H.J., married Jas. Peterman, of Laporte Township
**Editor's Note: See the extensive note below from Helen Smith Gammon that points to errors and corrections in the Peterman, Hunter and Hess relationships.

Sarah, married S. Hess, of Columbia County

Catharine, married Thomas Morris

George, of Columbia County.

JOHN BOTSFORD

John Botsford moved with his family form the State of New York, to Laporte Township, probably about 1830. He married Louise McEwen, also of New York. Both families were the descendants of Connecticut people. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Botsford were:

Mary, married Amos Whitaker, of Davidson

Louisa, married Wm. Goltry, of New York State

Gelina, married Wm. Stone, of Bradford County

Sarah, married Amos Wilber, of Davidson Township

John C., of Laporte Township

Two daughters died when young ladies.

JOHN C. BOTSFORD

John C. Botsford was born September 12, 1824, and came to Laporte Township with his father. On reaching his majority, he located on the James Rogers farm near Nordmont. Mr. Botsford married Martha Pennington, who was born September, 21, 1822. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Botsford were:

Milton, of Nordmont

Mary, married Wm. Stanley

Jesse C., of Nebraska

Arthur E., of Laporte Township

Zenas, of Laporte Township

Judson, of Connecticut.

JAMES PETERMAN

James Peterman came from Columbia County to Laporte Township in 1862 and purchased the Josiah Hunter farm near Nordmont. The Petermans are of German descent. In 1861 he married Miss H.J. Hunter, of Laporte Township. Mr. Peterman died January 19, 1896, aged 59 years. To Mr. and Mrs. Peterman were born:
Note: See the extensive note below from Helen Smith Gammon that points to errors and corrections in the Peterman, Hunter and Hess relationships.

Virginia, married Nathan Peters, of Laporte Township

Caroline, married Geo. Feister, of Nordmont

Minard, of Laporte Township

Philip, of Nordmont

Shed, of Laporte

Glen, of Laporte Township

Alice, married Monroe Phillips, of Nordmont

Chester, of Davidson Township

Susie, married Fred Keeler, of Davidson Township

Harry at home.

PETER GAVITT

Peter Gavitt was born in Susquehanna County in 1827. He was a son of Richmond Gavitt. The Gavitts are of English descent and came from Rhode Island. Mr. Gavitt’s mother’s maiden name was Rebecca Williams, and her ancestors came from Connecticut. Mr. Gavitt came to Sullivan County in 1869 and purchased the Edward and George Sones farm in Laporte Township, near Sonestown. Mr. Gavitt married Eliza Rosencrants, a daughter of John and Polly (McKeeby) Rosencrants. Her ancestors came from New Jersey. To Mr. and Mrs. Gavitt have been born:

Polly, married Edward Messenger, of Susquehanna Co.

Louisa, married Michael Simmons, of Washington

Ruby, married Wm. Law, of Laporte Township

Jennie married Watson Buck, of Sonestown

Lee R. of Laporte Township

Morgan P. of Sonestown.

MARY S. FIESTER

Mary S. Feister moved from the Muncy Hills, in Lycoming County, to Laporte Township in 1814. She purchased the James Russel farm. She was a widow when she came to Sullivan County. Her children were:

Levi, deceased

Joseph R. of Laporte Township, died 1901

Michael N., of Williamsport

Daniel of Tivola, Pa.

Anna, married John Phillips

WILLIAM B. LOW

William B. Low came from Lycoming County to Laporte Township, about 1844. Mr. Low was a son of Thomas Low, who was a Methodist preacher. The Lows are of German descent. Mr. Low married Mary Whipple of Columbia County. To Mr. and Mrs. Low were born:

Lavina, married Elliot Cook

Sylves, was killed by lightning when 21 years of age

Isaac of Williamsport

Selceta, married DeWitt Goodman

Jane, married Joseph Pennington, of Laporte Township

John, dec’d of Watsontown, Pa.

William J., lives on the homestead.

JOHN LITTLE

John Little moved from Eagles Mere (Lewis Lake) to Laporte Township at an early date, locating on the farm now owned by Amos Little. He was a son of Daniel and Nellie (Converse) Little. Daniel Little was born at Monmouth County, New Jersey, about 1700. John married Sarah Laird, their children were:

Thomas, dec’d. of Laporte township

Amos, of Laporte Township

Harriet, deceased

Esther deceased

THOMAS L. LITTLE

Thomas L. Little was born February 22, 1829. He was a son of John and Sarah (Laird) Little. Mr. Little married Anna Pennington, who was a daughter of Jesse and Rebecca (Cowley) Pennington, who located in Davidson Township on the farm now owned by Julius Sick and W.M. Stephens, about 1830. Mr. and Mrs. Little located on the farm joining John Little. Their children were:

Sarah, married Wm Robbins, of Davidson Township

Jesse P. of California

Ellen, married Joseph Edgar

Charles of Nordmont

Mary, married Wm. Laird, of Davidson Township

Martha, married Elmer Low, of Lycoming County

AMOS LITTLE

Amos Little was born May 20, 1832. He was a son of John and Sarah (Laird) Little. Mr. Little married Eliza Glidewell, of Davidson Township. She was born September 17, 1838. She was the daughter of John and Agnes (Bennett) Glidewell, and a granddaughter of James Glidewell, who came from England in 1801, and moved to Sonestown on the farm now owned by Samuel Crist, in 1820. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Little are:

Amanda, married Charles Cox of Davidson Township

Roxanus N. died March 11, 1862

John, of Laporte Township

Walter, died April 13, 1870

Andrew G., died February 26, 1866

Joseph E.

Lewellyn

William

Robert

HERMAN RING

Herman Ring was a native of Germany and came to America in 1843, locating at first in the German colony in Lee Settlement, in Colley Township. In 1844 he built a sawmill on the Graifly farm near Dushore. In 1848 he went to Ringdale and built a sawmill at the mouth of Birch Creek. This mill went out in the big flood of 1850 and he traded his land on Birch Creek with Michael Meylert for a tract of land south of the Loyalsock and built a sawmill and in 1854 built a gristmill. In 1853, John Ring, a brother of Henry, came to Ringdale and entered into partnership with Henry Ring. John went west later on. Some time afterward, Mr. Ring built a hotel which he conducted for sixteen years. Herman Ring was born in Germany in 1806 and was married before he came to America; he died at Ringdale. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Ring were:

John of Hughesville, Pa.

Mary

Eliza deceased

Henry of Muncy, Pa.

Fred, dec’d, of Hughesville, Pa.

Christina, died at he age of 12 years

Herman H. of Lopez, Pa

Philip, of Ridgeway, W.Va.

Caroline, died in infancy

HENRY RING

Henry Ring came to America in 1852, locating first in Franklin County, Pa. In 1853 he came to Ringdale; went west in 1856, returning in 1857, when he purchased a half interest in the gristmill property of his brother. The place was named Ringdale in honor of the Rings, when a post office was located there some years later. In 1861 Mr. Ring moved to New Albany and in 1865 took charge of the gristmill at Dushore. In 1866 he purchased a farm in Albany Township near Dushore. In 1860 Mr. Ring married Mary Magdaline Heiber. She was a daughter of John and Margaret (Steiner) Heiber, natives of Wurtemburg, Germany; they came from Philadelphia to Cherry Township in 1832. To Mr. and Mrs. Ring were born:

Benjamin, deceased

Margaret, married David Utz, of Dushore

Elizabeth, married Alfred Kipp, of Athens, Pa

John P., deceased

David G., deceased

Esther L., at home

Emma, deceased

W. William, at home

THOMAS J. INGHAM

Thomas J. Ingham was born November 25, 1828, in the then township of Asylum, Bradford County, Pa. He was the son of Thomas and Eunice (Horton) Ingham. His first known ancestor was Jonas Ingham, who came form England and settled in Trenton, New Jersey, about A.D. 1700. In direct descent from Jonas was Jonathan, who resided at Big Springs, Bucks County, PA. Jonas was a captain in the Revolutionary War, and afterward a pioneer on Wyalusing Creek. Joseph owned a farm and mills at Sugar Run creek. Thomas succeeded to the farm and mills at Sugar Run, where the subject of this sketch was born.

The first known ancestor on his mother’s side was Barnabas Horton, who came from England prior to A.D. 1640, and in that year settled on Long Island. The father of Eunice Ingham was Major John Horton, of Terrytown, Bradford County, who served in the Revolutionary war.

After completing his education in the common schools, Mr. Ingham attended the Hartford Academy and Wyoming Seminary. About the beginning of 1851 he came to Laporte, Sullivan County, where he was employed by Wm. Mullan as his deputy in the office of Prothonotary, Register and Recorder. In addition to this work he was appointed commissioners’ clerk in 1852. In 1853 he was married to Caroline A. Cheney, daughter of Abel and Priscilla (Washburn) Cheney. Mrs. Ingham was born at Cortlandville, New York, February 15, 1831.

