Biographies from Historical and Biographical Annals by Morton Montgomery
p. 1363
Surnames: BRADLEY, BELL, BROOKE, UMSTEAD, MOGEL, DIETRICH,
SASSAMAN, GILMER, SMITH, WERLEY
John C. Bradley, one of the best known citizens of Birdsboro, Pa.,
has been connected with public affairs in Berks county for many
years, is a prominent factor in Democratic politics, and is now
serving as high sheriff of Berks county, to which office he was
elected Nov. 5, 1907. He was born Aug. 30, 1857, at Birdsboro, Pa.,
and is a son of James and Charlotte (Bell) Bradley.
James Bradley, his father, was born in 1814, in
County Donegal, Ireland, and in 1844 came to America, settling at
Spring Grove, Lancaster county, Pa. Some years later he removed to
Birdsboro, Berks county, where for twenty-six year he served as
gardener for Edward Brooke, and through industry and economy
succeeded in accumulating some means and property. He died April 6,
1875, and was buried in the St. Paul's Catholic cemetery,
Douglasville, Pa., of which church the town until the day of his
death. He married Charlotte Bell, born Feb. 14, 1825, who survives
her husband preserved in mind and body, notwithstanding her
advanced age, enjoys good health, and is able to read and sew
without the aid of glasses. There were born to Mr. and Mrs. James
Bradley five children: Clara, who married L. B. Umstead, a coal
merchant of Birdsboro, Pa.; James, who died at the age of seven
years; Edward, a foreman car inspector for the Pennsylvania
Railroad Company at Wilmington, Del.; John C., the subject of this
sketch, and Thomas, who died in infancy.
John C. Bradley was educated in the common
schools of Birdsboro, Pa., and early in life began working at the
E. & G. Brooke Iron Company mills in his native borough. After
some years employment at various occupations with this company, he
became a nailer in their cut nail factory, a vocation which he
pursued for many years. He was in the continuous service of the
Brooke concern for a period of twenty-seven years.
In the year 1890 he engaged in the coal business
in Birdsboro, Pa., conducting it for seven years and then disposing
of it to his brother in law, L. B. Umstead.
In politics Sheriff Bradley is a stanch
Democrat, and has for many years been active in the ranks of his
party. His first political office was that of committeeman, which
he held without interruption from 1881 until 1907 and at the time
of his withdrawal therefrom, held the committee in point of
service. In the year 1892 he was appointed deputy coroner of
Birdsboro, and served acceptably until 1908, when he resigned owing
to press of other duties. Sheriff Mogel, in 1901 appointed him a
deputy sheriff, and three years later he was reappointed to the
same position by Sheriff Jacob Sassaman. On June 1, 1907, after a
spirited contest, he was made the nominee of the Democratic party
of Berks county, for the office of sheriff receiving at the
primaries 3,995 votes, while his next highest opponent, Thomas G.
Werley received 2,655 votes. On Nov. 5th, of the same year, he was
elected over his Republican opponent, George R. Dietrich, by a
majority of 4, 011 votes.
Mr. Bradley is very popular throughout the
county, and is well known in many parts of the State. He is honest,
intelligent, kind-hearted, companionable and has many warm friends.
In society organizations he maintains membership in but one, the
Fraternal Order of Eagles, and is in good standing in Aerie No. 66,
of Reading. He was reared in the Catholic Faith and was a member of
St. Paul's Church, Douglasville, until the services there were
discontinued some years ago, when he transferred his membership to
St. Peter's Church, South Fifth street, Reading.
In the administration of the office of sheriff
he has shown marked ability, characterized by fairness to all
parties concerned and thus far has given great satisfaction to his
superiors in State and County and received the praise of all with
whom he has had business relations in the performance of his
duties.
On Feb. 28, 1880, Mr. Bradley was married to
Serena F. Smith, who was born in 1864, a daughter of Joseph and
Barbara (Gilmer) Smith, farming people of Caernarvon township,
Berks county, Pa. These children have been born to the couple:
Isabelle F., Clara H., Joseph S. (who died young), Mary A.,
Katharine H., John, Jr., Agnes L., Alice F., Serena F. (who died
young).
p. 1056
Surnames: BRANT, STETTLER, BOOS, LINDMAN, TRUCKMILLER, SCHEFFEY,
AHRENS, RICHARDS, GEIST
Irvin S. Brant, a prosperous produce commission merchant of
Reading, Pa., was born in Sanatoga, Montgomery Co., Pa., Dec. 9,
1869, son of Washington R. and Sarah (Stettler) Brant.
