to die by the hands of white men and that they would shoot him on the spot. He yielded to their per- suasions, and after severe privations, reached home in safety. He married Violette Littleton of Fairfax, Va., and started on a flat-boat to settle in Kentucky, a most perilous journey in those days. The Indians being troublesome, he stopped upon the Ohio river, not far from Wellsville in Virginia. Here several of his children were born, among whom was John, July 13, 1788, who at the age of twenty years returned to Uniontown where he entered as a law student in the office of Gen. Thomas Meason, and after the latter's death he entered the office of Judge John Kennedy. He was admitted to the bar August 17, 1813, and practiced law for more than thirty years. He was appointed as- sociate judge by Governor Johnson in 1850. On January 4, 1820, he was married to Ann, the only daugh- ter of Ellis Baily, by whom he had thirteen children. He was one of the members of the bar that were disbarred by Judge Baird in 1834. He died in this property January 16, 1875, in the 87th year of his age. His daughter, Mrs. Ellen Ruby, widow of Addison Ruby, occupied the residence part of this property, in which she was born, for many years and died here September 4, 1910, aged 85 years. Part of this jiroperty has been used as law offices for many years. Lot No. 37— -The first purchaser of this lot was James Gregg, for five pounds, February 28, 1792. Joseph Huston, an 80 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. iron master and prominent citizen of the town, erected on the eastern part of this lot the first brick house built in the town, in the year 1789, and was its first occupant and continued to live here for several years although never its owner. This property came into possession of John Wood, a saddler and merchant of the town in 1792, who sold it two years later to Jonathan Row- land who occupied it until 1829. It was for many years known as the Rowland property. Mr. Rowland sold it to his son, Thomas, and his son-in-law, Charles G. Griffith and moved to Wharton township, where he died September 22, 1830. Jonathan Rowland was a saddler by trade and was located in Uniontown before 1783, and obtained a license for a public house at December term, the first session of court ever held in Fayette county, but he never applied for a renewal of the license. General Ephraim Douglass in writing to John Dickinson, Esq., President of Supreme Executive Council, under date of February 6, 1784, says of Jonathan Rowland : " He is a good man, with a good share of understanding, and a good English education, but unfortunately of a profession rather too much opposed to the suppression of vice and immorality — he keeps a tavern." This letter of Gen. Douglass was written soon after an election was held at which Mr. Rowland was elected a justice of the peace for Union township, which office he held con- tinuously until 1829, and all this time in this same building. He married the widow of Jacob Harbaugh as before mentioned. He became a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and filled the office of a trustee in that body for some years. He removed to Wharton township, where he died, September 22, 1830, in the 77th year of his age, and was buried in the old Methodist graveyard on Peter street. This property came into the ownership of Daniel Downer in 1851, in whose possession it remained until his death. This old building has a wonderful record, having been occupied by so many tenants and for a variety of purposes. It was the headquarters of the American Banner and Literary and Temper- ance Journal which was established in April, 1832, with Alfred Patterson, Esq., as editor and William H. Whitton as printer, and advocated the claims of Henry Clay to the presidency. This publication was of short duration. Rev. William Tipton, of the M. E. church, occupied this as a residence some time in the 'forties while his son, Thomas, attended old Madison college History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 81 and who since raised himself to a seat in the United States senate from Nebraska. A Miss Cochran occupied this building with a select school for several years and Miss Eliza Blaine, a sister of Hon. James G. Blaine was one of her pupils and shared her hospitalities. Much of this building has always been, and is still used as law offices. It has undergone some changes in construction, has never stood idle for want of a tenant since it was built and was never damaged by fire. John D. Ruby purchased this property October 18, 1900. Lot No. 37 — James Gregg, the first purchaser of this lot, kept a tavern for many years in a building, partly frame and partly brick, which stood on this lot. High steps led to the western side of this house. James Gregg received his first license at June sessions, 1798, and here he kept a tavern at the sign of the " Sorrel Horse " until his death, April 35, 1810, since which his widow continued the business for many years in her own name. James Gregg married Nacca Murphy, the youngest child of Mrs. Ann Murphy, who came here with her slaves and settled on the tract of land one and a half miles west of town, since known as the Henry Gaddis and County Home farms. Nacca Gregg died November 11, 1847, at the age of 87 years and is buried in the old M. E. graveyard on Peter street. Matthew Allen, who had served a term as sheriff of the county, succeeded Mrs. Gregg and conducted a tavern here for some five years. Under his management the name of the place was changed to the " Union Inn," a name it ever afterward re- tained. Thomas Bail succeeded Allen for a short time, and he was succeeded by WilHam Medkirk, who subsequently kept tavern on the opposite side of the street, conducted the Union Hotel for a while. In 1851, Amos Howell advertised that he had taken the tavern stand recently occupied by William Medkirk and has thoroughly renovated it and is now prepared to enter- tain the traveling public. He styles his place as the Union Inn, and has also attached a livery stable for the hire of horses and buggies and a hack will leave daily, at 7 :00 a. m. and 1 :00 p. m. to make connection with the boat at Brownsville. He continued in business here for several years. Others following Howell 83 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. here were Simeon Houser, a well known stage driver and for some time a constable.^ Philip D. Stentz, Thomas Moxley, and James F. Ebert who also kept oysters, ice cream and other re- freshments. This old property became so delapidated while still used as a tavern that it acquired the unsavory sobriquet of the " Bat's Nest." In 1867, this property passed into the ownership of one Dr. Barris, and in 1869, to the ownership of Ernest E. Weniger. John H. Miller of Grafton, West Virginia, located in Union- town for the purpose of erecting works for the manufacture of illuminating gas. He purchased the old tavern stand, tore away the old buildings and erected the present brick building as a residence. He commenced the erection of the gas works in 1869, but failing in business, the property passed into other hands. Dr. James B. Ewing became owner of this property and oc- cupied it as a residence and physician's office. It since passed into the ownership of T. S. Lackey and others and has since been used as law offices. It later became the property of the Young Men's Christian Association. Lot No. 38 was traversed by the old original mill race which conducted the water to the old Beeson mill, and along its bank was a driveway to and from the mill. This necessitated the division of the lot into small and irregular portions. Mrs. Mary Bunton, who was the widow of Dennis Mc- Donald, bought the greater part of this lot in trust for the heirs of her late husband, Dennis McDonald, June 8, 1793. The children of Dennis McDonald were Patrick, William, and Samuel and it appears that Joshua Johnson married a daughter. Patrick McDonald was a hatter by trade, and it was he whom Capt. Tom Collins threw from his tavern for, it is alleged, in- sulting Mrs. Collins, McDonald falling with such force as to sustain fatal injuries. William McDonald became a lawyer and was a member of the bar of Fayette county, and was appointed postmaster at Uniontown in 1841. He is mentioned elsewhere. Samuel McDonald was a printer by trade, and he and his brother, William, together and separately owned and published the Pennsylvania Democrat from 1834 to 1844. Mrs. Bunton formerly owned a lot immediately east of what was since known as the Moran Hotel which she disposed of and purchased this. She lived in a small one-and-a-half story frame History of Uniontozvn, Pennsyhama. 83 house on the rear of this lot, which stood a little way back from Peter street. It had a small front yard with shade trees. Mrs. Bunton lived to such an age that she was familiarly known as Granny Bunton. She died in Pittsburgh over ninety years of age. Much of this lot was absorbed by the opening of North Gallatin avenue in 1883, when by condemnation proceedings the borough took the western part of this lot for that purpose. William Thorndell, Sr., became owner of part of lot No. 38 on which the frame building is still standing and lining on the eastern side of North Gallatin avenue. Here he conducted a confectionery and bakery and also manufactured shoes. He came here from Gloucester, England, in 1843, having landed in America that same year. This property remained in the Thorn- dell family for many years and was finally sold to- Edgar S. Hackney, J. V. Thompson and J. D. Ruby. In the spring of 1907, the Executive Committee of the Young Men's Christian Association of Uniontown purchased this old Thorndell prop- erty and the old Ewing property on the east for the purpose of erecting a Young Men's Christian Association building. George Roth, having obtained a lease on the northern part of this lot, erected a three-story brick building thereon which was rented for business purposes on the first floor and flats on the second and a public hall on the third. On the front end of this lot stood three small frame build- ings which were occupied at various times by different tenants for business purposes. A small alley-way separated the build- ings on this lot from the Gregg tavern on the east. Isaac Car- ter made Windsor chairs here in 1815, and J. S. Williams opened a bake shop here in 1820. Edward Gavin came here in 1824, and being a baker by occupation, he purchased about thirty- three feet frontage of the middle part of this lot and here he conducted a thriving business for many years. He was a man of considerable business capacity and soon became successful in business. It was his annual custom to prepare a treat for the children of the town, and on Christmas day he would blow a horn from an upper window and collect the children to his place of business, then he would throw cakes, candies and nuts into the street and have the children scrabble for them. John McCleary, a silversmith, came to Uniontown in 1824, and later located in one of the small buildings on this lot, where 84 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. he conducted his business for many years. He was a familiar figure on our streets and was known by all. He served at least one term as burgess of the town. He was a brother to Mrs. Johnze Dicus. Daniel Huston advertised that he had commenced the tailor- ing business in Edward Gavin's new shop, August 3, 1830. Judge John Dawson was his first customer upon commencing business in Uniontown, and Mr. Huston often related that he spent his last half dollar in erecting his tailoring bench in this shop. He remained in this room until March 1, 1837, when he sold out to Johnson and Loore, who continued the business in the same room, and they in turn were succeeded by John L. Means in the same business. William W. Stumph, Esquire, came into ownership of the Gavin lot, running back 80 feet to the part owned by Elijah Crossland. Mr. Stumph erected a two-story brick building on the front, which was known as the Stumph Law Building, and here he held his office as justice of the peace for many years. Other parts of the building were used as attorney's offices. Joseph R. Marshall purchased the Stumph Law Building and occupied as a residence and marble shop for some time until 1879, after which it was used again for law offices. In 1883, this property was condemned with that on the west and torn away to open North Gallatin avenue. Jonathan Downer purchased the western part of this lot, No. 38, being 15 feet frontage on East Main street, and bounded on the west by a ten-foot alley, known as Downer's alley from the fact that it led to Downer's residence and tan yard. To the front of this lot Mr. Downer removed the original old Beeson mill building, which had formerly stood on a lot north of Peter street, and in what is now the roadway of North Gallatin avenue. This old mill, erected by Henry Beeson in 1773, was the first mill erected in this section of the country, but after ten years of operation, was dismantled, and the building, as stated, removed to this lot on Main street. Its odd appearance, with its end to the street, and its curb roof attracted attention. Mr. Downer occupied this as a residence for a short while until he removed to Wharton township, in 1813, where he kept a tavern on the old Braddock road, until the construction of the National road, when he built the Chalk Hill house in 1818 or History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 85 1833, which he conducted until his death in 1833, at the age of 79 years. After Mr. Downer's removal to Wharton township this old mill property was occupied by various tenants, among the most prominent were the following : James Lindsey, who was widely known as a justice of the peace, occupied this building as an office and residence for many years. His son, James, and son- in-law, Samuel Clevenger, conducted a store here for many years. James Lindsey was a resident of Uniontown for 50 years and a justice of the peace for 40 years. He died in this old building February 22, 1846, in the 74th year of his age. Thomas Fatten became owner of the Genius of Liberty printing office in 1820, and removed the office into the old mill property, a part of which he occupied as a residence. The paper was issued from this place for eight years, almost the entire time of Mr. Patton's ownership. Johnze Dicus was the last occupant of this property. Here he conducted a grocery and provision store from 1868 until the building was torn away for the opening of North Gallatin ave- nue. Much of the material in this old mill was used in the con- struction of a dwelling house on Stewart avenue. Johnze Dicus was born in Baltimore county, Maryland, and located in Dunbar township in 1825. In 1838, he came to Union- town, where he was at once elected constable, which office, to- gether with that of deputy sheriff, he filled for many years. He was a member of the volunteer company that paraded in honor of Lafayette's visit to Uniontown in 1825. An anecdote told of Mr. Dicus is, that at one time he was engaged in buying horses and droving them to Baltimore for the eastern markets. A colored fellow known as Dark's Jim was in the habit of accompanying the drovers over the moun- tains, and he conceived the idea that if he would allow the owner of tiie drove to sell him along with the horses and then escape and join the drover and divide the money received for him, it would be a good business stroke. This was risky business for Jim, but it was said that he had been successful more than once of eluding the slave buyer, but this time proved one too many. Mr. Dicus returned, but Jim's familiar face was never more seen in Uniontown. Mr. Dicus died February 9, 1885. A frame building stood in the rear of the old mill building 86 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. which was used for residence purposes, by various tenants. On the Peter street end of this lot stood a small brick house which was occupied by Samuel Starns, a tanner by trade. The prop- erty belonged to Greenberry Crossland, a brother-in-law to Mr. Starns. William McFarlin bought from Henry Beeson a part of lot No. 38, next to No. 39, fronting 26 feet on Elbow or East Main street, west of the ten-foot alley before mentioned, and running back 100 feet to a small lot belonging to John Bgstick. Elijah Crossland, who had carried on the butchering busi- ness in Connellsville for some time, came to Uniontown in 1833, and purchased this lot on which then stood a small frame house. Mr. Crossland occupied this house for some time and then tore it away and erected a brick dwelling in which he lived for sonie time. Mr. Crossland, in conjunction with his son, Greenberry, carried on the butchering business here for many years. Elijah Crossland died October 3, 1860, over 78 years of age. Greenberry Crossland became the owner of this property in 1838, and occupied it for some time as a residence. He was born in 1813, and came to this town when but nine years of age. He used to relate that he started in the butchering business for himself in 1833 with a capital of only twenty-three dollars, ten of which he had borrowed from his wife. He wheeled his meat from the slaughter house to the market house on a wheel- barrow, not having a team with which to haul it, but by in- dustry and frugality he prospered and became one of the wealthy men of the town. Mr. Crossland became an extensive cattle dealer and for many years droved cattle to the eastern markets. He purchased the farm of Charles Brown, just one mile east of town in 1848, to which he moved and spent the remainder of his active days. Mr. Crossland died May 16, 1897, by whose death the com- munity lost one of its most respected citizens and the Metho- dist Episcopal church one of its most devoted members. Dr. R. M. Walker became a tenant of this property after Mr. Crossland moved to his farm. He was succeeded by Dr. George C. Ewing, a very promising young physician who died here of diphtheria, January 36, 1866. Greenberry Crossland sold this property to William Ma- quilken and William Swan who sold it to John S. Harah, who History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 87 transferred it to Myers Hollander, an enterprising Jewish clothier of the town, who greatly improved it and occupied it as a resi- dence. Mr. Hollander carried on a successful business here for several years. Dr. David Porter purchased this property from Myers Hol- lander in 1868, and occupied it as a residence until his death, which occurred September 23, 1875, and his widow continued to occupy it until her death, July 29, 1899, at the age of 79 years. Dr. David Porter was born March 17, 1794, and was the son of William Porter who died when David was quite young. Captain William Woolsey, who commanded a privateer during the revolutionary war, took the lad and gave him a liberal edu- cation and sent him to Jefferson medical college. He married Lucinda, a daughter of Rev. Obediah Jennings of Washington, Pa., and became the first resident physician of Cookstown. His second wife was Rebecca Miller a daughter of John Miller a former prominent resident of this town. Dr. Porter was a man of most excellent parts, and his council and advice were much sought after by the other physicians of the town. After the death of Mrs. Porter the property was sold to William and Richard Barton and rented for a dwelling and of- fices, William H. Miller, a half-brother to Mrs. Porter, had his office as a justice of the peace in this building and was its last tenant before it was torn away. Robert F. Sample and Ewing B. Marshall purchased this property and tore away the old buildings and erected the build- ing known as the Gallatin Hotel. This hotel was first opened to the public September 15, 1905, and dinner was first served September 19th when every department was opened to the public. This hotel is a five-story brick building facing on East Main street and North Gallatin avenue. Ewing B. Marshall sold his interest to R. F. Sample April 20, 1910. Empson Brownfield was the first purchaser of lot No. 39, March 7, 1780, and kept both a store and a tavern until 1790. His was one of the first stores started in the town and he brought his goods over the mountains on packhorses. He was one of the eight sons of settler Charles Brownfield of Georges township. He was unfortunate in business and removed to Kentucky. 88 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. This property came into the possession of Joseph Huston, who came to Union township in 1790, and was appointed to' the office of sheriff November 14th of the same year. He subse- quently engaged in the mercantile business for several years. He purchased some land in North Union township and built a forge on Redstone creek, which was operated for some years. In 1803, he bought of Jeremiah Pears the Redstone furnace and continued business at these places until near the time of his death in 1824, at the age of 61 years. His nephew, John Huston, subsequently owned and operated the old Redstone furnace. James Lindsey, Esq., bought 38 feet of the eastern part of this lot, on which was a log house and kitchen, and here lived for many years. It was sold from Esquire Lindsey by the sheriff in 1834, and subsequently became the property of Alonzo L. Littell in 1834, and from this property he issued the Genius of Liberty for some time while owner of that paper. Many and varied were the tenants of this property. John L. Means, a justice of the peace and a tailor by trade, carried on both branches of business here. Daniel Canon and W. H. Bennet as partners, ran an extensive shoe manufacturing busi- ness in this property, having the sales-room on the first floor and workshop above, and employed a number of workmen. They brought David Clark here from Pittsburgh to be the cutter and fitter in the shop. Mr. Clark purchased the business and stock about 1849, and continued the business in his own name. He was one of the finest workmen ever located in the town. He could make a better fit without measurement than most shoe- makers could after measuring the foot. Maj. John Irons was an occupant here after purchasing the Genius of Liberty. Dr. Alfred Creigh succeeded Mr. Irons. Dr. H. F. Roberts came from Bellevernon and located in this property for the practice of medicine, in 1842. It was with Dr. Roberts that the late Dr. F. C. Robinson read medicine. George Rine and his brother-in-law carried on the furniture business here. Jonathan Springer, as burgess of the town, kept his of- fice here. William K. Cooper became owner of this property and here lived and carried on his business as a photographer for many years. After the death of Mr. Cooper the family tore away the old frame front of this property and erected a good two-story brick residence, which they continued to occupy for some time. History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. 89 The Bryson Brothers purchased this property and con- verted it into a large furniture room, extending back to Peter street. They closed out their business in 1900. Messrs. O. P. Markle, R. F. Hopwood and John T. Darby purchased this property and vastly improved the building, fit- ting it up for business rooms and offices. One part was fitted up expressly for a home for the Genius of Liberty printing of- fice to which location that office was removed April 1, 1903, thus the Genius of Liberty returned to the same lot it had oc- cupied over sixty years before. A new daily paper called the Morning Herald was issued from the same office as the Genius of Liberty, the first issue of which bears the date of January 8, 1907. On the western part of lot No. 39 stood a brick residence immediately west of the before described property. Silas Baily located in Uniontown in 1813 or '14 and resided in this brick building and kept a store in a frame adjoining on the east. He also filled the office of a justice of the peace. He was the father of William, Milton, Ellis, Milkah, who married William H. Barclay, Phebe and Maria Lucretia, who married Hugh Thompson, Jr. Silas Baily died in January, 1820, and his widow continued the store after his death. It appears that their son, Milton, succeeded the widow in business, as in 1830, he was licensed to sell foreign goods. The law then required that all merchants seUing foreign goods should do so under a license, thus discour- aging the importation of foreign goods and encouraging home manufactories. He removed to Sidney, Ohio, in 1836, and died there July 30, 1857, at the age of 36 years. His widow who Hved to be over ninety years of age, witnessed William H. Carroll, the last survivor of the signers of the declaration of independence, throw the first shovel of dirt in the building of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad. She heard the cannonading in the battle fought September 13, 1814, between the British and the Mary- land militia at North Point, and the bombardment of Fort Mc- Henry at the same time. Other occupants of this property were Hardesty Walker with a silversmith shop, Samuel T. Lewis with a tailor shop, Ellis Baily with a store, Daniel Smith with an iron store, Wil- 90 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. liam McCleary and William Swearingen with a store and Simon Snyder with a bakery and confectionery. Ellis Baily, Jr., became owner of this part of the lot and tore away the old buildings, about 1868, and erected a new two- story brick dwelling house. He had occupied the old brick as a dwelling and the store room as a dry goods and grocery store for some time before tearing them away. This he occupied while building the business rooms and dwelling now known as the Lafayette Hotel, upon the completion of which he moved his family and jewelry store to that place. Upon the removal of Ellis Baily to his new building his brother, William, whose wife had recently died on Pittsburgh street, moved his family into this property. Ellis Baily subsequently tore away this old property and erected a brick dwelling into which he moved his family, and here ended his days. Ellis Baily was one of the best known business men of the town. He was born June 1, 1813, and carried on the silver- smith business for 50 years, and died on the lot on which he was born, December 14, 1883. Samuel N. Long bought this property for his daughter, Catharine, wife of Paoli S. Morrow, Esq. ; had doors cut in the front and fitted up for law offices and the rear was occupied as a dwelling. Joseph E. Barnes purchased this property in 1906, paying therefor $1,300 per foot frontage, the highest price ever paid for property in the town up to that time. During 1907, the Ellis Baily building was" torn away and a one-stor)^ brick building was erected by J. H. Rubin of McKeesport, for an amusement hall and here was established a place for amuse- ment called the Lyric Theater. John Collins, a native of Ireland, purchased lots Nos. 40 and 41, and they were already in his possession before March 7, 1780, and he had thereon his tavern, which had the record of being the first house of public entertainment in Uniontown. He applied for a license at the first session of court held in Fay- ette county, December, 1783, and for several years thereafter. John Collins' tavern was very popular in his day. It is mentioned as the meeting place for the military court of appeals held by Col. Alexander McClean, May 8, 1783. The log building in which John Collins kept his tavern History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 91 stood on the eastern part of lot No. 40, and the remainder of the lot, together with lot No. 41, was used as a large wagon and stable-yard. A high, tight board fence enclosed the large lot on Main street, while two large gates afforded a driveway through from the front. This large yard afforded ample room for the accommodation of small traveling shows that visited the town in early days. John Collins was the father of Capt. Thomas Collins who commanded a company from this town in the war of 1812-14, and of Joseph Collins. He acquired con- siderable property about the town and died at his home on Morgantown street where Church street now enters that street. His death occurred November 3, 1813, aged 72 years, his wife, Mary, having died April 37, previous. The old tavern was subsequently run by Jimmie McClean and by Samuel Salters. Cuthbert Wiggins came to Uniontown in 1817, and conducted a tavern here for about four years, when he moved to Wharton township and there kept a public house until his death. He had formerly kept a public house near Brownsville, known as the Red Horse tavern, for some seven years before coming to Uniontown. He enlisted in the war of 1812, and witnessed the launching of Perry's fleet on Lake Erie which swept from that lake the British fleet, September 10, 1813. William Flinn succeeded Cuthbert Wiggins and conducted a tavern here from about 1823 to 1826 at least. Andrew Byers succeeded Flinn as proprietor of this tavern, and the following advertisements will give a clear idea of the kind of shows that were exhibited on this lot in the early history of the town : " Grand carnival of living animals will be exhibited at the house of Andrew Byers in Uniontown, in the place lately oc- cupied by the circus, on Monday and Tuesday, the 17th and 18th inst. The African lion which was imported from the river Senegal in Africa in March, 1825, and is the largest ever ex- hibited in the United States; a South American panther; a camel or llama from Peru or Chili; a South American cougar and a brown tiger and a Shetland pony. Hours of exhibition from 9 :00 a. m. to 5 :00 p. m. Good music during the performance. Ad- mission 121/2 cents, children under 10 years half price. August 12, 1829. 93 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Another show announced its coming as follows : " Grand caravan of living animals will exhibit at the house of Andrew Byers the 26th September, 1839, from 13 :00 m. till 5 :00 p. m. A full-grown lion and lioness, both in one cage ; two panthers, male and female, both in one cage; a Missouri bear; a cougar from Brazil; a full-grown African leopard; a Shetland pony and his rider, Dandy Jack; Col. Pluck; Saucy Jack ; Lady Jane ; ichneumon, ant eater, etc. Admission 13i/ii cents. Also a thousand bladed penknife; a grand musical instru- ment, lately imported from Germany ; a troop of horses, a com- pany of soldiers, dancers and mechanics in full operation with the music; equal to life, wax figures of tragic scene of J. O. Beauchamp and his wife." While Byers kept this tavern the following incident took place. There was an old colored man by the name of Tony, em- ployed about the place as chore boy, hostler and all-around hand. One day while hoeing in a lot in the rear of the tavern he so ir- ritated one of the Byers family that he snatched the hoe and struck Tony on the head. Upon examination it was found that the injury would prove fatal, and upon this being communicated to Tony, he began to dispose of his personal effects which con- sisted solely of his person. This he negotiated for a quart of whisky which he drank, and having made peace with his physi- cian and all the rest of mankind, he bade a final adieu to earth. Tony died and was tenderly prepared for burial. A few of his friends gathered in a small room at the tavern at the wake. At midnight supper was announced for the watchers and the white folks kindly volunteered to guard Tony while his friends would regale themselves over the repast spread for them in the kitchen. The colored friends found no occasion to be anxious about the welfare of Tony, so they enjoyed themselves at leisure with the eatables and drinkables, with the latter of which they were well supplied. Upon returning to the room, the watchers found the coffin securely fastened and were assured that Tony would keep better if closed from the air, and that all danger from any other source would be avoided. At the hour arranged for the funeral the colored folks of the town turned out enmasse to pay the last sad rites to poor old Tony who had come to such an untimely end. As the solemn funeral procession moved slowly up the hill to the old History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. 93 graveyard, one of the pall-bearers felt something slip in the coffin and made the remark, " Dars no Tony thar." When the place of burial was reached, as was sometimes the case, the bier was placed upon the ground while the grave was being finished, and while thus awaiting the finishing of the grave, which con- sumed considerable time on account of the stony nature of the ground, someone ventured to remove the lid of the coffin when, to the chagrin of all, it was found that Tony was not " thar," but in his stead a pair of old pants tied at the bottom and filled with sand. The empty coffin was set up against the fence, the pants were thrown astride the fence, the burial of poor Tony was declared off and the friends disbanded. It soon leaked out that while Tony's friends were at supper the body was removed and the pants filled with sand substituted. The body was taken up Lick Hollow, three miles east of town, where salt kettles were in place at the old salt works, where amid orgies, the flesh was boiled from the bones. Mr. Isaac Beeson purchased this lot in 1838 or '39, and tore away the old Collins tavern-stand and erected on its site what was known as Commercial Row. Commercial Row con- sisted of a fine two-story brick block, divided into four compart- ments, with two arched alley-ways leading through to the rear of the houses. There were originally three store rooms and four dwelling apartments. The most eastern store room was desig- nated as No. 1, and among the many tenants of this room may be mentioned the following : Daniel Huston was perhaps the first tenant in this room with his tailoring establishment and here conducted business for some time. He was succeeded by R. M. Modesitt with a dry goods store which he advertised as the Baltimore store, and offered to redeem National road and Good Intent stage company scrip in goods at his store. Mr. Modesitt had Andrew Byers and L. M. Kline, respectively, connected with him in business. Mr. Modesitt was in turn followed by David Baker & Co. with a hardware store, at the sign of the " Big Window " and the " Big Padlock." Edmund Beeson was the partner in this firm. David Baker was the son of Mrs. Hannah Baker and came here from near Perryopolis. Dr. R. M. Walker's first wife was a sister of Mr. Baker. He was a man of splendid character, but ill health compelled him to retire from business, February 9A, 1853, and he died on March 2nd following, at the age of 35 years, 94 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. and the business was continued by Mr. Beeson for a short time. W. H. Fry followed the hardware store with a grocery and variety store and bakery and oyster saloon. He also sold his " magic soap " and " pain extractor " for the cure of rheuma- tism. John Holly and James Winterbottora followed, respec- tively, with confectioneries and oyster saloons. Henry Farwell owned and occupied this property for a while as a dwelling and shoe-shop. He sold to Daniel P. Gibson ; and Leopold Kuth was a tenant under Gibson with a bakery and confectionery. J. Harry Johnston purchased this property from Mr. Gibson in 1892, and extended the roorn back to Peter street and otherwise improved the building and for some years carried on an extensive furniture and undertaking business, but later confined himself to the undertaking business with his son, Guy, as a partner. Robert Boyle and Levi D. Stephens were perhaps the first tenants of No. 3 Commercial Row, where they carried on mer- chandising from at least 1842 to 1847, when Stephens moved to the new building erected by Benj. Hellen on Morgantown street. He was in business in several places in town, but his course of life and his " friends " soon caused him to meet with financial reverses, and he returned to Washington township and the scenes of his childhood. Thomas Foster carried on the boot and shoe business here for a while. He was succeeded by John K. Fisher here who car- ried on merchandising under the name of the Philadelphia cash store until 1849, when he removed to the James Gibson room on West Main street. Jacob B. Gallagher & Co. succeeded Fisher here and they were succeeded by Joseph L. Phillips & Co., and they in turn by Henry White & Co. The company in all these firms was Isaac Beeson, the prince of merchants of the town. W. W. Stumph bought out the store of Henry White & Co. and continued the business. Ferd Laughead with ' ready-made clothing and Amos M. Jolliffe with the furniture business and L. O. Reynolds with a flour and feed store were later tenants. Dr. L. C. Beal moved to Uniontown in 1889, and purchased this property and remodeled it in 1901 to three stories, and oc- cupied it as a drug store and dwelling until his death, October 29, 1902. The property has still been occupied as such. Commercial Row No. 3 — Has been occupied by various History of Uniontown, Pennsyk'ania. 95 tenants, among whom were M. C. Baker with a hardware store ; R. C. Baily, with a tailoring establishment ; James P. Hedges, with a furniture store and over him was a daguerrean gallery conducted by a Mr. Musser. The Genius of Liberty printing office occupied this property in 1856. Levi D. Stevens kept his store here a short time. James H. Springer, as agent for the Fayette County Fire Insurance company occupied this property as a residence and insurance office. Samuel Shipley purchased this property and occupied it until his death, which occurred June 7, 1894. It next came into the possession of Adolphus Shipley who sold it to John S. Doug- lass, who has since occupied it as a real estate office. This property was sold to the West Penn Railways com- pany which tore away the buildings, together with other prop- erty, in 1913, preparatory to the erection of a terminal and sta- tion for the different lines of the road. Commercial Row No. 4 — William D. Barclay, a prominent merchant of the town, appears to have been the first tenant in this room with a dry goods store before he built his store room and dwelling on the opposite side of the street. Isaac Beeson and Company occupied this room with a stock of hardware, at the sign of the " Big Padlock " with David Baker in charge, from 1845 to 1850. They then moved to No. 1 and did business as David Baker & Co., with the sign of the " Big Padlock." Henry W. S. Rigden was a leading jeweler of the town in 1847, and occupied a room in Commercial Row. It was with Mr. Rigden that William Hunt, the well-known jeweler of our town today, served an apprenticeship. Samuel Harris, a manu- facturer of caps, occupied this room in 1850, and here did a thriving business in his line. Daniel Smith, subsequently known as Esquire Smith, sold nails, iron and castings for Oliphant and Duncan in this room in the early 'forties. Dr. William R. Semans occupied this property as a residence and office, and died here. May 3, 1869. Amos Pickard owned and carried on a saloon and beer and pretzel room here. John T. Darby conducted a grocery store here for several years. George A. McCormick purchased this property and im- proved it, since which it has been occupied much of the time as a restaurant. This property was also purchased by the West Penn Rail- 96 History of Unionfown, Pennsylvania. ways company and torn away preparatory to the erection of a station and terminal for the dififerent lines of the road. This station was completed and put in occupancy August 20, 1913. William Swearingen, son of Captain William Swearingen of North Union township, built a two-story brick building, with two business rooms on the eastern part of lot No. 41, fronting 38 feet on East Main street. This was long known as the Rankin building, and there Mr. Swearingen lived and carried on merchandising. He failed in 1841, and this property was sold at sheriff's sale and pur- chased by Thomas Rankin, also of North Union township. Upon Rankin's purchase of the property Robert Boyle moved into it and continued the store under the name of Boyle and Rankin, and their store became quite popular. In 1850 or 1851, Mr. Boyle moved out and Mr. Rankin moved in, and died here the same year. Charles P. Austin succeeded Boyle and Rankin in this room, in 1851, with a grocery store. Matthew Allen, ex- sheriflf of Fayette county succeeded Mr. Austin with a grocery store, and he, in turn, was succeeded by Johnze Dicus with a grocery and provision store which he conducted here for some years. Peter Kremer, who had been in business in the Col. Roberts building at the west end of town for many years, car- ried on the grocery business here in the early seventies. Andrew Prentice, a veteran groceryman of the town, con- ducted a grocery here for seven years, and after having been in the grocery business in the town for 39 or 30 years, he re- tired from business, and sold out to his nephew, N. Pierce Cooper, in 1899. Mr. Prentice was a bachelor, and was affec- tionately known as Uncle Andy. He was a man of strict in- tegrity, and of his ample means he was liberal in relieving the wants of the needy. In 1906, N. P. Cooper tore away his part of the Rankin building and erected on its site a modern three- story building in which he conducted his grocery store until he sold the property to the West Penn Railways company in 1913, who converted it into waiting rooms and offices of the company. In the western room of the Rankin building Daniel Huston carried on the tailoring business from April 1, 1840, for some time. The Democratic Sentinel was established by J. Nelson H. Patrick, Vol. I, No. 1, bearing date May 23, 1850, and in 1854 the firm became Patrick and Reilly. The office of publication H W W H CO H < History of Uniontoivn, Pennsylvania. 97 was in the western room of the Rankin building. Mr. Patrick was of a well known family here, was a member of the bar and was elected to the office of district attorney October 11, 1853. While publishing the Sentinel there was much rivalry between the editor of the Sentinel and the editor of the Genius of Liberty. On December 17, 1853, the editor of the Sentinel and his brother were passing down Main street, and meeting the editor of the Genius an altercation took place which culmi- nated in a fisticuff encounter. The editor of the Genius, proving more than a match for the editor of the Sentinel, the brother took a hand in the affray, but he soon landed in the middle of the street with a dislocated shoulder. In 1854, Mr. Patrick, through his paper, urged a cele- bration to be held on the 4th of July at Fort Necessity. As a result of Mr. Patrick's efforts, Lodge No. 328, A. Y. M. of Uniontown and a large concourse of citizens visited the place, and after suitable ceremonies, a corner-stone was placed near the center of the site of the old stockade. The history of this celebration was vividly recalled in 1904, when another celebra- tion was held at the same place. The American Citizen was established by William H. Murphy and Jesse B. Ramsey, Vol. 1, No. 1, bearing date of September 18, 1855. This paper was issued from the same room as the Democratic Sentinel, and was published in the interests of the " Know-Nothing " or the American party, and had for its motto " America must be Americanized." The slogan of this new party was " America for Americans," and was opposed to the offices of the nation being filled by people of foreign birth. Ex-President Millard Fillmore and A. J. Donelson were chosen as the standard bearers of this new party. The American Citi- zen lasted only about two years, when the proprietors moved the office to Whitewash Corner. The Fayette County Republican was founded June 6, 1878, and the office of publication was in the western room of the Rankin building. This paper was published in the interests of the Republican party, the old American Standard having swerved over toward the Greenback party. John S. Ritenour and William J. Rush were the editors and proprietors. This paper and the American Standard were consolidated March 21, 1879, under the name of Republication Standard. The Fayette County gas company occupied this room as an '*W« 98 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. office for some time, and O. P. Markle followed with a real estate office. Charles H. Gorley purchased nineteen feet of this lot, and in 1907, erected thereon a four-story brick hotel. He ran this as a restaurant from April 4, 1908, as Hotel Gorley for a short time, but failing to secure a hotel hcense, he closed the place. William Hellen purchased the property January 18, 1909, and opened it as the Dequesne hotel on October 1, 1910. By a change made in the original plat of the town, there was a strip of land remaining between lots No. 41 and 42. This strip was 18 feet wide and 150 feet in length. One Mary Higenson purchased this strip and a house thereon before 1786 ; but the title reverted back to Henry Beeson and John Strayer became the owner of it. Mr. Strayer was a saddler by trade, and lived in the small frame house and carried on his business in a small frame shop immediately east. A hall, just the width of the door, separated the two. John Strayer was the father of Peter Mills Strayer and was widely known in his day. Andrew Grain, a tailor, carried on his business in the Strayer shop and became the son-in-law of Mr. Strayer. He and his wife had some trouble which caused a separation, and Grain advertised his wife in the following style : " My wife, Sarah's gone away, God bless her soul, I hope she'll stay. She's left my bed and board without just cause, She's broken all her marriage vows. So now I think it naught but just, To warn my friends her not to trust. For I am poor and much in debt, And have great need for all I get. For silks and lace I cannot buy, And don't you know the reason why? And if you don't my darling honey, I'll tell you, 'tis for lack of money." Their dififerences were, however, amicably settled and they spent the remainder of their days happily together. Other tenants of this property were John McGleary, who came here in 1824, and carried on silversmithing. Dr. Robert History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 99 McCall settled here and practiced his profession. He was a native of Shippensburg, and was an army surgeon in the war of 1812-14 and soon after its close, came to Uniontown and opened an office in this building. In 1819, he married the daughter of Samuel King, a leading merchant of the town, and its first postmaster. Dr. McCall died here in 18';I3, and his widow subsequently became the second wife of Associate-Judge John Huston. Joseph L. Wylie carried on tinning here, and also did James A. Yerk. These were well known tinners in the early history of the town, and both highly respected. William McNealy carried on the silversmith business here for some time, as did Samuel T. Lewis his tailoring business. Levi Downer purchased this Strayer lot in 1830, and 33 feet of lot No. 41, and thereon erected a two-story brick build- ing in 1841. This consisted of two business rooms on the east and dwelling on the west. Lane McClean was the first occupant of the eastern room, where he carried on merchandising in 1843. Barrington and Haswell kept a book store here for a time, and George Flur- shutz carried on a confectionery and bakery here in 1850. Samuel McDonald kept what he called his " Little Book Store " here for some time which he sold out to John W. Skiles in 1855, and it was moved to the Bryan building. Henry W. S. Rigden and G. B. Mitchell were located here for a while, where they advertised their business in the fol- lowing style : " Then, ladies all, pray give attention, To bargains now so fine and rare, No article that you can mention. But what we'll sell at prices fair. Should you but wish a decoration. All graceful from your ears to fall, We have them, suited to your station. Whenever you may please to call. But should a ring to clasp your finger, With diamond light attract your eye, At other shops no longer linger. But call on us and you will buy from nobody else." 100 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Jacob Downer & Co. succeeded Rigden and Mitchell with a dry goods store, and continued here for several years. Peter Heck, who had served in the army, was appointed postmaster July 12, 1865, and kept the office in this eastern room and occupied the rear as a residence, and here he died, March 1, 1878, in the 55th year of his age. Mr. Heck was a well known tailor and carried on his business for many years. His experience as a slave catcher is given elsewhere. James A. Searight was an occupant of this room for forty- three years, where he conducted the insurance business. Dr. Smith Fuller, with C. B. Snyder as a partner and William Quail as clerk, started in the drug business in the western room of the Downer building in 1843. This firm lasted only about eighteen months in this room. Dr. Fuller embarking in the drug business on Morgantown street, as related elsewhere. Armstrong Hadden kept the post office in this room for a short time. Benjamin Kremer and Robert Sharp, as partners, carried on the silversmith business here for a while. Dr. Thomas Brownfield came from Uppermiddletown and occupied this room as an office. John Clark Beeson was located here with a furniture store in 1867. Charles Humbert opened and conducted a plumbing shop here in 1884, and he was succeeded in the same business b}' John C. Fisher. Thomas Bulger came from Brownsville and occupied this room as a merchant clothier and gents' furnisher. This room was later occupied as a shoe store by Abe Axlerad and by others. The residence part, or west end of this Downer building was first occupied by William Pope Wells, a member of the Fayette county bar. Here he went to housekeeping with his young bride, who was a Miss Byerly, a most excellent lady of Philadelphia, and while still an occupant here his wife died. A further mention of Mr. Wells is found elsewhere. Other occupants of this residence were Mrs. Matthew Irwin, mother of Dick and Walker Irwin; Mrs. Paull, widow of William Paull and mother of George and Rose Paull ; James T. Redburn, the will remembered bank cashier, whose wife died while he resided here, 1860; ex-County Treasurer John Tiernan and John History of Uniontoum, Pennsylvania. 101 Holmes, who filled the office of justice of the peace for twenty years. He died April 14, 1890. The residence part of the Downer building was converted into a business room and connected with that of the clothing store of John Lynch & Co. and as such it remained until Maurice Lynch moved into his new building on the corner. Since which time it has been occupied by other merchants. This property was sold by the executor of the will of Miss Carrie Downer, at a public sale December 88, 1918, to Frank C. Monaghan, Charles H. Gorley, McCloskey Brothers and O. M. Bughner, who removed the old building and erected a mod- ern business block on the site. Samuel Rich, a carpenter, and John Stitt, a breeches maker, and General Ephraim Douglass each had deeds for No. 43. A frame building which stood on lot No. 23, where the residence of the late Judge J. K. Ewing now stands, and was formerly, the property of Peter Hook, a pioneer hatter of the town, was moved down to this lot and was occupied at one time by John Bouvier, Esq., who located here from Browns- ville, where he had been publishing a newspaper. He was ad- mitted to the bar in 1818, and remained here till 1824, when he removed to Philadelphia. A more extended sketch of him will be found elsewhere. Rev. John H. Fielding, who was presi- dent of Madison college from 1829 to 1831, was an occupant of this house. Hon. Andrew Stewart, known as " Tarifif Andy " was at one time an occupant here, as was also Judge John Kennedy. Judge Nathaniel Ewing sold this eastern part of lot No. 43 to Samuel T. Lewis in 1838 who carried on tailoring here for some time, but Lewis never got his deed, and soon transferred the property to William McDonald who occupied it as a resi- dence, and being appointed postmaster, July 13, 1841, he kept that office in this property. At the instigation of L. W. Stock- ton, the superintendent of the National Stage-coach line, on account of dissatisfaction in the mail service at this office. Mr. McDonald was removed and Daniel Smith was appointed in his place, and continued the office in this property. Neither ATr. Lewis nor Mr. McDonald received a deed for this property, but on December 4, 1844, Judge Ewing executed a deed conveying to John W. Barr of Westmoreland county, 102 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. lot No. 42 for the sum of $1200. Here Mr. Barr conducted a confectionery and toy store until the infirmities of old age com- pelled him to retire from business. He purchased property on Morgantown street and there ended his days. Mr. Barr was a most exemplary man, and a devout and consistent mem- ber of the Methodist Episcopal church. S. M. Baily moved his jewelry store into the Barr room in 1868, and here continued until 1875, when he was succeeded by Frank M. Fuller, Esq., with a law office. Dr. Smith Fuller purchased this property November 6, 1867, at the opening of Broadway, and converted the residence part into a business room, and Daniel Huston, the veteran mer- chant tailor was the first to occupy the new room. He moved his store to here in 1868, and styled his place of business " The Gold Mine," and here remained in business until 1881, when he sold out to John Lynch & Co., and retired permanently from business. Mr. Huston came to Uniontown in 1830, and was continupusly in business for fifty-one years. Mr. Huston de- voted his time industriously to his business and acquired a competency of this world's goods. John Lynch & Co. continued in business here until Jan- uary 22, 1902, at which time John Lynch retired; after a part- nership of 21 years, and Maurice Lynch continued the business until July 29, 1907, after an occupancy of 26 years. On Decem- ber 20, 1906, Maurice Lynch purchased this property from the heirs of Dr. Smith Fuller, and in 1907, tore away the old build- ing and commenced the erection of a reinforced concrete, three- story business block, upon the completion of which he has con- tinued his business. The old store room had been previously added, and also one room in the Downer building. Andrew L. Crain and John Witherow were located on the western part of lot No. 42, had a frontage of 35 feet, 9 inches on Main street and was bounded on the west by a twenty- foot alley known as Middle alley. They were conducting a dry goods business here as early as 1814. Mr. Crain advertised this half lot for sale in 1821, then in tenure of John Witherow. Mr. Crain at that time was residing at Cookstown, but he moved to Mt. Washington where he had charge of a store belonging to John Gaddis. He announced himself as a candi- date for commissioner from Wharton township in 1826. Joshua Hart, a hatter by trade, occupied this property at a very early day, with a dry goods store. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 103 Nathaniel Ewing purchased this property at sheriff's sale as the property of John Witherow, March 11, 1822, and sold it to Samuel Harah in 1828. Samuel Harah located here from Allegheny county in 1827, and by his advertisement March 29, 1827, commenced the hatting business with James F. Canon two doors east of Robert Skiles' store and opposite Mr. Walker's tavern. The manufacturing shops were one door east of Thomas Brownfield's tavern. This would locate Mr. Harah on the corner now occupied by the Second National bank, and his shop at the west end where the " Roberts Building " now stands. Mr. Harah moved into this property upon purchasing it and here continued to manufacture and sell hats until old age compelled him to retire from business, after a business career in Uniontown of 41 years. In 1848, Mr. Harah associated with him in business, his son John S. Harah, and the firm became S. Harah & Son, which partnership lasted until April 23, 1857, when John S. withdrew and entered into partnership with James F. Canon. As an example of how business was conducted in the early history of the town, it was customary for the merchants to drive through the country and supply the smaller towns with their wares, and Mr. Harah followed this custom, taking out his hats and exchanging them for salable country produce. A queer article of agreement is of record where Samuel Harah purchased of Harry Millhouse a house and lot on East Main street to be paid for by nine dozen fur hats like sample shown the witness to this article of agreement, and upon the delivery of said hats a deed in fee simple is to be made ; first, however, a survey is to be made to fix the boundaries and ascertain whether the house is on the lot. In 1846, the back shops and stable and other adjoining property of Mr. Harah was destroyed by an incendiary fire, and al the same time the barn of Isaac Beeson, near the old Beeson mansion house on the hill was burned. A young negro, named Lafayette Magill was seen running away from the Beeson barn and was caught and placed in jail, but he escaped and was never heard of afterward. In 1867, the Harah property was taken by condemnation proceedings for the purpose of opening Broadway down as far as the old Fayette County railroad station, and the old buildings were torn away. The name of the street has since been changed to North Beeson avenue. CHAPTER VI. West Main Street, North Side, from Middle Alley, now North Beeson Avenue, to Pittsburgh Street, Comprising Lots Nos. 43 TO 46, Inclusive. Lot No. 43, was the first lot west of a twenty-foot alley known as Middle alley. This alley was widened in 1868 by the tearing away of the Harah property on the east, and the new street was named Broadway and later the name was changed to that of North Beeson avenue. Colin Campbell purchased this lot, fronting seventy-two and a half feet on Elbow or Main street, March 15, 1784, paying therefore five pounds Pennsylvania money, equal to thirteen dol- lars and thirty-three cents. He was licensed as an inn-keeper at December court, 1785, and in 1786, he conveyed this property to Samuel Salter who kept a tavern until 1810, when he removed to Dunbar and opened a tavern there. Before coming to Union- town Samuel Salter had been a tavern-keeper in Wharton town- ship for about two years. Zadoc Walker purchased this property April 7, 1794. Mr. Walker was for several years connected with John Rogers in running a woolen mill at Connellsville, and kept a store in Uniontown for the sale of the products of their mill. In 1815, Mr. Walker erected on this lot a large two-story brick tavern- stand, which was opened for the entertainment of the public in 1816. This hostlery, under Mr. Walker's management, became the most popular place of entertainment in the town. Among the many distinguished guests entertained at this hostlery may be mentioned General Lafayette while touring the country as the nation's guest, with his suite and Honorable Albert Galla- tin, stopped two nights. May 26th and 28th, 1835. General Santa Anna, the great Mexican warrior and leader, stopped over night here in 1834 or 1835, while on his route to Washington city. General William Henry Harrison was also a patron of this house, with his party when on his way to the capital of the nation to be inaugurated as president of the United States. After Mr. Walker's retirement, his son William 'conducted the 104 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 105 business for a short time. George Craft was proprietor of the Walker House (March 25, 1829), until at least April 1, 1830. William Byers took charge of the Walker House May 6, 1840, and continued it until his death and his widow continued in the business. Under his management it was known as the Franklin House. Alfred McClelland conducted this Walker House while he was building the McClelland House. He was here Aug. 9, 1837. Redding Bunting was proprietor of the United States hotel for two years. Zalmon Ludington purchased this property in 1846 from the heirs of Zadoc Walker and occupied it as a private residence, except the corner room which was used as a business room. This room was occupied as the prothonotary's office while a new court house was building, 1845-47, after which Mr. Luding- ton opened a leather and shoe store in this room which was con- ducted for several years by his son-in-law, James T. Redburn as a partner. Mr. Ludington had served in Col. Churchill's regiment of New York state in the war of 1812, and participated in the battle of Black Rock. He was a contractor in the construction of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad near Old Town, Md., in 1839 ; and in 1840, he constructed and operated a tannery in Wharton town- ship. In 1847, he opened a shoe and leather store on the corner of Main and Morgantown streets, and after purchasing the Walker hotel property he continued in business here for many years. He died at the home of his son. General Marshall L Lud- ington, in Philadelphia, April 21, 1889. Hugh L. Rankin came into ownership of this property in 1886, and in 1891, he erected a row of business rooms fronting on Broadway to Peter street and extended the hotel to the same distance, and in 1896, he ran up the front to its present style. The old business room on the corner was occupied in 18G3, by Zadoc Springer as a hat and cap store, and later by Lewis and Rankin as a grocery, and in 1871, by Rankin alone. George W. Morrison was there in 1870 and 1872, with a hat store, and he was followed by M. Amberg with a clothing store, and in 1873, Henry I^ape and Rankin opened a clothing and tailoring establishment which lasted for five years. Tom Lewis then fol- lowed with a grocery for several years and he was succeeded by L Jackson with clothing in 1886-87. 106 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. In remodeling the hotel this business room was converted into an office, the following persons have conducted it as a hotel : Feathers and McHugh, 1893. Charles H. Rush, whose lease expired May 1, 1903. Joseph O. Roe succeeded Rush May 1, 1902, for five years, Roe took in Frank Hagan as partner. May 27, 1904. W. J. Huston purchased furniture, etc., from Mrs. Hagan January 28, 1907. Mrs. Hagan purchased the interest of E. D. Morse September, 1906. James Moran purchased the property and took possession January 1, 1909, and has conducted it as a hotel since that time. In 1913 the office of the hotel was again converted into a busi- ness room. General S. M. Baily who had established himself as a jeweler in the town in 1865, located his business in the business room in this property in spring of 1878, and continued here until 1900, a period of 33 years, when he sold out to Wallace Miller, February 9, 1900, and retired from business. Mr. Miller had been in the employ of the General Baily for 17 years and in con- nection with his brother. Marling, still continues the business. Matthew Irwin, a son-in-law of Zadoc Walker, had been merchandising in this town prior to 1834, and he erected a two- story brick business and dwelling house on the western part of this lot, No. 43. He was appointed postmaster under President Van Buren, October 30, 1837, and kept the office, at least a part of the time, in the corner now occupied by the Second National Bank, and while he was here Daniel Huston occupied his room with a tailoring establishment. Daniel Smith was located in this room in 1843, with a casting, iron and nails store, and he was burgess of the town at the same time. James P. Hedges kept a furniture store here in 1845, and had his workshops in the rear of the hotel. Thomas R. Davidson occupied this room as a law office in 1851. Armstrong Hadden kept the post office here during a part of one of his terms during the Mexican war, and it was his cus- tom to hand a newspaper out to be read to the people who were anxious to have the latest news from the seat of war. John Bosler published the Fayette Whig from this room during part of the time that paper was published here. Mr. Bosler's career was beset with troubles which will be given more fully elsewhere. According to the files of the paper, the first History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. 107 number was issued January 30, 1849, and, it is said, it ceased to be issued in June, 1851. F. H. Rice followed Bosler with a shoe store, he having moved from the next door west. John Bierer purchased the Genius of Liberty printing of- fice January 1, 1885, and moved the office of publication to the rooms formerly occupied by the post office. Thomas R. Davidson sold this property to John Manaway, February 28, 1870, wlio conducted a public house here for a short time under the name of the Spottsylvania house. He was succeeded in the same by Lloyd Manhaney. It was finally added to the old Walker house property and is now a part of the Central hotel. William Secrest bought from Henry Beeson lots Nos. 44 and 45, June 13, 1787, paying therefore five pounds for the two lots, and after several conveyances it came into possession of David Ewing who for many years lived and kept a drug and grocery store in a frame building as early as 1796. His dwelling was on the eastern side of lot No. 44, and his store room on the western. David Ewing was well and favorably known by the whole community. This property passed out of his owner- ship by sheriff's sale in 1826, yet Mr. Ewing still continued in business for several years. Dr. Hugh Campbell taking 421/2 feet of the eastern part and Isaac Beeson 30 fe%t of the western part of this lot. Dr. Campbell erected a two-story brick building the full frontage of his lot, excepting a narrow alley-way on the east. He occupied the eastern room as a drug store and physician's office, and the remainder as a residence. David Ewing was employed in the drug store as a clerk. David Ewing and George Ewing, mentioned elsewhere, were brothers and were the sons of Alexander Ewing who died in this town August 2, 1823, at the age of 80 years. Joseph Gadd, as Register and Recorder occupied this room during the building of the new court house, 1845-47, and he was succeeded here by F. H. Rice, who came to Uniontown in January, 1848, and established himself in the shoe business, and was among the first to manufacture fine shoes in the town. Mr. Rice was a Connecticut Yankee and pushed his business with considerable energy. He identified himself with the Pres- byterian church in which he took an active part. He after- ward removed his store to one door east. 108 History of Uniontoivn, Pennsylvania. Garret T. Greenland occupied this room as an attorney's office in 1850. Dr. Campbell removed to his suburban residence, half a mile west of town, in 1849, where he resided till he was ap- pointed warden of the Western Penitentiary, in 1865, when he removed to that place where he remained while he held that position. Returning to Uniontown in 1868, he boarded until he completed the brick building now known as the Hogg building, into which he moved and resided until his death, February 27, 1876. James Smith, a shoemaker, occupied this residence in 1853. Daniel Kaine occupied this residence previous to 1859. Levi S. Lewis was a resident here in 1859 and 60, while employed as a clerk in Dr. Campbell's drug store on the Round Corner. Armstrong Hadden occupied this business room with the post office in 1858-63. William Hunt carried on his jewelry business in this room from April 1, 1867, to April 1, 1869. Mrs. R. M. Modisette purchased this property and occu- pied it as a residence for several years. McClelland Leonard purchased this property from the Modisette heirs at public sale, July 19, 1900, and in 1903, added a third story, put in modern fronts and extended the building to Peter street. G. W. Silverman occupied the eastern room with a dry goods store, 1887, Levinson Brothers occupied the western room with a dry goods store. The second floor has since been occupied as business of- fices, and the third floor as a photograph gallery. Hugh Espy, whose wife was a daughter of George Ewing, kept a store in the David Ewing room for some time before 1836, at which time he removed to the opposite side of the street. A stone upping-block stood at the curb in front of David Ewing's store for many years to assist persons in mounting and dismounting their horses. One day Ellis Baily, a well remembered resident and merchant of the town, being in a reminiscent mood, penned the following lines concerning this old upping-block : History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. 109 '' Fourscore winters, bleak and cold, O'er my bald pate their storms have rolled Of snow and sleet; Fourscore summers' suns have scorched My sides, and e'en my very vitals parched With fervent heat. Through me there runs no marbled veins, Or Grampian granite's dusky stains, — I'm better stock ; And can ten times as much endure ; I've got the sand, and am Simon pure Conglomerate rock. I've had diurnal kicks and stamps; A couch been for nocturnal tramps, From night till morn ; Have had ten thousand lies and scandals. That make me squirm in my old sandals. And hiss with scorn. On me the weary, worn and feeble Would stop and rest till they were able To totter on; Regaining strength they'd rise and leave me ; I felt the silent thanks they gave me When they had gone. The lassie wearing number three's, O'er me has skipped with grace and ease Into her saddle. While hob-nailed boots have raked me o'er When helping up some burly boor His beast to straddle. The hopeless outcast on me slept ; The lost street-walker on me wept Hot tears of sorrow. And prayed, when looking down the past, That here, this hour, might be his last, And no tomorrow. 110 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. There's left but four, aye not one more, Of native birth that came before I sat down here; To their long homes the rest have gone; I've seen them passing, one by one. On hearse or bier. Though old and rough, and grim and sooty, I'll keep my post ; I'll do my duty, Good deeds in doing; And when five hundred years are spent, I'll still be here a monument To David Ewing." The above verses were written on the sixty-ninth anni- versary of Mr. Baily's birth. This stone was removed to the curb in front of Dr. Smith Fuller's office on Fayette street where it still remains. The western part of lot No. 44, containing a frontage of 30 feet came into the possession of Thomas Junk who erected thereon a two-story brick building. An entrance hall led to the residence in the rear and upper part and two business rooms to the west, designated here as rooms Nos. 1 and 3. James F. Canon, a son-in-law of Thomas Junk, moved his hat store into room No. 1 in this new building in 183?, where he conducted business for some years. He was succeeded in the same business by Thomas Junk until 1857 when he was suc- ceeded by John S. Harah in the same business. James F. Canon and James L. Bugh form a partnership January 37, 1848, and continue until August 18, 1853, when Bugh withdraws and Canon continues. John Hagan kept a ready-made clothing store here for some time. In room No. 2 of this building have been the following: William Swearingen, Jr., with a dry goods store, 1837, Daniel Canon, son of John Canon, and John A. Rooney started in the boot and shoe business here in 1842, at the sign of the " Big Boot " and manufactured extensively. Rooney withdrew from this firm January 7, 1845, and Canon continued for some time. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Ill Jonathan Allen occupied this room with a dry goods store in 1849. Daniel Canon and John H. McClelland were located here with a laboratory where they mysteriously compounded " Dr. Butler's celebrated " Elixir of Brandy " and announced them- selves as wholesale agents for this wonderful discovery, February 30, 1851. They also manufactured Dr. Butler's " Balm of Elecampane " and a liniment known as " Sampson Liniment." William H. Fry was their distributing agent, and through him the country merchants were supplied. This firm lasted about three years (January 6, 1853) when Canon went into the drug business with Dr. Andrew Patrick under the firm name of Patrick and Canon. Moses Shehan located here with his tailoring establishment in 1852, and advertises with poetry. John Carpenter succeeded Mr. Shehan here with the tailor- ing business in 1853. Mr Carpenter was also agent for the Wheeler and Wilson sewing machine and most probably sold the first sewing machine sold in the town. Richard H. Austin bought out the Rooney and Canon firm, conducted the boot and shoe business in this room for some time and carried on the manufacturing in an upper room, where many workmen were employed. Among the workmen here em- ployed was one Jimmy Smith who was an inveterate tobacco chewer and the workmen, for the convenience of Uncle Jimmy, kept a plug of tobacco suspended by a string within easy reach so he might conveniently help himself to his beloved weed. One Tommy Walling, another eccentric genius, was employed in this shop. He was laboring under the hallucination that his satanic majesty, the Devil, perched upon his shoulder, and Tommy spent much of his time brushing his unwelcome visitor from his shoulder. Mr. Austin sold his boot and shoe store to Benjamin F. Saint June 6, 1855, and Mr. Saint continued the business in this room. Mr. Austin was a son of John M. Austin, a prominent attorney at the Fayette county bar, and became a prominent minister in the Baptist church. Daniel F. Cooper and Samuel Cooper, after running a store in the room west of this for some time, moved into this room where they greatly enlarged their business under the title of the Farmers' and Mechanics' Manufactory and Mercantile store. 112 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Here they conducted a grocery, hardware and general merchan- dising store from 1870 to 1883. Leopold Kuth purchased this property in 1883 and moved his bakery and confectionery and notion store into it; where he has since resided and conducted his business. Mr. Kuth has improved this property to a considerable extent. He claims to have put in the first plate glass front and the first steel ceiling in the town. William Secrest, the first purchaser of lot No. 45, soon moved to Mason county, Kentucky and by letter of attorney, June 15, 1793, authorized Henry Beeson to convey this lot to Jacob Beeson who conveyed the same to Hugh Finley who in 1803, conveyed the same to Zadoc Springer. After the death of Zadoc Springer his daughter, Ann, inter- married with Noah Morrison, fell heir to plot number seven in the sub-division of this property. On the eastern part of this lot stood some small frame buildings which were used by various tenants for different purposes, among which may be mentioned : Jacob B. Miller and William Baily as a law firm; in the eastern building, John Loor, tailor; John L. Means, tailor; Mc- Cuen and Springer, tailors ; Joseph L. Wylie, tinner ; he was fol- lowed by John A. Rooney with a shoe shop. William Baily, jeweler, repaired clocks and watches here for a while ; h« was fol- lowed by Jacob Stahl in the same business, and he by Samuel T. Lewis, tailor, and Lewis was followed by John Carpenter. Mrs. Morrison sold 48 feet of the eastern part of this lot to Samuel Bryan, February 16, 1848, reserving the small frame building thereon, then in occupancy of Jacob B. Miller as a law office, which was moved to a lot then belonging to Mrs. Rachel Skiles on Bank alley, where he continued to occupy it as a law office. Samuel Bryan came here from Philadelphia and was the contractor who erected the new Fayette county court house in 1846-47, and from the profits of this contract purchased this lot and erected thereon a three-story brick building, which was ever afterward known as the Bryan building. Two narrow hall-ways in tl\e middle led to the upper floors, with business rooms to the east and west. This building was never intended for residence purposes and was never occupied as such. THE DA^\•SO^' LAW BUILDIN'G. History of Unioiitown, Pennsylvania. 113 In 1851, financial difficulties overtook Mr. Bryan while erect- ing the court house at Waynesburg, and this property was sold at sheriff's sale to Eleazer Robinson and William Thorndell, but it subsequently developed that Mr. Bryan's title was de- fective in that it failed to have the signature of Noah Morrison, who had gone to the West some years before the sale to Mr. Bryan. Jacob B. Miller visited Mr. Morrison at Mineral Point, Wisconsin, and from him obtained a better title and recovered the property by action at law. Among the occupants of the east room in the Bryan build- ing may be mentioned John W. Skiles who conducted a book store here from 1849 to 1855, when he sold out his stock to Nels. and Mat. Patrick, who had already purchased the " Little Book Store " from Samuel McDonald. Patricks combined the two book stores and took D. Goodlander in as a partner, February 1, 1855, but this partnership terminated December SO, of the same year. While John W. Skiles occupied this room with his book store the office of the Genius of Liberty was moved into the back part of the same room. John Irons, the father-in-law of John Skiles, had purchased the Genius of Liberty in 1840, and kept the office of publication the greater part of his ownership in a frame building at the west end of town. Mr. Irons died of cholera July 30, 1850, and the office of the paper was removed to the rear of Mr. Skiles' store where it was published by Mrs. Irons and Mr. Skiles until it was sold to R. T. Galloway, who moved it to the room over the store. After the death of Mr. Irons his widow and Mr. Skiles continued the book and station- ery business as John W. Skiles & Co. Mr. Skiles was a member of Colonel Roberts' regiment in the war with Mexico, and again entered the service of his country in the 23rd Ohio regi- ment, and was wounded September 14, 1862, near Frederick, Maryland, and had his arm amputated. The Adams Express company established an office in Union- town and John W. Skiles & Co. were the agents for that com- pany as early as December 30, 1852. The first delivery wagon of that company was put on in 1867, with Thomas S. Wood as driver and Joseph M. Hadden as agent, with office at the Fayette county railroad station where Mr. Hadden was also ticket agent. The Post Office Department first issued stamped envelopes 114 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. in 1847, and John \N . Skiles & Co. announce that they have the exclusive sale of these envelopes for Uniontown, and that the first installment had just been received; July 14, 1853. Great dissatisfaction was expressed by the public respecting the new envelopes on account of an advertisement printed on the same. The back of each envelope bore the name of a Mr. Nesbitt as an advertisement. The New York Tribune an- nounced that many heavy commercial houses were so disgusted with the idea of using government stationery for private adver- tising that they have decided not to use the envelopes, and the general opinion was that the Postmaster-General should cancel the whole stock and issue a new supply without any advertising. M. W. Hopwood and J. O. Stewart purchased the stock of books and stationery of Mat. Patrick, November 13, 1855, and continued in the same room until July 2, 1857, when Wil- liam H. Baily purchased the stock and moved it to Morgan- town street. Other occupants of this room were : J. A. Uhler, who con- ducted a butter and ^gg store and ran a huckster wagon and did considerable business. He lived on Fayette street, 1860. Daniel F. Cooper and Brother, teas and groceries, 1865. General S. M. Baily, jeweler, 1867. J. W. Brown, groceries and provisions, 1870. Thomas H. Lewis and Allen C. Bowie, groceries and pro- visions, 1873. Henry White, groceries and hardware. Mr. .White had been in business in the town for many years, he closed out his business here and moved to Washington county and thence to near Cadiz, Ohio. William H. Miller and David J. Hopwood succeeded Mr. White here with a dry goods store (1883). George Roth was located here 1894, with a clothing store. Kobacker and Siegel, with a stock of clothing, were the last tenants in this room. It appears that Levi D. Stephens and H. R. Smith located in the western room of the Bryan building as early as April 1, 1849, with a dry goods store which they had moved from Morgantown street. Stephens and Smith advertised their store as located on the " Cheap Side." Colonel Lippincott and George A. Shallenberger, both from Mount Pleasant, engaged in the mercantile business in this History of Uniontoivn, Pcnnsyhania. llo room April 1, 1853. They displayed the sign of the " Golden Beehive " by which their store was known. Their store became very popular, and it is claimed that this was the first store in the town to be devoted entirely to dry goods. They whole- saled their entire stock to R. L. Barry, March 15, 1855. Mr. Barry remained in this room for some time and bought out several stores, with the intention of moving West, and there engaging in business, but the steamboat on which his goods were being conveyed was burned and his whole stock of goods was destroyed. George A. Shallenberger subsequently engaged in the saddle and harness business in this town, being connected for a while with Armstrong Hadden. He entered the service of his country and became a lieutenant-colonel. For the last twenty years of his life he filled the office of superintendent of the reform school of the District of Columbia, where he died July 4, 1902, at the age of 75 years, and was buried in Arling- ton cemetery. His brother, W. S. Shallenberger, served as second assistant postmaster-general. Myers Hollander and Brother carried on the clothing busi- ness in this room for some time and removed to two doors west April 1, 1861. Mr. Hollander was engaged in business in this town for more than ten years and owned and resided in the brick residence which stood on the lot now occupied by the Gallatin hotel. Charles H. Rush carried on merchandising in this room for several years. R. Hunter Newlon succeeded Mr. Rush here with a stock of goods he moved from the old Skiles corner, and here closed out his stock and moved to the West. J. Austin Modisette followed Mr. Newlon here with his stock of drugs, paints, etc., which he brought from Morgantown street. Mr. Modisette sold out to George W. Litman, Jr., who continued in this room, 1879-87. John N. Dawson occupied this room for a while as a grocery store. George M. Baily purchased the western half of the Bryan building and occupied this room with his jewelry store from 1887', until it was sold to the Citizens' Title and Trust com- pany, August 1, 1901. The Citizens' Title and Trust company moved their busi- 116 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ness into this room November 3, 1901, and in connection with the People's bank continued here until they constructed a four- story steel and brick improvement on- the rear of this lot, to which they moved until the improvements were extended to Main street in 1908. Soon after the completion of the Bryan building the ladies of the Methodist Episcopal church initiated the second floor by holding therein a grand church festival. The office of the Genius of Liberty occupied the eastern room of the second floor from which the paper was published from October, 1850, to January 1, 1855. The office of the American Standard was located in this same room for many years and passed into the hands of several proprietors while here, as related elsewhere. The News Stand- ard, the successor of the American Standard, was the last news- paper to be issued from this building. Eldridge M. Stanton, a Canadian, carried on the photograph business on this second floor for some time, about 1861-3. He was a good photographer for his day, was a fine looking man and bore every indication of a gentleman. He was succeeded in the same business by D. L. McElhenny, October 23, 1863-63. Later this second floor was occupied as offices for various purposes. The third floor of the Bryan building was arranged for lodge rooms. The eastern room was intended for the lodge room of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and the western room was arranged for the Fayette Lodge, No. 328 Free and Accepted Masons, and these rooms were occupied by these respective orders from the time they were ready for occupancy for many years. By the construction of the Citizens' Title and Trust build- ing there has been added one of the most substantial and up- to-date business blocks of the town. The Citizens' Title and Trust Company and the People's Bank together occupying the western room and the immense dry goods, and notion firm of Rosenbaum Brothers has occupied the entire balance of the building, which extends the full length of the lot. On the dividing line between lots Nos. 45 and 46, stood a brick building in which Richard Barry kept a dry goods, cloth- ing and notion store as early as 1815. Mr. Barry had formerly been a merchant in Baltimore, and came to Uniontown with History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 117 his family and continued in business until 1827, when he re- tired, and his son, Robert L. Barry and his step-son, George W. Rutter, continued the business; later Mr. Rutter started first in business for himself on the old stock of Richard Barry. Mr. Barry died at the home of John Rutter, a step-son, Sep- tember 8, 1836, in his 71st year, having been born November 19, 1765. Mr. Barry was familiarly known as " Dad " Barry and was always very kind and pleasant to all. George Rutter continued in business in this room for some time after the death of Mr. Barry, and he was succeeded by Jonathan Springer who lived and kept a drug store in this building for several years. L. B. Bowie, the well remembered druggist of this town, with Samuel B. Bushfield, a druggist of Greensburg, bought out the drug business of Mr. Springer in 1838, and in the latter part of that year Bushfield withdrew and Mr. Bowie continued in the drug business for many years at other locations in the town, as mentioned elsewhere. Edward Thorn succeeded Mr. Bowie in this building with a grocery and notion store in the early forties, and he was succeeded by Ellis Baily with a jewelry store. Ellis Baily bought this property from the heirs of Zadoc Springer, January 16, 1848, it being 24.5 feet of the western part of lot No. 45, and 16.5 feet of the eastern part of lot No. 46, making a frontage of 41 feet. Mr. Baily tore away the old building and erected on its site a two-story brick building con- taining two business rooms and a hall. Into this new building he moved his family and jewelry business in May, 1854, and here continued until he sold the property and retired from busi- ness, having been engaged in the jewelry business for 50 years. He was one of the best known business men of the town and community. In the western room of Ellis Baily's new building were located the following business firms : Dr. Andrew Patrick and Daniel Canon, Jr., as Patrick & Canon opened, a drug store in this room. They displayed the sign of the " Mammoth Mortar " and a large picture of " The Good Samaritan." They kept a good store and did a thriv- ing business. Daniel Canon withdrew February 3, 1853, and William Canon took his place. Dr. Andrew Patrick married Malinda Ludington, daughter of Zalmon Ludington. The cele- brated singer, Jean Ludington of Pittsburgh, was their daughter. 118 History of Uniontoivn, Pennsylvania. Daniel Canon married Ann Beggs, daughter of William D. Beggs of Wharton township April 13, 1852, and died after a protracted illness. May 26, 1854, in his 31st year. Benjamin Paine followed Patrick and Canon in this room with a shoe store and workshop. He was here in 1858 and was succeeded in this room by John Hagan, Jr., with a ready-made clothing store in 1860. Myers Holland removed from the Bryan building into this room April 1, 1861, and here conducted business until he returned to Baltimore. lie was a very genial gentleman and had a host of friends. Milt Schroyer did business here for a short time. Samuel Prager purchased this property from- Ellis Baily December 22, 1865, and carried on the ready-made clothing business in the western room until he conveyed it to George W. Litman, March 28, 1867, after which Jacob Fell and Julius Stern carried on the ready-made clothing business in the eastern- room in 1870, and for some time thereafter. J. R. Millard opened a stove and tin store here about 1879, and he sold out to George H. Miller and William Farwell who continued the business for some time. John C. Fulton and O. P. Markle suc- ceeded Miller and Farwell in 1882, with a grocery store. They subsequently moved to the Tremont building. John M. Hadden and James White occupied the western room in the seventies, where they carried on the merchant tailoring business for several years. Mr. Litman added a third story to this property and con- verted it into a hotel, since which time it has been conducted as such under various proprietors and owners as the Hotel Lafayette. Jonathan Downer purchased from Flenry Beeson lot No. 46, May 22, 1795, for 115 pounds Pennsylvania money. This lot had a frontage of 125 feet on Elbow or Main street and ex- tended to Pittsburgh street. Several small frame buildings stood on the front of this lot; the most eastern of which stood next to the Ellis Baily building before described. Of the many tenants of this building may be mentioned Henry Rigden, elsewhere mentioned, with his jewelry store, then came William and Ellis Baily, brothers, with a jewelry store and repair shop, in 1836. They were fol- lowed by David Clark with a shoe shop. John McCuen and History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 119 D. M. Springer were here with their tailor shop in 1844, then came John A. Rooney & Co. with a boot and shoe store, in the white frame building opposite Isaac Beeson & Co., at the sign of the " Big Boot," in 184.5. Then came Benjamin Kremer and Ed Sharp with a jewelry store, 1846-49. Next came John Carpenter with his tailoring establishment in 184'.)-.5"i. While here Mr. Carpenter had l-jx'il glass put in and advertised his place as " Carpenter's open front." J. ]\IcDermott, another tailor, succeeded Carpenter in this room April, 1853. Benjamin C. Paine and George W. Cameron formed a new boot and shoe firm and opened out in this room, April 1, 1853. Cameron retired in 1856 and Paine continued for some time and in 1859, he formed a partnership with Eleazer Robinson and moved into the Ellis Baily building. Drs. Andrew Patrick and Horace Ludington had their physi- cians' office here in 1853. John Kimberly was located here with a meat market in 1864, for a short time only. John Thorndell purchased from Isaac Wood May 29, 1868, this property with a frontage of 20 feet, in which he had already established his boot and shoe shop. Mr. Thorndell carried on his business here until 1885 when he tore away the old building and erected the present two-story business building. While Mr. Thorndell was located here he was the county chairman of the Democratic party and during the political cam- paigns Mr. Thorndell kept the American flag floating from a flag-staff projected from an upper window of his shop. In the fall election of 1880, the Democratic party was defeated and to play a practical joke on the party and Mr. Thorndell in particu- lar on the night of October 14, some one suspended a dead rooster to the end of the flag-staff which extended over the street. Mr. Thorndell concluded to let the rooster hang, and promptly suspended the following explanatory placard to it : " This chicken was stolen, murdered and hung here by the same party that stole the presidency in 1876." The Uniontown Democrat in com- menting on this incident made the following remark : " ^Vhile the leaders of the Republican party are plundering the people at the national capitol, their subservients are robbing the hen roosts at home." The second floor of this new Thorndell building was occu- 130 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. pied by the Uniontown News, which was established in 1885, and which remained here until it was consolidated with the Republican Standard in 1893. The Uniontown Democrat was also published from these rooms during a part of its existence. The business room on the first floor has been occupied by- Isaac Silverman as a dry goods and notion store; Mr. Mart L. Reis and Springer Gaddis with merchant tailoring and gents' furnishing goods ; Stern Brothers as clothiers ; Barney Reistein with clothing and dry goods, and Harris Cohen with dry goods and notions. Isaac Wood purchased from the Jonathan Downer estate 40 feet of the eastern part of lot No. 46 June 38, 1836, he having had possession of this property for some time before he pur- chased it. On the front of this lot stood three small buildings, two of which Mr. Wood occupied as a saddle and harness shop, the eastermost has already been described. Mr. Wood associated with him his son, George H., in 1853, and retired from the firm in 1854. George H. then associated with him Robert Scott and the firm became Robert Scott & Co., and Wood soon withdrew and Scott continued a short time. E. O. Wood and George H. Wood formed a partnership in 1857, but George H. soon sold out to E. O. who continued but a short time when Everhart B. Wood established himself in the same business in 1859, and continued until 1867. E. B. Wood tore away the old buildings that had been used as a saddler's shop for so many years and erected the two-story brick building that now occupies the lot. M. Amburg was a tenant in this new building in 1873, with a clothing store. He was succeeded by Charles H. Rush and David J. Hopwood who purchased the property in 1879, and put their stock of dry goods in it. Mr. Rush continued here until 1884, at which time he sold to Thomas Hadden who continued in the dry goods business until 1889, when he sold the property to John T. Robinson and retired from the dry goods business. Mr. Robinson enlarged the room by extending the building back to Peter street. The Rosenbaum Brothers then conducted a dry goods business in this room for several years. Harris Cohen purchased the property, and after holding it a few years sold it to Mrs. Caroline Hackney, who after holding it a few years conveyed it back to Mr. Cohen in 1909. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 121 The part of lot No. 46 west of the part sold to Isaac Wood was known as " Whitewash " Corner. Jonathan Downer erected on this corner a two-story frame building which he occupied for a while as a dwelling. Between this and the part sold to Isaac Wood, he erected a one-story frame building, with double glass doors and large windows which was intended for two small store rooms and in which several merchants did business, Henry H. Beeson who was a son-in-law of Jonathan Downer, was in business in this corner at a very early day, as he advertised October 8, 1813, that he wanted all his book accounts settled. Mr. Beeson served in the war of 1813, as mentioned else- where. James Kinkead & Co. succeeded H. H. Beeson here in 1817. They had some contracts in the construction of the Cumberland road and kept a store from which they supplied the wants of their workmen. James McKean and James Gibson, as McKean & Gibson were located here Nov. 1, 1825, with a new stock of hardware, groceries, dry goods, etc., which they agree to sell for cash or exchange for beeswax, whisky, rags, feathers, butter, pork, tal- low, wool, wheat, etc., which will be taken at cash prices. They . also announce that they have just received a lot of artillerist's coat trimmings, plates, scales, pompons and wigs for military parades. Mr. Gibson lived up-stairs while he had his store below. Mr. McKean withdrew and Mr. Gibson continued here until 1832, at which time he moved to his new brick building on the opposite side of the street. , Dr. Benjamin Stevens owned and lived on what was later known as the Robert Gaddis farm in Franklin township, and had his office in " Whitewash " corner. Dr. Daniel Sturgeon was one of his pupils and resumed the practice of Dr. Stevens after the latter's death, which occurred January 3, 1813. Dr. Stevens was eminent in his profession and highly esteemed as a citizen. Joseph Wylie and Eleazer Robinson carried on the tin and copper business here and the next room was occupied by Robinson and Frisbee as a stove and casting store for the sale of the products of Robinson's foundry. Joseph L. Wylie carried on the tinning business here for many years, and was favorably known in the community. These firms occupied " White- wash " corner about ten years. Joseph L. Wylie was elected 123 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. treasurer of Fayette county, October 11, 1853, which office he filled for two years. Mr. Wylie sold out his business to James S. Sturgis in 1854. Mr. Sturgis was associated with John A. Durbin and they occupied both rooms, in one of which they carried a stock of confections and toilet articles and in the other Mr. Sturgis carried on his tinning bvisiness for many years. They were here in 1854. W. B. McCormick & Co. succeeded Durbin in the same business, and these were succeeded by John McCune in 1855, with a tailoring shop, and he was succeeded by the office of the American Citizen, a " Know-Nothing " paper published by William H. Murphy and Jesse B. Ramsey in 1856. John P. Sturgis kept a small store here for a short time. John Jones bought out the tinning business of James S. Sturgis in January, 1860, and carried on the business here until 1867. John G. Stevens and Thomas Brownfield as a painting firm had their paint shop over Jones' tin shop for several years and were among the last occupants of old " Whitewash " corner. Thomas D. Skiles purchased this property in 1867, for $2,300 and tore away the old buildings on the corner and erected thereon a three-story building with business rooms on the first floor and a large room known as Concert Hall on the second floor, and the third floor was devoted entirely to the Masonic fraternity. The east room of this new building was occupied by George W. Rutter who moved his grocery store from the opposite side of the street. May 12, 1869. He was followed by Daniel Chis- holm with a millinery store, from 1886 to 1890. Thomas D. Skiles and David J. Hopwood opened a dry goods store in the corner room as soon as the building was finished and here continued but a short time when Mr. Skiles withdrew and Charles H. Rush took his place, and this firm continued until 1880, when Hopwood withdrew. Max Baum moved his clothing store into this room 1879 and in 1894 the eastern room was added to his room. In 1908 his room was still further enlarged by the addition of the " Concert Hall " room and the room on Pittsburgh street. Mr. Baum has occupied this corner since 1879. Henry A. Wathen was the first occupant of the basement with a restaurant and oyster saloon, and he was followed by History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. 123 Isaac N. Hagan with the same business. It has been occupied much of the time since as a barber shop. Concert Hall was used for many years as a place for en- tertainments until the erection of the Opera Block which was completed in 1883. Dr. F. C. Robinson and William McCleary purchased this property in 1873, and Mr. McCleary's interest was transferred to Dr. Robinson in 1879, and in 1906, he conveyed it to Josiah V. Thompson and John T. Robinson. In April, 1913, Mr. Thompson transferred his interest to William Baum. CHAPTER VII. Jacob's Addition— Main Street, South Side, from Morgan- town Street Westward to the County Home, Comprising Lots 1 to 3, and 15 to 20, Inclusive, in Jacob's Addition. The dividing line between the tract of land called Mill Seat, patented to Henry Beeson, and that of the tract called Mount Vernon, patented to Jacob Beeson, was what is now the middle of Morgantown street. Jacob Beeson, a brother of Henry Beeson, concluded to lay off an addition to " the town of Union " with streets and alleys to conform therewith. This he called Jacob's Addition and consisted of the extension of Elbow street and of Peter street. Lot No. 1 in Jacob's Addition was the first lot west of Cheat or Morgantown street and on the south side of Elbow or Main street. Lot No. 1 in Jacob's Addition was sold to Jacob Beeson, merchant, son of Henry Beeson, the founder of the town, October 16, 1780, and on December 31, 1793, Jacob Beeson, merchant, transferred his interest to Peter Knapp for 50 Spanish milled dollars, and Peter Knapp received an original deed from Jacob Beeson, the founder, October 21, 1793. The right of way for the old Henry Beeson mill race was reserved through the southern part of this lot and through all other lots on its way to the mill at the west end of town. Peter Knap was a brewer by occupation and ran a brewery in the old log building subsequently known as the Greenland property. He secured a license to keep a tavern at March term, 1795, and in connection with his brewery, did business on this lot. Water from the Beeson mill race was conducted to this property through wooden pipes made of logs. On August 23, 1824, Peter Knapp's administrator conveyed this property to Catharine Lynch, widow of Cornelius Lynch. Mrs. Lynch was known as Granny Lynch, and for many years kept a cake shop and made tallow candles for her customers. After the death of Granny Lynch, her son, Daniel P. Lynch, occupied this house as a dwelling. Millie Lynch, daughter of Cornelius and Catharine Lynch, married Joseph Fausett, Jr., a son of the Joseph Fausett whom General Braddock knocked down with the broad of his sword in the battle of the Monon- 134 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 125 gahela, July 9, 1755, and for which act Thomas Fausett, a brother, shot the rash and unfortunate commander. Daniel P. Lynch was appointed High Sheriff of Fayette county in 1820, and served in that capacity until 1823. The old frame building on this corner was remodeled and converted into a store room, for which it was used for many years. John A. Sangston, who had served as high sheriff from October 22, 1829, till 1832, kept a store here, with William Swearingen as a partner, in 1836-38, when he traded his stock of goods to William Snyder, who also served as sheriff of the county, from 1847 to 1850, for a farm near Walnut Hill, and Mr. Snyder started his son, C. Brown Snyder, in business here. L. M. Kline succeeded C. B. Snyder in business on this corner. He was a tall, spare man and very much of a gentle- man. He associated with him for a short time, Mr. R. M. Modesitt, and they pushed business with great energy. Mr. Kline's advertisement of July 18, 1843, announced that he had just received new goods at " Kline's cheap corner, where the sign of the red flag hangs at the top of the long pole." It was Mr. Kline's custom to auction his goods on Saturdays, when the country folks would be in town, and during the weeks of court he would take a wagon load of goods and auction them off in front of the court house. One of his rival merchants adopted the same plan, and often the two would be in front of the court house crying their goods at the same time. Kline then conceived a plan to draw the crowd from his rival, and would' throw cups and ladles and other small articles among the crowd, saying he had no time to sell such trifles, and thereby would draw the crowd from his rival's wagon. In January, 1844, Mr. Kline's store room and contents were totally destroyed during a very heavy snow storm. The fire raged furiously, and all that saved the old " Whitewash " corner was the heavy fall of snow. The fire was evidently the work of an incendiary, and Mr. Kline was arrested and had a hearing before Judge Nathaniel Ewing, January 22. James Veech defended Mr. Kline, and Howell and Flenniken were the prosecuting attorneys. The evidence was entirely circum- stantial, and Mr. Kline, properly, was acquitted. Mr. Kline subsequently went into business in other locations in town as noted elsewhere. The old burnt corner lay for quite a while vacant when 136 History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. Isaac Skiles, Sr., who had been in business for a number of years on the opposite side of the street, purchased it, and in 1845 erected thereon a three-story brick business room and dwelling, which was ever after known as Skiles' corner. Upon the completion of this building, Mr. Skiles moved his business into it under the name of I. Skiles & Son, and in the month of February, 1853, Isaac Skiles, Sr., retired from business and Isaac Skiles, Jr., & Co., continued, and in 1854 the firm was T. D. Skiles & Co., and in 1855 it was W. and T. D. Skiles, and in August, 1861, W. and T. D. dissolved and Thomas D. con- ducted the business alone. In 1866 Alfred Newlon purchased the store and his son, Robert H., conducted the business for a while, when in 1867 William McCleary & Son purchased the property and conducted business. They in turn were succeeded by Thomas Hadden who purchased the stock of merchandise and also the real estate and conducted the business here for ten years and also occupied the residence part of the property. Thomas Hadden sold the realty to Josiah V. Thompson and John D. Ruby, April 1, 1885, and the stock of goods to Cramer and Breckenridge. Other occupants of the old Skiles Corner were C. T. Cramer with Clark Breckenridge conducted business here in 1880. Breckenridge retired and later Aaron Bowman entered partner- ship. Cramer and Bowman were succeeded in 1885 by Henry Beeson and Robert Hook, who in the spring of 1888 were suc- ceeded by John Niccolls who remodeled the room, and after several years of occupancy, sold out to Fred Ward. Ward soon sold to D. E. Hamilton. After Hamilton's occupancy the room lay vacant for some time when Charles E. Beeson moved the remaining goods of the famous old Beeson store from the Will-^ son Block and closed them out at auction here. May 11, 1897. This date marks the closing out of the Beeson store which was claimed to have been founded by Jacob Beeson, son of Henry Beeson, the founder of the town, in 1783, after a continuous run of 114 years. T. N. Thompson opened business in this room succeeding C. E. Beeson, who occupied it temporarily, and continued as its last tenant until April 1, 1900, when this building and others adjoining on the west were torn away preparatory to the erection of the fine new Thompson-Ruby building. Upon the completion of the Thompson-Ruby building the History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 12T First National Bank of Uniontown moved into the main busi- ness room on May IG,, 1901, from the old Round Corner building, and continued business here during the erection of the fine eleven-story building on the site of the old Round Corner. A. G. Kail succeeded the First National in this room with his private bank, and he was succeeded by other tenants. The adjoining rooms were used as a shoe store and the second and third floors as offices. Laird & Taylor of Pittsburgh were the first occupants of this room with a shoe store under the charge of G. M. Kirby, but in a few months sold out to Thomas T. Cofifman who con- tinued the business in this room until April 1, 1906, when he was succeeded by J. J. Henry in the same business. Next west of the Skiles Corner stood a two-story brick building erected by Mrs. Millie Faucett and her daughter, known as Aunt Betsy Faucett. Millie was a daughter of Cor- nelius Lynch, and her husband was Joseph Faucett, Jr., a son of the Joseph Faucett whom General Braddock struck down at the battle of the Monongahela, July 9, 1755. Mrs. Faucett and her daughter carried on the millinery business here for many years. After the death of Mrs. Faucett her daughter carried on the business for some years. This property passed from Aunt Betsy Faucett to Thomas D. Skiles who converted the building to a business room and dwelling, and M. Amburg opened a clothing store in the business room in 1866 to 1871. He was followed by Daniel Sharpnack & Son, 1872, with clothing. This property passed to the ownership of Armstrong Hadden along with the Skiles Corner and at his death it passed to the ownership of James Hadden, under whose ownership Margaret McCray ran a millinery store, 1875-78, and she was succeeded by Mrs. George Bryson with millinery and dry goods. John M. Hadden followed with merchant tailoring. The prop- erty passed to the ownership of Joseph M. Hadden and from him to J. V. Thompson and John D. Ruby. S. Rice & Co. were located here with a ready-made clothing store, 1889-93, and they were succeeded by S. Haley & Son as clothier tailors. Then followed George Messmore with tobacco and Marion Mc- Clain with notions and toys. The last tenant was Mrs. Boyd with a restaurant, when the building was torn down. The next building west of the old Faucett property was located on lot No. 2 in Jacob's Addition and was owned by 128 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Adam S. Simonson in 1802. Clement Wood, a soldier of the war of 1812, carried on his business here as a saddler and harness maker as also the office of a justice of the peace. Charles Page was located here in 1830 as a shoemaker, and Sowers and Martin occupied this room with a dry goods store, 1845-48. George Martin married Miss Rebecca Seaton, daugh- ter of James Seaton, proprietor of the Seaton House. Capt. John Sowers married Miss Mary Meason, daughter of Isaac Meason, Jr., proprietor of the Mount Braddock farm. Both were excellent men and closed out their business here at auc- tion, in 1848. L. D. Beall opened out a grocery store here in 1850, and soon sold out to his brother, Silas Price Beall who remained but a year or two and removed elsewhere. John Carpenter was located here as a tailor in 1854, and he was succeeded in the same business in 1856-7 by D. M. Springer. Jacob Fell carried on a meat market here in 1862, and Thomas Stone followed with a leather store, 1864. Thomas H. Lewis followed Stone with a grocery store, 1865. Other occupants were Simon Shoenthol with pictures, picture frames, book binding, etc., 1870-72. Then followed Mrs. Carr with millinery, John W. Wood, saddles and harness, William Thorndell with groceries, Samuel Morris, groceries, and Isaac Henderson John- son with groceries, was the last tenant, who vacated the room April 1, 1900. The last owner of this property was William Thorndell, who sold to J. V. Thompson and John D. Ruby and comprised part of the lot on which was erected the Thompson- Ruby building. Benjamin Hellen purchased a lot with 36 feet 3 inches frontage from James Hutchinson December 15, 1812. Benjamin Hellen built a two-story brick residence and busi- ness room on this lot and occupied it for many years as a resi- dence and carried on his business as a hatter. Mr. Hellen was the son of William Hellen and was born in Calvert county, Maryland, and learned the hatting trade in Frederick, after which he located in Baltimore and there followed his occupa- tion for but one year and then came to Uniontown in 1802, with a capital of but twenty-five cents. The following day he secured employment with Peter Hook, perhaps the first hatter of the town, and on May 9, 1803, he married Drusilla Hook, the sixteen year old daughter of his employer. Mr. Hellen lived and carried on the hatting business in this History of Uniontown. Pennsylvania. 1"^9 property from the time it was erected, at least as far back as May 2, 1815, to 1841, with a slight intermission, 1834-37. His manufacturing shop was located on the rear end of his lot which extended to the corner of South and Morgantown streets. This was a log building and stood on the bank of the old Beeson mill race. He was succeeded in the hat business by his son, P. H. Hellen and William Wilson, the latter having learned the trade with Mr. Hellen and subsequently became his son-in-law. Messrs. Hellen and Wilson conducted the business here from 1834 to 1837 when the firm dissolved and Benjamin Hellen again resumed the business for a short time. James Black, a fashionable hatter of Philadelphia, then rented the old estab- lished hat stand and carried on the business in 1845. Benja- min Franklin Hellen next occupied this room with a stock of dry goods. He styled his store " The Farmers' Exchange," and had branch stores at Morris' X Roads and at Masontown. He carried on business here for at least ten years. He was suc- ceeded here by John K. Fisher, who had conducted business elsewhere in the town for several years, and after a few years here Mr. Fisher met with financial reverses and entered the army, and became captain of Company G, of the 16th Pennsyl- vania Cavalry. He subsequently settled at Atcheson, Kansas. George E. Hogg succeeded Fisher with a stock of dry goods, and he associated with him Charles S. Seaton. This firm was here 1861-64. Charles H. Rush and A. G. Smith suc- ceeded Seaton and Hogg, 1865-66. Rush withdrew and Col. George G. Johnston became a partner with Smith, March 1, 1867. Johnston withdrew and Smith conducted the business alone in 1868, but in 1869 the firm became Seaton & Smith. Max Baum succeeded Seaton & Smith with ready-made clothing. He moved to this room from a small room in the Tremont Building on Morgantown street in 1879 and remained here twelve years, when he moved to Concert Hall building. Max Baum was followed in this room by a millinery store, and this by S. K. Brown & Son with a shoe store to 1880. Browns were followed by I. Jackson & Bro. with a clothing store up to 1886, when they moved to the corner of Main and Broadway, and Henry Lape moved his tailoring establishment from the corner of Main and Broadway to the room vacated by Jacksons. This property remained in the Hellen name until 1884, a period of seventy-two years, when it passed into the ownership 130 History of 'Vniontown, Pennsylvania. of James R. Cray, and on May 5, 1887, it passed to the owner- ship of Charles D. Connor who improved it and added a third story. He transferred to WilHam Allison the present owner. Among the later tenants in this property may be mentioned W. H. McClay with a billiard hall; C. H. Glenn, boots and shoes; Hugh McKean, boots and shoes; J. M. Kirby & Co., boots and shoes ; Murphy's 5 & 10 cent store, Loveland's furnishings and tailoring. An amusement show occupied this room for a short time which was followed by W. H. Guyton in May, 1908, with a drug store. Next west of the Benjamin Hellen brick building was a weatherboarded log building in which Morgan A. Miller, one of the old time tailors of the town carried on business in 1815, and he was succeeded in the same business by Samuel E. and Thomas B. Lewis in 1823, and they were here also in 1850. John Carothers and W. H. Bennett carried on the shoe business here in 1847. John Henry McClelland was in this room with a whisky store in 1852, and he was succeeded by S. Price Beall & L. D. Beall with a grocery and liquor store. James H. Springer and Thomas B. Sturgis bought the stock of Price & L. D. Beall from the surviving partner, L. D. Beall, August 14, 1855, and here continued the business until August 7, 1857, when Springer withdrew and e.ntered business on East Main street. Thomas B. Sturgis and William Selden continued the business here, and in 1858 Mr. Springer bought out the interest of Mr. Selden and continued in the same room. Springer was succeeded by Thomas H. Lewis and John Henry McClelland who conducted a grocery and liquor business, here until 1866, when they sold out to George H. Wood and Armor S. Craig, September 16, of that year. This old building was destroyed by fire April 8, 1878. Nathan Divvens purchased this lot from the descendents of Benjamin Hellen in 1884, and erected thereon a five-story frame building in which he conducted his business as a cigar manu- facturer until his death, since which his son, Nathan, Jr., has occupied the property with the same business. Next west in Jacob's Addition was a low log building which was used as a business room. Joseph Kibler carried on his business here as a tinner in 1819. Pleck & Hunt carried on the tailoring business here in 1849. A. G. Benson carried on the barbering business here in 18.V?. He was succeeded in the same History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. 131 bvisiness by A. W. Carter and Wesley Fox in 1853. They were succeeded by Theophilus Bowie as a tinner and coppersmith. He had carried on his business for many jears elsewhere in town before locating here, as noted elsewhere. Here Mr. Bowie conducted business until the building was destroyed by fire, April 8, 1878, after which time he was located over his grocer)^ store on Morgantown street. He was one of the old time tinners and had been in business in the town since 1836, and was always known as a useful and industrious citizen. After the fire the old building was patched up and Amos INI. Jolliffe ran a billiard room here for a short time. John W. Wood, the well known saddler and harness maker, purchased this lot from the Hellen heirs in 1884 and erected thereon a two-story frame building in which he conducted a successful business until 1906, when he retired. The Wood family had quite a record in this town as sad- dlers and harness makers. John Wood started in the business on part of the lot now covered by the First National Bank building, in a white frame house, in 1794, and continued -in the business 38 years. His son, William Wood, who had served an apprenticeship under his father, carried on the business for 37 years, and John W. Wood, son of William Wood, served an apprenticeship under his father and carried on the business 37 years, making a continuous run of 112 years. Other members of the Wood family engaged in the same business in the town were : Comley, Isaac, George H., E. B., Clement, E. Oliver and Albert D. making ten in all of the name and all good workmen. John W. Wood sold his stock to J. N. Hibbs and remodeled the room and rented it to Thomas T. Coffin who occupied it as a shoe store from April 1, 1906. A tall two-story frame building stood on the lot next west of the above, and from the fact of its leaning considerably to one side, it was known as the " leaning tower," and by this at- tracted much attention. Peter Hook, Jr., son of Peter Hook, Sr., the hatter, occupied this building, and while on a journey down the Mississippi river, he died, leaving a widow and one son, Peter Uriah Hook. Captain Flugh Gorley married the widow Hook and lived in this building^ and carried on his busi- ness of shoe making in the same. General William Wood started in the harness business here in 1833, and continued to reside and do business here until 1848, 132 History of Uniontown. Pennsylvania. when he purchased the old George Bentley property, farther west and moved his family and business. " The leaning tower " was torn down and a small frame building was removed from across the street and placed on this lot by L. D. Beall. This small building and lot became the property of James and A. D. Wood, and was occupied by them for several years and subsequently by various tenants. John W. Wood became the owner and it has since been occupied by his son, William Wood as a news and tobacco store and a barber shop. Enos West built a one and a half-story frame building on 16.5 feet of lot No. 3 for a store room for Lucien B. Bowie, into which Mr. Bowie moved his drug store upon its completion, and here conducted his business for 53 years, at the sign of " The Big Mortar." This old frame building was torn away by Dr. A. P. Bowie, who had purchased the lot, and erected thereon a three-story brick business room and dwelling above. Among the occupants of this new room may be mentioned Joseph Nutt, stationery and confections ; John C. Breading in the same business; Ed. H. Yeager, variety store; Harry Beeson succeeded Yeager with a news, book and stationery store from 1893 to 1906, when he moved to his West End theater building. In 1893 E. E. Strickler purchased this property and Darl W. Smiley opened a gents' furnishing store in this room, April 1, 1906, and remained five years when he sold to Frank Herren and Joseph Dellahunt, who continued in the same line of business. Next east of what is now the Brunswick Hotel where now stands the Strickler building, William McCleary and his father-in-law, William Swearingen, known as River Bill Swear- ingen, built a one and a half-story frame building about 1837, in which they kept a store as McCleary & Swearingen, al- though Mr. Swearingen gave the business no part of his atten- tion. After a year or so McCleary assumed full ownership for three or four years, then moved his store to one door west of the Seaton House, on the opposite side of the street. He next went to Smith'field. William McCleary was a son of Ewing McCleary, proprietor of the McCleary Hotel, now known as the Brunswick. C. Brown Snyder, who had been in business on the corner of Main and Morgantown streets, succeeded Mr. McCleary in History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 133 this room in 1845, and in 1846 he moved his stock of goods to Searights where he continued in business for some time. He was succeeded here by Jacob Stone and Samuel P. Griffin in 1846. Mr. Stone was a son of Aaron Stone who became pro- prietor of the old McCleary tavern in 1846, and a brother-in-law of Samuel P. Griffin, his partner. John H. McClelland con- ducted a grocery and liquor store in this property after Stone & Griffin and on April C, 1854, he sold to James T. Gorley who continued in the same business for several years. John Man- away was here for a short time with a grocery. George S. Evans kept a grocery store here for about three years and sold out to John S. Dawson. William Brownfield and James Moore were here with a grocery for some time. Frank McCray suc- ceeded Moore and Brownfield and kept a grocery for five years. A small one-story frame building stood against the east end of the old McCleary hotel which was occupied principally by shoemakers and tailors, among whom may be mentioned, John Loor, a son-in-law of Gabriel Getzendanner, who carried on the tailoring business here for some time, as did D. M. Springer and John McCuen. They were followed later by James L. Irwin in the same line of business. Captain Hugh Gorley was here with his shoe shop for a number of years, and for a while it was occupied as the bar-room for the Wyatt Hotel. Joshua Strickler purchased the lots on which these two buildings stood and tore them away and erected the present three-story building in 1883, and A. D. Conwell and J. A. Strickler occupied it as a shoe and hat store for eighteen years. On January 23, 1901, Conwell retired and the firm became Strickler, Hathaway & Co., and subsequently the firm became The Campbell-Hathaway Company, by the addition of John M. Campbell. John M. Campbell withdrew from the firm January 1, 1910. Lot No. 3 in Jacob's Addition was purchased by Robert Skiles March 14, 1814, and was bounded on the west by Jacob's alley, now known as Arch street. By an article of agreement, December 18, 1833, Mr. Skiles conveyed this lot to Ewing Mc- Cleary and after his death the deed was made to Catharine McCleary, his widow. Ewing McCleary built a two-story brick tavern stand on the corner of Main street and Jacob's alley, now known as Arch street, where he commenced business in 1819, and con- 134 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. tinued until his death, February 5, 1838. His hotel was one of the most popular in the town. After his death his wife con- tinued the business for ten years. Ewing McCleary was a native of Adams county where he was born in 1782. During Mrs. McCleary's proprietorship of this hotel, the smallpox broke out and George Currier and another employee of Blanchard's traveling show died at this hotel, September 21, 1830, and the disease spread until there were 15 genuine cases of smallpox in the town, only the two of which proved fatal. This, of course, interrupted the business of Mrs. McCleary's tavern, and she, on October 18, announced that her house had been disenfected and renovated since persons had the smallpox there and she so- licits a renewal of her former custom. Mrs. McCleary subse- quently married William Hart who had been bar-tender for William McClelland and more recently in charge of the Mc- Cleary Hotel. They left town and settled in Centerville, Wash- ington county, where Mrs. Hart died, and was buried in the Methodist Episcopal graveyard at Uniontown. Selden B. I-fays, v/ho formerly conducted a tavern at Washington, Pa., and more recently of the McClelland House, succeeded Mr. Hart as the proprietor of the McCleary hotel, and he was succeeded by Joshua Marsh who conducted it for one or two years, when L. W. Stockton opened the National House on Morgantown street and Mr. Marsh was placed in charge of it. Redding Bunting succeeded Mr. Marsh as pro- prietor of the McCleary hotel for a short time and he in turn was succeeded by Aaron Stone, who had been proprietor of the Fulton House, April 1, 1846. Mr. Stone announced that his hotel would be known as the Fayette House. Mr. Stone was very popular as a landlord. Zadoc Cracraft succeeded Aaron Stone in 1850, and he changed the name to that of the Eagle Hotel, and had a large swinging sign at the curb on which was lettered the name and a large spread eagle. The house retained the name for many years under the numerous proprietors which followed. During Mr. Cracraft's proprietorship a fire broke out in the rear of the property, in 1851, and destroyed much adjacent property on Morgantown street, the market-house, and much damage to this hotel. Mr. Cracraft then purchased the pro- prietorship of Stephen Snyder of the Clinton House and con- tinued the business at that place. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 135 After the rebuilding of the McCleary hotel William Beatty took charge as proprietor, April 1, 1852, and he was succeeded by William Gans in 1854, who after two years was succeeded by Peter Uriah Hook, in 1856. Aaron Wyatt succeeded Hook and he began to purchase the property from the heirs of Ewing McCleary in 186"2, and conducted the hotel as both owner and proprietor until his death, from which time his widow continued the business until her death. James Wyatt succeeded his mother as proprietor until his death and he was succeeded by his widow. Russel Beall purchased this property in 1882 and changed the name to that of The Brunswick, added a third story and extended the building back to South street. The first lot west of Jacob's alley now known as Arch street was designated as lot No. 15 in Jacob's Addition, the eastern half of which was sold to Jesse Graves October 8, 1791. An old weatherboarded house stood on the corner of this lot next to Jacob's alley in which Daniel B. McCarty lived and carried on his occupation as a shoemaker before 1815. He was a most excellent man and a leading member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He with Benjamin Hellen and George W. Rutter com- prised the building committee for the erection of the second Methodist Episcopal meeting-house at the west end of Peter street in 1832-33. Nathaniel Jaquette, who had served his country in the defense of the city of Baltimore in the war of 1812, and whose wife was a half sister to Daniel B. McCarty, was con- nected with Mr. McCarty here in business. Colonel Ewing Brownfield, who with his brother, John, had been in business on Morgantown street, purchased this lot, and in 1837 erected a large two-story brick business room and residence on the corner. These he occupied as such, and in connection with his dealings in wool he amassed a fortune. He was one of the town's most popular, upright and successful old time merchants, and retired from business with the confi- dence and respect of the entire community. Col. Brownfield was born near Winchester, Va., September 7, 1803, of Quaker parentage, and was brought here when two years of age by his parents, Thomas Brownfield and wife, who settled in Union- town in 1805. He was of a military spirit and joined the Union Volunteers, a military company of the town, when twenty years of age. He formed one of Captairj Bolles' drill squad and under 136 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. whose instructions he became one of the best drilled men of the community. Capt. Bolles was a graduate of West Point mili- tary academy and was exceedingly proficient in the manual of arms. He with others escorted General Lafayette from Union- town to the home of Hon. Albert Gallatin on the occasion of the former's visit to this place in 1835. In 1828, Col. Brownfield was elected major of the first regiment of the Pennsylvania volunteers, which position he held for two years, and upon the resignation of Col. Samuel Evans, he was elected to the colonelcy without opposition, which office he filled for five years. He also took a deep interest in the fire department of the town, and was captain of one of the companies for many years. Col. Brown- field was married in 1843 to Miss Julia Long, daughter of Capt. Robert Long, a prominent citizen of Springhill township, by whom he had three children. He conducted branch stores in Upper Middletown under the management of Edward G. Roddy, at Smithfield, under the management of William McCleary and at McClellandtown. He retired from the dry goods business in Uniontown December 1, 1862, after a successful business career of 32 years, when he sold out his stock of goods to Armstrong Hadden, and thus originated the firm of T. & J. M. Hadden. This firm conducted business in this room until De- cember 1, 1867, when the goods were removed to the old store room of Henry H. Beeson and sold to Rev. Alfred Newlbn, who had recently purchased the store of Thomas D. Skiles, and the stock of the two stores consolidated. Charles S. Seaton, an old merchant of the town, succeeded the Haddens in this room in 1867, and he soon associated with him Mr. A. G. Smith, a former partner. They were succeeded in this room by the People's Bank of Fayette county which opened its doors for business July 14, 1873. This bank transacted business here until 1903, when it removed to its new quarters in the old Bryan Building. This property was sold by the heirs of Col. Brownfield December 3, 1904, to Daniel P. Gibson, Charles J. McCormick and John T. Robinson at public auction. This property has been greatly changed and improved within the past few years, by the addition of several business rooms. John Cupp, a barber by occupation, purchased the western portion of lot No. 15 in Jacob's Addition in 1814, and conducted his business in the front and occupied the rear of a log build- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 137 ing which stood back from the street, as a residence. This building stood over the old Beeson millrace. Cupp was put in jail for debt, but on February 20, 1833, he was released under the insolvent act, and as it was believed that he had abundant means by which he could have discharged his obligations, but preferred being committed to jail and released under the in- solvent act, his creditors gave expression to their feelings through the columns of the Genius of Liberty of April 1, 1833, in the following " Lament " : " Come a' guid folks wi' ane consent, Come join us in our guid intent, And let nae time be now misspent, Nor let us pout. But let us a' at ance lament ; Ould Cupp 's let out. Far well may we now grunt and grain, And shed sault tears as thick as rain. But a' our tears must be in vain, Wi' out a doubt, For after a' our labor tak'n, Ould Cupp 's let out. ' ' T would nae do,' the lawyers prate, ' Twas a' in vain, and a' too late. It seem'd as if 'twere fix'd by fate. And a' our rout Did not avail a single hate, Ould Cupp 's let out. Nor would be heard the blath'ring gabble, Of any one among the rabble, We tried our best to kick and scrabble, And make a rout, But we were told to ' hush our gabble,' And let Cupp out. And wha that saw his siller gear, That he'd laid past frae year to year. Or wha that e'en of it did hear. Could be so stout, As not to drop a single tear. Since Cupp 's let out? 138 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Or wha that saw his money bags, As lang as any callan's leg, Would nae believe that he had kegs. Concealed about, Filled up wi' cash of which he'll brag. Since now he's out? Or who that ever heard folks say That he'd made scores of crowns per day, And that his debts he would na' pay. Will have a doubt That thousands he will take away Since he 's let out. Oh ! wha that ever saw bright siller. Since the guid days of old Van Twiller, If he's not worse than a puir tiller Or lazy lout. Would nae greet and grin and beller, Since Cupp 's let out. But he is gone, and what is worse • Alang wi' him is gone his purse, Of which he '11 be a careful nurse. There is no doubt. And now he'll cram it 'till it bursts. Since he is out. Nae mare we'll see his face in town, Nae mare we'll see his surly frown. Nor see him walking up and down The streets about. Nor ever will his cash be found, Since he 's got out." The act allowing imprisonment for debt was passed in 1705, and continued in force until repealed, July 12, 1843. A debtor could be discharged under the insolvent act after an imprisonment of three months and the surrender of all his property to his creditors ; but while imprisoned his creditors were liable to the charges of his confinement. John Cupp gave notice in the Genius of Liberty of January 21, 1823, that he had appealed to the court of common pleas of Fayette county for the benefit of the insolvent laws of Pennsyl- History of Uniontotvn, Pennsylvania. 139 vania, and the said court appointed the 20th of February, 1833, to hear him and his creditors at the court house in Uniontown where all who thought proper might attend. Billy Smith, a blacksmith, married Sarah Cupp, a daughter of John Cupp, and it was related that during the ceremony when she was asked if she would accept this man to be her lawful and wedded husband she simply nodded assent, when her sister, who was an interested and anxious spectator, called out, " Why don't you say ' Yes,' Sal, I would if I had that chance." Billy Smith carried on blacksmithing on the opposite side of the street. The lot of John Cupp was ofifered at sheriflf's sale October 25, 1830. A frame building stood on the front part of this lot in which Joseph Kibler carried on the tinning business and succeeded Cupp in the occupancy of this property. He was a tinner and coppersmith by occupation, and had conducted his business elsewhere in the town before locating on this property. He was a most excellent man, was a member of the session of the Presbyterian church in 1825, and was very active in church work, and was for a time the superintendent of the Sabbath school. He was tax collector of Union borough for the year 1826, and collected his duplicate in full. Joseph Kibler removed to Hillsborough, Ohio, October 8, 1832, where he established himself in business and became pros- perous. His second wife was Miss Mary Campbell, daughter of Benjamin Campbell. At the time of this second marriage Mr. Kibler was 70 years of age and Miss Campbell was one and a half years his senior. William B. Roberts succeeded Mr. Kibler in this property with a grocery store and conducted business here during the erection of his four-story brick building near the west end of Main street. Peter Uriah Hook succeeded Mr. Roberts in this property with a dry goods and grocery store. He had been in business in McClellandtown from 1833 to 183), and in the latter year he came to Uniontown and clerked for Foster & Nixon, across the alley from the Seaton House. Foster & Nixon broke up in 1840, and Hook took their stock of goods for his wages with which he started his store. Mr. Hook had many peculiar- ities and was favorably known b}- the whole community. His verbosity and most excellent voice gave him superior advantages 140 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. as an auctioneer, in which capacity he was frequently employed, and it is doubtful if the town has ever produced his equal in this respect. He auctioned much of his stock of goods at his store and on occasions from a wagon in front of the court house. Some of his peculiarities were displayed in the use of his sign and his advertisements. His regular sign was Hook & Wife, but he swung out a board on which was lettered " Hook & Hankins versus Boyle & Rankin." This was intended as a catchy sign, rather for the rhyme than for a slur at a competing firm, and also to give the impression that one James Hankins was backing the concern with his means which Hook chose to term " Hankins' castings." Hook took advantage of the excitement incident to the Mexican war and advertised after the following fashion : " Ho, ye lovers of tobacco ! Just received 14 boxes of tobacco that was captured at the storming of Monterey, from General Am- pudia. It is called " Old Zach Taylor's fancy." One plug, 5 cts. ; Rough and Ready, 3 plugs for 12% cts. ; Old Kentucky, alias Hossleg, 10 cts. per pound. A new kind called " Smashing of the Jaw," 16 plugs for 121/0 cts. Hook introduced the use of carbon oil and lamps and would keep several burning in the day time, claiming it was cheaper than daylight. Dave Blythe, an eccentric character, occupied rooms over Hook's store, and here he painted portraits and wrote verses. He styled his studio the " Rats' Nest." An extended history of Blythe is given elsewhere. William I. Crawford succeeded Hook here with a grocery store, 1855-57, and he was succeeded by Benjamin Kremer, son- in-law to William Crawford, with a watch and clock repair shop, and he lived in the rear part. Colonel Ewing Brownfield pur- chased this lot and erected thereon a brick residence, 1860, which he occupied as such the remainder of his life. He died February 19, 1889, and his widow continued to reside here until her death, June 25, 1903. This property was sold at the same time, and to the same parties as the store room property, and being used as a boarding house for several years was con- verted into and occupied as such. Martin Myers purchased lot No. 16 in Jacob's Addition June 13, 1790, and after passing through several conveyances, George Bentley came into ownership of the western part and William Crawford of the eastern part. Mr. Crawford erected a History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 141 two-story frame building on his part of the lot in which he carried on the saddle and harness business for many years. The firm of William Crawford and William S. Lewis com- menced business as Crawford & Lewis May 13, 1823, and Mr. Crawford lived in the rear. Mr. Crawford sold this property to Mary Inghram, March 4, 1834, who occupied the rear part as a residence and rented out the front for various purposes. John Irons purchased the Genius of Liberty printing of- fice in April, 1840, and for the greater part of his ownership, which lasted about ten years, he issued the paper from this property. George A. Shallenberger & Co. occupied this prop- erty as a saddle and harness shop in 1849. Mr. Shallenberger sold out his interest in 18.52 to George Hubbs who continued the business in the same room and Mr. Shallenberger went into partnership with Colonel Lippencott of Westmoreland county, in the dry goods business in the Bryan building. Robert Scott & Co. purchased the stock of saddles and harness of George W. Hubbs and continued the business in 1855. Anderson Jollifife purchased this property from Mary Inghram, April 5, 1865 and occupied the rear as a residence and rented out the business room, which was occupied by various tenants, while Mr. Jollifife carried on his business as a blacksmith in a shop next west. Mr. Jolliffe was an excellent workman and gentlemanly in his manners. His first wife was Miss Julia Winders who was a most amiable woman, and his second wife was the widow of his deceased brother. Dr. A. P. Bowie purchased this property May 31, 1880, and tore away the old frame and erected the present brick building. Charles and Joseph Bolus purchased this property in 1907, improved, and converted it into a restaurant with lodging rooms above. A blacksmith shop and wood shop stood back about half way on the middle of this lot. No. ITi, which it is said was built by George Bentley who owned this lot and the adjoining one- third lot on the west. This property passed through the owner- ship of several persons and was occupied by dififerent tenants as a workshop. Thomas Prentice, Jr., occupied it for several years as a wagonmaker's shop along with Anderson JolliiTe who owned it and carried on his business of blacksmithing here for many years. Joseph White purchased this lot, January 29, 1881 and tore away the old building and erected a frame shop 143 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. in which he carried on his business as a marble cutter, for a number of years, until his death. George L. Hibbs purchased this property from the White heirs, gave a long lease to James McFadden who improved the property and conducted a meat market for several years, and after further improvements, opened a large fruit store and ice cream parlors. After the death of George L. Hibbs the property was sold to J. Gibson Hibbs. On the western part of lot No. 16 in Jacob's Addition Jacob Medtart kept a tavern in 1796, in an old log building, and, it is said, he quit the business about 1803. The property appears to have been owned at this date by Christian Wireman, from whom it was sold by the sheriff. It may have been in this property that Moses Allen kept a tavern at the sign of the " Indian King " in 1810. One of the oldtime school teachers by the name of Lathrop taught a subscription school in this old log building in the early history of the town when it was customary for parents to subscribe for a certain number of children for a cer- tain number of days, and in the case of the absence of one child another might be sent as a substitute. The late Capt. John Bierer used to relate that his father subscribed for a cer- tain number of children to Lathrop's school, and on one occasion when an older brother could not attend, he was sent as a sub- stitute for one day only and that that day was made memorable on account of a flogging he received at the hands of Lathrop. George Bentley came into possession of this property and the vacant lot adjoining on the east. He was a saddle and harnessmaker by trade and carried on his business in the log building in the front and lived in a brick building in the rear, 1819. This property was sold from Bentley by the sheriff in 1834, and he was succeeded by William Armor with a stock of ready-made clothing which he sold at auction. He was here in 1834, and remained but a short time. Mrs. Sarah G. Lewis bought this property in 1824, and William Lewis carried on the saddle and harness business here till about 1830. General William Wood, who had been in business else- where, purchased this property in 1848, tore away the old build- ings and erected a two-story brick business room and dwelling. Upon the completion of this building in 1849, Mr. Wood re- moved his saddle and harness shop and his family into it and here conducted his business until his death. The family con- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 143 tinued to occupy this property until after the death of Mrs. Wood. John W. Wood, son of William Wood, carried on the saddlery and harness business in this room from 1869 to 1872. I. W. Miller purchased this property from the Wood heirs, March 30, 1889, and remodeled it and occupied the lower floor as a tin- ner's shop and rented out the second floor as a dwelling and his son, Arthur, in connection with Billy Pickard, put in a stock of hardware. I. W. Miller sold the property December 5, 1904, to John P. Coun, J. A. and Benj. Strickler and moved to Cali- fornia, and Hayden Craft put in a stock of hardware and lived above. He was followed by D. N. Craft & Sons in the same line of business. Alexander Chisholm, Jr., purchased the real estate July 30, 1908, since which it has been used for business purposes. Moses Vail purchased lot No. 17 in Jacob's Addition in 1798, and after several conveyances it came into the possession of Nathaniel Mitchell as early as 1808, who built a two-stoiy frame house on the eastern part of the lot. A log house stood on the western part and he and his brother, Samuel, carried on their occupation as cutlers in a brick shop which stood on the lot adjoining on the west. Nathaniel Mitchell was unmar- ried at this time and boarded with his brother, Samuel, who lived in the log house when his daughter, Elma, who became the wife of Nathaniel Brownfield, was born, April 7, 1812. This log house had one room and hall down and two rooms up. The work turned out by these two brothers evidenced that they were proficient in their line of business. Samuel Mitchell moved to his farm in German township in 1818 and died there in Sep- tember, 1820. Nathaniel moved to the foot of Pittsburgh street where he continued his business and ran the old " Tilt Ham- mer," as mentioned elsewhere. In 1823 this property came into the possession of Dr. Louis Marchand who settled in this town after the death of his brother, Dr. Daniel Marchand. He was unmarried at the time, but soon after coming here he was married to Miss Sarah Sackett, a daughter of Dr. Samuel Sackett, a native of Con- necticut and who had served as a surgeon in the Revolutionary war, and was perhaps the first practitioner of medicine in Uniontown, in 1781, and who subsequently settled on Georges creek, a mile south of Smithfield, where he died in 1833. Louis Marchand had practiced medicine for more than twentv vears while residing on his farm about five miles below 144 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Brownsville. As the compounder of an antihydrophobia pill his reputation became very extensive, reaching far beyond the, limits of Fayette county. The heirs of Dr. Marchand sold to John Barry, 1866, and in 1867, Barry sold to Abraham Brown, and on March 38, 1870, Brown sold to Everhart B. Wood who oc- cupied it as a residence until his death. Daniel P. Gib- son succeeded E. B. Wood in the ownership of this prop- erty in 1885, and it was occupied by different tenants as a boarding house A. D. Johnson in connection with John C. Fulton bought this property from Mr. Gibson in 1901, and tore away the old buildings and in 1903-3, erected a fine four-story brick building known as the Johnson-Fulton build- ing, covering the entire lot. Mr. Johnson occupied the entire first floor, of two rooms, with a stock of furniture. Mr. John- son, failing in health, was compelled to retire from business when he sold his stock to Lin T. Hayden, May, 1908, who ran the business until 1910, when on April 1st of that year David Freedberg bought the stock and closed it out, and in July fol- lowing went in with a stock of furniture and added hardware, and in May, 1911, Jacob Davis took over the stock. A two-story frame house stood on the western part of this lot, No. 16, in which Christian Keflfer carried on the shoemak- ing business for many years and lived in a small frame house near the old Methodist church, at the west end of Peter street. He is said to have been the first Roman Catholic resident of the town. He had formerly kept a tavern in Washington, Pa., in 1805. John Henry McClelland purchased the western part of this lot from E. B. Wood in 1873, and erected a two-story brick residence thereon and occupied it as such until his death, February 8, 1885. He was a son of William McClelland, the original proprietor of the McClelland House. He was married to Margaret J., daughter of Jehu and Jane (West) Brownfield. His widow continued to occupy the property until 1907, when she sold to George Titlow, who tore away the house and let the lot remain vacant for some time. D. N. Craft purchased this lot and in 1911-13 erected thereon a fine business block and occu- pied it with a hardware store. William Norris is cited as the first purchaser of lot No. 18 from Jacob Beeson, and after several transfers it came into the JACOB BEESON, Founder of Jacob's Addition and Jacob's Second Addition. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 145 possession of Nathaniel Mitchell before mentioned, who with his brother, Samuel Mitchell, carried on their business as cutlers in a long brick building facing on Mill alley and lived in a log house where the brick residence of James A. Searight now stands. This property was sold as the property of Nathaniel Mitchell by the sheriff, January 7, 1833, to Everhart Bierer and he conveyed it to William B. Roberts who erected on the western part of the lot a fine four-story brick business block in 1843, and removed his grocery and liquor store from his old location into this store-room and occupied the upper part as furniture ware rooms and the rear as work shops. Here he carried on an ex- tensive business for several years. On the 10th of April, 1845, a disastrous fire occurred in Pittsburg in which much property was destroyed, and Mr. Roberts made a good business stroke by shipping his stock of furniture to that city to meet the de- mands of those who had lost their household effects. When war was declared between the United States and Mexico, Mr. Robert enlisted a company and entered the service of his country. The history of this company and its services are given elsewhere. Mr. Roberts left his business in the hands of William Maquilken and Henry T. Difienderffer with whom he had formed a partnership in the furniture business, June 10, 1847. Col. Roberts died of hemorrhage of the lungs in the city of Mexico, October 3, 1847, and his body was brought home and interred in the Methodist Episcopal graveyard, December 16, 1847. After the death of Col. Roberts, Henry T. Diffenderfifer, William Maquilken and William Selden formed a partnership and carried on the furniture business at the old stand for a while. Then DififenderfTer purchased the furniture business of John and Howell Phillips on Morgantown street and withdrew from the firm, and Selden and Maquilken continued the business. Wil- liam Selden and Thomas J. Claggett succeeded Selden and Maquilken, and soon Claggett withdrew and Selden continued alone. Subsequently John J. Kimberly and Thomas J. Claggett bought out Selden in 1857 and continued until 1863 when the firm became Thomas J. & Cornelius Claggett and continued business here for a number of years. Peter Kremer had been a clerk in Col. Roberts' store and after the death of Col. Roberts, he with Thomas Semans pur- chased the stock and continued the business. Mr. Kremer be- 146 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. came one of the best known merchants of the town and oc- cupied this room for many years. Mr. Kremer was followed in this room by Daniel Sharp- nack & Son, Henry R. Beeson, John D. Ruby, who kept here for many years, and others. James A. Searight purchased this property and made valuable improvements in the business part. Several parties have occupied the store room with groceries, and Samuel R. Shuman one room as a funeral director. Joseph Hedges, Jr., purchased lot No. 19 in Jacob's Addition in 1794. This lot was located on the south side of Elbow or Main street and next west of a twenty-foot alley known as Mill alley. Thomas Brownfield came from Gainsborough, Frederick county, Virginia, with his family and settled here in 1805. He had been a wagoner over the old road across the mountains before the construction of the National road and before he set- tled here. His family at that time consisted of Catharine, who married Ewing McCleary, proprietor of the McCleary hotel, and after his death married William Hart; Rebecca, who married German D. Hair, who kept tavern in the village of Monroe ; Sarah, who married Dennis Springer and lived on a farm two miles west of town ; Mary, who married Charles Wolverton ; Ewing, who married Julia, daughter of Robert Long, and who carried on merchandising for many years in this town ; Rachel, who married William Searight, and lived at the village of Sea- rights six miles west of Uniontown. After settling here there were born to them Thomas, who married Eliza Johnson; John, who married first Anna Beeson and second Elizabeth Ellis, and after being in the mercantile business here for some years re- moved to South Bend, Indiana; Nathaniel, who married Elma, a daughter of Samuel Mitchell, and succeeded his father in the tavern business ; Hannah, who married William B. Roberts who was in the furniture business and went to the Mexican war and died in the city of Mexico as related elsewhere ; Esther, who married Christopher Brown Snyder and removed to New York city; Barak, who died very young and Elizabeth and Eliza Ann who died in early childhood. Thomas Brownfield first rented this property in 1805, and after conducting a tavern here for some time, he purchased it and continued it as a tavern until his death. History of Umontoimi, Pennsylvania. 147 The old log bar-room part was the only portion of the original property when Mr. Brownfield bought it, and here he swung out his sign of " The White Swan," and not only the name but the reputation of his tavern became favorably noted throughout the length of the old National road. Mr. Brown- field built a brick kitchen back from the log front, and after- wards built the brick dinning-room between. This was con- sidered the most commodious dining-room at the time in this part of the county. He celebrated the opening of this dining- room by a grand dinner to which were invited Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Skiles, who lived at that time in the dwelling part of the Beeson mill; Mr. and Mrs. Ewing McCleary, who lived at that time in a log house at the west end of the hotel ; Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Mitchell and others. In 1818 Mr. Brownfield built a two-story brick building east of the original log part and this was used as a parlor. This part lined on Mill alley. Mr. Brownfield was born in 17G4, and died April 27, 1829, in the 65th year of his age, and his widow, with the assistance of her youngest son, Nathaniel, conducted the business for some years. Mrs. Brownfield died August 3, 1835, in the 63rd year of her age. Thomas Brownfield added lot No. 20 on the west to his first purchase and hereon erected sheds for the protection and ac- commodation of teams and droves which patronized his tavern. Section by section was added to the original old log front until the front of the lot was occupied. Nathaniel Brownfield, as before stated, assisted his mother in conducting the tavern until her death, after which he con- tinued to conduct it in his own name, and he became owner of the property in 1849, and he and his faithful wife continued to conduct the affairs of this old hostelry in the same hospitable manner that characterized the old frontier taverns in the early settlement of the country. The fare was always generous, palat- able and wholesome. And while all the other old taverns of the town have discarded their good old-fashioned names, have been either demolished or improved, and their style changed to that of a hotel, the old " White Swan " continued in the even tenor of its way unchanged for a period of ninety years with " neither variableness nor shadow of turning." The sign of the old " White Swan " swung in front of this tavern before the construction of the great National road, and 148 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. offered food and shelter to the weary traveler who sought a home in the then unsettled West. It witnessed the construction, the wonderful development, the bustle and noise of this great highway till it reached the zenith of its glory, crowded with travel and traffic. It witnessed, with grief, its waning, until the rattle of the last dashing stage coach and the rumble of the ponderous Conestoga wagon had died away in the distance. The old " White Swan " tavern had its peculiar characters or mascots who were always in evidence about this old hostelry. Mike Walters was one of these. He had been about the old " White Swan " for several years as a chore man, and, becoming aged, he was told that he must soon be an inmate of the poor house. This so preyed upon his mind that he committed suicide by hanging himself to the bedpost. This occurred in 1860. Thomas McDonald was a familiar personage about the " White Swan " for many years. It was he who laid the cobble-stone in the big wagon yard and around the hotel, and from the fact that it has withstood the wear and tear of so much rough usage for so many years, attests that the work was well done. " Dumb Ike " was a conspicuous figure about the " White Swan " for many years. Ike hailed from Springhill township and was oc- casionally allowed to drive a stage coach over the National road. He was an unsafe and irresponsible fellow, and was trusted to drive only in case of emergency. A seat on a stage coach in charge of a spanking team of horses was Ike's highest ambition. He enlisted in his country's service as a teamster and died while in the service. Billy Anderson, a harmless old colored man, ap- pears to bear the honors of being the last mascot about the old " White Swan '' hotel. It was his duty to saw the big stack of cord wood into stove wood and to keep up the roaring fire in the old bar-room grate. For years Billy's familiar form was to be seen bent over the saw-buck as he faithfully and patiently sup- plied the wood for the kitchen fire ; for the savory viands of the old " White Swan " were prepared over a wood fire long after the other hostelries of the town had discarded that fuel for cooking purposes. No one who has ever enjoyed it can forget the luxury of country-cured ham prepared over an old fashioned wood fire. In their advanced age Mr. and Mrs. Brownfield wished to retire from the service of the public, and on Saturday, Decem- ber 21, 1895, Rev. W. O. Wilson and some friends took dinner here and were the last patrons of the old " White Swan " tavern. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 149 Mr. Brownfield died in the same room in which he was born, December 28, 1895, after an illness of one week, aged 85 years and 2 months. He had always been a hale and hearty man. Mrs. Brownfield died June 14, 1903, and Mrs. William Hinsey, a daughter, was the last of the family to occupy the property, and she moved out in 1907, after a tenure in the Brownfield family of 103 years. Thomas Brownfield erected a log tenement next west of the old tavern among the occupants of which may be mentioned Ewing McCleary, a son-in-law ; Peter White, a gunsmith ; Daniel Duer and many others. West of the log tenement Nathaniel Brownfield built a frame wagon shop which was used as such for many years. Frank Wilkinson carried on wagon making here in 1843, and he was succeeded by Monroe Beeson in the early fifties. Thomas Prentice, Jr., carried on wagon making here for many years. A frame blacksmith shop stood on the lower part of the wagon yard and was occupied from its construction by different blacksmiths and was always considered a good stand for that business. George Roth secured a lease on the whole of this property in 1907, and removed the weatherboarding from the front and faced it with brick and converted it into business rooms. Lot No. 30 in Jacob's Addition, the western lot of the " White Swan " property, was the western limit of Jacob's Ad- dition to the town of Union. A twelve foot alley divided this from a 731^ foot lot on the west. This lot was purchased from Jacob Beeson by his youngest child, Henry H. Beeson in 1813, and in 1815, sold to Thomas Brownfield upon which he erected the sheds before mentioned, for the accommodation of droves that were being taken over the National road to the eastern markets. Mrs. Elizabeth Kremer purchased the eastern half of this lot, March 27, 1865, on the front end of which was a frame house and on the rear was a brick dwelling. This frame building was used many years as a dwelling and was subsequently converted into a business room in 1879, in which Albert C. Kremer car- ried on the grocery business for many years. Mr. Kremer re- tired after 30 years in business. Charles O. Laclare followed in this room with a plumbing shop. 150 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. David Veech, June 2, 1862, sold to Mrs. Rachel McCray the western half of this lot, on which is a brick dwelling, which she has occupied ever since. Jacob Beeson, the founder, constructed a saw-mill which stood a considerable distance back from Elbow street and a little distance west of the lot sold to Henry H. Beeson, from which it was separated by an alley. The race that conveyed the water to this mill was connected with Jacob's run near the southern end of Mill street and western end of Ray street. Mr. Beeson operated this mill for several years. During the war of 1813, one of the soldiers belonging to a company raised here was confined in this mill to be starved into submission for disobedience of orders. Sarah Brownfield, then a lass of sixteen, carried him food from the kitchen of the " White Swan " and sustained him during his confinement in the mill. Some years after the war he sought the hand of his fair benefactor, but was disappointed to learn that it was al- ready engaged to another. James Todd purchased this mill-seat, together with 45 acres of land, from Jacob Beeson in 1838. David Veech pur- chased this mill-seat and much of Todd's purchase, and operated the saw-mill for several years before he moved to Uniontown. It was the custom for persons to rent the use of the privilege of sawing their own lumber at this mill, and it was Mr. Veech's custom to come to town from his farm at a good stage of water and run his mill while the supply of water was sufficient for that purpose and then return to his farm. Lucius W. Stockton purchased from the executors of Jacob Beeson a lot fronting 144 feet on Elbow street immediately west of the old saw-mill, and he sold to R. L. Barry, and Barry in turn, sold to David Veech. A small log house consisting of one room and hall down stairs, and the same up, with log kitchen back, stood on this lot, several steps below the street. Granny Wini- fred Price, mother of Simon and Benjamin Price, the latter a soldier of 1813, was an occupant of this log house. Samuel Mitchell was also an occupant here. Ed. Fowler, a painter and decorator employed at Stockton's stage yard, lived here in 1834. He moved to New Orleans where he died of yellow fever. David Veech built the large double brick residence on this lot. William Wilson, the well known banker, moved into the eastern part of this property upon its completion in 1848, and History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 151 in 1860, removed to the old Bank building where he remained eighteen years. He died in a frame house on Church street. Rev. Hiram A. Hunter, a Cumberland Presbyterian minister stationed here from July, 1849 to November, 185'3, was a tenant of the western part of this house, succeeded by Rev. James H. Cal- len who was called to the Presbyterian church here in 18.53, and resigned April 10, 1855. Rev. Ball, of Madison college, was a tenant here. John K. Fisher, a merchant of the town lived here for several years. He entered the service of his country in the civil war and afterwards removed to Kansas. G. W. K. Minor, Esq., purchased the western part of this property February 3'2, 1869, and his family have occupied it ever since. After Mr. Wilson, E. P. Oliphant was an occupant of the eastern part in 1867 ; James T. Redburn purchased the eastern part of this house and the lawn to the east, including the site of the old saw-mill and made a desirable property in which he spent the remainder of his days. James T. Redburn was born near Masontown, Pa., May 19, 1823. In his minority he was engaged for several years with Zalmon Ludington in the leather trade at Addison, Somerset county. Pa. On March 21, 1848, he was married to Miss Har- riet Ann, youngest daughter of Mr. Ludington and shortly afterwards moved to Washington, Pa., and embarked in the boot and shoe business. In 1850 he returned to Uniontown and again associated himself with Mr. Ludington in the boot and shoe and tanning business. In 1858 he was chosen cashier and manager of the Uniontown banking house of John T. Hogg, which soon became the banking house of Isaac Skiles, Jr., in which Mr. Redburn continued as cashier. In 1863 he became one of the incorporators of the First National Bank of Union- town, which succeeded that of Isaac Skiles, Jr., and opened its doors for business May 2, 1864. In this he was elected a di- rector and cashier, to which office he was re-elected from year to year until his death, which occurred May 22, 1877. He was one of the originators of the Uniontown and West Virginia railroad company and was its treasurer. He was also the treasurer of the Uniontown woolen mill of which he was instru- mental in establishing. No citizen of Uniontown was ever held in higher respect than Mr. Redburn. He died May 23, 1877. Mrs. Redburn died December, 1860. They left one daughter, Miss Minnie who still owns and occupies the property. 152 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Jacob's run, named after Jacob Beeson, now known as Coal Lick run, was the western borough, limit at the incorporation of the borough and remained as such for many years. The old street of the town, later named Elbow street, crossed Jacob's run near the place of the present stone bridge and wound to the north of the present Gilmore mansion. The large stone bridge which now forms part of West Main street, was con- structed in 1820. Alexander Turner, Abraham Hall, Abraham Beigler and perhaps German D. Hair and many others were em- ployed in the construction of this bridge. Stone walls about three feet in height, upon which were placed heavy cap-stones, guarded each side of this bridge. These have been removed, the bridge widened and iron guard-rails placed at each side of the bridge. The Coal Lick branch of the Southwest Pennsylvania rail- road crossed West Main street at the western bridge, following Coal Lick run beyond the borough limits. A small station house was erected at this crossing and named South Uniontown station. A small triangular piece of ground lay west of Jacob's run, at the junction of West Fayette and West Main streets on which Charles Laclare erected a small frame residence and occupied it as such for some time. He sold to John C. Johnson and others who had the lot filled up and erected thereon some small frame buildings in which have been carried on the grocery, fruit and other business. Henry Beeson, the founder of Uniontown, settled west of the mountains in the spring of 1768, and erected his cabin where the fine brick residence of Mrs. John NiccoUs now stands, at the junction of South Mt. Vernon avenue, West Fayette and West Main streets. In this he lived with his wife and one child until he purchased the Thomas Douthet tract contiguous on the east, and removed to the Thomas Douthet house which then stood where the present borough lockup stands. Jacob Beeson, a brother of Henry, located just one mile west of town and upon his purchase from Henry a part of the Mt. Vernon tract, he constructed a tannery a short distance east of this cabin, near a spring and here conducted his business of tanning together with farming, successfully for many years. He erected his mansion upon a beautiful knoll a short distance north of this cabin, and upon its completion moved into it. The original cabin of Henry History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 153 Beeson was for many years occupied by some members of Jacob's family. John Miller married Rebecca, a daughter of Jacob Beeson, March 39, 1798, and went to housekeeping in the old log house. Here he resided when his first child, Jacob Beeson Miller, was born. Mary Beeson, daughter of Jacob Beeson, married William Barrickman about the year 1800 and settled on a farm near Jefferson, Greene county. Pa. Mr. Barrickman lived but a few years after this marriage and his widow returned and occupied this old log house with her daughter, for some time. In 1811, she married William Fulton and removed to a farm near Zanes- ville, Ohio. James Veech, Esq., built the house now the residence of Mrs. Niccolls in which he lived for many years, and had his law ofifice in the brick building a short distance west formerly the residence of Judge James Todd, and where several young stu- dents of Blackstone read law under him. He removed from Uniontown, finally, in 1861, and died at Emsworth, Allegheny county, December 11, 1879. Clark Breading purchased this property on February 2, 1869, and made this his home until his death, April 12, 1882. Major Breading was born in Luzerne township March 9, 1806, and became a prosperous farmer and stock dealer, but after com- ing to Uniontown he lived a retired life entertaining his many friends. The administrator of Clark Breading sold this property to Jasper M. Thompson July 23, 1885, and it became the home of his daughter, Mrs. John Niccolls, who put many valuable im- provements on it. John A. Niccolls died here October 16, 1893, and his widow still occupies the property. James Todd purchased from Jacob Beeson's executors 63 acres of land in two bodies lying south of the National road. On one of these he built his residence, a neat two-story brick build- ing, immediately south of Jacob's mansion. In this Mr. Todd lived while practicing law here. He was admitted to the bar of Fayette county October 30, 1823, and had his office in a room im- mediately west of Seth Howell's tavern. A fuller mention of Judge Todd is given in the chapter on the Fayette county bar. Rev. Alfred Newlon, a local preacher of the Methodist Episcopal church and merchant of the town owned and lived here for several years prior to his death. 154 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Daniel P. Gibson purchased this property and greatly im- proved it, and Altha L. Moser has occupied it as a residence since. It is now owned by Mrs. Frank E. Merts. Everhart Bierer, a well known butcher of the town, was born January 6, 1795, in Wiernsheim, Germany, and came with his father, John Bierer, to the United States in 1804. His father died on the voyage, and his mother and three sons settled at Greensburg, Westmoreland county. He carried on butchering in Connellsville for some time, and in the spring of 1817, he moved to Uniontown where he followed his occupation as a cattle dealer and butcher up until 1849, when he was succeeded in the butchering business by his sons. Mr. Bierer bought property on Mill street and erected a two-story brick residence which he occupied and had his slaughter-house near the present site of the Hogsett mill. Mr. Bierer purchased the L. W. Stock- ton mansion, 1850, and lived there for some time. He purchased 38 acres on the south side of the National road from the Veech estate and 6 acres from James Bryon. Here he lived and conducted the farm for many years. Mr. Bierer by industry and frugality amassed quite a fortune, and was one of the sound business men of the town. He died August 2, 1876. His family consisted of seven sons and four daughters. Miss Eliza still owns and occupies much of the estate. Daniel Bierer built a frame residence on West IMain street just west of the McClellandtown road in which he lived and farmed his father's estate. Charles Bierer, son of Daniel, built a frame residence at the northwest corner of the Bierer estate, on the National road, near Oak Grove cemetery, in which he lived. A small log, weather-boarded house stood at the northwest corner of the Bierer estate next to the Union cemetery which has been occupied by various tenants. The Union Cemetery Company was organized in 1867, and on June 7 of that year purchased the Dr. Lewis Marchand lot of 6 acres and 154 perches lying on the National road adjoining the Bierer estate, and here laid ofif a cemetery, and on May 36, 1893, an additional tract of 9 acres and 36 perches was added on the west to the original plot. In this " silent city of the dead " sleep many of the former citizens of the town and vicinity await- ing the resurrection morn. Louis E. Beall laid off the old Hugh Thompson lot of 14 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 155 acres into town lots in 1887, and named his plat the West High- land or Mountain View Addition. David Richey purchased one of these lots fronting on the National road and in 1893 erected thereon a tasty and comfortable frame residence. In 1894, Mr. Beall erected a very fine residence on the western part of this addition and has since made it his home. James Baird, a native of County Derry, Ireland, purchased 10 acres and 125 perches of land just west of the Hugh Thomp- son lot and erected thereon a two-story frame residence and oc- cupied it as such for several years. He was a stone mason by trade and worked on the construction of several of the bridges on the old National road. Sebastian Rush married one of his daughters. Hugh Espey, who had been a merchant in Uniontown for many years, purchased this property and moved his family onto it and went into the nursery business until his death, after which his widow continued the business until her death. Their son, Samuel Espey, became a prominent educator in the city schools of Allegheny City. He conveyed this property to Martha A. Parshall January 20, 1877, who with her husband, oc- cupied it as a residence until after the death of her husband, WiUiam G. Parshall, Esq., which occurred July 4, 1883. Ex- Sheriff Eli Cope occupied this property for a few years previous to his death, which occurred June 15, 1896. Mrs. Parshall con- veyed this property to her son, William W. Parshall, Esq., May 14, 1906, and he immediately erected thereon a fine modern man- sion in which he has since resided. S. Kim Frey, after his retirement from the hotel business in which he had been engaged for many years, purchased 38 acres of land from Miss Harriet Skiles and others, August 14, 1869, and built a comfortable frame residence and here spent the remainder of his days. This property passed into the ownership of J. V. Thompson who on March 15, 1900, conveyed it to George W. Hess, who has since occupied it as a residence. This property has been greatly improved and made a most de- sirable suburban residence. The Poor House. In 1820, the subject of erecting a county home for the care of the indigent poor of the county was being agitated, and a notice was published urging the citizens of Uniontown and 156 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. vicinity to meet at the inn of Col. Cuthbert Wiggins in Union- town, on December 5, 1820, for the purpose of taking measures toward the erection of a poor house. At the appointed time a goodly number of citizens met at Col. Wiggins' inn and ad- journed to the court house. Abel Campbell, John Bouvier and John Dawson were appointed a committee to petition the legis- lature to enact a law allowing Fayette county to build a poor house. The idea of joining with Greene and Washington counties to build one in common, as previously talked of, was abandoned. The arguments produced pro and con on the mat- ter were about as follows : By the erection and maintenance of a poor house paupers could be maintained at a less expense than if scattered over the county : That rather than be confined under restrictions at the poor house, many who would other- wise draw assistance from the county, would be self-sustaining: That pauperism being largely due to dissipated habits, that rather than submit to strict discipline, many would become self-sustaining : That rather than submit to the humiliation of becoming an inmate of the poor house, many would procure assistance from friends and relatives, and would thus be self- sustaining. On the other hand, some held that by the erection and maintenance of a poor house it would be a bid for pauperism, and that many who are now self-sustaining would place them- selves upon the county: That political jobbery would be prac- ticed at the public expense : That the foreign floating element would be harbored at the public expense : That the taxes would be unnecessarily increased: That the congregating together of paupers would breed crime. In the Genius of Liberty of September 24, 1832, was a long article advocating the erection of a poor house and giving notice that the people were to vote at the coming election to decide the matter by ballot. There were then in the county thirty paupers, and the expense of their maintenance under the present system was $70.00 each per annum. Dauphin county kept her paupers at $34.20 per annum each. The paupers of Fayette county could be kept in a poor house for $1,041.20 per annum. A farm of 100 acres could now be purchased for $1,500, to be paid for in three equal annual payments, and the buildings could be erected for about the same amount. Or perhaps the farm History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 157 and buildings would cost $4,000, on four equal annual install- ments, the investment would not be burdensome. By a special act of the legislature of Pennsylvania passed April 2, 1832, authority was granted to establish a county home for the care of the poor of Fayette coirnty. By this act it was stipulated that the directors of the poor should each receive for their services the sum of ten dollars to defray the necessary ex- penses of their attendance on the duties of the office. An election held on October 8, 1822, at which the people were to vote for or against a poor house resulted as follows : For a poor house, 1,432 votes ; against a poor house, 1,025 votes ; majority in favor of a poor house, 411. Announcement was made that the county commissioners would meet at the inn of Zadoc Walker on the 1st Monday of December, 1823, to receive proposals with the view of purchasing a farm on which to erect a poor house. On December 12, 1823, the board of poor directors met to make an estimate of the expense of building a poor house and of maintaining the poor for one year. On January "i, 1824, they bought from Peter McCann a tract of 113 acres and 99 perches of land for a poor farm. William Swearingen, John Boyd and Frederick Shearer, directors of the poor, advertised for bids for furnishing 150,000 bricks and other material for the erection of a poor house ; the bids to be submitted on or before January 7, 1824. In 1825-26, the first poor house was erected, and on June 2, 1834, the Alexander Turner tract of 16 acres and 60 perches was added on the east. The first poor house was a long two-story brick building of very plain design and stood much nearer the National road than the present structure. One of the noted inmates of the county home was an Indian chief by the name of Wanapusha who had been to Washington city in 1848 to interview the president in the interests of his tribe, and while returning on foot by the National road, he was taken violently ill with hemorrhage of the lungs. He was taken to the county home with his two companions, Weahoma and La Sophus, where they remained for some time. The chief's health improving, they resolved to proceed on their westward journey, but at Brownsville the hemorrhage returned and the three were brought back to the county home, where they re- mained under the care of William Beggs, as steward and Dr. 158 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. R. M. Walker as physician until his death. He was buried in the public burying ground east of the court house. The present county home was erected in 1884; the contract price being $90,000. Fraud was manifest and deductions and surcharges were made to the extent of $8,500. The following persons have filled the office of steward of the poor since the establishment of the county home, viz.: William Condon being the first; Rowland Shaw, William Beggs, John Morris, Joseph Stacy, Jack Dunham, Robert Higenbotham, who moved from the old house into the new, March, 1885; John D. Carr, 1885-1890; Johnson Carter, 1890- 1891; John D. Carr, 1891-1894; Ewing Speer, 1894-1895 ; William Jackson, 1895-1898 ; Samuel Newcomer, 1898-1901 ; Joseph O. Miller, 1901-1905; Marshall Dean, 1905-1909 ; Johnson Hunsaker, 1909. CHAPTER VIII. West Main Street, North Side, from Pittsburgh Street West, Comprising Lots Nos. 4 to 8, and 31 to 33, Inclusive, in Jacob's Addition — The Old Beeson Mill. What is now Pittsburgh street where it enters Main street was a narrow alley leading from Main street to Peter street. The east- ern line of this alley was about the dividing line between the two tracts of Henry and Jacob Beeson. Main street west of this line was known as Jacob's Addition to the town of Union, and the first lot west of this narrow alley and on the north side of Main street was designated as lot No. i in Jacob's Addition. This was a triangular lot running to a point on Main street and having a front- age of about 74 feet on Peter street. Having no frontage on Main street, it was sold in connection with lot No. 5, which joined it on the west, which had a frontage of 7"2i^ feet on Main street, thus making the frontage of the two lots 147 feet on Peter street. In the early history of the town these lots passed through the owner- ship of the following persons: Jacob Beeson, on the 13th of August, 1791, sold to Dr. Henry Chapeese for five pounds, Penn- sylvania money, equal to $13.33, lots Nos. 4 and 5. Dr. Chapeese was located here as a druggist and physician before 1790. It is not known whence he came nor whither he went. He advertised an infallible cure for snake bite ; by wetting the wound with said sub- stance and drinking about fifteen drops, an immediate cure was effected. Price three shillings five pence for small viol. His place of business was on the corner, and he advertised paints, oils, pencils, etc., for sale, July 6, 1793. John Savary de Valcoulon of Lyons, France, purchased this property from Dr. Chapeese, March 25, 1793, and Mr. Savary had the distinction of being the only " gentleman " who purchased a lot in Uniontown. The trades were well represented by black- smiths, cutlers, merchants, tailors, tanners, cordwainers, joiners, gunsmiths and saddle-tree makers, but only the one deed designated the purchaser as a " gentleman." John Savary and Albert Gallatin first met in Philadelphia, where they became fast friends, and both being imbibed with the western land fever, Mr. Savary bought warrants for 120,000 acres of land on the Ohio river, between the Big and the Little Kanawhas, 159 160 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. and interested Mr. Gallatin to the extent of one- fourth of the purchase, and Mr. Gallatin was not to make payment until he attained his majority, January 29, 1786. This was the first time and to the only person that Gallatin ever consented to incur pecuniary obligations. Later Savary in- creased Gallatin's interest to one-half. They together moved to Richmond, and in March, 1784, Gallatin crossed the mountains, and he, together with Savary, purchased the farm of Thomas Clare on the Monongahela river, about four miles north of the Virginia line, and here they established a store. They together leased, for five years, a house and five acres of land from Thomas Clare in November, 1785, and transferred their store to it. After carrying on their store and business for two or three years, Gallatin bought four hundred acres about a mile further up the river, to which he transferred his business, and this became his home. It is not at all probable that John Savary ever became a resident of Uniontown, but may have purchased this property to accommo- date a friend, and on November 7, 1794, he sold it to John Wood. John Wood was a saddler and harness maker by trade, and conducted his business in a white frame house that stood on the corner of this lot ; there was also a frame house immediately to the west. Mr. Wood was the first of the name to carry on the saddle and harness business in the town, and that business was not with- out a representative by the name of Wood for one hundred and twelve years ; he being succeeded by his son, Gen. William Wood, and he by his son, John W. Wood. John Wood was a man of energy and ability; prosperous in business, and commanding the respect of the community. He ac- quired much town property, besides an excellent farm one mile south of town, on which he resided for some time. He filled the office of justice of the peace for some years, and in 1784, he was elected for a two-years term as member of the Supreme Executive Council, then the legislative body of the State. Among the apprentices to learn the " art and mysteries " of the harness business under Mr. Wood was John Campbell, who subsequently purchased the property and erected the " Round Corner." John Wood sold a part of this property, 29th of July, 1797, to Daniel Miracle, late of Berks county, and a hatter by trade, who transferred it back to Mr. Wood the 25th of July, 1800, and Mr. Wood makes further sale of part to James Hutchinson of Greene THE THOMPSOX-RUBV BUILDING. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 161 county, a tinner by trade, February 13, 1813, who carried on his business in a shop facing on Pittsburgh street. John Wood died November 12, 1813, at the age of 64 years and was buried in the old Methodist Episcopal graveyard. His wife, Elizabeth Wood, died May 17, 1843, in her 81st year. Jesse Evans, father of Colonel Samuel Evans, and a prosperous ironmaster of Springhill township, purchased this property, and as early as 1815, he and John Campbell kept a store on this corner. Mr. Evans never gave his personal attention to the business, but soon Samuel Y. Campbell, a brother of John, took his interest and conducted business for a number of years together. Samuel Duncan kept store here for one year, from the spring of 1839, till the spring of 1840, with George H. Wood as his clerk. He then moved his goods to Springhill township. There were two shops adjoining the store building and also a house on the same lot, the front room of which was occupied by Dr. Hugh Campbell as a drug store in 1822. Joseph Kibler occupied one of these small buildings for a number of years as a tinner's shop, and it was said that the late Col. Samuel Evans occupied the other for a while as a law office. He attended to the collecting of the rents. John Campbell received the appointment of postmaster at Uniontown November 18, 1807, and in 1820, the post office was kept in one of these small buildings. John Campbell purchased the eastern half of lot No. 5 and nearly all of No. 4, February 9, 1824, for $2,900, not half the sum Mr. Evans had paid for it; but when it is remembered that Mr. Evans bought with depreciated money and sold for par money, it will appear that he may have realized a satisfactory profit. Mr. Campbell soon removed the frame buildings back on this lot, one of- which he continued to occupy as a store and residence, and his father, Benjamin Campbell, occupied another as a residence and silversmith shop. John Campbell erected what was known as the " Round Corner " in 1828. It was so named from the fact that the corner of the building facing Main and Pittsburgh streets was built in a circular form. Mr. Campbell, desiring that his new building should have the appearance of a pressed brick front, such as he had seen on his frequent visits to Philadelphia, had the bricks of which the front of his new building was constructed, rubbed upon a wet, sanded board until smooth ; thus giving to his new building the appearance 162 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. of pressed brick. This building was most substantially built, with store room on the corner and residence in the rear. The main entrance to the residence was on Pittsburgh street, through a large door, with glass side panels and arched transom sash ; a spacious hall led to the parlor at the west side of the store room on Main street. The rear part of this lot contained some small buildings, among which was a small stone building which was occupied for some time by Joseph Kibler as a tinner's shop. Morgan A. Miller & Co., as tailors, occupied this stone building for a while, and they were succeeded by Charles D. Manship and Daniel Black as tailors, who conducted business here in 1818-19. Charles D. Manship and Joseph Kibler married sisters. Mr. Manship was a man of fine appearance, but had a club foot, and was a perfect gentleman. When John Campbell moved into his new building, he used the small counting room facing Pittsburgh street for the post office, and much of the mail matter was received and delivered at the window facing the street. Mr. Campbell took the oath of office November 18, 1807. There is evidence that his predecessor, Cap- tain Thomas Collins, handed over to him the office in July pre- ceding, perhaps at the time Mr. Campbell received notice of his appointment. Mr. Campbell held the office of postmaster, continuously, until October 20, 1837, a term of more than thirty years, and nearly, if not quite all of this time, the office was in charge of his father, Benjamin Campbell, and this accounts for the fact that so many people believed that Benjamin Campbell was the postmaster. This remarkable tenure of office is highly complimentary of the efficient and satisfactory manner in which the duties of the office were discharged. Mr. Campbell's tenure of office as postmaster, however, was not all clear sailing, as the following letter, written by Richard W. Lane, prothonotary at the time, and addressed to the Honorable John Smilie, then representative in congress, will testify : Union, November 36, 1812. Dear Sir: Mr. John Campbell, apprehensive that a petition for his re- moval from office of postmaster may be forwarded to you, has requested me to beg of you to suspend 3'our opinion in that event until he may have an opportunity of a hearing at least, and that History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 163 you will have the goodness to apprise him of the nature of the charges, should any be made against him. He is well known to be an efficient officer, probably is not surpassed by any in the estab- lishment. Yours truly, R. W. Lane. To Hon. John Smilie, Washington, D. C. From the length of time Mr. Campbell continued to hold the office, it is reasonable to infer that the above-mentioned remon- strance was either not forwarded or that it was entirely inoperative. Again, in 1839, an effort was made to have Mr. Campbell re- moved, on account of his long continuance in office, and the names of Henry Ebert, George W. Rutter, Abner Greenland, Robert Kin- kead and Jesse Beeson were mentioned to succeed him. This effort, although giving Mr. Campbell much concern, also proved abortive. Again, in 1833, a letter from William P. Wells, Esq., to the Honorable Andrew Stewart, then our representative in congress, stated that an effort was being made to have Mr. Campbell re- moved and to have Matthew Irwin appointed in his stead. In this letter Mr. Wells states that the opposition to Mr. Campbell was not from the patrons of the office, but from parties in Pittsburgh. John Campbell paid a license in 1825, for selling foreign goods and liquors according to the Act of March, 1824. The names of those selling both foreign goods and liquors at that date were Isaac Beeson and John Campbell. Those who sold foreign goods but no liquor were George W. Rutter, Milton Baily, Hugh Thompson, McKean and Gibson, Samuel Y. Campbell, George Ebert, Robert Skiles, Skiles and Hadden (Isaac Skiles and John M. Hadden). and Matthew Irwin. It will be remembered that General Lafayette visited the United States in 1834-25, as the nation's guest, and it was eminently de- sirable to have him visit this county that bore his illustrious name, and as Mr. John Campbell had business in Philadelphia in the fall of 1834, he was appointed as one of a committee to extend to General Lafayette the wishes of the people of this county, and as a report, he wrote the following letter to Samuel Evans, Esq., who was acting on the committee of entertainment during the General's visit to Fayette county. 164 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Philadelphia, Monday, October 4, 1824. Dear Sir: My brother Benjamin and myself have this moment returned from the Mansion House hotel, where we had the pleasure of an introduction, by John Bouvier, to General Lafayette. It was very difficult to gain admittance, but Mr. Bouvier told one of the com- mittee that he had presented to the General, some days before, an address, etc., from Fayette county, and that there were two gen- tlemen now with him from Fayette county that wished to receive his answer if ready. After some time, perhaps an hour, we were ad- mitted, and after Mr. Bouvier broached the subject, the General re- plied : " My dear sir, it has been out of my power to give an answer yet, my situation has been as you now see me ever since, nor will I be able to write an answer until after my arrival at Washington, and it will be after the sitting of Congress before I can visit that place. His son, George Washington Lafayette, was present and about five or six others only, when we were introduced. I have hurried to give you the first information of the above. Your friend, John Campbell. To Samuel Evans, Esq. John Campbell was born in Hagerstown, Md., February 5th, 1778, and came to Uniontown with his parents in 1793. On De- cember 13th, 1831, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Coulter of Greensburg, Pa., by whom he had two children ; Richard, who was born February 3rd, 1833, and who died July 1st, 1838, and Mary, who became the wife of Samuel Duncan Oliphant, and had ten children, all boys. She died at Trenton, N. J. John Campbell died in Uniontown, July 37, 1843, in the 65th year of his age. Before the death of John Campbell, his brother. Dr. Hugh Campbell, moved his drug store into this room, and it was con- tinuously used as a drug store by different proprietors until 1883, when the First National Bank of Fayette County purchased the property and converted it into a banking room. It was publicly announced through the papers, that on the 4th day of July, 1854, there would be a grand celebration held at Fort Necessity, in commemoration of the surrender of Major George Washington to the French, and that at this place and time there would be patriotic speeches and the laying of a corner-stone preparatory to the erection of a suitable monument at that place. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 165 The night before the 4th, a brass cannon, known as a six- pounder, that was kept about the town for firing salutes on celebra- tion occasions, was brought out and placed at the intersection of Main and Morgantown streets and discharged repeatedly with such force as to break all the windows in the adjoining buildings. Every light of glass in the " Round Corner," and in the old " White- wash " corner, facing Pittsburgh street, was broken out. John Campbell continued to occupy the residence part of this property until his death. His daughter, Mary C. Campbell, was married to S. D. Oliphant, Esq., in 1847, and they, with her mother, continued to occupy the residence part of this property for some years. Dr. Hugh Campbell & Co. commenced business under a new firm, in the " Round Corner," May 31, 1830, with dry goods, wines, etc. They advertise Western Reserve cheese at the sign of the mortar. They also want twenty bushels of Indian turnips, from which they compounded some remedy. They kept the oil of grape vine for the hair. They sold " Red Drops," the quintessence of a plant found on the " Wilds of Africa," for toothache. They had two pairs of candlesticks with pendants, also sugar, cheese, butter, soap, etc. Dr. Campbell took Daniel Canon, a former clerk, into partner- ship with him in 1850, and the firm became Campbell & Canon. This partnership did not last over two years, when Canon removed to Newark, Ohio, and started a drug store at that place. Here he had no camel to bear his burden, so he soon broke up and returned to Uniontown, and Dr. Campbell generously took him in as a nominal partner once more. After Canon left the second time, Dr. Campbell took in Levi S. Lewis of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, who also had been a former clei'k. During this partnership the store was moved into the Tremont Corner and the old store room in the " Round Corner " was remodeled and considerably enlarged, and the parlor just west of the store room was converted into a busi- ness room. After six month's stay in the Tremont building, the drug store was returned to the " Round Corner." Mr. Lewis' con- nection with this firm lasted only two years, and he retired in 1860. Their advertisement of September 20, 1860, announces that they sell coal oil at one dollar and ten cents per gallon. Dr. Campbell next sold a half interest in the store to Dr. James B. Ewing, and as neither of the proprietors could give the business their personal attention, Benjamin Campbell was em- 166 History of Uniontoivn, Pennsylvania. ployed to take charge of the business. This partnership terminated in about two years, when Dr. Ewing accepted a position at Dixmont asylum. Benjamin Campbell purchased the interest of Dr. Ewing, and the firm again became Campbell & Co. In about two years Ben- jamin bought out the interest of his father. Dr. Hugh Campbell, and conducted the business under his own name and ownership, and in about two years he sold to Louis E. Beall and John C. Breading, who conducted the business as Beall & Breading. Beall retired, and Breading ran the business alone until February, 1876, when he sold out to Altha L. Moser and Joseph Kidwell Ritenour. Ritenour severed his connection with this firm ill 1880, when he purchased the drug store of Dr. Smith Fuller & Son on Broad- way, and Moser continued the business on the " Round Corner " until 1883, when he removed his stock to the first room in the new opera house. In 1883, the P'irst National Bank put a third story on this old building and remodeled the old drug room for a banking room, and occupied it as such until May 16, 1901, when the bank was removed to the new Thompson-Ruby building. The hall and room on Pittsburgh street were converted into a business room. The first occupant of this room was the Southwest Natural Gas company, as an office, next followed the post office, under Maryetta Johns, and was continued under the administra- tion of O. J. Sturgis, and part of the term of Michael D. Baker, who removed the office to the second room in the opera house. The post office was succeeded in this room by the Western Union Telegraph company, while part of the room was occupied as a Hungarian bank. Benjamin C. Paine succeeded S. D. Oliphant in the occupancy of the residence, and also removed his stock of boots and shoes and work-shop into the room next west of the " Round Corner " and was its first occupant, in 1860. Mr. Paine retired from business here in December, 1878, and Daniel J. Johnson succeeded Mr. Paine in this room with a boot and shoe store, and in eighteen months he sold out to George S. Seaton and Joseph Jones, Sep- tember, 1879, and they in turn sold out to Albert D. Conwell and J. Arthur Strickler. Harry S. Clark, druggist, succeeded Conwell & Strickler, October 27, 1883, with a drug store, and occupied it as such until 1901, when he moved to the first room in the opera block. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 167 The second and third stories of the " Round Corner," after it was remodeled by the First National Bank, were occupied as offices principally. The old " Round Corner '' was torn away in 1901, and the first stone in the foundation of the new First National Bank build- ing was laid shortly after noon, July IG, 1901. This magnificent structure was finished for occupancy August 18, 1902, and the First National Bank moved into its new quarters March 31, 1903. Robert Hunt and Jay Collier opened a fine jewelry store in the first room west of the bank, and Isaac Silverman moved into the next room to the west, with a large line of dry goods and notions, and Long Brothers occupied the third room from the bank with a fine department store, and M. A. T. Scott moved an immense 5- and 10- cent store into the western room. Other business rooms were located in the arcade and occupied for business purposes. The upper part of this immense building was soon filled with offices and residences. John Wood sold the western half of lot No. 5, September 21, 1795, to Christian Wireman, from whom it was sold by the sheriff, September 28, 1799, to Thomas Hadden, who settled here from the eastern part of the state, and was admitted to practice at the bar of Fayette county at September term, 1795. Mr. Hadden mar- ried a daughter of Colonel Alexander McClean and went to house- keeping in a red frame house which stood on this lot. Mr. Hadden sold to James Allen, who transferred it to Benjamin Campbell, March 23, 1806. Benjamin Campbell was born at New London Cross Roads, Chester county. Pa., February 5, 1749. When a young man, he settled at Hagerstown, Md., where he learned the silversmith busi- ness. Here he was married, January 30, 1775, to Mary Adair, who was born March 15, 1759. During the Revolutionary war he per- formed a short military tour in New Jersey, which, under an act of Congress, would have entitled him to a pension, but he never presented his claim. Mr. Campbell, being known as a man of excellent parts, was solicited by a number of gentlemen of our town to bring his family and locate here, and they actually contributed to the expense of his removal. Mr. Campbell settled in Uniontown January 21, 1792, and his first residence was in a log house belonging to Colonel McClean, and stood east of the court house, on the lot now occupied by the resi- dence of the heirs of Dr. R. M. Walker. Here Mr. Campbell car- ried on his business as a silversmith for several years, paying $25.00 168 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. per year rent for the same, and here his son, Dr. Hugh, was born. Benjamin Campbell purchased from James Allen, March 22. 1806, the western half of lot No. 5, and moved into the red frame house just vacated by Mr. Hadden, and here lived and carried on his business until 1838, when he moved the frame building back on the lot and occupied it until he erected a two-story brick building on its site. When John Campbell received the appointment of postmaster, the post office was removed into the same room as Benjamin Camp- bell's silversmith shop, and he took charge of the office from July, 1807, at which time it was handed over by his predecessor. Captain Thomas Collins, before the commission arrived. Here the office was kept until April 1, 1836, John Campbell paying twelve dollars a year for rent of the room and fifty-two dollars a year to his father for attending to the duties of the office. Benjamin Campbell was exceedingly methodical and accurate in all his business. He wore his hair in a queue, and wore knee breeches, and large silver buckles on his low-cut shoes and at his knees, and was a typical old-fashioned gentleman, who commanded the respect and veneration of the people of the town. He never saw the stone bridge at the western end of the town but twice since its erection in 1830; he was never out of the county since he re- moved to it except on one occasion, when he made a business trip to Morgantown. He never saw one of the other towns in the county. He was frequently two years at a time without being out- side the limits of the borough. Months would elapse without his being more than a few steps from his home, except when he went to church or to an election. It is said that Alexander Hamilton called at his shop for consultation when here to suppress the whisky insurrection. He kept his books in a most methodical manner, and the state of the weather was kept for thirty years without the omis- sion of a day. He was a subscriber for the Fayette Gazette and Union Advertiser, the first newspaper published in Uniontown. His subscription started with the first number of that paper, January 13, 1798, and he made large type and double rules and cuts to be used in that issue. His son, William, was an apprentice to the printing trade in that office, and established the Fayette and Greene Spectator in Uniontown, January 1, 1811. Dr. Alexander Hamilton Campbell, a son of Samuel Y. Camp- bell, purchased this property from the executors of the will of Benjamin Campbell, February 9, 1850, and occupied it as a residence History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 169 and physician's office. He married Miss Mary Howell, a sister to Alfred Howell, Esq. He commenced the practice of medicine. May 35, 1843, along with Dr. S. S. Rogers, in the John Campbell row on Pittsburg street. Charles S. Seaton purchased this property from the widow of Dr. Campbell April 3, 1864, and occupied it as a dwelling. The east parlor was converted into a business room for the accommodation of the First National Bank of Uniontown, and that bank moved into it on Monday, May 2, 1864. This room was subsequently used for business purposes. Mr. Seaton died here October 31, 1886. The First National Bank purchased this property and tore it away for the erection of the new bank building. John McClean purchased lot No. 6 in Jacob's Addition, March 8, 1790, and sold to Pearson Sayer, and Sayer sold to Joseph Pryor. The latter was a tailor by trade, and served as a private in Captain Thomas Collins' company, on the northern lakes, in the war of 1812. He was a fine old bachelor gentleman, and died at the home of Hannah Collins, the widow of Captain Collins, one mile west of town, April 13, 1837, aged 73 years. Joseph Pryor sold to James Fletcher, and Fletcher sold to Henry H. Beeson, and the latter sold, March ,23, 1827, twenty-four feet and nine inches off the eastern side to Robert Skiles, a merchant of the town, at which time there was thereon a small two-story frame dwelling. This frame dwelling was removed to a lot on Morgantown street, where the Presbyterian parsonage was subsequently erected, and became the dwelling of Jesse King, and still later that of Carey Stuck. Robert Skiles built a two-story brick dwelling on this lot and his brother, Isaac, occupied it as a dwelling and store room. Robert Skiles died April 10, 1838, and willed this property to his brother, Isaac. Isaac Skiles associated with him John M. Hadden, a brother of Armstrong Hadden, and here carried on merchandising before 1824, and for several years thereafter. Later the firm became Isaac Skiles & Son, his son, Isaac, being associated with him. In January of 1844, the building on the southwest corner of Main and Morgantown streets, then in the occupancy of L. M. Kline, as a general store, was destroyed by fire, and a few years thereafter Isaac Skiles purchased the lot and erected thereon a three-story brick building, known as Skiles' corner. Into this new 170 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. building Mr. Skiles and son moved their store, which was ' con- tinued under the Skiles name for many years. Isaac Skiles re- tired from business in February, 1853, and spent the remainder of his life in comfortable retirement. He was a miller by trade, and at one time operated the old Beeson mill at the west end of town, and while thus employed he lived in that part of the mill that was fitted up for that purpose. He was born July 12, 1789, and died January 8, 1865. Thomas Jaquette and Joseph Keffer purchased this property from the heirs of Isaac Skiles, and Marshall N. Lewis was their tenant. They sold to John S. Roberts, who occupied it as a resi- dence and grocery store until his death, about 1878, and his widow continued the store in connection with a boarding house until the property was sold to the First National Bank and torn away. Henry H. Beeson purchased this lot No. 6 in 1814, and in 1816 erected on the western part a three-story brick building. A large hallway was in the middle and a parlor on the west, and a store- room on the east. Into this building Mr. Beeson moved his family and opened a store, where he continued in business until 1833. Mr. Beeson was the youngest of the twelve children of Jacob Beeson, one of the founders of Uniontown, and was born March 9, 1788, in what is now known as the Gilmore mansion, on West Main street. He served his country in the war of 1812, along the northern lakes. He purchased the fai'm of Joseph McClean, about a mile north of the village of Hopwood, in 1860, and moved thereto, where he died March 16, 1869, in his 82nd year. Mrs. F. B. Titlow, a daughter of Mr. Beeson, occupied this residence for several years. Dr. R. M. Walker also occupied this property as a residence and physician's ofifice. Frank Reynolds kept a boarding house here, as did also William Gordon and S. K. Frey. Samuel Harris kept a cap store in the Beeson store room for a while, and he was succeeded by William D. Barclay, who was here in 1835. William Bryson was an occupant here with a dry goods store in 1837, for one year only, when he sold out to William D. Swearingen and William McCleary, who continued the business in the room until they erected a building on the McCleary tavern lot, upon the completion of which they moved their store. Bryson went to Hopwood and purchased a tavern stand. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 171 William Wilson moved his hatting establishment from the Hellen building, on the opposite side of the street, into this room, April 1, 1841, and while here he took Ed. Rine in as a partner, 1845. This partnership did not continue long, and Mr. Wilson conducted the business alone until at least 18.V4. William Wilson learned the hatting trade under Benjamin Hellen, and married Mr. Hellen's daughter, Minerva. He later entered the banking house of John T. Hogg, and became one of the best known bankers of the town. Dick H. Austin opened a boot and shoe store in this room, succeeding Mr. Wilson, October 5, 185-1-. He also manufactured boots and shoes. He soon moved to the James F. Canon building, but soon sold out and quit the shoe business. He was a son of John M. Austin, Esq., one of the leading attorneys of the Fayette county bar. He later became a minister of the Baptist church, and died July 5, 1900. Dr. James Fuller occupied this room as a physician's office from 1854 to 1864, and he was succeeded by Dr. R. M. Walker, who was, in turn, succeeded by Dr. William M. Semans, 1866-67. Thomas and John M. Hadden moved their stock of dry goods from the Col. Ewing Brownfield room into this room in October, 1867, in order to close out their stock and quit business. G. Calvin McKnight opened a ladies" furnishing goods and notion store here in 1882. McClean and Herrington opened a boot and shoe store here, and they were succeeded by John M. Campbell in the same line of business, and he was the last tenant in this room. Daniel P. Gibson purchased this property and occupied it as a residence and carried on the harness business in the western room, which he had fitted up for that purpose. W. F. Fredericks, with pianos, organs and musical instruments, succeeded Mr. Gibson, and William D. Games, with a barber shop, was the last tenant when the building was torn away. William McClelland purchased lot No. 7 from Jacob Beeson, September 15, 1794, for thirty pounds, Pennsylvania money, equal to eighty dollars. Back from the street and on the eastern side of this lot was a frame building, and to the west of this Mr. McClelland built a two-story frame addition, which was painted white. A porch ran in front of the tavern upon which he used to sit in his big armed chair with his cane in his hand. His tavern was known as the " Spread Eagle." On the rear and western part of this lot 173 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. were large, shed-like stables for the accommodation of teams, and on the front was a small building in which Mr. McClelland, in his younger days, carried on his trade as a gunsmith. During the war of 1813, he was a corporal in Captain Moore's company, and, being colorbearer of his regiment, he brought home with him a part of the flag under which he fought, which is still sacredly preserved. When General Scott passed through Uniontown, he was a guest of Mr. McClelland, and here at his tavern, met several of his old comrades in arms. In this large wagon yard and stable small shows would fre- quently exhibit, as the following advertisement will show : " The Learned Elephant will exhibit at William McClelland's tavern lot in Uniontown, on Thursday and Friday, the 7th and 8th of August, 1823, and on Saturday, the 9th, at McClellandtown, on Monday, 11th, at Merrittstown, and on Tuesday and Wednesday, 13th and 13th, at Brownsville. The one now offered to the public view is a female. She will lie down and get up, draw the cork from a bottle and manage it in such a manner as to drink its con- tents, and will perform many other tricks. She weighs 6,000 pounds. For particulars, see hand bills." (Genius of Liberty, August 5, 1833.) Another show of similar character exhibited on this same lot in 1839 or -30, which was never forgotten by those who witnessed the episode that immediately followed. The sole equipment of this show consisted of one elephant, whose unpretentious name was Big Bess. Big Bess was accorded a hearty welcome by the youth of the town, and a goodly number of spectators assembled to wit- ness the performance of the huge but docile beast. She would allow persons to ride upon her back, and at a given signal, would shake her huge sides and tumble her burden to the ground. She would hold her trunk in such a position as to afford a tolerably easy seat, and several of the young ladies availed themselves of the opportunity of a novel ride. The performance over, the parade, consisting of Big Bess and her keeper, started for Brownsville, the next place billed for exhi- bition. Dr. Phythian, then living at the west end of town, was the owner of a small but spunky brindled bulldog, whose name was Boxer. When Boxer noticed the commotion on the street, he thought that perhaps his services might be required to quellany disturbance or dispell any alarm that threatened to disturb the usual quiet of the otherwise peaceful village. No sooner did Boxer see .History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 173 the " big india-rubber thing with two tails " coming down the street than he surmised that it must be the cause of all the commotion, and not stopping to consider the disparity between himself and Big Bess, with a heroism worthy of a Roman, he rushed upon the beast, seized her by the trunk and held on while she swung him high in the air from one side to the other, at the same time giving vent to unearthly shrieks which sent terror to the hearts of those who swarmed the sidewalks. The people sought safety in flight, and Big Bess, frightened out of her wits, whirled and started back through the town, and she, too, sought safety in a house. Joseph Kibler kept a tin shop in an old frame building a short distance west of Arch street. Into this Big Bess determined to press her way, and, tearing the door- jamb from its place, amid the clangor of falling tinware and the vociferous remonstrance of Mr. Kibler, she passed on through the rear of the shop, on her way stepping into a large copper kettle, which was sitting on the floor, she left the imprint of her pondrous foot therein. This kettle is still the property of a gentleman of the town. Mrs. Kibler, who had been a helpless cripple for years, fled for her life, a feat, under other circumstances, impossible. Big Bess, having reached the street in the rear of the shop, and finding herself free from Boxer, rattling tinware and the excited crowd, soon regained her composure and quietly resumed her jour- ney over the old National road, to exhibit her accomplishments to other admirers. The first show to visit Uniontown that made some pretentions at display was Blanchard's circus. The actors wore their acting costumes in the street parade, and thus captivated the crowd. The bare-back riding by young Blanchard and Miss Blanchard would compare favorably with that witnessed at the modern circus, and its return, in 1832, was looked forward to with much interest. Mr. McClelland went to his fields at the south side of town, where some hands were harvesting, and while there he fell from the effects of a paralytic stroke and was hauled home on a sled, and died soon after. He was born September 17, 1764, and died July 33, 1833. His widow, Rachel Mclntire McClelland, continued the tavern for some time. She was born November 2, 1781, and died at the home of her son, Alfred, on Fayette street, September 9, 1865. The old frame building in which William McClelland kept his tavern was removed by Capt. Hugh Gorley to his lot on Pittsburgh 174 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. street, and here he occupied it for many years as a residence, and still stands on the corner of Penn street. Alfred McClelland, son of William, erected a two-story brick building, covering the entire front of this lot, in 1837. While this new hotel building was being erected, Mr. McClelland conducted the Walker House, and while here, John Quincy Adams visited the town and was a guest at the Walker House. Alfred McClelland died September 8, 1863. The new McClelland House had an arched alley-way near the western part, with a room west of the alley-way. This alley-way was for the accommodation of teams, through which they might pass to and from the large stables in the rear. When the Good Intent stage line was put on the National road, the stopping place and office were at the McClelland House, and re- mained so until 1851, when the line was taken off, and the hotel bore the name of Good Intent for much of this time. Selden B. Hays was proprietor of the McClelland House for some time before he took charge of the McCleary hotel in 1840. Louis D. Beall came here from Maryland and took charge of the McClelland house, as proprietor, in 1846-47. The Swan Brothers, James, William and Thomas, were proprietors here in 1850-51-53. Under their management, the house was known as the Good Intent hotel. Jeremiah Colflesh succeeded the Swan Brothers in April, 1853, and died while proprietor, of congestion of the lungs, July 37, 1853, and his widow continued the business in 1854, when she was succeeded by J. W. Kisinger. Many others have followed as owners and proprietors of this famous hotel, until the present time, and it has been, from time to time, greatly enlarged and improved. The part of the McClelland house that stood west of the arch- way was frequently occupied separate and apart from the hotel proper by different tenants. Among the many tenants of this room may be mentioned Alexander Moxley, well known as the most gen- tlemanly colored man of the town, who occupied this room as a barber shop in 1853, and for some years. His advertisement ran in the following style : " Alexander Moxley can't be beat For cutting hair and trimming neat, He'll do the work just as low As any other barber, too. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 175 His shop is fitted in superb style, Come one, come all, give him a trial, And if he shaves you with much ease, You can come again when e'er you please. He'll clean your boots in quickest time And only charge a half a dime, You may think it merely just. He works too cheap to ever trust." Benjamin Campbell purchased lot No. 8 in Jacob's Addition from Jacob Beeson's executors, for $100.00, June 28, 1820, and on September 27th following, he transferred it to James C. Seaton. On September 29, 1837, James C. Seaton sold the western corner of this lot to R. L. Barry for $500. This yard was used for many years as a stable-yard in con- nection with the Seaton house. Large stables and sheds occupied the rear of this lot. A two-story frame building stood on the west- ern corner, next to Jacob's alley, now Arch street, and two small frame buildings on the more easterly part. The one next to the McClelland House was used for a barber shop and offices, and the one next was used as shops and offices. The building on the western corner was occupied in 1830, by Trevor and Foster, who were manufacturing woolen goods at New Haven, and had a sales room for their goods in this building. Peter Uriah Hook, who had been in business at McClellandtown from 1833 to 1837, came to Uniontown in 1837, and clerked here for Foster & Nixon, who broke up in 1840, and Hook took the goods for his wages, and with these he started in business for himself. Robert L. Barry, as early as 1824, when a boy, started to walk from Baltimore to Uniontown. On the way, he was overtaken by Hugh Thompson, a merchant of this town, who had been to Phila- delphia for goods. Upon inquiry, Thompson learned that the boy was on his way to Uniontown, and kindly took him in and brought him to this place. He clerked awhile for his father, Richard Barry, in the clothing business, worked awhile in the Stockton shops, paint- ing coaches, and clerked awhile in Stockton's store on Morgantown street. Mr. Barry appears to have opened a store in this room in 1844, and remained in business here until 1855, occupying the rest of the building as a residence. His wife was Miss Juliet Seaton, daughter of James Seaton. He purchased the stock of dry goods of Lippen- 176 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. cott & Shallengerger at the sign of the " Golden Beehive " and moved his stock to the Bryan building. Not long after this, Mr. Barry started west with his stock of goods, and all were destroyed by a fire on the boat on which they were being conveyed. John A. Durbin followed in the Barry room with an ice cream and confectionery store, and Major Scott purchased his stock in July, 1855, and continued the business. Daniel M. Springer was an occupant here with his tailoring establishment. Louis D. Beall occupied this room with a stock of groceries, with J. Oliphant Stewart as manager. Mr. Beall bought flour in Pittsburgh at $6.00 per barrel, in the fall of 1869, and owing to the heavy frost of that year, he was enabled to sell it at $13.00 per barrel. Mr. Beall soon found the business poorly managed, and sold his stock to his manager, who by indolence, indulgence and mismanagement, soon found himself keeping what he termed " a still grocery," and closed out in 1860. Amos M. Jollifife succeeded Ol. Wells in this property with a stock of furniture; using the upper part for furniture rooms and dwelling, and the lower room for a marble and tombstone works, and the small building on the east as a workshop. He located here April, 1861, and was here in 1863. He sold the marble works to Robert Baird, a marble cutter, who continued the business in the small building. Peter Kremer, who had been in business for many years in the Col. Roberts building, moved his family and store into this build- ing April 1, 1863, and here he carried on the grocery business until March, 1868, when the building and nearly all the contents was destroyed by fire, Mr. Kremer and his family barely making their escape. E. A. Lingo and Thomas Hare purchased the western corner of this lot soon after the fire, and erected a photograph gallery thereon, upon the completion of which they moved their gallery from a small building on Morgantown street. Mr. Lingo soon purchased the interest of his partner and conducted the business in his own name. He built a two-story brick residence next east of his gallery in 1870, and ever since occupied it as such until his death, March 16, 1910, after which his widow continued to occupy it. Mr. Lingo was a native of Cumberland, and located in Union- town in 1866, and carried on the photograph business until 1901, when he retired from the business, and the gallery was continued History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 177 by other parties until April 1, 1906, at which time, after a con- tinued use of 38 years, it was vacated as a photograph gallery, and occupied for other business purposes. Thomas Hibben purchased from Jacob Beeson, January 13, 1801, for eight dollars, the first lot west of Jacob's alley, now Arch street, and known as No. 21 in Jacob's Addition. Mr. Hibben occupied this lot as a residence and carried on blacksmithing, in connection with David Moreland, in a shop on the western side of the lot. He served as a private in Captain Thomas Collins' company, along the northern lakes, in the war of 1813. He moved to Georges township and was captain of the Georges Creek Rifle company in 1815, and was still a resident of that town- ship in 1821. He finally moved to Newark, Ohio. James Seaton purchased this property February 12, 1814, and kept a tavern here for many years. He came from Virginia, and lived first in a frame house on the lot adjoining on the west. On the eastern corner of this lot stood a brick building, having a hall on the west side and a bar-room on the east, lining on Jacob's alley. A dining room ran across the back, and a log kitchen stood in the rear. There were three rooms over the brick part and two over the kitchen. This is a description of the property in which James Seaton kept his tavern at the sign of " The Black Horse " until his death, and in which his widow, Elizabeth, contiimed the business until March 18, 1857, after which time she continued to own the property and remained as a boarder. This old hostelry became so popular under the management of the Seatons that it was favorably spoken of throughout the country and along the old National road. J. W. Kisinger became proprietor of the Seaton house, April 1, 1857, and he was succeeded in 1858 by Philip D. Stentz, who had been a wagoner on the old pike. David G. Sperry was proprietor of this old hostelry, 1862-63. S. K. Frey conducted this hotel for a number of years. James T. Redburn purchased this property from the heirs of James S. Seaton December 22, 18&3, and sold it to John Messmore March 21, 1866. Mr. Messmore conducted it awhile and sold it to Henry Jennings, June 10, 1875. Henry Jennings came from Carmichaels in the spring of 1875, and soon thereafter purchased the Seaton house and improved the property in many ways besides enlarging it considerably. He ran it as the Jennings hotel until January 28, 1890, when he .sold to 178 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. George F. Titlow, who conducted it until June, 1896, when he sold to Robert F. Sample, who conducted it as the West End hotel. T. Springer Todd became proprietor May, 1904, and ran it for three years. Todd sold to Frank C. Rush and Arthur Rush January 1, 1908, to take effect May 1, 1908. It is still conducted as a hotel. Jonathan Miller was the first purchaser of lot No. 32, in Jacob's Addition, October 30, 1797. He had the custody of the public rec- ords during the erection of the Fayette county court house in 1797-98, and purchased a lot of one and a half acres at the east end of town in 1797. He was in command of the Fayette county " Troop of Horse " in June, 1801. He is mentioned as a resident of Brownsville, where he kept a tavern in 1810. John Stidger purchased this property from Jonathan Miller December 31, 1798. Mr. Stidger was a hatter by trade and carried on his business in that part of the building on this lot next to Hib- ben's blacksmith shop until his death, March 16, 1811, after which his heirs sold the property to Henry Beeson, miller. A row of frame houses stood on this lot. A business room was on the east and a covered alley-way separated this from another but smaller business room in the middle, then another alley-way separated this from the dwelling house on the extreme western part of the lot. The building was two stories and continuous on the second story. The alley-ways passed under the upper floors, and were kept closed by gates. John Hendrickson succeeded John Stidger here in the hat busi- ness in 1815 to 1832. He advertised that he would pay the highest price, in cash, for lamb's wool at his shop, and further that he will take Connellsville, New Lisbon, Ohio, and Canton, Ohio, money for hats and caps. This Connellsville money was the notes of the Con- nellsville Navigation company, which was organized October 8, 1816, and after a struggle, retired its notes in November, 1818, but still continued to redeem them until 1831. Other tenants, who did business in this frame building, were: John Carpenter, Absalom Guiler, James L. Irwin and others as tailors, and these were followed by many and various tenants until the building was torn away. The second of these two rooms was more spacious and among its various tenants may be mentioned the following : Olford Gregg kept a dry goods store here and also occupied the residence. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 179 Samuel Y. Campbell carried on the dry goods business here and also occupied the residence. His first wife died while he was an occupant of this property, in 1824. He was located here before and perhaps at the time his brick store room and residence, now the Harah property, was building. William McCleary was located here with a dry goods store in 1843, after being in business on the McCleary lot, and lived on the opposite side of the street in the William Crawford building. While here, he built the frame residence on Fayette street, where the residence of James Ellis now stands. He went to Smithfield in 1844, and took charge of the branch store of Col. Ewing Brown- field. Other tenants of this property were Allen Byers, saddler; Peter Slater, saddler ; George A. Shallenberger, saddler, 1848 ; George W. Hubbs, saddler, 1850 ; George W. Rutter, auction rooms. Jonathan Fisher, the veteran glove manufacturer of the town, made and sold buckskin gloves here for many years. He advertised that he wanted 5,000 pounds of deer skins at his shop. Other tenants were : Benjamin Kremer, silversmith ; Wm. B. McCormick, meat market; T. R. and C. Marshall, marble works and tombstones. Adams Express company had their office here in 1879. The resi- dent part was occupied beside those already mentioned by John W. Barr, the old confectioner, who went to housekeeping here. Jesse Beeson, the well-remembered miller of the town, was for many years an occupant and died here April 9, 1890. Joseph E. Dillinger was the last tenant in this old building. In 1885, George W. Rutter erected on the eastern part of this lot a three-story brick building, the third floor of which was intended for a home for the Knights of Pythias lodge. The second floor was fitted for a family residence and the first floor was occupied by Mr. Rutter as a grocery store, where he continued in business to the end of his business career. Mr. Rutter was born in Baltimore, March, 25, 1803, and came to Uniontown in 1824, and started in business. He was in business longer, perhaps, than any other merchant that ever lived in Union- town. He died January 9, 1897, aged nearly 94 years, having a business career of nearly three-fourths of a century. His sons, Hanson and Skiles, continued the business until 1910, when his grandsons, John and Henry Rutter, took charge and continued the business. J. Arthur Strickler came into possession of forty-nine feet of the western portion of this lot in 1903, and tore away the old build- 180 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ings and erected a fine three-story building known as the Strickler- Hess building, the second and third floors were fitted for flats and the first floor for business purposes. The West Penn Railways company occupied the western room for several years, and Stone's Big Furniture store occupied the eastern, and later the whole of the first floor. Isaiah Stephens purchased lot No. 23 in Jacob's Addition from Jacob Beeson, April 25, 1796. This was the most western lot sold on the north side of Main street, and was bounded on the west by an alley which was reserved for the accommodation of the mem- bers of the Methodist Episcopal church and access to the Meth- odist Episcopal burying ground. The old Beeson mill-race ran through this lot. Henry Beeson, Jr., son of Henry Beeson, the original founder of the town, occupied a frame dwelling house that stood on the eastern part of this lot, for several years before moving into the old Henry Beeson mansion. Rev. William Wylie accepted a call from the Uniontown con- gregation of the Presbyterian church, April 21, 1819. He pur- chased this lot December 2, 1819, and erected thereon a large two- story brick dwelling and occupied it as such during his pastorate in Uniontown. James Shriver, who was a surveyor in the location and con- struction of the National road, succeeded Rev. Wylie as an occu- pant of this house. His first wife was Elizabeth B. Miller, a daughter of John Miller, and granddaughter of Jacob Beeson, one of the founders of the town. She died January 8, 1825, while her husband was absent on a surveying tour. His second wife was Eliza Miller, a sister of his first wife, and after the death of Mr. Shriver, his widow married William Murphy of North Union township. Mr. Shriver made a pencil drawing of Jacob Beeson, which is still preserved and highly prized. Dr. J. B. Phythian succeeded Mr. Shriver as an occupant here. He was a native of Gloucestershire, England, but became a resident of Pittsburgh in 1825. He had his office in Stewart's row, on Mor- gantown street, and advertised vaccine matter for sale. He mar- ried Ann, daughter of William Gore Elder of Somerset. The Elder family owned two thousand acres of land in Springfield township, Fayette county. Dr. Phythian moved onto this land, where he died a few years after, and was buried at Somerset. Dr. Daniel Sturgeon purchased this property from Rev. Wylie, then living in Licking county, Ohio, July 11, 1833, and History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 181 occupied it much of the time as a residence until his death, July 2, 1878. Dr. Sturgeon was a native of Adams county, and was born October 27, 1789, and graduated at Jefiferson college, and came to Uniontown in 1810, and studied medicine under Dr. Benjamin Stevens, and upon the death of Dr. Stevens, January 3, 1813, he purchased his library and resumed his practice. In 1819 he was elected a member of the legislature, where he served three terms. He was elected to the state senate in 1825, and served as speaker of the house in 1827-38-29. He was appointed auditor-general of the state under Governor Wolfe, and entered upon the duties of that office May 3, 1830, and in which capacity he served six years, during which time he resided at Harrisburg. Upon his return to Uniontown, after his service as auditor- general, a meeting was held at the hotel of Mrs. McClelland, Tues- day evening, May 10, 1836, for the purpose of giving expression of the public regard for the Honorable Daniel Sturgeon, late auditor-general of the state, and greeting his return with suitable tokens of respect and friendship. The meeting was organized by electing Richard Beeson, Esq., president. Major Samuel Marshall and Matthew Allen, Esq., vice- presidents, and John Keffer, secretary. On motion, Alonzo L. Littell, Joshua B. Howell, Esq., James A. Sangston, Esq., William B. Roberts and William P. Wells, Esq., were appointed a commit- tee to draft proceedings for the consideration and action of the meeting ; who, after retiring for a short time, reported as follows : " Whereas, the Honorable Daniel Sturgeon has again returned to his home in Uniontown after discharging his duties as auditor- general of this commonwealth with a zeal and polity not surpassed by any functionary of the State, and bringing with him to his re- tirement the same popular attachment which has ever endeared him in the regard of the people. Therefore be it resolved that a public dinner be tendered to the Honorable Daniel Sturgeon, late auditor-general of the State, in token of the high respect which this meeting entertains for him as an individual, and as a public officer whose abilities have been so ably and zealously exerted in the arduous duties which his public station has imposed upon him." On motion, a committee of ten was appointed to tender to him the invitation, and to appoint the time suitable for his convenience. The committee consisted of John Dawson, Esq., William Craw- ford, R. P. Flenniken, Esq., J. B. Howell, Esq., \Y . P. Wells, Esq., 183 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Matthew Allen, Joseph Williams, Esq., Alonzo L. Littell, Dr. C. N. J. Macgill, James Piper, Esq. On motion, J. B. Howell, John M. Austin, William B. Roberts, Alexander Fowler and William Crawford were appointed a committee of arrangements to make suitable preparations for a public dinner on Tuesday, the 34th, at 3 p. m., at such place- as they may deem proper and suitable -to the occasion. Resolved that the proceedings be signed by the officers of the meeting and published in the papers of the county. The following is the correspondence which took place between the committee and Dr. Sturgeon : — Uniontown, May 10, 1836. " To Dr. Daniel Sturgeon, Sir:— Your fellow citizens of the borough of Uniontown, on learn- ing of your arrival with your family amongst them, after an ab- sence of six years, held a meeting at the inn of Mrs. McClelland and resolved to tender to you a public dinner, to be given at such time as might suit your convenience, as a testimony of their esteem for you personally, and the high value placed by them upon your public service as auditor-general of this commonwealth. The un- dersigned were appointed a committee to communicate the wishes of the meeting to you and to receive such answer as you may be pleased to give. The undersigned avail themselves of this occasion to express the satisfaction they feel in being made the organ of a portion of your fellow citizens and neighbors to carry to you their sentiments so entirely in accord with their own. The committee are aware that the duties of the office from which you have just re- tired, were peculiarly arduous, and your responsibilities much greater than fell to the lot of any of your predecessors. Yet they know, and the whole commonwealth knows, those duties were performed with singular zeal, ability and faithfulness. The State, shortly before you entered office had commenced the great system of Internal Improvements, involving the expenditure of many millions of dollars; multiplying the public agents and requiring many legislative enactments, and tending, in a ten-fold degree, to increase the labor, and embarrass the accounting department of the government. The State, too, was precipitated into the gigantic measure without experience and without funds, unless such as could be procured upon the faith of the State, and that faith de- pended very much upon a strict accountability of every branch of History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 183 the public service, and an accurate expose, from time to time, of the public expenditures. In this it is but true to say, you fulfilled the highest expectations of your friends, and satisfied the whole commonwealth, contributing materially to her high credit in seasons of undoubted difficulties in her finances. The public works pro- jected when you entered office, are now mainly completed, among which is the Pennsylvania canal and Columbia and Philadelphia railroad, forming a grand line of entire communication from the Atlantic seaboard to the western waters, through the center of the State. With these important public works, destined to make the age in which we live memorable in future times, it is your good fortune to have been associated as a faithful sentinel over the treasury of the commonwealth, on the one side, and the hand of labor, by which the noble enterprise was successfully accomplished, on the other. The undersigned seize the present opportunity to assure you of their individual respect and esteem. John Dawson, William P. Wells, Joshua B. Howell, James Piper, Alonzo L. Littell, C. N. J. Macgill, Matthew Allen, William Crawford, R. P. Flenniken, Joseph Williams." Dr. Sturgeon accepted the invitation in the following note : Uniontown, May 10, 1836. " Gentlemen : — I have received your very kind note inviting rne to partake of a public dinner tendered to me by the citizens of Uniontown on my return to reside among them after an absence of several years. Although adverse to public display of any kind, yet on this occasion I know the invitation proceeds from the purest motives of friend- ship, I feel myself constrained to accept the proffered honor, and I shall be pleased to meet my friends on Tuesday, the 24th inst., at such place as they may think proper to designate. If, in the dis- charge of my official duties, I have been enabled to render a service to my native State, if I have been enabled to secure a portion of the confidence, and merit the approbation of my fellow citizens, it is all that my ambition aimed, and rest assured that the flattering manner in which these services have been noticed in your note of invitation, is greatly enhanced when coming from those with whom I have been so long acquainted, and with whom I have been so intimately connected both in political and personal relations. You 184 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. have been pleased to refer in your note of invitation, to my connec- tion with the improvement system of the commonwealth, the de- ranged state of the finances at the period when I commenced my official duties, and the subsequent restoration of the credit of the State, and final approach to completion of those stupendous and splendid public works. In this part of your note you have attached to me that credit which is due to another. In this matter, my agency was of a subordinate character. To the bold, manly and energetic course adopted by the late Executive of the common- wealth, are those happy results to be attributed, and far be it from me to desire to pluck a single laurel from his venerable brow. I tender you, gentlemen, and through you, the meeting you repre- sent, my best wishes, my kindest regards. Yours respectfully, Daniel Sturgeon." It is presumed that the dinner with eulogistic speeches came off, and was a most enjoyable afl^air. Dr. Sturgeon was elected to the office of state treasurer, in 1836, the duties of which oifice he filled for four years with credit to himself and satisfaction to the public. During his term of office as state treasurer, there occurred what was known as " The Buck-Shot War." At the October election of 1838, each of the two political parties determined to carry the election, especially in one of the precincts of Philadelphia. The Northern Liberals managed to secure the re- turns and had the proper papers filed in due form, but the Demo- crats claimed the majority of the votes cast, and determined that their candidates should have their seats in the legislature and senate. When these bodies met for organization at the state capitol in December, the Whig party depended on the papers having been made out in due form of law, and the Democrats determined that the new members should not take the oath of office until a thorough investigation of the returns be made. The Democrats turned out a force of at least four hundred, and filled the galleries of the senate chamber. The disorder and demonstration became so threatening that the speaker and several members escaped by a back window, and fled for their lives, and remained secreted for several days, leaving the wheels of gov- ernment at a stand-still. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 185 Governor Ritner ordered out some of the state troops to quell the disturbance, which had soon attained alarming proportions. Major-General R. Patterson ordered his troops to assemble in Broad street, south of Market, at 3 o'clock, December 7th. They ar- rived at Harrisburg Sunday afternoon at half-past four, of the 9th, provided with thirteen rounds of buck-shot and seven rounds of ball cartridges. But as in the " Whisky Insurrection " of 1794, the troops found no armed foe, yet their presence had a more soothing effect than all the soft words of the speakers. No one was allowed to enter the capitol grounds in uniform, and no one in citizen's clothing was refused admittance. The senate and two houses of representatives sat on Wednesday, Dec. 13th, but chaos reigned supreme. The Democrats petitioned the governor to withdraw the troops, alleging that their presence had an intimidating effect, and that they were kept there unnecessarily at an enormous expense. Many busi- ness men of the city joined in this petition, stating that the presence of the troops had a depressing effect on the business of the city, but the governor persisted in keeping the troops present to further his own interests. The Democrats claimed that Porter had polled a vote of 127,335, and that Ritner had polled only 132,325, giving Porter a majority of 5,000 votes. When the governor drew on the state treasurer for the pay for the state troops, much dissatisfaction prevailed, and the treasurer, Daniel Sturgeon, refused to honor the draft, and when threats were made, he placed an armed guard around the treasury vaults and the troops went unpaid. Thus ended the bloodless " Buck-shot War.' Matters were so unsettled at the state capitol at this time, no United States senator was elected for the year 1839, but Dr. Sturgeon became a candidate and was elected to that honorable position in 1840, and his commission dated back to March 4, 1839, which position he filled till 1851. Flis colleagues were Heni-y Clay, Daniel Webster, John C. Cal- houn, Thomas H. Benton, Silas Wright, James Buchanan, William Allen and Simon Cameron. From the fact that Dr. Sturgeon was not a fluent speaker, he acquired the sobriquet of the " Silent Senator." In 1853, several southern newspapers named Honorable Daniel Sturgeon as a suitable man for the nomination for the presidency of the United States. He was appointed by President Pierce, in 1853, treasurer of the 186 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. United States mint at Philadelphia, and President Buchanan con- tinued him in the same position, but he resigned in 1858, after a public service of nearly forty years, without a smirch on his political ermine. Dr. Sturgeon was married in 1814 to Miss Nancy Gregg, daughter of James Gregg, who died of pulmonary consumption, September 3, 1836, in the 48nd year of her age. The following verses, perhaps by Mrs. Emily Connell, mentioned elsewhere, were suggested at the funeral of Mrs. Sturgeon : " Tread softly 'mid that soft and tangled grass That garnishes the dwelling of the dead. And slowly let the lengthened column pass, With tearful eye and low, dejected head. So — Let the bier down gently; 'tis the last Sad honor ye the confined dead can pay. A few brief sobs, and all the scene is past. Like morning cloud and early dew away. See the unfilled grave pale age has press'd. Blending her griefs with childhood's piteous moans. For her the shroud enfolds a mother's breast, A husband's stricken bosom bleeds alone. Oh ! 'tis a sight might rend the marble heart. And print deep sorrow in its inmost core. When 'til like these are rudely torn apart. And with the loved and lost may twine no more. But thou, mute tenant of this scant domain, Whose eyes no drop of grief again shall know. Nor tranquil bosom prove a throb of pain. Nor stunned ear tingle with the shriek of woe. We leave thee 'til the Judgment trump shall pour Th' Almighty's summons through these charnels dim, Unseen, unthought of in that fearful hour, For every eye shall look alone on Him." Dr. Sturgeon was the father of four sons and one daughter. One son, John Sturgeon, was a lieutenant in Company H, Second Pennsylvania Volunteers, in the war with Mexico, and died of dis- ease in the city of Pueblo, July 18, 1848. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 187 No one who ever saw Dr. Sturgeon in his later life could fail to be impressed with his venerable and dignified appearance, as he was a magnificent specimen of physical manhood whose appearance was majestic and impressive. Dr. Sturgeon erected on the eastern part of this lot a two- story brick dwelling, among the occupants of which may be men- tioned his son, Dr. William Sturgeon, Henry R. Beeson, Samuel S. Austin, Esq., and Daniel F. Cooper. Alfred Frost purchased this dwelling, June 25, 1889, from the heirs of Dr. Sturgeon, and after enlarging it to three stories, con- ducted it for some time as a public house, but being refused a license, he failed to meet his obligations, and the property was sold. George F. Titlow opened " Hotel Titlow " in the Frost house, in 1898, where he continued until he secured the property on the west. Miss Mary E. Sturgeon, daughter of Dr. Sturgeon, continued to occupy the mansion house for some time after her father's death. Other tenants were Amos M. Jollifife and Michael D. Baker. Daniel Sharpnack purchased this property from Miss Sturgeon April 1, 1885, and his executors conveyed the same to E. A. Lingo, February 5, 1891. Mr. Lingo removed the old residence to the rear of the lot and on its site erected a three-story brick business block with business rooms on the first floor and flats above. The eastern business room was used by Stuck and Basnett as a grocery ; Thomas Claggett as a furniture store and George F. Titlow as a bar- room in connection with the Frost house. The Johnson Machine company occupied the western room for some time. E. A. Lingo sold this property September 29, 1899, to a syn- dicate, who soon transferred their individual interests to George F. Titlow, who immediately fitted it up for a hotel. He opened his hostelry as Hotel Titlow, and built it up to four stories, and in 190G he extended the building back to Peter street, covering the whole of the lot. He had a re-opening of his hotel April 2, 190G, and gave a public reception on May 16th, to which the public was invited. The Hotel Titlow was the first hotel in the county to be run on the European plan. The Old Beeson Mill. Henry Beeson, the founder of the town, purchased back from his brother, Jacob, about eight acres of land facing 281.8 feet on 188 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the north side of West Main street, October 12, 1793, for five pounds, Pennsylvania money. The cause for the re-purchase of this ground was from the fact that the raceway of the original Beeson mill did not prove satisfactory on account of the porous nature of the ground through which it was constructed. The old mill was dismantled and a new one erected upon this ground in 1783, and here under different ownerships and operators it was operated until the year 1866 as a flouring mill, and from that date until 1890 as a cement mill, when as a mill it was abandoned after a continuous service of 94 years as a flouring mill and 24 years as a cement mill. Henry Beeson, Jr., son of Henry Beeson, the founder, pur- chased this property before the year 1800, and conducted the mill until his death, January 20, 1833, and he was known as Henry Beeson, the miller. Among those employed as millers under him may be mentioned the following : John Johns was the miller under Henry Beeson, Sr., and helped in the construction of this mill. He carried an immense corner-stone up onto the wall, a feat which but few would attempt. Nathan Jefferis was employed here about 1808, and spent the most of his life as a miller here and elsewhere. He went out in Captain Valentine Giesey's company in the war of 1812, and was mustered into the service of his country at Baltimore. John Denny was employed as a miller here, for two years, and about the close of his service in 1817, his son, Henry Denny, was born in the residence part of the mill. Jacob Landers followed Denny as miller, and he and his family lived in the mill. An act of Assembly of 1781 rec^uired all millers to record their brands with the Clerk of Quarter Sessions, and in 1823 all millers and bolters of flour were notified to have their brands recorded. Henry Haws followed Jacob Landers in 1824, and remained about five years or more. Billy McGuinn was one of the old millers employed here and occupied a part of the mill as a residence. During his occupancy, which continued many years, both undei" the ownership of Henry Beeson, Jr., and under his son and suc- cessor, Jesse Beeson, his home was, on account of its room and the tidy manner in which it was kept, a favorite place for quilting parties. Many pleasant afternoons were spent here by the neigh- bors, who gathered in the old mill and took out a quilt. Billy held his position here until he went blind from overwork. Billy Mc- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 189 Gwinn and Essenith McCoy wei^e married August 27, 1854, and they ended their days at their home on Redstone creek about one mile south of Uniontown. David Messmore was the miller here, 1830-3-"), up to the time George W. Rutter took a lease on the mill. Jesse Sacket was the miller under Rutter, and Robert Gaddis ran a carding machine, which was operated by the same power as the mill. Mr. Rutter's lease held for only about one year, and he introduced steam power. Adam Sembower was miller here in the middle 30s, and also in the 50s. Isaac Skiles was employed here as the miller and occupied the living apartments as a dwelling. He afterward became the founder of the famous Skiles store, and was a successful merchant. Alfred Clear was miller here in 1863, and lived in the lower end of the White Swan tavern. He removed to Ohiopyle and ran the mill there. William D. Swearingen, known as " River Bill," leased this mill for the years 1841-42, and had in his employ John Mickey and a Mr. Vandiver, and Garret Jordan ran the carding machine. Henry R. Beeson, son of Jesse Beeson, had charge of the mill in 1851-52, and employed Alfred Clear as the miller. Joseph B. Moser and Jacob Mack leased the mill for the year 1856, and both being millers, they ran it themselves. The mill at this time had three runs of stones : two French burrs and one Laurel Hill stone ; also a good saw mill, two carding machines and one picker, fulling works, cooper shop, two good dwelling houses, a blacksmith shop and two acres of ground. The mill was run by steam, in case of low water, and was considered to be the best mill property in the county. Daniel Swearingen and Philip D. Stentz took a lease on the mill for 1859-60, and Mr. Swearingen suc- ceeded Mr. Stentz for at least another year. John McCoy was miller under Daniel Swearingen and under Jesse Beeson in the early 60s, and later under Henry R. Beeson, who put in a more modern steam power. In 1864, during the oil excitement, Henry R. Beeson drilled a well at the old mill, and after drilling 1150 feet, the well was aban- doned. A continuous stream of sulphur water flowed from this well for several years. In 1866, he converted the old flouring mill into a cement mill, and manufactured a very superior article of hydraulic cement, which 190 History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. was known as the Phoenix cement. This he continued to manu- facture until his death, which occurred June 4, 1875. A fulHng mill was erected but a few feet north of the old flouring mill, in which was placed a carding machine, and these were operated by the same water power as the mill. Thomas Young advertised that he was carrying on the fulling, dyeing and dressing cloth at his former stand at the Union fulling mill, January 1, 181G. Samuel Wolverton announces that he is running a carding machine in the Uniontown mill, where he will card all kinds of wool, common at 8 cents per pound, other wool at proportionate rate, June 14, 1819. Elias V. Watson and George W. Stacy succeeded Wolverton for five or six years. The agreement between them was that Wat- son was to teach Stacy the art and mystery of fulling, and Stacy was to teach Watson the art and mystery of carding. William Patrick ran the carding machine for awhile, and Rob- ert Gaddis served about three years under him. Mr. Gaddis con- tinued under the employ of John Pluston of Clearfield, Md., who rented the property after the expiration of the lease of Patrick. Part of the time Gaddis conducted the business for half the profits in 1837. Mr. Gaddis, in the fall of 1837, worked twenty hours a day for many days, and by the assistance of a young girl, he carded ten thousand pounds of wool that fall. Elijah Stevens advertised that he is now prepared to weave linen of all kinds, woolen cloths, cassinetts, carpets, etc., " with the flying shuttle " at Henry Beeson's mill, August 2, 1830. William Jordan was the fuller here in 1847, under Jesse Beeson. The weavers of Fayette county met to agree on prices for weaving, June 24, 1829, and the following weavers signed the scale : Elias Jeffries, Richard Woodward, Noble McCormick, Daniel Moser, Jacob Rotruck, Jacob Galley and Elias Freeman. William H. Baily, as executor of the will of Henry R. Beeson, divided up this property and sold the old mill site, October 22, 1877, to William Beeson, and on December 5, 1889, it was transferred to other parties. Thus, after being known as the Beeson mill for over a century, it passed out of the name. An association, known as the Hygeia Ice company, purchased the site of the old Beeson flouring mill in 1899, and tore away the old mill and erected on its site a modern ice factory and cold- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 191 storage plant. The capacity of the ice plant was twenty-five tons per diem, and the cold storage had a capacity of 300,000 cubic feet. The first ice was drawn June 25, 1890. The output of this factory proved so satisfactory that the company, in 1900, increased its capacity to forty tons per diem. The building has since been greatly enlarged and the capacity increased to eighty tons per diem, and the cold storage to 500,000 cubic feet. On August 22, 1898, the company purchased the lot lying between their factory and West Main street, having a frontage on that street of ninety feet. A lot west of the ice factory was sold to Brehm and Nabors, who erected a planing mill and carried on a lumber yard and con- tracting. It was subsequently used for other purposes. Samuel and Alf Johnson purchased purpart No. 1, in the division of this property, consisting of eighty-four perches, includ- ing the old red dwelling house, and erected a brick machine shop for the repair of machinery. Henry Beeson, Jr., erected a frame dwelling close to the mill, on the west, and occupied it for a while. His son, Jesse, and fam- ily lived here for many years, and they were succeeded by other occupants. A small frame building was erected in front of the mill, facing on Main street, in which Henry R. Beeson kept a line of groceries and provisions in 1851-2. This building was converted into a dwelling, and is now owned and occupied by Miss Alice Skiles. A blacksmith shop stood on the western front of this property and the following are among the blacksmiths who carried on busi- ness here: Wilson Swain, Henry Nycum, Isaac Sampsel, Seth White, John Barry and others. John N. Lewellen purchased this property in 1882, and converted it into a carriage and buggy fac- tory, which, in connection with his son, Frank, he conducted until January 1, 1908, when John N. withdrew and Frank continued until he sold the property to Isaac W. Semans, who tore away the old buildings and erected on their site a large and modern automobile garage. Just west of the blacksmith shop above mentioned stood a log building that was used as a wagon maker's shop. Henry Kerns, a wagon maker, came here from Winchester, and occupied this shop for many years. He was a devout Methodist, and lived in his shop, where he did his own cooking and slept in the loft. Wagon spokes were driven in holes bored in the side of the shop, and by these he was enabled to reach the loft. Henry kept a number of chickens 192 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. in his shop, of whom he made intimate companions. He had each named and would converse with them as though they were intelli- gent creatures, and they shared his fireside and board. He also kept his favorite mare, " Kitty Clover," in one corner of his shop. The boys of town annoyed Henry very much with their mischievous pranks. Henry took James Bryan into partnership with him for a short time, but Bryan withdrew in 1818, and Henry continued many years alone. Henry Beeson, Jr., built a two-story frame house west of the Henry Kerns wagon maker's shop, as a residence for Elizabeth Beeson, the widow of his brother, Jesse Beeson, who died in 1826. In this she lived for several years, together with her niece, Sidney Gardner. Mrs. Beeson married as her second husband the Reverend James Guthrie, the old and well-remembered Presbyterian minister of Laurel Hill church, who died in 1850. In 1860, she married Johnson Vankirk, with whom she lived for ten years, when he died. She died June 26, 1886, in the 95th year of her age. William D. Swearingen, father-in-law and partner in business with William McCleary, occupied this house as a residence for a time, while miller at the Beeson mill. George B. Rutter occupied this house as a residence for several years. The Johnson Machine company purchased this property in 1899 and converted the dwelling into a workshop for the repair of bicycles and other work. David Moreland purchased from Jacob Beeson a small piece of land containing eleven perches, lying between an old tail race and Jacob's run. Upon this Mr. Moreland constructed a log black- smith shop on the east and a log dwelling on the west. Here he lived and carried on the business of blacksmithing for many years. He was also connected with L. W. Stockton in purchasing horses for the National Stage line. He married a daughter of Joseph Collins, who lived out the Morgantown road on the Colonel Thomas Gaddis farm. He moved to Dubuque, Iowa, in 1839. Daniel Duer subsequently lived in this house. David Moreland sold this property to James Veech, March 30, 1839, and he conveyed it to his father, David Veech, April 20, 1857. David Veech tore away the old log and erected on its site a two- story brick dwelling, which he occupied until his death, February 14, 1866, in the 85th year of his age. Alexander Boyd occupied this house for some years, and George C. Marshall, who lived here for some years, was its last tenant. Harry Beeson purchased a part of this property and tore away THE OLD WHITE SWAN TAVERN. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 193 the brick dwelling and erected on its site the West End Theater building. This playhouse was opened for plays October 20, 1903, with " The Sultan of Sulu." Ephraim Hankins contracted with Jacob Beeson, September 20, 1816, for a one-fourth acre lot on the west bank of Jacob's run, lining on Main street. His interest was sold by the sheriff, Sep- tember 8, 1819, to Henry H. Beeson, who included this lot in a tract sold to Lucius ^V. Stockton. Mr. Stockton built a stone ice house against the northern wall of the bridge, in which ice was stored for many years. E. D. Fulton erected several small one-story frame buildings west of Coal Lick run in 1903, against the protests of the adjoining property holders. These were derisively named " ground scrapers " and have been since occupied by small stores. While small build- ings like these may be condemned, they afford opportunities for many to earn a livelihood that could not afford to rent more pre- tentious buildings. Jacob Beeson, the founder of the western part of Uniontown, built for himself a mansion in 1785-86, at the west end of town and occupied it from the time it was finished until his death, 1818, and his widow continued to occupy it until her death, 1825. The old road passed to the north of this mansion when it was built, but when the National road was constructed, it passed to the south of the mansion, thus leaving Mr. Beeson's fine mansion facing from the great thoroughfare. The eastern side of the mansion was converted into a front, thus giving a most beautiful view of the town and the distant range of mountains. While Mr. Beeson lived in this mansion, his youngest child, Henry Hedges Beeson, was born, and this was the only one of his family of twelve children born in this house. Henry H. Beeson and Robert Skiles, executors of the will of Jacob Beeson, gave the following " Notice " — " The executors of the last will of Jacob Beeson, deed., will expose a number of out lots containing two to five acres, part of the mansion tract, for sale. The lots will be sold off north of the old road northward. Each lot to be accommodated with convenient avenues. If purchasers prefer, the whole tract of about 150 acres north of the old road will be sold in one body, on which is erected a small log house, a good frame barn, and several good springs. There are also a good stone quarry and a coal bank and from thirty to forty acres of good tim- ber. The fences are in good repair. The sale will take place the 194 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. first day of March, 1823, on the premises. Terms, one-third in hand, the remainder in three annual payments." H. H. Beeson, Robert Skiles, executors. January 28, 1823. The above sale evidently never came off, as not a single deed shows by date or description that a sale was consummated as the result of the above notice. Jacob Beeson was tax collector for Union township, then com- posing what is now North and South Union townships, for the year 1803, and the whole amount of the duplicate for the township was $654.26. Daniel Moore purchased of the executors of Jacob Beeson the mansion house and about thirty acres of land surrounding the same, March 23, 1831. He was an extensive stage proprietor of Wash- ington, Pa., and purchased this property for a home for his daugh- ter, Rebecca, the wife of L. W. Stockton. Mr. Moore never became a resident of Uniontown. His wife was the widow of Dr. Adam Simonson and a sister to James Carnahan, for many years president of Princeton college, and who, as a very young girl, came to live at the home of her step-father. Dr. Jacob Jennings of Dunlap's creek, Fayette county. Mr. Stockton named his place " Ben Lomond," after a cele- brated Scottish mountain of surpassing beauty, and made extensive improvements to his residence. He erected a covered drive-way at the west side of the house, and large gates to the entrance, ornamented with large, carved horses' heads. He was the manager of the National Stage Coach lines on the old National road. He was born at Flemington, N. J., September 1, 1799, and was the son of Lucius Stockton, and a grand-son of Rev. Philip Stockton, who was a brother of Richard Stockton, an eminent lawyer and judge of New Jersey, and who was a member of congress for that state in 1776, and one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. L. W. Stockton located in Uniontown prior to 1824, as man- ager of the stage line, and was a man of wonderful business energy. His first wife was Rebecca Moore, daughter of Daniel Moore, before mentioned, by whom he had six children, one of whom married General Leiper of Philadelphia, and with whom Mrs. Stockton made her home until her death. L. W. Stockton's second wife was his cousin, Katharine Stockton, and by this marriage he had four children. His second wife's mother and a daughter lived in Mr. Stockton's property on Morgantown street, later known as History of Uniontoivn, Pennsylvania. 195 the Deford property. The daughter married Samuel S. Austin and after his death she married Rev. Dr. Rawson, an Episcopal clergyman. L. W. Stockton was active in establishing the service of the Episcopal church in Uniontown, and was a \'estryman at the organi- zation of the parish in 1842, and besides contributing liberall)' to the support of the church, he donated to the parish the lot of ground upon which the stone structure of St. Peter's now stands, but on account of the proper papers not having been executed, the parish was compelled to pay for the ground after the death of Mr. Stockton. Mr. Stockton, becoming dissatisfied with the manner in which the mails were being handled by one of our early postmasters, sought the removal of the encumbent, and his influence with the post office department was such that he succeeded in the removal of the postmaster and the appointment of his friend, Daniel Smith, to the position. Mr. Stockton died at his home April 25, 1844, and was buried in the Methodist Episcopal graveyard. His daughters, A/[rs. Wishart and Mrs. McKennan, had the remains removed and in- terred in the cemetery at Washington, Pa. Dr. Howard Kennedy of Hagerstown, Md., succeeded Mr. Stockton in this residence in the fall of 1844, and here resided until 1851, when he returned to Hagerstown. His wife was a sister to Alfred Howell, Esq. He was in charge of the government mails between Washington and Wheeling over the National road, and he personally conducted the search which fastened the mail robberies upon Dr. John F. Braddee. He also represented the government in the prosecution. He died June 12, 1855, and Mrs. Kennedy died March 1, 1900, in her 81st year. Everhart Bierer bought this property from Daniel Moore March 9, 1850, and occupied it for a while as a residence, when he sold it to Hon. Samuel A. Gilmore, April 1, 1855. Samuel A. Gilmore was appointed president judge of the Fourteenth Judicial District, February 25, 1848, and soon thereafter moved to Union- town, and resided here until his death, May 15, 1873, and the man- sion is still owned and occupied by his heirs. Joseph McGee, a blacksmith by trade, purchased from the Jacob Beeson estate sixteen and a half acres on the north side of the National road, adjoining land of L. W. Stockton on the east and fronting 488 feet on the National road, July 13, 1832. On this 196 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Mr. McGee lived in a two-story log house, beautifully located on a knoll some distance back from the road. He had a log blacksmith shop on the front of this lot in which he carried on his business of blacksmithing for many years. He died in 1831, and his executors sold the property to L. W. Stockton. His widow subsequently married Montgomery Demmons, known among the old stage drivers as " Old Mount," whose normal weight was 450 pounds, but before his death he attained the weight of 600 pounds. This lot became a part of the Gilmore estate and with others was sold off into building lots. The first residence west of the Gilmore mansion was erected by the Misses M. A., E. J. and Elvira Hess, and they occupied it as such since its erection. The next was a frame, erected by A. J. Moser, who occupied it a while and sold to George Porter, Jr., who sold to J. W. Dawson, Esq. The Misses Hess built a brick residence next west, and after occupying it for a short time, sold it to Thomas Prentice, who occupied until his death, after which it was sold to Jacob B. Adams, Esq., who im- proved it to a considerable extent, and occupied it as a residence. James Curry built a frame residence on the corner of West Main and Kensington streets, in which J. L. Malcolm lived for several years. Judge James Clark Work purchased this property and occupied it. Hon. J. C. Work bought the first lot west of Ken- sington street, and allowed it to remain vacant for many years. Mrs. Work, mother of J. C. Work, erected a brick residence on lot next west, and sold it to the Second Presbyterian church for a parsonage, and it was occupied by Rev. Seth R. Gordon, D. D., their minister. Homer H. Hess purchased this property and oc- cupied it. John C. Breading built a frame residence next west, and after occupying it a few years, he sold it to the Misses Brown, who occupied it. Samuel Rand built a frame residence, 1903 or '04, and occupied it. He was one of the proprietors of the Rand pow- der works, located near Fairchance, and which was blown up September 9, 1905. This property was purchased by Edward T. Porter, who occupied it. John Allen Morris built a frame resi- dence on lot No. 40, and occupied it as a residence for some time. A. G. McMullen purchased this property and improved it and oc- cupied it. Dr. Charles W. Adams purchased part of the old Joseph McGee lot, and erected a fine brick residence in 1904 and occupied it. John Boyle built a frame residence on the western part of the Joseph McGee lot, and occupied it. H^e preserved the old well and built a pergola and windlass over it in commemoration History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 197 of the sentiment of Samuel Woodsworth, as expressed in his poem, " The Old Oaken Bucket." Evans W. Hess built a brick residence on the corner of West Main and Nassau streets, in 1900, and occupied it. John F. Hog- sett built a fine brick residence next west of Nassau street and occu- pied it. Mrs. Mary L. Hess built a fine brick residence next west of John F. Hogsett and occupied it. Cyrus W. Pyle built a frame dwelling on the western limit of the Gilmore estate, and occupied it for several years. Joseph H. Kerr purchased this property and improved it extensively and occupied it. Alexander Turner purchased from Jacob Beeson's executors 165 acres of land, 106 of which lined on the north side of the National road, and extended from the Joseph McGee purchase to the western limit of Mr. Beeson's tract. The other 59 acres of Mr. Turner's purchase was situated on the southern side of the National road, and constituted the western portion of the tract known as "Pionter." Alexander Turner came here as a stone mason and contractor on stone work in the construction of the National road. He was a one-armed man, having lost one arm in blasting stone before he came here. His first purchase of land after locating here was a five-acre lot on what is now Oakland avenue, on which he erected a good two-story brick dwelling, which he occupied for several years. This house is still standing, and was subsequently owned and occupied by Henry Mellier, who ran a market garden and sold the product of his garden at the old market-house. It was sold from Mr. Mellier and Redding Bunting became the owner, and lived there for several years. Thomas Frost purchased this property in 1865, and built a brick residence on the National road, which he occupied until 1879, when he sold to Clarence H. Beall, who occupied it until he sold it to J. Ells- worth Hess in 1906, who improved it beyond recognition of the old property. Dr. Hugh Campbell purchased twenty acres from Alexander Turner, February 14, 1849. This tract lay next west of the Gilmore estate, and upon this Dr. Campbell built a fine mansion, most beautifully located. Here he lived for many years, until his ap- pointment to the position of warden of the Western penitentiary, in 1865, to which place he moved. S. D. Oliphant was an occupant of this residence for some time. Dr. Hugh Campbell conveyed to Eli Cope, April 1, l^l'l, twenty acres and twenty-four perches, being the same as purchased 198 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. from Alexander Turner. Mr. Cope moved to this property and occupied it until he sold to Mrs. Flavius B. Titlow, a grand- daughter of Jacob Beeson, the original owner of the ground. Mr. Cope had already laid oif a number of lots fronting on the National road and on both sides of Oakland avenue. Mrs. Titlow's purchase included the Dr. Campbell residence and one acre and eighty perches of land, and this she occupied until she conveyed it to Frank M. Seamans, Jr., August 5, 1903, who made elaborate and expensive improvements and added many acres of ground which he also embellished, making it one of the most delightful and desirable suburban residences in this part of- the state. Mr. Cope also sold to John Niccolls and others some twenty acres adjoining the above. Mrs. Ruth Shepler purchased one hundred and eighty-one feet frontage on the National road or West Main street, and here erected a fine residence, which she has occupied since its completion-. Next west of the Shepler residence is Thompson street, on which Mrs. Augusta Allen erected a comfortable frame residence, which, after occupying for some time, sold it to T. N. Thompson, who, after occupying it some time, conveyed it to Mrs. Edgar Boyle. West of Thompson street Charles E. Lenhart erected a frame dwelling and, after occupying it some time, he sold it to Mrs. Rob- ert Haldeman, March 15, 1900, who occupied it until her removal to California, since which it has been occupied by other parties. Mrs. Augusta Allen erected a frame dwelling next west of the Lenhart property in 1903, and, after occupying it a while, sold it to Winfield C. Johns, who has since occupied it. John Snider built a small cottage house just west of an alley, and occupied it until he sold it to Warwick Miller, who occupied it until his death, September 29, 1893. John Finley purchased this property and Thomas W. Holland, a son-in-law, became the occupant. John Allen Morris built a frame house next west of the Snider cottage, and on December 13, 1890, he conveyed it to James H. Williams, who has since made it his home. Howard Vanbremen bought the lot on the corner of West Main street and Oakland ave- nue, and erected thereon a frame dwelling and made it his home. Henry Black built a plain frame house next west of Oakland ave- nue, in which he lived until his death. Alex Craig bought this property, and Charles S. Ramsay occupied it for a while. This house was moved up Oakland avenue. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 199 Jefferson A. Walters built a comfortable frame house west of the Ellsworth Hess property, and, after occupying it a few years, he sold it to Mr. Hess. Robert L. Barry purchased from Alexander Turner thirty- five acres and one hundred perches of land lining more than one thousand feet on the north side of the National road. On this he built a mansion in 1843, located on a beautiful knoll, commanding a most magnificent view of the distant mountains and surrounding country. Mr. Barry laid off a few lots on the eastern part of this tract, one of which was sold to Henry T. Diffenderffer and another to Isaac Skiles, Sr. On one of these lots a small brick house was built, which stood for many years and was occupied at different times by various tenants and was a very comfortable little home. These lots soon reverted back to the tract from which they were taken. Immediately back of this little brick house was a spring near which stood the log house in which Jacob Beeson first lived on settling west of the mountains. The purchase of this property and the erection of the mansion so involved Mr. Barry that he conveyed it to Richard Beeson, who occupied it for some time. Hon. John Dawson purchased from Alexander Turner twenty-six acres adjoining the Barry tract, and he also purchased the Barry tract, aggregating sixty-two acres. Judge Dawson moved to this mansion upon retiring from the bench as associate judge, and resided here until 18G5, when he moved back to town and sold this place, known as Oak Hill, to George A. Thompson, an English iron-master, president of the Fairchance Iron company, who resided here four years, and in 1875, it was purchased by the Honorable Charles E. Boyle, who made it his home. While residing at Oak Hill, Mr. Boyle was appointed by President Cleveland to the honorable position of chief justice of Washington territory, and while on his way to assume the duties of that office, he contracted a cold that terminated fatally. On Sunday, October 28, 1900, Mrs. Boyle received injuries in a runaway that caused her death December 13th following. In 1903, Mr. J. V. Thompson purchased the Boyle mansion with thirty-five acres of ground and tore away the old mansion and erected a fine mansion, which with its surroundings, forms the finest estate in western Pennsylvania. West of the Thompson estate was for many years the home of Levi Springer, one of the most prominent citizens of the com- munity in his day. This property became the home of Henry W. 300 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Gaddis, a son-in-law of Levi Springer, who moved here in 1863. On July 38, 1903, Levi S. Gaddis sold this property to George D. Howell, who made it his home until he built a more imposing one, into which he moved. This is now the beautiful residence of Hon. Andrew A. Thompson, son of Josiah V. Thompson. CHAPTER IX. East Main Street, East of the Eastern Bridge, Including Lots Nos. 1 to 10 in Henry's Addition. The large stone bridge on East Main street was erected in 1818, by James Kinkead, Gabriel Evans and James Beck, a large contracting firm on the stone work of the National road. Before the construction of this bridge, pedestrians crossed Redstone creek at this place over a foot-log. Margaret Allen purchased from Henry Beeson two pieces of land east of Redstone creek: one on the north side and the other on the south side of Elbow street, November 3, 1789 : the two pieces together a little less than five acres. Mrs. Allen was also the first purchaser of lot No. 31, now the property of the heirs of Hon. Nathaniel Ewing, Sr., opposite the court house. She also owned 350 acres of mountain land in Wharton township. Granny Allen, as she was familiarly known, kept a tavern in a log house which stood on an eminence called " The Pinnacle," opposite the Madison college buildings. The part of this land lying on the north side of East Main street was sold to Thomas Prentice in 1823. Mr. Prentice located in Uniontown with his family in 1817. His father was a native of Scotland and came to America when quite a young man. Mr. Prentice was an exceedingly industrious and frugal man. He opened a stone quarry, from which he furnished stone for building purposes and for sidewalks. He also ran a hack line between Uniontown and Brownsville for a short time, and did considerable of a livery business besides heavy hauling. He died June 9, 1869. Mr. Prentice left a quite respectable family, of whom Thomas was a well known wagon maker of the town for many years, and An- drew, who was brought here by his parents, having been born on Chestnut street in Philadelphia, September 11, 1815. At 30 years of age, Andrew commenced driving a six-horse team from Wheel- ing to Baltimore over the National road, which occupation he followed for 14 years. He next took the management of the Seaton house for Mrs. Seaton, and four years later, when she sold out, he went in the same capacity to the National house, under the proprietorship of Col. Samuel Elder, two years, and continued one year under Joshua Marsh. 201 203 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. In 1856, Mr. Prentice rented the store room of John Keffer, on Morgantown street, and there carried on the grocery business for thirteen years, when he sold out to John Keffer, Jr., and re- entered the grocery business on East Main street, where he con- tinued for seven years, when he sold out his business to his nephew, N. P. Cooper, and retired from business. Mr. Prentice always related with pride that he shook hands with General Lafayette, when that renowned personage was touring the United States as the nation's guest, and visited Uniontown in 1825; and with Andrew Jackson, when he stopped over night at the Eagle house on his way to Washington to be inaugurated president of the United States; and with Henry Clay, on his way through Uniontown ; and with President R. B. Hayes ; with Governor A. G. Curtin; with President U. S. Grant and with Hon. James G. Blaine. Uncle Andy, as he was familiarly known, was peculiar in many respects, yet was held in the highest esteem by the com- munity. He was a stalwart Republican, and took a deep interest in the success of his party. He advertised at one time that he would distribute $500 in cash to the poor of Uniontown in presents of $5 each, the only conditions were that they were Republicans and in need of money. Strange to say, the money was never all called for. He left quite an estate, which he generously donated to his worthy relatives. Back of the Thomas Prentice property was a piece of ground on which John Porter had a still-house, which he operated for some time, but James Gallagher, knowing the demoralizing effect of such a business upon a community, resolved to purchase a piece of ground adjoining on which was located a fine spring from which Porter was piping the water for his still. Mr. Gallagher cut off the piping and Porter was obliged to discontinue his distillery. John Seiler built some frame houses along the north side of the eastern bridge, which have been used as residences. Mr. Stewart erected one or two for the accommodation of the soldiers' orphan school. Before 1785, Henry Beeson laid off additional town lots, to the number of ten, east of Redstone creek and fronting on Elbow street. The first seven of these tots were on the north side and the remaining three were located opposite "and on the south side of the street. The first of these, designated as No. 1, adjoined the tract already sold to Jonathan Downer, and subsequently known as the Madison college property, and the others in succession to History of Uniontotvn, Pennsylvania. 203 and including No. 7, extended to the present Connellsville street, and were severally owned by Richard Thompkins, William Beck-' ford, Dr. Solomon Drown, William Grimes or Graham, John Ferris and James Langsby. The three lots, Nos. 8, 9 and 10, on the south side of the street, were purchased by William Merriman. In the rear of lots Nos. 1 to 7, Dr. Solomon Drown purchased from Henry Beeson a tract of land containing 13 acres, 3 qrs. and 35 perches, January 4, 1796, for which he paid 81 pounds, 3 shillings and 9 pence, a sum equal to $217.40, or less than $1G per acre. A fuller account of Dr. Drown is given elsewhere. Hon. Andrew Stewart purchased several acres of this Dr. Drown tract and erected a frame dwelling thereon, most beau- tifully located, and here made his home for many years previous to the close of his brilliant and honorable career. Thomas Irwin, Esq., built a frame house east of town which was later known as the Rev. John Morgan house. In this Matthew Irwin, a brother to Thomas Irwin, lived for some time. Rev. Charles Elliott was a resident here while president of Madison college. Rev. John Morgan owned and occupied this house for several years and died here. Louis D. Beall occupied this house at one time. George Chick was a tenant here for thirteen years. Harold L. Robinson, Esq., purchased this property and tore away the old frame and in 1908 erected a fine modern residence into which he moved in December of that year. On the east side of what is now Cleveland avenue where it enters East Main street, stood a small frame dwelling and a wagon shop. This at one time was the property and home of Martin Dutton who carried on his occupation as a wagon maker here. John W. Barr purchased this property from Dutton. William Doran, the carpenter, was a tenant here in 184-'), and for several years thereafter. William C. Stroud, the carpet weaver, occupied this house for several years and carried on his business of carpet weaving in a small shop in the yard. He was here in 18.5'2. John Crossland, the well-known gunsmith, owned and occupied this property for many years and here carried on his business. He was a splendid workman in his line. Mr. Crossland's son, Albert S., tore away the old buildings and erected a comfortable two-story dwelling in their stead and occupied it as a residence. Next east of the before-mentioned property stood a log dwell- ing, long owned and occupied by Ephraim Palmer, a well-known colored barber, who with his family, lived here many years. Eph. 204 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. was an artist in his line, and carried on his occupation in various locations in town until compelled by advanced age to retire. He had an estimable wife, and reared a creditable family. His son, Addison, became a bishop in the Methodist Episcopal church. His son, Eph., tore down the old log and erected a frame. This house was the scene of a most shocking murder, January 12, 1901, when Archibald Biggs cut the throat of his wife as she lay in bed. This deed was committed on Saturday and was not discovered until Monday, when parties occupying another part of the house, sus- pecting that something was wrong, had the premises investigated. Biggs fled to Oliver on Monday, and upon the approach of the officers, cut his own throat. They were both buried at the county home in one grave. This house was destroyed by fire as the prop- erty of Oliver G. Chick, October 8, 1901. James H. Dunn, a blacksmith, purchased this lot and erected thereon a modern and comfortable dwelling. James Langsby purchased from Henry Beeson lot No. 1 in this addition, paying therefor the sum of $25.00. This lot was bounded on the east by a one-hundred acre tract belonging to Jesse Beeson, the oldest son of Henry Beeson. It is now the lot on the coi'ner where Connellsville street enters East Main street. A long frame building once stood on this corner, having a covered porch in front, with hand rail the full length. This porch was a considerable distance off the ground, and entrance was at the east end. Hannah Sands kept a tavern in this property in the very early history of the town, and subsequently kept in the old Merriman stand, nearly opposite. James Madison succeeded Hannah Sands in the tavern business in this stand and died here and his widow, with the aid of her daughters, continued to conduct the tavern for some time. In 1828 this property was occupied by William Clark and family. William Clark was a son of Matthew Clark, Sr., and had two brothers, Joseph and Matthew, Jr. ; the latter is well remem- bered as one of the old carpenters of the town. William was a weaver by trade and carried on the business in this property. On Friday evening, August 1, 1828, Mr. Clark and his family, consist- ing of his wife and three children, all sat down to a supper con- sisting of mush and milk, all at the time being in good health. A short time after eating, they were taken violently sick at the stomach; vomiting ensued and all remained in this condition dur- ing the night, but they did nothing further to alleviate their suffer- History of Uniontoivn, Pennsylvania. 305 ings than to drink copiously of cold water. The following morn- ing physicians were called, who administered remedies, but to little effect, and at 10 o'clock Oliver, aged six years, died. The consent of his parents being obtained, a post-mortem examination was made, which revealed that poison was the cause of death. The child was buried at 10 o'clock on Sunday morning, but before the funeral took place, Albert, aged three years, died, and about 3 o'clock in the afternoon of the same day, Mrs. Clark, aged about 33 years, also died. The funeral of these two members of the family was announced to take place at 11 o'clock on Monday, and a large concourse of people gathered at the house; but Mr. Clark becoming extremely ill, and hopes of his recovery being abandoned, the funeral of the mother and child was postponed until Tuesday. On Monday evening Mr. Clark also died, aged 35 years. He was conscious of his fate, and died without a murmur. The only member of the family that escaped this distressing calamity was William, then a babe but nine months of age, who, on account of his tender age, had not partaken of the deadly poison. On Tues- day, the father, mother and son were buried at one time in the Baptist graveyard at the head of Morgantown street. From the suddenness of the deaths, and the distressing cir- cumstances attending them, an unusually large concourse of rela- tives, friends and strangers, estimated to be between 1,000 and 1,200, attended the funeral. It was never ascertained how the poisonous substance found its way into the mush, whether by accident or design, but it was evident that the mush contained the poison that caused the deaths. A cat and dog were fed some of the mush ; the cat died and the dog showed evidences of poisoning. William, the babe, who escaped poisoning, was taken by relatives at Brownsville, where he grew up. He came to Uniontown and learned the cabinet-making trade with John Phillips, after which he settled in the West. Edward Jones occupied this property in 1836, and advertised that he was an itinerant clock fixer. Henry Walters, who sub- sequently owned Dunbar's camp, and still later founded the town of Waltersburg, once occupied this property. William Wood at one time owned and occupied this as a residence. Other tenants were James Becket, William Braden and George Miller. The com- fortable brick residence and store room of E. K. Snyder now occupy the site of these old buildings. Jesse Beeson purchased from Henry Beeson a tract of 90 206 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. acres, 1 qr. and 29 perches of land for the sum of $1,000. This tract was at the junction of Connellsville and Coolspring streets with East Main and extended eastward to the limit of Mr. Bee- son's tract, and comprised land on both sides of East Main street. Mr. Beeson erected a two-story frame house in the fork between Coolspring and East Main streets, and here resided until his death, March 11, 1826. He laid off a part of this tract on the south side of East Main street into town and out lots, which is shown on the plan book in the recorder's office. Jesse Beeson was the oldest child of Henry Beeson, the founder of the town, and was born at Martinsburg, Va., Decem- ber 5, 1767, and was carried over the mountains when a small babe, on horseback, in the spring of 1768, at which time his parents settled west of the mountains. He was a bright and ambitious young man, and a most excellent penman, as the records in the office of the county commissioners, where he was employed as clerk for that board from November 33, 1802, to April 25, 1808, will show. He was editor and proprietor of the Genius of Liberty as early as 1809, until 1818 ; he filling the office of coroner of the county in the meantime from 1813 to 1817, and treasurer of the county from 1814 to 1818. Mr. Beeson's first wife was a Miss Campbell, and his second wife was Miss Elizabeth Skiles, a sister to Robert and Isaac Skiles, both prominent merchants of the town in their day. Mr. Beeson had two children by the second wife. His widow subsequently married Rev. James Guthrie, the well remembered Presbyterian minister, who was pastor of the Laurel Hill church of that denomination from 1804 until his death, August 4, 1850. After the death of Rev. Guthrie, his widow married for her third husband, Jonathan Vankirk, whom she survived. She died in Uniontown June 26, 1886, aged 94 years, 3 months and 10 days. Richard Beeson succeeded Jesse Beeson in the ownership and occupancy of this residence. He embellished the property, and together with its beautiful location, it was a most desirable resi- dence. Richard Beeson was a son of Jacob Beeson and grandson of the founder of the town, and a brother of Isaac Beeson, the merchant. He was admitted to the bar of Fayette county Novem- ber, 1816 ; was appointed to the office of prothonotary, July 11, 1833, which office he filled until January 13, 1336. He was again appointed to the same office February 6, 1839, and elected October 8, 1839, and served until succeeded by Daniel Kaine, who was History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 207 elected October 11, 1843. Mr. Beeson at one time owned and resided in what was known as the Robert L. Barry property west of town, where the palatial residence of J. V. Thompson now stands. He was not only prominent and successful at the bar, but was popular as an orator and writer. Some of his productions are still preserved. Mr. Beeson moved to Pittsburgh, where he became prominent as a lawyer and where he died in April, 1&64, leaving a son and two daughters, Mrs. Reed Johnson and Miss Ella, the artist. Harry Gilbert lived in this property in 1842-43, and kept boarders and for a while taught school. Richard Huskins occupied this residence for some time. He was a man of more than ordinary intelligence and education and fitted himself for the law. He served as clerk for the county com- missioners from November 16, 1843, to December 1, 1848, and was elected prothonotary October 10, 1848, and again October 15, 1851, and was succeeded by R. T. Galloway, 1854. In 1856, he removed to a farm in Johnson county, Iowa, and subsequently to the village of Lone Tree, where he carried on the business of a general store, and also served as a justice of the peace and town- ship clerk for several years. He was born in Chester county. Pa., October 31, 1803, and on February 15, 1837, he was married to Miss Charlotte Wells, by whom he had twelve children. Mr. and Mrs. Huskins celebrated their golden wedding at the home of their son, John P. Huskins, February 15, 1877. Mr. Huskins died at his home at Lone Tree, September 11, 1885, within less than one month after receiving the appointment of postmaster at that place. Benjamin Frazer, whose wife was an Amos of near Baltimore, and a sister to Harry Gilbert's wife, settled here on account of his health, and purchased this property and lived here until his death. He was buried in the Baptist cemetery. His widow married John Miller, the tanner, of Mill street, and lived here until they moved to Rockford, 111. Isaac Doran lived here awhile, as did James Darby. F. B. Titlow owned and occupied this property, and sold to Isaac Mess- more, who improved the dwelling and erected a two-story brick store room and dwelling near the point and lining on Main street, in which he kept a store. This store was sold to Thomas Wood, who ran it five months and sold it to E. K. Snyder, who sold to John D. Ruby, who sold to George H. Miller, who ran it fifteen years, until 1898, when he moved across the street, and this build- 308 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ing was torn down. I. L. Messmore succeeded his father as occu- pant of this residence, and put considerable repairs on it and made it a very desirable residence. Daniel J. Johnson bought this property, removed the old build- ings and erected a very fine modern residence in 1899, which has since been owned and occupied by other parties. A magnificent spring is located near this residence, which fur- nishes an abundant flow of pure water, and supplies a public water- ing trough on Stewart avenue, and is a never-failing blessing to the inhabitants of that section of the town. On the eastern part of this property, on the corner of Grant and East Main streets, stood a small log building, once owned and occupied by Wayne Belt, and later used as a blacksmith shop. The school board of Union borough, in 1906, purchased this lot, front- ing 160 feet on East Main street, and erected thereon a fine two- story vitrified buff brick school house at a cost of $37,000, which was opened for occupancy Monday, September 16, 1907, with John Hopwood as principal, and an enrollment of over 200 pupils. The frame house on the east side of Grant street was the home of Joseph and Teney Blue, the parents of John and Isabell Blue. A school teacher by the name of Billings taught a colored school in part of this building at one time. He also taught in the colored church on Morgantown street for a while. The next house east was occupied by Georgianna Bruce, who married Wesley Fox, a barber. Elias Beasell once occupied this house. The next property is the home of Joseph Black, who does hauling with a one-horse team. Next east, Thomas Lawson owned a long, one-and-a-half-story frame building, which he occupied for many years as a residence and shoe shop. He was formerly a slave, was a good citizen and highly respected, and raised a respect- able family. His son, Robert, succeeded in the occupancy of this property with a small store. The son, Edward, moved to Canada, where he became thrifty, and died at Windsor, Michigan, June 13, 1897, where he had filled the office of town councilman. East of the Lawson property, John Page, in 1905, erected a respectable two-story frame building intended for a public house. Mrs. John H. Trimble lived in a frame house east of the Page house. Boggus Johnson owned and lived on the lot next west of Baker alley. Boggus was well known in the town in his day. His son-in-law, James Jordan, succeeded in the ownership and occu- THE OLD ROUND CORNER. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 309 pancy of this property. It is now the home of Silas S. Carter, the fish vender. Joseph Black owned and lived in a house up Baker alley, and his daughters, Margaret and Josephine, continued to occupy it for many years after the death of their parents. William Froman lived at the upper end of Baker alley, now the property of Rev. Thomas Ford. Kitty Green owned a house in Baker alley, on the east side. Ray Wood purchased the first lot east of Baker alley and tore away the two-story frame house formerly owned by Isaac Skinner, and later occupied by Jim Blair, and built thereon a com- fortable frame dwelling some distance back on the lot and occu- pied it as a residence. Mrs. Nellie Wood, a widow, owned and lived in a small, one-story frame house on this lot, which was also torn away. The African Methodist Episcopal Zion church was organized September 19, 1849, and the members fitted up a small log meeting-house on the lot on which their present church now stands. The log building was replaced by a neat brick building in 1873. A frame parsonage stands on the lot east of the church. John Manaway owned and occupied the lot next east of Smothers alley. George Halfin bought this lot and erected thereon a comfortable frame residence, which is now owned and occupied by John R. Kuhns. John Wood lived in a small stone house east of the Kuhns house, and some time after his death his son, Thomas, built a dwelling in front of it, while his mother continued to occupy the stone house. The frame took fire while building and was con- siderably damaged and was sold to George Halfin, who removed it to the Manaway lot and it is now the Kuhns home. Jimmy Wood kept a small store in a building just east of the before- mentioned property, and some years after his death, his grandson, Thomas S. Wood, built on its site a modern brick residence. He also erected a frame dwelling east of the brick, and occupied it as such. James Wood, a major in the Mexican war, resided in a small frame house, still standing, near the junction of East Fayette with East Main street, and here his family continued to reside for many years. Evans M. Jeffries built a frame residence east of the Wood property, which he continues to occupy. Mrs. Mary Lewis, widow of James Lewis, built a frame dwelling opposite the mouth of Fayette street, on East Main street, where she made her home. 310 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. George Whyel purchased this property from the executor of Mrs. Lewis' will, and greatly improved it and occupied it. A small frame house once stood just east of the stream that crosses the pike, east of the borough line, in which the mother of Billy Ander- son once lived. Billy Anderson will be remembered as the " Mas- cot " of the old White Swan tavern, where he sawed wood and did chores about the house. Wilbert Crossland, son of Greenberry Crossland, Jr., built in 1907, a frame dwelling some distance back from the road and west of the Crossland mansion. Dennis Springer purchased from Henry Beeson 73 acres and 8 perches of land, March 19, 1790, for 144 pounds. This reached the eastern limit of Mr. Beeson's tract. Here Mr. Springer, who was the pioneer of the numerous Springer family in this section, erected his dwelling on the old road leading from Woodstock, as the village of Hopwood was then called, to Uniontown. This was a frame building with a checkered front, and here Mr. Springer lived when he erected the first brick court house Fayette county erected, in 1795. Mr. Springer was a man of more than ordinary energy and business capacity. Charles Brown purchased the Dennis Springer tract, and about 1806 erected a new frame residence a little nearer the National road than the original Dennis Springer house. He sold to Green- berry Crossland, who made this his home for about forty years. Mr. Crossland came to Uniontown in 1823, and engaged in the butchering business for several years, and later became an extensive cattle drover, by which he amassed a considerable fortune which he invested in real estate. His son, Greenberry, Jr., inherited this estate and erected a fine modern brick residence immediately in front of the old house, upon the completion of which, in 1900, he tore away the old home. Frank Crossland built a frame residence on the south side of the pike. Billy Rankin purchased this and made it his home. The McFarland Planing Mill company erected some small houses, seven in number, on the south side of East Main street, im- mediately west of the bridge at the eastern limit of the borough, which have been occupied by various tenants. William A. Mc- Dowell became possessed of these houses, and they are still held by his heirs. On the night of November 30, 1903, a fire broke out in one of these houses, in which Mrs. Lydia Reckard lived, which History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 311 entirely destroyed the house, and Mrs. Reckard was burned to death. This is the first fatality of the kind in the history of the town. Dr. R. P. McClellan built a comfortable two-story frame dwelling just west of the McDowell row, for a home for his father, who occupied it until his death, after which his widow continued to occupy it. William E. Chick built a fine two-story brick resi- dence immediately east of the junction of East Fayette with East Main street and occupied it for some time. John Todd bought this property and improved it and lived here for some time. McClel- land Leonard succeeded Todd in the ownership of this property and still occupies it. Frank Dey owned and William T. Beggs oc- cupied the first frame house west of the mouth of East Fayette street. John Mossburg built and occupied the second frame house west of the mouth of East Fayette street. Cato Webster, one of the old-time darkies of the town, owned and occupied a one-story plank house with no floor, and his faithful wife, Hannah, did washing and gathered herbs for sale. John Dutton built the one-story frame now standing on this lot, and made it his home until his death. It is now owned by Armor S. Craig and now occupied by an automobile garage. Joseph Wares was one of the best-known darkies of the town in his day. Fie was born a slave, and his freedom papers record that Solomon Parson, of Randolph county, Va., doth hereby manu- mit and set at liberty his negro man, Joseph Wares, about 33 years of age, dated September 'il, 1830. Joe bought a small lot and lived next west to Cato Webster in a log house, where he made his home from 183(), till the time of his death. Joe was an indus- trious and law-abiding man, his principal occupation was making and carrying mortar, and he was the favorite bell-ringer of the town to announce all the public sales, which he did in a sonorous voice, which attracted attention. His importance in his neighborhood acquired for him the sobriquet of Governor of Hayti, by which he was generally known. Henry Cunningham bought this property and tore away the Wares' log house and erected a two-story plank house and occupied it. Mrs. Jane Tompkins was a later occupant. Joseph Jackson owned and occupied a two-story plank house west of Joe Wares, and is still standing. Mrs. Isaac Skinner was a later tenant. It is now the property of R. D. Warman. Jemima Hall, a well-known colored woman, owned and occu- pied a small two-story frame house and died here. It was later 213 . History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. occupied by Tom Maple, and owned by McClelland Leonard. The building was removed to the rear of the lot. Alonzo Beckett built a two-story brick garage in 1911 next west of the Jemima Hall lot. He also built a modern frame residence opposite Baker alley in 1905, and sold it to Charles W. Hart, who, after occupying it a while, sold it to Peter Jacoby. Jacob Gallagher owned a one-story white frame next west of the Beckett house, and George Skinner was a tenant here for many years. An Italian family occupied it later. James Jordan, a son- in-law of Boggus Johnson, built, occupied and died in a small frame next west. Tommy Gilbert, Avho married a daughter of Jane Cran- shaw, lived in a one-story frame, now owned by George Black, who married Jane Cranshaw. Nancy and Mary Macahan, two maiden sisters, well-known in the town as confectioners, lived in a small frame, and were burned out. The lot is now occupied by a small frame, owned by George or Noah Thomas. Henry Offitt, a respectable colored confectioner of the town, owned property and was a resident of Hayti. Mrs. Mary Ryan built and occupied a frame residence on the south side of East Main street, east of Grant street. George Mc- Clure, son of Wellington McClure, owned and occupied until his death, a neat frame west of Mrs. Ryan, which his widow later occupied. The congregation of the Mount Rose church erected a frame meeting-house next west of the above, and here worshiped until they built a much more pretentious one on Grant street. John Bolen built a frame two-story residence on the southeast corner of Grant and East Main streets. He was a son-in-law of Boggus Johnson, and lived here for some time. Simon Johnson bought this property and lived here until his death. Sophia and Elias Miller bought this property and made it their home. Ed. Butler built a two-story frame store room and residence on the southwest corner of Grant and East Main streets, and occu- pied it as a residence and grocery store. James Graham, son-in- law of Stephen Becket, built a frame residence next west of the Butler house, and lived there, and sold it to Henry O. Francis, who made it his home. The borough bought a lot from James A. Williams and in 1907, erected thereon a two-story buff brick building for the use of the Union Hose company. James A. Williams built a fine, two-story buff brick residence in 1903, which he continues to occupy. Next History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 213 west of this he erected a frame residence in 1880, which he occu- pied until he built the brick, when he sold to David R. Trader. Charles H. Livingstone built a frame store room and dwelling in 1880, and lived and carried on the grocery business here until his death, October 38, 1897. Mrs. Sarah A. Keenan bought this prop- erty, and continued the grocery business. Adolph Shipley built the frame next west of the Livingstone property and here lived for several years. He sold to his brother, Milford, who also occupied it for several years. It later came into the ownership of William Rankin. Daniel P. Gibson built a two-story frame tenement next east of the old brick, about 1900, which has been occupied by various tenants. Joshua Hart erected the large brick building east of Stewart avenue, and advertised, June 7, 1817, that he had lately opened a house of public entertainment at the sign of the " Unicorn," at the east end of Main street, and in 18"?0, he announced that he had opened a commission store at the same place. He taught in the old Union academy for a while. He and Sol. G. Krepps and Col. Sam. Evans were candidates for assembly in the fall of 1827. Harry Gilbert kept a house of public entertainment in this building in 1836, and he was succeeded by Mathias Frey in the same business. Rev. Geo. Brown kept a boarding house here and boarded students attending Madison college. A Mr. Brimmer, a mail con- tractor on the National road, occupied this house for a while, as did John Bryan, C. E. Swearingen, Redding Bunting, F. B. Titlow, John Allen Messmore, C. PL Livingston and many others. Hon. John Dawson owned this property for many years. It now be- longs to the heirs of Daniel P. Gibson. A brick house stood next west of the large brick just described, which was built by Levi Downer and occupied by various tenants. Stephen Becket bought this from Isaac Skiles and tore away the old brick and erected the present two-story frame dwelling and store room, and his widow occupies the dwelling, and George H. Miller moved into the store room in 1898, and conducted a grocery here until his death, and he was succeeded in the business bv his son, Clyde B. Miller, who continued the business here until 1913. On the west side of Stewart avenue stood a small brick build- ing with frame kitchen. This stood on the western limit of the Jesse Beeson addition to the town. \Villiam Reheard, who mar- ried Nancy Boyle, daughter of James Boyle, was at one time an 314 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. occupant of this house. Jane Jones and her daughter, Eliza, and son, Stogdon, owned and occupied this property for many years. They sold to Clyde B. Miller, who tore the old building away in 1913. An alley ran along the west side of this small brick house, and after the opening of Stewart avenue, Isaac Messmore erected a two-story frame business room on this alley, and it was occupied as a drug store by Guyton Brothers. It is now occupied by Clyde B. Miller with a grocery store. Isaac Messmore erected a one-story frame next west of the drug store, which was used as a meat market by Ed. S. Guyton and others. Next west is a small frame shoe shop. James Boyle owned and occupied a log house west of the alley mentioned for many years, and after his death, his widow and daughter continued to occupy it. Mr. Boyle came from Cumber- land and settled in Uniontown in 1800. His wife, Margaret, was the daughter of Robert Sturgeon, proprietor of a tract of land on Redstone creek, four miles north of Uniontown, on which was a flouring mill. James Crawford and family occupied this property for several years. Andrew J. Bower erected a two-story frame residence on this lot in 1888. Being a barber by trade, he carried on that business here for several years. John Nara purchased this property, tore away the old building and in 1913 erected on its site a three-story brick building containing a store room and flats above. Mrs. Mary Crabb purchased a part of the old Boyle residence and converted it into a dwelling and business room in which she kept a small confectionery. William Merriman purchased what was known as lots Nos. 8, 9 and 10 in Henry's Addition, east of Redstone creek. These lots extended from the alley just west of the mouth of Willson avenue eastward 21'7y2 feet. On this he kept a tavern known as " Merri- man's Hive." He was in business here in 1802 under his first license. His place of business was a log house and his career was short. He was succeeded here l)y Hannah Sands in the tavern busi- ness. Of her family were Mariah, who married Benj. Miller, Arabella, Jane, Pinkney and Ellen. Mrs. Sands died here. The daughters went west. William Doran purchased this property and lived here from 1854 until 1873. Robert McDowell purchased this property and tore away the old buildings and erected two dwellings and a store room. Mr. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 215 McDowell and family occupied the first and James R. Barnes, James R. Doran and others occupied the second. Frank M. Semans occupied the one-story store room with a grocery store for some years, as did John H. Fazenbaker, John ^V. Hinebaugh, Ewing B. Marshall and James M. Arnett. Judge R. E. Umbel purchased the lot on which this store room stood, and in 1907, removed the frame to the rear and erected on its site a three- story brick building with store room on first floor and flats above. James M. Arnett, whose wife was a sister to Judge Umbel, was the first to occupy the store room with a grocery, and the flats on the second floor as a dwelling. Mrs. Emma Leonard occupied the flat on third floor. Nancy and Mary Macahan owned and occupied a small log house next west of the Umbel building, and here they kept for many years a small confectionery. Their taffy, the ingredients of which they kept a profound secret, has never been equaled in the history of the town. It was the custom for young folks to walk up to get some of Nancy's taffy. Andrew Beckett bought this prop- erty and built a new frame two-story business room and dwelling. Here he lived and carried on the grocery business. He sold to Thurman Frazee, who occupied it as a residence and grocery. Jacob Downer owned a frame house that was torn away upon the opening of Willson avenue into East Main street, 1906. Joseph Magie was a tenant here for some years, and he and his wife both died here. William C. Stevens, the well-remembered court crier, lived here several years. John Messmore was an occupant here for several years. George Chick lived here from 1867 to 1871, then moved to the Rev. John Morgan house, where he lived until 1884, a period of 13 years, where he died. His son, Oliver G. Chick, was the owner of the property when it was torn away. Granny Jones owned and occupied a small frame house next west of the mouth of Willson avenue and east of a narrow alley. Samuel Harah purchased this property from Harry Millhouse in 1839, for which he was to deliver to said Millhouse nine dozen fur hats as per sample shown. John R. Altman bought this lot and tore away the old house and erected a neat frame dwelling, which he occupied until the death of his wife. The alley has been closed since the opening of Willson avenue. Dr. Thomas M. Waldron, veterinary surgeon, removed the Altman house to a rear lot and erected a modern brick residence, 316 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. occupying the Altman lot and the narrow alley, and made this his home. A frame dwelling stood next west, which was occupied for several years by Eli Curry and was owned by Samuel Magee, who purchased this property and improved it and made it his home until his death, August 17, 1897. His family still possess it. Margaret Allen purchased more than an acre of land on the south side of East Main street, November 3, 1789, on which she kept a tavern in a log house that stood on a high bluff. Her tavern was known as " The Pinnacle," on account of its high location. " Granny" Allen was licensed at June sessions, 1788, and continued tavern keeping until her death in 1810, at the age of 91 years. Harry Jack owned and occupied this old building for several years. His wife was a sister to James Piper, Esq. He was a stone-cutter by trade and also erected tombstones. Patrick McNarney was a tenant of this old log house for some years. He was well known about the town. William Shipley erected a double frame house on this elevated ground and lived here until his death. C. P. Dunaway, a member of the Fayette county bar, built a frame residence next to the Shipley house and occupied it for several years. William G. Guiler, also a member of the bar, succeeded Mr. Dunaway in the occupancy of this house. William Shipley built also the frame dwelHng since occupied by John Diflenderiifer. Joseph Nara built a frame dwell- ing, which was occupied for some time by Amadee M. Litman, and he also built a frame dwelling and store room on the corner of East Main and Shady Lane, which he occupied as a residence and fruit and confectionery stand. What is now Shady Lane was at one time a private lane leading to what is now the late home of Senator A. D. Boyd. Daniel Kaine, Esq., erected for himself a residence at the head of this lane, but just before its completion, it was destroyed by an incendiary fire and was rebuilt a cottage instead of two stories, as formerly. This desirable property subsequently became the home of Dr. Cox, president of Madison college, Isaac Skiles, Jr., Samuel Smith and others. Senator Boyd purchased this property and laid off Shady Lane, which has been built up with most desirable residences. An old couple, known as Dad and Mam Whitesides, raised two girls named respectively Hannah and Peggy. Hannah became the wife of Joseph Collins and Peggy became the wife of Capt. Thomas Collins. These old folks lived in a small log house which stood just west of the mouth of Shady Lane in which, many years after, old Mrs. Davis lived. CHAPTER X. Cheat or Morgantown Street, East Side, Comprising Lots Nob. 1 to 20, Inclusive, in Henry's Addition. Before Fayette county was erected there was a road leading from the Kiskennity Salt Works in Westmoreland county through Uniontown to Grassy Ford on Cheat river, and the middle of that road from Main street southward formed a part of the dividing line between the original tracts of Henry and Jacob Beeson. At the first session of the Courts of Fayette county, held in December, 1783, a petition was presented asking that a public road be laid out from the Town of Union to Grassy Ford on Cheat river. From the fact that this road led to Cheat river gave rise to the name of Cheat street to that part of the road lying within the limits of Uniontown, and from the fact that it led to Morgantown it also acquired the name of Morgantown street. In some deeds it is also referred to as Market street, perhaps from the fact that the first market of the town was established on that street. This street began at Elbow or Main street and ran south 28% degrees west 305 perches, the divid- ing line between the two patented tracts of Henry and Jacob Beeson ran up the middle of this street. On the east side of Cheat or Morgantown street where it enters Main street, on what is now known as the Tremont Building corner, stood a two-story frame building facing Cheat street, running up said street fifty feet affording two business rooms, the one nearest Main street being small and was used principally as tailor shops. Morgan A. and Daniel Miller announced that they had commenced the tailoring busi- ness in this room, corner of Elbow and Cheat streets, May 24, 1817. They were succeeded in the same business by Joseph Peach, John L. Means, John McCuen, Daniel M. Springer and Absolem Guiler and perhaps others. John L. Means had his own peculiar way of advertising, and being quite a versifier he announced his business as follows : 217 318 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. " Then you who wish your clothes made right, Just call and give him notice, And you shall have them loose or tight, As any tailor's coat is; But when you call, oh, do with care. Bring cash or something equal. And how in that event you'll fare. Stands written in the sequel." The room next south of the foregoing was some larger and was at one time occupied by John Strayer with a saddle and harness shop. John W. Barr, well known in business elsewhere, kept a confectionery here, as did John Endsley with a con- fectionery and oyster ,saloon. James Ebert succeeded Endsley from 1849 to '52 in the same line of business. These old build- ings were torn away by Peter H. Hellen in 1853 preparatory to the erection of the present Tremont Building. In addition to the Main store room facing Main street the Tremont Building had two business rooms on Morgantown street. The one next to Main street was small, and John T. Hogg was its first occu- pant with his private banking house. Mr. Hogg had also bank- ing houses in Bedford, Somerset, Mount Pleasant, Connellsville, Brownsville and New Brighton. William Wilson, the well re- membered bank cashier, had charge of Mr. Hogg's business at this bank until 1858. Upon the organization of the Bank of Fayette county in that year, Mr. Wilson was chosen cashier of that institution and James T. Redburn was chosen to fill the va- cancy. This soon became the banking house of Isaac Skiles, Jr., and in 1863, he became one of the incorporators of the First Na- tional Bank of Uniontown, and on May 3, 1864, the business of the bank was opened in a room on Main street. P. M. Hochheimer succeeded in this room with a millinery store which he conducted for some years, and he was succeeded in the same line of business in 1873, by, then, Miss Donna M. Paine, now Mrs. W. H. Myers, who has occupied this room from the above date. The southern business room of this building was first used as the grocery department of Mr. Hellen's store, but was later occupied by various tenants. A German by the name of Seitz kept a lager beer saloon in this room for a while. It is said he History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 319 introduced lager beer into the town, and that one keg would last a week. Max Baum came to Uniontown in 1866, and first opened a clothing store in this room, but in the following year he moved to the old Benjamin Hellen store room on Main street. Samuel Clark carried on the harness business in this room for a few years. Charles Elliott carried on a tobacco store here in 1880. The Adams Express company occupied this room as an office for several years, and they were succeeded by Joseph Wood with a fruit stand, for which purpose it is still used. Over the small banking room in this building, on the second floor the following artists conducted daguerrean and ambrotype galleries ; Austin Lane, G. Adams, F. A. Simonds, Mr. Pur- viance, William K. Cooper and others. O. L. Williams taught writing school here in 1856. The room has been used as a barber shop much of the time since. The room over the main store room has been used most of the time as a billiard hall. The third floor of the Tremont Building was originally intended as a public hall in which many entertainments were held, and here many of the public school " exhibitions " and small shows were given for the entertain- ment of the public. Here Blyth's " Great Panorama of the Allegheny Mountains " was exhibited on the nights of February "Mth and 25th, 1854, to crowded houses. A full history of this panorama is given elsewhere. Amzi S. Fuller and E. B. Wood, in the summer of 1861, secured a contract for manufacturing artillery harness for the government, and carried on their work in the third story of this building. They employed about 30 men, and by the following April they had turned out $10,000 worth of work. Several persons have conducted oyster saloons and billiard halls here. The Salvation Army first occupied this third story on locating in Uniontown and continued here until the comple- tion of their new citadel on Church street, 1905. Hon. Andrew Stewart erected a block of two-story brick houses on Morgantown street beginning at what is now known as the Tremont Building and extending to South street. This was always known as " Stewart's Row " and contained seven different apartments and were numbered from the present Tre- mont Building toward South street. The occupants of No. 1 in Stewart's Row were as follows: John and Ewing Brownfield 320 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. embarked in the mercantile business in 1830, and were the first occupants of this room after its completion. This partnership was dissolved in 1832, John withdrawing and Ewing continued the business until 1836, at which time he went west and settled at Mishawaka, Indiana, but in 1837 he returned and re-entered business on Main street. T. S. Battell succeeded the Brownfields in this room, and he was in turn succeeded by P. H. & B. F. Hellen in 1836, and this firm was dissolved November 13, 1845, and the firm became P. H. Hellen and William A. West in 1846, but West withdrew November 11, 1847, and Hellen continued alone until he finished the Tremont building into which he moved his store. C. E. Swearingen succeeded Hellen in this room, moving his stock from the James Gibson room on Main street. While here Mr. Swearingen associated with him William A. West as a partner, and in 1860 the place was known as the Farmers' Exchange, and on March 21, 1867, it was announced that Swearingen & Co. had sold out to T. Brent Swearingen, a brother to C. E. and that he would continue at the old stand. John C. Johnson was located here with a grocery in 1878, with J. Squire Hagans as clerk, after which came Keener and Gadd, George F. Brown, Moser and Moser, E. L. Hibbs, and J. G. Rider with a meat market. Room No. 2 in Stewart's Row was occupied as a residence for a short time by Hon. Andrew Stewart while he erected the large brick residence just east of the court house, later known as the Clinton House, into which he removed upon its comple- tion. C. E. Swearingen, Mr. Stewart's son-in-law, occupied this as a residence while in the mercantile business. Dr. E. W. Power occupied this as a residence and where he carried on business as a dentist. Dr. Cortland King also occupied this as a dental office while John Fetter occupied the rear as a residence. Dr. J. B. Ewing occupied this as a residence and physician's office for some years, and he was succeeded by Armor S. Craig as a residence. No. 3 Stewart's Row was occupied at one time by Jackson Harry as a tinner and coppersmith. He started to Pittsburgh with considerable money to buy stock for his business in com- pany with two of his " friends." He fell from the boat below Brownsville and was drowned, but when the body was recovered there was no money found upon it. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 221 Theophilus Bowie and Joseph Wiley announced that they continued to carry on the tinning and coppersmith business here in 1838. Mr. Wiley withdrew from the firm and located in " Whitewash " corner, and Mr. Bowie announced March 22, 1842, that he had resumed business at his old stand on Morgan- town street, and makes a new beginning. His immense sign with his name and a large copper kettle painted thereon, was a familiar figure here for many years. In 1852, Mr. Bowie em- barked in the foundry business at New Geneva at the well- known foundry of J. P. Shealor, where he manufactured all kinds of castings. Mr. Bowie was unfortunate in this venture, as a flood destroyed the foundry and swept all his wares and materials into the river from which nothing was ever recovered. He next located on Main street where he continued to carry on his business until the property was destroyed by fire, April 8, 1878, after which he continued in a small way on Morgan- town street, in connection with his grocery store, and finally at the rear of his residence on Union street. No. 4 Stewart's Row — James A. Yerk announced that he continued to carry on his business as a copper and tinsmith at No. 4 Stewart's Row, near the market house, and one door north of the office of the Pennsylvania Democrat, and that two or three apprentices were wanted to learn the trade, and that bo3^s from the country were preferred, April 10, 1832, Mr. Yerk had occupied a room on the opposite side of the street before locating here. He erected a two-story brick residence on the corner of Church street and Jackson alley in which he lived. John Heitz, a clock and watch maker commenced business here April 1, 1843, and he had many valuable watches in his estab- lishment for repairs, among which was a very valuable watch belonging to Mr. L. W. Stockton, manager of the National Stage Coach line. On the night of September 25, 1843, Heitz's establishment was robbed and the watches left for repairs were stolen. Heitz shed many tears as he related his misfortune and offered $100 as a reward for the apprehension of the thief and the recovery of the watches, or $50 for the recovery of the watches. Many of these watches were recovered, having been found wrapped in greasy rags and buried near Hatfield's school house, about one mile south of town. J. Clark Beeson carried on the furniture business here for a while as did John C. Wood. No. 5 Stewart's Row consisted of a hallway leading to the 323 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. second story, and, it appears, upon completion of this building the office of the Pennsylvania Democrat, which had been founded by Jacob B. Miller, July 25, 1827, was moved, into the room over No. 4 where it remained many years under different owner- ships and changes of names. While located her^ it was under the ownership of Samuel McDonald from 1834 to 1844, and of John Foster from 1844 to 1846, when John F. Beazell was admit- ted to partnership, and soon Foster retired and Beazell continued until 1866. The name of the paper was changed while in this location, November 18, 1854, by Mr. Beazell to that of The American Standard, which name it retained until March 21, 1879. Upon Jacob B. Miller acquiring the Bryan building on West Main street, the office of The American Standard was removed to the second floor of that building, after having been located in Stewart's Row for about twenty-two years. No. 6 Stewart's Row — Dr. H. F. Roberts located here in 1841, and had his office in this room for several years. He was a native of Allegheny county, and was the son of Judge Samuel Roberts who at one time presided over the Fayette County courts. Dr. F. C. Robinson came to Uniontown in 1841, and commenced the study of medicine with Dr. Roberts in this room and in 1851, he commenced the practice of his profession in this same room, where he remained for several years, till April 1, 1859. Jesse B. Gardner and Oliver P. Wells opened an eating house and billiard hall in this room in 1863, and they were suc- ceeded in the same business by Amos M. JoUiffe in 1867. Dr. J. B. Phythian was located in No. 7 Stewart's Row in 1830, and had his residence on West Main street. A more ex- tended notice of him is given elsewhere. While here he an- nounced that he kept vaccine matter for sale, and that the President of the United States had appointed James Smith of Baltimore agent for vaccination, who is prepared to furnish genuine vaccine matter by post, and that application must be made by post, accompanied with the requisite fee of five dollars in the current bank paper of any of the middle states. Direc- tions for its use will be furnished. All letters on this subject, not exceeding half an ounce, free of postage in accordance with a late act of Congress entitled " An act to encourage vaccina- tion." Signed James Smith, U. S. agent for vaccination. Samuel Harris opened a cap store in this room in 1842. He was a small and energetic man, and was said to be a Jew History of Uniontoum, Pennsylvania. 223 and the first of that race to locate in Uniontown. He had been located on West Main street in 1836, and subsequent to his being in Stewart's Row he was located in Commercial Row on East Main street. His advertisements were spicy and unique as the following will show : " New caps, new caps, by Samuel Harris, Of fashions just received from Paris, And every size that you can mention, To which he now would call attention, The price will suit — yes nothing shorter, His caps will screen your heads from water. Then if you please, just bring your cash on, And you shall have the latest fashion. His shop you know is in Stewart's Row." Mr. Harris was succeeded here by Peter and James Heck who carried on the tailoring business for some time. Several other tenants followed in this room. In the year 1794, Western Pennsylvania was agitated by what was known as the Whisky Insurrection. Incendiary meet- ings were held, and armed bodies of men met at different locali- ties to intimidate those who were disposed to comply with the excise law, and to deter those officers who were appointed to collect the revenue on distilled liquors. Between the middle of July and the last of August the excitement had reached its high- est point, when Captain Robert Ross, an early settler of what is now Nicholson township, and who had served in the Revolution- ary war under General Anthony Wayne, and in campaigns in Ohio and Indiana against the Indians, at the head of between 100 and 150 men, marched to Uniontown and erected a liberty pole in defiance of the government. This pole was raised on this lot. No. 33, near the corner of Morgantown and South streets, later known as the market house lot, and still later known as the triangular lot in front of Stewart's Row. Capt. Ross next marched to the farm of Thomas Gaddis, who had also served in an expedition against the Indians under Col. William Craw- ford, about two miles south of town, where they erected another pole. General Ephraim Douglass, who had also served in the Revolutionary war, and a man who never knew fear, cut both of these poles down in defiance of " Tom the Tinker," as the op- posers of the excise law styled themselves. 234 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. A frame market house, about 35 by 50 feet in size, was erected on this triangular piece of ground, then belonging to Captain Thomas Collins, on which the "Whisky Boys " had but two years before, erected a pole in honor of " Tom the Tinker." This market house was used by the various butchers of the town until a new one was constructed on the public grounds donated by Jacob Beeson, the founder of the western part of the town. This old building was sold to Thomas King, who removed it to Peter street and there used it as a blacksmith shop for many years. The Madison fire-engine was purchased in 1841, and a small frame house was built for its protection on this lot near the market house. Hon. Andrew Stewart notified the borough au- thorities to remove their buildings, and the first was disposed of as related and the second was sold to Mr. Isaac Beeson, who removed it to Fayette street near Redstone creek, where it sub- sequently became the property and home of Dicky Paine and Prissie, his wife. A Mr. Hare of Greensburg and a photographer by occupa- tion, erected a one-story frame photograph gallery on this tri- angle in the 60's, and being a good photographer, he did a good business in his line. His brother, Thomas Hare, soon came out and purchased the gallery and continued the business. He soon associated with him R. Hunter Newlon, and the firm became Newlon and Hare, and in 1866, Mr. Newlon sold his interest to E. A. Lingo and the firm became Hare and Lingo. A fire de- stroyed the old frame building, corner of West Main and Arch streets in March, 1868, and Hare and Lingo purchased the lot and erected thereon a two-story frame photograph gallery and business room, and upon its completion they vacated the old building on this lot. It was subsequently and for several years used as a marble cutter's shop by R. P. Thistlethwaite and others. Lewis M. Dawson purchased the Stewart Row from Mrs. Elizabeth Stewart, widow of Hon. Andrew Stewart, and tore away the southern end and erected a two-story brick business block which extended out to Morgantown street, and in 1886 he built a one-story extension in front of the remainder except in front of No. 1. Among the tenants in the new Dawson block may be mentioned the following: Armor S. Craig, groceries; John N. Dawson, groceries ; Pittsburgh Five and Ten Cent store, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. !<}25 notions and toys; Mrs. Anna Collier, millinery; Mrs. Rebecca Smith, millinery ; Samuel Morris, groceries ; Baker and Company, dry goods; George Roth, clothing; S. Brooke, groceries; Scott and Hutchinson, groceries; Moser and Moser, groceries and meat; Pergy D. Hagan, groceries, and many others. Jacob Knapp purchased from Henry Beeson a lot contain- ing 157 perches on the south side of South street and running to a point on Morgantown street, May 30, 1795. On this he built a two-story log house, and it is evident from the construction of it that it was intended as a brewery, and as Peter Knapp, most likely a brother, purchased lot No. 1 in Jacob's Addition, where the Thompson-Ruby building now stands, and it is certain the latter carried on a brewery there, it is altogether probable that the two were in some manner connected in business. Jacob Knapp's executor conveyed this property to James Gregg, the proprietor of the old Gregg tavern, and he transferred it to Ann Murphy, his wife's mother, who occupied it at the time of her death, 1814, and by her will it descended to her daughter, Nacca Gregg. Mrs. Ann Murphy came from near Baltimore, bringing some slaves with her, settled on a farm one mile west of town prior to 1785. She was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal church to which she contributed generously of her means, and she made her home the stopping place of the traveling mini"?- ters of that denomination. Her son, Jacob Murphy, married a daughter of Colonel Isaac Meason, the wealthy proprietor of the Mount Braddock farm, and settled on a farm near what is now Mount Braddock station. Her daughter, Ann, married Samuel Stevens, and they were the parents of Priscilla, who became the wife of John M. Austin, a prominent member of the Fayette county bar. Sallie married a Mr. Banning and moved to Ohio. Rachel married Rev. Roberts a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church and also moved to Ohio. Nacca, the youngest, married James Gregg, the well- known tavern keeper of East Main street. Mrs. Murphy, known as Mother Murphy, died September 10, 1814, aged 83 years and was buried in the old Methodist graveyard on Peter street. Nacca Gregg conveyed this property to Abner Greenland, July 15, 1819. Mr. Greenland had previously operated a pottery on Morgantown street next above Foundry street. After locat- 226 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ing on this lot he conducted a pottery until his death, April 24, 1830, in the 47th year of his age. He was prominent in the busi- ness enterprises of the town and was a man of considerable influence. He was a splendid scribe and a good bookkeeper, and was frequently employed in posting books and clerking at public sales. He was a candidate for the legislature in 1829. His son. Nerval, continued the pottery business on this property for many years until the business became unprofitable. Norval Greenland tore away the old log building, and in con- junction with Daniel Jackson, built the three-story business blor.k which they named " The Commercial Block," in 1889, and in 19t;0> they conveyed it to Dr. J. W. Jaco. At the celebration of Uniontown's centennial as a corpora- tion, held July 3-4, 1896, there was unveiled a handsome drink- ing fountain on Morgantown street at the intersection of Church and South streets. The fountain was a gift from the ladies of the Women's Christian Temperance Unions and the " Y's " of Fayette county. Addresses were made by Mrs. E. D. C. Mair of Pittsburgh and Miss Puella Hornblazer of Clintondale, Pa. The presentation speech was made by Mrs. Harry F. Detwiler and the gift was received in the name of the citizens by Josiah V. Thompson, president of the town council. John Collins purchased from Henry Beeson, May 20, 1795, two acres and 84 perches of land fronting on the east side of Cheat or Morgantown street, extending from what is now the north side of Church street to what is now known as Play- ford's alley. Mr. Beeson reserving the right of way of the old millrace which passed within the northern line of this lot. Mr. Collins is referred to elsewhere as being the proprietor of what was believed to be the first tavern or house of public enter- tainment in the town. He owned other real estate besides this. The frontage of this lot on Cheat street was 338.5 feet, and was purchased for 12 pounds, Pennsylvania money, equal to $32.00. John Collins' house stood on the northwest corner of this lot on what is now the mouth of Church street. It was a good sized frame building, with two rooms in front. The kitchen stood back and was connected to the front by a covered porch, and an orchard stood in the rear of the house, where the Second Presbyterian church now stands. Dr. Adam S. Simonson, elsewhere mentioned, at one time occupied this house as an office and residence, and during his History of Unioittozvn, Pennsylvania. • 237 occupancy here he had three students of medicine at one time at his home, and it is related that one night a skeleton was placed in the bed of one of the students and the other two went to bed and anxiously awaited the results of their practical joke. The belated student jumped into his bed without noticing his strange bedfellow, but soon found what had been done. He gave the bones a shove to the far side of the bed, saying, " Lay over, Dry Bones," and soon fell into a sound slumber. Dr. Benjamin Stevens succeeded Dr. Simonson in the occupancy of this property. John Collins willed this to his son James who conveyed seventy-two and a half feet frontage to Dr. Caleb Dorsey of Morgantown, who conveyed it to Reuben and Ellis Baily who conveyed it to Isaac Wood. Mr. Wood conveyed 40 feet of the northern part of this lot to the borough for the purpose of opening out Market or Church street, and erected on the southern part a brick store room and residence. John, Isaac and Clement Wood, three brothers, came over from England. Clement settled near Philadelphia. Isaac's family consisted of Isaac, Clement, Josiah, Comley, Betty, who married John Lewis, a saddler and the father of the late Marshal N. Lewis, and Rebecca who married Thomas Wathen. Comley lived in the building still standing on the corner of Church and Morgantown streets. He was a saddler by trade. Josiah Wood was a tanner and married Hannah Hopwood. They were the parents of Julia, Priscilla, who married James N. Mackey ; Melvina, who married Daniel Duer; Elizabeth, who married Andrew Keys; Mary Ann, who married Robert Hagan ; Sarah, who married a Mr. Rhodes ; and John C. a furniture manu- facturer. This corner room has been occupied by many tenants since its erection. John Sowers was located here with a grocery store and also occupied the adjoining residence. He was at that time one of the substantial business men of the town. His wife was a daughter of Isaac Meason, Jr., of the Mount Brad- dock farm. He was succeeded here by Jacob F. Brant in the same line of business, and Brant was succeeded by C. A. Shel- cutt in 1844. In 1845 Samuel S. Austin was located here with his law office. After Austin's occupancy John F. Teed located here with a restaurant and confectionery and remained for several years. Later tenants were Clement Wood, Allen Bowie, 338 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Crawford Rose, A. W. Black, John C. Brown, Mrs. Hochheimer and E. W. Trader. The latter conducted the grocery business in this room for eighteen years. Many tenants have occupied the residence part of this prop- erty. Isaac Wood, the builder and owner, died here in 1873. Jacob B. Adams purchased the residence part of this property from Mrs., Frank Jones, a daughter of Isaac Wood and erected the fine three-story building known as the Adams building which was completed in June, 1904. This building has been used principally as a stationery store with living rooms above. John Hibbon, a hatter by trade, purchased the lot next south of the Isaac Wood lot from Thomas Collins on which was a log house then in the occupancy of Andrew Collins. This property extended from what is now the Adams Building to the Teed House. Into this log building Mr. Hibbon moved his hat shop as early as 1812, after having been in business on West Main street since 1808. Mr. Hibbon fitted up one room for his dye kettles and another for finishing, and lived in a frame house next south. He was a consistent and devout Methodist, and his house was always a home for Methodist preachers, to which they always found a hearty welcome. About 1830 Mr. Hibbon moved to a farm about four miles west of town subsequently known as the Balsinger Plains. He later moved to Ohio and died at Hills- boro, November 8, 1853, at about 70 years of age. L. W. Stockton purchased what is now known as the A. I. Ellis and the Wallace Miller properties in 1836, and converted part of the former into a store room and occupied it as a general store, principally for the supply of his workmen and stage drivers. At various times in this store were employed as clerks Isaac and Jacob Moreland, George Martin, Andrew Byers, Robert L. Barry, John Kefifer and others. This was known as the National Road Stage Company's store, and did a good busi- ness. Mr. Stockton associated Andrew Byers with him January 6, 1836, under the name of Stockton and Byers. After a few years Byers withdrew and John Kefifer became associated with Stockton as Stockton and Kefifer. Later the firm became Kefifer and Company, and finally John Kef¥er alone in the forties. Mr. Kefifer closed out his business in 1853, and William Hill- ing succeeded for a few years with a feed store. Andrew Pren- tice opened a new grocery and provision store in this room, January 1, 1856, and conducted his business here for 13 years. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 229 when he moved to East Main street, where he continued in busi- ness for 7 years. John Keffer and family owned and occupied the residence part of this property from April 1, 1846 to 1886. A. Inghram Ellis purchased this Kefifer property and has since occupied it as a residence and business room for the sale of sew- ing machines and musical instruments. John' Kefifer, the son of Christian Kefifer, was a quiet, un- assuming man, a good penman and a splendid bookkeeper. He succeeded Col. McClean as Register of Deeds and Recorder of Wills and Clerk of the Orphan's Court, which position he held for two years, having been a former clerk in these ofiiices at the time of Col. McClean's death. John Hibben erected the large, two-story brick building later known as the John H. Deford property and rented it to different parties while he occupied a frame building on the northern part of this lot. L. W. Stockton purchased this prop- erty in 1836, and for a while it was used as a finishing shop for stage-coaches and the manufacturing of harness. He sub- sequently fitted it up as a residence for his second wife's mother, Mrs. Stockton, and her daughter, Katharine, who subsequently married Samuel S. Austin, Esq. Mr. Stockton built an addition to this property on the north for an oiifice and occupied it as manager of the National Road Stage Company. This ofifice was subsequently occupied by Dr. F. C. Robinson and others. John H. Deford, Esq., purchased this property November 26, 1847, and occupied it as a residence, and died here in 1856, at the age of 58 years. His widow subsequently married Dr. James Brownfield. John H. Deford's first wife was Miss Biddle of Philadelphia, a cousin to Charles Biddle. She came here to teach school and married Mr. Deford. His second wife was a full cousin, a daughter of John Deford of Hopwood. Their fathers were brothers and their mothers were sisters. They had three daughters and four sons, viz. : John W., Henry, Daniel and James who all went west and became prosperous. A. M. Gibson purchased the Genius of Liberty printing of- fice in 1868 and moved the equipments of the ofifice to this prop- erty, and for the first time, in the long history of that ofifice the machinery was operated by steam power. In 1872 Mrs. Daniel F. Cooper purchased this property and here resided until 1888, ivhen it was sold to Andrew Prentice who conveyed it to the family of William K. Cooper in 1890, and here several of the 330 History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. family resided until 1903, when they conveyed it to Wallace Miller who remodeled it ; making a three-story business block of four business rooms on first floor and flats above. John Vankirk bought the. lot on which the New Teed House now stands and built a small frame dwelling, one room and hall down and one room up, on the northwest corner of the lot. Aunty Cox and Fuel, her husband, lived here. Fuel was a chair maker by trade and worked for Mr. Vankirk, and Aunty was a tailoress and made clothing for old Richard Barry and for George W. Rutter when they were in the clothing business. Jacob F. Brant purchased this property in 1843, and lived in the small frame and carried on gunsmithing in a,small frame shop on the southern side of the lot for several years. Brant built a brick dwelling on this lot, which stood back from the street a sufficient distance for the erection of rooms in front. Into this he moved, and the frame was moved to the corner of Union and Foundry streets, where it still forms a part of what was known as " the old red frame," and John Gadd was its first occupant after its removal. Brant, it appears, prospered for a while, and laid off a small addition near the east end of South street, but becoming involved, this property was sold to Eleazer Robinson, and his brother, Dr. F. C. Robinson, became a tenant here for some years. Roberts Barton occupied this little gun shop for a while with a feed and flour store ; where he sold the product of his mill on Redstone creek. Mrs. Sarah Teed purchased this property in 1870, and im- proved it by adding a two-story brick front and here conducted a boarding house until March 36, 1903, when it was nearly de- stroyed by fire. She then erected the present building, which she named the " New Teed House," and here continued to conduct a house of entertainment until her death, March 18, 1907, since which time the business has been continued by her son, Charles G. Teed. Zadoc Cracraft purchased the lot next south of the Teed House in 1844, and erected thereon a two-story brick residence, standing some distance back from the street. Miss Esther Jefi^ries purchased this property March 31, 18.53, and erected a two-story brick front to it, and resided here until her death. She conveyed it to her niece, Mrs. Ella Brown, who on March 15, 1909, conveyed it to Charles Titus who con- verted it into business rooms and dwellings. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 331 A small double-frame house^ one and a half-stories high, once occupied the lot on which the present Methodist Episcopal church stands and belonged to the Peter Hook estate ; and his daughter, Priscilla, whose husband was the Reverend Thomas Daughaday of the Methodist Episcopal ministry, occupied one side. After the death of Rev. Daughaday, she became the wife of Samuel Dorsey. For many years this property was owned by Frederick Byrer and was occupied by various tenants, among whom was a family by the name of Riddle who had a daughter who disappeared mysteriously. The congregation of the Methodist Episcopal church purchased this lot, and in making the excavation for the new church, human bones were found which recalled the disappearance of the Riddle girl, and the earrings found with the bones were recognized as those of the missing girl. This new house of worship was dedicated to the worship of Almighty God June 1, 1878. A small two-story red frame dwelling stood next south of the double frame before mentioned, and stood about twenty feet back from the street, with a porch running along the south side. This house was occupied for many years by various ten- nants. This was included in the sale to the Methodist Episcopal congregation, and the site is now occupied by the church. A small one-story frame building with shed roof was built on a seventeen and a half-foot lot next south of the before men- tioned lot by William T. Busser, a tobacconist, as a shop for carrying on his business. He was located here in 1845. This small building was occupied by various tenants and for different kinds of business. Mrs. Hannah Lincoln became the owner of this property and made it two-stories high and occupied it as a residence until 1899, when William H. Playford purchased the lot and removed the house to the rear and constructed a bay- window and a fine veranda on its site. Joseph P. McClelland erected the two-story brick residence now known as the Playford property, who with his mother, Becky McClelland, made this his home. He married Amanda, a daughter of Enos West and carried on a tan-yard on a lot in the rear of his residence. William H. Playford purchased this property, 1867, and greatly enlarged it and made it one of the finest residence prop- erties in the town. 232 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. James McCullock, a blacksmith and cutler, purchased from Henry Beeson, 1790, a tract of nearly nine acres, lining on the east side of Cheat or Morgantown street about 320 feet. This reached from what is now the Playford alley to the alley next south of Fayette street. Much of this tract came into the pos- session of William Lyon who laid off a plan of lots facing on Morgantown street and extending on both sides of Fayette street from Morgantown street eastward a distance of 900 feet. John Lewis purchased the lot next south of the Playford alley and erected thereon a brick residence and occupied it for some years. John Lewis was a son of Jacob Lewis who migrated from Basking Ridge, New Jersey, to Fayette county in 1796, and settled at Minor's mill, about one mile north of Uniontown, coming as a miller for John Minor, bringing his two sons. Free- man and John : Freeman at that time being 16 years of age. He became a pupil at surveying with Col. Alexander McClean, which with that of school-teaching, he followed for many years. He was a resident of Uniontown from 1829, until his. death, September 18, 1859. He made a map of Fayette county in 1832, and made connected plots of many of his surveys which were in bound form and were purchased by some of the members of the bar and are still preserved and form a valuable adjunct to the history of the county. He held the position of Deputy Sur- veyor from 1828 to 1836. He was a teacher and composer of music, and published a note-book titled " The Beauties of Harmony " in 1812, and published a revised edition of the same in 1831. He assisted materially in the compilation of data for Judge James Veech's history, " Monongahela of Old " : a very rare and interesting work. John Lewis learned the saddlery trade with John Campbell, and served his country in the war of 1812. He was the father of the late Marshal N. Lewis, Samuel Lewis, Rebecca, who married Thomas Wathen, and Phebe, who married Isaac Wood. John A. Sangston purchased this property and added the southern part to it. He was appointed to the office of sheriff of the county, October 22, 1829, for three years. He was the oldest son of James Sangston who kept a public house in Mason- town for 40 years. He was elected to fill the unexpired term of Solomon G. Krepps in the State Senate, defeating Col. Buchanan of Greene county for the nomination. After Mr. Sangston's term of office as sheriff had expired he embarked in History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 333 the mercantile business on the corner of Main and Morgan- town streets, and after conducting business a few years, he traded his stock of goods to William Snyder for a farm near Walnut Hill, and Mr. Snyder started his son, Christopher Brown Snyder, in business at Sangston's old stand. Mrs. Ann Bowie purchased this property in 1839, and it became the home of her son, Lucien B. Bowie, until 189?, when he moved to his farm in Menallen township, where he died September 13, 1907, over ninety years of age. Mr. Bowie will be remembered as one of the old-time druggists of the town, having been engaged in that business for over a half century. This property was purchased by Charles J. McCormick in 1901, and was converted into business rooms and dwelling. John Bradbury, a thrifty, well-to-do stone-cutter, purchased 100 feet frontage on Morgantown street, beginning at Fayette street and running north to the Lewis lot. On the northern part of this lot Mr. Bradbury erected a double, two-story brick dwelling, the northern part became occupied by William Swear- ingen, known as " River Bill,'' who was the father-in-law to William McCleary, and who was a merchant in the town. The southern part was occupied by Mr. Bradbury whose wife was Keziah Moore, a daughter of Joseph Moore, who was the step- father of Thomas Fenn, while he occupied the rest of the lot for carrying on his business as a stone-cutter. He ran saws by horse-power for sawing out stone, and did considerable of a business in his line. He owned much other valuable property in the town, and was highly esteemed in the community. After Mr. Bradbury's death the large stone-yard on the corner of Fayette and Morgantown streets was occupied at different times by others in the stone and marble business, for which purpose a small, one-story frame building was erected. Among those carrying on the tombstone business here may be mentioned Hagan and Cracraft, Joseph White, Sheets and Hagan, Sheets and White, Charles E. and J. Marshall and Joseph R. Marshall. Teagel Trader purchased this corner lot and erected the present two-story brick business block with dwellings on the second floor. Ernest E. Weniger purchased the whole of the original Bradbury lot which he held for several years. A business room was erected between the Bradbury residence and the Trader building which has been occupied as such since its 234 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. erection. Charles J. McCormick purchased this property, which with the Bowie property makes a frontage of 150 feet. WiUiam Whitten purchased the lot on the south side of Fayette street, having a frontage on that street of 147 feet and a frontage on Morgantown street of 100 feet, for the sum of $500. Mr. Whitten was at one time connected with Col. Wil- liam Redick in the ownership of the Genius of Liberty printing office. Blanchard's show exhibited on this lot in 1832, this being the second time this celebrated show visited the town. A two- story frame building subsequently occupied this lot which was moved up and across Morgantown street, and was used as a furniture wareroom by Wesley Phillips, and afterwards by Henry T. Diffenderfifer and others. Alfred Patterson purchased this lot about 1841 and erected the present three-story brick building and rented it to Harry Gilbert who conducted a boarding house here for several years, and Mr. Patterson, who was then unmarried, was one of his boarders. After Mr. Patterson's marriage he oc- cupied this property for a short time as a residence. He then built other residence property on Fayette street to which he moved, and this property was used for many years, and in fact, almost ever since its erection, as a boarding and lodging house. When old Madison college was in the zenith of her glory this building was usually filled with students attending that institution. Harry Gilbert's boarding house was quite popular with the students, and he was succeeded by John F. Jackson, and the house, under the management of Mrs. Jackson, lost none of its prestige as a boarding house. Mrs. Andrew Byers kept boarders here for some time, during which time her husband was employed in steam-boating on the Monongahela and the Ohio rivers. Jonathan Fisher also kept a boarding house here for some time in connection with a small grocery store in the corner room. A number of persons taught select schools in part of this building at various times, among whom may be mentioned Joshua V. Gibbons, who styled his school as " The Union High School," and to be opened Monday, March 23, 1847, for a term of five months, and to be taught by James Lane, A. B. Mr. Lane was reported to have been a most excel- lent teacher. Joshua V. Gibbons spent his whole life in educational work. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 23o He was the first to fill the office of superintendent of public schools of Fayette county, which office he filled with signal ability and satisfaction to the people for many years. His large physique and heavily-bearded face gave him an awe-inspiring appearance. William Lyon taught a female seminary here in 1850. Cuthbert Collingwood Hope, a retired capitalist and woolen- mill owner and operator of Mexico, purchased this property and kept boarders here for several years. He was a gentleman of con- genial disposition, and his relation of his travels was exceedingly interesting to his many friends. He was born in Liverpool, England, April 6, 1806, and at his baptism Admiral Colling- wood, the friend and successor to Lord Nelson, after whom he was named, stood as his godfather. In 1829 he went to Mexico and engaged with his brother, Archibald Hope, in the manu- facture of cotton and woolen goods. He crossed the Atlantic ocean more than thirty times in attending to his business. He had bought nearly all the cotton and woolen machinery in the valley of Mexico at the date of his departure from that country. He traveled extensively over France, Holland and Belgium. In 1857, one of his factories burned, and his loss was estimated at $350,000. He then retired from business and came to the United States in 1860, and came to Uniontown in 1861. In 1869 a move was inaugurated to establish a woolen-mill in this town, in which Mr. Hope was the prime mover, and in which he took much interest. This enterprise was successfully conducted on the corner of Ray and Mill streets, at the site of the old tan-yard, until 1879, when the plant was entirely destroyed by fire. After a residence of 21 years, Mr. Hope died in this property, June 14, 1882, leaving a widow ; one son, William Henry Hope, a member of the Fayette county bar ; and one daughter, Emma, the wife of Lieutenant-Governor John Latta of Greensburg. The widow returned with her son to Mexico. William H. Playford purchased this property July 21, 1882, and it is continued to be used as a boarding and lodging house. A small frame house on this lot, just south of the large brick, has always belonged to this property, and has been occu- pied by various tenants as a dwelling. John Carothers, a well remembered shoemaker of the town, lived here, and made the bricks for the large brick building, and the late Thomas Jaquette 336 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. sanded the molds for Mr. Carothers. This little house was en- larged and improved by Mr. Playford. The alley just south of the foregoing property marked the southern limit of the William Lyon plan of lots, and ran east- ward to his eastern limit. South of the foregoing alley, and extending southward to the old Great Bethel Baptist church at the head of Morgantown street, on the east side, and down the west side of said street as far as Foundry alley, Henry Beeson laid off a number of lots which he named " Henry's Addition." These lots were thirty in number, each having seventy-two and a half feet frontage on Cheat or Morgantown street and running back 150 feet. These were put on sale in 1793, and many were sold at the trifling sum of six pounds, Pennsylvania money, equal to $16. Lot No. 1 in Henry's Addition was the first lot south of the alley before mentioned and was sold to John Ward, April 18, 1797, for six pounds. In 1800 John Ward sold this lot to Dr. Adam S. Simonson, elsewhere mentioned, and moved to Steuben- ville, Ohio, where he became prothonotary and clerk of the courts, which position he held for ten years. His wife was Ann McClean, the oldest child of Colonel Alexander McClean. They were the parents of the first white female child born in Steubenville and of the second male child born there. Mr. Ward was a good scholar, a fine penman and a prosperous business man. Samuel Lewis, a tailor by trade, and a son of Jacob Lewis, built the brick residence on this lot and occupied it as such for some time. William McDonald at one time owned and occu- pied this property. His wife was a sister of Joseph Pennock and of the first Mrs. Isaac Beeson. Her first husband was Cap- tain John Council, who had been a sea captain of Marcus Hook. Her son, George Council, became a state senator from Philadelphia. She came to Uniontown and kept boarders and taught school. She was a brilliant lady and wrote poetry of considerable merit under the nom de plume of " Cornelia." An idea of the style of Mrs. McDonald's composi- tion may be found from her account of an incident that trans- pired in Uniontown on the 4th of March, 1840, during the ex- citing campaign of Gen. William Henry Harrison for the presi- dency. The article was headed ; " A Pageant and a Funeral," and read thus : History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 237 " March the fourth, 1840, dawned auspiciously, and was a beautiful day. It was Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. There seemed enthusiasm in the gentle pulsations of the fresh, dew-washed morning air as is oft' felt on the eve of eventful occasions. All nature seemed to inspire such a thrill. The firm, icy grip of winter had gradually loosened under the balmy breeze, tempered by the rich, mellow sunshine. The first van- guard of the robin, fresh from the far sunny south, were cheerily prospecting the most desirable homestead sites amid the cherry and pear trees. The fields of Tvheat were carpeted in royal emerald. It was the Whigs' rallying day at Uniontown; the campaign being noted for the unusual enthusiasm developed in the interests of General William Henry Harrison as candidate for the presidency. Gaily decorated vehicles with uniformed horsemen as out-riders, heralded by fife and drum, approached the town by many serpentine routes, and finally were assigned positions in the serried ranks." A procession of far different import, of sombre hue, was forming at Mount Braddock March 4, 1840, a spot sacredly his- torical through the frequent associations of Gen. Washington. It was the funeral cortege of Mrs. Elizabeth Meason Murphy, widow of Jacob Murphy, one of those hardy pioneers who built for us better than they knew, both in matters of church and of state. She had been an aggressive church worker. Her home and her massive barn were ever wide open to the itinerant preacher, where master and slave worshiped in common, and now so near the anniversary of the resurrection of our Lord, her summons comes. After threading the long, narrow lane with its stately walnut and locust trees as sentinels, the main thoroughfare was traversed, mingling over and anon with the gay cavalcade. The narrow streets of the town are crowded with prancing steeds. The air was rent with loud, continued huzzahs. The side streets were sought to reach the burial ground adjoining the Methodist church, where, twenty-seven years prior, she had buried her husband, Jacob Murphy, one of the charter members of the church, where with life's burdens and cares as pillows they sleep the years away, apparently almost forgotten and unknown ; away from the din and disappointments of life, unheeding the hollow pageantry in crowds still passing by. If the roll could be called of the throng present on that eventful springtide, on whatever errand bent, either of mirth or 238 History of Uniontoivn, Pennsylvania. sorrow, how very few could answer. Mrs. Elizabeth Meason Kerr of Uniontown was an occupant of one of the funeral car- riages, driven by Capt. John Sowers. The following lines, rela- tive to the occasion were from the pen of Mrs. McDonald : " From north, south, east and west they come. The gathering ranks in long array. With stirring music, trump and drum, And many a banner streaming gay. The prancing horses spurn the street, And proudly forth their riders bear ; While crowding chariots rush to meet And mingle in the pageant there. But see ! amid the gazing throng. Diverse from all, approaches one. Silent and slow she moves along. Compassed with crowds and yet alone. Her hands no snowy 'kerchief waves ; No kindling beam illumes her eyes ; Her listless ear no sound receives Though shouts triumphant rend the sky. No sign of fear or woe or bliss Escapes her as she journeys on ; The wing of dark forgetfulness Hath shrouded all beneath the sun. Far different trumpet summoned her From that which greets our ears today ! Its pealing blast with power severe, Shook to the earth her walls of clay. Far different too the mighty crowds Where she and I again shall meet ; When Christ, the Judge, descends in clouds To call the nations to His seat. Oh, wondrous contrast ! Now we gaze On serried ranks, 'till sight grows dim; Then fixed in awe and deep amaze, Lo ! every eye shall look on Him.'' History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 239 Mrs. McDonald died while occupying this house, from cancer of the breast, about 1842. Soon after her death Mr. Mc- Donald married the daughter, which act made him so unpopular that he soon left the town and took to a wandering life. This property was occupied by a number of tenants of whom may be mentioned, Charles P. Austin, James Thorndell, Ellis Y. Beggs and others. R. M. Modisette purchased this property and occupied it for a number of years. John W. Barr, who had been a confectioner on Main street for many years, retired from business and purchased this property and died here April 14, 1879. Sanford Claggett purchased this from Elizabeth Barr March 8, 1886, and made it suitable for two famines. A. I. Ellis purchased this property. William Snyder, who served as sherifl of Fayette county from January 1, 1848, for three years, erected the two-story brick dwelling on the southern part of this lot. He occupied it much of the time as a residence, but while living elsewhere it was rented to various tenants, among whom may be mentioned Samuel S. Austin, Esq., who was an occupant here at the time of his accidental death, as related elsewhere ; Rev. Theodore S. Rumney, an Episcopal clergyman ; Joshua Marsh ; Rev. Israel D. King, a Baptist clergyman and E. P. Oliphant, Esq. The Episcopal church bought this property March 10, 1871, after which it was occupied by Rev. R. S. Smith as a parsonage until his death, and on April 1, 1893 it was sold to Mrs. Jennie Thorndell who made it her home. John Ward purchased also No. 2 in Henry's Addition, May 32, 1795, for six pounds, and after passing through several hands, the northern part of it came into the possession of Rev. Thorn- ton Fleming, May 22, 1815. Rev. Fleming lived in a log house which was plastered on the outside. He built the brick dwelling on the southern part of his lot. He was a Methodist Episcopal preacher, and remained in Uniontown a number of years, and was beloved by all who knew him. He was a member of the M. E. church for 61 years, and a minister of that denomi- nation for 57 years ; holding a superannuated connection for 8 or 10 years. He died at the residence of his son-in-law, Rev. David Sharp, at Elizabeth, Pa., in 1846, aged 82 years. Armstrong Hadden purchased this property from Rev. Thornton Fleming, April 1, 1839, and moved into the log dwell- ing and used the brick as a shop where he manufactured wagons 340 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. and buggies. Mr. Hadden sold the brick to Miss Julia Wood and tore away the old log house and erected the present brick dwelling, which he sold to his father-in-law, Joseph McClean; who occupied it for several years. Joseph McClean was the son of James McClean who was a brother of Col. Alexander Mc- Clean, and was born and raised on a farm located a short dis- tance north of the village of Hopwood. He died in this house in 1865, and his widow died here in 1883. O. J. Sturgis purchased this property from the heirs of Joseph McClean in 1883, and made this his home for several years, when he sold to William Carter, the celebrated ice-cream manufacturer and caterer, who carried on his business here until his death, June 9, 1904. His widow sold the property to W. S. Trax since which it has been occupied by various tenants. Miss Julia Wood purchased the two-story brick once used as a shop by Armstrong Hadden, and since as a dwelling by different persons. Miss Wood occupied this as a dwelling and carried on her business as a dress-maker for several years. She sold it to Judge James Veech for a home for Sallie Gardner, an old domestic in the Veech family. Henry Farwell, A. I. Ellis, Mrs. Jennie Thorndell and others have owned and occupied this property. Mrs. Thorndell sold it to W. S. Trax, the present owner and occupant. Armstrong Hadden erected a small, two-story brick building on the southern part of lot No. 2, which he used as a finishing shop in the manufacture of wagons, etc. He carried on busi- ness here for several years, and then converted the building into a dwelling, which he continued to occupy as such the remainder of his life. He extended a row of small dwellings, seven in number, in the rear of his dwelling, back to the rear of the lot. These he rented for the sum of $24 per year each. The tenants were principally stage-drivers employed on the old National road. This row of houses was torn away in the early sixties. After the death of Armstrong Hadden, October 9, 1872, his widow still continued to occupy the property until her death, June 19, 1895; the heirs then sold it to James Hadden who continues to occupy it. ' John Stockwell purchased lot No. 3, May 23, 1795, and after several conveyances it came into possession of Nancy Harman, a colored woman, who lived in a small frame house on the northern part of the lot. Her administrator conveyed this THE OLD BEESOX MILL. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 341 property to Samuel McDonald, who in 1844, conveyed the same to Armstrong Hadden. Mr. Hadden removed the frame dwell- ing to the southern part of the lot, which he conveyed to George W. Martin, retaining the northern half of the lot. George W. Martin was formerly employed as a clerk in L. W. Stockton's store, and married Rebecca Seaton, daughter of James Seaton, and lived in this property. He became a member of the mer- cantile firm of Sowers and Martin and was highly respected. He moved to Lancaster, Ohio. Andrew B. Bryson purchased 36.5 feet of the southern part of lot No. 3 and greatly enlarged and otherwise improved the property and occupied it as a residence until his death, June 15, 1899, in his 80th year. He was a carpenter by trade, and was a man of most excellent character. His daughter, Mrs. Emma Hickman, still owns the property. Thomas Chaplin purchased lot No. 4, which faced 51 feet on Cheat street, July 9, 1803 ; the price paid was ?' pounds, 18 shillings and 4 pence, a sum equal to $21.10. Chaplin sold this lot to James Fletcher. A small log house stood back on this lot which was occupied at different times by various ten- ants, among whom were Silas Millhouse, a relative of James Fletcher, and a cabinet maker by trade ; Fred Shutee ; Thomas MiHer; George White, a blacksmith employed at the stage- yard; Bud Hendricks, a stage driver; Addis Linn and others. The executors of James Fletcher sold this lot in 1838, at which time it contained a frame house and a log dwelling. The frame house had been removed from Main street when Robert Skiles built the brick residence and store room on its site, in which his brother, Isaac, did business and lived. Jesse King, a blacksmith, once owned and occupied this property, and died here. It was next sold to Mrs. Kit Stuck, wife of Cary Stuck, a shoemaker, who lived here for several years, but the property reverted back to the heirs of Jesse King. Philip Bogardus, a coach and carriage trimmer, and Thomas King, a blacksmith, were occupants here. The congregation of the First Presbyterian church pur- chased 36.5 feet frontage of this lot and tore away the frame house and erected on its site a two-story brick parsonage. This was occupied by their minister. Rev. Dr. A. S. MilhoUand, from the time of its completion until his death. It was soon there- after occupied by Rev. William Hamilton Spence until the com- 243 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. pletion of the new manse in 1908, when it was sold to Dr. Charles Smith, who improved it and occupied it as a residence. John Walters purchased lot No. 5 in Henry's Addition, February 27, 1802, for $24; fronting 72.5 feet on Cheat street. Roberts Barton a Quaker by faith and a miller by occupation owned and occupied a weather-boarded log house on this lot for many years. Mr. Barton was born in Bucks county, Pa., in 1787, and when ten years of age his parents moved to Fayette county and settled in Menallen township near New Salem. He served in the war of 1812, along the northern lakes, under General Harrison, and remained until peace was declared. He was commander of the Pennsylvania Blues, a local company, in 1815. He was appointed register and recorder of the county, January 13, 1836, which office he filled for three years. His second wife was Jane Skiles, the widow of Henry Beeson, Jr., a son of Henry Beeson, the founder of the town. His daughter, Sarah, married James P. Hedges ; Rachel married John S. Harah ; Martha married Clark Robinson; Hannah married Jesse B. Baily and died in Clayton county, Iowa. Mrs. Jane Gray purchased this property and occupied it for several years with her family. George Grimes added a small store room on the north in 1900, in which he kept a grocery store. Chads Stewart purchased this property and oc- cupied both the house and store room. John Waltei-s and Nancy, his wife, for $110, transferred to Louis Lewis part of lot No. 5, August 25, 1803. Louis Lewis was a Revolutionary soldier and served under General La- fayette, and when that distinguished personage, as the guest of the nation, visited Uniontown, Mr. Lewis was accorded a seat at the banquet table. Mr. Lewis and his wife conducted a small bakery and cake shop in their residence, which was a log build- ing of one room and hall down and one room up, with kitchen back, connected by a porch : Their daughter, Polly, inherited this property, and in her old age she married Lewis Clemmer, a saddler by trade, who came to this town to work on government artillery harness then being manufactured by Fuller and Wood in the Tremont build- ing. Mrs. Clemmer disposed of this property by giving it to Mrs. Kate Mitchell Hoop for caring for her the remainder of her life. Edgar S. Hackney purchased this property and it was destroyed by fire December 2, 1908, and the lot lay vacant for History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 843 several years, when Mrs. Jennie Thorndell purchased it and in 1913, erected the present brick residence. Isaac Young purchased lots Nos. 6 and 7 in Henry's Ad- dition, September 1, 1795, for 13 pounds; these lots fronting 145 feet on Cheat street. Young conveyed the same to Pierson Sayers, Nov. 3, 1801, and Sayers conveyed to Gilbert Stiles, a shoemaker by trade, who lived in a small log house on the southwest corner of No. 7, now the corner of Morgantown and Foundry streets, and from whom it was sold by the sheriff, August 3, 1823. Isaac Beeson, on Dec. 5, 1840, conveyed this to Joseph Moser who conveyed the two lots to Eleazer Robinson, March 28, 1845, for $750.00. Eleazer Robinson was born in Bethel, Windsor county, Vermont, March 4, 1804. He was the son of Eleazer and Ex- perience (Downer) Robinson, and engaged in farming and school teaching in Saratoga county, to which place his parents had moved in 1810. In 1824, his parents removed to Broome county where he studied surveying and afterwards, law. He embarked in the lumber business at Oswego, where a freshet swept away a fortune in lumber. He then moved to Erie and engaged in the drug business, whei'e he remained three years. While here he made the acquaintance of Jonathan Hathaway who was leav- ing the United States to escape imprisonment for debt, and Mr. Robinson negotiated with that gentleman for his patent right and patterns for the manufacture of the famous cooking stove which still bears the name of the inventor. Mr. Robinson next located in Pittsburgh and began the manufacture of Hathaway stoves, but his foundry soon being destroyed by fire, he located in Uniontown in 1837, and erected a foundry which he put in operation in 1840. He made his stoves and other castings at Wharton and at Redstone furnaces before building his foundry in Uniontown. His brother, Clark Robinson, was in partner- ship with him here at first, but the latter took charge of a branch foundry at Washington, Pa., and he was succeeded here by Amos R. Frisbee. Mr. Robinson lived on Union street when his first wife, who was Miss Cornelia Wells of New York, N. Y., died in 1845. On November 6, 1846, he married Miss Mary Ann McClelland, daughter of William McClelland, the tavern keeper, who died childless in 1850. He was again married, on Nov. 24, 1853, to Mrs. Elizabeth J. Porter, daughter of James Wilson of German 344 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. township, who died April 29, 1881. Mr. Robinson erected the large brick residence on lot No. 6, in 1847, and occupied it as such the remainder of his life. He died March 29, 1889. Mr. Robinson erected a large frame building on the rear of lot No. 7 where he carried on the foundry business under the name of the Union Foundry until January 2, 1867, when he sold this foundry property and fixtures to Thomas Jaquette and Joseph Keffer who conducted the business as Jaquette and Kef- fer some ten years, at which time Mr. Jaquette became sole owner, and in connection with his sons, Nathaniel and Andrew D., he conducted the business until compelled by age, he re- tired, leaving the foundry in charge of his sons. The street between lots Nos. 7 and 8 of Henry's Addition was left open by Henry Beeson, the founder of the town, for access to his mansion, and after the erection of the foundry was known as Foundry street. This street was opened as a public street through to South Beeson avenue in 1901, and the name changed to Robinson street. Philip Creichbaum purchased lot No. 8, November 26, 1803, for $25, and on May 25, 1808, he assigned to George Ebert, who on November 12 of same year assigned back to Henry Beeson who makes a new deed to Mr. Ebert embracing ten feet ad- ditional on the north, thus giving the lot 82.5 feet frontage on Cheat street. A two-story log dwelling stood on this lot, some four or five feet above the sidewalk and was approached by steps. Here Mr. Creichbaum lived for several years. He was a stone-cutter by trade and manufactured gravestones and grind- stones and did considerable business in his line. He was quite a versifier and composed many of the verses carved on the grave- stones found still standing in the old burying grounds of Union- town. One day while drinking at Morgan A. Miller's tavern, at the head of Morgantown street, in company with Abraham Brown, it was proposed that Creichbaum compose a suitable epitaph for Brown's tombstone, when the following was quickly produced : " Here lies the body of Abram Brown, Who lives three miles from Uniontown; He loaned his money at six per cent, The more he got the more he lent. The more he lent the more he craved, Good Lord! can such a soul be saved?" History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 345 Mr. Creichbaum's advertisement in the town paper ran as follows : " I public notice hereby give In Uniontown where I do live, I grindstones keep and them do sell, The grit is good ; I make them well : With whetstones also I'll supply All those wishing for to buy ; Good money I will take in pay, But paper trash — keep that away. Good bargains I will let you have. If you good money to me give. I'll make them honest, good and just, But do not like too long to trust. Old debts are often in dispute And likely to bring on law suits ; Therefore 'tis best take care in time, The grindstone 's yours, the money mine. The time is now drawn very near When you must kill your hogs and steer. Therefore buy whetstones right away, Then you can butcher any day. Take my advice : come on right quick. And of my stones have the first pick. For I the money want right bad, So fare you well my honest lad." Abner Greenland carried on his business as a potter on this lot for several years before locating at the junction of South street with Morgantown street, where his pottery remained so long. Absalom White, a well known and highly respected car- penter, bought this property in 18.54, and occupied it for several years. He worked on many of the best buildings erected in his day. Mary and Susan Collins, together with their brothers. Si. and Jack, who were noted fiddlers and dancers, owned this 346 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. property, and in 1871, conveyed it to John T. Smith of Georges township, who erected a frame dwelling on the northwest corner of the lot. This part of the lot, with the dwelling, Mr. Smith conveyed to William B. Thorndell in 1877. Kenneth R. Hagan purchased this lot of 35 feet frontage, October 8, 1896, and added many improvements and made it his home. James Winterbottom purchased the southern part of this lot and willed it to his daughter, Minerva Monaghan, who tore away the old log building and erected on its site a modern frame residence which she occupied for some time. Her heirs con- veyed this property to Dr. F. C. Robinson, August 25, 1902. Joseph Pryor was the first purchaser of lot No. 9 in Henry's Addition, December 26, 1797, for $25. Mr. Pryor was a fine old bachelor tailor, and made his home for some time with David Moreland. He served as a private in Captain Thomas Collins' company in the war of 1812, and during the latter .part of his life made his home with Captain Collins, where he died April 13, 1837. Two colored brothers, Nathan and Thomas Allen, purchased the northern part of this lot and lived in a log cabin which stood back from the street. Tom Allen went as a body servant to Henry H. Beeson during the latter's service in the war of 1812, and subsequently made his home in Uniontown. His wife, whose name was Dorcas, was generally known as Old Dark. She had a son who was known as Dark's Jim who would occasionally accompany droves of horses over the old National road to the eastern markets. Jim conceived the daring plan of making money by allowing himself to be sold into slavery when down at Baltimore. It is reported that he had accomp- lished this feat on more than one occasion, when, alas for poor Jim, he tried it once too often, and he was never heard of again. Dan McDonald, also colored, was a part owner of this lot and they conveyed to John Prettyman, who conveyed to John Keffer, who in turn conveyed to John Pla'gan, who erected the brick residence still standing. Samuel A. Clark purchased this prop- erty and occupied it for some years. Altha L. Moser is the present owner of the property. Robert Magill, a colored man who learned the tanning trade under John Miller, purchased the southern half of No. 9, and lived in a log cabin which stood back on this lot. His first wife was an excellent woman, and had been the cook for George W. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 247 Rutter when he kept bachelor's hall on what was later known as Tremont corner. Robert built the brick dwelling still on this lot, and occupied it as such for some time. Robert's son, Lafay- ette Magill, was incarcerated for incendiarism and broke jail and was never heard of afterwards. Rev. B. P. Ferguson, a Baptist minister, owned and occupied this property from December 8, 1860, until his death whicli oc- cured October 27, 1863. He filled the pulpit of the Great Bethel Baptist church and was a most excellent man. Teagel Trader, a retired farmer, purchased this property and occupied it until his death, since which it was occupied by various tenants for several years. John Rhodaback purchased this property and occupied it as a residence. John Wood, a colored horse doctor and preacher, was the first purchaser of lot No. 10 in Henry's Addition. He was generally knowij as " Dr. John " and married the mother of Alexander Moxley, the gentlemanly and well remembered barber of the town. Dr. John was assessed as a horse doctor by profes- sion in 1834. He always claimed that he brought the gospel over the mountains in a pair of saddle-bags. He traded the southern half of this lot, it is said, for a horse and wagon that he might do light hauling about the town. After his death the property was inherited by his step-son, Alexander Moxley, and remained in possession of his widow, who was a daughter of David Lewis, until her death. William McClelland and William Roberts purchased lot No. 11, October 29, 1795. Jacob Eckles, a brickmason by trade, owned and lived in a log house still standing on this lot, in 1844, and John Prettyman succeeded Eckles and John Bowie suc- ceeded Prettyman. Henry Nycum, the well remembered black- smith and inventor of the Nycum wagon hub, owned this prop- erty and occupied it as a residence for many years. Pie built the frame residence on the northern part of the lot, now the residence of his son, James Nycum. Alexander Chisholm bought the old log dwelling and occupies it. Simon Sampsel owned and occupied the frame building on the southern part of this lot for many years. Joseph Johns and family owned and occupied this Sampsel property for several years. Ezra Fell purchased lot No. 12 in Henry's Addition Sep- tember 18, 180?', for $25. He is mentioned elsewhere. Nathaniel 248 History of Union-town, Pennsylvania. Jaquette purchased this lot from Ezra Fell, August 24, 1830, for $55. An old log building which stood until lately on the north- ern part of this lot, was used for many years as a cljurch by the colored people of the town, until they purchased lot No. 18 from Zadoc Springer and erected a new meeting-house. Before the colored folks worshiped in this old log house they had been in the practice of meeting at the homes of the different members for religious service. Felty Saunders was an occupant of this house when he enlisted as a drummer in Captain Thomas Col- lins' company in the war of 1813. John Kimberly once owned this house and lot. Many tenants lived here until it became untenantable and was torn away. Nathaniel Jaquette was a shoemaker by trade. His wife was Elizabeth McClelland, a half-sister to Daniel B. McCarty, who was also a shoemaker and carried on business in a frame build- ing on the corner of Jacob's alley and Elbow street, as men- tioned elsewhere. Mr. Jaquette erected the frame house still standing on the southern part of this lot. He sawed the lumber himself at David Veech's sawmill at the west end of town, and did the carpenter work also himself. One night while at work in his house, a deer, pursued by hounds, ran to the light by which Mr. Jaquette was working, and it was with difficulty he barred the door against it. The deer was caught a short distance away by Robert Magill, a colored neighbor. Mr. Jaquette occupied this property as a residence, with his shop at the upper side, for many years, until his death at a ripe old age. He was born in Delaware, March 29, 1789, and was bound out to learn the art and mysteries of tanning, and en- listed in the service of his country in the war of 1812, in the defense of Baltimore, after which he settled in Uniontown. He died at the home of his son, Thomas, on Union street, February 13, 1879. This property is still in the Jaquette name. Ezra Fell purchased also lot No. 13 in Henry's Addition, September 18, 1807, for $35. This lot was subsequently owned by Adam Lutz. William Nycum purchased the northern part of this lot and erected thereon a frame dwelling in which he made his home until his death. It is still owned and occupied by his widow. Mrs. Martha Couldren erected a modern frame dwell- ing on a part of this lot, and occupied it as such for several years. It is now the home of Mrs. Sally Campbell. Mrs. Mary Ann History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 349 Hibbs erected a modern frame dwelling next south of Mrs. Couldren's house and here made her home. Lot No. 14 in Henry's Addition was not sold by Henry Beeson as a town lot, but remained in connection with the tract of 65 acres on which stood the mansion, and descended to Henry Beeson, Jr., and in 1838, was sold by the executors of Henry Beeson, Jr., to Joseph Pennock. This lot fronted 66 feet on Cheat street, and was bounded on the south by the road lead- ing to Jeremiah Card's mill. This road is now known as Berke- ley street. Wilson Jack, a colored preacher, once owned this lot and built a small log house on the southwest corner and here lived for some time. The house stood high above the street. A steep bluff of shelly stone was in front of the house, and the only approach was around on the southern side by rough steps cut in the steep bank. Samuel Y. Campbell, Absalom Guiler and Henry Nycum, respectively, were recent owners of this lot. John C. Breading purchased this lot and erected a frame busi- ness and dwelling thereon, and here conducted a grocery store for some years. Wilber S. Trax owned and occupied this prop- erty as a dwelling and store room for some time, and sold to Miss Alice Skiles, and Jerome Skiles conducted a grocery here for some time, and after his death his daughter. Miss Josephine, continued the business. Between lots Nos. 14 and 15 in Henry's Addition a road was left which was generally known as the road to Card's mill, and was subsequently known as the Barton mill road, but on June 26, 1877, the town council gave it the name of Friend street in recognition of the religious belief of the founders of the town. This name prevailed until the opening of Berkeley street from Morgantown street to Mount Vernon avenue, when the whole street was given that name. James Downard had selected lot No. 15 in Henry's Addi- tion, but never received a deed for it, and Mr. Beeson made a change in the original plot, locating Nos. 15, 16, 17 and 18, 30.5 feet farther north than originally intended. John Street pur- chased this lot September 31, 1804, for $25, described as facing 72.5 on the road leading to Crassy Ford on Cheat river, and 150 feet on a 30 foot road leading to Card's mill. James Fletcher purchased lots 15, 16 and 17 which extended from what is now Berkeley street to the St. Paul's African 350 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Methodist Episcopal church. He erected a large frame dwell- ing house on this lot and occupied it as such for many years, and died here in 1838. He was a native of England, and his first wife was a woman who took him to be baptized. His second wife was Sarah Millhouse, a sister to the first wife of Judge John Huston. Mr. Fletcher owned much other property in the town, and was highly respected by all who knew him. His widow survived him many years and died on Pittsburgh street. lobelia and Lydia Stumm, maiden sisters, bought these three lots April 9, 1839, for $1,000, and lived here many years. They were very industrious seamstresses and re-covered umbrel- las and parasols for the public, and for many years made buck- skin and other kinds of gloves for Jonathan Fisher, who then carried on that business. They were neat in their work and were highly respected in the community. They rest side by side. in Church Hill cemetery near McClellandtown. William B. McCormick purchased this property and re- moved the frame building and erected the two-story brick resi- dence whieh he occupied until his death, March 19, 1895. He was the son of a school teacher and taught school in Union- town for several years, after which he carried on the butcher- ing business for many years. Fie was very fond of bees, and spent much of the latter part of his life at his apiary. He was successful in business and highly respected in the community. Isaac Taylor purchased this property, added many valuable improvements thereto and occupied it as a residence. Next south of the Taylor property a frame house was built which became the home of Isaiah Fouch who occupied it -several years prior to his death. The frame dwelling next north of the St. Paul's church was purchased by the congregation of that church as a parson- age for their pastor. Zadoc Springer purchased lots Nos. 18 and 19 in Henry's Addition, July 9, ISO.'j. Lot No. 19 was made to have a frontage of 103 feet on Cheat street by a change in the original plan, as previously stated. On June 10, 1835, Mr. Springer conveyed to Wilson Jack, John Woods, David Wedlock, Thomas Waller and David Lewis, trustees of St. Paul's African Methodist Episcopal church, for $75, 50 feet frontage of the northern part of lot No. 18. The first house of worship erected on this lot was built of History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 251 logs in 1831, and Miss Mary Ann Truly, who later became the wife of Eli Curry, had the honor of making the first contribution of fifty cents from her meager earnings, to the erection of this new church. She was at the time a servant in the home of Hon. Andrew Stewart. In 1855 the old log building was demolished and a plain brick, one-story, one-roomed structure was erected on its site. This, in turn, was replaced by a new and modern brick church. Mrs. Emily Grant, widow of George Grant, a colored blacksmith, owned and occupied for many years a small, one and a half-story log plastered house and lot adjoining the colored church lot on the south. This lot had 53 'feet frontage; being 23 feet of the southern part of No. 18, and 30 feet of the northern part of No. 19. George Grant carried on blacksmithing at various locations in the town. Emily Listen, the mother of Mrs. Grant, had been owned by Mrs. John Miller, and in her old age she made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Grant. Mrs. Grant died here, August 7, 1902, in her 80th year, much respected by the whole community. Her son, Henry Albert, is a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church. On lot No. 19 stood a two-story log house. Dr. John F. Braddee at one time fitted up steaming tanks in this log house for the purpose of giving his patients vapor baths, which he claimed as a great remedy for chronic diseases of all kinds. His office and dwelling were at that time opposite the Great Bethel Baptist church. James Winterbottom purchased this property from Benja- min Brownfield, Mar. 13, 1852, and here lived and carried on his business as a carpet weaver. He was an Englishman, and was familiarly known as " Jimmy the Weaver." He was indus- trious and thrifty, and accumulated much property on Morgan- town street. This house was purchased by William H. Wilson April 25, 1906, who occupies it as a residence. I^e removed the old building and erected a modern frame residence on its site in 1913. Lot No. 20 was originally designated as No. 1 in Henry's Addition, and was thus designated when first sold; but by a change in the numbering of the lots in this addition, it became No. 20. Lydia Ayres purchased this lot, November 27, 1793, for six povinds, a sum equal to $16. It was bounded on the south by a 33 foot alley which lay between it and the Great Bethel Baptist church lot. Lydia Ayres was a daughter of 253 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Squire Ayres who was a very active and influential member of the Baptist church, and moved west at an early date. Mrs. Lydia Huffman came into possession of this prop- erty and conducted a house of public entertainment in a log building on the lot. She was granted a license in 1799, and the court records show a number of times that Lydia Huffman, alias Lydia Knapp, was before the court for keeping a tippling house. Jacob Ott came into possession of this property and erected a small frame building on the southwest corner of the lot in which he carried on his business as a hatter which occupation he had learned under the instruction of Benjamin Hellen. Mr. Ott's advertisement of June 24, 1813, announced that he had just commenced the hatting business next door to the Baptist church. Mr. Ott was an exceedingly tall man, and at one time filled the office of borough assessor. He and his aged wife became subjects of charity and died in a small frame house on Peter street, opposite the M. E. church. ' After many transfers, this property came into the posses- sion of Mrs. Jane Fuller, wife of Robert Fuller, in 1879, who made it her home for several years. She died February 7, 1900 at the age of 82 years, willing this property to her brother, Ellis Holland, who soon sold it to James Hadden in whose ownership the building was destroyed by fire on the night of February 9, 1906. William H. Trader purchased this lot, March 1, 1907, and is the present owner. The members of the Regular Baptist church called Great Bethel, purchased from Henry Beeson one acre of ground on the east side of the great road leading to Grassy Ford on Cheat river, and south of Henry's Addition. The deed for this prop- erty is dated May 26, 1804, and the price paid was five pounds, Pennsylvania money, equal to $13.33. This lot had a frontage on Cheat street of 330 feet, 75 feet of the northern part of which was set apart for a church building and yard, and the balance, of 254 feet, was set apart as a burying-ground. The Great Bethel Baptist church was organized Novem- ber 7, 1770, and in July, 1780, this church resolved to build two meeting houses : the first one to be located on the Rogers farm, later the Fairchance Furnace company's farm, about six miles south of Uniontown and near Ichabod Ashcraft's fort. Work seems to have been delayed on this meeting house, as on June 19, 1784, it was resolved that members should work on the History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 353 erection of the new meeting house or pay a fine of five shillings. Dissension soon arose in this church, and a faction known as the Loofbower party formed themselves into what was called the Uniontown Baptist church, and doubtless it was this faction who erected the first log meeting house on this lot. On Sep- tember 15, 1787, it was resolved that a meeting house be built on the great road a quarter of a mile from Uniontown, and that Thomas Gaddis, Moses Carr and James Little be authorized to carry on the work. In deed book D, page 295 is recorded an article of agree- ment bearing date of March 12, 1789, between Joseph Tomles- ton and William McCoy by which Tomleston allows McCoy to remove the logs already cut for the construction of the Baptist meeting house, by the first of April next. James McCoy had taken up the tract of land adjoining the Henry Beeson tract on the south, and having descended to William McCoy who sold to Joseph Tomleston, McCoy reserved the right to remove the timber already cut for the construction of the meeting house. This article of agreement evidently fixes the date of the erection of the first house of worship on this lot. The Loofbower fac- tion dissolved their constitution in 1790 and were received back into the fellowship with Great Bethel ; but Loofbower continued to preach here until 1793, when he went to New Jersey. The first brick meeting house erected on this lot was erected in 1831-33. The bricks were made on the Rev. William Brown- field farm, on the same land from which the timbers were cut for the construction of the first building. The timbers for the pillars which supported the galleries in this brick church were cut on the Thomas Semans farm and hauled to the home of the Rev. Brownfield where he fitted up a turning lathe after the fashion of a windlass with a crank at each end, and while Joseph Hayden and Isaac Wynn turned the log. Rev. William Brownfield, who was a carpenter by trade, shaped the columns for the new church. Religious services have been held in this church, with various intermissions, ever since its completion. Toward the close of 1866, during the pastorate of Rev. Dr. John Boyd, dif- ferences began to arise between the pastor and some of his members. These troubles grew in tensity until March 2, 1867, when Dr. Boyd was discharged as pastor; but his friends stood by him and he continued to preach in the old church, and the 354 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. opposition withdrew and called another pastor, and held services elsewhere. In December, 1882, suit was brought by the Great Bethel Baptist church for the possession of the church property which resulted in a verdict for the plaintiff. In 1884 the Georges Creek congregation of the German Baptist Brethren church purchased this church property and remodeled, repaired and re-dedicated it to the worship of Al- mighty God. The dedicatory services were conducted by Elder James Quinter, assisted by Elders, Solomon Bucklue and Nath- aniel Merrel, and was placed under the pastorate of Elder John C. Johnson. Deed book No. 262, page 267 recites that the trus- tees of the Great Bethel Baptist church exposed this property at public sale August 2, 1884, and sold it to John C. Johnson, atty.-in-fact for the German Baptist congregation for $1,200, and the sale was confirmed by the court, October 4, 1884: the property facing 76 feet, 8 inches on Morgantown street. After considerable time and money had been expended in re-modeling and improving this property, to which the members of the Georges Creek congregation contributed $300, and outside sub- scriptions to the amount of $500, and the balance, aggregating near $3,000, was contributed by John C. Johnson, Mary Ann Johnson, Sadie Johnson Beachly and Jacob M. Johnson. In 1886 some of the members withdrew from the Uniontown church and refused to pay any more towards the purchase of the property. On December 31, 1896, a deed was executed by which this prop- erty was conveyed to the German Baptist church of the Georges Creek congregation. A committee of that congregation as- sembled August 17, 1897, decided that Elder Johnson had acted without due authority from that congregation, and the property was left in the hands of the Johnsons. In June, 1900, Elder John C. Johnson brought suit against Ephraim Walters, David F. Johnson, Robert C. Ross and William J. Fouch, trustees of the German Baptist church of the Georges Creek congregation to recover $1,500 for back payment on the church property, but the trustees denied having authorized Mr. Johnson to make the purchase, and Mr. Johnson lost his case, but still continued to hold services until he removed from the town. He gave it the name of The First Brethren church. Rev. John C. Mackey, Ph. D., D. D., was installed as pastor of the First Brethren church, January 6, 1907', and preached his History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 255 farewell sermon December 37, 1908. He was a man of education and a good speaker. He was succeeded by Rev. William Craw- ford who supplied the pulpit for one year, when Rev. Dyoll Belote of Ashland, Ohio, was called and preached in this church until the middle of July, 1910, when the congregation moved to their new church building on Union street extension, since which time the old building has not been in use. Had this old meeting house the power of speech it could relate thrilling incidents that have transpired within her sacred walls. Many fervent prayers and many earnest sermons have been uttered within her consecrated walls, while on the other hand these same walls have been mute witnesses of many bitter contentions and heated disputes between contending factions, more befitting a bedlam than a temple dedicated to the Prince of Peace. Let it be hoped, however, that the participants in these bitter contentions were honest in their opinions and earnest in contending for what they believed was right. Reverend William Brownfield purchased a farm of ninety- eight acres, February 23, 1804, from Henry Tomleston adjoin- ing the Baptist burying-ground on the south. His dwelling stood near a fine spring, and his home was the Mecca to which many journeyed who were matrimonially inclined. R. Porter Craig purchased the Rev. William Brownfield farm, which lined one hundred perches on the Morgantown road. Isaac Hunt bought a lot just south of the Baptist burying ground and erected thereon a small frame tenement, on the corner of Highland avenue and Morgantown street. Highland avenue was opened from Morgantown street eastward. James M. Collins purchased the lot on the south corner of Highland avenue and Morgantown street and erected thereon a modern brick dwelling and store room. He also erected a comfortable brick dwelling on the southern part of this lot. Miss Sarah Baird, in 1881, purchased from R. Porter Craig, three acres of the Brownfield farm, lining 344 feet on Morgan- town street, and erected a modern brick residence which she made her home. She also erected a small frame tenement south of her residence which was occupied by her gardener and florist. The latter she sold to Ewing M. Dawson, who improved the building and made it his home. Charles Moser erected a com- fortable residence on a lot next south of Ewing Dawson's prop- erty and occupied it as such. William Laughead erected a 256 . History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. frame residence on the southern limit of the Miss Baird pur- chase, and after occupying it for a time it was sold to Mrs. Catharine Humbert, who made it her home. R. Porter Craig tore away the old Rev. Brownfield dwelling and erected near its site a modern brick residence which is still occupied by his widow. ■^^^^^^^1^5 ffl ii ■ ^flH ^^^i ■**£|S mi 'r^^SB^^H^^M^HJ^m^^ra Iffl I'^^^HH ' Lo ^ m 1 1 H^^j^P 1 I ^-.■^^E mJV w Q O w W < c/5 u w fe CHAPTER XI. Cheat or Morgantown Street, West Side, Comprising Lots Nos. 1 TO 16, Inclusive, in Jacob's Second Addition, and Lots Nos. 31 TO 30, Inclusive, in Henry's Addition. Next to the building which occupied the southwest corner of Elbow or Main and Cheat or Morgantown streets stood a one-story log building in which Aunt Betsy Fausett, daughter of Millie Fausett who owned the property, taught school in the early history of the town. This building was torn away and Clement Wood leased the ground and erected thereon a two- story frame building which he occupied for many years as a saddle and harness shop and in which he held his office as a justice of the peace. James, A. Yerk carried on his business here in 1835 as a manufacturer of copper, tin and sheet-iron ware. Mr. Yerk was a man of considerable enterprise and owned real estate in the town. He erected the two-story brick residence on the north side of Church street, immediately west of Jackson alley, and lived there. Jacob F. Brant carried on his business as a gunsmith here in 1835, and his advertisement announced that he " makes a patent gun to put two loads in at once, and be discharged, separately, one after the other until all are discharged." Mr. Brant subsequently owned and carried on his business on the lot now occupied by the Teed House. Armstrong Hadden purchased this property from Thomas D. Skiles in 1873, and at the death of Mr. Hadden it came into the possession of his son, James Hadden, who changed the old building into a photograph gallery which he occupied as such for several years. In December, 1890, this building was de- stroyed by an incendiary fire, and a three-story brick business block erected by James Hadden in 1891, since which time it has been occupied as a business room and offices, the third story being occupied as a dwelling. A frame building stood just south of the present Hadden building and south of this stood a log building. Benjamin Hellen purchased the lot on which these two buildings stood, together with his Main street prop- erty, and moved his hatting business into the frame and used 257 258 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the log building for a shop in which he manufactured hats. Mr. Hellen was located here in 1813, and also carried a stock of dry goods and groceries along with his hatting business. Mr. Hellen tore away the frame building on the northern part of this lot and erected a two-story business block on its site. This new building was erected in 1847, and contained two business rooms on the first floor. Dr. Smith Fuller, John W. Skiles and William Wilson were the first to occupy the northern of these two rooms with a new drug store, and they announced that they were now opening in the new Hellen building, opposite the old market house, an ex- cellent assortment of new drugs, February 4, 1847. The firm became Dr. Smith Fuller and John H. McClelland in 1849, and Dr^ Smith Fuller and Ellis Beggs, his brother-in-law, in 1850, and Beggs sold his interest to William H. Baily January 24, 1853. Fuller and Baily disposed of their drug store, October 30, 1856, to Charles A. Hyde and John A. Walters. These men were brothers-in-law and were from Masontown. Mrs. Hyde fur- nished the funds for the concern, which were soon expended in frequent trips to Pittsburgh and other unbusiness conduct, and the entire stock was advertised for sale at public auction on June 4, 1847, unless sooner disposed of. William H. Baily purchased the stock of drugs of Hyde and Walters and the stock of books and stationery of J. Ol. Stewart, July 2, 1857, and continued the business in the old room, where he did a thriving business for many years. He married a daughter of Alfred Patterson, Esq., a wealthy and prominent attorney at the Fayette county bar. Mr. Baily entered several other enter- prises after that of the drug business and finally became in- volved and moved to Minneapolis, Minn., where he died February 11, 1908, and his body was brought to Uniontown for burial. John Austin Modisette & Co. purchased the drug store of William H. Baily in 1869, and continued the business in this room for several years, when they moved to Main street in the western room of the Bryan building. This room was subse- quently occupied by I. W. Miller as a tinner's shop, and he was succeeded by the Denny brothers who carried on plumbing and tinware. The southern room of the new Hellen block was first oc- History of Uniontozvii, Pennsylvania. 259 cupied by Levi D. Stephens who removed his store from No. 2 Commercial Row, April 1, 1847. Mr. Stephens associated with him in business H. R. Smith, but Mr. Smith soon withdrew and Mr. Stephens purchased the stock of Lippencott and Shallen- berger and moved his stock down to their room in the Bryan building known as "The Cheap Side," March 1, 1849. Louis D. Beall & Co. followed Stephens in this room with the " Good Intent Exchange " store, but were here only one year when Norval H. Hellen and Henry R. Beeson succeeded here in 1850. Beeson soon withdrew and Hellen continued a short time when he associated with him his brother, Benj. F. Hellen. This firm dissolved in 1852, and Benj. F. continued a short time when the business was placed in the hands of George W. Rutter to con- tinue and collect all arrearages or outstanding accounts. This room was subsequently occupied by different restau- rateurs for many years, among whom were William Hilling, James Winterbottom, Macon W. Rine, John Rine and others. Macon W. Rine appears to have kept the most popular restau- rant in the town in early times, but his place was patronized by men only. A number of grocers succeeded the restaurants in this room, among whom were Theophilus Bowie after his place of business was burned out on Main street, as elsewhere men- tioned, and S. K. Brown with a boot and shoe establishment. Immediately south of the Hellen building was an alleyway leading to the rear of this and other properties belonging to Mr. Hellen which fronted on Main street. This alleyway had large tight gates which, when desired, closed it from entrance. Just south of the alleyway stood an old log building which was used for many years by Benjamin Hellen as a work-shop in which he manufactured hats. John Owings and William Ebert succeeded Mr. Hellen in this building as hat manufacturers, in 1814. Mr. Ebert soon withdrew from the firm and carried on the business elsewhere. He served as a private in Capt. Thomas Collins' company in the war of 1812, and was the father of the late Mrs. Sarah Teed of the Teed House. This old building was subse- quently used as a ware-house and for other purposes. At the southern side of the above mentioned log building the old Beeson millrace ran, and spanning this race was a small frame building, and when the old market-house, which stood on the public grounds donated by Jacob Beeson, became too filthy for use, Robert Patterson, who had occupied a stall in 360 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the old market-house, transferred his meat market to this small building contrary to the borough ordinance then requiring all meat markets to be kept in the market-house. Mr. Patterson defied the borough authorities on the grounds that the market- house was absolutely unfit for a meat market and he trium- phantly carried his point, and since which time the old market- house was abandoned as such. Caleb F. McCormick and James W. McCormick purchased from the Hellen estate in 1884, the above described property, fronting 71 feet on Morgantown street. They remodeled the old store rooms and extended the building to South street, since which time it has been used as a business block and dwellings. J. K. Ritenour occupying the third room with a drug store and Caleb F. McCormick the southern room with a meat market. Jacob Beeson laid off an addition to the town of Union which he named Jacob's Second Addition. This comprised a row of lots on the west side of Morgantown street running from South street southward to Foundry street and two rows of lots on Mill street. A triangular piece of ground formed by the intersection of Morgantown, and South streets and Jacob's alley was known as the " smoothing iron." The first purchaser of this triangular piece of ground was John Vankirk who came here from Trenton, New Jersey, a chair maker by occupation, accompanied by his wife and one child. He purchased this lot on the day of his arrival, the deed bearing date of March 17, 1788, and the price was nine pounds, a sum equal to twenty-five dollars. The next day after purchas- ing the lot Mr. Vankirk set to work to construct himself a home, and from the timber cut on this lot, he erected a one-roomed log dwelling and shop combined, and on the third day after his ar- rival here he was happily if not comfortably fixed in his new home. He had just 50 cents of his small capital left after pur- chasing his lot and erecting his house. This little log building was erected on the corner of South and Cheat or Morgantown streets, now occupied by the John T. Robinson building. In this Mr. Vankirk not only lived but put up his turning lathe and carried on his chair making business. It had neither floor, door, window nor were the chinks daubed with mortar. A few bed clothes were hung around the bed to break the wind, and a comfortable did service as a door. In this condition Mr. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 361 Vankirk lived until the approach of cold weather, when he hung a door, put in windows and daubed the chinks. The following year he erected a frame addition into which he moved his family and used the log as a kitchen, and by industry and frugality soon began to prosper. In 1821 he tore away the frame and log and erected a two-story brick residence which was torn away preparatory to the erection of the Robinson building, 1899. In this he resided until his death, September 10, 1843. He left a widow and four children. His widow, familiarly known as Muzzy Vankirk, still made her home in this house under the care of her granddaughter, Mrs. Yeurith McClean, until her death, April 3, 1859, at the age of 90 years, 10 months and 2 days. John Vankirk erected a small frame shop on the rear of this lot in which he carried on his trade for many years. He also built a frame house on the front of the lot in which Feuel Cox and his wife lived for some years. Mr. Vankirk built, also, a brick building which was occupied by Ephraim Owings as a coach factory and later by James Ebert with a tinner's shop. William B. McCormick purchased this brick and the two adjoining frame buildings and here carried on a meat market, and he was suc- ceeded by his son George A. McCormick. William C. McCor- mick started a bakery in this building and ran it for a while and sold out to Mrs. Zane and in 1888 J. V. E. Ellis rented the bakery and in 1891 he purchased the property and later the frame adjoining on the south. William Ebert, whose wife was a daughter of John Van- kirk, erected a frame building south of the brick in which he carried on his business as a hatter. This small building was destroyed by fire and he erected a larger frame in which he established an oyster saloon and confectionery in his old days. Mr. Ebert was a soldier of the war of 1813, and served as a pri- vate in Captain Thomas Collins' company. He was the father of the late Mrs. Sarah Teed. Mr. Ebert built the second frame building south of the brick as a residence and here he resided all his married life. He was succeeded here by his son-in-law, John Teed, John Knight, Joseph M. Oglevee, Mrs. Mary Co- burn, who conducted an ice cream parlor, some Chinamen, who carried on the laundry business, and others. The first frame house above mentioned was used for the last six and a half years of its existence as a printing office by the People's Tribune printing company. A destructive fire broke out on Tuesday, 262 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. July 1, 1851, in a stable on the north side of South street which soon spread to the adjoining buildings. The market-house was badly damaged and all the borough records destroyed. Mrs. Vankirk's brick residence was nearly destroyed, a stable and the house in which Feuel Cox lived were entirely destroyed and the whole row of houses up to Aunt Becky McClelland's was badly damaged. This was one of the most destructive fires in the history of the town up to that time. After the death of Mrs. Vankirk, the lot on the corner of South and Morgantown streets became the property of Mrs. Yeurith McClean; and Joseph Marshall purchased that part of the lot on which the house occupied by Feuel Cox had formerly stood and erected the frame building now occupied as a marble shop and dwelling. George A. McCormick purchased the Yeurith McClean prop- erty and for some years carried on a meat market in the old brick on the corner. John T. Robinson purchased the McCor- mick property and erected the present three-story brick business block covering the lot, in 1899. J. K. Ritenour occupying the corner room with a drug store, the next room south was occu- pied by C. McClure with a plumbing business, and he was suc- ceeded by Robinson and Walters in the same business, and various tenants occupied the rooms on South street, while the second and third floors have been occupied as living rooms. In 1888 J. V. E. Ellis rented the bakery and conducted it for a while, and in 1891 he purchased the brick building from W. B. McCormick, and later the frame from Mrs. Ella Thorn- dell ; and Oliver Burchinal purchased the frame to the south and together they erected, in 1903, what is known as the EUis- Burchinal three-story brick business block, the first floor of which is used for business purposes and the second and third floors as residences. A one-and-a-half-story log house stood on the upper end of this triangular lot and was owned and occupied by Aunt Becky McClelland, the mother of Joseph P. McClelland. She conducted a millinery business in a small frame building im- mediately on the point of this lot and was in business here in 1815. She died at the home of her son-in-law, ex-Sherifif John A. Sangston, who owned and lived in what was recently known as the L. B. Bowie residence. Other occupants of this old log house were Robert McGill a colored man and a tanner History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 363 by trade. While Robert was an industrious and law-abiding citizen, some members of his household were erratic. One night trouble occurred in this house and a man was seriously but not dangerously cut with a butcher's knife. The following morning a number of boys took the old Union fire engine to West's pump, filled it with water, and ran it around in front of McGill's house. The first dash of the chilling bath brought the erratic wife from her couch and she was given a further bath as she ran up the street. That night the boys made a further raid on the house and one Rachel Allen was seized and given a coat of tar and feathers and Rachel bade the town a hasty and final adieu. James Thompson once occupied this house. He was a soldier of the war of 1812, and served throughout the entire campaign on the northern lakes. Joseph Johns was another oc- cupant of this house and died there. The little frame on the corner was at one time occupied by Samuel T. Lewis as a tailor's shop, Gary Stuck as a shoemaker's shop, and by Simon Sampsel for the same business and by James Polk Winterbottom, also a shoemaker. Mr. Winterbottom tore away the two old build- ings and erected the present two-story frame now owned and occupied by Mrs. Ann Crawford. Lot No. 1 in Jacob's Second Addition comprised the lot on which the Protestant Episcopal church now stands and also a portion of the lot on which the residence of Hon. Nathaniel Ewing now stands. John Bostick was the first purchaser of lots Nos. 1 and 3 in Jacob's Second Addition, December 3, 1796, and the price paid was 36 pounds, a sum equal to $95.00. These two lots had a frontage of 145 feet on Morgantown street and ran back to Strawberry alley, a distance of 150 feet. By the opening of a street between lot No. 1 and the Public Grounds donated by Jacob Beeson, 33 feet of lot No. 1 were absorbed by that street, the Episcopal church occupied 30 feet and Judge Ewing's lot the residue of No. 1 and all of No. 3. An old one-and-a-half-story log building stood on lot No. 1 back from the street, leaving a yard in front, the kitchen being connected to the house by a covered porch, which was subse- quently boarded up, thus making an intermediate room. This property came into the possession of John Wood, Esq., mer- chant and saddler, elsewhere mentioned, but he never occupied it but rented it to dififerent tenants. Old Granny (Sarah) 264 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Richie once occupied this property, and she had a most beautiful granddaughter by the name of Sally Sutton who made her home with Granny. Lee Haymaker courted and won the beautiful Sally, and the Pennsylvania Democrat of July 1, 1829, announced that Leroy Haymaker and Miss Sarah Sutton were married by Rev. Thornton Fleming, June 24, 1829, and added, " Reader, drive the mist from your eyes, and go thou and do likewise." After the death of Lee Haymaker his widow re- mained in widowhood for many years, but on April 1, 1863, she was married to Eli Finley of near New Salem with whom she lived on his farm until her death at the age of 64 years. In deed book 11, page 133, is recorded a deed from L. W. Stockton to the vestrymen of St. Peter's church, bearing date of October 26, 1842, for $1.00, for a lot on Morgantown street for the purpose of erecting a church thereon. This lot was supposed to be a present from Mr. Stockton, who practically ran the church at the time with the same zeal as characterized him in running his stage-coach lines. But the chagrin felt by the congregation when they learned that Mr. Stockton had charged the church with his contribution of $500.00 with in- terest from date, and other sums, amounting in all to $1,200.00, all of which was demanded by Mr. Stockton's administrators, and which, with much difficulty, was eventually paid, can better be imagined than described. The first church edifice was erected in the year 1842, and in October of that year was consecrated by Bishop Onderdonk of the diocese of Pennsylvania. This church was constructed of brick and plastered on the outside, and the rough plank benches elsewhere mentioned were used in this church until suitable pews were procured. In 1711 a bell was cast in England during the reign of Queen Ann, bearing the date, 1711. Queen Ann presented this bell' to Christ church of Philadelphia, and it was used by that church almost 50 years, and in 1760 it was transferred to St. Peter's church of the same city where it remained for more than 80 years, being displaced in 1842 by a chime of bells which had been presented to that church at that time. Daniel Smith, knowing the history of this bell, secured the loan of it for the History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 265 new church, and the following is the article of agreement on which the loan of the bell was procured : " November 38, 1843, We, the undersigned, composing the wardens and vestry of St. Peter's church, Fayette county, Pa., hereby covenant, agree and bind ourselves and members of said vestry hereafter, to return to the vestry of St. Peter's church, Philadelphia, at any time they may demand it, a bell which we have asked of them the favor of borrowing until such time as they may ask the return of it. Signed, John Sowers, H. V. Roberts, M. D., wardens; W. P. Wells, John Dawson, L. W. Stockton, Daniel Huston and Daniel Smith, Secretary. This historic old bell was placed in the belfry surmounting this new church, where for 35 years it called the little group of worshipers to assemble in the vine-clad church below. The belfry of this church was blown off by a fierce mountain storm which raged all the night of February 4, 1868, and from which time the bell was covered by a temporary roof until its owners requested its return. It was taken down and on May 31, 1877, was shipped to St. Peter's Church, Philadelphia. The present modern stone church edifice was erected in 1884 by Laughead, Modisette & Co., contractors of Uniontown, at a cost of $11,000.00; additional grounds being added to the lot at the rear for a Sunday-school room. The decorated win- dows and furniture, together with a new pipe organ, amounted to an additional $6,000.00. The stone for the church edifice was the generous gift of William and John Kennedy Beeson. This new church was consecrated by Bishop Cortland White- head, November 19, 1885. A magnificent new bell was donated to this church the same year in which it was consecrated, by John Austin Modisette of Minneapolis, Minnesota, accompanied with the following request : '" The donor of this bell to St. Peter's church requests that it may be tolled for fifteen minutes, at one o'clock each first day of May, in memory of his daughter, Robert M. Modisette, who died May 1, 1881, aged 4 years." This request has been faithfully complied with. This church building was remodeled inside in 1902. New seats were installed, a gallery was erected, a new decorated window was added and the Sunday-school room was thrown 366 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. into the main auditorium, a new heating system was installed, and after having been closed for four months, the church was re-opened for service, November 3rd. The Old Stageyard. Daniel Moore of Washington, Pa., J. E. Reeside of Lan- caster, Pa. and L. W. Stockton, son-in-law of Daniel Moore, and a native of Flemington, New Jersey, bought out the line of stage-coaches on the old National road and conducted their business under the name of the National Road Stage Company. The two lots, Nos. 1 and 2 in Jacob's Second Addition, were purchased by L. W. Stockton in 1885 for offices and man- ufacturing shops and stables for the National Road Stage Com- pany. Mr. Stockton deeded to the vestry of Saint Peter's church a lot off the northern part of this property as related elsewhere, and the space of 92 feet south of the lot deeded to the church was known as the stage-yard. In this large yard sheds were arranged on two sides for the sheltering of stage-coaches and in the rear was a large stable, a blacksmith shop and a wagon- maker's shop. A well pump stood in the yard which supplied a large trough with water. On the north corner of the yard stood a one-story brick building of one room in front and one room back which was used as an office and storage of baggage. This little building was subsequently used by various tenants for offices and other small business. Large tight-board gates closed the driveway into the yard, and south of these gates stood a long one-story brick building, containing two rooms on Morgantown street. This building was used for the storage of trunks and baggage. After the construction of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad from Cumberland to Wheeling in 1852, and of the Pennsylvania railroad from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh in the same year, the travel over the National road did not justify the maintenance of the old stage-coach lines, and they were withdrawn from the road, and the old stage-yard and stables and shops were rented to dififere/it tenants. Different blacksmiths carried on business in the old shops, and liverymen conducted business in the stables and yard. After the withdrawal of the four-horse stage-coaches from the National road, Redding Bunting, who had been so promi- nently identified with the old stage lines on the road when in History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 267 the zenith of its glory, associated with himself William Hall of Cumberland, and they put on hack lines and did quite a busi- ness for some years. Thomas Swan, L. D. Beall and others carried on the livery business here for some years, and Alfred Newlon used this yard while he ran a hack line between Union- town and Washington, Pa. In a small brick building south of the entrance of the stage- yard there were two rooms which were for some time occupied as offices. Daniel Smith occupied the northern one as an office while a justice of the peace, in 1845, and for some years sub- sequent to that date. Alfred Howell, who afterward became prominent, first hung out his " shingle " as an attorney-at-law, one door south of the office of Daniel Smith, Esq., March 16, 1848. In 1863, the old stage-yard was sold at sheriff's sale as the property of John Canon, and on August 8, 1868, Alfred Pat- terson, Esq., transferred this property to his son-in-law, William H. Baily, who erected the dwelling now occupying the grounds. Mr. Baily occupied this as a residence for some years when he moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota. Nathaniel Ewing, Esq., pur- chased this property at Sheriff's sale, December 30, 1878, and has occupied it since the following spring. Charles Hickman was the first purchaser of lot No. 3 in Jacob's Second Addition, and Nathan Hatfield was the first pur- chaser of lot No. 4 in Jacob's Second Addition, August 28, 1797. These four lots made a solid block from the lot on which now stands the municipal building, on the north to what was known as Fell's alley on the south. Thomas Irwin, Esq., purchased these two lots and in 1817 erected thereon a three-story brick building as a residence and occupied it as such for several years. He was admitted to the bar in April term, 1811, was appointed district attorney, 1812 ; was elected a member of the legislature, and in 1828 he was successful in being elected to the 21st. congress over Hon. Andrew Stewart. In 1831 he was appointed by President Jack- son to the honorable position of judge of the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, which position he held nearly thirty years, when he resigned it. He was an able jurist and a gentleman of the highest type. He died in Pittsburgh May 14, 1870, at the age of 86 years. Upon the appointment of Thomas Irwin, Esq. to the bench 268 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. of the United States Court he sold this property, January 36, 1838, to Dr. John F. Braddee, who added a two-story brick wing to the north side of the original building. This wing ex- tended to the line of the stage-yard and had upper and lower porches -extending the full length of the building. In this the doctor lived and carried on his extensive practice as a physician and business in other lines as related elsewhere. This property was sold as the property of Dr. Braddee by the sheriff, Decem- ber 8, 1841, to L. W. Stockton, agent for the National Stage- coach company, who converted it into a hotel which he named the National House, and placed Redding Bunting in charge as its first proprietor. A twenty-foot passageway, known as Fell's alley, on the south was widened to 60 feet and opened to the National road on the west in order that the stage-coaches might be run directly to the National House and stage-yard. Joshua Marsh succeeded Mr. Bunting as proprietor of the National House, and among his many distinguished guests while pro- prietor here may be mentioned James K. Polk, who with his family stopped over night with Mr. Marsh when on his way to be inaugurated as president of the United States. On this occasion Hon. R. P. Flenniken introduced the president elect from the high steps in front of the hotel to the assembled crowd. General William O. Butler, when candidate for the vice-presi- dency of the United States on the ticket with General Cass, lodged over night July 24, 1848, with his staff, as guests of Mr. Marsh. Dr. John Patrick addressed him on behalf of the citi- zens, and the general made a reply. After running this hotel for some time under the ownership of L. W. Stockton, Mr. Marsh purchased it at administrator's sale, April 1, 1846, front- ing 114 feet, 9 inches, on Morgantown street. Mr. Marsh con- tinued to conduct the hotel until failing health compelled him to relinquish the business. Mr. Marsh visited Washington city at the inauguration of President Buchanan and was one of the several who were poisoned at the National Hotel on that oc- casion. He never recovered from the effects of the poisoning, and died in Uniontown March 6, 1864, aged 73 years. Col. Samuel Elder, an experienced hotel proprietor, suc- ceeded Mr. Marsh as proprietor of the National House and conducted it for several years. He acquired a wide acquaintance with public men, and had more or less of an acquaintance with every president for whom he voted, being thirteen in number. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 269 Col. Elder spent the latter days of his life at Ligonier, where on December 10, 1898, he and Mrs. Elder celebrated their 65th marriage anniversary, and although Col. Elder had already passed his 94th milestone he still drove his own team of spirited horses. Frank Reynolds became a tenant of the National House when under the ownership of George A. Torrence and Joseph Johnston and ran a boarding house for some time. R. M. Modisette became owner of this property, September 5, 1866, and his son, John Austin Modisette, occupied the wing part as a residence until 1879, when he moved to Minneapolis, Min- nesota, and John K. Beeson moved in as owner and occupant. On December 19, 1883, I. L. Messmore bought the wing or northern part of the National House property from J. K. Bee- son and tore away the old building and erected the present three-story business block. The original National House building was sold at sheriff's sale as the property of George A. Torrence and Joseph John- ston, June 7, 1877, to Thomas Batton who tore away the large circular stone steps which led to the main entrance on the second floor and constructed a fine veranda and other improve- ments and occupied it as a private residence. It is still in the ownership of his descendants. Lots Nos. 4 and 5 in Jacob's Second addition were separated by a 30-foot passageway, known as Fell's alley, extending from Morgantown street to Mill street and was so named from the fact that Mahlon Fell owned property on Mill street to which this alley led. This alley was widened to 60 feet by the addition of 40 feet from lot No. 4 and opened through to the National road at the west end of town. Richard Weaver was the first purchaser of lot No. 5 in Jacob's Second Addition, March 31, 1798, for $107, and Weaver transferred it to John Phillips March 1.5, 1810. Mr. Phillips built a two-story brick building on the northeast corner of this lot in which he carried on his business as a furniture manu- facturer and dealer for many years, at the same time living in a frame building which stood on lot No. 6, a yard separating the two. Mr. Phillips subsequently moved into the brick build- ing. Mr. Phillips owned lots Nos. 5, 6 and 7, and his frame house stood on No. 6, and subsequently his shops occupied much of No. 7. He converted the brick shop into a dwelling 2'?0 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. and occupied it as such. Mr. Phillips enlisted a company for the war of 1812, and entered the service as captain in August of that year, and after serving along the northern lakes, was hon- orably discharged at Oswego, August 26, 1813. Mr. Phillips became a minister in the Methodist Protestant church and devoted much of his means to the cause of religion. Pie died May 11, 1847, in the 75th year of his age. His two sons, John and Daniel Howell Phillips, succeeded him in the furniture business, first in the brick building, in 1838, then in the frame shop, and they in turn were succeeded by another son, John Wesley Phillips. Plowell Phillips mar- ried Eliza and John Wesley married Margaret, the two daugh- ters of Zachariah Connell, the founder of Connellsville. Rev. George Brown, D. D., occupied this brick building as a residence for a while during his incumber cy as president of Madison college, as referred to elsewhere. Benjamin Franklin Hellen occupied this property as a residence, 1854-57, and had his office in a small frame building on the southern part of the lot. He served one term as burgess of the town, and moved to Cottage Hill, one mile south of town, April 1, 1858. He was a son of Benjamin Hellen and had been in the mercantile busi- ness for some time. S. D. Oliphant was also an occupant of this property at one time. George W. Morrison came into possession of this property and occupied it as a residence the remainder of his life. He was born in Waterford, Ireland, October 31, 1800, and came to America when 16 years of age. He entered the United States army and was stationed at Fort McHenry, and was assigned as a musician in the post band, where he served 18 months. He subsequently settled in Washington county, Pa., where he was elected to a term as register and recorder of that county. He next moved to Brownsville where he was elected a justice of the peace. Upon the death of Joseph Gadd he was employed as clerk of the commissioners of Fayette county for a term of five years, after which he was elected to the office of register of deeds and recorder of wills, which position he filled for two terms. He was a most excellent penman and an accurate clerk. On April 26, 1887, he was stricken with apoplexy at his resi- dence and died in a few minutes, leaving a wife and two daugh- ters, one of whom was the wife of State Senator T. B. Schnat- terly. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 371 Samuel E. Ewing, Esq., purchased this property and oc- cupied it as a residence for several years. He sold it to the trustees of th^ First Presbyterian church who tore away the old buildings and constructed the present fine stone structure. Andrew McClelland was first purchaser of lot No. 6 in Jacob's Second Addition, January 2, 1797, for $40. He also owned a mill at Haydentown and kept a tavern in Georges township. Mrs. William Guiler purchased 3,5 feet frontage of this lot from Dr. John Boyd and built a modern two-story frame residence thereon, which she occupied until her death. She was a daughter of Leonard Lenhart of Brownsville and the wife of William Guiler, a member of the Fayette county bar. After passing through other bands, the congregation of the First Presbysterian church purchased this property, the frame resi- dence was sold to Daniel Chisholm who removed it to his lot on Morgantown street, and they erected a fine brick manse on its site, which was finished in 1908 ; and their pastor, the Rev. Dr. W. Hamilton Spence became its first occupant. Ann Harmon, a colored woman, was the first purchaser of lot No. 7 in Jacob's Second Addition, July 9, 1807, and the price paid was $160.00. She was one of the two colored persons who were first purchasers of town lots. Ann Harmon had two sisters, Mary and Nancy, who lived nearly opposite this lot, and it was at their home the colored Methodist Episcopal church of Uniontown was organized in 1822, and where services were held for two years. John Phillips came into possession of this lot as before related, who occupied the two-story frame dwelling thereon as a residence. There were at first two frame dwelling houses on the front of this lot, the northern one was small and was torn away many years ago. John Phillips' sons occupied this remaining frame building as a residence after Mr. Phillips re- moved to the large brick building below, as before related. A two-story frame building was removed to the southern part of this lot from .the southeast corner of Fayette and Morgan- town streets preparatory to the erection of the three-story brick building thereon by Alfred Patterson. This frame was con- verted to a ware-room for the display of furniture manufactured in the shops of the Phillipses on the rear of the lot. Henry T. Dififenderfifer succeeded the Phillipses in the furn- iture business at this stand in 1854. Mr. Diiifenderffer had been 273 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. in the furniture business in the town for several years before purchasing this property, and locating his business here. Mr. Diffenderfifer was a most excellent man and was held in the highest esteem by the community. He died here June 11, 1857, leaving a widow and several children. After the death of Mr. Diffenderfifer the furniture business was continued at this stand by Amos M. JoUiffe, followed by Hagan & Wood, John C. Wood, and John Clark Beeson. Dr. John Boyd came to Uniontown as a Baptist minister in response to a call from the Great Bethel Baptist church, in 1864. He purchased this Dififenderfifer property and occupied the house as a residence and the furniture ware-house as a physician's of- fice. He seems to have risen to the dignity of a physician gradually, as his first practice was more of the nature of an amateur than that of a regular practitioner. More of the career of Dr. Boyd is given elsewhere, in the history of the Great Bethel Baptist church. He died here February 27, 1889, and his remains were sent to Newberryport, Mass., where they were placed in the family vault. After the death of Dr. Boyd the lot was sold to John K. Beeson who tore away the old buildings and allowed the lot to lay bare for a few years, when it was sold to Edgar S. Hackney, cashier of the First National Bank of Uniontown, who erected thereon a fine brick mansion in 1904 and has oc- cupied it since its completion. General Alexander McClelland, a very prominent citizen of Springhill township, purchased lot No. 8 in Jacob's Second Addition January 10, 1801, for $40.00. The southern boundary of this lot was Ray street. General McClelland and Bathsheba, his wife, conveyed this lot to Jacob Baltzell, whose heirs con- veyed it to Frederick Byrer, August 21, 1828. A log house stood on this lot previous to this date in which the late Mrs. Hannah Lincoln was born, October. 9, 1830. Mr. Byrer learned the coopering trade in Westmoreland county and settled in Uniontown about 1818. He was an industrious and economical German, and it is said, made the first pine ware manufactured west of the mountains. He erected a small, one-story building on the northern part of this lot, in which he carried on his occu- pation for some years. Mr. Byrer's son, John C, carried on the business here in 1846. Mrs. Sarah Ann Hill Sampsell widow of Isaac Sampsell, occupied this little brick as a residence for some time. She wrote quite a lot of good poetry for the local papers History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 373 over the name of " Ada," and taught in the public schools of the town for a number of terms. George S. Anderson was another tenant of this house. Mr. Anderson was widely known as an itinerant clock fixer, travel- ing over the country practicing his profession, and many old clocks bear witness of his visits and professional skill by his name and date written therein. Mr. Anderson always received a kindly welcome at the farm houses wheresoever he called. He was a quiet, industrious and religious man, and a gentleman at all times. His gentle disposition and kindly manners, to- gether with his patient industry, made him many friends. He was born September 15, 1810, and while returning home one exceedingly hot day in August, 1870, he was overcome by the heat and fell on Morgantown street, a short distance from his home, and died soon after. Thomas Brownfield purchased this property, fronting 36 feet on Morgantown street, and added a second story to it and made other improvements and occupied it several years as a residence. Edgar S. Hackney purchased this property in 1908, and tore away the building to enlarge his lawn. Frederick Byrer erected a two-story brick building on the southern part of this lot, lining on Ray street. This stood with its end toward, but several feet back from Morgantown street. In this Mr. Byrer carried on the coopering trade for a while and later it was occupied as a residence by Ellis Hol- land, who had learned the coopering trade with John Byrer, and he also carried on the same business on these premises. His shops were later in the rear of the house, on Ray street. Mr. Holland moved to Mt. Braddock where he held the office of postmaster for more than 30 years. William Irwin, an architect and carpenter, purchased this property and erected the present brick front and otherwise im- proved property and occupied it as a residence. Dr. Cortland King, a retired dentist, purchased this prop- erty and occupied it as a residence until his death, November 4, 1897, at the age of 71 years. His widow, who was Miss Emma, daughter of Eleazer Robinson, continued to occupy the property. She died in Virginia, February 6, 1902. Mrs. Mar- garet McClelland purchased this property and made it her home. 374 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Ray street is 40 feet wide and runs from Morgantown to Mill street. Lot No. 9 in Jacob's Second Addition was bounded on the north by Ray street, and was first sold to Samuel Rainey, a merchant of Geneva, March 15, 1803, for $48.00. Frederick Byrer purchased the northern part of this lot, lining on Ray street, having a frontage on Morgantown street of 46 feet, on which he erected a log house from logs removed from the Judge Nathaniel Ewing lot opposite the court house on East Main street. He had the front weatherboarded and the north end plastered, and in this he lived for many years. Several young men boarded with Mr. Byrer who were attending Madison col- lege, among whom was William Hunter, who assisted in the cooper shop to pay his way at the college. A well pump stood in the yard, and the boys annoyed Mr. Byrer by throwing water on each other, so Mr. Byrer constructed a high fence to keep the boys out. Young Hunter, being quite a versifier, wrote the following as a warning to Mr. Byrer : " You'd better mind your ps and qs, for there is one who's come to town, Who every lawful means will use. To catch your slips and write them down, ********* Botheration to the man who shut us out from thence. And if no other way. We'll strive to climb the fence." William wrote some verses which he thought very creditable and read them for Mr. Byrer's criticism. Mr. Byrer listened attentively and then said, " Veil, Villiam dat ish very goot, but I think you hat better stick to de coopering pusiness." William Hunter became quite prominent in the Methodist Episcopal church, and was the author of the popular hymn, " The great physician now is near. The sympathizing Jesus." Mr. Byrer filled the office of tax collector for Union borough for many years to the satisfaction of the people. This property descended to his daughter, Mrs. Joseph Derrick, and was oc- cupied by various tenants. I. White Miller purchased this property from Mrs. Der- rick, tore away the old buildings and erected the present two- story brick residence which he occupied for several years. Mr. Miller was a tinner by trade and carried on that business for many years. His wife was Elizabeth Trader, daughter of Teagel Trader. She died in this house. George Seaton became owner of this property and occupied it as a residence for several years, when he moved to California. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 275 It later passed into the ownership and occupancy of J. L. Hayden, later to William Rankin, next to George Gans, who added many and valuable improvements, and traded . it to George Porter, Jr. Next south of the Porter house stood a two-story frame dwelling which had been erected on lot No. 33, West Main street, now occupied by the Harah property, and was at one time the residence of Dr. Simonson who practiced medicine here prior to 1795, as mentioned elsewhere. This old frame building was the one in which the Genius of Liberty was pub- lished while in the ownership of Jesse Beeson, 1809-1818. Mr. Byrer likely purchased this building from Samuel Y. Campbell preparatory to his erection of the brick business block, now the Harah property. Rebecca Holland purchased this house and lot with a frontage of 55 feet from Richard Beeson and made this her home the remainder of her life, and after her death the property descended to the heirs of William H. Murphy. Mr. Murphy was a printer by trade and established a newspaper in this, town in 1855, known as The American Citizen, which was published in the interests of the American or " Know-Noth- ing '' party. It lasted but a little over two years. Mr. Murphy had previously been the publisher of a newspaper known as the Western Commercial, a family newspaper, neutral in politics, at Aurora, Indiana. Mr. Murphy entered the army under Cap- tain Kerr, in whose company he was a lieutenant and served in the First West Virginia cavalry, from which he was honorably discharged at the close of the war. He died at Galveston, Texas. His widow made this her home during the remainder of her life. Mrs. Murphy was a most excellent woman, and died here October 28, 1909, after an occupancy of more than 60 years. This property was sold at public sale October 18, 1910, to Dr. Charles H. Smith who tore away the house. A: C. Fouch pur- chased this lot in 1913, and erected thereon a modern brick dwelling. Thomas Chaplain purchased lot No. 10 in Jacob's Second Addition January 26, 1797, for $48.00, and on November 16, 1801, he conveyed the same back to Jacob Beeson for $60.00, and on the same day Jacob Beeson conveyed it to John Wood who owned also lot No. 11 and part of No. 12. John Keflfer bought from Frederick Byrer, May 22, 1843, a part of No. 10, and built thereon the large, two-story brick 376 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. residence and occupied it for some time. Mr. Keffer was the son of Christian Keffer, mentioned elsewhere. Mr. Keffer was clerk in the register and recorder's office under Col. Alexander McClean, and upon the death of Col. McClean, 1834, he was appointed to fill the vacancy, after which he was succeeded by- Roberts Barton, January 13, 1836. Mr. Keffer was the efficient clerk and bookkeeper for L. W. Stockton much of the time when the National Stage Coach company was in successful operation. He subsequently owned and lived on the east side of Morgantown street a few doors south of Church street. He was a quiet, unassuming gentleman and much respected by the community. Henry Beeson, miller, son of Henry Beeson, the founder, purchased this lot and by will gave it to his daughter, Mary, the wife of George W. Rutter, the well known veteran grocery- man of the town. In this property Mr. and Mrs. Rutter made their home the greater part of their married life. Mrs. Rutter dying here June 1, 1893, and Mr. Rutter January 9, 1897, the property descending to their children. John Wood purchased lot No. 11 and part of No. 12 in Jacob's Second Addition, a frontage on Morgantown street of 119 feet, January 26, 1797; Foundry alley consuming part of lot No. 12. John Wood is mentioned elsewhere as being one of the most prominent citizens in the early history of the town, and was an extensive real estate owner both in the town and the vicinity. Robert Carr purchased 33 feet of the northern part of lot No. 11 and erected thereon a small, one-story brick dwelling, which he occupied for some time, and he sold it to Frederick Byrer, and he to Richard Beeson, and he to the trustees of the Methodist Episcopal church for a parsonage, and they in turn, conveyed it, April 29, 1865, to Alexander Chisholm for $600. Here Mr. and Mrs. Chisholm made their home until their death. Mr. Chisholm dying December 23, 1891, and Mrs. Chisholm the year prior. Robert Patterson purchased this property at adminis- trator's sale and after keeping it awhile sold it to John R. Barnes who improved it to considerable extent and occupied it as a home. It appears that Philip Creichbaum had bought this lot from John Wood and lived in a small frame house near the corner of History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 277 Foundry alley and Morgantown street, and in 1833 it was put to sheriff's sale by the administrators of John Wood. The large brick dwelling on lot No. 11, previously owned by John Wood, was erected by John Knight, a well known painter of the town, and he occupied it as a residence for some time. Redding Bunting, the well known stage agent, mentioned else- where, purchased this property and occupied it for several years. Dr. F. C. Robinson purchased this property from Redding Bunt- ing, 1859, from which time he made this his residence until his death. He erected a wing to the southern side and otherwise greatly improving it, making it one of the neatest and most desirable resident properties on the street. Foundry alley, named so because it led to the old Robinson foundry on the east side of Morgantown street, separated lots Nos. 13 and 13 in Jacob's Second Addition. Jacob Medtart pur- chased No. 13, facing on Morgantown street and also No. 30, immediately in the rear. John Miller, the tanner, elsewhere mentioned, owned this property in connection with his property on Mill street. Wil- liam Stone purchased the tan yard formerly the property of John Miller, and the land fronting on Morgantown street from Foundry alley to the alley north of the old Catholic church, as mentioned elsewhere. Eli Cope purchased the old William Stone tan yard on Mill street and the above mentioned meadow facing on Morgantown street. Mr. Cope sold 140 feet frontage of this property to Thomas H. Lewis in 1870, and Mr. Lewis erected a frame resi- dence on the southern part of this lot, and occupied it as a dwell- ing until 1874, at which time he sold it to Lucy S. Dawson, who occupied it as a residence until 1877, when she sold the house and lot of 65 feet frontage to Lewis Campbell for the use of his daughter, Mrs. Martha Couldren. Mrs. Dawson erected the fine brick residence on the northern part of this lot and moved into it in March, 1878. Eighteen feet and two inches of the frontage of lot No. 14 in Jacob's Second Addition belonged to Jacob Beeson, and the dividing line between Jacob and Henry Beeson threw the re- maining portion of the frontage on Henry's side. Consequently it required two deeds to convey the whole of each of the lots numbered 14, 15 and 16. This was the limit of Jacob's Second Addition on Morgantown street. 378 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The line between the tracts of Jacob and Henry Beeson ran from a wild cherry stump which stood in the middle of Morgan- town street at the mouth of Foundry street, and crossed the fronts of lots Nos. 14, 15 and 16 and along the rear of the lots in Henry's Addition from the alley below the old Catholic church to the southern limit of Henry's tract. William McArthur purchased from Henry Beeson the front part of Nos. 14, 15 and 16, August 10, 1798. These lots had a frontage of about 810 feet on Morgantown street, and from Jacob Beeson the rear part of these lots, September 15, 1798. These deeds comprehended the alley below the Catholic church and some meadow land in the rear. He donated the 20-foot alley at the south of this lot for public use. A fine spring was on this property, which when conveyed through wooden pipes to the tan yard of John Miller, supplied the vats with running water all the time a tan yard was in operation there. This spring was the constant suppl}^ for a great portion of the neighborhood until the introduction of city water. It was always a favorite resort for strollers who wished a cooling draught of sparkling water. A small two-roomed log house stood on the high bank facing this spring, and was usually occupied by men employed at the tan yard. Billy Bleeks was one of the many who have lived in this house, and it was he who set out the row of Lombardy poplars that graced the front of this property for so many years. Billy Bleeks was a private in Captain Thomas Collins' company in the war of 1812. Isaac Stimmell was for several years a tenant in this log house and worked at the tan yard. Teagel Trader purchased 91.75 feet frontage of this prop- erty, running back a considerable distance, including the spring. Mr. Trader sold to Daniel Chisholm who in 1906, moved the frame house which stood next to the First Presbyterian church, and built by Mrs. William G. Guiler, to this lot, immediately south of the spring, and occupied it as a residence. Robert Knight bought of Eli Cope a lot of 47 feet frontage bounded on the south by an alley, November 26, 1870, and erected thereon a frame dwelling and occupied as such for some time. Elijah Brownfield purchased this property, and after occupying the Knight house some time, erected another on the same lot and moved into the new building. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 279 Lot No. 30 in Henry's Addition was immediately south of the 30-foot alley donated by william McArthur for public use. This was the last full lot in Henry's Addition on Morgantown street; and in William McArthur's deed to Jacob Beeson it is recited that this lot, No. 30, was known as the Martin Myers lot, 1798, yet there is no evidence that Martin Myers ever had a deed for it. Ezra Fell purchased lots Nos. 89 and 30 from Henry Beeson, September 18, 1807, for $50. Mr. Fell was a saddle-tree maker by trade and carried on that business for many years. He lived in the same old log house still standing on the south side of the alley above mentioned. He advertised that he would make men's saddle-trees at $7 per dozen and women's at $10 per dozen. Mr. Fell owned other property on the opposite side of the street and some out-lots. He moved out the Morgantown road about a mile and a half into a small log house which stood on a blufif on the right hand, and a well pump and two locust trees adorned the front yard. Mr. Fell continued to make saddle-trees and also manufactured well pumps after moving to the country. Several members of the Fell family have been manufacturers of well pumps from the earliest history of the town. These pumps were made from oak logs some twelve inches in diameter and bored out with suitable augers, and were calculated to endure for several generations. In the early history of the town these Fell pumps adorned the sidewalks, and were almost as numerous as the fire-plugs of today, and back in the yards were innumerable of these pumps, which supplied the familes with drinking and cooking water, and the cisterns and rain barrels supplied the soft water. This property was sold by the sheriff as the property of Ezra Fell to Ellis Baily who transferred it to John Hagan, who, in turn, conveyed part of it to Nicholis Jordan who had lived on and farmed the E. B. Dawson farm for eighteen years, who after occupying this property for two years, sold it in 1869, and removed to Ohio, where he died. Mr. Jordan sold this property to Samuel Hatfield who gave it to his daughter, the wife of George W. Hook, who occupied it a while, when they moved to Grand Ridge, Illinois, and sold it to James T. Gorley who con- veyed it to Lucy Webster, a colored domestic of the town, who with her mother, Sally Curry, made this their home the re- mainder of their lives. Mrs. Curry was born a slave in 1803, and 380 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. died here December 30, 1909, aged 107 years. This property- descended to Mrs. Harrison Scott who conveyed it to John Jenkins. Andrew and Ellis Fuller erected a frame house next south of the above and occupied it as a residence. Daniel K. Moser purchased this property and made it his home. Arthur James purchased the property next north of the Catholic church which has been used as a dwelling. John Hagan, who as before stated, owned the two lots, Nos. 29 and 30, deeded about 44 feet of the southern portion of lot No. 29 to the Right-Reverend Michael O'Connor, the first bishop of the diocese of Pittsburg, for $75. This deed bears date of October 31, 1853, and during the following year a brick Roman Catholic church was erected on this lot. The building was con- secrated and used regularly for public service until a new church building was completed on Center street, since which time the old building has been used off and on by other congregations of that denomination. On December 36, 1796, James Kendall, Jr., purchased lots Nos. 37 and 38 in Henry's Addition for $40. A large frame house stood partly on lot 38 and partly on 37, and was occupied at various times by different tenants, among whom were Joseph Moore, the step-father of Thomas Fenn, and whose son, William Moore, enlisted in the Mexican war and died at Puebla; John White, another tenant here, was a gunsmith by trade, who offered his services as a hangsman for money. James Fletcher became the owner of these lots and after his death his executors sold 93 feet frontage of this property to Miss Sophia Stevens, 1858, who with her mother, the widow of Dr. Benjamin Stevens, made her home in a large frame house which stood on this lot. Miss Sophia Stevens will be remembered as one of the old school teachers of the town. She had an innate faculty for teaching and adopted that profession long before the public school system became established, and the children of the town even unto the third generation were her pupils. When West Berkeley street was opened through from Morgan- town street to South Mt. Vernon avenue a part of this prop- erty was condemned, and John G. Stevens, a nephew of Miss Sophia retained some 58.5 feet of the northern part of this prop- History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. 281 erty, upon which he built a neat cottage house in 1879, in which he lived since its erection. West Berkeley street was opened through from Morgan- town street to South Mt. Vernon avenue 40 feet wide in 1896. Jacob Pritchard purchased the southern part of lot No. 37, January 9, 1847, and lived in a frame house next south of the Stevens house. This lot had a frontage of 45 feet. John Mana- way bought this property and ten and a half feet of it was con- sumed in opening Berkeley street. Walter W. Laughead bought the remainder of the Pritchard lot and erected thereon a two- story frame store room and dwelling, facing on Morgantown street and a double frame dwelling facing on Berkeley street. Joseph Pryor purchased lots Nos. 34, 25 and 26 in Henry's Addition, December 36, 1797, for $150. These lots were sold back to Henry Beeson at sheriff's sale, September 13, 1805, who the same day transferred them to John Stiles, and Stiles, on January 31, 1833, sold them to Priscilla Wood, the wife of Lewis Wood, who on August 3, 1831, conveyed the same to Joseph Collins, who on June 23, 1833, conveyed the same to Dr. John F. Braddee. These lots, containing one and a half acres, constituted part of the hitching places for the horses and teams of his patients. Soon after Dr. Braddee was sent to the penitentiary for robbing the mails, his property was seized upon and sold by the sheriff, and at such a sale on September 8, 1841, Adam Lutz purchased a row of lots on the west side of Morgantown street, beginning at the James Fletcher lot and running southward 297 feet to the Benjamin Hellen lot, for $390. Adam Lutz was a Dutchman and for a time was employed as watchman by the town council. Early in the morning of the 39th of December, 1848, Adam discovered a party of several persons in an alley at the west end of town, and in attempting to make an arrest, was stabbed by one of the party. He was conveyed to his home, and on the following day made deposi- tion implicating a notorious female named Lucinda Tucker, Frederick Raymer and Samuel Betts. The Tucker woman and Raymer were arrested and placed in jail, but Betts fled the country. Mr. Lutz lingered until the 13th of January following, when he died. A post mortem revealed that Mr. Lutz had been stabbed between the seventh and eighth ribs below the left shoulder blade, penetrating the lung. Betts was apprehended ^82 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. in Ohio, and at the March sessions, 1849, all three were placed on trial for murder. The grand jury ignored the case against Raymer, but Betts and the woman were held for trial. Judge James Veech defended the woman, and owing to insufficient evidence to convict, although many witnesses were examined, and the whole community interested in the case, she was ac- quitted. Betts was next tried, and for the same reason he too was acquitted. Betts remained in the town and was known as a quiet, inoffensive citizen, and was subsequently employed as janitor for several years at the public school building. The Adam Lutz property was advertised at public outcry on the 28th of February, 1857', by John KefTer as executor, at which time James Winterbottom became the purchaser. Mr. H. V. Combs, who announced himself as a veterinary surgeon, occupied this house in 1857. Mr. Combs was a shoemaker by trade and also manufactured brushes ; politically he was a strong Democrat, and always marched in the political parades of that part)^, and invariably carried a small bantam rooster on the top of a pole, by which he attracted much attention and created considerable merriment. Many tenants occupied this little house since Adam Lutz's time. At the death of James Winterbottom his son, James P. Winterbottom, fell heir to all the property on the west side of Morgantown street of which he died seized. " Polk " Winterbottom, as he is familiarly called, sold this 58 foot lot to D. A. Griffith who tore away the old house in Feb- ruary of 1902 and erected a neat frame residence on its site. James Winterbottom erected on a 47 foot lot next south of the Adam Lutz house, a double frame tenement which has since been occupied by various families. Next south of the double frame, " Polk " Winterbottom erected a frame dwelling and oc- cupied as such for some years and sold it to Samuel Fouch who occupied it. He also built another dwelling next south of the above on a 25 foot lot, in 1881, and George Stacy was the first tenant who occupied it for several years until his death. Mrs. Kyle purchased this property and at her death it descended to her daughter, Mrs. Lucius Stacy. This lot marks the southern limit of the James Winterbottom purchase of the Adam Lutz estate, and which comprehended about 25 feet more than the original lots, 25 and 26 in Henry's Addition. Just south of the part of the Adam Lutz estate sold to James Winterbottom, was a lot of 50 foot frontage which was History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. 283 sold at public outcry February 26, 1853, to William H. Murphy and Thomas Jaquett for $101.50. Polk Winterbottom bought the northern half of this lot and erected thereon a frame dwell- ing which he sold to Miles Anderson, whose widow still owns it. The southern half of this lot was sold to Samuel Gadd who erected thereon a frame dwelling and after occupying it for several years sold it to William Cloud who occupied it. This completes lot No. 24 in the original plan. Jeremiah Gard purchased lot No. 23 in Henry's Addition, December 26, 1797, for $25. Mr. Gard owned a tract of land in South Union township, of 248 acres, before 1780, which ad- joined Col. Thomas Gaddis. In 1791 he built a flouring mill on a branch of Redstone creek, since known as the Hutchinson mill. Here he conducted a carding machine, a fulling mill, and manufactured linseed oil and grain scythes. He served as a private in Captain William Crawford's ill-fated expedition against the Indians. He died upon his farm and left three sons, Daniel, Simeon and Jeremiah, Jr., who all settled near their father, but after his death they all moved to Ohio. Jeremiah Gard conveyed this lot to Benjamin Hellen, March 23, 1811, and subsequently Col. Ben Brownfield came into possession of this lot and built thereon a brick residence for his son, Elmer Brownfield. Col. Ben sold the lot to Benja- min Courtney, who lived here until his death. Mr. Courtney's heirs sold this lot, April 8, 1870, to Nancy B. Clark, it then being in the occupancy of William Dawson. Nancy B. Clark, wife of William M. Clark, March 14, 1871, transferred this to Robert Patterson who on May 10, 1883, sold 36.5 feet of the north- ern part of the lot to Robert Fuller, Jr., who erected thereon a frame dwelling and it was conveyed to Joseph Fouch and at his death it descended to his heirs. Robert Patterson conveyed the southern part of this lot, of 40 feet on which stood the brick house erected by Col. Ben Brownfield, to his son, John W. Patterson, together with several other lots, June 19, 1903. John W. Patterson conveyed this property to Charles H. Plummer, who added many im- provements to it. Jacob Johnson purchased lots Nos. 21 and 22 in Henry's Addition, February 27, 1802, for $82. Mr. Johnson and Comfort, his wife, conveyed these lots to Lydia Huffman, November 27, 1806. Mr. Johnson was a resident of Georges township, near 284 History of Unionfown, Pennsylvania. the Tent meeting-house where he owned a farm. He was known to bring wagon loads of peaches to town and if he could not get his price for them he would throw them into the road as he went home. In a newspaper of October 14, 1839, appeared the following advertisement : " My wife, Comfort, has left my bed and board without just cause or provocation and I hereby warn all person against trusting her on my account, as I will pay no bills of her contracting." The above was bad enough, but there was still added, " She is Comfort by name, but no comfort to me." Mrs. Johnson had already made application for a divorce. Lydia Huffman, on February 21, 1811, conveyed these two lots to Benjamin Hellen. Robert Patterson subsequently came into possession of these lots and sold off No. 22 to C. W. Pyle who built a com- fortable frame dwelling on the northern part of the lot and occu- pied it for some time. William Trader bought this property for a home for his daughter, and it was subsequently sold to Mrs. Phebe White who made it her home. Basil B. Brownfield pur- chased the southern part of this lot and erected thereon a modern frame dwelling lining on Summit avenue. Mr. Pat- terson opened out Summit avenue and on it laid off a number of small building lots. O. P. Markle purchased 35 feet of the southern part of lot No. 21 and thereon erected a modern brick dwelling in which he lived for some years, when he sold it to Mrs. Isaac Williams who made it her home until her death, February 19, 1904, since which it has passed into other hands. This property was the southern limit of " Henry's Ad- dition " on the western side of Morgantown street. Anthony Swain purchased 'from Henry Beeson four acres of ground immediately south of Henry's Addition, on the west side of Morgantown street,. March 13, 1792, for 40 pounds, a little over $26 per acre. This lot ran from lot No. 21 south- ward 371.91 feet on the Morgantown road, to the southern line of Mr. Beeson's tract. Mr. Swain lived in a log house on this lot and kept a tavern. This old log house was built in two parts which parts were connected by a hall, thus making one long house. Hiram Swain carried on the chair making business here in 1815. Anthony Swain purchased also a lot from Benjamin Devore, Nov. 10, 1804, immediately south of his former purchase, front- ing 112 feet on Morgantown street. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 385 Benjamin Hellen purchased this property from Anthony Swain in 1809, and lived for a while in the log house. Among the many occupants of this old house may be mentioned Morgan A. Miller who, as early as 1830, conducted a tavern here. This location was known in Miller's advertisement as " Prospect Hill " and his tavern was a great resort for drinkers. On one occasion when a crowd were carousing at this tavern a tomb- stone maker was requested to compose an epitaph appropriate for Miller's tombstone when he quickly produced the following: " Here lies the body of Morgan Miller, Who has drunk the whisky of many a'stiller. He once lived up on Prospect Hill, And sold his whisky by the gill." Mr. Miller's wife, Polly, was a daughter of " Granny Thomas," and a sister to Capt. Hugh Gorley's wife. Mr. Miller is mentioned elsewhere. The notorious Dr. John F. Braddee first located in this property upon settling in Uniontown as early as 1839, and here practiced his profession until he purchased the Thomas Irwin property, as mentioned elsewhere. Robert Patterson lived in one part of this house when he first came to this town, and Samuel Dorsey, whose wife was a daughter of Peter Hook, lived in the southern part of the house and owned one acre and a half of land adjoining. Mrs. Dorsey's first husband was Rev. Thomas Daughiday, a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church. Samuel Dorsey was a surveyor by occupation. Mrs. Dorsey was one of the old time school teachers of the town. After several transfers this property and much more came into possession of Robert Patterson until he owned over twelve hundred feet of a frontage on Morgantown street, through which he laid off Summit avenue on which he laid ofif several lots. Next south of the Markle lot, and from part of the Anthony Swain lot he sold a 35-foot lot to Mrs. Rachel McCray upon which was built a frame dwelling which was subsequently owned by Elliott Finley. John McDonald bought the next lot and erected a frame house which he sold to Lin T. Hayden who improved it and sold it. The next house is a part of the old log building before mentioned which with several acres Mr. Patter- son sold to George A. McCormick who sold the part still stand- ing to Alexander Chisholm who greatly improved it and occupied it for several years. George McCormick tore away the southern part of the old building and opened out Dunkard avenue, on which he sold several lots. 286 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. South of Dunkard avenue and on the Priscilla Dorsey tract stood quite an orchard of apple trees. Julia Sutton purchased one and a half acres south of Dunkard avenue from Robert Patterson and after living here a while sold to John F. Smith who sold to Alonzo Nabors. Albert Wheeler bought the north- ern part of this lot, next to Dunkard avenue, on which is a frame dwelling, and Mrs. Susan Deffenbaugh purchased the southern part of the Nabors lot. This was the last lot on the west side of Morgantown street within the borough. The large white oak tree that marked a corner of the Anthony Swain lot was also a corner of the Henry Beeson tract, the Tomlinson " Trial " tract and of the William Campbell tract and also a corner of the original borough line. This venerable oak was cut down in 1894 and sawed into wagon stuff. Isaac Wood purchased from various parties several small tracts, making in all nearly 14 acres, extending from what is now Lebanon avenue northward to about the Anthony Swain tract. Mr. Wood, in 1856, conveyed it all to Lucinda Patterson, wife of Robert Patterson, and here Mr. and Mrs. Patterson ended their days. Robert Patterson was of Scotch ancestry and was born in Ireland, March 4, 1808, and settled in Uniontown in 1842. For many years he was a leading and prosperous butcher in the town, and by his shrewd business methods and industry he ac- cumulated a handsome fortune, and owned much valuable real estate. Sometime before his death Mr. Patterson erected a com- fortable brick residence a short distance south of the old log building in which he had lived so long, and in this he died June 14, 1904, aged over 96 years. Thomas J. Moyer purchased a part of the Patterson estate, including the brick residence, beginning at Lebanon avenue and facing 155 feet on Morgantown street. On the South side of Lebanon avenue stood a two-story log house which Peter Hook owned and occupied after retiring from the hat business in which he had for many years been en- gaged. While residing here he gave a dinner to Captain Thomas Collins' company on the eve of their departure to the war of 1812. Peter Hook had one son and two daughters. The son, Peter Hook, Jr., married Amelia Thomas, and was the father of Peter Uriah Hook, the well remembered auctioneer, merchant and hotel proprietor. His widow subsequently married Captain History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 287 Hugh Gorley. Peter Hook, Jr., died on a steamboat on the Mississippi river and was buried on the river bank. The daugh- ter Priscilla, became the wife of Rev. Thomas Daughiday, a Methodist Episcopal minister, who died October 12, 1810, leav- ing one daughter. She subsequently married Samuel Dorsey, a school teacher and surveyor, who died a short time after this marriage. Aunt Dorsey, as she was affectionately called, taught school for many years and died at a good old age. The other daughter, Drusilla, married Benjamin Hellen, who had worked at the hatting business with Mr. Hook, and who succeeded him in the business. Peter Hook died March 12, 1818, in the 65th year of his age, and was buried in the old Methodist graveyard on Peter street. His widow, Isabella Hook, died in August, 1824, aged 75 years. Peter Hook had acquired much real estate to which his son-in-law, Benjamin Hellen, succeeded. Dad (Thomas) McCulloch bought this old log house and about one acre of ground and here kept a cake and beer shop for some time. Granny Thomas also lived and kept a cake and beer shop in this property for some time. Her daughter Polly mar- ried Morgan A. Miller; Amelia married first Peter Hook, Jr., and subsequently Capt. Hugh Gorley and Betsy married a Mr. Tol- bert. Nathaniel Brownfield purchased this property and in the course of years it became a nuisance on account of objectionable tenants and one night some of the neighbors tore away some of the logs and rendered the building untenantable. Basil B. Brownfield purchased the lot on which this old building stood and erected thereon a modern frame residence and occupied it as such. Nathaniel Brownfield purchased nine acres of land from Rev. William Brownfield lying on the west side of the Morgantown road, which after farming for some years, on April 8, 1893, he conveyed this with the residue of his fine farm to Joseph Wolf of the town of Braddock who laid off a plan of lots known as the Wolf Addition. These lots were put on the market, 1906, and afforded fine sites for residences. Clarence McClure, a plumber, built a modern brick house .next south of the B. B. Brownfield residence and occupied it a few years and moved to Riverside, California in 1891. Sea- right Brown purchased the property and occupied it as a resi- dence. Passing on southward comfortable and tasty homes were built by E. H. McClelland, C. F. Smith. Then came Al- lard street, then the residence of W. K. Talman, then Warren 288 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. street, then the home of John Price, then Newmon street, then the vacant lot of Taylor Dawson, then two vacant lots to the borough line. Benjamin Hellen, as before stated, inherited much of the Peter Hook estate much of which extended from the southern limits of Uniontown to about one mile out the Morgantown road ; and after a successful business career in the town, Mr. Hellen moved to his country home, known as Cottage Hill, about half a mile south of town, in 1835. He was the son of William and Dorcas Johnson Hellen and was born near Frederick, Maryland, October 7, 1779. He learned the hatting trade and came to Union- town in 1803, where he secured employment under Peter Hook who was then in business on the lot now occupied by the resi- dence of the late Hon. John K. Ewing. On May 9, 1803, he was married to Drusilla Hook, the sixteen-year-old daughter of his employer, by whom he had 15 children, of whom the following grew to maturity, viz. : Peter Hook Hellen, a well known mer- chant of the town, and who built the Tremont building on the southeast corner of Main and Morgantown streets; Minerva, who married William Wilson, also a hatter by trade, and a well known banker of the town ; William, a student of medicine, who died at the age of 38 years; Norval H., once a merchant of the town and who moved to Webster city, Iowa; Benjamin Frank- lin, a merchant and justice of the peace of this place, and who inherited Cottage Hill and much other property ; Jane, who mar- ried Jesse Beeson the well remembered miller of the town; Drusilla, who married Burgess Hammond of New Market, Mary- land; Harriet, who married Thomas J. McClurg of Pittsburgh, and who were both deaf mutes ; and Hellen M., whose first husband was John McMacken and whose second husband was John A. Patton. Mrs. Hellen was born January 11, 1786, and died November 10, 1856. Mr. Hellen died January 3, 1864. They were buried in the Methodist graveyard on Peter street. w IT) o K o < w (J M H CHAPTER XII. Peter Street — South Street — Mill Street — Berkeley Street — Union Street — Penn Street — Beeson Avenue — South Mount Vernon Avenue — Gallatin Avenue. Peter street was one of the original streets of the town, and lies north of and parallel with Main street. It was named in honor of a friendly Indian who was known among the whites as Indian • Peter, and from the fact that he had settled on a branch of Redstone creek, now known as Schutes run, he was also known as Peter Redstone. Indian Peter had been em- ployed as interpreter for Hugh Crawford, an Indian agent, and for which service he had been granted some land by the Penns. He was an intelligent and peaceable Indian, but, unfortunately, one Philip Shute, a Dutchman, came and settled near him and proved to be a disagreeable neighbor. Indian Peter, therefore, asked that another tract be given him, which was done. This second tract was located on the opposite side of the Mononga- hela river from Brownsville, and was warranted to him April 5, 1769, under the name of " Indian Hill." Here he remained in peace with the whites the remainder of his days. The eastern end of Peter street ends at the Central Public grounds, donated by Henry Beeson, the founder of the town, and upon which now stands the public county buildings. For a distance of 237 feet on the north side of Peter street from the Central Public grounds westward there were no lots laid off in the original plat of the town. On this ground stood the house of Thomas Douthett, the former owner of the land, and upon which Henry Beeson erected the first flouring mill in 1773. Mr. Beeson occupied this Douthett house until he erected his mansion house on the side of the hill overlooking the pros- pective town. This flouring mill was put in operation in 1773, and operated until 1783, when it was dismantled and the build- ing removed to Main street as related elsewhere. This piece of ground was used as a mill yard for many years. E. B. Dawson purchased this lot and transferred to the Borough of Uniontown 40 feet frontage of the eastern part for the purpose of erecting a lockup, and upon which the first lockup was erected 1889. This' building becoming inadequate for the 289 390 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. purpose, was removed and a new lockup building erected on its site, which new building was opened for use December 11, 1907. A frame blacksmith shop stood on the western part of this lot which was used as such for many years. Mr. Dawson tore this away and erected his comfortable residence on the corner of North Gallatin avenue and Peter street, and here resided until his death, the property remaining in possession of his widow and son. Mr. Dawson donated 35 feet of the western part of his lot for the opening of North Gallatin avenue. The original plat of the town shows that lots Nos. 48 to 54 inclusive, were laid off on the north side of Peter street west of the above described lot, but the plan was never carried out in the sale of these lots, but were sold to Jonathan Downer in one lot, from now Gallatin to Beeson avenues. Mr. Downer bought much other land adjacent, as related elsewhere. On lot No. 48 he erected a double log house about 1783, and in this house General Ephraim Douglass was a lodger with Mr. Downer from the time the former settled in Uniontown upon his ap- pointment as the first prothonotary and clerk of the courts, which he so graphically described in his letter to General Wil- liam Irvine. Several of Mr. Downer's children were born in this house, and it was subsequently used as a school house, and known as Downer's school house, and many of the early inhabitants of the town attended school here. It was subse- quently used as a wagonmaker's shop, and still later a plan- ing mill. This, and nearly all the other property on this square, was destroyed by fire on March 16, 1898. Richard A. McClean purchased this lot and erected thereon a brick stable in which he carried on the livery business for several years. It was subsequently used as a bowling-alley. Under this building is a fine soft-water spring which formerly supplied the neighborhood with water. Another old building stood in this row and was destroyed by fire. On this lot Richard Randolph erected a three-story brick building in 1902, which was used for business and flats. The West Penn Railways company purchased this building and in 1913, converted it into a station. Samuel Magie carried on a large livery stable next west of the present Randolph building for some years. The fire that destroyed this block started in this building March 9, 1898, and caused a loss estimated at $12,000. In 1907 Frank C. Monaghan History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 291 erected a brick four-story business house on the site of the Magie stable, in which were two business rooms below and flats above. Ewing B. Hibbs conducted a blacksmith shop next west for several years, when he retired from the business and the building was used as a tinner's shop. A small frame building stood next west of the above and was owned by C. H. Beall and occupied for some time by Joseph McCoy as a tinner's shop, and was subsequently occupied by A. G. Beeson as an upholsterer's shop, and while in his occu- pancy it was destroyed by fire. Clarence H. Beall purchased the lot fronting 72.5 feet on Peter street and on Broadway, now North Beeson avenue, from Peter to Penn streets on which he erected a large livery barn with sheds and office. Here he conducted a livery and sales stable for several years when he retired from the business and Richard A. McClean continued the business ; and while in his occupancy the property was destroyed by fire. Middle alley occupied a part of what is now North Beeson avenue, and Jacob Beeson, brother of Henry, bought all the land west of Middle alley and north of Peter street, on which were some buildings at the time, August 23, 1791. Elijah Crossland moved to Uniontown from Connellsville where he had carried on the butchering business for many years, and bought much of the land lying between North Beeson avenue and Pittsburgh street and north of Peter street, and lo- cated his slaughter house at the north end of Middle alley, and lived in a frame house next west of the present Cohen furniture store. The first lot west of Middle alley, now North Beeson ave- nue, was owned by Zadoc Walker on which he had a large stable in connection with his hotel. Hugh L. Rankin built a two-story brick building on this lot into which the Genius of Liberty printing office was moved November 1, 1871, and which it occupied until April 1, 1903, when the property was sold to S. Cohen who converted it into a fine business property. Charles King came from Connellsville and established him- self in the blacksmithing business, and purchased property on Peter street where he carried on his business for many years, and was succeeded by his son, Captain Thomas King, and later by his grandson, Frank King. Mr. King was a good workman 393 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. and was ably assisted in his business by his son, Thomas, who was very popular. He had a strong liking for military parades and was always prominent at celebrations and took charge of the artillery in firing salutes. He also took great interest in the volunteer fire department and had full charge of the old crab suction pump which supplied water to the hand fire en- gines. His many warm friends were shocked at his sudden death, November 33, 1891, which occurred while at work over his anvil over which he had worked for fifty-nine years. The lot west of the King property and east of Pittsburgh street belonged to the Jacob Beeson tract and was in Jacob's Addition. A log dwelling and a blacksmith's shop stood on this corner before the year 1819, and this corner was continu- ously used as such until the fall of 1893, a period of 73 years. Joseph Kithcart once owned this property and lived in the small one-and-a-half-story log plastered house. He and his'wife both died of cholera when that plague was raging in 1850. William Koffman owned this property and carried -on black- smithing on the corner. William H. Wilhelm purchased this property and tore away the old house and erected a frame ware- house and new shop, and here carried on his business until elected sheriff in the fall of 1893, having worked at blacksmith- ing for 33 years. This property was destroyed by fire Monday night, February 5, 1906, while in the ownership of Jacob Davis who had purchased it about three years before. Mr. Davis replaced it with a large play-house known as the Lyceum Skat- ing Rink, which was opened September 33, 1907. The name of this play-house was changed to that of " The Dixie " and other kinds of entertainments were given. Solomon Hickman was the first purchaser of lot No. 10 in Jacob's Addition, January 3, 1797. This was the first lot on the west side of the " road leading to Colonel Cook's mill " now known as Pittsburgh street. A large two-story frame dwelling, painted red, stood on this corner. Dr. Daniel Marchand bought this property and located in Uniontown as early as 1803, where he practiced his profession until his death, March 13, 1822. He was eminent in his profession and much lamented, and was buried in the public burying ground east of the court house. Dr. Hugh Campbell read medicine under Dr. Marchand in this property, and became connected with him in his practice, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 393 and succeeded him in the ownership of the property and went to housekeeping here. George Dawson occupied this house as a residence at the time his illustrious son, John Littleton Dawson, was born. John P. Sturgis owned and occupied this property for many years. Joseph M. Hadden purchased this property and tore away the old red frame and erected a brick dwelling and store room in which he lived and carried on an iron store. This building was torn away and a three-story brick building erected in 1896, known as the News Standard building. In this the News Standard printing establishment was installed and much up-to-date machinery introduced. This building was partially destroyed by an extensive fire November 1, 1901, but was im- mediately repaired. Crumwell Hall purchased the property next west of the News Standard building and enlarged the frame house thereon and here conducted a boarding house for many years, and which his widow continued after his death until the building was destroyed by fire. Next west of the Hall boarding house was a frame building which had been erected by Isaac Skiles as a warehouse to be used in connection with his store, for the stor- age of grain and other farm produce which was taken in ex- change for dry goods. This building came into the possession of Mrs. Hall and was converted into a dwelling. A log building stood on the lot west of the Hall property in which one David Evans taught school. He and all his pupils have long since passed to the great beyond. Israel Hogue at one time owned and occupied this property, at which time there were two houses, one log and one frame when the lot was sold at sheriff's sale in 1844. William I. Crawford owned this house and lot for several years. After his death it was sold to Charles H. Seaton and while in the occupancy of Levi Vansickle it was destroyed by fire. Joseph M. Hadden erected a frame warehouse on the lot west of the above, which he used for the storage of farm ma- chinery and implements, and was subsequently used for the same purpose by other parties. It was finally occupied as a livery stable by Abe Friedman, when on the morning of Novem- ber 1, 1901, fire which originated in this stable destroyed the whole square of buildings, excepting the News Standard build- 294 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ing which was much damaged, and much other property in the neighborhood. Next west of the above stood a small row of low frame buildings known as " Kinkead's row " which had been built by- Robert Kinkead and was used for some time for business pur- poses. James F. Canon kept a hat store in 1824, where he an- nounced that he kept constantly on hand a supply of water- proof and other kinds of hats of his own manufacture. William Armor kept a stock of ready-made clothing in the Kinkead row at the same time as Canon kept a hat store there. One Joe Stouffer, a stage driver, lived here at the time his wife gave birth to twins that were inseparably connected after the man- ner of the celebrated Siamese twins. The lot west of the Kinkead row was attached to the Mc- Clelland House and on which stood a large stable and sheds for the accommodation of patrons of the hotel. A blacksmith shop and wagonmaker's shop stood east of the stable and in these William Gaddis and Jesse King carried on buggy and wagon making for several years. They were good workmen and well respected. Others continued to occupy this shop until it was burned. The large McClelland House stable was burned about 1856, when several valuable horses perished in the flames. A new stable was erected and it too was destroyed November 1, 1901. John Todd erected a large frame stable on the lot next west of the McClelland House stable, and here conducted a livery busi- ness for some time when it too shared the fate of the rest of the square. The space on this square that was swept by fire has been since built up by business blocks. Arch street was opened from Penn street northward to Jacob's or Coal Lick run and several residences and workshops erected thereon. David Jennings, Jacob Murphy, Samuel Stevens, Jonathan Rowland and Peter Hook, trustees of the Methodist Episcopal church of Uniontown, and their successors in office, for the sum of five shillings, were granted a deed from Jacob Beeson and Elizabeth, his wife, for lots Nos. 27 and 28 in Jacob's Addition. These lots were on the north side of Peter street and west of what is now Arch street. Upon the western part of these lots the first Methodist Episcopal church was erected, and the east- ern part was set apart for a burial ground as mentioned else- where, and on July 31, 1794, Henry Beesan and wife convey to History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 295 Rev. Charles Conaway and his associates, trustees of Union District school, one acre, three quarters and thirty-three perches of land in the rear of the Methodist Episcopal church property. Old Methodist Episcopal Church Building. The old Methodist Episcopal church building which was built in 1833 and used as a house of worship until 1878, was traded in in part payment for the erection of the new one on Morgantown street to the contractors, Laughead, Modisette & Co., after which it was used for several years as a livery stable, and after passing through several ownerships, Charles W. Johnson, in 1908, tore away the old building and erected on its site a large brick automobile garage. West of the old church stood a small log house which be- longed to the old mill property. Christian Keffer was an oc- cupant here for some time. He was the father of our well remembered citizen, John Keffer and of Julia Keffer who became the wife of David Blythe. Many tenants succeeded Mr. Keffer in this house. James M. Howard and sons erected large shops at the western end of Peter street in which they have continued to carry on an extensive business in the manufacture and sale of vehicles of all kinds. Many of the business houses on the north side of Main street have been extended to Peter street, and a number of comfortable resident properties have replaced the stables that used to line on this street. South Street. South street was one of the original streets of the town. Adam Richards owned and occupied the first frame house at the west end, north side of South street and had a carpenter shop on the same lot. He was a good mechanic and well known in the vicinity. Daniel Jackson owned and occupied this house for many years and died here. A small two-story brick residence stands next east and was for many years owned by Peter Kremer. A small frame house stood on the rear of the Col. Roberts lot which was occupied by various tenants, it has recently un- dergone remodeling and made quite respectable. Where were once stables lining on this street business 396 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. houses now occupy the ground. Enos West erected a brick building on this street in which he carried on a grocery business for several years in the early 50's. L. B. Bowie did business here after leaving Main street, and from here he retired from business after a career of many years. This property changed hands and was converted into a room for a wholesale fruit market. James J. Wood, the blind broom maker, erected a tall frame building next east of the before-mentioned brick and here for many years carried on his business as a broom manufacturer. Passing on eastward the street is mostly occupied by the rear end of business houses extending through from Main street. A large brick building once stood in the rear of what is now known as the Hogg building and was primarily used as a ware- house, but more recently for residence and business purposes. At the eastern end of this street some respectable residences and business rooms have been erected as demands occurred. The old Hopwood Row was built by William Hopwood, who was a carpenter by trade, and occupied the west end of the south side of South street. At the time this row was erected there was great demand for cheap houses to accommodate the many stage drivers and others employed on the old National road. This row extended along South street and partly on Mill street, and as might have been anticipated, was occupied by a variety and sometimes undesirable tenants, and from the numerous people inhabiting this row it acquired the sobriquet of " Noah's Ark." After the decline of the National road this row became more of a nuisance than a paying investment and finally fell into disrepair, and was torn away in 1908. Enos West purchased the lot on South street running from Strawberry alley to Mill street, on which at the time stood a log building. He tore away the log and erected several frames, one of which he made his home. He also built a log school house, which is still standing on the lot, perhaps made from the logs taken from the original house. This build- ing was, and is still known as West's school house. In this schools were taught for many years, and among the many teachers who taught here may be mentioned George W. Brown of Virginia, Mr. Stokes, among whose pupils were Mrs. William A. West, Judge John Kennedy Ewing and John S. Harah. Noble McCormick taught here and among his pupils History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 297 was Nerval Greenland. Mr. Lathrop was another teacher. Joseph Colestock, who died recently at an advanced age, taught here. The foregoing held forth here in the 30's. When the county commissioners decided to surmount the then newly built court house with a statue of General Lafayette, David Blythe was engaged to carve the image which was done in this old school house. This building has since been used for resdience purposes. Mr. West dug a well at the curb in front of his residence which has to this day furnished an abundant flow of pure cold water to slake the thirst of man and beast. This well was dug in the fall of 1839, and from that time to the present the thirsty passer who slakes his thirst at this well can but breathe a bless- ing upon the man whose kindly heart induced him to dig this well. ,Mr. West was a carpenter and contractor, and a very active man in the early history of the town. His descendants still own and occupy the property. To the east of Morgantown street on South street stood Greenland's old log pottery where most excellent crocks, jars and jugs were made. This pottery was first owned and operated by Abner Greenland until his death, after which the business was continued under his son Nerval Greenland, who was so well and favorably known in the town. The three-story brick Commercial block now occupies the site. A small log house stood east of the Greenland property which was for many years occupied by a good natured colored man by the name of John Stephens, but known as " John ob Course." He was well known by all and was usually employed about the restaurants as a cook. His timidity subjected him to many practical jokes by his white friends, in whose estima- tion he stood so high they erected a headstone to his grave on which is inscribed to the memory of " John ob Course," and a line of his favorite song. James Bunton owned and occupied a frame house next east of the above. Mr. Bunton had a family of girls, one married George Fouch of Connellsville, one married James J. White, the tailor, and one became the wife of John Altman, the painter. Many tenants occupied this house before it was torn away to make room for improvements. Thomas H. Lowry erected a brick building on the rear of his lot and here manufactured mineral waters of all kinds. 298 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The King brothers, D. J. and John A., conducted a feed and grain store in a frame warehouse on the corner of Jackson alley. This property was entirely destroyed by fire March 31, 1908. A new and up-to-date brick warehouse was immediately erected and the business resumed. A livery stable was estab- lished on the rear of the Collier property by John Collier and the business has been conducted here since. Just east of old Bank alley stood Col. William Redick's frame carpenter shop. Here he and others carried on business for many years. In this building the Genius of Liberty printing office was located when Col. Redick and his brother-in-law owned and published the paper. On part of what is now the school house grounds stood a small frame house which was occupied by Mary Lyon; it descended to her daughter, the wife of Allen King, a coach trimmer who worked in the Stockton stage yard. A brick building was erected on the west corner of what was for a time known as Foundry alley, but now a part of the public school grounds. This building was erected by William Salter in 1830, and used as a foundry for some time, and was always known as " the old foundry." This property was purchased by the school board September 6, 1838, and converted into four school rooms upon the establishment of the free school system. East of the old foundry school building, on the east side of the alley, Hugh Graham erected a row of frame buildings, known as Graham's row. In this Mr. Graham had his shops while he carried on his business as a carpenter and contractor extensively in and about the town. Mr. Graham was the con- tractor on the stone addition to the Gallatin mansion at Friend- ship Hill in 1833. Mr. Graham evidently exercised his own taste in the construction of this addition, as Mr. Gallatin was abroad at the time, and upon his return in 1833, upon viewing for the first time his reconstructed mansion, gave vent to his disappointment in the most emphatic language. He described it as being in the " Hyberno-teutonic style, — the outside, with its port-hole-looking windows, having the appearance of an Irish barracks, while the inside ornaments were similar to those ol a Dutch tavern, and in singular contrast to the French marble chimney-pieces, paper, mirrors and billiard table." This plat of ground is now covered by the Central Christian church building. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 299 Hankins and Hogsett built a three-story brick warehouse east of the Central Christian church, which was used in con- nection with their store. Judge Nathaniel Ewing built a small brick building just east of the Hankins and Hogsett warehouse, at the mouth of Meadow alley. This was originally used as a stable, but for many years has been used as a dwelling. On South street, east of Jefferson street, old Uncle Alex Green owned and occupied a log house. He had been a former slave and had purchased his freedom and settled here. A fuller account of him is given elsewhere. A two-story brick house stands on this part of the street which is now the home of George L. Sloan. East of a fifteen-foot alley stood a frame shop in which Maurice Lonergan carried on wagon making for some years. A frame dwelling now occupies the site. Isaac Tilman, a colored man, owned and occupied a small two-story frame house near the east end of this street. He was an oM citizen of the town and spent much of his time hunting turtles. Thomas Waller was another well and favorably remembered colored man of the town. He lived at the extreme east end of this street and was a coal hauler for many years. These houses have been occupied principally by colored families since their original owners and occupants have passed away. Red- stone creek closes the eastern end of this street. Mill Street. Mill street was a part of Jacob's Second Addition, on the west of and parallel with Cheat or Morgantown street, running from South to Ray street. Samuel Yarnell, a shoemaker, was an early property owner and resident on this street, as was Martin Armstead, a worthy colored man of the town, whose widow, Tabitha, still owns their property. Everhart Bierer erected a brick residence on this street in which he resided for some time and carried on his business as a butcher. This property became the home of William H. Hinsey who lived here for many years, when it was sold to J. N. Hibbs, who erected a large building next south of the residence in which he carried on the harness busi- ness, and later occupied as a livery stable. Mahlon Fell owned two lots and lived in a small log house that stood on the corner of Mill street and Fell's alley. Fell's 300 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. alley was twenty feet wide and ran from Morgantown street westward to Mill street and is now a part of West Fayette street, the latter was subsequently extended through to West Main street. Mahlon Fell went out with Captain Collins' company in the war of 1813, as an ensign, and was marked on the roll of that company as dead. His office was filled by the promotion of Sergeant Benjamin Price, April 1, 1813. Nathaniel Jaquette lived in this house for sixteen years. Various tenants occupied this house until it became untenantable. John Allen Messmore built a new frame residence on this lot and occupied it for some time. J. K. Ritenour purchased this property and greatly improved it and has made it his home for several years. John Miller purchased the lots from West Fayette street southward to Ray street. He learned the tanning trade with Jacob Beeson, whose daughter, Rebecca, he married. He erected the brick dwelling still standing on the southeast corner of West Fayette and Mill streets, which he occupied, and es- tablished a tannery next south of his residence, which he con- ducted successfully for many years, and acquired much other property in the vicinity of the town, and in 1818, the tax dupli- cate showed that he was the heaviest tax payer in the town. He, with Judge John Kennedy and others, became a contractor on the construction of the old National road. He married a Mrs. Carson of Somerset as a second wife and Mrs. Mary Ann Frazer, nee Amos, as his third wife. He was a man of fine appearance and a most delightful conversationalist. Of his family of twelve children by his first wife, Jacob B. Miller, the well known founder and editor of the Pennsylvania Democrat, was the oldest, and of the two by his third wife, William H. Miller, Esq., was the youngest. He died of hemorrhage of the lungs at Rockford, Illinois, in 1840. William Stone purchased the John Miller property on Mill street and, in conjunction with his sons, Thomas and Charles, conducted the tannery for many years. Eli Cope succeeded the Stones in this property and business for some years. A woolen mill was erected on the site of the old tannery by a company of enterprising citizens of the town of which C. C. Hope was the moving spirit. This factory was successfully conducted for several years, and afforded employment for a number of men and women and turned out blankets and flannels History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 301 of a superior grade. The plant was entirely destroyed by fire May 8, 1879, incurring a loss of about $13,000. On the western side of Mill street beginning at South street William Hopwood erected a number of frame houses which, to- gether with those on South street, constituted what was known as Hopwood's row. These were built for the accommodation of stage drivers and others wishing inexpensive residences, and were principally occupied by persons who found employment with the stage companies and workshops. Some few of these buildings still stand, but most of them have long since gone to decay. Dr. T. N. Eastman purchased the lot on the north- west corner of West Fayette and Mill streets and erected thereon a fine brick residence which he occupied until his death. William N. Irwin erected a tasty frame dwelling on the southwest corner of the above streets and here lived for a number of years. James I. Feather greatly improved this prop- erty and made it his home. Mrs. William Irwin owned two dwellings next south of the above which were occupied by various tenants. Charles Sinclair erected a frame residence next south and occupied it for several years. It now belongs to the mill property. Albert Gaddis & Co. erected a large flouring mill at the south end of the original Mill street in 1887, and here conducted a flourishing business from the time of its erection. This mill was sold to John Hogsett & Co., 1906, who continued the business. Mill street was opened out southward to McCormick street in 1903. Berkeley Street. Berkeley street originally extended from Morgantown street eastward, and was known as the road leading to Jeremiah Card's mill. It was later named Friend street in honor of the two Quaker founders of the town. This part of the street was slow in building up, as the old William McClelland barn was perhaps the first and only building on this road for some years. The small frame tenement erected by Daniel Huston and which was occupied for many years by Sammy Jackson, was also an early structure on this street. Isaac Williams purchased a tract of ten acres at the east end of the street from the William McClelland estate, and in 1869 erected tliereon a brick residence which he made his home. 308 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. David Gans bought this residence and much of the land in 1901, and made it his home. This street now contains many fine and desirable residences. Plans recorded July 24, 1896, show that George A. Mc- Cormick laid off a plan of lots from the rear of the Sophia Stevens lot westward to Coal Lick run, and that Joseph M. Hadden continued the same to South Mount Vernon avenue. This street was opened to Morgantown street, connecting it with Friend street, and the whole received the name of Berkeley street in remembrance of the location in Virginia from which the founders of the town came. This street later was extended westward through the Bierer and other properties to the Mc- Clellandtown road, and is now a very desirable residence street. Union Street. Union street was laid off about 1843 by Isaac Beeson and ran from Fayette street southward to Foundry street. John Bradbury and Benjamin Wintermute erected a double frame house at the lower end and east side of this street. It was plastered on the outside, known as rough cast, and was afterwards weatherboarded. The northern part of this house has been owned and occupied for many years by Mrs. Mary A. Crawford. The southern part has been changed and owned and occupied by several people. William Brown erected a frame dwelling next south and it is still in the ownership of his heirs. Miles Hall built a double frame dwelling next which has been occupied by various tenants. Charley C. Hickle erected a mod- ern dwelling next south and made this his home. John Brad- bury and William Loomas together built a double brick house next south, Bradbury building the northern half and Loomas the southern half. William Hall purchased the Bradbury half and occupied it until his death, since which it has remained in the possession of some of his family. Thomas H. Fenn pur- chased the Loomas part and after occupying it several years, he erected a frame dwelling next south and he and his daughters occupied it until his death, since which his daughters have owned and occupied it. Isaac Wood bought a lot next south of the Fenn property and moved a small frame house onto it for a home for his son Ethelbert. It is still in the ownership of his widow, Sarah Ann Wood. . A narrow alley separates the above property from a lot on History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 303 which Col. William Redick built a frame house on which the weatherboarding stood vertically, and was occupied by George Phillips, a moulder employed at Robinson's foundry. Jacob Ashcraft owned and occupied this house for many years and it is still in the ownership of his daughter. Rev. W. W. Hickman built and occupied a frame dwelling next south of the above. It is now owned and occupied by Joseph Hager. Eleazer Rob- inson built a four-roomed brick residence next south, which stood back from the street. He occupied this at the time of the death of his first wife. William Selden became the owner of this and occupied it until his death. Subsequently a frame front was added. Thomas Jaquette erected the frame dwelling on the corner of Union and Foundry streets and occupied it until his death, since which his widow has continued to occupy it. Thomas Jaquette learned the moulding business in the Robinson foundry and later became the proprietor and conducted the business for many years, and was one of the town's most re- spected citizens. Foundry street was extended through to South Beeson avenue and was named Robinson street, on which have been erected several modern and desirable residences. John A. Poundstone built a frame dwelling next south of Foundry street and occupied it for several years. It is now owned and oc- cupied by Robert Powell. James M. Robinson erected a frame dwelling next to the Powell property and has since occupied it. George W. Green erected a frame dwelling next south of the above and made this his home. Ottis P. Powell erected a frame dwelling next south of the above and has since occupied it. Beginning at the lower end on the west side of Union street and running south, John Bradbury owned a large lot on which kilns were built for the purpose of drying the lumber used in the construction of the court house, erected in 1846. Max Baum erected a frame dwelling on this lot, and after occupying it for some time he sold it to Mrs. Anna M. Huston, widow of Judge John Huston, since whose death it has been owned and occupied by her nephew, John Huston. Thomas Matthews built a frame dwelling next to the above and sold it to Nathaniel Hurst, who occupied it for a time. It has since been owned by his daughter, Mrs. Hankins. Joseph R. Marshall built a frame dwelling for a home for his mother, next south of the above, which she occupied until her death, since which it has 304 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. been occupied by various tenants. Armstrong Hadden built a small brick house next south, and Frank Wilkinson, a wagon- maker, was a tenant. Jesse Emery, a shoemaker, purchased this property and occupied it for several years. Nathan H. Divvens purchased this property and improved it and occupied it for several years. He sold to George Shaw, a county com- missioner, who occupied it. Miss Foster made this her home for a few years. John M. Campbell purchased this and further improved it and made it his home. Samuel McDonald owned the lot next south and sold it to Mrs. Cruise, and Charley King; marrying Mrs. Cruise's daughter occupied the property. J. V. Ellis erected two dwellings on this lot. Theophilus Bowie built a large brick residence next north of a small alley, and made this his home for many years. His heirs sold it to Thomas Jaquette in 1899, and it came into the ownership of his son, Andrew D. Jaquette, who greatly im- proved it and made it his home. Theophilus Bowie was one of the town's oldest and most respected citizens. He was a coppersmith and tinsmith by trade and carried on his business here from 1839 until his death. John Hagan built a double brick dwelling next south of the alley, about 1841; his son, William, occupying the northern side and his daughter, the wife of Joseph White, the southern side. A granddaughter, Mrs. Stephen McClean occupies and owns a greater part of the property. D. Howell Phillips and Andrew Byers owned several lots on the west side of this street and sold to Adam George who erected several small frame dwellings thereon. Sam Sibley, the stage driver who upset Henry Clay in the streets of town, lived in one of these houses at the time of 'the occurrence. Other occupants of these houses were Samuel Betts, George Dawson McClelland, Mrs. Julia Sutton, Andrew Dutton, Alexander Chisholm, Mrs. G. D. McClelland, Henry Farwell, Isaac Moore and many others. This row has been greatly improved and is now composed of comfortable dwellings. The two dwellings next north of Foundry or Robinson street were built by Thomas Jaquette and occupied by his sons, Nathaniel and Andrew D. ; the former now owns them both. A red frame house was removed from the location of the present Teed House on Morgantown street to the lot next south of Foundry or Robinson street by Eleazer Robinson as a tenant u Pi •p u h-l < Ph o u w Q J O w H History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 305 house and was usually occupied by persons employed by Mr. Robinson. John Gadd and Joseph Hayden were tenants here for many years. It is now owned by Mrs. Costolo. John Walters erected a modern frame dwelling next south of the above which is occupied by some of the family. B. Frank Humbert built a modern frame dwelling next to the Walters house and made this his home. Mrs. Rock built the house now owned and occupied by James Stuck. Andrew Bryson erected a double frame tenement house which has been occupied by various tenants. Samuel Hatfield purchased this property and his widow still owns it. John A. Poundstone built a small frame house next south of the above and lived here for some time. Elmer Kefover, John Collier and others occupied this as a residence. James T. Gorley owned it for a while. It now belongs to Mrs. Hanna R. Moore, and occupied by two families. Thomas B. Semans erected a neat frame school building on his lot next south of the above in which a select school was taught by the Misses Hopwood. Daniel Huston purchased a lot at the head of Union street and facing on Berkeley street on which he built a small frame house for a home for his faithful servant, Samuel Jackson, who had been in his family for so many years. Here Sammy ended his long life December 22, 1891, aged about 85 years; he was known and respected by the community. Sammy was known as the most polite and easy mannered colored man of the town. He served as waiter at the banquet given in honor of General Lafayette on the occasion of the latter's visit to Uniontown in 1825. Sammy's faithful wife was nurse for the Honorable James G. Blaine in his early childhood. Union Street Extension. Union street extension was laid off through a piece of land that had been given by Henry Beeson, Jr., to his daughter, Mary, the wife of George W. Rutter. In the early history of the town this was a beautiful grove and was a favorite place for holding 4th of July celebrations. This addition comprised five lots on West Berkeley and some forty lots on both sides of Union street extension. The 306 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. plot was recorded December 16, 1910, and is now built up with modern and comfortable dwellings. Penn Street. At an election held on May 2, 1853, it was determined by a vote of 250 that Penn street should be opened from Pittsburgh street eastward to the old Connellsville road in the rear of the court house. This street was opened in the fall of the same year. Just east of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad tracks William E. Beall erected a frame grain and feed warehouse in 1882, and in connection with his brother, Alpheus Beall the business was conducted for some time. Charles S. Seaton became interested in the business, and the building was converted into a flouring mill, and was known as the Enterprise flouring mill. Abraham Hustead owned and operated it for some time. He sold it to Samuel Mosser and George Seaton January 12, 1901, and Seaton sold his interest to David D. Johnson and it was destroyed by fire Friday night, April 22, 1904, entailing a loss of about $25,000. On this street lived the Downer family, one of the most prominent families in the history of the town. About 1778, Jacob Downer and his wife, Elizabeth Starner, with their family, removed from Lancaster county. Pa., and stopped at Old Orchard camp, near the grave of General Brad- dock, in Wharton township, where they lived in a log cabin for two years. The father proceeded to look otit for lands in Ken- tucky and embarked on a flat boat on the Monongahela river, and was never heard of afterwards, it being supposed that he was killed by the Indians. The family then moved to Uniontown, where the mother lived to be 105 years of age. The daughter, Susan, married Jacob Harbaugh ; Katy married Cornelius Lynch, and after his death she married Jonathan Rowland; Daniel was drowned in attempting to cross the Youghiogany river at Ohio- pyle falls, and John started a tannery in Uniontown on land he purchased from Henry Beeson, March 8, 1780. He sold this tannery after conducting it a few years and removed to Kentucky. Jonathan Downer, another son of Jacob, was born in 1754, and married Drusilla Springer, who died July 27, 1843, in her 74th year. He purchased the land lying between Peter street and Redstone creek and between now North Gallatin and History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 307 North Beeson avenues and hereon conducted a tannery. In about 1?83 he erected a log house on Peter street and here lived for several years and in which several of his family were born. This was the house referred to by General Douglass in his letter to General William Irvine, as quoted elsewhere. He moved back to Wharton township in 1818 and built a tavern stand on the old Braddock road and, subsequently, in 1823, he built what was ever afterward known as the Chalk Hill house, on the National road eight miles east of Uniontown. Here he died at the age of 79 years. He was the father of thirteen children, viz., Levi, William, Ann, who married Henry H. Beeson; Jacob, who served in the war of 1812 ; Elizabeth, who married Jonathan Allen; Daniel, David, Drusilla, who married Jonathan West; Hiram, who served in the war with Mexico and died on the Ohio river on his way home ; Sarah, Rachel and Ruth the youngest who was born November 9, 1802, and died February 27, 1887. Levi Downer, the father of the Uniontown family of that name, was born in Uniontown November 11, 1788; was married to Elizabeth Hall of Berkeley Springs and who died in 1869, carried on the old tannery until 1841, when he retired, leaving the business to his sons, William and J. Allen Downer who conducted it until about 1880, after a continued operation of at least one hundred years. The buildings were subsequently used as a foundry, and were torn away in 1900. Mr. Downer died of apoplexy October 2, 1854, at the age of 65 years. The family of Levi Downer consisted of eight sons and two daughters, viz. : William, who conducted the tannery after his father retired, died in 1885; J. Allen died suddenly July 24, 1882, at the age of 67 years. Major James P. was born Feb- ruary 7, 1818, and died November 5, 1893, in Saguache, Colo- rado, where he had resided for about 20 years. He served under General Scott in the war with Mexico, and was one of the " Forlorn Hope " party to scale the walls of Chapultepec. He was twice elected to the legislature of Pennsylvania, 1848 and 1849, and served through the war of the rebellion in the Second Kentucky Infantry, and was twice wounded. He was captain of a company of the Second regiment of Kansas Volunteers in the battle of Wilson creek near Springfield where he was wounded in the knee. He had a very valuable sword presented to him before the battle by General Lyon who was killed in that battle. He was buried at Uniontown. 308 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Hugh H. Downer was born April 5, 1819, and died March 2, 1888. In a company of over one hundred men he left Iowa city for California in October, 1849, and arrived at their destination in December following, and he settled in Sacra- mento city. Daniel was born November 27, 1820, and practiced law at the Fayette county bar for 50 years, and had the distinction of being the only one of the bar who had Abraham Lincoln as a client. He died May 5, 1897. Jacob died in 1888. George W. was born March 20, 1823, and served in the war of the rebellion in the Eleventh Pennsylvania Reserves, and while attending a reunion of his company September 21, 1885, at Brookville, Pa., he fell into a stream and was drowned. Eliza Melvina was born January 31, 1826, and died February 27, 1900. David was born January 15, 1832, and engaged in the pub- lication of several newspapers in the West and died April 9, 1908. Miss Caroline, the youngest and last survivor of this re- markable family, died at the old Downer home June 1, 1912, at the age of seventy-seven years. She had called at a neigh- bor's house in the morning and while there was taken ill and was removed to her home where she died at 2 :30 o'clock the same day. She left an estate estimated to be worth $200,000. This street has been greatly improved by the erection of business properties and dwellings. James Huston erected a small three-story stone house at the eastern end of Penn street in 1841. This house, being con- structed of stone from the flag quarry, had a very cheap and queer look. It stood here for many years. Several small frame dwellings have been erected on the north side of East Penn street, and this section is called Green row on account of the color of the houses, and still farther east lies the famous " Coon Hollow " mostly inhabited by colored people, and was known as the plague spot of the town. Beeson Avenue. What is now known as North Beeson avenue was known in the original plat of the town as Middle alley, and from the fact that Samuel Harah owned the property on one side and Zalmon History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 309 Ludington on the other, it was for many years known as Harah's alley and Ludington's alley. On this alley Mr. Ludington car- ried on a currying shop for the finishing of leather. Upon the finishing of the Fayette County railroad this narrow alley was opened into a street by the tearing away of the Harah property and that in the rear as far as Penn street, and the new street was named Broadway which was subsequently changed to North Beeson avenue. On the east side of Broadway Dr. Smith Fuller purchased the property from Main street to Peter street and erected thereon a row of business houses. Among the firms that have done business in this row may be mentioned S. Fuller & Son, druggists, with whom George W. Litman, Jr., was associated for five years. They were suc- ceeded by J. K. Ritenour and he by L. L. Crawford. Over the drug store have been located H. S. Young, J. E. Mofiitt, A. C. McKay and James J. Kenney, dentists; next north have been P. M. Hochheimer, millinery; T. P. R. House, groceries; John Jones, tinner; Joseph McCoy, tinner; S. K. Brown, shoemaker; William Farwell, job printer; still north were George H. Wood, groceries, succeeded by Win. Wood and Eli Cone, Jr., John A. Bryson, Thomas H. Lewis and Robert Knight, and Barney Cohen and others with dry goods, etc. C. H. Beall established a large livery stable between Peter and Penn streets and here conducted business for several years. This property was destroyed by fire in 1898. Mr. Beall soon erected a business block which extended from Peter to Penn streets which has since been occupied by various tenants for business purposes. The passenger and freight station of the Fayette County railroad was located on the north side of Penn street at the terminus of the road. A new passenger station was erected on North Gallatin avenue in 1905, and the old station used only for freight and freight offices. Some small business rooms stood on North Beeson avenue between Main and Peter streets in the rear of the Central hotel. Among the several tenants who were engaged in business here were West and Thompson, photographers; W. E. Alexander, groceries ; L N. Hagan, restaurant ; the post office and William A. Mouck, furniture. When the Central hotel was enlarged these store rooms were also enlarged and " The Fair " depart- 310 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ment store was established by Cohen and Davis; and other business firms have since occupied this block. Next north of Peter street stood a brick building in which the Genius ot Liberty printing office was located for thirty-two years. On August 6, 1902, H. L. Rankin sold this building to S. Cohen who remodeled it and established a large furniture store. John Barre established himself in the livery business on the lower part of this lot in 1865, and here carried on his business for several years. Zadoc Springer established himself here in the sale of farming machinery and fertilizers and did a large business. John R. Carothers succeeded Springer with a large line of farm- ing implements and hardware. This was entirely destroyed by fire June 4, 1906, and David Freedburg and Arthur Strickler purchased the ground and erected the present brick business block in 1907. The Uniontown gas works were erected just south of Red- stone creek in 1869, and here continued to operate until sup- planted by the introduction of natural gas. The plant was abandoned as such in September, 1904, and the buildings used for other purposes. North of the Laughead, Modisette & Co. planing mills a row of frame tenements were built many of which were occupied by workmen employed in and about the mill. F. T. Adams erected a large brick warehouse at the head of this row in which he established a wholesale produce business. This part of the town was known as " Jimtown " but from the fact that many of the houses have passed into the hands of Italians it is now known as " Little Italy." What is now known as South Beeson avenue, was at the laying out of the town known, as Middle alley, and after the building of a banking house by the Union Bank of Pennsylvania, in 1814, the name was changed to Bank alley, which at that time extended only as far as South street, but after its extension to Fayette street it was styled Redstone street, but was for an obvious reason, dubbed Dog alley. This street, having been wonderfully improved and extended from the northern limit of the borough to Berkeley street, was on September 11, 1890, named Beeson avenue in honor of Henry Beeson the founder of the town. On the rear part of the Robert Skiles pi'operty on the west side of now South Beeson avenue, stood a warehouse which History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 311 was used for several years as a furniture shop by Clark Beeson and by James P. Hedges. This building was burned away. Some small business rooms were built along this lot in which butcher shops, restaurants, barber shops, etc., were located. These were torn away about 1900, and I. N. Hagan erected a three-story business block and flats on the site, and here con- ducted a restaurant and other business. On the lot between South street and Church street Jacob B. Miller had a small frame building which had been removed from Main street. In this he had his law office, although he cared little for the practice of law. This lot was purchased by John F. Gray who built the residence on the Church street front- age, and after it came into the possession of James G. Watson he erected an iron store and warehouse on the South street side and a comfortable frame tenement between. A brick building stood on the south side of the Methodist Protestant church which was used as a furniture shop by Col. William Redick and others,, and was destroyed by an incen- diary fire. William P. Dittmore covered this lot with business rooms. South of the alley in the rear of the Methodist Protestant church Richard Beeson conveyed to Thomas Wathen, October 23, 1843, a lot on " the new street laid out by Isaac Beeson in April, 1839, known as Redstone street." On this Mr. Wathen built a frame residence and occupied it for some time. Miss Mary Jane Shaw came into ownership of this property and oc- cupied it as a residence for many years, where she carried on the millinery business until age compelled her to retire. Frank Dey purchased this property and made it his home. D. M. Springer, the tailor, and son-in-law of Thomas Wathen, purchased the next lot from Richard Beeson, October 37. 1843, and erected the frame house in which he lived for some time. This came into the ownership of Alfred Howell who conveyed it to John Thorndell who made it his home for forty- eight years, when he moved to Fayette street. Daniel Huston erected a brick tenement next south of the above as a residence for Daniel Hunt, one of his tailors. Thomas Thorndell owned and occupied this property for many years. Searight Walters bought and improved it by adding a new front. It is now the home of R. D. Warman. Hugh Gilmore' built the frame house next south of the above and occupied it for some time. M. H. 313 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Bowman owned and occupied it for a while, since which it has passed through several hands. This house and the following three were built on a large lot formerly owned by George A. Shallenberger and subsequently by William Crawford, fronting 170 feet on the street. The members of the Cumberland Presby- terian church erected the next house south as a parsonage for Rev. Henry Melville, who occupied it as such. They sold it to Samuel Clark who occupied it for a while and conveyed it to J. K. P. Winterbottom who improved it and made it his home a short time. He conveyed to the Methodist Episcopal missionary society who occupied it as a training school for foreign children. William T. Moore built the next house south and occupied it for a time. Laveria and Jennie Cooper bought this and made it their home until their deaths, after which it was sold to the family of Martin Brey, the present owners. Mrs. Benjamin Kremer built the next house south in which she and her family lived several years, since which it has passed through several ownerships and been occupied by various tenants. John H. Deford built a frame tenement on the east side of Redstone street in which John L. Means lived for a while and his wife carried on her business as a mantua-maker. George H. Thorndell was another occupant of this house. The Pennsyl- vania Railroad company bought this property and tore away the house. The small frame house next south with end to the street was once occupied by Rev. Beacom, a Methodist Protestant minister, and by Isaac Hunt and others. It has later been oc- cupied by employes of the Pennsylvania railroad. Next south was a row of frame houses, the first was owned and occupied for some time by William Maquilken, a furniture manufacturer. Stewart Speers, James Snyder and many others have since oc- cupied it. Where the People's Tribune three-story building now stands was owned and occupied for many years by Capt. A. C. Nutt, Orval Johnson and others. Next south Jasper T. Sembower tore away a frame and erected a comfortable dwell- ing in which he lived a short time. It is now the home of David L. Evans. William Hall, with his brothers, Crumwell, Israel, and Silas and two sisters, erected the brick dwelling next south and here William lived many years and carried on his business as an upholsterer. This property was bought and remodeled by the Fayette History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 313 Real Estate company and occupied as a bakery. Charles King built the next brick house south of the above and occupied it a while. Daniel Canon purchased it and made this his home for many years. Mr. Canon, in his old days, filled the office of borough weighmaster. He reared an intelligent family of daughters. South Beeson avenue vi^as extended through the Beeson estate from Fayette street to Berkeley street by the heirs of Charles H. Beeson whose widow erected a fine brick residence at the head of the avenue and made it her home. Other fine homes have been erected on this extension by James R. Cray, E. E. Dillinger, the Cumberland Presbyterian church. Max Baum, S. W. Graham, Lloyd G. McCrum, P. P. Long, Dr. J. W. Jaco, W. E. Sharps, Dr. George O. Evans and others. T. Blair Palmer tore away the old Henry Beeson mansion which stood on the eastern side of this avenue and erected on its site a fine modern mansion which he made his home. On a part of the Charles H. Beeson tract Charles street was laid out from South Beeson avenue eastward and connected with Derrick avenue and comprised some thirty lots, command- ing a beautiful view of the town, on which L. L. Crawford, Marlin C. Miller, Col. Harry Robinson, E. E. Dillinger, Thomp- son Hunt and others have built beautiful homes. Still another part of the Beeson tract was laid ofif compris- ing some eighty-seven lots through which Alder street or the Country Club boulevard passes. South Mount Vernon Avenue. What is now known as South Mount Vernon avenue was originally known as Veech's lane, from the fact that David Veech formerly owned the land over which it was laid out. In 1881 this lane was widened to a 50-foot street and was named South Mount Vernon avenue to perpetuate the name by which the tract through which it passed was originally called. Among those who bought lots and erected dwellings, and of those who early resided on this avenue may be mentioned, Robert Patterson who erected the large brick store room and dwelling on the corner of West Fayette street and South Mount Vernon avenue and now owned by his son, Robert I. Patter- son; C. W. Pyle, frame; Mrs. John Crawford, frame; Alex Patterson, brick ; William Curstead, frame, now Bauch ; Oliver 314 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. G. Board, frame, now Pickens ; John N. Lewellen, frame ; A. D. Conwell, brick, now W. J. Parshall; Hugh Burchinal, brick; Jacob Johnson, frame; Captain Hickman, frame; Mrs. L. B. Howard, frame; Edward Rose, frame; Elias Heath, brick; Mrs. John A. Litman, frame ; John C. Breading, frame ; William Gra- ham, frame; Hugh Burchinal, frame; Daniel Bierer, frame; Dr McClean, frame ; Thomas Hunt, frame ; Margaret Rouch, frame ; Walter Miller, frame; John Stockdale, frame; Martha Wood, double brick; Walter Miller, frame; Perry Debolt, frame; Charles Moser, frame; Mrs. George W. Kremer, frame; George Balsinger, frame; Caleb F. McCormick, frame; Isaac Williams, frame, later Mrs. Thomas J. Miller; Jacob Johnson, frame; C. J. McCormick, frames; C. W. McCann, frames; Ewing Burchi- nal, frame; Nicholas Fleckenstein, frame; William Kerr, frame; Continental No. 1 property. West side South Mount Vernon avenue. Daniel P. Gibson, brick, now Peter A. Johns; John C. Breading, brick, now Chas. J. McCormick ; Mrs. Julia Tate, frame, now Delbert Rush ; H. S. Dumbald, frame; Thomas Howard, frame; Isaac Hurst, brick, now Mrs. Hankins; Joseph Strickler, brick, later Frank Lew- ellen; M. M. Hopwood, brick, now Mrs. Rachel Finley; E. E. Strickler, brick; Robert Brown, frame; Quincy Partridge, frame, now Michael Andrews ; William Ellicott, frame , now R. S. McCrum, brick; Daniel Thompson, frame; Mrs. Mella Keys, frame; John Jefferis, brick; George Balsinger, frame; Theo- philus Bowie, frame ; Jacob Rosinweig, frame ; Mrs. Frank Hambry, brick, now Albert Kremer ; William Hatfield, frame ; Alfred Johnson, frame ; J. D. Rider, frame ; Herbert G. Crippen, frame; Gas Regulator, brick; Samuel Carter, frame; Methodist Episcopal church, frame ; Hiram L. Blackburn, frame ; Clayton Gadd, brick; St. Joseph's Polish Roman Catholic church,' brick ; parsonage for the same; Continental No. 1 coke company buildings. Many new and modern buildings have been erected and old ones remodeled on this avenue, making it one of the most desirable residence streets of the town. In October, 1900, work was begun on the construction of a trolley line over this avenue, and the franchise required the company to pave the street with brick, which was done about the same time as the construction of the line. South Mount Vernon avenue was extended by Whyel and History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 315 Crawford in 1902, and comprised some eight-seven lots south of Lebanon avenue. Gallatin Avenue. By an ordinance passed by the Borough council March 35, 1875, Gallatin avenue was opened from East Main street north- ward to the borough limit, through lands formerly owned by John Gallagher, James Lenox and others. In 1903, George Roth erected a three-story brick building on the east side of Gallatin avenue, between East Main and Peter streets. The first floor was occupied for business pur- poses, the second floor as dwellings and the third floor as a public hall. Between Peter street and Penn street were the dwellings of Mrs. E. B. Dawson, Dr. John D. Sturgeon and the heirs of Dr. William H. Sturgeon. In 1912, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows erected a three-story brick building be- tween Penn street and Redstone creek, for business, flats and lodge room. Other good business properties have been recently- erected on that part of the street. The old Downer property, which has recently passed into other hands, occupies the op- posite side of the street. North Gallatin avenue north of Red- stone creek i.-? described in the Playford, Boyle and McClelland and other additions. South Gallatin avenue extends from East Main street south- ward to East Fayette street; and from East Main to South street is lined on both sides with business houses. This part of the avenue was made by tearing away the old Dr. R. M. Walker property. In 1883, Charles D. Conner purchased from the William Thorndell estate what was formerly known as the Hugh Thompson meadow, extending from the alley south of Church street southward to East Fayette street. On this he laid off some twenty-three desirable building lots upon which have been erected several modern residences. CHAPTER XIII. Fayette Street^ East of Morgantown Street. Fayette street was laid out by William Lyon through a tract Henry Beeson had sold to James McCullock and which subsequently came into the possession of John Lyon, from whom seven and a half acres were sold to William Lyon, March 1, 1824. This part of the John Lyon tract had a frontage of 321.75 feet on Morgantown street and extended from the alley next south of Fayette street to the alley next north of that street. Through this tract Fayette street was opened 60 feet wide, and Mr. Lyon's plat extended eastward to the alley east of Beeson avenue; from whence it was extended through the John Collins eight acre meadow to Redstone creek, and still later, eastward till it joined the National road: thus forming a street nearly a mile long, 60 feet wide and the most desirable residence street in the town. The lots of the Lyon plat began at Morgantown street and ran eastward on the north side. Lot No. 1 is described on Morgantown street. Lot No. 2 was the first to be sold and Peter Lewis was the purchaser, August 16, 1824, for $200. These lots had a frontage of 50 feet and ran back various distances to an alley. Mr. Lewis built a moderate brick house on this lot which he made his home for a number of years. The Methodist Episcopal church purchased this lot for a parsonage in 1857, and in the old building was replaced by the present structure in 1887. Mrs. Anna Mariah McCall, who became the widow of the late Judge John Huston, was the purchaser of lot No. 3, Febru- ary 9, 1825. On this lot was built a double frame house which was occupied for many years by different tenants. Charles H. Seaton tore away this old frame and erected the present hand- some brick residence which he occupied until he purchased the Harrison Wiggins farm back of Chalk Hill and made it a most desirable county residence. Ex-Judge E. H. Reppert has oc- cupied this property for several years. George D. Stevenson was the purchaser of lot No. 4, which was next west of a twenty-foot alley. On this lot was erected a frame filled in with brick and plastered on the outside. This, it was said, was the first building erected on the new street, 316 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 317 although it was not erected on the first lot sold. Many tenants occupied this old building before it was purchased by Plenry Clay Rush who occupied while he built a neat brick residence on the eastern part of the lot and moved into it. Mrs. F. C. Breckenridge purchased the western part of this lot, tore away the old plastered house and erected on its site a neat and modern two-story brick residence which she continues to occupy in con- junction with her business as a fashionable milliner. The daughters of John S. Craig purchased of Henry Clay Rush the brick residence and have since occupied it as a dwelling. A twenty-foot alley is next east of the last described prop- erty, and immediately east of this was lot No. 5, which was pur- chased by John Phillips for $75. Alexander Turner built the frame dwelling still on this lot, and here lived for many years. Mr. Turner was a large contractor on the bridge work in the construction of the National road, and owned much valuable land west of the town, as mentioned elsewhere. Samuel Darby, a well remembered teamster about the town, was a tenant in this property for several years. Mr. Darby was very much put out by the building of the railroad to Uniontown, as his business of hauling goods from Brownsville was at an end. He moved to Alliance, Ohio. Daniel Marchand Springer, one of the old line tailors of the town, purchased this property and occupied until his death. Mr. Springer carried on the tailoring business at various places in the town for many years, and was an accom- plished workman in his line. His two sons, Thomas and John, enlisted and died while in the service of their country. Mrs. Springer, who was a daughter of Thomas Wathen, continued to occupy this property until her death. Dr. John F. Detwiler pur- chased this property from the Springer heirs in 1899, and im- proved it and occupies it as a dwelling and physician's office. William McMullen was the purchaser of lot No. 6 for $75. William Loomas came into ownership of this lot, and while in the ownership of his heirs the frame residence thereon became a wreck. Charles T. Cramer purchased this lot and built thereon a modern two-story brick residence which he occupied for several years. Mrs. William Trader purchased this property and made it her home until her death, after which Amos S. Bowlby pur- chased it and made this his home until his death. John Thorn- dell purchased this property in 1911, and after adding many im- provements, made it his home. 318 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. David H. Weems bought lot No. 7 for $85. A small two- story brick house still stands on this lot which at one time was owned and occupied by Jonathan Fisher, who carried on glove making for many years, having a number of hands in his employ. He purchased deer hides and tanned them on this lot and had buckskin gloves made from the product. This property was sold from Mr. Fisher in 1858, and John Huston became the owner. Daniel Smith was an occupant of this property for many years. Mr. Smith carried on an iron store for several years, and was appointed postmaster to fill out the unexpired term of William McDonald, May 19, 1843, and served till May 5, 1845. He was elected burgess of the town in 1847 and in 1853, and again in 1853. He was elected a justice of the peace in west ward, 1845, and for several terms thereafter, and some of these times without opposition. He was one of the most conspicuous residents of the town, and always presided as a justice of the peace with the dignity and wisdom of a judge. Esquire Smith was a leading and active member of the Episcopal church, and was its organist for many years. He was instrumental in secur- ing the loan of the bell which called the worshipers together for many years, as related elsewhere. Daniel Smith had three sons and two daughters, viz. : Frank, William, Thomas, Rachel and Elizabeth. Frank was with William Walker in one of his filibustering expeditions against Nicaragua. He was captured, but was assisted out of his peril- ous predicament by the interposition of friends and had nothing further to do with Walker, who was finally captured and shot, although he had many adherents to his cause. Frank Smith re- ceived a commission as lieutenant in the United States navy at the breaking out of the civil war, and served until its close. Lieutenant Smith wrote a letter to his father, dated U. S. S. Pensacola, April 27, 1863, off New Orleans, in which he de- scribes the shelling of Forts Jackson and St. Philip on the 17th inst. thus : " I saw the old Star of the West, the ship that took me to Nicaragua, burn. During the engagement I was in the engine room, and when one of our engineers, Mr. Huntley, at the signal bell, was wounded in the head at the third fire, he was carried below, and I took his place. Here I witnessed the most fearfully grand sight to be beheld, yet escaped unharmed, although grape and shell flew over me in the most menacing manner. Our ship was pierced in divers places, and the rigging History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 319 somewhat cut, yet we all escaped in this last encounter. On the 35th the squadron anchored in front of the Crescent city. Capt. Baily, 3nd in command, went ashore to demand the uncondi- tional surrender of the city. General Lovell, in command, prom- ised to withdraw all his troops to avoid the shelling of the town, but could not surrender the city. As soon as we reached New Orleans we hoisted the stars and stripes on the mint, and at 11 :00 o'clock we were having service on deck to return thanks to Almighty God for our victory. Before the services were con- cluded, however, the look-out reported that our flag was down. A rush was made for the guns, and if primers had been in them the city certainly would have received a broadside, and, as the wharves were crowded, great execution would have been done. As it was, the howitzer in the main-top was fired which served as a warning, although they did not haul their flag down; and until the surrender of the city, the commodore would not allow any other flag to fly." William Smith, also, bore a commission in the United States navy and lost his life in the ill-fated ship. Tulip, November 11, 1864. Thomas Smith became a lieutenant-colonel in the United States army where he served during the late civil war and in the Cuban war. He died at Portland, Oregon, March 3, 1901. Rachel Smith was married to Arnold A. Plumer, and Eliza- beth became the wife of C. H. Beall. Armstrong Hadden purchased this property and by adding a hall to the east end, converted it into two tenements which were occupied by Joseph M. and John M. Hadden. After Mr. Hadden's death it became the property of Mrs. Agnes Robinson and from whom it descended to her son, Harrold L. Robinson, Esq., who had occupied the property for several years. After Mr. Robinson's removal to his new home at the east end, this property was occupied by various tenants. Armstrong Hadden built a frame tenement on the eastern part of this lot as a residence for Henry McClay, in 1872. Mr. McClay occupied this house until after the death of Mr. Hadden when it was sold to Mrs. McCullough. Frank A. Hill purchased this house and lot and moved the frame back from the street and veneered it with brick, making it a nice modern residence into which he moved. Logan Rush purchased this property and made it his home. 330 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. From the last described property to the eastern limit of the Lyon plan of lots, including Nos. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13, was sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part of No. 8 came into the possession of Joseph P. Mc- Clelland who conveyed it to Rebecca Watson who made her home in an old frame house on the rear of the lot. The second Beeson mill race passed through this lot. Rebecca Watson was born a slave and was sold several times as property. Wil- liam Willey, brother to U. S. Senator Waitman T. Willey, was her last owner, and set her free. She bought this lot in 1866 and in the fall of the following year she took unto herself a husband in the person of Henry Keary with whom she lived twenty-five years, when he died ; and Rebecca, in rehearsing the story of her checkered life, when she came to the death of her husband, said, " Then it pleased the good Lord to set me free again." Rebecca was cared for in her last days by the good people of the Metho- dist Episcopal church, of which she was for many years a faith- ful member, and was buried in the Methodist graveyard on Peter street. Frank A. Hill purchased this lot and erected thereon a modern brick residence in which he lived for several years. He sold this to Rev. W. Scott Bowman, a Presbyterian minister who occupied it as a residence. James Hadden purchased a lot of 50 feet frontage, next east of the before described property, and in 1871 erected thereon a two-story brick residence which he occupied until 1875, when he sold it to Rev. Henry Lucas, a minister of the Methodist Protestant church, who occupied it until his death, and his widow still continued to occupy it until she sold it to Mrs. Agnes Robinson. Mr. Lucas erected the brick addition on the west as a photograph gallery for his son, John, who was suc- ceeded in the business by Wm. Moore and others, when the building was changed to a dwelling for which it has since been used. On the large lot immediately west of what is now South Beeson avenue, Alfred Patterson erected the large double brick residence now occupying the lot. The western part of this property was occupied for some time by the Patrick family, one of the leading families of the town at the time. It later passed into the ownership of William A. West who occupied it for History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 321 many years. Mrs Mary A. Hagan purchased this western half in 1906, and is still the owner. Charles H. Rush and family occupied the eastern half of this property for several years, as did Samuel E. Ewing, Esq., and others. Mrs. Mary A. Hagan purchased this property and some of the members of the family occupy it. East of South Beeson avenue to the alley on the east was a lot that lay vacant until William N. Irwin and George B. Rut- ter erected thereon a large frame building as a planing mill and carpenter shop, and where they dealt in lumber and contract work. They placed but little machinery in the mill and used no steam power. This firm did not last long. W. C. McCor- mick purchased this property and here conducted a grain and feed store and other business for several years. Thomas S. Col- lier purchased this property, fronting 131 feet on the north side of Fayette street and 149 feet on the east side of Beeson avenue in 1901, and here carried on a coal yard and feed store for some time. He erected a modest double frame on the corner of this lot which has been occupied by various tenants, and the frame shop has been occupied by various kinds of business. A ten foot alley which marked the old mill race separated the William Lyon plan of lots from the Hugh Thompson meadow which was subsequently laid out in lots to conform to the lots on Fayette street. The first lot on the east side of this alley was occupied by a small frame house which was occupied by various tenants. David Dougle purchased the next lot east, from Alfred Patterson, who had purchased a part of the Hugh Thompson meadow and laid it out in lots, and in 1843 he erected the double brick residence still standing on the lot. Mr. Dougle removed to Washington county but continued to own the prop- erty for several years. Joel Greene owned and occupied this property for a while. M. Myers, a saddler and relative of Greene, lived here a while, since which it has been occupied by various tenants. J. K. Ritenour is the present owner. William B. McCormick conducted a grain and feed store next east of the Dougle house for some time. Robert Hagan purchased this lot and continued the business of a feed store and coal yard for several years. Harry Hagan erected a large, three-story brick ware house on this lot which has been used by the Uniontown Grocery company who conducted a wholesale business. Next east of this ware house is the right-of-way of the South West 322 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania railroad, and next east of this is South Gallatin avenue. Lewis Wood erected a frame building on the corner ot South Gallatin and East Fayette street which he occupied as a dwelling and his business as a tinner. K. Forzley bought this property and here lived and carried on a grocery and meat market, several others have carried on business in this room. Mrs. Miller mother of Sophie, Elias, Austin and Zach. owned and lived in the frame dwelling now known as 37 East Fayette street. Thomas S. Hepplewhite pur- chased this property and made it his home. Isaac Beeson owned the lot on the corner at the entrance of Iowa street into East Fayette onto which he moved the old Madison fire engine house from Morgantown street, and it became the home of Dicky Paine and his wife, Prissie Patterson Paine for some years. Samuel Magie purchased this lot and erected thereon a comfortable frame dwelling. Redstone creek was the eastern end of Fayette for many years after that street was laid out. The creek was crossed by a foot bridge until 1859, when the first wagon bridge was erected. Henry Beeson, Jr., son of Henry Beeson, the founder of the town, erected a saw-mill a short distance north of East Fayette street, on the eastern bank of Redstone creek. This mill was operated for several years by Henry Beeson and sub- sequently by Isaac. A small frame tenement stood just south of the mill and was generally occupied by the man in charge of the mill, and is still standing. The school board of Union Borough purchased the ground on which the old saw-mill stood, and erected thereon a frame school house to be used by the colored children, for which a colored teacher was employed. Dissatisfaction arose as to the separation of the races, and the colored children were admitted to the other buildings along with the whites. The building was then remodeled and painted white and the name changed from that of " colored school build- ing " to that of the " White school building " in honor of Joseph White, who had served on the school board for many years, and the small children of the near-by section of the town were assigned to this building. The congregation of The Tree of Life, known as the Ortho- dox Jews, purchased this property from the school board and converted it into a synagogue. This synagogue was dedicated History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 3?3 Monday night, October 12, 1908; Rabbi Shinky, chief rabbi of the Orthodox Jews of Pittsburgh, making the dedicatory ad- dress. At the death of Isaac Beeson the old saw-mill and lot be- tween it and Fayette street became the property of his daughter, Mrs. Louise Hamilton, and the front lot now' belongs to the estate of Hon. J. K. Ewing. East of this property the right- of-way of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad crosses East Fayette street. A two-story white frame house stood east of the B. & O. crossing a few feet back from the street. The boards were nar- row, grooved and tongued and placed vertically on the sides. A covered porch extended along the front of the house. Andrew Button was a tenant of Isaac Beeson here for many years, as were George McLaughlin and Jimmy Hagan. James Moran purchased 146 feet frontage immediately east of the B. & O. crossing and erected a row of six neat and com- fortable dwellings which have since been occupied by various tenants. Jacob McFarland purchased a lot east of the Moran row and erected thereon a neat frame residence which he oc- cupied for some time. This subsequently came into the owner- ship of George W. Litman who made it his home until his death, August 21, 1904. Samuel Magie purchased the lot on the western corner of Pennsylvania avenue and East Faj^ette street, and Miss Ida L. Gray purchased this lot and erected thereon a fine, modern, brick residence, and occupied it from the time of its completion. Max Baum purchased a lot of 228.5 feet frontage on the north side of East Fayette street and immediately east of Penn- sylvania avenue, which was previously a part of the tract run- ning through to East Main street and belonging to D. Kaine, Prof. Cox, at one time president of Madison college, Isaac Skiles and A. D. Boyd. William J. Sturgis, Esq., purchased the lot next east of Pennsylvania avenue and erected a fine brick residence which he occupied upon its completion. - A lot was purchased from E. D. Fulton by what is known as " The Reformed Church " among the Jewish people, and a Jewish synagogue, known as the Temple Israel was erected thereon at a cost of $25,000, which was dedicated August 30, 1907, by Rabbi Dr. Joseph Krauskope. R. P. Kennedy purchased the 70-foot lot between the syna- 324 History of Liniontown, Pennsylvania. gogue and Willson avenue, on which stood a very small frame house which had been erected by Isaac Skiles, Jr., as a home for " Aunt Betsy " Guthrie, the widow of Rev. James Guthrie, and former widow of Jesse Beeson. In this she made her home for a short time. Henry Melier, a well-known gardner in the early history of the town, and who formerly owned considerable land and gardened at the west end of town, lived here a while, as did many others. James Henderson erected on this lot a fine modern brick residence which he occupied from its com- pletion. Orran W. Kennedy, a prominent coal and coke operator, erected a fine, modern, frame residence on the eastern corner of Willson avenue and East Fayette street which he occupied from its completion. Harvey T. Jaco built and occupied a comfort- able frame residence next east of O. W. Kennedy. The family of Alfred Gorley erected a frame residence on the west side of Stewart avenue and occupied it for many years. John C. Wood built a frame residence on a lot of 124 feet on the north side of East Fayette street and east side of Stewart avenue, and lived here for some time. He was a manufacturer and dealer in furniture. His sister, Mrs. Robert Hagan, erected a small, double, frame tenement just east of the above. Charles T. Cramer purchased this lot, from Stewart avenue to an alley on the east and tore away the old buildings preparatory to the erection of a fine, modern residence which was completed in 1913 from which time he made it his home. Charles T. Cramer erected a comfortable frame dwelling east of the alley mentioned, and made this his home for several years from the time of its completion. Thomas H. Lewis and Robert Knight bought a considerable frontage on East Fayette street and Mr. Lewis built a frame residence which he occupied for a time. George H. Miller bought the Lewis house and added many im- provements and made this his home until his death, Novem- ber 24, 1905. His son, Clyde, still holds the property. Mr. Miller had been a thrifty and honored business man of the town for many years. Robert Knight built a frame residence east of the one erected by Thomas H. Lewis which he. occupied for several years. Enoch H. Abraham purchased this property and greatly improved it and occupied it while superintending the Warren glass plant near the foot of Grant street. Harry Whyel bought this property and further embellished it and here History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 325 made his home. He was superintendent of the H. C. Frick coke works at Leith for many years. Harry S. Clark, a druggist, purchased a lot of 54 feet front- age immediately west of Grant street in 1899, and erected thereon a modern frame residence and occupied it from the time of its completion. George Jenkins, a well known colored man, owned the first lot east of Grant street, and here he and his wife lived in a small shanty still standing. Rebecca Porter, a colored woman owned and lived in a small house east of the Jenkins house. Isaac W. Semans bought both of these lots and tore the buildings away. John W. Darby owned and occupied the next lot, on which stood a frame house. Mr. Darby served as register and re- corder of the county for two terms, being elected to these of- fices November 2, 18^5, and again November 5, 1878. He was much respected by the community. Nathan Woodward owned and lived next east of John W. Darby in a red frame house, and after his death it was owned and occupied by his daughter, the wife of S. G. Patterson. George Whyel owned a fine, large lot east of the above de- scribed properties. On this lot a large hippodrome was con- structed in 1910 and several exhibitions were held, but after several unsuccessful attempts the project was abandoned, and in 1913 the structure was torn away. Across a ten-foot alley east of the hippodrome lot Benjamin Douglass, a worthy colored man, built a frame house and lived there until his death. It has since been in the occupancy of his son, Gilson Douglass. Armor S. Craig built two neat frame dwellings east of the Douglass property which have been occupied by his sons, Altha and Armor D. C. C. Woodfill built a frame tenement east of the Craig property, and Alex. Johnson built the last house on the north side, in which Johnson lived. Fayette Street, South Side. William D. Swearingen purchased 40 feet of the eastern part of the Alfred Patterson lot, on the south side of Fayette street and next east of Morgantown street, on which he erected a two-story frame dwelling some twenty feet back from the street. Mr. Swearingen occupied this house but one year when he moved to the village of Monroe and took charge of the flouring mill built there by Thomas Hopwood, which he ran for 336 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 20 years. William McCleary, the son-in-law of Mr. Swear- ingen, moved into this house and occupied it for some time. Ol. Wells was also an occupant here. Peter . A. Johns pur- chased this property and occupied it as a residence for many years and died here September 20, 1870. Mr. Johns was a member of Col. Roberts' command in the war with Mexico, was elected to the offices of register and recorder of the county, 1851, and as a member of the legislature in 1855. He enlisted and served in the war of the rebellion and was appointed as postmaster at Uniontown in 1870, which office he held at the time of his death. He was admitted to the bar of Fayette county December 7, 1857. His family retained the property some years after Mr. John's death. J. V. E. Ellis tore away the old house and erected the present brick residence and oc- cupied it. Samuel T. Lewis, uncle of Marshall N. and Samuel Lewis, bought lot No. 15 in William Lyon's plan of lots, on the south side of Fayette street, and next east of the above described prop- erty, January 18, 1827. On this he built a two-story brick resi- dence which he occupied until his death. Daniel Lynch, who had served a term as high sheriff of Fayette county, occupied this house at the time Isaac Skiles, Jr., married his daughter, Caroline. His daughter, Anna, married a wealthy book pub- lisher of Cincinnati. Benjamin Hellen purchased this property from Alexander Turner, October 7, 1850, and this became the home of his son, Peter H. Hellen, for many years. Peter Hook Plellen was engaged in merchandising' in the early history of the town, and in 1853, he erected the three-story business block on the southeast corner of West Main and Morgantown streets. The Hellen heirs conveyed this property to the members of the Great Bethel Baptist church who tore away the old buildings and erected a handsome stone parsonage. The members of the Great Bethel Baptist church began the erection of a two-story brick meeting house on the southwest corner of Union and Fay- ette streets in 1867, in which the first service was held in the lower room March 14, 1869, and here continued for ten years, until the auditorium was completed in 1879, and the dedicatory services were held August 17th of that year. The last public services were held in this brick church May 11, 1891, at which time plans were completed for the erection of the present stone structure. The corner stone of this building was laid with ap- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 327 propriate ceremonies October 28, 1901, and the edifice was dedi- cated, free of debt, with appropriate services, October 11, 1903. John Bradbury purchased lots Nos. 18, 19, 30 and 21 east of Union street, the first of which Benjamin Wintermute owned and occupied and carried on his business as a stone cutter for many years. Mr. Wintermute was a son-in-law of Enos West who succeeded Wintermute in the ownership of this property and William A. West became an occupant. The title passed to Zadoc Fleming, another son-in-law in whose family it still remains. Isaac Beeson built a large, two-story, double brick resi- dence on lots Nos. 19 and 20, in 18-18 ; and Judge Samuel A. Gil- more was a tenant of Mr. Beeson in this house soon after his appointment as president judge of Fayette county. Alfred Howell, Esq., purchased the western half of this property in 1861, and added the third story and other improvements. Henry Jennings purchased this property from the Howell heirs and made it his home. Mrs. WilHam McClelland, widow of William McClelland who in his lifetime was proprietor of the old McClelland tavern, was an occupant of the eastern part of this property until her death. Rev. William F. Hamilton, son-in-law of Isaac Beeson, was an occupant for several years, as was Mrs. Eliza Beeson, widow of Isaac Beeson. William Beeson was in the occupancy of this property for many years, and died here May 14, 1913, in his 89th year. Isaac Skiles, Jr., built the house east of the Beeson prop- erty in 1848, and occupied it for several years. His brother, WiUiam Skiles, senior member of the popular dry goods firm of W. & T. D. Skiles, occupied this residence for some time and died here December 18, 1862. Amos Bowlby bought this prop- erty and resided here for several years, and conveyed it to M. H. Bowman ; and Chas. F. Kefover, Esq., was its occupant for several years. The next house east was apparently built at the same time and by the same person, as they were twin houses. Both stood a little back from the street and had small yards enclosed by an iron fence and stone steps leading to the door. Louis D. Beall, one of the best known liverymen and horse dealers of the town, owned and occupied this property, and died here May 6, 1871. Morgan H. Bowman purchased this property and greatly en- 388 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. larged and improved it making it one of the most desirable residences on the street. Alfred Patterson, Esq., purchased all of the eastern part of the William Lyon plan of lots, beginning at the present resi- dence of M. H. Bowman and running eastward on both sides of Fayette street to and including the alley east of Beeson ave- nue. Mr. Patterson ' sold to Mrs. Ann Bowie a lot of 45 feet frontage on which she erected a good two-story brick house which she made her home the remainder of her days. Mrs. Bowie came from Maryland with her sons, Lucien B., Theo- philus, John and George. Col. Thomas B. Searight bought this property about 1866, and here made his home which is still in the possession of his family. A frame house was built next east of Searights for a home for Dr. William Fuller, son of Dr. Smith Fuller. Here he lived for some time. David Freedberg bought this property and added many and valuable improvements and made it his home. Dr. Fuller erected a small, one-story frame building on his lot which he used as an office in the latter part of his medical practice. This building was removed to . the rear of the lot. A brick residence was erected on this lot which was occupied for a time by Hugh L. Rankin, and later by Miss Lizzie Fuller who owned it and the frame before mentioned. Alfred Patterson, Esq., erected the large, double brick house on this lot in 1842, and occupied the eastern part from the time of its erection until his removal to Pittsburgh. Mr. Patter- son erected a small brick building on the corner of his yard which he occupied as a law office for some time. Joshua B. Howell was the first tenant of the western part of this double brick from the time of its completion, and in 1856 he purchased 124 feet frontage, including the western half of his house and running to the Searight property. Dr. Smith Fuller purchased all this property in 1866, and here made his home until his death, March 14, 1892. His son. Dr. John M. Fuller still owns and occupies the property. Zalmon Ludington purchased the Alfred Patterson resi- dence and lot east and occupied it for several years, after which Nathan Divvens, a successful tobacco merchant owned and oc- cupied it for several years, and it is still owned by his heirs. The vacant lot east of this residence was absorbed by the open- ing of South Beeson avenue. Mr. Ludington and wife conveyed History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 339 to Mrs. Albert G. Beeson the eastern lot of the Lyon's plan of lots, on which, in 1878, she erected a comfortable brick resi- dence which she occupied for several years and still owns. James R. Cray erected two modern brick residences next east of South Beeson avenue which have since been occupied by various tenants. Mr. Shipley erected a brick residence lining on the alley east of the Mrs. Beeson residence and occupied for some time. He was followed by a number of tenants. Robert Hagan is the present owner. A neat frame tenement was erected just east of the Shipley building and is owned by Robert Hagan, who also erected a brick tenement next east of the above. David Lewis built the two brick houses next east of the before mentioned property. David Lewis was one of the aristoc- racy of the colored folks of the town, and was a barber by trade. He carried his shaving tools about the town and waited on his numerous customers at their residences. He was a leader in the church and colored society. He was the father of Tabitha, who became the wife of Martin Armstead, and of Eliza, who became the wife of Alexander Moxley. These two daugh- ters were of the most respectable colored residents of the town. David Lewis lived in the part later owned and occupied by William A. Donaldson and built the western part for a home for his mother. James Monahon owned and occupied the western part for several years. It is now owned by Robert Hagan. William A. Donaldson purchased the David Lewis resi- dence and made it his home the remainder of his life, and his family still own and occupy the property. William A. Donald- son was born at Emmittsburg, Md., February 14, 1818, and came to Uniontown in 1839. He was a buggy and coach and sign painter, and was a master in his line. He was a leading member of the Methodist Episcopal church for many years. Mr. Donaldson erected the double frame tenement east of his residence which has been occupied by various tenants. Charles E. Kremer purchased a small lot immediately east of the South West Pennsylvania right-of-way and erected a small frame residence which Was subsequently enlarged and converted into a dwelling and business room. T. Sutton Wood erected a frame dwelling and business room next east, and oc- cupied it with his business as a tinsmith. This property was 330 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. subsequently much enlarged, and owned and occupied by Joshua Scott. Nathan Allen, a well known colored man of the town, owned the lots next west of Redstone creek and here lived in a small house. William Hall, the coach trimmer and carpet layer, pur- chased this property and erected thereon one or two frame dwellings. At his death these passed to the ownership of his nephew, Fred Thomas. James E. Cottom erected a brick business block and dwell- ings immediately over Redstone creek in 1911. Mr. Cottom also built the stone residence immediately east of the creek, and occupied it as a residence. He also erected two double frame dwellings east of his residence. East of the Cottom houses Samuel C. and Alf Johnson built a large brick building in which they established machin- ists, hot water and steam fitters and a general repair shop, to which, in 1904, C. W. Johnson added a concrete automobile garage, subsequently the two were united and became known as the Fayette automobile garage, which has been owned and operated by different parties. William R. Miller built a frame residence and plumbing shop east of the garage and here carried on his business for some time. He retired from the plumbing business and the room was rented for a grocery, and subsequently used by Daniel J. Johnson as a milk depot. Eggers and Graham erected a frame building next west of the B. & O. railroad crossing as an office to their planing mill in the rear. The first residence east of the B. & O. right-of-way was erected by Milton Freeman who occupied it as a residence for a short time. He sold it to Frank Lewellen, who after occupy- ing it a while conveyed it to Robert Hogsett in 1903, since which time Mr. Hogsett has occupied it. George Daugherty built a double frame tenement next east of the Freeman house and sold it to Joseph Fell who still owns it. Sutton Wood built a frame dwelling next east, and after occupying it one year sold it to George W. Semans who has since occupied it. Hon. Frank M. Fuller, son of Dr. Smith Fuller, erected the fine brick residence next west of Pennsylvania avenue exten- sion, and occupied it from the time of its completion until his death, July 10, 1905. Frank M. Fuller was born April 7, 1853, was admitted to the bar, 1879, was made secretary of the com- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 331 monwealth by Governor Pennypacker in January, 1903, which honorable position he held at the time of his death. His widow, who was Miss Amanda Wyatt, still owns and occupies the prop- erty. John Taylor erected a fine brick residence immediately east of Pennsylvania avenue and occupied it from the time of its completion. He was interested in the manufacture of coke. Fred C. Keighley erected the fine brick dwelling next east of the Tailor House and occupied it. He is considered the highest authority on the manufacture of coke in Fayette county. Mr. Keighley had built a frame dwelling on the eastern part of his lot in which he lived until he finished his present home. Mrs. William E. Hogg, his daughter, now occupies the frame. Judge John Kennedy Ewing owned several acres of land fronting on East Fayette street. This fine lot of valuable ground the judge magnanimously offered to donate to the in- habitants of Uniontown upon which to erect a free public library. Mr. Andrew Carnegie having agreed to donate the sum of $5,000 toward the erection of a building for that purpose. The borough never decided to accept Judge Ewing's princely gift nor Mr. Carnegie's generous donation. After the death of Judge Ewing his heirs laid out this plat of ground into building lots, and extended Willson avenue southward from Fayette street to the B. & O. right-of-way on which have been erected several modern and comfortable dwellings. On the first lot east of Willson avenue the Uniontown high school building was erected in 1910-11, as related elsewhere. L. P. Whiteman erected the present residence of Capt. James M. Hustead, known as 180 East Fayette street. Capt. Hustead added many and valuable improvements to this property and made it his home. Capt. Hustead is widely and favorably known as one of the most prosperous business men of the town, and his kindly and genial disposition has secured him hosts of friends. Thomas Hadden purchased several acres of land fronting on East Fayette street on which he erected a fine brick residence opposite the mouth of Stewart avenue in which he lived until he moved to Bucks county, Pa. He sold this prop- erty to Harry Hazzard, son-in-law to Judge A. E. Willson, who after occupying it a while conveyed it to Jasper Augustine who added many improvements and occupies it along with his magnificent county seat in Somerset county. Charles E. Kremer, a plasterer by trade, built a moderate 333 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. frame residence next east of the Augustine residence which he occupied until he built a more pretentious dwelling on the east. This property was then conveyed to George Porter and from him to John Cope and then to Mrs. Mary Allen, widow of WiUiam Allen, the present owner. Charles E. Kremer erected the frame dwelling known as 202 East Fayette street and has occupied it since its completion. William Swearingen's frame dwelling and small one-story frame building occupied as a store room stood back a short dis- tance from the line of the street and lined on a one-perch alley that led from Beeson's saw mill to the Barton mill road before Fayette street was opened out east to Grant street. Here Mr. Swearingen lived and conducted a small store. Mr. Swearingen was a miller by trade which' he followed for many years. His wife was a daughter of Adam Canaan. William G. Divvens married a daughter of Mr. Swearingen and occupies the property. David J. Hopwood built the brick residence known as 214 E. Fayette street in 1883. He conveyed this to Nicholas Mc- CuUough who died here and the property was sold to Jacob C. Beeson who made this his home until his death, July 5, 1898, and his widow, who was a sister to Capt. Hustead, con- tinued to occupy it until her death, April 12, 1906. Mr. Beeson came here from Fairmont, West Virginia, where he had been a man of some prominence. He represented his district in the legislature for the purpose of establishing the new state of West Virginia, and was president of the First National Bank of Fair- mont for 15 years, and also served as treasurer of Marion county. He was descended from Jacob Beeson, the founder of the west- ern part of Uniontown. This property descended to Bugh Hustead, the present owner. Robert F. Hopwood erected a fine frame dwelling on the corner of East Fayette and Grant streets to which he has added extensive improvements, making it one of the desirable resi- dences on that street. For many years a small passageway led from Grant street to the National road. When the town council concluded to open this passageway the full width of Fayette street they were met by considerable opposition. The small, inexpensive build- ings that were at first erected thereon have nearly all given place to more pretentious residences. William P. Case bought the corner lot east of Grant street History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 333 from Robert Bryner and built thereon a comfortable frame dwelling which he continues to occupy. Charles T. Cramer and William C. Black bought a lot of several feet frontage on which was a double frame residence which they moved to the rear and erected a frame dwelling which Mr. Cramer occupied for a while. They built next east a modern brick residence which has since been occupied by Mr. Black. They also built a frame tenement east of the brick. Ira Seaton owns and occupies a small frame dwelling east of the before mentioned property. Milbert Silbaugh owns two small frame residences next east of Seaton, a 15-foot alley separates this property from Mil- bert Silbaugh's comfortable frame residence in which he lives. A vacant lot belonging to I. W. Semans lies between the Sil- baugh property and Whiteman avenue. T. Sutton Wood erected a frame residence on the east corner of Whiteman avenue and here made his home. Then comes two vacant lots belonging to Mrs. D. J. Hopwood on the east of which is an alley, east of which are two vacant lots belonging to I. W. Semans. East of the Semans lots James Cottom erected a double concrete house in 1906, which was on the corner of Feathers avenue. East of Feathers avenue John S. Ritenour owns a vacant lot, and east of this Edward C. Cornish built and occupied a comfortable dwelling. Fayette street — west of Morgantown street, was known as Fell's alley at the laying out of the town, and in 1843, was laid out as Fayette street. Abraham Brown of Georges township purchased the old John Miller property on the corner of Mill and West Fayette streets and on the eastern part of the lot erected a neat brick residence. Next west of this he built two double frame dwellings which have been occupied by different tenants. On the west side of Mill street William N. Irwin erected a neat frame residence which he occupied for several years. James I. Feather bought this property and made many improve- ments on it, and here made his home. Dr. T. F. Farmer erected a frame dwelling next west of the Feather's property, and a frame office next west, which he occupied and carried on his business as a dentist. Jacob Howard built a frame residence next west of Dr. Farmer which he sold to Mrs. Craft. Edgar 334 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Hackney bought this lot and erected a large double frame tenement thereon. Mrs. Marcy built the next house west and lived here for some time. Mrs. Marcy was the widow of Henry G. Marcy, known as Governor Marcy, a well known stage driver on the old National road. This property was later owned by Mrs. Lil Thompson and is now owned and occupied by the family of George R. Messmore. Miss Ella M. Lewis now owns and occupies a frame dwelling owned and occupied by the widow of Levingston Boring on the lot west, but was moved to its present position. Mrs. Elizabeth O'Bryon built a frame dwelling, now known as No. 119 and here with her son, Charles G. and family, has since made her home. A small frame build- ing that was used as a cooper shop stood near the eastern bank of Jacob's run and was used by Jacob Howard and others. It was later occupied by Jerry Miller as a residence. Robert Patterson erected two brick dwellings next west of Jacob's run, now known as Coallick run, which have since been occupied by various tenants. The Southwest -Pennsylvania railroad purchased the first of these and used it as an ofHce and dwelling. The second was sold to Joseph Haky who oc- cupied it as a dwelling and undertaker's room. Lewis Dawson built a brick residence next west of Straw- berry alley and occupied it from the time of its completion until his death. Miss Martha Wood built a frame residence next west of the Dawson residence and occupied it as such. Mrs. Tillie Wood, widow of Qeneral William Wood, built a frame dwelling next west of the Martha Wood brick, for a home for her daugh- ters, Jane and Anna, who have since continued to occupy it. The home of J. Kid. Ritenour occupies the corner of Mill and West Fayette streets, north side. This house was built by John Allen Messmore who occupied it for some time. Mr. Ritenour has added many improvements. The lot on which the fine home of Dr. Thomas N. East- man now stands was used as a garden patch by Nathaniel and Ewing Brownfield for many years, until Dr. Eastman bought it and erected the fine dwelling that now occupies it. John W. Wood built a frame dwelling west of the Eastman house and occupied it until his death, February 5, 1910, since which his widow has occupied it. John W. Wood was a mem- ber of Company K, 116th Pennsylvania Volunteers in the war of the rebellion. Fie followed the business of saddle and har- History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. 335 ness making in this town for 37 years and was always known as a good workman and an upright business man. Members of the Wood family carried on the harness business in the town continuously for 118 years, and John W. was the last of the name to carry on the business. CHAPTER XIV. Market or Church Street, Beginning at Morgantown Street AND Running East. An ordinance was passed by the council of Union borough in 1830, authorizing the laying out of what was called Market street. This street was to be 50 feet wide and was to begin at a point on the National road near the eastern bridge and run to Morgantown street where that street was intersected by South street. An election was held whereby the citizens ratified the action of the council, and Isaac Wood deeded to the borough a lot through which the street was opened. Beginning near the western end and running eastward on the south side, Isaac Wood erected a two-story brick residence immediately east of a twelve foot alley, known as Union alley. This building stood some distance back from the street and was occupied for many years by George H. Wood, a son of Isaac Wood, and he was succeeded by Everhart B. Wood, another son of Isaac. William McCleary ptirchased this property and erected a modern front and occupied it 'as a residence for several years. William McCleary was the son of Ewing McCleary who kept a hotel at the corner of Arch and West Main streets. At the age of 17 he was apprenticed to William Crawford to learn the trade of saddle and harness making, at which he became a finished workman. As was the custom in those times, Mr. Mc- Cleary and other young men of his trade were invited to quilt- ings where they vied with the young ladies in fine and fancy needlework. In 1836 he went to South Bend, Ind., and started in business for himself, but soon sold out and returned to Union- town, where he became a clerk in the store of Col. Ewing Brownfield, where he continued until 1845, when he went to Smithfield and continued in business for 23 years. He sold out to A. J. Stewart in 1868, when he returned to Uniontown and purchased the old Skiles corner where with his son, Ewing, he continued in business for several years. In 1838 Mr. McCleary married Rebecca, daughter of William D. Swearingen. In 1843 he was elected captain of the Union volunteers, which office he held for several years. In 1881 he entered the People's Bank of Uniontown as teller, which position he held until 1889. His 336 THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 337 children were, Ewing, who also followed merchandising for many years ; Elizabeth D., who married Hon. Matthew G. Holmes and resided in China for a number of years, and Catharine, who married Warren W. Mitchell and lived in Wash- ington city where Mr. Mitchell held an important government position. Mr. McCleary died at the home of his daughter at Clarksburg, March 30, 1893, and was buried in Union cemetery at Uniontown. Mr. McCleary built a two-story brick dwelling on the east- ern part of this lot, but considerable distance back from the street, which has been occupied by various tenants. Dissatisfaction having arisen over the erection of a Presby- terian church on the public grounds donated by Jacob Beeson, the trustees of the church purchased from Isaac Wood a lot fronting 80 feet on Market street on which was erected a new church building which was ready for use in the spring of 1838. This house of worship was replaced by another which was dedi- cated April 10, 1860. For some time prior to 1896, it was deemed expedient that a new and more commodious church edifice be erected to meet the wants of the congregation. On September 6, 1893, the trustees of the Presbyterian church conveyed this property to Professor James H. Griffith, ostensibly for the opening of a high school, but on November 25th following. Professor Griffith conveyed the same to Julius L. Malcolm, in trust for the members of the Central Presby- terian, now the Second Presbyterian church. After having $3,000 worth of repairs put on it this building was destroyed by fire November 12, 1894. The erection of a new church was begun in 1895, at a cost of $22,000, which was partially ready for occu- pancy the following November, where services were held for five years, by which time the main auditorium was completed. James F. Canon in 1833, purchased the lot next east of the Presbyterian church lot. Here Mr. Canon lived and had a shop in which he manufactured hats. After passing through several hands this lot came into the ownership of M. Amberg, a Jewish merchant of the town, who erected the present comfortable resi- dence thereon. R. M. Modisette purchased this property and occupied it as a residence for several years. He commenced the mercantile business in this town in the early forties, and was located for 338 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. a short time on the southwest corner of West Main and Morgan- town streets in connection with L. M. Kline. While here they pushed their business with great vigor, outrivaling all their competitors. Mr. Modisette was subsequently located in Com- mercial Row, as is noticed elsewhere. He entered the army as a sutler. His last business transactions were in connection with the extensive planing mill and contracting firm of Laughead, Modi- sette & Co. This firm had the contract for the erection of the present court house and jail and the Episcopal church edifice as well as many of the most costly and magnificent residences and business blocks of the town. Mr. Modisette's integrity was never questioned, and his word always was considered equal to his bond. He was married to Miss Mary Austin, daughter of John M. Austin, a prominent attorney of the Fayette county bar. He died February 3, 1893, aged 76 years, leaving a widow, two sons and a daughter, one daughter having died some years before. Daniel Chisholm purchased this property and occupied it for several years, when he sold it to Charles L. Smith, who has since occupied it. Christian Kefifer bought the next lot east, in 1831, who in 1837, conveyed it to Mrs. Sarah Rogers, who built a small brick house on the lot, consisting of one room and a hall front and a kitchen back. Mrs. Rogers was a sister to James Piper, Esq., Aunt Betsy Hedges and Mrs. Harry Jack. Her husband was a brother to the Phil Rogers, who was tried for the murder of Polly Williams. Dr. John Patrick and family occupied this property for some time. Thomas J. Claggett purchased this property and occupied it from that time until his death. Mr. Claggett was an old-time cabinet and chair maker, when all such work was taken from the rough, and manufactured by hand into furniture. Mr. Claggett came here from Virginia and established himself in business. He was an honest, conscientious man in all his dealings, and was a man who attended strictly to his own affairs. He died August 24, 1878, aged 69 years. Mrs. Claggett died in 1894. This property has been greatly im- proved and is owned by the youngest daughter. Miss Nancy Claggett. James A. Yerk, a tinner by trade, purchased the lot next east of the Claggett property, in 1831, and erected the house History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 339 thereon. After several transfers it came into the ownership of Daniel Huston, since which time he continued to occupy it until his death, November 21, 1890. Mr. Huston was born in Washington county, Pa., June 8, 1805. While a boy he learned the tailoring trade, and walked to Pittsburgh and thence to Philadelphia to finish his instruc- tions. He then started back on foot, coming by the way of Baltimore, where he witnessed the celebration of the beginning of the construction of the first railroad. Resuming his journey on foot from Baltimore he arrived in Uniontown in 1825, where he immediately established himself in business. He frequently related, boastingly, that he expended his last 50 cents for the construction of his tailoring bench. He applied himself indus- triously to his business, and by his industry and frugality he soon established himself into the confidence of the community. There was never a more prompt and industrious business man in the history of the town. On December 25, 1830, Mr. Huston was happily married to Miss Sarah Ann Rine in whom he found a most worthy companion. Mr. Huston retired from business in 1881, after a business career of 56 years, and having acquired a competency he spent the remainder of his days in comfortable retirement. He left a widow and several children, the widow dying at the home of her son, Frank, February 21, 1903, at the age of 91 years. After the death of Mr. Huston this property was rented to Samuel Morris and it was used for several years as a boarding house. I. L. Messmore purchased the property and occupies it as a residence. Clement Wood purchased the lot next east of the Huston property, April 12, 1831, upon which he erected a small two- story brick residence lining on the west side of a ten-foot alley known as Jackson alley, and stood about 20 feet back from the street. Here Mr. Wood lived for some time. He was well and favorably known in the town, where he carried on the busi- ness of saddle and harness making in a frame building which stood on the lot now known as Nos. 10 and 12 Morgantown street. He served as a private in Captain Thomas Collins' com- pany along the northern lakes in the war of 1812. In conjunc- tion with his harness business, Esq. Wood held the office of a justice of the peace, being elected to that office in 1840. He re- 340 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. moved to Lone Tree, Johnson county, Iowa, and settled on a farm, where he died. F. H. Oliphant, the prominent ironmaster of Fairchance, purchased this property and erected the brick front to it, occu- pying the entire front of the lot, and occupied it as a residence. His son-in-law, George Paull, was a tenant here for some time. R. H. Lindsey owned and occupied this property for some time. Thomas S. Collier purchased this property and made it his home. Aunt Rachel Skiles, widow of Robert Skiles, a prominent merchant of the town, and daughter of Jacob Beeson, one of the founders of the town, purchased the first lot east of Jackson alley and erected the present large brick residence, into which she moved and spent the remainder of her days. Aunt Rachel was a woman of considerable means, and was most generous in dispensing her benefits to those she favored. John F. Beazell's family succeeded Aunt Rachel Skiles in the ownership of this property who continued to occupy it until their removal to Cali- fornia. Mr. Beazell died here, August 31, 1876. Nathaniel Brownfield purchased this property as a home for his son, William Brownfield, whose family continue to occupy it. Next east of the Aunt Rachel Skiles lot was the lot of James F. Canon, where he lived for a while in the comfortable brick residence still standing. Isaac Beeson came into ownership of this property who sold it to Dr. John Cary who occupied it and practiced medicine. Dr. Cary was also a Cumberland Presby- terian minister, and filled the pulpit of that denomination for several years. Dr. Cary died here September 13, 1876, and the property descended to his daughter, Sarah, the wife of Henry White, who continued to occupy it until their removal to Wash- ington county and finally to Cadiz, Ohio. Mrs. Elizabeth Porter, widow of Moses Porter of Dunbar township purchased this property and erected a frame residence on the eastern part of the lot, which she occupied while renting the brick as a dwelling. Mrs. Porter occupied this frame house for over 20 years. She was a member of the Cumberland Pres- byterian church for over 70 years, and died at the home of her son, Ewing B. Porter, on Oakland avenue, February 6, 1907, in her 93rd year. Mrs. Porter was perhaps the last citizen of Uniontown who remembered the visit of General Lafayette to the town. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 341 James G. Watson purchased this property and at his death he willed the brick part to his widow, Mary Watson, and the frame house and lot attached to Mrs. Eliza Dittmore who made it her home. John Phillips purchased the lot next east of the foregoing and lining on the west of a 20-foot alley known as Middle alley, in 1833, and on March 27, 1840, Mr. Phillips conveyed this lot to the trustees of the Methodist Protestant church of which he was a prominent member and a local preacher. The first church building was erected on this lot soon after its pur- chase which the congregation continued to use until it was re- placed by the present structure in 1894. William Maquilken owned and occupied a frame residence on the southeast corner of Bank alley, as Middle alley subse- quently became known, where said alley crosses Market, now known as Church street. Mr. Maquilken was a prominent busi- ness man of the town in his time, and carried on the occupation of cabinet and furniture making. He stood high in the estima- tion of the community. His wife was a daughter of Cuthbert Wiggins. This property passed through many hands, and was occupied by various tenants. The Southwest Pennsylvania railroad company purchased this lot, tore away the buildings and used it for railroad purposes. Col. William Redick built, owned and occupied the house next east of Maquilken. Col. Redick was born in Venango county, Pa., April 14, 1801, and at the age of 12 years he went to learn the carpenter business at Pittsburgh, after which he located in Westmoreland county, where he carried on his business for four years. He was married in Greensburg in 1826, and soon after located in Uniontown. During his residence in West- moreland county he was elected captain of the Pennsylvania Guards, attached to the Second Battalion of Westmoreland Volunteers, and commanded that company four years. Soon after his location in Uniontown he was elected 1st lieutenant in the Union Volunteers, and afterwards captain in the same company. In 1835 he was elected colonel of the 1st regi- ment of Fayette county volunteers and continued in its command seven years, and at the expiration of which time he was elected brigade inspector of the Second Brigade, Thirteenth Division. He organized company H of the Second Regiment Pennsyl- 342 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. vania Volunteers, a majority of whom sleep in unmarked graves in the soil of Mexico, and he aided much in preparing that com- pany for the service they rendered. Col. Redick was elected to the legislature in 1847, and re- elected in 1848. He acted as secretary on the committee on military system. He introduced a bill for the committee on the military system, and also a bill for the better observance of the Sabbath in the regulation of State works, and was the author of a law in regard to the military system. He is men- tioned in Emerson's " Lives of the Members of the Pennsyl- vania Legislature." Col. Redick and his brother-in-law, William Whitton, pur- chased the Genius of Liberty newspaper office from Thomas Patton, and the first issue under their ownership bore the date of Wednesday morning, December 3, 1828. The office of pub- lication under their management was located in a frame building belonging to Col. Redick, formerly and subsequently used as a carpenter shop, on South street. Col. Redick was connected with this paper exactly two years, when he sold his interest to his partner. Col. Redick united with the Presbyterian church while young and lived an active and devoted member. He was elected a ruling elder in the church soon after locating here and faithfully performed the duties of that sacred office. He acted frequently as a member of the synod of Pittsburgh, and of the presbytery of Redstone. He was tall, dignified in manners, ex- tremely courteous and affectionate in his intercourse and emi- nently prompt and faithful in the discharge of all his duties. He removed to Marshall, 111., where he died September 18, 1881, aged 80 years, leaving a widow, five sons and three daugh- ters. His son, William Whitton Redick, taught in the public schools of Uniontown for several terms, and wrote considerable poetry over the nom de plume of " Oleon." Col. Redick's daughter. Miss Mary Redick, taught a num- ber of terms in our public schools and it was her custom to open every session with prayer. She was a most excellent lady and a good teacher. Miss Redick purchased this property at sheriff's sale and subsequently sold it to Charles E. Boyle, Esq., who occupied it as a residence for many years, after which it was occupied by various tenants, Mr. Boyle having moved to his estate west of town. After the death of Mr. Boyle it was sold to J. V. Thompson who conveyed it to Armor S. Craig History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 343 who moved into it and erected in the rear a large brick ware- house where he, in connection with his sons, conducted a large wholesale business. The following verses were composed by William Whitton Redick and published in the Pennsylvania Democrat of May 10, 1849. The thoughts were suggested while sitting in view of the portrait of Mrs. Whitton^ the mother-in-law of Col. Redick, who had recently died at an advanced age. "Why should we sorrow for the death Of friends that we have loved so dear. Since once assured their dying breath But freed them from their troubles here. And wafted their pure souls away To realms of bright, eternal day. Their Father and their Savior near? Then, though affliction's tear should fall. Oh! let us now rejoice to know Her pains and fears and troubles all. And toils are ended here below ; That death but waved her spirit up To heaven, her high and constant hope. Where now she wears that starry crown Messiah promised to his own, And, filled with rapture, moves among That sanctified and blood-washed throng Of saints and prophets round the throne, Who_ strike their harps and tune their song Of praise and honor to the Three-in-One. Oft while on earth she read the sacred tome. And pondered o'er its truths sublime; Read of God's glories past, and those to come, Down to the distant verge of time — The view from Patmos of the eternal home Of all the saints, the martyrs and the good Whose names are there; of Moses, who once stood When he had led the hosts to Jordan's plains — On Pisgah's top, and viewed the promised land ; 344 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. As she, through faith, then saw the heavenly strand Beyond the Jordan, Death — of him whose strains Lit up her soul so oft with sacred fire. Such as Isaiah only could inspire — Of Israel's sweet singer, him whose psalms Attune the church's loudest songs below — Of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Lazarus, too; A host innumerous who wear their palms Of victory and robes washed white as snow — Of their eternal, heavenly home, and all These holy scenes she oft with pleasure read. And longed for freedom from this earthly thrall, For close communion with those righteous dead. But now she walks amidst that glorious throng. Of kings, apostles, prophets, martyrs there. And mingles hallelujahs with their song, And falls before the great white throne in prayer. Among the four and twenty elders there. Beholds Enoch and Elijah stand Embodied, who from pain and death are far As when they rode to that celestial land Through clouds and space in God's bright flaming car. There sees Isaiah, David, and with them Casts her bright crown before Messiah's feet. And hears them still in Heaven extol his name. While the redeemed with shouts His praise repeat. And Heaven's far-echoing arches back the praise proclaim. Oh ! let us then rejoice, if this be so. That she has left our company below, T' enjoy these rapturous scenes in Heaven above ; And let us still pursue the bright'ning road That leads to Heaven's high gates, where, joined in love. We all may meet her in that blest abode. And dwell for aye together 'round the throne of God." Gabriel Getzendanner, generally known as Gabriel Kitchen- turner, built, owned and occupied the two-story brick residence next east of the Col. Redick house. He was a leading car- penter and contractor of the town in his time. Among the many buildings for which he contracted were the following : the Round History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 345 Corner, for John Campbell, where the First National Bank building now stands ; the Dr. Hugh Campbell building, now the McClelland Leonard block; the Walker hotel, now the Cen- tral hotel; the old National House as a residence for Judge Thomas Irwin, now the Batton house ; the three-story residence on the diagonal corner, erected by Alfred Patterson; the double residence, the home of the late Dr. Smith Fuller ; the Aunt Rachel Skiles residence ; his own residence and others. His first contract was the erection of a brick residence for General Ephraim Douglass on East Main street, in which the general lived some years, and was finally destroyed by fire. William Hunt purchased this Getzendanner property and later added the Wylie lot on the east as a yard, thus making it one of the most desirable resident properties on the street. William Hunt was born in Dunbar township, Fayette county, Pa., February 2, 1836. In 1850 he went to learn the silversmith trade with Henry W S. Rigden, then in business on Main street. In 1858 he commenced business for himself, and is one of the few business men of the town who have been in continuous and successful business for more than half a century, and in all this time he has enjoyed the respect and confidence of the entire community. He has occupied his present location in business since April 1, 1869. In 1861 Mr. Hunt was most happily married to Miss Mar- garet Sembower by which marriage 13 children were born, all of which reached maturity but one. The three sons, Isaac, Robert and Benjamin learned their trade with their father and connected themselves in the business with him. Mr. Hunt's mother was the daughter of Benjamin Lincoln, a cousin to President Abraham Lincoln. A very peculiar circumstance about Mr. Hunt's family is that they are able to trace their lineage from Adam and Eve without the loss of a link. Mrs. Hunt's grandfather, Adam Sembower was married to Miss Eve Roof. Joseph L. Wylie owned a lot next east of the Getzendanner, now the William Hunt property and lived in a frame house thereon. Mr. Wylie carried on the tinning business in the old Whitewash corner on Main street, and was well and favorably known in the community. His wife was a daughter of Thomp- son McKean, a well known iron master and contractor of North Union township. W^illiam Whaley bought and occupied this 346 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Wylie house for a short time when it was sold to Mr. Hunt who tore away the old frame and made a yard at the east side of his residence. Rice G. Hopwood, Esq., erected a two-story brick residence on the lot east of the William Hunt property, as a tenement house. This stood back from the street some twenty feet, and was occupied by various tenants. Mrs. Frances Dififenderffer, widow of Harry C. Dififenderffer, bought and occupied this property until her death. Joseph W. Jones purchased this property from the Diffenderffer heirs, and in 1898, he added a front and has since occupied it as a residence. A small brick house stood on the lot east of the Joe Jones residence belonging to Rice G. Hopwood, Esq. This was oc- cupied by various tenants. John Marshall, a stone cutter bought this property and here he died. Dr. Peter A. Larkin purchased this property, tore away the old building and erected the present modern brick building which he has since occupied as a resi- dence and physician's ofifice. Robert Kinkead purchased the lot now known as No. 20 East Church street, April 1, 1842, and erected the present large brick residence now thereon. Here Mr. Kinkead made his home. Mr. Isaac Beeson purchased this property and traded it in as part pay for the Mount Braddock farm which he pur- chased from the widow of Isaac Meason, April 24, 1862. Mrs. Meason moved into this, property and occupied it until her death, November 30, 1878, in her 93rd year. Her daughters continue to occupy it. Mrs. Mary Meason was born at Carlisle, Pa., and was the daughter of General Richard Butler, who was lieutenant-colonel in the famous Eighth Pennsylvania regiment in the Revolutionary war. While encamped at Valley Forge he was transferred to the Ninth Pennsylvania, and after the dis- bandonment of the Ninth, which revolted, he joined Lafayette, under whose command he witnessed the surrender of Corn- wallis at Yorktown. At Washington's command Col. Butler led 100 men to occupy the first of the surrounding redoubts, and therefore to have the honor of first to hoist the American flag over the captured city, but Baron Steuben appropriated the honor to himself, claiming the right by virtue of his being the commander of the day. That night Col. Butler sent Steuben a challenge, and it took all the influence of Rochambeau and Washington to prevent a hostile meeting. At noon of the 19th History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 347 of October, 1781, occurred the first act of surrender. Two redoubts on the left of the enemy's works were at that time taken possession of by detachments under Col. Butler, of the Americans and of Marquis Laval of the French, each with 100 men. Col. Butler's regiment next joined Gen. Arthur St. Clair to re-enforce Genl. Greene's army in South Carolina. Col. Butler was prominent in securing the formation of Alle- gheny county, and was appointed lieutenant of that new county. He was appointed, with Col. John Gibson, to purchase the interest of the Indians in the Erie Triangle, and he was the first senator from Allegheny and Westmoreland counties. General Butler was at the defeat of General Arthur St. Clair, 1791, where he received a wound in the side and was re- moved to the baggage. When the army retreated he was tomahawked by the Indians. The insigna of the Order of Cin- cinnati worn by Genl. Butler on this occasion was restored to Mrs. Butler by Cornplanter twelve years after the defeat, and was kept as a precious heirloom by Mrs. Nicholas Biddle, a great granddaughter, of Philadelphia. Sixty years after St. Clair's defeat Col. E. G. W. Butler, son of Col. Edward Butler, received the sword of Col. Richard Butler, a " Toledo," which had been presented to Major Guither by Genl. Butler, after the army had retreated and left him to his fate. This has been handed down with the injunction never to wipe from the blade the blood of Col. Butler. A memorial window has been placed in St. Peter's Episcopal church in Uniontown to the memory of Mrs. Mary Butler Meason. Rice Gaddis Hopwood built, owned and occupied the large brick building now known as No. 26, West Church street. This he built in 1838, and he moved into it as soon as ready for occupancy, and here made his home until his death August 19, 1880. Mr. Hopwood was born in the village of Monroe, now known as Hopwood, June 23, 1810. He was a son of Moses Hopwood who laid out that village, and a grandson of John Hopwood who laid out the village of Woodstock on the old road before the National road was constructed. After he retired from the practice of law his hearing became very defective, but for many years he was the tax collector for Union borough, at which his defective hearing was a decided advantage rather than a disadvantage. Mr. Hopwood was married to Miss Ruth 348 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Jackson of Menallen township, Nov. 3, 1836, to which union six children were born, viz., David J., Robert F., Frank, Vir- ginia, Margaret and Alvira. Mr. Hopwood was for many years an active and influential member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Dr. Frank FI. Taylor purchased this property and put ex- tensive and valuable improvements on it in 1902, and occupied it as a residence and physician's office. The Beneficial Protective Order of Elks purchased this property and converted it into lodge and society rooms, 1911. Two maiden sisters of Isaac Hague purchased the lot next east of South Gallatin avenue and erected thereon a two'- story brick residence which they occupied as such for many years. Mrs. Mary G. Lewis purchased this property and oc- cupied it as a residence. Mrs. Lewis erected in 1884, the frame building on the western part of this lot, fronting on South Gal- latin avenue. Mrs. Lewis was a sister to Harvey C. JefTeris and her husband was James H. Lewis. She died in this brick house, Sept. 18, 1905. Richard Randolph purchased this property and added many improvements, adding a concrete garage on the southern part of the lot. Bradbury and Brant's Addition to Uniontown. John Bradbury and Jacob F. Brant's addition was sur- veyed off by Freeman Lewis in 1841, on which they laid off six town lots on the south side of Church street and a row of lots on each side of Iowa street, extending to Fayette street. The lots on Church street included the Tedrick livery stable and ran eastward including Mill street. Lot No. 1 in Bradbury and Brant's addition lay vacant for many years. The first building erected on this lot was a large one-story frame for the purpose of a skating rink, the first amusement of the kind in the town. This amusement was car- ried on with much spirit for some time, but in the course of time all kinds of inducements were held out to keep up the attendance. The building was subsequently used for a variety of amusements, and was finally used by the colored folks in which they held festivals and dances : these amusements were conducted in such a manner as to cause complaint to be made, and the place was condemned as a nuisance, and the building went to wreck. J. B. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 349 Tedrick and Thomas F. Williams purchased this lot and erected thereon a large brick livery stable, and here conducted a first class livery and feed stable. Next east of the livery stable Norval Greenland, the well known potter, erected a neat brick residence and occupied it for a while. John T. Darby purchased this property and improved it and made it his home. The next house east of the foregoing was erected by Bar- nabas Collier, an engineer on the old Fayette County railroad, for a home for his daughter, Sadie, the wife of Davis Jones, a printer. Joseph Mack purchased this property, added many improvements and occupied it until his death, January 15, 1909, at the age of 80 years. Fie started the Mack mill near McClel- landtown about 1864, and was a resident of Uniontown for about 15 years. His widow continued to occupy the property. William Selden purchased lot No. 3 in Bradbury and Brant's addition and built a two-story brick residence back some distance from each street, which he occupied for some years. Mr. Selden was one of the old time cabinet makers when all furniture was made by hand. He worked for Col. W. B. Roberts, and was connected with others in the furniture busi- ness in the town for many years. He was a conscientious work- man and commanded and enjoyed the confidence and respect of the community. He died at his residence on Dnlon street, September 7, 1889, in the 82nd year of his age. Barney Collier bought this property and occupied it as a residence for many years. Mr. Collier came here from Cone- maugh, and was the faithful and trusted engineer on the old Fayette County railroad between Uniontown and Connellsville. Mrs. Collier died here and the family settled on a farm in Illinois. Nathaniel Brownfield purchased this property as a home for his daughter, Emma, the wife of William T. Moore, who added a brick front and continued to occupy it. Thomas Lynch erected a block of four brick dwellings next east of Iowa street, on lots 4 and 5 of Bradbury and Brant's addition, which has been occupied since its completion by various tenants. Rice G. Hopwood purchased the easter- most lot of the Bradbury and Brant addition and erected thereon a frame tenement which has been occupied by William Doran, John P. Huskins, Isaac Drake, Henry Lape, T. P. R. House 350 History of Uniontoivn, Pennsylvania. and others. Thomas E. Donovan owned and occupied this for several years. Mill street, next east of the before mentioned property, wras so named because it led to Henry Beeson's saw mill which stood on the site of the present synagogue of the Tree of Life congregation, and there connected with a road leading to Barton's mill. On March 26, 1851 Ellen M. Douglass of Greensburg, widow of Ephraim Douglass, Jr. Esq., conveyed to Roberts Barton and Jacob F. Brant four and a half acres of the Douglass meadow lying south of Church street. On this plat they laid off what was known as Barton and Brant's addition. This comprised eight lots on Church street and South street and fourteen lots on Jefferson street. Lot No. 1 was next east of Mill street, and upon this and No. 3 Thomas Lynch erected two comfortable frame dwellings which have been since occupied by various tenants. Joseph Manger bought the lot next east of the Lynch tenements, on which stood a frame house once oc- cupied by James J. White and family. Mr. Manger moved the frame to the rear of the lot and erected a modern brick resi- dence which he occupied. On lot No. 4 in Barton and Brant's addition, which lined on Jeiferson street, was erected a long, one-story brick building, with a one-and-a-half-story frame front on Church street. This building was built and used as a ten-pin alley for many years and was patronized by stage drivers and the rougher element of the town, and was the cause of much complaint. John Canon purchased this property at sheriff's sale and converted it into a shop in which he finished buggies and carriages made at his shops on East Main street. William A. Donaldson purchased this property and occupied it for many years in painting bug- gies and vehicles of all kinds. After his retirement from busi- ness the building soon fell into decay. Asa Rogers tore away the old building and in 1897, erected a neat brick residence which for several years was occupied by Amos JoUiffe and family. East of Jefferson street and on the south side of Church street was a triangular lot which lay vacant for many years. In the latter part of the 70's Samuel Loughman erected a black- smith shop here and carried on the blacksmithing business, since which it has been occvipied by dwelling houses. At the eastern extremity of Church street Hugh Rogers History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 351 lived and carried on blacksmithing for many years. His son, Asa, tore away the old buildings and erected the brick residence now occupying the lot. Church Street, North Side, Running Eastward. On the site of the old Greenland property Norval Green- land and Daniel Jackson erected a three-story brick business block in 1893, which they called Commercial Block. This con- sisted of four business rooms on first floor, public hall and other rooms on second and flats on third floor. Dr. J. W. Jaco pur- chased this property in 1900, and made many valuable changes and occupied the front of the second floor as a dental office. The members of St. Peter's parish purchased the lot next east of the Commercial Block and erected thereon a two-story brick parish house which was finished in 1895. It contains an auditorium, reading room, rooms for the various church so- cieties and rector's study. Dr. Jacob S. Hackney erected the frame dwelling next east of the parish house and occupied it as such and a physician's office until he built another on Center street to which he moved, and his parents moved into this property. Hiram H. Hackney died here February 17, 1899, in his 77th year. He was a grad- uate of Madison college. On March 1, 1849, a company of twelve young men, under the command of Norval H. Hellen, left Uniontown for the California gold fields. At what is now St. Joe, Missouri, they equipped themselves with ox teams and other necessary outfit and started overland for the Pacific coast. Difficulties and disaffection arose and the command was given over to Mr. Hackney. The party was 97 days in reaching Sut- ter's Fort, then the outlying post of California. Mr. Hackney then engaged in furnishing miners with supplies and soon ac- cumulated considerable gold. He was one of the original incor- porators of the First National Bank of Uniontown, and was the last of that number to join the great majority. He had served as a director of that institution from 1866 to the time of his death. Mrs. Hackney continues to occupy the residence part of this property and Dr. Hackney the office part. Daniel P. Gibson erected the frame dwelling now known as 32 West Church street which was occupied for many years by Miss Alcinda Thompson who taught a juvenile school in the 352 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. same. She was found dead in her bed on Saturday, December 31, 1907. James Bunton owned a good sized lot fronting on both South and Church streets much of which lay vacant for many years. The residence of Thomas S. Gorley now occupies the western part of this lot, now known as No. 30 VVest Church street. Mr. Gorley was a printer by trade and for many years has been a part owner and business manager of the News Stand- ard printing office. Daniel P. Gibson erected a frame house next east of the Gorley house, and sold it to Dr. Thomas N. Eastman who oc- cupied it as a residence and office. He .sold it to Dr. Charles H. La Clair, who occupied it as a residence and office. Cornelius Claggett built the frame residence next east, and' occupied it until his death, after which it was sold to Isaac W. Semans, who after improving and occupying it, transferred it to Mrs. Thomas H. Lowry who made it her home. James A. Yerk, a tinner by trade, built the two-story brick dwelling now known as No. 16 West Church street, lining on the west side of Jackson alley. He lived in a small frame house on the west side of Morgantown street and had his shop in a small frame building adjoining, previous to his building this brick residence. He was a thrifty man and owned other property in the town. Col. Samuel Evans, at one time owned this property and Dr. Smith Fuller was a tenant. Thomas Foster, a gentle- man of Harrisburg, was a tenant here for a while. He had been induced to come here and take charge of the Pennsylvania Democrat which had been owned and edited by Samuel Mc- Donald. Mr. Foster was backed by Dr. Hugh Campbell and other gentlemen of means, and he took charge of the paper in 1844, and in 1846 John F. Beazell acquired a half interest, and soon became sole owner of the paper. Mr. Foster was a man of intrinsic worth. His daughter, Anna, led the choir in the Presbyterian church during their stay in Uniontown. Rev. J. P. Weethee, D. D., principal of Madison college and a Cum- berland Presbyterian minister, occupied this house. John Cary, M. D., also a Cumberland Presbyterian minister, resided here. Mrs. Ewing, widow of James Ewing, and her daughters, owned and occupied this property for some time. D. J. and J. A. King bought this property and the front was used as a residence while the rear of the lot was occupied by a grain and feed warehouse. THE FAYETTE COUNTY COURT HOUSE. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 353 This frame warehouse was destroyed by fire and replaced by a brick one in which the King Brothers continued their business. Robert Skiles owned the lot from Jackson alley to Middle alley, now South Beeson avenue. This was known as Mr. Skiles' out lot or garden. This property came into the ownership of Isaac Beeson and later was purchased by Samuel Harah, the veteran hat manufacturer, and here he and his widow ended their days. It still belongs to the Harah estate. The house now known as No. 10 West Church street was built by Daniel Witherow, from whom it was sold to Jacob B. Miller, after whose death it passed to the ownership of his half brother, William H. Miller, who occupied it for some time. John Collier became the owner of this property and occupied the dwelling and conducted a livery business on the rear of the lot. In 1909 his heirs conveyed this lot to William Nixon. John F. Gray erected a frame dwelling on the eastern part of the Robert Skiles garden lot and occupied it for some years. James G. Watson, the well remembered blacksmith, pur- chased this property and made it his home until his death, and his widow still continues to occupy it. Next east of Middle or Bank alley, on the lot partially occu- pied by the Adams Express office arid baggage room of the S. W. Pennsylvania railroad company stood a frame dwelling about midway between Church and South streets. This house had two porches, upper and lower, and fronted on Bank alley. This was the property and residence of Col. William Redick, before the erection of his brick residence on the south side of Church street. Many tenants occupied this property after Col. Redick, among whom may be mentioned John Jones the tinner. This house went to wreck some time before it was torn away. On the South street side of this lot stood a frame building in which Col. Redick carried on the furniture business for some years. It was in this building the office of the Genius of Liberty was located most of the time it was owned by Col. Redick and his brother-in-law, William Whitten. After the removal of the printing office this building was used by James P. Hedges and others as a shop. The Southwest Pennsylvania railroad com- pany now pwns the ground. The lot on which the Third Presbyterian church now stands was purchased from Henry Beeson by Joseph Huston, August 2, 1796. The trustees of the Cumberland Presbyterian church 354 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. purchased this lot and built thereon a brick house of worship, the cornerstone of which was laid August 6, 1833, and the build- ing was dedicated to the worship of Almighty God September 13, 1834. Isaac Beeson, George Meason, Dr. Lewis Marchand, James Boyle and John Dawson composed the building com- mittee. The building stood about twenty feet back from the sidewalk, had an open, covered portico in front, supported by large, round columns. There was a vestibule from which two pairs of stairs reached the gallery which encircled three sides of the interior. The building was probably 40 by 60 feet and was surmounted by an octagonal belfry which, in turn, was sur- mounted by a large tin globe. John Quincy Adams was entertained in this church in May, 1837, when on his return from Cincinnati where he had at- tended the laying of the cornerstone of the observatory of Mount Adams, near that city. On this occasion Dr. Hugh Campbell made the address of welcome to which Mr. Adams replied in his usual elegant style. In 1881 this building was torn away and a new one erected in its place. In 1891 a room was added to the rear for a pipe organ and other improvements made. Through the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. I. W. Semans the building was remodeled and extended to South street, and re- dedicated Sunday, October 4, 1908. Mary Lyon bought from Henry Beeson, July 31, 1798, the lot adjoining the Third Presbyterian church property on the east, fronting 77 feet on South street and 23 feet on Church street, and bounded on the east by the old mill-race. This lot descended to Allen and Eliza King, and on April 7, 1860, it was conveyed to Union Borough school district, at which time it contained two small houses on South street. Moses Shehan, a prominent tailor of the town, owned the lot next east of the Mary Lyon lot, which was also added to the school property. The eastern part of what is now the public school grounds, after passing through several conveyances, was owned by Wil- liam Salter, who erected on the northeast corner a brick build- ing to be used as a foundry, which business Mr. Salter con- ducted here for about nine years. On September 6, 1838, Mr. Salter and wife conveyed this lot to John Dawson, Hugh Espy, William B. Roberts, Samuel Evans and James Piper, directors of common schools in and for Union Borough district, for $1,350. It is evident that the " old foundry," as this building was always History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 355 known, was used for school purposes several years before it was purchased by the school board. It was divided into four rooms and thus used for many years. An additional school building was erected on this lot, facing on Church street, in 1850. This building stood a little back from the street and had a wooden portico in front. It was two stories high and contained four rooms, with hall through the center. This left ample play- grounds between the two buildings. In 1868, these two build- ings were torn away, and a three-story building erected, 90 by 65 feet, and in 1891, an addition was added, making the building 45 by 150 feet and three stories high. Much dissatisfaction was expressed at the time of erecting this addition. The tax payers of the borough expressed their remonstrance at the polls by electing several new school directors who opposed the addition and favored ward schools for the accommodation of the younger pupils and the old building for a high school. The retiring di- rectors and those favoring the addition let the contract before those representing the will of the people could interfere or take their seats. David Veech erected a brick tenement on the lot east of the school lot which was occupied by various tenants, among whom were Daniel Kaine, Esq., Amzi S. Fuller, Esq., Alexander M. Linn, Esq., John Holmes, Esq., and others. This building was moved several feet eastward on the lot in order to widen what is now South Gallatin avenue, and appears to have been the first brick house moved in the town. A physician's office has been built to this and Dr. S. H. Baum has occupied it for several years. Mrs. Priscilla Austin, widow of John M. Austin, Esq., bought of David Veech the large brick house and lot east of the above, April 1, 1863, and made this her home until her death, September 4, 1888, aged 98 years. John Mustard, a carpenter, bought a lot and built a brick residence thereon about 30 feet back from the street. This house stood with gable to the street and had lower and upper porch on east side. Mustard had scarcely finished this house when he enlisted in Company H, Second Pennsylvania regi- ment, in the war with Mexico, and died at Perote hospital in 1847. The Miller family, consisting of Benjamin, Jefferson, Samuel, Susan, Mary and Rachel, occupied this property as tenants for 33 years, much of which time it was owned by Isaac 356 History of Uniontoivn, Pennsylvania. Beeson and subsequently by Hon. John K. Ewing. The Miller family moved out April 1, 1889, and the house was torn down the following year. Judge Ewing donated this lot to the Salva- tion Army who soon erected thereon a three-story brick citadel at a cost of $20,000. The cornerstone of this new citadel was laid July 17, 1904, with public ceremonies, and the dedicatorial services were held March 12, 1905, with appropriate exercises. The lot east of the Salvation Army citadel laid vacant for many years and was owned and used as a garden patch by Hon. Nathaniel Ewing. The South street end was sold to Hankins and Hogsett who erected a brick warehouse thereon, and they subsequently purchased all the lot. Joseph Fisher, a well known blacksmith, owned and oc- cupied the property now known as -17-49 East Church street. Here he lived in a small frame house and carried on black- smithing in a shop on the eastern part of the lot. His family consisted of Susan, Margaret and Joseph Huston Fisher. The family continued to occupy the property for many years after the death of the father. Huston Fisher enlisted in the service of his country and was severely wounded in action from which injuries he never fully recovered. He died at the home of a relative near Oliphant furnace, where he had made his home for the past six years, at the age of 77 years, March 28, 1906. He willed his interest in this property to the Methodist Protestant church of Uniontown who conveyed it to C. W. Springer, a veterinarian, who tore away the old buildings and erected on their site a three-story brick building which he uses in the practice of his profession, and as a hospital for the treatment of animals. Next east of the Dr. Springer's veterinary hospital is the extension of Meadow alley which has never been made a public alley. Next east of Meadow alley and extending to Mill street was a lot that was attached to the old Fulton House. On this stood a large stone stable which was used for the accommoda- tion of the patrons of the hotel, and was subsequently used as a livery stable. James Moran bought this lot in connection with the old Fulton House and tore away the stable and erected several modern frame dwellings. Thomas Matthews owns and occupies the frame residence next west of Mill street and carries on the wagonmaking business on Arch street. East of Mill street and in the junction of South and East History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 357 Church streets is a triangular lot upon which stood a small frame house owned and occupied by Mrs. William Wyatt and her daughter, Cora. This building was removed by John D. Ruby to the rear of his lot on East Main street. This lot w^as purchased by J. William Baird, a prominent contractor, who erected thereon a substantial three-story brick business and resi- dence property. Case and Miller were the first to occupy the business room with what they named the " flat-iron " grocery. CHAPTER XV. Pittsburgh Street^ West Side, Running North. On Pittsburgh street, the site now occupied by the Grand Opera block, Mr. John Campbell built, about 1840, a two-stnry brick building known as Campbell's row. This contained a busi- ness room in the south end and a large warehouse and office in the north end, with a narrow stairway leading to the second floor, dividing the two. The room in the southern end was at times occupied as physicians' offices and as attorneys' offices "and other purposes. Dr. F. C. Robinson being the last tenant here where he had been located for many years. The northern end was occupied from the time of its erection as a hardware store by F. H. Oliphant & Son with their own product of bar iron and nails, until Armstrong Hadden bought the stock in 1862, and he was succeeded in the same business by Joseph M. Had- den. Marshall N. Lewis occupied the office part of this lower side for sorne years, where he held his little courts over which he presided as a justice of the peace. The upper floor of the Campbell row was principally used as a newspaper office. The Cumberland Presbyterian was pub- lished from here in 1847-50, by Robert W. Jones. While the paper was being published from this room, Bill Smith and Bill Boyle were employed as compositors in the office, and here the late Judge Charles E. Boyle received his first instructions in type-setting while standing on an empty candle box in order to enable him to reach the cases. The Genius of Liberty print- ing office occupied these rooms from 185?', under the proprietor- ship of Searight and Boyle, and under E. G. Roddy and his successors until 1868. The National Enterprise was issued from these rooms from July until November, 1879, by Dr. W. L. Penny as editor and proprietor. Dr. Penny hailed from Greene county, and the paper was issued in the interests of the Green- back party. The old Campbell row was torn away and the Grand Opera block erected on its site in 1883, and ready for occupancy in the spring of 1883. The first occupants of the new opera block were Altha L. Moser in the first room with his stock of drugs, paints, books, etc. The second room was occupied by John A. Niccolls 358 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 359 with a dry goods store. The third room was occupied by J. N. Miller with a grocery store, and the fourth was occupied by Malcolm and Harrison with a hardware store. Mr. Malcolm retained this room until 1906, the longest of the original tenants. Joseph Jefferson gave the initial performance in the new opera house in his rendering of Rip Van Winkle, on the even- ing of April 30, 1883, which was extensively advertised and liberally patronized. The post office was moved into the opera block during Michael D. Baker's tenure of office. In front of the Grand Opera block is a triangular piece of ground which is described as follows in Deed Book I, page 131. John Wood sold to Daniel March- and and James Hutchison two lots as described in their deeds, but not embracing a small oblique figure of a lot on the west side of the road leading to Middletown, and between Peter and Elbow streets, which lot if enclosed or built upon would ob- struct the prospects of Dr. Daniel Marchand's house to Elbow street, also hinder said Hutchinson from the desired recourse to the road from his shops on the west side of said triangular piece of ground. Now this indenture witnesseth that John Wood and Eliza- beth, his wife, for the sum of forty dollars paid by said Daniel Marchand and James Hutchinson, doth sell said triangular lot eastward of a line drawn from the west corner of Dr. Marchand's dwelling house southward at right angles with Peter street and extended until the intersection of the east side of said Hutchinson's lot. To have and to hold as public grounds as passage in common for the benefit of said Daniel Marchand and James Hutchinson, and not to be hereafter claimed, improved or built upon without the approbation and consent of said Daniel Marchand and James Hutchinson. The property on the northwest corner of Peter and Pitts- burgh streets is described on Peter street. Richard Miller moved here from Washington, Pa., in 1839. He had previously been in the dry goods business in Kentucky with two of his brothers. He peddled clocks in the vicinity of Washington and continued in the same business after locating here. He built the house in which he lived on Pittsburgh street, in 1842. He established the well known Miller foundry which made its first blast July 4, 1846, and which has been in continuous use ever since. Mr. 360 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Miller died July 7, 1880. This property came into the owner- ship of William H. Wilhelm, the well known blacksmith, and who served as high sheriff, 1892-95, who occupied it until his death. It is now a part of the D. P. Gibson estate. Daniel Bierer, son of John Bierer, built a two-story brick dwelling on the southern part of the Samuel McDonald lot which he sold to Dr. George Magee, a veterinary surgeon, who made it his home. Samuel McDonald owned and occupied the property now known as No. 35, this street. Mr. McDonald conducted a book and stationery store in the room now known as No. 9, East Main street from 1847 to 1853, when he sold out to M. T. Patrick. He and his brother, William, owned and edited the Pennsylvania Democrat, as related in the history of that paper. When the epidemic of cholera broke out in Union- town in 1850, Mrs. McDonald was advised to leave town and visit her people in Redstone township, but the fatal disease soon developed and she died on the first day of August. She was a most estimable lady. Mr. McDonald removed to Pitts- burgh where he purchased an interest in the Pittsburgh Chronicle and also in the Iron City Era and the two papers were con- solidated. Armstrong Hadden bought this property and James L. Hugh was a tenant for a while. C. E. Boyle bought this property and occupied it for some time. The family of Capt. John Bierer purchased this and still own and occupy it. A Mr. Byers built the double brick known as Nos. 37 and 39, the former was owned and occupied for several years by Carrie Barre ; and James T. Gorley bought No. 39 for a home for his mother, who occupied it until her death. Uriah Hook bought the lot and erected the dwelling now known as No. 41 on this street in 1838, and here made his home until his death, October 10, 1870. Peter Uriah Hook was the son of Peter Hook, Jr., and was born in Uniontown September 3, 1809. Early in life his father died, and a short time after he was apprenticed to Benjamin Hellen, an uncle, in the manufacture of hats; and after serving his time he engaged in mercantile pursuits. In 1833 he went to McClellandtown and opened a store where he continued to do business until 1837, wh^n he sold out and returned to Union- town and clerked for Foster and Nixon who soon broke up ; and Hook took the goods for his wages and continued the busi- ness for many years. Being possessed of a splendid voice, he- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 361 became the best auctioneer at public sales the town has ever produced. In 1851, he entered the political arena and was elected to the house of representatives for two successive terms. He became proprietor of the Eagle hotel in 1856, which he con- ducted for several years. He married Miss Elizabeth Harmon, daughter of Abraham Harmon, January 17, 1833, who was a most amiable woman. Flavius B. Titlow occupied this house from 1874 to 1884. William Gaddis owned and occupied a frame house next north of a 16-foot alley. Mr. Gaddis was a well known wagon maker of the town and carried on that business for many years. Daniel Bierer bought this property and erected the present residence in which he made his home for several years. Isaac Beeson erected a two-story brick residence, now known as No. 45 on this street, for a home for the widow of William McClelland, the proprietor of the original McClelland hotel, but for some reason she declined to occupy it. Rev. J. Marks occupied this house in 1849, and he and his wife taught school. John Irons, proprietor of the Genius of Liberty, occupied this house at the time of the cholera scourage, 1850, and died here of that disease. John Barry, a blacksmith and liveryman, owned and oc- cupied this house for several years. M. W. Miller, after owning and occupying this property for several years, sold it to Rev. Prebyl, who greatly enlarged and improved it. A double frame house was built by Richard Miller, next north of the above and occupied by various tenants. A single frame next north was used as a hatter shop, a wagon shop, a weaver's loom and a residence. The brick house known as 53 on this street was owned and occupied by Charles Page, a shoemaker, who married Bertha, daughter of John Miller. Joshua W. Scott purchased this property and moved into it in 1899 and occupied it for some time as a residence. John A. Roony lived next north of Charley Page, 1843-4-5, he was succeeded by Mills Strayer, a saddler. George L. West bought this from Mrs. Hamilton and made it his home. A 16-foot, alley separates the above from the large lot of 363 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Nathaniel Mitchell who owned and lived in a small one-story brick house which stood just north. This house stood above the level of the street and was approached by steps. Mr. Mitch- ell was a cutler by trade and a good mechanic in his line. He owned and operated the old tilt hammer at the foot of Pitts- burgh street. This house stood many years after the death of Mr. Mitchell and was occupied by his aged widow. Nathaniel Brownfield came into the possession of this property. John Clark tore away the little brick and erected a comfort- able frame residence on its site and made tbis his home for a few years. He also built the frame residence next north of the foregoing, now known as No. 59. This was sold to Samuel Levin, an iron monger or junk dealer, who occupied it for several years. An old log house stood on the lot now known as No. 61 and was usually occupied by parties employed at the old tilt hammer and " grinding works," the grinding works in connection with the tilt hammer was evidently for the grinding or sharpen- ing of edged tools and not for the grinding of grain. Among the occupants of this log house may be mentioned George Crop, who carried on blacksmithing at the old tilt ham- mer, Henry Nycum, Robert Goodwin, Samuel Starnes and others. Calvin Altman built the present large frame house and soon thereafter sold to Mrs. Amanda Williams who has since kept it as a boarding house. The old tilt hammer and grinding works were constructed by Nathaniel Mitchell and stood immediately south of Jacob's run and operated by water-power conducted through a short race which emptied into Redstone creek a short distance above the mouth of Jacob's run. Here Mr. Mitchell manufactured all kinds of edged tools. The " tilt hammer " was an immense ham- mer which was raised by water power and let fall upon the heated metal. This was a great saving of hand labor. Isaac Beeson became the owner of the old tilt hammer and surround- ing grounds, about 1847. In 1853, a cement mill" was operated on this site; the cement being manufactured from rock from an adjoining quarry. This cement mill was converted into a flour- ing mill by W. & J. K. Beeson in 1878, and operated under the name of the Waverly Mill until 1886, and after being aban- doned as a flouring mill, was occupied by a company of con- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 363 tractors as dealers in lumber and building materials. The build- ing went to wreck and was entirely destroyed by fire. Several attempts were made to carry on business in the small buildings at this mill, such as cooper shops, etc. ; a hub and spoke factory was started in 1871, and a chair factory was at- tempted but all were of short duration. The first bridges over Jacob's run at the foot of Pittsburgh street, for there were two of them, were arch bridges built of stone, but in 1900 a steel bridge was erected, some six feet higher than the former, by the King Bridge company. Near the north end of Pittsburgh street still stands a small log house once occupied by Richard Moore, a shoemaker by trade, and on account of his size, was generally known as Big Dick Moore. Just off Pittsburgh street, on a beautiful eminence, afiford- ing a commanding view of the town and distant mountains, stands the residence of N. W. Miller, the noted deer and fox hunter, where he made his home for many years. He died here August 5, 1913. Pittsburgh Street, East Side. A row of one-story frame buildings occupied the space from Concert Hall to Peter street, occupied by various persons as offices and small business rooms. In the seventies this row of frame buildings was torn away and in 1883 a brick business block was erected and occupied as such to the present. Richard Miller purchased the lot now on the corner of Pittsburgh and Penn streets and erected thereon a foundry which was put in blast July 4, 1846, and operated it until com- pelled by advanced age to retire from active business, since which it is still operated and known as Miller's foundry. Robert Jackaway, a saddle-tree maker, owned the land on the east side of this street from Penn street to Redstone creek, and, after several conveyances, it was laid off into lots. Captain Hugh Gorley purchased the lot on the corner and moved to it the frame building still thereon from the McClelland house lot, it being a part of the original building in which William Mc- Clelland kept his tavern in the very early history of the town. Here Capt. Gorley made his home for some years. This prop- erty now belongs to the estate of N. W. Miller. A double brick house was erected on the lot north of Capt. 364 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Gorley's which was built by Maj. John Byers and occupied by him. He was a son-in-law of Isaac Skiles. It was owned by Isaac Skiles 1855, and since belongs to the James T. Gorley estate. ■ Charles King was once an occupant of this property. The ten-foot alley next north is now closed. A frame building next north Jacob B. Miller purchased for a home for Mary McLaughlin and at her death it descended to her daughter, Mrs. James T. Got\&j. The old frame building was torn away and the present brick dwelling erected on its site and occupied as the home of Mr. and Mrs. Gorley the rest of their lives. It was sold at executors' sale April 22, 1913, to J. Searight Marshall, and has since been absorbed by the South- west Pennsylvania railroad company. A small frame house stood next north of the Mrs. Gorley brick house in which Samuel Smith died of cholera. He was succeeded by Sallie Fletcher, Evaline Stanley, Amanda Miller and others. Next north of the above Mary Wildie owned and occupied a neat frame house. A ten-foot alley separated the Mary Wildie property from a frame house that had gone through the owner- ship and occupancy of John Carpenter, James Thorndell, Wil- liam McCoy, Daniel Duer, John Barry and finally of James Whoolery. Next was a vacant lot on which Presley Moore and J. D. Boyd erected a large frame dwelling which was occupied by various tenants until Amanda Yeager purchased and occupied it. On the rear of this lot J. D. Boyd conducted a coal yard for some time, and he was succeeded in the same business by John C. White. Subsequently a four-story brick and concrete • building was erected on this lot by the Standard Wood Fiber Plaster company for the manufacture of wood fiber plaster in 1904, but the enterprise was not long in operation. A ten-foot alley separated the above from the Ashbel G. Crusen property, where he lived a number of years. He sold to Absalom Guiler and moved to Iowa. Mr. Guiler lived her.e a while and sold to George W. Costelo who made it his home the rest of his life. Mrs. A. D. Boyd owned a frame tenement next north which was occupied by various tenants. The Laughead-Modisett planing mill company built a frame house next to the creek History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 365 which was occupied by Mrs. Beatty and subsequently owned and occupied by Ewing Baily. The Southwest Pennsylvania railroad company purchased the land on the east side of Pittsburgh street from Redstone creek southward to the Gorley brick residence, and in 1912 tore away the dwellings and commenced the erection of large ware- houses and other buildings necessary for the handling of its business. The Laughead-Modisette Planing Mill Company erected a large warehouse immediately over the creek at the foot of Pittsburgh street which was used as such until the planing mill was burned, after which it was used for several years as a livery stable. This building was entirely destroyed by fire. Jonathan West, one of the old and respected citizens of the town, owned about 240 feet frontage on the north side of Jacob's run, and lived in a red frame house which stood on a beautiful knoll facing the town. Jonathan West, Jr. (known as Jonter), since owned and occupied this property and sold it to the South- west Pennsylvania railroad company, who moved the house some distance north, and still own the property. That part of the town on Pittsburgh street north of Jacob's run was known as Westburg, on account of the prominence of the West family who lived there. North of the old Jonathan West residence ran a row of houses on a street known as West Place, among the residents of which at different times may be mentioned, Zadoc Springer, Joseph Beggs, Mrs. Noah Morrison, Johnson Dearth, William Perry, Absalom Guiler, James M. Howard, Asher M. Baily, Dorsey Baily, Dennis Galespy, Jerry Miller, Peter Burgess, Jacob Prettyman, Michael Canaan. James T. Gorley built two frame dwellings at the forks of West Place and Pittsburgh street which have been occupied by various tenants. North of these is an old frame house in which Jonathan West spent the latter part of his long life, and died respected by the community. North of Westburg on the Pittsburgh road James Piper built a fine brick dwelling, but did not own it long when it was pur- chased by Jacob B. Miller who made it his home for many years and died there December 6, 1878. He willed this property to D. J. Jordan with whom he had made his home for many years. Mr. Jordan died here April 2, 1911, and his family continued to own and occupy the property. CHAPTER XVI. Additions to the Town. Beeson Addition — Was laid off by Jesse Beeson, son of Henry Beeson, the founder, on the south side of East Main street in 1818, and comprised thirteen in lots and five large out lots. Barton and Brant Addition — Roberts Barton and Jacob F. Brant bought from Mrs. Ellen Douglass about four acres of land, and in 1851 they laid out what was known as Barton and Brant's addition. This consisted of twenty-two lots, four of which fronted on Market or Church street, four on South street and the rest on each side of Jefferson street. Among the promi- nent property owners and residents of this may be mentioned Patrick Lynch, Maurice Lonergan, James Lynch, Betsy Zearing, John Woodward, Davis Woodward, George Haught, and others. This street has undergone many improvements in the way of several new and modern residences. John Bradbury and Jacob F. Brant laid off what was known as Bradbury and Brant's addition, in 1841, which con- sisted of about thirty-three lots, six of which fronted on Market or Church street, and ran southwardly on both sides of Center, now known as Iowa street to Fayette street. Among the early property owners and residents on this street may be mentioned Jimmy Hurton, John Carothers, Leonard Richards, Mrs. Jacobs, Edward Pence, William Warwick, Godfrey Cramer, John Hendrickson, Crawford Livingstone, Elisha Hyatt, John Man- away, Prissie Paine, Mills Strayer, John Monaghan, H. C. Rush, John Litman, Daddy Varndell, George W. Wyning, Nancy McMichaels, Hulda Oaks, Jesse Lincoln, and Philip Bogardus. This street has been greatly improved by the remodeling of some of the old buildings and the erection of several new and modern residences. Boyd Addition— Was laid off by Hon. A. D. Boyd in 1889, and comprised forty lots located on the east side of Shady Lane, both sides of Willson avenue and the west side of Stewart avenue. Bierer Addition — Lies on the south side of West Berkeley 366 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 367 street and comprises fifty-one lots, eighteen of which are on West Berkeley street and thirty-three on Woodland avenue. The plot was recorded June 15, 1910. Beall Addition — Laid off by L. D. Beall in 1887, comprised twenty-four lots on the east side and twenty-two on the west side of Lexington street and six on the National road or West Main street. Bowman and Trader Addition — The Bowman and Trader Addition was laid out in 1891, in the east end of town and ran from Connellsville street westward to Cleveland avenue and comprised Prospect and Evans streets and contained one hun- dred and twelve lots. Cray and Clark Addition — Was laid off in 1888, and com- prised several lots on Whiteman avenue. Conner Addition— Was laid out by Charles D. Conner and comprised twenty-five lots on both sides of South Gallatin avenue. Cray Addition — James R. Cray laid out a number of lots on Millview street, in 1888, running east from North Gallatin avenue. Collins Addition— Was laid out by Col. John Collins in 1888, and lies between Connellsville and Coolspring streets and comprises eighty-four lots and includes Collins avenue, Clark and Middle streets. Cycle Park Addition — Was laid out in 1911, and comprised ninety-four lots, running from Reppert boulevard on the west and including Cycle and Middle avenues and Areford, Wagner and Spalding streets. Coffey Addition — Was laid out in 1899, and comprised eighty lots on the west side and one hundred and seventy-three on the east side of North Gallatin avenue, and included Kerr, Cofifey, Askin, Lilian and Chew streets. Cope, Thompson, Moser and NiccoU Addition — Comprises five lots on West Main street and forty-three lots on both sides of Oakland avenue. Columbia Iron and Steel Addition — Was surveyed in 1913, and lies between the Baltimore and Ohio railroad right of way and North Gallatin avenue, and comprised 118 lots and included Florence and Columbia avenues and Magnolia and Kerr streets. The Charles H. Cramer Addition comprised forty-five lots 368 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. and included the Country Club boulevard as its principal street. It was surveyed in 1908. Darby and Conner Addition — Was laid out on 1889, by John W. Darby and Charles D. Conner, and comprised six lots on the North Pennsylvania avenue and seventeen lots on Madi- son avenue. Downer Addition — Adjoined the McCormick Addition and was laid out in two parts by the Downer heirs in 1894 and 1896, and comprised twenty-nine lots and included Fairview street. Nine of these lots faced on Oakland and seven on Downer avenues. Derrick Addition — Was laid out by Joseph Derrick between the Chicago and Connellsville Coke company's land on the east and other land of Mr. Derrick on the west and that of William Hopwood's heirs on the south and that of Barton brothers on the north, and comprised twenty-four lots on the eastern side of a road not named (perhaps the Country Club boulevard). This plan was surveyed in May, 1891, but it does not appear that any lots were sold. Felty Addition — Was laid out in 1907, at the head of Pros- pect street, and comprised ninety-eight lots and included Cleve- land avenue extension, Markle, Elmwood and Felty streets. Fair Grounds Addition — On the Pittsburgh road north of town comprised seventy-one lots on the east side of the road and ninety-six on the west side, and included Crawford, Walters, Fairview and Grand streets. Gallatin Park Addition — Was laid out in 1904, and lies be- tween the old Connellsville road and Cleveland avenue, on the north side of town, and comprises ninety lots, including Faulk- ner, Hill, Charlott, Esther and Herman streets. Gilmore Addition — Comprised about one hundred and eighty-five lots, thirteen of which line on West Main street, and includes North Mount Vernon avenue, Ben Lomond, Stockton, Gilmore, Kensington and Nassau streets. This plan was laid out in 1888. Highland Park Addition — Was laid out by O. P. Markle in 1905, and comprised sixteen lots on Coolspring street, eighteen on Bierer street, twenty-four on Gans street, twenty-two on Grand avenue, and nineteen on North avenue. Hadden Addition — Was laid out by Joseph M. Hadden in History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 369 1886, and comprised ten lots on each side of West Berkeley- street and eight lots on South Mount Vernon avenue. Jennings and Feather Addition — Was laid out by Henry Jennings and James I. Feather and comprised fifty-seven lots on Feather avenue and six lots on East Fayette street. Lenox Addition — Was laid out by George W. Lenox and recorded in 1893, running from North Gallatin avenue eastward to the old Connellsville road, and comprised forty-one lots, nine of which faced on the east side of North Gallatin avenue and thirty-two on both sides of Lenox street. This addition soon was built up with comfortable residences. Lenox Addition — James Lenox, on the 14th of February, 1890, recorded a plat of nineteen lots on the west side of North Gallatin avenue. Lewis Addition — Was laid out by Thomas H. Lewis and comprised eleven lots near and on the north side of East Fay- ette street. McCormick Addition — Was laid out by Noble McCormick on the north side of town and comprised one hundred and sixty- four lots, and included Oakland avenue. Downer, Chestnut, Wall, Arch and Wine streets. This plan was recorded May 10, 1889. McCormick and Ewing Addition — Comprised two hundred and fifteen lots and included Searight, Liberty, Fairview, Moun- tain and Park streets, all on the east side of Coolspring street. McCormick Addition — Was laid out by George A. Mc- Cormick west of Morgantown street and comprised thirty lots on both sides of West Berkeley street. Markle, Adams and Cray Addition — Recorded August 29, 1910, comprised eleven lots on the east side of North Gallatin avenue, eight lots on Millview street and forty-five lots on both sides of Lemon street. Miller Addition — The Thomas J. Miller heirs recorded a plan of lots, August 23, 1902, comprising eight lots on the east side of South Mount Vernon avenue and twenty-seven lots on both sides of Miller avenue, running to Coal Lick run. Murray Place Addition — Was laid out by O. P. Markle and I. Frank in 1906, and ran from East Main to Lincoln street, comprising some ninety lots, including Murray and Rist streets and one side of Cleveland avenue and Briner street. In 1908, they extended this addition from Lincoln street northward. 370 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. comprising some seventy lots and including Hortense, Frank and Wendall streets, all opening into Cleveland avenue. Park Place Addition — Was laid out by R. F. Hopv^rood and O. P. Markle and recorded in 1913. It contained over one hun- dred lots lying between Connellsville and Coolspring streets, embracing Murphy, Bouquet, Forbes and Braddock streets. Nutt Addition — Adam C. Nutt purchased from Clark Breading about six acres of land on Veech's lane, now South Mt. Vernon avenue, and in 1883, laid off what was known as the Nutt Addition, his mansion occupying a prominent position at the head of Nutt avenue, and the whole making a very valuable addition to the town. This addition comprised thirty- three lots on both sides of Nutt avenue, exclusive of the mansion and several outlots. This mansion, after passing through several conveyances has been greatly improved and was finally transferred to the Home Missionary society of the Methodist Episcopal church for the use of the McCrum Slavonic training school. Oakland Heights Addition — Laid off by Isadore Frank in October, 1903, comprised some seventy lots, eighteen of which fronted on Oakland avenue and the others on Downer and Dela- ware avenues. Patterson Addition — Was laid out on lands of the late Robert Patterson, at the head of Morgantown street, and com- prised fourteen lots on the west side of Morgantown street, and six on Lebanon avenue, and twenty-five on both sides of Winchel street. Highland avenue extension runs through this addition. North Gallation Addition — William H. Playford, Charles E. Boyle, John H. McClelland and Ezra Sayers purchased lands north of Redstone creek on which they platted North Gallatin avenue, Lincoln, Maple and Walnut streets, comprising more than one hundred desirable building lots. The Presbyterian parsonage was the first building erected on this plat. It was a comfortable brick dwelling and first occupied by Rev. S. S. Gilson, then pastor of the church. This is now, and has been for many years, the residence, of the Misses L. B. and E. D. Richey. Many elegant and comfortable homes have been erected in this addition, together with St. Paul's Lutheran church, the Armour cold storage warehouse and the fine North History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 371 " - -^ * Gallatin public school building, making it one of the most de- sirable residence section of the town. Richey Addition — Was laid off in 1891, and comprised twelve lots on the north side of Millview street. Robinson and Partridge Addition — Was laid out by H. L. Robinson and Ira D. Partridge in 1891, and comprised ten lots at the junction of East Fayette with East Main street. Robinson Addition — Laid off by Dr. F. C. Robinson in 1888, comprised twenty-six lots on the east side of Lawn avenue and ten on Berkeley street. South Side Addition — Robinson, Hunt, Lonergan, Mc- Cormick and Craig Addition was laid off in 1882, and com- prised eighty-one lots on the south side of Craig street, forty- six on the North side of that street, twenty-two on the south side of Maurice street and the same number on the north side, avnd twenty-four on the south side and twenty-two on the north side of Highland avenue, and twenty-six on the west side of Lawn avenue, and nine on Berkeley street. This addition was known as the South Side Addition and comprises fifteen acres of land, making a most desirable residence addition to the town. Sturgeon Addition — Located near East Penn street, com- prises sixteen lots on both sides of Locust street. This addition was accepted by the borough March 31, 1890. Searight Addition — Was laid off east of Coolspring street in 1892, by James A. Searight, and comprised one hundred and sixty lots, and included Butler, Carlisle and Dunlap streets. Titlow Addition— Was laid off by George F. Titlow in 1903, on the east side of the McClellandtown road, and comprised eighty lots, and included Delaware, Thompson and Easy streets. The Titlow Annex to this addition was admitted to the borough in 1913, and consisted of the extension of Easy street eastward to South Mount Vernon avenue. Thompson Glass-works Addition — Was recorded in 1890, and comprises eighty-nine lots and includes Zimmer, Dawson and Schaffer streets, all on the west side of South Mount Vernon avenue. This part of town is known as Continental Number One. Wood Addition — Was laid off by Thomas S. Wood near East Main street in 1890, and comprised seventeen lots. Wolf Addition — Was laid out by Joseph Wolf in 1893, and ran from Lebanon avenue southward to the Thaw line, and 3 '''2 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. comprised over two hundred lots, thirty-seven of which lined on the west side of Morgantown street, and included Albion, Clarendon, Braddock and Warren streets. Williams Addition — Laid out by Josiah V. Williams comprised twenty-seven lots, nine of which lined on Derrick avenue; an unnamed street running parallel thereto, these were crossed by an unnamed street, perhaps an extension of Martha street. This plan was bounded on the south by lands of Joseph Derrick, on the east by the Barton heirs, on the north by John Brownfield and on the west by Derrick avenue. Another ad- dition laid off by Josiah V. Williams, in 1888, comprised ten lots on each side of Martha street, and six lots on Derrick avenue. Whyel Addition — Was recorded by John Whyel August 1, 1904, the plat running from North Gallatin avenue eastward to the old Connellsville road, comprising ninety lots, twelve of which lined on Nbrth Gallatin avenue, and through which ran Oliver, Hogsett and Whyel streets. Willson Addition — Was laid off in 1892, in the eastern part of town on the west side of Connellsville street, and comprised ninety-eight lots, twenty-four of which lined on Connellsville street, and includes Hancock street. Williams and Gans Addition — Was laid out by Allan D. Williams and David Gans in 1905, and comprised a number of desirable building lots on both sides of Byrer street. Oakmont Addition — Was laid out by Isadore Frank in 1905, and comprised forty-six lots, lining on Gilmore, Oakland, Delaware and Arlington streets. Uniontown Land Company Addition — Was laid out by O. P. Markle, John W. Ely and John S. Douglas and comprised one hundred and forty-five lots between Connellsville and Cool- spring streets, including John, Gordon, Carson, Clark and Murphy streets. Another addition was laid out by the same parties which included Ely, Douglas and Markle streets. Laurel Hill Addition — Was laid out by the Uniontown Construction Company in 1913 east of and near North Gallatin extension and comprised over three hundred lots and included Garfield, Roosevelt, Fillmore, McKinley, Taylor, Washington and Laurel Hill streets. CHAPTER XVII. Establishment of the Courts of Fayette County — Her Judges — Her First County Officers — Disbarment of Eight Members OF the Fayette County Bar — Difficulties with Judge Baird — Fayette County Court Houses — Her Jails — The Bar of Fayette County. Upon the erection of Westmoreland county on February 26, 1773, the first court west of the Allegheny mountains was established and was held at the house of Robert Hanna, April 6th of that year; Colonel William Crawford and his associate justices presiding. Although this court was broken up on April 9, 1?74, by Dr. John Connelly, acting under authority from Governor Dunmore of Virginia, and the justices arrested, courts continued to be held here until the burning of Hannas- town by the Indians, July 13, 1783. The District of West Augusta, Virginia, was formed in the fall of 1774, to include all the territory of the present West Vir- ginia, as well as all of southern Pennsylvania lying west of the Allegheny mountains, and .a county court was established at Fort Dunmore, now Pittsburgh, and was there maintained until 1776, when it was removed to what was called Augusta town, a short distance west of the present town of Washington, Pa., where it was continued until the summer of 1777, when the District of West Augusta ceased to exist, having been divided into three Virginia counties, viz., Ohio, Youghiogania and Monongalia. The courts of Monongalia county were held in a shop on the farm of Theophilus Phillips in Springhill township, now Fayette county, until the running of the Mason and Dixon line, which was completed in 1783. The act by which Fayette county was erected provided and declared that " The justices of the peace commissioned at the time of the passage of this act and residing within the county of Fayette, or any three of them, may and shall hold courts of General Quarter Sessions of the Peace, and General Jail Delivery, and county courts for holding of Pleas, and shall have all and singular the powers, rights, jurisdiction and au- thority to all intents and purposes as held in other counties; 373 3 '^4 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. which said court shall sit and be held for the county of Fayette on the Tuesday preceding the courts of Quarter Sessions and Common Pleas in Washington county in every year. Under these provisions and authority the first term of the court of Quarter Sessions and Common Pleas for Fayette county was held in a school house at Uniontown on the fourth Tuesday in December, 1783, before Philip Rogers, Esq., and his associates, Alexander McClean, Robert Adams, John Allen, Robert Ritchie and Andrew Rabb, all justices in and for the county of Westmoreland. The business of the first court was the admission of at- torneys, viz., Thomas Scott, Hugh H. Brackenridge, David Bradford, Michael Huffnagle, George Thompson, Robert Gil- braith, Samuel Irwin and David Redick, the fixing of tavern rates, the subdivision of the county into townships and the trial of a few trivial cases. The original townships of the county established at the first court were Menallen, Washington, Frank- lin, Luzerne, Union, German, Springhill, Wharton and Georges, These justices courts were held until the new constitution of 1790, abolished the justices county courts and provided for a judge learned in the law, and two associate judges, all to be appointed by the governor. The Honorable Alexander Ad- dison was the first judge learned in the law to preside in the county of Fayette, and held his first term at Uniontown on the third Monday in September, 1791; Fayette county at that time forming a part of the Fifth Judicial Circuit, which comprised the counties of Westmoreland, Fayette, Washington and Allegheny, and to which Greene was attached upon its formation in 1796, and later, Crawford was added upon its formation in 1800. In 1803, Beaver was added and Washington and Crawford de- tached. Judge Addison was born in Ireland in 1759, was educated at Edinburgh, Scotland, and was licensed to preach the gospel at Aberlour, Scotland. He came to the United States and ap- peared before Redstone presbytery of the Presbyterian church at Pigeon creek in Washington county, December 20, 1785, and applied for a license to preach by that body. This was denied him for the time being, and he turned his attention to the law, and was admitted to the Washington county bar in March, 1787. He was a man of culture and ability. His exalted opin- ion as to the supremacy of the law, and the necessity of subor- History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. STS dination to the same showed forth in' him during the trying times of the Whisky Insurrection. Through a disaffection in the courts of Allegheny county, Judge Addison was unjustly removed by the Senate of Penn- sylvania, and was disqualified to hold and exercise the office of judge in any court of law within the commonwealth of Pennsylvania. He did not long survive the injustice of his removal, and died at his home in Pittsburgh, November 24, ISO?. Samuel Roberts was commissioned to succeed Judge Ad- dison in the Fifth District and first presided at March term, 1803. In 1806, the Fifth District was composed of Beaver, Allegheny, Washington, Fayette and Greene counties. In 1818, another change was made by which Washington, Fayette, Greene and Somerset were made to compose the Fourteenth District, and Judge Roberts ceased to preside in Fayette county. Thomas PI. Baird was commissioned president judge of the new Fourteenth District on October 19, 1818, and held the office until he resigned, December, 1837. His term of office on the Fayette county bench was anything but pleasant on account of disaffection existing between the bench and the bar; an account of which is related elsewhere. During Judge Baird's term Somerset county was taken from the Fourteenth District. Nathaniel Ewing was appointed to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Judge Baird, his commission bearing the date of February 22, 1838. The constitution of that year made the term of office to be ten years, which term Judge Ewing filled with signal ability. During his term the court house was burned. Samuel A. Gilmore of the Butler county bar, was appointed and commissioned in February, 1848, to succeed Judge Ewing as president judge of the Fourteenth Judicial District, which office he filled until January, 1^ 18.52. Under the constitution of 1850, the office became elective, and at the election in Oc- tober, 1851, Judge Gilmore was elected for the term of ten years, beginning January 1, 1852, and at the expiration of which term he was admitted to the bar and resumed the practice of law. He was the first to preside in the new court house. James Lindsey, of the Greene county bar, was elected in October, 1861, to succeed Judge Gilmore, and he opened his first term of court in December following. He was one of 376 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the youngest judges in the state and was a man of great prom- ise. His untimely death in September, 1864, terminated what promised to be a brilliant career. John Kennedy Ewing was appointed by Governor A. G. Curtain to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Judge Lind- sey, in November, 1864. He presided at the sessions of Decem- ber, 1864, and March, June and September, 1865. Ex-Judge Samuel A. Gilmore was re-elected in October, 1865, and served on the bench until his death, which occurred May 15, 1873. During Judge Gilmore's second term Washing- ton county was cut off from the Fourteenth District. Edward Campbell was appointed by Governor Hartranft to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Judge Gilmore, and presided at the terms of June and September, 1873, having been commissioned May 31, 1873. Alpheus Evans Willson was elected to the bench at the October election in 1873, and held his first term of court in December following. He served his full term with dignity and ability, and died September 9, 1884, within a year from his retirement from the bench. Under the constitution of 1873, the Supreme Court in 1881, declared that Fayette county was not entitled to associate judges any longer, and the two associate judges, Griffith Rob- erts and D. W. C. Dumbald, were ousted from their office. James Inghram, of the Greene county bar, was elected to succeed Judge Willson in November, 1883, and served his full term of ten years, the latter eight of which he had associated with him on the bench Nathaniel Ewing as additional law judge. Nathaniel Ewing, Jr., grandson of ex-Judge Nathaniel Ewing and son of ex-Judge John Kennedy Ewing, was ap- pointed additional law judge to fill the newly created judgeship on the Fayette county bench, his commission bearing date of August 35, 1887, his term to run until January 1, 1888. At the November election, 1887', he was elected to that position which he held until the expiration of Judge Inghram's term, 1894, when he became president judge, which position he filled until 1898. During his term the present court house and jail were erected, and the county of Greene was taken from this judicial district. S. Leslie Mestrezat was elected additional law judge at the November election, 1893, and held that position until 1898, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 377 when on the expiration of Judge Ewing's term he became the president judge. Upon becoming a candidate for associate justice on the supreme bench of Pennsylvania, he resigned his position on the local bench in 1899. He was elected a justice of the supreme court in November, 1899. Samuel E. Ewing v^ras appointed additional law judge to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Judge Mestrezat, and acted in that capacity at December term, 1900. Edmund H. Reppert was elected to the bench and was commissioned a judge of the Court of Common Pleas of the Fourteenth District, Decembei* 7, 1897, and became president judge upon the resignation of Judge Mestrezat. Robert E. Umbel was elected additional law judge Novem- ber, 1899, and commissioned December 7, 1899, his term to begin the first Monday in January following, and upon the ex- piration of Judge Reppert's term he became president judge, January 1, 1908, and upon the expiration of his term he was re-elected to succeed himself as president judge. John Q. Van Swearingen was elected additional law judge in November, 1907, his term to begin January 6, 1908. A separate Orphans' Court was established in Fayette county when Governor Stewart approved the bill forming the same, May 25, 1907. James Clark Work was the unanimous choice of the Fayette county Bar Association for the appointment as its first judge, and at a special meeting of the association held May 37th, he was notified to that effect. Mr. Work received his commission as judge of the Orphans" Court May 31, 1897, and at the approach of the fall election he was placed in nomination by the Republican, the Democratic and the Prohibition parties and at the election he received al- most every vote that was polled, an honor never before be- stowed on any candidate. Judge Work entered upon his ten- year term the first Monday in January, 1908. The Juvenile Court of Fayette county was established by the act of April 23, 1903, the first session of which was held before Judge Umbel on Saturday, January 5, 1910. Under the act of assembly of May 1, 1901, a law library was purchased for the use of the bar, and on October 16, 1903, 1300 volumes were received and placed in the care of Joseph M. Oglevee, Esq., as librarian. Since which time the number of volumes has been increased to 5,000. 378 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. On September 37, 1875, Lawrence L. Minor was appointed the first stenographer to the courts of Fayette county, which position he held until January 1, 1907, when he resigned. The census of Fayette county of 1910, gave Fayette county the right to have a county controller, and Harry Kisinger of Brownsville, was appointed the first controller of the county. He opened the business of the office Wednesday, February 22, 1911, and at the fall election of that year he was elected to that office for a term of four years. County Officers. The first register of wills and recorder of deeds and clerk of the Orphan's Court was Colonel Alexander McClean who was appointed to these offices December 6, 1783, and which he held until his death, January 7, 1834. The first prothonotary was General Ephraim Douglass who was appointed October 6, 1783, which office he held until 1808, when he resigned. The first "district attorney of the county was R. Gilbraith, who was appointed in 1793. The first sheriff for the county was Robert Orr, who was appointed in 1784, the sheriff of Westmoreland county holding over until that time on account of a misunderstanding of the election laws. The first commissioners of the county were Zachariah Con- nell, Joseph Caldwell and Col. Thomas Gaddis. The first coroner of the county was Henry Beeson, from November 31, 1786, to October 30, 1789. The first treasurer of the county was General Ephraim Douglass from October 13, 1784, to 1800. The first county surveyor was Col. McClean succeeding himself from the formation of the county to 1838. The first associate judges were Nathaniel Breading, 1790 ; Isaac Meason and James Finley, 1791. The first assistant district attorney was A. Plumer Austin. Disbarment Proceedings of Eight Members of the Fayette County Bar. Thomas H. Baird, Esq., was commissioned president judge of the newly formed Fourteenth Judicial District, July, 1818, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 379 and during his term on the bench of Fayette county, disaffec- tion arose between the court and several members of the bar, which, as time passed, increased in intensity until it was claimed that " the public confidence seemed to have been withdrawn alike from the bar and the court." In a case on trial before Judge Baird at September Ses- sions, 1834, an old lady wascalled as a witness, and upon hearing her testimony the judge indulged in the remark that the old lady was " too willing a witness.'' Her son hearing this remark and knowing it was intended as a reflection on his mother's veracity, took immediate offense, and procuring a cowhide, waited until his Honor appeared on the street and used his weapon with powerful effect on the person of the judge. The assailant was immediately taken into custody and held for trial, and at No. 10 January Sessions, 183-5, he pleaded guilty of as- sault and battery, and a sentence of fifty dollars fine, and costs, and imprisonment in the county jail for twelve calendar months, and gave security for good behavior for one year after the ex- piration of his term, was pronounced by Associate Judge Porter. This event caused intense feeling throughout the county, and added fuel to the flame that had been long smouldering, and prompted the following communication from Judge Baird to Messrs. Ewing, Todd, Dawson and other gentlemen of the bar of Fayette county : Friday Sept. 12th, 1834. Gentlemen : You have no doubt long been aware that the occurrence of a variety of disagreeable circumstances in the conduct of our business in court, has rendered my situation often exceedingly painful and perplexing. It is possible I have had my full share in the causes which have led to this state of things. I think, however, upon reflection, you will be satisfied that in a great de- gree it has been owing to the irregular manner of the bar in the trial of causes. It is unnecessary to go into particulars at this time. It has been the subject of complaint and of conflict, distress- ing to me and unpleasant to you. Finding a remedy hopeless with- out your aid, I have frequently brought my mind to the con- clusion that perhaps I ought to withdraw and give you the op- portunity of getting in my room some other gentleman who would have your confidence and co-operation. This determina- tion has heretofore been yielded to the advice of friends upon 380 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. whose judgment I have relied. Early in the present week I requested an interview with you, that we might talk these mat- ters over, and perhaps agree to an united effort for reform. You were prevented from meeting as proposed. In the mean time the occurrence of a brutal attack upon me by a ruffian, growing out of a trial in court, has more and more convinced me of the necessity of coming to some conclusion, that may prevent the repetition of such outrages. On this subject I wish not to be misunderstood. The act of a brute, or bully can never drive me from the post of duty or of honor, I thank God that in the performance of my official functions I have been preserved from the operation of fear as I hoped have been from favor or affection. I never, I repeat, have been deterred by an apprehension of personal danger, although I have often been aware of peril. I have known that there was causes for it. The inadvertant — but as I think, indiscreet indulgence of side bar remarks, indicative of dissatisfaction with the decisions of the court, and perhaps some times of contempt have been calcu- lated to make a lodgment in the public mind injurious to the authority and respectability of the court, and particularly of myself its organ, and has had a direct tendency to rouse the malignant passion of a disappointed or defeated party. I have often observed or been informed of these things, and thought they might lead to disastrous consequence. A correct, judicious man, if he thinks his case has not been correctly decided, will seek redress in the legitimate mode only, or if that is not ac- cessible will submit to it, as we all do to unavoidable misfor- tunes, a ruffian, however, if told by his counsel that injustice has been done him in the administration of the law, may feel dis- posed to seek revenge on the Judge. In the case referred to I think the cause and effect can be distinctly traced. The earnest- ness and positiveness of the counsel in this trial, and expressions thoughtlessly dropped afterwards, perhaps inflamed an un- principled fellow to make the attack. It may be, however, that it would not have occurred had he not been encouraged by other persons. I have only my suspicions, "and make no charge against any one. I exculpate the counsel in that case, and I exculpate the whole bar from the most distant idea of producing such a catastrophe. All that I mean to say is, that the practice I have mentioned has a direct tendency to incite to such outrages, and that in this particular case (in connection with other causes) History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 381 it did lead to the violence. This same cause may produce the same effect. I must be always exposed to such consequences if matter of excitement continues to be furnished to wrong headed brutal suitors. If I could have the confidence and sup- port of the bar, and the assurance of a change in their manner towards each other the ofifice I hold would be rendered dignified, honorable and pleasant, but otherwise, it must be altogether in- tolerable. On my part there is no want of good feelings, and I take this occasion to declare, that there is not one of you for whom I entertained unkind sentiments. On the contrary there is no one whose interests I would not advance or whose honor I would not maintain so far as in my power. As to myself I have no right to claim your friendship though I should be glad to have it, but I think in the discharge of my official duties, I ought to have your courtesy and respect and when I err, for- bearance in manner and recourse directly to the proper remedy (which I am always disposed to facilitate) and not to inflamma- tory expressions, or disapprobation or contempt addressed to the public or the party. I have thus disclosed to you frankly my feelings and views. In reply I wish your sentiments and determinations as to the future in relation to the grievances I have presented, and propose therefore that you should take a few minutes to confer together and inform me of the conclu- sion to which you may arrive at. I am truly yours, &c., T. H. Baird. To the above communication the gentlemen addressed made the following reply : Uniontown, Pa., Oct. 3d, 1834. Dear Sir: We have delayed replying to your letter, under date of the 12th September 1834, addressed to the members of the bar of Fayette county, until the present time, to afford an opportunity for consulting together, and also for mature reflection upon the matters to which you refer. We regret in common with your Honor, that we have not been able in harmony and with satis- faction to ourselves and the people of the county, to transact the business of our courts. The public confidence seems to be withdrawn alike from the bar and the court. Perhaps your Honor's retiring from the bench, as you have intimated a 382 History of Uniontotmi, Pennsylvania. willingness so to do, and giving the people the power to select another, would be the means of producing a better state of things, and a more cordial co-operation from all sides in the dispatch of the business of the county. This expression of our views is made in candor and sincerity without a wish to inspire one unpleasant thought or unkind feeling; but under a sense of duty to the county in which we live to your honor and to ourselves. Very respectfully. Yours, &c. John M. Austin, John Dawson, Joshua B. Howell, John H. Deford, Joseph Williams, Robert P. Flenniken, Rice G. Hopwood, William McDonald, William P. Wells. The above communication was postmarked Uniontown, Pa., November 7, 1834, and addressed to 'Thomas H. Baird, Esq., Williamsport, Washington county. Pa., to which Judge Baird replied as follows : Harlem, Dec, 15th, 1834. Messrs. Austin, Dawson, Howell, Deford, Williams, Flen- niken, Hopwood, McDonald, and Wells, members of the Fay- ette County bar: Your communication dated 3d Oct. (postmarked Nov. 7th) which purports to be an answer to my letter of 12th Sept., came to my hand on Saturday night last. It had been withheld from me by my friends during my recent illness, from an apprehension it might produce an increased excitement prejudicial to my health. In this they were mistaken. I have experienced too much of the ills of this life, and at present too many causes of agitating concern to be greatly disturbed by it. Perhaps, were it not for, the knowledge of human nature which I have dearly bought, I might have been surprised and pained to receive such a paper from persons standing to me in the relation that you do. Not one of whom I have ever intention- ally injured in thought, word or deed. I was, however, pre- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 383 pared for such an expression of your views, though there are some signatures I did not expect to see. Had your letter been framed immediately in answer to mine, and put into my hands at the time, I do not know what course I might have adopted in the hurry of my feelings. I certainly have often entertained a thought of leaving my situation, influenced by a regard of my personal comfort — and I will add also, from considerations to- wards you, that spring more from my heart than my head. This purpose I often yielded to the judgment and advice of my friends. I have also repeatedly said that unless a reform could be effected in the mode of doing business in court, I would not continue in office. I immediately after the commencement of last term, to which I referred in my last letter; I hastily ex- pressed my intention never to return to the county. This pur- pose was formed not on account of the immediate outrage, which I was aware I could sufficiently punish, but because I believed, as I still do, that the ruffian was instigated by others. — It is not my recollection, that I declared in my com- munication to you, any present design of abandoning my office at your request, and I am confirmed in this idea, from the fact that a judicious friend strongly remonstrated against such an intimation being given. But if I had even so expressed myself, subsequent reflection, long before I received your letter, had abundantly convinced me that it would be wrong to do so at this time and under the circumstances in which I am placed in my official relation to you and to the people. The station I hold is not mine, nor is it yours. It belongs to the public, and has been conferred upon me, without my solicitation, by the constitutional agent. Unless from private consideration I think proper to give it up, and the right to do so is recognized by law, it cannot be taken from me but in the way the people have designated. It would be a violation of their rights, and a dere- liction of duty, if I could be constrained or influenced to aban- don it by any other process. I am now satisfied that I ought not to have addressed you as I did. It was compromising the dignity of the office entrusted to me, to solicit from you a reform in your manner of conducting your business at the bar when I ought to have compelled it. In concurrence with my brother judges, I should have prescribed the order and discipline of the court and enforced obedience. This error, however, also pro- ceeded more from my heart than from my head ; — and you are 384 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the last persons in the world who ought to complain of it. Henceforth it will be my endeavor to correct this mistake; — and depend upon it, if there is not a reform, without making it a matter of compact with you, it will not be my fault. But, however, I might be disposed to resign my office, from motives of private convenience and peace of mind, which I have a right to do, or perhaps from a wish to indulge you in a desired preference for some other person in my stead, the propriety of which I now doubt; yet still, the terms of your communication entirely preclude me from doing so without yielding my personal and judicial honor. You undertake to assert that, " the public confidence seems to be withdrawn alike from the Bar and the Court." If the first part of the proposition is to be understood as an admission of the state of things in relation to yourselves, it is not my business to combat it; — but I deny your right or warrant to make the latter allegation. It is of grave import and deliberately set forth, for you took time as you say, " to afford an opportunity of consulting together, and also for mature re- flection." It is the basis of your request, that I should resign; for the other matters, in relation to the manner of conducting the business of the court, you were well aware was in your power to adjust : undoubtedly, therefore, it involves a charge of official delinquency; — such as would warrant the removal of the judges either by impeachment or address. — " Public confi- dence " is indeed the only foundation on which must rest the usefulness, respectability and authority of the courts: if that is destroyed all that is valuable in our judicial institutions must fall and the personal honor of the judges be involved in the general ruin. To weaken or itnpair then, that faith which the people ought to have in the integrity and capacity of these who administer their laws, is a great public mischief. Certainly there is no way more calculated to produce such a result, than to assert that such is the present fact. The laws will not allow, that the people have " withdrawn " their " confidence " from their judicial agents, unless, it has been so ascertained in the mode prescribed in the constitution. It cannot be tolerated that the official standing of judges is to be tested by the sneering remarks we may hear on the streets, or the vituperation of bar-room consorts. — I leave it to you therefore, as a matter of professional opinion to say — whether it would not be indictable as a libel, for any one to publish in writing, that the "public JUDGE THOMAS H. BAIRD. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 385 confidence is withdrawn " from a court. Perhaps when mem- bers of the bar so far forget the " fidelity " to which they are bound, as to promulgate such a declaration, a discreet but de- cisive exercise of the summary power vested in the judges, over the conduct of their own officers, may be considered the most obvious and proper course. On this point it would be prema- ture in me to express an opinion now. Your communication will be before us at the next term and after deliberate examination and hearing, the decision of the court will be pronounced. — There is another matter which I think it proper to apprise you of, with the hope that a satisfactory explanation will be offered. I have understood that a report is in circulation, eminating from some of you, that I have charged the whole bar, with being concerned in the outrage lately committed upon me. — If it is true that such an idea has been thrown abroad, it is so base a perversion of language that I cannot conceive the malignity of the heart that could engender it. When such means are em- ployed to excite popular prejudice, it would not be surprising if " public confidence " should be " withdrawn " — from me at least. — My letter will show for itself; — and I defy the ingenuity of Satan himself, to make out any such thing — on the contrary I think it contains a distinct exculpation of the whole bar from the most distant thought of producing such a catastrophe. The whole matter in relation to that outrage, will be before the court at the next term, — and the associate judges will be called upon to sustain, and assert the violated authority and dignity of the judicial office by the exercise of their summary power of punishing such gross contempt. At the last sitting, I made up my mind to take no step myself, as it might be thought I acted under excited feelings; and the public prosecutor, who is considered as particularly representing the people in relation to such things did not think proper to present to the court the propriety and necessity of this course. It is, however, indis- pensable; for a judicial tribunal that cannot protect itself, with- out resorting to another tribunal for aid or redress, must cease to exist. In conclusion, I will only say, that upon mature reflection it is my determination not to resign at present; and that it is also my abiding determination never to resign upon the ground stated in your letter. I hope to be able to take my seat on the bench in Fayette county, on the first Monday of January 386 History of Uniontoivn, Pennsylvania. next. — If I have lost any degree of the public confidence, it shall be my endeavor to regain it, by a faithful performance of my judicial functions. With the aid of my brother judges, I will try to preserve the order and discipline of the court by a discreet but energetic exercise of the power which the law gives us; and perhaps you may be satisfied that the laxity, which has no doubt, been a considerable cause of complaint was more owing to my kind feelings towards you than to any want of moral courage to encounter the consequences that may result from the honest discharge of public duty; I shall per- form my official functions with sincere desire to do right — and I shall expect from members of the bar that they behave themselves with all good fidelity to the court as well as to the clients. I am, &c., Thomas H. Baird. At a Court of Common Pleas held at Uniontown, January 6, 1835, before Judge Baird and his associates, Charles Porter and Samuel Nixon, the following action was taken, viz. : A rule was granted upon Jno. M. Austin, John Dawson, Joshua B. Howell, J. H. Deford, J. Williams, A. Patterson, R. P. Flenniken, R. G. Hopwood, Wm. McDonald, and Wm. P. Wells, to show cause why they should not be stricken from the list of attorneys, &c. On the next morning the members of the bar presented to the court, the following: " The undersigned who are required by a rule of court, entered to show cause why they should not be stricken from the list of attorneys, present this answer to that rule. — We earnestly, but respectfully protest against the legal power and authority of the court to enter and enforce such a rule for the cause alleged. The rule appears to be founded and predicated on the letter of the undersigned, addressed to Judge Baird, dated October 3, 1834. To enable a full understanding of the whole matter, a letter of Judge Baird, dated September 13, 1834, is herewith presented (see letter). It is evident that the letter of the undersigned, which con- tains the supposed offensive matter, is a reply and a response to the letter of Judge Baird, to them addressed. It is certainly History of Uniontozvn, Pennsyk'ania. 387 respectful in its terms, and, as is sincerely believed, and posi- tively asserted contains neither in word, meaning, nor intention, the slightest contempt or the least disrespect to the court or any of its members. The respondents would be entirely at a loss to compre- hend how it could be possible to give the letter, from its terms, an oflfensive interpretation were they not informed from an- other source, that the following paragraph is considered ob- jectionable, " The public confidence seems to be withdrawn alike from the bar and the court." We by this paragraph ex- pressed our honest conviction, and intended no contempt to the court. It is a response in some measure to that part of Judge Baird's letter in which he himself says that the circumstances to which he refers " were calculated to make a lodgement in the public mind injurious to the authority and respectability of the court and particularly of himself its organ." It will be perceived from the two letters referred to that the correspondence did not take place between the bar and the court — it was between the respondents and Judge Baird at his instance and request. The occurrence asserted as constituting some undefined offense did riot take place in presence of the court — it took place out of court and in pais. Far, very far, therefore, are we from being guilty of any oflfense against the court. As to Judge Baird personally, the letter distinctly and unequivocally states that our views were " made in candor and sincerity, without a wish to inspire one unpleasant thought or unkind feeling." John M. Austin, John Dawson, ' Joshua B. Howell, Wm. P. Wells, Alfred Patterson, J. H. Deford, Wm. McDonald, J. Williams, R. P. Flenniken, R. G. Hopwood. 388 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. This answer having been read, it was pronounced by the court as insufficient, because it did not embrace the publication of the correspondence. — The respondents then asked the rule to be postponed until the afternoon, when they would make an- swer to that part of the supposed offense also — which was granted. In the evening the respondents presented the following as their second answer : The undersigned, after reiterating the protest contained in a former answer, make this further reply to the rule entered yesterday against them. When the former answer was prepared it was not known that the publication of the correspondence between the bar and Judge Baird in the newspapers constituted a portion of the sup- posed offense against the court; the record not presenting that aspect of the case. They now reply to this matter, and to cause a more perfect understanding thereof, they present herewith a letter from Judge Baird to the undersigned, dated December 15, 1834. We now ask that the three letters on record may be carefully ex- amined in connection with our former answer to the Rule to show cause. We cannot but think that the court will then be satisfied that the last letter of Judge Baird contains imputations and strictures not warranted by any thing said in our communi- cation to him when properly understood. In some way the existence of the controversy reached the public ear. It imme- diately assumed a false shape in connection with an , assault committed upon the Judge by a suitor in court. Misapprehen- sions about the nature of the correspondence was produced. For want of correct information, false assertions were made and false inferences drawn. It became a public matter involving seriously public interest. The correspondence related to public affairs. The letter by no means being private and confidential, we consider it our imperative duty, in justice to ourselves, and in justice to the public, to lay the whole correspondence as it really was, before the whole community. It was accordingly done and for the purpose intimated. The court will clearly perceive that in this act there was no offense committed against the court, but was a proceeding rendered every way necessary, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 389 as it gave the true state of the controversy, and supplied the place of false rumors in relation both to Judge Baird and ourselves. John Dawson, John M. Austin, Wm. P. Wells, Joshua B. Howell, J. H. Deford, J. Williams, R. G. Hopwood, A. Patterson, R. P. Flenniken. William McDonald not concurring with the majority of the respondents in the views taken in their second answer, pre- sented a separate one as follows : On the subject of the difficulty between the bar and the court, I take the liberty of making the following statement: I was opposed to the publication of the correspondence from the beginning, and have frequently so expressed myself, thinking it would have a tendency to widen the breach without being calculated to do any good. From first to last I have been free from the control of any intention to cast disrespect or contempt upon the court or any of its members. Wm. McDonald. The court then adjourned — It being understood judgment on the rule was to be pronounced the next morning. In con- sequence, however, of various delays this was not done until the evening when the judgment of Baird & Porter was de- livered by Baird as follows : Jan. 8th. The court has given to the papers presented by the re- spondents in this case, the most careful consideration and the most favorable construction their import would at all admit. It is with the deepest regret, we are constrained to say, that they are by no means satisfactory. We cannot regard them as removing the offensive and injurious operation of the matter which has been published to the world in relation to this court, and which forms the gravamen of the rule. All that we have required is, that the gentlemen would distinctly place in their 390 History of Unionfown, Pennsylvania. answer a disavowal of any intention to impute to tlie court or its members any thing which would lower them in their of- ficial character, in the esteem and confidence of the people. This has been, and is still refused. No alternative therefore remains. We must abandon our judicial honor, respectability and authority, or endeavor to sustain them in what we conceive to be the legitimate mode. It is not the common law, or statutory power to punish con- tempts, which we are about to exercise. It is the coercive con- trol and discipline which the courts have always legally em- ployed in order to preserve in the members of the bar the ob- servance of that trust, courtesy and respect which is indispensa- ble to the safe and orderly administration of justice. An early act of Assembly (22nd May, 1722,) declares that attorneys if they misbehave, shall be liable to " suffer such pains, penalties, and suspensions as attorneys at law in Great Britain are liable to in such cases," — and by an act of last session, " If any attor- ney shall misbehave himself in his office of attorney, he shall be liable to suspension, removal from office, or to such other pen- alties as have hitherto been allowed in such cases by the laws of this commonwealth." By these three acts, then, the power of the courts here is the same as is exercised by the courts in England. We con- sider it unquestionable wherever there is misbehavior in an attorney. The exercise of this power is a judicial act, and al- though it is summary, yet it can no where be so safely lodged, both as respects its prompt and efficient application when ne- cessary, and also as respects the security and interests of the members of the bar, who have always the feelings and attach- ment of the judges with them when they conducted themselves with propriety. The term " misbehavior " in our acts of Assembly, has an evident relation to the official oaths of an attorney. He is sworn to " behave " himself " with all good fidelity to the court as well as to the client." What does this include? As between counsel and client it seems to be well understood. A lawyer would not betray the interests or the fame of the man who has given him a paltry fee ; nor would the law allow him to do so in any case in which he is engaged. Does it not import any thing as respects the court? Can an attorney be tolerated in publishing to the world that " public confidence is withdrawn History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 391- from the court," and then come in and claim to stand in that relation which the law contemplates as essential to the deco- rous, orderly administration of the public business? If so, we do not understand the meaning of the word " fidelity ", or the relation it creates. In this case we think there has been " misbehavior " on the part of the gentlemen against whom the rule is granted. The publication in relation to the court we consider a libel. It has been done in the office of attorneys, as they themselves show. The whole matter refers to the public relation between the court and the bar. The first letter of the president is in truth the act of the whole court for although signed by him, it was the concurrence of his brother judges. It was intended as a kind appeal to their good sense and generous feelings, and by no means as insinuating any imputation more than oc- casional inadvertant side-bar remarks and other irregularities, as the letter plainly imports. It was communicated in a private manner, because it was thought more likely to produce a good effect than a public address. They, in all their proceedings, and in their answers, speak of it in their official relation. The only question then is, does their conduct amount to " misbe- havior " ? and to what degree ? We think it does, and to such an extent of aggravation as virtually to destroy the relation of " fidelity " which must exist towards the court by the mem- bers of the bar. If that relation is extinguished, and no longer exists, the official connection must necessarily be dissolved, otherwise the spirit of the law is violated. As we have no personal feelings to indulge except those of regret : we forbear any harsh commentary upon the matters in- volved. We would leave it to the calm reflection and better feelings of the gentlemen themselves, and would hope that they may yet be induced to avail themselves of the door which is still open to a returning sense of duty. We have no appeal to make to the public, except what a just estimate of our rectitude of purpose may present to their virtue and good sense. It is ordered that the names of John M. Austin, John Daw- son, J. B. Howell, W. P. Wells, Alfred Patterson, John H. Deford, J. Williams and R. P. Flenniken be struck from the list of attorneys of this court, and in the case of Rice G. Hop- wood the rule to be continued. In the case of William McDonald the rule to be discharged. 392 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Judge Nixon dissented from the majority of the court, and presented the following opinion in relation to the case: I concur with my brother judges, that certain parts of said publications are calculated to bring this court into disrepute with the people, and ought to be punished; but taking into consideration the cause that elicited, or drew forth these pub- lications, and the concessions and explanations that have been made by the respondents to the court, the penalty of an in- definite suspension would be very severe. Had our rule been left open so as not to require a specific punishment, I would have been very happy in co-operating with my brother judges in inflicting some adequate punishment, if any, but as there is no alternative I must dissent from their judgment, and think the rule ought to be discharged. January 9th. Judges Porter and Nixon on the bench. Rice G. Hopwood, in whose case the rule was postponed to this date, presented the following answer: In answer to the rule granted by the court upon the mem- bers of the bar to show cause why they should not be stricken from the list of attorneys, the undersigned candidly, but re- spectfully submits the following reply as to the publication : That he intended no contempt of court, nor did he intend to call in question in any shape, the integrity of their official conduct, or detract from their standing in the estimation of the public. Rice G. Hopwood. Rule discharged. Nathaniel Ewing, Esq., one of the members of Uniontown bar feeling anxious to reconcile the difficulties which had arisen between the court and bar submitted to the court some very appropriate remarks, of which the following is an abstract : Mr. Ewing said he conceived that he was capable of giving the subject a more calm consideration than either the court or the gentlemen of the bar who were concerned, and he felt it a duty he owed to both to express his opinion' of the legal power of the court, as well as of the rights and privileges of the bar. There were, he said, but three cases at most — and possibly but two — where the court could strike an attorney from the rolls. 1st, Where he is guilty of some high crime or misdemeanor in- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 393 volving moral turpitude that the fountain of justice might not be contaminated by such impurity. 2d. When he misbe- haves himself in his office of attorney. To understand this matter aright it was necessary, he said, to remember that an attorney possesses both an official and a private character and relation — when he acts in his official character he acts as the representative of another person — his client. He stands in his stead — his acts are in law the acts of his constituent — when he acts for himself he does not, cannot act as an attorney, the word itself, ex vi termini precludes such an idea. If he is a party in court he is liable for the same offenses and to the same extent as other suitors. In his intercourse whether oral or written with the judges out of court he is amenable to them only as one gentleman is to another. The court seemed to suppose, he said, that there was a kind of personal allegiance due by the members of the bar to the judges at all times and in all places. This was a gross misapprehension of their re- lation. The judges were not lords and the attorneys their vas- sals or liege subjects. It is only when they act in their official characters respectively that they sustain a relation to each other different from that sustained by other gentlemen in the community. All official business is supposed to be done in court, whether it be actually sitting or not. And it is only while acting in official business that an attorney, as such, is responsible to the court. This view of the subject was fortified, he said, by a reference to the acts of Assembly. The act of 1723 says, that attorneys " shall behave themselves justly and faithfully in their practice, and if they misbehave themselves therein, they shall suffer such penalties and suspensions," etc. And the oath which is prescribed by the act of 1752, which was to be taken only where they acted for others, is " Thou shalt be- have thyself in the office of attorney within the court." And the late act of 1834 uses the same words, and provides " if any attorney at law shall misbehave himself in his office of attorney, he shall," etc. 3d. Possibly a third case might be, he said, when an attorney was guilty of gross misbehavior during the sitting of the court — in the face of the court. He was, however, in- clined to think that if it was not in the transaction of official business, he must in this case be dealt with as any other person guilty of like misconduct. What then, he continued, is the case in hand. It could not 394 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. fall under the first or third class. It was not a high crime or misdemeanor, nor was it done in the face of the court during its sittings. Can it be classed under the second head? It cannot. The gentlemen who wrote the letter to Judge Baird and who after^vj^ards published it, were not, in those acts, acting in their office of attorneys. Whom did they represent? Whose attorneys were they? Who were their clients? They had none — they acted for themselves in their private, individual and personal characters and relation. In regard to the publication of the correspondence it is submitted, he said, whether there is not enough in the last letter of his Honor Judge Baird to palliate, if not to excuse that act. (Here Mr. Ewing was about to re- mark upon Judge Baird's last letter when he was stopped by Judge Baird who observed that the matter was closed last even- ing. Mr. Ewing then took his seat.) Thus eight members of the bar of Fayette county stood suspended from the court, one of whom was the deputy at- torney-general. They forthwith industriously applied them- selves to present their case to the legislature of the state. Among the accusations against Judge Baird were the following : Frequently did not arrive in Uniontown until Monday even- ing of the week in which court was to be held, affording the constables of the county no opportunity to make their reports, and adding greatly to the disappointment of jurymen, witnesses, litigants and attorneys, and adjourning court on Thursday, against the interests of the county. The reading of newspapers during trials. Taking no notes of testimony. Giving opinions before the trial was gone through with. Neglect to take down testimony in writing or to reduce his opinion to writing when required to do so. The following points were submitted to the legislative committee : Claiming the power of punishment under the act of 1809. The second section of said act having no bearing on the case, because the defamatory writing of the Fayette county gentle- men had no relation to any case pending or question before the court. Neglect of duty in Fayette county in not devoting that time and attention to the. business of the county which the public History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 395 interests have required; and in disregarding the duties enjoined by the act of the 34th of February, 1806, entitled an act to alter the judiciary system of this commonwealth. His irritable nature, impatient temper, violent and partial feelings, etc. Want of legal knowledge, fluctuating and uncertain opinions, offensive manners and behavior both on and off the bench being such as to disqualify him for a proper discharge of his judicial functions, and lessen or destroy that respectability which a judge ought always to possess. The committee were also informed of the manner of the judge in charging juries, and his conduct when required to re- duce his opinions to writing, etc. Address of Judge Baird in his own defense before a com- mittee of the House of Representatives, consisting of Messrs. Cox, chairman, Richards, Conrad, Lacock, Reed, Pennypacker and Bidlack, appointed to investigate his official conduct in re- lation to certain specification of charges preferred against him by eight attorneys of the Uniontown bar. " Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen of the Committee of Investi- gation : I avail myself of your permission to reply to the charges exhibited against me in the specification filed. I cannot be in- sensible of the difficult circumstances in which I am placed. I have not merely the resentful feelings of the eight gentlemen who were stricken from the rolls of Fayette county, and the formidable array of their friends to contend against, but they have been the moving power by which popular clamor and prejudice have been stirred up for the destruction of my for- tune and my fame. The groundwork of their complaints is their expulsion from the bar. If the court did wrong in that proceeding, a legal or constitutional remedy was accessible without an appeal to the passions of the people. If there was error in the construction of the law, the Supreme Court would have at once restored them by mandamus. If it was corruption or oppression, the legislature was the proper tribunal for re- dress. I was not anticipating this procedure. Not only have inflammatory appeals to passions, prejudices and even party feelings of the people have been addressed through the news- papers but the machinery of a county meeting has been brought 396 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. into action, the proceedings and resolution of which are laid before you. For years, great irregularities in the manner of conducting business at the Fayette county bar had existed and had been a constant source of embarrassment and vexation. The Court had made repeated efforts to remedy the evil, but in vain. It was, at length, determined to address to the gentlemen a kind appeal to their good sense and feelings of propriety. This gave rise to one of the most vindictive persecutions that ever had been exhibited in a county of laws. The letter of the bar is grossly libellous. It charges that the public confidence is with- drawn from the court, and calls upon me to resign. In answer to the rule, they say it was a matter between the respondents and Judge Baird, and, therefore, no offense against the court. Now if the court had dismissed the rule on that ground, and I had brought my action or indicted for the libel, what would have been the defense? We have it in their second response ; " The correspondence related to public affairs ; a public matter, involving seriously public interests." The Fayette lawyers complain that they were deprived of the benefit of a trial by a jury of the county. Suppose they had been indicted, and a jury was impannelled; what would have been the issue? The question whether rebellious or not is for the legal direction of the court. The only matter to be found then is the intention. This the law presumes to be malicious unless the contrary is shown. Their plea must be " not guilty ", which the jury might negative by their verdict. They then would stand convicted of a crime that has been held in all ages in ab- horrence and detestation; which by the Roman decemviri was punished by death ; by the Remmia lex was branded with a hot iron in the face, and later with whipping, and even in Eng- land, punishment by fine, imprisonment and pillory, and for the second offense by transportation. Even in our own system the penalty is fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the court, and removal from office. All this might have been the conse- quence, even if this publication had been with a view of ex- amining the proceedings of the court, or investigating its official conduct. They could have been restored on the day following their expulsion if they had wished it. The court evidently intended it to be so understood. They well knew that they had but to History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 397 say that they did not intend to degrade the court in public opinion, and they would have been at once restored to all their privileges. As to the second specification, — neglect of duty, — I aver that I have endeavored to perform the duties of my office, not only with faithfulness and integrity, but with diligence. Since I have occupied a seat on the bench (a period of nearly seven- teen years), I have never lost a single term. Through rain and snow, in sickness and in health, I have been at my post, em- ploying my best efforts for the dispatch of the public business, and so far from having been dilatory and inattentive, I have been often complained of for urging the gentlemen of the bar to a more rapid course. There is not so much business done in Fayette county in the same time as in Washington and Greene; the cause, however, I positively assert, is in the very gentle- men who now bring it forward as a matter of accusation. In every trivial matter presented to the court the attorneys will persist in making long speeches when in truth there is nothing to say. The third specifications; — It is possible I have an irritable nature and impatient temper, and if so it certainly would be indicated in Fayette county more than at any other place, be- cause there are more exciting causes. The fault is not entirely in my constitutional temperament but is in a good degree attributable to the gentlemen who make the complaint. As to the charge of " want of legal knowledge ", I plead guilty to some extent. I admit I do not know as much as I ought to know and I beg that the committee will test the quali-i fications of the gentlemen who may appear to give evidence as to mine. Fluctuating and uncertain opinions — If it is that I have given up the wrong to adopt the right, I must plead guilty. If I have abandoned correct views to embrace erroneous ones, I call for the proof of the particular case. Fourth Specification — Had lost the confidence of the people of Fayette county. May be now true to some extent; but who made it so? Who are they that have been endeavoring to poison the public mind? Who directed the press in bitter in- vective and denunciation against me? Who got up the public meeting that by its resolutions became my accuser? Who 398 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. framed these very resolutions and directed the movements of the people? My sense of injury will not allow me to speak on this par- ticular with that calmness which the respect to the committee requires. I submit my case, therefore, '' to the law and to the testimony ; " to the intelligence and firmness of the committee and to the virtue of the people acting through their represen- tatives." The above address of Judge Baird delivered before the com- mittee of the legislature was printed in full and comprised 17,- 800 words. The public meeting referred to in Judge Baird's address was known as the " Searight meeting " and was held in re- sponse to notices published in the newspapers, as follows : A general county meeting will be held at the house of William Searight at 12 o'clock on Saturday, the 24th of January, inst., for the purpose of ascertaining the sentiment of the people of Fayette county in relation of the coercive power claimed and exercised by the court in the recent expulsion of two-thirds of the members of the bar. A full expose of the case is expected to be given by gentlemen in every way competent. A general attendance of the people of the county is invited, as it is a question of momentous importance — a question of liberty and DESPOTISM. The result of the Searight meeting. Pursuant to previous notice inserted in the Newspapers, a very large and respectable meeting of the citizens of Fayette county, Pennsylvania, took place on the 24th inst. at Searight's Hotel. The object of the meeting was to enable the people to express an opinion in relation to the Judicial affairs of the county ; more especially in relation to the proceedings had at the last court, which resulted in the expulsion of eight attorneys from the bar. — Col. James A. McClelland, was appointed President. Uriah Springer, William Vance, Capt. Hazel, G. D. Evans and Robert Boyd, Vice-presidents. John I. Dorsey and George Meason, secretaries. On motion, a committee of twenty-two was appointed by the meeting to draft resolutions for its consideration. The com- mittee consisted of: — John Huston, (Iron Master), Gen. Beeson, Jess Antrim, Col. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 399 Gilmore, Elias Jeffries, William Hastings, James McSherry, Samuel John, Major McNeal, Aaron Hibbs, William Conden, Benjamin Roberts, Esq., Major Lynch, John Huston, farmer. Dr. John Townsend, Wm. Searight, Geo. Walker, Washington Bute, John Ball, Esq., Thomas Todd, Capt. Whaley, Edward Hyde. The committee having retired for a time, reported to the assembly (who had in the meantime adjourned to a meadow, the house not accommodating all the people) the following reso- lutions : — 1. The people have a right, in a peaceable manner, to as- semble together for their common good, and apply to those in- vested with the powers of government, for any proper purposes. 2. The proceedings of our courts are not often, nor should they be, the subjects of public discussion in the primary as- semblies of the people. When, however, cases arise involving the great principles of the constitution, and of Liberty itself, it becomes proper for the people deliberately to examine them, and express their opinions. They should at all times be jealous of their rights and privileges, and never slow in maintaining them. 3. The late summary proceeding in our court which resulted in the expulsion of eight of our fellow citizens from the bar of Fayette county — by which the administration of the law has been obstructed — and by which they are deprived of their pro- fession and the means they had chosen to enable them to sup- port themselves and families — is well calculated to create alarm, and demands a public ijivestigation and a public decision. 4. The power of inflicting " summary punishments ", for al- leged offenses committed out of court, without giving the ac- cused the benefit of a trial before a jury of his country is re- pugnant to the principles of our Republican institutions and ought not to be tolerated in a free country. Such a power partakes of the very essence and rankness of despotism. 5. The right of trial by jury is the sacred and invaluable privilege of freemen, and should, at all hazards, be maintained and preserved inviolable. 6. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man. The free expression of opinions about the public character and conduct of men in a public capacity, is a primary and essential principle in our happy re- 400 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. public, and any attempt to restrain or abridge this privilege and punish any supposed abuse thereof without a legal trial before a jury of the country, should meet with the indignant disapprobation of every true republican. 7. It is an excellent rule, that no man should be a judge in his own case. More especially should it be determined beyond all doubt, that no judge should be permitted to decide cases in which his own feelings, passions and character are deeply inter- ested and involved. To permit any human being in a judicial capacity, arbitrarily to punish a citizen for a supposed personal or other insult given, or disrespect shown out of court, or for an offense constructively derived therefrom as against the court, would be most dangerous to the liberty of the citizen, the liberty of the press, and the welfare of our Republic. 8. This meeting view with serious alarm the doctrines ad- vanced in the late decision and opinion pronounced by Judge Baird in the case of the members of the Fayette bar whose names were thereby struck from the roll of Attorneys. That whole proceeding we deem repugnant to the spirit of all our laws, and the genius of all our republican institutions. It is in our opinion, a direct violation of the true intent and meaning of the seventh section of the " Declaration of Rights " in the Constitution of Pennsylvania. 9. The people of Fayette county have great cause to represent as a grievance, no longer to be borne, the manner in which business has been conducted in our court for some time past. This has been a subject of almost universal complaint in this county for years past, and has had a tendency to alienate the confidence of the people from their judicial institutions, which, as much as any other, should have their affection and respect. 10. The meeting direct that the foregoing resolutions, views and opinions be transmitted to the Legislature of Pennsylvania, and they respectfully ask the members thereof to take the same into consideration and do in relation thereto what to them may seem expedient and right. The resolutions having been considered by the meeting, were carried and adopted unanimously. It was further and finally resolved. That the proceedings of this, meeting be signed by its officers, published in the several newspapers of this judicial district, and that copies thereof be addressed to the Speaker of the Senate, and Speaker of the JUDGE JOHN BOUVIER. ■Vice-Presidents. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 401 ■\ House of Representatives of Pennsylvania, to be laid before their bodies respectively. James A. McClelland, President. Uriah Springer, William Vance, Wm. Hazel, G. D. Evans, Robert Boyd, John I. Dorsey, 1 r, ^ • •L HT ^Secretaries. George Meason, J Monday, January 36th, 1835. On the 14th of March, 1835, an act was passed by the pro- visions of which the Supreme Court was required to take juris- diction of the proceedings whereby the eight members of the bar were stricken from the roll. In pursuance of the provisions of the Act of Assembly, the letters of Judge Baird, the answer of respondents and ruling of the court were presented to the Supreme Court, in session at Philadelphia, March 19, 1835. The eight gentlemen whose names had been stricken from the roll appeared by their at- torneys, G. M. Dallas and Joseph R. Ingersoll, who presented the following bill of exceptions : First. The Court of Common Pleas of Fayette county erred in considering the said attorneys as the authors of a letter to the Honorable T. H. Baird, under the date of October 3, 1834, liable to the penalty of being struck from the roll for an alleged libel upon the court. Second. The court below erred in considering that by the writing or publishing of the said letter the said attorneys did " misbehave themselves in their offices of attorneys " respec- tively. Third. The court below erred in considering that by the writing or publishing of said letter the attorneys had departed from their obligation to behave themselves in the office of at- torney within the court according to the best of their learning or ability, and with all good fidelity as well as to the court as to their clients. Fourth. The order of the court below, that the name of the said attorneys be struck from the list is unconstitutional, illegal and oppressive, and the same should be forthwith re- versed and annulled." 402 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The Court of Common Pleas of Fayette county was repre- sented by J. Sargeant. Lengthy arguments were made by both sides. After due deliberation the opinion of the court was de- livered by Chief Justice Gibson, March 31, 1835, who stated that " the language of the respondents' letter was ' bland and re- spectful.' They had earnestly and uniformly protested that the object of the publication was not to afHict the judge, but to disabuse the pubHc mind; and professing this to be their motive, and in the absence of evidence to disprove it, we are bound to receive it as the true one. They too acted from the impulse of excitement, for which allowance is to be made, be- lieving that the president had implicated them in the disgraceful assault on his person. The publication was made by them, not as members of the bar, but as persons put upon their defense by an intimation that they were to be dealt with criminally. In conclusion, it appears that a case to justify the removal of the respondents has not been made out; whereupon it is con- sidered that the order to make the rule in this case absolute be rescinded and the rule discharged : that the respondents be restored to their office, and that this decree be certified to the Court of Common Pleas of Fayette county." " Decreed accordingly." An interesting episode occurred in connection with the ex- pulsion of the eight members of the bar. On Thursday, Janu- ary 8th, Colonel Samuel Evans, rose, and in a mild but firm tone of voice requested that the court strike his name off with those that had been stricken off. Evidently the colonel es- teemed it an honor rather than a disgrace to meet with the dis- pleasure of the judge. The court records of January 10, 1839, show the following: " To the Honorable : the Judges of the Courts of Fayette county : The undersigned, in the year 1835, considered it his duty to withdraw from the bar of Fayette county. The circumstances which induced this course no longer existing, I now apply to the court to be restored to all my rights and privileges as a member of said bar. Signed, Samuel Evans. January 10, 1839, Ordered that Samuel Evans, Esq., be re- admitted to the bar as an attorney of the court, and be entitled History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 403 to all the rights, privileges and immunities pertaining to that office." Court Houses. The act authorizing the purchase of land and the erection of a court house for the use of the county restricted the ex- penditures for the same to one thousand pounds, current money of the State, a sum equal to two thousand six hundred and sixty- six dollars and sixty-six cents. Under the authority so conferred on them, the trustees pur- chased a site for the public buildings from Henry Beeson, the proprietor of Uniontown, who on the 16th of March, 1784, " for and in consideration of the love which he bears to the inhabi- tants of the county of Fayette, and for the further considera- tion of six pence to him in hand well and truly paid" conveyed by deed to the said trustees for the county the following de- scribed lot of ground, known in the general plan of the town by the name of " The Central Public Grounds," containing in breadth eastward and westward on the street called Elbow street, ninety-nine feet, and running back to Redstone creek, and containing one hundred and forty-six perches. In the original plat of the town a triangular lot was formed at the angle of Elbow street, and this lot Henry Beeson, the founder of the town, intended should be used for some public purpose. On this lot, and standing some distance back from the street a school house was built, and in this the first courts of the county were held until a court house could be erected. This original lot not being large enough on which to erect a court house Mr. Beeson generously added another lot on the west, and on this enlarged lot the first court house of the county was erected and was completed in January, 1796, and on Jan- uary 36th, of that year the old building, first a school house and then a court house, was sold at public auction to Dennis Springer, the contractor on the new court house, for fifteen pounds, twelve shillings and six pence, a sum equal to forty- one dollars and sixty-seven cents, and he was to remove the old building from the public grounds. This first court house was a two-story brick building with an alcove at the rear of the bench. In front of the bench was a chancel rail within which were the grand and petit jury boxes, a prisoners' box and accommodations for the bar. The grand jury room and two petit jury rooms were on the second floor. 404 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. A belfry stood over the center of the building supported by- eight turned columns and surmounted by a weather vane. For the erection of this building Mr. Springer was paid $1,363.53. The county offices, which were built two years later than the court house, stood a little distance from and on each side of the court house and a short distance nearer the street, thus forming a hollow square facing the street. These offices were two-story brick buildings, and the public records were moved into them November 16, 1798, from the property of Jonathan Miller, where they had been kept. This court house was de- stroyed by fire while court was in session, February 4, 1845, but the public records were all secured unharmed. The court moved over into the Dawson Law Building and resumed busi- ness. On the 35th of February the commissioners made arrange- ments with the trustees of the Presbyterian church for the use of the church for the holding of the courts until a new court house could be erected. On August 13, 1846, the commissioners contracted with Samuel Bryan, Jr. of Harrisburg, for the erection of a new court house to be built of brick, 85 by 58 feet, two stories high, with county offices on the first floor, court and jury rooms on the second floor. The contract was signed September 3nd, and the building was to be completed by the 1st of December, but was not ready for occupancy until March following. This court house was surmounted with a belfry, a town clock and a statue of General Fayette, after whom the county was named. This was found to be inadequate for the transaction of the growing business of the county, and in 1890, it was torn away, additional grounds were purchased and the present stone structure erected in 1891-93, at a cost of $350,000. The cornerstone of this new court house was laid June 1, 1891, with appropriate ceremonies, the Honorable William H. Playford delivering the oration on the occasion. A term of argument court was held in the new building February 31, 1893, and the first regular term of court was held March 6th, Judge Ewing presiding. The opening of this term of court was pre- ceded by the invocation of the Divine blessing by Rev. H. F. King, D. D., and many eulogistic remarks were indulged in by the court and members of the bar. During the building of the new court house the courts History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 405 were held in the public school building, and the county offices were kept in the old Dr. Walker property which had been con- demned and owned by the borough, preparatory to the opening of South Gallatin avenue. A chair that was sold with other furniture at auction, Jan- uary 26, 1796, at the time of the sale of the first court house, was purchased by the great-grandfather of M. R. Thomas of Henry Clay township, and kept since that time in the Thomas family, and soon after the election of Judge Van Swearingen to the bench, Mr. M. R. Thomas presented him with the chair which he highly prizes as a souvenir. The steel flag staff which stands on the court house lawn was purchased by popular subscription, and cost about one hundred and thirty-five dollars. It stands about one hundred and thirty-three feet above the sidewalk. The flag was first unfurled from this staff July 4, 1898, with appropriate cere- monies. Major Everhart Bierer of the Tenth Pennsylvania regi- ment, serving in the war with Spain in the Philippine Islands, secured an Arabian piece of artillery through Major Turnel of the Spanish land forces of Manila and presented it for the court house lawn. The large cannon that adorns the court house lawn was purchased at the Pittsburgh arsenal from contributions of the citizens of Uniontown in May, 1876; Major Jesse B. Gardner and Captain John Richards solicited the subscriptions to the amount of one hundred dollars. The gun was used for firing salutes on 4th of July occasions. Upon the occasion of the ninety-ninth anniversary of the birth of President Abraham Lincoln, February 13, 1908, this cannon was mounted upon a carriage which had been procured through the efforts of the Fayette County Veterans' association, and an address was de- livered by R. F. Hopwood, Esq. The War Department con- tributed the forty twelve-pound balls that are stacked in front of the gun. The oil portrait of the Honorable John Bannister Gibson, for many years chief justice of Pennsylvania, which hangs in the large court room, was painted about 1840, by James Wilson, a skillful artist in his profession, at the solicitation of Joshua B. Howell and other members of the Fayette county bar. This portrait of Chief Justice Gibson, which is said to be a most 406 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. accurate likeness, hung in the alcove of the old court house that was destroyed by fire in 1845, but was rescued unharmed and placed in the office of Hon. Nathaniel Ewing, where it re- mained many years, and upon the completion of the present court house it was restored to its proper place. A full length oil portrait of General Joshua B. Howell was procured April 11, 1904, and hung on the walls of the large court room. Another decoration is a fine oil portrait of Judge John Kennedy of the supreme court of Pennsylvania. The fine oil portrait of General Lafayette which adorns the wall on the right of the judges' bench in the large court room was donated by Mr. Henry Clay Frick, and was formally presented to the citizens of Fayette county July 4, 1905, by Mr. Thomas Lynch, president of the H. C. Frick Coke Company, and was accepted on the part of the commissioners by their attorney, Robert F. Hopwood, Esq. The large oil portrait of Washington at Dorchester Heights was presented to the county by ex-Senator W. A. Clark, Oc- tober 14, 1908. The painting was executed by C. S. Kilpatrick of Connellsville and is a reproduction of Gilbert Stewart's masterpiece. This canvas, which is seven by ten feet, adorns the wall of the small court room. Jails. A log building which stood on a private lot east of the court house was used temporarily as a jail until 1787, at which time a stone jail was erected on the public grounds, and ac- cepted by the grand jury June 36th of that year. This jail was enlarged in 1801, and in 1813, a new one was erected, and, strange to say, this new jail was partly destroyed by fire in 1814. In 1854, a new jail and sheriff's residence were erected at a cost of $15,973. The present jail and sheriff's residence were built in 1889, at a cost of $140,000, and George A. Mc- Cormick was the first sherifif to take charge of it. The Bar of Fayette County. When General Ephraim Douglass assumed his duties as prothonotary of the new county of Fayette, he wrote to his friend, General William Irvine, that the courts had been es- History of Unionfown, Pennsylvania. 407 tablished and that although the good people here were without any practicable way of making money, they appeared willing enough to go to law; and from the array of attorneys that were admitted at the first term of court, it would appear that the general was not far from the truth in his statement. At the first session of the courts of Fayette county, Decem- ber, 1783, the following attorneys were admitted to practice at this bar, the majority of whom were already members of the Washington county bar, viz. : James Ross, Thomas Smith, Hugh Breckenridge, Michael Huflfnagle, David Redick, David Brad- ford, Robert Gilbraith, Samuel Irwin, Thomas Scott, David Semple, John Woods and George Thompson, and later, West- moreland, Allegheny and Somerset added some legal lights. It is said that Thomas Hadden, who came from the eastern part of the state, and admitted in September, 1795, was the first resi- dent attorney at the Fayette county bar. It is the purpose here to mention a few of the many able and prominent members of the legal profession who have been connected with the Fayette county bar. Thomas Smith was a member of the Bedford county bar, and was attending the Fayette county courts when George Washington visited Uniontown September 23, 1784, and re- tained him in some ejectment suits the latter had entered in the Washington county courts. He afterwards became an as- sociate justice of the supreme court in 1794. James Ross, son of Hon. George Ross of York county. Pa., was born July 12, 1762; was a member of the Constitutional Convention of 1790, and was a United States senator from 1794 to 1803. He was admitted to the bar of Fayette county Decem- ber, 1783. He became one of the leading orators of Allegheny county and made the address of welcome on the occasion of the visit of President James Monroe at Pittsburgh in 1817, and also an address of welcome to General Lafayette as the nation's guest in 1825. He died in Allegheny county November 27, 1847. David Bradford was a native of Maryland and came to Washington county where he was soon admitted to the bar, and was soon honored with the appointment as deputy attorney- general of that county. He was admitted to the bar of Fayette county December, 1783. He took a leading part in the famous Whisky Insurrection movement, and on account of the promi- 408 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. nent part he assumed in that uprising the amnesty proclamation issued by the government included all the insurrectionists ex- cept him. He fled to Bayou Sara in Louisiana Territory where he died. Parker Campbell was born in Carlisle in 1768, was admitted to the bar at March term, 1795. He was also a member of the Washington county bar where he was the acknowledged leader for many years. He was the most distinguished lawyer of his day, and was engaged in the most important cases tried in those courts in his time. He died July 30, 1834. General Arthur St. Clair of Revolutionary fame was ad- mitted to the Fayette county bar June, 1794. He evidently never practiced much at this bar. General Thomas Meason, son of Isaac Meason of the Mount Braddock farm, was admitted September 25, 1798, and left Uniontown in the winter of 1812-13 on horseback to enlist at Washington city in the service of his country, and caught cold on his journey which caused his death at the age of forty years. He was buried in the Congressional burying grounds. He read law with James Ross of Pittsburgh. John Lyon was born in Carlisle, October 13, 1771, and was graduated at Dickenson college and came to Uniontown as a private soldier with the troops sent out for the suppression of the Whisky Insurrection in 1794, and returned with the troops, but soon came back and settled at Uniontown. He was ad- mitted to the bar June 26, 1797. He married Priscilla Coulter of Greensburg and practiced law here until he died, April 27, 1837'. His home was on the lot now occupied by the business block of Charles H. Seaton on East Main street. The mem- bers of the local bar erected a sandstone monument at his grave. John Kennedy was born near Shippensburg, Cumberland county. Pa., and was graduated at Dickenson college, and was admitted to the Fayette county bar at September term, 1798. On November 23, 1830, he was appointed associate justice of the supreme court of Pennsylvania, which high office he held until his death in August, 1846. He erected the mansion on his farm in North Union township which was so long the home of Colonel Samuel Evans. His portrait adorns the walls of our present court house. John M. Austin was a native of Hartford, Connecticut, where he was born in 1784. He read law with Judge Baldwin History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 409 of Pittsburgh and was admitted to the bar on August 10, 1810. He was one of the members of the bar stricken from the roll by Judge Baird in 1834. He died in April, 1864. Thomas Irwin was born in Philadelphia February 22, 1784, where he read law. He settled in Uniontown in 1811, and was admitted the same year, and in the following year he was ap- pointed district attorney. He was elected to the legislature, and in 1828 he defeated Mr. Stewart for the 31st congress. He was appointed by President Jackson judge of the United States Dis- trict court for the Western District of Pennsylvania ; a position he held nearly thirty years — resigning it during the administra- tion of President Buchanan. While a resident here he erected the large residence on the northwest corner of Morgantown and West Fayette streets, now known as the Batton property. He died in Pittsburgh May 14, 1870, aged eighty-six years. John Dawson was born July 13, 1788, and read law with General Thomas Meason and John Kennedy and was admitted in August, 1813. He was appointed an associate judge in 1851, a position he held until the office became elective. He owned and lived at Oak Hill, one mile west of town, now owned by J. V. Thompson. He died January 16, 1875, in the 87th year of his age. Nathaniel Ewing was born near Merrittstown, Luzerne township in 1796, and was graduated at Jefferson college and read law with Thomas McGiffin, and was admitted to the bar November 19, 1816, and soon became a leading member of the bar. In several instances he succeeded in obtaining from the supreme court of the State a reversal of their previous decisions. He was appointed president judge of the Fourteenth Judicial District by Governor Ritner to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Judge Thomas Baird and served the con- stitutional term of ten years; which position he filled with highest ability and honor. He died February 8, 1874. John Bouvier was born in 1787 in the department of Du Gard in the south of France, and came to Philadelphia with his parents, and became naturalized in 1812. He erected a building in West Philadelphia which he used as a printing office. Two years later he removed to Fayette county and located in Brownsville where he established the American Telegraph. This paper was soon consolidated with the Genius of Liberty, 410 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. then owned by John M. Austin in Uniontown, and while thus conducting the publication of the paper, Mr. Bouvier read law and was admitted to the bar in December, 1818. He withdrew from the paper in 1880, and at September term 1833, he was admitted to practice in the supreme court of Pennsylvania, and in the following year he removed to Philadelphia. He was appointed to the office of recorder of Philadelphia in 1836, and in 1838 he was commissioned a justice of the criminal court which position he held until his death in 1851. While residing in Uniontown he began the compilation of a law dictionary which he published in 1839 in two octavo volumes, and from 1843 to 1846 he produced a revised edition of the work, and in 1848 he published a third edition, and after his death a fourth edition was published in 1853. He also prepared a work entitled " Institutes of American Law " which was com- pleted in 1851. These works are acknowledged to rank among the ablest contributions to the legal literature of the country. James Todd was of Scotch descent and was born in York county. Pa., December 35, 1786. In the early part of the follow- ing year his parents removed to Fayette county, where his mother died during the same summer and his father survived her but a few months, and he was placed under the care of Duncan McLean. His schooling was limited to one and a half years attendance at the schools of the neighborhood. He, how- ever, improved himself by reading at night what books he could procure, after the labors of the day, and joined a debating society for further mental improvement. He served as county commissioner in 1815-19, and while serving as such he read law under John Bouvier, and at the expiration of his term he was elected to the legislature and was afterwards re-elected for four additional successive terms, always taking an active "and leading part in its proceedings. He was admitted to the bar of Fayette county October 30, 1833, from which time he was eminently successful as an attor- ney. In September, 1835, he was appointed prothonotary and clerk of the court, which offices he held until February, 1830. In December, 1835, he was appointed attorney-general of the State by Governor Ritner and thereupon removed to Phila- delphia. This position he held until 1838, when he was ap- pointed president judge of the court of Criminal Sessions of the city and county of Philadelphia, in which position he remained History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 411 until 1840, when the court was abolished by the legislature. He then resumed the practice of law in Philadelphia where he at once took a first rank among the leaders of that bar. He died in Westmoreland county, to which he had removed in 1852, September 3, 1863, in the seventy-seventh year of his age. A eulogy passed upon Judge Todd was that he was the architect of his own fortunes, and vdthout the aid of schools or masters he won his way to the bar, to the legislature, to the cabinet and to the bench, acquitting himself in all with distinction. James Veech was born near New Salem in Menallen town- ship September 18, 1808, and was graduated at Jefferson college, the youngest member of his class, and located in Uniontown in 1837, where he read law in the office of James Todd. He was admitted to the bar in October, 1831, and soon ranked among the leading practitioners of the bar. In 1834 he was ap- pointed assistant district attorney of Allegheny county and re- moved to Pittsburgh. He returned to Uniontown in 1838, and resumed his practice. In 1861 he was appointed paymaster in the army, where he remained until 1862, when he returned to Pittsburgh and resumed the practice of law with D. T. Watson until 1872, when he retired from practice, and spent his later years in the congenial pursuit of history and literature. He was for years a director in the Monongahela Navigation Company, and also in the Bank of Pittsburgh. His history, " Monon- gahela of Old," which was placed in the hands of the printer in 1850, and was issued later in an unfinished form, remains the foundation of the histories of Southwestern Pennsylvania upon which all future histories must be built. He erected and occupied the fine residence now the home of Mrs. Lenora T. Niccolls on West Main street. In later years he made his home at Emsworth on the Ohio river, six miles below Pittsburgh, where he died December 11, 1879. John Littleton Dawson, son of George Dawson, was born in Uniontown February 7, 1833, but removed very early to Brownsville where he grew up. He was educated at Wash- ington college, and entered the law office of his uncle, John Dawson, and was admitted in September, 1835, but soon entered politics. In 1838 he was appointed deputy attorney-general of Fayette county, and in 1845, United States district attorney for the western district of Pennsylvania. He was elected to con- gress in 1850 and re-elected in 1852, and again elected in 1862 412 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. and re-elected in 1864. At the close of the latter term he left public life and retired to his estate known as Friendship Hill, the former magnificent residence of the Honorable Albert Gal- latin, where he spent the remainder of his life. He died Sep- tember 8, 1870. Charles Edmund Boyle was born February 4, 1836, and after passing through the common schools he took a course at Waynesburg college. Being of an industrious turn of mind he often amused himself at setting type in the printing office, at which he attained proficiency. His career as a newspaper man is given more fully in the chapter on " The Press." He entered the law office of Daniel Kaine and was admitted to the bar De- cember 2, 1861, and at once entered into partnership with his preceptor, which partnership lasted until 1865. In 1863 he was elected district attorney, which office he filled for three years. He was peculiarly fitted to grapple with the intricacies of the law, and his comprehensive summary of evidence and masterly exposition of the law made him one of the foremost lawyers of the state. In 1865 he was elected as representative to the assembly, and was re-elected in 1866. In 1883 he was elected to congress, and in 1884 he was re-elected to the same office. Without solicitation on his part, in 1888, President Cleveland appointed him chief justice of Washington Territory where he arrived November 18th to take up the duties of that office, into which he was publicly installed on the 33nd. While on his way Judge Boyle contracted a cold which developed into pneumonia from which he died December 15, 1888. His remains were brought back to Uniontown and, amidst demonstrations of great sorrow, were interred in Union cemetery. William Pope Wells was born in Greensburg, December 33, 1811, and after passing through the common schools he entered Jefferson college, after which he made his home for a while in Philadelphia, where he was married. He next settled in Uniontown where he was admitted to the bar in 1831, and became connected in the practice of law with his uncle, John Lyon. He was elected burgess of the town in 1851, and the amount of fines received for the year ending May 4, 1853, was $18.50, and the Burgess' fees for that year were just $10.00. Mr. Wells was somewhat of an orator and was invited to deliver an address on July 4, 1834, and another July 4, 1836. He had History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 413 music in his soul, and often gave utterance to it in verse. His verses on " A View of Sunset from Laurel Hill " are preserved and are here quoted. " Ere the god of day had set Upon the West — there lingered yet A gorgeous stream of golden light Like blazing coronet on brow of night — Far o'er the west its splendors fell On woodland slope and shadowy dell, Shedding on all the richest ray That ever passed the gates of day. 'Twas Sabbath eve — holy and still On all the plain and distant hill As if Nature's prayer arose on high Mingling earth's praises with the sky, Joining in one sweet mystic lay A solemn anthem to the holy day. The blushing clouds around the sun Told from the skies, his goal was won. Gleaning on earth with borrowed hue As fairy isles in heaven's own blue, Floating upon the tide of space As though 'twere happy spirits' resting place. How dear to memory was the hour When mind asserts her majestic power. Opening the hallowed fanes of thought To every joy the muse has wrought. Hope in the future, for the past a fear. Then claimed the icy tribute of a tear, A hope that when life's race is run The soul may pass, as that bright sun. Fading from earth like tents of even. To shine in that better land — in Heaven." Other effusions from the pen of Mr. Wells were " Ohio- pyle Falls," " Lines on the Fragments of the Hessian Banner taken by George Washington at Trenton," and " Views of the West from Laurel Hill." From Mr. Wells' suavity of man- 414 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ners he acquired the sobriquet of " Prince," a title by which he was generally known. He died at his home in Hopwood, April 2, 1859. Moses Hampton Todd was the son of Judge James Todd who was appointed attorney-general of the state by Governor Ritner, December, 1835. He was born in Philadelphia August 31, 1845. After the death of his father at Greensburg in 1863, the family returned to Uniontown where he read law with G. W. K. Minor, and was admitted to the bar at September term, 1868, and soon removed to Allegheny county where he remained a short time, and on January 23, 1869, he was admitted to the bar of Philadelphia. He was appointed attorney-general by Governor Stewart January 16, 1907. Richard Beeson, Esq. Richard Beeson was the son of Jacob Beeson, merchant, and grandson of Henry Beeson, the founder of Uniontown and a brother of Isaac Beeson, merchant. He was born May 9, 1799 ; was admitted to the bar of Fayette county in November, 1816 ; was clerk for the board of commissioners from January 30, 1823 to October 23, 1826. He held by appointment the of- fice of deputy attorney-general under Frederick Smith from 1826 to 1829, and was appointed prothonotary and clerk of the courts of Fayette county July 11, 1833, and again February 6, 1839, and was elected to the same offices October 8, 1839. He was endowed with much of a military spirit, and was captain of the Union Volunteers September 7, 1836, and the rolls of that company of September 18, 1833, give Richard Bee- son among others, as having been members of that company for the past seven years. On the occasion of a military parade being held in Uniontown July 4, 1827, at the request of the joint committee of arrangements on the part of the Union Volun- teers and the Lafayette Artillerists Captain Beeson delivered the oration which is given in full in the chapter on military affairs, as are some verses written on the occasion of a military parade September 10-11, 1828. In early days it was customary for the carrier of the weekly papers to issue what was known as the " Carrier's Address " in which many transactions of the old year and predictions of History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 415 the new year were written in verse. The sale of these " ad- dresses," with the advertisements contained thereon, netted the carrier a snug little sum. It will be remembered that the Penn- sylvania Democrat was established by Jacob B. Miller, the first issue of which was dated July 25, 1827, and on January 1, fol- lowing the " Carrier's Address " from that paper made its first appearance with Richard Beeson as versifier; his effusion start- ing off thus : " Old Kronos, stop, on thy bald pate Write seventeen hundred twenty-eight. Come, smoothe thy beard and stroke thy brow. While the carrier makes his bow." The following verses from the pen of Mr. Beeson were pub- lished in the Genius of Liberty of September 7, 1834, as a wel- come to General Lafayette who had just landed in America as the " Nation's Guest " : " The sons of Columbia all welcome thy landing, Brave champion of freedom, thy welcome resounds From the eastern Atlantic, north and southward expanding To where the Pacific our continent bounds. The trumpet of fame re-echoes thy name. And thy deeds patriotic our warriors inflame. Our navy rejoices to see the first founder Of that noble fabric she stands to defend; Our youth, independent, with glorious wonder. Behold their reliever; their country's friend With wonder behold. The hero of old ; His name shall descend in letters of gold. Welcome, thrice welcome, thou favored of Heaven, The sons of Columbia all welcome thee here, The flower of thy youth was by providence given T' extirpate tyrants and freedom to rear. The trumpet of fame re-echoes thy name, And thy deeds patriotic our warriors inflame. 416 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. May Heaven direct to the west of the mountains The brave one who fought our country to free ; We'll welcome him here, he shall drink of the fountain That flows from the root of that sacred tree ; The tree of the brave whose proud branches wave O'er the tomb of our heroes who died but to save." The following verses were written in 1835, and titled The Fall of Babylon. " On Shinar's wide bosom the cloud-piercing spires Of Babylon kindled their refluent fires ; The temple of Baal raised its turrets on high, And Euphrates expanded her breast to the sky. In the hall of Belshazzar, the revel goes round; In the fumes of their wines, all their senses are drowned. But they drank from the cups of the house of the Lord, And were swept from the earth by the breath of His word. Belshazzar! Belshazzar! the hand on the wall, In letters of fire hath engraven thy fall. The walls and the towers — the gods of thy land Defend thee not — 'twas Jehovah's command. Great city of pride ! o'er thy portals of brass. The Satyr shall dance, and the lizzards shall pass; Proud city, of Nimrod ! thy glories are o'er. Thy excellence past, and thy beauty no more. The following thoughts were penned on " Table Rock " while on a visit to Niagara Falls about 1836, and were published at the time in the " Baltimore Monument." To Grand Old Niagara. " Deep, dark, tremendous river that pourest thy flood sublime I Forever and forever 'mid the solitude of time ! The rainbow for thy diadem, and wrapped in silver clouds ; Crowned, sceptered, throned in majesty, thou art the king of floods I History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 417 Alone in grandeur thou hast stood, as I behold thee now, With thy foaming robe around thy feet, thy glory on thy brow ! With heaven's high arch pavilioned in, the music of the spheres Resounding through thy hollow caves, falls on my listening ears. Behold the overflowing of the waters passing by; The deep, too, uttereth his voice and lifts his hands on high. ' Tis the altar of the universe, where clouds of incense rise. And the pealing anthem of the floods rolls through the vaulted skies. Approach, thou nature's worshiper — Come with unsandaled feet ; The footprints of the Deity are 'round this wild retreat. ' Tis hallowed ground. These rocks, these hills, this mighty waterfall, And thou, and I, and all are His, and He is Lord of all." Mr. Beeson owned considerable property in and about the town, among which may be mentioned the lot on which the National Bank of Fayette County now stands, the old Jesse Beeson mansion at the junction of Connellsville and Coolspring streets with East Main street and the old Boyle mansion now occupied by the palatial mansion of Josiah V. Thompson. As a lawyer and citizen Mr. Beeson stood high. He removed to Pittsburgh and was admitted to the bar, and was made clerk of the mayor's office and was, in 1856, appointed clerk of the United States District court. His children were Richard, Horace, Jacob, Walter, Frances, Alice, who became the wife of S. Reed Johnson and Ella who became celebrated as an artist and singer. Mr. Beeson died at his home in April, 1864. CHAPTER XVIII. The Postal Service — ^The National Road — The Telegraph Service — The Railroad Service — The Trolley Service — ^The Telephone Service. The post office is the solar plexus of the community in which it is located. From it radiates the social and commercial communication of the people, and the present system of the mail service has reached that degree of efficiency that it appears little more could be desired. In 1786 a postal service was established between Philadel- phia and Pittsburgh by which mails were received twice a month. In 1789 there were but seventy-five post offices estab- hshed ; the length of the postal routes then being but 2,275 miles ; and the gross revenue accruing to the government was $7,510; the expenditures being $7,560. The receipts at the Uniontown post office for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1913, were $68,862.46, and the annual payroll of the office is $30,520. The postal rates of 1792 were 6 cents, not exceeding 30 miles; 8 cents from 30 to 60 miles; 10 cents from 60 to 100 miles; 12% cents from 100 to 150 miles; 15 cents from 150 to 200 miles; 17 cents from 200 to 250 miles; 20 cents from 250 to 350 miles ; 82 cents from 350 to 450 miles and 25 cents for all over 450 miles, these rates were for single sheets; double sheets were double postage. The postal rates for 1800 were for single sheets, not exceeding 40 miles 8 cents, over 40 and not ex- ceeding 80, 12% cents ; over 150 and not exceeding 300, 17 cents ; over 300 and not exceeding 500, 20 cents; over 500 miles, 25 cents; double sheets, double postage. At this rate the postage on a single sheet to Philadelphia was 17 cents, and to New Orleans, 25 cents. No change was made in these rates until the administration of President Polk, 1845, when the rates were reduced to 5 cents for 300 miles, and over 300 miles, 10 cents, the postage to be paid at either end of the route. By the Act of March 3, 1847, the use of adhesive stamps was authorized and stamps of the denominations of 5 and 10 cents were issued. In 1851 the rate of postage was reduced to 3 cents for every half ounce for 300 miles, and 6 cents for greater distance within the United States. In 1853 stamped envelopes were introduced. 418 History of Uniontozvn, Pennsylvania. 419 These envelopes contained the advertisement of a Mr. Nebitt which met with such remonstrance from the press and the people that the issue was withdrawn and others without ad- vertisements were issued. In 1858 the prepayment of postage was made compulsory, before which time each postmaster kept a book of accounts against patrons of the office. In 1863, a uni- form rate, without regard to distance, was fixed and reduced from 3 to 2 cents per half ounce, and in 1885 the rate was re- duced to 2 cents per ounce. The registry system was introduced in 1855. The money order system was established May 17, 1864, which enabled the soldiers engaged in the War of the Rebellion to send their money home to their families. Postal cards were introduced in 1873. Through the efforts of Post- master Patterson the office was raised to that of a Second Class office July 1, 1890. Free delivery by carriers was established at this office October 1, 1891, with the following as carriers : Frank M. Whaley, A. Ewing Baily, Jacob S. Miller and Charles Jack- son with Charles Greene as substitute, who, upon the resignation of Mr. Miller became a regular and George Jenkins became a substitute, who upon the retirement of Mr. Greene became a regular and Clarence Crable, Edgar O'Neil and Charles E. Mc- Gill became substitutes. Joseph Johnson was appointed special delivery boy July 1, 1894. Rural Free Delivery was established from this office No- vember 3, 1903, with the following carriers : Route No. 1, William E. Chick, substitute, Frank Crossland ; Route No. 2, William M. Cloud, substitute, Ed. Humbert; Route No. 3, Harry Hayden, substitute, John R. Hayden; Route No. 4, Charles Kerr, substitute, Morgan Kerr; Route No. 5, James F. Reed, substitute, James Frasher. This last route was soon abandoned and Mr. Reed took Route No. 1 upon the resignation of Mr. Chick. The office was brought under the Civil Service rule in 1893 ; and a Sunday service was tried here as an experiment in 1898, but meeting with no demand, was discontinued. The Parcels Post law became effective January 1, 1913, by which fourth class matter, not exceeding eleven pounds, could be sent by mail for a distance not exceeding fifty miles at from 5 cents for one pound, to 15 cents for eleven pounds ; and graded up to 1,800 miles for 12 cents for one pound to $1.32 for eleven pounds. Special stamps were issued to be used on matter sent 420 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. by parcels post which could not be used interchangeably with the ordinary postage stamp. These parcels post stamps ceased to be issued after July 1, 1913. Samuel King, a merchant of the town, was the first post- master, receiving his appointment from President Washington, and established the office in his store January 1, 1795. John Cadwallader succeeded Mr. King, receiving his ap- pointment from President Adams, April 1, 1799. He served but one year. John Lyon succeeded Mr. Cadwallader, receiving his ap- pointment also from President Adams, April 1, 1800. Thomas Collins succeeded Mr. Lyon, receiving his appoint- ment from President Jefferson April 1, 1803. John Campbell succeeded Mr. Collins, receiving his appoint- ment from President Jefiferson November 18, 1807. . Mr. Camp- bell held the office for thirty years, lacking one month, the longest tenure in the history of the office. Matthew Irwin succeeded Mr. Campbell, receiving his ap- pointment from President Van Buren, October 30, 1837. William McDonald succeeded Mr. Irwin, receiving his ap- pointment from President Tyler, July 13, 1841. Owing to dis- satisfaction in the mail service he was relieved from the office. Daniel Smith succeeded Mr. McDonald, receiving his ap- pointment from President Tyler, May 19, 1843. Armstrong Hadden succeeded Mr. Smith, receiving his ap- pointment from President Polk, May 5, 1845. John F. Beazell succeeded Mr. Hadden, receiving his ap- pointment from President Taylor, May 13, 1849. Armstrong Hadden succeeded Mr. Beazell, receiving his ap- pointment from President Pierce, April 19, 1853, and was re-ap- pointed by President Buchanan, April 13, 1858. James H. Springer succeeded Mr. Hadden, receiving his appointment from President Lincoln, April 17, 1861. Peter Heck succeeded Mr. Springer, receiving his appoint- ment from President Lincoln, July 13, 1865. Peter A. Johns succeeded Mr. Heck, receiving his appoint- ment from President Grant, June 7, 1870. Mariette Johns succeeded Mr. Johns, receiving her appoint- ment from President Grant, October 4, 1876. Orin Jones Sturgis succeeded Miss Johns, receiving his ap- pointment from President Arthur, March 26, 1884. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 431 Michael D. Baker succeeded Mr. Sturgis, receiving his ap- pointment from President Cleveland, October 8, 1885. Robert I. Patterson succeeded Mr. Baker, receiving his ap- pointment from President Harrison, February 27, 1890. George W. Semans succeeded Mr. Patterson, receiving his appointment from President Cleveland, April 11, 1894. C. H. Beall succeeded Mr. Semans, receiving his appoint- ment from President McKinley in March, 1899, and took charge of the office April 1st. J. L. Malcolm succeeded Mr. Beall receiving his appoint- ment from President Roosevelt, December 17, 1903, and was re- lieved of the office April 1, 1908, which was placed under the care of J. V. E. Ellis until the appointment of his successor. William W. Greene succeeded Mr. Malcolm, receiving his appointment from President Roosevelt, April 6, 1908, and took charge of the office May 1st. Harry Hagan succeeded Mr. Greene, receiving his appoint- ment from President Wilson, June 13, 1913, and took charge of the office July 1st. Peter A. Johns died in office September 20, 1876, and Marietta Johns died in office January 2, 1884. She had held the office of deputy postmaster for seven years and five months, and that of postmaster for exactly the same length of time. Upon her death Robert F. Hopwood was placed in charge of the of- fice until the appointment of her successor. The National Road. The first road of communication over the Allegheny moun- tains connecting the East with the unsettled West was over the old Indian trail which had been worn by the foot of the red man. This was opened to a bridle path in 1748 by the Ohio Company which had acquired a grant of 500,000 acres of land on the Ohio river, and had established a handgard or storehouse at the mouth of Redstone creek. This bridlepath was widened by Washington's little army in 1754 as far west as the crest of the mountains, and still further improved for the passage of Braddock's army in 1755, and Col. James Burd opened it from Br^ddock's road to the Monongahela river in 1759. Over this primitive road the early settlers laboriously wended their way into the Ohio valley with their packhorses ladened with their few household effects. It is asserted that the first wagon load 432 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. of goods that crossed the mountains was in 1789, when John Hayden, with a four-horse team, brought 8,000 pounds of mer- chandise for Jacob Bowman of Brownsville, requiring one month to make the trip. Other wagons were put on the old road which was used until the advent of the great National road. No sooner had the clouds of the Revolutionary war cleared away, and a new nation been born to mother earth, than the warrior-statesman of that day realized the necessity of a bond of federation; of reorganization and the construction of internal improvements. Washington, no less a statesman than a warrior, realized the fact that a bond of union must be established between the set- tlers west of the Allegheny mountains and those of the Atlantic seaboard. This range of mountains had already encouraged France to establish herself in the great Mississippi valley, and would prove a barrier to estrange the inhabitants of the West from those of the East. With this object in view, Washington made a tour, in person, in 1784, to the Ohio valley, on which occasion he met and consulted with the more intelligent and practical inhabitants as to the most feasible plan of connecting the headwaters of the Potomac with those of the Monongahela. He had traversed the rough road over which he had led his little army against the French, and over which Braddock had marched to defeat. It was a problem as to how to effect the desired object. It was during this tour of inquiry and inspection that Washington first met Albert Gallatin, then a young man, who suggested the most feasible route over the Alleghenies. Noth- ing further, however, was accomplished during the lifetime of Washington. Before the construction of the National road a private cor- poration had already built a good road, having Baltimore as its eastern and Cumberland as its western terminus. The ex- tension of a great highway from this point over the Allegheny mountains into the Mississippi basin would open for settlement three millions of square miles of the richest land on the planet, and for which two great powers of the old world had yearned and fought, and this was the most important step in the move- ment of internal improvement and national expansion conceived at that time. The vast territory of the West hung by a slender thread History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 433 to the fragile republic east of the mountains for the same geo- graphical reasons as separated Italy from France. Could the East and the West be held in one common brotherhood? Could their interests, sympathies and ambitions be made one? The spectre of the National road echoed " Yes," and time has proven that the population which poured into the Ohio valley over this road saved the western states to the union. Fortunately, President Jefferson favored the movement and appointed a commission to report on the feasibility of the proj- ect, and it was to the master mind of Albert Gallatin, an adopted son of Fayette county, then secretary of the treasury, to devise the means by which the conception could become a reality. The first funds for the construction of the National road were derived from the sale of land in Ohio, amounting to $13,658, and became available on the first day of October, 1805. These funds were from the two per cent, reserved for the laying out and making roads to the state of Ohio by virtue of an act of congress, April 30, 1803, forming that state. By an act approved March 89, 1806, was authorized the laying out and the making of the road from Cumberland in Maryland to the state of Ohio, and the legislature of Pennsyl- vania authorized the construction of the road across her terri- tory by the act of April 9, 1807, providing the route be changed so as to pass through Uniontown, which was done. The frontier settlers of the West now turned their faces with bright anticipations to the East, and in the beams of the rising sun they beheld the mirage of the great highway over which there was to be borne to them the happiness and pros- perity of civilization. The construction and control of the road was placed under the supervision of the War Department of the general govern- ment, and was the first internal improvement attempted ex- clusively by the government, whence the name of the National road, but from the fact that it began at Cumberland and ran westward, it was also known as the Cumberland road. The first contract was let in April, 1811, for the first ten miles west of Cumberland, and from which time section after section was let and constructed until in 1818 the great national highway was opened for travel and traffic to the Ohio river at Wheeling, reducing the time from Baltimore to Wheeling from eight days on horseback over the old Braddock road, to three 424 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. days by stage coach over the new National road. The great eastern mails leaving Washington city v^rere delivered at Wheel- ing in fifty-five hours, thus fulfilling one of the important ob- jects for which the road was constructed. The road was con- tinued through the states of Ohio and Indiana and into the prairies of Illinois, a total length of 800 miles. The construction of this great highway was the crowning act of national expansion of all that had gone before, and proved to be the most historic road in America, and one of the most famous in the world — a splendid monument of national fore- sight and of national greatness. Not like stupendous monu- ments erected in other countries for the purpose of show or of aggrandizing the pride of some despotic monarch, but this was a work of utility, tending to cement the bond of union, and bring together the distant parts of the republic, and diffuse wealth among a free people, and instead of impoverishing the nation, it was made the richer by its construction. Upon the advent of the National road, Uniontown, as well as all other towns along the route, took on new life. All kinds of business was revived; shops were built for the manufacture of stage coaches, wagons and other vehicles; dwellings were erected, and houses of entertainment were opened for the com- fort and accommodation of those who thronged this great thoroughfare. All kinds of farm produce found a ready market at remunerative prices, and the people became prosperous. Towns sprang into existence along its route, taverns were established at convenient distances, at which the weary traveler could procure refreshment and lodging, and the whole length of the road soon became thronged with home-seekers desiring to cast their lots and make their homes in the fertile valleys of the West. At the same time a counter tide was flowing eastward, consisting principally of immense and continuous droves of horses, cattle and hogs and other products of the farm to supply the markets of the East. Four-horse stage coaches were put on the road for the con- veyance of passengers and the United States mails ; and wagons of every capacity, from the ponderous Conestoga, with its burden of ten tons, drawn by six powerful bell-bedecked horses, to the smallest, thronged the way, conveying freight and families with their household goods. The Good Intent stage coach line and the National Road stage company were the principal competing History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 435 lines on the road. The latter having the National House on Morgantown street as its stopping place, and having a large stageyard in connection, where coaches wrere built and sheltered and horses stabled. These stage coaches were furnished with three seats and would accommodate three passengers on a seat, and a seat on the front with the driver was preferable in fine weather on account of the opportunity it afforded to enjoy the scenery along the route. These coaches were also furnished with a front and a rear boot, the front for the United States mails and the rear for trunks and baggage, and rocked and rolled on wide leathern supports known as thoroughbraces instead of springs. A pony express was put on the road for carrying light mails. This consisted of a single horse and boy rider, who rode in relays of six miles each and was intended to carry urgent mail with greater speed than the stage coach. In a test to ascertain the shortest time in which a mail could be carried from Cumberland to Wheeling a coach and relays of four horses were placed in charge of Redding Bunting, who left Cumberland at 2 o'clock a. m., reached Uniontown, a dis- tance of 63 miles, at 8 a. m., Washington, a distance of 94 miles, at 11 a. m., and arrived at Wheeling, a distance of 131 miles, at 2 p. m., making the whole distance in just 12 hours. Among the distinguished personages who passed over the old National road and honored Uniontown with their presence, may be mentioned Andrew Jackson, Martin Van Buren, James Monroe, William Henry Harrison, James K. Polk, John Tyler, John Quincy Adams, Abraham Lincoln, Henry Clay, Thomas Benton, Lewis Cass, General Lafayette, General Santa Anna, the Indian chief Black Hawk, Jennie Lind, P. T. Barnum, General Winfield Scott and others. The immense traffic on the road soon made a demand for repairs and it became a grave question as to Congress having the authority to make an appropriation for this purpose. It would be hard to conceive how Congress could have the power to con- struct a road over which to carry the United States mails and have no power to repair and maintain the same. But so grave was the question that it was deemed expedient to pass the road over to the states through which it passed, and upon the govern- ment so doing, the legislature of Pennsylvania passed an act, which was approved April 4, 1831, providing for the erection of six toll-gates to be erected within her limits at which tolls should ^^6 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. be collected sufficient to keep the road in good repair. This system prevailed until by an act of the legislature the gates were thrown open and the old pike was made free on the first day of June, 1905. But alas! this great national highway which had throbbed with animation ; over which the wheels of traffic had rolled, and over which the stage coach had sped, was doomed to be super- seded by the superior facilities of the railroad and steam car. The same faces that had lighted up with joy and animation in anticipation of the coming of the National road, and beheld in it a mighty colossus standing over the land beneath whose giant strides passed the commerce of a nation, now turned pallor as they viewed with horror the blighting hand of a spectre stretching over the road which they had learned to love. They contended earnestly for the exclusion of the railroad and for the maintenance of the old road. But the demands of the grow- ing West could no longer be met in the old way, and American enterprise was to meet the demands. Upon the completion of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad to Wheeling, January 13, 1853, the death knell of that part of the National road between Cumberland and Wheeling was heard in the scream of the steam whistle of the locomotive, and " We hear no more of the clanging hoof, And the stage coach rattling by. For the steam king rules the traveled world. And the old pike's left to die." Proud towns which once enjoyed the prosperity of the road have dwindled to comparative insignificence. The stage lines were removed to other roads, the tavern keepers sought other avocations, and travel no longer thronged the old highway ; but it still remains a monument of a past age, both interesting and venerable. Having carried thousands of population and mil- lions of wealth into the West, it served as a bond of union be- tween the East and the West, and harmonized and brought together in a common interest an otherwise divided peoples. It was the principal means of building up and strengthening a great and growing republic, and was the pride and glory of its day, and the government that built it, instead of being im- poverished was enriched thereby. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 427 It stands all alone like a goblin in gray, The old-fashioned inn of a pioneer day, In a land so forlorn and forgotten, it seems Like a wraith of the past rising into our dreams ; Its glories have vanished, and only the ghost Of a sign-board now creaks on its desolate post. Recalling a time when all hearts were akin As they rested at night in the welcoming inn." " Oh ! the songs they would sing and the tales they would spin, As they lounged in the light of the old country inn. But a day came at last when the stage brought no load To the gate, as it rolled up the long dusty road. ■ And lo! at the sun-rise a shrill whistle blew O'er the hills — and the old yielded place to the new — And the merciless age with its discord and dinn Made a wreck, as it passed, of the pioneer inn." During the interim between the taking off of the great mail and passenger coaches and the immense freight traffic, upon the completion of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad, and the present time, the National road continued to be a great thoroughfare of constant and valuable use; and since the legislature of Pennsyl- vania has made provisions to rehabilitate the old road, and the same spirit has been manifested along its entire route, this old National road may soon be the route selected for a grand ocean- to-ocean boulevard, which as a national highway and boulevard will surpass any national monument ever attempted by any of the world powers, and is destined to be thronged by the elite of this and other countries, whose touring cars, which for speed and comfort, vie with the palatial Pullman coach, shall glide over this continental highway and cause the great spirits of Washington, Jefferson, Gallatin, Stewart and others who were instrumental in its construction to exclaim, " Surely we have builded better than we knew." For a full and complete history of this old National road, the reader is referred to that able work of Colonel Thomas B. Searight, entitled " The Old Pike." 428 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The Telegraph. Congress appropriated the sum of $30,000 to enable Pro- fessor Morse to construct a telegraph line between the two cities, Washington and Baltimore, Governor Wallace of Indiana, then a member of congress, casting the deciding vote. Miss Anna Ellsworth, daughter of the Commissioner of Patents, first conveyed the news to Professor Morse that his bill had passed, upon which the professor promised that she should have the honor of dictating the first message over the line. When the line was completed Miss Ellsworth was sent for and dictated the following message: "What hath God wrought?" This first message that ever passed over an electric telegraph line is still preserved in the archives of the Historical Society at Hart- ford, Connecticut. The first message was sent on the 24th day of May, 1844, from the supreme court chamber in the capitol at Washington to the Mount Clair depot at Baltimore. The line between Baltimore and Washington was opened for public business under the auspices of the Post Office Depart- ment, April 1, 1845, and one cent for every four characters was charged, and during the first four days only one cent was re- ceived. After a week the receipts reached one dollar. In 1845, New York and Philadelphia were connected, and in 1846, Phila- delphia and Baltimore were connected. The Genius of Liberty of January 14, 1847, contained the following : " The magnetic telegraph line has been completed to Pittsburgh, and that place has been brought into communica- tion with the eastern cities. Communications from Pittsburgh are sent and replies received from Philadelphia and Washington in the short space of ten or fifteen minutes." Poles carrying the wires were erected along the National road from Baltimore to Wheeling and were placed in Union- town in July, 1848, and were about half the size of those in present use and bore only two wires. The first telegraph office established in Uniontown was in the fall of 1848, and was located in a small brick building next south of the Episcopal church on the old stage-yard lot on Morgantown street. The first operator was William Bart, who acquired the sobriquet of Telegraph Bill, and William Smith, son of Daniel Smith, Esq., was employed as assistant and mes- senger boy. The first message sent over the line from Union- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 439 town was dictated by Joshua B. Howell, Esq., to a friend in New Jersey requesting him to send a box of peaches. The first election returns received over the telegraph line were those of the election of Zachary Taylor in the fall of 1848, on which oc- casion a mass of people congregated in the vicinity of the of- fice to receive the returns in this novel way. The above incidents show how closely Uniontown has kept upon the heels of progress. The telegraphic system, like all other public utilities, came to stay, and Uniontown has never been without telegraphic communication with the commercial world since its advent. A company composed of citizens of the town constructed a line along the right of way of the old Fayette County railroad company, which did a telegraphic business for the public until the road passed into the hands of a lessee company who devoted it exclusively to private use. The Western Union Telegraph company have maintained an office here for many years, and have transacted the principal part of the telegraphic business of the town. The Postal Telegraphic company opened an office in Union- town in April, 1899, with James Case as operator, and have con- ducted an office here ever since. The first successful submarine cable spanning the Atlantic was laid from Valentia, off the coast of Ireland, to Heart's Con- tent, a fishing hamlet off the coast of Newfoundland. Mr. Cyrus W. Field, the master spirit of the enterprise, announced to his friends in New York the consummation of his project as follows : " Heart's Content, July 27, 1866, — We arrived here at nine o'clock this (Friday) morning. All well. Thank God, the cable is laid and is in perfect working order. Signed, Cyrus W. Field." The first European tidings flashed across the cable to the western hemisphere were — that a treaty of peace had just been signed between Austria and Prussia — a most fitting message for the grand accomplishment. The queen of England sent her salutations to President Johnson as follows : " The Queen con- gratulates the President on the successful completion of an undertaking which she hopes may serve as an additional bond of union between the United States and England." To this the president responded by saying : " The President of the United States acknowledges with profound gratification the receipt of 430 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Her Majesty's dispatch, and cordially reciprocates the hope that the cable which now unites the eastern and western hemispheres may serve to strengthen and to perpetuate peace and amity be- tween the Government of England and the Republic of the United States." After sending several signal messages in codes in an ex- perimental way across the Atlantic, Marconi, on Sunday, De- cember 21, 1902, announced for publication that he had just suc- ceeded in sending inaugural wireless messages from Glace Bay, Cape Breton, Canada, to Poldhu, Cornwall, England, with com- plete success, including one from the Governor General of Canada to King Edward VII of England and one from Dr. Parkin, M. P., special correspondent of the London Times, to that paper. Thus 1902 marks the introduction of one of the grand improvements of the age. • Advent of the Railroad. The Baltimore and Ohio railroad company was incorpo- rated by the legislature of Maryland in 1826 and was the first corporation which made any actual movement toward the con- struction of a railroad line through the valleys of the Youghio- gheny and the Monongahela rivers. This company applied to the general assembly of Pennsylvania for authority to construct their road through the state to or toward a terminus on the Ohio. This privilege was granted requiring the company to complete their road within fifteen years from the passage of the act. Preliminary surveys were made through Fayette county in 1835, and deeds on record show that the proposed route entered the county at the confluence of Casselman river with the Youghiogheny, and followed the left bank of the latter to New Haven, thence up the valley of Opossum run, thence one survey ran down Boland's run, and another down Bull's run to Red- stone creek, thence following that stream to its confluence with the Monongahela river. Another survey came down Cove run and Shute's run, near the present lines of the B. & O. and the Southwest Pennsylvania railroads to the confluence of Shute's run with Redstone creek, thence down the latter to its mouth. Still another survey came down the right bank of the Monongahela river through New Geneva to Brownsville, while one came through near the present route of the Coal Lick run History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 431 branch to Uniontown. From the mouth of Redstone the route lay along the valley of Ten Mile creek and up that valley to its head, thence down the valley of Templeton's run and Wheeling creek to Wheeling. A branch was to leave the main road at the mouth of Redstone creek and have its terminus at Pittsburgh. The road was completed and opened for traffic to Cumber- land in the early 40s, and the Monongahela Navigation com- pany completed their slack water navigation to Brownsville about the same time. The section of the road from Baltimore to Cumberland absorbed the company's funds and the section through Pennsylvania was delayed beyond the limit allowed by the act of assembly and those who in 1838 and 1839 strongly favored the road, now as strenuously opposed it as a competitor with the proposed Pennsylvania railroad and of the Cumberland turnpike. The Pennsylvania railroad was being built westward across the Alleghenies with Pittsburgh as its western terminus, while the Baltimore and Ohio was to have Wheeling, a rival city, as its terminus. In 1842 the Baltimore and Ohio company's scrip was at a discount of 20 per cent., while the Good Intent stage company's shin-plasters commanded their full value and were redeemed upon presentation to the company. A convention was assembled in the Episcopal church at Brownsville on the 35th and 26th of November, 1835, at which were delegates from Baltimore, Cumberland, Wheeling, Pitts- burgh and other localities. Hon. Andrew Stewart was made president ; he also serving as a representative of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal company. At this convention resolutions were adopted that the great and growing commercial and social intercourse between the Atlantic and the western states demands the early completion of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad from Cumberland to Pittsburgh and Wheeling, and that we memorialize the congress of the United States, the legislatures, of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia and Maryland, the municipal authorities of Baltimore, Pittsburgh and Wheeling, asking for aid for the extension and completion of the road. Frequent meetings were held urging the speedy completion of the road until the Monongahela Slack Water Navigation company completed their improvements to Brownsville, No- vember 13, 1844, when the sentiment of the people changed. It was now thought that the Cumberland turnpike road would be 432 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. of more profit to the western counties than a railroad; travel would be increased between Cumberland and the head of navi- gation, and the railroad must forever have its terminus at Cum- berland. , At a meeting held at Uniontown in July, 1845, General Henry W. Beeson, who had previously represented this district in congress, and had been an ardent advocate of a railroad, now strenuously opposed the completion of the Baltimore and Ohio road as a dangerous competitor of the Cumberland road. In his address on this occasion he urged that steam power would utterly supplant horse power. He then went into details to show how many horses were employed in the traffic Over the Cumberland road ; how much hay and grain would be consumed as food for these horses; how many sets of harness and other equipments required ; how many blacksmiths and the number of horse shoes necessary to keep these horses shod ; the number of coaches, wagons and other vehicles required on the road; the number of drivers, wagoners, drovers and others employed in handling the traffic, and the profits accruing to those who ad- ministered to the comforts of the numerous patrons of the road, and the ready markets and remunerative prices received for the products of the farm. These and much more, would necessarily be done away with by the advent of the railroad. The general in closing his re- marks appealed to the citizens of Western Pennsylvania to stand firm to the interests of the Pennsylvania canal and the Cumber- land road and compel the Baltimore and Ohio railroad to fix its terminus at Cumberland. General Beeson has been severely criticised for his utter- ances on this occasion, when he but voiced the sentiment of the people as they saw the situation at that time, but individually, he was always foremost and liberal in his views and donations toward public improvements as he saw them. American enterprise knows no bounds; it halts at no obstacle, but bounds the river, scales the mountain and tunnels the hill as it pursues its way ; and when the legislature of Penn- sylvania refused to renew the charter, the Baltimore and Ohio railroad passed through Virginia and within a few feet of the southwest corner of the Keystone state to Wheeling, and sub- sequently reached Pittsburgh by the purchase of another road already constructed. Thus the people of Western Pennsyl- i4 c c H O [^ y, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 433 vania lost not only the railroad, but the travel and traffic of the Cumberland road and the Pennsylvania canal as well. An act incorporating the Pennsylvania railroad company was passed, April 13, 1846, and on the 25th of February, 1847, Governor Shunk granted a charter to the company, and on the 2nd of August following, he issued his proclamation declaring the privileges granted to the Baltimore and Ohio railroad abrogated. The opening of the Pennsylvania railroad to Pittsburgh in 1852, aroused the citizens of Uniontown to immediate action, and on the 11th of January, following, a rousing railroad meet- ing assembled at the court house over which the Honorable John Dawson presided. A stirring address was delivered by James Veech, Esq., in which he depicted the wonderful prosperity that would accrue to the citizens of Fayette county by the advent of a railroad. At the close of his address Mr. Veech offered the following resolution, which was unanimously adopted : Resolved — That it is expedient for the county of Fayette by her com- missioners, to subscribe at least two hundred and fifty thousand dollars to the stock of the Pennsylvania railroad for the con- struction of the Uniontown branch, and that the General County Committee be directed to take the proper and necessary meas- ures to have such a subscription made with the least possible delay. Resolved — That the proceedings of this meeting be pub- lished in the papers of this and of Westmoreland county, and that copies thereof be sent to our representatives at Harrisburg. At the above meeting Alfred Patterson, Esq., president of the General Committee of the county, stated that the object of the meeting was to urge the prompt and energetic action on the part of the citizens of Fayette county to secure a branch from the Pennsylvania road from either Greensburg or Latrobe to Uniontown ; and that such measures be taken at this meeting as would convince the board of directors of the Pennsylvania rail- road that the citizens of this county are deeply interested in the projected branch, and that the same might be laid before them at their meeting to be holden at Philadelphia on Satur- day, the 15th instant. On motion, a committee consisting of Dr. Smith Fuller, Alfred Patterson, Esq., E. B. Dawson, Esq., and Eleazer Robinson was appointed to solicit and obtain do- nations and subscriptions for stock in the branch road. This committee soon solicited subscriptions to the amount of over 434 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. $4,000, and Dr. Hugh Campbell, Colonel Samuel Evans, Hon. Andrew Stewart and Isaac Beeson were delegated to " repre- sent and promote the interests of the Uniontown branch of the Pennsylvania railroad in the city of Philadelphia, and in the meetings of the stockholders or board of managers of that com- pany soon to be held, so far as deemed proper and expedient." From some cause all the efforts of our citizens to procure this branch road proved abortive, and their attention was next directed to the Pittsburgh and Connellsville road which was completed to Connellsville in 1855, by and over which Union- town was later connected with Pittsburgh by rail. The Fayette County Railroad. As the Fayette County railroad was the first to enter Uniontown, a detailed history of this road is appropriate in this work. By an act of assembly passed May 1, 1857, the Fayette County railroad company became incorporated with a capital of $760,000 in shares of $100 each. Connellsville was to be its northern and Uniontown its southern terminus. The determi- nation was to secure subscriptions to the amount of $100,000 before letting the contract for the construction of the road. Mr. F. H. Oliphant, the enterprising ironmaster of Fairchance, com- pleted this amount by a subscription of $5,000, to be paid in merchantable bar iron. Huzzahs greeted Mr. Oliphant's liberal subscription, as the iron was as good as the cash to the com- pany, and on the same day the secretary advertised for bids for the construction of the road. The line was to be 12.67 miles in length, one mile of which was to be on the right of way of the Pittsburgh and Connellsville company, which afterwards proved to be a bad arrangement. Honorable Nathaniel Ewing was elected president of the company, and S. D Oliphant as secre- tary. William Wilson was elected treasurer and John N. Lewis, chief engineer. Many subscribers failed to respond when their subscriptions fell due, and on February 19, 1859, the president was authorized to issue bonds, secured by a mortgage, to the amount of $30,000. On July 4, 1859, the road was publicly declared open for traffic and travel from Connellsville to Mount Braddock, just half the length of the proposed road. The celebration of the opening of the road to this point was the occasion of an im- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 435 mense assemblage of the people of the county. Free trains were run between that point and Connellsville, a free lunch was dis- pensed, and the advent of the road into the very heart of the county was welcomed with much rejoicing. Addresses were de- livered by Judge James Veech, Peter A. Johns, Esq., and others, while the crowd awaited the arrival of the trains. Judge Veech in his admirable address rehearsed in his usual forceful manner the wonderful progress which had been made within the brief period of one generation. Among other things he said : " The sound of the blood-curdling war whoops of the marauding sav- ages had scarcely ceased to echo through this valley which now resounds the welcome whistle of the steam locomotive. Al- most within the span of one short lifetime the same hand that grappled the throat of the blood-thirsty savage can now reach forth and stroke the mane of the all-conquering yet tractable iron horse. The peaceful smoke that rose from the first settlement west of the AUeghenies directed the weary traveler to the very spot on which this refined assemblage is now gathered; and hard by yonder gushing spring stood the humble cabin of Christo- pher Gist, the competent and efficient agent for the Ohio Com- pany, and here he entertained his youthful friend whom we now love to honor as the father of his country. Within a short distance from the line of this road lay the great Catawaba war train, the great highway of the Six Nations, leading from their northern homes to their southern foes. Over this trail passed the bands of painted warriors with their tro- phies and prisoners of their conquered foes. And while we recall with amazement the wonderful ad- vancement in the brief space of time in which this region was first trodden by the foot of the white man, yet by the advent of the steam car, to which it is our great pleasure to extend a hearty welcome today, the children of this generation shall witness still greater things in the future." Mr. Veech was followed by Peter A. Johns, Esq., in an eloquent and pleasing address. Peter, as he was wont, soon soared aloft into the rarefied strata of his imagination, and held his hearers spell-bound while he threw upon his canvas in pris- matic hues a most glowing picture of the prosperity that was now about to dawn upon the inhabitants of Fayette county. As Judge Veech had given a retrospective view, Mr. Johiis 436 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. proceeded to give the perspective view, in which he welcomed the advent of the railroad into the very center of the county. The trail, scarcely grown cold from the stealthy tread of the painted savage, is now superseded by the iron band of civiliza- tion. The iron horse, with his muscles of brass, sinews of steel, lungs of fire and breath of smoke, shall make this valley tremble with his mighty tread as he draws his ponderous load of freight and produce in exchange for the products of other marts and climes. The time is now near at hand when these mighty hills shall yield up their treasures of rocks and timber ; the mines will open up their vast stores of wealth, and Pomona will pour her over- flowing horn of plenty into the lap of husbandry, and peace and prosperity shall flow through this valley like the current of a mighty river. The forests that so recently resounded the roar of the roving beast of prey shall resound the echo of the wood- man's ax, the song and hum of the harvester and the merry voice of romping, innocent childhood; and joy and gladness shall cover the land as the waters cover the sea. The road was formally opened for travel and traffic to Uniontown on Monday, January 2, 1860, by the running of free excursion trains the length of the road, and a cordial invitation was extended to the public to enjoy the hospitalities of the management of the road. Then Uniontown felt herself once more in touch with the outside world from which she had been so cruelly severed by her own, although well meant, indiscreet acts. Arrangements were made with the Pittsburgh and Connells- ville company to take the management of the road, under which arrangement the road was operated until the following summer, when it was thought the Fayette County branch was not getting her full share of the profits of the road and it was determined to equip the road and operate it themselves. Two small locomo- tives and a combined passenger and baggage car were pur- chased, one Billy Songster was brought out from Philadelphia to take charge of the locomotives, and when Billy got " half seas over " which was quite frequent, it was any thing but safe to ride behind him. " Tap " Sampsel, a Uniontown boy, was put on to learn firing under Billy, and he subsequently became one of the trusty engineers of the B. & O. road in whose service he spent many years. Many amusing anecdotes could be related in connection History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 437 with the management of this road while in its embryonic stage. Alpheus Clark was employed as the first conductor, who fre- quently overslept himself and the ticket agent would make his run. Clark was soon superseded by J. L. Summers who was an efficient conductor, and he was succeeded by John F. Gray who held the position for many years. Mr. F. B. Titlow was em- ployed as the first ticket agent, and although the passenger traf- fic was not heavy, the ticket agent's duties were arduous ; in ad- dition to the sale of tickets he was to keep all the books per- taining to the freight and ticket office, collect all freight bills, help car the hogs, cattle and horses shipped from this point, see that a supply of cord-wood was on hand, with which the en- gines were fired, and numerous other duties, all of which Mr. Titlow discharged with promptness and ability. Barney Collier, from Johnstown, succeeded Billy Songster as engineer, and every passenger felt a sense of relief riding behind Barney, as he was known to be a careful and trusty man. He held the position for ten years. After running the road with varying success, a meeting of the stockholders was held on January 13, 1862, at which a com- mittee was appointed to confer with Mr. Edgar Thompson, president of the Pennsylvania railroad with the view of con- necting the Fayette County with the Pennsylvania at Greens- burg. Hon. Nathaniel Ewing made the proposition that if the Pennsylvania would raise $100,000 toward the enterprise he would hold himself individually responsible for the balance. To this proposition Mr. Thompson replied that he was unable to furnish the $100,000, and further that he did not think a rail- road connecting these two points would be remunerative^ Time has shown whose was the better judgment. At a meeting held August 18, 1863, plans were discussed for the liquidation of the debts of the road, but on September 5th of that year the road was sold by the sheriff, and purchased by John K. Ewing, Esq., in trust for the stockholders, for the sum of $34,000. A new organization was effected by a new board of directors and Judge Nathaniel Ewing as president. On October 27, 1864, the directors leased the road to the Pittsburgh and Connellsville company for the term of ninety-nine years, for the sum of $9,000 per annum. When the Pittsburgh and Connellsville road was leased to the Baltimore and Ohio 438 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. company in December, 1875, the latter company assumed all responsibility to comply with the requirements of this lease. On April 11, 1884, a charter was granted to the State Line railroad, to extend from Uniontown southward to the state line, with the view of connecting with the main line of the Baltimore and Ohio in West Virginia. On May 14, 1893, the first regular passenger train was run over this road to Smithfield ; and on the second of April, 1894, just ten years almost to the day, a formal opening of the road to Morgantown, West Virginia, was celebrated by the running of excursion trains from Pittsburgh through to Morgantown. By the completion of this road the old Fayette County road became one of the arteries through which the life blood of our nation's prosperity flows. On Friday, June 30, 1902, a sale was consummated in which the Fayette County railroad passed into the ownership of the Baltimore and Ohio. The number of shares at that time was 2,148, and the price paid was $150 per share, and the additional sum of $21 per share for back rental, since which time the man- agement has been entirely under the control of that company. The Southwest Pennsylvania Railroad. By an act of March 16, 1871, the Southwest Pennsylvania Railroad company was incorporated, with power to construct a railroad from Greensburg, Westmoreland county. Pa., by the way of Connellsville to Uniontown, and thence southward to the boundary line of West Virginia. The capital stock was $500,000, and Thomas A. Scott was elected its first president. This road, which connected with the Pennsylvania railroad at Greensburg was opened to the public to Uniontown in the fall of 1876, and in June, 1880, the line was completed to Fairchance. William C. Snyder was the first ticket agent for the com- pany in Uniontown. The first Pullman service between Pittsburgh and Union- town was inaugurated November 36, 1900. The Monongahela Division. A railroad which was to follow Redstone creek from Brownsville to Uniontown was projected by the Brownsville railroad company, and after considerable grading was done financial difficulties intervened, and on February 5, 1878, the road was sold at sherifif's sale, and was afterwards merged with the Pittsburgh, Virginia and Charleston railroad. The last History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 439 named road and its franchise passed in May, 1879, to the con- trol and management of the Pennsylvania railroad company, by which it is now operated as the Monongahela Division of its lines. Construction on this line was begun by the Pennsylvania company in January, 1881 ; starting on the west side of the Monongahela river, opposite Brownsville, and crossing that river at the mouth of Redstone creek and following the same to its junction with Shute's run, now known as Redstone junction, about one mile north of Uniontown, where it connects with the Southwest branch of the Pennsylvania railroad. This branch was opened for traffic, June 1, 1883, thus giving to Uniontown three different routes to Pittsburgh. The Coal Lick Run Branch. The Coal Lick Run branch of the Southwest railroad was completed in the year 1900. This branch established a station at West Main street, and named it South Uniontown, and fol- lowed Coal Lick run to its source, thence by Brown's run to the Monongahela river, and was opened to Huron coke works on that river, November 26, 1900, on which date the first passenger train passed over the road. The Trolley Service. On April 14, 1890, a franchise was granted to Albert D. Boyd, and his associates, known as the Uniontown Electric Street Railway company. This company constructed a line, the eastern terminus of which was at the junction of East Main, Connellsville, and Cool- spring streets and Stewart avenue, and its western terminus at Union Cemetery on West Main street. This company was granted a charter, August 29, 1890, and on May 6, 1891, the first car passed over the line, having been started by the hand of Miss Rixie McCormick, daughter of William C. McCormick, the superintendent of the road, with James Doran as conductor. A car barn and power house was established on East Main street, and the line operated from that point. The line was subsequently extended out Connellsville street to a grove of several acres which had been converted into a park, and where several amusements were instituted. This park became a favor- 440 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ite place for recreation and amusements, and especially for public gatherings. Financial troubles soon overtook the com- pany and on October 9, 1900, the road was sold to Hon. W. H. Graham, Governor William A. Stone, M. K. Saulsbury and others for $35,000, at the par value of $50 per share, and they assuming a debt of $25,000, the sale amounting in all to $60,000. This new company soon extended the line to Connellsville, and on November 15, 1900, a banquet was given by the councils of Connellsville, New Haven, directors of the Yough bridge com- pany and some of the stockholders of the new company, which was characterized by speech making and free exchange of good cheer and congratulations. The first through car from Uniontown to Greensburg over the Pittsburgh, McKeesport and Connellsville line left Union- town Tuesday morning at 5 :30 a. m., September 6, 1904, and two West Penn cars ran from Connellsville to McKeesport on Wednesday, June 29, 1910. The Uniontown and Monongahela Valley Electric railway company was capitalized at $450,000, and granted a franchise to construct a road over Mount Vernon avenue, beginning at the junction of West Main street and South Mount Vernon avenue and running southward along South Mount Vernon avenue to the borough limit. This franchise was granted, October 23, 1900, and the contract was let for the construction of the work on the 34th of the same month. This line was opened through to Masontown on September 6, 1907, and as far as Riverside on December 18, 1911, and to Martin in February, 1912. The West Penn Railways company opened a trolley line, connecting Uniontown with Brownsville by building a line from Brownsville to Masontown junction, where it connected with the road already built by the Uniontown and Monongahela Valley Electric railway. This line was opened by running special car on Thursday, June 25, 1908, taking several of the officials of the road on a tour of inspection. The opening was celebrated with considerable demonstration at Brownsville on July 2nd, following, which was attended by delegations from Uniontown and elsewhere. Trolley service connecting Uniontown with Fairchance was established August 10, 1902. In 1912, property was secured on East Main and Peter streets for the establishment of a terminal of the different History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 441 branches of the West Penn Street Railways service. Old build- ings were removed and others remodeled to meet the require- ments of the company, and tracks were laid to these buildings, which were finished for occupancy August 20, 1913. The Telephone Service. William A. Mouck introduced the first telephone used in Uniontown, about 1880. He had seen where the different ap- pliances for the construction of such an instrument could be procured, and following the instructions accompanying the same, he constructed a line connecting his furniture ware rooms with his cabinet work shops at the foot of Beeson avenue. These in- struments, though crude, answered the purpose for which they were intended in a most satisfactory manner. These instru- ments were constructed by stretching a membrane across a small box and connecting the two instruments by a copper wire ; each instrument acting as both transmitter and receiver. These instruments were subsequently and for some time used to converse between the office and machine shops of the Johnson Machine company at the west end of town. The Bell Telephone company opened an office in Union- town in January, 1889, at the demand of the Columbia Iron and Steel company who had much business over the line, and for some time was the only subscriber. Miss Anna Green, now Mrs. F. H. Rosboro, was placed in charge of the office which did a very insignificant business at first but soon grew into im- mense proportions. The " Phone " is now an indispensible ac- quisition to the business of the country. This company now has 1,632 lines, 2,833 stations and employs 31 operators at Uniontown. The Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia Telegraph and Telephone company, known as the Tri-State Telephone company. Was introduced into Uniontown in June, 1898. This company connected up Baltimore with Uniontown in 1905, and Judge R. E. Umbel received the first message sent over this line, January 10th of that year. This company was merged with the American Union Tele- phone company July 1, 1907, and was connected up with Pitts- burgh through the P. & A. line in 1908. CHAPTER XIX. The Banks of Uniontown. The circulating medium among the early settlers of this country was necessarily that of other nations and consequently very limited. Much of the commerce was restricted to the ex- change of domestic animals, labor and the products of labor. In Virginia, tobacco was a staple article of commerce for many years, and farther north and west hides and peltry were used as substitutes for currency. The currency of the country was state paper and foreign coin for many years. About the cfose of 1775, bills of credit, known as Conti- nental money, to the amount representing six millions of Spanish dollars, were issued to carry on the war for independ- ence. These bills of credit began to depreciate rapidly and soon became utterly worthless. When the constitution became a law in 1789, there was no United States coin nor United States notes in circulation. Except the gold and silver of foreign nations there was no money that would pass all over the country. The Spanish coin became the popular currency, and the state notes were restricted some- what to the locality of issue. Congress established the United States Bank in 1782, to supply the demand for a banking institution, but meeting with much opposition, the renewal of the charter was refused in 1811. In 1790 there were but four state banks in the whole country, viz. : New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Baltimore. Upon the closing of the United States Bank many state banks sprang into existence and flooded the country with bank notes of more or less value, and it became necessary for the merchants to subscribe for a weekly journal to keep them posted in the value of the notes then in circulation. Congress ordered a mint to be established in Philadelphia in 1793, and named the denomination of coins to be struck, and whoever brought gold, silver or copper to the mint could have it coined without cost. The rate of value on the metal was fixed that one pound of gold was equal to fifteen pounds of silver. The gold was coined in denominations of eagles, half eagles and quarter eagles, and the silver was coined into dollars, half dol- lars, quarters, dimes and half dimes, three cent pieces came later; the copper was coined into cents and half cent pieces. 