In the fall of 1853 Mr. Ingham was nominated on the Democratic ticket for the office of prothonotary, Register and Recorder, and was elected, no nominations having been made against him. In the summer of 1855, he took an active part in the organization of the Republican Party. In that year he was nominated as a candidate for the office of Representative, the district being composed of Susquehanna, Wyoming and Sullivan Counties, and, being entitled to two Representatives. Mr. Ingham and one of the Democratic candidates elected. In the spring of 1856, Mr. Ingham moved to Sugar Run and entered the mercantile business; soon after he entered the law office of Hon. Ulysses Mercur at Towanda, and was admitted to the bar of Bradford County, September Term, 1860. In November of that year he returned to Laporte and commenced the practice of law, the next year he was elected district attorney, serving three years.

In 1865 Mr. Ingham purchased a printing press and printing material and with John T. Brewster, established the Free Press, a weekly newspaper, at Laporte. A few years later he withdrew his name as one of the editors of that paper, and in 1872 assisted his son, Ernest V. Ingham, in establishing a campaign newspaper called the Grant Standard, and acted as one of its editors. In the fall of the same year he purchased from Mr. Brewster the material and good will of the Free Press. Immediately after the November election, the Grant Standard was changed to the Press and Standard, Mr. Ingham being associate editor with his son. The newspaper business at no time, however, interfered with his law practice.

The Legislature in 1874 made a change in the judicial district, and provided for an additional law judge. In May of that year Mr. Ingham was appointed by Governor Hartranft as additional law judge, Judge Elwell being president judge in the same district. Later in the same session the legislature established the Forty-fourth judicial district, composed of the counties of Sullivan and Wyoming. At the election in November of that year Mr. Ingham was elected to the office of president judge for ten years.

On retiring from the bench Mr. Ingham resumed the practice of law and had his office at Dushore for about four years. Having associated his son, F.H. Ingham, with him in the practice of law, he removed to Laporte, where he still continues his profession. Judge Ingham has been very closely identified with Sullivan County since its organization and is the best-informed man in the county today in regard to the history of the county since its organization. To Mr. and Mrs. Ingham have been born three sons:

Ernest V. of Eagles Mere

Ellery P. of New York

F.H. of Laporte

SECKU MEYLERT

Secku Meylert was a native of Cassel, Germany, and was the eldest son of Michael Meylert, a wealthy banker of that city, who for many years was associated with the banking house of the Rothchilds, he having married a sister of the old Baron Rothchild.

Secku Meylert was born December 25, 1784. He received the most careful training in the schools of his native city and at the close of his school course, entered the banks as an assistant to his father. After the French Army, under Napoleon, took possession of Cassel, a number of the French officers made it a practice to frequently visit the Meylert home, where they were hospitably entertained. Dr. Lieberman, surgeon general of the French Army, afterward married a sister of Secku Meylert.

Not long after the government of Cassel came under the control of the French, a requisition was made for money and men. The elector of the State, William the 13^th, was retained in power under promise of allegiance to the French government and at his instance the bank of the Rothschild’s furnished the required money. The French general in command was General La Grange, with headquarters at Frankfort-on-the-Main. In transacting the financial matters with the bank, he was in frequent intercourse with Secku Meylert and they became fast friends. A vacancy having occurred in General LaGrange’s staff, he at once offered the position to his young friend, and it was promptly accepted.

In 1806 occurred the battle of Friedland. During the hottest of this conflict it was necessary that an important message be carried across the battlefield from General LaGrange to Napoleon. Secku Meylert was the officer selected to perform the dangerous mission. He delivered the message, although seven horses were shot under him and he received a severe wound from a saber stroke. Napoleon was so greatly pleased with his courage that he at once retained him as a member of his staff. For over five years he traversed the Continent with Napoleon’s Army, from Spain to Russia, learning to speak fluently the languages of all the countries through which he passed.

After the downfall of Napoleon, he came to America. Arriving in New York, he read a glowing description of Northern Pennsylvania and soon after settled in Susquehanna County.

Here he was successively an instructor in languages, clerk to county commissioners and agent for the sale of real estate. In the latter work he became peculiarly successful and was finally made agent of the Bingham estate, the Meredith estate and other large landed interests covering much of the northern part of this State. In company with Thomas and William B. Clymer, about 1845, he purchased about 33,000 acres of land in the counties of Bradford, Lycoming, Wyoming and Luzerne. Through his efforts a new county was formed in 1847 and included within its boundaries much of the land thus purchased. At a central point in the new county, was located Laporte, the county seat. The development of these lands was vigorously begun, but Mr. Meylert did not live to see the accomplishment of his purposes. His health failed and he died in 1849, at the age of sixty-five years, at his home in Montrose.

He was conspicuous for his ability as an accountant, his skill in all matters pertaining to the management and sale of real estate, his earnest and thorough manner of transacting business, his honesty and fidelity in the management of the business affairs of others and his genial personality and varied accomplishments.

Letter Addressed by Secku Meylert 1838
This stampless letter has a circular date stamp for Montrose, Susquenhanna County, PA, a handwritten 'free' rate, and is addressed to S.A. Law, Esq., P.M. [Post Master], Meredith, Delaware Co., NY. The envelope contains a one-half page letter written by "S. Meylert". The date is Montrose, Nov 3d 1838. The letter was folded several times before mailing. Here is part of the text:

Here is another envelope and text extract, dated to December 1842.

Letter Addressed by Secku Meylert 1842
This folded letter sheet/stampless letter has a circular date stamp for MONTROSE DEC 10 Pa., an 18 3/4 cent rate and is addressed to Henry Drinker, Philadelphia. It is a long, one page letter written by Secku Meylert. The headline is Montrose 9th Decr 1842. Here is part of the text:

The Meylert-Bradshaw Mansion
Laporte, PA
An Old Postcard Photo
The mansion in the photo was orginally built by Michael Meylert sometime in the late 1850's to early 1860's. He brought in a well-known Chicago architect, Stephen Vaughan Shipman, to design the mansion. For its day, the home had the ultimate in "modern conveniences": an indoor bathroom, running water, central heating and gaslight. Upon his death in 1883, he left behind a childless widow, Ann Finch Meylert, who had to relinquish his property bit by bit to settle debts. The postcard notes that the mansion is "E.P. Ingham's Summer House." Ellery P. Ingham was a lawyer practicing in Laporte during the early 1900's. One possibility is that Ingham had been Meylert's lawyer and that at some point Ingham took over ownership of the property. In 2007, the house was known as the Bradshaw mansion and it still stood on the corners of Beech and Meylert Streets in Laporte. Notice in the lower right hand corner of photo that you can see Sacred Heart Catholic Church. This postcard was postmarked out of Laporte in 1907.
Photo by Deb Wilson
Who Purchased this postcard on eBay in December 2007
Deb's info for the Meylert mansion history comes from Lake Mokoma and LaPorte - An Illustrated History of the Area of Sullivan County Pennsylvania
by David N. Bradshaw , published by the Lake Mokoma Association, 1978.

Editor's Note: Much of the uncertainty about the actual history of the Meylert-Bradshaw Mansion was cleared up by a 1964 article written by Michael Meylert's great grandson David Bradshaw for Now and Then, a publication of the Muncy Historical Society. We reproduce it here as Notes on the Brick House--and Michael Meylert.

MICHAEL MEYLERT

Michael Meylert was the son of Secku Meylert, and was born in Susquehanna County, June 20, 1823. He received a thorough education, and became proficient as a surveyor and engineer. After leaving school, he became associated with his father in the care and management of his large real estate interests and upon his father’s death in 1849, when but 26 years of age, he assumed the control and management of his father’s business affairs.

At this time the county of Sullivan had just been erected by the Legislature of Pennsylvania. Laporte had been made the county seat, although there was no settlement at the place but only a forest of virgin hemlock. Efforts to have the county seat removed to other points in the new county were at once made and for a time it looked as though they would have proved successful. The struggle to maintain Laporte as the county seat devolved mainly upon Mr. Meylert and his associates and occupied much of his time and attention for the first two or three years of his residence here.

It was Michael Meylert’s ambition, from the time he assumed the management of his father’s estate, to develop the natural resources of Sullivan County. He was not content to simply hold this vast body of timber and mineral lands until others should make settlements and start industries and thus enhance the value of his holdings. But with an energy and a determination that knew no bounds, he at once began the work of settlement and development. Land was cleared for the town of Laporte. The sound of the woodsman’s axe had scarcely died away ere that of the carpenter’s saw and hammer could be heard in the land. Large numbers of men were in constant employment and vast sums of money were expended in improvements. Substantial houses by the score were erected. Roads through the then unbroken forest were made in every direction, to the out-lying settlements. Sawmills were built to provide the necessary lumber. The Court House, according to previous agreement with the new county commissioners, was at once erected. The coalfields where Bernice now stands were carefully surveyed, tested and opened. A tannery was established at Laporte. Railroad lines from Muncy and Towanda to penetrate the region were surveyed, financed and started. Settlers were given every inducement to come to the new county and lands were sold to them upon the most advantageous terms. In all of this labor and enterprise, Michael Meylert was the leader and active director. He took a profound interest in everything pertaining to the industrial, political, social and religious like of the county. He was active in politics; a staunch Democrat of the old school, and for many years published the only paper in the county, The Sullivan Democrat. He was a member of the State Legislature in 1856. To the time of his death his interest and his energy in the development of Sullivan County were unabated. And while he never saw the full accomplishment of many of his cherished projects, he certainly did all in his power for their achievement. He died at Laporte, January 17, 1883, and his remains rest in the cemetery * at that place. In 1846 he married Ann M. Finch, of Montrose. They left no children. *
* Editor's Note: The reference here is to Mountain Ash Cemetery in Laporte. Here is a picture taken in 2006.
* Editor's Note: Michael Meylert did have an adopted daughter, however, by the name of Ellen J. Van Guilder. Ellen was subsequently the wife of A. C. Blackwell, a jeweler by profession. He married Ellen in 1872. They resided in Pittston, Luzerne County, PA. Here is an Obituary for A. C. Blackwell.