As far as is known, the family is of German
descent. The grandfather of Irvin S. Brant was Samuel M. Brant, a
farmer of Montgomery county, the farm on which he operated still
being in possession of the family, as it has been for one hundred
years. The children of Samuel M. Brant and his wife were: Elizabeth
m. Henry Boos; Susannah m. Henry Lindman; Mary m. Isaac
Truckmiller; Hannah became Mr. Truckmiller's second wife; Joseph;
Nathan; Frederick; Samuel, Jr.; and Washington R. In religious
belief the family were members of the Dutch Reformed Church.
Washington R. Brant received his education in
the schools of Montgomery county, and when a youth learned the
milling business. With his brother, Nathan, he conducted a general
store for several years, later selling out his interest to engage
in farming on the old homestead. Mr. Brant was very prominently
connected in Sanatoga, Montgomery county. He and his wife became
the parents of eight children, six living; Mary and Rebecca died at
ages of nine and eleven years, respectively; Frank is secretary of
the North American, Philadelphia; Samuel S. is a farmer of
Sanatoga; Newton C. is at home, engaged in farming; Irvin S.; Annie
m. Edward Scheffey; and Kate is at home. The family are members of
the Reformed Church, although the mother is a Lutheran. Washington
R. Brant died in February, 1909, the last of the family of his
generation.
Irvin S. Brant left home when twenty-one years
of age, having received his education in the common schools of his
native locality, and started out first as a salesman for the
Philadelphia Press, with which concern he remained but a short
time. He then secured a clerkship in a grocery store in
Philadelphia, but on account of failing health returned to his
home, remaining one year. In 1893 he came to Reading, accepting a
position a clerk with the Reading Cold Storage Company, and, after
being with the firm for one year, was promoted to the position of
bookkeeper the second year. He then became public circulating agent
of the Public Ledger, bur, after remaining with that organization
three years, returned to Reading, being elected Secretary and
superintendent of the Reading Cold Storage Company. Fifteen months
later, Mr. Brant resigned this position and formed a partnership
with Ahrens & Richards, commission merchants, and after one
year purchased the two partners interest in the business. He has
been successful in his venture, handling eggs and butter
principally, and he distributes about two tons of the latter and
fifty crates of the former per week. Mr. Brant buys the entire
output of two creameries and the partial product of five others,
this being in addition to what he purchases from the farmers.
In 1899 Mr. Brant married Miss Elizabeth Geist,
of Pottstown, Pa., and the one child born to this union died in
August 1908. In political matters, Mr. Brant is a Democrat.
p. 1424
Surnames: BRAUCHER, POH, ALBRIGHT, KESSLER, DITZIUS, ZIMMERMAN,
LEIBY, SPOHN, WILDTRAUT, SEAMAN, BARTHOLOMEW, KREMER, DIETRICH,
SMITH, REINHART, SCHWOYER, LUTZ, ERNST, GREENAWALD, SCHLENKER,
BAER, ZETTELMOYER, HAMM, SECHLER, FAUST
Christian Braucher, the ancestor of the Brauchers in Berks and
Lehigh counties, settled in Berks county about the time of the
founding of the county, in 1752. The records have it that he was
assessed as "a poor man," which meant that he paid but three
shillings tax. Information concerning the filing of his will
indicates that by thrift and economy he changed conditions somewhat
during his life. On the date of making his will, June 13, 1792, he
disposed of a large estate, among other items bequeathing to his
wife Margaret, bonds and a hotel, "as long as she remains a widow."
The will was signed in legible German, "Stoffel Braucher," and was
witnessed by George Poh and George Braucher, the latter a brother
of the testator. He and his wife are buried in the New Bethel
churchyard, two sandstones, with almost illegible inscriptions,
marking their graves. It appears he was born in 1729 and died in
1793, while his wife's birth is noted as December 22, 1732, and her
death 1797, aged sixty-five years. Their children numbered
thirteen, as follows: Christian; Jacob; John; Peter; Conrad;
Michael; Anna Maria, who married Michael Albright; Barbara, who
married George Kessler; Catherine (left an heir Jacob Ditzius);
Anna Elizabeth; Anna Magdalena, who married Jacob Zimmerman;
Christina; and Frederick.