442 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 443 Minting was too slow to meet the demands of the country and numerous state banks were chartered. The different states had different values on their money. While the English pound was valued at $4.44, the Pennsylvania pound was valued at $2.66, and many deeds for property in Uniontown mention the price as being in Pennsylvania money. The values of goods expressed in pounds, shillings and pence gradually gave way to that of dollars and cents. What was known as " company scrip " was issued by^ numerous companies engaged in business, and came into cir- culation and answered the same purpose as the store order of today. During the war of the rebellion gold and silver disappeared from circulation and a demand was made for fractional currency. Few of the present generation can realize the inconveni- ences experienced by the merchants before the government is- sued fractional currency, vulgarly called " shin plasters." The time was when a customer would step into a store and purchase a dime's worth of goods and throw down a bill; it was then up to the merchant to make the change, trust the customer or lose the sale. In this extremity the county treas- urer, at this time John Tiernan, was prevailed upon to issue what was known as Fayette county scrip, which the merchants bought by the quantity and used as change. This scrip was re- deemable in amounts of $5 or over, and was good for county taxes, and afforded some relief in this time of great stringency. The government then responded to the exigency of the times and issued fractional currency. This fractional currency was issued in the denominations of fifty cents, twenty-five cents, fifteen cents, ten cents, five cents and three cents. Since the advent of the national banking system and the resumption of specie payment, and the establishment of con- fidence in the present money system the commerce of the coun- try has been unprecedented. The Banks of Uniontown. The Union Bank of Pennsylvania was the first banking institution established in Uniontown. It commenced operations in a frame building which stood on the lot at present occupied by the Gilmore Hardware company. The articles of association were signed May 1, 1813, and 444 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. business was commenced in October following. The promoters of the project were John Kennedy, Nathaniel Breading, J. W. Nicholson, Jesse Evans, Joseph Huston, Samuel Trevor, Thomas Meason, Hugh Thompson, Ellis Baily, Jacob Beeson, Jr., John Campbell , Reuben Baily, John Miller, David Ewing, George Ebert and others. The directors chosen were John Kennedy, Reuben Baily, Ellis Baily, John Campbell, Jesse Evans, Joseph Huston, James Lindsey, John Lyon, Daniel Marchand, John Miller, Zadoc Walker, Jacob Beeson, Jr., and Laurence Rider. John Kennedy was elected president and John Sims, cashier. The bank went into operation on a capital of $60,000, and declared a dividend of five per cent, on the first day of May fol- lowing. An additional sale of stock was made of 4,000 shares at ten dollars per share, and on the first day of November fol- lowing, a second dividend of five per cent., was declared. And on December 13th, the cashier wrote to the Acting Secretary of the United States Treasury that the whole of the capital stock of $100,000 was actually paid in; the directors having the au- thority to sell stock to the amount of $500,000. During the occupancy of the frame building above men- tioned, the bank purchased the western part of lot No. 38, on the southeast corner of Main street and Middle alley, and erected thereon a two-story bank building and dwelling house. The banking room occupying the eastern part of the building with a directors' room over and vault in the rear. A solid wall sep- arated this from the dwelling which had its entrance on Middle alley, the name of which was soon changed to that of Bank alley. Under an act of the legislature of March 31, 1814, the bank obtained a charter the same year, and in a letter written by Cashier Sims dated May 38, 1814, he states that the bank ex- pected to move in a few days to its new banking house. Books were opened on Monday, May 2, 1814, for the sub- scription of stock, the shares of which were $50 each, five dollars of which were to be paid at the time of subscribing. These books were in the hands of John Kennedy, Joseph Huston, Ellis Baily, Robert Long, Jacob Beeson, Jr., Samuel Trevor, Isaac Meason, Jr., Samuel Huston, Robert Whitehill; the latter two were appointed solicitors for Greene county. At an election held December 13, 1814, the following direct- ors were chosen: John Kennedy, Jesse Evans, Reuben Baily, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 445 Daniel Marchand, James Lindsey, Joseph Huston, John Camp- bell, Ellis Baily, John Miller, Jacob Beeson, Jr., John Lyon, Isaac Meason, Jr., Alexander Vance. At a meeting of the directors December 8th following, John Kennedy was unanimously elected president and John Sims, cashier, and the following resolutions were passed : Resolved, that the balance of 40 per centum on each share subscribed be paid to the cashier on or before the 14th of January next or the delinquents will not be entitled to a dividend. A bank note of fractional currency issued by this bank reads as follows: "This Note for TEN CENTS will be re- ceived on deposit, or in payment of debts, at the UNION BANK OF PENNSYLVANIA. Union Town, Pa., September 4, 1815. John Sims, Cashier." An election held November 18, 1816, John Kennedy, Reuben Baily, Ellis Baily, John Campbell, Jesse Evans, Joseph Huston, James Lindsey, John Lyon, Daniel Marchand, John Miller, Zadoc Walker, Jacob Beeson, Jr., and Laurence Rider were elected directors, and on Monday, the 35th the directors met and re-elected John Kennedy president and John Sims cashier. Notice was sent out July 35, 1818, that the report that the Union Bank had suspended specie payment was false, and that the affairs of the bank were in good condition. On November 1, 1818, a dividend of three per cent, was declared for the last six months, and a statement of the bank made the same day is as follows : Dr. Stock $134,793 5,638 91,357 639 487 038 10,965 113 Discount since last. . . Notes in circulation. . . Bank of Bedford Contingent fund Bank of Brownsville. Bank of United States Bank of Pittsburgh . . . Cr. Stock $333,538 Silver and gold 778 Foreign notes 1,311 Bank of Muskingum.. 537 Real estate 7,705 Deposits 9,949 $343,859 $343,859 Notice was sent out prior to the election for directors to be 446 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. held the 16th of November, 1818, requesting that all stock- holders vote in person and not by proxy, and stating that the folloviring stockholders had been agreed upon, viz. : James W. Nicholson, Robert Long, Jesse Evans, Laurence Rider, John Lyon, Jacob Beeson, Samuel Trevor, Robert Skiles, John Witherow, John Campbell, David Ew^ing, Zadoc Springer, James C. Seaton ; signed by John Sims, cashier. The election resulted in the election of the following directors : John Kennedy, John Miller, Jesse Evans, John Campbell, Daniel Marchand, John Lyon, James Lindsey, John Witherow^, John Denny, John Daw- son, John Strickler, James W. Nicholson and James C. Seaton; John Sims, cashier. Another note of issue of this bank reads : " No. 1603. The Union Bank of Pennsylvania promises to pay John Stacy or bearer on demand FIVE DOLLARS. Uniontown, Jany. 15, 1819. Signed, Wm. McKee, Cashier. Thomas Waller, President." The bank gave notice on February 9, 1819, that it would not receive other money than that of its own, specie. United States or other par paper. A supplement to the act regulating banks was passed by the lower house, February 16, 1819, fixing the first of August of that year for the time when, if they did not pay specie, they should lose their charter. On May 3, 1819, the bank declared a dividend of three per cent, on the capital stock for the last six months. On September 9, 1819, the board of directors ordered that five per cent, be paid every sixty days on the outstanding debts of the bank; the board wishing to meet the payment of all its paper in circulation as soon as possible and also to close its business as soon as possible. On May 1, 1830, the bank declared a dividend of four per cent. At an election held November 30, 1830, the following di- rectors were chosen : John Kennedy, John Denny, Jesse Evans, J. W. Nicholson, John Dawson, Robert Long, Robert Skiles, Hugh Thompson, David Ewing, John Hamilton, John Strickler, S. Y. Campbell and Zadoc Springer, and at a meeting of the directors John Kennedy was elected president. This minute was signed by Benjamin Barton as cashier. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 447 John Sims was a native of England and received his naturalization papers from the Supreme court of Pennsylvania at Philadelphia the 17th day of February, 1798. He was a resi- dent within the limits of and under the jurisdiction of the United States on January 39, 1795, and a resident of Pennsylvania at least two years. It appears that he was in declining health for quite a while before his death, and that Benjamin Barton was employed as assistant cashier at the time of his illness and death. He was buried in the old Methodist Episcopal burying ground on Peter street where a modest fiat sandstone slab marked his grave for many years, until his friends removed the remains to Philadelphia. Letters of administration were issued to Nathaniel Ewing, Esq., in the estate of John Sims on February 20, 1822. Twenty or more of the stockholders, representing one- twentieth of the stock, requested a meeting of all the stock- holders on February 21st to take into view the affairs of the bank, and to adopt such measures as the interests of the in- stitution may require, and such as the stockholders deem ex- pedient and just: signed, Samuel Minor, Jacob Beeson, Robert Skiles, David Ewing, Samuel Y. Campbell, Thomas Irwin, John Strickler, John Hamilton, Samuel Trevor, Joseph Torrance, James Finley, Ann Stevens, Hugh Thompson, William Hogg, Nathaniel Breading, John E. Breading, John McClean, Charles Porter, Andrew Oliphant, Robert Long, John Davenport, Samuel Harper, John Harper, David Veech, George Ewing, Dennis Springer, Zadoc Springer, Levi Springer, Jr., James Veech. Notice was given that the sockholders would meet on the first Monday of November, 1821, to receive a statement of the affairs of the bank : signed, Benjamin Barton, cashier. Notice was given that the stockholders would meet on the first Monday of November, 1822, to elect five trustees to close the concerns of the bank, according to the act of assembly passed April 1, 1822; signed Thomas Irwin, cashier. An election of officers was held on the 3rd Monday of November, 1823 ; signed, Thomas Irwin, cashier. An election held on the 3rd Monday of November, 1824, was for the purpose of electing five trustees for the ensuing year. Thomas Irwin, cashier. Notice was given that two tracts of mountain land, con- taining 200 and 100 acres respectively, belonging to the Union Bank of Pennsylvania, were exposed at sheriff's sale the second Monday of June, 1827. It was announced that an election of 448 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. officers for the bank would take place November 16, 1839 ; signed, Samuel Clevenger cashier. Two hundred acres of unseated land in Union township, being part of the " Saddle Bag," tract where the big watering trough is located, belonging to the Union Bank, was offered for sale by the treasurer for county and road tax for the years 183?', 34 cts.; for 1826, 331/3 cts.; road tax for 1827, 331/3 cts.; for 1826, 331/3 cts. ; total, $1.34 ; to be paid by the 2nd of June, 1830. The First National the Outgrowth of the John T. Hogg Bank. Mr. John T. Hogg opened a private banking office in Union- town in April, 1854, upon the completion of the Tremont Build- ing. Between this date and the closing of the Union Bank of Pennsylvania the financial business of the town had been done principally through the Monongahela Bank of Brownsville, which was organized the same year as the Union Bank. Mr. Hogg es- tablished banks in Brownsville, Connellsville, Mount Pleasant, Bedford and Somerset. His bank here occupied the small room in the Tremont Building facing on Morgantown street now oc- cupied as a millinery store. Mr William Wilson was chosen as the cashier which position he held until in August, 1858, when he resigned to accept the cashiership of the Bank of Fayette County, which commenced business in the same location as the Union Bank had started, but in a modern building. Mr. James T. Redburn succeeded Mr. Wilson as cashier of Mr. Hogg's bank. Soon after this the bank passed into the ownership of Isaac Skiles, Jr., by whom it was continued as a private institution until 1864, when in conformity with the provisions of the national banking law, it became the First National Bank of Uniontown, with a paid up capital of $60,000, which was increased, January 1, 1872, to $100,000. The corporators of this First National Bank were Robert Finley, Charles S. Seaton, Jasper M. Thompson, Eleazer Robin- son, William Hurford, Isaac Skiles, Jr., James T, Redburn, Hiram H. Hackney and John Wilson. The bank moved its place of business, May 3, 1864, to a larger room in the brick building belonging to Mr. Seaton, on West Main street next west of the Round Corner. The following gentlemen composed the first board of di- rectors under the new organization; Jasper M. Thompson, THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK BUILDING. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 449 Charles S. Seaton, Isaac Skiles, Jr., Eleazer Robinson, James T. Redburn and Robert Fi'nley. Isaac Skiles, Jr., was elected presi- dent and James T. Redburn, cashier. Upon the resignation and removal of Mr. Skiles, Jasper M. Thompson was elected presi- dent on January 11, 1870, and upon the death of Mr. Redburn, May 23, 1877, Josiah V. Thompson was elected cashier. In 1883 the Bank purchased the property known as the Round Corner, on the corner of West Main and Pittsburgh streets, and in 1883 it added the third story to this building and fitted up the room that had been used for many years as a drug store into which the bank was moved in 1884. In this the bank conducted its business until 1901, when it was decided that more modern and commodious apartments were necessary for the transaction of the rapidly increasing business. On the night of May 16th, of that year, the effects of the bank were removed across West Main street to the new Thompson-Ruby building, and at nine o'clock the following morning the doors were thrown open and business resumed as though nothing unusual had transpired, and here the business of the bank was conducted until the completion of the magnificent new structure erected for its permanent home. The First National Bank building is located on the north side of West Main street occupying the sites of the former prop- erties known as the Round Corner, residence of- Charles S. Seaton, Mrs. John S. Roberts and of Daniel P. Gibson, a front- age of 150 feet. These old buildings were torn away in 1901, and the first stone of the new foundation was laid June 16th, of that year. The building is eleven stories high, and contains be- sides the finely appointed quarters for the bank, four fine business rooms on West Main street and several in the arcade on the first floor, and about 300 rooms on the upper floors for offices and flats, and is built of buflf brick and terracotta on steel frame work on modern plans and in the most substantial manner. It is the pride and admiration of the town and vicinity, and it houses more people than inhabit many good sized towns, and stands as a monument to the enterprise characteristic of the officers of the bank. The First National moved into its new quarters March 31, 1903, where it continued, on its career of wonderful prosperity until, outstripping all competitors, it attained the highly honor- 450 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. '% able position of first of the Roll of Honor banks of the United States, The Roll of Honor, at the head of which this bank stands, means that it has more surplus and profits in proportion to its capital, and that it has a broader margin between its assets and its liabilities than any other national bank in the United States. The Personnel of the First National. To the able management of President Jasper M. Thomp- son the wonderful success and advancement of this bank is greatly due. His foresight into business matters, his high sense of honor and integrity, his promptness and accuracy in all his business relations, together with a charming personality, secured to him the confidence and respect of the public at large. These personal qualities of Mr. Thompson soon permeated the work- ings of the bank and gave to it that prestige that assured its phenomenal success. President Thompson was ably supported by a staff of officials and employes, and upon the lamented death of James T. Redburn, the competent and popular cashier. Presi- dent Thompson's son Josiah V., who had entered the bank in 1871, and made teller in 1873, and was now well schooled in banking, succeeded Mr. Redburn as cashier, June 5, 1877, and Edgar S. Hackney entered the bank as teller in July of the same year. Upon the death of President Thompson his son, Josiah V., succeeded to that honorable and responsible position, and Mr. Hackney was promoted to the cashiership. Frank M. Semans, Jr., entered the bank May 31, 1888 as teller and was made as- sistant cashier in 1899. The officials of the bank are : Joshiah V. Thompson, Presi- dent; James M. Hustead, Vice-President; Edgar S. Hackney, Cashier; Frank M. Semans, Jr., Assistant Cashier; Thomas B. Semans, Bookkeeper; T. D. Bailes, Bookkeeper; J. H. Sparks, Trust Officer, Safe Deposit department; Sarah Hadden, Stenog- rapher; Virginia Marshall, Stenographer; James C. Whaley, Receiving teller; I. W. Labarrer, Receiving teller; O. W. Powell, Paying teller; T. D. Bliss, Paying teller; William B. Beeson, Ladies' teller. The Board of Directors is as follows : Josiah V. Thompson, James M. Hustead, John D. Ruby, William Hunt, William M. Thompson, Harvey C. JefJeris, and E. S. Hackney. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 451 It is confidently asserted that if any one of the officials or attaches of this bank were bHndfolded and set down on any part of this planet he would establish himself in business within twenty-four hours. While the high position to which this bank has attained in the ranks of the financial institutions of the land may be at- tributed to the observance of strict and conservative banking principles, yet the congenial personality of the officers and at- taches has ever been a potent factor in the success of the in- stitution. Arpad G. Kail Bank. Arpad G. Kail established a private banking institution with a capital of $35,000, on February 20, 1892, in a room in the old Round Corner building, which had been previously occupied by the post office, and at the tearing away of that building in 1901, for the erection of the present First National Bank building, Mr. Kail moved his bank to the second floor of the Thompson- Ruby building where he continued business until the completion of the First National Bank building. Upon the removal of the First National bank into its new quarters, Mr. Kail moved into the room vacated by the First National, where he enjoyed an ever-increasing business until in January, 1911, at which time the business was transferred to his brother, L. A. Kail, who con- tinued it in this room for some time. Mr. Kail speaks six different languages and reads and writes four of them. This bank became absorbed by the First National, August 31, 1912, as the Foreign Exchange Department of that bank. The Dollars Savings Bank. This bank commenced business on January 1, 1870, with A. E. Willson, Esq., as president, and Armstrong Hadden as cash- ier. Its capitalization was $25,000, and by paying 4% interest on time deposits these soon reached the sum of $184,155.85, and the earnings and surplus $16,819.85. The business of the bank was in a flourishing condition at the time of Mr. Hadden's death, October 19, 1872, but contrary to the usual rules of banking, the more the deposits the worse the condition of the bank. The interest on the deposits consumed the profits, as the bank was paying interest on deposits lying idle in her vaults, for which it was getting nothing. The bank closed business on July 19, 453 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 1878, but not a depositor lost one dollar by the closing of the bank. Upon the election of Mr. Willson to the Bench of this judicial district in 1873, he resigned the presidency and was suc- ceeded by Robert Hogsett. Upon the death of Mr. Hadden Mr. Charles S. Seaton was chosen to the cashiership, and filled the position most acceptably until April 1, 1878, when he retired and was succeeded by Henry McClay who had been the teller and bookeeper since the organization of the bank. The business of the bank was conducted in the Harah building on the south side of West Main street, in a room which had been especially fitted up and a vault built for the purpose. The People's Bank of Fayette County. The People's Bank of Fayette County was chartered March 21, 1873, with a capital of $50,000, with the following named corporators; Samuel A. Gilmore, Alfred Howell, Charles E. Boyle, William McCleary, Eli Cope, John D. Roddy, Ewing Brownfield, E. M. Ferguson, John ,H. McClelland and James A. Searight. The board of directors was composed as follows : Ewing Brownfield, president, James A. Searight, cashier, Alfred Howell, James Robinson, John D. Roddy and James Beatty. The books were opened for business July 14, 1873, and on the 13th of August following, Mr. Searight resigned as cashier and was succeeded by Morgan H. Bowman, who filled the posi- tion until April 3, 1882, when he in turn was succeeded by T. Clark Breckenridge, who was assisted by William McCleary as teller who entered the bank February 2, 1886. Mr. Brecken- ridge was succeeded by Joseph H. Kerr June 15, 1887. Col. Ewing Brownfield was the first president and held this honorable position until his death, February 19, 1889. James A. Searight was elected vice-president February 2, 1886, and upon the death of Col. Brownfield Mr. Searight succeeded to the presidency. A^r. Searight resigned the presidency June 4, 1901, and on July 2, following, T. S. Lackey was elected president. On February 25, 1905, Joseph H. Kerr was elected vice-presi- dent and Jasper Cope was elected cashier. Personnel of the bank, T. S. Lackey, president ; Joseph H. Kerr, vice-president; Jasper Cope, cashier; D. M. Higinbotham, assistant cashier. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 453 The bank was opened for business in the old store room of Col. Ewing Brownfield, corner of Arch and West Main streets, and here continued until November 2, 1901, when it moved into the same room with. the Citizens' Title and Trust Company, where it conducted business until January 1, 1911, at which time it was taken over by the Citizens' Title and Trust Company. The Second National Bank of Uniontown, Pa. The Second National Bank of Uniontown was organized March 9, 1896, with a capital of $100,000. The board of di- rectors was composed of D. M. Hertzog, James R. Cray, J. C. Work, Albert Gaddis, O. P. Markle, William McShan, William Binns, Joseph H. Long and G. S. Harah. The officers were D. M. Hertzog, president; James R. Cray, vice-president; G. S. Harah, cashier ; and opened its doors for business March 19, 1896. The bank commenced business in the Harah building on West Main street, in the same room in which the Dollars Sav- ings Bank had been previously located, and here continued busi- ness until the directors purchased the property on the corner of West Main street and Beeson avenue. This old building which had been erected by Robert Skiles and described elsewhere, was torn down and a fine five-story stone, brick and terra cotta building erected in 1901, at a cost of $60,000. Into this building the bank was moved June 30, 1903, and the upper floors were oc- cupied as offices. Mr. Harah resigned his position as cashier of this bank and Isaac Jackson was elected to succeed him October 1, 1911. The Citizens' Title and Trust Company of Uniontown, Pa. The Citizens' Title and Trust Company was chartered July 12, 1901,' with a capital of $150,000, the following named gentle- men composing the board of directors : Albert Gaddis, R. F. Hopwood, William A. Stone, T. S. Lackey, H. L. Robinson, Harry Whyel, J. C. Fulton, R. W. Highinbotham and R. W. Dawson. The officers were: Albert Gaddis, president; R. F. Hopwood, vice-president; William A. Stone, second vice-presi- dent; Joseph H. Kerr, secretary and treasurer; William C. Black, assistant secretary and treasurer. The company purchased what was originally known as the 454 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Bryan building on West Main street, and in 1907 erected thereon a fine three-story brick and stone building with banking rooms on the west side and most spacious and up-to-date business rooms on the east, running from Main to Peter street. The company commenced business November 2, 1901 : this company and the People's Bank of Fayette County occupying the same room. On January 1, 1911, the Citizens' Title and Trust Com- pany took over the People's Bank of Fayette County. This in- stitution has enjoyed wonderful prosperity, and although the youngest, it now ranks second in the banking institutions of the town. The Fayette Title and Trust Company. A ineeting of the subscribers to the stock of a proposed trust company to be organized by some of the business men of Uniontown and vicinity was held November 28, 1899, at which William H. Playford was chosen president and John M. Core, secretary. It was resolved to organize a title and trust company under the name of " The Fayette Title and Trust Company," the capital stock of which should be $150,000, and the following officers were elected, viz.: President, R. H. Lidnsey; Vice- President, Samuel M. Graham; Treasurer, Arthur W. Bliss. The Board of Directors chosen were as follows : George T. Oliver, John M. Core, James M. Reed, Joseph R. Stouffer, R. H. Lindsey, John P. Breman, Charles L. Snowdon, W. H. Playford, Samuel M. Graham, A. W. Bliss and William A. Hogg. A lot on the south side of West Main street on which the Willson Block had been erected and which was destroyed by fire July 2, 1898, was procured, and a fine three-story stone front brick business block erected thereon suitable to the business of the company. Upon the completion of this building, a charter having been granted by the legislature of Pennsylvania, Jan- uary 2, 1900, the board of directors resolved to begin business on Monday, April 1, 1901. R. H. Lindsey tendered his resignation as president, to take eflFect July 1, 1902, and Orran W. Kennedy was elected to fill the vacancy. Samuel M. Graham who had served as vice-president, trust officer and treasurer from the organization of the company, died from the effects of an automobile accident September 26, 1908, and he was succeeded as vice-president by A. Plumer Austin, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 455 and by Peter E. Sheppard as treasurer and trust officer, who as- sumed the duties of these offices October 1, 1908. President Orran W. Kennedy died June 8, 1913, and Vice- President, A. Plumer Austin succeeded to that office. This company, Hke the other banking institutions of the town, stands high among the financial institutions of the country. H. FusAEiNi Bank. H. Fusarini was conducting a Banca Italiana as a private institution in Dunbar in 1902, and on August 4, 1903, he moved his offices into the O. W. Kennedy building, corner of East Main and South Gallatin, and here by his good business qualifications, soon built up a profitable and increasing business as a foreign exchange and representative of many steamship lines. Here he conducted business until March 17, 1911, when he connected his business with that of the Fayette Title and Trust company as the Foreign Exchange Department of that institution. The Bank of Fayette County. The Bank of Fayette County was incorporated under an act of the legislature of Pennsylvania, approved December 5, 1857. The corporators were Isaac Beeson, John Huston, Henry W. Beeson, Armstrong Hadden, Joshua B. Howell, Ewing Brownfield, Joseph Johnson, John K. Ewing, Alfred Patterson, William Bryson, Asbury Struble, Everhart Bierer, Josiah S. Allebaugh, Henry Yeagley, Isaac Franks, Jacob Overholt, Thomas B. Searight, Jacob Murphy, Joseph Hare, Joseph Heaton, John Morgan and Farrington Oglevee. The charter was dated July 9, 1858. The first board of directors was com- posed of Joseph Heaton, Daniel Sturgeon, Isaac Beeson, Ever- hart Bierer, Jacob Murphy, James Robinson, Robert Finley, Isaac Skiles, Jr., Henry W. Gaddis, J. Allen Downer, Joshua B. Howell, Alfred Patterson and Daniel R. Davidson. Alfred Patterson was elected president and William Wilson, cashier. The first meeting of the directors was held August 16, 1858, and on the 1st day of September following, the bank commenced business in the room subsequently owned and occupied by Zadoc B. Springer as a hardware store, and since owned by the Gil- more estate. Here the business was conducted for about one year, when it was removed to the opposite side of the street in the room now occupied by the bar-room of the Central hotel. 466 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. At a meeting of the directors held October 19, 1859, a com- mittee was authorized to purchase the old building erected by the Union Bank of Pennsylvania, which required but little fitting up for a banking room. In the spring of 1860, the bank moved into its new quarters, where it continued to transact its business for eighteen years. In December, 1864, the bank was organized under the United States banking law and became the National Bank of Fayette County, with an authorized capital of $150,000. Mr. Patterson, the first president of the institution, resigned Jan- uary 4, 1865, and moved to Pittsburgh, where he became the president of the National Bank of Commerce and John Ken- nedy Ewing, Esq., succeeded to the presidency, which honor- able and responsible position he filled with marked ability until at a meeting of the directors January 10, 1900, when he offered his resignation on account of age and infirmities, after a con- tinued service of thirty-five years. Nathaniel Ewing succeeded his father, John K. Ewing, as president, and on August 20, 1868, William Wilson, on account of age and infirmities, re- signed his position as cashier, after a continuous and satis- factory service of ten years, and Adam C. Nutt became his successor. Upon the extension if the Southwest Pennsylvania railroad through the town, the directors were authorized, on the 39th of December, 1877, to sell the building to the railroad company, and it was converted into a station. The bank then purchased a lot on the south side of East Main street from Henry Farwell and tore away the old frame building thereon and erected a fine brick building with banking rooms on the east side and store room on the west, with hall- way in the center leading to flats and other rooms above. Dur- ing the construction of this building the business of the bank was conducted in a room owned by Dr. Smith Fuller on the east side of Broadway. The bank moved into its new building about April 1, 1878, where it has continued to do an ever- increasing banking business. Morgan H. Bowman was elected cashier April 12, 1882, and Benjamin B. Howell entered as teller in December, 1888, and became assistant cashier January 9, 1901. CHAPTER XX. The Press of Uniontown. The commercial enterprise of a community can always be correctly estimated by the enterprise manifested in her news- papers. As well might a community expect to measure up to the demands of the times without the railroad and other modern improvements as without the regular visits of the modern news- paper. Indeed the newspaper has always and everywhere been the vanguard of civilization and improvement. Neither can the morals of a community attain to a high ideal without the whole- some co-operation and support of the newspaper, and in truth the church herself has learned to look to the periodical visits of the newspaper as her most potent and trusted ally in the con- flict against the demoralizing influences of ignorance. Uniontown can boast that within less than two years after she became incorporated as a borough a newspaper was estab- lished within her limits, and of such stalwart and robust pro- portions was that infant enterprise, that today, after the lapse of nearly a century and a quarter, is still vigorous and pros- perous. New enterprises have been launched on the sea of journalism, and although some have proven evanescent in their existence, today her newspapers stand in the front rank and are justly recognized throughout the land as being fully abreast of the times in the dissemination of knowledge, virtue and morality. The following is a list of the newspapers that have been issued in Uniontown from time to time since the organization of the town. The Fayette Gazette and Union Advertiser was the first newspaper published in Uniontown, and in the county, the early copies of which definitely fix the date of the first issue to have been Friday, January 13, 1798. The proprietors were Jacob Stewart, an uncle to Honorable Andrew Stewart, and Mr. C. Mowry. The size of the paper was 10% by 161^ inches, four pages and four columns to a page, and the price was $2.00 per annum. The management of this paper seems to have changed early in the year 1805, as on the 23nd day of February of that year Allen and Springer were the proprietors, and in conformity 457 458 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. to the patriotic spirit of the times, they prefixed the name of Genius of Liberty and the name became The Genius of Liberty and Fayette Advertiser, and bore the date of Friday, February 23, 1805. James Allen, one of the proprietors, served as sheriff of this county from October 38, 1802 for a period of three years. Zadoc Springer, the other proprietor, was the father of the late Jonathan D. Springer, Esq., and was a man of considerable intelligence. How long Allen and Springer continued as proprietors of the paper is uncertain, but the issue of Saturday, January 28, 1809, shows that Jesse Beeson had become proprietor, having as the motto of the paper, " Here shall the press the people's rights proclaim. With truth its guide, the public good its aim." Jesse Beeson was the oldest child of Henry Beeson, the founder of the town, and was brought here, a babe, when his parents settled west of the mountains. He conducted the paper until about 1816, when the issue of Wednesday, November 27, of that year shows that Samuel Littell had become the proprietor. Samuel Littell was the son of Job Littell who was of French Huguenot parentage and settled in what is now South Union township in 1783, and erected and operated a mill a short dis- tance south of the Hutchinson reservoir of the Uniontown Water company. Samuel Littell was the author of the verses on the tragic death of Polly Williams, who was killed by her deceiver at the White Rocks, August 14, 1810. These verses attained a wide reputation, and were repeatedly published in the news- papers. It appears that the paper reverted back to Jesse Beeson as his name again appeared at the mast head. John Bouvier and John M. Austin succeeded Jesse Beeson as proprietors of the paper, and changed its name to that of The Genius of Liberty and American Telegraph. The first issue under this new proprietorship was dated Saturday, April 11, 1818, Vol. I, No. 1. John Bouvier was a native of France and came with his parents to America when quite young and learned the printing trade with Benjamin Johnson, and later settled at Brownsville where be published the American Telegraph from 1814, until he con- solidated that paper with the Genius of Liberty. A fuller ac- count of Mr. Bouvier will be found in the chapter on the Bench and Bar. John M. Austin became a leading attorney at the bar, in the notice of which he will receive a more extended notice. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 459 Thomas Patton succeeded Bouvier and Austin in the ownership of the paper, and his first issue was Tuesday, July 25, 1820, Vol. I, No. 1. Mr. Patton was a practical printer and threw all his energies into the work, made many innovations for the improvement of the paper; but in the issue of April 32, 1823, Mr. Patton announced the discouraging fact that " during the present editor's incumbency he had not received so much cash on subscription as would pay for the paper on which the Genius was printed ; and that wheat, rye, oats, corn, wool, flax, iron, feathers and wood ashes would be taken in pay at market prices." Mr. Patton, however, persisted in his endeavor to im- prove his paper; but again, in the issue of December of the same year he was obliged to announce the discouraging fact that " nearly six months have elapsed since we enlarged our sheet, but have received only two dollars for our expenses and trouble. Can we, we would ask any honorable man, carry on at this rate, by receiving only two dollars for six months' labor ? " He again offers to take country produce in payment of subscription. Mr. Patton stood high in the esteem of the community, and was captain of the company of Lafayette Artil- lery, in 1827. He removed to Steubenville, Ohio, where he worked at his trade until quite an old man. William H. Whitton and Colonel William Redick succeeded Thomas Patton in the ownership of the paper. The first issue under this ownership was Wednesday morning, December 3, 1828, under the name of Genius of Liberty and Fayette and Greene Advertiser. Mr. Whitton was the proprietor of the Greene County Advertiser, at Waynesburg when that paper and the Genius were consolidated, hence the name of the con- solidated papers. To illustrate the little attention given to local news by papers of that date, the following is quoted from the issue of June 28, 1830 : " General Jackson, president of the United States arrived in this place Wednesday evening, June 21, 1830, and took lodging at the stage office." This was an in- novation which, doubtless, the editor thought the importance of the occasion would justify, and the head of this great nation could feel complimented that his visit was the occasion of a two- line local in the Genius of Liberty. It was the custom to issue no paper the week on which the 4th of July fell, and in 1830 that date fell on Sunday and Saturday was observed as a day of jollification, and as there were several demonstrations held on 460 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. that day, the accounts were not published until the issue of the 12th. One address which had been delivered on the occasion of the 4th was published in full, but not until fifteen months after the date of its delivery. Times have changed. Whitton and Redick issued the paper from a frame carpen- ter shop which stood on the corner of Bank alley and South street, then the property of Col. Redick. On December 15, 1830, Col. Redick sold out his interest in the paper, having been connected therewith exactly two years, and Mr. Whitton be- came sole owner. Mr. Whitton's wife was a daughter of David Ewing, a well known druggist of the town, and after his dis- connection with the Genius of Liberty he became associated with Alfred Patterson, Esq., in the publication of The American Banner and Literary and Temperance Journal. Alonzo L. Littell succeeded William H. Whitton in the ownership of the Genius of Liberty, January 11, 1833. He found the material and conveniences of the establishment the most primitive and crude : the types were worn out, and the press work was done on an old Ramage press. The forms were inked by sheep-skin pads and a good pressman could throw off but three sheets in two minutes. Mr. Littell put new life into the paper; adding new material and introducing improved ma- chinery. He dropped the latter part of the name of the paper and restored it to simply The Genius of Liberty. The issue of April 11th, of the above year, shows that Mr. Littell had as- sociated with him in the editorship, Mr. Thomas Patton, a former editor of the paper. This partnership, however, lasted but a few months and Mr. Littell assumed full ownership, busi- ness manager and editor at the early age of twenty-two years. He was the son of Samuel Littell to whom reference has already been made as being proprietor of the paper for a short time, and a grandson of Job Littell before mentioned. He was a man of small stature, but quick in motion, and possessed a retentive memory. He was very popular as a gentleman and able as an editor. In 1836, the Democratic Shield, which had been started by James Piper, was absorbed by the Genius of Liberty, and the two names were united, and Justin Morris, who was a brother-in-law to Mr. Littell, became interested in the combined paper. Mr. Littell in writing from Cleveland, Ohio, September 10, 1883, to the editor of the Genius Of Liberty, says : " At the History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 461 early age of 22 years I became editor of the Genius of Liberty, which position I occupied until 1840 ; was a merchant from 1840 to 1851, a farmer from 1851 till 1874, in the fire insurance business from 1874 till 1883. Always, and in all things, successful and contented, and now at 75 years of age I send my photograph and salutations to the editorial chair of the old Genius of Liberty, which I filled 52 years ago." Mr. Littell died at his home in Cleveland, Ohio, February 5, 1884, in the 76th year of his age. John Irons succeeded Alonzo L. Littell in the ownership of the Genius of Liberty, and began a new series Monday, April 13, 1840. He continued its publication until in April, 1846, when he transferred it to John W. Shugart who issued his first number Thursday, April 9th, but his interest in the paper terminated March 1, 1847, and Mr. Irons again resumed ownership. Mr. Shugart was appointed assistant commissary of the 2nd Regi- ment Pennsylvania Volunteers, with the rank of captain, and went with his regiment to the Mexican war. Mr. Irons associ- ated with him in the publication of the paper his son-in-law, John W. Skiles. John Irons came to Uniontown from Waynes-, burg where he had been the proprietor of the Waynesburg Mes- senger, and immediately purchased the Genius of Liberty, and refurnished the office. When the cholera visited this town Mr. Irons fell a victim to that terrible plague and died July 30, 1850, in the 46th year of his age. He was the first Master of Fayette lodge. No. 228, F. and A. M., which lodge erected a monument to mark his grave in token of the esteem in which he was held by that lodge. John W. Skiles, in conjunction with Mrs. Irons, conducted the paper a short time after the death of Mr. Irons, when they sold it to Robert T. Galloway, Esq., who held it for about two months, when it was sold to Thomas B. Searight and Arm- strong Hadden. This firm started a new series, the first issue bearing date of Thursday, October 31, 1850. During this pro- prietorship Charles E. Boyle, who subsequently became a dis- tinguished attorney and jurist, was an apprentice in the of- fice and made his home with Mr. Hadden, where he became as one of the family. Mr. Hadden retired in January, 1852, and Mr. Searight conducted the paper alone until April 15th, when G. W. K. Minor obtained a half interest. On January 1, 1853, Mr. Searight retired and Mr. Minor became sole owner. He too hailed from Waynesburg and was 463 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. a practical printer. Mr. Minor, like many others, had his ups and downs in journalism. In his issue of October 13, 1853, is the statement that " the cash expenses of the office are $30 per week. Few persons have any idea of the expenses of running a news- paper, hence our necessity of dunning our delinquent subscrib- ers." There was no issue of the paper for the week of August 24, 1854, as the editor states " on account of too much job work." There were no issues for the weeks of November 30 and December 7 ,1854, " on account of having no paper. The melting of the late snows has raised the streams and started the mills, and we now have a promise of enough to keep us going." There was a rival Democratic paper published in the town during Mr. Minor's ownership of the Genius of Liberty, and some controversy arose betvsreen the editors of the two papers which resulted in a fisticuff encounter in which a brother of the rival editor also took a part, but Mr. Minor put both of his assailants to route. The issue of December 38, 1854 contained Mr. Minor's valedictory; the paper having been conducted by him for two years and nine months. John Bierer succeeded Mr. Minor in the ownership of the paper, January 1, 1855, and conducted it until in February, 1856, when he disposed of it to Armstrong Hadden and C. E. Boyle, and Mr. Hadden immediately disposed of his interest to Thomas B. Searight. The paper was thus conducted until the fall of 1860, when Mr. Searight retired and Mr. Boyle assumed full ownership. Colonel Edward G. Roddy purchased the paper from Mr. Boyle, February 1, 1861, and hoisted as the motto of the paper, " The Union and Equality of the States." Mr. Roddy's editor- ship was during the most trying times in the history of the paper. The war of the rebellion came on and the whole country was thrown into turmoil. Every one became radical in his political opinions, but Mr. Roddy being of a quiet, peaceable disposition, maintained conservative views in his paper, for which he was severely censured. He was the recipient of many anonymous letters in which the destruction of his office was threatened, but an armed guard at the office prevented these threats from being executed. The issue of February 19, 1863, contains Mr. Roddy's vale- dictory in which he states that he has been the proprietor of History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 463 the paper for two years, and he now sells out to R. B. Brown, late editor and proprietor of the Brownsville Times, and Mr. Brown consolidates the Times with the Genius of Liberty. Mr. Brown issued twb numbers of the paper only and it reverted back to Mr. Roddy. Mr. Roddy was born in Addison, Somerset county, Pa., June 13, 1834, and was engaged in the mercantile business for many years. He was of a quiet, dignified and unassuming disposition and a perfect gentleman in every respect. He died at his home on East Main street, on his birthday, June 12, 1867, aged 43 years. Mr. C. E. Boyle, as administrator of the estate of Mr. Roddy, sold the Genius of Liberty to James F. Campbell and Frederick S. Rock on August 1, 1867, Mr. Boyle in the meantime having conducted the paper himself. Mr. Campbell spent nearly all his life in newspaper work. He, subsequent to his connection with the Genius of Liberty, became editor of the Johnstown Democrat, and about 1881, he secured a position in the Treasury Department at Washington, D. C, where he was employed until stricken down with paraly- sis, from the effects of which he died July 35, 1899. Albert M. Gibson succeeded Campbell and Rock as pro- prietor of the paper, and Vol. I, No. 1, under his ownership was dated January 16, 1868. Under his ownership steam power was first used for the press work. He threw new life into the paper, and was the first editor in the county to introduce the gathering of local news from over the county. Mr. Gibson met with such unbounded success as a newspaper man that he de- termined to enter a wider field and started a daily paper in Pittsburgh. With the assistance of friends he started a daily publication known as " The Paper," and Vol. I, No. 1 was dated Thursday, December 1, 1870^ with the office of publication at No. 19, Fifth avenue. There was a promise that a weekly edi- tion of " The Paper " would be issued on or about January 1, 1871, but the expense of the daily soon consumed the funds of the firm, the weekly never appeared and the daily lasted only a few weeks. This failure also involved Mr. Gibson's interest in the Genius of Liberty, and the paper was subjected to sheriff's sale in April of 1871, and was bought by Messrs. Daniel Kaine, C. E. Boyle, William H. Playford and George W. Litman. After his disconnection from the Genius of Liberty Mr. 464 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Gibson became the Washington City correspondent for the New York Sun, which position he filled with marked ability for twelve years. He subsequently went to London, England, and became engaged on the Pall Mall Gazette, and was also correspondent for the New York Sun from that city. He died in London March 33, 1899. In the summer of 1871, Captain William A. McDowell pur- chased a one-third interest in the paper, the other partners being George W. Litman one-third and Messrs. Kaine, Boyle and Playford the remaining one-third. In 1875, Kaine, Boyle and Playford sold their one-third interest to Albert Marshall; the firm becoming Litman, McDowell & Co. Captain McDowell re- tired from the firm November 10, 1881, and the firm became Litman and Marshall, and after eleven years' connection with the paper, Mr. Litman retired in 1882. A history of the Genius of Liberty without a personal sketch of Charles E. Boyle, as a printer, would be as defective as " the play of Hamlet with Hamlet left out." Charles E. Boyle was born in Uniontown, February 4, 1836, and at the early age of nine years began the setting of type for amusement in the office of Robert Jones who was at that time publishing the Cumberland Presbyterian in Campbell's row on Pittsburgh street, in the room subsequently occupied by the Genius of Liberty. At this early age he was obliged to stand on an empty candle box to enable him to reach the cases. At the age of fourteen he went to the trade, and at sixteen he became foreman of the Steubenville Herald, where Thomas Pat- ton, a former editor of the Genius of Liberty, and now quite an old man, was working at the case in the same office. He became an able journalist as well as a profound jurist. Ash. F. Hill, who will be remembered as the author of several creditable works of fiction, was employed as local editor on the Genius of Liberty in 1875-6, and his spicy articles soon became an attractive feature of the paper. On June 8, 1883, the plant was put up at public sale, and Mr. Marshall became the purchaser, and associated with him Mr. Frank Higgins of Pittsburgh, who became half owner of the paper and its chief editor; he having been city editor of the Pittsburgh Post for several years past. During this ownership S. L. Mestrezat, Esq., now a member of the supreme court of Pennsylvania, was financially interested in the paper. On March 15, 1883, the office was again sold at public out- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 465 cry and Frank M. Higgins became the purchaser for $?',600, and within a week, transferred it to Messrs. William H. Cook, A. H. Wycofl and Albert Marshall for the same as he paid for it, and returned to Pittsburgh to the managing editorship of the Commercial Gazette in which he became a partial owner, and on November 15, 1884, Wycoff sold his interest to Thomas Hazen; the firm becoming Cook, Hazen and Marshall. The first of March, 1889, Hazen withdrew and the firm became Cook, Marshall and Company; Thomas S. Gorley, a practical printer and former employe in the office, being the company. On May 1, 1896, the proprietorship of the paper passed into the hands of the Genius of Liberty Publishing company, con- sisting of Messrs. Frank P. Cottom, Albert Marshall and T. Robb Deyarmon, and on April 1, 1898, the subscription price of the paper was reduced from $2 to $1 per annum. Thomas Hazen hailed from Franklin township, was a sur- veyor by profession and served one term as county commissioner with credit to himself and satisfaction to the county. He died in Philadelphia May 21, 1896, in the 61st year of his age. A daily paper was issued from the office of the Genius of Liberty during the judicial campaign of 1897, and was known as the Democratic Daily, the first issue bearing date of Thursday morning, October 14th, and was published in the interest of D. M. Hertzog, Esq., who was the Democratic candidate for the judgeship. This was a spicy paper while it lasted and was ably edited by Wooda N. Carr, Esq., assisted by Charles D. Clark, Esq., and others. The last issue was dated Wednesday, No- vember 3rd, being the 18th number. On March 15, 1900, the paper passed into the ownership of the Fayette Publishing company, a corporation capitalized at $30,000, which consisted of its recent owners, Messrs. F. P. Cot- tom, Hon. T. Robb Deyarmon and Albert Marshall, together with A. Plumer Austin, John S. Ritenour and others; Mr. Rit- enour becoming chief editor. On May 14, 1900, a daily paper was started from this of- fice, known as the Evening Genius, delivered by the carrier at six cents per week. Mr. Albert Marshall severed his connection with the Genius of Liberty February 18, 1905. Mr. Marshall in relating his ex- perience as a printer, states : " I went to the printing trade under John F. Beazell in June, 1863, when he had the office of publication of the American Standard in the second floor of the 4d6 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Bryan building, on the north side of Main street. I had been employed occasionally as a boy in the office to ' fly ' the papers on press day, but on the above date I entered the office perma- nently to learn the trade. I assumed the position of foreman in the third year from the commencement of my apprentice- ship, having been under the efficient instructions of a Mr. Greene. Many of the boys of the office having enlisted in the army hands were scarce and the work was principally done by inexperienced 'hands. I left the standard office in 1869, and secured service in the office of the Genius of Liberty, then on the second floor in Camp- bell's row on Pittsburgh street, under the proprietorship of Col. E. G. Roddy. In a few weeks after entering this office it was re- moved to Morgantown street, having passed into the ownership of A. M. Gibson. The Standard was under the ownership of William H. Miller when I left the office, and after a continuous service of thirty-six years in the office of the Genius of Liberty, I accepted a position in the office of the News Standard to take charge of the job department." The issue of October 4, 1906, announced that the Genius of Liberty and the Evening Genius had been sold to David J. Berry of Greensburg for $30,000; the deal having been consum- mated Tuesday evening, October 2, 1906. The issue of the Evening Genius of September 5, 1908, gives John O'Donnell as president and manager and W. L. Leamon as managing editor, and the issue of April 15, 1908, gives John L. Keffer as editor. Frank P. Cottom retired from the firm February 15, 1908, after having been connected with the paper for twelve years, to enter the practice of law. The Fayette Publishing company began also the publishing of a morning daily paper known as the Morning Herald, the first issue of which was January 8, 1907. The issue of February 6, 1908, gives John O'Donnell as president and manager, Jesse L. Kaufman as editor. Kaufman retired August 9, 1909, having been with the office since August, 1907. The issue of February 14, 1912, gives O'Donnell as presi- dent and managing editor, and W. P. Harader as secretary and treasurer. The Fayette and Greene Spectator. The Fayette and Greene Spectator was established Thurs- day, January 10, 1811, Vol. I, No. 1, bearing that date. William History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 467 Campbell, brother of Dr. Hugh Campbell, and who had learned the printing trade in the office of the Fayette Gazette and Union Advertiser or Genius of Liberty, was the founder. The issue of Wednesday, April 33, 1814, mentions that James Lodge & Co. are now the publishers. After one year's experience in the newspaper business in Uniontown Mr. Campbell established a paper at Perryopolis, the name of which is not now known, and this venture lasted but about one year. He subsequently went to New Lisbon, Ohio, where he again ventured in journalism. The American Telegraph. The American Telegraph was established in Brownsville by John Bouvier in 1814, where it was conducted for four years, and in the year 1818 it was consolidated with the Genius of Liberty under the ownership and editorship of Bouvier and Austin. The Pennsylvania Democrat. The Pennsylvania Democrat and Literary Gazette was founded by Jacob B. Miller, Esq., Vol. I, No. 1, bearing date of July 35, 1827. The office of publication was then on the lot lately occupied by the Frey and Gilmore hardware store, in a frame building. In 1839, J. S. C. Goff and Samuel Yarnell, practical printers of the office, took charge of .the paper in the absence of Mr. Miller, who upon his return from the West associated with himself John F. Beazell, a brother-in-law. They removed the office of publication to Stew- art's row on Morgantown street where they conducted it until 1834, when it was sold to Samuel and William McDonald, brothers, who published it for about four years, after which Samuel became sole proprietor until 1844. He changed the name to " Uniontown Weekly Democrat and Fayette County Advertiser." In 1844 he sold the paper to Thomas Foster, a gentleman from Harrisburg, who changed the name back to the " Pennsylvania Democrat." In 1846 he sold a half interest to John F. Beazell, who soon after acquired the other half and con- tinued sole owner until March 1, 1866. When the American or Know-Nothing party sprang into existence the Democrat advo- cated the doctrine of that party, viz. : " America for Americans," and as evidence of its sympathy and advocacy of such doctrine the name of the paper was changed dn December 14, 1854, to the " American Standard." Another version of the changing of 468 History of Ufdontown, Pennsylvania. the name was for the purpose of inserting the coat of arms of the state in the center of the title head. When the Republican party was organized the American Standard became a supporter of its principles to which it has ever since adhered with the exception of a few months in 1878, when it became an ardent advocate of the doctrines of the Greenback party. In the latter years of Mr. Beazell's connec- tion with the paper he was ably assisted by his son, Col. John W. Beazell under the name of John W. Beazell & Co. On March 1, 1866, the paper was sold to James G. Johnston and Alexander W. Boyd who controlled the paper jointly until the 13th of the following December when Johnston became sole owner. During Mr. Johnston's ownership of the paper several sensational episodes occurred the publication of which brought the paper into prominence and doubled its subscription list. In May, 1867, Mr. Johnston sold a half interest to Jacob B. Miller, the founder and former editor, who passed it over to his half-brother, William H. Miller. This arrangement, how- ever, was of short duration, as Jacob B. Miller persisted in writing editorials in which he had a penchant for scorging those who opposed his views. Mr. Johnston retired from the paper, March 26, 1868, disposing of his interest to Jacob B. Miller who continued to be the chief editor until his death, at which time William H. Miller became sole owner and editor. On March 31, 1879, the paper was consolidated with the Fayette County Republican, under the name of the Republican Standard, the firm name being Miller, Rush and Ritenour, the last named being the editor, which position he filled until his retirement from the paper in 1881, when he returned to Pitts- burgh journalism. On June 21, 1879, G. C. McKnight bought the half interest of William H. Miller, whose place in the firm name he also took. On June 11, 1881, Rush and Ritenour disposed of their half interest to John K. Ewing Jr., and Orrin Jones Sturgis, and a few days later Mr. McKnight transferred to them his interest, they assuming full control June 15, 1881. On December 1, 1890, Mr. Ewing bought the one-half interest of his partner, the latter, however, continuing as managing editor until June 15, 1891, when he went to Pittsburgh. Mr. Ewing continued sole proprietor until October 30, 1893, when he sold the paper to his former partner, O. J. Sturgis. On the same date a con- solidation of the Uniontown News was effected with the Re- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. . 469 publican Standard under the name of the News Standard, and was published under a chartered company with O. J. Sturgis as managing editor and T. S. Gorley as business manager. Upon the death of Mr. Sturgis, which occurred May 14, 1908, William H. Cook, a former proprietor and editor of the Genius of Liberty, was called to the editorial chair as editor in chief, which position he filled until Nov. 9, 1913, when Harold G. Sturgis assumed the position. On Monday, December 17, 1888, a daily edition of the News Standard was issued to meet the requirements of the Fayette county teachers' institute then in session, and such was the impetus then attained the daily has proven a financial success and has truly supplied " a long felt want." The News Standard office issued a new paper known as The Morning News, the first issue of which appeared Thursday morning, April 5, 1906. This paper was spicy during its meteoric flight, but proving unprofitable it was soon discontinued. The Uniontown Democrat and Fayette County Advertiser was the Pennsylvania Democrat under a new name and was published by Samuel McDonald as editor and proprietor; Vol. I, No. 1, bearing the date of Tuesday, August 20, 1844. Mr. Mc- Donald also did book printing and binding at his office. The Democrat and Review was another name for the old Pennsylvania Democrat with Thomas Foster as editor and pro- prietor, with the office in Stewart's row on Morgantown street. The issue of September 26, 1844, is given as Vol. 18, No. 6. The American Banner and Literary and Temperance Jour- nal was established with Alfred Patterson, Esq., as editor and William H. Whitton as printer. Vol. \, No. 1, bearing the date of April 16, 1832. The office of publication was in the old Rowland house, known as the oldest brick house in Uniontown, on East Main street. Mr. Whitton had formerly been connected with the Genius of Liberty. The Democratic Shield was established by James Piper in May, 1834, with Thomas Patton, a former editor and pro- prietor of the Genius of Liberty, and Justin G. Morris as printers. The office of publication was in a log building on East Main street opposite the Austin property and belonging to Mr. Piper. In May, 1836, it was under the editorship and manage- ment of Justin G. Morris, and in 1837, it was absorbed by the Genius of Liberty. 470 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The Harrisonian and Weekly Conservative was estab- lished in the fall of 1840, vsrith Nat. Byers as proprietor and George W. Sullivan and Benjamin F. Lincoln as editors and publishers, Vol. I, No. 36, bearing date of September 15, 1840. This was a campaign paper issued in the interests of General Harrison, and the office was in the basement of the Clinton House hotel of which Mr. Byers was the proprietor. The paper ceased after the campaign. The Cumberland Presbyterian was published in 1847 by Robert W. Jones in Campbell's row on Pittsburgh street where the Grand Opera house now stands. It was published in the interests of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. It was in this office that the late Judge C. E. Boyle took his first lessons in typesetting. Mr. Jones soon removed the paper to Waynesburg. He was a son-in-law of John P. Sturgis. The Extra Allowance was a campaign paper published in Uniontown. Vol. I, No. 1, bearing date of Tuesday, October 10, 1848, at twenty-five cents during the campaign. It contained many poetic effusions of a campaign character in the interests of Zachary Taylor. The Fayette Whig was established in 1849 by John Bosler of Pittsburgh. Bosler and Shaw were announced as publishers, and Vol. I, No. 14, bears date of Tuesday, April 3, 1849, and the office of publication was in Commercial Row. Mr. Bosler conducted the paper for some time in the room now occupied by the Central Hotel bar. Mr. Bosler got into legal trouble while here with a rival editor and left under discouraging circumstances. The Democratic Sentinel was established in 1850 by J. Nelson H. Patrick. In 1854 the firm became Patrick and Riley and under this firm it was known as Vol. IV, No. 16, September 6, 1854. The paper was subsequently removed to Connellsville. The American Citizen was established by William H. Murphy and Jesse B. Ramsey; Vol. I, No. 1, bearing date of September 18, 1855. This paper was published in the interests of the Citizens' party and had for its motto " America must be Americanized " and advocated that the public offices of the land should be filled by native Americans. This paper lasted but a little over two years. The Citizens' party was composed of members of the two old parties, and from the fact that they in- variably denied knowing anything about the new party, they History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 471 acquired the sobriquet of the " Know-Nothing " party. This party acquired power enough, however, to elect part of their ticket in Fayette county. The Baptist Journal was a monthly paper, established by James C. Whaley December 20, 1855. He was the founder, editor and proprietor. This publication lasted but one year. Our Paper was a monthly and was first published in October, 1872. It was edited by Nathaniel Ewing, Esq., and Dr. A. P. Bowie, as a committee from the Young Men's Chris- tian Association under whose auspices it was published. It continued one year. The Uniontown Enterprise, a free advertising sheet was published by J. Austin Modisette, a druggist, in 1876. It ex- isted one year. The Fayette County Republican was founded June 6, 1878, by John S. Ritenour and William J. Rush. This paper was consolidated with the American Standard March 21, 1879, be- coming the Republican Standard. The Temperance Radical was first established in Connells- ville in the interests of temperance, by Will J. McConnell, Vol. I, No. 5, bearing date of March 28, 1878. The office was soon removed to Uniontown where it was continued for about ten months. It was anything else but temperate in expressing its sentiments as to the liquor business. The Uniontown Democrat, Vol. I, No. 1, bearing date of April 13, 1878, with Joseph Beatty and Charles D. Conner as editors and publishers, with office in the Tremont building, con- tinued to be published under different ownerships for about six- teen years, when the machinery and material were bought by parties and removed to California, Pa. The National Enterprise, Vol. I, No. 1, bearing date of July 31, 1879, survived until November 1st of that same year. Dr. W. L. Penny was editor and proprietor. The paper was published in the interests of the Greenback party, and the office was located in Campbell's row on Pittsburgh street. The Amateur was a free advertising sheet started in 1879, and printed monthly by George Irwin. It lasted between six months and one year. It had an issue of 500 copies, 400 of which were on the exchange list. The Pick and Plow was published by W. Nixon Canaan as manager and local editor. Vol. I, No. 1, bearing date of May 472 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 10, 1879. It was issued in the interests of the Greenback party and survived but a short time. The Western Pennsylvanian or The Three Towns was started in Brownsville by O. O'B. Strayer as editor, Vol. I, No. 26, bearing date of August 5, 1884. It was announced as the only daily paper then in Fayette county. This paper was soon removed to Uniontown and J. H. Grable was announced as publisher and E. D. Fulton as the authorized agent for Western Pennsylvania. The outfit of this office was sold at sheriff's sale at March term, 1885, to Charles D. Conner who removed the office from the Campbell row to the John Thorn- dell building on Main street. The Madison Review was established in October, 1887, as an adjunct to Prof. C. A. Gilbert's school, known as Madison Academy, under the editorship of W. H. Rankin, Wooda N. Carr, J. R. Nutt and Frank H. Taylor and published as a monthly paper until March, 1888. This was a publication of considerable literary merit and attained quite a creditable circu- lation throughout the county. The Uniontown News was the successor to the Browns- ville Three Towns, under the ownership and editorship of Charles D. Conner, who established it in March, 1885, when in 1888 he sold the paper to John D. Carr and Robert W. Herbert. The latter soon retired and Mr. Carr became sole owner, and Wooda N. Carr became editor. In 1889, Mr. Carr sold to A. M. Claybaugh and others, who soon transferred it to Frank M. Fuller and company who conducted it as a daily until its con- solidation with the Republican Standard in 1893 ; when the consolidated papers became the News Standard Daily and Weekly. The Fayette Beacon Light was a quarterly established by John Beatty and H. A. Crow as publishers and editors; Vol. I, No. 1, being dated April, 1889. The price was 25 cents per year. This publication was of short duration. The Fayette Advertiser Vol. I, No. 2., bears date of March 29, 1890, and announces James B. Martin as editor and pro- prietor. The office of publication was in a frame building be- longing to Wish Miller on Penn street. The publication did not last long. The Western Enterprise was published in the interests of the Afro-American League. Vol. I, No. 14, bears date of Fri- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 473 day, June 19, 1896, with T. B. Littlejohn as manager and Rev. W. C. Goens, B. D. and Rev. B. F. Combash, B. D., as associate editors. The office of publication was on the corner of South and Arch streets, and was issued under the auspicies of the Western Mutual Enterprise company. It lasted only a year or two. The People's Tribune, issued in the interests of the Pro- hibition party, was established June 8, 1893, by a company in- cluding H. L. Robinson, Esq., Daniel Sturgeon, Esq., Albert Gaddis, and others, with George E. Merkley as editor. The names of the stockholders as given June 14, 1907, were Editor W. M. Likins, about one-third; Andrew Brown, W. H. Martin, Esq., T. Scott Dunn, Daniel Sturgeon, Esq., T. S. Lackey, Esq., Albert Gaddis, Jasper T. Sembower, Lewis H. Workman and R. D. Warman, Esq. In pursuance to the developments in the suit brought by J. T. Sembower against the Tribune company and its directors, the Court on June 9, 1909, appointed said Jasper T. Sembower temporary receiver for the People's Tribune company, with in- structions to continue the business. The publication of this paper was suspended indefinitely January 2, 1913. The Evening News was started in the spring of 1893, and was published daily by the Daily News Publishing Company, office in the Miller building, with John R. Burns as business manager and Emery W. Bartlett managing editor. In October of the same year it was merged into the News Standard. The Index was founded in Ashland, Ohio, in 1899, by Rev. C. H. Plattenburg and upon his advent here as pastor of the Central Christian church the paper was continued here. On Mr. Plattenburg's removal the publication was resumed by Rev. Herbert Yeuell, and after Mr. Yeuell's removal the publication was still continued by Rev. J. Walter Carpenter in the interests of the church. The issue of March 31, 1906, is Vol. IX, No. 27, two years of which it was published in Ashland, Ohio. St. Paul's Echo is a monthly issued in the interests of the St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran church, and was founded, edited and published by Rev. Ernest Anton Trabert; Vol. V, No. 1, bearing date of January, 1906. The Church Herald was a monthly issued in the interests of Saint Peter's parish of the Episcopal church. It was founded, edited and published by Rev. F. E. J. Lloyd, the rector; Vol. I, No. 1, bearing date of July, 1903. 474 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The Bethel Bulletin, a small weekly paper published in the interests of the Great Bethel Baptist church, with Rev. Joseph S. Bromley as editor. Vol. I, No. 1, is dated March 25, 1906. The Daily Citizen was started September 30, 1907, Vol. I, No. 1, in the interest of the Citizens' party, under the manage- ment of B. S. Forsythe as chairman, N. A. Rist as vice chair- man, H. H. Burwell as secretary and John A. Simpson as editor. This was a campaign paper published to defeat a certain judicial candidate. It ceased with the issue of Tuesday, November 5, 1907. The Peoples' Advocate, Vol. I, No. 7, was dated Saturday, February 15, 1908, and was published by Charles H. Plummer, president; John T. Briggs, treasurer; Joseph J. Attwell, secretary and manager; these were all colored men and the paper was not published principally in the interests of that race as might be expected but was conducted as an independent paper, and was a very creditable sheet. The issue of February 32 added the name of John M. Trent as associate editor, and W. C. Vance as treasurer instead of John T. Briggs. The paper was issued from the editorial office. No. 84 East Main street, and ceased to exist about the last of March. Mr. Vance states that he was induced to invest his money in the enterprise just in time to be caught in the fall, and that some of the other mem- bers of the firm lost nothing for the reason they had nothing invested, and he also affirms that one of the firm had absconded with the funds of the concern, and most emphatically declared that there should never be any more adventure in the news- paper business for him. The Critic, is a weekly paper issued in the interests of the Socialistic Party. The first issue, Vol. I, No. 1, bearing date of October 18, 1912, and bore the names of Charles N. Walker as editor, D. Z. Walker as associate editor and Edward Miller, Jr., as staff editor The office of publication is in the D. P. Gibson building on West Peter street. The latest venture in journalism to date is The Daily Record published in the interests of the Progressive Independent party ; the first issue of which was issued about October 1, 1913. This paper was published by a corporation of which William A. Stone, J. W. Dawson, H. L. Robinson and others were the promoters, with Frank Hurst as business manager. CHAPTER XXI. Schools. The Constitution of 1790 provided for the education of the poor as soon as practicable, in order that they might be taught gratis. Under this provision laws were passed in 1802, 1804, and 1809, looking to the education of the poor. Under the act of April 4, 1809, what was known as pauper schools was organ- ized, it not being expedient at that time to educate all at the public expense ; this plan was opprobiously called the " pauper system," and under which little progress was made. Parents were notified that they could send their children to the most convenient school free of expense. The education of the masses had been a long-felt want when Governor George Wolf, in his message to the Senate and House of Representatives, declared that " it was time that the character of our State should be redeemed from the state of supineness and indifference to its most important interest, the education of its citizens." On the first day of the session, Samuel Breck, a senator from Philadelphia, moved the appoint- ment of a joint committee of the two Houses for the purpose of digesting a general system of education for the commonwealth. Of this committee, James Thompson of Venango county, after- wards chief justice of the supreme court of Pennsylvania, sub- mitted a bill entitled " An act to establish a General System of Education by Common Schools." The authorship of that bill is ascribed to Senator Breck. This bill passed the House by an almost unanimous vote, and the Senate concurred and it met the governor's approval. This action proved to be the substratum of the common school system of Pennsylvania. The present school system was estabhshed by the act of April 1, 1834. The early school houses were generally single-story log cabins with huge stone chimney and fire place ; glass or greased paper admitted the light, the floors were of puncheon and the roof of clap-boards; the door was held shut by a wooden latch to which was a string to lift it. Seats were made of split logs into which legs were driven and were so high the feet of the children would not reach the floor, and had no backs. Writing 475 476 History of Uniontoiim, Pennsylvania. desks were made of slabs supported by pins driven into the walls. The teacher made all the pens from goose quills furnished by the pupils, made the ink from nutgalls and copperas, ruled the copy book and set the copy. The books mostly in use were the new testament, the United States spelling book, the English Reader, the Western Calculator, Cobb's Speller, John Roger's Primer, Introduction to the English Reader, and Samuel Kirkham's school series. A school building had already been erected in Uniontown prior to the erection of Fayette county, September 26, 1783, as it was ordered that the first term of court be held in the school building which then stood on what was known as the Central Public grounds now occupied by the sherifif's residence and jail. In this school house the first term of the Court of Quarter Ses- sions and of Common Pleas was held on the fourth Tuesday in December, 1783. One Colin Campbell was a resident of the town in 1783, and his profession was that of a teacher and it is not improbable that he taught in the school house above mentioned. A school was organized in 1791-2 under the auspices of the Methodist Episcopal church. This was known as the Union school and was under the charge of Rev. Charles Conway, and later taught by Rev. John K. Reynolds in 1795, and by John St. Clair in 1807. This school was situated at the west end of Peter street, next to the Methodist Episcopal church. A log building stood on the north side of Peter street that had formerly been the residence of Jonathan Downer and this was used for many years as a school house. An Irishman by the name of Burns taught here about 1810, and Silas Baily taught here in 1820. This was known as the Downer school house. Mr. Enos West built a one-story log building on his lot on South street for a school house in which George Brown of Virginia, taught a school in 1839. A Mr. Richard Stokes taught here and among his pupils were Catharine McCleary, John Ken- nedy Ewing and John S. Harah. Nobel McCormick was another who taught in this building, and Norval Greenland was one of his pupils. One Lathrop was also a teacher here. Joseph Cole- stock taught in this building for several terms. This building is still standing although all the teachers and with few excep- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 477 tions, all the pupils that ever gathered in this old building have passed to the great beyond. Of other old teachers who taught here before and at the time of the introduction of the common school system may be mentioned John A. Donne who was located here prior to 1820 and taught at various locations. He was a scholarly man and a proficient teacher. He lies buried at Mt. Olivet cemetery, at Frederick, Md. A Mr. Cole taught in the M. E. school house as did Mrs. Daughiday. Mr. and Mrs. Baker taught school and sewing, in 1820. Samuel Wilson taught " Fayette Seminary " in 1837, and was succeeded by Smith F. Greer in 1839-40. J. M. Smith taught " Union High school " at the time of the opening of the free schools. Aunt Betsy Hedges was an early teacher of small children as were Aunt Ruth Dorsey and Aunt Betsy Fausett and Mrs. Emily Connell. One Billings (not Josh Billings) taught a school of colored children at the colored church on Morgantown street in the 50's, and from the number and size of the switches he carried to the school, one would have been justified in concluding that he was engaged in the nursery business. In accordance with the act passed by the assembly April 2, 1831, the court of Fayette county, at January term, 1835, appointed Richard Beeson and James Piper, school directors of Uniontown to carry out the law. On October 1, 1835, they re- ported to the county treasurer that the terms of the law had been complied with. This entitled the borough to an appropria- tion from the state for that year of $73.66, and from the county $147.32, or double the amount appropriated by the state, as re- quired by the act. The first board of school directors elected was as follows : John Dawson, William Redick, Hugh Espy, Alonzo L. Littell, James Boyle and William Wilson. They announced that they would open four schools to commence about April 15, 1836, and continue for six months, divided into two sessions of three months each, with a vacation of one month in August. They also solicited proposals from persons desiring to teach, said pro- posals to be received until the 8th of April, and to state the wages expected. At least one room was to be in charge of a female teacher. This notice was dated March 19, 1836. On September 6, 1838, the school board purchased from 478 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. William Salter a two-story brick building which stood on the corner of what was then known as Foundry alley and South street. This building had been used as a foundry and was always referred to as the old foundry school house. This was converted into four school rooms, with a hall passing through and stairway in the hall. Here the schools were taught until in 1850 when an additional building was erected on this lot, facing on Church street. This building stood back from the sidewalk and had a portico in front. It was two stories high and contained four rooms, with hall through the center. There was ample space for play grounds between the two buildings, and the time spent on these play grounds is more pleasantly re- membered than that spent within the walls of the old school buildings. Much of the time the girls were taught in the new building and the boys in the old foundry building. A report of the schools of 1854, shows an enrollment of 401 pupils and seven teachers. Among the old-time teachers who taught in these old buildings may be mentioned : Betsy Hedges, Betsy Fausett, Sophia Stevens, Mary E. Coburn, Elizabeth Beck, Sarah Ann Sampsel, Emma Salter, Rebecca Krepps, Martha White, Ella Gadd, Sarah Swisher, Rebecca Jones, Hal- lie Kerr, Sarah Yeagley, Mary Redick, Mrs. Walker, Polly Canon, William B. McCormick, William Lyon, W. Whitton Redick, George H. Leithead, George L. Osborne, James Darby, Miller Dunn, William A. Patton, Alpheus Sembower, John Jackson, Joshua V. Gibbons. The board of school directors resolved to open eight free schools for the ensuing summer of 1847; E. P. Oliphant, presi- dent; R. G. Hopwood, secretary. The common schools of Union borough, for males exclusively, will commence in the old foundry building on the first Monday of May, 1849. Teachers, William B. McCormick, E. J. Elliott, N. B. Richards. The female schools will be opened in the new school build- ing on the second Monday of May, 1849. Teachers, George W. Brown, Miss Elizabeth Hedges, Miss Sophia Stevens and Mrs. N. Walker. No scholar, by positive enactment, admitted under four years of age. Under the act of 1809, assessors returned the names of in- digent children to the county commissioners who drew an order History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ^t^ on the county treasurer for the amount of the tuition money. This law was in operation for twenty-five years. The schools of Uniontown were first graded in 1855, under James H. Springer as the first principal, and he was succeeded by William B. McCormick, W. Whitton Redick, George L. Osborne, Michael D. Baker, B. M. Moore, Samuel Espy, H. O. Gibbons, Burkey Patterson, Hibbard Phillips, R. F. Wilson, Fulton Phillips, T. L. Axtel, William H. Cooke, William A. Alexander, George F. Mead, Lenora H. Phillips, O. J. Sturgis, E. H. Reppert, A. M. Claybaugh, J. S. David, Lee S. Smith, H. L. Brooks, Edward P. Johnson, C. J. Scott. On August 19, 1857, Moses Shehan conveyed to the school board a lot having a frontage of forty-five feet on Church street, next west of the school grounds and on June 6, 1860, the lot, formerly of Molly Lyon, was purchased at sheriff's sale and also added to the school grounds. In 1868, the two old school buildings were torn away and a three-story building, 65 by 90 feet, at a cost of about $33,000, was erected, and in 1891, an addition was added to this building, 45 by 150 feet, at a cost of $38,500. The school systems of Pennsylvania have passed through several evolutions, viz. : The subscription schools, which only those who were able to pay, could attend : The pauper schools, where distinctions between the rich and the poor were made; the common schools of 1834, with great improvements over the former systems, and obliterated the lines between the rich and the poor; and the present public school system, with all the ad- vantages of more than a century's experience. A frame school building was erected on East Fayette street in 1870 at a cost of $1,500 for the exclusive use of the colored children and was used as such until the legal question as to their right to be educated with the white children was decided in their favor, from which time the colored children have been mingled with the white. Subsequently this building was renovated and named the White school building in honor of Joseph White who had served so long and faithfully on the school board, and the smaller chil- dren of that neighborhood were taught there. This property was exposed to public sale and was transferred to Solomon Cohen, in trust for the Tree of Life congregation of the Jewish 480 History of Umoniown, Pennsylvania. church, which sale was confirmed January 13, 1909, and since which time the building has been used as a synagogue. Gallatin School House. The Gallatin school house was erected on the west side of North Gallatin avenue in 1908. It was built of cream colored brick and trimmed with terra cotta, two stories high, with base- ment, and contains eight class rooms and offices. This building was opened for school on Monday, Decem- ber 38, 1908, with an enrollment of 350 pupils. Thomas H. Jones was principal and instructor of room No. 8; Miss Lillian Hammett, No. 7; Miss Mayme Shrock, No. 6; Miss Lila Ridgt- way. No. 4; Miss Harriet Hampton, No. 3; Miss Florence Bierer, No. 3 ; Miss Drue West, No. 1. No. 5 was vacant. The Craig school building was bought from South Union township when it was brought into the borough, and Miss Lucy South was placed in charge as the first teacher. Third Ward school building, known as the Berkeley street school was opened for school September, 1904, The first teachers here were Misses Minnie Gilmore and Lida Jaquette. East End school building erected in 1907, was opened that fall. The first corps of teachers was John Hopwood, principal; Mrs. David Hopwood, Misses Emma Swearingen, Helen Darby, lola Smith, Ida May Wismer, Jean Townsend and Mrs. Olive Davidson. Park Place school building was purchased from North Union township and opened for school in the fall of 1910, with William Huston as principal and Mary Keenan, Miss Knopp, Sarah Smith, Nellie Sharps, Josephine Hankins and Mrs. Olive David- son as teachers. County Superintendents. An act of assembly of 1854, creating the office of county superintendent, required an election on the first Monday in June of that year. The candidates for the position were Joshua V. Gibbons, George P. Fulton and L. P. Parker; the fight laid prin- cipally between Gibbons and Parker. Gibbons was elected and held his first examination for teachers at the Gould school house in Bellevernon. Only one applicant appeared for examination, John C. Hasson, and he had the honor of receiving the first certificate from a county superintendent. The list of county superintendents is as follows: Joshua w to •p O w o o u H CO W Q J O W H History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 481 Gibbons, 1854-63; George Yeagley, 1863-66; C. W. Wanee, 1866-72; Joshua V. Gibbons, 1873-75; W. H. Cooke, 1875-81; R. V. Ritenour, 1881-87; L. M. Herrington, 1887-93; E. F. Porter, 1893-99 ; John S. Carroll, 1899-1905 ; C. Gregg Lewellyn, 1905. High School. Under an act of the legislature passed in 1885, a high school was established in Uniontown. Professor A. M. Claybaugh as principal and Ella Peach as assistant were the first teachers. The first class was graduated on May 12, 1885, and consisted o£ two young ladies ; Miss Minnie Baker and Miss Carrie Costello. The High School building was erected on East Fayette street at a cost of $90,975, plus the heating and ventilating system which cost $16,327. This building was opened for school Mon- day morning, September 11, 1911, with an enrollment of 434 pupils; 46 seniors, 63 juniors, 103 sophomores, 58 commercials and 165 freshmen. Opening exercises were held Tuesday morning, November 21, 1911. Those in charge of the high school were: Superintendent, C. J. Scott; Professor F. W. Wright, principal; Ella Peach, vice-principal; Mattie Wright, Greek, French and German; Clara Smith, commercial; Alice Horner, English; Alfred T. Miller, Latin and History; P. H. Rinehart, science; A. J. Dann, algebra and director of music; Minnie Gilmore, English; Bessie Leonard, freshman English ; Hannah Jefferis, freshman algebra ; Carl A. Sutter, advanced mathematics and athletic director; Dewitt Conway, freshman science; William Bryson, freshman Latin; G. U. Eastman, commercial work. The total enrollment of all the schools is over 2,500. The ward principals were : T. H. Jones, L. E. Pollock, Jesse McKnight, W. E. Hutson. By an action of the school board on May 13, 1896, the superintendency system was adopted in the Uniontown schools, and Principal Lee S. Smith was elected for a term of three years. This action was in accordance with the provisions of the act of assembly of June 10, 1881, thus combining the position of superintendent with that of principal. But at the expiration of three years, the schools were placed back into the county, and there remained during the principalships of H. F. Brook and of E. P. Johnson, a period of five years. Union borough 482 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. again became an independent district, under the superintendency of Clifford J. Scott. The nucleus of a public school library was established in 1880. The compulsory school law was enacted in 1885. The dedication of the High School building was observed with appropriate ceremonies on Wednesday evening, November 29, 1911, at which a most able address was delivered by Dr. Edwin E. Sparks, president of Pennsylvania State college on the subject, " The Great Crucible." The Uniontown public schools held their first city institute December 8, 1911, at which Dr. Shaver was an instructor. The New School Code was adopted May 18, 1911. CHAPTER XXII. Old Madison College. Old Madison college doubtless dates its inception back to 1791, when John Hopwood laid out a plat for a town which he named Woodstock and which is now covered by the present vil- lage of Hopwood, two and a half miles east of Uniontown. Mr. Hopwood was a friend of education and set apart a site in his prospective town for an academy of learning, and also made liberal provisions for the erection and maintenance of the same. That such an academy of learning was established accord- ing to the provisions made by Mr. Hopwood is evidenced by the minutes of the Great Bethel Baptist church, of which Mr. Hopwood was an active member, of July 19, 1794, in which the patronage of the Baptist denomination is recommended. Col. Alexander McClean, Dennis Springer and Joseph Huston were named as trustees of this academy, but by the death of Mr. Hopwood, June 2, 1802, the academy lost its promoter and was soon reduced to a struggling existence. It was soon apparent that Uniontown would be a more favorable location for the academy than the village of Wood- stock, and in a few years after the death of Mr. Hopwood " Union academy " was established on a tract of land purchased by Jonathan Downer from Henry Beeson, June 8, 1793, located on the east side of Redstone creek. By an article of agreement dated June 13, 1808, Jonathan Downer set apart one acre of the above tract to Zadoc Walker, Christian Tarr and Thomas Meason, trustees of Union academy, and doubtless this academy was in operation before 1807, as John St. Clair was advertised as a professor of languages and mathematics in Union academy March 30, 1807. On July 31, 1794, Henry Beeson conveyed to Rev. Charles Conaway and his associates as trustees of Union District school a tract of land near the Methodist Episcopal church on Peter street, on which a building was erected and in which a school was conducted for some time. These two schools were, doubt- less the forerunners of Union academy which in the course of lime became Madison college. By an act of the legislature of Pennsylvania passed Febru- 483 484 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ary 4, 1808, Union academy at Uniontown, Pa., was incorporated, in which provisions were made for the admission of a certain number of poor children of the county to be taught gratis, and the sum of $2,000 was appropriated out of the state treasury towards its establishment. The trustees named were: Rev. James Guthrie, Thomas Hadden, Esq., Presley Carr Lane, James W. Nicholson, Christian Tarr, Charles Porter, Thomas Meason, John Kennedy, Esq., Zadoc Walker, James Allen, Maurice Freeman, Jesse Pencil and James Findley. The trustees secured the services of John St. Clair to teach Latin, Greek, etc. ; the term to commence in April, 1808. As time passed interest in Union academy began to wane and, in 1832, a new board of directors was elected, composed of John Kenndey, Esq., Hon. Thomas H. Baird, Thomas Irwin, Esq., Hon. William Nixon, Hon. Charles Porter, John M. Austin, Esq., Joshua Hart, Thomas Hadden, Esq., Rev. James Guthrie, Christian Farr, John B. Trevor, Esq., Nathaniel Ewing, Esq., and Samuel Y. Campbell. These determined to revive the academy. The appropriation made by the legislature was in- sufficient to complete the building, and although used for a time, had become badly out of repair by laying unused for some time past, and an effort was begun to raise funds with which to make needed repairs and revive the institution. They advertised for sealed proposals to be received until January 10, 1823, for doing certain carpentering, plastering and glazing on the building. William Thompson, an Englishman, came here from Rom- ney, Va., and opened a school in the academy building with his wife and John Morris as assistants, and the trustees announced that they had placed the institution on a high standing, and recommended it as an institution worthy to be patronized, and that Mr. Thompson had been engaged to commence his duties as principal about July 1, 1824, and that the institution is now in a flourishing condition. Mr. Thompson taught this academy successfully for five years. He was a good scholar and a suc- cessful teacher. He published a small pamphlet of 96 pages while here, in which among other matters, was an account of General Lafayette's visit to Uniontown, including Hon. Albert Gallatin's address of welcome and General Lafayette's reply. The body of the work was composed of the author's own poetic productions, and it is quite evident that the author was well pleased with them. History of Uniontoztm, Pennsylvania. 485 Moses Hampton succeeded Mr. Thompson as principal of what he called Lafayette college. He taught here two years, during which time he became a student of law under John M. Austin, and was admitted to the bar, March 3, 1829. Mr. Hampton was born in Beaver county. Pa., near Darlington, October 28, 1803, and served as an apprentice under his father as a blacksmith by which he paid his way at school. He completed his course at Washington college, and in 1826 he accepted the principalship of Union academy. About 1827, he married Miss Ann, daughter of John Miller, and in 1829, he removed to Somerset county and became associated with Jerry S. Black and Charles Ogle in the practice of law. In 1838 he removed to Pittsburgh where he attained prominence as an attorney and spent the remainder of his life. By an act of the Legislature of March 7, 1827, Madison col- lege was established at Uniontown, Pa., with a charter confer- ring the usual powers, and especially authorizing an additional department of agriculture in which should be taught scientific- ally the art and uses of all and every kind of husbandry. The property belonging to the Union academy was by the same act of assembly vested in the trustees of the college subject to its original uses. The college was named in honor of Dr. James Madison, late bishop of the Protestant Episcopal church in Virginia, and president of the college of William and Mary, and one of the commissioners on the part of Virginia who settled the dispute as to the location of the boundary line between that state and Pennsylvania. The names of the trustees as they appeared by the act of incorporation were as follows : Thomas Irwin, John Kennedy, Thornton Fleming, John M. Austin, Samuel Evans, Henry Ebert, Nathaniel Ewing, Robert Skiles, Isaac Beeson, all of Uniontown; James Barnes of Greene county; Richard Coulter of Greensburg; Robert Darrah and Abner Lacock of Beaver county; John Davenport of Burnsville, Ohio; John C. Wright, David Seaton and George Brown of Steubenville, Ohio; Shad- rach Bostick of Canfield, Ohio; Noah Zane of Wheeling, Va. ; Asa Shinn and Samuel Hazlett of Washington, Pa.; Henry D. Sillers, Charles Avery, Charles Cook, Ross Wilkins and John Waterman of Pittsburgh ; B. S. Pigman of Cumberland, Md. ; George Hogg, Michael Sowers and Isaac Miller of Brownsville; Hugh C. Todd of Cookstown ; Charles McLain and Eugene Wil- son pf Morgantown, Va. ; James W. Nicholson of New Geneva ; 486 History of Unionfown, Pennsylvania. Isaac Meason and William Davidson of Connellsville ; Edwin S. Duncan of Clarksburg, Va. ; John Leech of Mercer, Pa. ; Chauncey Forward of Somerset and Isaac Slater of Waynes- burg, Pa. The annual conference of the Methodist Episcopal church which met in Pittsburgh in April, 1827, decided to take Madison college under its care. The first general meeting of the trustees of the college was held the 30th day of June, 1827, and was organized by electing Thomas Irwin, Esq., president; Samuel Evans, Esq. secretary and Isaac Beeson, treasurer ; they then proceeded to the election of the faculty of the college, when the following gentlemen were duly elected to fill the offices at- tached to their names : Rev. H. B. Bascum, principal and pro- fessor of moral science, comprising mental and moral phil- osophy, natural theology, christian ethics and evidences of Christianity ; Rev. Charles Elliott, professor of languages, and John A. Fielding, professor of mathematics and natural phil- osophy. At a subsequent meeting of the board John Lyon, Esq., was elected professor of rhetoric and belles-lettres, and Hugh Campbell, M. D., professor of chemistry, including agri- culture and botany. Moses Hampton was chosen tutor in the classical department, and John Robertson and R. E. Stokes tutors in the English department. The price of tuition for the college course was fixed at $20 per annum, and it was stated that good boarding could be had at $1.25 per week. The Board of Trustees was very sanguine of the prosperity of the college, and announced that the solemnities of the opening under the new regime would take place September 15, 1827. On that day a concourse of the citizens of the town assembled at the Methodist Episcopal church on West Peter street where a pro- cession was formed and proceeded from that place to the col- lege in the following order: 1st, Students — candidates for ad- mission ; 2nd, Trustees of the college ; 3rd, The Faculty ; 4th, Music ; 5th, The Reverend Clergy ; 6th, Members of the Bar ; 7th, Medical Gentlemen; 8th, Citizens. The procession arrived at the college building at 11 o'clock, at which place a large company of ladies had already assembled. The ceremonies were opened with prayer by Rev. H. Pfeiflfer; an address was then delivered by Thomas Irwin, Esq., on the subject of the many and important duties which are about to devolve upon the officials of the college. Next in order the professors were sep- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 487 arately installed, after which an able and highly interesting ad- dress was delivered by the principal, the Rev. H. B. Bascum. The hopes of the friends of the institution were now more than realized. The. known ability of the professors and tutors gave the strongest assurance that Madison college would soon be ranked among the most respectable and flourishing institutions of the West. Rev. H. B. Bascum was a New Yorker, a son of the Pitts- burgh conference ; was a forceful orator and was gifted with, ex- traordinary power of persuasion. After resigning his position as president of Madison college he accepted an agency for the American Colonization society ; a subject that was then agitat- ing the country. Rev. Bascum was only 31 years of age when elected to the presidency of Madison college, yet, for four years before that he had been the chaplain of the United States con- gress. Henry Clay pronounced him to be the finest natural orator he had ever seen. At a meeting of the board of trustees held December 7, 1837, Henry Ebert was appointed to memorialize Samuel Evans, then a member of the house of representatives requesting his influence in securing an appropriation from the State in aid of the college. Stating that additional buildings were necessary for the reception and accommodation of the increasing number of students. Thomas Irwin and James Todd, Esqrs., were also appointed to go to Harrisburg and use their personal in- fluence, in conjunction with Col. Evans in securing an appro- priation. It will be remembered that Col. Evans was never found wanting either in his official capacity or as an individual in promoting the interests of the community. In the speech of Col. Samuel Evans in the House of Repre- sentatives on the bill asking for an appropriation of $5,000 for Madison college he said he had not intended to add before the House to anything he had already said in committee, but now he thought it expedient to add that Madison college was in- corporated at the last session of the legislature, and is now completely organized. The services of six gentlemen, with proper qualifications as professors and tutors have been secured, and the number of students engaged to enter the college is 105. Considering the period at which the institution commenced its operations — considering the number of students who have within so short a space of time become attached to it — con- 488 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. sidering the cheering gratulations which have hailed it from almost every direction, its prospects may be considered flatter- ing and brilliant. No sectarianism will be tolerated, no distinction of rank permitted, except that created by excellence. Wherefore the objections to the small sum of money con- tained in this bill? The State has uniformly endowed every institution of the kind which has been incorporated. The Uni- versity of Pennsylvania, the Western University and Dickinson college have been liberally endowed. Washington and Jeffer- son colleges, both in the same county, have each received in money twelve thousand dollars. Allegheny college has received about eleven thousand dollars. Ought Madison college to be excluded from legislative munificence? Wherefore make a discrimination among the institutions which have been incor- porated, and thereby adopted by the legislature? Does this college contain in its composition any ingredient deemed dan- gerous or noxious? None have been mentioned or even insinu- ated. But it is objected that there are already four colleges in Western Pennsylvania which have been endowed by the State. True; and it is also true that they would not have been established had not the circumstances of the country and the true policy of our government rendered them necessary. The great object we ought to endeavor to attain is the general diffusion of knowledge among the masses of the people. This object, it is confidently asserted, and firmly believed, can be best promoted, not by patronizing one or two splendid, un- wielding, mammoth universities and pampering them with ex- clusive munificence, but by increasing the number of schools and colleges and moderately endowing them all. Would such establishments as Oxford or Cambridge in England compute^ with the republican principles of Pennsylvania? These uni- versities have sent forth many great and good men, but not- withstanding, they are the nurseries of splendid aristocracy they are peculiarly adapted to England but would be very unsuited to our republic. Again, five seminaries in Western Pennsylvania will edu- cate ten times the number of young men that any one of them would, however great its revenues might be. Local prejudices, personal predilections, additional facilities, a thousand different circumstances, would induce students to flock to one seminary History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 489 who could not be persuaded to go to another, whereby the cause of education is certainly greatly promoted. Another reply as to the number of colleges — The western part of Pennsylvania, from its position, is peculiarly calculated for the establishment and prosperity of seminaries of learning. Madison college does not resemble any other in Pennsyl- vania, or probably in the United States. The distinguish- ing feature is the agricultural department. Agriculture, al- though a science — the most useful of all sciences — although the most ancient, the most honorable employment of man, has been totally neglected in, and entirely excluded from our schools. Throughout the country you will find men who are excellent scholars who can demonstrate the problems of Euclid, chop logic according to rule, tattle all the metaphysical jargon of the schools, but few, very few, skilful and scientific farmers. Those arts and sciences should be introduced which come home to the business man. It is a reflection upon the intelli- gent people that they should be almost entirely ignorant of the true principals of the very vocations which they daily pursue, and by which they earn their daily bread. Education should be adapted to the business and pursuits of the masses of the people, whereas it is now conducted as to be almost entirely beneficial to the wealthy and those destined to posts of honor and distinction. If less time were devoted in our seminaries to the acquisi- tion of the dead languages and abstruse sciences, and more of it devoted to the acquisition of practical knowledge, adapted to the pursuits and operations of common life, it would be better for the country generally. We ask for the small sum contained in the bill, not for the purpose of educating the sons of the wealthy, but to enable us to diffuse practical information among the mass of our popula- tion. This class of persons is the boast and support of the re- public; they are not so pretentious as those who belong to the learned professions, but they are equally respectable, and equally entitled to your liberality and your patronage. It has been said that the condition of the treasury will not justify the appropriation — that we should husband all our re- sources for the grand improvement projects in contemplation. Sir, if the blood of our bodies should flow only through the large veins and arteries the body would soon be lifeless. So 490 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. with the body poHtic. I do not say that large appropriations should not be made for the purpose of internal improvements, but I do say that if appropriations should be made exclusively to these objects that the wholesome operations of the govern- ment will soon be at an end. Fayette county has paid large sums into the public treasury and has received but small appropriations from it. Nearly two millions of dollars have been expended in different parts of the commonwealth in turnpike roads, but not one cent of it was spent in Fayette county. Nearly two millions of dollars have been expended within the commonwealth for bridges, canals, etc., but not a farthing of it in Fayette county. Internal im- provements on a magnificent scale have been projected, but none are calculated to benefit the people of Fayette county. Would it not be unjust to withhold this small sum, when we will have to sustain our portion of the burdens imposed for the advantages of other parts of the state? Popular sentiment is decidedly favorable to the passage of this bill ; the great number of petitions, signed as they are by the most reflecting and respectable citizens, clearly indicate a decided opinion in favor of the appropriation. The feeling of a large portion of my constituents are intensely anxious, not altogether from any apprehension about the small sum of money, but. Sir, the fear that a rejection of the bill would in its effect be fatal to their prospects — would proclaim to the world that the legislature has no confidence in the plan and no regard for the welfare of Madison college On February 27, 1828, the legislature made an appropria- tion of $5,000 for the benefit of Madison college. Some discussion arose as to the best disposition to be made of the money. One influential member of the board advocated that the money be invested in some productive stock and the proceeds of which be applied to the payment of the professors' and tutors' salaries, and depend upon the assistance promised by the Methodist Episcopal conference for aid in putting up suitable buildings. He feared that if the money be expended on new buildings the instructors could not be supported. Rev. H. B. Bascum resigned as president of Madison col- lege at the conclusion of the spring session of 1839, and Pro- fessor J. H. Fielding and Rev. Charles Elliott were placed in charge. Rev. Charles Elliott was born in County Donegal, Ire- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 491 land, and was one of those teachers who through their schools had been the leaders of American culture, and have found much that is best in human character. He will remain in early American Methodist history as a bright example of the pure and simple scholar who loved learning for its own sake. While filling the position of president of Madison college and also the pulpit of the Methodist Episcopal church, he held revival meet- ings at Uniontown and the village of ]\Ionroe throughout the summer and winter of 1829-30, which are said to be the most remarkable revival meetings ever known in this part of the country. He resided in a red frame house which stood where the fine residence of H. L. Robinson, Esq., now stands. He preceded Rev. Matthew Simpson as editor of the Western Advocate, and finally moved to Cincinnati. The students of Madison college held a celebration on Saturday, July 3, 1830, in the college building. William Mc- Donald, Esq., read the Declaration of Independence, and Wait- man T. Willey made an address. They then proceeded to a grove in the rear of the college where a fine dinner was served and toasts were given by E. B. Dawson and others. The Pittsburgh annual conference of the Methodist Episco- pal church met at Uniontown on August 20, 1830, and adjourned to September 13, Bishop Soule presiding, and appointed Rev. Charles Elliott, professor of languages in Madison college, and conferred the degree of A. M. upon Rev. J. H. Fielding and also announced that a six-months' session of the school would open Monday, October 4, 1830. The college had now been in operation three years, and Homer J. Clark had been added to the faculty, and Rev. John H. Fielding, A. M., is principal. Dr. Homer J. Clark was connected, by marriage, with the late Judge A. E. Willson, and served as editor of the Pittsburgh Christian Advocate, and also served as president of Allegheny college. Rev. Fielding was born in Ireland in -1796, and died at St. Charles, Mo., in 1844. The Presbyterian church transferred their Allegheny college buildings at Meadville, Pa., to the Methodist Episcopal con- ference, and this being better equipped, and meeting the re- quirements of the church, it was decided to discontinue Madison college in 1833. Thus ended the career of Madison college under Methodist Episcopal control. The great Bishop Matthew Simpson relates his connection 493 History of Unioniown, Pennsylvania. with Madison college as follows : " In 1838, when I was a little more than 17 years old, the Rev. Dr. Charles Elliott, professor in Madison college, visited Cadiz, Ohio, at our house and urged me to come to Madison college, and ofifered me an appoint- ment as assistant teacher. Dr. Homer J. Clark, also of the Ohio conference, was then acting as agent, trying to raise money for the college, and he, likewise, urged that I should pursue a collegiate course. These were the first ministers of the M. E. church with whom I had met who were finely edu- cated. On the 3rd of November I was ready to start. Uniontown was over 90 miles from Cadiz, with no stage-coaches through our town, nor was there any other public conveyance, and my means were so narrow, I thought it best to make the journey on foot. So tying up my clothes and a few books in a little bundle which I carried, I set out for college with eleven dollars and twenty-five cents in my pocket. I made the whole journey on foot, traveling in the most economical way, and arrived in Uniontown on the afternoon of the third day. I shall never forget the feelings with which I approached the town, and my meeting with some of the students. I was cordially welcomed by Dr. Elliott, and invited to board in his family. I entered a class of Hebrew, and a class with Dr. Fielding, then reviewing geometry, and assisted Dr. Elliott with his classes in the lan- guages; and when he was absent from home, some times for two or three weeks, I took charge of his entire department. There were four or five boarders in his family, among whom was his brother, Simon Elliott, afterwards a distinguished minister in the Pittsburgh conference, and also an older brother. At this time Dr. Bascum was nominally professor of belles- lettres and intellectual philosophy, but there were fio regular classes in these studies, and he simply being on the circuit, oc- casionally visited the college and delivered a few lectures on mental philosophy. Prof. Fielding had charge of the mathe- matics, and was one of the clearest and ablest teachers in that department I ever knew. He inspired his students with an earnest love for their work, and took special interest in such as showed aptitude. A young man who was studying law in the town (Thomas Irwin) was acting as tutor, and afterwards became a judge in Pittsburgh. Returning to Cadiz during the holidays — walking the whole length of the way — I was compelled to remain at home and re- History of Umontown, Pennsylvania. 493 linquish my college pursuits. My stay at the college was only two months, but this brief term gave me a sketch of college life. The college day began at 9 a. m. and ended at 3 p. m. Boarding was $1.50 per week, and washing 25 cents." Bishop Simpson subsequently taught in Allegheny college at Meadville ; studied medicine, and began its practice in 1833 ; studied divinity, and began preaching in 1837; went back to Allegheny college as its vice-president and professor of natural history; was elected president of Asbury university, Indiana, where he remained until 1848, at which time he became editor of the Western Christian Advocate. He was elected a bishop of the Methodist Episcopal church in 1853 by the Geneva con- ference then sitting in the city of Boston. He officiated at the funeral of President Lincoln; coming to Washington and ac- companying the remains to Springfield, 111., where he made the eulogy at the grave. At the general conference of 1884, at Philadelphia, he made the closing address. May 28, and pro- nounced the benediction, thus closing the conference and at the same time his ministry. He died June 28, 1884, within three days of his seventy-third birthday. Madison College Under Cumberland Presbyterian Regime. The Cumberland Presbyterian church, having secured a considerable hold in this part of the country in 1832, decided to take Madison college under its fostering care. A new faculty was organized with Rev. J. P. Weethee as president, under whose charge the institution flourished for a while. Rev. Weethee was a graduate of Athens college, Ohio, and paid his tuition through college by cutting cord-wood, and would walk from his home to Athens, a distance of several miles. In 1835, a third addition was added to the college building, and on December 11, 1837, John M. Austin conveyed to the trus- tees of Madison college 98.5 perchases of additional land and, in 1837, Samuel Wilson, a most excellent teacher, was added to the faculty. The program for an exhibition given at the col- lege on September 25, 1839, gives 13 separate numbers, among which may be mentioned : An original oration, " America," by Thomas D. Miller ; " Individual Influence," an original ora- tion, Alexander M. Linn ; " Influence of Christianity," an original oration, T. Simpson ; " Is the American Colonization Society calculated to better the condition of the African popula- 494 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. tion now in the United States?" a discussion; affirm, Azel Freeman ; deny, C. Moore ; " History," an original oration, T. W. Tipton. Of the above, A. M. Linn read law in Uniontown and went to Washington City, where he died. T. W. Tipton was born in a log cabin in Ohio. He went back to Ohio and was elected to the legislature and afterwards moved to Ne- braska whence he was sent to the United States senate. Catalogue of officers and students ; course of study and statement of present condition of the college, 1840. Board of trustees, Dr. Lewis Marchand, president; Roberts Barton, William Nixon, Alexander Turner, George Meason, Rev. L. N. Freeman, L. W. Stockton, John M. Austin, Esq., Henry H. Beeson, Dr. Lutellus Lindley, Andrew Stewart, Esq., Thomas Irwin, Esq., Rev. George Hudson, Rev. Thornton Fleming, Joshua B. Howell, Esq., Rev. James Sansom, Richard Beeson, Esq., John A. Sangston, Robert Darrah, Dr. Daniel Sturgeon, George Brown, Rev. Asa Shinn, Samuel Haslett, Ross Wilkins, B. S. Pigman, Charles McClain, James W. Nicholson, William Davidson, Joseph Pennock, Edwin S. Duncan, John Leech, Rev. D. Sharp, Rev. Charles Cook, John Dawson, secretary, Isaac Beeson, treasurer. Faculty — Rev. J. P. Weethee, president and professor of mathematics; Rev. John Morgan, professor of moral science; Rev. J. Uncles, professor of natural science ; H. Hamner, profes- sor of languages. College department — Students — Seniors : Walker Irwin, Thomas W. Tipton ; Juniors : Azel Freeman, Isaac Hague, Jr., Thomas D. Miller, C. Moore, Jr., Samuel Sharpless, John Stur- geon. Sophomores : John Bierer, William Emery, Albert S. Hayden, Thomas Simpson, S. B. Walker. Freshmen: Michael King, J. Adams, Ellis Baily, Benjamin Barton, A. W. Barclay, D. Barclay, Enoch Baird, J. A. Crane, M. Collins, Jacob Emery, A. Fuller, J. B. Gallagher, George Griffin, J. Gibson, C. Gilbert, G. T. Greenland, D. Galway, William Harah, William Hellen, Amos Howell, William B. Jones, I. Jackson, J.. P. Long, Wil- liam Laughead, Samuel Marchand, A. G. Osborn, Thomas Stone, J. Smith, E. Smith, William Sturgeon, R. Thompson, J. W. Tipton, Robert Wood, Eli Sturgeon, Isaac Beeson, Jr., John Harah, H. Beeson, William McClane, J. Shearer, James Sturgis, J. R. Gorley, Joshua Gilbert, Charles Stone, Joseph Peach, John Jones, William McCoy, O. P. Wells, Ethelbert Wood, R. Skiles History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 495 Austin, Charles Austin, C. Shaneman, J. McCormick, Elijah Gadd, Shriver Stewart, J. Crawford, C. Brown, N. Deford, A. Melliser, Albert Byers, F. Dorsey, Aza Frey, George Walker, John Boyle, James Nash, John Watts, Jacob Skeen, J. L. Skeen, J. F. Smith, G. W. Brown, S. McGary, C. Barclay, John Bowie, Robert King. Recapitulation — Seniors, 3 ; Juniors, 5 ; Sopho- mores, 6 ; Freshmen, 34 ; Preparatory, 40 ; Total, 87. Female department — Miss Eliza Hamner, teacher of Regu- lar Course. Seniors : Mary E. Austin, Annie E. Irwin, E. K Marchand, J. K. Gallagher, Mary Barclay. Juniors : M. J Burton, Ellen W. Dawson, Mary A. Meason, E. J. Ludington P. F. Crane, Elizabeth Canon, E. H. Jack, E. D. Gal- lagher, Martha • Sharpless, A. M. Sturgis. Primary class Mary E. Stewart, C. A. Irons, Sophia Gadd, Eliza M. Downer Sarah E. Ebert, A. R. Swain, Martha J. McClean, E. J. Green- land, M. E. Douglass, Emily Dawson, Mary Brown, R. S Marchand, Mary Tipton, C. R. Griffith, Susan Dicus, Ann Mc- Clean, Eliza Howell, Ann B. Canon, Phebe Lincoln, E. J Shearer, Louisa Dorsey, Malinda Ludington, E. B. Piatt Rachel Barton, Mary J. Laughead, Eliza Barton, Sarah J West, M. Counet, L. Beeson, E. Crawford, E. Thompson. The collegiate year was divided into two terms : the first, or summer term, to commence the first Monday in May and end on the last Tuesday in September. The second, or winter term, to commence on the first Monday of November and end on the last Tuesday in March. Each session to have an inter- mediate week of vacation. The tuition was $60 per term, or $120 per annum; fuel extra, and always to be paid in advance unless other arrangements are made. Good boarding can be had at $1.85 per week. The female department is recognized as part of the institution, and is under the control of the same trustees and faculty. It is distinct, however, in its daily ex- ercises; and the members of the two divisions have no inter- course whatever. Annual commencement of Madison college, September 29, 1840. Latin salutatory, original, W. Irwin, Uniontown, Pa. ; Oration, Party Spirit, S. S. Sharpless, Uniontown, Pa. ; Oration, Christian Religion Essential to a Republican form of Govern- ment, J. Adams, Franklin, Pa.; Oration, Rise and Progress of Republican Liberty, M. King, Franklin, Pa. ; Valedictory, T. W. Tipton, Uniontown, Pa. ; Conferring of Degrees ; Baccalaureate. 496 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Notice was given that a meeting of the trustees of the col- lege would be held on the last Monday in June, 1841, among other things to be considered was the propriety of erecting an additional building for the accommodation of the college. The trustees passed the following resolution : " Resolved ; That the school directors of each township of Fayette county be at liberty to send one scholar or student to Madison college free of charge for tuition fees. A program of exercises to be held September 28, 1841, gives the following numbers : Latin Salutatory, A. S. Hayden ; Polite Literature, S. S. Sharpless ; The Vicissitudes of Ireland, William S. Emery ; Where Am I ? C. A. Gilbert ; The Mind— Its Dignity, T. D. Miller; The Instability of the Works of Man, A. S. Hayden ; Valedictory, A. Freeman ; Conferring of degrees. The institution at this time appears to have been jn a most prosper- ous condition, and the prospects for the future the most flatter- ing; but a cloud soon appeared in the horizon of the college and blasted its bright prospects. It will be remembered that in 1832, one Rev. William Mil- ler, a Baptist minister and a native of Massachusetts, promul- gated the heresy that Jesus Christ would appear a second time, in 1843, in the clouds of heaven; that He would then raise the righteous dead and judge them together with the righteous living, who would be caught up to meet Him in the air; that He would purify the earth with fire, causing the wicked and all their works to be consumed in the general conflagration, and would shut up their souls in the place prepared for the devil and his angels ; that the saints would live and reign with Christ on the new earth a thousand years; that then Satan and the wicked spirits would be let loose, and the wicked dead be raised — this being the second resurrection — and, being judged, should make war upon the saints, be defeated, and cast down to hell forever. This doctrine affected those who accepted it very seriously. They refused to repair their property, plant their seeds or to engage in any business, thus reducing themselves and families to poverty. Rev. Weethee became a Millerite and advocated the doc- trine of the materiality of the soul, which he declared, could not exist without the body, and that when the body died the soul became torpid and dormant until the resurrection of the body from the grave, when a reunion would take place, which would o 3 ) — ; ffl o o K u in tn o s o H o History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 497 be eternal. He also believed in the pre-millennial coming of Christ, and provided himself with a robe in w^hich he expected to ascend with his Lord into Paradise. He even arrayed him- self in this robe and sat up all night on a certain occasion, awaiting the coming of his Lord. The 14th of April, 1843, was calculated as the time when the Lord should descend to receive His people and many, clad in their robes of white, resorted to the housetops and to the cemeteries and spent the time in prayer and praise. The time passed and other times were set for the coming of the Lord; these too passed without anything unusual happening, and the sect of Adventists became a subject of ridicule. This departure of Rev. Weethee was destined to throw Madison college into chaos, when Hon. John Dawson, having the interests of the college at heart, and being a trustee, took the initiative in calling Rev. Weethee to a halt. This, of course, precipitated the resignation of Rev. Weethee and terminated the connection of the Cumberland Presbyterian church with the college. Mr. Weethee subsequently had charge of Beverly, Waynes- burg, and Weethee colleges respectively. A letter written by him from Jacksonville, Ohio, bearing date of April 30, 1899, re- lates his connection with Madison college as follows : " I was president of Madison college from 1834 to 1842. I commenced and taught three weeks with only three students, and closed with one hundred and twenty students. I was a Cumberland Presbyterian minister, and had opposition from the Presby- terian church during my eight years' instructions and finally lost the college; being succeeded by a Presbyterian minister from Scotland. This upset was accomplished through the agency of Hon. John Dawson. Some years after that, when in charge of Waynesburg college, I was invited by Hon. Andrew Stewart to return, saying that the college had done no good since I had left it. My untiring efforts, night and day, at home and abroad, had made the college. I could say much of my life there and since. I have outlived most of my old students, and on August 6, 1899, I shall be 87 years t)f age. My physical and mental powers are still active, and I hope to meet some of my students still living, at my home, August 6th next." Rev. Andrew Ferrier, a Scotch Presbyterian minister, was called to the presidency of Madison college in the spring of 498 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 1843. He began his education in Glasgow college and completed his course at Edinburgh university, consequently was a polished scholar. He delivered his inaugural address as president of Madison college in the Methodist Episcopal church May 17, 1842, precisely eight months to the day after landing on the shores of America. The college, during the administration of President Fer- rier, does not appear to have been under the auspices of the Presbyterian church. The Board of Trustees published at that time, was as follows : John Dawson, Esq., president ; Hon. Daniel Sturgeon, Hon. Andrew Stewart, Lucius W. Stockton, Dr. Louis Mar- chand, Rev. George S. Holmes, John M. Austin, Esq., Joshua B. Howell, Esq., William Nixon, Isaac Beeson, George Meason, Esq., Alexander Turner, William D. Barclay, Richard Beeson, Esq., John A. Sangston, John Gallagher, Everhart Bierer, Wil- liam Maquilken, Rev. J. M. Hudson, Rev. Thornton Fleming, Rev. Asa Shinn, Hon. Ross Wilkins, Hon. Edward L. Duncan, Dr. Lutellus Lindley, Roberts Barton, William Stone, Eli Baily, William Wilson, John Hackney, Robert P. Flenniken, Esq., Zalmon Ludington, Alfred Newlon, Charles G. Page, Alfred Patterson, Esq., secretary; Hugh Espy, treasurer. The faculty was composed as follows : Rev. Andrew Fer- rier, D. D., president of the college and professor of mental and moral sciences and of the evidences of Christianity. John N. Lewis, professor of mathematics and physical science; Rev. Alcinous Young, professor of chemistry, geology and of natural theology; Rev. William W. Arnett, professor of languages, belles-lettres, logic and political economy; Ethelbert P. Oli- phant, professor of elocution. Other branches, as English grammar and literature, ancient and modern history, geography and astronomy, botany, etc., are also taught. Milton Collins will have charge of the preparatory department. The female department is under the same Board of Trus- tees and the same faculty, but is held in a separate building at a distance of half a mile from the college. The teachers in the female department were Miss Catharine E. Smythe, Miss Margaret Mann. The pupils were Sarah L. Allen, Caroline Austin, Drusilla A. Beeson, Frances M. Beeson, Louisa Bee- son, Mary Campbell, Susan Campbell, Mary E. Grain, Ellen History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 499 Dawson, Emily V. Dawson, Maria Dawson, Ellen Douglass, Mary Douglass, Eliza M. Downer, Rebecca Espy, Margaret Ferrier, Eliza Huston, Cornelia A. Irons, Martha Jack, Pris- cilla Jones, Mary Ann Lewis, Harriet Ludington, Eliza Mc- Ilvaine, Catharine Meason, Frances A. Meason, Jane E. Mea- son, Sarah M. Miller, Mary S. Redick, Martha Skiles, Minerva Speers, Jane A. Stewart, Mary E. Stewart, Ellen Stockton, Margaret M. Stockton, Elizabeth Swearingen, Elizabeth Veech, Ellen L. Wilson, all of Uniontown; Amanda Brown, Eliza Brown, Margaret Graham, Nancy Hill, Margaret C. Johnston, Elizabeth Oliphant, Hannah Paull, Lavina Sides, Louisa Sides, of Fayette county and elsewhere. Roll of students — Charles Austin, Richard H. Austin, Benjamin F. Baker, Alpheus M. Battelle, A. W. Barclay, Clark Beeson, Henry Beeson, Isaac Beeson, Jonathan Beeson, Mon- roe Beeson, Richard H. Beeson, Everard Bierer, Albert Byers, John Bierer, Benjamin Campbell, William Campbell, Presley Canon, William Canon, Alexander D. Ewing, William Ferrier, James Findley, Walker Flenniken, Corbin A. Gilbert, Joshua A. Gilbert, Thomas Griffith, B. F. Hellen, James Henderson, Amos Howell, John Huskins, Richard Irwin, John Henry Jack, Robert W. Jones, Dodridge Kleim, James Lea, Elisha Ludington, Hagan Ludington, Horace Ludington, Joseph Mathers, Jerome P. Marsh, Lester Norton, Harvey Redick, James Redick, William Whitton Redick, John S. Rutter, John Skiles, John Henry Smith. W. W. Smith, Charles Stewart, D. Shriver Stewart, Lucius W. Stockton, John Stockton, Thomas A. Stone, Eli Sturgeon, Alpheus Evans Willson, Alcinous Young, Joseph Young, all of Uniontown; Ellis Beggs, Alex. Brown, Ellis Baily, Humphrey F. Blythe, Ephraim Brown- field, James Brownfield, Andrew Jackson Bute, Andrew Cham- bers, Jackson Colvin, Richard Covert, David Downer, George Downer, Elijah Gadd, Lewis Hague, James P. Jones, Thomas W. Lyons, William Parshall, Abraham Roderick, Samuel Rogers, James Stumm, John Woods, James A. Woodward, from Fayette county and a distance. With what success and for what length of time Dr. Fer- rier conducted the school, there is no record to show ; but from the list of students and the able faculty and board of directors, the institution must have been in a flourishing condition during that time. 500 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Rev. Azel Freeman announced that he would open a high school in the old Madison college building, where an English and classical school would be conducted, beginning Monday, No- vember 1, 1844. Rev. Freeman's career must have been short, for in 1846, Dr. John Patrick, as professor of mathematics, Alfred Botsford, as professor of languages and J. N. H. Patrick, as teacher of the primary department, announced that they would commence a winter term of school in the old college building Monday, October 26, 1846, for a session of five months. William P. Wells, A. B., as professor of languages, and Rev. A. S. Lowry were subsequently added to the staff of teachers. During the short regime of the Patricks the school was ably conducted and much good resulted. Dr. Patrick accepted an appointment as chief clerk of the state treasury of Pa., and withdrew from the school. He finally settled in the West. It is said that William Lyon succeeded the Patricks with a school, which he conducted for a period of two and a half years. Madison College Under the Management of the Methodist Protestant Church. At the general conference of the Methodist Protestant church, convened at Baltimore, Md., May 7, 1850, a proposition was made by the trustees of Madison college tendering to that conference the control of the college. A select committee made favorable report of the measure. The report was laid on the table, and the following preamble and resolutions, offered by Rev. George Brown, were adopted : " Whereas, the trustees of Madison college have made an offer of said college to this general conference, and whereas the general conference feels very grateful for the aforesaid offer : Resolved, 1st, That in view of accepting of Madison college, this general conference now proceed to appoint seven com- missioners whose duty it shall be to report to the Pittsburgh conference at its next session: Resolved, 2nd, Should the commissioners report favorably, the conference and commis- sioners shall then proceed to elect trustees to take charge of the college property, and make necessary arrangements for a commencement of operations : Resolved, 3rd, That said trus- tees shall make annual reports to the Pittsburgh conference, and also to each succeeding general conference. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 501 The commissioners appointed under this action were : George Brown of Pittsburgh district, C. Springer of Muskingum, J. G. Whitefield of Virginia, William Collier of Maryland, J. J. Smith of New York, Dr. John Arrington of North Carolina and John H. Deford, Esq., of Uniontown, who reported favorably to the Pittsburgh conference. The following board of trustees were appointed to represent the church : Rev. George Brown, Rev. Charles Avery, Rev. James Robinson, William Morris, F. H. Pierpont, Samuel Morrison, all of the Pittsburgh dis- trict; Rev. C. Springer, Thomas Hanna, Pinkney Lewis of the Muskingum district; Rev. Eli Henkle, Rev. E. Y. Reese, A. L. Withers, George Vickers, Esq., of the Maryland district; Rev. B. B. Thomas, Captain Harding of the Virginia district; Rev. J. J. Smith of the New York district; Rev. T. F. Norris of the Massachusetts district; P. S. Graves of the Louisiana district; Rev. John Parris of the North Carolina district ; Edward Har- rison of the Alabama district; Joel Rice of the Illinois district; J. A. Simpson and Joel Darby of the Ohio district. Other trus- tees were Hon. Andrew Stewart, Hon. R. P. Flenniken, J. H. Deford, Esq., Isaac Beeson, Horatio Griffith, John M. Austin, Esq., P. U. Hook, J. L. Phillips, Richard Beeson, Esq., H. H. Beeson, Thomas Brownfield, Thomas J. Nesmith, W. S. Barnes, W. D. Barclay, D. Huston, Rev. H. Palmer, A. Gallentine, Samuel S. Cox, Dr. L. Marchand, Josiah Kurtz, Hugh C. Ford, John Gallagher. On June 87, 1851, Rev R. H. Ball of Maryland, was called by the board to take charge of the college and as professor of languages and mathematics ; and at the Pittsburgh annual con- ference of 1851, Rev. Peter T. Lashley, D. D., was appointed to act as agent for the college. The college went into opera- tion in September under the most flattering auspices. President Ball entered upon his duties with energy and de- votion, giving every warrant of success. In a few months 50 students were enrolled, and on October 31, the trustees elected the following professors : James Carroll, A. M., of North Caro- lina, professor of languages ; Joshua B. Howell, Esq., professor of municipal law; John Dawson, Esq., professor of agricultural chemistry and Rev. George B. McElroy, tutor in the English department. On March 7, 1852, President Ball, on account of ill health, tendered his resignation, to take effect at the close of the school 502 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. term, and Rev. Francis Waters, D. D., was elected his successor, and Rev. George Brown was elected president pro tern. In May, 1852, three students were expelled from the college by the faculty, and they applied to the trustees for reinstate- ment, but the board of Trustees sustained the faculty in their action and, further, tendered to them a vote of thanks for the able and satisfactory manner in which the affairs of the institu- tion were managed. It appears that the offense for which these students were expelled was the firing of a small out-house in the rear of the college building. An annual commencement of Madison college was held Wednesday, June 30, 1852 in the Methodist Episcopal church, beginning at 11 o'clock, a. m. The program was as follows : Opening prayer by Rev. Mr. Romney of the Episcopal church; Oration : Knowledge, J. W. Dugger, Marengo county, Ala. ; Oration: Our Country, J. M. Dillard, Hampton, Va. ; Oration: Character and Decline of the North American Indian, J. O. Thomas, Smithfield Va. ; Oration : Supremacy of Power, W. W. Dugger, Marengo county, Ala. ; Oration : Temperance, T. K. Dashiell, Isle of Wight, Va. ; Oration : Success the result of In- dustry and Perseverance, W. Wragg, Sharpsburg, Pa. ; Oration : The Living Dead ; C. H. Hook, Uniontown, Pa. ; Oration : In- fluence of Education on the Social and Moral Condition of Man, F. G. Wright, Uniontown, Md. ; Conferring of degrees : closing remarks and benediction by President Ball. At the fall term of 1852, Adolphus Mott was engaged as professor of languages, and announced that at the same time he would also have a class in French separate from that of the college, in the " Temple of Honor hall." This Temple of Honor hall was in the third floor of the new Bryan building on West Main street where the Citizens' Title and Trust building now stands. In January, 1853, a resolution passed the board authorizing an addition to be made to the building, 53 by 44 feet, three stories high, so as to accommodate 300 students, and to cost $3,200, to be paid in four installments. One-half of which amount was to be paid by the citizens of Uniontown, and the other half by the Methodist Protestant church. The old part of the building was to be torn away and replaced by the new addition. Craft and Johnson were awarded the contract for the new addition, which was to comprise a chapel, two society halls, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 503 with library rooms attached, a large room for the preparatory department, a steward's dwelling with six comfortable apart- ments. This new addition was to make the whole building 80 by 44 feet, and was to be completed during the term of 1853. Rev. George Brown was appointed to collect $800 which was due in March and the balance as it became due. He, with Daniel Huston as security, borrowed $800 from " Aunt " Rachel Skiles, and, by solicitations, obtained the balance as it became due. The note held by Mrs. Skiles and other notes were paid in 1856, by soliciting funds from other conferences, but the town never complied with its obligations. One hundred and seventeen limited scholarships were sold at $100 each, and eight perpetual scholarships sold at $500 each, in addition to which $1,200 were received as donations. There were at this time $1,000 in the Brownsville bank, yielding an annuity to the college, and in June, 1853, Mrs. Tamsey A. Reese of Maryland, placed in the hands of Rev. E. Y. Reese, D. D., as trustee, $2,000, the revenue of which was to be applied to the use of the college. The form of scholarships that were sold for the college was as follows : " Know all men by these presents, that I, Joseph Burns, agent for Madison college at Uniontown, Pa., for and in consideration of the sum of one hundred dollars to me in hand paid, or secured to be paid, by his heirs or assigns, a limited scholarship for a term of five years in the said college. Witness my hand and seal, this 18th day of April, 1853. Signed, Joseph Burns, agent. (L. S.) The final examinations were begun on June 23, and Col. S. D. Oliphant delivered an eloquent and able address to the literary society of the college in the Presbyterian church, at 10 o'clock, a. m., Tuesday, June 28, and on the same evening the closing exercises of the college were held, the program of which was as follows : Prayer by Rev. Mr. Callen ; Declamation : Classical Learning, James E. Maloy, Queen Ann County, Md. ; Oration: Individual Influence, George J. Brown, Uniontown, Pa. ; Essay : Dignity of Labor, H. C. Dawson, Uniontown, Pa. ; Essay : Genius of Burns, Richard S. Thomas, Smithfield, Pa. ; Oration ; Vindication of Napoleon's Character, Thomas K. Dashiell, Isle of Wight, Va. ; Oration : Unity of Labor and Knowledge, W. Waverly Dugger, Maringo county, Ala.; Ora- 504 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. tion : Formation of Character, Arnold B. Johnson, Rochester, Mass. ; Oration : Cuba's Emancipation, R. H. Austin, Union- town, Pa. ; Oration : Spirit of Liberty, Charles H. Hook, Union- town, Pa. ; Oration : Earnest Love, Earnest Labor, James M. Stoner, Pittsburgh, Pa. ; Benediction by President-elect Waters. The following evening, Wednesday, June 29, 1853, Presi- dent-elect, Rev. Francis Waters, D. D., was installed and de- livered his inaugural address as president of Madison college. The school term opened on September 5th with good prospects and a large number of new students. The new president and new professors were highly spoken of. The new addition of the college building was under roof by November 34, and the work was being pushed to completion. The addition was very large and added much to the appearance of the building. A meeting was held at the court house on Monday evening, March 6, 1854, for the purpose of raising funds and organizing for the purpose of endowing Madison college under the manage- ment of the Methodist Protestant church. The object of this meeting, evidently, was never realized. An additional literary society, known as the Calliopean literary society, was organized at Madison college March 23, 1854, thus forming two societies in the college. The report of the trustees of Madison college made at the general conference held at Steubenville, Ohio, in 1854, claimed encouraging success, and urged an endowment fund, and also reported a gracious revival of religion among the students. For some reason, which Dr. Waters never revealed, he re- signed the presidency of the college before the expiration of the term, and returned to Maryland. He had no trouble while here. Dr. Brown in writing of Dr. Waters said : " Dr. Waters was a man of venerable age, of a commanding personage, an able minister of the gospel, a thorough scholar, a perfect gentle- man in his social habits and one of the foremost educators in the country." The resignation of Dr. Waters had a most de- pressing effect upon the friends of the college. As they had been greatly elated at his coming, they were proportionately depressed at his departure. Before Dr. Waters' departure he recommended Rev. Samuel S. Cox, D. D., who was then stationed at Georgetown, D. C, as his successor. Dr. Cox was communicated with and im- mediately accepted the call to the presidency of the college. History of Unionfown, Pennsylvania. 505 He was competent and assiduous, but visionary ; Professor Newell taking charge in the interim. It appears that in order to secure the confidence and patronage of the South, a portion of the commissioners and of the trustees was selected from the southern conferences, and the president and all the faculty, save one, Professor George B. McElroy, were chosen from the South. A goodly number of students from that quarter were brought into the college, and matters proceeded harmoniously for some time. But in course of time it fully appeared that the atmosphere did not suit the southern members of the faculty, and that their methods and administration were inimical to the views and feelings of the working trustees, especially of the president of the board. The precipitous expulsion of a student, and their refusal to restore him upon his confession and repentance, gave great offense and caused much injury to the college. The commencement exercises of the college were held June 28, 1854, as follows : Prayer. Rev. Frank Moore ; Latin Salutatory : W. W. Dugger, Marengo county, Ala. ; Oration : Ultraism of the Age, Henry C. Dawson, Uniontown, Pa. ; Ora- tion : Byzantium, Thomas S. Summerell, Southampton county, Va. ; Conferring of Degrees ; Valedictory : James M. Stoner, Pittsburgh, Pa. ; Conferring of Distinctions ; Benediction by President Cox. It was announced that the next term of Madison college would begin September 4, 1854, and that the new addition to the college building was now complete, and capable of accom- modating SOO to 300 students. Rev. Samuel S. Cox, D. D., president and professor of mental and moral science, belles- lettres and Latin ; G. B. McElroy, professor of natural science and mathematics ; W. J. T. Carroll, professor of Greek language and of literature ; John Dawson, Esq., professor of agricultural chemistry ; Joshua B. Howell, professor of municipal law ; Adolph Mott, professor of Latin, French, Spanish and Portu- gese; G. W. Kidwell, principal of preparatory department. The seminary for young ladies was to be opened on the first Monday of October (2), 1854, at Madison college under the supervision of Dr. Cox. In the spring of 1855, Professor Mott retired from the faculty after earning for himself an enviable reputation as a scholar and a gentleman. He had received several earnest 506 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. solicitations from colleges of high rank to take charge of a chair. The diplomas for Madison college for the commencement of 1855, were engraved by W. W. Dougal, Esq., of Georgetown, D. C. The central figure of the vignette represented Minerva, the goddess of Wisdom ; her right hand holding a style and rest- ing upon a tablet, her left hand lifting the veil of knowledge from the world. On her right is the owl, the bird esteemed sacred to her by the ancients, and on her left, a winged boy bearing garlands to crown the successful candidate. In the rear ground may be seen the Temple of Fame, surmounted by Pegasus, the winged horse, together with the head of Sphinx, Cleopatra's needle, ruins of ancient temples and other classical representa- tions. The whole engraving, vignetting and lettering, is ex- ecuted in a style of great elegance and taste, and reflects credit upon the artist. We question if there is a handsomer diploma in the possession of any college in the Union (American Stand- ard, April 13, 1855). A Fight Between Two Students. A fight took place between Washington Harbaugh, a stu- dent from Cincinnati, who was boarding with Dr. Brown, and William Baily, who with his brother, C. Baily, also boarded with Dr. Brown. Some one for fun, had slipped some scraps of paper under the lid of Baily's desk in his room, and Baily blamed Harbaugh with the offense. The fight occurred on Sunday, March 18, 1855, and was renewed the next morning on the way to school. They both belonged to the preparatory department. The faculty investigated the matter, and after hearing the evi- dence that Baily had called Harbaugh a liar, by a misunder- standing, gave Harbaugh ten demerits for calling Baily a liar. Harbaugh left the building and remained at his room that afternoon. Next morning Professor Carroll called for an ex- cuse, and Harbaugh replied that he had been unjustly treated and that he would remain at home as long as he pleased. At 1 o'clock he was called before the faculty again, under charge of being impertinent to the officers of the college, and five de- merits were given for absence yesterday and twenty for im- pertinence this morning. He remarked, " Gentlemen, make out your bill, and when I have enough demerits, I'll go home." For this they gave him twenty-five more, which made the whole History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 507 amount to one hundred and two; and as one hundred demerits were sufficient cause for expulsion, he was sentenced to ex- pulsion, but by Dr. Brown's intercession, it was changed to " Sent home." Harbaugh, at Dr. Brown's suggestion, sent a letter of apology to the faculty, but they were unmoved. Presi- dent Cox was absent from town when the trial came up, but acquiesced in the sentence, and Dr. Brown accompanied Har- baugh to his home. This episode made a breach between some of the trustees and faculty that never was healed. Hon. Andrew Stewart, Hon. R. P. Flenniken, J. L. Phillips and Dr. D. Gib- bon were members of the board of trustees at this time. The students wore uniforms and were instructed in military drill. In June, 1855, President Cox made a proposition to the board of trustees to take this college from its true position as the general institution of the whole church and give it a sec- tional character by making it the institution of the North and West, and that they, Cox and other members of the faculty from the South, would establish a southern college at Lynch- burg, Va. The board of trustees looked upon this proposition as pre- posterous, as Cox and his adherents had no right to give nor the board a right to receive the college for any such sectional purpose in open violation of the fundamental laws of its organization. It further appeared to the board that sometime previous to the resignation of the faculty, as proved, among other things, by the letter of the Rev. Mr. Doniphan, published in the ■' Methodist Protestant " of Baltimore, of August, 1855, that President Cox was concerting measures as early as the spring previous with Mr. Doniphan, an agent of the college, to estab- lish a college at Lynchburg, Va., as a substitute for Madison, and not as its rival, as Mr. Doniphan expressed it in his letter. And accordingly President Cox and his adherents in the faculty openly proclaimed to the students and others before, and at the time of, their resignation their intention to establish a southern college as Lynchburg. Soon after they left, information reached the board from various quarters in the South that reports had been spread there that Madison college was to be made an " amalgamation " — an abortive concern — and was under the necessity of educating negroes. So thoroughly had this report been circulated in the 508 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. South that a gentleman who had accepted a professorship in the college, declined coming because of these reports, as he stated in his letter to the board. Prejudice had proceeded from no act of the board of trus- tees, but had been induced solely by the influence and acts of those in whom the board had placed confidence as officers of the institution, and whose conduct in this particular they deeply deplored. This unvarnished statement of facts, the board felt constrained to make to the church, whose servants they were, in vindication of their own conduct which has been unjustly as- sailed. And in view of all these things they earnestly appeal to their friends everywhere, to come promptly and efficiently to the support of this institution of the church, so important to its standing and best interests, and call upon its friends every- where and especially in the West and North, to wake up to the true interests of the church, vindicate their own action, and stand by the college of their adoption. The board of trustees then passed the following resolu- tions : Resolved, 1st, That this board will continue to conduct Madison college under its charter and by-laws according to the principals on which it is now, or may hereafter be established by the general conference. Resolved, 3nd, That the secretary of the board be authorized to secure a sufficient number of agents for the East, West, North and South as soon as possible, in addition to those already appointed, to sell scholarships, solicit donations and subscriptions to our endowment society in order to extend and promote the continued success of the college. Resolved, 3rd, That these proceedings be signed by the president and secretary of the board, and published in the " Methodist Protestant " of Baltimore, the " Western Metho- dist Protestant " and " The Olive Branch " of Boston. Signed, Andrew Stewart, president, W. D. Barclay, secretary. At the annual commencement in 1855, all the faculty re- signed, and Dr. Cox, the retiring president, announced that he had made arrangements to open a Methodist Protestant college at Lynchburg, Va., the following September. The southern instructors accordingly left, and with them eighty-five out of the ninety southern students in attendance. Fourth annual catalogue of Madison college, June 1, 1855. Faculty — Rev. Samuel S. Cox, president and professor of mental and moral science and belles-lettres ; William Carroll, History of Vniontown, Pennsylvania. 509 A. M., professor of Greek language and literature; James T. Murphee, G. V. M. J., professor of mathematics and natural sciences; L. Griffith Mathews, A. M., professor of Latin; Hon. John Dawson, professor of agricultural chemistry ; Joshua B. Howell, Esq., professor of municipal law; George W. Kidwell, Esq., principal of grammar school. The graduates of 1854 were James M. Stoner, Val., Pitts- burgh, Waverly W. Duger, L. S., Marengo county, Ala. ; Henry C. Dawson, Uniontown, Pa. ; Thomas S. Summerell, South- ampton county, Va. Senior class — Thomas K, Dashiell, Isle of Wight county, Va. ; John W. Deford, Uniontown, Pa. ; Charles H . Hook, Uniontown, Pa. ; Cornelius C. Phillips, Nansemond county, Va. Junior class — Edward Campbell, Uniontown, Pa. ; Leonard A. Slater, New Kent county, Va. ; Richard S. Thomas, Smith- field, Va. Sophomore class — Jacob E. Kelly, Suffolk, Va. ; John W. Light, Berkeley county, Va. ; David P. Newsom, Southampton county, Va. Freshman class — John P. Bates, Philadelphia, Pa.; J. Owens Berry, Georgetown, D. C. ; Henry Deford, Uniontown, Pa.; Joseph M. Doss, Fayette county, Ga. ; George W. Huston, Uniontown, Pa. ; Joseph King, Nansemond county, Va. ; Alfred B. Nairne, Worcester county, Md. ; Edward W. Stephens, Wheeling, Va. ; James E. Yancy, Mecklenberg county, Va. Partial course — Richard H. Dorsey, Howard county, Md. ; WiUiam V. Jeflfry, Harford county, Md. ; Jetson Jett, Norfolk, Va. ; Andrew Stewart, Uniontown, Pa. ; Samuel J. Ridgely, Howard county, Md. Theological class — Robert C. Bayly, Fauquier county, Va. ; William F. Grey, . . . . ; John H. Miller, Richmond, Va. Grammar school. Third class — William K. Bailey, Browns- ville, Pa. ; John C. Bailey, Brownsville, Pa. ; Albert Beeson, Uniontown, Pa. ; John K. Beeson, Uniontown Pa. ; Henry Bee- son, Fayette county. Pa. ; Alonzo Hopwood, Monroe, Pa. ; Wil- liam D. Hopwood, Monroe, Pa. ; William W. Kaine, Union- town, Pa. ; William H. Smith, Alexandria, Va. ; Albert Stewart, Uniontown, Pa. Second class — George Brown, Uniontown, Pa. ; Robert Flenniken, Uniontown, Pa.; Washington Harbaugh, Cincin- nati, Ohio; Thomas Hopwood, Uniontown, Pa.; George Hodg- 510 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. son, Uniontown, Pa.; Clark Hughes, Uniontown, Pa.; Samuel Huston, Uniontown, Pa. ; Exum Hunter, Enfield, N. C. ; Joseph W. Huskins, Uniontown, Pa.; Andrew J. McClelland, Fayette county, Pa. ; John H. Miller, Uniontown, Pa. ; George A. Miller, Pittsburgh, Pa. ; Richard W. Sowers, Fayette county. Pa. ; Wil- liam F. Stewart, Uniontown, Pa.; Alfred F. Thacker, Monti- cello, N. C. First class — ^John R. Adkins, Petersburg, Va. ; George W. Beall, Georgetown, D. C. ; James F. Beazel, Uniontown Pa. ; Thomas Bromwell, Frederick county, Md. ; Hugh F. Campbell, Uniontown, Pa.; Robert Clough, Easton, Md. ; Francis S. Cox, Baltimore, Md. ; John N. Dawson, Uniontown, Pa. ; John M. Fulmer, Washington county. Pa. ; Daniel George, Westmoreland county. Pa. ; John M. Goszler, Georgetown, D. C. ; George W. Hopkins, Washington, D. C. ; George W. King, Georgetown, D. C. ; William H. Miller, Uniontown, Pa. ; Thomas C. Norment, Washington county, N. C. ; Arnold Plummer, Uniontown, Pa. ; William W. Reese, Philadelphia, Pa.; Thomas M. Smith, Uniontown, Pa. The board of trustees now impressed Dr. Brown to serve as president of the college. He assumed the duties with much distrust, as the institution was seriously crippled. A new faculty was now constituted, all from free states, including Professor George B. McElroy. The new president, who had already suffered incalculable toil and sacrifice for the institu- tion while in the relation of president of the board of trustees, had now great burdens to carry, in going abroad and soliciting funds to pay off debts, and meet the claims of the instructors, caring the less for his own. But the new arrangements worked harmoniously, and it seemed that the college would have gone on successfully, but that students were but sparingly sup- plied, and the church and conferences, and even the citizens of Uniontown failed to fulfill their pledges in supplying pecuniary means. On the first Monday of September, 1855, Madison college was opened under a new corps of professors, with Rev. George Brown, D. D., as president. P. S. Bancroft was elected to the chair of mathematics, and M. B. Goff was elected professor of languages; these, however, soon exchanged chairs. Rev. G. B. McElroy took charge of the preparatory department. Pro- fessors Bancroft and Gofif were graduates of Allegheny college. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 511 and Professor McElroy graduated at the succeeding com- mencement at Madison college, he being the only graduate at that time. There were sixty students in attendance this term, and the exercises were creditable to the instructors. The instructors at the commencement of the term of 1856, were John Deford, a graduate of Madison college, William Campbell, graduate of Jefferson college and Amos Hutton as principal of the preparatory department. The school opened in September with forty students. The second term of the present annual session commenced February 4, 1856; the faculty consisting of Rev. George Brown, D. D. president and professor of mental and moral science and belles-lettres ; P. S. Bancroft, A. B., professor of ancient lan- guages and literature ; Milton B. Goff, A. B., professor of mathe- matics and natural science ; Hon. John Dawson, professor of agricultural chemistry; Joshua B. Howell, Esq., professor of municipal law; W. H. Shubert, tutor in Hebrew and modern languages; Rev. George B. McElroy, principal of grammar school. During the winter of 1855-56 Dr. Brown traveled the whole time soliciting funds and collecting pledges for the college. An attempt was made, according to resolutions passed Aprir29, 1856, to raise an endowment fund of $75,000 for the college. Annual Catalogue of Madison College for the Academic Year of 1855-56. Faculty — Rev. George Brown, D. D., president and profes- sor of mental and moral science and belles-lettres ; P. Sanford Bancroft, professor of Greek and Latin; Milton B. Goff, pro- fessor of mathematics and natural science; Hon. John Dawson, professor of agricultural chemistry; Joshua B. Howell, Esq., professor of municipal law; Rev. G. B. McElroy, principal of preparatory department. Senior class — G. B. McElroy, Pittsburgh, Pa. Junior class — Edward Campbell, Uniontown, Pa. Sophomore class — John W. P. Bates, Lisbon, Md. ; George W. Burns, Steubenville, Ohio; John N. Cassell, Mt. Vernon City, Ohio; Charles H. Causey, Hampton, Va. ; Henry Deford, Uniontown, Pa.; William V. Jeffry, Bellair, Md.; Edward W. Stephens, Covington, Ky. 518 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, Freshman class— James T. Beazel, Uniontown, Pa. ; George J. Brown, Uniontown, Pa.; Hugh F. Campbell, Uniontown, Pa.; William S. Collier, Pittsburgh, Pa.; John N. Dawson, Uniontown, Pa.; Richard W. Dawson, Uniontown, Pa.; Robert Flenniken, Uniontown, Pa.; Daniel C. L. George, Latrobe, Pa.; William F. Grey, North Carolina; George B. H. Hodgson, Uniontown, Pa.; Marshall I. Ludington, Uniontown, Pa.; Wil- liam H. Miller, Uniontown, Pa. ; John C. Robinson, Fayette county. Pa. ; Thomas M. Smith, Uniontown, Pa. ; William F. Stewart, Uniontown, Pa. ; John T. West, Norfolk county, Va. Theological department — John A. Barker, Sharpsburg, Pa. ; George W. Burns, Steubenville, Ohio; William F. Grey, North Carolina; Joseph D. Herr, Sharpsburg, Pa.; David Jones, Pitts- burgh, Pa.; William M. Smith, Washington county. Pa.; R. R. Stewartson, Uniontown, Pa. ; William E. Stubbs, Clinton county, Ohio. Preparatory department — William R. Bailey, Brownsville, Pa. ; William H. Barclay, Uniontown, Pa. ; John A. Barker, Sharpsburg, Pa. ; Albert G. Beeson, Uniontown, Pa. ; John K. Beeson, Uniontown, Pa. ; Henry W. Beeson, Fayette county, Pa. ; Henry C. Bunting, Uniontown, Pa. ; Daniel Deford, Uniontown, Pa. ; A. J. Downey, Canal Dover, Ohio ; John Gray, Westmoreland county. Pa; Chauncey B. Hayden, Fayette county. Pa. ; Joseph D. Herr, Sharpsburg, Pa. ; Nelson Hilling, Uniontown, Pa. ; William D. Hopwood, Fayette county. Pa. ; William C. Hopwood, Fayette county. Pa. ; Alonzo L. Hop- wood, Fayette county. Pa., Clark Huges, Uniontown, Pa. ; Charles Huston, Uniontown, Pa. ; Samuel Huston, Uniontown, Pa.; James S. Inghram, Uniontown, Pa.; John T. Inghram, Uniontown, Pa. ; David Jones, Pittsburgh, Pa. ; Andrew J. Mc- Clelland, Fayette county. Pa. ; John H. Miller, Pittsburgh, Pa. ; Henry Palmer, Jr., Uniontown, Pa. ; William M. Smith, Wash- ington county. Pa. ; Edward W. Smith, St. Joseph county, Iowa ; William H. Smith, Cass county, Mich. ; Albert Stewart, Union- town, Pa. ; R. R. Stewartson, Uniontown, Pa. ; William E. Stubbs, Clinton county, Ohio; Oliver P. Stumph, Uniontown, Pa., Henry Wilson, Uniontown, Pa. ; James E. Wilson, Union- town, Pa; George Wragg, Sharpsburg, Pa. The annual catalogue of Madison college for the term of 1856-57 gives as the board of trustees, Hon. Andrew Stewart, president; W. D. Barclay, secretary; Rice G. Hopwood, Hon. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 513 R. P. Flenniken, Hon. Samuel A. Gilmore, John L. Means, George H. Wood, Ellis Baily, William S. Barnes, Alfred Pat- terson, Esq., Thomas J. Nesmith, Richard Beeson, Henry H. Beeson, John S. Harah, Peter U. Hook, Rev. James Hopwood, John Gallagher, Horatio Griffith, Alexander McClean, and many others of a distance. The faculty at this time consisted of Rev. George Brown, D. D., president and professor of mental and moral sciences and belles-lettres; P. Sanford Bancroft, professor of Greek and Latin ; Milton B. Goff, professor of mathematics and astronomy ; Rev. George B. McElroy, professor of natural science; Hon. John Dawson, professor of agricultural chemistry; Joshua B. Howell, Esq., professor of municipal law. Senior class — George W. Burns, Steubenville, Ohio; John N. Cassell, Mt. Vernon, Ohio; Charles H. Causey, Hampton, Va. ; David W. Lawson, Indiana county. Pa. ; Aaron W. Ross, Fayette county. Pa.; Edward W. Stephens, Covington, Ky. Junior class — Henry Deford, Uniontown, Pa. ; Amos Hut- ton, Clearfield, Pa. ; William V. Jeffry, Bellair, Md. Sophomore class — Henry B. Brown, Uniontown, Pa. ; J. W. Milligan, Braddock's Field, Pa. ; C. Woodmanse, Abington, 111. Freshman class — George J. Brown, Uniontown, Pa. ; John W. Beazell, Uniontown, Pa. ; John W. Cowen, Henry, 111. ; John N. Dawson, Uniontown, Pa. ; R. W. Dawson, Uniontown, Pa. ; Robert Flenniken, Uniontown, Pa.; Curtis Johnson, Jefferson county, Ohio; M. I. Ludington, Uniontown, Pa.; W. H. Miller, Pittsburgh; T. M. Smith, Uniontown, Pa.; W. F. Stewart, Uniontown, Pa. ; Henry Wilson, Uniontown, Pa. Theological department — George W. Burns, Steubenville, Ohio ; David Jones, Pittsburgh ; William M. Smith, Washington county. Pa. ; Richard W. Stewartson, Uniontown ; W. E. Stubbs, Clinton county, Ohio; James H. Stiner, Winchester, Ind. Preparatory department — William H. Barclay, Uniontown, Pa.; W. P. Blaney, Flat Woods, Pa.; Robert L. Brownfield, Uniontown, Pa. ; W. N. Causey, Hampton, Va. ; James F. Daton, New Alexandria, Ohio ; Daniel Deford, Uniontown, Pa., Samuel Fordyce, Gurnsey county, Ohio; A. Green, Altoona, Pa.; Moses H. Hays, Uniontown; George W. Hazlett, Allegheny City; D. R. Hazlett, Altoona; W. D. Hopwood, Fayette county. Pa.; W. C. Hopwood, Fayette county, Pa.; Alonzo L. Hopwood, Fay- ette county. Pa., J. Clark Hughes, Fayette county, Pa.; 514 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Samuel Huston, Uniontown, Pa.; John T. Inghram, Union- town, Pa.; David Jones, Pittsburgh, Pa.; T. N. Lewis, Mt. Pleasant, Ohio; Robert S. Lytic, Baltimore, Md.; John W. Moon, Allegheny City, Pa.; Joseph G. Murphy, Union- town, Pa.; G. M. Murphy, Uniontown, Pa.; Benjamin F. Palmer, Allegheny City, Pa.; Linden Powers, Uniontown, Pa.; William M. Smith, Washington county. Pa. ; Albert S. Stewart, Uniontown, Pa. ; Richard R. Stewartson, Uniontown, Pa. ; James H. Stiner, Winchester, Ind. ; William E. Stubbs, Clinton county, Ohio ; Oliver P. Stumph, Uniontown, Pa. ; E. H. Trader, Fayette county, Pa.; James E. Wilson, Uniontown. Collegiate department, 24 ; Preparatory department, 33 ; total, 47. Tuition in preparatory department, $15 ; boarding including room rent, furniture and attendance, $2 per week; fuel, 25 cents per week ; washing, $1 per month ; total per term, $120. Tuition in college department, $25, boarding, washing and fuel, $97; total, $122. Order of exercises of a contest between the Madison and the Calliopean literary societies of Madison college, held Friday evening, March 13, 1857, Oration — Imaginary speech of John Adams, Edward W. Stephens, of M. L. S., Covington, Ky. ; Select Oration — Importance of the Union, David Jones of C. L. S., Pittsburgh, Pa. ; Essay — Superstition, George J. Brown of M. L. S., Uniontown, Pa. ; Essay — Achievements of American Mind, George W. Burns of M. L. S., Steubenville, Ohio ; Original Oration — Heroes of '76, John W. Cowen of M. L. S., Chicago, 111. ; Original Oration — Disunion, Charles H. Causey of C. L. S. ; Discussion — Is man in his unregenerated state a totally de- praved being? Affirm, W. E. Stubbs of C. L. S., Clinton county' Ohio ; Deny, A. W. Ross of M. L. S., Fayette county. Pa. At the annual commencement in June, 1857, the graduates were : G. W. Burns, J. N. Cassell, A. W. Ross, C. H. Causey, D. W. Lawson and E. W. Stephens, all worthy young men of high attainments. McElroy and Goff accepted positions in a Methodist Protestant college in Illinois, and Bancroft returned to his home near Meadville, Pa. Amos Hutton, who had been principal of the preparatory department, was the only one left toward a new corps of laborers for the ensuing year. After arrangements had been made to open the annual term History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 515 of 1857-58, the board of trustees, in consultation, found it ad- visable to close the college and relinquish the enterprise. The college had its struggles and its difficulties, and it cost its best friends much anxiety and trouble, as well as considerable treas- ure, and finally, the mortification of a failure during the fall of 1857. Dr. Brown, in his autobiography, from which much data for this history of Madison college was obtained, states : " The college was a non-paying institution, crippled in so many ways, could not be carried on. I have been a great sufferer in many ways in my efforts to carry on that institution for the church. My head turned gray very fast while I resided in Uniontown." The good doctor does not as much as hint that the persistent manner in which he injected his ultra political views into the affairs of the college had something to do with its disintegration. Thus, after a varied success of six years, Madison .college passed from under the control of the Methodist Protestant church, and from which time, although the building has been used for school purposes, it has never been conducted as a college. Among the many luminaries that have emanated from Madison college may be mentioned the following: Matthew Simpson, D.D. LL.D., the most distinguished bishop in his day of the great Methodist Episcopal denomination, and Wait- man T. Wiley, United States senator from Virginia, these were class mates from about 1827 to 1831. Both were poor boys, but scaled the ladder of fame and each attained a national repu- tation. Moses Hampton, who succeeded William Thompson in the principalship of Lafayette college in 1827-29, was admitted to the Fayette county bar and soon became associated with the prominent law firm of Black and Ogle of Somerset, and finally rose to distinction at the Pittsburgh bar. John W. Dugger, 1852-54, died in New Orleans a few years after graduating. W. Waverly Dugger, 1852-54, became a captain in the Confederate army and was taken prisoner at Gettysburg. James Stoner, 1854, became a prominent lawyer of the Pittsburgh bar. C. C. Phillips, 1854, was from Virginia, became a captain in the Con- federate army and was killed at Gettysburg. Thomas K. Dash- ield of the Isle of Wight, 1853-4, became a surgeon in the Con- federate army and was killed by a picket, in Virginia. Professor 516 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Carroll, 1851-54, had the Greek language at the tip of his tongue. He married Martha Skiles, oldest daughter of Isaac Skiles. Henry Clay Dean read law under Hon. Andrew Stewart and was admitted to the Fayette county bar and became one of the greatest orators of the land. An extended notice of him will be found elsewhere. William Hunter, who paid his way at college by working at the coopering trade, became a prominent doctor of divinity in the Methodist Episcopal church. He was a classmate of Bishop Simpson, and was for many years a professor in Allegheny col- lege, and for a dozen years edited the Pittsburgh Christian Ad- vocate. As a hymnologist he ranked among the leading ones of the country, and quite a number of his productions have been translated into other languages. Among the familiar hymns written by Dr. Hunter may be mentioned : " The Great Physi- cian now is near," " In the Christian's Home in Glory," and " My Heavenly Home is Bright and Fair." Dr. Hunter was born, 1811, and died, 1877. Henry Clay pronounced William Hunter the most eloquent minister of the gospel in the country. The Madison college buildings were levied upon and ad- vertised at sheriff's sale, October 16, 1858, at the suit of Rev. George Brown and others. On Februray 10, 1858, William H. Johnson and Zadoc Cra- craft secured against Madison college a debt of $825, and on March 7, 1859, the college buildings and two acres, more or less, of ground was sold by the sherifif to Rice G. Hopwood, D. Kaine, W. J. Johnson and Andrew Stewart, for $850. William A. McDowell, B. A., opened a select school, known " as Madison Institute, in the fall of 1859, and continued for a term of twenty weeks, and in the fall following, he in connection with William Hunt, A. M., opened a school with a female de- ' partment, which they conducted until the following spring, when they both retired. On the first Monday in September, 1861, Levi S. Lewis opened a select school known as Madison Institjite, which he conducted for two years. He had as an assistant in the female department. Miss Emma Robinson. A program of an exhibition given by the pupils of Madison institute held June 17', 1863, is as follows : Salutatory, J. K. Beeson; Music — Shells of the Ocean, Ella Huston; Select Ora- . History of Unionfown, Pennsylvania. 511 tion — Peaceable Secession Impossible, N. Ewing; Music — Lorena, Jennie Hopwood ; Composition — The Past and Present, James Boyle; Music— My Love, Polka, Sue V. Rankin; Dia- logue—Yankee in London, John Stewart, C. H. Beall, John F. Speer; Music— Light in the East is Glowing, Sue Barton; Select oration — Spirit of War, H. Oliphant; MUsic — Genl. Burnsides' Victory March, Bell E. Lewis; Composition — Evils of Extravagance, Ruth Thompson; Music — Proudly I Meet Thee, Lizzie Rush; Composition — True Politeness, Libbie Pat- terson; Music — Dearest Spot on Earth to Me, Nannie Skiles; Dialogue — Uncle Sam Reviving, Wm. G. Guiler, A. P. Bowie, J. Austin Modisette, Frank Huston, S. E. Ewing, John Oliphant, Eli Cope ; Music — Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean, School ; Composition — Advantages of Education, Libbie S. Doran; Music — Old Dog Tray, Ella Patterson ; Composition — American Antiquities, Andrew Hook; Music — Marching Along, Rachel Beazell ; Original oration — Labor and Genius, William Dunn ; Music — Monastery Bells, Lizzie Ewing; Original oration — Restoration of the Union, George Murphy ; Music — White Squall, Anna Wilson; Original oration— The Importance of an Ideal, T. B. Schnatterly; Music — Ernani, Emma Deford; Vale- dictory — Ellis Phillips; Music — Unfurl the Glorious Banner, School. The exercises were held in the court house ; Levi S. Lewis, principal. Professor S. B. Mercer opened a school known as Madison Seminary, in 1865, and continued two years. He was a fine scholar and a good instructor, but his patronage did not justify the continuance of the school. On June 13, 1865, Daniel Kaine and C. E. Boyle conveyed to Andrew Stewart for $1,500, all their interest, being the un- divided one-half interest, in Madison college buildings and two acres of land, more or less. In the fall of 1866, the Madison college buildings were fitted up for a school for the soldiers' orphans of the state of Pennsylvania. The first orphans were admitted September 19, 1866. Additional buildings were erected for the accommodation of the orphans in front of the college buildings. Here the school was conducted until April 8, 1875, whence it was removed to Dunbar's Camp. Immediately after the removal of the soldiers' orphan school Professor J. M. Hantz opened what he styled the Hamiltonian 518 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Institute, a mechanical, scientific and classical school in the Madison college building. This he conducted for about three years. He was an able teacher and a fine scholar. Professor Corban Gilbert was teaching a school in the Madison college building in April, 1887, and the first month of his school closed April 32, of that year. His school then numbered forty-seven pupils, and the professor was sixty-six years of age on that day. On April 6, 1883, Mrs. Elizabeth Stewart, widow of Hon. Andrew Stewart, conveyed to Dr. A. P. Bowie and Joseph R. Marshall the Madison college buildings, with two acres and eleven perches of ground, including the small frame buildings in front. A. M. Van Tine, A. B., opened a school in the Madison col- lege building in 1898, known as Madison Academy. The commencement exercises of the graduating class were held on Tuesday evening, June 20, 1899. The following eight pupils formed the class : Academic course — George B. Hop- wood and James A. Wishart; Commercial class — Florence M. Mills, Beatrice Craddock, Elmer F. Knotts and Wade H. Brown ; Shorthand and type writing — Mary M. Woodward and Lela Daugherty. Mr. Hopwood was a first honor graduate. James Francis Burk, Esq., of Pittsburgh, addressed the class and D. M. Hertzog, Esq., presented the diplomas. A. M. Van Tine and William Cloud arranged to purchase the college buildings, April 4, 1900, for the purpose of con- tinuing the school, but the deal was never consummated. This old college building subsequently came into the pos- session of Charles J. McCormick who in 1912, conveyed it to the Saint John the Baptist Greek Catholic congregation who fitted it up for religious service. CHAPTER XXIII. Old Militia Companies — War of the Revolution — War of 18ia — War with Mexico — War of the Rebellion — War with Spain — Fourth of July Celebrations. From the lack of data the history of the old militia com- panies must necessarily be meager. A military spirit has ever pervaded the breast of man. Tribe has warred against tribe, and nation against nation. The war for their independence, and the many struggles against the marauding Indian in defense of their firesides, taught the early colonists and frontier settlers that preparation for war was the price of peace. And while Uniontown was founded in peace it is doubtful if there ever was a time in her history but that a military spirit pervaded some of her citizens. The 4th day of July furnished inspiration for demonstrations along this line. One announcement states that Captain Jonathan Miller gives notice that the Fayette county troop of horse will meet at Uniontown on July 4, 1801, fully equipped, as the rules for the regulation of troops will be entered into for the current year. At a 4th of July celebration held in the town in 1810, by Captain W. C. Lane's company, together with the citizens of the place and vicinity, was ushered in by seventeen guns. Din- ner was served at Jacob Bower's inn, at the sign of The Indian King. The declaration of independence was read. General Meason was president at the table and Captain Joseph Warner, vice-president. Seventeen toasts were drank. Mahlon Fell, first sergeant, gave notice that the Union Volunteers would meet at the usual place of parade in Union- town on February 23, 1811, without uniforms. On the second Monday of May, 1821, the Twentieth Regi- ment, 13th Division Pennsylvania militia will meet at the house of Henry Bowell, by order of Thomas Brownfield, Colonel. The Union Volunteers were organized as an independent company, July 4, 1833. Announcement was made that the Lafayette Artillerists will parade at the court house August 26, 1836. A fine of one dollar will be imposed for non-attendance, and those not uni- formed will be compelled to pay the amount of their bond. 519 520 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The parade held at New Haven and Connellsville Sep- tember 7, 1836, was attended by the Lafayette Artillerists under Captain Thomas Patton; the Fayette Blues under Captain Valentine Giesey ; the- Pennsylvania Blues under Captain Mc- Clelland ; the Union Volunteers under Captain Richard Beeson ; the Youghiogheny Blues under Captain Trevor. The troops were under Captains Kennedy and Wells. There was a vacancy in the parade on account of the death of Captain Rogers whose company did not parade. Col. Sam Evans assumed command, and the muster lasted two days. The Lafayette Artillerists will parade at the court house on February 23, 1837, by order of Capt. Patton. The Lafayette Artillerists will parade at the court house May 7, 1837, in full uniform and arms. Members will appear in white pants. James Bunton, O. S. The 20th Regiment Pennsylvania Militia will parade as fol- lows : The First Battalion, May 4, 1837, at Smithfield. Second Battalion on the 15th at John Balsinger's. The Battalion of Fayette Volunteers will assemble for inspection and discipline at Uniontown, May 36, 1827, by order of Lieut-Col. Samuel Evans; John O. Marsh, adjutant. An oration was delivered on the 4th of July, 1827, by Richard Beeson, Esq., at the request of the joint committee of arrangements appointed by the Union Volunteers and the La- fayette Artillerists at Uniontown, as follows : " Citizens and Soldiers : Again the festival of Independence has arrived. More than half a century has rolled away since our fathers, appealing to the Lord of Hosts for the purity of their intentions, ushered into the world that immortal charter which has just been read by our venerable and much esteemed fellow citizen (Col. Alex- ander McClean). We are now assembled in common with many millions of freemen, not to commemorate the bloody triumphs of mad am- bition, but to lift our hearts in gratitude to the Almighty Ruler of the universe, who, amidst the fall of empires and the wreck of nations, has preserved our beloved country, and enabled us this day to " sit under our own vine and fig tree, and none to make us afraid." When last this imperishable instrument, the declaration of Independence was sounded in your ears, how deeply interesting History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 531 and solemn were the scenes which were at that moment passing at Montecello and at Quincy ! On that day, our fiftieth anniver- sary, the great day of national jubilee, " in the very hour of public rejoicing, in the midst of echoing and re-echoing voices of thanksgiving, while their own names were on all tongues," Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, the patriarchs, the conscript fathers of the republic, were winging their flight from their fields of fame to the regions of eternal bliss ! For surely, " If virtue's votary, if freedom's friend be worthy of the palm and robes of white, then ye have place eternal with the blessed." Spirits of the mighty dead! Seated at the side of the " Father of his Country," you may enjoy the reward of your philanthropy! Twin sons of liberty! Great heirs of fame! They had accomplished their task, their earthly labors were complete. Their pure spirits were permitted to take their exit on the brightest day the sun had ever lighted, and were wafted back to the great fountain of life on the grateful aspirations of millions of their fellow beings. They have fallen full of years and full of honors. How sublime was the hour! Millions of freemen were rejoicing and lifting up their hearts in gratitude to Him who inspired the councils of the nation with wisdom in the dark and gloomy day of the Revolution. The voice of the jubilee was heard from Maine to Louisiana — from Missouri to the Carolihas. At this moment of grandeur, when twenty- four free and happy republics were united in thanksgiving — while the deep mouthed cannon waked the wilderness and shook the solid ground, it would seem as if the Most High had deigned to smile on their rejoicings and bless their jubilee. From the vast multitude the two old patriarchs were chosen and received the reward of their labors in the service of man- kind. To them the messenger of death could bring no terrors. Calm and collected, with those who have acted well their part, they patiently awaited the inevitable hour, and at their last aspirations, remembering affectionately their beloved country, they sank into the sleep which, as to this world, knows no waking. " I have done," said the illustrious Jefferson, " for my country and for mankind, all that I could, and I now resign my soul without fear to my God : my daughter to my country." " It is a great and glorious day indeed," said the venerable Adams. " It is, indeed, a great and glorious day, and with it will be forever and indissolubly united the names of Thomas 533 History of Unioniown, Pennsylvania. Jefferson and John Adams. Consecrated to freedom, their names shall be its talismanic watchword; they shall dwell for- ever on the tongue of lisping infancy and be the rapturous theme of mature age." Thus, fellow citizens, have these great benefactors of the human race been signally and, may we not say miraculously, gathered to their fathers. Just and benevolent in their lives, in their death they were not divided. Together they breasted the stream of the Revolution, together they witnessed the high and palmy state of prosperity at which their country had ar- rived, and at last, when the wine of life was drawn away, and its lees only remained, these apostles of liberty, having fulfilled their mission together, departed to receive their rewards. " Worn with the cares of four score years and ten, When life no more a blessing would impart. At peace with God, and deeply mourned of men. They lay them down to rest, to wake in Heaven again." Both born to rich inheritance, and brought up in the lap of fortune, they were ushered into the theatre of the world with the certainty of distinction; yet with that moral courage which belongs to true magnanimity." A military parade was held in Uniontown September 10th and 11th 1828. The Washington Blues, commanded by Captain Thomas M. T. McKennan; four companies from Greene county, viz. : The Franklin Rangers, Captain Baltzell ; the Cumberland Rangers, Capt. Litzenburg; the Jefferson Blues, Capt. Lindsay; the Independent Blues, Capt. Jackson. These were joined by the Youghiogheny Blues, Capt. Rogers; the Pennsylvania Blues, Capt. McClelland ; a troop of cavalry, Capt. Morris ; the Lafay- ette Artillerists, Capt. Thomas Patton; and the Union Volun- teers, Capt. Richard Beeson; making, collectively, a military display magnificent and imposing in the highest degree. The whole was under the command of Colonel Samuel Evans, and the maneuvers were executed with military precision, and the utmost harmony and good fellowship prevailed. The following lines from the pen of Captain Beeson, were written in commemoration of the occasion. Parade ! parade ! — The grand parade. With martial joy has come — The morning's dawn — the reveille — History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 533 The gush of warlike minstrelsy, Of bugle, trump and drum. They all are here ! The waving plume, The flaunting colors sheen, The pride and pomp and circumstance Of glorious war behold advance. From Washington and Greene. A soldier's greeting quick exchang'd. The line will form ! — Parade ! ' Tis form'd — Slow wheeling on the right, A firm, broad column meets the sight. With banners high display'd. The host moves on, — a sea of plumes. With undulating wave, Now sink — now rise, like fields of grain When zephyrs breathe along the plain — How beautiful ! How brave ! To shady grove, and peaceful plain. Where hostile foot ne'er fell, (Unless, perchance, the forests' lords. Might here have pour'd their warrior hordes. And raised the battle yell.) They marched — but not to fields of blood Where war's dread clarion roars — Ah ! ne'er again may battle plain Be thine, my country, 'till, in vain The foe invades thy shore. But may thy soldier citizens Still meet on bloodless fields. Thus, like a " wall of fire " they stand Around their much lov'd native land. Its ornaments and shield. Now eastward, mountain, tower and town, Their length'ning shadows wave, 524 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The field which late with mimic war Resounding, thunder'd wide and far, Is silent as the grave ! Beneath the bright autumnal sky, The camp fires brightly glow, — And now with welcome heart and hand, Friend meets his friend, while gay and bland. The social -feelings flow. Again the morning wakes — once more The field receives the train — Again the vollying musket pours Its flood ! again th' artillery roars In thunder o'er the plain ! 'Tis hush'd — and now 'tis silence all; The parting hour is come ! ' Twas joy to meet — 'tis pain to part. Yet plays there 'round the human heart A charm so sweet as home? Ah ! no, — the peasant in his cot. The monarch on his throne, Feels not a more enduring tie For which to live, — for which to die, Than this — than this alone. On May 3, 1830, the Fayette Artillerists were called for parade at the court house, with arms in complete order for drill and inspection, James Bunton, O. S. On the same date the Pennsylvania Blues were to drill at the dwelling house of James A. McClelland in complete uni- form and equipment and guns in bright order. And on May 10th, the Twentieth Regiment Pennsylvania Militia was to meet for drill. The First Battalion, Major Poundstone, at the house of George Hair in Smythfield. The Second Battalion to meet at the late residence of John Balsinger in German township, by order of David Gilmore, colonel. On July 3, 1830, two celebrations were held. Captain Thomas Patton's company of artillery formed at the court house History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 525 and marches to a grove just east of the old Baptist church, where the Declaration of Independence was read by the venerable Colonel Alexander McClean. The officers of the day were: General Henry W. Beeson, president, assisted by Andrew Bryson, and Colonel Ewing Brownfield, vice-president, assisted by John Huston. National salutes were fired by the artillery. The other celebration held the same day was by the Union Volunteers in a grove east of the town. Refreshments were served by Harry Gilbert at 50 cents a plate. A patriotic ad- dress was delivered by ex-Captain Richard Beeson, and the Declaration of Independence was read by E. P. Oliphant, Esq. The address of ex-Captain Beeson was published in full in the Genius of Liberty, July 13, 1830. The roll of the Lafayette Artillerists for September 18, 1833, was as follows: 1st Captain, Joseph Williams; 1st Lieu- tenant, Elisha Emmerson ; 3nd Lieutenant, George Brown ; Stephen Beckett, Thomas Wathen, Isaac Moore, Edward Jones, Joseph Peach, Hugh Gorley, James A. Yerk, Isaac P. Miner, Samuel Starnes, Charles Peach, Leonard Wilson, Benjamin Rid- dle, Seth Hyatt, Henry H. Beeson, Joseph H. Springer, John Beeson, John Neads, Elisha Stevens, Benjamin Stevens, Daniel Downer, Abe Griffith, James Clark, Jonathan Downer, Hiram Downer, Enos West, James McDowell, Samuel McReynolds, Robert McDowell, Benjamin Downer, John Fleming, William Jobes, Absalom White, David Bryson, George Clark, Benjamin F. Price, Levi Jacobs, Samuel Pope, Uriah Wood, Thomas Wood, Willianj D. Beggs, James Woods, Absalom Murphy, James Piper, William B. Craft, Peter Kelley, William Middle- ton, Paul Shearer, David ElHs, Uriah Kendall, Thomas Patton. The roll of the Union Volunteers for the same date was as follows : Captain William Redick ; 1st Lieutenant, James Veech ; 2nd Lieutenant, William Maquilken; 1st Sergeant, Joshua B. Howell; 2nd Sergeant, Nathaniel Brownfield; 3rd Sergeant, Leroy Haymaker; 4th Sergeant, William H. Whitton; Musicians : Caleb Crossland and John H. Heaton, fifers ; George Sullivan and David Lincoln, drummers ; Privates : Ezra Semans, Isaac Olden, Isaac Roberts, Simon Johnson, George Wiggins, William Wiggins, Joseph Waters, William Campbell, Jacob Springer, Job Springer, Harvey Springer, Joseph Fisher, Robert L. Vance, Lott W. Clawson, John W. Holland, 526 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Francis W. Holland, John Stewart, John Doran, John Brown- field, Moses Nixon, Patrick L. Bradley, Jacob Taylor, Ephraim B. Owings, Darlington Jefferies, James Mendenhall, Samuel Mackey, Jacob Johnson, William P. Wells, Owen Price, Wilson Minor, Andrew S. Fowley, Lewis Mobley, David Neal, Jonathan Fisher, Henry D. Skillman, Alfred Patterson, Miles J. Tiernan, Matthew Wylie, Francis Collins, Isaac Johnson, Jonathan D. Springer, Isaac Wood, William Halfstein, Isaac Sutton. The following is a roll of members who have served seven years, according to law, and were not now on the active list : Richard Beeson, Robert C. Wood, Joseph McGee, James Bryant, William Crawford, Hugh Campbell, Robert Skiles, Andrew Stewart, William McMullen, Milton Baily, Samuel Lewis, Isaac Beeson, Elijah Craft, I. Newton Craft, Alexander Mendenhall, Hardesty Walker, Daniel P. Lynch, Jacob B. Miller, James Ebert, Benjamin Miller, William Ebert, William Bryson, Jacob Poundstone, Jesse Covert, Edward Hyde, Isaac Nixon, John Dawson, James F. Canon. Capt. Howell and O. S. Leroy Haymaker were members of the U. S. Volunteers November 11, 1835. Captain George Meason announced that Fayette Cavalry would meet at Brownsville to join the grand parade on the 7th, 8th, and 9th, and to bring nine rounds of blank cartridges. Rev. William Hanna in his history of Greene county men- tions that the Union Volunteers under command of Captain Sam Austin attended a parade at Waynesburg in 1841, were armed with fence rails instead of muskets, and thus paraded the streets of the town, and at the command " order arms " the sound of the " arms " as they struck the ground resembled somewhat the sound of an earthquake. A grand parade was held for three days, beginning August 31, 1843, at Uniontown by the Fayette Cavalry and Union Volunteers, and the neighboring companies were invited to par- ticipate. The Union Volunteers attended a 4th of July celebration at Morgantown in 1843. They were received by an address of welcome by Hon. Waitman T. Willey. Among those who re- sponded to toasts were: R. G. Hopwood, P. U. Hook, Wm. McCleary, W. A. Donaldson, S. S. Austin and others. A grand encampment was held at McClelland's grove just northwest of Waynesburg in 1843. A volunteer stole a piece History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 527 of meat. A court martial was called to try the case. Col. Joshua B. Howell, Capt. James M. Oliphant and Capt. Bradley Mahanna were the officers of the court. Capt. Sam Austin was prosecuting attorney, and various witnesses testified in the case. The attorneys made speeches, and the court found the defend- ant guilty and sentenced him to be bumped seven times against a tree, and the sentence was immediately executed, when to the surprise of all parties the accused came before the court and asked for a new trial, which the court readily granted, and at the conclusion of which the defendant was again found guilty and sentenced to receive fourteen more bumps against the tree, which was summarily executed. The Union Volunteers marched to Greensburg in Septem- ber, 1845, to attend a parade, under the command of Capt. Sam Austin. In 1847 a fife and drum corps was organized in the town in order to give spirit to the many military parades and cele- brations so common in those days. This fife and drum corps was composed of the following named young men : Fifers — Silas M. Baily, John Thorndell, Charles H. Livingstone, Lewis West, John Stumph and Oliver Stumph. Snare Drummers — Henry Bunting, John Rine, Charles Huston, Charles Wickersham, John R. West, and Henry McMullen. Bass Drummers — Lucius Bunting and Jefferson Miller. A new military company was organized this same year, and in honor of Zachary Taylor, was named the Rough and Ready Guards, and of its members may be mentioned John Murphy, a brother-in-law to Harry W. S. Rigden, was captain and Amos M. Jolliffe, first lieutenant; Frank Kountz, second lieutenant; Samuel McMullen, first sergeant. Privates — Jacob Joseph, " Paint " Lewis, Henry Prentice, James Fee, John Wood, Lew Wood, Mordecai Hunt, Huston Fisher, Henry Sullivan, Henry Shriver, Washington Smith, Huston Devan, Clark Beeson, Enos West. The Union Volunteers paraded the streets of the town on February 22, 1848, and were addressed by Captain S. Duncan Oliphant in the Methodist Episcopal church. The address was published in full. On the occasion of the celebration of the thirty-sixth anni- versary of the battle of New Orleans, January 8, 1851, the Union Volunteers paraded the streets and repaired to the 528 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Methodist Episcopal church where they were presented with a beautiful flag by the ladies of the town. An oration was de- livered by E. P. Oliphant, Esq., which was responded to on the part of the company by Lieut. Alfred Rowell. On July 11, 1851, Captain Thomas King paraded the streets of the town with his new artillery company and big brass cannoji. This cannon was borrowed from the arsenal at Pittsburgh and was to be returned upon demand. It was a six pounder and mounted on a carriage, and was used for firing salutes for many years, before it was recalled. This company must have lost its interest as Capt. King announced that he would hold a meeting at the town hall on July 11, 1857, for the further organization of the new artillery company. A large gathering of the militia of the county was held on the Lenox fields, just north of town, in May, 1851, at which the following companies attended : The Union Volunteers, Capt. James Bugh ; the Connellsville company, Capt. J. M. Du- shane; South Fayette county, Capt. Hichman; Walnut Hill company, Capt. Ortin Frisbee ; Brownsville company, Capt. Van Swarto; Wharton Blues, Capt. E. Y. Beggs; Springhill Blues, Capt. David Wrasler; the Swamp Blackbirds from Flat Woods ; a cavalry company from near Merrittstown, Capt. Jesse B. Ramsey. The battalion of infantry was under the command of Lieu- tenant-Colonel D. M. Whaley of Connellsville. The squadron was commanded by Major John S. Goe, afterwards brigafiier- general of Fayette county. General R. T. Galloway was com- mander-in-chief and had his saddle headquarters in a distant part of the field and was surrounded by his uniformed staff. A sham battle was fought, and the infantry was formed into a hollow square with the color bearers enclosed. The colors were to be captured by the cavalry, and after several fruitless at- tempts and much maneuvering the flag of the Union Volun- teers was captured from James Beckett by Jeffries A. Hague of Capt. Ramsey's cavalry company. Many amusing incidents were related as having occurred at this sham battle. One of the officers displayed poor horsemanship by falling from his horse. Dave Blythe, local versifler, in writing about this sham battle said: < Q W in O m W W m M u History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 529 " The mimic battle scene was grand. Fought, too, as well as planned ; And sketched by some historian hand, Would most inevitably brand The monstrous intellect that spanned Its mighty outline With immortality." On July 4, 1857, the Cameron Union Volunteers paraded the streets for the iirst time in their new Uniforms, and were addressed in front of the court house by Alfred Patterson, Esq., who, in the name of Honorable Simon Cameron, presented the company with a beautiful flag and four elegant swords in recog- nition of the respect shown him. The flag and swords were re- ceived on the part of the company by its captain. Captain C. E. Swearingen. Both addresses were published in full. Captain Thomas M. Fee received his commission as captain of the Cameron Union Volunteers from Governor William F. Packer, June 9, 1859, and held the ofHce until the company was disbanded in 1860. Company C, Pennsylvania Volunteers was organized De- cember 23, 1881, at which time the following officers were elected: John H. Campbell, captain; Albert G. Beeson, first lieutenant; John K. Ewing, Jr., second lieutenant. In 1883, D. M. Bierer was appointed first sergeant and the following non- commissioned officers were named: Henry C. Diffenderffer, H. F. Detwiler, Jacob D. Moore and Charles W. Fowler, second, third, fourth and fifth sergeants, respectively. Luke H. Frasher, John N. Debolt, Thomas T. Beall, C. S. Francis, Elmer E. Ruble, Peter Lape, Alfred B. Pickard, Ewing Sembower, corporals. At the breaking out of the war with Spain Albert G. Beeson was captain. On April 35, 1908, the company received orders to join the United States Reserves and proceeded to Camp Hastings, Mt. Gretna, for enlistment. Captain Beeson was rejected on account of his age, and former Captain Daniel M. Bierer was elected. The company saw severe service in the Philippines and was given a great ovation upon its return home. By an order issued from the Adjutant General's office at Harrisburg, December 29, 1910, to First Lieutenant Thomas P. Jones, it was ordered that the location of Company C, Tenth Infantry be changed from Uniontown to Somerset, and that all 530 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. articles of uniforms and equipments be delivered to Captain John D. Hitchman, commissary of Tenth Infantry, and the members honorably discharged. The Revolutionary War. No single overt act on the part of the mother country was the cause of the struggle for independence by the American colonists, but the cumulation of a long series of causes pre- cipitated the climax. The Act of Parliament known as the " Writ of Assistance " revealed the intentions of that body to enforce taxation upon the colonists. This act authorized the king's officers to break open any colonist's store or dwelling, and to search for and seize any foreign merchandise on which the duty had not been paid. This caused an indignation meeting to be held in Old Town Hall in Boston at which the actions of the mother country toward her American colonists were forcibly denounced and the spirit of resistance fostered. A bill imposing duties on sugar, coflfee, indigo, etc., im- ported into the colonies from the West Indies being re-enacted added fuel to the flame, and in 1765, the famous Stamp Act, which required the stamping of all legal papers, was imposed. This caused the people to again assemble and express their in- dignation in still more emphatic terms. The stamps were seized and destroyed, and the distributors insulted and dispersed, and when the time came when the law was to have taken effect, there were no officers courageous enough to enforce it. A General Congress convened in New York on the 7th of October, which remained in session fourteen days, and which ably set forth the grievances and rights of the colonists, and petitioned the king and parliament for a redress of the former and the acknowledgment of the latter. The first of November, when the act was to have gone into effect, was observed as a day of fasting and mourning. Funeral processions paraded the streets of the cities, bells tolled funeral knells, flags were placed at halfmast, and all business suspended. This obnoxious act was repealed on the 18th of March, 1766, at which the merchants of London rejoiced, and in America public thanksgivings, bonfires and illuminations attested the general joy. The rejoicing of the colonists 'was, however, but temporary, as in the following June, a duty was levied on History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 531 tea, glass, paper, painters' colors, etc., and troops were sent to force the collection of these duties. The East India company petitioned parliament to remove the duty on tea, agreeing to pay to the government more than an equal amount, in export duty, should the change be made. This was the last feather laid on the back of the already overburdened camel. Indignation meetings were held in Faneuel Hall, and on the night of December 17, 1773, a party of about sixty persons, some disguised as Indians, rushed aboard two vessels lying in the harbor and threw their cargoes of tea overboard. Parliament then ordered all ports of Boston closed against commercial transactions, and all public offices removed to Salem, but the people of that place refused the proffered ad- vantages. The colonists then began to prepare for the inevitable. All over the land at provincial assemblies and public gather- ings the right of resistance was boldly proclaimed. The crisis came on the 19th of April, 1775, when the first blood of the revolution was spilt on the green at Lexington, where eight of the colonists were killed, several wounded and the remainder dispersed by Major Pitcairn under orders of General Gage. The spark had now been set to the tinder. The news spread over the country like a blaze. From the hills and the valleys patriots went forth by hundreds, and before the close of April an army of 30,000 men was forming camps and building fortifications around Boston. The people of Western Pennsylvania assembled at Han- nastown on May 16, 1775, and there and then drew up a Decla- ration of Independence in which they pledged themselves to resist and oppose with their lives and their fortunes, if need be, the tyranny and oppression of the Parliament of Great Britain. And, further, they agreed to organize themselves into military bodies for the purpose of resisting any troops that might be sent to enforce the arbitrary acts of parliament: but in case the ob- noxious burdens of taxation should be removed, they as strenu- ously pledged themselves to observe the laws and remain loyal subjects of their king. As an outcome of the Hannastown Declaration of Inde- pendence the First Battalion of Westmoreland county was raised, and John Proctor put in command. This noble band of patriots carried a rattlesnake flag bearing the significant motto 532 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. " Don't tread on Me," and rendered valuable service in the in- terest of the struggling colonists. This flag is still preserved as a priceless relic of Revolutionary days. The first response in the struggle for independence from this immediate vicinity was in June, 1775, when about twenty frontiersmen marched across the mountains to join Captain Cressap, whom they had known when in command at Redstone Old Fort, now Brownsville. His company numbered upwards of one hundred and thirty strong, active men, who joined Washington's army near Boston. The first considerable body of men raised in this vicinity was the Seventh Virginia, raised in the fall of 1775, chiefly through the efforts of William Craw- ford, whose headquarters were at his home where South Con- nellsville now stands. These marched with Washington's re- treating army through New Jersey, and rendered good service at Trenton and other engagements and later served in the Western Department at Fort Pitt and elsewhere. By the early part of 1777, this region had furnished two regiments to the quota of Virginia, besides eight full companies to the Pennsylvania Line, and subsequently furnished her quota to the many expeditions against the western Indian tribes in which some of the best blood of the yeomanry was spilt and lives sacrificed in defense of the frontier. The number of troops that were engaged in this great strug- gle was over 180,000, and to meet the enormous expense of the war Congress issued bills of credit known as Continental money which by the close of the war had reached the sum of $20,000,- 000, and which rapidly depreciated until it became practically worthless, and the necessaries of life arose in price beyond all credence. Pennsylvania, however, did reimburse some of her troops by the distribution of what was known as the Deprecia- tion and Donation lands in the northwest corner of the state. The last survivor of this ever memorable struggle was Daniel F. Bakeman who died in Freedom, Cattaraugusco county. New York, April 5, 1869, at the age of one hundred and nine years. Esther S. Damon of Portsmouth Union, Vermont, who died in 1906, at the age of 92 years, was a pensioner of the Revolution, and Mrs. Phebe M. Palmeter of Brooklyn, New York, at the age of 89 years, was pensioned by a special act of congress as the daughter of Jonathan Wooley who served in a History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 533 New Hampshire company, was the only pensioner of the Revolutionary war on the roll in 1911. War of 1813. The many aggessions upon American commerce by Great Britain caused Congress, on the 19th of June, 1813, to issue a declaration of war, for the second time, against the mother country, and to order that a force of 35,000 regular troops and 50,000 volunteers be raised. Hostilities began on the seas be- tween the merchantmen and the cruisers of the two nations, and actual war was begun in what was then the northwest of the United States. The opening of this war was inauspicious to the infant re- public, but the memorable battle on Lake Erie, September 10, 1813, in which Captain Oliver Hazard Perry, an inexperienced officer of but twenty-eight years of age, with a fleet of nine ves- sels, which he was compelled to construct at Erie, engaged Captain Robert Barclay, a veteran of the wars of Europe, with a squadron of six vessels and a superior number of guns and men, resulted in the glorious victory which caused the proud mistress of the seas to lower her flag amidst the hurrahs of the American fleet, and enable Captain Perry to forward his ever memorable dispatch to General Harrison, " We have met the enemy and they are ours." The struggle still continued in the east and on August 34th, of the following year the vandalic torch was applied to the capitol building, which act was bitterly denounced on the floor of the British House of Commons and by the nation at large, and on September 13th, Baltimore was attacked and gallantly de- fended, and Fort McHenry bombarded throughout the night which furnished the inspiration of the poem that made the name of Francis S. Key immortal. The last engagement of consequence in this struggle was under General Andrew Jackson known as the battle of New Orleans, January 8, 1815, where he defeated General Sir Edward Packenham, who was killed, with 3,000 of his troops killed, wounded and captured, while the American loss was but seven killed and six wounded. This battle was fought before the news that a treaty of peace had been signed at Ghent, Belgium on the 24th of December, had reached this country. Quite a number of the partiots*who served in this second 534 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. struggle against the mother country were either former resi- dents of Uniontown or vicinity, or became such after peace was declared. The first company to respond to the call for troops in this struggle from Uniontown was enlisted and commanded by Cap- tain Thomas Collins. This company was entertained at a din- ner by Peter Hook at his home at the head of Morgantown street on the eve of their departure for the seat of war. This company entered the service August 37, 1813, under the command of Major John Herkimer and served at Oswego, Sackett's Harbor and other points along the lake frontier, and was discharged at Oswego August 16, 1813. Of the members of Captain Collins' company, residents of Uniontown, may be mentioned Ensign Mahlon Fell who died in the service, and was succeeded in the office by Sergeant Benjamin Price, April 1, 1813. Benjamin Price subsequently filled the office of justice of the peace in Wharton township where he died suddenly December 17, 1853, and is buried in the M. E. graveyard in Uniontown. Sergeant Henry Beeson, Jr., was a son of the founder of the town, and father of the late Jesse Beeson the well remembered miller. Private Henry W. Beeson was a son of Jacob Beeson, founder of the famous Bee- son store, and was a grandson of the founder of the town. His love for military tactics grew as he advanced in years, and he was a conspicuous figure in the militia of the county. He owned and resided in the mansion still standing on the land of the Stewart Iron Company east of town. He rode in full uniform at the reception of General Lafayette when the latter visited the town in 1835. Private George Meason was a son of Colonel Isaac Meason at one time owner of the Mount Braddock farm. He died at Sackett's Harbor. Private Samuel Salter owned and kept a hotel where the Central hotel now stands. He died at Connellsville. Private William Ebert was the father of the late Mrs. Sarah Teed of Morgantown street, at whose home he died October 11, 1865. Private Isaac Skiles was the originator of the famous Skiles store of the town, and erected the old Skiles Corner. Private William Hart was proprietor of the hotel now known as the Brunswick, and died in Washington county. Private Seth Wood was appointed second sergeant. He was a brother of Gen. William Wood, deceased, the well-remembered saddle and harness maker of the town. Private Clement Wood History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 535 was a saddle and harness maker and carried on business on Morgantown street where the Hadden building now stands. He served many years as justice of the peace and lived on Church street. He removed to Lone Tree, Iowa, where he died. Private Thomas Hibbin was appointed quartermaster sergeant. He was a blacksmith and owned and lived where the West End hotel now stands. He removed to Newark, Ohio, where he died. Private Simon Price, employed by Quartermaster Thomas on extra duty at Buffalo, was a brother of Ensign Benjamin Price. Private Daniel P. Lynch was a son of Cor- nelius Lynch who owned and kept a tavern on the corner now occupied by the Thompson-Ruby building. He was appointed sheriff of Fayette county October 10, 1820. Private Samuel Oilman was the original purchaser of a lot between the court house and the eastern bridge on which his widow continued to live after his death. Private Henry H. Beeson was the youngest of the family of Jacob Beeson, one of the founders of the town. His discharge is the treasured heirloom of his daughter, Mrs. Drusilla Titlow. He died on his farm in North Union township July 8, 1869. Private Joseph Pryor was a fine old bachelor tailor and made his final home with Captain Collins where he died April 13, 1837. Private Jacob Knapp kept a tavern in the town, and was the first high constable of the town. Private William Bleeks was likely a tanner and lived in a log house belonging to John Miller on Morgantown street. Private Moses McClean was a son of Colonel Alexander McClean one of the surveyors on the Mason and Dixon line and recorder of Fayette county. Felty Saunders was said to have served as a drummer in Cap- tain Collins' company and lived on Morgantown street. Other residents of Uniontown who served in the war of 1813, were Captain John Phillips who built the large brick resi- dence on the lot now occupied by the First Presbyterian church and here carried on the furniture business. Captain James Whaley who after serving in the war of 1812, went out with an expedition against the Indians. He spent the latter part of his life an honored citizen of Uniontown, where he died May 22, 1869. Corporal William McClelland was a member of Capt. Moore's company and kept a tavern which was the predecessor of the present McClelland House. Sergeant John Gallagher was a member of Captain Moore's company. He owned and resided on a fine tract of land adjoining the town on the north on which 536 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. are now laid off North Gallatin avenue, Lincoln, Maple and Walnut streets. Daniel Canon was a private in Capt. Moore's company. Late in life he filled the office of borough weigh- master for many years. He died at his home on South Beeson avenue in 1861. Roberts Barton was of Capt. Wadsworth's company and was promoted to fourth sergeant. He was ap- pointed register and recorder of Fayette county by Gov. Ritner and served three years. He was commander of the Pennsylvania Blues in 1815. He owned and operated the Barton mill on Red- stone creek. In the latter part of his life he resided on Morgan- town street. Jonathan Allen was a sergeant in Captain Linn's company. He was for many years a merchant of the town and died on his farm in Franklin township. Benjamin Miller was a private in Capt. Linn's company. He had been a wagoner over the mountains before the construction of the National road, and subsequently kept a tavern on East Main street. John Beeson was a private in Capt. Linn's company. He was of the militia stationed at Erie who volunteered to man Perry's fleet. He was assigned to the Ariel, and rendered valuable and effec- tive service in the action in manning a gun from which he fired cannon balls linked together. Losing the rammer overboard he attempted to ram his charge home with a crowbar, which became fast in the gun. When discharged the crowbar swept the deck of the Detroit, causing that vessel to lower her flag. Mr. Bee- son's services were recognized by the State by the presentation of a silver medal. He died May 17, 1866, and is buried at Hop- wood. Captain James Piper lived on East Main street, was ad- mitted to the bar in 1819, was district attorney 1824-1826 ; filled the office of register and recorder 1839-1842, and was other- wise prominent in business circles. John Sowers was a private in Captain Valentine Giesey's company. He was a merchant of the town for several years, and died in Connellsville in 1863. Nathaniel Jaquette was a native of Delaware and after the war he settled in this town where he became a respected citizen. Thomas Meason, son of Col. Isaac Meason, rode from here to Washington city on horseback to offer his services for his country, and on his way there he contracted a severe cold, which terminated fatally soon after his arrival at his destination. His remains were interred in the Congressional burying grounds. Thomas Wathen was a native of Maryland and after the war settled in Uniontown where he followed his trade of shoe- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 537 making. Several of his descendants are still residents of the town. Captain Hugh Gorley was a native of Newton, Va., and when a young man he went to Chillicothe, Ohio, where he witnessed a young man who had been drafted, tied to the car- riage of a cannon and was being forced into the service. Mr. Gorley volunteered as a substitute for the young conscript, and from here marched to Fort Meigs and was assigned for duty under General Harrison. His services were rendered with the artillery. He subsequently settled in Uniontown as a shoe- maker. Captain Gorley's military ardor never waned, but at all big parades of the militia of the county he was always con- spicuous with his artillery company. He died September 10, 1861. James Bunton came from Baltimore after the war and settled in Uniontown. He evidently served in the artillery, and was orderly sergeant in Captain Gorley's company where he rendered effective service in awakening the slumbering inhabit- ants on all military occasions. He died March 16, 1857. James Thompson enlisted at Wilmington, Delaware, when nineteen years of age, and served during the war. He settled in Uniontown in 1837, where he died about 1873. Zalmon Ludington was born at Ludingtonville, New York, and served under the name of his brother in Colonel Churchill's regiment of New York state and participated in the battle of Black Rock. He engaged in the shoe and leather business in Uniontown where he became a prosperous and highly respected citizen. He died at the home of his son, General Marshall I. Ludington in Philadelphia, April 31, 1889. Mr. Ludington ap- pears to have been the last survivor of the war of 1812, who lived in Uniontown. Nathan Jefferis, for some time a resident of Uniontown, en- listed in Captain Valentine Giesey's company of Brownsville and marched eastward to offer his services in defense of his country. Upon reaching Hagerstown the captain was informed that his services would not be required, but the doughty captain pushed on to Washington where he prevailed on the Secre- tary of War to accept of his services, and was ordered to report at Baltimore to General Scott for duty. The General examined Captain Giesey's orders and expressed great surprise at the distance the company had marched, and, after commending the zeal of the captain and his men in the warmest terms, the com- 538 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. pany was assigned for duty, and proceeded to Annapolis where it was mustered out of service, and marched home. The last survivor of the war of 1812 was Hiram Cronk of Ava, New York, who died May 13, 1905, at the age of one hun- dred and five years. War with Mexico. " The broken soldier kindly bade to stay, Sits by his fire and talks the night away; Weeps o'er his wounds, or tales of sorrow done, Shoulders his crutch and shows how fields are won." The colonization of the territory now comprising the state of Texas, from 1831 to 1832, soon brought the number of white Americans up to twenty thousand, while the Spanish or Mex- ican population in the same territory was inconsiderable. These Americans took with them their American ideas, and when practically denied even the smallest share in the government, would not tamely submit to the rule of an alien race, especially the Spanish under Mexican guise. Trouble soon began to brew, and a war for the independence of Texas broke out on the 3nd of October, 1835, leading to the massacre of the garrison of the fort of the Alemo de Bixar, March 6, 1836, and to the independence of the State at the de- cisive battle of San Jacinto, under General Sam Houston, in April following. The independence of Texas having been ac- knowledged by the United States, Great Britain and other powers, she then applied for admittance into the American Union, to which she was admitted July 4, 1846. Controversy then arose as to the boundary line which caused the first blood- shed between the contending parties. This caused Congress, May 11, 1846, to declare that " By the act of the Republic of Mexico, a state of war existed between that government and the United States," and authorized the president to raise an army of 50,000 volunteers and appropriated ten millions of dollars to carry on the war; and on the 23rd of the same month the Mexican government made a formal decla- ration of war against the United States. William B. Roberts of Uniontown, who had been a field officer of the militia of the county, secured from the Secretary of War authority to enlist a company for the war with Mexico. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 539 The article of enlistment was as follows : " We whose names are hereby annexed agree to form ourselves into a volunteer in- fantry company and tender our services to the president of the United States and governor of Pennsylvania to serve in the war against Mexico for the period of its duration or any limited period the president or governor may see proper to accept, and when seventy names or upwards shall be procured, a meeting of the members shall be called, signed by ten of the members, giving six days' notice, when officers shall be elected and ar- rangements made for a tender of our services to the president and governor. The company shall be styled the Fayette County Volunteers." Enlistments were received at Mr. Roberts' store at the west end of town, and elsewhere. Captain Samuel S. Austin, with Lieutenant William Quail, Lieut. John Sturgeon and Lieut. Ed. Rine rendered valuable assistance in raising the company. When the company assembled at the old market house on Saturday, January 2, 1847, William B. Roberts and Samuel S. Austin were competing candidates for the captaincy and Roberts was declared elected. William Quail was elected 1st lieutenant, John Sturgeon, 2nd lieutenant, and Absalom Guiler, orderly sergeant. On the following morning, January 3rd, the company de- parted for the seat of war in wagons to Brownsville, accom- panied by a number of friends, where they embarked on the Louis McLean for Pittsburgh. The president called for but two regiments of Pennsyl- vania troops which were mobilized at Pittsburgh where on the 6th of January the 2nd Pennsylvania was organized by the election of Captain William B. Roberts as colonel, Capt. John W. Geary as lieut.-col., Capt. William Brindle as major, Benja- min F. Button as adjutant, Richard McMichael as sergeant- major, and James Johnson as quarter-master sergeant and J. L. Linker as drum major. William Quail was elected captain of Co. H, vice Capt. Roberts elected colonel. The Second Regiment was made up as follows : Co. A, Capt. Losier; Co. B, Capt. Humphreys; Co. C, Capt. Wilson; Co. D, Capt. Murray; Co. E, Capt. Johnson; Co. F, Capt. Naylor ; Co. G, Capt. Williams ; Co. H, Capt. Quail ; Co. I, Capt. Porter; Co. K, Capt. Miller. The regiment was furnished with uniforms, and with uplifted hands vowed to maintain the con- 540 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. stitution of the United States that had been read twice in their hearing. Companies F. K. A. G. E and H embarked on the Anthony Wayne the 8th, and companies B, C, D and I on the 9th on the North CaroHna for New Orleans. Two additional companies were added to the 2nd Pennsylvania, viz. : the Inde- pendent Grays of Bedford and Capt. Caldwell's company of Mifflin county. The troops arrived at New Orleans on the 15th and went into camp on Genl. Jackson's old battle field, a short distance from the city. Here some nine members of Co. H. deserted. The troops remained in camp here for two weeks and then em- barked on the James N. Cooper for Lobos Island where they should have landed in two days, but being caught in a " norther " she was tossed for fourteen days on the waves ; and when the fog lifted and bearings taken, the vessel was found to be in Cuban waters. One soldier died of disease on board the vessel and was buried at sea. The vessel, with her 1,000 men and all the ammunition for the army, landed at Lobos Island fifteen days out from New Orleans. Here the troops received their arms and spent three weeks in military drill and await the arrival of General Scott with re- enforcements. The army left Lobos Island on the Ohio. Scott made a feint to land at other points, but landed his army of 12,000 men two miles south of the city of Vera Cruz, March 9th, and immediately invested the city which was under the protec- tion of the castle of San Juan de Ulua containing a garrison of 4,500 men. Scott's demand for the surrender of the city and fortress was refused, and he then demanded the removal of women and children and non-combatants which demand was also refused. On March 23nd, assisted by the fleet under Com- modore Connor, Scott began the bombardment of the city and castle which lasted four days with little intermission, when on the 26th, overtures were made, and on the 29th, the city and castle surrendered with all their arms and munitions of war, and the defeated troops retired to the interior on parole. The Americans had but eleven killed and fifty-six wounded. On April 8th, Genl. Scott commenced his march for the in- terior by the way of Jalapa. The desperate battle of Cerro Gordo was fought and won on the 18th, and Santa Anna put to flight. The victory was overwhelming even to General Scott. Jalapa was won and entered on the 19th, and Puebla was entered History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 541 without much resistance on May 15th, and where the troops lay until the 8th of August. Generals Pillow and Twiggs moved against Contreras, and after an assault of seventeen minutes, took the position by storm. This was the first victory of the memorable 20th of August. On the same morning Genl. Worth advanced on Santa Anna at Cherubusco, who evacuated the place and fled toward the city. At the same time Pillow moved against one of the heights of Cherubusco, which he took by storm. Twiggs stormed and held another height of Cherubusco. Shields and Pierce drove Santa Anna into the fortifications of Cherubusco, thus completing a series of victories for the day. Tuckabayu fell on August 21st, from which time until Sep- tember 5th, the army lay under a fruitless armistice, after which Scott prepared to storm the place, and on the morning of the 8th, the advance was made on Moleno del Rey and Casa de Mala, the western defenses of Chapultepec. These were taken on the 13th, and five days later a call was made for volunteers for a " Forlorn Hope " to scale the walls of Chapultepec, when the following sixteen members of Company H volunteered to ac- complish the perilous deed, viz. : Edmund Beeson, Alexander Baine, Noah Burd, John Bishop, Cyrus L. Conner, John R. Crawford, James P. Downer, William Freeman, Absalom Guiler, Richard Irwin, Samuel Page, John Pollock, James Shaw, Wil- liam B. Shaw, William Turner and Josiah M. Winders. The brave deed was accomplished; the walls were scaled; the guns were trained on the stronghold which was taken by storm, thus opening the way to the city of Mexico through the San Cosmo and Gretia Belen gates. General Shields had given the order to storm the city when a flag of truce came out, and the victorious army swept into the city and hoisted the American flag over the halls of the Montezumas. This was the triumphal ending of one of the most brilliant and striking campaigns of modern history. The Second Pennsylvania lost in the battles of Chapultepec and Gretia Belen 98 killed and wounded out of the 300 men engaged. American ambassadors met the Mexican congress in session at Guadalupa Hidalgo on the 3nd of February, 1848, and a treaty of peace was made whereby New Mexico and Upper California 543 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. were ceded to the United States, thus extending her territory from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Of Company H, only sixteen men were fit for duty when the army entered the city of Mexico, other members who entered were disabled by either sickness or wounds. After the surrender of the city the regiment remained in the city until the 18th of December when they marched to San Angel, a distance of nine miles, and made their quarters in a nunnery, where they remained until the ratification of the treaty of peace, when they were ordered home. The march home- ward was taken up by easy stages by night in order to avoid the intense heat, which was accomplished in about one month without molestation. The troops took shipping at Vera Cruz on the Mary Kings- land for New Orleans where they took boat for Pittsburgh at which ^lace they arrived July 1, 1848. Out of the ninety-seven members of the company who left Pittsburgh, only two were killed in battle and only twenty-six returned to Uniontown. There were five remains sent home for burial. Upon the arrival of the returning troops at Pittsburgh they were met by a reception committee from Uniontown who im- mediately took Company H ofif government rations and had them quartered at hotels until they were discharged from the service, July 12, 1848. The company then took boat for Brownsville and arrived in Uniontown on the 14th, and amidst hearty cheers of con- gratulation they marched to the court house where John M. Austin was to have made an address of welcome, but owing to the accidental death of his son, Samuel S. Austin, Esq., E. P. Oliphant made an address which was replied to by Sergeant James P. Downer. Sergeant Absalom Guiler then gave the final command, " Company H, break ranks," and the men once more mingled with their fellow citizens. Personnel of Company H, 3nd Pennsylvania Regiment. Colonel William B. Roberts was born in Menallen town- ship, Fayette county, Pa., January 2, 1809, and was engaged in the furniture business in Uniontown when he enlisted a com- pany for the war with Mexico. He was elected its captain, and upon the organization of the Second Pennsylvania Regiment of volunteers he was elected its colonel. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 543 He led his troops triumphantly through the various engage- ments from Vera Cruz to the capture of the city of Mexico, but was not permitted to enjoy the triumphs of victory, as he was seized with a hemorrhage of the lungs from which he died October 3, 1847. An account of his death is best related in a letter from his next in command, Lieut.-Col. John W. Geary to the Honorable Daniel Sturgeon, as follows : Palacio National de Mexico, October 4, 1847. Dear Sir: Under circumstances the most painful I communicate to you the distressing intelligence of the death of Colonel William B. Roberts of the Second Regiment Pennsylvania volunteers. In the latter part of August he was attacked with a fever and hemorrhage of the lungs, and although under the best medical attendance, his disease could not be checked. He bore his illness with great fortitude and resignation, and gradually declined until death relieved him from his sufferings. I have had his body embalmed and placed in a coffin lined with zinc, and intend that he shall be taken home on the return of the regiment. It is due to the memory of the distinguished dead that some tribute should be paid to his memory. Colonel Roberts was a highly useful and enterprising citizen, and his death will be sincerely lamented in the com- munity in which he long resided. By his kind and gentlemanly conduct he has won the esteem of all who were under his com- mand, and in addition to his many excellent qualities as a man, his conduct during the siege of Vera Cruz and at the battle of Cerro Gordo proved him to be a good and brave soldier. He was manly in his deportment and honorable in every impulse, and with every feeling for the honor of his country, and he was ready to do battle at her call. He had already, in his military career, established a last- ing claim upon the respect and memory of his countrymen. I have addressed the above to you with the desire that you will communicate to the family and friends of the deceased the information of his death, and the disposition I have made of his 544 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. body, and please assure them of my hearty sympathies for their irreparable loss. With sentiments of esteem I subscribe myself Very Respectfully Yours, John W. Geary, Lt. Col. Com. 3nd Regt. Pa. Vols. The remains of Col. Roberts arrived home on the 17th of December, 1847. The funeral procession was escorted by the Union Volunteers and the Fayette Cavalry, accompanied by the committee of arrangements, and the committee of escort, w^ith every demonstration of sorrow and respect. Services were held in the Cumberland Presbyterian church and the remains in- terred in the Methodist Episcopal graveyard, on the 18th. A neat marble shaft marks his last resting place. Upon the death of Colonel Roberts Lieutenant-Colonel John W. Geary took command of the regiment. First Lieutenant Henry A. Hambright of Lancaster, a graduate of West Point, was in command of Company H at the storming of Chapultepec and Great Belen gate. He was enrolled at Harrisburg by Captain Williams and was 1st ser- geant in Company G and was promoted to 1st lieutenant in Company H August 12, 1847, by order of Genl. Quitman. He was six feet two or three inches tall and as straight as an arrow. In the civil war he became colonel of the Seventy-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was made a brigadier-general. He returned to Lancaster where he retired and died about 1894. Richard Irwin was 4th sergeant and was promoted to 3rd sergeant, vice Ed. Rine resigned. He was appointed lieutenant by Lieutenant-Colonel Geary at the city of Mexico. Peter A. Johns was promoted from 3nd corporal to 1st corporal and to sergeant. He served in the civil war as major in the Eleventh Pennsylvania Reserve corps, was register and recorder of Fayette county, served as a member of assembly and filled the office of postmaster from June 7, 1870, until his death, September 30, 1876. Christian W. Leib was a private in Company G and was promoted to second lieutenant in Company H November 13, 1847, by order of Genl. Scott. Stewart Speer was promoted to second lieutenant and was wounded at Vera Cruz and received his discharge. o ^3 o w H History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 545 Henry N. Stillwagon was promoted from 1st corporal to 4th sergeant and was discharged at Vera Cruz. Edmund Rine was promoted from sergeant to 3rd lieu- tenant and discharged at Jalapa at his own request. He is buried at the Soldiers' Home, Dayton, Ohio. William Quail was elected first lieutenant on the organ- ization of the company and upon the organization of the regi- ment he was elected captain, vice Capt. Roberts elected colonel. He was mustered out with the company. He lies buried in Union Cemetery at Uniontown. John Sturgeon was elected second lieutenant at the organ- ization of the company and promoted to first lieutenant at the organization of the regiment. He took sick of dysentery at Jalapa which continued unabated until July 37th when he died in Puebla. By orders of Col. Roberts his remains were embalmed with the intention of having them sent home for burial, but the Mexicans stole his body, which it was impossible to recover. He was a son of United States Senator Daniel Sturgeon. Absalom Guiler was elected second sergeant of the com- pany and was promoted to first sergeant after entering the city of Mexico. He was wounded at the battle of Cerro Gordo. He enlisted in the Eighty-fifth Regiment of Pennsylvania Volun- teers in the war of the rebellion, in which he was elected major. He was a tailor by trade. He was thrown from his horse near his home on Saturday, April 26, 1873, and sustained a broken leg, which was amputated on the 27th, and he died on the 38th and was buried on the 39th. At the storming of Chapultepec the color bearer was killed, when Sergeant Guiler mounted the wall and persisted in hold- ing the flag aloft. Matthew Allen, Jr., died in the hospital at Perote. Ephraim Abercrombie was discharged at Vera Cruz on account of sickness and arrived home in June. Edmund Beeson never missed a fight in which the com- pany was engaged. He entered the city of Mexico and returned with the company. Alexander Baine entered the city with the company, and was mustered out with the same. His home was at Hopwood, but subsequently removed to Missouri. Zepheniah Ellis Barnes enlisted at Connellsville. Was dis- 546 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. charged at Jalapa, 1847, returned with the company and died at Connellsville. David Bedker went no farther than New Orleans. William Baker enlisted and mustered in October 38, 1847, at Mexico as a substitute for John W. Skiles. He returned with the company. Henry Bradford entered the city and while the company lay in camp at San Angel he was assassinated by the enemy. William C. Barger went no farther than New Orleans. Noah Bird and Thomas McBride walked out of camp at Puebla and were attacked by Mexicans who killed and muti- lated McBride and knocked Bird down, but he defended him- self with his gun and saved his life. He entered the city and returned with the company to Connellsville and spent the latter part of his life in Somerset county. He served in the civil war and died at Harnedsville, May 13, 1913. John Bishop enlisted at Connellsville, entered the city, re- turned with the company and died at home. Henry Bryan died of sickness in the hospital after the sur- render of the city, November 11, 1847. William Bayse was in the hospital at Vera Cruz, and was discharged on account of disease. Cyrus Lusion Conner was promoted to sergeant and entered the city, and returned with the company. He became a major in the civil war and died at his home at Masontown. John R. Crawford was promoted from 3rd corporal to 2nd corporal. Promoted to sergeant. Came home with the com- pany and was subsequently killed by the kick of a horse. Harvey Chipps died in the city of Mexico October 31, 1847. Samuel Caineworthy was left behind at Perote hospital where he died July 37, 1847. Caleb Crossland enlisted as a fifer for the company, and was discharged from the hospital, on account of sickness, at Vera Cruz. John A. Cummings served in the war for the independence of Texas under General Sam Houston in which he was taken prisoner and kept at work in the city of Mexico until the inde- pendence of Texas was acknowledged, and he drew a pension as a Texan soldier. He enlisted in Company K, 1st Pennsyl- vania, and enrolled by transfer at Vera Cruz by Captain Quail in Company H, 3nd Pennsylvania. He was promoted to 1st History of Uniontowtij Pennsylvania. 547 sergeant at Jalapa. He entered the city and was mustered out with the company. John Davis (long) left the company at Camp Jackson, New Orleans. John Davis (short) was transferred to Capt. Hardy's dragoons at Vera Cruz in exchange for William Thompson. Hiram Downer was discharged on account of sickness just before the battle of Vera Cruz, and died on his way home at Mills Point, May 6, 1847, and was buried on the river bank. A little girl planted a bush on his grave, remarking that as he was a soldier some one in the future might seek his grave. Isaac Johnson was sent on by the family, and by the aid of the little bush he was enabled to find the grave, and brought the remains home for burial. The funeral was held from his late home at Chalk Hill and the interment was made, with military honors, in the Great Bethel Baptist burying ground at Uniontown. James P. Downer was promoted from 4th to 3rd corporal and to sergeant. He entered the city and came home with the company. On marching from Vera Cruiz he saw Lieut. Sturgeon, suffering from dysentery, leaning against a tree, and Sturgeon fell into Downers's arms who took him to the hospital at Puebla, where he was left and where he died. Sergeant Downer became captain of the Junction City (Kansas) company during the rebellion. He became major of an Indiana regiment, and was wounded at the battle of Wilson's Creek, Missouri. He was twice elected a member of the legis- lature, and died at Sagauche, Colorado. George Ducket was discharged on account of sickness at Vera Cruz, and died on his way home. William Freeman entered the city with his company and was honorably discharged with the same. He also enlisted in the war of the rebellion, September 30, 1864, and served in Company A, Ninety-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was honorably discharged June 28, 1865. He also offered his services to his country in the Spanish-American war, but was rejected on account of his age. He died at Middle Run, German township, August 31, 1911; the last survivor in Fayette county 548 History of Uniontown, Pemisylvania. of Company H, 2nd Pennsylvania Regiment in the war with Mexico. Benjamin Franklin Frey was wounded at Vera Cruz, hav- ing been shot by Edmund Beeson in mistake for a skulking Mexican in a chaparal, and was taken to the hospital. He entered the city with his company and was honorably dis- charged with the same. Dr. Post of New Salem subsequently removed the ball from his body. He died at his home at Dun- bar, after serving in the war of the rebellion. Andrew Ferguson enlisted at Waynesburg and was killed at Tuca Bayou. Wilson Fee died at Perote July 19, 1847. He was a cousin of Capt. Thomas M. Fee, of Connellsville. John W. S. Fetter was a young physician and became so emaciated by dysentery that he could be carried in one hand. He died March 24, 1847, being the first man to die after landing at Vera Cruz. Daniel E. Forey was 1st sergeant in the company and died at Vera Cruz April 18, 1847. Henry Forey discharged at Vera Cruz. Henry Fowg died at Jalapa. Jesse Beeson Gardner entered the city with his company. Was promoted to ensign and was honorably discharged with his company. He subsequently became major in the 8th Penn- sylvania Reserve Corps. He died in Uniontown January 7, 1898. John Giles went as far as New Orleans. James Gordon was left sick at Puebla and it was falsely reported that he died there, but James P. Downer wrote that he was discharged on account of sickness at Puebla and died at New Orleans in November, 1847. Elijah Gadd was discharged at Vera Cruz on account of sickness and arrived home in June, 1847. He removed to Bowl- ing Green, Ky., where he died. John S. Gibson was discharged from the hospital at New Orleans. He spent the latter part of his life at New Castle, Pa., and became an inmate of the soldiers' home at Dayton, Ohio, in 1906. Daniel K. Garrett was a drummer from Morgantown and was persuaded to enlist by John Crossland, the fifer. He History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 549 entered the city with the company and was mustered out with the same. Samuel Hyde was promoted to 1th corporal in January, 1847, and died at Puebla. Alexander Hood was a tailor by trade and enlisted at Con- nellsville. He was detailed to sew up the dead soldiers in blankets for burial. The government furnished coffins after the capture of the city. Mr. Hood died in the city of Mexico October 10, 1847. Daniel Hardesty was mustered in with the company, served through the campaign and was mustered out vjith the company. Harvey Henderson got no farther than Camp Jackson, New Orleans. Daniel Hazzard was discharged on account of sickness at Vera Cruz, and sent home. He lived to a good old age. James Hutchinson went no farther than Camp Jackson, New Orleans and died at Madison on his way home. George Hicks was enlisted at Vera Cruz by Capt. Quail and died at Jalapa June 10, 1847. John Hutchinson was discharged at Vera Cruz. Hezekiah Inks — Henry Bradford in writing to Henry Langley under date of December 5, 1847, states that Hezekiah Inks died at Perote June 24, 1847, and was buried there. Oliver E. Jones went no farther than Camp Jackson, New Orleans. He was from near Fairchance, and in later years re- moved to Kentucky. Jackson Kilpatrick entered the city with his company and was honorably discharged with the same. He served through the war of the rebellion, and was later killed while walking the railroad track near Dunbar. John King went no farther than Pittsburgh. John P. Kilpatrick was carried into the city of Mexico after having been wounded at the storming of Chapultepec and was discharged with his company. He served as commissioner of Fayette county, 1876-79, and died at his home in Connells- ville March 14, 1898, aged 74 years. Cornelius McMichael, Lieut. Ed. Rine writes, was in the hospital at Vera Cruz and was discharged on account of sick- ness and died on his way home at New Orleans July 17, 1847. William Moore was a half-brother to Thomas Fenn. He died at Puebla July 31, 1847. 550 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Thomas McBride was a brother of ex-Sheriiif James Mc- Bride. He in company with Noah Bird strolled from camp at Puebla when they were attacked by Mexicans when McBride was killed, August 14, 1847, and his body mutilated by the enemy. John Metz entered the city with his company and was dis- charged with the same and died at his home in Connellsville. Samuel Morgan was terribly wounded at the storming of Chapultepec and was carried into th€ city. He was discharged on account of his Wounds and returned and died at home and is buried at Hopwood. John Mustard was a carpenter and died in the hospital at Perote June 34, 1847. William Mendenhall was six feet, six and a half inches tall and was wounded in the heel at the entrance of the city, and was discharged on account of his wound. John McGillis left the company at Camp Jackson, New Orleans. William P. Nicholson was discharged at the city of Mexico on account of sickness and died on his way home, at Island No. 80 on the Mississippi river, near Vicksburg. His body was brought home and buried at the Old Stone meeting house at New Geneva. Albert G. Nicholson returned home perhaps five years before his death, and died in the vicinity of New Geneva. Jacob Orwin, discharged at Mexico. Samuel Page served through the campaign, entered the city and was honorably discharged with his company and died at his home at Connellsville. Andrew Pritchard died at Perote September 28, 1847. John Pollock served through the campaign, entered the city, was honorably discharged and served through the war of the rebellion and died at the Soldiers' home at Dayton, Ohio, and was there buried. Michael Palmer entered the service August 30, 1847, and was mustered out July 13; 1848. Bell Pixler served through the campaign. He was from Smithfield and returned home and after 34 or 35 years he re- moved west. Joseph Roody died of sickness at Perote July 35, 1847. History of Uniontoism, Pennsylvania. 551 Henry Rist served through the campaign, entered the city and was honorably discharged with his company. John W. Skiles was discharged at Mexico by furnishing William Baker as a substitute. Mart S. Stanley died at Puebla July 18, 1847. Jesse S. Srriith was from Masontown and died at the city of Mexico October 2, 1847. Benjamin Stevens served through the campaign and died at the city of Mexico October 3, 1847. John Sutton served through the campaign and died near the city of Mexico September 13, 1847. Vincent Seals died at Vera Cruz. David Sibley was a stage driver on the National road, went through the battle of Cerro Gordo and died at Puebla. Evans Shriver was a tailor by trade. He was promoted to corporal and served through the campaign and honorably dis- charged with his company. He was presented a silver medal by the Laurel Division No. 183, Sons of Temperance, July 17, 1848, for having passed through the privations and temptations of the war with Mexico without having violated his temperance pledge. A. J. Swain, R. S. SolomorT Shaw was promoted to corporal, served through the campaign, entered the city, was honorably discharged and died at his home in Connellsville. David B. Shaw died at Puebla August 3, 1847. James Shaw served through the campaign, was wounded at Cerro Gordo, entered the city, was honorably discharged with his company and died at his home in Connellsville. William B. Shaw was promoted to corporal, served through the campaign, was honorably discharged with the company and died at his home at Connellsville. John Stillwell went with Oliver E. Jones. They both left at Camp Jackson and came home, and in a few years he went west. William Turner served through the campaign, entered the city and was honorably discharged with the company and died at his home in Connellsville. William Thompson was enlisted from the dragoons by Capt. Quail at Vera Cruz in exchange for John Davis (short). Mustered out with the company. 553 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. James Turner died on board of transport off Lobos Island February 4, 1847. James F. Ward served through the campaign, entered the city and was honorably discharged with his company. His dis- charge papers rank him as 3rd corporal. Josiah M. Winders was a Masontown boy of 19 years of age. In crossing the road from under the protection of the aqueduct at the storming of Great Belen gate September 13, 1847, he was struck by a ball and disembowled. He was car- ried to the field hospital where he soon died. He was one of the only two men of Company H killed in battle. The govern- ment sent his remains home for burial, where it was interred in the old Methodist graveyard amidst demonstrations of sorrow. His remains were subsequently removed to the Cumberland Presbyterian graveyard. Hugh Walker served through the campaign, entered the city, was honorably discharged with his company and died the next day after his arrival home. William B. West left at Camp Jackson, New Orleans. Joseph Widdows served through the campaign, entered the city and was honorably discharged with the company. Isaac Wolverton died at Puebla. Charles C. Yeoman died at Puebla. Josiah M. Winders in writing to Archibald Scott of Masontown under date of June 3, 1847, Jalapa, Mexico, states : " After the battle of Vera Cruz we took up our march for the city of Jalapa on April 9th, and after four days' march we came to a small stream called Rio del Piano where we en- camped. Genl. Twiggs' division was one day's march in ad- vance of us, and about two and a half miles from Rio del Piano and was attacked by the Mexicans. He fell back on account of not having enough men to go ahead. He lay there until the balance of the army came up. After we had all gotten up the engineers were sent to see and search whether the Mexicans were fortified on the pass. After minute search they found that the Mexicans were strongly fortified on the pass. They had seven batteries, forty-two guns, some 34 and some 18 pounders, and about 20,000 men. Here was to be a mighty struggle to pass the place. The work must be done. On the 18th, after a full consultation of General Scott with his other generals, we took up our march for the battlefield. We were to History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 553 charge on a battery on the left hand side of the road. Away we went, right towards the mouth of the cannons, loaded with grape and canister, ready to be discharged among us. After a few hundred yards' march, the word ' charge ' was given by Genl. Pillow. The Tennesseeans were in front, and in a few moments the cannons poured forth their deadly fire into our ranks. I cannot describe my feelings. I expected every moment to be shot down; seeing my fellows falling all around me, and still going on in the thicker fire — the balls flew as thick as hail. In a few minutes all was over : the Mexicans completely routed ; 2,000 of them killed and 5,000 taken prisoners. This was the most glorious victory that ever was won by the American army. This battle took place between Vera Cruz and Jalapa, fifty- five miles from Vera Cruz. It is called the battle of Cerro Gordo. Among the prisoners was General Vega. He was taken at the moment of touching off a cannon. I think that the battle of Cerro Gordo will end the war with Mexico, for I do not sup- pose that they can ever raise another army that would be of any service to their country. Major-General Winfield Scott is at present in the city of Puebla laying out plans for the capture of the city of Mexico, for where he will start in a short time, and I think he will not be there long until he will make a treaty between the two nations, and finally suspend hostilities. General Scott is a very noble man indeed. He has deep thoughts on war matters, and can plan a battle as well as any other man now living. General Worth is not far behind. Josiah M. Winders." Appendix to the War with Mexico. The history of Uniontown concerning the war with Mexico would be incomplete without the mention of the part taken by two of her prominent resident attorneys, Daniel R. Davidson, Esq., and Samuel Stevens Austin, Esq. An article printed in the Genius of Liberty stated that Thomas R. Davidson of this place was on his way to the seat of war without as yet being attached to any company. He is a gentleman and lawyer of most respectable attainments and intellect. Mr. Davidson aspired to the office of lieutenant-colonel at the organization of the regiment, but was defeated by Captain John W. Geary, when he determined to go to the seat of war 554 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. without being attached to any company. He went as far as Vera Cruz, and after witnessing the capture of that city and the castle of San Juan de Ulua he returned home. Captain Samuel Stevens Austin was captain of the Union Volunteers and tendered the services of his company to the president of the United States to serve in the war with Mexico, and being unsuccessful in having his company accepted, he turned his energies to assist Col. William B. Roberts in enlisting a company, which Mr. Roberts, after several unsuccessful ef- forts, succeeded in having accepted. At the organization of the company, Mr. Austin became a competing candidate for the captaincy, for which position he was fully qualified, and no doubt had some assurance of suc- cess, but was defeated by Col. Roberts. He then determined to go as an independent soldier, and directed the following letter to Col. William Redick, then in command of the Fayette county militia. " Uniontown, Pa., Jany. 11, 1847. Col. William Redick: I leave today for Mexico ; I therefore resign my commission as captain of the Union Volunteers. I deeply regret I could not carry it in the battles of my country, but I am compelled to lay it down. I trust I shall never have a successor willing to enjoy it peaceably while his country is at war. Respectfully Yours, Samuel S. Austin.'' Mr. Austin secured an old musket that had belonged to one of the military companies of Uniontown, and a knapsack on which he had lettered the following : " The Third Pennsyl- vania regiment. A man fighting on his own hook." Thus ac- coutred. Captain Austin followed the company into Mexico. The Genius of Liberty of January 14, 1847, contained the following announcement : " For Mexico — Our chivilrous friend, Capt. Sam. S. Austin, left this place for Mexico on Monday last (Jan. 11, 1847). The captain having failed to get his company accepted, determined to assist the arms of his country upon his own hook, and at his own expense. So, fully uniformed and armed to the teeth with rifle, pistols and full of knives, this brave knight set out upon his errand of glory to fight the History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 555 enemy in his own way. We may rest assured of hearing of him in the coming fight." A letter written by Capt. Austin to his father dated Orleans, February 14, 1847, states : " I am very glad I have no company to muster into Mexico. I am fully satisfied that no peace nor pleasure would follow a thinking captain who would lead a company of good men into such service. Let it suffice to say that the United States are not able in the first place to make the service bearable. Second, they don't try to ease the suffer- ings and privations of the army. Third, it is the axiom that regret is the only conclusion of the best who go. I telegraphed the secretary of war from Pittsburgh, and if the present ten regi- ment bill passes I could get my men mustered into the regular service for the war or for five years. I would not do it for any consideration. I know all they would suffer by theory. As for myself it is different. I fix my own time to stay ; direct my own movements, and thus avoid some of the objections that make a soldier's life worse than a dog's. I have, I believe, a constitution to stand much. I can live in a hard place easy. I have an itching to be in and see a big fight. I have no fears. My present intention is to see the grand fight, or stay till I am satis- fied there will be none. I shall then return home, and I know and feel determined I shall cast off my old shell and put on business. I feel I can make money, and I am determined I will. The Second Regiment left here last Friday destined for the Island of Lobos, sixty miles south of Tampico to wait, drill, season and stand ready for the siege or attack of San Juan de Ulua. I know this to be the next fight intended now by govern- ment. I shall have two shares in that fight. First; for credit — another for safety. I hope how soon it may be, as I think it will be the last wag of the war hammer. I shall come home at least immediately after, if I survive. I hope to get my passport today and leave tonight or tomorrow." Captain Austin was lustily cheered as he entered camp at Vera Cruz and made his intentions known. Upon the death of Col. Roberts his remains were prepared for transmission home, as before related, and Jesse B. Gardner and others secured a small cannon from the hall doorway at the hall of the Montezumas and secreted it among the charcoal in the box enclosing the coffin of Col. Roberts. In this way it was conveyed to Pittsburgh, at which place it was kept until the 556 History of Unioniown, Pennsylvania. arrival of the company. It was the intention of the company to bring this little cannon home as a souvenir from the land of the Actecs. On coming up the river from Pittsburgh to Browns- ville, this cannon, which was about three feet long, was tied to a stanchion on the boiler deck of the boat; and salutes were fired all the way up ; being loaded to the muzzle and rammed with a sledge hammer. The rebound would send it to the end of the cable and among the boilers. At Pittsburgh the returning company was met by Captain Austin and others, and on the Brubaker hill, coming out of Brownsville, the cannon was loaded for another salute. The breech was placed against a wall and Captain Austin stood astride of it and ignited the priming with his lighted cigar. The wall prevented the rebound of the gun and it exploded into frag- ments, one of which tore through the groin of the captain, severing the arteries. He was conveyed to the Workman House where he soon bled to death. His wife was sent for, but before she arrived at his side his spirit had departed. His remains were brought to his late home on Morgantown street, from whence the funeral was held amidst every demonstration of sorrow. War of the Rebellion. South Carolina took the initiative in the secession of the States. In November, 1860, on the day following the general election of that year, an extraordinary session of the legislature of that State was held. Members of both houses of congress from South Carolina made treasonable speeches at the capitol of that State, and the Legislature authorized a convention of delegates for the purpose of declaring the State separated from the Union, and taking measures for maintaining what they called the " Sovereignty of South Carolina." On December 20, 1860, they adopted the following " Ordinance of Secession '' : " We, the people of the State of South Carolina, in conven- tion assembled, do declare and ordain, and it is hereby declared and ordained, that the ordinance adopted by us in convention on the 23rd day of May, in the year of our Lord 1788, whereby the constitution of the United States of America was ratified, and also all acts and parts of acts of the general assembly of this State ratifying the amendments of the constitution, are hereby repealed, and that the union now subsisting between History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 557 South Carolina and other States, under the name of the United States of America, is hereby dissolved." This action on the part of South Carolina was speedily im- itated by the politicians of the States of Mississippi, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, Virginia, Arkansas, North Carolina and Tennessee. Upon the announcement that Fort Sumter had been fired on and had fallen into the hands of the rebels, the president called for seventy-five thousand men to suppress the rebellion. Uniontown promptly responded by the formation of companies to enter the service of their country. So readily and enthusiastic was the response that on the 21st of April, 1861, only six days after the president's call, the first company, then known as the " Fayette Guards," ninety-eight strong, including officers, under the command of Captain S. Duncan Oliphant, left Uniontown for Pittsburgh, where they were soon mustered into the service for three months — a term, which at that time, was considered ample for the crushing of the rebellion. Of this company were : Captain, S. Duncan Oliphant ; First Lieutenant, Jesse B. Gardner; Second Lieutenant, Jesse B. Ramsey; Third Lieutenant, Henry W. Patterson; Sergeants: First, John Bierer; Second, Henry C. Dawson; Third, James H. Springer; Fourth, Peter Heck; Corporals: First, B. L. Hunt; Second, O. P. Wells; Third, J. O. Stewart; Fourth, Joseph White. The company was recognized and mustered in as G company of the Eighth Reserve regiment. After being in camp at Camp Wilkins and Camp Wright the regiment left on the 20th of July for Washington where they went into camp at Meridian Hill. During the six or seven weeks next following the presi- dent's call, a company of cavalry was raised by Captain William A. West. Of this company sixty-seven were Fayette county men, but as the Pennsylvania quota was already filled, the company was joined to the First Cavalry regiment of West Virginia. This company left Uniontown June 25, 1861, and was escorted out of town by the Home Guard under the command of Major Absalom Guiler. This being the third company to leave the town for the war. In the Third Regiment of West Virginia were : Captain C. E. Swearingen; Lieutenant, H. C. Hagan; Second Lieutenant, 558 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. C. B. Hadden. Upon the organization of the regiment Captain Swearingen was elected major and Lieutenant Hagan promoted to the captaincy. This company served creditably during the war. Of the Eleventh Reserve regiment or Fortieth Pennsylvania regiment, Company F was recruited at Uniontown. The original officers were: Captain, Everard Bierer; First Lieuten- ant, Peter A. Johns ; Second Lieutenant, John W. Deford. This regiment left Camp Wright July 24, 1861, and arrived at Wash- ington on the 26th. On the first day of August, 1861, Joshua B. Howell, Esq., was commissioned by the Secretary of War to enlist a regiment of infantry in this locality for the term of three years, unless sooner discharged. This regiment was to be known as the Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers. Ten companies enlisted from Fayette, Washington, Greene and Somerset counties com- posed the regiment. On October 12th the regiment was organ- ized by the election of Joshua B, Howell, colonel; Norton Mc- Gififin, lieutenant-colonel; Absalom Guiler, major; and Andrew Stewart, adjutant. The regiment left Uniontown November 20th, and arrived at Washington on the 22nd and went into camp at Bladensburg, and went into winter quarters at Camp Good Hope. This regiment served valiantly until the expira- tion of their time, when about one hundred and fifty members re-enlisted for three years further service or during the war, and became known as the detachment of the Eighty-fifth, and continued in the service until they witnessed the surrender of Lee at Appomattox, April 9, 1865. The regiment was dis- charged at Pittsburgh, November 22, 1864. Besides the above mentioned, Uniontown was represented in the following regiments in the war of the rebellion: The Second Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery; Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry; Two Hundred and Twelfth Pennsylvania Heavy Ar- tillery; One Hundred and Sixteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers; Sixty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers; One Hundred and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers; Sixteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry; One Flundred and Forty-second Pennsylvania Volun- teers ; First West Virginia Cavalry ; One Hundred and First Pennsylvania Cavalry; and the U. S. Navy. Contributing, in all, about three hundred of her boys to the service. Drafting into the service was commenced in September, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. -559 1862, with E. B. Dawson as commissioner and Dr. Hugh Camp- bell as examining surgeon for this district, and on the 15th of October over six hundred men were drafted from Fayette county. The army was disbanded the 1st of June, 1865, and 786,000 men and officers were mustered out of service. The whole number employed in the service was 2,656.553, of these 1,490,000 were in actual service. Nearly 50,000 were killed on the field, and about 35,000 mortally wounded, and over 184,000 died of disease in the hospitals and camps. The total loss on both sides has been estimated to reach fully 1,000,000 able-bodied men. An encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic to be known as Post No. 180 of Uniontown, Fayette county, Pennsyl- vania was chartered April 6, 1869, with John Bierer, A. C. Nutt, S. M. Baily, James H. Springer, Peter Heck, J. K. Combs, George B. Rutter, N. H. Divvens, H. C. Dififenderffer and R. A. McClean as charter members. This charter was signed by O. C. Bosbyshell, Grand Commander. The William F. Stewart Post No. 180, -Grand Army of the Republic was chartered May 30, 1880, with the following charter members : A. G. Beeson, Henry White, R. A. McClean, James C. Whaley, J. D. Moore, Stewart Starns, George B. Rutter, John H. Marshall, George W. Bowie, Thomas B. Whaley, C. H. Livingstone, Jacob S. Miller, William Hall, A. M. Litman, Jacob Prettyman, H. C. Diffenderffer, Crampton Williams, John Nickleson, William Kern, James Collins and William Searight. The charter was signed by Chill Hazzard. The Fayette County Veterans' Association, composed of the surviving soldiers of the various wars, residing in Fayette county, was organized October 17, 1901. War with Spain. The oppression practiced upon her Cuban subjects by Spain was so grievous and so long continued that not only the Cubans were crying out against it but the civilized world stood aghast at the spectacle. The sobs and wails of the suffering subjects ascended to the ear of Him who hears the cries of the oppressed, and the ap- peals of these sufferers came to the hearts of the Christian people of the United States with irresistible force. 560 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania: The religious press appealed to the people, and commis- sions informed the head of the government as to the conditions so near our door. Feeling became intense, and demands were made that Congress and the Executive take steps to alleviate the conditions" of our neighbors. Spain looked with enmity upon the sympathy and assist- ance the suffering Cubans were receiving from the United States, and seeing the hand writing on the wall, their feelings were given vent in belligerent expressions. As a matter of " friendship " the battleship Maine was ordered to Cuban waters, where she peacefully lay at anchor in the harbor of Havana for three weeks, where her officers and those of the Spanish government exchange friendly greetings. On the night of. February 15, 1898, the Maine was blown up, killing two officers and two hundred and sixty-four of her crew. Indications pointed to a diabolical plot, and a Court of Inquiry was appointed on the part of the United States to make inquiry into the cause of the explosion. This Court of Inquiry made a report March 21st, stating that they were unable to obtain evidence fixing the re- sponsibility for the destruction of the Maine upon any person or persons. Notwithstanding the report of the Court of Inquiry, it was the belief of the masses that a mine had been intentionally exploded by the Spanish authorities, and the Maine with her crew of precious souls wilfully destroyed. On March 8, 1898, Congress appropriated $50,000,000 for national defense, and on April 20th, the same body resolved that it is the duty of the United States to demand, and the government of the United States does demand that the govern- ment of Spain at once relinquish its authority and government on the island of Cuba and withdraw its land and naval forces from Cuba and Cuban waters; and on April 23rd, the president issued a proclamation calling for 25,000 men, and on April 25th, Congress passed a bill declaring that war existed between the United States of America and the kingdom of Spain and had existed since April 21st. The exigency of the case justified the ordering of the North Atlantic squadron to Cuban waters, and on April 22nd, the Cuban ports were blockaded, and on the first day the steamship Beuna Ventra, a merchantman flying the Spanish flag, was captured by the Nashville. This was the first victory of the war, although a bloodless one. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 561 Two days before the declaration of war Morro Castle opened fire on Sampson's fleet, but the distance being so great, and the shots falling short, they were not returned by the ships. On April 27th, Matanzas was bombarded, and on May 19th, while the American navy was guarding the northern ports. Admiral Cervera with his Spanish fleet, slipped into the Harbor of Santiago. On June 6th, the fortifications of Santiago were bombarded by Sampson and Schley, and on the 30th 3,000 American troops were landed on Cuban soil at Barquere under the command of General Shafter. Cervera's fleet, after having been held in the harbor of Santiago de Cuba for six weeks, was utterly destroyed by the American fleet July 3, 1898, and Santiago surrendered on July 14th, and the first detachment of Spanish troops sailed for Spain September 20, 1898. General Miles landed at Porto Rico and Ponce on the 25th of July and these places surrendered to him on the 28th, and the Island of Porto Rico passed formally into the possession of the United States, and the stars and stripes were hoisted over San Juan at noon, October 18, 1898. List of Uniontown Boys Who Served in the War in Cuba. William Cunningham, Hart Moore and Joe South were members of Battery A, Second Artillery, U. S. A., which was known as Grimes' Battery. They landed at Beaquairi and were stationed four miles from San Juan and four miles from Santiago. This battery fired the first gun of the battle of July 1st, and this battery fired the last salute after the surrender of Santiago. These boys ar- rived home April 25, 1898, after a service of three years. Practically the same conditions and discontent subsisted among the Spanish colonists of the Philippine Islands as existed on the Island of Cuba and called for the same remedy, viz. : That Spain relinquish her authority and government in the Philippine Islands and leave the inhabitants to self-government. The same chord of sympathy that had vibrated to the suf- ferings of the natives of Cuba vibrated to the deprivations of the natives of the Philippines. In response to the call of humanity and at the outbreak of hostilities between the natives and those in authority. Admiral George Dewey, of the United States navy was placed in com- 563 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. mand of a squadron of war ships and ordered to the Philippine Islands, where he arrived on April 39, 1898. He entered Manila Bay on the night of the 30th, and destroyed the Spanish fleet on the following day. The Spanish army confined itself within the city and blockhouses, and hostilities were suspended be- tween the Americans and the Spaniards until July 31st. Among the land forces sent to the Philippine Islands was the Tenth Regiment of the Pennsylvania Infantry which had been taken from the National Guards and was mustered into the United States service on May 11th and 13th, 1898, at Mount Gretna, Pa. Its military organization dates from the summer or 1873 ; but as a regiment it was not mustered into the State service until December of the same year. Alexander L. Hawkins, senior regimental commanding officer of the National Guards of Penna. was commissioned colonel February 37, 1879, at the time being captain of Company H of Washington, Pa. The several companies of the Tenth Regiment, on the morning of April 37, 1898, concentrated at Pittsburgh and Greensburg, and arrived at Mount Gretna on the 38th, and were mustered into the United States service by the 13th of May. The regiment started across the continent May 18th, and arrived at San Francisco May the 35th, and went into camp at Camp Merritt, and on the afternoon of June 14th, em- barked aboard the U. S. Transport Zealandia, under the com- mand of Brigadier-General Francis V. Greene, and the next day passed out the Golden Gate on the voyage to Manila, accom- panied by the Senator, the Colon and the China. The regiment arrived in Manila Bay Sunday, July 17th, and disembarked on the 31st and went into camp at Camp Dewey, six miles south of Manila, after a sea voyage of 7,300 miles. The first expe- dition, consisting of California troops, having sailed on May 35th, and arrived at Manila on June 30th. A third expedition sailed on June 39th, with General Merritt in command, and reached Manila on the 35th of July. The battles of Santiago and San Juan were fought on July 1st, and the Amercan flag was hoisted over Santiago on the 17th. The battle of Malate, an outskirt of Manila, was fought on July 31st, and was the first engagement in which the Tenth took a part, and in which they were the principal sufferers. In this engagement it is estimated that not less than 100,000 rounds of History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 563 ammunition were expended by the enemy, and about 60,000 by the United States troops, the Tenth alone using 37,000 rounds. In this engagement the Tenth lost six killed and twenty-nine wounded. In his report Brig.-Gen. Greene commended the gal- lantry displayed by the Tenth in this engagement. On August 13th, Malina and Malate were bombarded and captured by Merritt and the articles of capitulation signed on the 14th, and the peace protocol was signed at Washington later. The terms of peace proposed by the United States were that the Spanish sovereignty be forever relinquished in the West Indies; that the United States have a coaling station in the Ladrones, and would occupy Manila Bay and harbor, as well as the city, pending the government of the Philippines. The Spanish government to relinquish all claims of sovereignty over the Island of Cuba, as well as the immediate evacuation by Spain of the Island; the cessation to the United States and im- mediate evacuation of Porto Rico and other islands in the West Indies, and the like cession of an island in the Ladrones. On September 6th, the Evacuation Council arrived at the Harbor of San Juan and General Brooke entered the city the same day. On December 10, 1898, the treaty of peace between the United States and the kingdom of Spain was signed. The disaffected Philippines sought surcease from Spanish rule and desired self government, and had earnestly hoped that by the friendly aid of the strong arm of the United States they might accomplish this happy result, but to their chagrin they discovered that the war had assumed more the aspect of a change of rulers than the desired change of self government. General Aguinaldo was chosen to lead the insurrectoes in their efforts to secure political independence and on February 4, 1899, he had moved his forces up to the blockhouses prepara- tory to an attack on the Americans. On the 5th a general ad- vance was ordered, the Tenth being directed to advance upon and capture the Chinese hospital from which they succeeded in driving the enemy after a stubborn engagement, and succeeded further in driving him from the De la Loma church and block- house. Here the Tenth remained until the 25th of March. From here the Tenth was ordered to advance to the north in pursuit of the enemy, fighting all the way to Malolos, which capitulated 564 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. March 31st. The Tenth lost thirty-eight men in the advance from Malina to Malolos, where they remained on outpost and guard duty until April 14th, when they were ordered to Manila and from there to Cavite. The time of enlistment having expired,-on June 32nd, the Tenth was ordered to embark on the Transport " Senator " for the United States for muster-out at San Francisco, but their departure was delayed until June 29th and 30th, and the vessel sailed on July 1st. Colonel Hawkins died at sea July 18th, and the " Senator," flying her colors at half-mast, arrived at San Francisco Bay August 1st. The troops disembarked on the 3rd, and went into camp at Camp Presidio, and were mustered out of the United States service on August 23, 1899, after a service of sixteen months. The Tenth left San Francisco on the evening of their dis- charge in company with a committee from Pittsburgh that had been sent to meet them and furnish transportation to Pitts- burgh, where they arrived August 38th and were given a grand reception at Schenly Park by the citizens of Pittsburgh. Company C arrived at Uniontown on Tuesday, August 29, 1899, and forming into line, marched to the fair grounds, north of town, where a throng had assembled to give them a hearty welcome. R. F. Hopwood, Esq., delivered the address of wel- come, after which a banquet was given in machinery hall. After the banquet the company and citizens again assembled in the grand stand where Judge Nathaniel Ewing made a most able address in which he eulogized the gallantry and services of the company, and on behalf of the citizens of Fayette county, presented Captain Bierer and Lieutenants Howard and Wood each a costly and elegant sword, and to each member of Com- pany C a beautiful gold medal on one side of which was the lettering, Company C, 10th Pa. Vol., presented by the citizens of Fayette county. Pa. On the reverse side was the name of the recipient, followed by " Philippines, Malate to Malolos, 1898-1899." The body of Colonel Hawkins arrived at his late home in Washington, Pa., on the 10th of August and on September 1st funeral services were held on the campus of Washington and Jefferson college and amidst the greatest demonstrations History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 565 of sorrow the remains were interred in the Washington cemetery. Fourth of July Celebrations. From the time the Continental Congress declared that " These United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States," and the glad news of the signing of the Declaration of Independence was heralded abroad, the Fourth of July has been the red letter day in the history of this nation, and has properly been observed as a day of rejoicing and thanksgiving by a free and independent people. The demon- strations of the observance of this day naturally partook of a military character, and were heralded by the booming of cannon, the unfurling of flags and shouts of joy. Uniontown was never found wanting on Fourth of July occasions. Celebrations of the day were always held with more or less demonstrations, and those who had shared, in the privations and struggles for inde- pendence took a leading part until their number was depleted. Colonel Alexander McClean was usually chosen to read the Declaration of Independence, the military companies would parade, and the citizens would resort to convenient groves where patriotic speeches were made and sumptuous repasts served. Captain Hugh Gorley, who had served as an artillerist in the war of 1813, took a leading part in the early celebrations and military demonstrations, and usually had charge of the artillery in ushering in the day. Springer's grove north of town, Evans' grove east of town, Beeson's grove south of town and Bierer's and Dawson's groves west of town were favorite places for holding celebrations. About 1854 a brass six-pounder was borrowed from the arsenal at Pittsburgh and kept here for several years for firing salutes, and early on the morning of the Fourth of July, 1854, it was placed at the corner of Pittsburgh and Main streets and salutes fired until all the glass in the immediate neighborhood was broken. In 1876, a steel cannon was purchased by popular subscription and used for firing salutes. This gun now adorns the court house lawn. It appears that the enthusiasm of the American people can never be satiated with what is termed a " safe and sane " cele- bration of the Fourth of July, but from the smallest child to tottering age the demand ever was and ever shall be for ex- plosives and pyrotechnic displays. CHAPTER XXIV. The Fire Department — Markets — Public Square — Municipal Hall. It is with justifiable pride that the citizens of Uniontown can compare the primitive mode in which our citizens fought the fire fiend when the town was a village, with the well- equipped fire department of the present time. The first fire company was organized here as early as 1798, and doubtless this was brought into existence by the destruction of some property by fire, as no fire company was ever known to have been formed under any other circumstances. The man- ner of fighting a fire then was for the whole population to turn out with buckets, tubs, kettles, boilers and all kinds and sizes of vessels that would convey water; and the weaker sex vied with the stronger in rendering effective service, and added much to the excitement and activities of the occasion. Efforts were begun upon the organization of this first fire company to procure a fire engine, but like all other enterprises in which the public is concerned, these met with some opposi- tion, and the purchase was delayed until 1803. In the minutes of the commissioners of Fayette county of January 28th of that year it is learned that a public meeting of the citizens of the town was held in the court house on that day, and that a com- mittee composed of Jonathan Rowland, James Allen and John Stidgers, was appointed by the burgess to wait upon the com- missioners to ascertain what amount they would contribute from the public funds toward the purchase of a fire engine. At their meeting February 5th,- it was agreed to contribute $100 on condition the borough should raise the balance of the amount; and the minutes of September 17th show that an order was drawn in favor of the burgess for that amount toward the pur- chase of the engine. Mr. Reuben Baily, at that time a leading merchant of the town, negotiated the purchase of a second hand fire engine in Philadelphia. It was a double action force pump with no suction hose, with two banks of handles on each side, and gallery pipe 566 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 567 on top, and was manipulated by from twelve to twenty men. This engine bears the name of " Union " on its side, and the date 1798, in gilt letters, and is still the property of the borough, and is tenderly cared for on account of the effective service It rendered for nearly a century before it was superseded by a steamer. The next notice of a meeting of the fire company is in the Genius of Liberty of August 15, 1828, in which it was announced that a meeting would be held in the court house on the last Saturday of August, at 2 o'clock p. m. The object of the meet- ing was not stated ; William Salter was captain of the company at that time. A very old list of th^ members of the Union fire company, but bearing no date, gives the names of John Greenland, James A. Yerk, Walter Ebert, Wm. H. Beeson, James Lindsey, Jr., Edward Jones, James F. Canon, William Crawford, Thomas Wathen, Enos West, Samuel White, George Rine, William Mc- Williams, John McCleary, Hugh Thompson, Jr., Edward Gavin, Stephen Beckett, George W. Brown, M. W. Rine, John Daw- son, Jacob Reynolds, Hugh Gorley, Gabriel Getzendanner, Richard E. Stone, James Ryland, William Salter, H. H. Beeson, Elijah Crossland, Milton Baily, Nathaniel Owings, Nathaniel Brownfield ; John Lewis and John P. Sturgis, engineers ; D. P. Lynch, secretary. According to a paper now in the possession of the Fayette County Historical society a reorganization of the Union fire company was effected in 1838. This document states that the undersigned hereby agree to form an association to be called The Union Fire Company, upon a sufficient number of subscribers being obtained to this paper. They were to meet and organize by electing officers and establishing by-laws, etc. Signed by Alfred McClelland, Robert Skiles, Jr., Ewing Brown- field, J. C. Grain, James T. Greenland, R. L. McKean, Jacob Springer, Daniel Huston, Macon W. Rine, John Hendrickson, Alex. McClean, Israel Hogue, Hugh Gorley, Ellis Baily, Edmund Beeson, Eli M. Gregg, H. H. Beeson, James F. Canon, Simon Sampsell, J. P. Sturgis, B. F. Hellen, Wilson T. Swain, Samuel McDonald, A. J. Fowler, John F. Jackson, Greenberry Crossland, Thomas Wathen, Daniel Sharpnack, Jesse King, J. Allen Downer, John Kimberly, Joshua B. Howell, Eph. B. Owings, John Loore, S. F. Smith, Thomas Swearingen, Daniel 568 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. P. Lynch, Joseph Wylie, H. A. Snider, William Jeffries, E. P. Oliphant, Matthew Allen, Wilson Swain, Jr., Lucien B. Bowie, Samuel Evans, T. H. McCormick, William B. Jones, William Irwine, Jonathan D. Springer. The last survivor of this company was Lucien B. Bowie who died September 13, 1907, over ninety years of age. It is probable that the reorganization of the fire company took place shortly after a destructive fire had occurred on South street in which the stables of Col. Evans, Samuel Y. Campbell, Hugh Espy and James McKean were entirely destroyed, and those of Isaac Beeson on the west and of Robert Skiles on the east were badly damaged. After which a meeting of the citi- zens was called at the court house at which the matter was discussed as to the necessity of purchasing another fire engine. As the result of this meeting Mr. Isaac Beeson was authorized to negotiate the purchase of an additional engine, and the "Madison " was added to our lire department. This engine was a little more modern in its construction than the Union, having side couplings for suction, and delivery hose and a gallery pipe, and was manipulated precisely like the Union. This engine was purchased in Philadelphia about 1841. Upon the acquisition of the new engine an additional fire company was necessarily organized, and naturally considerable rivalry existed between the two as to their number, standing and appearance, as well as their promptness in responding to an alarm and their efficiency in fighting a fire. The Unions called the Madisons the " Silk Stocking " company, and the Madi- sons called the Unions the " Plug Uglies " from the obvious reason that the Union company was composed of the plainer element of the town. But if the Madison company was com- posed of better material than that of the Union it must have been select indeed. At the organization of the Madison Engine and Hose com- pany the following officers were elected : President, Arm- strong Hadden; Vice-President, George A. Shallenberger ; 1st Captain, Ewing Brownfield; 3nd Captain, John S. Harah; 1st Engineer, Adam Richards ; 2nd Engineer, William T. Kerr ; Treasurer, Presley Canon; Secretary, M. N. Lewis; Directors, John Bradbury, Henry Nycum, N. Brownfield, William Gaddis and Charles Stone. A charter was granted The Madison Fire Engine and Hose History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 569 company, June 8, 1843, with the following officers: James Veech, Esq., president; James F. Canon, vice-president; R. T. Galloway, Esq., treasurer; John F. Jackson, secretary; Col. Ewing Brownfield, 1st, captain; Amos R. Frisbie, second cap- tain; Henry T. Diffenderffer, first engineer; George W. Rutter, 2nd engineer; directors, George Meason, John M. Austin, Wil- liam Byers, Jesse King and John Bradbury. Members — Robert T. Galloway, Lucius W. Stockton, Alfred McClelland, Isaac Sampsell, A. Hamilton Campbell, W. A. Donaldson, R. P. Flenniken, Simon Sampsell, Ashbel G. Crusen, Ephraim B. Owings, Ewing Brownfield, Wilson Swain, Jr., Jesse King, William Gaddis, John Bradbury, Benjamin Wintermute, Richard Beeson, Samuel S. Smith, George Meason, Hiram Blackledge, James P. Downer, David Olden, Daniel Huston, William Byers, William McDonald, Jacob G. Eakle, James F. Canon, Rial B. Adams, Edgar Thorn, Jonathan Fisher, Wil- liam H. Bennett, Amos R. Frisbie, Ellis Baily, William Wilson, Charles H. Beeson, Francis Harbaugh, Joseph L. Wylie, John Mustard, Armstrong Hadden, Henry T. Diffenderffer, Francis L. Wilkenson, John F. Jackson, Marshall N. Lewis, P. U. Hook, William D. Barclay, Ethelbert P. Oliphant, James Veech, George W. Rutter, Adam Richards, Samuel S. Austin, Jacob S. Beeson, George W. Cox, John M. Austin, John Siley, Nathaniel Brownfield, James P. Hedges, Frederick Byrer, M. Walker Irwin, Theophilus Bowie, Absalom White, John A. Rooney, William Hall, I. L. Hunt, Hugh Rogers, William Hague, Wil- liam Harah, Redding Bunting, James Lee, Thomas Stewart. The rules required that each officer should wear a badge when on parade bearing the initials " M. F. E. and Hose Co.," or pay a fine of twelve and a half cents. The members were to wear red oilcloth circular caps on which the name " Madi- son " was painted in large letters. On June 11, 1842, the town council resolved that the Madison Engine and Hose Company, with apparatus, be placed under the control and entire direction of the company; and further, that D. H. Phillips be added to the committtee already appointed for the purpose of locating a site for the erection of an engine house for the Madison Engine and Hose company ; and also to ascertain if such hose house be erected on the public school grounds; and if so, to proceed to receive bids and to build; if not, to proceed to seek further and report at the next 570 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. meeting of the council. On July 4th, the committee reported that the school directors were favorable to the erection of the building on the school grounds. From some cause unknown the building was never erected on the school grounds; but on the 8th of October of this same year the coun<;il resolved that a committee be appointed to select a site for the erection of an engine house, and F. Byrer, P. U. Hook, Alfred McClelland and William Ebert were added to the building committee. This committee selected as the site the spot immediately over the race at the intersection of Church, South and Morgantown streets, and covering the point of the Greenland property, im- mediately east of where the public fountain now stands. This building committee was not prodigal with the public funds, for on December 5th an order was drawn on the borough treasurer for $91.28, being the amount in full for building the same. This house erected over the race, obstructed the view somewhat of Isaac Wood who owned and occupied the corner above, and upon his complaint the house was removed to the location of the old market house. The Union fire engine was at first kept in a shed erected for the purpose against the western side of the court house, but was subsequently kept in a small building on the Downer lot a short distance west of the court house. This building was sold and removed in 1844 by order of council. Doubtless it was on the occasion of the addition of the Madison engine to our fire department that new and higher wheels were put on the Union, and Maj. William A. Donald- son, an artist in his line, gave her a fresh coat of paint and gilded her name and date anew; and when she left his master touch she was a thing of beauty. The Union Fire Engine company was incorporated by a charter granted September 13, 1842, with the following officers: William Morris, president; Zadoc Cracraft, vice-president; J. Allen Downer, secretary; Robert Boyle, treasurer; 1st engineer, William Ebert; 2nd engineer, J. B. Eagle. Directors — John Canon, Isaac Skiles, Jr., William A. West, R. L. McKean. Members — Greenberry Crossland, John Knight, C. B. Snyder, Edmund Rine, S. D. Wolf, L. B. Bowie, James A. Grain, James P. Allen, W. H. Ebert, J. L. Moore, Frederick Sheats, William Kimberly, E. B. Snapp, John S. Seaton, George Huston, John W. Allen, John W. Howell, William Quail, David Henderson, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 571 William Doran, John McCartney, Joseph Smith, James Johnson, John Dillow, T. J. Shelcut, James T. Ebert, John P. Jones, Wil- liam H. Morrison, Absalom Guiler, John W. Button, Rice G. Hopwood, R. W. Irons, W. G. McCartney, Samuel Harris, M. C. Baker, Corbin A. Gilbert, Elijah Crossland, Jr., W. B. Swan, R. W. Jones, David Lincoln, Caleb Crossland, W. W. Smith, William Baily, D. S. Lewis. Each officer was to wear a cape and a hat or cap on all oc- casions of a parade or be subjected to a fine of twenty-five cents ; and each member of the company was to provide for himself a blue circular oilcloth cape on which was lettered U. F. E. Co. or be subject to a fine of not less than twelve and a half cents. The maximum fine for any offense committed was fifty cents or expulsion. The president of this company was also its captain. It is conceded that Mr. Isaac Beeson, the leading merchant at this time, and a man of superior commanding power, acted as chief of the fire department for many years. He was captain of the Union company; and on parade occasions his command- ing and dignified appearance called forth the admiration of the people. Subsequent captains of this company were Elijah Gadd, who was succeeded by Thomas M. Fee in 1848-49, who was succeeded by S. D. Oliphant, 1850-51, and he was succeeded by James L. Bugh, Jr., who served for two or three years. On April 5, 1851, a committee reported to council that they had selected a site on the public grounds for the erection of a new engine house ; and the committee was directed to proceed to erect such a house immediately south of the market house. This house was a frame structure, having one large double door on the west for entrance, and two double doors on the east for exit, these being on each side of the borough scales. A tower was in the middle for draining the hose. Upon the completion of this building both fire engines and all the ap- paratus belonging thereto were stored in it. It appears that in 1845 several fires occurred which gave a new impetus to the fire department, for on March 20th of that year council resolved that the sum of $500 be appropriated for the purpose of pur- chasing a suction engine and 700 feet of hose, and that if said sum was not sufficient that such further sum as may be neces- sary be and is hereby appropriated. Alfred McClelland, James Piper and William B. Roberts were appointed as a committee 573 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. to procure a loan and purchase such suction engine, hose and other accessories as they might deem expedient. This com- mittee reported April 38th that they had procured prices from Philadelphia, and finding such machines too high in price thought it not advisable to make the purchase, and the com- mittee was discharged. On March 31st of that same year a night watchman was employed to guard the town against incendiarism. The Clinton House stables, east of the court house were destroyed by an incendiary fire, as were the stables and workshops on the rear of the John W. Barr and Samuel Harah properties, and on the same evening the barn of Mr. Isaac Beeson, just south of town, was burned. Some parties running to the Beeson barn saw a man running away whom they caught and placed in jail. It proved to be a worthless colored fellow by the name of Lafay- ette McGill. He broke jail before his trial and was never heard of since. In October of the same year a committee was ap- pointed to ascertain the cost of the construction of a cistern with a capacity of 15,000 gallons as a water supply in case of fire. This cistern was constructed on the court house grounds, and a ram was placed at a good spring on the Downer property from which the cistern was filled through pipes. In 1850, plans were submitted by Mr. Zalmon Ludington for the construction of a double action suction and force pump for the purpose of supplying the Madison with water. In June of that year an order was placed with Mr. Herbertson, a foundryman of Brownsville, for the construction of such ma- chine according to plans submitted by Mr. Ludington. This machine was novel in design, and perhaps from its peculiar construction, it was named " The Crab." It was conveyed to the scene of the fire upon a low truck, from which it was lifted to the ground in proximity to a water supply and was operated by a walking beam resembling a stout ladder, and required the force of from twelve to twenty-four men to operate it. A company was immediately organized for the Crab, and Captain Thomas King, the veteran and popular blacksmith, was elected the efficient and only captain of the company. This homely machine rendered effective and valuable service on all occasions of fire, either by supplying the engines with water or by throwing a stream immediately upon the burning building. At a firemen's parade on the 18th of June, 1853, the Union History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 573 company numbered 85 men, the Madison 79 and the Crab 64. The captain of the Union was Isaac Beeson ; the captain of the Madison was Col. Ewing Brownfield; the captain of the Crab was Thomas King; while Armstrong Hadden had charge of the bucket carts and other paraphernalia of the department. These two bucket carts contained 50 wooden buckets each, and when a bucket-line was formed these buckets afforded an ef- ficient way of conveying water to the engines. The Union buckets were painted blue, and those of the Madison red. The uniforms of the different companies were as follows : The Union — Slouch hat and blue band, white shirt, white pants with blue belt and no suspenders. The Crab — Chip hat turned up with rosettes on three sides, black pants with no suspenders, white belt, white shirt. The engines were handsomely decorated with flowers, flags and evergreens. Four small children rode on the Madison while " Bony " Melier, decorated as an Indian chief, rode on the Union. The procession formed at the west end of town and moved off to martial music and a brass band. The companies were showered with boquets of flowers as they passed along the principal streets as tokens of admiration by the ladies. In the evening the Union company took refresh- ments at the ice cream saloon of John A. Durbin, and the Madison at the house of William T. Kerr, and the Crab and others at the saloons of George Ingles and Jabez Thorndell. No one of our old citizens can advert to those old fire engines, especially those who " ran with the machine " without feelings of admiration of the effective manner in which a fire was so laboriously yet persistently fought. Nor were these without their amusing incidents. On one occasion of a fire two able bodied members of the Union company were shirking their work when Captain Isaac Beeson took them in his giant grasp and knocked them together until they willingly applied them- selves to their duties. Neither were the users of the fire engines confined strictly and exclusively to the extinguishment of fires; but on several occasions, and perhaps too few, quite a number of houses of bad odor in the town were made to feel the cleans- ing and disinfecting power of the fire engine, in which cases it was always more pleasant to give than to receive. These acts were committed by amateurs and not by regular firemen, but always met with the approval of the better class of our citizens. 574 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. In 1876, William Hunt and J. K. Beeson were appointed as a committee to negotiate the purchase of a steam fire engine, in view of which they visited several cities and towns for the purpose of gathering information, and as the result of their in- vestigations they recommended the engine built by C. Ahrens & Co., of Cincinnati, and also a four-wheeled hose carriage manufactured by Thomas H. Petro of Philadelphia, that had taken a medal at the Centennial exhibition. The new hose car- riage arrived in town April 21, 1877, and cost $400, and the steamer arrived June 21st following, and was tested by Mr. Ahrens to the entire satisfaction of the crowd of witnesses, and Mr. Ahrens received an order on the borough treasury for the sum of $4,400. The old market house was converted into an engine house in 1894, and all the apparatus of the fire department was housed therein. The old Madison and the Crab, having been con- demned as of no further service, were disposed of as old scrap and the proceeds were placed in the borough treasury. The Union, as previously mentioned, was retained and is now treas- ured as a souvenir of the first fire department. Upon the acquisition of the steamer and hose to the fire department, the town council appointed A. G. Beeson chief of the department to have full control of the apparatus belonging thereto. Mr. Beeson held this responsible position for three or four years, when an election was held in the council room by the two fire companies when William H. Wilhelm was elected chief and the choice was ratified by the borough council. Frank Stevens succeeded Wilhelm at an election held on January 2, 1893. He was succeeded by John H. Todd, January 1, 1896, and he by Lewis Williams, January 1, 1898, and he by J. K. Ritenour in 1903, and he by T. Springer Todd in 1904, and he by George Matthews in 1906, and he by W. L. Wood in 1908, and he by George Matthews in 1910, and he by John T. Williams in 1911, and he by Alex McDowell in 1912. A new fire company was organized upon the acquisition of the steamer under the name of the Keystone Fire Company, with the following members : C. H. Rush, S. M. Baily, Joseph M. Hadden, William H. Wilhelm, Samuel Cooper, Geo. B. Rut- ter, C. H. Seaton, J. W. Jones, J. M. Messmore, Joseph Kerr, J. K. Beeson, W. M. Brownfield, A. G. Beeson, John G. Stevens, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 575 William Hunt, Edward Cronin, John H. Delaney, John A. Batton, R. B. Moore. At a meeting held by the company April 19th, the following officers were elected: President, Daniel Kaine, Esq.; Vice- President, C. H. Rush; Secretary, J. K. Beeson; Treasurer, William Hunt; Captain, S. M. Baily; 1st Lieutenant, Frank Stevens; 3nd Lieutenant, Joseph M. Hadden; 1st Engineer, Thomas Cooper; 2nd Engineer, Joseph Keffer; 3rd Engineer, J. Morgan Messmore; 4th Engineer, John H. Delaney; pipe- men, A. G. Beeson, C. H. Seaton, J. R. Frey, George B. Rutter, John C. Brown, William H. Wilhelm; hose directors, Samuel Cooper, Alpheus Beall, W. T. Moore, Frank L. Brooks, W. H. Hinsey, Joseph W. Jones, John G. Stevens, R. A. McClean; suction hosemen, R. B. Moore, L W. Miller, John A. Batton and Edward Cronin. The water supply for the steamer was ob- tained from Redstone creek, the old Beeson mill race, the public cistern in the court house yard, and a public cistern in Foundry street, the latter having been constructed after the purchase of the steamer. The first use of the new steamer was on the occasion of the burning of the warehouse of Nathan Divvens in the rear of his tobacco store on Main street, and by which much damage was done to adjacent property. This fire was of incendiary origin, and occurred at midnight of Monday, April 8, 1878, and the satisfactory manner in which the steamer performed on that occasion removed all prejudice from the minds of those who had been unfavorable to the purchase of the engine. The next demand for her service was on the occasion of the burning of the Uniontown Woolen Mills of John N. Dawson, May 8, 1879, and although the buildings with all the valuable machinery were totally destroyed, the steamer acquitted herself gloriously by saving thousands of dollars worth of adjoining valuable property from the devouring flames. In 1883 the Uniontown Water Company piped the town and placed forty fire plugs at convenient places in the town, since which time others have been added as the demands re- quired, with a guaranteed pressure of 150 pounds per square inch. The Gamewell fire alarm system was introduced in 1892, and seven boxes were installed at convenient places in the town, since which others have been added as demand required. 576 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Alarm whistles were placed in each the United Light power house and the Street Railway power house, and indicators in each of the then two hose houses, and " jokers " at the homes of each of the officers of the department. The Keystone Fire Company was incorporated March 6, 1899, with the following charter members: J. K. Ritenour, Samuel Shuman, Alfred Johnson, Geo. Denny, Frank King, Chas. F. Hagan, George P. Gadd, John Balsinger, Robert G. Ramsey, David P. Denny, Smith R. Whaley, Harry F. Moser, John C. Bierer and Edward T. Bierer. The board of directors were : J. K. Ritenour, George P. Gadd, George Denny, Charles F. Hagan, Alfred Johnson, John Balsinger and Edward T. Bierer. Roll of membership : A. J. Hunt, John Balsinger, James Kissinger, Robert Moore, William Dixson, Charles Hagan, Joseph Conard, John C. Bierer, George Denny, David Denny, Robert Ramsey, Frank King, George P. Gadd, Samuel R. Shu- man, J. K. Ritenour, Harry F. Moser, Edward Miller, Charles Rush, Joseph Hager, William McLaughlin, Robert Seese, John Williams, James Saul, George M. Baily, John H. Todd, Springer Todd, George Titlow, Samuel Coburn, Thomas Howard, James Cook, Joseph H. Miller, George A. Moser, Joseph Snead, C. H. Rush, Orville Rush, Albert Rush, Samuel Hagan, Lewis Miller, Lewis Williams, Judson Sisler, Shriver Rankin, Edward Bierer, S. N. Rockwell. On March 28, 1903, Mr. Edgar S. Hackney gave a grand banquet at the Exchange hotel in honor of the members of the fire department which was attended and duly enjoyed by one hundred and four firemen. The first chemical apparatus and wagon was added to the fire department in 1905, and the department was moved into the new municipal building December 31, 1908. The first uni- forms were procured for the firemen in May, 1899, and the first men to receive pay for their services in caring for the horses and apparatus were Eddie Cofifman Will Thompson, Alfred Mil- ler and Sam Beckett, the latter serving at the east end. This arrangement took effect when the department was removed to the new quarters in the municipal building. An ordinance fixing a fire limit was passed April 19, 1890. The Union Hose Company No. 1 was organized January 30, 1893, in response to a call for additional firemen, Lewis THE OLD MARKET HOUSE. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 577 Williams was the chief spirit in the movement, and a suificient number of men were secured to organize an additional company. At this meeting the following officers were elected: Captain, Lewis Williams; First Lieutenant, W. C. McCormick; Second Lieutenant, C. H. Bierer; Secretary, Russel Beall; Treasurer, Harold Herd; President, A. J. Bower. The new company took its name in honor of the old Union fire engine, as the other company had taken its name in honor of the steamer — the Keystone. This company was quartered in a frame building erected for the purpose on the north side of East Main street at the eastern bridge, and here remained until the erection of the new hose house at the east end in 1907, into which the apparatus was moved. This company purchased a horse from their own private funds, June 6, 1898, which was the first horse used in the fire department of the town, the borough contributing $15 per month toward its maintenance. The Union Hose Company No. 1 was incorporated July 1, 1898, with the following charter members : Lewis Williams, Charles D. Conner, Andrew J. Bower, Walter Brownfield, Jesse B. West, Lyman Litman, George A. McCormick, John Lynch, William C. McCormick, Henry C. Johnson, George H. Mat- thews, Hugh B. McKean, John W. Murphy, WiUiam J. Bore- land, John T. Collins. A chemical apparatus and wagon was furnished to this company in January, 1911. Chief Williams' Hook and Ladder Company. In 1901 a movement was inaugurated to organize a Hook and Ladder company in addition to the two other companies already organized. Louis Williams was the leading spirit in this new movement, and was elected the first captain of the company, but by his untimely death he was denied the realiza- tion of his plans. Fortunately George H. Matthews stepped into the breach and was effective in securing a charter for the company on March 33, 1903. The object of the formation of this company was to add to the fire department a hook and ladder wagon also bearing chemical tanks by which fires might be extinguished without damage by water. The wisdom of this accessory to the fire de- 578 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. partment has been more than verified. The first apparatus placed at the disposal of this company was an old hook and ladder wagon with three or four ladders and a string of buckets hung on the sides, but this was soon displaced by a more modern truck and longer and better ladders. This company has its apparatus and its headquarters in the new municipal building, and on January 1, 1910, they gave a fine turkey supper to the newsboys of the town which was participated in and enjoyed by the newsboys of the town, and on January 1, 1911, they gave the second supper that even sur- passed, if possible, the first; and on January 1, 1913, they gave the third, and on January 1, 1913, they gave the fourth. The Park Hose Company was organized in the East End for the protection of that part of the town. The officers of this company were : William R. Hoop, president ; O. E. Keener, vice-president; A. W. Cunningham, secretary; Andrew Barron, O. E. Keener, William Madison, Wilfred Wahler, Grover Lynch, trustees ; Charles E. Williams, captain ; Frank Schifif- baurer, first lieutenant; William Madison, second lieutenant. The following were the members : John D. Fallon, John Schifif- bauer, William McCormick, Daniel Crawford, George R. Miller, C. J. Miller, Sam Holler, Joseph Hornbeck, Charles E. Keener, Harry J. Hooper and Frank Graham. This company made application for admission to the fire department February 1, 1910, but the borough has not as yet provided apparatus nor quarters for the same. The Legislature of Pennsylvania passed an act in 1895 pro- viding that on and after January 1, 1896, one-half of the net proceeds derived from the taxation of the foreign insurance companies doing business within the Commonwealth of Penn- sylvania should be appropriated to the relief of firemen who may be disabled or the burial of those killed while on duty as firemen, and for the pensioning of widows or orphans or de- pendent parents of firemen so killed or die from injuries sus- tained while in the discharge of such duties. Preliminary steps were taken March 35, 1903, toward the organization of a Firemen's Relief Association by which the funds thus provided might become available for the relief of members of the fire department of Uniontown. In this move- ment the Keystone Fire Company was represented by J. K. Ritenour, James Cook and S. R. Shuman; the Chief Williams History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 579 Hook and Ladder Company was represented by George W. Little, J. N. Hibbs and Charles O. LaClair; and the Union Hose Company No. 1 was represented by C. H. Bierer, Charles L Kaine and Alexander McDowell. The Association was to be officered by the Chief, Assistant Chief and representatives from each of the various companies constituting the Fire Depart- ment, and all applications for relief were to be subjected to a Board of Control. An organization was finally consummated and on Decem- ber 2, 1905, a charter was granted by the court, with the follow- ing charter members: Robert F. Sample, President; William McClelland, A. J. Hunt, William L. Wood, Geo. F. White, C. L. Titus, John T. Williams, J. Ross Summers and William H. Moore, Jr., secretary. The first funds received into this association from the State was on November 10, 1906, and amount to $473, and the average amount since received is near $600 per annum, and the funds have been considerably augmented by the generosity of persons who are friendly to the cause and have become life members of the association. The Markets. Among the first things done after Uniontown was incor- porated as a borough was the establishment of a market. The first market house was erected on a triangular piece of ground, then belonging to Capt. Thomas Collins, on which the whisky boys had, but two years before, erected a pole in honor of " Tom the Tinker." The interest in this market appears to have waned, and in the Genius of Liberty of May 39, 1837, the follow- ing notice appeared : " Union market — To those whom it may concern will take notice that the Town Council have resolved to re-establish a market in the borough of Uniontown to com- mence on Saturday the 9th day of June next, thence on Tues- days, Thursdays and Saturdays following throughout the year. Therefore from this time on it will be contrary to the ordinance of the borough, under certain penalties, for any person or per- sons to buy or sell any kind of provisions on any other than market days, or at any other place than the market house in said borough, with the exception of the surplus which may remain undisposed of after the market hours have closed, which will be from 6 to 9 until the 1st of Novem- 580 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ber, then from 6 to 10 until the 1st of April following." This notice was dated May 29, 1837, and signed by Samuel Clevenger, borough clerk. Another notice published later announced that " The market will commence Saturday, the third day of April, 1830, and that market days would be Tuesdays and Satur- days from 4 to 8 a. m., until the first of June next. All persons are warned to observe the market laws." Signed, James A. Yerk, clerk of the market. The old market house was used as such until the comple- tion of the new one in February, 1844, at which time William Ebert was placed in charge as market master at a salary of $60 per annum. The new market house had seven stalls, the choicest of which rented at fifteen dollars per annum, and the less choice at a much lower rate. The whole seven did not net the borough over $46 per annum. The early butchers to occupy the new market house, some of whom had previously occupied the old one, were Elijah Crossland, Everhart Bierer, John Fisher, Greenberry Crossland, George Coburn, Robert Patterson, Nelson Randolph, Thomas Miller, William B. McCormick. The hours for holding market were limited by ordinance, and no one was permitted to sell any fresh meat, poultry, fresh fish, butter, eggs or vegetables elsewhere than at the market house, and within the hours named in the ordinance under a penalty of $5 ; one half of which went to the informer. No person was allowed to purchase any of the before-mentioned articles during market hours to retail and sell again. No one not a regular butcher was allowed to sell in less quantities than half a quarter without applying to the market master and taking special license therefor, at the rate of 30 cents for each beef or part thereof ; or for each hog, calf or sheep or part thereof, the sum of ten cents. It was the duty of the market master or clerk of the market to seize all unsound provisions which may be offered for sale; to ascertain the weight of all butter offered for sale, and if found deficient in weight, it was forfeited to the borough ; to adjust all scales and measures used in the market ; to decide all disputes between buyers and sellers as to weights and measures, no steelyards were allowed to be used for a less weight than twenty pounds ; to examine all persons suspected of selling as hucksters History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 581 or forestallers ; to prosecute all persons violating the market ordinance and to keep the market house clean. The Public Square on South Street. In Deed Book E, page 55, is a deed bearing date of May 28, 1803, in which it is stated that for and in consideration of the sum of one dollar, Jacob Beeson and Elizabeth, his wife, convey to the inhabitants of Jacob's Second Addition a plat of ground embraced between Jacob's alley, now Arch street, South street. Strawberry alley and lot No. 1 in Jacob's Second Addition, to be devoted to any useful public purpose they may elect. This valuable piece of ground, the munificent gift of one of the founders of the town, lay unoccupied for many years, when, in 1819, the members of the Presbyterian church erected thereon a brick house of worship. Dissatisfaction soon made itself manifest on the part of the " Inhabitants of Jacob's Ad- dition and Jacob's Second Addition," as this was regarded a de- nominational rather than a public use of the ground. Deed Book P, page 510, recites that Enos West was granted power of attorney to bring suit of ejectment against the trus- tees of the Presbyterian church to gain possession of the Central Public Grounds, October 16, 1828. This building was removed in 1839. In the year 1835, the council of Union Borough agreed to make an appropriation of twenty-five dollars toward the erection of a borough scales, and Mr. L. W. Stockton, the enterprising agent of the National Stage line, put in the first set of scales, the first thing of public use to occupy the Public Grounds after a lapse of thirty-three years, but Mr. Stockton was required to wait for nine years before the borough had funds to reimburse him for his outlay. Prior to 1842, the town council had decided that a new market house was a necessity, as the old one had become a nuisance, and at a meeting on March 14, 1843, on motion of William B. Roberts, it was resolved to erect a new market house on the public grounds. Why the first market house and engine house were erected on private ground is not apparent. Plans were submitted and the contract was let to Robert L. Barry, a merchant of the town, to erect the building of brick according to the plans, for the sum of $1,350, and in November, 583 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 1843, the building was completed. This building was of brick, two stories high and about sixty feet in length by twenty-four feet in width, the windows were about six feet wide and arched at the top but contained no sash. The end fronting on South street had a large arched doorway, and two smaller door-ways were at the sides : heavy oak benches were along the sides both inside and outside the building for the display of meat, vegetables and country produce. The second story was used as council chamber and for public entertainments, and was known as the " Town Hall." Many and various were the enter- tainments held here, and it was a popular place for holding church festivals, on which occasions the very elite of the town were wont to assemble here and be entertained. Bracket roofs ran along each side of the building and afforded shelter for the market gardeners who exhibited their produce on the out- side of the building. A row of posts through which a stout chain was passed, surrounded the grounds to keep teams at a distance. Among the many butchers who rented stalls in this old market house may be mentioned Everhart Bierer, Robert Pat- terson, William B. McCormick, Nelson Randolph, Elijah Cross- land, Greenberry Crossland and others. Robert Patterson was perhaps the longest tenant, as he came here in 1842, and occu- pied a stall in the old market house, and when this new one was erected, in 1843, he continued to occupy a stall until the build- ing became unfit for use. The borough authorities tried to compell Mr. Patterson to continue his business in the market house, but he defied the authorities on account of the unfitness of the building, won his case and transferred his business to a suitable room over the race on Morgantown street. A fire broke out on Tuesday, July 1, 1851, in a nearby building which soon communicated with the market house which resulted in much damage to the building, and the de- struction of the borough records up to that date. From the fact that this old market house was never pro- vided with doors, it stood open to the free access of loafers and bums, and notwithstanding a market master was employed, it soon became in such a filthy condition it was unfit for the use for which it was intended. The old market house remained in this filthy condition, a disgrace to the town, until 18?7, when the steam fire engine was purchased, and the fire apparatus of History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 583 the town was housed therein. The Keystone Fire company have occupied the old Town Hall as headquarters from the time of its organization until the building was torn down. A frame building was erected in 1851 for the housing of the two old fire engines and the pump known as the " crab ", and the bucket carts. This frame building stood against the end of the market house and spanned the borough scales, with open- ings at each side of the scales. This was torn away in 1880, when the new scales were put in, and other jjrick work added to the property. About 1880, the southern end of the old market house was divided ofif by a heavy plank partition, and this part was used for several years as a borough lockup. This too, soon became in a filthy condition and the borough was made liable for heavy damages by the incarceration of poor unfortunates in such an unsanitary place. A lot was procured and a new lockup built near the jail in 1889. Municipal Hall. In 1906, the fire department of the town demanded that better and more adequate quarters be furnished the apparatus and fire companies. This demand met with the hearty approval of the borough officials and the people, and it was decided to make a $50,000 bond issue for the erection of a lockup, a new hose house at the East End and a municipal building on the Public Grounds. Architect John C. Fulton was employed to draft the plans, and on January 11, 1898, the contract was let to George M. Beatty and Brother of Uniontown, at a bid of $43,441. Work was begun immediately, and the building was accepted on Wednesday, December 30, 1908, and the fire department moved in the following day. The borough council met for the first time in their new quarters, February 2, 1909, and the dedi- cation of the building took place Tuesday evening, February 9, 1909, with appropriate ceremonies in the public hall. The build- ing was presented to the people in an address by Hon. Nathaniel Ewing and accepted by an address by Robert F. Hopwood, Esq., on the part of the people. Ex-Mayor George W. Guthrie of Pittsburgh, made some appropriate congratulatory remarks, and he was followed by Edward G. Lang, Director of Public Safety of Pittsburgh. John D. Carr of the advisory committee told as to the cost and construction of the building, and Daniel W. Mc- 584 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Donald, Esq., gave a history of the fire department. James Hadden, in the name of William C. McCormick, presented to the borough a portrait of General Ephraim Douglass, the first burgess of the town, which was received by Burgess R. D. Warman. After the exercises in the Municipal Hall a banquet was held at the McClelland House at which about one hundred and sixty guests were entertained, and addresses were made by Rev. Dr. W. Hamilton Spence, W. H. Cook, Supt. C. J. Scott, Mayor Guthrie, D. M. Hertzog, Esq., and Judge J. Q. Van. Swearingen, R. F. Hopwood, Esq., acting as toastmaster. CHAPTER XXV. The Whisky Insurrection — David G. Blythe and His Pano- rama OF THE Allegheny Mountains — Agricultural Exhibi- tions. The first excise law passed in Pennsylvania was the act of March 16, 1684. This was soon repealed and another was passed in May, 1744, and still another in 1756, which levied a tax on all imported spirits. In March, 1773, this law was re- vised and extended to spirits distilled at home, exempting that intended for private use for the owner of the still. During the Revolution whisky was in great demand, and the business of distilling became very remunerative. In many parts of the country distilleries became very plentiful and the people became alarmed at the consumption of grain by the distillers. From the fact that the region west of the mountains was an agricultural district grain was comparatively plentiful but money scarce. The difficulty was to dispose of the grain at remunerative prices. It was found that a horse could carry but four bushels of grain to the eastern markets, but when distilled into liquor one horse could carry the product of twenty-four bushels, consequently those engaged in distilling remonstrated against an excise tax law, which would fall heavily upon the inhabitants of the four western counties of the state, namely,, Allegheny, Westmoreland, Fayette and Washington. An excise law was passed by Congress on March 3, 1791, by which was placed four pence per gallon on all distilled spirits. Grain was needed for the army, and money was needed to reimburse the Revolutionary soldiers who had been paid in depreciated money. The passage of this act naturally aroused a spirit of indig- nation among the inhabitants of the four western counties, and an indignation meeting was held at Redstone Old Fort (now Brownsville), on the 17th of July, 1791, at which it was deter- 585 586 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. mined to petition Congress for relief. These petitions were re- peated at a meeting in August, 1793, and expressed in most strenuous terms their contempt for those who attempted to en- force the law or collect the excise tax. The expressions at these meetings grew more and more intemperate. In the month of June, 1791, the first year in which the stills were to have been entered, there were no offices of inspection opened west of the mountains. In June of 1794, however, offices for that purpose were opened in Westmoreland, Alle- gheny, Washington and Fayette counties, that of the latter being at the home of Benjamin Wells, then living at Stewart's Crossing, (now Connellsville). Liberty poles were hoisted at different localities, bearing the motto " Liberty and no excise, and no asylum for cowards and traitors." Notices of warnings and threats were posted in public places, signed " Tom the Tinker." Signifying that if the still was entered, Tom the Tinker would call and " fix '' it. A liberty pole was erected in Uniontown and one on the farm of Col. Thomas Gaddis, two miles south. The first actual outrage perpetrated upon an excise officer was committed near Pigeon creek in Washington county, September 6, 1791, upon Robert Johnson, the collector for Washington and Allegheny counties. He was stripped of his clothing and tarred and feathered and otherwise abused. Knowledge of the state of affairs in this western district having reached the president, he issued a proclamation in which he stated that in the night of the 32nd of November, 1793, a number of armed men, with blackened faces and otherwise dis- guised, violently broke open and entered the dwelling house of Benjamin Wells, collector of revenue in and for the counties of Fayette and Westmoreland, and did compel him to deliver up his commission, together with the books kept by him. And whereas infractions of the law may be prevented and officers protected, I hereby offer a reward of two hundred dollars for each of the said offenders that shall be discovered and brought to justice, and I hereby strictly charge and enjoin all officers and ministers of justice to use their best endeavors to cause the offenders to be discovered so they may be speedily brought to trial. Signed, Geo. Washington, Done at the city of Philadelphia, February, 1794. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 587 On September 25th, the president issued a proclamation offering clemency to all who would submit to the law. The president issued a call for 15,000 troops to be raised in four divisions from Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and New Jersey to suppress the insurrection. These were placed under the general command of General Henry Lee of Virginia, known as Light Horse Harry of the Revolution. The Virginia and Maryland troops were commanded by Brigadier-General Samuel Smith of Baltimore and General Daniel Morgan of Virginia. These formed the left wing of the army and rendez- voused at Cumberland. The right wing rendezvoused at Car- lisle all under the command of the commandei--in-chief, then .yjovernor of Virginia. President Washington with General Henry Knox, Secre- tary of War and General Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury left Philadelphia on October 1, 1794, to visit the headquarters of the right wing of the army at Carlisle and thence to Cumberland where the president reviewed the left wing, after which he proceeded to Bedford to which f)lace General Lee had removed his headquarters, where he arrived on the 19th, and where he remained three days, and returned east, arriving at Philadelphia on the 38th. A committee from Pittsburgh composed of William Findley, David Redick, Ephraim Douglass and Thomas Morton, had been appointed to wait upon the president at Carlisle and in- form him that the people had signed the papers of submission, and that the law would be enforced, and that the advance of the army yould be entirely unnecessary. The president in- formed the committee that as the army had advanced so far, he would not countermand the orders he had given until a more substantial assurance be obtained that the laws would be respected and submission to them be assured. The papers were given to Secretary Hamilton who stated that they would be given to the commander-in-chief. The left wing of the army moved from Cumberland on October 33nd and arrived at Uniontown on the 31st and went into camp. The same committee that was to have met the president met General Lee at Uniontown, where Secretary Hamilton was present and made the request that the army be withdrawn, but the committee were informed that the army would not be withdrawn until the civil government was fully 588 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. restored and the people submitted to the law. General Lee had his headquarters in a small frame building that then stood on a lot belonging to Colonel Alexander McClean on the ground now occupied by the court house. He remained here only a few days, and on the 4th of November the army marched towards Peterson's, on the east side of Parkinson's Ferry. The principal encampment was at what is now Lock No. 3, Wash- ington county, and the old Virginia court house was used as headquarters. The entire army remained in the neighborhood of Parkin- son's Ferry for several days, after which the main part of the troops moved down the Monongahela river, and on November 15th, a detachment was marched from Parkenson's Ferry to Washington. General Lee had his headquarters at Elizabeth, November 29th, after the departure of the army. On November 17th, general orders were given for the re- turn of the army, and it was in motion homeward on the 19th. Brig.-Genl. Smith, with the Maryland Line returned by the way of Uniontown and the Braddock road, and part of the troops, under Genl. Morgan, remained over winter in Wash- ington county to keep the peace. After the withdrawal of the main body of the army a few of the troops were left in charge of a few officers, and the con- duct of one or two of these officers towards the people who had signed the submission papers and had taken the oath of submission and against whom no charges had been brought, was more becoming a Comanche Indian than an officer of the United States army. There were two forms of oath to which the inhabitants of this disafifected district were obliged to subscribe. One was known as the oath of allegiance and the other the oath of as- sociation. These oaths were signed in duplicate and read as follows : " I do solemnly swear in the presence of Almighty God that I will support the constitution of the United States, and obey all the laws thereof, and will discountenance all opposi- tion of the same except by the way of petition and remon- strance, and all attempts to resist, obstruct or ill treat the officers of the United States in the execution of their respective duties. So help me God." The second, known as the oath of Association, was as fol- lows : " I do hereby engage and associate myself to and with History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 589 all others who may subscribe to these presents to countenance and protect the officers of the. United States in the exercise of their duties according to law, and to discover and bring to justice all persons who may be concerned directly or indirectly in illegally hindering or obstructing the said officers or any of them in the execution of his or their duty, or in doing any manner of violence to them or any of them. In witness of all which I have hereunto subscribed my hand the day and year opposite my -name." When the clouds of what was known as the Whisky In- surrection had rolled away, it was found that several of the citizens of this district had been sent to Philadelphia for trial, against only a few of whom were charges preferred. Colonel Thomas Gaddis was accused of misdemeanor in raising a Liberty Pole on his farm on the Morgantown road. One Thomas Patton, a very ignorant man, subject to fits of tempo- rary insanity, was found guilty of setting fire to the house of Collector Wells, and was sentenced to death, but was finally pardoned by the proclamation of President Washington. The chief witness against this man was the chief leader of the rioters who attacked Well's house, and he was pardoned by the commander-in-chief. David Bradford, the most radical of all the agitators, fled the country, and was the only person not included in President Washington's proclamation of amnesty. In August, 1794, a general pardon was issued by the presi- dent and Governor MifHin. In one year since the Insurrection the Western Survey of Pennsylvania remitted to the Treasury about $30,000 of excise tax, which amounted to one-fifth of the net revenue raised in one year on distilled spirits from domestic materials in the whole United States. David G. Blythe. Of the former eccentric residents of Uniontown may be mentioned David G. Blythe who was born near East Liver- pool, Ohio, May 9, 1815. In his care-free boyhood he frequently amused himself and friends by sketching some ridiculous object, for which he possessed extraordinary ability, using no other material than a piece of charcoal, and as his canvas the door or side of an outhouse. At the age of sixteen he went to Pittsburgh where he engaged himself at wood carving. He next went to 599 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. New York where he enlisted in the United States navy as a ship carpenter, and while cruising in the Gulf of Mexico he witnessed the bombardment of Vera Cruz by the French navy. At the expiration of his term of enlistment he returned to Pitts- burgh, where he acquired some reputation as a portrait painter and caricaturist, in the latter of which he produced his happiest effects. In the winter of 1846-47, Blythe made his appearance in Uniontown and procured boarding at the Seaton House, now known as the West End hotel. Here a number of young men were boarders, among whom was one F. H. Rice, a Yankee shoe merchant. It was Rice's custom to drive through the mountains exchanging his merchandise for country produce, which on his return he would convert into cash. On one of these excursions, it being a warm, sultry day, Rice fell asleep in his wagon, and his horse being unguided, pulled over to the edge of the road and upset Rice and his load of apples, onions, butter, eggs and in fact almost everything from a live turkey gobbler to a string of dried apples, down over the embankment. On his return home Rice, in his peculiar Yankee twang, related his mishap to the boarders at the table who enjoyed a hearty laugh at the recital of his misfortune. Soon after the occurrence above related it was again al- luded to at the table in the presence of a stranger who was a silent listener to all the remarks made at Rice's expense. The following Sabbath morning as the boarders assembled, with a goodly number of young men of the town who had dropped in for a chat, they discovered a sketch on the mantlepiece, en- titled " Rice's Landing." This was so faithfully drawn that it required no explanation and created a roar of laughter. The query then was who could have perpetrated the deed, as no one of their acquaintance was competent to do it, finally the stranger was pointed out as the author of the sketch, and from that time Blythe became a favorite among his set. P. U. Hook then kept a store opposite the Seaton House, and over his store Blythe secured a room which he very ap- propriately named " The Rat's Nest," and here he had his studio, painted his sketches and wrote much of his poetry over the nom de plume of " Boots." His talent as a portrait painter soon brought him some employment. From the Seaton House Blythe moved his boarding to the History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 591 Eagle hotel, then kept by Aaron Stone. Here he remained a boarder for some time, and a strong friendship grew up be- tween him and the landlord ; but one night at a ball given at the hotel, which was quite a swell affair for those days, some of the boarders became too hilarious and Mr. Stone ordered them to leave. They all left in a body, Blythe along with them, although he knew at the time he was not included in the order. He then took boarding with Joshua Marsh, the gentle- manly proprietor of the National House on Morgantown street, and here he remained until he finally left the town. In December of 1847 the new court house was finished, on the dome of which was a disk upon which was to stand a statue of General Lafayette in honor of whom the county was named. When it was learned that Blythe claimed to be a carver in wood it was decided to secure his services for the carving of a suitable statue of Lafayette to surmount the new court house. A subscription paper was circulated and subscriptions to the amount of one hundred and twenty-five dollars were secured. Two-inch poplar planks were pinned together and Blythe was employed to execute the work, which was commenced and finished in the little log building still standing on South street and formerly known as West's school house. A large wood engraving was used as a model, and the faithfulness of this statue to the engraving and the likeness of the features are remarkable. This statue was placed on the dome of the court house and there remained until 1890, when the building was torn away for the erection of the present court house. It now stands in the corridor of the present temple of justice, where it should remind every one of the gratitude this nation owes to General Lafayette for the part he took in secur- ing the independence of the American colonists. Soon after Blythe had carved the statue of Lafayette for the court house at Uniontown correspondence was opened with him to secure his services in carving a statue of General Na- thaniel Greene to surmount the new court house then building at Waynesburg. This was quite a compliment to Blythe, and indicated that the statue for the Fayette county court house was satisfactory. Blythe replied that he would execute the work in an artistic and satisfactory manner for the sum of three hundred dollars, to which price the Greene county folks took exceptions and in 592 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. reply stated that they did not propose to give him the " whole county " for his work, and that they in all probability had local artists who could do it as well as he could for one hundred dol- lars. To this Blythe replied that if that were the case they were very fooHsh not to close the contract at once. Bradley Mahanna of Waynesburg was then employed and accomplished the task. This correspondence and treatment soured Blythe's feel- ings toward Greene county in general and Waynesburg in par- ticular, and he chaffed to find an opportunity to vent his pent- up indignation. This opportunity soon occurred, for when the corner-stone of the new court house was laid with Masonic ceremonies, Blythe, with a number of Brother Masons of Uniontown, attended, and on this occasion he gathered some data from which he gave " Little Greene " some verses from his sarcastic pen under the title " Greene county had a holiday." These verses of Blythe created such a furor in " Little Greene " that the newspapers invited the bards of Greene county to come forward and " give ' Boots ' gas," which was done by William Siegfried in such a manner as to cause much merri- ment on both sides of the Monongahela. While making his home in Uniontown Blythe was married to Miss Julia Keffer, a most amiable lady of the town. They made their home at the National House; but Blythe was not long permitted to enjoy the companionship of his estimable wife, as she lived but a few months after their marriage when that dread disease, consumption, claimed her for its victim. The following touching verses seem as though written im- mediately after the death of his wife and before her burial : They told me you were dying, And a tear, the first I'd seen For years, flowed down my cheek. And seemed to mollify the keen Bitterness of departed hope. And recollection spread her wing. And, hurrying back into the past. Brought, one by one, each little thing That bound us to each other. And There, clustering around, they spoke Something to me, in thy name, And my heart was broke. MUNICIPAL BUILDING AT UNIONTOWN, PA. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 593 After the burial of his wife that dreadful lonesomeness, which only those who have had the sad experience can realize, settled over Blythe, and, as he could express his feelings better in verse than prose, he penned the following heart-touching lines : 'TIS PAST! ' Tis past ! The door is shut and locked. And darkness, darker grown With being mocked By light and hope, has shown Me, I'm alone! ' Tis past ! and all again is blank. The little bark that bore me on Its wing has sunk; And every spark of hope is gone. And I'm alone ! ' Tis past ! and now my wandering eye. Dim by disappointment grown, Meets but a sky As dark and starless as its own — For I'm alone. ' Tis past ! and I'm alone ! alone ! There was but one unbroken link That held me, trembling on the brink; But that is gone. And now I sink! Alone! alone! A gloominess, caused by the loss of his bosom companiort, settled over the life of Blythe, from which he never fully recov- ered. He became extremely careless of his dress and utterly regardless of the opinions of his fellow man. When it was the custom to hold " Big Musters " to which the militia would turn out and make a great military display by a grand parade and sham battle, some of the officers on these occasions had the appearance of " really live soldiers " when "The high cockade they did put on To follow the boys with 594 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the fife and drum." It was in commemoration of one of these occasions that Blythe wrote the following: UNIONTOWN'S BIG PARADE. A year or so has passed away Since Waynesburg had that holiday. It was a sweet one too, they say, But Uniontown's late grand display Knocked poor old Greene as cold as clay. In all except the bugs. It was a glorious treat to sit And watch from some high parapet The gathering in of old Fayette With drum and fife and bayonet, And waving plume and epaulet And neighing steed and crimson sash And loud, shrill trump and golden flash Of the solger buttons. No base, unfeeling drop of blood In all Fayette dared that day flood A single vein, for brotherhood — Warm, social, free — seemed understood ' Tween citizen, soldier, every one E'en down to the candidate. War's glorious circumstance was made More glorious ; for the whole brigade. Rag tag and bobtail, all displayed. Whether on or off parade. Enough to Drove that they would wade To their .mees in blood if necessary. Had poor Napoleon omy known In time what old Fayette could do, His great big fight at Waterloo Would have been postponed a year or two That he might visit our review And get a few items. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 595 Then Wellington's proud British crew. With all his allied forces, too. Before the red and white and blue, Would have fled precipitately. The gallant brigadier displayed With modest mien the power he swayed, Seemed half unconscious that his station Placed him foremost in the nation; Or that the destinies of the land Lay in the hollow of his hand. And so with each distinguished " aid," Whate'er his calibre or grade, His military fortune's made Over the left shoulder. The exercises in the field At once the glorious truth revealed That every throbbing breast concealed Germs of the selfsame fire that steeled Mad Anthony's troops. Had Uncle Sam that day applied For aid, or Justice asked a shield From a foreign foe. Or had a South Carolinian squealed You would have seen the Frenchman peeled In about a half a second. The mimic battle scene was grand. Fought, too, about as well as planned; And sketched by some historian hand, Would most inevitably brand The monstrous intellect that spanned Its mighty outline With immortality. The spirit that each onset brought With fierce contamination fraught Had but to move and it was caught And carried like blue streaks of thought 596 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 'From man to man, until its hot, Infectious breathing made a Scot Of everything in the neighborhood. The day will only be forgot When time and tide and death have wrought Salvation out for those who fought And bled and died, and sweat and swore And tore their shirts. Thus passed the day — the sun went down, And with it went the troops from town; And some who washed their spirits down Went home with a brick in their hats. — Boots. Upon being invited to write a few verses in a young lady's souvenir album Blythe penned the following: " An album should be a record of pledges ; A storehouse where friendship deposits its treasures : Each thought it contains be as pure as its pages, Regardless of rhyme, punctuation or measure. Each writer who traces such pages as these Must bear in remembrance that every line Should contain nothing more than the mirror'd decrees Of his heart, be they vicious or be they divine. Selections stolen from the productions of others, However appropriate, rich or refined. Come cold to the reader and frequently smother What few sparks of friendship may linger behind." In another young lady's album he wrote the following: "To Louisa: When Eve went out from Eden's bowers. No longer worthy there, She snatched a bunch of Eden's flowers, And wove them in her hair. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 597 The gentle dews of heaven met And kissed them one by one, ' Till they became a chaplet For virtue's brow alone. This wreath, this chaplet, this crown, By nature willed to thee. Fair lady wear and hand it down All virgin purity. Then when death has set you free. With all thy sins forgiven, This crown, this chaplet, shall be Thy passport into heaven." Blythe was evidently in a serious mood when he penned the following thoughts: " When brightest hopes are fading fast. And Time his heavy hand is laying Upon our heads in eager grasp : When 'round our wrinkled brow are playing The white locks of age and sorrow, ' Tis then, ah yes, and only then We view the past, and fain would ask A moment of it back again." On bidding adieu to a lady friend he wrote : " Though fate, my girl, may bid us part. Sweet recollections dare not sever That cord which she around my heart Hath twined so 't should remain for ever. The thousand folds that she hath wrapt. And doubly interwoven 'round it. If by the hand of absence snapt, ' Twere better she had never bound it. A tie thus sweetly bound, if broken. No bungling hand can e'er renew it. Such knot once tied, or word once spoken. What hand or tongue would dare undo it? 598 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. But should this parting be our last, This flame its last bright glow be given, Save all the fragments of the past And we'll rekindle it in heaven." The following was written when memories of sweet by-gone days came fresh to his mind: TO "M." " There was a time " Lang syne " gone by ; A time that may return no more. When M, with a love lit eye, A trembling hand and half-breathed sigh Tapt gently, gently, at my door. A spirit finger scarce could smite The panel with a softer touch, And yet St. Paul's at dead of night, With all her wealth of brazen might. Ne'er woke, no never, half so much. She came not there as others came. Wrapt in habiliments of guile. But with a thought unknown to shame, A hope, a heart, pure as her name. All mirrored, mirrored in a smile. Her mission there was holier far Than gossip-tongue might wish to own. She knew not what it was to war With passion's ever varying star, Or kneel to aught but virtue's throne. True, I have kissed her cherry lips And pressed her warm heart close to mine ; But love sometimes invites to sip A cup which prudence dare not dip E'en though the fount be wine, pure wine. But ah, those happy days have flown, And like dim shadows on the floor. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 599 Gaunt memory sketches, one by one, Remembrance of things by-gone For ever, ever, evermore." " Boots." While enjoying the beauty and grandeur of nature and ;dom of his own thoughts he penned the following : id the freedom of A SCRAP. " I stood upon a pebbly shore. Where many a bubble floated by. And wondered if the hues they wore Were borrowed from the sky. A thousand idle thoughts went 'round, Some, someone's else and some my own Until a little flower came down And lodged against the pebble stone. Awhile its tender petals kept A close embrace around the stone. And as the eddying current swept It kissed the pebbles one by one. There seemed an omen in the thing Of meeting this, a little flower. Flung out upon fate's trembling wing The sportive victim of an hour. I knelt me down upon the shore And, govern'd by an envious thought, I reached and brought the flower o'er And placed it next my throbbing heart." Blythe evidently was immersed in deep and solemn thought when he penned A PEN SKETCH OF A DRUNKARD. " The sun has set ; and by broad pewter clouds The gloaming of a snorting winter eve Is hurried. Nakedness over the unleafed 600 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. And shapeless universe of creation Strides out with undisputed sway And with her reaching frost-bit fingers writes December upon all creation. Out from the cold, blank emptiness Of a drunkard's home slowly and hushed as A gnome-shade vomited from the green pestilent Stomach of a sepulchre, comes forth a thing The suppliant tongue of charity might Hesitate to call a man. Not far his wayward feet have wended till Hot-breathed temptation stands, woe eyed In his path, with bloodshot window Winking him a welcome. (Enters a groggery.) Darkness, not the kind of darkness God Swaths sweltering universes in, but that Gray, sightless, rayless, starless, soulless And would to Heaven we could say sinless Darkness that dements and demoralizes And thickens up with each repeated Demonizing draft, such is the darkness Reigning here, potent, unquestioned and he, A thing, chained down to such subserviency As dogs cringe for to those who feed them. Beneath a lamp whose all intenseless ray Like idiot gaze flung on a gaping crowd. Recognizing nothing it reveals, he sits Dozing to waste the God-bought hours his great Indebtedness makes precious. His eyes, like angry, ill closed, half-healed Wounds, physicianless, and chuck like blood-dip't Violets mirrored 'gainst the broad, blue sky Painting a thousand many colored hues Defying Jove himself, with pencil laved In hot-life's Hquid essence. But see ! He wakes; and, like the raven on the pallid Bust of Pallas, falls the light in yellow History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 601 Flakes upon his livid cheek, simmering On his parched, disfigured face, Made such by his own debauchery." Blythe, doubtless, was quietly sitting by a pure mountain stream which danced and sparkled at his feet, while the rays of the rising sun were reflected from the dew-drops as myriads of beautiful gems, and while away from temptation, his soul was free to hold communion with nature, who with lavish hand had scattered freshness, purity and beauty everywhere. From the murmur of that stream he hears in musical tones " this is the cup that God has provided to quench the thirst of man and beast." His thoughts were naturally led from nature to nature's pure and holy God who hath said that no drunkard shall inherit the kingdom of heaven. Then as he turns his thoughts to the deep depravity of human nature and views the most pitiable object, he throws aside his pencil, takes up his pen, and while under the inspiration of the moment, wrote the following ter- rible truths, which, it is earnestly hoped, may be timely warning to many young men who would be saved from THE DRUNKARD'S DOOM. BY " BOOTS." Did'st ever seriously think How awful is the drunkard's doom? Trace, step by step, and drink by drink, Until he sees his body sink Into its loathsome tomb. At first he takes his morning cup Of " tansy bitters " or of " bark " ' Till, by and by, the nauseous sup Grown sweet, begins to wake him up With the early morning lark. Then comes the 'cursed " occasional " glass With some " right-rare good fellow." Whose growing appetite — alas. Will scarcely let an evening pass Without becoming " mellow." 603 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Soon midnight finds him lingering still In some grog-seller's stall, When every time he takes a swill A " fip " goes clink in the landlord's till, Or a score on the greasy wall. Go to his wretched home, and there Where love and peace and joy Once sat and laughed in the face of care. And you'll find nothing left but the hopeless stare Of his heartbroken wife and boy. The rest's soon told — crime's putrid wave Soon sweeps him from the earth, His wife's in heaven, his boy a slave. Himself in a forgotten grave. His soul in hell. While some of Blythe's productions in verse possessed considerable merit, he wrote much that was groveling, and some that otherwise would have been creditable, was marred by the use of slang. David G. Blythe died in Pittsburgh May 15, 1865, and his remains were taken to East Liverpool and interred in the family burial lot. Blythe's Panorama of the Allegheny Mountains. Blythe, for years, had contemplated the execution of a grand panorama by which he might display upon canvas the magnificent works of nature and places of historic interest with which our mountains are so bountifully supplied. He spent a month or more of several summers in sketching for this work, the scenes of which were to begin in Albemarle county, Vir- ginia and extend to the Ligonier valley in Pennsylvania. Each scene in this panorama covered a canvas seven by fifteen feet in size and, among others, represented the following scenes : Monticello, the beautiful home of Thomas Jefferson ; the tomb of Jefferson; Charlottesville in the distance; the Natural Bridge; scenes on the Potomac; Harper's Ferry, etc. Then commencing at Cumberland, it followed the route pursued by Colonel George Washington when on his expedition against History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 603 the French in 1754, and later by the army of General Brad- dock in 1755, showing the various encampments of Braddock's army ; Fort Necessity as occupied by Colonel Washington ; the burial of General Braddock; the Big Rocks where Jumon- ville was surprised, killed and buried; Washington Springs; the encampment of Colonel Dunbar, and Colonel Washington in consultation with Captain Christopher Gist. In the view of Ligonier valley was old General Arthur St. Clair sitting in front of his old log tavern stand. The view of Uniontown from Pine Knob was faithfully executed. The life- like scene of Jacob B. Miller, at Ohiopyle Falls, engaged in his favorite sport, with an immense fishing pole, out of all pro- portion to the size of the view, brought forth tremendous ap- plause. The White Rocks, where Polly Williams met her tragic death, August 14, 1810, was beautifully shown. A snow scene was so realistic as to cause a hush to pervade the audience while the fast falling flakes ladened the branches of the trees. The old stagecoach, with its dashing team of foaming steeds, thundering down the mountains, was so realistic that one almost heard the crack of the long-lashed whip, and instinctively started to get out of the way. The thunder-storm, with which the ex- hibition closed, was so vivid that actually some of the audience hesitated to leave the hall until they were assured that the storm was a part of the entertainment only. The canvas of this panorama was mounted on three sets of rollers for convenient handling, and was first set up in the court house, more for the purpose of getting everything in complete working order than for exhibition, but the anxiety of the people to view this grand work of art was so great that the proprietors gave two evenings' entertainments. It was the full intention of the management to exhibit first in Philadelphia and New York, and by liberal advertisement, acquire great notoriety and then go to London, where they be- lieved a fortune could be easily and quickly acquired. Alas! Fate determined otherwise. One of the proprietors was offered $1,000 for his interest in the enterprise before leaving Uniontown, but he was too en- thusiastic to consider such an insignificant offer. The first place booked for exhibition was at Cumberland, where it was displayed for seven days. The next place was Winchester, and from there to Baltimore where it was well ad- 604 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. vertised and exhibited for a week. The next place was Pitts- burgh, where it was exhibited in Philo Hall. Here the company become disrupted, and some of the principals withdrew. New arrangements were made, and the canvas was taken down the Ohio river and exhibited at East Liverpool, Blythe's old home, to an appreciative audience. From here it was taken to Cin- cinnati where it was held for freight, and some of the original owners redeemed it and brought it back to Uniontown and ex- hibited it in the then new Tremont Hall, corner of West Main and Morgantown streets. It was next sold to a party who took it west and realized handsomely by its exhibition. It is said that finally the canvas of this panorama was cut into pieces and used in Trimble's variety show in Pittsburgh, for backgrounds. This panorama, which was a great attraction in those days, would have been a paying investment had it been properly managed, has been supplanted by the stereopticon slide and the moving picture film-. The Agricultural Exhibitions. Agricultural exhibitions have been held at Uniontown and elsewhere in Fayette county at irregular periods from an early date. The Agricultural Association of Fayette county, of which the Honorable Charles Porter, who held the office of associate judge of the county, a resident of Luzerne township, was the president, General Henry W. Beeson, treasurer, and Hugh Thompson, secretary, gave an exhibition the second Wednes- day (10th day) of April 1833, at Uniontown, possibly in the court house. The principal articles on exhibition were needle- work, carpets and linen goods. The live stock was exhibited in a convenient place not far from the court house. The list of pre- miums awarded at this exhibition was not published until Sep- tember 17, following, on which date of the " Genius of Liberty " it appeared and was signed by General Henry W. Beeson, as president, pro tem, and Andrew Oliphant, secretary, pro tern. Another exhibition was given April 9, 1833, at which a number of premiums were awarded. At a meeting held by the officers of the association at the court house during the October session of court in 1833, a list of premiums to be awarded at the next exhibition was arranged, and it was determined to hold the next annual exhibition on the second Wednesday of April, 1834. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 605 How long this organization held its exhibitions is not now certainly known; neither is it apparent why the exhibitions were held in the spring rather than in the fall, thus excluding all vegetables and fruits from the list of exhibits. All the linens, capets and needlework exhibited were manufactured within the household of the exhibitors. An agricultural fair was held at the old Thornton farm in Redstone township in the fall of 1853. Among the premiums offered at this fair was a prize of one hundred dollars in the free-for-all race for " anything that wore hair and had four legs." A man by the name of Hays owned a young bull that he had broken to run under the saddle, and he would slip to the race-course under cover of darkness and practice his bull to run the track. At the time set for the races. Hays appeared with his bull, and demanded to have him entered against the protests of those who had entered their horses, but according to the terms of the premium list, Hays was entitled to enter anything that wore hair and had four legs. Hays had also taken the precau- tion to strap a stiff ox hide on the back of the bull instead of a saddle, and provide himself with a horn and pair of spurs. When the signal was given to " go " Hays prodded his bull with the spurs, gave his horn a loud blast, which together with the roaring of the bull and the flopping of the ox hide caused the horses to fly the track and Hays was an easy winner. This ludicrous incident provoked laughter in the vicinity for many years. Another fair was held on the farm of Eli Cope, one and a half miles east of Brownsville on the National road, October 6th and 7th, 1853. This fair was not in operation over two years. The prime movers being W. C. Johnson, W. Elliott, James Craft, Samuel H. Smith, Col. John S. Krepps, David Deyarmon and W. G. Patterson. The Jefferson Township Agricultural and Horticultural society held a fair on October 26th and 27th, 1853. David H. Wakefield being an enthusiastic horticulturist, took a leading part in these exhibitions and had on display a great variety of fruits, the product of his own nursery and farm. The officers of this association were: William C. Patterson, president; Joseph Miller, William Colvin and William L. Stewart, vice- presidents; W. L. Stewart, recording secretary; David H. 606 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Wakefield, corresponding secretary and librarian and David Deyarmon, treasurer. The Fayette County Agricultural Association was incor- porated in 1859, with Alfred Patterson, Esq., as president and William H. Baily as secretary. Grounds were secured running from the Barton mill road, now Grant street, on the east to the Baltimore and Ohio railroad on the west. These grounds con- tained eighteen acres and had a half-mile track, and lined on the south side of Fayette street. The first exhibition on these grounds was held October 19th, 30th and 21st, 1859. In preparing the race-course for these grounds, Jim Combs, then quite a small boy, fell in front of the roller which passed over his entire form, leaving him almost as flat as one's hand ; Jim, however, still lives to relate the incident. A most ludicrous incident occurred during this fair when what was known as the " Pryor " horse was matched against Johny Hagan's filly for a race. The Hagan mare flew the track with Bill Froman on her back and passed under the judge's stand which stood about four feet ofif the ground. Froman's head struck the stand with enough force to crush an ordinary man's skull, and Dr. Smith Fuller and Baily Dawson, who were in the stand, were greatly alarmed lest the little building should collapse; but when the mare emerged from under the stand and began eating grass, and Froman limped away rubbing his shins, the crowd burst into uproarous laughter. The second exhibition on these grounds was held October 10th, 11th, and 13th, 1860. At this fair " Honest John," owned by Thomas Curl of Carmichaels, was the fastest running horse. He was a long legged, light built horse and was at his best in a three-mile heat, in which few horses could keep within sound of his hoofs. The Pryor horse gave him a stiff race for a half mile, but Honest John would scarcely get a good start in that distance. His large, speaking eyes, that stood out from his head, appeared to say " Give me a clear track and I will show you something in the way of running." The third exhibition was held October 1st and 3nd, 1861, and it will be remembered that the 85th regiment of Pennsyl- vania volunteers, which had been enlisted here, was encamped on the fair grounds at this time, and it was advertised that patrons of the fair would have the opportunity to witness the daily drill of the regiment. A large buck elk that had been History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 607 presented to the association and ran at large on the grounds, and was kept confined during the fairs on account of its vicious- ness, made an attack on one of the soldiers on Sunday morning, October 13th, and was shot and eaten by the soldiers. The fourth annual exhibition was held October 8th, 9th, and 10th, 1862. Another cross elk had been procured by the as- sociation and allowed to run at large on the grounds, and on Monday, October 6th, it made an attack on old Billy Henry and gored and trambled him until assistance arrived. It, too, was butchered and the meat sold. After the 85th left the fair grounds for the seat of war, a regiment under the command of Colonel Dale was en- camped there for a while, and when they left, the fences, sheds and buildings of the association were found to be in such a dilapidated condition it was not thought advisable to hold any further fairs on these grounds. The same gentlemen who had been interested in the fairs previously held near Brownsville, with the addition of William Britton and George Darsey took up the matter and held fairs for several years on the Thornton riverbottom farm, about half a mile above Brownsville. The Fayette County Agricultural Association was incor- porated July 21, 1879, with Jasper M. Thompson as president; W. M. Larden and John D. Frisbee, vice-presidents ; A. C. Nutt, treasurer and John K. Ewing, Jr., secretary. Twenty-five acres of land were secured north of town, and a half-mile track was made. The first exhibition held on these grounds was advertised for October 23nd, 23rd, and 24th, 1879, but on account of the race-course not being completed, the date was postponed one week at which time the weather was very cold and people were compelled to wear overcoats, which militated much against the attendance. At a meeting of the directors held February 18, 1888, Jasper M. Thompson was re-elected president, James B. Wig- gins elected vice-president, R. F. Hopwood secretary and M. H. Bowman treasurer. At a meeting of the directors March 29, 1889, James B. Wiggins was elected president of the association, vice Jasper M. Thompson, deceased and R. L. Martin vice-president. On February 14, 1891, R. L. Martin was elected president, William 608 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Allen, vice-president, W. C. McKean, secretary and M. H. Bow- man, treasurer. On February 9, 1892, W. S. Craft was elected president,- J. B. Ewing, vice-president. At the election of Feb- ruary 13, 1894, W. S. Craft was elected president, S. E. Wads- worth, vice-president, W. W. Parshall, secretary and M. H. Bowman, treasurer. On October 17, 1896, after holding the fair, a meeting of the stockholders was held when it was ascer- tained that the association had lost about $1,500, not including the interest on the debt, and it was concluded to sell the grounds to liquidate the debt, and to ofifer the grounds at public sale on November 31, 1896. On that date the grounds were offered for sale and $18,000 bid, but not deeming the bid sufficient, the sale was postponed, but the following year some of the stock- holders took the grounds over and formed what was known as "The Fayette County Fair Association" and elected William M. Thompson, president; John N. Brownfield, vice-president; W. W. Parshall, secretary ; until the first Monday of May foUowipg. On May 31, 1900, W. M. Thompson was elected president; Joseph Barton, vice-president; W. W. Parshall, secretary; J. E. Dawson, assistant secretary and M. H. Bowman, treasurer. The last fair was held October 1, 2, 3 and 4, 1901. About July 31, 1902, the grounds were sold by W. W. Parshall, as agent for the association to E. D. Fulton, as agent, for a consideration of about $16,000, since which time there have been no more fairs held in Fayette county. CHAPTER XXVI. The Colored Folks — The Cholera Scourge — Old Political Campaigns. From the founding of the town it has had more or less of a colored population. Some of the early emigrants from Virginia and Maryland brought their slaves with them into the new settlement. Societies were organized to abolish the institution within the state. An act for the gradual abolition of slavery was passed by the legislature of Pennsylvania March 1, 1780, whereby it was ordained that no person born within the state after the passage of this act shall be a servant for life, and all perpetual slavery is by this act abolished, and all those in case this act had not been passed, would have been born slaves, shall be deemed such until they become the age of twenty- eight years, but shall be treated as servants bound by inden- ture for a term of years, and all owners of slaves shall have the names of the same recorded. Under the law of March 29, 1788, registries of children liable to servitude continued for more than half a century after that date. At Columbia, 28 miles below Harrisburg, in Lancaster county, arrangements were made for furthering fugitive slaves^ into Canada, and here originated the phrase " The Underground Railroad," meaning the mysterious way by which they were conveyed beyond the reach of the slave catcher. Every place where a fugitive slave could procure assistance was called a station on the Underground railroad, and these were numerous along the border line. The narrow avenue near the east end of East Main street, known as Baker alley was known as a " station " on the mysterious Underground railroad and was a great rendezvous for those who were assisting fugi- tives in their flight from slavery to freedom, on their way to Canada, where they would be secure from the slave catcher. If Baker alley had the power of utterance it could relate incidents of the most thrilling character. Many a weary, foot- sore fugitive sought its narrow confines to escape his pursuers whom he knew to be, like bloodhounds, hot upon his footsteps. Here he was sure to find a welcome, by kind friends who will- 609 ^10 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ingly gave all the protection within their scanty means. Floor- ing boards were lifted, and the fugitives stowed away beneath, and an impromptu dance instituted, at which the utmost hilarity prevailed in order that any sound the fugitives might make would not reveal their whereabouts and lead to their captivity. The law then required peace officers to arrest and hold in captivity all fugitives, and many who were not officers of the law devoted themselves to the contemptible avocation of cap- turing fugitives for the mere pittance they might receive for their services. Officers, slave-catchers and curious sight seekers frequently thronged this narrow alley in pursuit of fugitives, only to ascertain that the object of their search had myste- riously vanished. In a nearby stable was kept a team of horses ; a fugitive would glide into Baker alley under the cover of darkness, the team was brought into requisition, and by day- break the fugitive would be forty miles away and the team quietly munching hay as though nothing unusual had occurred. The amusing experience of a Uniontown man who devoted some of his time to the very unsavory business of capturing slaves in their flight for freedom, may be best told in the gentle- man's own language, as he used to relate it to his friends, who would enjoy a hearty laugh at his expense. " Back in the 50s," he said, " a fellow could pick up a few dollars catching runaway slaves easier than by hard work, not- withstanding the disrepute into which he was sure to fall. A man by the name of Stump, who hailed from Old Virginia and who claimed to be the owner of all the fugitive slaves caught on free soil, but in reality was a mere hireling in the business, often visited Uniontown where he had a few acquaintances who were willing to share with him in the profits of the business. I joined Stump on several of his slave catching expeditions, the most memorable of which I will relate. " In 1856 Stump came here in pursuit of a fugitive slave. The mysterious ' underground railroad ' was then in operation for the speedy conveyance of fugitives over the line into Canada, where they were secure from the slave catcher. I joined Stump on this occasion and we soon struck the trail which led into the town of Blairsville, Indiana county, and while walking down the street in that town Stump caught sight of his man, who had been in hiding in the house of one Lewis Johnson who was then known as a keeper of a station on the ' underground rail- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 611 road.' The man was standing in a store door at the time and Stump stopped and pointed him out to me that I, being un- known to the fugitive, might approach without arousing his suspicion. I grabbed the man, at the same time telling him he was my prisoner. He being a powerful fellow, gave me a sling that landed me in the middle of the street. It was like prodding a pole into a hive of bees; a swarm of whites and negroes poured from every direction. It fairly rained negroes for awhile. Stump and I were quick to take in the situation and determined that the only safety was by immediate and rapid flight. There was little time to consider. Stump having the start, headed for the old canal and I in hot pursuit. We struck the tow path with an angry mob close upon our heels. I exerted my strength to its utmost, but in spite of all I could do one fleet-footed negro insisted that my coat tail should assume a perpendicular instead of its already horizontal position, and about every ten leaps I made, that negro's number thirteen boots came into such violent contact with the nether part of my anatomy that I was lifted bodily from the ground. He seemed to say ' get off the earth, you cuss, get off the earth.' I feared to look back or to tarry lest like Lot's wife a worse evil come upon me. Had it not been for the timely intervention of Mr. George Wilkinson, then high constable and Chester Davis, Esq., then mayor of the town, the good Lord only knows what would have become of me or what would have been left of me after satiating their thirst for my blood. " I arrived home stiff and sore and with uplifted hand made a solemn vow that in case I ever became able again to resume my position on my tailoring board I would never more pursue a fugitive slave north of the 40th degree, so help me Andrew Jackson." Some time after the above incident took place, this same Mr. Stump arrived in Uniontown in pursuit of three fugitive slaves. He had ascertained that he was ahead of the runaways and that they were following the old National road. He pro- cured a livery team and three slave catchers to assist him, among whom was the gentleman who figured so " actively " in the above mentioned adventure. They proceeded to the " Turkey's Nest " at the western foot of Laurel Hill and placed themselves in such position as to enclose the fugitives between the walls of the bridge, and thus awaited their arrival. Not 613 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. long after nightfall the patter of feet was heard on the mountain side and soon three dusky forms hove into sight; the slave catchers closed in and called a halt. One of the fugitives at- tempted to jump the wall of the bridge but was quickly told that it would be sure death to do so. The frightened fugitives sur- rendered and together with the slave catchers crowded into the carriage and all started for Oakland, Maryland. Just as they arrived at the. station in the town a B. & O. train pulled in and the fugitives were hurriedly placed on board and as it pulled out from the station three disappointed slave catchers were left standing on the platform to pay their own hotel expenses and for the livery team and received not one cent for their services. This was the last instance of fugitive slaves being caught and returned to their owners that ever transpired in the neigh- borhood of Uniontown. The Green family was one of the best and favorably known of the early colored families of the town. Alexander Green, the founder of this family, was formerly a slave and owned by several slave owners. He married Evalina, a servant belonging to Capt. Jack Evans of Morgantown. To this union were born five boys and the two girls, namely: Jerry, Alex, Billy, Willis, George, Charlotte and Liz; all of whom, by the laws of Vir- ginia, became the property of Capt. Jack Evans, while at the same time the father remained the property of John Staley of Decker's creek above Morgantown. Alexander Green finally became the property of Alpheus Willson, father of the late Judge Alpheus E. Willson of Uniontown, for whom he worked ten years, and of whom, by industry and economy, he purchased his freedom as also that of his wife; and leaving his children, crossed to the north of the Mason and Dixon line and settled in Fayette county. Pa., where he secured employment at Fair- chance furnace, whence, after some years of faithful service, he moved to Uniontown. Upon the death of Capt. Jack Evans, his son. Col. James Evans, fell heir to Jerry, Alex and Willis ; Jerry and Alex to be free at the age of thirty years, but Willis was to remain a servant for life. Mrs. Margaret Chadwick, daughter of Capt. Jack Evans, fell heir to Charlotte; Miss Lucy Ann Evans fell heir to Liz; George S. Evans fell heir to Billy and Thomas Evans fell heir to George. The latter two never claimed their property but allowed them their freedom. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 613 Of the savings from his meager earnings, Uncle Alex pur- chased a small lot near the eastern end of South street on which stood a one and a half-story log house. In this humble place he made his home in his declining years, and here the reunited family loved to assemble around the old hearthstone and relate the incidents of their former days in old Virginia. The three younger children still remained slaves in Morgantown, but en- joyed the privilege of occasionally spending a few weeks with their parents over the line in a free state. In 1853, these three children were granted a vacation in which to visit their parents, and while here enjoying the hospi- tality of their home, they were overpersuaded by some colored associates and white friends to not return to their owners. Re- luctantly they consented to remain among their newly formed acquaintances. These new relations were not, however, to be permanent, but were doomed to dissolution. The question of slavery was now agitating the country, and every slave found north of the Mason and Dixon line was given all the pecuniary and legal assistance possible to secure his free- dom, while thousands were aided in their escape to Canada. The Genius of Liberty of September 1, 1853, contains a lengthy account of a hearing held before U. S. Commissioner R. P. Flenniken, Esq., given in Uniontown Thursday, August 85th, wherein Willis was claimed as the property of Col. James Evans, Charlotte as the property of Mrs. Chadwick and Liz as the property of Miss Lucy Ann Evans. The attorneys for the claimants were Amzi S. Fuller and Joshua B. Howell, and the attorneys for the fugitives were John Kennedy Ewing and Alfred Patterson. It was agreed on the part of the council for the fugitives that they had permission from their owners to visit a free state and had remained on a free soil a sufficient length of time to have acquired their freedom, and that in many other respects the claimants had forfeited their ownership. The Commissioner handed down an elaborate opinion, and ordered that the fugi- tives be remanded ; and they were taken back on the following Saturday amidst the anathemas of their colored friends and white sympathizers. This decision of the commissioner stirred the sentiment of the colored population to its very depth. Baker alley was a favorite place for a convocation of the colored folks of the town, 614 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. and upon the same night on which the fugitives were taken back a convocation of colored folks was clandestinely held in Baker alley, at which it was determined that a rescuing party should follow these remanded friends and, if possible, bring them back and pass them on northward entirely out of the reach of their possessors. After dark, on Saturday night, some colored folks procured a horse and wagon and started for Morgantown, determined to carry their plans to a successful termination. On reaching the banks of Cheat river they halted; the waters looked dark and forboding of danger; a ferry, and consequently a ferryman would be necessary to carry out their plans, and that ferry- man might not prove friendly to their mission; the land beyond looked dark as midnight, and doubtless was haunted by spooks and hobgoblins, and from all appearances would prove any- thing but healthy for a free negro. Here, as wise generals, they held an animated council of war. The midnight air was becoming chilly and the hitherto warm ardor of the rescuers began to cool. It was decided not to venture across the river, as there was no certainty as to the results should they be detached in their plans ; and, after a free exchange of opinions, the ex- pedition was abandoned, and the homeward journey com- menced, and as the distance between the rescuers and slavery increased, the more balmy and serene the atmosphere became, and just as day was breaking on Sunday morning, the merry song of the would-be rescuers floated on the morning breeze. Uncle Alex Green bought for himself a team and was for many years a familiar figure about the town as a coal hauler and drayman, at which he continued to labor until a fall from his wagon compelled him to retire. He died at his residence, Monday evening, August 35, 1879, in the 95th year of his age, having been a residence of the county about forty years; his faithful wife having preceded him by some years. Jerry removed to Washington, Pa., where he resided many years and reared a family. He enlisted in Company E, 32nd Pennsylvania volunteers and was killed in a railroad accident at Philadelphia. Alex. Jr. became a steward on one of the packets plying the Monongahela river for many years. He was above the average in faithfulness and intelligence. He resided at Washington, where he reared a family. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 615 Billy is well and favorably remembered by our older citi- zens as one of the most genial, good natured and industrious colored men of the town. To hear his merry laugh was a pleasure to every one. George enlisted in defense of his country in the war of the rebellion, and was killed in the battle of the Wilderness. Liz joined her brothers, Jerry and Alex, at Washington, after the death of her father, and there made her home. Willis spent the remainder of his days in Uniontown, and tears would fill the old man's eyes as he would rehearse, in grateful remembrance, the many kindnesses and favors of which he was the recipient at the hands of his former mistress, with whom he remained fifteen years after President Lincoln by one sweep of his pen, which on this occasion, proved mightier than the sword, struck the shackles from four millions of human slaves, and at whose funeral he was a sincere mourner. He was always a quiet, industrious citizen, and the easy, graceful and courteous manner in which he would address a gentleman indicated the inborn and thoroughbred politeness of the south- ern-born darky that can never be imitated by the free-born negro of the north. He died November 13, 1908. Notwithstanding nearly all the old-time colored folks of the town were entirely devoid of book learning, as the great majority of them were born in slavery, and it was against the law in the slave states to teach a slave the art of letters, they vied with the white folks in good manners ; and as to morals they were as superior to the vicious Roanoke negro of today as though they belonged to a different race. The following is a partial list of some of the best remem- bered colored folks of the town, many of whom owned property and were useful citizens: David Lewis, father of Mrs. Alex- ander Moxley and Tabitha Armstead. Isaac Tillman, John Wood, step-father to Alexander Moxley; Billy Anderson, Sam- son Carter, Jim Truly, David Wedlock, Jacob Pritchard, George Grant, Dicky Paine, Thomas Lawson, Nathan and Tom Allen, Dicky Richardson, Abe Tasco, Ben Wares, Joe Black, Joe Wares, Thomas Waller, John and Cato or Decatur Webster, Boggus Johnson, Henry Offitt, Robert Magill, Eph Catlin, Abe Munsy, Wesley Strother, "Stumpy" Ned, Scipio Bruce, Alexander Moxley, Powhattan McClure, Eph Palmer, Bill Froman, Daniel Bolen, John Manaway, Sammie Jackson, Eli Curry, Martin 616 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Armstead, Pete Burgess, Peter Coon, Davy and Joe Diggins, Billy Gordon, Tommy Gilbert, Enoch Parrott, John Stephens, Wellington McClure. Keziah Jackson, wife of Sammy Jackson, was employed in her early girlhood as nurse for the great statesman, the Honorable James G. Blaine, which duties she faithfully performed for several years. She and her husband lived in the little frame house on Berkeley street from 1849 until 1904, a period of fifty-five years. She died at the east end of town February 6, 1907, at the age of 84 years. The Cholera Scourge. The cholera scourge visited Uniontown in the summer of 1850. It made its first appearance on Monday morning, July 29, of that year, and its ravages were rapid and fatal. Consternation and terror was written on every face. Physicians were busy : business houses were closed : and people fled the town. The cause of the epidemic was attributed to the plowing up of an old pasture field which had been used as a burial place for the worn-out stage horses of the National Stage-coach line, and its proximity to Pittsburgh street accounts for the facts that a large majority of the victims were on that street or vicinity. The following is nearly a complete list of the victims, viz. : Hannah Webster, a colored servant girl in the employ of Col. S. D. Oliphant, who then resided in part of the " Round Corner " facing Pittsburgh street, where the First National Bank build- ing now stands, was the first victim. Miss Meason, twin sister to Mrs. Lowry, died at the home of her uncle, Judge Veech, at West Main street. Levi D. West, young son of Jonathan West, died near the north end of Pittsburgh street, July 29, aged eleven years. Mrs. Mary Kithcart died on Peter street July 19, and her husband, John Kithcart, died August 1st. John Irons, then editor and proprietor of the Genius of Liberty, and resided on Pittsburgh street, died July 30. Samuel Smith, chair maker, and a previous employee of Col. W. B. Roberts, died at his home on Pittsburgh street July 30. Mrs. Phoebe King, wife of Charles King, died on Peter street. Wilson Swain, a blacksmith of Pittsburgh street, died July History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 617 29. He was a corpse in half an hour after contracting the the disease. A Mr. Hazzard, a stage driver of Hopwood's Row, South street. Mrs. Samuel McDonald of Pittsburgh street, who fled to Redstone township, and died on the morning of the first of August. Logan Brown and wife and their two children. These were colored people and lived at the head of Morgantown street. George Cropp, Jr., young son of George Cropp, Sr., a black- smith of Pittsburgh street. John Vankirk, died at his home near Sandy Hill, two miles west of town. " Capt." Angus, a colored man who lived two miles north of town on Redstone creek. Michael Fisher, who lived one mile out the McClellandtown road. Everet Farwell, young son of Henry Farwell, who lived on Church street. The malady raged for nearly a week. Tar barrels were kept burning in the streets, and other disinfectants used. A number of victims recovered from the disease. Old-Time Political Campaigns. Is it because the interest in political campaigns is waning or is it on account of more advanced ideas of conducting them that we do not witness the enthusiasm that was manifested on such occasions fifty years ago? In those days the most intense interest was manifested at the time the nominations were made and steadily increased until, like the gathering thunderstorm, augmenting as it swept over the country and burst in all its fury at the polls on election day. Neither did its rumblings cease until the cloud had rolled away in the distance and quiet had once more settled over the land. Organizations were effected early in the season; the best stump speakers were procured, meetings were announced and well advertised, immense liberty poles were raised from which floated the stars and stripes bearing the names of the different candidates. Imposing processions were formed by delegations from different townships with their martial and string bands 618 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. and appropriate banners, even the fair sex added grace and beauty to those old time demonstrations. On all these occasions certain individuals were prominent participants. No Democratic procession was complete without Col. Ben. Brownfield with his famous and popular string band and immense wagon trimmed up with pines and flags for the occasion arid drawn by a large team of powerful horses. General Henry W. Beeson, Col. John Morgan and Col. William Redick were prominent as officerSj and Hon. William Mont- gomery, Hon. Henry Clay Dean, Hon. Andrew Stewart and Hon. John L. Dawson were always popular as speakers. After the announcement of the victorious candidates the winning party would illuminate their houses and places of busi- ness. For this purpose tallow and sperm candles were used by placing them in rows across the windows, and although such might today be considered antiquated, the effect was strikingly beautiful. The marching companies would then parade the principal streets with torches and banners, headed by martial bands, and the shouts of victory vied with the sound of fife and drum. Appropriate campaign songs were always sung, and al- though never poetical they never failed to add zest and ani- mation to the marchers. The campaign of 1840 was doubtless the most exciting and interesting within the recollection of our oldest citizens. Gen. William Henry Harrison was the nominee of the Whig party, and his great popularity as a soldier and statesman made him a strong candidate for the highest office within the gift of the people. From the very start of the campaign the utmost en- thusiasm prevailed. In May of that year the Young Men's Harrison convention met at Baltimore, and log cabins, Indian canoes, coon skin caps, hard cider and buckeyes were the in- signas of the campaign, illustrating some incidents in the life of the candidate. Our older citizens will remember the log cabin constructed of poles and mounted on a wagon which was drawn by six gray horses. This cabin was decorated with coon skins, buck horns, etc. ; Samuel S. Austin being the leading spirit in its construc- tion. Several of our leading citizens accompanied this log cabin to Baltimore. At Cumberland they were met by the Harrison club of that History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 619 city and remained over night, where an immense and enthusi- astic meeting was held in the court house. The next day they were escorted out of town, and one day later, a delegation, con- sisting of about fifty young men, clad in hunting shirts and coon skin caps, followed. These had a large ball which had been constructed of light timber covered with red, white and blue cloth in alternate stripes, and at the poles were stars and a blue ground, and was lettered with various mottoes of the campaign. A pole was passed through by means of which it was drawn along through the intervening towns with shouts and songs. At the great procession at Baltimore it was the great attraction and was greeted with cheer after cheer. The New York dele- gation asked and secured permission to take it with them to their celebration of the battle of Fort Meigs on the 8th of May. They took it through Philadelphia and New York city, and everywhere it was greeted with the greatest enthusiasm. One of the popular songs of this campaign ran thus : " With heart and soul this ball we roll, May times improve as on we move. This Democratic Ball set rolling first by Benton is on another track from that it first was sent on, Farewell, dear Van; you're not the man, to guide the ship, we'll try old Tip. Ye office holders fed with pap, have very saucy grown, We'll tell ye, sirs, we don't like that and mean to make it known. With promises we've long been fed, but do not like the treat. We'd rather have a little bread and something else to eat." Another favorite song ran thus : — " Come all ye log cabin boys in the nation, We want you to be on the ground when we lay the foundation, We'll turn out and build old Tip a new cabin And finish it off with chinking and daubing. The Hoosier and the Sucker boys and Wolverine farmers All know the right way to carry up the corners." Another favorite song was as follows : — " Oh where, tell me where was your Buckeye cabin made? 620 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ' Twas built among the .merry boys that wield the plow and spade. Where the log cabin stands in the bonnie Buckeye state." " O what, tell me what, is to be your cabin's fate? We'll wheel it to the capitol and place it there elate. For a token or a sign of the bonnie Buckeye state." "Oh why, tell me why does your Buckeye cabin go? It goes against the spoilsmen, for well its builders know. It was Harrison that fought for the cabins long ago." "O what, tell me what then will little Martin do? He'll follow in the footsteps of Price and Swartworth too, While the log cabin rings again with old Tippecanoe." " Oh who fell before him in battle, tell me who? H^e drove the savage legion and British army too. At the Rapids and the Thames and old Tippecanoe." " By whom, tell me whom will the battle next be won? The spoilsman and Leg Treasurer will soon begin to run, And the Log Cabin candidate will march to Washington.'' General Harrison, in this election, swept the country like a cyclone, receiving 334 of the electoral vote to Van Buren's 60, but he was not permitted to enjoy the honors of the office but for one month. The campaign of 1844 was bitterly contested. The annex- ation of Texas as a state was the bone of contention, James K. Polk was put in nomination by the Democrats and Henry Clay was the nominee of the Whig party. Polk stalks were the em- blems of the Democratic party. These were used as walking sticks, ridden as horses and shouldered as guns, one of the cam- paign songs ran thus: — " The old she Polk too, she's an eagle forever, A squalling she'll fly to the head of Salt River, With a yip, fol de rol, rol, foldi rol, ray, Fol de rol, rol, rol de rol rody." An immense liberty pole was raised on the small triangular piece of ground in front of the present opera house by the Whigs, and what was acknowledged to be the most massive History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 621 and tallest pole ever raised in this community was erected on vacant ground opposite the old White Swan Hotel by the Democrats. This pole broke from its own weight and fell with a terrible crash across the neighboring lots. The flag was run up on the remaining stump and rendered good service during the campaign. The campaign of 1852 was exciting and was conducted with the greatest enthusiasm. The Whigs put in nomination General Winfield Scott, the hero of two wars, and the Democrats nom- inated Franklin Pierce, also a soldier. Many of our citizens will remember the large soup-bowl that was hauled in the pro- cessions during this campaign. This was a large circular affair built of wood in the shape of a soup-bowl and mounted on wheels, and had seating capacity within to accommodate six or eight men who were vociferous in singing campaign songs. Floppers or turncoats were always looked upon with scorn and were subjugated to many sarcastic remarks, one ditty ran thus : — " Jim Beckett turned from the Loco side In the soup-bowl for to ride." Another song started off in the following style: — " Now poor ' Coony ' Scott, you're too late in the day, You never can be president, 'tis so the people say." It will be recalled that during this campaign there were mass meetings held at Brownsville; the Whigs held theirs one day and the Democrats the day following. William C. Stevens had a wheelborrow on which was a platform, bearing the follow- ing : " The Whig Platform " in large letters, this he wheeled to Brownsville and back, and Miley Hann led a mountain cow covered with muslin on which was lettered " Two dollars a day and roast beef." The soup-bowl above mentioned after its service in the campaign, was placed in the back yard of the McClelland hotel, of which William Swan was one of the proprietors, and the Genius of Liberty of November 4th contained the following advertisement : — " For Sale — A large soup-bowl that would make an ex- cellent swill tub. The article can be seen in the rear of the Mc- 623 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Clelland hotel, kept by William Swan. For further particulars enquire of James Beckett, Thomas Swan and Cary Stuck." The American, or know-nothing party whose chief object was to oppose foreign influence in the political afifairs of the United States came into existence about this time and put their candidates into the field, and the Genius of Liberty of October 18, 1855, poked fun at the party in the following style : — " Ho, For Salt River — The dilapidated and rickety steamer ' Know Nothing,' Captain Jesse B. Ramsey, will sail for Salt River in a few days. Renegade Democrats restricted to deck passage. For passage apply to Jesse Reed, treasurer and clerk." In 1856, what is now known as the Republican party was organized, and John C. Freemont was nominated as its first presidential candidate. He was given the sobriquet of the " Wooly Horse," and on account of the privations he endured while making his explorations in the Rocky Mountains it was said that he ate mule beef, hence the campaign song ran thus : " The Wooly Hoss jumps mighty high. He do dat, he do dat. For he eats mule beef and grasshopper pie O he do dat day." " We're bound to run all night We're bound to run all day I'll bet my money on the bob tailed nag. Won't somebody bet on the bay?" Salt River tickets were issued immediately after the elec- tion. These gave a description of the vessel about to start on her voyage up Salt River, and a detailed list of her officers and men, in which the leading politicians of the defeated party were given the most grotesque names and menial offices imaginable, and in fact some of these names were so strikingly appropriate that they ever afterwards clung to the parties to whom they were given. CHAPTER XXVII. Dr. John F. Braddee — The Great Mail Robbery — Dr^ William PURNELL. Dr. Gunn, author of a medical work known as " Gunn's Domestic Remedies," was a practicing physician of Knoxville, Tenn., and, it was said, had in his employ as a hostler and office boy a youth by the name of John F. Braddee, a native of Paris of that state, and whose father had died when John was quite young. While in and about the office of his employer young Braddee picked up some few ideas of the practice of medicine, or at least the idea that there was money in it. A gentleman of Paris, with whom doubtless young Braddee was acquainted, was a dealer in horses and frequently sent droves to the eastern markets by the way of Knoxville. On one of these occasions young Braddee engaged to accompany a drove over what was known as the North Western Pike of Virginia, and falling sick at Kingwood, on the route, he was left behind. After his recovery he made his way to Morgan- town, where he made the acquaintance of young William Pur- nell, in whom he found a genial companion. While at Morgantown Braddee concluded that he would go to Uniontown and launch upon the sea of life as a doctor, and doubtless, he and his newly formed acquaintance took it afoot across the Mason and Dixon line, and for the first time entered upon the free soil of Pennsylvania. They stopped on their way at the farm house of Joseph Collins, about two miles south of Uniontown, known as the Fort Gaddis farm, and there learned that Mr. Collins' daughter, Hannah, was suffering from some malady, Braddee first announced himself as a doctor and pro- posed to treat the daughter. Mr. Collins looked upon him with considerable suspicion and denounced him as an Indian doctor, and gave him the name of " Pocahontas." The disease of Miss Collins, however, yielded to Braddee's treatment and an affection sprang up between the two and he claimed her for a wife. To this the father was strenuously op-. 623 624 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. posed on account of the fact that Braddee was an utter stranger in the community, and with whom he was, doubtless, unfavor- ably impressed. To this end Mr Collins notified several of the ministers of the gospel and justices of the peace not to perform the marriage ceremony between his daughter and Braddee. He, however, failed to notify Rev. William Brownfield of the Great Bethel Baptist church, and to this Gretna Green the young couple and several of their friends repaired for the purpose of taking their marriage vows, but the irate father put in an ap- pearance, and addressing Rev. Brownfield, whose palm was ever itching for a marriage fee, said, " I warn you not to marry my daughter to that ' Pocahontas '." Then turning to his daughter, said, " Get on your horse, Hannah, and go home." She obeyed, but Braddee exclaimed, " I will marry her though there were forty cannons between her and me." They next ap- plied to James Piper, a justice of the peace, who had not been notified, and he performed the ceremony that made them man and wife. Braddee concluded to settle in Uniontown and commence the practice of medicine, and, as it is said Braddee could neither read nor write, he retained Purnell as his confidential cJerk, as the latter made some little pretentions to scholarship. Opposite the old Baptist meeting house on Morgantown street there stood a double building, partly of logs and partly frame, and although built at different times, they were joined together and made one building. In this Dr. Braddee located upon beginning his practice of medicine in Uniontown, and from the fact that he gave notice in the Genius of Liberty of July 39, 1829, warning the public not to settle any accounts with Matthew Sawyer as his agent, would indicate that he had settled here some time prior to that date. His advertisement in the same paper of August 26, 1829, states that he has just opened an office on Morgantown street opposite the Baptist meeting house, where he guarantees to cure " all diseases in the cata- logue." Dr. Braddee's appearance and manners were well calculated to deceive the public. Being over six feet in height and a splendid horseman he attracted much attention. In an incredibly short space of time he gained an immense practice. Patients came from hundreds of miles, and his practice soon became so exten- sive that he purchased several hundred feet of space on the OR " TOM THE TINKER." Courtesy of R. T. Wiley, author of Sim Greene and Tom the Tinker's Men. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 625 west side of Morgantown street, upon which he erected stables and sheds, where he kept several head of horses for his own use and pleasure, and arranged hitching places for the teams of his patrons, As many as fifty horses have been hitched here in one day. He next fitted up steam baths in a log building on the op- posite side of the street on which his office was located, for the treatment of patients taking his botanical treatment, by which he claimed he could cure many otherwise incurable diseases. His advertisement announced that he could cure " all diseases in the catalogue," such as cancer, dropsy, tumors of all kinds, consumption and rheumatism. From his very advent into this community Braddee stepped into trouble. He never aspired to associate with men of the medical fraternity, as that would have caused his exposure and wrought his undoing, but he preferred rather to herd with the vulgar upon whom he could apply his machinations without de- tection or exposure. On October 28, 1830, he transferred all his personal prop- erty, and stock of medicines and drugs to Benjamin Brown- field for the sum of $1,000, and agreed to carry on the practice of a " medical practitioner " for the sum of $35 per month, Brownfield furnishing a horse, saddle and bridle for that pur- pose. This agreement bears suspicion on its very face. At No. 1, September Sessions, 1834, he was convicted of assault and battery on Thomas Gaddis, a constable, of Georges township, for which he was sentenced to pay a fine of one hun- dred dollars and costs and to undergo an imprisonment in the county jail for one calendar month. At No. 4, June Sessions, 1835, he was charged of perjury by Cuthbert Wiggins. The grand jury found a true bill, but upon trial the verdict was " not guilty," but pay the costs. March 7, 1836, his farm of 380 acres in Union and Georges townships was sold at sheriff's sale. At Nos. 17, 18 and 19 June Sessions, 1836, he was indicted with making and passing four counterfeit $50 promissory notes on the bank of Utica, purporting to be true and genuine notes. A true bill was found. George Washington Miller was the prosecutor, and the case was tried in January, 1837, and Braddee was acquitted, but directed to pay half the costs. An appeal 636 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. was taken to the Supreme Court, and on November 18, 1837, that body reversed the finding of the lower court as to the costs. Accompanying this file paper are two of the counter- feit notes produced in evidence at the trial, of the denomination of $50 each. On the back of each is written the word " Coun- terfeit " in bold letters, and on one of them is written this verse : " He that made this note a fool may be, But a bigger fool was the celebrated Braddee." In anticipation of trouble with his money in the transaction with the above George W. Miller, Dr. Braddee caused the fol- lowing to be published in the Genius of Liberty of June 15, 1836 : " Notice to the public — I loaned, some days since, to Geo. W. Miller one thousand dollars which is now supposed to be bad or altered money, which was unknown to me. I received it in exchange, and gave good western paper for it, and if it should prove to be bad money I was swindled out of good money for it in the way of exchange. Bicknell's Directory, my guide, gave no account of any counterfeit or altered not6s on that bank. When Mr. Miller got the money he took the Detector and examined it, and compared the money by it, and was satis- fied that the money was good. I therefore wish it to be under- stood that I was innocent at the time of the above transaction, of the money being bad, if it should prove to be bad, it was pronounced good by the best judges in Uniontown." It ap- pears that the above publication did not satisfy Mr. Miller, hence the suit. At No. 1 June Sessions, 1838, Dr. Braddee was indicted for perjury, his brother-in-law, Basil Brownfield, being the prose- cutor. A true bill was found, and on June 6th the defendant was arraigned and plead " not guilty." Same day tried and verdict " not guilty " and the county pay the costs. At No. 9 September Sessions, 1840, Dr. Braddee was charged with uttering two $5 notes on the Exchange Bank of Pittsburgh. In this case Mike Dugan was the prosecutor. The witnesses were Mike Dugan, Andrew Byers and Judge James Veech. The bill was ignored on account, it was said of Dugan having a more infamous character than Braddee. Dugan was stabbed to death by Henry Abel in Uniontown, in 1861. On January 36 1833, Dr. Braddee purchased from Judge Thomas Irwin the property since known as the National House, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 627 located on the northwest corner on Fayette and Morgantown streets, and finished the third story and erected a two-story brick wing to the north, extending to the stage yard. To this he moved his office and his family, and his medical practice in- creased to the extent that the streets were thronged for squares with the vehicles of his patrons. It was estimated that his practice produced him from $30 to $70 per day ; and his patron- age extended from Bedford and Somerset, and from as far as North Carolina and New Orleans. Here he compounded a line of proprietory medicines for which he had great demands ; such as " Elroy," " Female Cordial," " Camomile Cordial," " Rheumatic Cure," " Cancer Salve," "Cordial Balm of Health," "Tincture of Health," " Gravel Elixir," " Black Drops," etc. Here the doctor bloomed out in a more pretentious manner. He kept a race horse he called " Squirrel " and another he called the " Pony ; " but his favorite riding horse, which he named " Smearcase," was a large, dun pacer, with white flowing mane and tail, and although the doctor weighed over two hun- dred pounds, this horse would carry him over the mountains to Farmington, a distance of twelve miles, in an hour. Notwithstanding the lucrative practice enjoyed by Dr. Braddee, it soon became apparent that he had designs in pur- chasing the Judge Irwin property and erecting the wing extend- ing to the stage yard, as the sequel will show. It will be remembered that Uniontown is located on the great National Highway connecting the East with the West, and along this great thoroughfare thundered the traffic of a nation, and numerous stage coaches laden with passengers and the United States mails. At the stage yard where these coaches and teams were housed, and where the mails were transferred from incoming to outgoing coaches, all was rush and bustle, both by day and by night. The sheds and high board fence surrounding this yard, made this a favorable place for secret doings. The country not enjoying the banking facilities of the present, thousands upon thousands of dollars in paper money passed through the mails daily in the transaction of business, and it will be remembered that the farther away from the bank of issue the money got the more it depreciated in value. This made it necessary to exchange western money for eastern 628 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. money for the eastern markets and vice versa for the western markets. This exchange of money soon became a fruitful source of putting into circulation a vast flood of counterfeit money. Here Dr. Braddee saw an opportunity to increase his al- ready handsome revenue; and although it was believed that he could neither read nor write, he could tell at a glance the de- nomination of a note, its bank of issue and whether it was a counterfeit. He could converse intelligently on almost any sub- ject, and it was always a mooted question as to his illiteracy. It soon became current that Braddee was " shoving the queer," and he always claimed that bad money had been imposed upon him in exchange for good. The United States mails from St. Louis, Mo.; Nashville, Tenn. ; Louisville, Ky., Cincinnati and Columbus, Ohio, and other western points, were made up at Wheeling, Va., and put into sacks that were not to be opened until they arrived at their destination in the eastern cities. The stealing of trunks, baggage and money from the stage coaches progressing for some time and was growing more and more frequent and extensive, and toward the close of 1840 a series of deep laid and systematic mail robberies took place in rapid succession, as hundreds of thousands of dollars in bank notes, checks, drafts, bills, scrip, etc., passed over the National road to the eastern cities. The mails made up at Wheeling for New York on the 13th 19th, 23rd, and 29th of November, and on the 5th, 12th, and 18th, of December, 1840 and due in New York three days later, never arrived at their destination. This state of affairs claimed the attention and received the immediate and energetic action of the Post Office Department. Dr. Howard Kennedy, special agent of this division of the de- partment, and George Plitt, agent for the department for the state of New York, and L. W. Stockton, the mail contractor from Wheeling to Baltimore, were placed in charge of the mat- ter to ferret out the guilty parties, and these gentlemen lost no time nor spared any pains, to locate the perpetrators of, the crime. William Corman, a stage driver living in Uniontown, was one of the suspected, as he drove the stage bearing the stolen mail. Detective Plitt mounted the stage with Corman going west and engaged him in conversation and at Washington, Pa., History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 629 caused his arrest. The information sworn and subscribed to the 6th day of January, 1841, charging Gorman with robbing the United States mail, was made by George Plitt, and a war- rant was issued by Hon. Nathaniel Ewing, President Judge of the 14th Judicial District of Pennsylvania. On the following day Detective Plitt made information against Dr. John F. Braddee, William Purnell and Peter Mills Strayer, charging them with the same offense, and a warrant was issued by Judge Ewing to George Meason, Esq., High Sheriff of Fayette county. The warrants were duly executed. On the arrest of Braddee the whole town was thrown into a fever of excitement. Guards were placed over the house, and a systematic search of the premises instituted. Lights were seen flitting through the house and grounds as every room and cranny were being searched. Several articles were found about the house, and mail sacks were found hidden in a deserted vault in the yard, and $10,398.60 in cash were found tied in a handkerchief and hidden among the hay in the stable. A hearing was held before Judge Ewing on the 8th, at which Gorman told the whole story, implicating Braddee as the instigator and himself and Strayer as accessories. Braddee declared his innocence, and Strayer went so far as to say that he hoped God would strike him dead if he had any knowledge whatever of the crime of which he was accused. Judge Ewing ordered that John F. Braddee enter into security himself in the sum of $50,000, and two sufficient sureties in $85,000 each, and that the prisoner be remanded until Monday, the 11th inst. at 10 o'clock a. m., to afford time to procure bail. The same vs. Peter Mills Strayer, January 8th, 1841, ordered that he enter into security himself in $15,000, and two sufficient sureties at $7,500 each, and the prisoner remanded until Monday, the 11th inst. at 10 o'clock, to afford time to procure bail. The same vs. William Purnell, January 8, 1841, ordered that he enter into security himself in the sum of $10,000, and two sufficient sureties at $5,000 each, and the prisoner was re- manded. January 11, 1841, Monday, 10, a. m., the prisoners state that they were unable to procure bail and are committed to the custody of the Marshal of the Western District of Penn- sylvania. 