Mountain Ash Cemetery
Laporte, PA
Summer 2006
Photo Taken by Deb Wilson

WILLIAM MEYLERT

Secku Meylert had six sons but only two of them, Michael and William, made Sullivan County their home or became closely identified with its history. William Meylert, the subject of this sketch, was born in Susquehanna County, in 1829. He received his education in the schools of his native county and at the University at Lewisburg, now Bucknell University. He came to Sullivan County when a young man and assisted his father and brother in their early efforts at Laporte. He had charge of much of the work done there at the time the settlement was established and was closely identified with the progress and development of Sullivan County during his whole like. He engaged in the mercantile business at an early date and continued in this work until failing health compelled him to abandon it. In his varied business relations he was upright and honorable.

For twenty consecutive years he was a Justice of the Peace for Laporte borough and for twenty-one years a member of the school board. He took a great interest in the causes of education and was instrumental in establishing schools throughout the county. In religious work he was always active and contributed with a liberal hand to the support of church work. He was deeply interested in Sabbath school organizations and for many years was superintendent of a school at Laporte. He was instrumental in the organization of the Sullivan County Sabbath School Association and was an active worker in that society.

He was actively interested in the subject of local history and wrote much along these lines. He prepared a history of Sullivan County, for the use of the State Librarian. He was a great reader and kept in touch with the progress being made in all lines of activity, to the end of his life. His death occurred May 14, 1899.

In 1852 he was united in marriage with Mary Ann Gregory of Hartford, Connecticut. Five children were born to this union, as follows:

Mina B. now Mrs. E.S. Chase, of Eagles Mere, PA

Ada M. deceased

Howard W. deceased

Fannie N., of Laporte

Francis W. of Laporte.

WILLIAM A. MASON

William A. Mason, son of Eliphalet and Roxey (Fowler) Mason, was born at Towanda, PA, September 29, 1818. His parents were of sturdy New England stock, the ancestral line reaching back through prominent generations to the early days of colonial occupancy. Eliphalet Mason, himself, a native of Ashford, Connecticut, was born June 23, 1780. He was a man far in advance of his day, educated for the Presbyterian ministry; in early manhood he came to the new settlement of Bradford County, Pennsylvania, where he engaged in surveying first at Orwell, and soon after moving to Towanda; in 1821 he erected a grist-mill and sawmill near Monroeton. William A. Mason, the subject of this sketch, after a course in the Towanda academy, became a surveyor and civil engineer. In 1847 he was appointed one of the commissioners to define and set off the new county of Sullivan and in the same year he surveyed the site of Laporte. In 1848 he moved to Laporte, his residence, where his widow lives, being the second house erected in Laporte. Mr. Mason was resident engineer on the State Line & Sullivan railroad when it was built, and was chief engineer on the Williamsport & North Branch railroad until the time of his death. He was the first postmaster and justice of the peace of Laporte. In 1856 he was elected Associate Judge, and in 1881 he was elected county treasurer. Mr. Mason was identified with many of the business enterprises in the early history of the county. He died January 7, 1892. On September 20, 1841 Mr. Mason was married to Mary Angeline Cheney, a daughter of Abel and Priscilla (Washburn) Cheney. She was born at Cortland, NY, October 28, 1820. The Cheney ancestry reaches back to prominent English and Scotch families in New England. To Mr. and Mrs. Mason were born six children:

Ethlin M. of Laporte

Ida A,. dec’d, married Warren T. Watrus

Mary E., died January 16, 1874

William E., died June 27, 1852

William C.,. of Laporte

Gordon H. died July 28, 1863

P.A. ARMSTRONG

P.A. Armstrong, of Philadelphia, came to Laporte township about 1862 and started the village of Celestia, which was located about two miles west of Laporte on the road leading to Eagles Mere. Mr. Armstrong was the founder of a religious sect who had everything in common and believe that the town which they were founding would be transplanted to Heaven at the end of the world as the Heavenly Celestial city. A square mile of land was deeded to Almighty God and his heirs in Jesus Messiah. The deed bearing date of June 14, 1864 sets forth as its inducement that he "is taught by the inspired worked of God and His holy spirit that his children should not claim or own any property, but should consecrate unto God all things they possessed for the common good of the people who are waiting for His son from heaven, and who are willing to live together in holy fellowship, relying upon his work and bounty, and to the end that his saints may be fully separated from the world and gathered together and enjoy the light and liberty which they did in the once faithful days of theocracy." Mr. Armstrong was a man of ability and induced quite a number to join his colony. He published a newspaper at Celestia called the Day Star of Zion. Mr. Armstrong had a petition presented to the Legislature in 1864, asking for the passage of a resolution that the people of Celestia, Sullivan County, be considered peaceable aliens and religious wilderness exiles from the rest of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The legislature took no action on the petition. Mr. Armstrong acted on the assumption that the land conveyed to the Lord was sacred ground and not within the jurisdiction of the State or National authorities; consequently he refused to pay taxes and his lands were sold at treasurer’s sale for taxes and were purchased by his son, A.T. Armstrong of Sonestown, who owns the land at present. Finding that his hope of founding an independent community could not be accomplished, he moved with his family back to Philadelphia, and the town of Celestia was abandoned.

REV. SAMUEL F. COLT, D.D.

Rev. Samuel F. Colt, D.D. came from New Jersey and took charge of the Presbyterian Church at Maryall, Bradford County. In addition to his duties as pastor he acted as private tutor for young men preparing for college. During this time he conceived the plan of the collegiate institute to be established at Wyalusing; a number of wealthy men in Bradford County became interested in the project and it was finally decided to locate the institute at Towanda. The collegiate institute was established at Towanda and Dr. Colt was put in charge of the institution. When the Civil War broke out he took the position as chaplain of a regiment, and served in that capacity during the war. Some time after the war he was induced by Michael Meylert to come to Laporte and establish a school on the plan of the Towanda Collegiate Institute. Unexpected causes prevented the carrying out of the plan of the school at Laporte. A Presbyterian church was established and Rev. Colt took charge as pastor. The charge not being strong enough to support a pastor, Dr. Colt, who also held a diploma from a medical college, commenced the practice of medicine at Laporte, continuing until declining health compelled him to retire, when he moved to Wysox, Bradford County, where he remained until the time of his death. Dr. Colt was married twice; his first wife came with him from New Jersey. His second wife was Lydia Horton, a daughter of Major John Horton, of Standing Stone, Bradford County. Dr. Colt’s children were:

Carrie V single

Henrietta, married Chas P. Wagner. of Wysox

Samuel F. Colt, Jr. of Buffalo, NY

Frederica, married E.V. Ingham of Eagles Mere

Josephine, single

CHARLES BREGER*

Charles Breger was a native of Germany and came to America when a young man and located in New York State; he was a tanner by trade and took the position as foreman of the tannery at Thorndale about 1873. In 1881 he was caught in the machinery at the tannery and killed. Mr. Breger married Frances Kelly, a native of Germany, who came from Wertemberg to America with her parents when 17 years of age, locating in the State of New York. Mrs. Breger is still living. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Breger were:

Simon, of Laporte

Emma, married Charles Landon of Laporte

Mary, married John Flynn of Laporte

Tressa, married Frank W. Gallagher, of Laporte
* Editor's Note: The correct spelling is "Brieger" per Alan Brieger of Charlottte, NC, per his message of May 30, 2005.

WALTER SPENCER

Walter Spencer was born at Cherry Valley, Massachusetts, about 1827. His parents came to Bradford County in 1849. Mr. Spencer came to Laporte as a clerk in the employ of Captain James Phillips, who came from near Towanda and engaged in the mercantile business at Laporte. Mr. Spencer entered the mercantile business for himself a little later. In 1861 he was elected county treasurer and re-elected in 1863. In 1867 he was elected again and re-elected in 1869. He was also commissioners’ clerk for a number of years. Mr. Spencer died in August 1898. In 1856 he was married to Anna Armstrong, a daughter of John and Emeline Weisner, of Philadelphia. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Spencer were:

J.H., of Williamsport

Anna, married A.E. Tripp of Laporte

Ella, dec’d

Emma, at home

Janette, of Picture Rocks

Walter, at home

Mabel M., at home

WILLIAM E. KING

William E. King was born at Northumberland, and came with his parents to Elkland Township in 1819. He was a son of John King, Jr. who came with his father, John King. Sr., from England in 1800. William E. King married Sarah R. Converse, a daughter of Joseph Converse, who came to Elk Lick, Davidson Township, in 1828. Mr. King located in Laporte township on the farm now owned by his son, B.B. King, about 1850. The children of Mr. and Mrs. King were:

Mortica, of Davidson Township

Oliver, deceased

Edgar, deceased

Perry W., deceased

Ward L., of Muncy

Harvey, of Hughesville

Martha, deceased

Benjamin B., at home

COUNTY OFFICERS

A list of the county officers who have been elected and served in Sullivan County since its organization:

President Judges- 1851, David Wilmot; 1856, Warren J. Woodhead; 1862, William Elwell; 1872, William Elwell; 1874 Thomas J. Ingham; 1834, John A. Sittser; 1894, Edward M. Dunham; 1904, Charles E. Terry.