Christian Braucher, next in line, date of birth
not given, died in 1804, his will being on record in Book A, page
486. He bequeathed to his wife the plantation on which they lived.
Peter Braucher and Frederick Leiby were the executors, and the
witnesses were Conrad Braucher and Conrad Spohn. The children were
named as follows; Catharine, married Peter Zimmerman; Johannes;
Christine, married Jacob Wildtraut; Jacob; Magdalene; Peter;
Daniel; and Conrad.
Peter Braucher, grandson of the pioneer, and the
great-grandfather of Albert C. Braucher, was born and died in
Albany, buying in 1815, and through life cultivation, the farm on
which his great-grandson now resides. This farm passed from Peter
to his son Christian in 1838, then to his son Daniel in 1864. In
1886 Albert C. bought it from his father. Peter Braucher's wife's
first name was Maria, and their issue was as follows; Mary, married
Wm. Seaman, and lived at Milton, Pa.; Annie Bartholomew; Christian;
Abraham (1796-1828), died in Albany from smallpox. (His children
were -- Jacob, of Philadelphia, Michael, of Lockport, N. Y., and
William, of Philadelphia); Reuben, settled near Moselem, Pa., where
his descendants and those of his son, Peter, still reside.
Christian Braucher's Bible record reads: "Born
November 27, 1800, died October 31, 1874, aged seventy-three years,
eleven months, and four days." He tilled the old homestead, and was
a man of parts in his time, was a Democrat, and held local township
and school offices. He and his family were Lutherans, with
membership at New Bethel Church. His wife was Catherine Kremer,
daughter of Henry, her record showing that she was born April 15,
1804, and died March 5, 1875, aged seventy years, ten months, and
twenty days. There were but three children; Matilda, who married
Benneville Dietrich; Priscilla, married Benneville Smith; and
Daniel.
Daniel Braucher, father of Albert C., passed his
life of seventy-nine years on the old homestead, having been born
April 7, 1829, and died January 24, 1909. He was twice married. His
widow, who was Mrs. Sarah (Reinhart) Schwoyer, now resides near New
Bethel Church. Mr. Braucher's first wife was Maria Magdalena Lutz.
She was born October 26, 1828, and died November 7, 1871, and to
her were born nine children; Cornelia married Charles Ernst; Mary
married William Greenawald; James, of Wanamaker, Pa.; Sarah married
Daniel Schlenker; Amanda married William Baer; William, of
Kutztown; Albert C.; Kate married George Zettelmoyer; Emma
(deceased) married Chas. Hamm.
Albert C. Bauscher, the representative of the
family holding the old homestead, was born July 7, 1862. He was
reared on the farm of his father, and came into its possession in
1886, since which time he has continued its cultivation. The old
homestead, familiarly referred to as "Braucher's Dale," consists of
111 acres of land near New Bethel Church, Albany township. The
present house was built in 1808 by Peter Braucher. It was of the
substantial "loghouse" variety, built to withstand the elements,
and did service without change until Daniel's time. That member of
the family remodeled it, making it a two-story house. Since Albert
C.'s incumbency it has been again remodeled. A large Swiss barn was
built in 1877, and other improvements have been made until the old
place presents an appearance of thrift and neatness.
Mrs. Braucher, prior to their marriage, April
22, 1882, was Miss Jane L., daughter of Joel and Maria Magdalena
(Lutz) Sechler. To her were born five children, four of whom died
in infancy.
Harvey M. Braucher, the son, born August 27,
1883, graduated from the township schools at thirteen years of age.
Entering the Keystone State Normal School some time later, he was
graduated at nineteen, having won class and society honors during
that period. He then taught the home school acceptably for two
years, studying mean time, and in 1904, was awarded "Master's
Diploma." In the fall of 1904 he entered Pennsylvania State
College, where for four years he pursued the course of electrical
engineering, taking his degree of B. S. in E. E. in 1908. Here
especially distinguishing himself in public speaking and debate, he
there became a Phi Kappa Phi man, a great honor in itself. In 1905
he married Miss Gertrude Hattie Faust. They have a daughter, Pela
Fay. Harvey M. Braucher is now assistant principal of the
Boyertown, Pa., schools and lives in Boyertown.
p. 674
Surnames: BRECHT, BRIGHT, DUNDORE, HIMMELBERGER, STRAUSS, RIEGEL,
GEISS, WENRICH, FILBERT, REBER, BUCKS, KLAHR, STAMM, MOSER, LEISS,
KALBACH, FAUST, STAUDT, DUNDORE, GRETH, KLOPP, KOENIG, GRIME,
HAINE, BORDNE, HINE, SCHAEFFER, GRUBER, YEICH, KILMER, MOYER,
YOCUM, ZELLERS, KETNER, ROHRBACH, SCHLOCK, STICHTER, DANIELS,
KANTNER
The ancestor of this old and numerous family of Berks county was
Stephen Brecht, a native of Germany, where he was born Feb. 17,
1692. He was one of the emigrants from the Palatinate who landed at
New York about 1720. These emigrants first settled at Schoharie, N.