630 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Howard Kennedy estimated that the amount of the mails stolen would aggregate $130,000 in cash and nearly half a million in valuable papers. At a habeas corpus awarded by Judge Thomas Irwin at Pittsburgh, January 13, 1841, Braddee was admitted to bail under the following bondsmen, viz. : Hugh Graham, Benjamin Brownfield, Isaac Hague, Henry Smith, Robert Laughlin, Emanuel Brown, Daniel S. Diamond, B. Brown, Thomas Mox- ley, Isaac Brown, Abraham White, Jacob Humbert, Andrew McClelland, Peter Humbert, Lewis Williams, James McLean, David Chipps, James Douglass, John Hague, Abraham Brown, Daniel Franks, Samuel Hatfield, John McClelland and William Hague, bound in the sum of $60,000 each that John F. Braddee be and appear at a session of the Circuit Court of the United States to be held at the city of Pittsburgh the third Monday of May (17th) next, to answer to such charges as shall be pre- ferred against him, and that he shall not depart the Court with- out leave. On May 24th John F. Braddee by his bail, Hugh Graham, is surrendered into Court and Hugh Graham dis- charged from his recognizance. This action on the part of Mr. Graham was instigated by the fact, it was said, that he had learned of the transaction between Braddee and Costolo, and he was convinced that Braddee would be convicted beyond a doubt. In the Circuit Court of the United States for the Western District of Pennsylvania at No. 3 May Sessions, 1841, held before the Honorables Justice Baldwin and Judge Irwin, a bill of indictment was presented against Dr. John F. Braddee, in- cluding four counts, viz. : 1st, stealing the mails of the United States on the 13th of November, 1840, in progress of transmis- sion from Wheeling to New York; 2nd, stealing the mail of the United States on the 33rd of November, 1840, in progress of transmission from Wheeling to New York ; 3rd, stealing the mail of the United States on December 5th, 1840, while in transmission from Wheeling to New York; and 4th, stealing the mail of the United States on the 18th, of December, 1840, while in progress of transmission from Wheeling to New York. The parties engaged in the case on the part of the United States were C. Darragh, district attorney, A W. Loomis, Samuel W. Black, Joshua B. Howell, Moses Hampton. For the de- fense, John M. Austin, R. Biddle, Walter Forward, Wilson History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 631 McCandless, William M. Austin, Samuel S. Austin and William P. Wells. May 24, 1840— The grand inquest of the United States of America, inquiring for the Western District of Pennsylvania, upon their oaths and affirmations respectfully do present and say : That John F. Braddee, late of said Western District of Pennsylvania, a practitioner of medicine did on the 13th of November, 1840, at Uniontown, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, procure, advise and assist Peter Mills Strayer to steal, take and carry away the mail of the United States, then in transmission from the post office at Wheeling, in the Western District of Virginia to the post office at New York. The trial began Tuesday, May 35, 1840, and evidence was taken until Monday, the 31st, which was followed by the ad- dresses of counsel. Gorman's evidence was that Braddee had repeatedly urged him to let him (Braddee) have some of the mail bags from the mail coach, stating that he would divide the money with Gor- man, and stating that such had frequently been done without detection, and that he, at the suggestion of Braddee, had left mail pouches in the coach to be taken by Braddee, and to which Braddee acknowledged to have taken, and that one contained considerable money. Gorman had seen Braddee take three or four mails from the coach when in Stockton's stage yard, and take them to his house after six o'clock at night. Braddee told Gorman and Strayer that the mails between Lexington and Maysville, Kentucky, had been robbed of large sums of money and the persons perpetrating the robberies had never been ap- prehended. Strayer could not be persuaded to turn states evidence until he was convinced that Braddee would be convicted with- out his evidence, — he not wishing Braddee to be convicted on his evidence alone — and by turning states evidence he, himself, would escape conviction. The most damaging evidence against Braddee was that of Samuel Gostolo of Evansville, Va., from whom Braddee had purchased a farrii one and a half miles from Morgantown. Braddee owed Gostolo on this farm a balance of over $1400, and Gostolo sent Amos JoUiffe, a neighbor, to receive the money. Jolliffe went to Braddee's office and the money, to the 632 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. amount of $1,395 was counted out to him by Mrs. Braddee and her mother, Mrs. Margaret Collins. The money was delivered to Mr. Costolo with Braddee's request that the money be not passed at Morgantown, as it would raise a disturbance if any of his money was circulated there, as the word would be in Uniontown in less than a day. The package of money was placed in the care of W. Wagner, cashier of the Morgantown bank, but was not placed on deposit ; this was evidently a pre- cautionary move on the part of Mr. Costolo. This package of money was produced in evidence, and Eldert T. Van Alstine, engaged in the exchange business in St. Louis, identified posi- tively among this money a $50 note on the Farmers' Bank of West Virginia ; another of $50 on the Farmers' Bank of Virginia, payable at Lynchburg; another of $100 on the bank of Virginia, payable at Richmond; and another of $50 on the Farmers' Bank of Virginia, payable at- Richmond. These had been placed in the mails by Mr. Van Alstine and had never reached their destination. On June 3rd, Justice Baldwin charged the jury. They re- tired about 2 o'clock and the Court took a recess until 4 o'clock, when the jury came into court and rendered a verdict of guilty on the 1st, 2nd, and 4th counts in the indictment, and " not guilty " on the 3rd count. The jury were polled at the instance of counsel for the defense. Motion was made for arrest of sen- tence, and a motion for a new trial was warmly and skilfully argued. Court then adjourned until May 7th, when Justice Baldwin delivered the opinion of the Court, overruled the mo- tion for a new trial and passed the following sentence: " John F. Braddee, stand up : " The prisoner hesitated a moment, then leisurely arose and stood erect, then leaned for- ward on the front of the box. " If you are unwell or unable to stand, you may sit down. You have been indicted on four charges of stealing the mails and found guilty on three of them after a full and fair trial, being defended by the zeal and talent of able counsel. The Court entirely approve of the verdict, both as regards the law and the fact. The Court therefore sentence you on the first count in this indictment, charging you with stealing a mail on the 13th of November, 1840, to undergo an imprisonment in the Western Penitentiary, in the city of Alle- gheny, during the term of ten years from this time, there to be kept under the charge and control of the proper ofificers, and in History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 633 such manner as is provided by the laws of Pennsylvania ; to pay the costs of prosecution and stand committed until the sentence is complied with." " Marshal, take charge of your prisoner." — District Attorney Darragh — " We ask the Court to hold over sentence on the remainder of the indictment." — The Court, — " Certainly we will unless a motion is made to sentence him." On June 5th, the Court occupied itself in disposing of the stolen money found in the haymow of Dr. Braddee's stable. The amount found tied in a handkerchief and concealed in the hay was $10,398.60. Of this there was refunded to individuals who established their claims to the stolen money, $7,156.60, leaving $3,344 undistributed which was deposited in the Bank of Pittsburgh subject to the order of the Court. Braddee's whole estate, both personal and real, as well as the balance of the stolen money, was soon seized upon and absorbed by real or pretended creditors. It is known that Dr. Braddee's wife clung to him during his trial, and by her presence and signs of affection, rendered him all the comfort within her power, and for the first few years of his imprisonment he was fond of an opportunity to talk about his wife and children. He spoke of them in terms of warm af- fection, and undoubtedly his desire to recover his liberty was stimulated by his attachment for them. When the trial was called, Mrs. Braddee walked to Pittsburgh, carrying a child in her arms. After her husband's incarceration, Mrs. Braddee re- moved with her children to the southern part of Fayette county and spent the remainder of her long life in the seclusion of the forests. In her latter days she confessed that she had burned quite a lot of the stolen money in order to hide the evidence it might produce. She was born April 12, 1810, and died near Cheat river at a place known as Garner's Hollow, just across the line in West Virginia, August 16, 1884, and was buried in the Ba&i-i Brownfield lot in Oak Grove cemetery, Uniontown. Dr. Braddee assisted in planting a row of trees outside the prison walls, and while incarcerated, learned to read in mono- syllables. Shortly after his incarceration Dr. Braddee conceived the idea of procuring his liberation by stimulating a decline of health. For this purpose he would prick his gums with an awl, which had been supplied to him in the vocation he had chosen 634 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. while in prison, that of a shoemaker, and, having saturated his towel with blood, was always prepared for the stated visits of the physician or chaplain, with this evidence of a very dangerous hemorrhage of the lungs, to which he was always careful to add a difficult and painful respiration. Preferring, as he stated, to have his liberty and to die in a barn rather than die a prisoner. His physician was able sometimes to engage the suffering doc- tor in conversation in which he would become sufficiently ani- mated to forget his painful breathing, but on the instant that he would recollect himself the difficulty would return. These practices, it is believed, brought on the disease which termi- nated his life, and he died of pulmonary aflfection on Friday night, February 20, 1846, having served 4 years, 8 months and 21 days of his prison sentence. Until two weeks before his death Dr. Braddee's disease had not assumed a formidable type, but then he began to sink rapidly. Up to this period he had steadily and vehemently as- serted his innocence of the crime imputed to him, but so soon as he became convinced that his recovery was impossible, he confessed his guilt, acknowledged his punishment just, and furthermore implicated several persons who had not been sus- pected of participating in his crimes. The body of Dr. Braddee was interred in the prison bury- ing grounds just outside the prison walls, and a guard was kept over his grave at night until the earth was frozen so solid that body snatching would be too laborious to be profitable. This burying ground was since taken into the enclosure. A letter from J. M. Johnston, Warden of the Western Peni- tentiary, dated August 23, 1907, gives the following information as to the death of Dr. Braddee. " Dr. John F. Braddee was registered in this prison as No. 796, June 7, 1841. Sentenced from Allegheny county to a term of ten years for stealing United States mail." He gave his age at the time of incarcera- tion as twenty-nine years, and the place of his nativity, Paris, Kentucky, not France; occupation, doctor, and first conviction. His complexion was sallow; eyes, gray; hair, brown; stature, six feet and one inch. The physician's report for the year 1846, gives the follow- ing information : " No. 796, white male, died February 30, 1846, of laryngeal phthisis caused by violent eflforts on his part to History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 635 cough, made voluntary when he supposed anyone would be within hearing, hoping thereby to establish for himself the character of an invalid, and thus excite sympathy, and possibly obtain pardon." Signed by T. F. Dale, M. D., Col. James Anderson, Presi- dent of Board of Inspectors; R. F. Morehead, Treasurer, and Wilson McCandless, Wm. Leckey and William Robinson the other members. Maj. A. Beckham was warden, A. W. Black, moral instructor, and James Alexander, clerk. It has always been a subject of disquisition whether Dr. Braddee was actually illiterate, or was his claim to ignorance a matter of design. It seems inconceivable that one making pre- tense to practice medicine should boast of or even admit his inability to read and write. It may be that the doctor made the excuse that he was too busy, or from some other cause he avoided writing his name, but always made his mark to papers where his signature was necessary; and no paper can be pro- duced to evidence that he ever signed by any other way. He and his brother-in-law, Basil Brownfield, had considerable deal- ings in money matters, requiring the signature of Braddee, yet with all his shrewdness and intimate acquaintance, he would loan Braddee money on his mark alone. His lawyers, who de- fended him when on trial, took his obligations after his im- prisonment, over his mark alone. On the other hand, he appeared to understand the nature of the medicines and drugs he used in his extensive practice. He was never knofv^n to injure a patient by a wrong dose or an over-dose of medicine. He knew the nature and use of drugs that were unknown, or at least unused by the medical prac- titioners of this community, and had them ordered by mer- chants of this town from pharmacists of Baltimore, who either kept them in stock or procured them for Braddee's practice, proving them to be regular pharmaceutical preparations. As stated elsewhere. Dr. Braddee could tell at a glance the de- nomination of a bank note, its bank of issue, and whether it was a counterfeit or an altered note. While many denounced Braddee as a quack and a scoun- drel, there were scores who gave their testimonials that he had cured after others had failed, and believed him to be a scholar in disguise. His remedies were called for, and sought after at the local drug stores for many years after the Doctor's death. 636 History of Uniontcwn, Pennsylvania. After the case of Dr. Braddee was disposed of his mother- in-law, Margaret Collins, was indicted for stealing from the United States mails. The witnesses before the grand jury were E. S. Harris, William Ebert, John P. Sturgis, H. H. Bee- son, Abraham Alexander and Dr. Howard Kennedy, who repre- sented the Post Office Department. At the same term she was charged with a $500 treasury note, stolen from the mail, knowing the same to have been stolen. On November 17th the grand jury came into court and presented two bills of indictment against Margaret Collins, and on November 22nd, the defendant pleaded " not guilty." At the trial the jury could not agree and were discharged. It was claimed that Mrs. Collins handled too much of Dr. Braddee's money to be ignorant of how the doc- tor came by it, and the handling of the $1,395 of the Costolo money would indicate that she had considerable knowledge of the doctor's business. Mrs. Collins dropped dead in the drug store of William H. Baily in Uniontown, Oct. 12, 1859, and was hauled home in the farm wagon in which she was brought to town a few hours before in her usual health. PuRNELL Case. January 38, 1841, William Purnell was brought before Judge Irwin and entered into recognizance with Hugh Graham as surety for his appearance at a session of the Circuit Court of the United States to be held at the city of Pittsburgh the third Monday of May next. On May 24th, the grand jury came into court and presented a bill of indictment against William Purnell for stealing a letter from the United States mail and other ofifenses. His case Was not disposed of at this term and he was held in $4,000 bail for his appearance at Circuit Court to be held on first Monday in November following, with James L. Bugh, Benjamin Watson and John Hendrickson as sureties, in $1,000 each. Before the time set for their trials the President of the United States pardoned both Purnell and Corman. Peter Mills Strayer, who figured so prominently in this mail robbery, was a saddler and harness maker by trade, having learned the trade under his father, John Strayer, who once car- ried on the business on Main street, and was one of the old History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 637 time workmen and business men of the town. Mills Strayer was a quiet, peaceable and industrious citizen, and a man one would little suspect of complicity in a crime. He spent the remainder of his life in Uniontown. Dr. William Purnell. Immediately after the conviction of Dr. Braddee and the pardon of Purnell by the President of the United States, the following advertisement appeared in the Pennsylvania Demo- crat of June 29, 1841 : " William Purnell has purchased all the valuable medicines of Dr. John F. Braddee at the sale of his per- sonal property lately. Having been with Dr. Braddee for the last twelve years, he thoroughly understands the composition and practice of these medicines and frequently attended to Dr. Braddee's whole practice for several weeks at a time. He has on hand at present the ' Elroy,' the ' Female Cordial,* the ' Cam- omile Cordial,' the ' Rheumatic Cure,' the famous ' Cancer Salve,' the ' Cordial Balm of Health,' the ' Tincture of Health,' and the ' Gravel Elixir.' I will always be found at the old shop on Morgantown street. I also offer my professional services as a medical practitioner in all its branches, except by the urine only." How long Dr. Purnell did business at the " old shop " as a " medical practitioner " is not known, certainly not long, as the business of the firm had been irredeemably disrupted, and further, all of Dr. Braddee's property was seized upon by the sheriff. Dr. Purnell then became an itinerant " practitioner of medicine," and as he traveled the country roads on foot, with a good sized green gingham sack well filled with herbs and small vials of medicine slung over his shoulder, his form be- came a familiar figure at nearly every farm house between Uniontown and Morgantown. His perambulations were mostly confined to the southern part of the county. He was seldom refused a meal's victuals or a night's lodging. He rarely slept in a bed, but made his sack of medicines his pillow and slept on the floor. In the summer time he chose the roadside or the hay stack for his night's lodging, and was frequently found, in cold weather, in a perishing condition, but after being ad- ministered to by friendly hands, would resume his journey as usual. Both Dr. Braddee and Dr. Purnell had adherents who will- 638 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ingly testified to the efficacy of their remedies. A gentleman who was in position to know, stated that a medical work issued by Dr. Gunn in 1833, titled " Gunn's Domestic Remedies," was the sole and only medical work these two " medical practi- tioners " ever possessed. One who had access to their medical laboratory stated that their famous cancer salve consisted of the dried carcasses of frogs boiled to the consistency of a paste. Dr. Purnell was of a good family of Culpepper, Virginia. He had a brother, Armstrong Purnell, who became a minister of the gospel, and several sisters, all of whom were respectable people, but William, falling into bad company, soon became a willing tool to further the vitiated desires of another. One morning late in the fall of 1860, Dr. Purnell came to the house of one Molly Scott, who then lived on the banks of Falling Run, a short distance north of the old college, and nearly one-half of a mile from Morgantown. He was seen to 'drink from the brook, and his appearance indicated that he had lain out all night. He was given a cup of coffee and soon fell asleep sitting in a chair. Some young fellows were carousing in the house at the time. Dr. Purnell fell to the floor and soon ex- pired. His body was removed to the house of Mike Chalfant, who lived but a short distance from Mrs. Scott's house, and was prepared for burial. He was buried in the old Methodist graveyard, near the college. CHAPTER XXVIII. Old Graveyards and Cemeteries. In Deed Book B, page 140, under date of August 6, 1791, is recorded a deed by which Jacob Beeson and Elizabeth, his wife, conveyed to David Jennings, Jacob Murphy, Samuel Stevens, Jonathan Rowland and Peter Hook, trustees of the Methodist Episcopal church at Uniontown, and their successors in office, for the sum of five shillings, the lots laid off in " Jacob's Addition " known as Nos. 27 and 38, bounded on the south by Peter street, extending eastward and westward on said street one hundred and forty-five feet and running back one hundred and fifty feet. Most of the frontage of these lots was laid off for a burying ground and lots were sold for interment, and members of the foremost families of the town and vicinity and useful members of society were here buried under the shadow of the little church in which they loved to worship. Several ministers of the gospel here rest awaiting the resurrection morn, and several who fought in defense of their country sleep here. Doubtless this ground was used for burial purposes before the date of the deed as one tombstone still standing and in good condition testifies. The following is a very incomplete list of the persons buried in the old Methodist Episcopal burying ground, as it is impos- sible to identify those whose graves have no markers, and some of the stones have become entirely illegible, while others have been removed when the bodies were removed : A brief mention of some of the former citizens of the town in its early history is attached. Alexander, Anna, died March 35, 1833, in 69th year. Adams, John S., died October 30, 1843, age 19 months, 20 days. Addis, Elizabeth, died October 28, 1833, age 72 years. Beebee, Alexander, died March 19, 1818, age 15 years. Beebee, Mary P., died June 35, 1851, in 21st year. Bierer, George, died February 14, 1858, age 1 year, 11 months. 639 640 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Bierer, Everhart, died April 24, 1852, age 1 year, 4 months. Bunting, Sarah A., died February 26, 1856, age 39 years, 11 months, 8 days. Brownfield, Ehzabeth, died August 5, 1813, age 1 year, 14 days. Blackford, Hannah D., wife of Rev. A. M. Blackford, born April 27, 1817, died October 16, 1845. Brownfield, Thomas, died April 27, 1829, in 63rd year. Bunting, James R., died November 20, 1868, in 16th year. Bunting, Daniel, born February 14, 1777, died December 3, 1852, 75 years, 9 months, 8 days. Barry, Richard, died September 8, 1836, age 7 years, 9 months, 19 days. Barry, George, died September 21, 1848, age 3 years, 6 months, 8 days. Bunton, Ruth Ann, died July 17, 1844, age 24 years, 4 months, 8 days. Bunting, Nancy, died August 21, 1841, age 4 years, 4 months, 16 days. Bennett, Elizabeth Laeticia, died Aug. 7, 1843, age 6 months, 4 days. Bunting, Virginia, born November 3, 1843, died October 7, 1851. Bunting, Mary, died November 3, 1850, age 17 years, 3 months, 13 days. Battelle, Mary Isabella, died January 1, 1843, age 4 years, 8 months, 38 days. Brownfield, Elizabeth, died August 3, 1835, in 63rd year. Bryan, William, died July 36, 1850, aged 5 years, 5 months, 30 days. Bailey, Jacob, died November 14, 1831, age 4 years, 4 months, 3 days. Bunton, Robert, died July 27, 1845, age 8 years, 10 months, 27 days. Black, Catharine Fletcher, died January 21, 1845, age 88 years. Brant, John R., born November 20, 1836, died April 2, 1839. Brant, Eliza, born April 14, 1846, died April 3, 1847. Bugh, Ann Grant, died October 7, 1851, in 49th year. Boyle, Mary, died April 17, age 33 years, 9 days. DR. ^^'ILLIAM PURNELL. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 641 Bunton, James, died March 16, 1857, age 67 years, 4 months, 3 days. Bunton, James, died October 2, 1843, age 6 months, 4 days. Boyle, Margaret, died July 29, 1863, age 78 years, 5 months, 21 days. Boyle, James, born July 13, 1780, died May 11, 1845. Bugh, James L., died November 23, 1874, in 80th year. Crossland, Catharine, died February 6, 1868, age 84 years, 10 months, 18 days. Crossland, Elijah, died October 3, 1860, age 78 years, 2 months, 17 days. Crossland, Catharine, died July 27, 1878, age 74 years, 3 months, 23 days. Crossland, Caleb, died January 5, 1861, age 44 years. Crossland, Joshua. Crossland, Ellis Baily, died March 28, 1844, age 3 years, 18 days. Crossland, Milton Baily, died August 16, 1839, age 1 year, 6 months, 10 days. Criswell, Mary, died July 28, 1812, age 34 years. Cole, Priscilla A., died June 20, 1874, age 80 years. Catlin, Ann, died December 5, 1826, in 45th year. Campbell, Anne, died July 6, 1829, age 52 years, 4 months. Crothers, Rachel, died July 17, 1840, in 33rd year. Carpenter, James W., died June 2, 1848, aged 2 years, 9 months, 11 days. Coburn, Clififord H., died July 8, 1856, age 4 years, 8 months, 12 days. Carey, Rebecca, died September 26, 1903, age " about 100 years." Danforth, Laura, born July 4, 1844, died January 4, 1846. Danforth, Charles, died September 18, 1853, in 45th year. Danforth, James, died August 27, 1851, age 3 years, 4 months, 9 days. Danforth, Charles, died July 27, 1851, age 5 years, 3 months, 19 days. Dutton, William, died September 12, 1840, in 60th year. Dutton, Ann, died July 13, 1840, age 55. Dutton, David A., died June 23, 1839, age 23 years, 2 months, 17 days. 642 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Dessellms, Gabriel, died February 11, 1869, age 84 years, 9 months, 11 days. Dessellms, Kesiah, died April 5, 1823, age 40. Downard, Jacob, died April 7, 1820, age 72. Daughaday, Rev. Thomas, died October 12, 1810, in 33rd year. Button, Lucy Ann, died March 30, 1847, in 33rd year. Button, Elizabeth, died February 8, 1851, age 32. Darby, Mary Hannah, born June 35, 1844, died October 13, 1844. Barlington, Thomas, died May 5, 1856, age 86 years, 3 months. Bessellms, Ann, died September 30, 1837, in 31st year. Ebert, Mirtilda, died September 23, 1800, age 15 months, 19 days. Ebert, Abraham, died August 3, 1812, age 9 months. Entriken, Jane, died September 14, 1843, in 67th year. Evans, Sarah B., died Becember 31, 1832, age 4 years, 4 months, 16 days. Evans, John, died January 27, 1833, age 2 years, 14 days. Ebert, Lucinda, died , 1830. Ebert, Eliza L., died August 20, 1839, in 27th year. Ebert, Mary M., died May , age 23. Ebert, George, died September 16, 1827, age 73. Freeman, James C., died July 2, 1831, age 14 years, 9 months, 6 days. Frasher, Margaret, died October 3, 1805, age 21 years, 2 days. Frasher, Joseph, born January 1, 1752, died July 20, 1834, age 85. Fisher, Samuel, born November 13, 1808, died June 23, 1849. Fisher, Frances G., died July 31, 1843, age 37 years, 9 months, 30 days. Fisher, Joseph, died June 19, 1869, age 65 years, 9 months, 16 days. Fisher, John, born August 37, 1777, died Becember 15, 1853. Fisher, Henry, born January 35, 1831, died October 17, 1845. Fisher, Amelia F., died September 9, 1845, age 9 years, 7 months, 14 days. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 643 Fisher, Margaret, died September 28, 1841, age 33 years, 11 months, 11 days. ' Fisher, Nancy, died December 23, 1840, age 59 years, 10 months, 26 days. Fisher, Catherine, born April 16, 1840, died December 10, 1840. Faucett, Elizabeth, died March 3, 1872, in 76th year. Flemming, Rev. Thornton, died November 20, 1846, age 82 years, 1 month, 8 days, having preached the gospel as a Metho- dist Episcopal minister for sixty-one years. Flemming, Sarah, wife of Rev. Thornton Flemming, died December 10, 1837, in 60th year. Grant, John, died February 27, 1841, age 74. Grant, Hester, died May 20, 1857, age 78. Grant, George. Grant, Elizabeth, died October 5, 1849, in 68th year. Graham, Hugh, died August 30, 1848, in 18th year. Greenland, Mary, died February 15, 1813, age 6 months, 4 days. Greenland, Eli Francis, died March 33, 1833, age 1 year, 6 months. Greenland, Abner, died April 33, 1830, age 46 years, 9 months, 16 days. Greenland, Garrett T., born April 2, 1819, died April 7, 1853. Greenland, Jane, died February 20, 1860, in 73rd year. Griffith, Charles Greenberry, died July 7, 1839, in 49th year. Griffith, Martha Louisa, died March 5, 1839, in 18th year. Gregg, James, died June 30, 1835, age 34 years, 8 months, 17 days. Gregg, James, died April 25, 1810, age 53 years. Gregg, Nacca, died November 11, 1847, age 87. Gregg, Eli M., died June 5, 1866, age 62 years, 26 days. Gregg, William, died January 33, 1838, age 33 years, 3 months, 2 days. Gorley, Jane Eliza, died April 14, 1839, age 17 years, 7 months, 27 days. Gorley, George W., died December 24, 1856, age 2 years, 2 months, 17 days. Gorley, Louisa B., died January 10, 1857, age 4 years, 6 months, 3 days. 644 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Gorley, Hattie Elizabeth, born September 9, 1866, died April 26, 1868. Gorley, John, died March 35, 1818, age 1 year, 8 months. Gorley, Elizabeth, died October 16, 1814, age 9 months. Gorley, Matilda, died June 19, 1874, age 84 years. Gorley, Capt. Hugh, died September 10, 1861, in ?2nd year. Gorley, Louisa A., died April 25, 1854, age 23 years, 5 months, 25 days. Hook, Isabel, died August . Hoge, Solomon, died August 6, 1850, age 13 years, 8 months. Henry, Sarah Anne, died June 4, 1841, in 23rd year. Hyatt, Anna, died October 17, 1819, age 28 years, 6 months. Hyatt, Noah, died November 1, 1819, age 5 years. Heaton Thornton, born December 1, 1818, died February 9, 1833. Holland, Absalom, died November 37, 1841, age 57 years, 4 months, 5 days. Holland, Rebecca, died July 16, 1865, age 68 years, 1 month, 16 days. Hart, Catharine, died March 6, 1834, age 40 years, 2 months, 4 days. Hibbs, Samuel, died October 24, 1844, age 7 years, 6 months, 6 days. Harbaugh, Jacob, died July 17, 1813, age 38. Hellen, Isabella, died August 30, 1834, in 31st year. Hook, Peter, died March 12, 1818, in 65th year. Harry, Ann, died March 22, 1843, age 76 years. Hardy, Elizabeth, died March 11, 1864, age 22 years. Hibbs, Sarah, died October 34, 1844, age 7 years, 6 months, 6 days. Hellen, Charles Edwin, died March 11, 1833, age 4 years, 31 days. Hellen, Priscilla, died January 13, 1833, age 14 years. Hellen, William, died February 30, 1845, age 37 years, 7 months, 11 days. Hellen, Juliet, died November 10, 1848, age 33 years, 2 months, 13 days. Hellen, , born May 25, 1838, died June 11, 1839. Howell, Elizabeth, died February 15, 1837, age 40. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 645 Howell, Deborah, died June 6, 1849, age 33 years, 4 months, 19 days. Hellen, Benjamin Franklin, born September 12, 1820, died August 6, 1866. Hellen, Benjamin, born October 7, 1779, died January 3, 1864. Hellen, Drusilla Hook, born January 11, 1786, died Novem- ber 10, 1856. Ingles, George, died June 23, 1855, age 24 years, 2 months, 26 days. Ingles, John W. B., died April 1, 1855, age 17 months, 22 days. Johnson, William, died September 5, 1849, age 75 years. Kimberly, Emily S., died October 25, 1842, age 10 years, 7 months, 21 days. Kincaid, Margaret, died April 19, 1841, age 67. Kithcart, John, born December 5, 1799, died August 1, 1850. Kithcart, Mary, born December 11, 1801, died July 29, 1850. Lyon, Mary, died October 31, 1826, age 69. Lynch, Eliza, died January 7, 1828, age 28 years, 8 days. Limerick, Rev. Daniel, died April 28, 1837, in 42nd year. He was for 18 years in the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal church. Lewis, Ruth H., died August 28, 1827, age 20 years, 4 months. Lewis, Martha, died April 27, 1833, age 16 days. Lewis, Elias F. M., died July 19, 1837, age 1 year, 19 days. Lewis, Frances Virginia, died June 16, 1840, age 33. Lewis, Jacob, died September 22, 1845, age 1 month, 15 days. Lewis, Charles H., born January 30, , died July 29, 1847. Lewis, Virgil, born August 27, 1848, died August 11, 1849. Linn, Addis, died April 1, 1876. Linn, Mary, died June 14, 1874. Litman, Anna Eliza, died June 16, 1855, age 8 years, 11 months, 11 days. Lee, Elizabeth M., died September 25, 1847, age 31 years, 24 days. Morgan, Rebecca, born 1795, died February 15, 1853. Morris, Ann, died February 4, 1867, in 69th year. 646 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Murphy, Ann, died September 10, 1814, age 83. Murphy, Elizabeth, died March 3, 1840, age 53. Murphy, Eleanor, died April 1, 1812, age 10 months. Moore, James, died April 18, 1814, age 29. McCleary, Thomas, died August 25, 1825, age 13 years, 8 months, 8 days. McCleary, Ewing, died February 5, 1828, age 45 years, 7 months. McBurney, Eliza, died February 21, 1851, age 24 years, 10 months, 9 days. McCarty George, died October 3, 1833, age 20 years, 10 months, 28 days. McClean, Phebe Ann, died May 34, 1847, age 1 year, 1 month, 7 days. McGee, Joseph, died January 30, 1834, in 45th year. McKinley, Louisa, died October 23, 1852, in 29th year. McCormick, Sarah J., died August 23, 1854, age 37 years, 4 months, 14 days. McCormick, Esther, died December 5, 1844, in 54th year. McCormick, Thomas H., died February 19, 1863, in 47th year. Mobley, Elizabeth, died June 3, 1833, age 17 years, 1 month, 23 days. McCormick, John F., died September 21, 1848, age 6 months, 5 days. McCormick, Alice Virginia, died September 18, 1818, age 2 years, 22 days. McCormick, Cecil Calvert, died November 8, 1856, age 5 years, 1 month, 28 days. McCormick, Matthew Allen, died February 29, 1844, age 4 months, 27 days. McCormick, Mary J., died October 8, 1848, age 3 years, 2 months, 4 days. McCormick, Noble, died March 29, 1850, age 61 years, 6 months, 17 days. McClelland, Rebecca, born January 4, 1780, died October 31, 1843. McGee, Nathaniel Bartholomew, died April 6, 1839, age 3 years, 11 months, 23 days. McDonald, Susan E., died September 9, 1837, age 2 years, 2 months, 22 days. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 647 McBride, Amanda Trump, died August 25, 1854, age 3 years, 2 months. Miller, Eliza Ann, born March 4, 1820, died July 15, 1820. Miller, William H., died October 10, 1833, age 16 years, 11 months. Montgomery, Janie, died December 29, 1874, age 2 years, 3 months, 23 days. Miller, Mary, died January 2, 1836, in 36th year. Miller, Jane, born July 22, 1817, died June 15, 1820. Mitchell, Nathaniel, died October 31, 1850, age 68 years, 7 months, 21 days. Mitchell, Elma, born January 3, 1837, died May 27, 1848. Nycum, John, died December 22, 1852, age 3 years, 1 month, 15 days. Nycum, Infant, died May 12, 1844. Nixon, Phebe, died March 5, 1859, age 71 years, 7 months, 3 days. Owings, Nathaniel, died September 13, 1830, aged 33 years. Owings, John, died August 31, 1832, age 65. Phillips, Rev. John, died May 11, 1849, age 74 years, 33 days. Phillips, Rebecca, died January 37, 1851, age 37 years, 7 months. Price, Benjamin, Esq., died December 17, 1853, age 77 years, 1 month, 7 days. Proctor, Thomas, died January 87, 1816, age 41. Pastorius, Susanna. Phillips, William, died November 38, 1830, age 10 years, 8 months, 35 days. Phillips, Phebe, died February 18, 1830, age 14 years, 6 months, 12 days. Phillips, Charles, died September 15, 1823, age 22 years, 11 months, 15 days. Reeves, John, died May 24, 1829, in 30th year. Rowland, Susanna, died December 4, 1798, age 44. Rutter, Mary L., died April, 19, 1861, age 5 months, 7 days. Rose, Laura B., died May 32, 1883, age 30 years, 7 months, 22 days. Roberts, Rachel, died April 5, 1846, age 3 years, 3 mooths, 13 days. 648 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Roberts, Mary Louisa, died February 15, 1843, age 19 months, 26 days. Roberts, Adaline, died September 24, 1840, age 11 months, 4 days. Roberts, Benjamin, died November 24, 1837, age 3 years, 6 months. Rowland, Jonathan, died 22, 1830. Rine, Priscilla, died May 5, 1838, age 4 years. Rine, Lavenia, died January 31, 1838, in 31st year. Roberts, Col. WilHam B., born January 3, 1809, died October 3, 1847, while serving his country in the war with Mexico. Rutter, Mary L., died April 19, 1861, age 5 months, 7 days. Shriver, Ann L. Stidger, Dr. Harman, born February 21, 1800, died October 4, 1877. Searight, James, born October 14, 1832, died August 7, 1833. Springer, Charles Aaron, died January 26, 1848, age 2 months, 5 days. Sangston, James M., died May 25, 1849, age 20 years. Smith, Elizabeth A., born October 14, 1800, died April 3, 1874. Smith, Frances Mary. Sembower, Adam, born March 14, 1786, died September 1, 1861. Sangston, John A., died October 16, 1858, in 55th year. Sturgis, Rev. Alfred, died November 4, 1845. He was an itinerant preacher in the Methodist Episcopal church for four- teen years. Stevenson, Louisa Caroline, born April 28, 1837, died June 11, 1838. Snapp, Elizabeth Virginia, died May 4, 1843, in 31st year. Springer, Elizabeth, died May 3, 1855, in 71st year. Springer, Sarah Ann, died September 18, 1857, in 53rd year. Swain, Wilson, died July 3, 1846, in 59th year. Stearns, Joseph, died April 4, 1843, age 18 years, 4 months, 17 days. Snapp, Ann Elizabeth, born September 27, 1837, died Sep- tember 5, 1839. Springer, Libbie. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 649 Springer, Abner, died March 4, 1846, age 76 years, 11 months, 19 days. Springer, Mary Elizabeth, died Aug. 25, 1839, age 1 year, 14 days. Springer, Mary D., died June 13, 1838, age 38 years, 1 month, 15 days. Springer, Joseph C, died April 33, 1839, age 17 years, 7 months, 33 days. Solomon, Samuel, died 1815, age 56. Strayer, John, died June 31, 1845, in 76th year. Strayer, W. W., died December 4, 1840, age 18 years, 6 months, 31 days. Strayer, Priscilla, died January 8, 1838, age 55 years, 8 months, 26 days. Smith, Samuel S., died July 30, 1850, age 43 years, 10 months, 15 days. Smith, Julia A., died December 6, 1858, in 53rd year. Stidger, John, died March 16, 1811, age 40. Salter, Alexander M., died August 34, 1834, or 54, in 38th year. Salter, Bridget, died April 31, 1831, in 80th year. Thorndell, Charlotta, born September 1, 1831, died October 30, 1855. Turner, W. F., died May 18, 1835, age 15 years, 8 months, 21 days. Turner, Jane, died January 13, 1846, age 64. Thomas, William, died October 10, 1863, age 39. Tiernan, Mary R., died December 30, 1830, age 36 years, 9 months, 33 days. Turner, Alexander, died May 23, 1861, age 63. Thair, James, died November 36, 1835, age 6 years, 1 month, 36 days. Vankirk, John, died September 10, 1843, age 78 years, 3 months, 31 days. Vankirk, Abigal, born June 1, 1768, died April 3, 1859. Vankirk, Nancy, died March 23, 1805, age 5 years, 6 months, 11 days. Wood, Isaac J., died June 18, 1849, age 22 years, 6 months. Wood, Elizabeth, died March 11, 1831, age 21 years, 7 days. Wood, Sarah, born April 3, 1766, died January 23, 1866. 650 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Wood, Deborah, died September 10, 1840, in 35th year. Wood, Samuel, died March 13, 1857, age 25 years, 5 months, 6 days. Wiley, Jane, died February , 1833, age 61. Way, Elizabeth, died December 22, 1845, age 56. Wood, Chlotida (?), died September ,29, 1807, age 61. Wood, Isaac, died June 26, 1816, age 51. Watts, Richard, died June 9, 1859, age 5 years, 7 days. Ward, Josephine, died April 19, 1837, age 11 years, 9 months, 16 days. Wood, Elizabeth, died March 17, 1813, age 80 years, 8 months, 12 days. Wathen, Sarah, born August 26, 1820, died March 3, 1833. Way, John Francis, died December 12, 1833, age 17 months, 25 days. Wood, Elizabeth, died May, 17, 1843, age 80 years, 3 months, 19 days. Wood, John, died November 12, 1813, age 46. Way, Milton, died June 22, 1837, age 31 or 33 years, 7 months, 23 days. Young, Suky, died September 30, 1790, age 2 years, 1 month, 17 days. Zebley, Mary, died August 17, 1854, age 1 year, 8 days. Zebley, Louisa, died March 5, 1848, age 3 months, 23 days. Some former citizens of the town who are buried in the old Methodist Episcopal burying ground : Thomas Brownfield was a wagoner over the old Braddock road before the construction of the famous Cumberland road. He came from Virginia and settled in Uniontown where he opened a tavern in 1805. This tavern became known along the Cumberland road and was known as the old " White Swan " tavern. After the death of Mr. Brownfield his son, Nathaniel, continued the business for many years, and the old tavern stand is still one of the old landmarks of the town. Rebecca Carey was an old colored lady who was born a slave and frequently sold by her masters. She was a regular attendant at the services of the Methodist Episcopal church of which she was a consistent member, and this accounts for her having been buried in this graveyard. She is perhaps the only colored person buried in this old graveyard, and is positively History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 651 the last interment here. Aunt Becky, as she was affectionately known, claimed to be over one hundred years of age, and claimed to have witnessed the British soldiers enter Washington city when they burned the capitol. Rev. Thomas Daughiday was a minister in the Metho- dist Episcopal church. His wife was a daughter of Peter Hook, one of the most prominent citizens of the town in its early his- tory. He lived and died in a small house that stood where the present M. E. church stands. George Ebert was one of the prominent and most respected citizens of the old town. He owned and carried on the mer- cantile business in property which stood where the Exchange hotel now stands. Elizabeth Fausett was a descendant of Joseph Fausett whom Gen. Braddock struck down with his sword for fighting from behind a tree, and for which his brother shot Braddock. She lived and carried on the millinery business in this town for many years. Rev. Thornton Flemming was one of the most widely and favorably known ministers of the Methodist Episcopal church. He owned and occupied property on Morgantown street. He married the grandparents, parents and children of the com- munity. He left many namesakes to perpetuate his name. He was a faithful minister of the gospel for over sixty-one years. His faithful and saintly wife sleeps by his^ side in this old graveyard. Abner Greenland was a prominent and useful citizen of the old town. He conducted a pottery, then quite an industry. He was succeeded in the business by his son, Norval. The old Greenland pottery is well remembered by our older citizens. Capt. Hugh Gorley served his country at Fort Meigs under General Harrison, in the war of 1812, after which he settled in Uniontown and carried on the shoemaking business. His mili- tary ardor never waned, but at all military parades he was al- ways conspicuous with his company of artillery in which he took so much delight. When General Lafayette visited this town in 1825, Captain Gorley was posted on an eminence west of town and well did he announce the approach of the distinguished guest by his thirteen rounds of artillery. His father served in 653 History of Uniontovm, Pennsylvania. the Revolutionary war, and at least two of his sons served in the war of the late rebellion. Peter Hook was a very prominent citizen of our town. He located here as early as 1781, and purchased from Henry Bee- son lot No. 32, on which the residence of the late Hon. J. K. Ewing now stands. Here he built a frame house in which he carried on the hatting business for many years and became wealthy. The late Benjamin Hellen married his daughter, Dru- silla, and succeeded to the business. From Peter Hook de- scended some of the most respected citizens of our town today. Benjamin Hellen carried on the hatting business here in the early history of the town and became wealthy. He owned valuable property on West Main street and elsewhere in town as well as an immense tract of valuable land adjoining the southern part of the town. Many of his descendants are still citizens of the town. Rev. Daniel Limerick was located here as pastor of the M. E. church in 1836. Ewing McCleary owned and kept a tavern where the Brunswick hotel now stands. His wife was a sister to Na- thaniel Brownfield, and his tavern was favorably known in old stage-coach times. Thomas H. McCormick served his country in the rebellion as a member of Company K, 112th Penna. Vols. Noble McCormick was a weaver by trade and carried on his business in our town. He was quite a scholar and taught school for many years. He was the father of the late William B. McCormick. Nathaniel Mitchell was a manufacturer of cutlery and edged tools, and ran the old " tilt hammer " at the foot of Pitts- burgh street. Rev. John Phillips owned and carried on the furniture busi- ness where the First Presbyterian church now stands. He was a minister in the Methodist Protestant church. Benjamin Price was an officer in the war of 1812, and held the office of justice of the peace. Jonathan Rowland was one of the prominent citizens of the old town. He filled the office of justice of the peace and was one of the trustees of the Methodist Episcopal church who made deeds for burial permits in this old graveyard. Colonel William B. Roberts, another prominent and History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 653 useful citizen of the town, erected the large brick building on West Main street, known as the Roberts building and here he carried on the manufacture of furniture. He enlisted a com- pany for the war with Mexico, and was elected colonel of the Second Pennsylvania regiment in that service. He served his country valiantly, but died from hemorrhage of the lungs, and was brought home and buried, much lamented by the com- munity. Rev. Alfred Sturgis was an itinerant preacher in the Metho- dist Episcopal church for fourteen years. Alexander Turner was a contractor on the old Cumberland road and did much of the stone work on the large bridges. He became wealthy and owned much property. He owned the land from near the residence of Frank M. Semans, Jr., to that of J. V. Thompson, and much more besides. John Vankirk came here from New Jersey and purchased the triangular piece of ground between South, Arch and Morgantown streets, March 17, 1788, and here established him- self in the furniture business, being a chair maker by trade. He soon became prosperous and owned much other property in the town. His widow, who sleeps by his side, lived to be over ninety years of age and was much beloved by the com- munity. John Wood was a saddler and harness maker by trade and became quite prosperous. He at one time owned the old " Round Corner " lot, now covered by the magnificent First National Bank building. He also owned a fine farm about one mile south of town, and much other property. He was elected in 1784, as a member of the Supreme Executive Council of the State, which body was the same as our legislature of today. His aged widow sleeps by his side. James Bunton settled in Uniontown after having served his country in the artillery service in the war of 1812. He owned property and lived on South street and raised quite a family and died at an advanced age. Suky Young has the distinction of having the oldest tomb- stone in this old graveyard, it being dated September 30, 1790, and although this stone bears this early date, it by no means proves that this was the first^ interment in this old burying ground. This stone, marking Suky Young's grave, although so 654 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. old, is in a much better state of preservation than many which have been erected at a much later date. Many graves there have never been marked, while many bodies have been removed to other cemeteries, and the tombstones removed. It is a sad pleasure to visit an old burying ground and hold communion with dear ones who have preceded us to the great beyond. All peoples, tribes and tongues on the face of the globe have their funeral rites, and hold religiously sacred the burial places of their dead. Indeed the history of some of the tribes who have peopled the earth can be traced only by the funeral rites as revealed by the mounds in which they deposited their dead. Since this has ceased to be used as a burial ground a move- ment has been made by the official board of the Methodist Episcopal church to remove the bodies to some other location, but the relatives and friends of those buried there remonstrated against the movement, and at a hearing held July 11, 1911, in the matter of a petition for the abandonment of this cemetery the court dismissed the proceedings at the cost of the peti- tioners. The Presbyterian Graveyard. When one visits the place of his nativity after an absence of many years he finds the old graveyard one of the most in- teresting spots around the old home. Here he finds those who were near and dear to him and with whom he had been pleas- antly associated in years gone by. It is a sad pleasure to pass through the silent city of the dead and recall the names and faces of those who have passed to the great beyond. When the good Quaker, Henry Beeson, laid out the town of " Union " he set apart a plat of one acre and eight perches of ground which he deeded October 3, 1797, to the inhabitants of the Town of Union and its vicinity to be used as a public burial ground, for the sum of five shillings and for other good causes him thereunto moving. This plat of ground lies some few hun- dred yards east of the court house and has become generally know as the Presbyterian graveyard. This name may perhaps have arisen from the fact that the Methodists had a burial ground near their meeting house and the Baptists had one near their meeting house, and it was natural to attach the name of History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 655 the other leading church to this burial ground, although the Presbyterian church never assumed any special authority over it. Burial grounds are always contemporary with the estab- lishment of new settlements, but many farms have a private burial ground in which sleep the families of many of the first settlers and owners of the land. It would be difficult if not im- possible to ascertain when this old burial ground received its first interment, but it is known that the first ones to die of the Beeson family were not buried in this burial ground, although many of them rest therein. Mr. John M. Austin laid off one tier of lots adjoining the south side of this old cemetery, and in 1854, Messrs. Jacob and John Gallagher added five or six acres of most desirable lots on the north side. It is deplorable that this old burial ground in which rest the remains of those who in the early history of our community were its respected and influential citizens should be so sadly neglected. No one can conceive of the neglected condition of this sacred place. It is a burning shame and disgrace to this enlightened and prosperous community, which points with justi- fiable pride to its stately buildings, its thrifty enterprises and its many citizens of means, to know that the shadow of the tower of our magnificent temple of justice falls upon the spot where repose the bones of our ancestors hidden from the light of the noon day sun by a tangled mass of thorns and briars. The inscriptions on the old headstones and a brief mention of many of the prominent citizens whose remains rest here. The entrance to this old burial ground is by a short, deserted roadway leading from the old Connellsville road. Passing east- ward we notice the graves of : Thomas Swan, died April 11, 1845, in the 64th year of his age. He resided on the farm two miles west of town lately the residence of Mr. William Thompson. Eleanor Swan, died January 31, 1837, aged 44 years, 1 month and 9 days. Mary Hague, consort of Reuben Hague, and daughter of Thomas and Eleanor Swan, died July 1, 1836, aged 32 years, 3 months and 19 days. William Postelwait of Monongalia county, Va., died De- cember 29, 1837, in the 36th year of his age. 656 History of Umontown, Pennsylvania. Mary, wife of Moses Shehan, died October 30, 1857, aged 54 years. Mrs. Shehan's grave is in the John M. Austin addi- tion to the old cemetery and is now in the backyard to one of the houses in Green Row. Mr. Shehan, her husband, was a tailor by trade and carried on the tailoring and ready-made clothing business here for many years, and removed some years ago. Zadoc Walker died March 4, 1831, aged 68 years and 13 days. He built what is now known as the Central hotel, then known as the Walker house, and here he conducted a public house -for many years. General Lafayette, President William Henry Harrison and General Santa Anna of Mexican war fame were among the distinguished guests. He left a quite respecta- ble family. Elizabeth, wife of Zadoc Walker, died 30th March, 1827, aged 51 years, 3 months and 5 days. Rebecca A. Lewis, consort of Freeman Lewis, born March 29, 1791, died October 24, 1844. Her husband. Freeman Lewis, was, with the exception of Col. McClean, the most widely known surveyor in Fayette county. Alpheus Lewis, born January 16, 1824, died June 28, 1833. Stephen McClean died October 3, 1866, aged 80 years and 10 days. He was a son of Col. Alexander McClean, and made his home at what is now Lemont, in North Union township. William Speer, born May 10, 1786, died February 1, 1857. Mr. Speer served as tipstaff at the court house for many years and owned and resided at what is now known as the late Col. John Collins property on Connellsville street. Jane C. Ewing died May 12, 1825, aged 22 years and 10 days. Her maiden name was Jane Crigh Kennedy, daughter of Judge John Kennedy, and in 1823 was married to Judge Na- thaniel Ewing. She left one child, the Hon. John Kennedy Ewing. John Gregg died December 29, 1840, aged 33 years, 11 months and 7 days. Matthew Irwin, born January 27, 1783, died December 20, 1844. He was a highly respected merchant of the town and served as postmaster during the Van Buren administration. He married a daughter of Zadoc Walker and several of their children died young. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 657 Harriet Walker Irwin died August 25, 1813, aged 11 months. Maria Irwin died September 14, 1813, aged 8 months. Thomas Mifflin Irwin, born May 9, 1816, died August 33, 1817. Richard Montgomery Irwin, born October 28, 1825, died June 3, 1828. Ellen Roselma Irwin, born September 11, 1825, died Sep- tember 13, 1828. Frances Murray Irwin, born January 27, 1817, died April 18, 1835. James Calhoun died January 11, 1852, aged 70 years. John Stewart McKinney died December 30, 1845, aged 13 years, 1 month and 24 days. He was a son of William Mc- Kinney, a shoemaker at one time a resident of the town. John Foster died October 31, 1815, aged 34 years. Joseph Gray, died January 8, 1851, aged 42 years, 11 months and 8 days. He was the father of the late Capt. John Gray, the well known passenger conductor on the old Fayette County railroad. He was proprietor of the old Sea- right's tavern stand at the time of his death. John Collins died November 3, 1813, aged 72 years. He was proprietor of the first tavern stand opened in Uniontown. His tavern was in a log building which stood on the lot now occupied by the Commercial row, now owned by J. Harry Johnston, Dr. Beal and others. He applied for a license at the first session of court held in Fayette county, December, 1783. It was at his tavern a court of appeals was held by Col. Alex- ander McClean, as sub-lieutenant of Westmoreland county. May 8 and June 5, 1782. He was the father of Capt. Thomas Collins, who marched the first company from Fayette county in the war of 1813, and of Joseph Collins, the father-in-law to the late Bazil Brownfield. He purchased of Henry Beeson, the founder of the town, a tract of two acres and 84 perches on the east side of Morgantown street, extending from where the public fountain is now located to the Playford alley, a frontage of 338.35 feet running back 310.2 feet, for the sum of 12 pounds, equal to 32 dollars. Mary Collins died April 39, 1813, aged 73 years. She was the wife of John Collins, above mentioned. Michael Walters died August 31, 1818, aged 58 years. "^^ History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Susannah Walters died November 12, 1809. William Orrick Jackson, born September 15, 1837, died June 8, 1838. Daniel W. Canon died May 26, 1854, aged 30 years and 6 months. He was employed as a clerk in the drug store of Dr. Hugh Campbell in the old round corner and subsequently went into the business with Dr. Andrew Patrick, as Patrick & Canon. He married Miss Ann, daughter of William Beggs. Lizzie, J., daughter of D. and A. Canon, aged 17 months. Mary Jane Canon died October 31, 1835, aged 21 days. John Canon, born April 3, 1827, died March 1, 1833. Sarah Canon, born March 29, 1829, died February 25, 1833. Elizabeth Canon, born March 10, 1831, died March 9, 1833. M. E. Black born June 17, 1822, died October 30, 1831. M. A. Black, born October 11, 1830, died 29th of Septem- ber, 1831. F. M. Black, born 4th of November 1828, died May 5, 1831. Jane K. Black, born October 31, 1826, died December 31, 1828. William Brown died June 15, 1826, aged 17 years and 8 months. Ann Brown died November 17, 1814, aged 39 years. William Kibler, born January 10, died September 26, 1819. George Burton Kibler died September 4, 1831, aged 2 years, 2 months and 10 days. Margaret Allen died May 22, 1810, aged 75 years. Mrs. Allen was familiarly known as Granny Allen and owned two pieces of property near the eastern bridge. East Main street. She conducted a tavern in a log building which stood on the high ground now occupied by the residence of the late William Shipley. Her tavern stand was known as the Pinnacle or Granny Allen's Hill on account of its high location. She also at one time owned the lot, on which stood a tavern stand, now occupied by the residence of Alexander D. Ewing. She was a busy, money-making woman in her day. William Whiteside died January 27, 1815, aged 73 years. Mr. Whiteside and his wife, known as Dad and Mam White- side, were related to and made their home with Granny Allen. Mary Ann Collins died September 25, 1816, in the 19th year of her age. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania 659 Hannah Collins died June 18, 1844, aged 68 years. She was the wife of Capt. Thomas Collins. Thomas Collins died November 7, 1828, aged 55 years. Capt. Collins filled the office of sheriff of Fayette county from 1796 to 1799, and was postmaster from 1802 to 1807. He owned and kept a tavern on what is now known as the Tremont corner. He raised and commanded the first company, known as the Madison Rowdies, which marched from Fayette county to serve in the war of 1812. His company performed service at Oswego, Sackett's Harbor and other points along the lake frontier under Major General Herkimer. Benjamin Barton died July 19, 1830, aged 1 year, 2 months and 17 days. Joseph Pryor died April 13, 1837, aged 73 years. He was a fine old bachelor gentleman and a tailor by trade. He at one time owned considerable property in the town, one lot being now covered with the big First National bank building. He served in Capt. Thomas CoUins's company in the war of 1812, and made his last home with Capt. Collins's widow, one mile west of town, at whose home he died. Thomas Barton died May 2, 1845, aged 18 years, 9 months and 2 days. Jane Vance died October 13, 1840, aged 78 years. Sabina K. Shelcutt died October 27, 1841, aged 19 years. She was the daughter of Ezekiel Shelcut who will be remem- bered as keeping a confectionery in a log building on lot now oc- cupied by the William E. Hogg law building. Jane Penkney Sands died June 14, 1840, aged 55 years and 8 months. The Sands family once kept a tavern on south side of Main street east of Redstone creek. James A. Smith died June 20, 1845, in the 2nd year of his age. John E. Smith died September 12, 1843, in the 5th year of his age. Nancy, consort of Jesse King, died September 17, 1844, aged 55 years, 8 months and 4 days. She was a daughter of James Winder, an old time tavern keeper of this town, and a sister to Col. John Winder of Detroit, Mich. Jesse King, born March 24, 1810, died March 2, 1854. He with William Gaddis carried on coach building on Peter street for many years. He owned and lived on lot now occupied by 660 History of Unionfown, Pennsylvania. the Presbyterian parsonage on Morgantown street, and was a highly respected citizen. Lewis Clemmer, a soldier of the War of 1813, died June 6, 1867, aged 73 years. In 1861 Mr. Clemmer worked on artillery harness for Amzi S. Fuller and E. B. Wood, and while here employed was married to Miss Polly Lewis of Morgantown street. Lewis Lewis died March 8, 1839, in the 93d year of his age. He had served in the Revolutionary war under the com- mand of General Lafayette and when the latter visited this town in 1835, Mr. Lewis, with other veterans of that war, took dinner at the same table with the distinguished visitor. The general complimented Mr. Lewis as one of his boys. Sarah Lewis died July 8, 1845, in the 86th year of her age. Mrs. Lewis and her husband, Lewis Lewis, conducted a small cake shop and bakery at their home on Morgantown street. They left this property to their daughter Polly, who subse- quently married Lewis Clemmer, as above mentioned. John McCleary died January 11, 1861, in the 60th year of his age. He came to this town in 1834 from Pittsburgh, and established himself in the watch and clock business in the prop- erty of David Ewing, on the lot now occupied by L. Kuth. He served one term as burgess of the town. He was a brother of Mrs. Catharine Dicus and was well respected in the community. Ann McCleary died August 31, 1843, aged 79 years. She was the mother of John McCleary, above mentioned, and of Mrs. Catharine Dicus. Mary Winder died July 31, 1858, aged 56 years and 18 days. James Winders died November 35, 1859, in the 68th year of his age. Jane Means Woods, daughter of Nathan and Jane Woods, died August 38, 1844, in the 36th year of her age. Elalia Ann Hart, daughter of G. W. and M. L. Hart, died October 34, 1851, aged 13 years, 9 months and 33 days. Dr. George W. Hart died April 5, 1840, aged 36 years. Maria Louisa Hart, wife of Dr.- Geo. W. Hart, died May 31, 1840, aged 34 years, 11 months and 10 days. John Irons died July 30, 1850, in the 46th year of his age. Mr. Irons was editor and proprietor of the Genius of Liberty at the time of his death and for several years previous and was a prominent member of the order of Free Masons. When the History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 661 cholera visited our town in 1850 he fell a victim to that terrible scourge. The Masonic lodge of which he was an influential member erected the monument that marks his grave in token of the esteem in which he was held. Albert G., son of Lucien and Margaret Bowie, died July 26, 1851, aged 19 months. Jonathan Brown died of lockjaw, aged 11 years, 2 months and 17 days. Mrs. Nancy, consort of Charles Brown, died December 11, 1835, in the 37th year of her age. Mr. Brown owned and occu- pied what is now the Greenberry Crossland farm one mile east of town. Priscilla Coulter, consort and relict of John Lyon, died August 20, 1855. She was the widow of John Lyon, Esq., and was familiarly known as Aunt Lyon. John Lyon, born in Carlisle, Pa., October 13, 1771, died in Uniontown 27th of April, 1837. Mr. Lyon first came to Union- town as a soldier to suppress the whisky insurrection of 1794, and returned east with, the troops. He returned here and was admitted to the bar of Fayette county, June 26, 1797, and re- mained here the rest of his life. He was an able lawyer and a gentleman of the highest type. He was married to Miss Pris- cilla Coulter, a lady of one of the first families of Greensburg, Pa. Their home was in a frame building on lot now occupied by the C. H. Seaton building. The bar of Fayette county erected the monument at his grave in token of the high regard in which he was held, and unless some kindly hand soon interposes the last resting place of these two estimable citizens will be effaced. Mary Retz Byerly, daughter of Andrew and Susan Byerly of Philadelphia, and wife of William P. Wells, died January 25, 1845, in the 25th year of her age. She was a most excellent lady and her early death was much lamented by the whole com- munity. William P. Wells, born December 22, 1811, died April 2, 1859, aged 47 years. William Pope Wells, familiarly known as " Prince " Wells, was of a distinguished family and settled in Uniontown, where his uncle, John Lyon, Esq., was practicing law. He was admitted to the bar in 1831, and his genial dis- position and scholarly attainments soon drew to him a host of admirers. By this first wife he had two children, of whom Andrew B., of Philadelphia is still living. His second wife was 662 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Miss Martha Tibbs of Hopwood, by this marriage he had one daughter, Mrs. Lucinda Cottom of Uniontown. The remains of Mr. and Mrs. Wells were removed recently to the cemetery at Hopwood by his children. Robert C. Pendleton, son of Edward Pendleton of Caroline City, Va., died the 37th of March, 1836, in the 33rd year of his age, on his return home from Mississippi. William Cole, merchant of Baltimore, was born at North- ampton, Devonshire, England, the l?th of May, 1761, died at Chalk Hill the 10th of September, 1833. Jane M. Redick died September 36, 1841, aged 3 months and 8 days. This was doubtless a child of Col. William Redick, a prominent citizen of our town at that time. Jane Whitton died January 5, 1849, aged 73 years, 11 months and 35 days. She was doubtless the mother-in-law of Col. Wil- liam Redick. Jane Williams died May 19, 1835, aged 44 years. Ann Clark died June , 183 — . Joanna L. Hobart, born April 30, 1833, died November 3, 1844. Harry Jack, born August 16, 1791, died March 9, 1856. He was a well known stone cutter of this town, and when Mr. L. W. Stockton converted the Thomas Irwin property into the hotel known as the National House, Harry Jack erected the large circular stone steps to the second story entrance. From the proceeds of this job he purchased what was known as the Granny Allen property on the pinnacle east of Redstone creek, and here he made his home. Martha Jack, daughter of James and Isabella Piper, born July — , 1793, died July 30, 1848. She was the wife of Harry Jack above mentioned. George Jack died September 1, 1833, aged 1 year, 7 months and 8 days. James Piper died August 37, 1818, aged 63 years and 11 months. He owned and occupied a log residence immediately east of what is now the Moran House. Here he conducted a tavern for many years. His tavern was known as the " Jolly Irishman." Isabella Piper died September 16, 1843, aged 84 years. She was the widow of James Piper above mentioned. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 663 James Gallagher died April 6, 1819, aged 71 years and 4 days. Mr. Gallagher purchased from Aaron Robertson a tract of land on the north side of Redstone creek immediately ad- joining this town, some of which remained in possession of some of his descendants. Dianah Gallagher died January 15, 1831, aged 74 years and 25 days. She was the widow of James Gallagher. Lydia Beeson, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Beeson, died June 19, 1823, aged 56 years, 4 months and 2 days. Eliza J. Corder died July 12, 1859, aged 19 years, 1 month and 24 days. Catharine Bentley died March 9, 1817, aged 32 years. Eliza, consort of William Murphy, died August 27, 1832, aged 25 years, 5 months and 27 days. Mrs. Murphy was a daughter of John Miller and a granddaughter of Jacob Beeson, one of the founders of the town. She was the widow of James Shriver, a surveyor in the construction of the old National road, whose first wife was also a daughter of John Miller. Rebecca Miller, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Beeson, born 15th of October, 1776, died 12th of February, 1825, in the 49th year of her age. Mrs. Miller was the wife of John Miller who carried on the tanning business in this town for many years, and in connection with others had extensive contracts in the construction of the National road. She was the mother of Jacob B. Miller, Esq., the founder of the Pennsylvania Demo- crat, the predecessor of the News Standard. Elizabeth B. Shriver died during the absence of her hus- band, the 8th of January, 1825, in the 25th year of her age. She was a daughter of John and Rebecca Miller and the first wife of James Shriver, who was a surveyor in the construction of the National road and a nephew of David Shriver, the superin- tendent of the construction of that great highway. Col. Alexander McClean, born November 20, 1746, died De- cember 7, 1834, in the 88th year of his age. The date as to the death of Col. McClean on this stone is erroneous, as he died January 7, 1834. He was one of the most prominent men in the county in his day. He was employed as a surveyor in running the Mason and Dixon line and the western boundary of the state. He was a member of the legislature that erected Fayette county, filled the office of presiding justice of the courts of the new county from October, 1783, till April, 1787, and the 664 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. office of register and recorder from the organization of the county until his death. Sarah McClean died March 36, 1832, aged 81 years and 11 months. She was the wife of Col. McClean and was widely known in the community. Moses McClean died 35th of July, 1833, aged 39 years. He was a son of Col. McClean. Jane McClean (wife of Moses McClean) died March 1, 1832, aged 24 years. Fannie, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth Stewart. Eliza Herren died October 9, 1819, aged 26 years and 5 months. Thomas H. McClean died October 11, 1840, aged 17 years, 11 months and 9 days. Ann, daughter of David and Ann Clark, died March 13, 1851, aged 15 years, 5 months and 15 days. She was a daugh- ter of David Clark and was killed, being run over by a stage coach on Main street. Elizabeth Wilson, wife of Edward Wilson, died July 17, 1854, in the 77th year of her age. Jane, wife of Robert Scott, died December 15, 1858, aged 19 years, 7 months and 16 days. She was a daughter of Edward Hyde. Eliza Jane Yarnal died November 27, 1843, aged 4 years and 3 months. Sarah Mustard, consort of John Mustard, died the 4th of December, 1834, aged 19 years, 10 months and 24 days. Her husband, John Mustard, was well known in this town and en- listed in the service in the war with Mexico and never returned. Peter White died August 35, 1834, in the 56th year of his age. He was a gunsmith by trade and followed that business in this town for many years. Sarah, only child of Sarah and John Mustard, died October 19, 1836, aged 1 year, 10 months and 19 days. Sarah, consort of Stephen Becket, died April 17, 1835, aged 40 years and 5 months. Catharine Ann Mustard died August 4, 1835, aged 27 years and 6 days. John Oldrage died the 36th of October, 1837, aged 52 years. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 665 Nancy McKahan died January 6, 1866, aged 72 years. Mary McKahan died April 13, 1861, aged 73 years. These two old sisters came from Virginia and for many years kept a small confectionery store at the east end of town, which was well patronized by the young folks. Their home-made tafTy attained considerable fame and for exquisite flavor exceeded any that has been sold in the town since. Romanda H. Kelly died July 13, 1855, aged 18 years. She was engaged to be married at the time of her death and her betrothed erected this stone to her memory. Maggie Doran died September 10, 1863, aged 33 years, 8 months and 39 days. She was a daughter of Isaac and Jane Doran, and she, too, was engaged to be married at the time of her death. Mrs. Lydia M. Deford died the 37th of September, 1833, aged 34 years. ' Fannie M., wife of W. H. Duncan, died December 18, 1859, in the 43d year of her age. Mrs. Susan F. Duncan died April 8, 1838, aged 31 years, 9 months and 3 days. James Hughes, born April 11, 1835, died April 19, 1835. John Oliphant Duncan died June — , 1833, age 3 years. Orlando Stewart Oliphant died May 19, 1833, aged 5 years and 10 months. Jesse Henry Oliphant died May 18, 1833, aged 3 years and 3 months. These two were sons of F. H. and J. C. Oliphant. Samuel Duncan died June 3, 1819, in the 43nd year of his age. Elizabeth, consort of Samuel Dilncan, died December 3, 1839, in the 50th year of her age. Mary, wife of Benjamin Campbell, Sr., died July 6, 1833, aged 74 years, 3 months and 34 days. Benjamin Campbell, Sr., born February 5, 1749, died Sep- tember 34, 1843. Mr. Campbell was one of those old-fashioned gentlemen. He wore his hair in a queue, and knee breeches and low cut shoes with silver buckles at the instep and knees. He was a silversmith by trade and came here from Hagerstown, Maryland, in 1790, and established himself in business. He and his son John owned and occupied much of the ground now covered by the First National Bank building. His son John 666 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. having built the old round corner. Mr. Campbell took charge of the post office here for thirty years. Andrew Thompson died November 1, 1856, aged 31 years and 10 months. He was a son of James Thompson and while learning the cabinet making trade with Henry T. Diffenderflfer took hemorrhages of the lungs of which he died. Francis B. Campbell died August 23, 1835. Benjamin Campbell, born November 4, 1818, died August 11, 1838. Mary S. Campbell, born December 8, 1814, died July 39, 1818. Samuel Crozer Campbell died April 17, 1835, aged 4 years, 5 months and 4 days. He was a son of Samuel Y. Campbell who built the property now owned and occupied by the Harah shoe store, West Main street. Jacob Lewis died June 39, 180 — , aged 66 years. Mary Witherow, born the 15th of Nov. 1844, died Dec. 7, 1846. Ellen, consort of John Witherow, died the 13th of May, 1831, aged 30 years. John Witherow died May 4, 1834, aged 45 years. He was a wagonmaker by trade and owned and carried on his business on what is now the Kaine property east of the court house. He filled the office of sheriff of the county 1817-30. Mary E. Ebbert, daughter of James F. and D. B. Ebbert, died February 5, 1866, in the 19th year of her age. Jane Irvin, consort of Daniel Marchand, born April 32, 1819, aged 54 years, 9 months and 6 days. Dr. Daniel Marchand, born December 8, 1773, died March 13, 1822. Dr. Marchand was one of the most able physicians who ever practiced in this town. He came here from Westmoreland county about 1803, and remained until his death. He owned and occupied the lot, corner of Pittsburgh and Peter streets now occupied by the News Standard printing office. He died much lamented by the whole community. Andrew Patterson died August 17, 1880, in the 36th year of his age. Elizabeth Wylie died May 7, 1822, in the 74th year of her age. She was most likely the mother of Joseph Wylie, a promi- nent citizen and tinner of this town. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 667 Elizabeth Fletcher, died March 30, 1820, aged 78 years. She probably was the mother of James Fletcher. Sarah Fletcher died May 10, 1856, in the 74th year of her age. She was the widow of James Fletcher, a respected citizen of this town, who owned and occupied the property at the head of Morgantown street, late the property of William B. McCor- mick. Her maiden name was Sarah Millhouse and she was a sister to Judge John Huston's first wife. John McGregor, born February 5, 1779, died January 3rd, 1832. Mr. McGregor was an early settler near the present town of New Martinsville^ West Virginia, and hearing of the fame of Dr. John F. Braddee, came all the way here on horseback to be treated, but his malady baffled the skill of the famous Brad- dee and he died and was buried here. Septimus Hall, Esq., recent mayor of New Martinsville, is a grandson. Lydia Slack died December 9, 1837, aged 77 years and 2 months. She was the wife of John Slack. John Slack died January 9, 1839, in the 81st year of her age. Mr. Slack was one of the early tavern keepers in Uniontown. His tavern was known as the Spread Eagle and was opposite the court house, on lot now occupied by the residence of Alex- ander D. Ewing. He removed from here to Wharton township in 1800, where he kept a tavern until 1810, when he was again licensed for Uniontown. He was foreman of the jury in the trial of Philip Rogers for the murder of Polly Williams at the white rock. In 1813, he was again established in Wharton township where he owned the Washington Springs tract and kept a tavern until his death. This stand was on the old Brad- dock road where the Dunlap road joins it. Ephraim McClean, son of Col. Alexander McClean, married his daughter Tamzon, and kept a tavern for some years at the Summit of Laurel Hill on the National pike. Mary Millhouse, born March 16, 1786, died January 13, 1833. She was possibly a sister to Sallie Fletcher. John Taylor, a native of county Down, Ireland, died the 22nd of November, 1806, aged 31 years. Elizabeth Crawford died September 17, 1837, aged 83 years. She was the mother of the late William Crawford and owned and occupied the lot now occupied by the William A. Hogg law building. 668 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Samuel C. Crawford, born December 25, 1843, died October 4, 1843. W. Crossland Sullivan died April 18, 1838, aged 4 years, 3 months and 10 days. Mary, wife of John McLean, born the 3nd of November, 1783, died February 19, 1858. She was the wife of Captain John McLean of North Union township who raised and commanded a company in the war of 1813, and rendered service on the shores of Lake Erie under the command of Col. Reese Hill. William McLean died November 7, 1841, in the 33rd year of his age. He was a son of Captain John McLean, above men- tioned. Robert Crawford Beeson died the 3rd of December, 1835, aged 1 year. Rowland Holly died Nov. — , 1850, aged 50 years. Henry Prentice died January 30, 1853, in the 36th year of his age. He was a son of Thomas Prentice, of near the eastern bridge and was a very popular young man. Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas and Isabella Prentice, died September, 18, 1818, aged 8 months and 3 days. John Stevens died October 3, 1873, aged 53 years. He was a colored man and had many friends in the community, among whom he was known as John Ob-Course. He was a favorite with fishing parties which he accompanied as cook. His favorite song with which he entertained his friends was " The Cold Grave Could Not Hold Him," and this is engraved upon his tombstone which was " Erected by a few of his many friends." William Lomas died February 6, 1851, aged 40 years. Ellen, wife of William Lomas, died March 13, 1850, aged 39 years. William Byers died April 38, 1843, aged 41 years 5 months and 35 days. He was proprietor of the Walker house, now known as the Central hotel, at the time of his death and his widow subsequently kept a boarding house on the opposite side of the street in what was known as the Robert Skiles property where the Second National bank building now stands. Joseph Huston died March 5, 1834, in the 61st year of his age. He was an iron master by occupation and at one time owned and operated old Redstone furnace, which after his death became the property and was operated by his nephew, the late Judge John Huston. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 669 Mary Huston died February 3, 1835, aged 39 years. Joseph B. Hedges died April 25, 1818, aged 26 years and 9 months. He was the husband of Elizabeth Hedges who was familiarly known as Aunt Betsy Hedges and who in her widowhood taught school in the early history of this town. She was much beloved in the community and even her youngest pupils have long since passed to the great beyond. Joseph P. Hedges, a son, was a prominent cabinet maker and furniture dealer in this town. Jane, wife of John Clark, died April 4, 1853, aged 32 years, 6 months and 6 days. Joseph Sopher died January 2, 1849, in the 32nd year of his age. He was a stage driver on the old National road and lived on Peter street. John Dixon died August 24, 1839, in the 40th year of his age. William Clark died February 22, 1827, aged 85 years. Acsha Clark died March 29, 1836, in the 50th year of her age. Jane Clark died July 1, 1813, aged 83 years. Nancy Cills died July 1, 1813, aged 27 years. Isabella, wife of Thomas Prentice, Sr., died February 27, 1843, aged 43 years. Jacob Beeson died February 13, 1820, in the 52nd year of his age. He was the son of Henry Beeson, the founder of Uniontown, and was the founder of the original Beeson store, which was the leading store in the town for more than a century. He was the father of the late Isaac Beeson and Gen. Henry W. Beeson. Lydia Beeson, wife of Jacob Beeson, died February 27, 1801, in the 28th year of her age. Robert K. McLean died February 28, 1851, aged 25 years and 10 months. George McCray died November 9, 1841, aged 59 years. He was a prominent farmer of North Union township. Sarah McCray died September 4, 1854, aged 73 years. Mrs. McCray was the daughter of Samuel McClean, who was a brother of Col. Alexander McClean and was also employed on the running of the famous Mason and Dixon line which forms the southern boundary of Pennsylvania. 670 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Catharine Morgan died the 34th of July, 1851, aged 36 years, 5 months and 3 days. Samuel Millhouse died July 16, 1819, aged 37 years, 10 months and 14 days. Ann Millhouse died June 10, 1815, aged 59 years, 9 months and 29 days. Samuel Millhouse died October 8, 1808, aged 53 years, 10 months and 35 days. The Millhouse family were prominent people in the early history of this town. Judge John Huston married Susan Mill- house and James Fletcher married Sarah Millhouse. Margaret, wife of Dennis Springer, died July 37, 1875, aged 57 years, 4 months and 10 days. Dennis J. Springer died April 17, 1886, in the 70th year of his age. John Bradbury, from Staffordshire, England, died May 10, 1855, in the 48th year of his age. Mr. Bradbury owned and occupied the property on the corner of Morgantown and Fayette streets. He erected the double brick tenant house and carried on an extensive business in dressed stone for trimming. He laid off an addition of building lots at the end of Church street and was a prosperous business man and a first-class citizen. John Bradbury, son of John and Keziah Bradbury, died August 39, 1854, aged 15 months. Martha Bradbury died July 8, 1849, aged 6 months and 14 days. William Dail, son of Rev. Wm. W. and Harriett Arnett, born October 13, 1841, died April 11, 1843. Rev. Arnett was the first rector of St. Peter's church in this town. Elizabeth Coffman, born March 35, 1825, died January 30, 1861. She was the wife of William Coffman, a blacksmith. Minerva E. E. McKean, died Aug. 18, 1853, in the 30th year of her age. German D. Hair, born July 21, 1790, died May 8, 1873. He was a native of Chester county and while the National road was being constructed he located here as a stone mason and worked on the construction of the stone bridges of that great thorough- fare. In his latter days he kept a tavern in the village of Mon- roe until his death. He married Rebecca Brownfield, a sister to the late Nathaniel Brownfield. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 671 Rebecca, wife of German D. Hair, died July 13, 1863, in the 67th year of her age. Richard L. McKean, died August 3, 1843, in the 27th year of his age. Mary Harah died May 23, 1865, in the 54th year of her age. Jane S., wife of Samuel Harah, born July 20, 1785, died December 27, 1875. Samuel Harah died February 9, 1861, in the 74th year of his age. Mr. Harah came from Allegheny county. Pa., and located here in 1827. He purchased a lot on the corner of Mid- dle Alley and Main street and here lived and carried on the hatting business for many years. When Broadway was opened out as a street Mr. Harah's property was torn away. He was the father of Mr. John S. Harah, the shoe merchant of our town. James W. Crusen died October 28, 1850, aged 10 years, 2 months and 15 days. He was a son of Ashabald Crusen. Johnze Dicus died February 8, 1885, in the 83rd year of his age. Mr. Dicus served as constable here for some time, and was engaged for many years in the grocery and provision busi- ness and was a highly respected citizen. Ann, daughter of T. and M. Bowie, died November 38, 1851, aged 6 years, 3 months and 27 days. Richard, son of T. and M. Bowie, died July 35, 1855, aged 7 years, 9 months and 15 days. Margaret Wood, born April 19, 1792, died January 16, 1865. Mary E., wife of W. Vance, died July 30, 1881, aged 28 years and 4 days. William K. Cooper died October 9, 1866, in the 45th year of his age. Mr. Cooper will be remembered as carrying on the photograph business in this town for many years. He held the office of deputy provost marshal, during the Civil war, under Provost Marshal Eli Cope. Thomas Prentice, Sr., born in Kilinzow, Scotland, died June 9, 1869, aged 85 years. Mr. Prentice owned property near the eastern bridge and did considerable business in selling building stone from his own quarries. Rachel Beeson, daughter of Jacob Beeson, one of the original proprietors of Uniontown, wife of Robert Skiles, born March 3, 1785, died April 39, 1865. Aunt Rachel Skiles, as she was fa- miliarly known, built the brick residence on Church street now 672 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. owned and occupied by William Brownfield's family. Here she lived the last twenty-five years of her long life. Robert Skiles, born February 32, 1787, died April 10, 1838. Mr. Skiles was a leading merchant of Uniontown and erected the buildings recently torn away on the site now covered by the new buildings of the Second National bank and Charles Gorley. His store was in the building now owned and occupied by William Hunt as a jewelry store. He was a most excellent citizen and his early death was much lamented by the com- munity. He left no children. Jane Beeson, wife of John Clark, died July 24, 1855, in the 84th year of her age. Aunt Jane Clark was acknowledged to be the best informed lady of the town. Possessing a brilliant intellect she was thoroughly posted on the current events of the day, and she was frequently consulted by the legal fraternity as to the titles to property in this locality and in which she was thoroughly posted. John Clark died January 29, 1813, aged 48 years. Mr. Clark was the husband of Aunt Jane above mentioned and was a merchant of this town. He did business in a log building, which stood on the lot now occupied by the A. C. Hagan build- ing. He left no children. Nancy Jane, daughter of S. and M. Wilson, died October 6, 1873, aged 19 years and 18 days. Harriet Skiles, born January 15, 1836, died July 4, 1871. Miss Skiles was the daughter of Isaac Skiles, Sr., and a sister to the late Thomas D. Skiles of the Minneapolis, Minn. She was a very popular young lady and was sincerely mourned by a host of friends. Isaac Skiles, Sr., born July 12, 1789, died January 8, 1865. Mr. Skiles was an old time merchant of this town and carried on business on a lot now covered by the First National bank building. He erected the large brick building on the corner of Main and Morgantown streets which was recently t away to make room for the Thompson-Ruby building. Here he was succeeded in business by his sons, W. & T. D. Skiles. Harriet Skiles died September 3, 1837, aged 43 years and 11 days. Martha Beeson, born November 4, 1810, died July 14, 1829. Mary C. Beeson, born September 9, 1816, died August 29, 1828. HON. ALBERT GALLATIN. n"iO. History of Uniontozvn^ Pennsylvania. 673 These were children of Jesse and Elizabeth Skiles Beeson. Elizabeth Skiles, wife of Jesse Beeson, born March 16, 1792, died June 26, 1886. After the death of Mr. Beeson, Aunt Betsy married Rev. James Guthrie, pastor of the Laurel Hill Presbyterian church, who died in 1850. She next married John- son Vankirk in 1860, with whom she lived ten years when she was again left a widow. Aunt Betsy Guthrie was a store house of information as to the history of the early settlers in this part of the country. Jesse Beeson died March 22, 1826, aged 58 years and 3 months. Mr. Beeson was the oldest child of Henry Beeson, the founder of Uniontown. He was a babe when his parents settled west of the mountains in 1768. He became editor and pro- prietor of the Genius of Liberty about 1809 and conducted it for eight years. The paper was issued from a frame building which stood on the lot now occupied by the John S. Harah property. He was a most excellent penman and was employed for a while as clerk for the commissioners. He owned 99 acres of land at the eastern part of town and lived where Daniel J. Johnson erected a fine residence. He was a most excellent man. Jane Skiles, wife of Henry Beeson, died August 27, 1866, aged 85 years, 8 months and 2 days. Mrs. Beeson was a sister to Robert and Isaac Skiles, and to Elizabeth, the wife of Jesse Beeson, the two sisters marrying brothers. After the death of her husband she married Mr. Roberts Barton, the well known miller. Henry Beeson, born March 29, 1776, died January 20, 1832, aged 55 years, 9 months and 21 days. Mr. Beeson was a son of Henry Beeson, the founder of this town, and was a miller by trade. He owned and operated the old Beeson flouring mill at the west end of town for many years. He owned and oc- cupied the old Henry Beeson mansion on South Beeson avenue at the time of his death. He had two children, the late Jesse Beeson, who succeeded him at the mill, and the late Mrs. George W. Rutter. Henry Beeson Rutter, born July 14, 1828, died December 25, 1842. He was a son of George W. and Mary Rutter. Sarah, daughter of J. and M. McLean, died December 30, 1865, aged 16 years, 7 months and 15 days. W. E., son of W. and Margaret Braden, died July 2, 1854, age 1 year, 9 months and 21 days. 6 '''4 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Elizabeth Wilson died at Milwaukee, Wis., May 35, 1888, aged 63 years. Isaac M., son of I. J. and J. Murray, died September 1, 1869, aged 4 months and 19 days. Richard Swan died December 29, 1873, in the 78th year of his age. Mr. Swan was a son of Col. Charles Swan, a Revolu- tionary soldier, who settled near Carmichaels in Greene county, Pennsylvania. Susannah, wife of Richard Swan, died June 33, 1866, in the 72nd year of her age. William, son of C. H. and P. Swan died October 39, 1865, aged 11 years and 5 months. Isaac Wiggins died July 31, 1866, in the 71st year of his age. Mr. Wiggins was a brother of the late Harrison Wiggins of Wharton township, and was a well respected and prosperous farmer of South Union township. His son, James B. Wiggins, now owns and resides on the home farm. Matilda A., wife of Isaac Wiggins, died April 39, 1873, in the 78th year of her age. James M. Smith of Battery K, 113 regiment P. V., died at Fort Saratoga, March 19, 1864, in the 19th year of his age. Mary, wife of James Hankins, died August 11, 1864, aged 76 years. James Hankins died April 1, 1863, in the 83nd year of his age. Sarah Whaley, wife of William Thorndell, born June 38, 1819, died September 3, 1863. Ann McDonald died February 11, 1894, aged 76. Miss Mc- Donald and her sister Rose lived together in a small brick building on the lot now occupied by the fine residence of James R. Barnes, east of the court house. They were highly respected and had many friends. Elizabeth Hadden born March 37, 1779, died May 23, 1856, aged 77 years, 1 month and 36 days. Mrs. Hadden was the second daughter of Col. Alexander McClean, the noted sur- veyor, and register and recorder of Fayette county. She mar- ried Thomas Hadden, an attorney at the Fayette county bar, and was the mother of the late Armstrong Hadden. ' Thomas Hadden, born April 19, 1770, died June 1, 1826, aged 56 years, 1 month and 13 days. Mr. Hadden located here soon after the erection of the county for the purpose of practic- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 675 ing law. He was admitted to the bar of Fayette county in 1795, and married Elizabeth, the second daughter of Col. Alexander McClean, in 1799. He filled the office of deputy attorney- general from 1801 to 1804, auditor for the county in 1815, the office of treasurer from 1818 to 1821, the office of notary public, and also that of justice of the peace from 1812 to 1819. Alexander M. Hadden, born December 24, 1803, died April 22, 1856. He was a son of Thomas Hadden, Esq., above mentioned. Sarah M. Hadden died October 25, 1886, in the 74th year of her age. She was familiarly known as Aunt Sally Hadden and resided a few doors east of the court house. M. Louisa, wife of James Marshall, died February 27, 1872, aged 39 years, 9 months and 9 days. Thomas Swan, died October 10, 1857, in the 29th year of his age. Mr. Swan was one of the proprietors of the McClelland hotel in the early 50s and also conducted a livery stable at the old stage yard. He married Miss Sarah E. Canon. Jonathan R. West, born January 23, 1791, died September 4, 1864. Mr. West lived and owned property at the north end of Pittsburgh street, and that part of the town was known as Westburg. Drusilla Downer, wife of Jonathan R. West, born March 24, 1802, died November 30, 1862. Mrs. West was a daughter of Jonathan Downer of Chalk Hill. William B. West, born January 25, 1823, died June 28, 1859. Mary E. West, born January 8, 1836, died June 14, 1857. Levi T. West, died July 29, 1850, aged 11 years, 4 months and 15 days. When the cholera visited this town in 1850, Levi T. West fell a victim to that terrible scourge. William B. West, son of Enos and Sarah West, born Feb- ruary 7, 1854, died January 14, 1871. John N. West, born April 13, 1845, died July 11, 1876. Drusilla A. West, wife of William T. Goodwin, born July 19, 1831, died July 8, 1865. Sarah, wife of William Woods, died November 11, 1873, in the 85th year of her age. John H. Deford died November 10, 1856, age 58 years, 8 months and 27 days. Mr. Deford was admitted to the bar of Fayette county September 9, 1835. He owned and resided at 676 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the time of his death the property on Morgantown street now owned by Wallace Miller. Adam S. Simonson, M. D., died February 24, 1808, aged 49 years. Dr. Simonson came from the east and settled here prior to 1795. He owned some property in the town and resided in a frame house which stood in what would now be the middle of Church street where that street now enters Morgantown street. He married a daughter of Rev. Obediah Jennings, a prominent minister of the Presbyterian church. He practiced his profession here until his death. Thomas Jackson died February 34, 1870, in the 84th year of his age. Susannah Showalter, wife of Thos. Jackson, died March 37, 1865, in the 73rd year of her age. Ella v., daughter of James and Sarah Bunton, wife of John Altman, died August 3, 1887, aged 45 years, 11 months and 18 days. Sarah, wife of James Bunton, died August 38, 1873, in the 80th year of her age. Caroline, wife of Thomas L. Hunt, died May 10, 1863, aged 24 years, 4 months and 10 days. Sarah Gardner died December 17', 1877, aged 78 years. Miss Gardner had been a domestic in the family of David Veech for many years and owned property on Morgantown street and on Mill street and lived in the latter at the time of her death. Augustine Hall died December 35, 1888, aged 65 years. Mrs. Lavina, wife of Israel Hall, died October 36, 1841, aged 56 years. Israel Hall died January 15, 1881, aged 60 years. Maryetta Hall, born in Raynham, Mass., February 10, 1835, died November 19, 1889, aged 64 years, 9 months and 9 days. The foregoing were of the same family as the late Cromwell Hall and of William Hall late of South Beeson avenue. Wanapusha, an Indian chief who had been to Washington city in the interests of his tribe and who died at the county home in 1848, lies buried here. Many of the bodies originally interred in this old burying ground have been removed to Oak Grove cemetery where suit- able stones have been erected to their memory and the sacred spot visited by friends. Many others lie in unmarked graves History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 677 and although stones may have been erected to some of these, by the lapse of time these stones have fallen or been removed and the grave can no longer be identified. The Old Baptist Cemetery. The members of the Regular Baptist church called Great Bethel, purchased from Henry Beeson a lot at the head of Morgantown street for church purposes; of this lot they set apart 254 feet fronting on said street as a burial ground. Al- though the deed for this ground is dated May 26, 1804, it is evident that interments were made here several years prior to that date. The oldest tombstone yet standing marks the grave of Prisgilla Gaddis, who died February 17, 1796, at the age of 78 years, and doubtless there were other interments made in this old burial ground which antedate that but are not marked. In this old burying-ground repose the bones of many of the most worthy citizens of Uniontown and vicinity, and near by the church a neat monument marks the resting place of Rev. William Brownfield, bearing the following inscription : " Rev. William Brownfield died January 18, 1850, in the 86th year of his age. A sound and able divine, A fearless advocate of truth. After serving his master in the work of the ministry for sixty-five years he passed to his reward." " Tandem Felix." This stone also bears the inscription ; " Sarah, consort of Rev. William Brownfield, who departed this life December 29, 1856, aged 83 years, 4 months and 14 days." The following is an incomplete list of persons buried in this graveyard. Akens, Ann, died May 29, 1802, aged 27 years. Akens, Elizabeth, died September 36, 1809, aged 31 years. Akens, William, died July 8, 1801, aged 29 years. Allen, James, died April 8, 1808, aged 37 years. Allen, Joseph, died September 7, 1833, aged 34 years. Allen, Thomas, died January 10, 1840. 678 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Ansel, George, died March 8, 1856, aged 35 years, 2 months, 8 days. Bailes, Alf., of Company I, 6th V. R. C. Baily, Benedict, died April 4, 1888, aged 79 years. Baily, Rachel, wife of Benedict Baily, died September 30, 1889, in 74th year. Bailes, Edith, wife of Alf Bailes, died May 13, 1869, aged 50 years. Boord, Elizabeth, wife of Oliver Boord, died December 2, 1881, aged 45 years. Bowie, Lucien O., died April 6, 1909, in 56th year. Barr, Lena. Brownfield, Isaac, died April 25, 1859, aged 77 years. Brownfield, John, died October 4, 1854, aged 83 years. Brownfield, Jane, wife of Isaac Brownfield, died August 15, 1867, aged 86 years. Brownfield, W. Watson, died May 17, 1849, aged 24 years. Bryte, Blanch Olive, died December 38, 1888, aged 2 years. Carter, Benjamin, died May 17, 1849, aged 64 years. Carter, Elizabeth, died July 22, 1873, aged 45 years. Carter, Hanna, wife of Benj., died February 23, 1855, aged 70 years. Carter, James, died October 7, 1871, aged 62 years. Clark, Lorenzo Springer, died November 4, 1850, aged 3 years. Clement, Asthelia, died January 16, 1828, aged 18 years. Clement, Elizabeth, died April 4, 1831, in 60th year. Clement, E. W., died June 14, 1849, aged 46 years. Clement, Jacob, died March 5, 1816, in 46th year. Clement, Jacob S., died May 23, 1876, in 50th year. Clement, Matilda, died November 38, 1860, aged 27 years. Clement, Rebecca, died Sept. 20, 1875, in 72nd year. Clement, Samuel M., died September 18, 1864, aged 16 years. Clement, Rebecca, died September 13, 1843, aged 3 years. Clement, Samuel M., died January 8, 1876, in 77th year. Collins, Janey J., died November 13, 1860, aged 24 years. Collins, Robert H., died January 1, 1868, aged 1 year. Collins, Silas, died August 1, 1863, aged 27 years. Collier, Jane Ansel, died April 1, 1880, aged 33 years. Cooley, Elizabeth, died January 31, 1867, aged 87 years. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 679 Cooley, Samuel, died December 11, 1840, aged 70 years. Clement, Uriah S., died September 27, 1843, aged 13 years. Dixon, Lucy Ann, died April 31, 1845, aged 31 years. Downer, David, died April 11, 1837, aged 36 years. Downer, Drusilla, died July 37, 1843, aged 73 years. Downer, Hiram, died May 27, 1847, aged 41 years. Downer, Jacob, died May 10, 1828, aged 33 years. Downer, Jonathan, died September 9, 1844, in 56th year. Downer, Jonathan, died June 8, 1833, aged 79 years. Downer, Mary, died June 4, 1855. Durbins, John Charles, died May 7, 1857, aged 6 months. Finley, Sarah, died November 22, 1876, in 65th year. Frazer, Benjamin, died June 28, 1832, aged 32 years. Frisbie, Lucinda, died October 23, 1852, aged 26 years. Gaddis, Ann, died March 29, 1799, aged 17 years. Gaddis, John, died February 2, 1868, aged 79 years. Gaddis, John, died April 12, 1827, in 87th year. Gaddis, Levi, died August 9, 1850, in 26th year. Gaddis, Prisgilla, died February 17, 1796, aged 78 years. Gaddis, Ruth, died April 6, 1850, aged 44 years. Gaddis, Robert, died February 7, 1834, aged 85 years. Gaddis, Sarah, died July 31, 1849, in 30th year. Gaddis, Sarah, died December 25, 1848, aged 93 years. Gaddis, Sarah, died January 7, 1802, aged 50 years. Gibson, Joseph, died December 11, 1830, aged 53 years. Gray, Hannah, died August 18, 1882, aged 88 years. Gray, Jonathan, died October 15, 1864, aged 85 years. Grimes, Ella M., died July 8, 1855, aged 17 years. Hafan, Simeon D., died June 15, 1856, aged 6 years. Hatfield, Lindsey, died November 28, 1864, aged 31 years. Hatfield, Rebecca, died December 2, 1862, aged 60 years. Hill, Mary J., died August 25, 1883, aged 30 years. Hutchinson, Margaret, died February 4, 1850, aged 64 years. Hutchinson, Isaac, died December 9, 1866, aged 88 years. Jaquette, Elizabeth, died November 3, 1866, aged 69 years. Jaquette, Nathaniel, died February 13, 1874, aged 80 years. Jaquette, John, died May 21, 1848, in 24th year. Jaquette, Mary A., died June 20, 1862, aged 39 years. Kerr, James E., died February 19, 1885, aged 9 years. Miller, Mrs. Margaret, died December 5, 1877. 680 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Miller, David, died September 4, 1831, aged 67 years. Minor, Ann, died February 6, 1830, aged 81 years. Minor, Isaac, died May 11, 1856, aged 67 years. Minor, Louisa, died Nov. 9, 1848, aged 43 years. Minor, Samuel, died January 19, 1836, aged 86 years. Minor, Samuel, died December 18, 1878, aged 78 years. Mitchell, George, died July 9, 1889, aged 76 years. Mitchell, Matilda, died July 17, 1895, aged 83 years. Morris, G. W., died August 1, 1884, aged 1 year. Morris, Morris, died February 1, 1834, aged 51 years. Morris, William, died May 7, 1811, in 63rd year. Morris, William S., died December 13, 1838, aged 36 years. McDowell, Susan L., died October 3, 1883, in 73rd year. Nabors, John, died January 1, 1888, aged 78 years. Nabors, Martha Ross. Nabors, Mary, died September 30, 1865, aged 30 years. Nabors, Martha, died December 9, 1891, 79 years. Naboi"s, Thomas, died September 13, 1893, aged 60 years. Pollock, Jacob, died August 35, 1888, aged 33 years. Pollock, Robert, died December 30, 1883, aged 33 years. Ritenour, Isabella, died April 7, 1849, aged 37 years. Rinier, Lillie A., died September 5, 1855, aged 83 years. Seaton, James C., died May 7, 1839, aged 56 years. Sidebottom, John, died November 17, 1867, aged 71 years. Smith, Samuel, died November 7, 1876, aged 3 years. Smith, Lucy, died September 35, 1869, in 37th year. Springer, Aaron, died October 33, 1850, aged 50 years. Springer, Dennis, died April 6, 1833, aged 75 years. Springer, Elizabeth, died May 34, 1833, aged 75 years. Springer, Eleanor, died February SO, 1849, aged 74 years. Springer, Jacob, died December 4, 1853, aged 75 years. Springer, Levi, died March 36, 1833, aged 80 years. Springer, Sarah V., died September 17, 1864, aged 1 year. Springer, Sarah, died October 35, 1833, in 77th year. Springer, Uriah, died May 18, 1856, aged 85 years. Springer, William, died July 36, 1850, aged 34 years. Springer, James E., died August 13, 1850, aged 1 year. Springer, Zadock, died May 10, 1844, aged 74 years. Springer, Elizabeth, died March 39, 1819, aged 41 years. Sturgis, Mary E., died March 3, 1864, aged 27 years. Sutton, Aaron, died May 16, 1817, aged 35 years. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 681 Sutton, Calvin P., died April 10, 1870, aged 17 years. Sutton, John, died May 30, 1847, aged 71 years. Trenerry, Mary Ellen, died July 39, 1878, aged 34 years. Trenerry, Stephen Henry, died December 29, 1880, aged 3 years. Williams, Elizabeth, died October 30, 1855, aged 57 years. Williams, John, died July 3, 1849, aged 34 years. Williams, Rebecca, died November 13, 1876, aged 64 years. Williams, Willie S., died February 37, 1873, aged 16 years. Winn, Rev. Isaac, died May 4, 1858, aged 74 years. Winn, Dorcas, died May, 1873, aged 93 years. Winterbottom, Aspberry, died January 3, 1856, aged 5 years. Wood, Sarah Caroline, died March 3, 1833, aged 6 months. Union Cemetery of Fayette County, Also Known as Oak Grove Cemetery. In response to a previous public notice a number of public spirited citizens of the town met at the McClelland house on February 18, 1867, and organized for the purpose of establish- ing a burial place for the dead, to be known as the Union Ceme- tery of Fayette County. The commissioners selected on this occasion were James Veech, Daniel Kane, Greenberry Cross- land, Armstrong Hadden and John Dawson, and on June 7, 1867, the Dr. Lewis Marchand lot of 6 acres and 154 perches on the National road, west of town, was purchased from Daniel Sharpnack and deeded to the Uniontown Cemetery of Fayette County by Dr. Smith Fuller, Dr. F. C. Robinson, Eleazar Robin- son, John K. Ewing, R. M. Modesitt, Alfred Howell, Daniel Sharpnack, H. L. Rankin, Daniel Kaine, Eli Cope, E. B. Wood, Andrew Stewart, Lewis D. Beall, John H. McClelland and Wil- liam H. Baily. The incorporators were James Veech, Green- berry Crossland, William Redick, Daniel Kaine, John Dawson, Armstrong Hadden and their associates. On May 36, 1893, 9 acres and 36 perches fronting 17 perches on the National road, known as the Frederick Byrer lot, was conveyed by J. V. Thompson, John A. NiccoUs and Altha L. Moser to the Union Cemetery of Fayette County, and this was added to the original plat. The first interment in the original cemetery was that of a young child of Joseph Waggoner which died April 23, 1867, and 683 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the first adult was that of William Stone who died May 14, 1867. The first interment in the new part was that of Mary Burns Titlow, daughter of George F. Titlow, who was born October 15, 1890, and died the same day, and the first interment of an adult was that of Henry Nycum who died March 30, 1891. Since the opening of Union Cemetery a great majority of those who have died in Uniontown and immediate and many from the remote neighborhood, have been interred here, and the remains of many have been removed from old and neg- lected graveyards to this cemetery. The Soldiers' Monument. Shortly after the close of the civil war the patriotic senti- ment of the people of Fayette county was aroused toward the erection of a suitable monument to the memory of those who had fallen in defense of their country, and in order to raise suf- ficient funds for the purpose it was determined to form an organization to be known as the Fayette County Soldiers' Gift Concert. Prizes were announced to be drawn for on Septem- ber 3, 1867. Among the prizes announced was one of a tract of land in Baxter county. West Virginia consisting of 300 acres, valued at $1,500 : one of 300 acres in same county, valued at $1,000 ; another of 100 acres in same county, valued at $500, and 50 acres of land in Clayton county, Iowa, valued at $300; 500 dollars in greenbacks, $500 ; one piano, $600 ; one piano, $500 ; one cabinet organ, $150 ; one gentleman's gold watch, $150 ; one lady's gold watch, $135, etc. In addition to the above there were to be 13,403 gifts valued from 30 cents to $1.00 each. There were to be 15,000 tickets sold a $1.00 each. The officers of this organization were: S. D. Oliphant, President; Maj. Peter A. Johns, Secretary, and James T. Redburn, Treasurer. The di- rectors were S. D. Oliphant, Peter Uriah Hook, Amzi S. Fuller, Peter A. Johns and Edward Campbell. The managers were S. D. Oliphant, Peter U. Hook and Edward Campbell. A Massilon sandstone shaft was erected in a lot donated by the cemetery company for the interment of deceased sol- diers, and on July 4, 1867, the ceremony of laying the corner- stone was performed after an imposing parade and a grand demonstration. The oration of the occasion was delivered by Rev. Col. John B. Clark and was followed by a free dinner. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 683 Surrounding this monument, in a circular form, are located the graves of many old comrades who have answered the final roll call. Roman Catholic Cemetery on Morgantown Street. Soon after the erection of St. John's Roman Catholic church on Morgantown street a part of the lot was consecrated as a burial ground. The following names are of those who were interred therein as far as could be obtained from the tomb- stones erected therein : Baily, Theresa E. Dorsey, wife of A. M. Baily, died June 16, 1880, in her 49th year. Baily, Fannie C, daughter of A. M. and L. V. Baily, died April 9, 1864, aged 8 months, 31 days. Baily, William Franklin, son of A. M. and L. V. Baily, died May 20, 1860, aged 3 months, 14 days. Baily, Louisa V. Dorsey, wife of A. M. Baily, died October 18, 1864, in her 42nd year. Baily, Mary Ellen, daughter of A. M. and L. V. Baily, died December 10, 1865, aged 3 years, 7 months. Baily, Fannie C, daughter of A. M. and L. V. Baily, died April 9, 1864, aged 8 months, 21 days. Brownfield, Permelia, wife of E. P. Brownfield, died Sep- tember 28, 1879, aged 64 years, 4 months, 23 days. Coyle, Willie E., son of T. and C. Coyle, died November 23, 1868, in the 2nd year of his age. Cronin, Mary, wife of Edward, died August 22, 1872, aged 21 years, 3 months and 4 days. Cronin, Johnnie, son of E. and M. Cronin, died July 27, 1875, aged 5 months, 29 days. Cronin, Maurice, son of E. and M. Cronin, died July 31, 1872, aged 10 months, 5 days. Devenny, Hugh, died December 19, 1873, aged 63 years. Donehoe, Amanda Ellen, daughter of James and Jane Donehoe, died November 14, 1861, aged 2 years, 11 days. Griffith, Eliza, wife of John H. Griffith, died June 28, 1868, aged 88 years, 5 months, 3 days. Hentcy, Mary, daughter of Patrick and Johanna Hentcy, died November 12, 1858, aged 14 years, 3 months, 12 days. Holliday, James W., son of C. and B. E. HoUiday, died May 6, 1819, aged 3 years, 11 months, 19 days. 684 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Hagan, John, born in Derry county, Ireland, died April 11, 1869, in the 81st year of his age. Hagan, Margaret, wife of John Hagan, died March 10, 1868, in the 76th year of her age. Hagan, James, born in Derry county, Ireland, died October 27, 1870, aged 80 years. Jones, John, died January 11, 1877, in the 85th year of his age. Keenan, Robert, son of M. and A. E. Keenan, 'died June 9, 1881, aged 9 years, 6 months, 3 days. Keenan, Levi, died February 19, 1868, in the 24th year of his age. Keenan, Mary E. Giles, daughter of Daniel E. Keenan, died August 14, 1871, in the 27th year of her age. Keflfer, Teresa Grififith, wife of John Keffer, died August 25, 1871, aged 59 years, 6 months, 11 days. Keflfer, Maria T., died August 22, 1880, aged 34 years. Lonergan, Martin, son of Maurice and Mary Lonergan, born November 18, 1849, died January 18, 1869. Lynch, Margaret, died November 1, 1874, in the 45th year of her age. Lynch, James, son of Patrick and Nancy Lynch, died May 27, 1856, aged 1 year, 9 months, 14 days. Lynch, John, son of Patrick and Nancy Lynch, died Sep- tember 2, 1854, aged 1 year, 2 months. Lynch, James, born June 20, 1824, died December 12, 1876. Monaghan, Catharine, born in West Meath county, Ireland, March 31, 1820, died May 5, 1889. Monaghan, John, born in West Meath county, Ireland, April 1, 1810, died October 16, 1875. Monaghan, Margaret E., daughter of J. and M. Monaghan, died October 22, 1861, aged 1 year, 6 months, 4 days. Monaghan, James, son of J. and M. Monaghan, died January 9, 1871, aged 3 years, 5 months, 9 days. Monaghan, John, son of J. and M. Monaghan, died Novem- ber 14, 1875, aged 9 years, 1 month, 18 days. Monahan, Ella, died March 30, 1856, aged 1 year, 8 months, 4 days. Monahan, Peter, born February 39, 1857, died October 27, 1881, aged 24 years, 7 months, 29 days. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 685 Monahan, Michael, died November 10, 1868, aged 33 years, 7 months, 16 days. Monahan, Thomas, born May 31, 1871, aged 27 years, 9 months, 15 days. McDonald, Ellen, born in the county of West Meath, Ire- land, died June 10, 1856, in the 35th year of her age. O'Neil, Bridget, wife of Anthony O'Neil, died November 33, 1867, in her 56th year. O'Neil Patrick, eldest son of A. and B. O'Neil, died August 4, 1865, in his 35th year. O'Neil, Robert T., died August 30, 1879, aged 30 years, 10 months, 27 days. Reed, Bridget, died June 35, 1875, aged 76 years, 3 months, 17 days. Reed, Rezin, died January 16, 1874, aged 81 years, 6 months, 23 days. Scully, Ann, born in the county of West Meath, Ireland, died January 2, 1871, aged 81 years. Whalen, Mary P., daughter of M. and M. Whalen, died May 39, 1868, aged 19 years, 7 months, 6 days. No bodies have been interred here for many years. Park Place Cemetery. George W. Crow and wife, on the 23nd day of September, 1893, conveyed to the trustees of the Park Place Cemetery com- pany a tract of eleven acres and sixty-three perches of land about one mile northeast of town on the Cool Spring road. This cemetery being beautifully located and tastefully laid off, it affords some very desirable cemetery lots. The trolly line passes the grounds. The Greek Catholic cemetery is located just west of the village of Hopwood. The first interment made in this cemetery was that of the body of George Boxan, who died at the Union- town hospital Tuesday, January 16, 1912, and buried on Thurs- day following. The " Old Forge " cemetery is about two miles north of town, and in which some Uniontown people were buried at an early day. One tombstone in this old burying ground records that Thomas Hatfield died October 7, 1801, aged 37 years, and another records that Sarah Williams, wife of Thomas Hatfield, 686 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. died January , 1813. This burying place is entirely neg- lected. At " Sandy Hill," two miles west of town is an old Quaker burying ground in which some Uniontown people are buried. This sacred spot is well fenced and well cared for from an ap- propriation set apart for that purpose. A Jewish burying ground of one and a half acres was laid off just north of the village of Hopwood in 1883, and nicely embellished. A child of Nathan Manheim was the first inter- ment here and Louis Fell, who died October 36, 1888, was the first adult buried in this cemetery. Uniondale Cemetery. George A. McCormick, on the 37th day of March, 1890, conveyed to the trustees of Uniondale Cemetery five acres of land situated about two and a half miles south of Uniontown on the Morgantown road as a burying ground. This has been used to some extent as a burying ground by the colored people of the town, but on account of the rocky nature of the ground, and the difRculty of digging the graves, it was found advisable to procure grounds elsewhere as a burying ground for their dead. Clearview cemetery was established on a tract of three acres of ground north of town which the colored people of the town purchased from O. P. Markle, October 14, 1897, and since which time many of the colored folks have been buried there. Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Slavonic cemetery, next north of Park Place cemetery, was dedicated with imposing ceremonies. May 30, 1904, since which many interments have been made therein. The little burying ground adjoining the county home con- tains a few of the indigent former inhabitants of Uniontown. At Fort Gaddis, two miles south of town, which was built by Col. Thomas Gaddis in 1770, and in which religious services were held by the Baptists, there was a small burying ground in which some of the early Gaddis family were buried ; one stone bearing the date of September 16, 1771. Many of the pioneer settlers were buried in a private bury- ing ground on their farm. CHAPTER XXIX. Some of the Former Business and Professional Men of the Town — Industries and Utilities — Mills — Iron Works — The Coke Industry — Gas — Water — Lighting the Town — Fayette County Fire Insurance Company. Bakers and Confectioners. — Ed. Gavin, Wm. Thorndell, George Ingles, John Ingles, John W. Barr, John Durbin, Ezekiel Shelcutt, Charles A. Shelcutt, Nancy McCahan, Jabez Thorn- dell, E. E. W^eniger, Leopold Kuth, William Ebert. Blacksmiths. — John Howell, John P. Sturgis, John Canon, Henry Nycum, Thomas Haymaker, Jacob Prettyman, Isaac Prettyman, Isaac Sampsel, Charles King, Thomas King, Ander- son Jolliffe, Seth White, John Wilt, Thomas A. Haldeman, George Grant, John Barre, William Wilhelm, George Cropp, Nathaniel Mitchell, Samuel Mitchell, William Coffman, Joseph Fisher, Huston Fisher, Hugh Rogers, William Nycum, James G. Watson, Ed. Cronin. Boot and Shoe Makers. — David Clark, Cary Stuck, Thomas Wathen, Edward Pence, Benjamin Saint, Simon Sampsel, Isaac Moore, John Carothers, Charles Page, Hugh Gorley, Henry Clark, Henry Wathen, Zed Fleming, Polk Winterbottom, S. K. Brown, Henry Farwell, George Thorndell, Benjamin Paine, Jesse Emery, Dennis Galespie, Thomas M. Fee, Alfred M. Gorley. , Butchers. — Elijah Crossland, Greenberry Crossland, Caleb Crossland, Everhart Bierer, Robert Patterson, Samuel Fisher, William B. McCormick. Broom Manufacturers. — John Ingles, Leonard Richards, James J. Wood. Brick Manufacturers. — Isaac Williams, Louis Williams, Zalmon Ludington, Josiah V. Williams, John N. Brownfield, R. I. Patterson, Hugh Burchinal, Edward Snider, Samuel Price, I. W. Miller. Barbers. — John Cupp was a white barber and was located here in the very early history of the town, as related elsewhere. Other early barbers were Davy Lewis, Bill Blaney, A. G. Ben- son, Wesley Fox, Eph Palmer, Eph Catlin, and Alexander Moxley. Andrew J. Bower, a white barber, located in Union- 687 688 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. town in the fall of 1883, and established himself in business, since which time the town has been well supplied with white barbers. Carpenters. — Rev. William Brownfield, Gabriel Getzen- danner, Hugh Graham, Samuel Richards, Adams Richards, Alexander Chisholm, Samuel Clark, Alexander Chisholm, Jr., Andrew B. Bryson, Daniel Sharpnack, Absalom White, William Doran, Leonard Richards, Enos West, John Sembower, John Bryan, John P. Huskins. Coopers. — Henry Curns, Frederick Byrer, John Byrer, Ellis Holland, William Hunter, Doc. Collins, Joseph Wagner, A. I. Ellis, Absalom Howard, J. M. Howard, Absalom Howard, Jr., Jacob Howard, Jehu Hartzel. Clothing. — Daniel Huston, John Hagan, Richard Barry, ' Ferd Laughead, Myers Hollander, M. Amberg, Wm. Prager, Max Baum. Carriage Makers. — ^John Gaddis, Eph Douglass, Frank Wilkinson, Monroe Beeson, John Canon, Maurice Lonergan, Thomas Prentice, Thomas Matthews & Son, J. M. Howard & Sons, John N. Lewellen & Son. Cabinet Makers. — William B. Roberts, William Selden, H. T. Diffenderffer, John Phillips, Miles Tiernan, James P. Hedges, Clark Beeson, A. M. JoUiffe, John Kimberly, Thomas J. Clag- gett, Cornelius Claggett, W. A. Mouck, John C. Wood, John Vankirk, William Redick, William Maquilken, Samuel Smith. Daguerrian Artists, Ambrotypists and Photographers. — Oscar Lane, Ezra M. Stanton, Mr. Purviance, Mr. McMasters, William K. Cooper, George L. West, Thomas Hare, E. A. Lingo, James Hadden. Dentists. — E. M. Power, Courtland King, H. S. Young, Jacob Moifitt, James Cope, T. F. Farmer. Druggists. — David Ewing, Jonathan D. Springer, L. B. Bowie, Fuller and Beggs, Patrick and Canon, Hugh Campbell, William H. Baily, J. A. Modisette, Beall and Breading, Moser and Ritenour, S. Fuller & Co. and the Hustons. Dry Goods. — Jacob Beeson, Empson Brownfield, Henry W. Beeson, Isaac Beeson, George Ebert, Henry and John Ebert, James McKean, James Boyle, Jacob Downer, Thomas Rankin, James Gibson, Richard Barry, R. L. Barry, George Shallen- berger, Martin and Sowers, Levi D. Stevens, R. M. Modisett, L. M. Kline, C. B. Snyder, W. D. Barclay, Isaac Skiles, Sr., HON. ANDREW STEWART, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 689 Isaac Skiles, Jr., W. and T. D. Skiles, Robert Skiles, Hugh Espy, Jonathan G. Allen, John Brownfield, Ewing Brownlield, B. Frank Hellen, P. H. Hellen, Norval Hellen, C. E. Swear- ingen, W. A. West, H. H. Beeson, P. U. Hook, Reuben and Ellis Baily. Dairymen. — Mrs. James Lenox supplied her customers of the town for many years from the two immense buckets of milk and cream which she carried from house to house. Samuel Hatfield introduced the milk wagon in the late 50s and he was soon followed by R. Porter Craig, William C. Dixson, Charles H. Smith, J. S. Bosley, H. T. Jaco, Samuel Price, John Kimberly and others. Founders. — Richard Miller, Eleazer Robinson, Thomas Jaquette, Jacob D. Moore, Jacob Prettyman, Levingston Bor- ing, George Coughenour, Stewart Starns, Milton Frankenberry. Grocers. — George W. Rutter, Johnze Dicus, James H. Springer, Thomas Sturgis, Price Beall, L. D. Beall, 01. Stewart, John McClelland, James T. Gorley, H. L. Rankin, T. H. Lewis, Wesley Brown, W. B. Roberts, Henry R. Beeson, Peter Kremer, Albert Kremer, Stouffer and White. Gunsmiths. — John White, Jacob F. Brant, William McClel- land, John Crossland, Peter Jacoby. Glove Makers. — Jonathan Fisher, Isabell Stum, Jane Hol- land, Sallie Love. Gas Fitters. — John F. Teed, who was employed at the gas works, was the pioneer gas fitter of the town. He was soon followed by others. Harness and Saddle Makers. — John Strayer, Jonathan Rowland, John Wood, William Wood, Isaac Wood, John W. Wood, Albert Wood, George H. Wood, E. O. Wood, E. B. Wood, Clement Wood, P. Mills Strayer, M. N. Lewis, Arm- strong Hadden, George W. Hubbs, Alexander McClean, Wil- liam McCleary. Hardware. — ^Jonathan D. Springer, Daniel Smith, Edmund Beeson, David Baker, Henry White, Zed Springer. Hatters. — Peter Hook, Benjamin Hellen, Samuel Harah, John S. Harah, Macon W. Rine, John Owings, James L. Bugh, William Ebert, James F. Canon. Jewelers. — John McCleary, Hardesty Walker, Ellis Baily, William Baily, Benj. Kremer, Henry Rigden, William Hunt, John Heitz. 690 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Milliners.— Mrs. Becky McClelland, Millie and Rebecca Faucett, Mrs. John L. Means, Catharine McCleary, Miss Mary Jane Shaw, Mrs. P. M. Hochheimer. Millers. — Henry Beeson, Jr., Nathan Jefiferis, John Denny, Jacob Landers, Henry Hawes, Billy McGuinn, Jesse Beeson, Adam Sembower, Isaac Skiles, William Swearingen, Joseph B. Moser, Jacob Mack, Daniel Swearingen, John McCoy, Jesse B. Ramsey, William S. Barnes, Jesse Reed, L. O. Reynolds, Roberts Barton, William Barton. Physicians. — Robert McCall, Samuel Sackett, Henry Chapese, Adam Simonson, Solomon Drown, Daniel Marchand, Lewis Marchand, Benjamin Stevens, J. B. Phythian, Daniel Sturgeon, Hugh Campbell, Alfred Meason, David Porter, H. F. Roberts, Andrew Patrick, R. M. Walker, Smith Fuller, F. C. Robinson. Painters. — John Knight, Joshua Speers, William Rutter, Thomas Brownfield, John G. Stevens, William A. Donaldson. Plasterers. — Edward Hyde, Lewis Vandiver, Aaron Mc- Clure. Restaurateurs. — Macon W. Rine, Henry Offitt, John Man- away, John Teed, John Durbin, George Ingles, Ezekiel Shel- cutt, James Winterbottom, James Ebert, Robert Knight, Oliver Wells, J. W. Brown, John Holly, John Ryland. Stone Cutters. — Harry Jack, Philp Crichbaum, John Brad- bury, Joseph White, Kent Combs, James Hagan, John Hagan, Joseph R. Marshall, Joseph H. Marshall, Robert Baird. School Teachers. — Betsy Hedges, John Donne, Noble Mc- Cormick, John Colestock, Sophia Stevens, William B. McCor- mick, James H. Springer, George H. Leithead, W. Whitton Redick, George L. Osborn, William Patton, Sarah Ann Samp- sel, Polly Canon, Mary Redick, Sarah Swisher, Ruth Dorsey, James Darby, Alf. Sembower, E. P. Oliphant, Levi S. Lewis. Tavern Keepers. — Harry Gilbert, Hanna Sands, Lydia Huffman, John Collins, Samuel Salter, Jonathan Rowland, Margaret (Granny) Allen, Robert McClure, Thomas Collins, John Slack, William Downerd, James Gregg, Nacca Gregg, William Medkirk, Simeon Houser, Amos Howell, Matthew Allen, Seth Howell, Philip Stentz, Thomas Moxley, Pierson Sayers, Jacob Harbaugh, James Piper, William Merryman, George Manypenny, Harry Gilbert, Zadoc Walker, Ewing Mc- Cleary, Wjlliam McClelland, Alfred McClelland, Joshua Marsh, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 691 Aaron Stone, P. U. Hook, Aaron Wyatt, Thomas Brownfield, Nathaniel Brownfield, J. W. Kissinger, Calvin Springer, Zadoc Cracraft, James Seaton, Kim Frey, Thomas Renshaw, Benjamin Miller, William Medkirk, Andrew Byers, Samuel Elder. Tailors. — John McCuen, D. M. Springer, Moses Shehan, John L. Means, Daniel Huston, Asher Baily, John Carpenter, Absalom Guiler, Peter Heck, James Heck, Elijah Gadd, Samuel Lewis, Henry Lape. Veterinary Surgeons. — Drs. Kemp, George Magee, Thomas M. Waldron, C. W. Springer. Weavers. — Noble McCormick, Peter Crawford, Wil- liam Stroud, Jane Lenom, James Winterbottom, William Kerr. Industries and Utilities. — The first automobile introduced into the town was owned by Thomas T. Coffin who bought it from the Locomobile Company of America, of New York, for which Mr. Coffin paid $600 or $700. He drove it from Browns- ville on April 8, 1901, through sixteen inches of snow. He kept it six or eight months and sold it to Charles W. Johnson for $250, who ran it backwards into the side of a building. He then opened a shop for the manufacture of cars on East Penn street where he made some six in number, when his factory burned. Percy D. Hagan introduced the first taxicab service in the town Thursday, October, 19, 1911. J. Harry Johnston & Son, funeral directors, introduced the first motor hearse to be used in the town, August 26, 1913. Builders' Supplies. — After several years in business, Wil- liam C. McCormick located on Center street and there estab- lished himself as a contractor and dealer in builders' supplies in which he did a thriving business until the time of his death, August 30, 1911. The Uniontown Builders' supply company located their plant at Hadden Place in 1909, Edward C. Cornish, president; Benton Boyd, secretary-treasurer. The Uniontown Construction company, composed of Charles J. Coates, Orlando Colley and McClelland Leonard, was incorporated March 3, 1905, and conducted an extensive busi- ness as contractors in grading, excavating, street paving, haul- ing and cement work. Electric Light and Power Introduced. — An electric light and power plant was established in 1889 when the town council 693 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. granted to W. G. Hay and his associates a franchise for the construction and operation of such a system. This plant soon passed into the hands of Samuel E. Ewing and his associates, known as the United Light company who received a franchise August 14, 1890, and furnished electric light and power to the town. Enameled-ware Plant. See chapter VII. Foundries. — Richard Miller erected a foundry on Pitts- burgh street which he put in blast July 4, 1846, and which he operated until compelled by advanced age to retire from active business, since which it has been operated by foundrymen and is still known as Miller's foundry. Eleazer Robinson erected a foundry on Morgantown street which he put in operation in 1840, and which he continued to operate for many years when he sold to Jaquette and Keffer who continued the business for some years until KefFer withdrew and Jaquette continued until compelled by age to retire in favor of his sons, Nathaniel and Andrew J. Jaquette. Nathaniel soon withdrew and Andrew J. continued the business for some time. The Keystone foundry was established in 1901 by Robert McDowell and C. W. Howell, who erected an office building and a foundry building on the site of the old nut and bolt works. This company employed a force of about ninety men and manu- factured car castings and other foundry articles. It remained in operation two or three years. The American Brake-shoe foundry, located on the site of the old nut and bolt works, employed over one hundred men in its various departments, and melted forty tons of metal per day. After a shutdown of nearly five years, it resumed operations September 18, 1913, under the superintendence of J. H. Brown. Glass Works. — The Thompson glass works were established on South Mount Vernon avenue and put into operation in May, 1889, and operated until 1895, when after laying idle for five years, it was sold to George W. Frey & Co., who operated it a short time. The Frey Decorative Glass Plant was operated about one year. The Warren glass works were moved here from Cumberland where they had been in operation for the past eight years. The plant was located near the foot of Grant street and put in operation in September, 1888. It was a forty pot plant and fur- nished employment to about one hundred and fifty hands. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 693 After having suspended operation for some time, the plant was overhauled and put in operation as the Flint Glass Works, August 35, 1898, and conducted as such for a few years, and then abandoned. The Uniontown Flint Glass company was located on East Penn street, and started in business in 1903, and employed about twenty-five hands, and was owned by William R. Gray. This plant was utterly destroyed by fire Monday evening, December 31, 1908, and Peter Phillips, one of the employes of the plant, who was sleeping before the furnace at the time the fire oc- curred, was burned to a crisp. The Keystone Bottle Manufacturing company, composed of William H. and George W. Smart, began business on the site of the old Uniontown Flint Glass works in 1907, and the company was incorporated in 1908, and furnished employment to about one hundred hands. The Lily Paper-Weight company, with Charles Zimmer- man and others as proprietors, erected a factory on the site of the old Nut and Bolt works and made paper-weights for about two years. The Uniontown Gas Works were established on North Beeson avenue in 1869 by John H. Miller of Grafton, West Virginia, who conducted them for a few years when the plant passed into other hands and conducted until superseded by the introduction of natural gas. Natural gas was introduced into the town in July, 1888, and was used for heating purposes only, in the houses, until the in- vention of the gas mantle, from which time it took the place of manufactured gas as an illuminant. The Redstone Garbage company erected a furnace at a cost of about $9,000 near Cycle Park out Connellsville street, which was put in operation in March, 1907, by which the rubbish and offensive matter of the town was disposed of. Other parties were previously, and still are engaged in removing the garbage from the town. A hub and spoke factory was operated at the foot of Pitts- burgh street for a short time by Seneca McCord, Ellis Baily and others. It was started in 1871. Manufactured Ice Plants. — Hygeia Ice Plant, see Chapter VIII. 694 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The Crystal Ice plant, with the capacity of forty tons of ice per day, was established by Armor S. Craig & Sons on Wood avenue, and put in operation June 1, 1909. Isaac N. Hagan erected an ice cream factory, with complete machinery for the manufacturing of ice cream to the amount of 2,000 gallons per twenty-four hours, in the fall of 1906. Asa Rogers and his associates organized what was known as the Fayette Ice Cream factory May 11, 1911. The plant was located at the east end of Church street, where a superior quality of the delicacy is manufactured. Leopold Kuth, William Brownfield and others have been extensive manufacturers of ice cream. William Carter was a caterer in ice cream for many years, and his place was a favorite resort for this delicacy in the summer and for cooked dinners in the winter months. He knew how to satisfy the cravings of the inner man. The Sanitary Paper Bottle and Box company commenced operations on Arch street March 18, 1912. O. W. Ken- nedy, president; R. M. Fry, secretary-treasurer; James S. Amond, business manager. The plant had a capacity of 18,000 bottles in ten hours, and employed twelve to fourteen hands. This factory was entirely destroyed by fire at 3 :30, Thursday morning, March 27, 1913. M. W. Miller established the first dyeing and scouring establishment in the town, and which he conducted until his death, July 13, 1908, a period of thirty-five years. John Kuth established a plant for the manufacture of mineral water and pop in 1884, which he operated for several years. He was succeeded in the business by John Stockdale about 1899, who is still in the business with the capacity of manufacturing 500 cases in twenty-four hours. Ewing B. Mar- shall established himself in the business and sold out to Thomas Lowry, who built a new factory in 1908, on South street with a capacity of 500 cases in twenty-four hours. Daniel Sweeney is also a large manufacturer of mineral waters. The Armour & Co. meat market was established in Union- town in January, 1891, at the foot of Beeson avenue, and here they conducted business until they purchased a lot on North Gallatin avenue, January 13, 1900, and erected thereon a three- story brick building suitable for their business. This building cost about $30,000, and was opened for inspection by the public History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 695 on January 16, 1901, on which occasion a free lunch was served. The Schwarzchild and Sulzberger, known as the S. & S. meat market was established in Uniontown in 1896, when they occupied buildings near the Baltimore and Ohio freight station. Here they conducted business until they erected commodious offices and warehouse adapted to their business in 1898 on North Mt. Vernon avenue, where they have continued to con- duct a thriving business, with the capacity of handling I'S.OOO to 80,000 pounds of meat. The Uniontown Provision company was established at the foot of CoiTee street in 1912, and butchered the first beef on November 14th of that year. The company has a capacity of butchering one car load of cattle or hogs per day. John Sansone established a wholesale produce market Janu- ary 1, 1897. Marion McClean soon followed. Armor S. Craig & Sons established a wholesale produce market on South street and later erected a large warehouse on Church street, where they continued the business. Others have also engaged in the business. William H. Farwell was the pioneer job printer of the town; establishing its first exclusive job printing establishment July 1, 1888, which is still in successful operation. Other job offices have been established. Uniontown has been able to boast of several good brass bands. The Whig Brass Band was organized at an early day, and among its members were George W. Rutter, the long estab- lished merchant of the town, and Wesley Phillips. Mr. Rutter played a double keyed flageolet upon which he played two parts of the music at a time. This flageolet was burned in the fire that destroyed the exposition buildings in Allegheny. A rival band at this time was the " Democratic Band ; " among its members were: C. B. Snyder, Israel Hogue and James Snyder. These bands were in great demands at political demonstrations. A brass band was in existence in 1847, under the tutorship of Captain William H. Stowey of Waynesburg. Some of the members of this band were : James T. Gorley, trombone ; Hugh Gorley, cornet; George Hubbs, sax-tuba; Orton Frisbie, ophi- cleide. By the request of this band the town council took action on September 24, 1849, by which the " Union Brass Band " was 696 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. granted the use of the town hall " provided they conducted themselves in an orderly manner." The most noted brass band of the town, and of which her citizens were always justly proud, was the famous Rutter Band which was organized in the summer of 1856. The original roster of this band was as follows : Henry Brown, keyed bugle ; George W. Rutter, the tailor, B flat sax horn; John (Curly) Inghram, alto ; Thomas Brownfield and William Rutter, tenors ; James J. White, baritone; J. Wesley Means, bass; Stephen Beckett, bass drum. This band was suspended during the civil war, and several of its members participated in that struggle. After the war the band was reorganized and procured new instruments and new uniforms, and in conjunction with the Connellsville band, at- tended the Centennial exhibition at Philadelphia in 1876. In 1893 this band procured new uniforms and accompanied the Randall Club of Pittsburgh to Chicago when Grover Cleveland was nominated for the third time for the presidency, and par- ticipated with the Randall Club to Washington, D. C, at Cleve- land's second inauguration. No other band in this section would compete with the Rutter Band for a premium; consequently when premiums were contested for. Putter's Band was excluded from the contest. This famous band disbanded in 1909, and Charley Price organized what was known as Price's Band which contained some of the younger blood of the Rutter band. This band held its organization until 1911, when engagements else- where called Mr. Price away from the town. Lumber Companies and Planing Mills. — The Carroll Lum- ber and Planing Mill company was organized in 1903, with a capital of $30,000. They located on North Mt. Vernon avenue. The Ohiopyle Lumber and Planing Mill company located on Penn street in 1902, where they conducted business for a few years. Charles F. Eggers and Samuel M. Graham established a planing mill and lumber yards on East Fayette street in 1901, and did an immense business as contractors and dealers in lumber and builders' supplies. Mr. Graham withdrew from the firm, since which time Mr. Eggers has continued the business. This mill has furnished employment to many mechanics and laborers, and has been a blessing to the town. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, 697 - A. A. Taggert & Co. ran a Planing mill on Pfenn street for a few years. The South Penn Building company established a planing mill and lumber yard on the lot formerly occupied by the Ohio- pyle Lumber company, on Penn street, May 13, 1907, and carried on extensively as dealers and contractors in building. The Union Planing Mill was located on East Fayette street by the McFarland brothers in 1887 or 1888 and ran until 1893, when it was sold to Carson, Teggart and Davis and others by whom it was run until 1898, when it went into bankruptcy. Laundries. — Hill Harold operated a laundry at the eastern bridge in 1891, and sold it to W. A. Gilliland who sold it to F. M. Morss who moved it to Jefferson street, added modern ma- chinery and conducted it successfully. The Fayette Laundry began operations in July, 1894, in a large brick building erected for the purpose and fitted, with modern machinery, on Wood avenue, in July, 1894. Alex J. Mead, manager. Eli Gaddis and William Frederick, Jr., erected a flouring mill near Redstone creek on North Beeson avenue about 1887, which they operated about one year when they sold to Albert Gaddis and Ami G. Thomas January 1, 1886, who operated it until in 'July of that year when it was entirely destroyed by fire. Mr. Gaddis and others rebuilt on Mill street where they operated successfully until March, 1906, when they sold to John Hogsett & Co. who have since conducted the business. Potteries. — Potteries have been conducted in the town by Christian Tarr, Abner Greenland and Norval Greenland as mentioned elsewhere. Sprinkling of the streets to allay the dust was introduced by Richard A. McClean in 1871. He used a one-horse wagon and obtained the water at the gas works at $4.50 per month and charged from fifteen to fifty cents per week for sprinkling in front of subscribers' property. He enlarged his facilities and continued the business until the introduction of city water. The sale of the Pittsburgh daily papers was introduced into the town by James Hadden as the first " newsie." He started with ten or a dozen subscribers for the Evening Chronicle at ten cents per week, to which was subsequently added the Dis- patch at six cents per week, and a few copies of the Post. The streets not being lighted in those days, he was compelled, on 698 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. dark nights, to carry his own light, which consisted of a glass paneled lantern in which was a tallow candle. The business now has grown to quite an enterprise, and the daily paper has become a necessity. Efforts were made in 1887 to effect the organization of a Young Men's Christian Association. Several men applied them- selves earnestly to the task, and meetings were held at various places for the purpose of arousing a general interest in the cause, with varied success. A considerable amount was subscribed toward the purchase of a suitable property for a home for the association. The old Beeson store room property on West Main street was pur- chased and part of it devoted to the purpose and occupied as such for some time, but the general interest in the meetings soon abated. A meeting was held at the residence of Frank M. Semans, Jr. on April 5, 1906, for the purpose of instilling new life into the organization, at which the statement was made that property vested in the association was valued at $50,000. On March 19, 1907, at a meeting of the board of directors, J. V. Thompson and J. D. Ruby proposed to exchange the old Thorndell property on the corner of East Main street and North Gallatin avenue, and other valuable considerations, for the old Beeson store room property, which proposition was accepted. At the same meeting plans were consummated for the purchase of the old Dr. J. B. Ewing property adjoining on the east, then belonging to J. Q. Van Swearingen, A. F. Cooper and T. S. Lackey, at the consideration of $45,000, minus a donation of $5,000. Since which there has been some discussion as to tear- ing away the old buildings and the erection of a modern Y. M. C. A. building, with business rooms and offices from which a revenue can be derived sufficient for the maintenance of the Y. M. C. A. A large building was constructed south of East Fayette street by a stock company for the purpose of a nut and bolt works which was started in operation about 1886, but after running but two years it passed into the hands of the sheriff, and C. H. Smith, A. L. Moser and Dr. A. P. Bowie became the owners in 1888. The Uniontown Machine company, consisting of A. L. Moser, C. L. Smith, Dr. A. P. Bowie, Samuel, Alfred and John L. Johnson conducted a business here until June 3, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 699 1889, when the property was entirely destroyed by fire, the loss sustained was estimated at near $30,000. The Old Steam Mill. — One Joseph Huston, a native of Maryland, erected a building near the east end of Penn street in 1838, for the purpose of a distillery and used it as such for some time, and he was also engaged in other business in the town. It is alleged that the whisky he manufactured would freeze in cold weather even when in barrels in the house. He became involved and his property was sold by the sheriff to James Huston of Franklin township. This property subsequently came into the possession of Israel Painter who converted it into a flouring mill and con- structed a mill race from the Henry Beeson saw mill on the banks of Redstone creek, crossing the pike above the eastern bridge, thence to the mill where it supplied the motor power for the operation of the mill, and while in the ownership of Col. Painter the building was destroyed by fire and a new one was erected. Samuel S. Austin and Andrew Byers advertise that they had purchased the new grist mill and distillery and offered it for rent in 1841. This mill was again burned in March, 1851, while in the occupancy of William Kerr and the fire was supposed to have been the work of an incendiary, but it could never be proven. Mr. Kerr, it was said, could walk holding a barrel of flour on each hip. The weather was so severe at the time of this fire that the water froze in the fire engines, and while the outside of the building was a sheet of ice, the interior was a seething mass of flame. This was the first mill in the community to use steam power and was always alluded to as " the steam mill." Jacob Murphy, with William S. Barnes as miller, purchased the site and erected a new mill which they operated for several years. William K. Cooper became connected with Mr. Barnes in the operation of the mill, and later, Clinton Cooper, a brother to W. K., became connected. Jesse B. Ramsey and Jesse B. Gardner operated this mill for some time, then it lay idle for several years, when Messrs. Baldwin and Cheney, who had graded the Fayette County railroad, traded $5,000 of railroad stock and $1,000 in cash for the mill property, and Mr. Murphy lost much of this stock in the sale of the road. 700 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Baldwin afld Cheney soon offered this property for sale and Fred Wilmarth became the purchaser and Mr. L. O. Reynolds became his agent and operated the mill for several years, and he was succeeded in the business by his two sons, Burke and Lyman Reynolds and W. C. McCormick, for several years. These were followed by Ellis Baily who purchased the mill and his son, George M. Baily, took the management. William H. Playford purchased the property, and after laying idle for several years, he sold it to Daniel J. Johnson who converted it into a distillery and conducted it as such until it was again destroyed by fire, on Wednesday afternoon, January 29, 1902. This immense fire occurring amidst a heavy fall of snow, was spectacular in the extreme. Johnson then erected a large brick distillery and warehouse on the site of the old mill which he transferred to George W. Gans. The Laughead, Modisette & Co. planing mill on North Beeson avenue, was erected by James A. Laughead, William H. Baily and Dr. Smith Fuller and put into operation in February, 1868, and during the almost thirty years of its existence it built nearly all the expensive buildings erected in the town during that time. Although some changes were made in the member- ship of the firm, it always sustained its high reputation as to responsibility and capable workmanship. This plant was located just north of Redstone creek and occupied several acres of ground with its mills, offices, sheds and lumber yards. This mill was destroyed by an incendiary fire May 12, 1897, the loss was estimated at $50,000, being owned at the time by E. P. Laughead, A. H. Laughead, Hugh A. Burchinal, I. W. Miller, Charles E. Kremer, D. H. Thompson, S. M. Dannells, Levi Crawford, Springer Crawford, H. C. Huhn, J. G. Fields, C. T. Hall, T. O. Williams, B. F. Humbert and J. P. Conn ; many of these were workmen in the mill. The burning of this mill was the worst blow of the kind that ever befell the town; not only was it a severe loss to the stockholders but to the many em- ployes who here found steady employment and the town lost one of its best business enterprises. The Laughead, Modisette & Co. built a double brick tene- ment north of the mill in 1879, which was occupied by various tenants. Mr. Mcllvane built a frame dwelling next south of the brick and occupied it. It became the property of George W. Litman. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 701 The Columbia Rolling mill or Iron and Steel Works pro- cured grounds at the north end of North Beeson avenue and began operations in September, 1887. These works did an im- mense business and furnished employment to many skilled me- chanics and common laborers while in operation, but on May 16, 1891, Col. J. M. Schoonmaker arrived in town and took charge of the property of the company as receiver. The buildings were torn away in April, 1900, and the machinery and all that was left of the stock was shipped to the Carnegie Steel company at Homestead. The last pieces of the old mill were shipped away in 1901, by Jody McLaughlin, who had been in the employ of the company for fourteen years and seven months, and by Harvey Herrington who had been in their employ twelve years. The land was sold to the Carnegie Steel company June 9, 1911. Pennsylvania Construction Company. — In 1886, the Penn- sylvania Construction Company, under the supervision of Harry P. Butz, erected shops at the north end of North Beeson avenue on land owned by the Columbia Iron and Steel Company, the right of way of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad company divid- ing the two. This construction company did much of the structural work from the product of the Columbia rolling mill, with which it was connected, and was well equipped for turn- ing out much and excellent work, and furnished employment for many skilled workmen and common laborers while in operation. Uniontown Radiator Works and Enameling Plant. — In 1897, a Board of Trade was organized in Uniontown with John D. Carr as president. As the outgrowth of this Board of Trade the Uniontown Radiator company was organized with Max Baum as president; Evans Linn, vice-president; Jacob Linn, secretary; O. P. Markle, treasurer and John D. Carr, man- ager. The old buildings of the Uniontown Steel and Construc- tion company were secured, and business started auspiciously, but from the lack of sufficient capital the company was com- pelled to make an assignment, and the assignee sold the prop- erty to Evans Linn. In 1899, Lloyd G. McCrum and others organized a com- pany which brought the plant from Evans Linn and formed what was known as the Acme Radiator company and com- menced business May 20, 1899. This company was chartered July 17, 1899, with a capital of $28,000, with the following di- 703 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. rectors: Fuller Hogsett, A. L. Moser, J. M. Hustead, L. G. McCrum and I. W. Semans, with L. G. McCrum as business manager. The officers were: Fuller Hogsett, president; I. W. Semans, treasurer; L. G. McCrum, secretary. This plant, under judicious management, soon became a profitable industry. The patterns and equipments were overhauled and the buildings en- larged and the output greatly increased. In 1903, the plant was sold, and in 1903, the firm became McCrum, Howell, Kellogg and Pierce, who bought the enamel- ing plant of the Champion Manufacturing company at Blairs- ville. This new company erected a large brick foundry and machine shop, and greatly increased the capacity of the plant. In May, 1904, McCrum, Howell and Kellogg bought the Uniontown plant from the Kellogg-Mackay-Cameron company, and in June of the same year organized the Kellogg-McCrum- Howell company, having three plants, viz. : the Radiator plant at Uniontown, an enamel ware plant at Blairsville and a boiler and furnace plant at Norwich, Connecticut; the Blairsville plant having been purchased by McCrum, Howell and Kellogg in 1903, and the Norwich plant in March, 1904. This firm did a prosper- ous business, and in April, 1906, Mr. Kellogg retired, and the firm became McCrum, Howell and Company. In September, 1905, the Blairsville plant was destroyed by fire and it was de- cided to rebuild at Uniontown, which work was begun that same year and the new plant was put in operation in September, 1906. The radiator plant had a capacity of 13,000 square feet a day, or more than 3,500,000 square feet a year. The enameling plant had a capacity of 300 bath tubs and 300 sinks and lava- tories a day. Both plants were modern in every respect, thor- oughly equipped, and turned out products of the highest quality. Each plant was complete within itself; taking the raw material and turning out the finished product. The radiator plant fur- nished employment to 300 hands and the enameling plant furnished employment to 350 hands. This McCrum-Howell Company went into involuntary bankruptcy March 14, 1913, and receivers were appointed by the federal court, and near the close of that year a reorganization was affected and the plants were continued in operation under the name of the Richmond Radiator Company. The Coke Industry. — From the fact that Uniontown owes her phenominal prosperity principally to the coke industry of History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 703 the county of which she is the shire-town, and being a great nerve center from which radiates much of the vital energy that inspires and controls much of this great industry, it is emi- nently proper that due mention thereof should be made in this work. It is conceded that James Cochran of Dawson, Pa., was the pioneer coke manufacturer for commercial purposes in the Connellsville coke region; as in 1843, from the product of two ovens, he manufactured two boat loads of coke, of 6,000 bushels each, which he floated to the Cincinnati market. The early foundrymen of this region manufactured their own coke as needed, by what was known as the open hearth method. It is scarcely believable that within the span of one lifetime the coke industry could have developed from compara- tive insignificance to its present gigantic proportions. In 1849 there was not a coke furnace in blast in Pennsyl- vania. In 1855 there were but twenty-six coke ovens above Pitts- burgh, and the United States census report for 1850 shows that there were but four establishments making coke in the United States up to that time. The coke industry now ranks among the first in point of magnitude and importance in the country, and its wonderful growth is unequaled by any other industry. The coke region surrounding Uniontown, on account of the superiority of its product for blast furnaces and foundry use, is now supplying seventy-five per cent, of the coke manufactured in the United States. Late statistics show that there are now upwards of 40,000 ovens in blast in this region, with a weekly output of 410,000 tons per week ; and that the weekly payroll amounts to $800,000, of which $500,000 is paid to the laboring man. The Fayette Fuel Gas and Oil company was formed by L. L. Minor, president; William Hunt, vice-president; John K. Ewing, Jr., secretary; J. J. Allebaugh, treasurer; A. M. Jolliffe, superintendent. Other members of the company were : William A. Keener, Clark Breckenridge, Eli C. Gaddis, Noble McCor- mick, J. K. Ritenour, all of Uniontown, and L. N. Singley and Greer & Smith of Washington county. The company struck gas on the farm of John G. Rider, in German township September 38, 1887. 704 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The 10th of July 1888, found the lines of the company within the borough of Uniontown, and in August of that year the company was supplying gas to the consumers. The rates at that time were fixed at $10 per year for cooking stoves, and $4 per year each grate. The Uniontown Water Company was incorporated in 1883, with a capital of $300,000. The first reservoir was built on Shute's run in Cool Spring hollow and had a capacity of 3,000,000 gallons, and the water was piped to the town. Since which time several and much larger reservoirs have been constructed to meet the rapidly increasing demands for water. No town can boast of a purer supply of water than that furnished the in- habitants of Uniontown, as it is furnished direct from the labora- tory of nature. Lighting the town. — It is difficult at the present day to realize that within the lifetime of some of our older residents our forefathers were content to use nothing but the glow of the backlog, the blaze of the pine knot or the dim flicker of the grease cup with its projtruding rag wick for lighting their homes, and as for lighting the streets of the town, they never harbored the thought. The candle dip, which came later, was quite an innovation over the grease cup, and was more suitable and elegant for lighting the dwellings and stores, when inserted in respectable candlesticks or chandeliers, and convenient for carrying when enclosed in lanterns having glass panels. When it is remembered that the common carbon oil of today was sold in the stores at one dollar and ten cents per gallon as late as 1860, it will not be wondered at that the tallow candle was not discarded sooner, but lingered so long as an illuminant. It appears that the first movement towards lighting the streets of the town was made September 34, 1849, as on that date the town council appointed a committee to erect six lamps on Main street, and Robinson and Wylie were paid $35.63% for the lamps, and John Pumroy was allowed two dollars per month for attending, lighting and extinguishing the same. What illuminant was used in these lamps is not mentioned ; and on November 37, 1855, a committee was appointed by the town council to inquire into the cost of introducing manufactured History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 705 gas into the town, or the feasibility of organizing a gas company for that purpose. In 1869, John H. Miller of Grafton, West Virginia, con- structed a gas plant near Redstone creek on North Beeson avenue. The streets were piped and the business houses and residences lighted by gas for the first time in the history of the town; and on the 30th of July of that year he was author- ized to erect twenty-five gas posts at suitable places in the town for the purpose of lighting the streets. One of these lights was to be placed in front of the court house and to be paid for by the commissioners, one to be placed at Mrs. Wyatt's hotel and one at Mrs. McClelland's hotel to be paid for by these two parties, and the others to be paid for by the borough at large. Mr. Miller operated this plant until May 8, 1872, when it passed into other hands. Considerable dissatisfaction arose as to the cost of lighting the streets. A compromise was affected by which the lights were to burn only eighteen nights of each month — in the dark of the moon only — and then but two hours each night — from 8 to 10 o'clock, thus allowing business men and church goers to get home by the lights on the streets. This arrangement reduced the cost of lighting the streets to about twenty-five dollars per month. The practicability of lighting the streets with carbon oil lamps was discussed at council August 36, 1873, but the change was not adopted; but on July 29, 1879, an order was drawn in favor of the Globe Light company of Philadelphia for fifteen street lamps which were erected on the streets, and the number of these lamps was increased to thirty-two. Gasoline was the illuminant used in these lamps, and it was included in the duties of the police to attend to the lighting and extinguishing of these lamps. Natural gas was struck at the Rider well in German town- ship September 38, 1887, and was piped into Uniontown in July of the following year. The residences and business houses were heated, and one hundred and one lamps were erected and the streets lighted from open burners, and millions of cubic feet of gas were wantonly wasted, until the needle valve was intro- duced. This mode of lighting the streets was used until the adoption of electric lights, when the Borough entered into an agreement whereby the United Light company agreed to furnish ■^06 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. one hundred and seven arc street lights, of 3,000 candle power each for lighting the streets from January 1, 1903, at the rate of $70 per light each per year ; the number of lights to be increased, at the same rate, as the demands of the town required. Electric lights introduced. — A movement was inaugurated by some of the enterprising men of the town for the installation of an electric light and power plant, but the action was deferred until June 1, 1889, when the town council granted to W. G. Hay and his associates a franchise for the construction and operation of such a system. The plant was constructed but soon passed into other hands, and another franchise was granted to Samuel E. Ewing and his associates for the introduction of electricity for light and power, August 14, 1890. This company was known as the United Light company, and the Borough entered into an agreement whereby this company agreed to furnish one hun- dred and seven arc street lights, of 3,000 candle power each, for the purpose of lighting the streets, from January 1, 1903 at the rate of $70 per light per year, the number of lights to be in- creased, at the same rate, as the demands of the town required. The West Penn Railways company took over the franchise of the United Light company in March, 1903, since which time the borough and citizens have been supplied with electric light from that company. The Fayette County Mutual Fire Insurance Company. — By an act of the Legislature of Pennsylvania approved the twenty- fifth day of March, 1844, the Fayette County Mutual Fire In- surance Company was incorporated. The members of the com- pany at the time of incorporation were: Isaac Beeson, John Dawson, Alfred McClelland, Andrew Byers, William B. Roberts, James F. Cannon, Ewing Brownfield, John Huston, Robert P. Flenniken, Daniel Kaine, James Piper, Samuel Y. Campbell and Everhart Bierer, who were named as managers of the company. Isaac Beeson was chosen as president of the board of managers, and James Veech as secretary, and Alfred McClelland as treas- urer; Mr. Veech declining the office, James Piper was elected to fill the vacancy. William B. Roberts, Alfred McClelland, James F. Canon, Isaac Beeson and James Piper constituted the first committee to solicit insurance in the company. The first insurance began to take effect from the 5th day of May, 1845, at 13 o'clock, noon. W. D. Barclay was elected solicitor for the company May History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 707 31, 1849, and upon the resignation of Mr. Piper as secretary, Mr. Barclay succeeded to that office, the duties of which he per- formed with signal ability and satisfaction to the company until his death, May 16, 1865. The company enjoyed the most en- couraging support for many years, and at one time the com- pany held insurance on property valued at $1,393,373, and one report states that during four successive years in the history of the company the loss by fire was but fifteen dollars during that time. So cautious were the directors against dangerous risks, that it became a common saying that the company would not insure anything but a mill-dam or a stone ice-house. James H. Springer soon succeeded Mr. Barclay as agent and secretary, and during his incumbency a most disastrous fire oc- curred at Somerset on May 4, 1873, which was followed by an- other at the same place on May 9, 1876. The assessments, which had fallen so lightly since the organization of the com- pany up to this time, falling so heavily following these two losses, almost disorganized the company, but many who had kept their policies in the company for many years found the mutual system far the cheapest in the long-run and the business was continued with varied success against the strenuous op- position of the stock companies, until the disastrous fire which destroyed the Wilson Block, July 3, 1898, and damaging the ad- joining buildings, entailing a loss estimated at $126,000, and which was followed by the fire on Peter street, November 1, 1901, which destroyed an entire block, causing a loss estimated at $50,000. These losses had such a depressing efifect as to cause the directors to determine to suspend operations on June 37, 1903. When an estimate is made of the amount of money paid out of the town for insurance and how little is returned, per- haps, not over five per cent., it will be seen that by the suspen- sion of the Fayette County Mutual the avenue of the most in- expensive mode of insurance ever devised was closed to the citizens of the town and vicinity. CHAPTER XXX. Churches — Great Bethel Baptist — Methodist Episcopal — First Presbyterian — Central Presbyterian, now Second Pres- byterian — Cumberland Presbyterian, now Third Presbyterian — Methodist Protestant — Saint Peter's Protestant Episcopal — Saint Paul's A. M. E. — Saint John's Roman Catholic — ^John Wesley A. M. E. Zion — First German Baptist Brethren — First Brethren — Church of the Brethren — Salvation Army — Mount Olive — Minerd Chapel or Second Methodist Protestant — Saint Paul's Lutheran — Central Christian — Saint Mary's Slavonic Roman Catholic — Temple Israel — Mount Vernon Methodist Episcopal — Mount Rose Baptist — Tree of Life — Saint Joseph's Polish Roman Catholic — Saint John the Baptist Greek — Union — Hungarian Presbyterian — Presby- terian Slavish Mission. Great Bethel Baptist. Great Bethel Baptist church was constituted November 7, 1770, by Rev. Henry Crosby, and on the following day an organization was formed by the installation of Isaac Sutton as the first pastor and Jacob Vanmetre, Richard Hall, Zepheniah Blackford, Rachel Sutton, Lettice Vanmetre, Sarah Hall, Thomas Gaddis, James McCoy, Owen Davis, Moses Carr, Philip Pierce, Joseph Thomas, Joseph Boutenhouse, Philip Jenkins, Richard Reed, Thomas Bowell and James Littell as original members, to which were added soon after by baptism John Carr, Elizabeth Carr, Sarah Baccus, David Morgan, Wil- liam Murphy, Vanmetre, James McCloy and Mary Anderson. At a meeting held March 18, 1780, it was resolved that a meeting house for public worship be built, and in July following it was resolved that two meeting houses be built. It would ap- pear that the first meeting house was built on the Rogers farm some six miles south of Uniontown, near Ashcraft's fort. And at a meeting held September 15, 1787, it was resolved that a meeting house be built on the great road about one-fourth of a mile from Uniontown. This was the second meeting house 708 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 709 decided upon seven years before. In Deed Book D, page 295 is recorded an article of agreement made March 13, 1789, between Joseph Tomelston and William McCoy in which Tomelston al- lows McCoy to remove the logs already cut for the construc- tion of the Baptist meeting house by the first of April next. Tomelston and McCoy owned the land adjoining that on which the meeting house was to be built, and this article of agreement certainly fixes the date of the erection of the first Baptist meet- ing house in Uniontown. In Deed Book F, page 47, is recorded a deed made by Henry Beeson, the founder of the town, to the members of the Regular Baptist church, called Great Bethel, for one acre of land on the east side of Morgantown street, and fronting 330 feet on said street. The deed bears date of May 36, 1804, and the price was five pounds Pennsylvania money, equal to $13.33. This is the lot on which the second of the log meeting houses was built, in 1789, and included the old Baptist burying ground adjoining the meeting house. In 1787, Rev. David Loofbower was called as an assistant to Rev. Isaac Sutton, but in 1790, trouble arose; some accusa- tions having been preferred against several members of the church, was the cause, and Rev. Sutton withdrew and continued services at his house, and the Great Bethel church and the Loofbower faction occupied the meeting house. Rev. Sutton resigned as pastor, March 31, 1790, but was recalled by one branch in September following, and services were thus con- ducted by the two parties until October 4, 1791, when a com- promise was effected by which both factions were permitted to use the meeting house, and the coolness soon died out. The Loofbower faction had formed themselves into the Uniontown Baptist church, but on November 6, 1790, the Church of Christ, called Great Bethel, met the Church of Christ, called Uniontown, according to appointment. At this meeting the church of Uniontown was dissolved and the members received into fellowship with Great Bethel. Loofbower continued to preach until October 5, 1793, when he resigned and left for New Jersey. Isaac Sutton was granted a letter of dismission on September 31, 1793, but continued to preach part of his time until May 36, 1794, at which time Benjamin Stone was called as supply to preach once a month, and afterwards as pastor, and 710 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. he continued until September 7, 1805, when he was granted a letter of dismission, but was recalled June 11, 1806, to preach once a month, and he continued as pastor until 1812. Rev. William Brownfield succeeded Rev. Stone as pastor. Mr. Brownfield presented himself as a candidate for Christian baptism December 1, 1798, and was licensed to preach the gospel in January 1799, and was ordained December 6, 1800, and on February 6, 1802, he was called to preach the second and fourth Sabbaths of each month, though Mr. Stone was still pastor, and Mr. Brownfield assumed full charge, February 13, 1812, which position he held alone until April 6, 1833, when Rev. Milton Sutton was called to preach once a month. Minutes of the Great Bethel Baptist church of December 9, 1826, state that Samuel Littell accused Rev. William Brown- field of " preaching false doctrines of which the church were the ignorant receivers," namely : " that it was the divinity of Christ that suffered; that he suffered just so much as would atone for the sins of the elect alone, and that more would have been unjust, etc." Resolved, unanimously, that whereas Samuel Littell has wilfully misrepresented the doctrine taught by Rev. William Brownfield, our minister, and received and maintained by the church, that he be, and is hereby excluded from our com- munion and fellowship. Rev. Brownfield mastered the Greek and Hebrew languages although he was never inside a college. He was a diligent student, a fine linguist and was well versed in polemics and church history. His father was known as Tory Tom Brown- field from the fact that his sympathies were with England dur- ing the struggle of the American colonists against the mother country. Rev. Brownfield was a carpenter by trade, and did considerable contract work as such in the erection of some of the dwelling houses about the town. He turned the large wooden columns that supported the galleries in the brick meet- ing house that is still standing and which was built in 1831- 33, on the site of the former log building. In turning these columns he had a man at each end of the log turning the same by hand while he held the turning tools. Rev. Brownfield was ultra Calvanistic in his views which he sought on every occasion to enforce upon his hearers. In 1832, serious contentions arose as to missions and be- nevolent societies in the church. The home and foreign mis- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 711 sionary societies were endeavoring to push these organizations to all parts of the state, but Rev. Brownfield opposed these movements as unscriptural and un-Baptistic, and objected to any one preaching in his pulpit who advocated the cause of missions, declaring that if the Lord wanted the heathen saved He would save them in His own good way. Finally the Rev. John Thomas preferred charges of perversion of testimony against Rev. Brownfield, but the church sustained Mr. Brown- field at a meeting held in April, 1835, which action caused some members to withdraw from the church. At this same meeting Rev. Milton Sutton was asked to continue another year as as- sistant pastor. At a meeting held October 3, 1835, Rev. Brown- field was asked to withdraw as pastor because he would not allow other preachers to fellowship. The motion was declared carried; a protest was entered, and some more members with- drew from the church. In January, 1836, Rev. Brownfield petitioned the legisla- ture, asking that body to pass an act vesting the title of the church property in the Regular, or Old School Baptist church, as the opponents to missions styled themselves, but Rev. Milton Sutton read a protest against the petition. The two pastors then contended for possession of the meeting house. The matter was referred to Redstone Association which body decided in favor of Brownfield as representing the Great Bethel Regular Baptist church. Thus fortified, they closed the doors against the other branch, but the opponents of Brownfield forced the doors and held services. Moses Nixon was appointed to notify the New School or mission party to cease making appointments in the house. Being unheeded, in February, 1837, Moses Nixon and Isaac Hutchinson fastened the doors and windows and posted warnings against trespassers, with threats of prosecution. The doors were again forced and Milton Sutton and others preached to the New School or mission party. The threatened suit fol- lowed and was tried at a special session of court in 1843, when a verdict was rendered in favor of the New School or mission party, as constituting the Great Bethel Baptist church. At a meeting held April 30, 1836, Rev. Brownfield was dis- missed by a majority of the members present, but he was per- mitted the use of the house and continued to preach to the Old School or Anti-Mission Baptists at such times as did not con- flict with the appointments of the other party. 713 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The New school party appears to have absorbed the other party, as the records of the latter of October 31, 1846, closed with the following' minutes : " Some members present. Read a portion of scripture. Prayer. Adjourned." This being ac- complished, missions, Sabbath schools and other church work were inaugurated and made speedy headway. At a meeting of Redstone Association held at Redstone church on Redstone creek in Franklin township, near now Smock station, September 1, 2, and 3, 1836, the controversy con- cerning church doctrines between Thomas and Alexander Campbell, father and son, and other ministers, which had been raging for ten years, was renewed by William Brownfield. The Campbells withdrew from the Association and took quite a fol- lowing with them and organized a church independent of the Baptists. Rev. Milton Sutton, on April 6, 1833, was again requested to preach once a month, and on May 2, 1835, was requested to continue his services along with Rev. Brownfield, and he con- tinued his services until 1853. William Wood was the first minister called by the New School or Mission party. He was called June 1, 1833, to preach once a month for six months. He was called again in 1839, and began April 1st of that year to preach once a month for one year. Elder James Seymour was called by the New School, De- cember 34, 1836, to preach once a month. Revs. Milton Sutton and James Seymour were each called on June 24, 1836, to preach once a month. On February 29, 1840, Rev. William Wood was called for another year, and on February 28, 1841, Rev. E. M. Miles was called for one year. Rev. Isaac Wynn was called to the pastorate May 3, 1834. He had united by baptism in December, 1831, was licensed July 6, 1833, and ordained to the ministry in July, 1835, and preached the gospel at intervals for fifty years. During all this time Rev. William Brownfield preached to the Old School party once a month. He owned and resided on a farm adjoining Uniontown on the south. His house stood on almost the exact spot now occupied by the residence of the late Porter Craig. Being quietly located, and a pleasant walk from town, it became the Gretna Green to which many lovers wended their way to be united in marriage. And from the many years Rev. Brownfield was in the ministry, it was conceded that he married History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 713 more couples than all the other ministers in the community combined. He continued to preach until 1846. A monument that marks his grave in the old Baptist graveyard recites that Rev. William Brownfield died January 19, 1859, in the 86th year of his age, and that he was a sound and able divine, a fearless advocate of the truth, and after serving his master in the work of the ministry for sixty-five years, has passed to his reward. This same monument reveals that Sarah West, wife of Rev. Wil- liam Brownfield, died December 29, 1856, aged 83 years, 4 months and 4 days. They had no children. Rev. J. B. Tisdale served this church from 1836 to 1840, and Rev. E. M. Miles from February, 1841, until 1842, and on April 22nd of that year the first missionary society of the church was organized, and on the 13th of July, 1845, on motion of Isaac Wynn, the first Sabbath school was organized with William Bryson as its superintendent who was succeeded in the super- intendency by George A. Shallenberger, Orton F. Frisbee, Rev. I. D. King, Rev. B. P. Ferguson, Andrew B. Bryson, R. Porter Craig, Rev. C. E. Barto, Rev. W. W. Hickman, Col. John Col- lins, W. A. Mouck, H. C. DiiTenderflfer, N. P. Cooper, and D. M. Hertzog. The latter was elected to that office in April, 1880, and has held the position uninterruptedly to the present time. Dr. William Penny served as pastor from 1846 to 1848, and was succeeded by Rev. S. H. Ruple for one year. Rev. Israel D. King was called January 24, 1855, and served until March 1, 1860. During his pastorate, with the assistance of Rev. Wil- liam Wood, revival services were held which resulted in many accessions to the church. This may have been the occasion when Dick Austin climbed over the balustrade and slid down the column that supported the gallery and walked to the altar where he consecrated himself to the Lord. He subsequently became a prominent minister in the Baptist church. Rev. King served this church a second time as pastor, from 1860 to 1863, during which time the church took on new life and many were added to her communion. Great Bethel Baptist church was dismissed from the Red- stone Association in 1856, to join the Monongahela Association, and was united to the same in September of that year. Rev. B. P. Ferguson was called as pastor, December, 1860, and served as such until September, 1863, when ill health com- 714 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. pelled him to resign. He died September 12, 1863, and was buried in the old Baptist cemetery. Rev. John Boyd was called as pastor March 21, 1864. In 1866, dissension arose between the pastor and several members of the congregation which progressed to a most disgraceful state on the part of both parties. The dissension continued to grow until it was necessary for one party to withdraw from the church building. The last meeting of the two factions was characterized by such rancor that an officer of the law was in- voked to keep the peace. The opponents of the pastor secured the church records and withdrew from the church property and held services for some time in the court house, and subse- quently in the old town hall over the market house. At a meeting of the congregation held March 2, 1867, Rev. Boyd was dismissed as their pastor, thus discharging themselves from any further liability for his support. An article was pub- lished in a town paper derogatory to the reputation of Rev. Boyd which culminated in a suit for libel, March 5, 1867, which resulted in a verdict in favor of the plaintiff. Rev. Boyd still held possession of the property and preached to his adherents for several years, until his congregation diminished to insig- nificance and services were discontinued. The Monongahela Association recognized the Opponents of Rev. Boyd as the Great Bethel Regular Baptist church, and in December, 1882, suit was brought for the possession of the church property, which in February of the following year re- sulted in a verdict in favor of the plaintiff. At a meeting of the congregation held March 25, 1867, it was resolved to erect a new house of worship, and for this purpose Mr. Samuel Clement donated a lot on the corner of Fayette and Union streets. The corner-stone of this building was laid June 25, 1868, and the first service was held in the lower room, Sunday, March 4, 1869, and here continued for the following ten years, at which time the auditorium was completed. This was the fourth building erected by the Great Bethel Baptist church, and was dedicated to the worship of Almighty God August 17, 1879, by Rev. Israel D. King, a former pastor, then of Philadelphia. This meeting house was a comfortable but inexpensive two-story brick build- ing and cost $12,500. Rev. C. E. Barto was the first pastor in the new church, having been called in January, 1868, and continued his services History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 715 until in April, 1872. Rev. W. W. Hickman succeeded Rev. Barto as pastor, entering upon his duties as such in May, 1872, and remaining until April 1, 1878, from which time until June 6, 1879, the church was without a pastor. Rev. Hickman was in the ministry for more than fifty years. Rev. F. B. Labarrer of Baltimore, was called as pastor June 6, 1879, and served as such until November 30, 1884. On March 17, 1881, an application was made to the court for a charter of incorporation under the name of The Great Bethel Regular Baptist church, which was granted. Rev. J. O. Critchlow was called as pastor in the winter of 1885, when he conducted a great revival meeting, and his services were continued as pastor until May 1, 1888, when he resigned on account of failing health and retired to his farm in Butler county where he died in April of the following year. Rev. Howard F. King, D. D., of Hollidaysburg, was called as pastor September 1, 1888, and served most ably and accept- ably until his resignation, August 1, 1905. During Rev. King's pastorate the present fine stone church and parsonage were built. The farewell services of the meeting of the Sunday school were held in the old church May 5, 1891, and the last preaching service was held Sunday, May 12, 10 :30 A. M., when a union meeting of the Sunday school and church was held, after which services were held in the opera house until the comple- tion of the new church building. The Hellen property was added to the original church lot, and the corner-stone of the new church was laid October 28, 1901, and the completed building was dedicated to the service of Almighty God October 11, 1903, by Rev. Dr. Kerr Boyce Tupper of Philadelphia; a fine stone par- sonage having been built at the same time and in connection with the church building all at the cost of $85,000. This was the fifth church edifice erected by the Great Bethel Baptist church. On August 2, 1884, the old church property on Morgantown street was exposed at public sale and was sold to Elder John C. Johnson, attorney-in-fact for the Georges Creek German Baptist congregation, for $1,200, and the sale was confirmed by the court October 4, 1884; the property facing 76 feet 8 inches on Morgantown street. Rev. Joseph S. Bromley, D. D., was called to succeed Dr. King as pastor and entered upon his duties as such Sunday, 716 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. February 11, 1906, coming from Reading where he had served as pastor for sixteen years. The Italian mission of the Great Bethel Baptist church was organized in October, 1906, in which Miss Florence Carr, a graduate of the Chicago Baptist Missionary Training school, was employed for one year as the first teacher. Rev. E. M. Schisa had charge of this mission as its first minister for two and a half years. The meetings were held for a while in the church and since in a room on North Beeson avenue where the mission is in successful operation. Great Bethel Baptist church has licensed the following persons to go forth and preach the gospel of Christ: Isaac Sutton, November 8, 1770; Joseph Barnett, March 19, 1773; Isaac Morris, May 21, 1775; John Wade Loveberry, September 30, 1783; John Hopwood, August 30, 1791; Mr. Shreve, November 19, 1793; William Brownfield, April 6, 1799; Milton Sutton, July 6, 1833 ; Isaac Wynn, July 6, 1833 ; Richard H. Austin, June 38, 1856 ; Joseph M. Collins, February 36, 1859 ; John Bart, January 19, 1868; John M. Moore, September 19, 1894; Charles Lucas Bromley, May 35, 1911. Methodist Episcopal Church. Redstone circuit, which included all the territory of Penn- sylvania west of the Allegheny mountains, was formed by the Baltimore conference May 38, 1784. It is altogether probable that several classes of Methodists had been formed in the vicinity of Uniontown prior to that date, as according to the usages of that church, exhorters formed and led classes before the advent of stated or even itinerant preachers. These classes were visited by Bishop Asbury as early as the summer of 1784, and again in July of 1785, in which year a log meeting house was erected on a lot purchased from Jacob Beeson, and in July of the following year Bishop Asbury states that he preached in the new meeting house. Rev. Thomas Daughaday, a son-in-law of Peter Hook, one of the trustees, was preacher in charge here in 1809, and died on the 13th of October 1810, and is buried in the old Metho- dist Episcopal graveyard. Uniontown was formed into a sta- tion, in connection with Brownsville, in 1830, with Rev. Den- nis H. Battie as preacher, and was made a separate station in 1834, with Rev. James G. Sansom as first stated preacher. The walls of this old log church resounded the voice of many earnest History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 717 prayers and of many able divines, as Sansom, Sharp, Bascum, Fielding, Fleming, Elliott and others. A new brick edifice was started under the pastorate of Rev. Charles Cooke, in 1833, and was finished under the pastorate of Rev. George S. Holmes in 1833, an oval tablet in the wall read thus " Methodist Episcopal church, erected A. D. 1833." This structure cost $3,500, and Daniel B. McCarty, George W. Rutter and Benjamin Hellen composed the building committee. Mrs. L. W. Stockton presented the bell for this church, which, upon the abandonment of this building, was removed to the belfry of the new church on Morgantown street, where it, still faithful to its duty, calls the worshipers together. The third church edifice was erected by this congregation on Morgantown street in 1877-78, at a cost of $10,000, including the lot. This church was dedicated to the worship of Almighty God by Bishop Matthew Simpson on June 2, 1878. Since which an addition has been added. This congregation broke ground for the fourth church edifice to be erected on South Beeson avenue, in the fall of 1913. A house and lot, to be used as a parsonage, was purchased by this congregation, on Fayette street in 1857, which was used as such until 1878, when a new and modern parsonage was erected. This church has sent forth the following young men to labor in the Master's vineyard and to proclaim the glad tidings of salvation, viz. : David Hess, L. R. Beacum, G. T. Reynolds, Henry Wilson and C. M. Coburn. In 1909 the Woman's Home Missionary society of this congregation organized a school known as the McCrum Sla- vonic Training school, for the training of young women for the missionary work among the Slavonic people. This school first met on South Beeson avenue in property donated for that pur- pose, and consisted of but four pupils, with Miss Elizabeth S. Davis as principal. The Home Missionary Board of the Methodist Episcopal church purchased the old Nutt mansion, at the head of Nutt avenue in 1913, at a cost of $35,000, toward which the Board voted $5,000, and in March following the school was moved into this property. This is one of the only three such schools in the United States. 718 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. First Presbyterian Church. Redstone presbytery was constituted at a meeting of the synod of New York and Philadelphia, held on the 16th day of May, 1781, at the request of the Reverends Joseph Smith, John McMillan, James Power and Thaddeus Dodd. The first meet- ing of this presbytery was held at Pigeon creek, in Washington county, September 19th, of that year. No record can be found of the organization of the church at Uniontown, but this section was embraced within the bounds of Dunlap's Creek church which encompassed the whole Red- stone settlement. Application for supplies for the Uniontown church was made at a meeting of presbytery at Georges creek, October 15, 1799, at which time the Revs. James Power and Samuel Porter were appointed to preach on alternate Sabbaths. Rev. Dr. James Dunlap, ex-president of Jefferson college, preached to this congregation in the court house for two years; he was engaged also in teaching a school in the Madison col- lege building. He lived in a log house on the lot now occupied by the residence of Mr. James R. Barnes, east of the court house. He died at the home of his son. Rev. William Dunlap, near Philadelphia, in 1818, at the age of 75 years. Preaching was held at irregular intervals until 1817, at which time Rev. William Wylie came from Round Hill and Rehoboth churches, and, after preaching two years, as stated supply, he was called as regular pastor at the then unprece- dented salary of $1,000 per year, and he was installed in May, 1819. In 1833, his salary was reduced to $300 per year for one- half his time, from which time he preached occasionally at Wheeling. Rev. Wylie built a fine residence while pastor here on the lot now occupied by the Titlow hotel. He was a good preacher and was highly respected as a citizen. His wife, who was a sister to Rev. Joseph Smith, organized the first Sabbath school in the town, in which she was ably assisted by Miss Betsy Hadden, a sister to Thomas Hadden, Esq. Rev. Wylie was dismissed to the presbytery at Washington, Pa., in October, 1833, and was again called as pastor here in 1827, which call he declined. He died in Wheeling May 9, 1858, at the age of 83 years. The church was since served by supplies for five years, principally by the services of Dr. Ashbel G. Fairchild. In De- cember, 1837, John Holmes Agnew, a licentiate of the presby- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 719 tery of Carlisle, accepted a call and was installed as pastor Jan- uary 24, 1828, at a salary of $400 per year. He resigned this charge, April 2, 1831, and became a professor of languages, in Washington, and subsequently in Michigan University and died at his home on the Hudson about 1870. He was not considered orthodox according to the Westminster confession of faith, as he taught that salvation depended somewhat on the will of the individual. In the disruption of 1838, he went into the New School branch. Rev. Joel Stoneroad is one of the best remembered of the early pastors of this church. He took charge as pastor the fol- lowing Sabbath after Mr. Agnew's resignation, and was installed December 14, 1831, at a salary of $500 per year and served with dignity and signal ability for ten and a half years. In 1833, some eight communicants withdrew from this church and joined elsewhere, and in 1834, the session passed the following resolutions, appropriate to an agitation then in progress : " Unanimously Resolved, That this session believes that genuine revivals of religion are not the result of human de- vices, but of the plain, practical and zealous preaching of gospel truth, of which truth we believe our standards contain an ad- mirable summary. Resolved, That common honesty, to say nothing of Chris- tian sincerity, requires that those who do not believe the Con- fession of Faith in the plain, obvious and common sense construction of its doctrines, should at once candidly declare their opinions and withdraw from the communion of the Pres- byterian church." Up to the year 1830, only those who had tokens were ad- mitted to the communion table, but in that year the custom was abolished. These " tokens " were small leaden pieces the . size of a small coin, and were distributed by the minister or elders to members whom they deemed worthy of partaking of the communion. The first church edifice erected by the Presbyterians of Uniontown was on the lot donated by Jacob Beeson, the founder of the western part of the town, to the inhabitants of Jacob's Second Addition, to be devoted to any public useful pur- pose they might elect. This building was most probably begun in the spring of 1819, as the following notice was given, Sep- tember 9, of that year, " Joshua Hart gives notice that the new 730 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Presbyterian meeting house is so far progressed that three- fourths of the subscription fund are now due, and payment is re- quested." Mr. Hart gives further notice, "That subscribers to the Presbyterian meeting house are requested to pay on or before July 15, 1830, or their subscriptions will be placed in the hands of Thomas Hadden, Esq., for collection." This building has been described as a plain, neat, one-story brick, about 30 x 50 feet in size, without steeple or ornament, standing back from and the gable fronting toward Morgantown street. It would appear that the arrangement of this house was not satisfactory, as on December 27, 1835, proposals were advertised for to be received by February 1, 1826, for taking off the roof of the Presby- terian church; of reducing it to one story of sixteen feet; ,doing the necessary repairs to the brick work, and putting on a new roof. Or, for taking off the roof; taking down and rebuilding so much of the brick work as deemed necessary to its present height and putting on a new roof. Or, for the residue of the whole work completing the building to two stories. Or, for enclosing the building after it is roofed at one or two stories, and for laying the floor or floors. Much dissension arose as to this use of the public grounds, and one gentleman was prose- cuted and held under bond for tearing down the fence that sur- rounded the church. This church was completed and dedicated in January, 1827, and cost about $3,000. A new site was pur- chased from Isaac Wood, on Church street and the construction of the second church edifice was begun in 1836, and completed in 1838, upon which the first building was removed from the public grounds. This second church was 50 x 75 feet in size, and stood back from the street; it had an open vestibule in which were stairways leading to the auditorium; tall windows furnished light to both basement and auditorium and the build- ing was surmounted by a belfry, this building cost about $5,500. Mr. Stoneroad began his pastorate in the first building and was the first pastor in this new one. He resigned this charge April 14, 1843, and subsequently spent twenty-eight years as pastor at Laurel Hill, and was in the ministry altogether nearly fifty years. Mr. Stoneroad was succeeded here by Rev. Andrew Ferrier, D. D., a Scotchman, who came as a supply, and on November 39, 1843, he was installed as pastor. He was said to be ortho- .,^;,,„, ' f ■,•.7^^. ^^^^ ,,^pBi ^ '" '%.,;; ^H| 1 '%3 1 ' j^r .'V ^H^^^^^^H 1^ M'jmKK |L m/kSB^^i^^ ^K' t^^^^^KK^^/^^riM HB' ^^K^^KB^^y^^^M H^ ^^B^^BiBS^vv Jl^^ii^9 ffi^r ^W^^ GEN. EPHRAIM DOUGLASS. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 731 dox as to the Westminster confession of faith, but his brogue made him hard to understand. He resigned August 6, 1844. Rev. Griffith Owen, a Welshman was installed as pastor June 26, 1845. He is said to have been good " when he applied himself." He resigned November 11, 1847, and went to Balti- more, and died January 4, 1870. Rev. Moses Allen Williams was installed November 30, 1849, having labored as stated sup- ply since February; this was technically his first and last pas- torial charge, as he resigned in 1853, and went to South Amer- ica. Rev. James H. Callen was installed April 37, 1853, and resigned April 10, 1855. He is said to have been a very pleasant Irishman; that his sermons were brief, finished in bright style and well read. He accepted a call to a church in the East. Rev. William Ferguson Hamilton, having served as supply from October, 1855, was installed as pastor May 13, 1856. Dur- ing Mr. Hamilton's pastorate the church building was damaged by fire in April, 1857, to such an extent that it was deemed ad- visable to erect a new and larger one, proposals for the building of which were received until April 8, 1858, and the erection of a new church soon commenced. This was of brick, two stories, 47 X 75 feet in size and semi-gothic in style and cost about $10,000. This church was dedicated April 10, 1860. Mr. Hamilton was an able scholar, a fearless preacher and a Christian gentleman. His wife was the daughter of Isaac Bee- son, then the leading merchant of the town. He resigned May 31, 1866, after a pastorate of ten years. He subsequently filled the chair of intellectual philosophy and ethics in Washington and Jefferson college. He dedicated two sons to the ministry, and ended his useful career March 3, 1899, aged 75 years. Rev. Walter W. Ralston was called to succeed Mr. Hamil- ton and was installed as pastor April 38, 1867, at a salary of $1,300 and parsonage free. He occupied the residence next east of the church. He resigned October 1, 1873, and went to Xenia, Ohio. Rev. Samuel S. Gilson was installed as pastor May 1, 1874, coming here from Bowling Green, Ky. During Mr. Gil- son's pastorate a brick parsonage was erected on North Gal- latin avenue into which Mr. Gilson moved. Work on this parsonage was begun in September, 1875, and the building was completed the following year, at a cost of $4,300. It soon be- came apparent that the parsonage was inconveniently located, and in 1879, it was sold and is now the home of the Misses 732 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Richie. Mr. Gilson resigned this charge in June, 1879, and be- came connected with the Pittsburgh Banner. Rev. Alexander S. Milholland came from Brownsville and began his services as pastor here May 9, 1880, and was installed the 15th of June following. During Dr. Milholland's pastorate the fourth church edifice was erected. A lot on the southwest corner of West Fayette and Morgantown streets was purchased from Hon. Samuel E. Ewing, fronting 94 feet on Morgantown street and running back 150 feet, for $13,500. In September, 1893, the old church property was sold for $14,000, the congre- gation still holding possession until September 2, 1894, at which time the last service was held in the old church, after which time joint meetings were held in the Methodist Episcopal church until the lecture room of the new edifice was ready for occupancy, January 27, 1895, and here services were held until March 1, 1896. Work was begun on the new structure in January, 1894, the first foundation stone was laid April 22, and the corner- stone was laid with appropriate ceremony June 16th, by Rev. Dr. Thomas N. Boyle of the Methodist Episcopal church, who made the address on account of the inability of Dr. W. W. Ralston, a former pastor, to be present. The dedicatorial sermon was delivered by Rev. D. C. Marquis, D. D., LL. D. of McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago, assisted by Rev. J. M. Maxwell, D. D., of Monongahela, March 8, 1896. This fine structure was built of hard-burnt brick veneered with Cleveland sandstone and in structure and style is not supposed to be surpassed in Western Pennsylvania. The pinnacle extends 150 feet above the sidewalk, and the whole structure is finished in the most approved manner. The chapel will seat 500 and the auditorium 600. The magnificent pipe organ is a donation from Hon. Nathaniel Ewing. The cost of this new structure alone was $150,000. In 1886, the congregation purchased a lot on the east side of Morgantown street and thereon erected a brick parsonage at a cost of $6,000 into which Dr. Milholland moved upon its completion. Dr. Milholland tendered his resignation on May 28, 1905; but it was not accepted until at a meeting held on September following, when his resignation was accepted and at the same meeting he was elected pastor emeritus at a salary of $1,200 and parsonage free. This was the same amount of his History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 723 salary on which he was called here, but in 1896, his salary was increased to $2,500 and parsonage free. Up to this time Dr. Milholland had served this congregation most faithfully and ably for more than a quarter of a century. He died suddenly of heart failure at the parsonage October 10, 1906, and after service in the church, his remains, accompanied by several friends, were deposited by the side of those of his wife at Bucyrus, Ohio. Rev. William Hamilton Spence, D. D., Litt. D., came from Galesburg, 111., in response to a call from this congregation, and was installed as pastor August 12, 1906. In 1907 a new manse was begun on the southern part of the lot, and in 1908 it was ready for occupancy. This building was constructed of buff brick, the floors laid upon re-enforced con- crete, and the whole structure is finished in the most substantial manner. Central Presbyterian or Second Presbyterian. This congregation was organized September 14, 1893, with fifty-six members who had withdrawn from the First Presby- terian church. Rev. Seth R. Gordon was called as their first pastor, who took charge January 7, 1894. The congregation worshiped in the Commercial building on Church street until September 9, 1894. The old First Presbyterian church prop- erty on Church street was bought and many repairs were added, but about the time the repairs were completed, the building- took fire on Monday night, November 12, 1894, and completely de- stroyed. The congregation repaired to the Grand Opera house and there held their services during the erection of the present house of worship, a part of which was ready for occupancy November 3, 1895. The tenth anniversary of the organization of the congregation, and also of the pastorate of Dr. Gordon were celebrated at the same time as the dedication of the new church edifice, Sunday October 25, 1903. After a faithful pastorate of twelve years Dr. Gordon resigned his charge, Sun- day, May 7, 1906, accepting a call from a church at Okmulgee, Indian Territory. Dr. Gordon had been granted a year's vacation before his resignation and Rev. Edgar W. Day was engaged to supply the pulpit during Dr. Gordon's absence. Rev. Day closed his year 734 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. here July 29th, his term of one year expiring September 1st, he was granted one month's vacation. Rev. W. Scott Bowman accepted a call from this congrega- tion and was installed as its pastor January 3, 1907. Dr. Bow- man came from Brownsville where he had served his first pas- torate for fourteen years. At a meeting of this congregation held September 20, 1903, the name was changed from that of the Central Presbyterian to that of the Second Presbyterian church, which action was ratified at the following meeting of Redstone presbytery. Cumberland Presbyterian Church. In the beginning of the nineteenth century a great and glorious revival of religion originated in the states of Kentucky and Tennessee under the pious labors of Rev. James McGready and other Presbyterian ministers. The labors were great and the laborers were few, and the Macedonian cry went forth, " come over and help us." Some three or four young men of piety and talent offered their services to the Master and were set apart to prepare discourses and present them to Transyl- vania Presbytery, in which the revival occurred. These young men were licensed in October, 1802, after warm opposition from some members of the presbytery, on account of their not having a classical education. This action on the part of some members of the presbytery was thought to be justifiable on account of the exigency of the case. The matter was carried up to Synod which body condemned the action of presbytery, and the case was carried to the general assembly, which body sustained the action of Synod, and those who had been licensed and those who had been ordained along with those who had participated in this innovation, were silenced from the ministry. This griev- ance was carried on until 1810, when Revs. Samuel McDow, Finnis Ewing and Samuel King constituted themselves into a presbytery under the name of Cumberland presbytery, but not with the original design of forming a new denomination. The bulk of the Westminster confession of faith was retained, and the same form of government was adopted, recanting, however, the doctrine of fatality as they believed to be taught under the doctrine of predestination. The doctrines adopted by this presbytery were: 1st, That there are no eternal reprobates. 2nd, That Christ died not for a part only, but for all mankind. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 735 3rd, That all infants, dying in infancy, are saved through Christ and the sanctification of the Spirit. 4th, That the Spirit of God operates on the world, or as coextensive as Christ has made the atonement, in such a manner as to leave all men inexcusable. Here was a departure in two important things: 1st, The induction into the ministry of individuals who had not a classical education. 2nd, The renunciation of the doctrine of a limited atonement as set forth in the tenth chapter of the Westminster confession of faith. Cumberland presbytery, with all its candidates and licen- tiates, was cited to appear before a commission, and to surrender all the men whom it licensed and ordained for re-examination, with which demand they refused to comply and severed their connection with the general assembly. In 1813, a synod, com- prising three presbyteries, was formed out of Cumberland pres- bytery; and the Westminster confession of faith, with certain modifications, as before recited, was adopted as the confession of faith of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. A general as- sembly was formed and met for the first time in Princeton, Ky., in the year 1829, at which time there were churches of this de- nomination in Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, Arkansas, Illi- nois and Missouri. In response to an urgent invitation from some prominent individuals, three ministers of the Cumberland Presbyterian denomination rode from Tennessee on horseback to Washing- ton county, in 1830, where their labors were crowned with suc- cess. In December of 1831, a series of meetings was held in the court house in Uniontown by Revs. A. M. Bryan and Milton Bird, which were continued in January and February, follow- ing, and closed auspiciously. In the year 1832, a church of this denomination was estab- lished and regularly organized. The names of the organizers, unfortunately, have been omitted from the records ; but the first names that appear with dates of admission are Sabina Campbell, Dr. Lewis Marchand, Sarah Marchand and Anna Mariah McCall, who were admitted on the 23rd of December, 1832. The first pastor to serve the church was Rev. Milton Bird, who acted as supply until 1834. The first report to presbytery, in April, 1833, gave the membership as 216. On Tuesday, August 6, 1833, the corner-stone of a new church edifice was laid on a lot on Church street. 736 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. This building was dedicated with appropriate ceremonies, September 13, 1834, by Rev. John Morgan, who had succeeded Rev. Bird, as regular pastor, and who served this congregation most ably and devoutly for seven years. Too much cannot be said in praise of Rev. Morgan, as he was held in the highest veneration, not only by the members of his own church, but by the community at large. He was known to con- duct service with a fly blister across his brow and his head bandaged for the relief of pain. He was compelled to resign his charge on account of failing health, and he died at his home at the east end of town, where the residence of Harold L. Robinson, Esq., now stands, October 15, 1841, and was interred in the church yard in the rear of the church, and when the building was remodeled in 1908, the remains were inclosed in a cement block and buried in front of the church. Rev. Isaac Shook was called to succeed Rev. Morgan and assumed charge January 1, 1843, but resigned soon after. In March, 1843, a call was extended to Rev. John Thomas Alexander Henderson, who accepted and became pastor May 15, 1843, and remained as such until 1847, after which Rev. Milton Bird again served as supply until Rev. L. H. Lowry became pastor on the second Sabbath of April, 1847, and who continued until the spring of 1849 from which time Rev. A. D. Bryce occupied the pulpit as supply until the first of July, 1849, when Rev. Hiram A. Hunter became pastor and remained until November 1, 1852. Rev. S. E. Hudson became pastor April 1, 1853, and served just one year, when he was succeeded, without intermission, by Rev. John Cary who preached until January 17, 1857. On August 30, 1858, a call was extended to Rev. Isaac Newton Biddle, who became pastor in November of that year and remained until August 1, 1866, when he resigned. He was immediately suc- ceeded by Rev. Alexander D. Hail who served until May 26, 1869. A year later, in the spring of 1870, Rev. George A. Flower accepted the pastorate, and resigned in May, 1872, after which Rev. J. H. Coulter filled the pulpit as supply until Rev. Henry Melville was called as pastor and who began his services November 29, 1872, and who after serving for six years, re- signed April 1, 1879. He was succeeded by Rev. Walter H. Baugh as supply, under whose incumbency, 1881, the old church was torn away and the second structure erected. Rev. W. S. Danley was called in April, 1883, and resigned in 1886. He History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 737 was succeeded by Rev. H. C. Bird, the son of Rev. Milton Bird, a former pastor, who served as pastor from October, 1886, to November 2, 1903. Rev. J. D. Gold, D. D., was called to the pastorate of this church in 1904, and through whose efforts and under whose ad- ministration Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Semans generously donated $35,000 toward the remodeling of the church building. Through failing health, Dr. Gold was compelled to resign his charge here and seek his health. Rev. T. M. Thompson, D. D., received a call to succeed Dr. Gold and assumed his duties as pastor April 1, 1910, and was installed in May, following. A congregational meeting was held in the church on Wed- nesday evening, March 29, 1911, at which it was decided to change the name of the congregation from that of the Cumber- land Presbyterian to that of the Third Presbyterian. The union of the Cumberland Presbyterian church with that of the mother church was effected in May, 1906. Methodist Protestant Church. About the year 1824, the subject of mutual rights and lay delegation began to agitate the minds of members of the Meth- odist Episcopal church. At the Baltimore annual conference in Winchester and at the general conference at Baltimore the subject was warmly discussed, and a spirit of unrest became apparent. Several of the ministers espoused what they termed the reform movement and organized a new conference at Cin- cinnati in October, 1839. In the fall of 1830, several members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Uniontown withdrew from its communion, and at a meeting held in the court house, were organized into a class of the Methodist Protestant denomination by Rev. Zachariah Ragan. The class was composed of the following named members: John Phillips, Polly Phillips, Joseph Phil- lips, Rebecca Phillips, Mary Ann Phillips, Mary Lewis, Wil- liam Ebert, Walter Ebert, Howell Phillips, and Eliza Phillips. In 1840, a lot was purchased of John Phillips on the corner of now South Beeson avenue and Church street, and soon there- after a small brick meeting house was erected thereon. This building was plastered and finished by the members of the Episcopal church, and seats constructed from planks in which 728 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the spokes of old stage-coach wheels were inserted, and . the two denominations worshipped here until the St. Peter's church edifice was built. A congregation was organized in 1833, with Moses Scott as first pastor and was supplied by itinerant preachers until it became a station with Rev. John Scott as first pastor, and since which the congregation has been served by able and earnest ministers. In 1894 this congregation erected a neat and modern house of worship under the pastorate of Rev. William H. Gladden. This congregation erected a nine-roomed frame parsonage on Pennsylvania avenue in 1913, and Rev. Ivan Wilson, their pastor, was the first tenant. This congregation have in contemplation the erection of a new and larger church edifice. St. Peter's Protestant Episcopal Church. Near the close of the year 1837, Rev. I. I. Kerr, deacon, held an Episcopal service in the Presbyterian church in this town, and in July, following, a meeting was held for the estab- lishment of an Episcopal church here, and a number of citizens were chosen to act as vestrymen. The first regular service was held in the court house, and subsequently in the unfinished meeting house built by the Methodist Protestant congregation. Rev. J. J. Mcllhenny was called to the rectorate and served for a time when he was succeeded by Rev. W. W. Arnett, dur- in whose incumbency the congregation worshipped in the Methodist Protestant building. In 1843, a church building was erected on a lot of ground procured from Mr. L. W. Stockton, on Morgantown street, under the directions of the following vestrymen: L. W. Stock- ton, Daniel Smith, Daniel Huston, Dr. A. H. Campbell, William P. Wells, John Sowers and R. P. Flenniken, the two last as wardens. This first structure was an inexpensive brick build- ing and plastered on the outside, and was consecrated under the name of Saint Peter, by Bishop Onderdonk. A communion set was donated to the congregation by friends in Philadelphia. Rev. Arnett resigned in 1844, and was immediately suc- ceeded by Rev. S. W. Crampton, who, in turn, resigned in May, 1845, after which James Mcllvaine, a vestryman, held service as lay reader for nearly a year, until March 1, 1846, when Rev. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 729 Norris M. Jones took charge of the parish until October, 1848, and in November of the same year he was succeeded by Rev. Thomas Lawson, during whose incumbency the administrator of L. W. Stockton demanded a settlement of the deferred pay- ments on the lot on which the church was built, and for moneys advanced. This was a severe blow on the congregation, and came like thunder from a clear sky. The lot, it had been under- stood by many of the congregation, was the generous gift of Mr. Stockton, who had been so liberal and active in the affairs of the church; but had they examined the deed as recorded in Deed Book No. 11, page 134, their minds would have been dis- abused as to the matter. The vestry and the administrator of Mr. Stockton's estate agreed upon a settlement, January 19, 1858, and the debt of $1,200 was, with much difficulty, finally paid. Rev. Lawson resigned the rectorate in 1849, and was suc- ceeded by Rev. Dr. Rawson who had charge of the parish until 1851, when he was succeeded by Rev. Theodore S. Romney, who resigned the charge in 1855, and was succeeded by Rev. Hanson T. Wilcoxson, who resigned in November, 1856. In July, 1857, Rev. Faber Byllesby, then a deacon, took charge of the parish until August, 1859, after which Revs. John Leithead, Jubal Hodges and others conducted service until early in April, 1862, at which time Rev. Richard S. Smith was called and took charge of the parish. He had also under his charge Trinity church at New Haven, St. Paul's at Mount Braddock, and Grace church in Menallen township. He was subsequently relieved of Trinity and St. Paul's, but for twelve years he gave service at Grace church in the afternoon of each Lord's day until 1874, from which time until 1881, that church was sup- plied by other ministers, when Rector Smith again resumed charge of both congregations, the duties of which he most ably and acceptably discharged until his sudden and unexpected death, May 13, 1892. During the rectorate of Rev. R. S. Smith St. Peter's congre- gation purchased a brick parsonage on Morgantown street which was occupied as such until the death of Rector Smith, after which it was sold at public sale to Mrs. Jennie G. Thorndell. Rector Smith was succeeded by Rev. John R. Wightman who took charge November 1, 1892, and after a faithful and ac- ceptable service, resigned March 20, 1898, and was succeeded 73Q History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. by Rev. J. S. Lightburn who was called April 1, 1898, and as- sumed charge in November following. He resigned December 1, 1902, and was succeeded by Rev. Dr. Frederick E. J. Lloyd who was called March 26, 1893, and assumed charge in June following. A fine new rectory was built in 1905, during E'r. Lloyd's rectorate on a lot donated by the heirs of Honorable Samuel A. Gilmore, on Ben Lomond street, at a cost of $12,000. Dr. Lloyd offered his resignation December 31, 1906, to take effect February 1, 1907, which was accepted. Rev. Frederick W. Beekman was called to succeed Dr. Lloyd and preached the introductory sermon of his rectorate October 6, 1907. Rev. Beekman resigned his rectorate here to accept a call as dean of the Cathedral of the Nativity at South Bethlehem. He held his last service here May 11, 1913. The vestry of St. Peters, on May 20th, extended a call to Rev. Albert Neilson Slayton to fill the rectorship made vacant by the resignation of Rev. Beekman. He took formal charge of this parish September 28, 1913. A brick parish house was erected on West Church street in 1894-5, which contained an auditorium, reading room, rector's study, etc. St. Paul's A. M. E. Church, Morgantown Street. A class of colored Methodists was formed in Uniontown in 1822 under the charge of Rev. George Bollar, a regular minister, sent out by the annual conference of the African Meth- odist Episcopal church. The members composing that class were : John Woods, Hannah Burgess, Henrietta McGill, John Webster, Sarah Woods, Sarah Griffin, David Lewis, Betsy Pritchard, Hannah Webster, and Barney Griffin. Meetings were held at the house of Mary Harmon on Morgantown street for two years, after which they were held at the house of Joseph Allen on the same street. A congregation was organized in 1832 with a member- ship of less than a dozen. On June 10, 1835, Zadoc Springer and wife deeded to Wilson Jack, John Woods, David Wedlock, Thomas Waller and David Lewis, trustees in trust for the Zion African Methodist Episcopal congregation a lot on Morgantown street for the consideration of $75. A log meet- ing house was soon erected on this lot, and Miss Mary Ann Truly, who became the wife of Eli Curry, then a servant in the History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 731 home of the Hon. Andrew Stewart, from her meager earn- ings, freely gave the first fifty cents toward the erection of this new meeting house. This house served the purpose of the congregation until 1855, when it was torn away and a plain brick structure was erected on its site. This structure was used until 1891, when it was torn away and a more modern one was erected at a cost of about $10,000, under the pastorate of Rev. Carter Wright, who served this congregation for five years. This congregation has had many good and faithful pastors and is in a very flourishing condition. St. John's Roman Catholic Church, Morgantown and Center Streets. In 1849, Rev. Father Thomas McGowan celebrated mass once a month at the home of Christian Keiifer in Uniontown. The Hagans (John and James), the Keflfers, Griffiths, Dorseys, Monaghans, Lonergans, Keenans, and later, the Lynches, formed a congregation. On October 21, 1852, a part of lot No. 29, in Henry's Addi- tion on Morgantown street was purchased from John Hagan, for the sum of $75, the deed being made to the Rt. Rev. Michael O'Connor, the first bishop of Pittsburgh. A brick church was erected on this lot the following year and was consecrated De- cember 7, 1853, under the invocation of St. John, the evangelist, by the Rev. Father Krutil, C. S. S. R., who had been delegated for the work by Rt. Rev. Michael O'Connor. Rev. John Larkin was the pastor while the church was building. A communication from Rev. Malachi Garvey, in 1856, re- ported that sixteen families and forty-two communicants at- tended the Easter communion that year, and on the 5th of Sep- tember of the same year. Bishop O'Connor administered con- firmation to fifteen persons. In June, 1881, the Uniontown mission and adjacent dis- tricts, were set off as the Uniontown district under the pastorial care of Rev. C. A. McDermitt. Rev. Edward Brehnan was appointed by the Rt. Rev. John Twigg as the first resident pastor of this church in September, 1877, and he remained until May, 1878, when he was succeeded by Rev. C. A. McDermitt, who arrived by appointment, July 1, 1881, and he was promoted to the charge at Connellsville in June, 1885. In the same month Rev. Edward Dignam was ap- 733 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. pointed to this charge but was transferred in December, 1885. From this time until May 30, 1896, the affairs of this congrega- tion were under the charge of the Passionist Fathers Hughs and Bernardine. With the advent of the Rev. William Kittell the congregation began to prosper in a remarkable degree. During the years 1890-91, lots on Center street were pur- chased from Hon. J. K. Ewing and others, arid during the sum- mer of 1893, plans and specifications for a new church edifice were completed, and in the fall of the same year the contract was let to the Union Planing Mill company. On December 13, 1893, the pastor was promoted to the chancellorship of the diocese of Pittsburgh, and Rev. B. P. Kenna was placed in charge of the congregation. The corner-stone of the new church was laid June 10, 1894, by Rev. C. A. McDermitt who was delegated by the bishop for the work. This church was consecrated May 10, 1895 by Rt. Rev. Richard Phelan of Pittsburgh. The sermon was preached by the Rev. Charles J. Coyne. A bell, the largest in Fayette county, was presented to this church by Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Lynch. This bell was blessed, under the name of " Patrick " by the Rev. Francis McCourt of Connellsville, December 19, 1895. The old church on Morgantown street lay idle for several years after the building of the new church on Center street, but has since been put in repair and continued to be used as a place of worship. Ati addition was added to this building in 1912, and otherwise improved. The Saint John's congregation purchased the Dr. J. S. Hackney property on Center street in 1911, and in 1912 erected thereon a large brick building for a parochial school at a cost of about $30,000. This building was dedicated by Bishop Regis Canevin of the diocese of Pittsburgh, assisted by a number of prominent clergymen, Sunday, September 1, 1913, and on Mon- day morning, following, the new parochial school was opened with an enrollment of over 300 pupils. The Dr. Hackney resi- dence was fitted up as a convent. John Wesley A. M. E. Zion Church. Zion Chapel of the A. M. E. church was organized Sep- tember 19, 1849, by Rev. Isaac Coleman from a class of five History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 733 persons, and the first membership numbered fifteen. The first place of meeting was at the home of Brother Boggus Johnson who then lived in a small stone house belonging to James Boyle, near the corner of East Fayette and Grant streets. This congre- gation was under a mission charge for several years and was supplied by Revs. Isaac Coleman, J. B. Trasty and S. L. Jones. This mission became a separate charge under Rev. Charles Clingman, whose successors have been the Revs. J. R. Harner, W. Burley, Charles Wright and others. On February 24, 1857, a lot was purchased from Joseph Benson on the north side of East Main street, on which an old frame building stood. This building was fitted up the following summer and used as a house of worship under the charge of Rev. Charles Wright. On the 37th of April, 1869, additional land was purchased and added to the original lot on which a brick church was erected under the pastorate of Rev. Nicholas Williams and a frame manse erected under the pastorate of Rev. W. A. Ely. This church was used as a place of worship until 1913, when it was torn away and a finer building projected of buflF brick and stone trimmings capable of seating five hun- dred and sixty people. This building was projected under the pastorate of Rev. Martin B. M. Butler. Rev. J. H. Trimble, a layman, received his license from this church and since served as presiding elder. The German Baptist Brethren Church. On August 2, 1884, the Great Bethel Baptist church meeting house on Morgantown street was offered at public sale, and Elder John C. Johnson, as attorney-in-fact for the German Baptist church of Georges Creek, purchased the property for $1,300, which sale was confirmed by the court October 4, 1884. The property sold faced seventy-six feet six inches on said street. The deed bears date of December 3, 1896, and is recorded in Deed Book No. 263, page 367. The building was remodeled and improved to a considerable extent, and was dedicated by the Georges Creek congregation as the property of the German Baptist Brethren church. The dedicatory services were con- ducted by Elder James Quinter, November 8, 1884. The trustees of the Georges Creek congregation who assumed charge of the property that day were Ephraim Walters, Samuel Newcomer and Jefferson Fouch. At this time there were sixteen 734 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. members in and near Uniontown, and Elder John C. Johnson was placed in charge. About $3,400 were spent in the purchase and remodeling of this property of which sum only about one-fourth was paid by the congregation, and the balance by Elder John C. Johnson and his friends. Thirteen years passed away when some dis- satisfaction as to the management of the affairs of this branch of the church arose, and a settlement of the balance of purchase money was demanded. In the month of August, 1897, a committee of Elders as- sembled at the Fairview church for the purpose of hearing the case, and after hearing the evidence, decided that as Elder Johnson had proceeded without an order from a regular council, the members of the Georges Creek congregation were not re- sponsible for the debt, and that the property be passed over to those holding claims against the property. Elder Johnson held possession and full control of this church, which he designated as the First German Baptist Brethren, until 1906, when he removed from the town. The property has been vacant for some years, and is owned by the heirs of Mary Ann Johnson and Sarah Beachley. First Brethren Church. The church now known as the First Brethren church was organized in 1906, and Rev. John C. Mackey was installed as pastor January 6, 1907, coming here from Nebraska. This was a mission church and occupied the old Baptist or Dunkard church until a new house of worship was erected on Union street extension. Dr. Mackey was a scholarly man and a good preacher. He delivered his farewell sermon here December 27, 1908. Dr. Mackey was succeeded by Rev. William Crawford of Johnstown, who supplied the pulpit for one year, when Rev. Dyoll Belote of Ashland, Ohio, was called, who after a pastor- ate of four years preached his farewell sermon on Sunday, June 30, 1913. He was succeeded by Rev. Arthur L. De Lozier. This congregation began a new church building in April, 1910, on Union street extension, of light bufif brick, with a seating capacity of about 500. This building was dedicated Sunday, August 14, 1910, by Rev. H. L. Goughhour of Myersdale. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 735 Church of the Brethren. The Georges Creek congregation of the German Baptist Brethren was organized about 1833, and a few years later erected the Fairview meeting house near Masontown where they still continue to worship. In 1902, this church concluded to erect another house of worship, and for this purpose a lot was purchased on Robinson street in Uniontown and the work of construction commenced. A brick building was erected at a cost of about $6,000 which was dedicated February 15, 1903, by Elder Henry C. Early of Montevidio, Va. The deacons of the church at the time were: John A. Walters, D. F. Johnson, S. C. Johnson, James P. Merriman, Joseph G. Cover, J. C. Cover, Emanuel Maust, Jacob W. Galley, and Andrew S. Fisher. The trustees were D. F. Johnson, Jacob W. Galley, Joseph G. Cover, and Andrew J. Moser. Elder Jasper Barnthouse, with associate Elder Alpheus DeBolt, was placed in charge. The Salvation Army. The Salvation Army post was estabhshed in Uniontown and Staff Captain William Trevitt took charge of the post here August 12, 1901, coming from Pittsburgh. The meet- ings were then held on the third floor of the Tremont build- ing. He conducted the affairs of the post with energy and ability and gained the confidence and respect of the people. It was mainly if not wholly through his efforts, the building of the Salvation Army citadel was made possible. He preached his farewell sermon here Sunday evehing, August 12, 1906, going to Toledo, Ohio. The exercises of laying the corner-stone took place Sunda/, July 17, 1904, Staff Captain William Trevitt being in England, Rev. George H. Sisson took charge and laid the corner-stone in the absence of Lloyd G. McCrum. The invocation was pro- nounced by Rev. Dr. E. G. Laughrey and addresses were made by D. M. Hertzog, Esq., Hon. E. H. Reppert, J. T. Sembower and R. F. Hopwood. The building is a three-story buff brick. Hon. J. K. Ewing donated the ground, and Lloyd G. McCrum gave $5,100 toward its construction. The Salvation Army citadel was dedicated March 12, 1905. It cost $40,000. Col. R. E. Holtz presided and announced Judge R. E. Umbel who made an address and unfurled the U. '5'36 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. S. flag, from which fell many small ones. Major Hunter of Cleveland welcomed the crowd on behalf of the local corps. The doors were then thrown open by Lloyd G. McCrum, and, after being seated, Rev. Dr. MilhoUand offered prayer. Ad- dresses were then made by Judge E. H. Reppert, Dr. J. D. Gold, Dr. Seth R. Gordon, Rev! J. J. Hill, Dr. H. F. King, Rev. I. H. Minerd, Rev. J. S. Leland, Rev. Herbert Yeuell. Collections were taken in the churches that day amounted to $488.66, and from other sources $410. Mount Olive Church^ Stewart Avenue. This congregation was organized by Rev. Thomas Ford in 1882, and under whose pastorate a brick house of worship was erected on Stewart avenue. The congregation soon outgrew the capacity of this house and in 1892, it was decided to erect a more pretentious and commodious one on the same site at a cost of about $7,000. In 1887, Rev. Parker H. Thompson became pastor of this congregation and which relation he still holds. Minerd Chapel or Second Methodist Protestant Chur'ch. Following a series of meetings held by Rev. D. E. Minerd in January, 1894, in the school house in the McCormick Ad- dition, a congregation was organized with forty-eight members of which Robert Snead, John W. McDowell, Andrew Barron, James Myers and John Kunkle were elected trustees. On Feb- ruary 12th it was decided to buy a lot and build a house of worship in the East End, at a cost of $4,000. On March 27, ground was broken, and the corner-stone was laid May 17th and the church was formally opened for service July 29th, and a Sunday school was organized on August 12th, and other so- cieties organized later. H. J. Hedley was pastor, 1900. St. Paul's Lutheran Church. The St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran church was organized December 18, 1885, with a membership of forty-one communi- cants. Rev. John Armstrong Waters was chosen as pastor, and George W. Brawner, Henry Lape, J. Harry Johnston, M. D. Baker, Amos Pickard, Quincy A. Partridge were chosen as deacons. Services were held in the public school building until DR. SOLOMON DROWN. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 737 the completion of a house of worship on North Gallatin avenue. The corner-stone of this new building was laid July 24, 1887, with services which were conducted by Rev. W. A. Passavant, D. D., Rev. W. A. Passavant, Jr., Rev. Asa H. Waters, D. D., Rev. John A. Waters, Rev. L. L. Seibert and Rev. J. W. Smith. The dedi- catorial services were held Sunday, April 29, 1888, by Rev. J. Frey, D. D., of Reading, Pa. Rev. John A. Waters served this congregation as its pastor until October 5, 1890, and he was succeeded by Rev. Alfred Ramsay from October 12, 1890, to April 5, 1896, and he was succeeded by Rev. George J. Gon- gaware who was succeeded by Rev. Ernest Anton Trabert in 1902. Rev. Trabert preached his farewell sermon August 6, 1906, after a service of five years. Rev. I. K. Wismer was called and was installed as pastor November 11, 1906. He preached his farewell sermon to this congregation September 28, 1913. Central Christian Church. A bible class was organized at the home of M. M. Cochran, Esq., Sunday, October 24, 1888, and on April 7, 1889, a Sunday school was organized, and on January 26 following the Central Christian church was organized in the public school building with twenty-six charter members. The officers were : M. M. Cochran, Hugh Darsie, Mrs. Myra S. Reid, Mrs. T. B. Craig, George Newmyer as trustees. In December of 1889, aided by the Western Pennsylvania Missionary society. Rev. J. C. B. Stivers of Kentucky was called as pastor of this church, whose labors continued until October 1, 1893. During the pastorate of Rev. Stivers a lot was pro- cured on the corner of South Gallatin and South streets and a brick church was erected thereon at a cost of $13,200, which was dedicated June 28, 1891. In the spring of 1892, this church established a mission in the village of Hopwood and erected a frame chapel at a cost of $1,800, which was dedicated April 3, 1892. Rev. C. H. Plattenberg of Missouri, immediately succeeded Rev. Stivers, and closed his pastorate February 2, 1896. Rev. Plattenberg was succeeded by Rev. W. J. Cocke of Virginia, June 7, 1896, and resigned June 15, 1898. He was succeeded by Rev. Plattenberg, for a second term, September 1, 1898, who served until September 1, 1903. Rev. Herbert Yeuell succeeded Rev. Plattenberg October 31, 1902, and his resignation took ef- 738 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. feet June 11, 1905. Rev. J. Walter Carpenter immediately suc- ceeded Rev. Yeuell, 1905, and his resignation took effect No- vember 1, 1911. Rev. H. Maxwell Hall became pastor of this congregation November 1, 1911, and resigned October 1, 1913. He was succeeded in this pastorate by Rev. C. L. Goodnight of Shelbyville, Ind. Additional -grounds were added to this church property and in 1906 the building was enlarged and improved at a cost of nearly $40,000, which building was re-dedicated May 19, 1907. A parsonage was built by this congregation on Lincoln street in 1898. Saint Mary's Slavonic Roman Catholic Church. This congregation erected a frame meeting house on the corner of Stockton street and North Mt. Vernon avenue in 1903, with Dr. L. Laush as pastor. In 1904, Rev. S. J. Prybil was pastor, and in 1909, Rev. Frank G. Sebik was pastor. This frame church being inadequate to accommodate the congrega- tion, which numbered about 3,500, it was decided to erect a handsome brick church on the corner of Gilmore street and North Mt. Vernon avenue, the corner-stone of which was laid with great ceremony on Sunday, July 30, 1911, under the charge of Rt. Rev. Bishop Joseph Doudelka of Cleveland, Ohio, assisted by several of the clergymen. Rev. Frank G. Sebik had been in charge of this congregation about two and a half years. This new building cost about $40,000. The three bells that sur- mounted this church cost $1,100, and were consecrated May 5, 1912. The new church was consecrated August 35, 1912, under the charge of the Right Reverend Bishop Canevin of Pittsburgh. The old frame building was converted into a school room, in which a parochial school has since been taught. Temple Israel. The Beth-Israel congregation was organized and incor- porated in August, 1904, and held its first meetings in the Standard Club rooms, with Rev. Isadore Reichert of Johns- town as rabbi, having been called here July 8, 1904. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 739 This congregation erected a neat brick synagogue on East Fayette street at a cost of $25,000. After serving this congregation three and a half years, Rabbi Reichert resigned this charge and preached his farewell sermon January 10, 1908. The congregation now numbering 100 pew holders. On January 10, 1908, William Baum presented to the church a fine perpetual light for over the altar, in memory of his deceased mother, Mrs. Max Baum, this being just nine months to the day since her death. Rabbi J. E. Dobrin, for the past three years pastor of a Cleveland congregation, assumed charge of this congregation, Friday night, September 11, 1908. Services were opened by Sol. J. Rosenbaum, who read the regular Friday night services. Rabbi Dobrin resigned this charge April 30, 1909. Rabbi William Lowenberg of Philadelphia, was extended a call to this congregation and preached his inaugural sermon October 28, 1910. The officers of this congregation were : Max Baum, president; Lee Stern, secretary; and Sol. J. and Joseph Rosenbaum, Isadore Frank, G. M. Silverman and D. Goldstein, trustees. Mount Vernon Street Methodist Episcopal Church. From the outgrowth of a mission Sunday school organized April 16, 1905, at the school building near Continental No. 1, by Rev. S. W. Davis, the Mount Vernon street Methodist Episcopal church was formed. Lots on Mount Vernon avenue were donated by Thomas S. Lackey, Esq., on which a frame meeting house was erected. The opening services were held in this house, Sunday, June 28, 1908, Dr. T. N. Boyle of Allegheny, preaching in the morning and Dr. W. P. Turner of Wilkinsburg, preaching at night. The building cost $3,070, and will seat 300 persons. The walls are 16 feet high, and the spire rises 50 feet above the sidewalk. This church was formally dedicated Sunday, July 5, 1908, by the venerable Dr. H. L. Chapman. This is the twelfth church that has been built mainly through the efforts of Rev. S. W. Davis. Rev. John T. Eastburn became pastor of this church in 1911. 740 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Mount Rose Baptist Church. The Mount Rose Baptist church was organized in 1897, and the congregation built a frame church on East Main street in which they worshipped for a while. Thomas Ford is given as pastor in 1900-1913. In 1907 this congregation began the erection of a neat and comfortable house of worship on Grant street. This house was built of brick, with a seating capacity of 450, and was dedi- cated Sunday, July 30, 1911, by Rev. John H. Pryor, D. D., of Vanderbilt. Rev. Thomas Ford, D. D., pastor. Tree of Life Church. The Tree of Life congregation of the Orthodox Jews was organized in 1906, and held their meetings for a while at the home of Rev. Samuel Cohen, 57 Pittsburgh street until a place of public worship could be procured. This congregation purchased the White school house from the Uniontown school board, July 6, 1908. The building was re- modeled and adapted to church purposes, with a seating capacity of about 250. The dedicatorial services were held October 12, 1908 by Rabbi Shinsky, chief rabbi of the Orthodox Jews of Pittsburgh, who made the address, Solomon Cohen was the principal mover in the establishment of this congregation, which numbered about fifty members. The congregation was under the charge of Rabbi Shinsky. Saint Joseph's Polish Roman Catholic Church. This congregation erected a buff brick house of worship on South Mount Vernon avenue in 1907, with Rev. B. Pawloski as pastor. This church was re-opened for service August 38, 1910, after having been closed for renovation and re-decoration. The exercises were presided over by the Right Reverend Bishop J. F. Regis Canevin of Pittsburgh and Rev. Father B. Pawloski as rector. St. John the Baptist Greek Church. The Saint John the Baptist Greek congregation purchased the old Madison college building in 1913, and remodeled and changed it into a house of worship and it was dedicated July 4, 1913. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 741 The Union Church in the McCormick Addition was dedi- cated to the service of Almighty God Sunday, July 11, 1899. The dedicatory sermon was preached by Rev. H. F. King, D. D. Other ministers who participated on the occasion were : Revs. H. C. Bird, G. J. Gongaware, T. F. Pershing, E. J. Wilson and J. H. Minerd. The lot was donated by Daniel Downer and the building was completed in 1896, at a cost of $700. A Sunday school was organized here in 1894, with R. H. Blacka as super- intendent and preaching was conducted by ministers of different denominations. Hungarian Presbyterian Church. This congregation of Presbyterian Magyars was organized by Rev. Dr. V. D. Moricz, formerly a professor in a university in Hungary, and spent two years in the Western Theological seminary. This congregation was organized in 1908, with a membership of 100, and first met in the Second Presbyterian church and later in the Salvation Army hall. The laying of the corner-stone of a buff brick meeting house for this congregation, that will seat 400 people, vvas laid amid great ceremonies and demonstrations on Connellsville street, November 28, 1909, and was attended by about 5,000 people, including numerous bands and fraternities — this being the first Magyar Presbyterian church in this section of the state. This building was dedicated June 26, 1910, with appropriate exercises, by Rev. Dr. W. Scott Bowman, pastor of the Second Presbyterian church, assisted by Rev. Dr. Moricz, pastor, and in the name of Redstone presbytery, the doors were opened for the worship of Almighty God, after which Dr. Moricz delivered a sermon and Dr. Bowman installed Dr. Moricz as pastor. This neat house of worship is mounted with a tower clock — a dona- tion from A. G. Kail. A school was taught in the basement. The building cost about $13,000. In March, 1911, Dr. Moricz resigned. Rev. Alexander Szkely of Columbus, Ohio, was on Tues- day, July 4, 1911, formally installed as pastor of this congrega- tion by Dr. W. Scott Bowman, assisted by Rev. C. C. Millar. Financial troubles overtook this church and the property was sold at sheriff's sale in December, 1912. 742 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Presbyterian Slavish Mission Church. Judge Nathaniel Ewing donated a lot on Wilson avenue extension for the erection of a building for the Presbyterian Slavish mission, w^hich had been organized and holding meet- ings in the Salvation Army hall under the charge of Rev. Frank Helmick. This building was of Victoria Gothic style, of light colored brick, and cost about $6,000. The corner-stone was laid September 36, 1909, the ceremonies being in charge of Rev. Frank H. Helmick, the pastor. CHAPTER XXXI. Distinguished Visitors — General George Washington — General Lafayette — Honorable John C. Calhoun — James Monroe — General Andrew Jackson — Jennie Lind — P. T. Barnum — John C. Fremont — James K. Polk — ^General Wil- liam Henry Harrison — Henry Clay — General Sam Houston — Thomas H. Benton — General Winfield Scott — ^James Bu- chanan — General Zachary Taylor — Abraham Lincoln — John J. Crittinden — General Pillow — Davy Crockett — Santa Anna — ^John Quincy Adams. Those who are familiar with the history of our country are aware that Washington was awarded vast tracts of land west of the Allegheny mountains for his military services during the French and Indian war. Much of this land was located on the Ohio river between the Great Kanawha and the Monongahela, of which some three thousand acres were located on Miller's run in Washington county, and to which were added some two thousand acres in Fayette county by purchase, and which he still owned at the time of his death. In 1770, before the Revolutionary war, Washington, in company with other interested parties, visited these lands, com- ing out over the old Braddock road, over which he had marched with his little army in 1754, and again to Braddock's defeat in 1755, and returned by the same route. In the fall of 1784 he concluded to again visit these lands with the purpose of disposing of some of them and also at the same time to locate if possible, a highway between the head- waters of the Potomac and those of the Ohio, to accommodate the great tide of emigration and traffic that was already forcing its way over the mountains. He again traversed the old Brad- dock road and arrived at Gilbert Simpson's, in the vicinity of the present village of Perryopolis, on September 13. Here he visited his mill that had been constructed under the superin- tendency of Gilbert Simpson and set in operation in the spring of 1776, and is still standing as a monument to the enterprise and forethought of Washington. Here he met many of the 743 744 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. inhabitants with whom he had business relations and others who had gathered to show their respect for the distinguished visitor. From here he proceeded to Washington county where he found his land occupied by settlers who claimed their tenure by squatters' rights, and whom he threatened with writs of ejectment unless satisfactory terms could be arranged. He had at first intended to visit his lands further down the Ohio, but upon learning of the hostile attitude of the Indians at that time, he concluded to return by the way he had come. He returned as far as Gilbert Simpson's, and here concluded to place his baggage under the care of Dr. Craik, who with his son had been Washington's traveling companion, and who had been his bosom friend and physician for so many years ; the doctor and his son returning by the new or Turkey Foot road, a route some twenty miles nearer than the Braddock road, while Washington in company with his nephew, Bushrod Washington, set out for Uniontown then known as Beesontown. Here he was to meet Mr. Thomas Smith, an eminent attorney of Carlisle, who was attending the courts of Fayette county then in session at Uniontown and whom Washington engaged to bring suits of ejectment in the courts of Washington county against some sixteen persons who had made improvements upon his lands. Washington . arrived in Uniontown " about dusk " on the 23nd of September and " put up " at a house of public enter- tainment, which was a double log house which stood on the south side of West Main street on the lot now occupied by the Fayette Title & Trust building, and formerly owned by Philip Dilts. The tavern at this time may have been kept by one John Huston, as he was an inn keeper in the early history of the town, and it is said, was at this time connected with this lot. Here Washington met Captain Benjamin Hardin, a promi- nent and intelligent resident of Springhill township, and Colonel Theophilus Phillips from the same locality, a gentleman of equal prominence, upon whose farm the courts of Monongalia county, Virginia, were held before the courts of Fayette county were established. While lodging at this old tavern, Washington had the op- portunity of conversing with several intelligent gentlemen con- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 745 cerning the feasibility of connecting the headwaters of the Po- tomac with those of the Ohio. Although Washington's arrival in the town was unan- nounced, the ubiquitous boys of the village discovered it and soon gathered en masse. They procured thirteen tallow candles which they lighted and marched and countermarched past the old tavern, waving their torches and cheering for the great gen- eral whom they wished to honor. Having finished his business here, Washington prepared to leave the town about noon the day after his arrival. The Court extended to him an apology through Mr. Smith for not having addressed him as his presence had not been announced in time for the Court to have taken some formal action suitable to the occasion. His horses being in readiness, Washington walked quietly from the tavern, and with uncovered head he saluted the throng that had gathered to show their respects, and rode off in com- pany with Colonel Phillips, Captain Hardin and his nephew, Bushrod Washington, and arrived at the home of Colonel Phil- lips about 5 o'clock in the afternoon where he lodged over night. The following morning Colonel Phillips accompanied Wash- ington over Cheat river to the house of Captain Samuel Hanway who sent for Colonel Zach Morgan, of Morgantown, and others who might express their views as to the easiest way of estab- lishing communication between the Potomac and the Ohio. Here Washington met for the first time young Albert Gallatin, or at least it was on just such an occasion when Wash- ington was examining his maps and discussing the same sub- ject when the youthful Gallatin traced his finger over the map and remarked, " This is the most feasible route." Washington raised his eyes from the map and gave Gallatin a most wither- ing look of rebuke which Gallatin never forgot to his dying day ; but after much discussion and calculation, Washington came to the same conclusion, and turning to Gallatin, said, " You are right, young man." From Captain Hanway's Washington proceeded over the mountains by what was then known as the New Road to the headwaters of the Youghiogheny and Cheat rivers. Here was a favorite hunting ground for large game and hither hunters were wont to resort in the hunting season. William McClel- land, one of the early settlers on York's run, and who had re- 746 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. moved to where Frederickstown in Washington county is now located, with a party of friends, was at this time on a hunting expedition and had taken up their abode in a deserted cabin from which its occupants had been frightened by the incursions of the Indians. In this old cabin was a weaver's loom which had been left by the former occupant of the cabin. As night ap- proached Mr. McClelland and his companions returned to this cabin for shelter, and to their surprise and delight, Washington and his companions in travel drew up to the same cabin for shelter for the night as a rain was threatening. The hunters hastily made every provision for the comfortable entertainment of their distinguished guest the circumstances would allow. On the seat of the weaver's loom was spread a blanket and with his saddle for a pillow, the general retired to rest, but the rest of the company, nearly a dozen in number, were seated on im- provised seats or standing in the corner. In the night the rain fell in torrents and the roof being open in places allowed the water to pour upon the head and breast of Washington until he was compelled to leave his place on the loom seat and stand or be seated with the other inmates of the cabin. Washington in his journal mentions the extreme inclemency of the weather at this part of his journey. In 1834, Mr. Freeman Lewis, a noted surveyor of Union- town, was engaged in assisting the engineers in reconnoitering for a route for the Chesapeake and Ohio canal in the vicinity of the above mentioned old cabin. Here he found a great col- lection of deer horns that had been piled up against the cabin by hunters, and entered the building, recaUing the scenes that had transpired there and the uncomfortable night spent by Washington and his companions on that rainy night. This old cabin was at one time the property and perhaps the home of Charles Friend, one of the ancestors of the numerous and popu- lar Friend family of Maryland, and stood near the present route of the main line of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad. Visit of General Lafayette. One of the very illustrious characters that have visited Uniontown was the Marquis de la Fayette, who by an act which was unanimously passed by both Houses of Congress in February, 1834, and approved by President Monroe, was most cordially invited to become the guest of the nation that the History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 747 people might be afforded the opportunity to demonstrate the grateful and affectionate attachment still cherished in the hearts of a grateful nation. A ship, with suitable accommodations, was tendered him for his conveyance to this country. Lafayette accepted this warm invitation to become the " guest of the nation " and arrived in New York on the 15th of August, following, where he was received at Castle Garden by fifty thousand people assembled to do him honor. Upon the arrival of General Lafayette in the United States the citizens of Uniontown determined to extend to the nation's guest a cordial invitation to visit the town, and to this end the following gentlemen were selected as a committee of invitation and entertainment, viz. : Colonel Samuel Evans, Thomas Irwin, Esq., Honorable Andrew Stewart, John Dawson, Esq., and Robert Skiles, who framed the following invitation : " Uniontown, Fayette county, Pennsylvania, July 31, 1824. General La Fayette: The citizens of Fayette county participating in the uni- versal joy diffused by your visit to the United States have ap- pointed the undersigned to congratulate you upon your safe arrival, — to express the grateful sense they entertain for the brilliant services you have rendered to this country, — and re- spectfully to say that, if convenience and inclination would per- mit the extension of your tour to this part of the Union, they would be delighted to manifest that respect and veneration for your person which they have always entertained for your character. When the tie that bound us to the throne of Great Britain was dissolved, this western country presented to the eye of the observer a great wilderness inhabited by savages. It could not be but gratifying to your feelings now to observe the astonish- ing change — the wonderful contrast — and be assured. Sir, it would be highly gratifying to our feelings to do honor to him who so essentially contributed to produce our present happy condition — to display our attachment to the principles of the Revolution by evincing gratitude to one who, surrounded by the splendors of nobility and comforts of wealth at home, risked his life and his fortune in defense of a destitute and an op- pressed people abroad — and to express our regard for the rights of mankind by greeting with a hearty welcome the man who 748 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. has been the uniform friend of Liberty, and the determined enemy of Tyranny both in Europe and in America. Signed, Samuel Evans, Thomas Irwin, A. Stewart, Jno. Dawson, Robert Skiles." The above invitation was forwarded to Judge John Bouvier, a former member of the Fayette county bar, for presentation to General Lafayette and which he did. Mr. John Campbell, postmaster and merchant of Union- town, was in Philadelphia at the time General Lafayette visited that city and wrote the following letter to Col. Evans : " Philadelphia, October 4, 1834, 1 o'clock p. m. Sir: My brother Benjamin and myself have this moment re- turned from the Mansion House hotel where we had the pleas- ure of an introduction by Mr. Bouvier to General La Fayette; it was very difficult to gain admittance, but Mr. Bouvier told one of the committee that he had presented to the general, some days before, an address, etc., from Fayette county, and that there were two gentlemen now with him from Fayette county that wished to receive his answer if ready; after some time, perhaps an hour, we were admitted, and after Mr. Bouvier broached the subject, the general replied : ' My dear sir, it has been out of my power to answer yet, my situation has been as you now see me, ever since, nor will I be able to write in answer until my arrival at Washington, and it will be after the sitting of Congress before I can visit that place; viz., Fayette county.' His son, George Washington, was present, and about five or six others only when we were introduced. I have hur- ried to give you^ the first information of the above. Mr. Bouvier will write, perhaps, to Mr. Irwin. No time to write more now. Signed, Your friend, John Campbell." General Lafayette visited the eastern cities, and went as far south as New Orleans, and ascended the Mississippi and Ohio rivers as far as Wheeling, where he and his party were History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 749 met by the committee of reception and entertainment and were extended a very flattering and urgent invitation to accept the gratitude and hospitalities of the citizens of Uniontown. Hav- ing signified his acceptance of the invitation, the general was again met by Col. Evans and other members of the committee at Washington, Pa., to which place the party had traveled by the National road. The committee soon sent back the follow- ing communication: "Washington, Pa., Wednesday, May 35, 1825, 6 o'clock p. m. General Lafayette arrived at 5 p. m. He will leave this place tomorrow morning early, will breakfast at Hillsborough, dine at Brownsville and sup and lodge at Uniontown. This ar- rangement is fixed, you may act with certainty." The citizens of Brownsville gave the general a cordial re- ception and entertainment at the Brashears hotel, and detained him long after the hour contemplated for his departure. The awaiting throng at Uniontown grew impatient, and as the day wore away, couriers were flying between the towns bearing the news. The committee, becoming impatient, importuned George Craft, then high sheriff of Fayette county, to remind the general that the people of Uniontown were anxiously awaiting his ar- rival. Armed with the following note to General Lafayette, written by the hand of Mr. Gallatin : " Union, 26th May,- 1825, — Lafayette, you must come — you must come, Lafayette. Gallatin." Craft mounted his horse, struck spurs and was off. In fifty- two minutes he was dismounted at the hotel where Lafayette was seated at the table. Leaving his horse in the street, he pushed through the dense throng, vainly endeavoring to reach the dining-room and finally gained entrance through a window. The general, on reading Mr. Gallatin's note, arose and playfully said, " Gentlemen, I am now in the hands of the high sheriff of Fayette county whose summons I must obey, I therefore pray to be excused," and withdrew, from the dining-room. Two splendid arches had been erected over Main street, one at the intersection of Morgantown street and the other at the court house. A pavilion had been erected in front of the 7'50 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. court house, and all were beautifully festooned and decorated by the ladies of the town. The floor was carpeted, and seats were provided for the distinguished guests, the ladies and the Revolutionary soldiers, in order that the latter might be near their old comrade in arms. On Thursday, about 11 o'clock a. m., the Honorable Albert Gallatin arrived, escorted by a detachment of the Fayette Guards, commanded by Ca^t. Wood of the vicinity of New Geneva. He was met just out of town by Captain Richard Beeson with his company of Union Volunteers and by these conducted to the Walker hotel. The Youghiogheny Blues, commanded by Captain Smith, and the Pennsylvania Blues, commanded by Captain McClelland, arrived also early in the day and the citizens in great numbers thronged the streets. The artillery, under the command of Captain Hugh Gorley, was posted on an eminence at the west of town, with orders to give notice of the approach of the general and his suite. The day was uncommonly fine and pleasant, and as it began to draw away the awaiting throng grew anxious and couriers were sent to ascertain the whereabouts of the approaching guests. Mr. Gallatin himself, perhaps to conceal his emotions from the gaze of the throng, went two miles out to meet his friend. They recognized each other at some distance, and each stepped from his carriage and advanced with uncovered head. The spectators stood in awe at a respectful distance as these noble men em- braced and kissed each other in the most affectionate manner. About half past five the signal of the general's proximity to the town was announced by a discharge of thirteen guns. The volunteer companies, under the command of Major Daniel P. Lynch, were stationed on the hill west of town, and at 6 o'clock the general arrived at that point and the procession was formed agreeable to the order previously arranged by the mar- shals of the day. The procession then entered the town in the following order: The various military companies formed the advance, followed by General Lafayette and his suite, which consisted of his son, George Washington Lafayette; his secretary. Col. A. Levasseur; M. de Syon, an educated Frenchman and at this time a resident of Washington City; and Bastien, his valet. General Lafayette rode in an open barouche drawn by four elegant bay horses, on each of which rode a postillion dressed History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 751 in white with a blue sash. George Washington Lafayette was driven tandem by Mr. L. W. Stockton in his elegant barouche, and Col. Levasseur rode with John M. Austin, Esq., in a gig. Then followed Governor Morris of Ohio and his two aides; Judge Thomas H. Baird, and Messrs. Ritner and Sample, two of the Washington county committee. The last three gentle- men accompanied the general from Washington, Pa. ; the mar- shals and committee of arrangements, and a number of our most respectable citizens in gigs, carriages and on horseback. General Markle of Westmoreland county and General Henry W. Beeson and several field officers rode in full uniform. In passing through the streets the general was saluted with the shout of " Welcome to General Lafayette " and bowed recog- nition to those who thronged the sidewalks. As he approached the arch that spanned the street his eye caught the sentiment, " La Fayette, L' Ami de I' homme." On the reverse side of this arch was observed the following lines under the memorable date of 1776 : " Our choicest welcome hereby is expressed In heartfelt homage to the Nation's Guest." The arch near the court house was surmounted by an eagle, the emblem of American liberty, and bore the following in- scription : " Lessons to Tyrants " — " York and Brandywine." On the opposite side was the legend, "Friends of Freedom — Washington and Lafayette." Upon reaching the court house the general left his carriage and entered the pavilion where he was received by Honorable Albert Gallatin and Major General Ephraim Douglass, sur- rounded by a goodly company of Revolutionary soldiers and an assemblage of ladies. After the exchange of the most friendly salutations, Mr. Gallatin arose and addressed him in the follow- ing impressive and eloquent speech : " General Lafayette : The citizens of this county would wish to express their joy on seeing you among them, their feelings of love and gratitude towards you. These sentiments you have already heard in a thousand places and from a thousand voices; and what language so eloquent as those multitudes collected from every quarter to meet you, as those acclamations which 753 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. greet you wherever you appear! Accept these demonstrations as the sincere and spontaneous effusions of a free people im- pressed with respect for your character, and who entertain the most grateful sense of your valor. Of these services it is hardly necessary to speak; they are engraved in the heart of every American. Who among them has forgotten that General Lafayette, in the prime of youth, re- linquished for the sake of America all the advantage of birth and rank, the allurements, the splendor of a brilliant court and, what was far more precious to him, the endearments of do- mestic happiness, of conjugal love? Who does not remember that he came to aid America at the most critical period of her struggle for independence? that he fought and bled for her? that he acquired the friendship and confidence of Washington, the love of all those who fought with him or approached him? that he prepared, that he shared in the decisive triumph at Yorktown? His services were not confined to the field. While he bore the fatigues and braved the dangers of every campaign, almost every winter he crossed the ocean to stimulate and en- courage our friends, to hasten, to obtain new succors from our illustrious and unfortunate ally. All these services he rendered with the most perfect disinterestedness, impairing his private fortune instead of receiving a compensation from the United States. The name which this county bears, an early evidence of public gratitude, that name, whilst it perpetually reminded us of your virtues and of your services, has also given us a more common interest in all your fortunes. Let this be our apology for detaining you, even at the risk of wounding your modesty, a few minutes longer than is usual on occasions like this. In the first assembly of Notables it was on your motion that the report of one of its bureaus recommended the restora- tion of the Protestants of France to their civil rights ; a report on which was founded the decree to the effect issued the year before the commencement of the French revolution. When this last event took place, although belonging to a distinguished family of the privileged class, you instantaneously appeared as one of the most zealous and able defenders of the people. The part you took on all the momentous questions agi- tated at that time, is known to the world. But it has been a common error to believe that France has reaped no other fruits History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 753 from her revolution than wretchedness and bloodshed; that no material benefits had ultimately accrued to the nation from that portentous event. If, however, the magnitude of the obstacles to be overcome in every quarter shall be duly considered, and if we compare what France was at the epoch of our revolution with what it now is, these will be found less cause of astonish- ment that no more was effected than of regret, that it should have been purchased at so dear a price. A penal code, imperfect in its forms, but in its penalties as mild as our own, substituted for the sanguinary enactments of a barbarous age; an uniform civil code adapted to the present state of society, taking the place of superannuated and contra- dictory usages, trial by jury in criminal, a public trial in all cases; the principles of a representative government adopted and public moneys annually voted and accounted for; personal liberty rendered more secure, that of the press enlarged, that of conscience established, all the privileges of individuals, of classes, of corporations, of provinces abrogated; servitude and feodality entirely abolished, and a people of vassals become a nation of freeholders ; all these together form a mass of im- provements, a radical change in the internal policy of France far greater than ever had been eflfected within the same time in any age or in any country. For almost if not all, those ad- vantages were obtained in the course of the three first years of the French revolution, of that short period during which alone you had an influence, and a most powerful influence over the affairs of France. No, sir, you have not lived in vain any more for France than for America. The foundation is laid, and the life of nations is not to be computed by years but by generations. It does not belong to us to say what further improvements may still be wanted — what are suitable to the state of France. We only pray that whatever they may be they should flow from per- suasion and not from due force; that they may be the result of mutual confidence restored and not of new convulsions, of re- newed sanguinary conflicts. It did not depend on you that such should have been the early, the immediate termination of the French revolution, taught, permit me the expression, taught at the school of rational liberty under the illustrious founders of this republic, you were not a more energetic defender of the cause of liberty on the ^54 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. floor of the National Assembly of France than conspicuous as commander-in-chief of her national guards, in preserving order, in checking excesses, in preventing crimes, in averting the ef- fusion of blood. You were ever the refuge, often the pro- tector of innocence and misfortune ; and where your efforts failed it was because the task was beyond the power of man to perform. When that constitution which you and your enlightened colleagues had thought best calculated to secure the liberties and to promote the welfare of France; when that constitution, which you had sworn to support, in vain threatened from abroad, was assailed from within by an infuriated band ; with a prophetic spirit you saw the impending ruin. Faithful to your oaths, faithful to the people, regardless of forms, careless of personal consequences, you threw yourself in the breach; and on that memorable occasion to the cause of the people you sacrificed your own popularity — you, to whom the approbation and love of the people were the only worldly rewards, which you, ever deemed worthy of any consideration. The sequel is well known. For having attempted to save the country, you were persecuted, proscribed, despoiled of the inheritance of your fathers, as if you had been an enemy to the country. You did not expect to receive abroad the reward of your services in the cause of liberty and of France. But in the foreign the proscribed patriot found no asylum but a dungeon, immured for years, fetters might bind your limbs, your mind re- mained unconquered, unbroken and free. Your proscription was the signal for woes that awaited your devoted country. I will not dwell on the deplorable scenes that ensued. Liberty fled from a land polluted by crimes com- mitted in her sacred name; for if that first blessings must be conquered by courage virtue and wisdom can alone preserve it. When, after a lapse of years, you were restored to France, you found her in the hands of that extraordinary man who had been designed to rule, for a while, her destinies and those of Europe. France was immersed in a sea of glory, she was no longer free. You rejoiced in the successes obtained over foreign enemies ; you admired all that was great ; you approved all that was good. But the honors, the dignities, the splendors, the glories of the new government you sternly refused to share. The right of suffrage was limited to a few electors designated History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 755 by the executive; the legislature was dumb; personal liberty- insecure, that of the press annihilated; all the powers were centered in one man. You withdrew into honorable retirement where, surrounded by a beloved family, you were for nearly fourteen years a pattern of every domestic, as you have been a model of every civic virtue. The baubles of ambition were never the objects of your pursuit; and in the simplicity of your heart you did not even think that you had made a sacrifice, but there still remained one to be made to your principles. Your only son, the worthy inheritor of your name and of your virtues, he whom we rejoice to see by your side, was fight- ing under the banners of the emperor; they were those of France. He could not but follow your steps; he distinguished himself in a remarkable manner. A rapid promotion seemed to await him, a career of honors and glory to be opened to him. He bore your name ; that career was at once stopped ; those brilliant prospects were shut up — and for life. And that last sacrifice was made by him and you, by you the tenderest of fathers ; rather than to give the powerful sanction of your name to a system destructive of that cause to which you had de- voted your life. And just when the Colossus fell, whilst flat- terers betrayed or fled, you, who had resisted him when in the height of his power, you then only remembered that to his first victories you had been indebted for your release from the prison of Olmutz. And you were the first to suggest those means of safety which were provided in time and which, had it not been for a strange infatuation on his part, and for shameful treachery on that of false friends, would have preserved him from the fate which at last awaited him. When the free suffrages of your fellow citizens again called you on the public scene no one doubted the part you would act. Vulgar minds alone could have recollected former persecutions, or even neglect; while your heart beat in your bosom you could not appear otherwise than the defender of the rights of the people yet age might have cooled your ardor, disappointments might have dampened your primitive hopes. But when the veteran of the cause of liberty in both hemispheres again came forth in the defense of that cause for which he had fought and bled, for which he had suf- fered chains and proscription, it was with renovated vigor, with all the energy, all the purity, all the freshness of youth. Such is the faint outline of a life exclusively devoted to the 756 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. cause of man, of an active life of fifty years, unstained by vice and which has not been disfigured by a single act of inconsis- tency. Your career has been no less arduous than brilliant. But after so many toils, severe trails, unjust persecutions and do- mestic afflictions it has pleased Divine Providence to grant to the evening of your days the reward most gratifying to your mind. You left, sir, infant America still bleeding from the wounds of her revolutionary contest, without commerce, without wealth, without credit, without an efficient general government. After an absence of forty years you have been permitted to revisit our shores, and you find her already in the strength of her man- hood, sustaining a distinguished rank among the nations of the earth, the asylum of the oppressed and the unfortunate of every nation and of every description, having attained a height of prosperity unequalled within so short a period in the annals of mankind. Her villages are now populous cities; her ships cover the ocean ; new states have, as by magic, arisen out of the wilderness; her progress in manufactures, in arts, in internal improvements, latterly in science and literature, has kept pace with that of her wealth and her trebled population. We had been threatened with an infallible dissolution of our union, and thirteen independent states were seen voluntarily relinquishing their sovereignty and vesting a general government with all the powers necessary for the common defense; an act of wisdom and patriotism of which, extraordinary as it may appear, history has not yet afforded an example. The prosperity, the long peace they have enjoyed has not enervated the Americans. The present generation has proved worthy of their fathers, of your companions in arms. You go hence to erect a monument on Bunker Hill, on the spot where the British first learned what resistance they had to expect from a people who had willed to be free. And you arrived here from New Orleans, the scene of an exploit not surpassed in this age of military wonders, of an extraordinary and complete victory gained, over veteran troops superior in numbers, by a band of citizen-soldiers led by a self-taught hero, one of themselves, one of the people. At the same time, a Pennsylvania farmer, in a series of well fought actions, was sustaining the honor of the American arms on our northern frontier. And with still greater disparity of forces, our intrepid navy were showing the world History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 757 that even on her own element, the Ocean Queen was not in- vincible. This magnificent spectacle affords the highest reward to your labors, above all because that prosperity, those blessings which we are permitted to enjoy are the results of our free institutions. Those institutions, withdrawing from the control of government the imprescriptible rights of man in their indi- vidual capacities have left to each the liberty of conscience, the liberty of expressing and publishing his opinions, the free exer- cise of his faculties, the unrestrained expansion of his intellect, confining the operation of government to its legitimate objects, the protection of individuals against the cupidity and the passions of others, that of the community against foreign aggression, those institutions have vested all the powers neces- sary for those purposes, in governments emphatically of laws, in pure representative governments of the simplest form, founded on frequent elections and on universal suffrage. The fruits of that system are before the world, and none of those evils have befallen us which have been deemed the necessary consequence of popular governments. Religion has preserved all her benign influence amidst uni- versal liberty of worship and conscience, though the unholy connection between church and state has been entirely dissolved. Public tranquillity has not been impaired though personal liberty has been so perfectly respected in fact as by law that, to this day, the habeas corpus has not been once suspended. The unlimited, unrestrained liberty of the press, so far from shaking the government to its center, has not, in the slightest degree, impaired its strength or impeded its action. Universal suffrage has been tested by the choices generally made by the people. Frequent multiplied elections have never been attended with the least commotions; and even when for the highest offices, though conducted with all the energy of freemen, though inflamed by the freest publications of the press, they have been followed by an immediate acquiescence in the constitutional decisions. All powers have emanated from the people and revert to the people. It is our boast that acknowledging in our own laws whilst in force, at all times in the eternal laws of justice, an 758 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. authority superior to ourselves, we have not abused these powers. In our foreign relations, whilst government has been found competent to support our rights, what nation has been injured or insulted by the United States? In our internal concerns, whilst the laws have been duly and impartially administered, can, during a period of forty years, an instance be adduced of a citizen persecuted or oppressed? The complete success of the great experimenx madeUff'the largest scale in this country, this living proof that men are capable of self-government, the splendid example given by the United States has not been lost to mankind. Events, perhaps anticipated, but which we had viewed as belonging to posterity, have taken place in our own time. A twelve month before you landed in America to join her standard, not a man in this vast continent, not a man, save the wild Indian, who did not acknowledge the supremacy of an European power. And now within less than the short span of one man's active life, from Cape Horn to the source of the Mississippi, not a solitary province remains that has not shaken the foreign yoke. History will record the immense sacrifices, the acts of heroism and self-devotion, the undismayed perse- verance by which those events have been achieved. Our government, faithful to its principles, had never excited nor en- couraged the insurrections. In being the first to recognize the independence of South America, the first publicly to declare that they could not see with indifference an hostile interference on the part of other nations, that duty has been performed, which their position and their moral station in the world had assigned to the United States. A new spirit pervades, animates the whole civilized world. It has penetrated through every class of society, teaching every man in the most obscure and latterly oppressed condition to feel and to assert his rights; making every day new converts, even among the privileged ranks sitting on the very footsteps of thrones. And shall the voice prevail of a few infatuated men, who only dream what they cannot hope? Shall the power be given unto them of arresting light in its progress? Of making the human mind retrograde? The planets also, to the eye of man, appear at times to have a retrograde motion, but they still pursue their unerring course in obedience to the laws of History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 759 nature and to the first impulse of the Creator. And now in the moral world, the people, nobles, statesmen, monarchs are all carried away by the irresistible stream of public opinion and of growing knowledge. Do you ask for an irrefragable proof of that overwhelming influence? The British ministry, composed exclusively of men who, ten years ago, opposed every revolution and were trem- blingly alive at the slightest appearance of the slightest innova- tion, they have in less than a year, commenced the reform of their ancient and complex system of laws, destroyed colonial monopoly in their own colonies, recognized the independence of South America, countenanced, if not assisted the Greeks and, if we are not misinformed, are at last on the eve of emancipa- ting that long oppressed, long injured people, the friends of America— the Irish nation. The flag of liberty has spread from the Peruvian Andes, from the western boundary of the civilized world, to its most remote confines towards the east. Greece, the cradle of European civilization and of our own ; Greece, the classical land of first born liberty, had for centuries groaned under the most intolerable yoke. Her sons were be- lieved to be utterly debased by slavery, degraded — lost beyond redemption, their names had become a by-word of reproach — themselves an object of contempt rather than of pity. Sud- denly they awaken from their long lethargy; they fly to arms, they break their chains asunder; they receive no foreign as- sistance ; Christian powers frown upon them ; they are surrounded by innumerable dangers — by innumerable enemies ; they do not inquire how many there are, but where they are? Every year without a navy, they destroy formidable fleets; every year, without an army, they disperse countless hosts, every year they astonish the world, they conquer its reluctant sympathy by deeds worthy of the trophies of Salamis and Marathon, by ex- ploits to which the love of liberty could alone have given birth, by prodigies which would be deemed fabulous, did they not happen in our own days and under our own eyes. Whence that generation and its wonderful effects? From the progress of knowledge, from the superiority of intellect over brutal force. The Greeks had preserved their immortal lan- guage, the recollection of their ancestors, their religion — a natural character. Patriotic individuals had, for the last fifty 760 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. years, instituted schools, established printing presses, used every means to renovate and disseminate knowledge. Their stupid oppressors could not perceive or fear a progress hardly observed by Europe. But the seed was not sown on a barren soil ; the Turkish scimitar had been less fatal to the human mind than the Spanish Inquisition. The cause is not yet won ; an almost miraculous resistance may yet, perhaps, be overwhelmed by the tremendous superi- ority of numbers. And will the civilized, the Christian world, for these words are synonymous, will they look with apathy on the dreadful catastrophe that would ensue? A catastrophe which they — which we alone could prevent with so much facility and almost without danger? I am carried beyond what I had in- tended to say ; it is due to your presence ; do I not know that wherever man struggling for liberty, for existence, is most in danger, there is your heart. Indeed I may ask who, in establishing — in propagating — in defending the principles which have produced so great and glorious results, who among those are still living has had a greater share than Lafayette? And among the living or dead, he alone, to whom it was given to act an equally conspicuous part on the two great theaters of the great struggle, America and France. Can it then be a subject of astonishment, that you should have been received with unequalled enthusiasm by a free and enlightened people? We partake the national feeling to its fullest extent. We hail you as one of the surviving heroes of our revolution, as the energetic defender of the cause of man, as a rare model of the most perfect consistency of character. Happy to have been on this occasion the organ of my fellow citizens, they may judge of my feelings when, in him, I now address I also meet my sincere, my long-tried — my bosom friend." This address of Mr. Gallatin was pronounced incomparable for depth of thought, beauty of diction, genuine eloquence and appropriate action, and was listened to with the most pro- found attention, and the effect which it produced on those who heard it was visible in the brimful eye and the heaving bosom of those who surrounded the orator. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 761 General Lafayette's Response to Mr. Gallatin's Address. Upon Mr. Gallatin resuming his seat Gen. Lafayette re- sponded in the following brief but modest and touching address : " Whatever has been my constant faith in the power of freedom and my fond anticipations as an American patriot, I could not at the time Pennsylvania designed to call this part of the state after my name, flatter myself to be blessed with the sight of the high state of prosperity and improvement in every respect which I have now the delight to witness; this delight, my dear sir, cannot but be greatly enhanced by the affectionate welcome I receive in this county and in Uniontown and by the peculiar felicity I enjoy to hear that welcome expressed in the name of the people by an old and intimate friend. " I will not further dwell on your very kind and flattering reference to the past events in both hemispheres so far as they respect me, than to confess myself happy and gratified in the highest degree by those testimonies of approbation from you, sir, whose esteem and affection I so greatly value, but in your eloquent speech, I find still higher and more gratifying motives for my profound gratitude. In the name of the companions of my sentiments and my conduct through the vicissitudes of the French revolution, I thank you for the honorable evidence given in our favor by so enlightened and respectable an observer and for the justice you have done to the benefits acquired by the people of France, and to the progress toward European emanci- pation, which in spite of posterior and most deplorable circum- stances have remained the result of the first impulse and the first year of that extensive revolution. And who, sir, in that multi- tude of American hearers thronged around us, but have felt themselves elevated, obliged, delighted at your so very just and patriotic observations on the unexampled public prosperity and private happiness, the superior and dignified degree of political civilization, the national and gloriously experienced strength, the sound and virtuous feelings, the truly republican spirit in support of institutions founded on the rights of man, by which these happy United States are held up as an object of admiration as a noble, evident, practical model to the rest of the world. While I most cordially join in your eager and consistent wishes for the extension of those blessings to other nations, in mutual congratulations for the republican enfranchisement of the far 763 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. greater part of the American hemispheres, I could not hear you mention classic and heroic Greece without remembering how early and with what zealous concern we had made it an object of our confidential conversations. But had I not better leave this numerous audience to the deep and lively impressions you have made upon them and content myself with presenting the people of this county and town and you, my dear friend, the ablest and most acceptable organ of my gratitude with warm and devoted acknowledgments." The general then left the pavilion and resumed his carriage, when the procession moved in order to Mr. Walker's hotel where the committee of arrangements had made provisions for his ac- commodations. The general reviewed the corps of volunteers and was introduced to a great number of citizens who pressed around him. At an early hour an elegant supper was served of which the general and his suite and a large compg^ny of gentlemen partook. On his right was placed General Ephraim Douglass, and on his left the Honorable Albert Gallatin, and on the right of General Douglass, Governor Morrow, of Ohio, and his aides, and to the left of Mr. Gallatin Judge Baird and the Revolution- ary soldiers. After supper the following toasts were drunk and the company retired : 1. Our Country — " Where liberty dwells, there is my country." 2. The statesmen and heroes of the Revolution — " The one willed us to be free, the other made us so." 3. Memory of Washington. 4. General Lafayette — " France claims the honor of his birth, all mankind the benefit." When this was given the General rose and gave the follow- ing toast: " Fayette county and Uniontown — May their republican prosperity be as durable as these Allegheny mountains, which in times of distress were contemplated as a last resort and which are now the lofty witnesses of American independence and freedom." History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 763 5. The President of the United States. 6. Perpetual Union among the states — " It saved us in times of danger; it will save the world." 7. The South American Republics — " Their march to victory and freedom has kept pace with the march of mind." 8. The Press—" Enlightened and free." 9. The ex-Presidents of the United States. 10. Greece — "The Clouds which for centuries o'er shadowed her destiny are fast dispersing." 11. Science — " The twin sister of Liberty." 18. " Civil and religious liberty in every part of the known world." 13. Woman — " No eulogium can equal her deserts." Our fellow citizen, Albert Gallatin, distinguished for the splendor of his talents and purity of his patriotism. By the Honorable Albert Gallatin — " General Bolivar — who never despaired, and when everything was lost, persevered until everything was won. If he perseveres in virtue he shall deserve a place next to Washington." Our distinguished guest, the governor of Ohio. By Governor Morrow — " The state of Pennsylvania " — " For patriotism hospitality and public spirit her citizens are proverbial." George Washington Lafayette — By George Washington Lafayette — " The American love of freedom, ardent and everlasting." Mr Levasseur. By Mr. Levasseur — " The Republican institutions of Pennsylvania." By — volunteer corps — " The only efificient mode of mak- ing citizen soldiers." Soon after supper Lafayette excused himself and desired to retire to his room in order to look over his mail. Col. Evans volunteered to bring his mail to his room and in order to insure against intrusion, to lock the door and carry the key in his pocket. Mr. John Campbell being then postmaster, refused to deliver the mail to Col. Evans, but immediately delivered it in person, and this was pronounced to have been the largest mail 764 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ever received by any one individual at one time in the history of the office. In the evening the w^hole town was as brilliantly illuminated as the facilities of those times would permit, and general good humor and rejoicing prevailed. On the following morning at 6 o'clock the general set out in company with Mr. Gallatin for the residence of the latter, escorted by a number of the Union Volunteers, mounted, the marshals, the committee of escort and many citizens. They stopped a few minutes at Brownfieldtown (Smithfield) ; at Geneva the escort was joined by the Fayette Guards and, after passing through the town amidst a numerous assemblage of citizens, they proceeded to the farm of Mr. Gallatin; here a multitude had assembled to greet the benefactor of the human race. Mr. Gallatin's house was thrown open and the great concourse which thronged about it received from him the most affectionate welcome. His best liquors were spread in profusion on the tables and great pains were taken to give the crowd of anxious visitors an introduction to the general. The following day as the general returned from Mr. Gallatin's he was received in Geneva with great enthusiasm, especially by the ladies, with the lady of Capt. Wood at their head. They were ranged on the sidewalk with garlands of flowers in their hands which they gracefully waved and strewed before him. On his arrival at Uniontown he was again met by a crowd of citizens. The ladies of town had assembled en masse dressed in white and most beautifully bedecked with wreathes of roses and bunches of flowers in their hands, which they waved as he passed, in token of the grateful feelings with which they were affected. After the general alighted from his carriage he was introduced to them in the parlor of Mr. Walker's hotel, to which they had repaired for that purpose, and he was pleased to express much satisfaction at this flattering testimony of respect. The arches were again most splendidly illuminated throughout the evening. The following verses of welcome to Gen. Lafayette are from the pen of Mr. Richard Beeson, captain of the Union Volunteers, at the time of Lafayette's visit. He was a brother of Mr. Isaac Beeson and Gen. Henry W. Beeson and was a member of the Fayette county bar: History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 765 WELCOME TO GEN. LAFAYETTE, BY A Citizen of Uniontown, Pa. The sons of Columbia all welcome thy landing, Brave champion of freedom, thy welcome resounds From the eastern Atlantic north and southward expanding To where the Pacific our continent bounds. The trumpet of fame re-echoes thy name, And thy deeds patriotic our warriors inflame. Our navy rejoices to see the first founder Of that noble fabric she stands to defend. Our youth, independent with glorious wonder. Behold their reliever, their country's friend With wonder behold the hero of old His name shall descend in letters of gold. Welcome, thrice welcome thou favored of heaven. The sons of Columbia all welcome thee here, The flower of thy youth was by providence given T' extirpate tyrants and freedom to rear. The trumpet of fame re-echoed thy name, And thy deeds patriotic our warriors inflame. May heaven direct to the west of the mountains The brave one who fought our country to free; We'll welcome him here, he shall drink of the fountain That flows from the root of the sacred tree. The tree of the brave, whose proud branches wave O'er the tomb of our heroes who died but to save. The following lines were written and published in pamph- let form by William Thompson who was principal of the Union Academy at the time of Lafayette's visit : ADDRESS TO GEN. LAFAYETTE. " Fayette ! our country's glory and its boast. We bid thee welcome to our native coast. We pay thee honor; 'tis indeed thy due. 766 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. For thou to us wast faithful, gen'rous, true, Columbia, struggling with a giant foe, Threaten'd with danger and immers'd in woe, Aided by thee, threw ofif a tyrant's yoke, His army conquer'd and his spirit broke! A free-born nation hails thee as her son And pants to celebrate thy victories won ; A free-born nation venerates thy name, Thrice dear to virtue, liberty and fame; A free-born nation would their hearts employ To sing thy praises and to give thee joy. Can we, Americans, thy deeds forget Thy sufferings too; O gallant Lafayette? Can we forget the stranger who arose To give an impulse to our righteous cause? Who left his native country and his all That our proud enemy might not enthral. Nor grasp us with his fell tyrannic hand — So long the torment of our native land? Fayette ! we count it honor to our cause That it received thy succor and applause ; Next to our Washington we hold thee dear. Repeat thy valor and thy name revere. Go where thou wilt, our pray'rs on high ascend For thee our gen'rous captain and our friend ; And while the air with shouts of joy resound. We pour our blessings on Columbian ground. Happy are we to recognize the chief Who gave us freedom when he brought relief. LAFAYETTE'S FAREWELL TO UNIONTOWN. Early on Sunday morning, the 39th day of May, the general bade farewell to the people of Uniontown. The parting of La- fayette and Gallatin was truly affecting, as they thrice em- braced each the other in the most affectionate manner. The general and his suite attended by the committee of escort and a large number of citizens, started on their way to Pittsburgh. George Washington Lafayette rode in a gig with Mr. Andrew Stewart, who in designating the farms in the neighborhood of Perryopolis which were at one time the property of General Washington, so far forgot himself as to drive over a stump History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 767 standing in the way and upset his guest into the road. Young Lafayette was unhurt but vowed that he would save some of the soil from his hands and carry it to France as a souvenir of Washington's farm. Gen. Lafayette and his suite, together with Mr. Gallatin, expressed themselves in the highest terms of the enthusiasm and the warm reception they had been accorded by the people of Uniontown. General Markle and Major Anderson with two companies of artillery had made preparations to meet General Lafayette at Harmany's school house, in the near neighborhood of Colonel Edward Cook's residence. Here a sumptuous repast was spread and the distinguished guest welcomed with thirteen rounds of cannon. The committee of escort from Uniontown accompanied the departing guests as far as Elizabethtown, where the final separa- tion took place, and Lafayette and his company took passage in a boat propelled by four oars and arrived at Braddock at 9 o'clock in the evening. Here they were cordially received and sumptuously entertained at the house of Judge Geo. Wallace. A large deputation from Pittsburgh had already assembled here, and under the escort of Capt. Magnus M. Murray's troop of light dragoons, the general resumed his journey toward Pitts- burgh. A salute of twenty-four guns announced his entrance to the United States arsenal, where Maj. Churchill entertained him at breakfast, after which the Pittsburgh battalion of volunteer troops, six independent military companies from the city and several volunteer companies from the country round about were drawn up in line to receive the distinguished visitor. Gov. Morrow and his staff still accompanied Lafayette to Pitts- burgh. The general was escorted to the Darlington hotel, on Wood street, where he was introduced to the people. Hon. Charles Shaler delivered the address of welcome, and after others had spoken the Hon. James Ross, who had eight years before welcomed President James Monroe to Pittsburgh, also delivered an address of welcome no this occasion. Among the revolutionary soldiers who welcomed Lafayette to Pittsburgh was Gilbreath Wilson who had assisted in carrying the general off the field at the battle of Brandywine, and whom the general recognized with gratitude. Gen. Lafayette and his suite left Pittsburgh early in the 768 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. morning of June 1 in a stage-coach escorted by Capt. Murray's troop of light dragoons and a large delegation of prominent citizens, among the latter of whom was Mr. Harmar Denny whose father, Ebenezer Denny, was an ensign in the First Pennsylvania regiment in the Revolutionary war and was present with Lafayette at the surrender of Cornwallis at York- town, and was the first mayor of Pittsburgh, in 1816. Mr. Denny accompanied the general as far as Erie. The general and his suite then passed through Butler, Franklin, Meadville and Waterford to Erie. At Meadville Lafayette recognized his old physician. Dr. Magaw, who was six years a surgeon in the Revolutionary war and had dressed the wound of Lafayette on the battlefield forty-eight years before. The doctor was now 85 years of age, had practiced medicine for half a century and was now living in retirement. At Waterford the general and his suite, with the committee from Pittsburgh, were met by Judah Colt, Esq., of the Erie com- mittee, who in behalf of the citizens, gave the general a cordial welcome to the county, to which the general gave a suitable reply. After an early breakfast the company, with a number of citizens of Waterford, proceeded to Erie. When within a mile of the town they were received by a battalion of volunteers in full uniform and a procession was formed under the direction of Gen. B. Wallace, chief marshal, and proceeded to the foot of State street, where the general and suite alighted and were re- ceived by Capt. Budd, U. S. N., commanding officer of the naval station, Capt. Maurice of the engineers and a number of other naval officers, and proceeded to the shore. The party now being in full view of the harbor, a national salute was fired from the navy yard, after which the procession passed to the house of Mr. Dobbins, where accommodations had been pio- vided, and where the general was welcomed in the name of the citizens by Dr. J. C. Wallace, chief burgess, to which the general made a very appropriate reply, and was introduced to the throng which pressed him. He then passed to the house of Mr. Judah Colt where a large number of ladies had assembled, to whom he was severally presented. ' Having returned to his quarters, he was escorted at half past one to the bridge on Second street, where a sumptuous dinner had been prepared. The table extended the full length of the bridge, one hundred "CRAZY BILLY." History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 769 and seventy feet, in full view of the lake and was covered by an awning made of the sails of the British vessels taken by Commodore Perry in the battle of September 10, 1813, and was handsomely ornamented with flowers and evergreens. Among the toasts drank standing, with three cheers, were: the " President of the United States," " General George Wash- ington," " ex- Presidents," " The Greeks," " Bolivar, the Libera- tor," " The surviving heroes of the Revolution," and lastly, " Gen. Lafayette — In youth a hero, in maturity a sage, in ad- vanced life an example to the present and future generations," after which the general arose and gave the following : " Erie — A name which has a great share in American glory; may this town ever enjoy a proportionate share in American prosperity and happiness." The general and his suite were then escorted from the table to their quarters, and, after an aflfectionate farewell of the citi- zens, at three o'clock stepped into the carriage and, accom- panied by a large company of citizens, arrived at Portland, where the steamboat Superior was in readiness to receive and convey the party to Buffalo. He then passed to Rochester, Syra- cuse and to Rome. At the last named place Hiram Cronk was one of the committee of reception. Mr. Cronk was a soldier of the war of 1812, and lived to enjoy the distinction, at the age of 105 years, of being the sole survivor of that memorable struggle with the mother country. The party then passed on down the Erie canal on a barge to Albany and arrived at Boston, at noon the 15th of June In time for the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the battle of Bunker Hill. This celebration took place on the 17th of June and Daniel Webster was the orator of the day at the lay- ing of the corner-stone of the monument. General Lafayette remained in this country until September and revisited New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Mt. Vernon. At the tomb of his old friend and commander he wept tears of affection as he recalled the struggles and privations they had endured and the deep affection that had existed be- tween them from the hour of their first meeting. Lafayette celebrated his 68th birthday, September 6, 1825, while a guest at the White House with Mr. John Quincy Adams, then president of the United States, who upon the eve 770 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. of his distinguished guest's departure delivered an eloquent farewell address. The following day the general and his suite sailed down the Potomac in the new frigate, named in honor of him, the Brandywine, for France where they arrived on the 5th day of October. During his visit congress voted him, as a token of grati- tude for his inestimable services to the country, the sum of two hundred thousand dollars and a township of land. In this visit he traveled upwards of 5,000 miles and received the homage of sixteen of the then twenty-four states of the Union. On the 19th of October, 1898, the anniversary of the victory of Yorktown, the American school children were invited by the president and the governors of the several states of the United States to contribute their pennies toward the erection of a monument in Paris to the memory of Gen. Lafayette. The response to this invitation was universal and the movement a success. In further aid of this work the government appropri- ated an issue of 50,000 souvenir silver dollars, known as La- fayette dollars. From this fund a fine equestrian statue has been erected in the city of Paris to the memory of General Lafayette. Honorable John C. Calhoun, Secretary of War during President Monroe's administration, was the guest of Honorable Andrew Stewart at Uniontown, who took pleasure in showing his distinguished guest the beauties and historic places of our mountains. James Monroe, when president, came west at least as far as Uniontown, and was given a cordial greeting. A public dinner was given in his honor at an old tavern about nine and a half miles east of Uniontown, and here Mr. Monroe poured some wine into a spring and christened it " Monroe Spring," a name which it still retains. The present village of Hopwood, a suburb of Uniontown, was originally named in his honor. General Andrew Jackson, warrior and seventh president of the United States, frequently passed through Uniontown in his own conveyance and usually stopped at Hart's tavern, now the Hotel Brunswick. The last time he stopped here was in 1837, after retiring from the presidency. He requested the band that escorted him out of town to precede him as he did not wish to be drummed out of town. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 771 When Jennie Lind, the renowned songstress, was touring the United States with her manager, the famous showman, Phineas T. Barnum, in 1850, she passed through Uniontown and stopped over night with " Boss " Rush where she was regaled with a breakfast of speckled trout fresh from the mountain stream. John C. Fremont, the noted explorer, and candidate for the presidency in 1856 and his family passed through Union- town in the spring of 1843. James K. Polk stopped over night at the National House in 1845, on his way to the seat of government to take his seat as president of the United States. He was welcomed by an address delivered by Honorable R. P. Flenniken, on behalf of the people, which was responded to by the president-elect. His traveling companions were : his wife, General William O. Butler of Kentucky and Judge Hubbard of Alabama. General William Henry Harrison passed through Union- town on several occasions, and on the occasion of his passing through to the national capital to assume the duties of the presi- dent of the United States, the Pennsylvania Democrat published the following account : " Genl. Harrison reached Uniontown on Tuesday, the 2nd of February, 1841, about 1 o'clock, the dis- charge of cannon having previously announced his approach. He passed nearly the whole length of Main street in an open ba- rouche, so that the people had a fair view of the venerable states- man and soldier whose name and deeds have been the subject of much discussion within the past year. He alighted at the Clinton House amid a very large concourse of people, and as soon as order was restored, he addressed them in a few remarks. He said that this was not the first time he had experienced the kindness of the people of Fayette county — they came to his standard in the dark hour of their country's need during the late war, etc. He was accompanied by Cols. Todd and Chambers who were his aides at the battle of the Thames." Henry Clay passed through Uniontown several times on his journeys to and from Washington City, and lodged over night at both the McClelland House and the National House. General Sam Houston, of Texas fame; Thomas H. Benton, United States senator from Missouri, and General Winfield Scott were all three at the McClelland house over night at one time. 773 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. James Buchanan, who was inaugurated president of the United States March 4, 1857, passed through Uniontown about 1846, and remained over night at the National House, where he was greeted by many of our prominent citizens. General Zachary Taylor's Visit. A public meeting was held by the citizens of Uniontown at the Town Hall on February 3, 1849, to make preparations for the reception of General Taylor who was on his way to the seat of government to take his seat as President of the United States. Captain John Sowers acted as president of the meet- ing, and Samuel Clevenger and Henry T. Dififenderffer as vice- presidents and A. M. Linn as secretary. E. P. Oliphant, Isaac Beeson, James F. Canon, Thomas Foster and Hugh Campbell were appointed to prepare resolutions for the meeting. This committee reported the following : That as General Zachary Taylor will pass through this place on his route to the seat of government ; Resolved, That a committee of five persons invite General Taylor to make this a point to receive the congratulations of the citizens. Resolved, That a committee of fifteen meet General Taylor at Brownsville or at Pittsburgh and accompany him to this place. Resolved, That a committee of ten make preparations for his reception and entertainment while in our midst. Resolved, That the officers of this meeting appoint the several committees above mentioned. The following gentlemen were appointed to compose the above committees : Committee on Invitation : Dr. Hugh Campbell, Roberts Barton, Z. S. Cracraft, John Gallagher and Moses Hopwood. Committee on Reception: William Stone, John M. Austin, Dennis Springer, Jacob B. Miller, Hervey Morris, S. Duncan Oliphant, George T. Paull, Daniel Rogers, J. A. Downer, Wil- liam Griffin, J. K. Duncan, Phineas Sturgis, George Harris, Daniel Boyer and George Rider. Committee of Arrangements : George Meason, Isaac Beeson, Uriah Springer, Redding Bunting, Isaac Sampsel, Se- bastian Rush, John Gaddis, Alfred McClelland, Lewis Williams and Jonathan Springer. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 773 Due notice was to be given by hand bills as soon as it was ascertained when the general would arrive here. He was expected on the 16th or 17th (but he did not arrive until the 21st), and all persons, irrespective of party, were requested "to. participate in the reception. The procession formed in front of the residence of Hon. John Dawson on the National road one mile west of town, in the following order: 1st.— Chief Marshal. 2nd. — Committee of Reception. 3rd. — General Taylor in open carriage accompanied by Col. T. R. Davidson and Isaac Beeson. 4th. — Committeee of Correspondence and Arrangements. 5th. — Soldiers of the Revolution and soldiers of the late war with Mexico. 6th. — Music. 7th. — Citizens in carriages. 8th. — Citizens on horseback. 9th. — Citizens on foot. The procession passed through Main street to the Clinton House where an address of welcome was delivered by E. P. Oliphant, Esq., after which an opportunity was given for intro- ductions and congratulations. The Chief Marshals were : W. D. Barclay, J. M. Oliphant, John Sowers. Assistant Marshals: For Union township, Dennis Springer; Georges, Dr. H. B. Mathiott; Nicholson, A. G. Nicholson ; German, Alexander Black ; Menallen, Wils Scott ; Luzerne, Clark Breading; Redstone, William Colvin; Browns- ville, Edward Lyons ; Washington, John W. McCully ; Frank- lin, George T. Paull ; Connellsville, Daniel Davidson ; Tyrone, William Vance; Bullskin, Henry D. Overholt; Saltlick, John Collins; Dunbar, Isaac Wood; Wharton, Joseph Price; Henry Clay, William GriiiSn; Jefferson, William G. Patterson; Perry, Joseph Straum ; Bridgeport, William Graham. George Meason was chairman of the Committee of Arrangements. The General was accompanied by his family and an escort of distinguished gentlemen and stopped over night at the Clinton House, then conducted by Andrew Byers. Abraham Lincoln was elected to congress in 1846, and in journeying to Washington City he had occasion to stop at Uniontown to transact some business with Daniel Downer, 774 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Esq., and nothing unusual was thought of the occurrence as Mr. Lincoln had not as yet acquired national reputation. John J. Crittenden, General Gideon J. Pillow, Amos Kendall, William Allen, Colonel Richard M. Johnson, Thomas Ewing, Judge Jeremiah Black, T. M. T. McKennan and many other distinguished men of national fame as soldiers, lawyers and statesmen passed through or remained over in the town. Davy Crockett, the statesman and soldier, passed through the town on several occasions. His last trip being about 1835, in company with Hon. Thomas H. Benton, Governor Wickliff, one of the Hardins of Kentucky and Mr. Slidell of Louisiana, and stopped at the McClelland house. Santa Anna, the renowned Mexican soldier, lodged over night at the Walker house on his way east. John Quincy Adams, ex-president of the United States, ar- rived in Uniontown in 1837, on his return from Cincinnati where he had made an address at the dedication of an observatory. He remained over night and was honored with a public recep- tion in the Cumberland Presbyterian church, where an address of welcome was delivered by Dr. Hugh Campbell. CHAPTER XXXII. Personal Sketches — Honorable Andrew Stewart — Colonel Alexander McClean — General Ephraim Douglass — Dr. Solomon Drown — Henry Clay Dean — " Crazy Billy." It is conceded that the Honorable Andrew Stewart was Uniontown's most distinguished public resident. He was the eldest son of Abraham Stewart and Mary Oliphant, the former of York and the latter of Chester county, Pennsylvania. He was born on his father's farm, June 11, 1791, in German township where the village of McClellandtown is now located. It appears that Abraham Stewart, a prominent citizen in his day, traded this farm to William McClelland for one in Wharton township, known as the " Land of Cakes," and where the son, Andrew, was reared. When a boy, at the age of thirteen years, he witnessed the re-interment of the bones of General Edward Braddock, when his father, as road supervisor, removed them from their original burial place in the old Braddock road, to their present site. After attending the schools of his locality he taught a few terms and clerked in a furnace store. He read law and was admitted to the bar of Fayette county January, 1815, and was soon after elected to the general as- sembly, in which body he served three years, after which he was appointed United States District Attorney by President Monroe, but resigned the ofSce in 1820 to take his seat in con- gress to which he had been elected from this district, where he served with signal ability and entire satisfaction to his constituency for a period of sixteen years out of twenty-six and then declined further re-elections, closing his last term in 1849, being cotemporary with John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, Martin Van Buren, John Tyler, James Buchanan, Millard Fillmore, Franklin Pierce, Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson and many others of national repute. His acquaintance with the public men of the time was extensive. In the campaign of 1823, Mr. Stewart received a handsome majority over Mr. Clevenger, his Greene county competitor, by the free and abundant distribution of watermelons. In the campaign of 1828, Thomas Irwin defeated Mr. 775 776 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Stewart for congress, and Mr. Stewart was burned in effigy in front of the court house. This disgraceful conduct on the part of a few of the lower class met with such condemnation and rebuke by the masses of the people, and so increased the popularity of Mr. Stewart that at the next election he defeated Mr. Irwin by an overwhelming majority. During the Jackson — Adams campaign, 1818, Mr. Stewart was favorable to Adams, and although Jackson had a majority of 2,800 in this congressional district, Mr. Stewart was elected by a majority more than two to one over his competitor, a result unprecedented in the history of elections. Mr. Stewart was the first to bring the construction of the Chesapeake and Ohio canal before congress, which was to ex- tend from Georgetown in the District of Columbia to Lake Erie, and to have passed the distance of two hundred and fifty miles through Pennsylvania. Rather than abandon the project, which at first did not meet the approval of congress, he secured the services of James Shriver, a competent surveyor, who made a survey, and whose report removed all doubt of the practica- bility of the enterprise. An appropriation was secured, and on the fourth day of July, 1838, ground was first broken in its construction by President John Quincy Adams and others prominently connected with the head of the government and by foreign representatives. The construction was completed as far as Cumberland, where, after some time, the project was abandoned. In the convention at Philadelphia in 1848, that nominated Zachary Taylor for the presidency, it was left to the Pennsyl- vania delegation to nominate a candidate for the vice-presi- dency, and upon the first ballot Mr. Stewart received fourteen out of twenty-six, the remaining twelve were scattering, when, without taking a second ballot to make it unanimous, the chair- man of the delegation hurried back into the convention and reported that they had failed to agree, whereupon Mr. Fillmore was nominated and confirmed, otherwise had Mr. Stewart re- ceived the nomination, to which he was justly entitled, he would have succeeded to the presidency of the United States upon the death of President Taylor. Mr. Stewart was married in 1825, to Miss Elizabeth Shriver, daughter of David Shriver, superintendent of the eastern di- vision of the National road, extending from Cumberland, Mary- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 777 land, to within one mile of Brownsville, Pennsylvania, by which marriage he had six children. His first child, David Shriver Stewart, was born on what was since known as the Hugh Gra- ham farm, three miles west of Uniontown. One son. Lieutenant William F. Stewart, U. S. N., was lost at sea when the British steamer, " Bombay," collided with the United States steamer, " Oneida," off Yokohama, Japan, January 34, 1870. Mr. Stewart owned the lot on the corner of Morgantown and West Main streets on which he built a row of brick houses known as " Stewart's Row," in which he made his residence while he erected a large brick residence next east of the court house in 1835, and in which he had his law office. This building was subsequently used as a hotel and known as the Clinton House. It was torn away preparatory to the erection of the present court house. In this he lived while he also erected a frame mansion near the eastern part of town in which he spent the latter part of his honorable life, and where he died July 16, 1872, in the eighty-second year of his age. Mr. Stewart had bought over 80,000 acres of land in Fayette county, and at his death owned between 30,000 and 40,000 acres. His name is perpetuated by the naming of a township in his honor in 1855. Soon after the Soldiers' Orphan school was established at Uniontown Mr. Stewart magnanimously offered to appropriate the interest of ten thousand dollars to be distributed annually among the children who should leave that school at the age of sixteen years, according to merit, based upon scholarship, in- dustry and good conduct. This happily conceived proposition to assist these dependent children, was faithfully executed for several years, and perhaps ceased only at the death of Mr. Stewart. From the fact that Mr. Stewart was an uncompromising advocate of a tariff for the protection of American industries he acquired the sobriquet of " Tariff Andy," and in order that Mr. Stewart may not be misunderstood, the following is his own version of his policy : " Protect and cherish your national industry by a wise system of finance, selecting in the first place those articles which you can and ought to supply to the extent of your own wants — food, clothing, habitation and defense — and to these give ample and adequate protection, so as to secure at all times an abund- 778 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. ant supply at home. Next select the luxuries consumed by the rich, and impose on them such duties as the wants of the Govern- ment may require for revenue; and then take the necessaries of life consumed by the poor, and articles which we cannot supply, used in manufactories, and make them free, or subject to the lowest rates of duty." Colonel Alexander McClean. Previous to the partial dispersion of the Highland clans in the rebellion of 1715, a portion of the clan McClean sought a home in Ireland. The father of Alexander was born there and emigrated to America at an early age, and settled on Marsh creek in York, now Adams county, near the eastern slope of South mountain. The Marsh Creek burying ground contains numerous McCleans lying side by side. Colonel Alexander McClean was born in York county, Pennsylvania, November 20, 1746, and was the seventh son of nine children of William McClean and Elizabeth Rule, who were married February 10, 1733. He was of a family of sur- veyors and received his instructions in the field, as he accom- panied his elder brothers, Archibald, Moses and Samuel, who were engaged in running the New Castle circle, or boundary between this commonwealth and the state of Delaware, in the year 1761, prior to the arrival of Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon, celebrated mathematicians and surveyors of London, who were employed to determine the line between Pennsylvania and Maryland. They re-surveyed the line run by the Messrs. McClean in 1764, and their field notes of that date testify to the accuracy of the work done by their predecessors thus : " The tangent line of the New Castle circle as fixed by them would not pass one inch to the westward or eastward of the tangent point." The report of Colonel J. D. Graham, engaged in the re-survey of 1850, says : " We are surprised, at this day, that the length of the radius should have been so correctly obtained by such a method as was employed in running the original line." On January 7, 1765, the famous Mason and Dixon line or the southern boundary of Pennsylvania, was begun, and Colonel McClean was employed to accompany them as far as they ran the line, which terminated at the third crossing of Dunkard creek, near the crossing of the great Catawba Indian trail or History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 779 war path, where Mason and Dixon ceased their labors December 26, 1767. Here the hne remained unfinished for fifteen years, owing greatly to the Revolutionary war, and the dispute be- tween Virginia and Pennsylvania, as both claimed the territory. Colonel McClean was commissioned in July, 1781, to con- tinue the line to the southwest corner of the province, but operations were delayed until November 4th, when arrange- ments were completed that Colonel McClean, on the part of Pennsylvania and Colonel Joseph Nevill, on the part of Virginia, began at the post indicating the terminus of the Mason and Dixon survey, and ran the line twenty-three miles and eighteen perches, by November 17, 1783, this being the distance com- puted by the former surveyors as locating the terminus of the southern boundary of the state. Here they planted a post, thirty miles from any habitation which was intended as a tem- porary location for the southwest corner of the state. In connection with Mr. St. Clair, on the part of Virginia, Colonel McClean ran the meridian boundary by astronomical observation from the southwest corner to the Ohio river, a dis- tance of 63.6 miles. This was a most difficult part of the line on account of the rough and almost inaccessible route. At the completion of which. Colonel McClean assumed the responsi- bility of issuing to the militia, by which he was accompanied as guards, orders for provisions to be drawn at Beesontown (as Uniontown was then called) on their way home, and to be paid for by Pennsylvania. The report of Mr. C. H. Sinclare, on the re-survey of 1883, says of this part of the line : " The hills were so steep it was often with difficulty they could be climbed, frequently reaching the height of several hundred feet and impossible to do ac- curate chaining; but when the date of tracing the first line, and the imperfect instruments are considered, the agreement between the two lines, shows very satisfactory work done one hundred years ago, and represented the best skill of the day." On May 10, 1786, Colonel McClean was commissioned to assist Colonel Andrew Porter in running the line and marking the western boundary of the commonwealth, by astronomical observation, to the northwest corner. On June 19th, they began at Shenango creek, forty miles north of the Ohio river, to which point Colonel Porter had run the line the previous summer. On the 13th of September the northern terminus of the line was 780 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. reached, and on the following day their camp was pitched on the shore of Lake Erie, and by October 4th, the line was finished to that point; the distance from the Ohio river being 91 miles, 4.778 feet, and from the southwest corner 155 miles, 266 perches. In Colonel Porter's journal he mentions Colonel McClean as " indefatigable in clearing the way." About twenty-three miles south of Lake Erie a swamp of six or seven miles in length was encountered, which, in the report of the re-survey of 1878, was pronounced to be " the most abominable swamp in the world," and here work was abandoned from December 6, 1878, until the 15th of the following January, and then only by " great and persevering effort " was the line extended through the swamp. The surveyor's report for the re-survey of 1881, says of the work from the Ohio river to Lake Erie : " The original line had been very carefully run, was practically straight and was very nearly on the true meridian." Thus we find that Colonel McClean was employed in the running of every foot of the southern and western boundaries of Pennsylvania excepting that portion from the Ohio river north to Shenango creek, a distance of forty miles. December 18, 1780, the general assembly of Pennsylvania passed an act to settle upon a basis of gold and silver the de- preciation in the pay of officers and enlisted men of the Penn- sylvania line engaged in the Revolutionary war. The officers and soldiers were issued certificates of depreciation which Pennsylvania afterwards redeemed in full. In pursuance of the above act the general assembly passed an act to lay off a certain tract of land extending from the western boundary of the state to the Allegheny river, and from the Ohio river on the south to the mouth of Mahoning creek on the north, bounded on the north by the line dividing what was known as the Depreciation lands from those on the north known as the Donation lands extending to Lake Erie and which had been previously run by Colonel McClean. This tract com- prised an area of 720,000 acres, and embraced part of what is now the counties of Allegheny, Armstrong, Butler, Beaver and Lawrence, to be laid off in tracts of not less than two hundred nor more than three hundred acres each. These lots were to be sold at auction, the consideration to be paid in gold, silver or certificates of depreciation; patents to be issued to History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 781 the several buyers; the cash, silver or gold, to be used for the redemption of such certificates as might remain unsatisfied at the close of the sales. This tract was divided into five districts and a surveyor was appointed for each. Colonel McClean was appointed in 1783 for the first, it being a parallelogram of twelve miles wide by twenty-one in length, aggregating nearly 161,280 acres, the western boundary of which was the western boundary of the state; the southern boundary was the Ohio river, and extended up said river to the mouth of Beaver creek, thence north to the northern boundary of said lands. The survey of this district was considered to be the most liable to Indian interference, and General William Irwin, then in command at Fort Pitt, was instructed to furnish a guard while the western and northern boundaries were being run, as it was not deemed safe to pro- ceed without. The district surveyed by Colonel McClean was run off in the summer of 1785, with the exception of the western boundary which could not be run until that line was determined to Lake Erie, which was accomplished, as before stated, by Colonel Andrew Porter and Colonel McClean in the fall of 1786. He was commissioned also to survey the two tracts of three thou- sand acres each reserved by the State ; one of these tracts lying in the forks of the Ohio and Allegheny rivers, and the other on both sides of the mouth of Beaver creek, including Fort Mcintosh. When the Penns opened a land office in Philadelphia, April 3, 1769, for the sale of lands in the " New Purchase," Colonel McClean moved to Stony creek, near Stoystown, now in Somer- set county, and from here he moved his quarters to suit his occupation. As soon as titles could be acquired in what is now Fayette county, he was employed in surveying for those who had previously located on " tomahawk rights," which was a precarious right, but generally respected by the frontier settlers. While employed on the Mason and Dixon line Colonel Mc- Clean was bitten by a venomous serpent and was taken to a frontier cabin at the glades of Coxe's creek, near Stoystown, for treatment where he formed the acquaintance of Miss Sarah Holmes. This acquaintance soon ripened into friendship and she became his bride October 36, 1775, and at which place their 783 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. first child was born September 7, 1776, and here they made their home for about three years. Moving west of the mountains he purchased the farm that had been warranted to James Stewart June 14, 1769, about one mile east of Uniontown, and now owned by the Stewart Iron company, where the Beeson coke works are «ow located. Here he made his home until he moved into town, about 1783. The first survey found recorded as surveyed by him as deputy surveyor within the present limits of Fayette county is dated in the year 1773, while all previous returns, and many subsequent ones, were made in the name of his elder brothers, Archibald and Moses, who were also deputy surveyors, al- though he held commissions as deputy surveyor for different districts from 1769 to 1885, when on account of age he de- clined to have them renewed. His district was extended west- ward of the Monongahela river February 33, 1773, and October 1, 1791, his commission, which was repeatedly renewed, em- braced the territory of the whole of Fayette county, Rostraver township in the counties of Westmoreland and Allegheny, and Mifilin, Brothers Valley and Turkey Foot, together with that part of Quemahoning township lying southward of the great road to Fort Pitt in the county of Bedford. He was com- missioned one of three, February 36, 1773, to run the line of separation between the counties of Westmoreland and Bedford. In the summer of 1781, the expedition under the command of General George Rogers Clarke was organized to proceed against Detroit, and drafts were made throughout the Monon- gahela valley, and among those drafted was Colonel McClean, but either through the intercession of his brother Archibald, at Yorktown, with the Supreme Executive Council, or by virtue of his commission, held under Pennsylvania as chief surveyor to run the temporary boundary line, upon which work he was about to engage, he was excused from military service. In this expedition Colonel Lochry, with forty-two of his men, was killed on the Ohio river at the mouth of the Miami, August 84th, and Edward Cook was appointed to fill his place as sub- lieutenant of Westmoreland county, and in 1783 Colonel Mc- Clean was appointed to succeed Colonel Cook to that office ; hence he acquired the title of colonel, by which he was ever afterward known. He entered upon the duties of that office in the spring and summer of 1782, holding courts of appeal at History of Vniontown, Pennsylvania. 783 various times and at convenient places. These courts were held for the hearing of excuses for not rendering military duty, and transacting business of a military character. In 1782, Colonel McClean was elected also a member of the assembly from Westmoreland county, in order to secure the erection of a new county from this part of Westmoreland, which object was accomplished September 26, 1783. He was re-elected to the assembly October 3, 1783. Upon the erection of Fayette county, Colonel McClean ap- plied for the appointment to the office of prothonotary, but General Ephraim Douglass secured the appointment and entered upon the duties of that office at the first session of court, and in writing to General William Irvine at Fort Pitt, he pays Colonel McClean the following compliment : " Notwithstanding the disappointment Colonel McClean must have felt at not securing this office, as he has a numerous small family dependent upon him, he received me with a degree of generous friendship that does honor to the goodness of his heart, and continues to show every mark of satisfaction at my appointment." Colonel McClean, however, was appointed October 31, 1783, by the Supreme Executive Council an associate justice to preside over the first courts held in the new county, as the following commission will witness : In the name and by the authority of the Freemen [Seal] of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, The Supreme Executive Council of the said Commonwealth : To Alexander McClean, Esq., of the county of Fayette: We, reposing especial trust and confidence in your patriot- ism, prudence, integrity and ability, have appointed you Presi- dent of the Court of Common Pleas of the county of Fayette, and giving hereby and granting unto you, the said Alexander McClean, full power and authority to execute and perform all the several acts and things to the said office belonging during pleasure. And hereby requiring all officers, civil and military, and all other subjects of this Commonwealth to obey and re- spect you accordingly. Given in Council under the hand of the President and seal of the State at Philadelphia the thirty-first day of October in 784 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty- three. Attest : John Armstrong, Jr. John Dickinson. The duties of the above office he filled until April, 1787. The appointment to the offices of register of wills and recorder of deeds for the county of Fayette was conferred upon Colonel McClean December 6, 1783, which office he filled with ability and entire satisfaction continuously for a period of just fifty years. To be sure the business done at these offices at this early date was not sufficient to occupy much of his time, thus affording ample opportunity to attend to many duties be- sides. The first deed was recorded January 13, 1784, and in the entire year the number recorded was ninety-nine, and in the following year fifty, and in that following forty-two; in the same length of time there were sixteen wills recorded, making in the aggregate two hundred and seven instruments recorded in the first three years of the history of the county. The fees then ranged from fifty to seventy-five cents for recording and comparing. The first term of court of Quarter Sessions and of Com- mon Pleas was held on the fourth Tuesday in December, 1783, in a school house which stood on the Central Public grounds, now occupied by the sheriff's residence and jail, before Philip Rogers, Esq., and his associates, Alexander McClean, Robert Adams, John Allen, Robert Ritchie and Andrew Rabb, all justices in and for the county of Westmoreland. By the act of assembly founding Dickinson college at Car- lisle, Pa., in 1783, Colonel McClean was honored by being ap- pointed one of its trustees. This venerable institution of learning is still in a flourishing condition. Early in February, 1784, the partition line separating Fay- ette from Westmoreland county was run, and Colonel McClean, who was executive person, generously agreed to be responsible for the expenses until the commissioners should have the funds to meet them. In 1788, the State of Pennsylvania decided to lay out a good wagon road from Shippensburg to Fort Pitt, in pursuance of which Colonel McClean was commissioned, with two others, in November, 1789, to make the location from Bedford to Fort Pitt, a distance of over eighty-five miles. Arrangements were 2; o in o tn W W FQ >< Oi w K P J o w History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 785 made to meet at Bedford the latter part of November, but one of the commissioners being sick and the other failing to attend, the colonel proceeded at once and marked ofif the course with stakes indicating the amount of fills and cuts and accomplished the task successfully. When in 1791, John Hopwood laid out the town which he named Woodstock, now known as the village of Hopwood, two and a half miles east of Uniontown, he provided for the found- ing of an " Academy of Learning " for which Colonel McClean was appointed one of the trustees to collect, receive and hold in trust the funds for building and endowing the same. This academy was taken in charge by the Baptist church and was in a flourishing condition in 1794, and doubtless, was one of the first academies in this part of the state. He was one of the three commissioners who ran the line of separation between the counties of Washington and Greene upon the formation of the latter, February 9, 1796. Soon after the laying out of Uniontown Colonel McClean purchased several town lots and some out-lots. He owned nearly all the lots on the north side of East Main street from the court house to Redstone creek. On lot number 30 he built for his own use the most pretentious residence in the village. This stood some distance back from the street, and had a covered balcony at the upper windows on the west, and the interior was finished in panel work, carved cornices and other ornamentations unusual in houses of that day west of the mountains. Into this he moved on coming to town, and spent the remainder of his days, although on the 3rd of Sep- tember, 1806, he deeded this property to Thomas Meason, and upon which the Clinton House was afterward erected, and the site is now occupied by the present court house. Besides the several town lots and out-lots. Colonel Mc- Clean acquired lands in various parts within the present county limits, to the amount of nine thousand acres, which would equal a body of land four miles in length by three and a half miles in breadth. Upon portions of this land some of his sons settled, but none were successful as farmers. When he had reached about his sixtieth year, financial difficulties began to overtake him, and his numerous family, instead of being a support, be- came a burden for him to bear, and debt after debt accumulated, 786 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. and tract by tract of his land was sold at great sacrifice, until a few years before his death, all had been swept away. Not ten years before his death the sheriff sold almost the last tract situated near the foot of Laurel Hill, and Colonel McClean being register and recorder, it was his painful duty to record this deed, which in so doing, he began in his elegant and almost matchless style of penmanship, but his eyes soon fill with tears and his hand trembles, and while recording the words " all his goods and chattels " the faithful old surveyor and recorder, now in his seventy-eighth year, burst into tears and his clerk takes up the pen and resumes the record. Of Colonel McClean's military record there is much ob- scurity. It is recorded that he served in the Mcintosh expe- dition against the Indians in 1780, in which much privation was endured and but little good accomplished. In a letter written to President Dickinson of the Supreme Executive Council, July 16, 1784, he states : " I have shared the fatigues of the most difficult campaign that has been carried on in this country, and was a witness to both the sufferings and fortitudes, and have suffered on fatigue." The Pennsylvania archives, 3rd Series, Vol. 23, page 529, give Colonel McClean as a pen- sioner of the State militia. Frequently at public gatherings he was introduced as a Revolutionary soldier and read the Dec- laration of Independence. Colonel McClean was described as a stout, heavy-set man susceptible of long continued labor without fatigue; of a com- panionable disposition, and with his fund of information and varied experience was always entertaining in the extreme. Judge James Veech, in his sketch of Colonel McClean, de- scribes him as " a quiet, unobtrusive man, devoted to the duties of his office, and caring little else than to discharge them with diligence, accuracy and fidelity. He held office longer — from 1772 to 1834 — than any other man who has ever resided in Western Pennsylvania; and it is not probable that in this re- spect he will ever have a successor, so unyielding is the rotatory tendency of modern ' progress.' As Register, Recorder and Surveyor, for more than half a century, he had been conversant with all the estates, titles and lands of the county, with all their vacancies, defects and modes of settlement; yet with all these opportunities of acquiring wealth, he died in comparative History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 787 poverty — a sad monument to his integrity. He wrote more deeds and wills at seven and sixpence each ($1.00), and dis- pensed more gratuitous council in ordinary legal affairs, than, at reasonable fees, would enrich a modern scrivener or counselor." His beautiful, copper-plate style of penmanship elicits the highest encomiums from all who search the early records of the office. He made his own pens from the quill of the goose, as steel pens were not in use in his day, and he could write the broad, heavy headlines in Old English text or the whole of the Lord's prayer within the circumference of an " elevenpenny bit." Colonel McClean's wife, Sarah Holmes, was born at the Glades of Coxe's creek, near Stoystown, now in Somerset county, April 14, 1750. She was a robust, active woman and a fit companion for a hardy frontier settler. She was accus- tomed to outdoor exercise and was an excellent horse-woman and loved to ride to the hounds. She could mount her horse, which she kept for the chase, without upping-block, and fre- quently exhibited her skill by mounting her horse from the ground at the age of seventy-five years. In a sort of a diary kept by Colonel McClean, frequent mention is made of his wife attending the chase, the last mention of which bears the date of February 3, 1828, in which he states that the chase was long and his wife did not arrive home until after midnight, when she put away her horse and came to bed. She was then at the age of seventy-eight years. She died first of a family of twelve children, March 26, 1832, within but a few days of her eighty-second birthday. Their family consisted of: Ann, born September 7, 1776, married to John Ward, and settled at Steubenville, Ohio, where they became quite prominent; Joseph, born November 17, 1777, married to Nancy Salters; Elizabeth, born March 27, 1779, married to Thomas Hadden, Esq., the first resident at- torney of the Fayette county bar; William, born October 14, 1780, married to (first), Mary Burker, (second), Nancy Mc- Laughlin and (third), Libbie Finley; Alexander, born Sep- tember 17, 1782, never married, served in the war of 1813; Ephraim, born July 23, 1784, married to Tamzon Slack, kept tavern on the summit of Laurel Hill; Stephen, born September 23, 1786, married to Nancy McClean and lived at Lemont ; John, 788 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. born February 28, 1788, married to Mary Wilson; Richard, born May 17, 1790, never married; Moses, born March 12, 1793, married to (first), Jane McClean, (second), Nancy Sullivan. Colonel McClean died January 7, 1834, aged 88 years, 1 month and 17 days. The minutes of the court have the following entry : " Jan- uary 8, 1834. — At the meeting of the court this morning Mr. (John M.) Austin arose and informed the Court of the death of Colonel McClean, which took place last night. After a few remarks, in which Mr. Austin alluded in terms of deserved eulogy to the high character with which the deceased sustained as an officer and man, and in general in all the social relations, he moved the following resolution, viz. : " That when the court adjourns, it adjourns to meet at 4 o'clock p. m., in order to give the Court and bar, grand and trav- erse jurors and others attending the court an opportunity of at- tending the funeral, which was adopted and ordered ac- cordingly." The following is the inscription on the tombstone erected over the grave of Colonel McClean in the old Presbyterian burying ground east of the court house : Col. Alexander McClean, Born Nov. 20, 1746, died Dec. 7, 1834, In the 88th year of his age. " He was a soldier in the revolution. Was a representative from Westmoreland county in the Legislature of Pennsylvania at the time Fayette county was established. And was register and recorder of this county from its organization in 1783 until his death. In his departure he exemplified the virtues of his life, for he lived a patriot and died a Christian." The discrepancy in the date of the death of Colonel McClean as noticed above can be accounted for from the fact that the date on the tombstone was doubtless recorded some years after his death while that of the minutes of the court was recorded at the time. General Ephraim Douglass. One of the most prominent characters in the early history of Uniontown was General Ephraim Douglass. Of his nativity History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 789 nothing is certainly known, but his early business associates and friends cluster around Carlisle in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania. His father was Adam Douglass, and he had a brother, Joseph, who was connected with him in business in Pittsburgh and also after locating in Uniontown. It appears that he located at Pittsburgh as early as 1768, at which place he was joined later by his father, mother and brother; one sister married and remained in Cumberland county. But nineteen years of age, yet full of energy, and pos- sessing a fairly good English education, with steady habits and considerable diligence and skill, he engaged in several kinds of employments, and soon gained the acquaintance of the foremost Indian traders and early settlers around the old frontier post. In 1771 he began to engage in the Indian trade, furnishing the Indians with powder, lead, tomahawks, beads and coarse articles of clothing in exchange for peltry of all sorts, then quite a lucrative business. These, when dried, were sent to Philadelphia on pack-horses and sold; the pack-horse trains bringing back goods for the traders. He soon became associated with others in the business and opened trading posts at other localities in the Indian country. Indian troubles and the Revolutionary war put an end to their business, although Douglass, for business purposes, avoided participation in the troubles. The Eighth Regiment of The Pennsylvania Line was raised in July of 1776, for the defense of the western frontiers, to gar- rison the posts of Presque Isle, Le Boeuf and Kittanning, to consist of seven companies from Westmoreland and one from Bedford county, under the command of Colonel Aeneas Mackay, of which Ephraim Douglass was appointed Quartermaster September 12, 1776. On the 33rd of November the regiment was ordered to march to Brunswick, New Jersey, or to join Washington wherever he might be found. Soon after joining the main army near New York he became aide-de-camp to Major General Lincoln and was serving in that capacity with a body of 500 troops under that general's command at Bond Brook when Lord Cornwallis, in command of 2,000 British, made an ascent from Brunswick. General Lincoln retreated with a loss of sixty men and sundry prisoners, among the latter was Major Douglass. He was carried to New York, then held by the 790 History of Uniontown, 'Pennsylvania. enemy, where he was subjected to many privations until ex- changed. General Washington wrote to General Lincoln on the 25th of October, 1777, that he would try to get Douglass exchanged for some of the captives of Burgoyne's army, as soon as his turn came. But the odds, especially in ofiScers, being greatly against the Americans, the British having five prisoners to the Americans one of theirs, and the difference in the treatment of prisoners, postponed the release of the major for a considerable time. During his long captivity his health gave way, and con- tracting a cutaneous disease, he resorted to mercury and bathing which well nigh cost him his life. He was exchanged in No- vember, 1780, and soon after rejoined his regiment which had been ordered to Pittsburgh for the defense of the western frontier. The Supreme Executive Council, in 1780, passed an act to reimburse the officers and enlisted men of the Pennsylvania Line engaged in the Revolutionary war, estimating in specie all sums of continental money, and certificates were issued to that effect. In pursuance of the above act, the lands lying between the Allegheny river and the western boundary of the state, and from the Ohio river to the mouth of Mahoning creek, embracing an area of 720,000 acres, and comprising what is now parts of the wealthy and populous counties of Allegheny, Butler, Beaver and Lawrence, was to be laid off into lots and be sold, the pro- ceeds thereof to be applied for the redemption of such certifi- cates as might be unsatisfied at the end of the sales. This tract, known as the Depreciation Lands, was divided into five districts and surveyors appointed for each. A part of tract number three, three miles in width and over thirty miles in length, was assigned to General Douglass, in 1785, and was surveyed by Robert Stevenson. In August of 1781, Major Douglass was again settled at Pittsburgh, and, at the close of which year the government solicited his services on a special secret mission among the In- dian tribes of the Northwest. A letter from his friend, General Irvine states : " I have heard of your magnanimous enterprise in penetrating the Indian country — that you have been absent and not heard from for some months — that the time fixed for History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 791 your return was lapsed, and that your friends about Pittsburgh had given you up as lost. He returned in May, 1782. From the first of September, 1782 to the last of April, 1783, he served as Intendant of British prisoners at Philadelphia. On the first of May, 1783, congress resolved upon another embassy to the Indian tribes of the Northwest to inform them that peace had been agreed upon, and that hostilities had ceased between the American colonies and Great Britain, and that the forts now held by the British troops would soon be evacuated — that the United States wished to enter into friendly treaties with them, and that unless they acceded to friendly offers and ceased their hostilities, congress would take measures to compel them thereto. The secretary of war immediately selected Major Douglass for this important and dangerous mission. He set out from Fort Pitt on the 7th of June, with horses and attendants, pass- ing through the hostile wilderness of the Northwest to San- dusky, where he was detained several days ; thence to Detroit, Niagara and Oswego; all of which posts were held by British garrisons. The British commandants would not permit him to make the Indians a public exposition of his mission, although treated with great civility and respect by both British and In- dians. While at Detroit, there was held a grand council of eleven Indian tribes, who seemed glad to hear that peace had been de- clared, and gave evidence of satisfaction at having him among them. He could assume the role of a chief so completely as to deceive the Indians themselves. He returned from this mission in August and immediately repaired to Princeton and reported the results of his mission to congress. For this service, congress voted him five hundred dollars. Soon after his return from his mission among the Indians the movement for the formation of a new county out of a part of Westmoreland was about to be accomplished, and General Douglass forwarded the following memorial to the Supreme Executive Council: " To the Honorable the Supreme Executive Council of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania: "The memorial of Ephraim Douglass humbly showeth that having, true to his principles, made an early sacrifice of his interest, he entered into and continued in the service of his 792 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. country until the loss of health, conspiring with other mis- fortunes, obliged him to return at a time when his return to civil life offered him no prospect of a retire to his former pur- suits in it. That he has since earned a precarious subsistence by the accidental services he has been occasionally employed to perform; but being now altogether without business, and strongly desirous of obtaining some permanent independent employment, he looks up to your honorable body for the ac- complishment of that desire with all the confidence which a knowledge of your justice and readiness in rewarding your faithful servants can inspire. " That your memorialist having heard of a new county being created from a part of Westmoreland, begs leave humbly to ofifer himself a candidate for the office of prothonotary in the county of Fayette, and prays your acceptance of his services. " Your memorialist, as in duty bound, will ever pray." " Ephraim Douglass." His application was successful, and on the sixth day of October, 1783, he was appointed prothonotary and clerk of the courts of Fayette county, and entered upon the duties of his new offices, being here at the first court, held on the first Tues- day in December following: Offices which he held uninter- ruptedly until December, 1808, when he resigned. General Douglass' description of the first courts held in the new county, as written to John Dickinson, Esq., President of Supreme Executive Council, February 3, 1784, is as follows: "Sir: " The courts were opened for this county on 33rd of De- cember, last. The gathering of the people was pretty numerous, and I was not alone in fearing that we should have frequent proofs of that turbulence of spirit with which they have been so generally, and perhaps too justly, stigmatized. But I now feel great satisfaction in doing them the justice to say that they behaved, to a man, with decency and good order. Our grand jury was really respectable — equal at least to many I have seen in courts of long standing. Little was done other than dividing the county into townships." General Douglass' Description of Uniontown. General Douglass in writing to his friend General Irvine soon after locating in Uniontown described the place as follows : History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 793 " This Uniontown is the most obscure spot on the face of the globe. I have been here seven or eight weeks without one op- portunity of writing to the land of the living, and, though con- siderably south of you, so cold that a person not knowing the latitude would conclude we were placed near one of the poles. Pray, have you had a severe winter below? We have been frozen up here for a month past, but a great many of us having been bred in another state, the eating of hominy is as natural to us as the drinking of whisky in the morning. " The town and its appurtenances consist of our president and a lovely little family, a court house and school house in one, a mill and consequently a miller, four taverns, three smith shops, five retail shops, two tan yards, one of them only occupied, one saddler's shop, two hatters' shops, one mason, one cake woman (we had two, but one of them having committed a petit larceny, is upon banishment), two widows and some reputed maids, to which may be added a distillery. The upper part of this edifice is the habitation at will of your humble servant, who, besides the smoke of his own chimney, which is intolerable enough, is fumigated by that of two stills below, exclusive of the other effluvia that arises from the dirty vessels in which they pre- pare the materials for the stills. The upper floor of my parlor, which is also my chamber and office, is laid with loose clap- boards or puncheons, and both the gable ends are entirely open ; and yet this is the best place in my power to procure till the weather will permit me to build, and even this I am subject to be turned out of the moment the owner, who is at Kentucky, and hourly expected, returns. "I can say little of the country in general but that it is very poor in everything but its soil, which is excellent, and that part contiguous to the town is really beautiful, being level and prettily situate, accommodated with good water and excellent meadow-ground. But money we have not, nor any practicable way of making it; how taxes will be collected, debts paid, or fees discharged I know not; and yet the good people appear willing enough to run in debt and go to law. I shall be able to give you a better account of this hereafter. " Col. McClean received me with a degree of generous friendship that does honor to the goodness of his heart, and continues to show every mark of satisfaction at my appoint- ment. He is determined to act under the commission sent him 794 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. by Council — that of register and recorder — and though the fees would, had he declined it, have been a considerable addition to my profits, I cannot say I regret his keeping them. He has a numerous small family, and though of an ample fortune in lands, has not cash at command. " The general curse of the country, disunion, rages in this little mudhole, with as if they had each pursuits of the utmost importance, and the most opposed to each other, when in truth they have no pursuits at all that deserve the name, except that of obtaining food and whisky, for rainment they scarcely use any. " The commissioners — trustees, I should say — have fixed on a spot in one end of the town for the public buildings, which was by far the most proper in every point of view, exclusive of the saving expense; the other end took the alarm and charged them with partiality, and have been ever since uttering their complaints. And at the late election for justices, two having been carried in this end of the town and none in the other, has made them quite outrageous. This trash is not worth troubling you with, therefore I beg your pardon, and am, with unfeigned esteem, dear general, " Your humble servant, " Ephraim Douglass." By an act of assembly incorporating Uniontown into a borough, April 4, 1796, General Douglass was made chief burgess until the election to be held the first Monday in May, 1797. General Douglass purchased lot No. 7 in the original plot of the town, February 28, 1793, paying therefor the third of five pounds. On this lot, in a log house, he made his home until he erected a two-story brick residence immediately east of the log. In this new brick he made his residence until he removed to his farm two miles north of town about 1834. General Douglass was appointed treasurer of the county in 1789, which office he filled with signal ability until January, 1800. During these years the duties of this office were ex- ceedingly onerous and responsible. Besides the county levies during this period, a state tax of greater amount, yearly until 1790, was to be collected and remitted, to meet the State's quotas to support the Federal Government and pay the war debt. For until the new Federal Constitution of 1789 became History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 795 effective, Congress assessed certain sums of revenue to be fur- nished by each State, and the State apportioned the sum among its counties. This had to be paid in gold or silver, or in certain government certificates. And the great scarcity of money in this part of the country made the burden of its payment very grievous, and its collection exceedingly difficult and unpleasant. Nevertheless Fayette county was prompt to pay her quota, as the following letter from the Comptroller General's office to General Douglass will testify: "Sir: " The honorable situation in which the county of Fayette is placed by the punctual discharge of her taxes, reflects high credit upon the officers employed in the laying, collecting and paying the same, as well as upon the county at large. May you long continue, and I hope you will long continue in the same laudable situation. Your example will have a good influence upon others, so that you not only do your duty yourselves, but in some degree procure the same to be done by others. The bearer is riding the state for money, but from you we ask none. You have anticipated our demand, and I know will continue to send it down as fast as you receive it. " I am, with respect. Sir, " Your most humble servant, " John Nicholson." Some idea of the difficulty of collecting the taxes at the early formation of the county is obtained from a letter written by General Douglass to the Secretary of State, in which he says : " The county commissioners are so counteracted by the rabble of this county, that it appears hardly probable the taxes will ever be collected in the present mode. In the township of Menallen in particular, the terror of undertaking the duty of collector has determined several to refuse it, under the severe penalty annexed. Two only have accepted, and these have been robbed by some ruffians unknown, and in the night, of their duplicates. The inhabitants of other townships have not gone to such lengths, but complain so much of the hardship and the want of money that I fear very little is to be hoped from them." It appears tijat General Douglass has experienced con- siderable trouble in securing his pay for the time he was held 796 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. a prisoner by the British, and the following letter written to John Nicholson, Comptroller General, dated Uniontown, 16th April, 1784, is most emphatic. " Sir : "And now. Sir, I will for the last time, trouble you with the mention of an affair which has already created some trouble to us both. My opinion, when founded on principle, I can never sacrificfe to any other gentleman, but I am less wedded to my interest. The efforts I have already made to accommodate the dispute between us have convinced me that you are not less tenacious of yours. I have neither leisure, opportunity nor in- clination to undergo the drudgery and expense of a tedious lawsuit, whereby this matter might be settled in time; nor am I of that importunacy of disposition to trouble the legislature, after having once troubled the Supreme Executive power of the State, with an application on this subject; though I should not doubt of a determination in my favor. To avoid, therefore, both the one and the other, and to satisfy you, I have sent you my certificate, in the confidence that I shall now be allowed the satisfaction I shall derive from the recollection of having served and suffered, forfeited my interest and ruined my constitution, without any reward ; for rather than accept of less than I believe myself entitled to, I would wish to have nothing. " I have the honor to be, etc. " Ephraim Douglass." In April, 1793, General Douglass was commissioned Brig- adier General for the county of Fayette, and was in command of the 1st Brigade, 4th Division of Militia and at the annual parades of the militia he was a conspicuous figure on horseback. He was a man of high stature and most imposing appearance, remarkably neat and exact in gait and dress, with long queue and powdered hair, and in his prime was of great athletic vigor and perfectly fearless. It is related of him, that having been taken prisoner by the Indians that he enticed his keepers to the river to try their skill on the ice, and after floundering for a while he was off like a flash and soon outstripped his pursuers. He was a peer among the great and highminded judges and attorneys of his day and enjoyed their society and confidence. His. temper was very irritable, and he was subject to impetuous History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 797 rage. He was conscious of these frailties, and assigned them as a reason why he never married. The extent to which he gave rein to his passion may be judged by the facts that ,at one time he chopped a horse's head off with an ax because he refused to pull a load, and at another he burned his hay crop because it had gotten wet two or three times before he could have it hauled to the barn or put in stack. He was the first by several years to use a landau or car- riage in the town, the top of which could be thrown open. His love of display was conspicuous when being driven out in his landau by having a servant boy running before to throw the loose stones out of the way ; as also when on military parade, mounted on a prancing charger, he won the admiration of all. His fine physical form and dignified military bearing amply justified the highest encomiums. He always kept a number of servants to do his bidding, and woe be to the one who lailed to obey his commands. During the Whisky Insurrection of 1794, when incendiary letters, signed by " Tom the Tinker," were being sent to all who were disposed to comply with the excise law, a company of about one hundred and fifty men came to town and erected a liberty pole in defiance of the excise law, and also one on the Colonel Gaddis farm, two miles south of town, and General Douglass cut them both down in defense of the law and in de- fiance of " Tom the Tinker." On October 31, 1786, Thomas Freeman as agent and at- torney-in-fact for his Excellency, General George Washington, conveyed to Ephraim Douglass, Esq., three negroes, viz. : One boy named Joe, one girl named Alice, both slaves for life, and one girl named Dorcas, born within the United States and is to serve until she arrives at the age of twenty-one years; for the sum of one hundred and sixty-five pounds, ten shillings. Signed, Thomas Freeman, Agent and attorney-in-fact for His Excellency. General Douglass was appointed as agent for the state in looking after lands forefeited to the government by those who adhered to and advocated the cause of England in the struggle of the American colonists for their independence. In the discharge of these duties General Douglass seized upon a tract of 395^4 acres and allowance of land situated on '^98 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Dunlap's creek that had been warranted to Anthony Yeldell in 1772. This tract is known as the Mendenhall Dam tract, and as Yeldell was attainted as a tory in 1779, the tract was seized upon and sold by General Douglass to James McDonald, and the proceeds accrued to the state. General Douglass spent the latter part of his eventful life on his farm of about one hundred acres, two miles north of town, and was buried in the orchard a short distance in the rear of his residence. A neat sandstone monument marked the grave and bore the following inscription : " Gratitude. The children of Daniel and Sarah Keller, as a tribute of gratitude and respect, erect this monument to the memory of their grandfather, Major General Ephraim Douglass, who died July 17, 1833, in the 84th year of his age." A neat iron fence enclosed the lot. Will of General Ephraim Douglass. In the name of God, Amen; I, Ephraim Douglass of Union township, Fayette county, Pennsylvania, believing that I must shortly bid adieu to time, do make the following disposition of my real and personal estate wherein I have been favored by the providence of the eternal God to whom I commit my im- moral spirit, confident that whatsoever He may destine it He will do right, and to His will I entirely and cheerfully submit. First : — I devise and bequeath unto Ephraim Douglass of Uniontown and Ellen, his wife, their heirs and assigns, all my property within the borough of Uniontown and lying south of the street called Elbow street in said town, containing three town lots, with a brick dwelling, a log in front, and several other erections, and a meadow lot containing between four and five acres. Second : — I devise and bequeath unto Bertha, the wife of Samuel Swearingen of Union township, one lot of ground situated on the north side of Elbow street in Uniontown, being the eastward of two lots owned by me on that side of said History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 799 street, to hold the same with the tenements and appurtenances to the said Bertha, her heirs and assigns forever. Third : — I devise and bequeath unto Louisa, the wife of Samuel Miner of Union township, my meadow lot situated on Redstone creek one mile below Uniontown, containing about thirty acres, with the tenements and appurtenances thereto belonging, to hold the same to the said Louisa, her heirs and assigns forever. Fourth: — I devise and bequeath unto Ann Keller, daughter of Daniel and Sarah Keller, the westermost of two lots I own on the north side of Elbow street, to hold the same with the tenements and appurtenances thereto belonging, to her, the said Ann and her heirs and assigns forever. Fifth : — I devise and bequeath unto Douglass Keller, eldest son of Daniel and Sarah Keller, the small farm I now live on in Union township, containing about one hundred acres more or less, to hold the same with the tenements and appurtenances thereunto belonging, unto the said Douglass Keller, his heirs and assigns forever. Sixth : — I devise and bequeath all the rest and residue of my estate, real and personal, to my executors hereafter named in trust for the use and benefit of Eliza Douglass of Uniontown, Erwin Keller, Mary Keller, Sarah Keller and Harriet Keller, to each of whom I request my said executors to pay the sum of six hundred dollars out of the said hereby devised to them as soon as practicable after the same may be collected if they be respectively of age, and provided the sum will admit of such dividend, and I hereby appoint my said executors or the sur- vivor of them, testamentary guardians of such of the last mentioned legatees as may not have attained twenty-one years of age, and shall remain unmarried at the time they, my said executors shall have collected the said fund or any part thereof, and may think proper to strike a dividend of such part or the whole as they may in their discretion think most advisable for the accommodation of all the legatees. If the fund hereby de- vised to my executors in trust as aforesaid shall not yield suf- ficient to divide six hundred dollars to each of the last named legatees, five in number, then it is my will that said fund be equally divided between the said five legatees, but if it should yield a surplus, I will and bequeath that the surplus equally to be divided to and among all the devisees and legatees named in 800 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. this my will, but I charge the whole of said fund with payment of my just debts, if there should be any, with payment of my funeral expenses and with all charges and expenses of carrying the trust hereby confided into execution by my said executors, or the survivor of them. Seventh : — If any of my devisees or legatees shall die under age and unmarried, it is my will that his or her estate or legacy be reduced to money and divided among the survivors equally, and of any of those already married should die before the estate or legacy devised to him or her shall become vested, it is my will that his or her child or children shall take such estate or legacy as such child or children's parents so dying would have taken, had he or she lived until his or her devise or legacy might have vested such estate or legacy to be reduced to money by my executors or survivor of them, and the proceeds thereof to be paid all to one, if but one child, or divided into as many shares as the parent dying has left children, and paid over to them or their guardians. If Ephraim Douglass or his wife, Ellen, should die before his or her estate or interest hereby de- vised and bequeathed to them shall become vested without issue living at his or her death, it is my will that the estate and legacy hereby devised and bequeathed to either so dying shall keep and vest in the survivor of them as fully and for such estate and interest as either so dying could or might have been entitled to hold and claimed if he or she had lived. The preceding seventh section is intended to whether the death of any devisee or legatee shall happen before or after the death of the testator. I do hereby constitute Ellis Baily and Isaac Beeson of Uniontown, executors of this my last will and testament, with the hope that they will undertake the execution thereof. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 34th day of July, 1836. Signed and published in presence of John Lyon. Henry Ebert. Recorded July 19, 1833. On January 3, 1913, the remains of General Douglass were removed from their original burial place, which had become neglected and were re-interred in Union cemetery where the History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 801 grave will be decorated with flowers on each recurring memorial day. Doctor Solomon Drown. Doctor Solomon Drown was a resident of Morgantown when he selected a tract of fourteen acres of land just east of the then village of Uniontown in 1794, and became a resident of the town two years later. He was a gentleman of means, education and refinement as well as a physician of extensive practice and high rank. His presence soon made a favorable impression vipon the community that a century of years has not efifaced. Dr. Drown was born in Providence, Rhode Island, March 11, 1753, and was married to EHzabeth, daughter of Thomas Russell, in Hillston, Mass. They both died at Hygeia, at Foster, Rhode Island; he on February 5, 1834, and Mrs. Drown on March 15, 1844. Dr. Drown was graduated at Rhode Island college, now Brown University, in 1773 ; studied medicine and received medical degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, and also from Darmouth college, New Hampshire. He entered the United States service in 1776 as surgeon's mate in the general hospital under John Morgan, director general of hospitals, and was located in New York, West Chester, New Castle, Newark and other places. In 1777 he was located in Rhode Island State hospital for seven months, after which he was promoted to the rank of surgeon in Colonel Crary's regiment, and was in Sul- livan's expedition on Rhode Island. He was afterwards in Bristol, and in 1780, was appointed surgeon to Lieut.-Col. At- well's regiment. In the fall of this same year he went on a cruise, as surgeon, in the private sloop of war " Hope," his journal of which has been published. Dr. Drown won the regard of Lafayette, the Counts de Rochambeau and D'Estaing as well as other French officers to such a degree by his medical ability and skill as a surgeon that the chief of the medical staff entrusted their individual soldiers to his care when they left for home. In 1783 Dr. Drown was elected to the Board of Fellows in Brown University, and through his labors and contributions a botanical garden was established in connection with the uni- versity, and part of the college campus was set apart for the 802 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. cultivation of rare and interesting shrubs and trees. A year later he went to London and spent several years in traveling over England, and in visiting the hospitals and medical schools of that country, and in May, 1785, he visited Holland and Belgium for similar purposes and then went to Paris. While in France he was often the guest of Dr. Franklin at Passy, in whose society he met Mr. Jefferson and other gentlemen of distinction. On his return to Providence he resumed the prac- tice of medicine, but in 1788, he journeyed to Ohio and took up his residence at Marietta, where he remained for nearly a year. While there he delivered a funeral eulogy upon Gen. James M. Varnum, whom he had attended in his last sickness, and also the first anniversary oration on the settlement of Mari- etta, April 7, 1789. He was also present and participated with General Arthur St. Clair and others in the treaties at Fort Harmar in 1788-9, with Corn Planter and other Indian chiefs. Returning to his native town, he continued the practice of medicine until 1798, when he removed to Morgantown, now West Virginia, stopping enroute to visit General Washington at Mt. Vernon. Upon his locating in Uniontown, Dr. Drown resumed the practice of his profession, and at a Fourth of July celebration in 1796, he was the orator of the occasion. This address was delivered in front of the court house on the occasion of a military and civic parade, and it is a matter of regret that the address was not preserved. Dr. Drown remained a resident of this town seven years, and in July, 1801, he concluded to return to Rhode Island. Besides the property above mentioned. Dr. Drown owned a farm of 300 acres in Springhill township, none of which was disposed of until after his death. The mansion property at Uniontown was divided into small parts and sold by Richard Beeson, Esq., as attorney for the heirs. Dr. Drown retraced his steps to Rhode Island, removing his family and household effects by the slow, tedious and expensive way of wagoning, and being a man of energy and still in the prime of life, became impatient of the lumbering wagons as they crossed the moun- tains. He cut for himself a hickory walking stick, by the aid of which he walked a considerable portion of the way to his native state. This walking stick was kept as an heirloom in the family. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 803 Soon after his return to Rhode Island Dr. Drown settled in Foster and purchased a farm of 200 acres on the highest point in the state which he named " Mount Hygeia." On this he erected a large and commodious but plain frame mansion, being the third dwelling ever erected on the farm. In this he spent the remainder of his days practicing his profession and cultivating flowers and choice plants for the study of botany. At the time of his purchase of this farm there stood on it an aged apple tree of the variety known as the Rhode Island Greening. This tree was known to be sixty years old at the time Dr. Drown purchased the farm and by his care and skillful treatment that tree bore fruit up to the year 1900, and was supposed to be the oldest tree of its kind then in the United States. Dr. Drown left a widow, three sons and five daughters, and in his death his family, friends and community at large sus- tained an irreparable loss, and it is with pride that Uniontown can boast that among her former citizens was Doctor Solomon Drown. Dr. Solomon Drown's Farewell to His Uniontown Garden. Adieu, my sweet garden, to thee ! Adieu to each favorite flower. The woodbine that mantles the tree. Constructing simplicity's bower, Adieu to the sweet blushing rose. To the lily as fragrant as white. The crocus in autumn that blows. Protracting the pasture's delight, Adieu to the pleasures of May, Each plant in my garden so fair, The tree that rich blossoms display. And burdens with odors the air, Adieu to each picturesque scene. That grove of choice persian bloom You spartium of delicate mein. Enchanting the summer's perfume. Adieu to the nest in the hedge. Let virtue perennial prevail, The younglings in safety shall fledge. And harmony pour o'er the dale. 804 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Adieu ! rising village, adieu ! Ye inhabitants, generous and^kind, Our hearts shall return oft to you, Whom reluctant we now leave behind, Attracted by dear natal soil, The spot where our relatives dwell. We boldly encounter each toil. And bid you a cordial farewell. Henry Clay Dean. Henry Clay Dean, although not a citizen of this town for a great length of time — from his eccentricities, his wonderful ability to remember what he read, and his national reputation as an orator, is remembered as a brilliant member of our local bar. He was born at McClellandtown, Fayette county. Pa., October 27, 1822. His mother being incompetent to care for him, he was taken in infancy by Thomas Wilson of near Middle Run, German township and was nursed at the breast of Mrs. Wilson and reared as one of the family, and by them given the name of Henry Clay. After attending the schools of the day he taught a number of sessions, after which he attended several sessions at Madison college at Uniontown. He then entered the law office of the Honorable Andrew Stewart as a law student about 1840, but Mr. Stewart being engaged in politics he recited to Nathaniel Ewing, Esq. He followed Mr. Stewart politically until the breaking out of the civil war, which he denounced in the most emphatic terms. He was admitted to the Fayette county bar, probably in 1863, but never practiced here. For several years he was a minister of the Methodist church in Virginia, where he gained much renown as an orator, although his youthful teachings were Calvanistic. He next settled in Van Buren county, Iowa, in 1850, on a thousand acre farm and continued preaching until the split in the Methodist church, when he quit preaching and resumed the practice of law. He next drifted into Missouri where he located on an eighteen hundred acre farm, on the Chariton river, naming his place the "Rebel's Cove," at the same time resuming the practice of law. He defended many murder cases and never lost one to the gallows. He defended seven cases of murder in one year, and cleared every one, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 805 so powerful was the persuasive force of his marvelous eloquence. One writer describes him as he addressed a jury in a very important case when pitted against other legal giants, thus: "He spoke as though all the illustrations suited to his argu- ment were piled up before him like a rick of bricks to be taken down and used one after another, without loss of time, yet each fitted to its place; and as he warmed up to the closing, it seemed as if he had the Bible, Shakespeare, and in fact, the whole range of English literature on a blackboard before him." His library of 4,500 volumes and his household efifects were all destroyed by fire. He was elected chaplain of the United States senate in 1855, on the recommendation of George W. Jones, U. S. senator of Iowa. He was on the electoral ticket for Stephen A. Douglass for president in 1860, but always refused to become a candidate for any office. When asked why he left Iowa he replied : " The Black Republicans came into power in Iowa; they enacted the ne- farious prohibition law, there was whisky gone; they abolished capital punishment, there was hanging gone ; now they are drifting into Universalism, there is hell gone. I will not live in a state that does not believe in whisky, hanging and hell." Although he was opposed to secession and disliked Jeffer- son Davis and denounced slave holding, language failed to furnish him adequate adjectives to express his vituperations against the civil war, and especially against Abraham Lincoln. He was arrested and confined in jail for several weeks for his disloyal expressions. His acrimonious attitude towards the government was based upon his opposition to secession of the Southern States, believing that diplomacy could have settled the differences between the two sections. He prepared the manuscript for two volumes entitled " The Crimes of the Civil War," wherein he expressed his views in emphatic and bitter terms. But one volume was published; the manuscript of the other was destroyed in the fire that de- stroyed his library. Personally he was uncouth in manners, slouchy and slovenly in dress, and in many ways repulsive, yet his conversational powers and his matchless gift of oratory attracted throngs of anxious hearers. He was married near Beverly, West Virginia, and died in 806 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Putnam county, Missouri, February 6, 1887, leaving a family of seven children. " Crazy Billy/' A familiar and mysterious character whose name was Wil- liam Stanford, and was known as " Crazy Billy," was a resident of Uniontown for more than half a century. He was a native of England, and coming to the United States, he secured employment for a while in several of the eastern cities before he made his sudden and sensational ap- pearance in Fayette county. On Saturday, January 15, 1831, he made his appearance at the home of Alexander Crow, then in Springhill, now in Nichol- son township, and behaving rudely, Mr. Crow attempted to eject the intruder when " Billy " seized an ax and drove the family from the house. A posse was summoned and "Billy" was overpowered and tied astride a horse and brought to Uniontown and committed to jail. The following day Mr. Crow made in- formation against " Billy " before Peter Stentz, a justice of the peace, and he was held for trial. While " Billy " was confined in the jail one John Updegraff was arrested for drunkenness and disorderly conduct and placed in the jail, where while sleeping off his stupor, " Billy " took a billet of fire wood and with one blow killed Updegraff. This occurred on the 14th of March, and on June 14, " Billy " was placed on trial and pro- nounced insane and remanded to prison.' He was heavily ironed and kept in close confinement for several years, but when Wil- liam Snyder became sheriff in 1847, his kind-hearted wife, con- cluding that "Billy" was not vicious, allowed him his freedom about the jail and court house, where he became useful as chore boy. Although his conversation was incoherent and he was much given to unintelligible mutterings, he apparently never enjoyed a lucid moment, nor was he subject to violent attacks of insanity. His disposition was even and mild, and once when asked if he had not killed a man in the jail he replied: "No, but I once killed a sheep in the jail." His clothing, apparently, was that cast away by the different sheriffs under whom he served, and at whose hands he received the kindest treatment. He was not filthy in his habits, but careless in his dress — never having his shoes tied, and his coat thrown over his shoulder. He was re- History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 807 garded as a mascot about the court house where he made him- self useful as an errand boy. He died at the sheriff's residence January 26, 1883, at the age of about eighty years. After his death his body lay in state in the court house, where it was viewed by many sympathetic friends. His remains were interred in Oak Grove cemetery with the Episcopal burial service, and a section of one of the columns of the old court house was placed to mark his grave. A small marble block surmounts the sandstone base, on which is inscribed " William Stanford, died January 36, 1883." The last words spoken by " Billy " were in his dying throes, when, it appears, a flash of light fell across his beclouded memory, he turned his eyes upon his attendant and calling him by name, said : " Oh, Gardner, if I could only see my mother — ." Colonel Searight, who knew " Billy " intimately, in his history of the " Old Pike," closes his notes on " Billy " with the following touching and beautiful paragraph : " This was not a lucid interval in the ordinary meaning of the phrase, but an expiring thought, a final flash of affection, a wonderful testimo- nial to the sweetest of all names, and a most forcible and strik- ing illustration of the ineffaceable impression made by a mother's care and love, and all the more, since at no time before, during his long sojourn at Uniontown, was he ever known to have mentioned his mother or his father. A poor, unfortunate luna- tic, separated for more than a half century from the parental roof, a stranger in a strange land, tossed by the billows of a hard fate, and lying down to die, light flashes upon his long distempered mind, and his last and only thought is 'Mother.' " CHAPTER XXXIII. Secret Orders — A Masonic Lodge in 1802 — Laurel Lodge No. 215, F. AND A. M. — Fayette Lodge No. 228, F. and A. M. — Union Royal Arch Chapter No. 165 — Madison Lodge No. 419, K. OF P. — Rising Star Lodge No. 533, I. O. O. F. — Tunnaleuka Lodge No. 365, I. O. O. F. — Royal Arcanum Council No. 388 — Saint Omer's Commandery No. 3, Knight's Templar — ^Union- town Commandery No. 49, Knights Templar — Fort Necessity Lodge No. 254, I. O. O. F. — Fayette Encampment No. 80, I. O. O. F. — Laurel Lodge No. 9, I. O. S. M. — Independent Order of B'nai B'rith No. 471 — Royal Order of Lions, Den No. 600 — Blue Lodge No. 228 — Alpheus E. Willson Lodge, Knights of Pythias — Beeson Lodge, Knights of Honor No. 2614 — Pro- tective Home Circle — Red Men — B. P. O. of Elks — Royal Order of Moose No. 20 — Order of Owls, and Several Others. The Uniontown Hospital — The Old Henry Beeson Mansion. A Masonic lodge was chartered in Uniontown April 2, 1802, with the following-named officers : Abraham Stewart, W. M. ; George Manypenny, S. W. ; Christian Tarr, J. W. ; John Van Hoiiten, Tyler. This lodge continued until 1817. Laurel Lodge, No. 215, F. and A. M. — This lodge was instituted June 30, 1828, under charter granted by the R. W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, June 2, 1828. Its first officers were : Thomas Irwin, W. M. ; L. W. Stockton, S. W. ; Gabriel Evans, J. W. ; William Salter, Treas. ; Moses Hampton, Sec. This lodge existed for a short time only, closing its work Feb- ruary 11, 1831. Fayette Lodge, No. 228, F. and A. M. — Upon the petition of John Irons, Zalmon Ludington, James Piper, John Keffer, P. U. Hook, John McCuen, William Doran, Moses Shehan, Rev. S. E. Babcock, and Samuel Bryan, the R. W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania granted a warrant or charter to open a lodge in the borough of Uniontown, to be known as Fayette Lodge, No. 228. John Irons to be first W. M. ; Zalmon Ludington to be first S. W. and James Piper to be first J. W. The first regular meeting of this lodge was held Monday, April 3, 1848, at which meeting ten were admitted to membership, and at the close of the Masonic year the lodge numbered fifty-two members. The 808 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 809 first member admitted was William Thorndell. John Irons, the first W. M., died of cholera July 39, 1850, and was buried the following day with the honors of Freemasonry, and over whose tomb the lodge erected a monument. The following brethren have served as Masters: Robert Boyle, for year 1851-52; James L. Bugh, 1853; Moses Shehan, 1854; Zalmon Ludington, 1855; George W. K. Minor, 1856; Thomas Semans, 1857-58; James H. Springer, 1859; Daniel Smith, 1860-63; Thomas Semans, 1863-67 ; George W. Litman, 1868 ; Thomas Semans, 1869; Charles E. Boyle, 1870; William Hunt, 1871; William C. Snyder, 1872; P. M. Hochheimer, 1873-74; S. M. Baily, 1875-76; D. J. Hopwood, 1877. Union R. A. Chapter, No. 165.— The Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter of Masons of Pennsylvania granted a charter and established a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons at Uniontown upon a petition signed by P. U. Hook, John Irons, S. E. Babcock, Wil- liam Searight, Daniel Sturgeon, and John McCuen. The peti- tioners were convened and the Chapter organized as Union R. A. Chapter, No. 165, May 15, 1849, and the following officers elected : P. U. Hook, H. P. ; William Searight, K. ; John Irons, S. ; Wil- liam Thorndell, Treas. ; Richard Huskins, Sec. The work of the Chapter was carried on until St. John's day, December 37, 1855, from which date the work was sus- pended until the 15th of April, 1873, when the Chapter was resuscitated and new officers were elected and the work resumed. Madison Lodge, No. 419, K. of P. — Was chartered De- cember 10, 1873, with the following charter members: G. W. K. Minor, Henry Delaney, Joseph M. Hadden, John W. Wood, John S. Roberts, John S. Breading, George B. Rutter, Levi Francis, Jacob D. Moore and George H. Thorndell, Sr. Rising Star Lodge, No. 533, I. O. O. F. — Was organized June 31, 1880, by George Whitsett, and the following named were then elected and installed: P. C. Baxter, W. C. T. ; Miss M. V. Jackson, W. V. T.; Joseph B. Jackson, W. Sec; Miss Susan Moxley, W. F. Sec; William Albert Henry, W. Treas.; C. A. Jenkins, W. Chaplain; Eli Truly, W. Marshal; Samuel Miller, Inner Guard ; James Carter, Sentinel. Tonnaleuka Lodge, No. 365, I. O. O. F. — Was chartered June 18, 1849, and organized on the 11th of July following, with the following officers: James Piper, N. G. ; Daniel Smith, V. 810 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. G. ; John K. Fisher, Sec. ; William Barton, Jr., Act. Sec. ; Robert T. Galloway, Treas. Royal Arcanum Council, No. 388. — Was organized in Sep- tember, 1879, and was chartered May 3, 1880. St. Omer's Commandery, No. 3, Knights Templar. — Organized at Uniontown December 14, 1853, under charter granted by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. The first officers were : John Bierer, Eminent Commander ; Andrew Patrick, Generalissimo ; William Thorndell, Jr., Captain-General ; James Piper, Prelate ; William Thorndell, Jr., Treas. ; Richard Huskins, Recorder-Scribe. The Commandery was continued until October 17, 1854, when it was discontinued, but subse- quently revived and removed to Brownsville. Uniontown Commandery, No. 49, Knights Templar. — ^Was constituted May 13, 1874. The first officers were: Nathaniel Baillie, Eminent Commander; Charles H. Rush, Generalissimo; William Hunt, Captain-General; William C. Snyder, Prelate; Clark Breading, Treasurer; William H. Hope, Recorder; Silas M. Baily, Senior Warden; WiUiam T. Moore, Junior Warden; John F. Gray, Standard Bearer; J. Austin Modisette, Sword Bearer; Thomas Brownfield, Warden. Fort Necessity Lodge, No. 354, L O. O. F. — Was instituted August 6, 1847. The first officers of the lodge were: Samuel Bryan, N. G. ; M. Kelly, V. G. ; H. W. S. Rigden, Sec. ; M. Runion, Act. Sec. ; David Clark, Treas. The lodge first met in the Madi- son college building, and since in the Bryan building, next in Concert Hall building, next in the Hogsett and Hankins build- ing. In 1912 this lodge erected a fine three-story brick build- ing on North Gallatin avenue, with business rooms on the first floor, living rooms on the second, and a fine lodge room on the third, into which the lodge moved in February, 1913. Fayette Encampment No. 80, I. O. O. F.— Was chartered July 31, 1848. The first officers were: Samuel Bryan, C. P.; James Piper, H. P. ; H. W. S. Rigden, S. W. ; D. M. Springer, J. W. ; James A. Morris, Sec. ; James McDermott, Treas. ; David Clark, S. Laurel Lodge, No. 9, I. O. S. M.— Was organized September 7, 1859, with the following officers: S. D. Oliphant, Grand Commander; D. M. Springer, Vice Grand Commander; John Collins, Chap.; J. B. Ramsey, Secretary; E. B. Dawson, Treas. The Independent Order of B'nai B'rith, No. 471.— This History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 811 fraternal organization of the Jewish people of the town was organized with thirty-one members, and was instituted on Thursday night. May 19, 1898, with the following officers: Solomon J. Rosenbaum, President; G. M. Silverman, Vice- President ; Lee Stern, Secretary ; A. Livinson, Treasurer ; Daniel Cohen, Inside Guard ; A. W. Miller, Outside Guard ; Jacob Davis, Isaac Silverman and Barney Cohen, Trustees. The institution of this lodge was celebrated by a grand banquet in the Standard Club rooms, at which the following visiting officers from the Pittsburgh lodge were present: Josiah Cohen, Past Grand President; O. H. Rosenbaum, Second Vice- President; Charles H. Joseph, David Hollander, Abraham E. Abrams, Solomon Kauflfman, Henry Jackson, Charles Van Ullem, Rev. D. L. Mayer, J. A. Peley, Joseph Mayer and D. H. Goldman. Royal Order of Lions, Den No. 600. — The Royal Order of Lions, Den No. 600, and Beneficial and Insurance order was instituted Monday evening, June 17, 1913, with a membership of about one hundred. The officers elected were: Past Presi- dent, Adolph Herskovitz; President, J. L. Keffer; Vice-Presi- dent, J. M. Morrow ; Secretary, Charles Hustead ; Treasurer, M. C. Miller ; Chaplain, J . W. Hagerty ; Overseer, Clifton Wiley ; Captain of the Guard, R. H. McKenzie ; Inner Guard, John Crochette; Outer Guard, J. S. Scheeser; Physician, Dr. G. H. Griffin; Attorney, J. B. Adams; Trustees, Charles Eicher, J. Rosenfield and N. S. Hoy. There are several other orders among which may be mentioned: Blue Lodge, No. 288; Chapter and Commander; A. E. Willson Lodge, Knights of Pythias; Beeson Lodge, Knights of Labor of Honor, No. 2614; Protective Home Circle; Red Men ; B. P. O. of Elks ; Royal Order of Moose, No. 20 ; The Order of Owls and several others. The Uniontown Hospital. Uniontown being centrally and conveniently located within the great mining region of Fayette county, it was apparent that a hospital should be established here in order that those injured in the hazardous occupation of mining should in case of injury, receive prompt and efficient surgical attention. After considerable discussion, extending over several years, a number of the prominent physicians of the town assembled in 812 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. the directors' room at the Central School building on April 27, 1901, and formally organized the Uniontown Hospital Associa- tion by the election of Senator A. D. Boyd as President; Dr. Jacob S. Hackney as secretary and Samuel M. Graham as treas- urer. Through the efforts of Senator Boyd the legislature of Pennsylvania approved a bill, July 18, 1901, by which the sum of $20,000 was appropriated for the establishment of a hospital, providing a like amount should be raised for the like purpose by popular subscription. Active steps were taken to secure a site on which to erect the hospital, and Robert F. Hopwood, James M. Hustead and Josiah V. Thompson each offered to donate a piece of ground for that purpose, and it was decided to accept the site on the McClellandtown road of two and one-eighth acres offered by Mr. Thompson, which was deeded for that purpose August 6, 1901. Additional grounds of one and one-fourth acres, purchased from George Titlow, were subsequently added. The first meeting of the board of trustees was held August 27, 1901, at which Hon. Nathaniel Ewing was elected president of the association ; Dr. T. N. Eastman, vice-president ; Dr. Jacob S. Hackney, secretary; Samuel M. Graham, treasurer; and Josiah V. Thompson, J. C. Work, A. D. Boyd and O. W. Ken- nedy, trustees. On June 30, 1902, Mrs. Sarah B. Cochran of Dawson, Pa., generously donated $10,000 towards the erection of the hospital, and the further sum of $2,000 to the operating department. All of which was most graciously accepted. On May 28, 1903, George W. Acklin, Esq., of Pittsburgh, voluntarily donated $1,000 to the hospital, which was also graciously accepted. On October 22, 1903, Andrew J. Gilmore donated $500 for the pur- chase of an ambulance. The commissioners of Fayette county contributed $6,000.00, and the directors of the poor contributed $2,000.00 for erection of building and purchase of additional ground. At a meeting of the Trustees, Architect H. S. Bear of Pitts- burgh, was selected as chief architect, to be assisted by Andrew P. Cooper, architect of Uniontown, to prepare plans and speci- fications for the building. On September 18, 1902, the contract was let to the con- tracting firm of Eggers and Graham for the erection of the History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 813 building, including the heating system, for the sum of $58,733, and building operations were actively commenced. On November 8, 1903, the corner stone was laid without ceremonies, by Dr. Jacob S. Hackney, and on December 4th, following, the institution was granted a charter. Up to October 22, 1903, the sum of $72,384.34 had been collected and $67,666.80 had been expended. On Thanksgiving day, 1903, the hospital was formally opened for the receipt of patients. A little girl, burned at Mc- Clellandtown and who died a few hours after being received, was the first patient. A training school for nurses was established April 11, 1904, from which a number of young ladies have been graduated. On April 12, 1912, a contract was let to the South Penn Building Company for the erection of a nurses' home and dormitory of which Harry W. Altman was the architect. The legislature of Pennsylvania appropriated the sum of $10,000 for the erection of the same. It is constructed of buff brick and has the capacity to accommodate twenty-one nurses. Officers of the Association. — Presidents : Hon. N. Ewing, elected August 27, 1901, resigned Nov. 10, 1903. Hon. A. D. B'oyd, elected November 10, 1903, resigned November 6, 1905. Robert F. Hopwood, elected November 6, 1905. Superintendents. — Miss Mabel E. Craft, elected May 38, 1903, resigned January 1, 1904. L. E. Osborn, elected January 1, 1904, resigned February 15, 1904. Miss A. H. Van Gliet, elected April 2, 1904, resigned September 6, 1907. Miss Grace Bricker, elected September 6, 1907, resigned January 3, 1908. Dr. C. H. Davidson, elected January 3, 1908, resigned March 3, 1908. Miss Nannie Wilson, elected March 3, 1908, resigned September 7, 1909. Miss Florence Brumbaugh, elected Sep- tember 7, 1909, resigned October 21, 1900. Miss Grace Brum- baugh, elected October 21, 1910. During the years 1912 and 1913 the Ladies' Hospital As- sociation erected an Isolation Ward building. This building stands on the grounds of the Uniontown hospital at the corner of Delaware avenue and Thompson street. The Old Henry Beeson Mansion. Soon after Henry Beeson settled on the present site of Uniontown he concluded to erect for himself a mansion into 814 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. which he might move his family and enjoy the comforts of re- fined society such as he had been accustomed to at his former home in Berkeley county, Va. The site selected for this mansion was near an elegant spring on the hillside overlooking nearly the whole of his vast estate, which extended from the old Presbyterian graveyard back of the court house on the north to the old Baptist graveyard on the south, and from Morgantown street on the west to the road crossing the pike east of the Greenberry Crossland farm on the east. The great Catawba trail, the main thoroughfare of the sav- ages passing from the northern to the southern tribes passed within a few rods of his door and is now the location of South Beeson avenue. The main building of the mansion was two stories high and made of vitrified brick in such a manner as to give the whole front a checkered appearance. The kitchen was a one-story brick building of considerable size and stood some little distance from the main building with which it was connected by a covered porch. The grounds were embellished with shrubbery from the east and a fine orchard of choice fruit supplied the family needs. From this mansion Mr. Beeson could witness the growth and prosperity of the new town he had founded and which bore his name, notwithstanding Mr. Beeson had christened it "The Town of Union," and here also entertained his many friends from Virginia which the prominence of the Beeson family had there formed. Mr. Beeson made his home in this mansion until he re- moved to the west about 1804, and settled at Mt. Pleasant, Ohio, where he built other mills and became a prominent and valued citizen, and where he died February 28, 1819. Henry Beeson was the father of thirteen children, seven sons and six daughters, Jesse, the first of whom, was an infant when Mr. Beeson settled west of the mountains and was at one time editor and proprietor of the Genius of Liberty. An- other son, Jacob, known as Jacob Beeson, merchant, was the founder of the famous Beeson store which was the leading business store of the town for more than a century. To his son Henry, Jr., known as Henry Beeson the miller, he deeded the mansion house and seventy acres of ground. This son was born in this mansion house March 39, 1776, and lived there from History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 815 the time his parents moved to Ohio until his death, January 20, 1832, and his widow still resided there for a few years until she was married to Roberts Barton, after which her son, Jesse Beeson, the well remembered miller of the west end of town and who was born in this mansion house in 1806, took posses- sion and here his son, the late Henry R. Beeson, was born in 1830. After the death of Henry Beeson, Jr., the miller, the prop- erty surrounding the old mansion, consisting of about seventy acres, was sold at administrator's sale and Isaac Beeson became the owner, the widow, however, still retaining her interest in the mansion. After the tenure of the Beeson family, several tenants occu- pied the mansion, the most prominent of which was Andrew Button, who moved in as tenant in 1856, and remained as such until his death which occurred January 24, 1893, and his widow still remained as a tenant for at least ten years longer. In fact this old mansion was occupied by Mr. Button so long that it became generally known as the Andy Button house. Other tenants succeeded Mrs. Button, among whom was James C. Browning who remained here seven years and he was succeeded by others. After the death of Isaac Beeson this old mansion and much adjoining property became the property of his son, Charles H. Beeson, and since his death has been owned by his heirs until June 20, 1906, when after an ownership by the Beeson family of one hundred and thirty-six years, this historic old land mark was sold to Mr. T. Blair Palmer. This old mansion stood sphinx like on an eminence for more than a century and a third, a mute witness of all changes that have occurred in this locality in that period of time, and if en- dowed with the power of utterance and caught in a reminiscent mood, would relate something like the following: " Yes, it is true that Braddock had already met his dis- astrous defeat at the battle of the Monongahela, and the lilies of France had been supplanted by the cross of St. George, and Christopher Gist and a few other enterprising and hardy ad- venturers had made settlements west of the mountains, but Henry Beeson came here before the land office was established and the land thrown open for actual settlement, and the edict was still in force that all settlers must remove under the penalty 816 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. of " death without the benefit of the clergy." I stood here when this section of the state was a howling wilderness traversed only by the trails of the red man. I have witnessed these trails con- verted into bridle paths traversed by pack-horses laden with the household effects of the daring frontier settler. I have wit- nessed these bridle paths widened into wagon roads over which was hauled the merchandise, salt and iron as well as emigrants seeking homes in the then far west. I witnessed the construc- tion of the great National road, the most important factor in the early settlement of the great west, and saw the throngs that crowded this historic highway, and I also witnessed its decline upon the advent of the steam cars. I witnessed the little village of Beesontown laid off into quarter acre lots and sold at the uniform price of five pounds each, a sum equal to thirteen and- one third dollars. Think of it: The original plot extended from Morgantown street to the eastern bridge on Main street and from Beeson avenue to Gallatin avenue on Peter street and comprised fifty- four lots and at the uniform price of five pounds each, would have netted the founder of the town the sum of seven hundred eighteen dollars and twenty cents. This price was eighteen cents per front foot for lots on Main street which now bring one thousand dollars per front foot. I witnessed the building of the town from the little log cabins of the first inhabitants to the erection of the magnificent skyscraper which is the pride and glory of the town. I wit- nessed the birth of the infant village, saw it divested of its swaddling clothes and now behold it in the habiliments of a city of fifteen thousand inhabitants, with streets paved with brick, traversed by trolley lines and lighted by electricity. I heard the dismal howl of the prowling wolf and other beasts of prey, and remain to hear the rumble of the railroad train, the shriek of the locomotive, the buzz of the electric car and the honk of the automobile. I heard the stroke of the woodman's ax as he felled the primeval forest and remain to hear the hum of industry from field, factory, forge and work- shop, and where the old Indian warpath once passed my very door is now a paved avenue adorned with costly residences of modern style. I saw the little column of blue as it ascended from the cheer- ful backlog of the settler's cabin and remain to witness the great History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 817 clouds of bituminous smoke that fill the air from the thousands of ovens that light the heavens with their lurid glare and attract the attention of the industrial world to Uniontown as the center of the great coke industry. When this section of the state, known as the New Purchase, was thrown open for settlement, purchasers secured titles for their lands at five pounds per hundred acres, and the land on which the western part of Uniontown now stands was sold by Henry Beeson to his brother Jacob, for one dollar per acre. It is true that the French flag no longer waved over the forks of the Ohio when I was erected, but over the beautiful valley have floated the flags of three powerful nations and the ban- ners of two great commonwealths, and from my elevated posi- tion I can see the star-spangled banner, the emblem of American freedom, floating from the flagstaff in front of the court house and by the grace of God it shall float there forever. Yes, I was here before Betsy Ross put the first stitch in the emblem of American liberty, and I have lingered to see the forty-fifth star decorate its field of blue, and it now floats from the rock-bound coast of the Atlantic to the wave dashed shores of the islands of the Pacific, and before the last rays of the evening sun are with- drawn from the latter the beams of the morning sun salute the former. I was here before the Penns erected their historic fence to protect their big back yard from intruding neighbors, and before Col. McClean of this town had erected the corner post at the southwest corner which was then thirty miles distant from any habitation. I heard the bugle call that summoned the patriots to arms in the struggle for American independence. I saw the brave men start on expeditions against the savages on our western border. I heard the roll of the drum that called together the heroes of 1813 in the second struggle with the mother country. I witnessed the departure of the lamented Col. Roberts with his company during the trouble with Mexico, I have sheltered veterans of the late war between the states, and I beheld on the court house lawn a trophy from the faraway Philippines, a memento of the struggle with Spain. I have witnessed the erection of three temples of justice, one destroyed by fire in 1845, the second torn down in 1890, to make room for the present imposing structure which is a credit 818 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. to the county and an ornament to the town, and I now feel like a centenarian who has outlived all his former friends and ac- quaintances and I must soon be numbered with the things of the past along with my old neighbor, the spring, which " needed no bucket its treasure to draw" and from which drank the fierce roving savage and his bloodthirsty squaw." It is to be regretted that this old landmark was destroyed, yet so it must be in this age of improvement, the old must give place to the young, the ancient must give way to the modern, but the memory of Henry Beeson and the history of his old mansion must ever be preserved in the history of Uniontown. Mr. Palmer tore away this old landmark and upon its site erected a fine modern mansion which he has since made his home. CHAPTER XXXIV. Uniontown's Centennial — Uniontown's Old Home Coming. Uniontown as a borough was one hundred years old April 4, 1896, and early in that year the press of the town began agi- tating a movement for the celebration of the occasion. An organization was effected by the election of Honorable Nathaniel Ewing, president; D. M. Hertzog, secretary; Bruce F. Sterling, assistant secretary; M. H. Bowman, treasurer. The chairmen of the different committees constituted the executive committee, and was composed of the following gentlemen : T. B. Searight, speaker; Thomas R. Wakefield, music; D. M. Hert- zog, finance; G. S. Harah, decorations; S. L. Mestrezat, invita- tions ; O. J. Sturgis, curios ; S. E. Ewing, processions ; S. M. Baily, chief marshal; W. H. Playford, transportation; W. C. McCormick, advertising; Harry Beeson, road races; O. J. Sturgis, program; Lewis Williams, fireworks. Amos M. Jolliffe was placed in charge of the curios. The date of the celebration was set for July 3rd and 4th, and the following speakers were secured for the occasion : Rev. A. A. Lambing LL.D, " Points on the Early History of the Headwaters of the Ohio ; " Hon. Edward Campbell, " Our Local History ; " Rev. J. R. Wightman, " Religious Influence ; " Rev. T. N. Boyle, D. D., " The Army and the Navy ; " R. H. Lindsey, " The Day and the Occasion ; " Mrs. H. S. Clark, " Centennial Ode." The Grand Stand was erected on Fayette street at the mouth of South Beeson avenue from which the speaking took place. The entertainments comprised salutes by Battery B of Pittsburgh ; Bicycle Races ; Fireworks ; Parades ; Band Con- certs; Sham Battle by Military Companies; Balloon Ascension, and the Curio Department. The Public Fountain, the gift of the W. C. T. U. and the Ys, was dedicated by addresses by Mrs. E. D. C. Mair, Miss Puella Dornblazer and H. L. Robinson. The fountain was pre- sented by Mrs. H. F. Detwiler on behalf of the W. C. T. U. and the Ys, and was accepted by J. V. Thompson, president of the town council, as representative of the borough. 819 820 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Jacob. Baker, who was born near Uniontown March 13, 1792, and who had passed the one hundred and fourth milestone of his long journey through life, was the honored guest of the town during this celebration. Main street was beautifully arched, and gorgeously and profusely decorated, and brilliantly illuminated with electric lights. It was estimated that sixty- thousand people were in attendance, and the best of order and good feeling prevailed. The amount of the subscriptions, which met all the requirements, was only $3,1'?'1.90. Uniontown's Old Home Coming. The movement for an Old Home Coming was inaugurated at a banquet given at the Hotel Titlow on Thursday night, April 25, 1912, which was attended by about fifty men promi- nent in the business interests of the town. Honorable Edmund H. Reppert was introduced as chair- man of the meeting. A number of gentlemen announced that they were in happy accord with the movement and promised their hearty support in its furtherance. The feeling of greatest harmony and enthusiasm pervaded the meeting. Chairman Reppert announced that he would call a meeting for permanent organization in the near future, which was done. Daniel W. McDonald was chosen as chairman of the committee on permanent organization. A public meeting was held at the court house May 23rd, at which James R. Cray was chosen president of the organization, Frank M. Semans, Jr., treasurer and Charles W. Baer, secretary. The report of the committee on permanent organization, of which Daniel W. McDonald was chairman, was read and approved. The president of the organi- zation, together with the chairmen of the different committees, constituted the executive committee. The chairmen of the different committees were as follows : James Hadden, invitation; Mart A. Kiefer, program; Nathaniel Ewing, speakers; Frank M. Semans, Jr., finance; George F. Titlow, entertainment ; J. Searight Marshall, decorations ; Alonzo Hagan, reception ; Peter A. Johns, amusements ; F. P. Truesdale, transportation; Samuel Stern, music; William Baum, fireworks; T. Springer Todd, parade ; Lee Smith, privileges ; Miss Frances Howell, a clean town; S. W. Metzler, press and printing; D. M. Hertzog, churches ; Dr. P. F. Smith, first aide ; Charles P. Cliick, History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 821 information bureau; Charles H. Seaton, vice-president; A. G. Leonard, advertising. The time set for holding the Old Home Coming was the week beginning Monday, August 26, and to continue five days. The entertainments and amusements arranged for the week were as follows: Battery B of Pittsburgh; The Moss Greater Shows ; several flights of a Curtiss Biplane ; Punch and Judy show; base ball games; wire performances; fireworks; repre- sentation of " Uncle Sam ; " six different bands ; automobile parade; firemen's parade; industrial parade; general parade; fantastic parade. The speakers selected for the occasion were: R. F. Hop- wood, Esq., address of welcome ; James G. Johnston, Esq., remi- niscences; Honorable Samuel W. Pennypacker, history. Liberal prizes were offered for a "Queen of the Jubilee;" poems on "Old Home Week;" best decorated automobile; fire- men's parade; firemen's races and contests; floats; organiza- tions; tallest man; tallest woman; decorations; best kept lawn, etc. It was estimated that the attendance on Thursday was at least seventy-five thousand people; and the order that prevailed throughout the week of the celebration called forth the highest commendations, and not a single serious accident occurred to mar the pleasure of the occasion, and the spirit of good fellow- ship and enjoyment that pervaded the multitude was un- precedented. The report of the finance committee showed that the re- ceipts from the subscriptions amounted to $9,697.96, and that the expenses, including premiums, amounted to $9,586.54. Uniontown's Old Home Coming. The following verses suggested by Old Home Coming Week are quoted, not as a literary production, but for their sug- gestions as to the early history of the town. OLD HOME COMING WEEK. In Berkeley county once there lived Two Quaker brothers dear, By name of Beeson, Jake and Hen, But this is nothing queer. 823 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Said Brother Hen, "Let's climb those hills Toward the setting sun, And there we'll take up virgin land. And there we'll make our home." "I'm with thee. Brother Hen," said Jake, "We'll pack our goods and go. The road is mighty rough, no doubt, And traveling will be slow." In seventeen and sixty-eight They bade their friends adieu. To make their homes beyond the hills, Where all the lands were new. From Allegheny's rugged peak They saw a wond'rous sight. The valley lay before their feet, A land of pure delight. Beside old Redstone's winding stream They both selected lands, And went to work as settlers should. With heart and brains, and hands. Hen built a mill to grind the grain Raised by his neighbors, and Jake builded vats and other things. Prepared their hides to tan. "Let's found a town," said Brother Hen, " And benefit our race." "I'm with thee here again," said Jake, As smiles lit up his face. So stakes and pegs were quickly driven, And streets and lots were made; In seventeen and seventy-six The corner stone was laid. History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 823 "We'll put the prices low," said Hen, "In this new town we found. So people can afford to buy, A lot will be five pounds." " For river Cheat we'll name a street, And one for Indian Peter, And Elbow street we'll give to one Because it is no straighter." As time went on this village thrived And grew into a town. Until today it well may claim To merit some renown. The founders long have passed away And many more besides, Yet some of their descendents still On the shores of time abide. And now at this Home Coming Week, Both Hen and Jake revive. And stroll the streets of Uniontown, And great is their surprise. They wonder at the changes that Have come to this old town; They now the strangest sights behold, And hear the queerest sounds. The trolley cars go gliding by, The steam cars rolling past. The streets lit up with electric lights And houses heat by gas. "It does beat all, it puzzles me," Says Brother Hen to Jake, "To see the changes that have been made, And still there're more to make." 824 History of Unionfown, Pennsylvania. "We used to drive our slow ox team, Or ride a jaded horse. But now the auto whirls along And honks until it's hoarse." "The aeroplane now skims the air, Regardless of all danger, And one was got for Old Home Week To entertain the stranger." "I feel quite proud," says Brother Hen, "To take in this review, That we have founded here a town Far better than we knew." " We'll meet while here some dear old friends. As General Douglass was ; Colonel McClean, another one, On these two we must call." "We'll talk to them of men and things We all so well remember. We'll not get through in Old Home Week, But talk into September." "Who would have thought within our time That just beneath our feet Such mines of greatest wealth were stored. Awaiting man to greet?" "They tell me now that Uniontown Is put upon the map. Among the many business towns Of enterprise and wealth. And when I see this thriving town, I doff my broad-brimmed hat ; My heart grows full, my eyes o'er flow. And wonder where I am AT."