Associate Judges- 1851, William Colley, John A. Speaker; 1856, William Smith, William A. Mason; 1861, Richard Bedford, James Deegan; 1866. Richard Bedford. James Deegan; 1871, Cornelius Cronin, Joseph Gansel; 1876. M.A. Rogers, F.B. Pomeroy; 1881, Daniel Fairchild, John G. Wright; 1886. Robert Taylor, Jr., E.A. Strong; 1891, John Yonkin, 2^nd, M.J. Phillips; 1896, John S. Line, Conrad Kraus; 1899, W.C. Rogers; 1900, Jacob A. Meyers, 1901, J.D. Reeser.

Congress- 1848, Wm. A. Petrican; 1852, James Gamble; 1854, Allison White; 1856, Allison White; 1858, James T. Hale; 1860, James T. Hale; 1862, Henry W. Tracy; 1864, Ulysses Mercur, four terms; 1872, James D. Strawbridge; 1874, Henry W. Early; 1876, John I. Mitchell, two terms; 1880, Robert C. Walker; 1882, William W. Brown, two terms; 1886, Henry C. McCormick; 1888, J. Boyd Robinson; 1890, S.P. Woverton, two terms; 1894, Monroe H. Kulp, two terms; 1898. Rufus K. Polk; 1900, Rufus K. Polk; 1902, Chas. H. Dickerman; 1904, E. Samuel.

Members of the House of Representatives- 1847, William F. Packer, Timothy Ives; 1848, William F. Parker, Joseph Smith; 1849, William Brindle, William Dunn; 1851, Isaac Reckhow, Michael Meylert; 1852, Ezra B. Chase, John W. Dennison; 1853, Ezra B. Chase, James Deegan; 1854, William J. Turrell, Charles J. Lathrop; 1855, Thomas J. Ingham, John V. Smith; 1856, Simon B. Chase, Alfred Hine; 1857, John V. Smith, Peter Ent; 1858, Geo. D. Jackson; Samuel Oaks, two terms; 1860, Hiram R. Kline, Thomas Osterhout; 1861, George S. Sutton, Levi Tate; 1862, Geo. D. Jackson, John C. Ellis; two terms; 1864, Joseph H. Marsh, Lorenzo Grinnell; 1865, Lorenzo Grinell, G. Wayne Kinney; 1866, G. Wayne Kinney, James H. Webb; 1867, James H. Webb, John F. Chamberlain; 1870, James H. Webb, Perley H. Buck; 1871, Samuel Wilson, Amos C. Noys; 1872, Amos C. Noys, Henry W. Petrican; 1874, Richard Bedford; 1876, B. Rush Jackson; 1878, E.M. Dunham; 1880, P.R. Ackley; 1882, Bryan S. Collins, two terms; 1886, M.A. Rogers; 1888, William Waddell; 1890, Russel Karns; 1892, M.J. Lull; 1894, B.W. Jennings; 1898, J.L. Christian; 1900, Edward G. Rogers; 1902, A.L. Dyer; 1904, M.E. Herrmann.

State Senators- 1849, William F. Packer; 1852, James W. Quiggle; 1855, Andrew Gregg; 1859, George Landon; 1862, Wm. J. Turrell; 1866, Geo. D. Jackson, 1868, Charles R. Buckalew; 1872, Thomas Chalfont; 1875, Robert P. Allen; 1878, George D. Jackson; 1880, Elias McHenry; 1882, William W. Hart; 1886, Virus H. Melzgar; 1890, Grant Harrint; 1894, J. Henry Cochran, three terms.

Sheriffs- 1847, Evan H. Phillips; 1850, Lewis Zaner; 1853, Amos C. Wilber; 1856, Samuel Craft; 1859, Joseph Gansell; 1862, John Simmons; 1865, John Lawrence; 1868, John G. Wright; 1871, Jeremiah Mooney; 1874, Wm. H. Yonkin; 1877, John Utz; 1880, Jas. Deegan; 1883, Edward Bergan; 1886, Henry Tripp; 1889, John Utz; 1892, Thomas Mahaffey; 1895, Ellis Swank; 1898, H.W. Osler; 1901, J.G. Cott; 1904, F.W. Buck.

County Commissioners- 1847, William Lawrence, Joseph Molyneux, Jacob Hoffa; 1848, Jacob Hoffa; 1849, John Battin; 1850, Griffith Phillips; 1851, William Reeser; 1852, John Mullan; 1853, Richard Taylor; 1854, John Smith; 1855, Samuel K. McBride; 1856, Robert Taylor; 1857, John Dieffenbach; 1858, Wm. Brown; 1859, John Hiddleson; 1860, John Dieffenbach; 1861, Henry Williams; 1862, Daniel Vaughn; 1863, Joseph Gansell; 1864, Henry Williams; 1865, James McMahon; 1866, Robert Taylor; 1867, Wheeler Green; 1868, James Dunn; 1869, Abraham Morgan; 1870, John Brown; 1871, Christian Mosier; 1872, Thomas L. Magargle; 1873, John Corcoran; 1874, Jasper Clark; 1875, James McMahon, Griffith Phillips, J.C. Edgar; 1878, John Yonkin, 2^nd, Henry C. McBride, G.W. Glidewell; 1881, G.L. McHenry, J.C. Robbins, Ezra S. Little; 1884, Geo. Albert, Thomas Streby, John J. Law; 1887, Jacob A. Meyers, Chas. Hugo, J.N. Campbell; 1890, S.K. McBride, D.W. Scanlin; Wm. M Cheney; 1893, John H. Farrell, Gabriel Litzleman, John J. Webster; 1896, H.G. Huffmaster, S.S. Rogers, Philip Secules; 1899, Wellington Graifly, Reuben Brown, Adam Baumunk; 1902, Peter J. Yonkin, Thomas W. Gahan, Geo. W. Bigger.

Prothonotary, Register, recorder and Clerk of the Courts- 1847, Alfred Bennett; 1850, William Mullan; 1853, Thomas J. Ingham; 1856, William Colley; 1859, Charles C. Finch, six terms; 1877, Henry Van Etten; 1880, Henry T. Dawns (Note: sic), two terms; 1866, A. Walsh, three terms; 1895, Wm. J. Lawrence, two terms; 1901, Thomas Kennedy, two terms.

County Treasurers- 1847, James Taylor; 1849 George Edkin; 1851, Aaron J. Detrick; 1853, Richard Bedford; 1855, John S. Green, two terms; 1859, Robert Kitchen; 1861, Walter Spencer, two terms; 1865, John G. Wright; 1867, Walter Spencer, two terms; 1871, John M. Heacock; 1873, John Sullivan; 1875, Walter Spencer; 1878, Edward Bergan; 1881, William A. Mason; 1884, Robert Stormont; 1887, Jacob Lorah; 1890, William Murray; 1893, A.L. Smith; 1896, Ransom Thrasher; 1899, Frank Lusch; 1902, Lee R. Gavitt.

County Auditors- 1847, Richard Taylor, J.G. Green, Thomas King; 1849, Cornelius Cronin; 1850, Geo. W. Phillips; 1851, James Coning (Note: sic); 1852, Arthur Richardson; 1853, Cornelius Cronin; 1854, George D. Jackson, John Brown; 1855, Geo. D. Jackson, John F. Hazzen; 1856, Samuel B. Birdsall; 1857, Chas C. Finch, John M. Heacock; 1858, Thomas Farrell; 1859, John G. Wright, Samuel McBride; 1860, Nelson W. Ackley; 1861, John W. Martin; 1862, Lyman B. Speaker; 1863, Thomas Messersmith; 1864, Abraham Morgan; 1865, R.D. Lancaster; 1866, Christian Mosier; 1867, William Smith; 1868, R.D. Lancaster; 1869, G.D. Kline; 1870, Geo. W. Bennett; 1871, Lyman B. Speaker; 1872, Francis Lusch; 1873, T.J. Keeler; 1874, Benjamin H. Tripp; 1875, Geo. W. Bennett, Adelbert Williams, A.B. Kilmer; 1878, John E. Finan, Albert Hazzen, J.R. Fleming; 1880, James Miller; 1881, Robert Stormont, R.D. Lancaster, S.F. Colt, Jr.; 1884, Thomas A. Jennings, Christian Caseman, John M. Gautsch; 1887, J. Harry Spencer, Edward Francke, Ulysses Bird; 1890, J. Harry Spencer, Geo. S. Wright. Ulysses Bird; 1898, Morgan Gavitt, Irvin D. Heverly, M.E. Wilcox; 1894, J.B. Magargle; 1896, A.F. Hess, Christian Caseman, Delbert Brown; 1899, Christian Caseman, James Sweeney, A.P. Starr; 1902, Christian Caseman, James Sweeney, A.P. Starr, 1904, John W. Randall appointed to fill vacancy caused by resignation of A.P. Starr.