Y., but because of the unbearable treatment they received at the
hands of Governor Hunter, of the Province of New York, sought
refuge elsewhere. Hearing of the justice accorded the settlers in
Penn's Province, by the proprietors, and the fertility of the soil,
excellent water and other advantages, many of them came into this
district. Among them was (I) Stephen Brecht, who desired a tract of
good land for himself and three sons. His land was granted him by
John, Thomas and Richard Penn, lawful heirs of William Penn, on
Nov. 27, 1745 [Recorded in Patent Book A., Vol. 12, page 349]. On
this tract he made his home and died Sept. 24, 1747. His remains
were interred in the North Heidelberg cemetery among the Moravians.
His grave stone lies flat upon the ground, and is the oldest stone
that can be found there. The inscription is in good condition. His
will was made Jan. 6, 1746, by which his land was divided among his
three sons: David, Hans Wendel and George Adam. To George Adam was
given the homestead (now owned by Adam Dundore, of Obold), and the
division of land between David and Hans Wendel was made soon after
this date, and is recorded at Reading April 17, 1754, in Book A.
Vol. 1, page 68.
(II) David Brecht, son of Stephen, was born Sept. 8, 1719. He was a
resident of Bern (now Penn) township long before the organization
of the county in 1752. He was the owner of valuable land near
Bernville and exercised no small influence among the people of his
neighborhood. In 1771 he was elected county commissioner, and
served as such until 1774. By his will on file in the Register's
office, after providing for his wife Sarah, and the slave to whom
he had given freedom, he devises to his only son John his large
plantation of 500 acres. He also gives to each of his seven
daughters the sum of 900 pounds, which was almost a fortune in that
early day. This amount was, however, to be paid by his son John, in
part, as well as a copper kettle to each sister. Sarah, wife of
David Brecht, was born Jan. 8, 1727, and died Jan. 22, 1798. They
were the parents of eleven children, three of whom died in infancy
or childhood. The names of those reaching mature years were: John;
Margaret m. Philip Himmelberger; Elizabeth m. Jacob Strauss;
Catharine m. Philip Adam Riegel; Barbara m. John Michael Geiss;
Susanna m. John Wenrich; Magdalena and Sarah. David Brecht and
wife, as also their son John and his wife are buried in the private
burial ground on the original Bright farm. The inscriptions are
difficult to read after the action of the elements upon the
sandstones. Hier Ruhet Der Leib von David Brecht erist geboren D 8
Sep 1719 er zeuchte mit Sei ner liben ebrfrau Sain 11 Kinder un
nach 8 bei leben 1 Sohn U 7 Tochter u Starb D 22 Sept 1783 Heir
ruhet eine die Storbne und Schwester Na Sara Brecht un sie ist
geborh D 8 Jan 1727 sie zeigte mit ihren ehr man David Brecht 11
Kinder u 8 bei leben ein Sohn u 7 Dochter u Starb De 2 Jan. 1796
(III) John Brecht, only son of David that grew to manhood, passed
his entire life in farming on the homestead. His resting place was
found on the farm. Hier ruhet die gebeine von Johannes Brecht Er
wurde geboren den 2 Junius im Yahr 1747 und ist gestorben den 9
Februar in Yahr 1834 brachte sein Alter aui 86 Yahre 8 Monate und 7
Tage. Hier ruhet Anna Marie Brecht Ehrgattin fon Joh. Brecht Sie
war geboren Den 15 ten Januar 1757 und is gestorben den 24 sten.
Mai 1842 im altern fon 85 Yahren 4 Monate und 9 Tagen
John and Anna Maria Brecht were the parents of
eleven children -- seven girls and four boys. The girls were named
after their seven aunts: Susanna m. George Geiss; Catharine m.
Philip Filbert; Barbara m. Phillip Filbert; Magdalena m. Conrad
Reber; Mary m. Joseph Bucks. John (m. Hannah Klahr) and David (m.
