Although born in the year 1822, in Lehigh County, it was not until the year 1852 that Isaac McHose came to Reading; but from the time of his coming to Reading he made an enviable reputation for himself as a business man, as a philanthropist and as a real benefactor.
After coming to Reading, he engaged in the manufacture of fire brick from clay, and was so successful that for many years his plant was the largest of its kind in the United States.
He was held in such high esteem that upon the removal of the Keystone National Bank to Reading he was asked to take the presidency of that institution, even though he was not a stockholder. He accepted and served the institution very efficiently.
He took a great interest in benevolent and charitable institutions and aided in the founding of the Womelsdorf Orphans' Home, and served as a director for a time. For many years it was his practice to send one worthy young man to college, paying all expenses. Some of these proteges have risen to places of high honor and distinction.
For a time he was a member of Select Council, President of the then Board of Trade, and also President of the Reading Public Library.
His ability and integrity created for him an enviable name not only in the city of his adoption, but throughout the State as well.
Source: Official Program of the 175th Anniversary of the Founding of Reading, PA, and the 150th Anniversary of the Reading Volunteer Fire Department Sept. 30th to Oct. 6th 1923, ed. by the Chairman of the Publicity Committee, Reading, PA, 1923, p. 131.
Submitted by: Nancy.
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