Jury Commissioners- 1867, James Thomson, George W. Simmons; 1870, John K. Farrell, D.T. Huckle; 1873, Richard Biddle, Thomas Messersmith; 1876, Joseph C. Pennington, John Persun; 1878, Levi B. Hunsinger, Geo. C. Bird; 1882, John Mullan, Henry Stahl; 1885, William Fulmer, Thomas Simmons; 1888, Charles Hass, Thomas Farrell; 1891, Christian Caseman, Geo. W. Simmons; 1894, Zachary T. Kilmer, Henry Swank; 1897, Wm. Bird, Wm. D. Heverly; 1900, Ira Cott, Thomas S. Simmons; 1903, Fred W. Peale, W.B. Snyder.

District Attorney- 1848, A.J. Deitrick; 1850, Henry Metcalf, eleven years; 1861, Thomas J. Ingham; 1864, A.L. Grim, two terms; 1870, E.M. Dunham; 1873, Rush J. Thomson; 1876, Frank F. Drake; 1879, B.S. Collins; 1882, John H. Cronin; 1885, Rush J. Thomson, two terms; 1891, A.L. Grim; 1894, Edward J. Mullan; 1897, A.J. Bradley; 1900, W. Howard Hill, two terms.

Coroners- 1847, J.D. Wilcox, two terms; 1849, John Brown; 1852, Cornelius Harrington; 1854, William Brown; 1856, Robert W. Henley, two terms; 1877, W.C. Mason; 1881 Francis Chafee; 1884, Wm. W. Waddell, two terms; 1889, W.B. Hill, two terms; 1896, Edward Everett; 1898, Charles Wackenhuth; 1901, Rush J. McHenry, two terms.

County Superintendent of Schools- 1854, Richard Bedford; 1857, C.J. Richardson; 1860, Hallock Armstrong; 1863, John W. Martin, four terms; 1875, E.A. Strong; 1878, J.P. Little, three terms; 1887, M.R. Black, two terms; 1893, F.W. Meylert, three terms; 1902, M.R. Black 1905, Jan. 16, J.E. Reese Killgore, appointed to fill vacancy caused by resignation of M.R. Black.

JAMES MCFARLANE **

James McFarlane was born in Scotland in 1828 and came to America in 1836, locating in Delaware County, New York. His father, James McFarlane, was a Presbyterian clergyman. Mr. McFarlane went to New York in 1860 and was connected with the leather business there. In May 1864, he purchased the Laporte tannery, with 28 acres of land. In 1865-66, he purchased some ten thousand acres of timberlands, principally in Laporte Township. In 1868 he built the Thorndale tannery about four miles east of Laporte, connecting the tanneries by a plank road. The office of both tanneries was located at Laporte where the general store was located. The firm consisted of James McFarlane, and Jonathan Thorne and William Thorne of New York, under the firm name of McFarlane & Thorne of New York, and James McFarlane & Co., of Laporte, Pa. Buildings were added from time to time as required and some of the land around each tannery improved; more timberlands were also purchased. The nearest railroad station prior to the building of the State Line & Sullivan railroad was at Muncy, a distance of 28 miles from Laporte. In 1894 there was sold to the United States Leather Co. about thirty thousand acres of land together with the aforesaid tanneries and tannery houses. Mr. McFarlane retained about 400 acres of land adjoining the property at Laporte tannery, 150 acres of which is improved and is said to be one of the best farms in the county. Mr. McFarlane has also about two thousand acres of land along the Loyalsock creek from two to four miles east of Forksville. At present Mr. McFarlane is engaged in the mercantile business at Laporte, in connection with his farming and sawmill business.

** Editor's Note: In March 2009, the Colley Township House was designated as a state Historical Resource by the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission. It is now a seasonal residence. Although it has been extensively renovated, the "bare bones" (i.e., boarded windows, door and light fixture) are still there. It is located on Turrell Street in the village of Lopez, Pa., which is in Colley Township.
David R. Maher from this organization approached Bob Sweeney for more information on this old building, and Bob then turned to the Sullivan County Historical Society (SCHS) in Laporte for assistance. Nancy Spencer from the SCHS engaged Burton Adams, the Sheriff of Sullivan County, to conduct research, which led to documentation of the current status of the Townshouse [see the related 2009 Sullivan County Taxpayer Public Document] . Nancy also subsequently produced a series of deeds back to 1903, tracing the ownership of the building. As it turns out, the last known owning party that sold the building in 1903 was James McFarlane and his wife, Augusta (Lovell) McFarlane. We believe, based on the various landowning and business enterprises carried out in Sullivan County by McFarlane between 1864 and the early 1900s, that he likely was responsible for the original construction of what eventually became the Colley Township House. His purpose may have been to shorten the distribution channel for export of his tannery and lumber industry products through the creation of a depot or office in Lopez. Before that time, the closest railroad outlet for shipment of these items would have been in Muncy, Lycoming County, PA, some 28 miles from the tanneries in Laporte and Thorndale. You can find additonal information about McFarlane under his biographical entry in the Ingham History of Sullivan County.
Let us quote directly from correspondence sent by Dave Maher to Bob Sweeney and Nancy Spencer:

E.J. MULLEN

E. J. Mullen was born in Overton Township, December 2, 1865. He is a son of Martin and Sabina (Clark) Mullen. Martin Mullen was a native of County Mayo, Ireland, and came to America with his parents, in 1837. In 1847 he located in Overton Township, Bradford County. In 1850 Martin Mullen married Sabina Clark, who was also a native of County Mayo, Ireland. E.J. Mullen graduated at the Collegiate Institute at Towanda, when 19 years of age. He taught school and later studied law with William Maxwell, of Towanda and B.S. Collins, of Dushore. In 1892, Mr. Mullen was admitted to the bar and commenced the practice of law in Dushore. In 1896 he moved to Laporte where he has since been engaged in the law business. He was district attorney form 1895 to 1898, and was Democratic County Chairman from 1892 to 1896. Mr. Mullen Married Mary L. Donovan, June 10, 1896. She was a daughter of Dennis and Mary (Scanlin) Donovan and was born in Cherry Township, Sullivan County.

Jeremiah and Bridget (Luby) Kennedy
Parents of William A. and Thomas E. Kennedy (see below)
Laporte, PA Pre-1894
The original photo contains a comment that the couple lived in the Toll House
on the Plank Road to Thorndale and collected a five-cent toll from each traveler.
Jeremiah "Darby" Kennedy died October 20, 1894 and Bridget on August 19, 1906.
Photo Courtesy of Mark Kate Korb, great great grand daughter of Jeremiah and Bridget. Her mother and aunt, Marguerite nad June Layberger, respectively, are pictured as children in the photo galleries
in The Frawley Collection, although Mary Kate has no idea if there is a connection between the Layberger children and the Frawleys or related families.

WILLIAM A. KENNEDY

William A. Kennedy was born in Camden, New York, August 21, 1859. He is a son of Jeremiah and Bridget (Luby) Kennedy. Jeremiah Kennedy was a native of Roscommon, Ireland, and came to America when 16 years of age, locating in Green County, NY and in 1882 came to Sullivan County, where he died October 21, 1894. The mother is still living. William A. Kennedy is foreman of the tannery at Laporte, which position he has held for a number of years. He has held the offices of school director and town councilman in Laporte borough. In 1886 he married Rozina Stubbs, who was born in London, Ontario, Canada. To Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy have been born four children: LeRoy P, Thomas E., William H., who died at the age of seven months, and Mary A.

Thomas and Martha (Coleman) Kennedy
Husband and Wife
Laporte, PA
The photos are undated, but that of Martha was taken much later than that of her husband Thomas.
Photo Courtesy of Mark Kate Korb, great grand daughter of Thomas and Martha.

THOMAS E. KENNEDY

Thomas E. Kennedy was born at Moose River, Lewis County, NY, and June 13, 1871. He is a son of Jeremiah and Bridget (Luby) Kennedy, and a brother of William A. Kennedy, foreman of Laporte tannery. Thomas E. Kennedy commenced life as a clerk in James McFarlane’s store at Laporte, when a mere boy, where he remained until 17 years of age. Then he went to Jamison City, clerking for Thomas E. Proctor nearly four years, then clerked for the Union Tanning Company nearly two years; then clerked for the Trexler & Turrell Lumber company nearly two years. He then engaged in the hotel business at Laporte, and January 1, 1900, was appointed commissioners’ clerk. In the fall of 1901 he was elected Prothonotary, Register, Recorder and Clerk of the Courts, and was re-elected in 1904. Mr. Kennedy married Martha Cnleman, September 29, 1891. She was born in Columbia County, Pa., in 1869. She was a daughter of William Coleman of Benton. To Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy have been born six children: Alice, Samuel A., Pauline E., who died at the age of two years; Mary Francis, William Eugene, and Leo.