Susanna Reber) settled near Basil, Fairfield Co., Ohio, and their
children are in possession of the land that was bought about 1800
by the first John Brecht and is considered among the best in the
community. Peter married Maria Magdalena Stamm and lived near
Bernville where some of the descendants now live. Jacob is
mentioned below.
(IV) Jacob Brecht, son of John and Anna Maria, was born March 23,
1791, and died Aug. 26, 1876, at the age of eighty-five years, five
months and three days. He was married to Anna Maria Moser. By the
will of his father he was to receive the homestead, but was to give
certain amounts to each one of his sisters, and the records show
that he was faithful in the discharge of this provision. From this
union we find thirteen children; eleven grew to maturity while
twins died in infancy. The children were: Anna Maria. David Leiss;
Henrietta m. Isaac Leiss; Sarah m. (first) John Kalbach and
(second) Daniel Faust; Elizabeth m. Isaac Kalbach; Catharine m.
Elias Staudt; Rachel m. Adam Dundore; Rebecca m. (first) Jonathan
Dundore and (second) Joseph I. Greth; Isabella m. William Klopp;
John M. m. (first) Lydia Koenig and (second) Lydia Anna Grime;
Aaron M. and Amendon.
(V) Amendon Bright, son of Jacob, was born Jan. 15, 1830. His
entire active life was devoted to farming. He lived upon and owned
the old Bright homestead of 234 acres of the most fertile section
of Penn township, and at death owned several other farms in
neighboring townships as well as in Penn. He was very prominent in
public affairs, and took an active interest in the success of the
Democratic party. He was school director of his township, for many
years committeeman of his district, for three years prison
inspector in Berks county. In 1894 he was elected treasurer of the
county, conducting the business of the office most satisfactorily
for three years. He married Clara Hain, born March 3, 1833,
daughter of John D. Hain. Their children were: Ellen, m. to Jacob
M. Bordner, of Bernville, who is now county commissioner; William,
a small farmer near Bernville, m. to Mary Hine; Sallie, m. to Frank
Schaeffer, of Tulpehocken; Harry, a druggist, who died aged
twenty-four years; Annie, m. to Jacob Gruber, of Obold; Albert H.;
Rev. Edwin D., pastor of the Reformed Church at Derry, Pa, who is
also engaged as a genealogist and historian, having in preparation
a complete record of the descendants of Stephen Brecht; and three
who died young. Amendon Bright passed away May 21, 1897, respected
by all who knew him.
(VI) Albert H. Bright, son of Amendon Bright, is a prosperous young
plumber and gas fitter at West Reading. He was born on the old
Bright homestead in Penn township Aug. 25, 1872. He received a good
education in the country school and the Bernville high school.
Until he was twenty-four years of age he was engaged in work on his
father's farm. He then learned the plumbing trade under the careful
tuition of Benjamin Yeich, of Reading. having mastered the trade he
established himself in business in 1900, at West Reading. He was
thus the first qualified plumber in West Reading. He has now built
up a good trade and satisfies his customers. He also has a Reading
license, and does much work in the city.
In his political principles Mr. Bright is an
active and firm Democrat, and is keenly interested in the success
of his party. His social connections are with Unamis Tribe of Red
Men, No. 330, of Reading; and the Royal Arcanum. He is a member of
the Reformed Church at Bernville.
Mr. Bright married Cora S. Riegel, daughter of
John Riegel. She was born May 18, 1876, and died Dec. 29, 1902. Two
children were born of this union, namely: Roy Amendon, born April
18, 1897, and died Jan. 14, 1902; and Charles Adam, born Aug. 19,
1900.
(V) Aaron M. Bright, son of Jacob and Anna Maria, was born in Penn
township, Berks county, March 21, 1832, and died at Bernville Aug.
29, 1869, and is buried there. He conducted a general store at
Bernville from the time of his marriage until his death. He was
active in church life and like all his family belonged to the
Reformed denomination. In 1854 he married Mary Kilmer, daughter of
John and Catharine (Leiss) Kilmer, of Marion township. Five
children were born to this union: Darius K., of Mahanoy City, Pa.,
m. to Julia Catharine Moyer; Emma K., deceased wife of William
Yocum, of Reading; Lehman I; Albert R., of Reading; and Lizzie B.
wife of George M. Zellers, of Stouchburg, Pennsylvania.
(VI) Lehman I. Bright, treasurer of Yocum Brothers, cigar
manufacturers, Reading is a native of Bernville, where he was born
May 6, 1859, son of Aaron M. and Mary (Kilmer). He was educated in
the township schools, the Bernville high school, and later in the
Keystone State Normal School, at Kutztown, graduating from the
latter institution in 1881. He taught school when only eighteen
years of age in Penn township, and after his graduation he taught
five terms, two at Myerstown and three in the grammar school at
West Leesport. In 1886 he came to Reading, and accepted the
position of bookkeeper with Yocum Brother, cigar manufacturers,
which position he faithfully filled for seventeen years, when James
Yocum a member of the firm died, and the company was incorporated
under the name of Yocum Brothers. Mr. Bright became its treasurer,
an office he has since filled. He is a director of the corporation,
and was also for one year its secretary. He has given his work
great attention, and has devoted his energies to making the
corporation a success. They employ on an average 400 people, and
their product is know all over the country. Mr. Bright is very
prominent in fraternal organizations. He is a member of Progressive
Lodge, No. 470, I.O.O.F., and was its efficient secretary for
fifteen consecutive years, declining further service on the ground
of ill health. He has been an active member of the lodge and served
as degree master on the staff for many years. He also belongs to
Isaac Hiester Lodge, No. 660, F. & A. M., of Reading; Camp No.
113, P.O.S. of A. of Bernville; Castle No. 51, K.G.E. of Reading;
Mount Penn Encampment, No. 152, I.O.O.F.; Canton Patriarchs
Militant No. 2, I.O.O.F.
On May 14, 1889, Mr. Bright married Emma Madora
Ketner, daughter of Charles and Susan (Rohrbach) Ketner, of
Leesport, and they have two children: Harry, born Feb. 5, 1890; and
Helen, Sept. 25, 1893. They reside in their own home. No. 122 South
Tenth street, Reading. Mr. Bright and his family attend the
Reformed Church.
(VI) Albert R. Bright, of Reading, was born at Bernville Aug. 24,
1861, son of Aaron M. and Mary (Kilmer). He was educated in the
public schools of his town, and the Bernville high school, then
under the able supervision of Prof. M. A. Gruber. In the spring of
1882 he entered the State Normal School at Kutztown, and attended
the spring session of 1882. He taught school two terms in Bright's
school house in Penn township, during the terms of 1881 and 1882.
He was very successful as a teacher. He was early trained to farm
work, and at the age of thirteen had gone to live with his uncle,
John M. Bright, in Penn township. He worked on the farm about ten
years. In April 1883, he became a clerk in the general store of A.
F. Schock, of Bernville, Pa., and worked there for a year, when he
went back to the farm for three years. In 1887 he became a clerk in
the general store of J. L. Klopp & Son, at North Heidelberg,
remaining there with his family until the spring of 1890, when he
came to Reading and since May 5, 1890, he has been in the employ of
the Stitchter Hardware Company, Ltd., Reading. This is the oldest
established hardware business house in Reading. Mr. Bright holds
the responsible position of assistant buyer in the general hardware
department and besides this he assists in the clerical work of the
firm. Until 1874 Mr. Bright lived in Bernville, where he went to
live with his uncle. Since 1894 he has live in his own comfortable
residence at No. 524 Douglass street, Reading. Fraternally Mr.
Bright is an active member of Progressive Lodge, No. 470, I.O.O.F.,
Reading, of which he is past grand; Camp No. 113, P.O.S. of A., of
Bernville; Reading Castle No. 49, I.G.E. of Reading. He and his
family worship at Calvary Reformed Church, Reading.
On May 21, 1887, Mr. Bright married Celesa
Daniels, daughter of Elias and Sarah (Kantner) Daniels, originally
of Rehrsburg but later of Bernville. Mr. and Mrs. Bright have two
children: Raymond A. and Harold E.
p. 1342
Surnames: KEEN, MANEGOLD, YOUNG, MOYER, PETREE, ROWE, HOLCOMBE,
IMGRUND, GRAY, HOUCK, HERBEIN, OBOLD, ROWE, HOLCOMBE
George John Breedy, of No. 235 South Twelfth street, who is known
to the people of Reading, Pa., as a professional musician and
teacher of music, was born in this city, May 4, 1878, son of
Theodore and Mary E. (Moyer) Breedy.