EDWARD L. SWEENEY

Edward L. Sweeney was born in Cherry Township, Sullivan County, December 18, 1875. He is a son of Martin and Julia (Wright) Sweeney. Martin Sweeney was born in Bradford County; he was a son of Michael and Catherine (Sweeney) Sweeney, both natives of County Sligo, Ireland, and who came to America landing at Montreal in 1830, where they remained a short time, then went to Maine, and later to New Jersey, New York, and in 1836 to Bradford County. In 1842 they came to Sullivan County. Edward L. Sweeney taught school for a number of years. He attended the Collegiate Institute, at Towanda; the Indiana Normal School and Williamsport Commercial College. In 1902 he was appointed commissioners’ clerk and holds that position at the present time.

W. M. STANLEY

W. M. Stanley was born at St. John’s Newfoundland, April 4, 1870. The Stanleys are of English descent; they came to America locating at St. John’s at an early date. Mr. Stanley came to Nordmont in 1893, where he is engaged in farming. He married Mary Botsford, Dec. 31, 1894. Mrs. Stanley is a daughter of John C. and Martha (Pennington) Botsford. John C. Botsford was born September 12, 1824, and came to Laporte township about 1830, with his parents. The Penningtons are of English descent and located in Davidson Township about 1832.

MILTON W. BOTSFORD

Milton W. Botsford was born in Laporte Township, August 7, 1849. He was a son of John C. and Martha (Pennington) Botsford and a grandson of John and Louise (McEwen) Botsford, who moved form New York to Laporte Township about 1830. The Botsfords are the descendants of Connecticut people. The Penningtons are of English descent; they are the descendants of Jesse Pennington, who came from Montgomery County to Davidson Township, locating on the lands now owned by Wm. M Stephens and Julius Sick near Nordmont. Mr. Botsford has been engaged in the mercantile and other business at Nordmont. He married Anna Hurlemen, who was born in Jackson Township, Columbia County, in March 1852. To Mr. and Mrs. Botsford have been born four children: Rush, Ernest, Harry and Frank.

KIMBER C. HORN

Kimber C. Horn was born in Laporte Township in 1855. He was a son of John Horn, who came to Laporte Township from Wyoming County when quite young. Mr. Horn, the subject of this sketch, married Amanda Laird of Nordmont in 1881. She is a daughter of Thomas Laird of Nordmont, who has been engaged in the blacksmithing business for many years. He came to Sullivan County when a boy and lived with his uncle, John Hiddleson, one of the pioneers of Davidson Township. To Mr. and Mrs. Horn were born: Ellery W., Douglass L., died when two years of age; A. Alma, Harry F., Estella, died in 1902 at the age of 12 years; Myrtle.

RUSSEL P. LAIRD

Russel P. Laird was born in Davidson Township in 1871. He is a son of T. S. Laird, of Nordmont, who was born in Montour County in 1831. Mr. Laird’s grandfather, William Laird, was also a native of the same county. The Lairds located in Davidson Township in 1836, being among the early settlers in that section. Their ancestors were of Revolutionary fame. Russel P. Laird married Jane Robbins in 1896. She is the daughter of William Robbins of Davidson Township. Three children have been born to them: George W., Thomas S., and Charles.

HUGH A. HESS

Hugh A. Hess was born in Laporte Township in 1874. He was a son of LeRoy Hess, of Columbia County. Mr. Hess married Cora Green, of Dundee, NY, in 1899, and located at Nordmont. To Mr. and Mrs. Hess have been born two children: Mary E. and Cyrus.

NORMAN B. HESS
Note: See the extensive note below from Helen Smith Gammon that points to errors and corrections in the Peterman, Hunter and Hess relationships.

Norman B. Hess was born in Columbia County in 1867. He is a son of Shedrack Hess, of Columbia County. Mr. Hess came to Laporte township when a young man. He married Ella Peterman in 1899. She was a daughter of James and H.J. (Hunter) Peterman. Jas. Peterman came from Columbia Co. to Laporte Township in 1862, he was of German descent. Norman B. Hess owns a farm in Laporte township. To Mr. and Mrs. Hess have been born two children: Amanda C. and Charles Clayton.

DUANE LATTERETTE

Duane Latterette was born in Wayne County in 1871. He came to Nordmont when a young man and there married Maggie Vandermark in 1893. Mr. Latterette is employed at the acid works at Nordmont. To Mr. and Mrs. Latterette have been born two children: Leora and Esther.

MONROE PHILLIPS

Monroe Phillips was born in Laporte Township, February 28, 1876. He was a son of John Phillips, and a grandson of Thomas Phillips. The Phillips are of Welsh descent. The first to settle in what is now Sullivan County was Griffith Phillips, 1^st, who located in Davidson Township in 1812 in the North Mountain district. Mr. Phillips married Alice Peterman of Laporte Township, February 18, 1876. She was a daughter of James Peterman of Laporte Township. Mr. and Mrs. Phillips reside at Nordmont where Mr. Phillips is employed at the acid works. To them have been born two children: Belvia and Opal.

PHILIP PETERMAN

Philip Peterman was born in Laporte Township near Nordmont in 1870. He was a son of James Peterman, who located in Laporte Township in 1862. Mr. Peterman owns the hotel property at Nordmont and has been engaged in conducting the hotel business at that place until recently. He is still a resident of Nordmont. In 1899 he was married to Maude Erlston, a daughter of Henry Erlston, of Montour County. Mr. Peterman has held a number of township offices.

LEE R. GAVITT

Lee R. Gavitt was born in Susquehanna County, PA, December 5, 1865. He is a son of Peter and Eliza (Rosencrants) Gavitt. The Gavitts are of English descent and came from Rhode Island to Susquehanna County about the beginning of the nineteenth century. Peter Gavitt, the father of the subject of this sketch, came to Laporte Township in 1869, locating on the farm now occupied by Lee R. Gavitt. The Rosencrants’s came from New Jersey. Lee R. Gavitt was married to Amanda Horn, June 18, 1885. She was born in Laporte Township, September 10, 1863. She was a daughter of John Horn, who came from Wyoming to Sullivan County when a young man. Mr. Gavitt is county treasurer of Sullivan County and has held the township offices of school director, town clerk, auditor and tax collector. Mr. Gavitt is a very progressive farmer and stock raiser.

FRANCIS W. MEYLERT

Francis W. Meylert was born at Laporte, November 4, 1865. He was a son of William and Rosa M. (Miller) Meylert. The Meylerts were natives of Cassel, Germany, where they were wealthy and held high positions under the government, as will be seen in the biography of Secku Meylert in the preceding pages. William Meylert was a son of Secku Meylert who, purchased a large area of timberland in Sullivan County and who with his sons Michael and William were instrumental in establishing the county seat at Laporte. Francis W. Meylert graduated from the State Normal School at Mansfield with the class of 1886. He taught school ten years, was elected county superintendent of schools in 1896, and served three consecutive terms, nine years. In 1902 he was admitted to the bar and is at present practicing his profession at Laporte. In 1890 Mr. Meylert married Rosa M. Miller, who was born in Orange County, NY, in February 1867. She was a daughter of Stephen W. and Rosa M. (Cheney) Miller. The Cheney family are of English descent. They trace their genealogy back 200 years. They located originally in Vermont, and a branch of thee family later in Cortlandville, NY.

CHARLES LANDON

Charles Landon was born at Andes, Delaware County, NY in 1854. He is a son of Thomas M. and Mary (Oliver) Landon, both of Scotch descent, Mrs. Landon being a native of Scotland. Landon Lake, in New York, was named after the Landons. Mr. Landon came to Laporte eighteen years ago, but since then has spent some time at Dushore, Waverly and Jamison City. He is a wheelwright and carpenter by trade and now conducts a shop at Laporte. Mr. Landon married Emma Breger*, March 7, 1882. She was born at Millersville, Sullivan County, NY. She was a daughter of Charles and Frances (Kelly) Breger, both natives of Germany. Mr. Breger was a tanner by trade and was foreman of the tannery at Thorndale from 1873 to 1881, when he was caught in the machinery and killed. To Mr. and Mrs. Landon have been born two children: Lottie, married George Snyder, of Laporte, and Harry of Laporte.
* Editor's Note: The correct spelling is "Brieger" per Alan Brieger of Charlottte, NC, per his message of May 30, 2005.

W. B. RITTER

W.B. Ritter was born at Columbia, Union County, Pa., March 27, 1856. He is a son of William L. and Sophia (Seese) Ritter, who were of English descent and fist located in Northumberland County. Mr. Ritter is station agent at Laporte. He has been in the employ of the W. & N. B. railroad company twelve years and with the Reading six years. He is a member of the Laporte school board and town council. Mr. Ritter married Sarah E. Kostenbader, March 20, 1876. She was born at White Deer, Union County, PA, in 1854. To Mr. and Mrs. Ritter have been born five children: Bertha, married J.M. Brown, of Reading, PA, Emma, married Lee Reeder, of Laporte; Samuel, of Muncy Valley; Harold C. and Ada.