John Breedy, the grandfather of George J., was
born in 1803, was a native of Antwerp, Belgium, and founded the
family in this country in 1836. After coming to America the rest of
his life was spent in Reading, where he died at the age of
eighty-three years. Mr. Breedy was a stone mason by trade, and was
a gifted musician, teaching all of his children music. He married
Emma Keen, who was also born in his Fatherland, and to them were
born children as follows: Theodore; John, a bricklayer of reading;
Mary, single, resides in Reading; Emma, deceased, was the wife of
Charles Manegold of Reading; and Lizzie, who married George Young
of this city. Of these children Emma and Barbara were talented
vocalists, and sang in church choirs throughout Reading.
Theodore Breedy was born Jan. 8, 1855, in
reading, where he was educated in the public schools, and then
learned the upholstering trade at Herbein's furniture store, which
he followed until Mr. Herbein's death. From his youth he had shown
remarkable talent in music, and at the age of eighteen years played
with the celebrated old Ringgold Band of Reading, with which he was
connected until the organization of the Germania Band, when he
became a member of that body. This was later reorganized and again
took the name of the Ringgold Band. Mr. Breedy also played at the
Academy of Music for a number of years. In political matters he is
a Democrat. Mr. Breedy married Mary E. Moyer, born in February,
1855, daughter of George M. and Amanda (Petree) Moyer, and to this
union there were born four children: George J.; Charles and Edward,
who died in boyhood; and Paul J., a student at the High School.
George John Breedy obtained his education in the
public schools of Reading, leaving after the completion of his
grammar school course, and when fourteen years of age secured a
position as clerk, in J. H. Obold & Company's hardware store.
There he remained for a period of two years, and in 1894 he began
the study of music under Professors Joseph Rowe and George Holcombe
of New York. For one year he played the drums at the Academy of
Music, Reading, and in 1899 with his father joined the famous
Ringling Brothers' Shows, with which organization they traveled in
every State and territory in the Union. Their pleasant stay in
California and the exciting times experienced by them throughout
the Southern States will be events ever clear in their memories.
After the close of the show season in 1900, Mr. George J. Breedy
returned to Reading, and was for some years a member of the Bijou
Theatre orchestra, and is now at the Orpheum Theatre, also teaching
music to a large class of pupils. Professor Breedy has been very
successful, residing in his own home at No. 235 South Twelfth
street. He is genial and companionable and has many warm friends.
He and his wife are members of St. Paul's Catholic Church of
Reading.
On Oct. 30, 1901, Professor Breedy was married
to Amelia Imgrund, born Jan. 18, 1878, daughter of John and Louisa
(Gray) Imgrund. No children have been born to them.
p. 736
Surnames: BRENEISER, NEIHART, GOODMAN, HARMAN, DAUTH, GRIM,
BROTEVANT, SPANG, LENHART, UMBLE, SWARTZ, CALL, MADEIRA, EILER,
MELLERT, DRENKEL, DERR
Charles Breneiser, Sr.,
manufacturer of cigars and tobacco at Reading for sixty years, was
born at Reading March 24, 1828. He attended one of the first public
schools opened at Reading in 1834, but he was not permitted to
obtain more than a limited common education, because he was obliged
to turn his attention, while still a boy, toward assisting in the
support of the family. He first engaged as a helper in laying
bricks and then gradually learned the trade, but after some years
in this laborious employment he changed to cigar-making, and after
serving a regular apprenticeship followed the trade until he was
twenty years of age, when he engaged in the business of
cigar-making for himself. This was in 1847, and he continued at the
business with increasing success in the vicinity of Seventh and
Penn streets until his death, a period covering more than sixty
years. At first he was in partnership with William Harman for
several years. He engaged in the manufacture of cigars exclusively
until 1861, and then became a manufacturer and dealer in smoking
and chewing tobacco, both wholesale and retail; and he ever
afterward carried on the two together. As his sons grew to manhood
they were led to learn and follow the same business, each being
admitted to partnership with him. In this way he had four sons
associated in the firm (Thomas, Charles, Jr., Edgar and Milton),
and trading under the name of Charles Breneiser & Sons. The two
sons last named retired from the firm in 1898 to engage in the
cigar and tobacco business, wholesale and retail, for themselves,
and since then they have traded under the name of Breneiser
Brothers, locating on the northeast corner of Eighth and Penn
streets in April, 1907. The father's firm manufactures many
superior and popular brands of cigars which have a large sale
throughout the country. This firm has fitted up the most costly and
attractive cigar stand in Reading.