The Laporte Hotel
Laporte, PA
Proprietor, Joseph Carpenter
An Old Undated Photograph from the Early Twentieth Century
Photo Courtesy of Scott W. Tilden July 2012

JOSEPH CARPENTER

Joseph Carpenter * was born in Columbia County, July 6, 1848. He was a son of Ralph and Minerva (Heisz) Carpenter, who came to Dushore in 1849. The Carpenters are of English descent, and located at an early date in Chemung County, NY. Mr. Carpenter is proprietor of the Commercial House, at Laporte. In 1879 he married Emelia Hess, of Columbia County, PA. She was a daughter of Joseph and Helen (Cole) Hess, of Columbia County. To Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter have been born: R. Dane, died September 9, 1903; Henry H., Carrie B., Persel L,, Dora L., Ellery E., Grant H., and Helen.
* Editor's Note: The proprietor of the Laporte Hotel was Rudolphus W. Carpenter (1849-1919), who went by Joe or Joseph. He and his wife Amelia Ann (Hess) Carpenter (1861-1912) are buried at Fairview Cemetery in nearby Dushore, PA. Amelia was the daughter of Joseph O. Hess and Helen Cole of Sugarloaf Township in Columbia County, PA. You will find death certificates for Rudolph, Amelia and other family members at the Fairiview Cemetery page, as well as a link to her obituary. Over the course of time, there were actually several structures or businesses known as the "Laporte Hotel", begining with Michael Meylert's enterprise about 1850 in the early days of Laporte as the new county seat.. After that, the hotel was owned or operated by members of the Fetherbay, Beinlich, Karns, Carpenter and Spahn families, and possibly others. In the late 1890s, the Laporte Hotel seems to have been the destination or temporary residence of choice for out-of-town businessmen and politicians.

FRANCIS W. GALLAGHER

Francis W. Gallagher was born in County Fermanaugh, Ireland, June 30, 1862. He was a son of Dennis Gallagher, also a native of County Fermanaugh, Ireland, who when 10 years of age came to America, locating in Jacksonville, FL, where he remained until he had accumulated a fortune, when he returned to Ireland and wedded Ann Johnson, and remained in his native land. F.W. Gallagher came to America in 1879, and worked at the tanning business at Stoneham, Brockton, Sterling Run, Muncy Valley, Hillsgrove and Laporte. In 1893 he purchased the King property at Laporte and conducted a restaurant, which was later transferred into a hotel. In 1898 Mr. Gallagher built the large three-story hotel, which he now conducts. He has held numerous borough offices and is a member of the borough council at present. Mr. Gallagher married Tressa Breger*, a daughter of Charles and Frances (Kelly) Breger. To Mr. and Mrs. Gallagher have been born: Mary Ann, Emma, William, who died at the age of four years; Francis, and John.
* Editor's Note: The correct spelling is "Brieger" per Alan Brieger of Charlottte, NC, per his message of May 30, 2005.

BENJAMIN B. KING

Benjamin B. King was born in Laporte Township in 1863. He was a son of Wm. E. and Sarah R. (Converse) King, of Laporte Township. Wm. E. King was born at Northumberland and came with his parents to Elkland Township in 1819, and about 1850 located on the farm now owned by the subject of this sketch. Benjamin B. King married Luby Reede in 1891. To Mr. and Mrs. King have been born: Joseph G., Clara V., died at the age of 8 years; Tressa D., Ethel M. and Clyde.

JOHN W. FLYNN

John W. Flynn was born in Sullivan County, New York, March 22, 1856. He was a son of Michael and Mary Agnes (Noland) Flynn and a grandson of Roger Flynn, who was the founder of a well-known family in this country. Roger Flynn was born in Leansborough, County Roscommon, Ireland, and immigrated to America in 1848, locating in Sullivan County, NY where he engaged in agriculture. His son Michael, father of the subject of this sketch, engaged in tanning. John W. Flynn also engaged in the tanning business in Sullivan County, NY, and in 1882 he and his brothers, Michael and Joseph, came to Thorndale and took the contract to finish leather for the tanning company. The following year John W. Flynn went to Laporte and worked for the same company. Two years later he was advanced to bookkeeper. In January 1888, he graduated from the Elmira business college, and immediately accepted a position with Boak, Waddrop & Co, at Hughesville. The following fall he purchased an interest in the business of the Muncy manufacturing company at Muncy, which he held until June, 1889, when he again entered the employ of James McFarlane & Co. at Laporte, where he remained until 1890, when he went to Jamison City, where he accepted a position as book-keeper and manager of the company store for Thomas E. Proctor, remaining there until the tannery was sold to the Union Tanning Co. In February 1894, the new company transferred him to Laporte as superintendent of the company. Since then Mr. Flynn has been advanced by the Union Tanning Co, until at present he is general superintendent of a number of tanneries, and has charge of the timberlands and the bark and lumber contracts. His brothers, Michael and Edward, are also employed by the Union Tanning Co.

Mr. Flynn married Mary A. Breger* of Laporte, September 25, 1854. She was a daughter of Charles and Francis (Kelly) Breger. To Mr. and Mrs. Flynn have been born two sons, Joseph and Charles.
* Editor's Note: The correct spelling is "Brieger" per Alan Brieger of Charlottte, NC, per his message of May 30, 2005.

FRANK M. CROSLEY

Frank M. Crosley was born at Benton, Columbia County, January 5, 1851. He was a son of David P. Crosley, a blacksmith of Benton, who died at the age of 70 years. Mr. Crosley came to Laporte about 25 years ago and carried the mail between Laporte and Dushore until the W. & N.B. railroad was built. At present he runs a hack from the station at Laporte to the town and does a general draying business. Mr. Crosley married Caroline Elfreta Fleschut in 1870. She was born at Lairdsville in 1852. She was a daughter of Dr. Frederick Fleschut, who was born in France in 1818. He studied medicine and came to America about 1850 and about 1855 located at Laporte. About 1874 he went to Towanda; after remaining there some time he moved to Wilmot Township, Bradford County, and later to Wilkes-Barre, where he died. To Mr. and Mrs. Crossley have been born: Benjamin F., of Dushore; Bertha, married Victor C. Hugo, of Philadelphia; Maude, of Los Angeles, CA; Frederick, died at the age of 6 years; Arthur, died at the age of 5 years; Dollie, Guy, Ellery, Alfreta and Margaret.

MICHAEL JORDAN

Michael Jordan was born in Laporte Township, May 17, 1846. He is a son of Patrick and Margaret (Walsh) Jordan. Patrick Jordan was a native of county Sligo, Ireland, and came to America in 1840, locating in Laporte township. Mrs. Jordan was a daughter of Michael Walsh, a native of Ireland, who located in Cherry Township at an early date. Patrick Jordan died in 1890. Michael Jordan is a single man. His brothers are John, who died in 1903; Martin, of Cherry; and Thomas of Cherry Mills. His sisters are Mrs. Thomas Cavanaugh, of Forks; Mrs. Owen Sweeney, of Cherry; Mrs. Michael McDonald, dec’d; Mrs. Michael Byron; and Mrs. Francis McDonald, of Cherry Mills.

JAMES MURRAY

James Murray was born in Schuylkill County, Pa., in 1849. He was a son of John D. Murray, a native of County Roscommon, Ireland, and when a young man went to Canada, where he remained three years, then went to Schuylkill County where he remained one and one half years. At the expiration of that time he came to Laporte Township about 1850, locating on the farm now owned by his son James. John D. Murray was married twice, and by his first wife had a son Michael, James being a son and only child by his second wife. James Murray was supervisor, school director for 9 years, and overseer of the poor for 6 years. He married Louisa Richley in 1870. She was born in Cherry Township. She was a daughter of Wendell Richley, a native of Germany, where he was born in 1818, and came to Cherry Township in 1840, locating near Cherry Mills, and was married to Elizabeth Litzelswope, in 1848. To Mr. and Mrs. James Murray have been born: Verna, Leo, Alice and Charles.

GEORGE KARGE

George Karge was born at Towanda. He is a son of Nicholas Karge, a native of Hessen, Germany, who came to America, locating at Towanda about 1855; while there he married Rozenna Dudicum, a native of Wertemberg, Germany. About 1857 they located on the farm near Ringdale now owned by George Karge. Mr. Karge has held many important township offices. He married Hanna Dohm in 1880. She was a daughter of Peter Dohm, a native of Bavaria, Germany, who came to Laporte Township about 1864 and ten years later located near Satterfield. He married Katharine Kokensparger of Laporte. To Mr. and Mrs. George Karge have been born: Emma, Charles, Fred, Frank, Ida, John, Walter, Earnest, and Arthur.

WILLIAM KERNAN

William Kernan was born in Cherry Township, April 23, 1861. He was a son of John Kernan, of Laporte Township. William Kernan purchased a farm near Ringdale where he is engaged in farming and keeping bees. In the bee and honey business, Mr. Kernan has met with good success and he is one of the best apiarans in the county. Mr. Kernan married May Jordan, January 10, 1889. She was born in Cherry Township, July 4, 1866. She was a daughter of James and Margaret (Jordan) Jordan, both natives of Ireland who came to America, locating in Cherry township at an early date. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Kernan are: Ellen, Clara Margaret, and Anna Catharine.

PHILIP EMIG

Philip Emig was born in Laporte Township. He was a son of Leonard Emig, who was born in Groshartsog, Hessen, Germany, in 1816, and came to America in 1846 locating at Towanda. He soon after contracted for a farm near Ringdale, then went back to Germany where he married Catharine D. Deatz and came back to America again in 1848, locating on the farm now owned by his son Philip. Their children were Katie, married John Cable of Dushore; Philip, of Laporte Township; Mariah; Rosa, married James Fitzpatrick of Dushore; and Peter of Kansas. Philip Emig married Mary Agnes Elizabeth Broshart in 1883. She was a daughter of Christian Broshart and a granddaughter of Jacob Broshart, who came from Bavaria, Germany, to America when 7 years of age, and located in Laporte township about 1848. To Mr. and Mrs. Emig have been born: John L., Ernest F., Lloyd P., Mary A, died at the age of one year; Peter D, and Anna Florence.

PETER JACOBY, Sr.

Peter Jacoby, Sr. was born in Bavaria, Germany, and came to America in 1833, landing in New York where he remained some time. He came to Sullivan County about 1844, locating in Laporte Township. He married Eliza Hunsinger, a daughter of Christian and Susanna (Sherman) Hunsinger. Christian Hunsinger was a son of George Hunsinger, who located on Ringer Hill, Cherry Township, in 1819. Christian Hunsinger located on the farm now owned by Joseph Dohm. Mrs. Christian Hunsinger was a daughter of Jacob Sherman, who located on Sherman Run on the turnpike in Laporte Township and later in Forks Township. Mr. Jacoby died in 1877 and Mrs. Jacoby in 1889. To them were born: Fred, who died in 1895; E. P. Ingham Elizabeth, who died in 1898; George, who died in 1880; Peter, of Satterfield; Catharine, who lives at home; John, of Satterfield; Mary; Jacob, who lives on the homestead; and Caroline, of Elmira.

JOHN WALSH

John Walsh was born in Cherry Township in December 1855. He was a son of Martin Walsh, a native of County Mayo, Ireland, and came to America in 1840, locating in Cherry Township. He (Martin) married Catharine Gallagher, a daughter of Michael Gallagher, a native of County Mayo, Ireland. John Walsh owns considerable real estate and operates a sawmill at Ringdale, in connection with his farming. Mr. Walsh married Mary Mullen in 1884. She is a daughter of Martin and Sabina (Clark) Mullen, of Overton Township, Bradford County. Mr. Mullen was a native of county Mayo, Ireland, and came to America with his parents in 1837, locating in Overton Township in 1847. To Mr. and Mrs. John Walsh have been born: Ambrose, Elias, Florence, Loretta and Margaret.

The Laporte Schoolhouse
Laporte, PA
An Old Postcard Photo
The Schoolhouse used to stand across from Mountain Ash Cemetery in Laporte.
It was taken down in the 1990's and a playground/basketball court occupied that ground in 2007. This postcard was postmarked
out of Laporte in 1910. You can click on the caption to see a second image of the school building dated to 1908.
The back of the linked postcard is addressed to Willis Masteller from a correspondent in Frankford, PA.
First Photo Courtesy of Deb Wilson
Who Purchased this postcard on eBay in December 2007
Linked Photo Courtesy of Soctt W. Tilden
From an Old Poscard Auctioned on eBay in April 2015

LAPORTE TOWNSHIP OFFICERS

Supervisors- Philip Peterman, George Karge

School Directors- W.J. Low, W.M. Botsford, Harry Hess, J.C. Pennington, George Karge, John Walsh

Assessor- J.C. Pennington

Tax Collector- William Kernan

Constable- Jerome Reede

Auditors- Ernest Botsford, E.C. Peters

Town Clerk- Rush Botsford

LAPORTE BOROUGH OFFICERS

Burgess- Thomas Kennedy

Councilmen- John Gumble, Robert Stormont, Wm. Kennedy, F.W. Gallagher, Michael Flynn, Wm. Ritter.

School Directors- John Flynn, Wm. Ritter, Andrew Hackley, August Bushausen, James McFarlane, Wm. Kennedy.

Constable- John Smith

Assessor-

Tax Collector- A.E. Tripp

Auditors- Frank Shoemaker, J.H. Gansel, John Culver.

REGISTERED VOTERS OF LAPORTE TOWNSHIP

Arms, Harvey

Botsford, A.E.; Botsford, L.E.; Botsford, R.E.; Botsford, M.W.; Botsford, E.H.

Hess, Clarence M.; Hess, Norman B.; Hess, Harvey; Hess, Hugh

Hunter, J.D.; Hunter, Samuel; Hess, George P.; Hezzen, E.

King, Benjamin B.; Kerns, W.C.

Little, Amos; Little, Joseph; Little, Lewellyn; Laird, Russel

Little, Robert; Latourette, E.

Morris, Thomas S.; Mosteller, J.A.; Mutchler, Harry; Morris, Archie

Nelson, Ransom; Pennington, J.C.; Peterman, Philip; Peterman, G.D.; Peterman, Shed

Peterman, Minard; Peterman, Chester; Phillips, D.J.; Packard, Leonard

Peters, Nathaniel; Peters, E.C.

Sherman, Orrin; Shultz, C.C.; Smith, W.A.; Stackhouse, Garrett

Traugh, Joseph; Worthington, J.P.

SONESTOWN POST OFFICE

Bogert, Wm. E;Bogert, E.B.;Burk, E.C.

Dewald, Irvin;Dewald, Harry

Fairman, Lloyd;Feister, Harry;Feister, George

Gavitt, Lee R.;Gavitt, Peter

Harvey, Lyman

Lowe, Wm. J.;Lovelace, Joseph

Russell, James;Reed, Jerome;Reed, Monroe

Swank, Peter A.

LAPORTE POST OFFICE

Geiger, John; Geiger, F.P.

Hess, Benjamin; Heaton, J.W. ; Hill, H.F.; Hunter, McClelland

Jenkins, A.C.

Shaffer, Joseph; Shaffer, Wm. S.

LAPORTE TOWNSHIP, RINGDALE PRECINCT

DUSHORE POST OFFICE

Cain, Michael; Crossin, James

Dohm, Peter

Emig, Philip

Jacoby, Jacob; Jordan, Michael

Karge, Henry; Karge, John; Karge, George; Karge, Nicholas

Karge, Charles; Kernan, Wm.; Kernan, John; Kernan, Garrett

Murray, James; Murrel, John; Murrel, Thomas; Murrel, George

Rouse, Michael; Rouse, James A.; Rouse, Thomas; Walsh, John

LAPORTE POST OFFICE

Rosencrants, John; Rosencrants, Lee; Robbins, Harry L.; Rosencrants, John M.

REGISTERED VOTERS, LAPORTE BOROUGH

Bradley, A.J.; Buschausen, A.H.; Breger, Simon; Bates, Henry

Bennett, O.

Cowell, B.S.; Coleman, Charles; Culver, J.G.; Conklin, R.A.

Crosley, F.M.; Coven, James C.; Cassebury, Ellis; Carpenter, Joseph

Covey, O.D.; Carpenter, Henry

Dunham, E.M; Dominick, Joseph

Eddy, George; Eddy, Fred; Eberlin, John; Engler, S. H.

Eberlin, Willard

Frishie, John; Funston, M.C.; Falkner, James; Finkle, J.V.

Funston, Charles; Frankle, Max; Fisher, I.H.; Fries, John

Fries, Simon; Fries, William; Fries, Jacob; Flynn, Michael

Flynn, J.W.; Fitzpatrick, John; Fitzpatrick, Fred

Gries, Jacob; Gansel, Ernest; Geiger, Francis; Gumble, L.R.

Gallagher, F.M.; Gumble, John; Gansel, Jacob

Heim, William; Hassen, John, Jr.; Hackley, Andrew; Hunter, Ira

Heim, Eugene; Higley, W.J.; Hassen, John, Sr.

Ingham, T.J.;I ngham, F.H.; Ingham, E. P.; Jackson, Charles

Kennedy, W.A.; Kennedy, Thos. E.; Keeler, T.J.

Leob, William; Landon, Charles

McMillan, Michael; McMillan, Eugene; McCarty, Daniel; McFarlane, James

Mason, W.C.; Minnier, John; Miller, Fred; Meylert, F.W.

Mullen, E.J.; Mahaffay, Samuel; May, John; Mead, A. S.

Mark, David; Mosteller, Frank; McMillan, Michael S.

Nardini, B.; Nardini, A.M.; Nenhart, Victor; Oravetz, Joe

Potter, E.C.; Ritter, W.B.; Rogers, Wm; Roe, George

Randall, W.H.; Rose, Andrew; Rose, Ottis; Reed, Ray

Schrader, Edward; Schrader, Charles; Shaffer, John; Stepp, John

Spencer, Walter; Shoemaker, Wm.; Shoemaker, Frank; Shoemaker, Eugene

Shoemaker, Chas.; Snyder, George; Snyder, Harry; Stormont, Robert

Snyder, Oscar; Stackhouse, Geo.; Sweeney, E.L.; Stalford, Scott

Smith, Victor; Stroho, James; Stackhouse, Carl; Shoemaker, G.A.

Speary, Clayton; Tripp, A.E.; Upman, Henry; Whitleck, J.J.

Wing, Chas. L.; Yeagle, Erastus

The Sullivan County Court House
Laporte, PA
Black and White Postcard Photo 1910
Three Unidentified Women are Posing in the Photo
Source: eBay Auction in November 2005