Mr. Breneiser, in connection with his increasing
business and property interests, assisted in organizing the Union
Bank in 1857, and the Reading Trust Company in 1886, and he served
as a director of these two prominent institutions until his death.
He represented the Southeast ward of Reading in the common branch
of the city councils in 1862 and 1863; and the Eighth ward in the
select branch from 1869 to 1872. He also assisted in organizing the
Oley Turnpike Company in 1862, and the Maxatawny Mutual Fire &
Storm Insurance Company in 1893, serving as a director and also
officiating as the president of each for many years.
As a humanitarian Mr. Breneiser was prominently
before the community for many years. Soon after the local board of
public charities was established in 1874 he was selected by the
State authorities as one of the three commissioners, and he filled
the appointment until he died. His duties required him to visit the
public institutions of the county and to make report of their
management and condition to the State. He was one of the first
subscribers of the stock in the establishment of the Reading
Library Company in 1868, and he always continued to show a
practical interest in the library. In 1897 he was one of a party of
liberal citizens who raised a fund to extinguish the debt on the
library building and make the institution free to the public. He
was actively identified with the Reading Benevolent Society from
1870, and with the Reading relief Society and the Reading Hospital
from their inception. He was one of the few public-spirited
individuals of the Third and Eighth wards who took the first steps
toward converting the open commons at the head of Penn street, and
along Perkiomen avenue to Hill road, from an offensive depository
for all kinds of objectionable materials to an attractive park, by
contributing annually toward the expenses for a number of years
before 1887, when it came to be recognized as a park and a part of
the park system of Reading. He was selected one of the board of
trustees of the Charles Evans Cemetery Company in 1893, and served
in that capacity until his death.
In 1848 Mr. Breneiser married Mary Ann Neihart,
daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Goodman) Neihart, of Reading, and
by her had twelve children; Emma m. George W. Dauth; Adaline m.
Chester Grim; Thomas m. Mary F. Brotevant; Charles m. Fannie K.
Spang; Edgar m. Sarah Lenhart; Robert Milton m. Eva Umble; Harry
died in 1904, aged thirty-seven years; five other died in infancy.
The mother died in 1897. Mr. Breneiser died June 30, 1909.
Emmanuel Breneiser, the father of Charles
Breneiser, Sr., was born in 1874, in Lancaster, Pa., and there
learned the trade of saddler. Locating at Reading about the time he
became of age, he carried on this business for about fifty years,
and then lived in retirement until his death, in 1865, on the day
Lee surrendered to Grant in the Civil war. He m. Christina Swartz,
daughter of George Swartz, of Oley, who removed to Reading when a
young man, and became the proprietor of a hotel on the northwest
corner of Seventh and Penn streets, which he conducted for forty
years. Emmanuel Breneiser was the father of eleven children:
Benneville m. Lovina Drenkel; Charles is mentioned above; George
was drowned while a youth driving a boat term on the Schuylkill
canal; Sarah m. Samuel Derr; Angeline m. John Call; Catharine m.
Peter B. Maderia; Emma m. Peter Eiler; Caroline m. Otto Melert;
three daughters died young. The mother died in 1849, aged fifty-six
years.
Valentine Breneiser, the grandfather, emigrated
from Germany about 1730. He conducted an inn at Lancaster for a
number of years and died there in 1786. In his last will he devises
his property to his wife Salome, and nine sons, Christian,
Valentine, Jacob, Simon, Benjamin, Joseph, John, George and
Emmanuel.
p. 604
Surnames: BRESSLER, HETTINGER, BRYAN, ESTERLY
F. F. Bressler, a well known marble and granite dealer, of Reading,
PA., and ex-recorder of Berks county, died Oct. 22, 1908. he was
born in Spring township, this county, in 1856, son of Darius
Bressler, a stone mason, who was born near Adamstown, Lancaster
county, and died in Berks county at the age of sixty-two years.
Mr. Bressler attended the public schools of
Berks county, after leaving which he spent one year with H. H.
Hettinger at Sinking Spring, at the stone cutter's trade. In 1876
he located in Reading, being employed with the Eisenbrown Marble
Company, of this city, in whose employ he remained for three years.
At the end of this time Mr. Bressler went to New York, where he was
employed on the State Capitol at Albany, in 1880-81, from there
going to Coatesville, Chester county, where he was engaged in
business a short time. Returning to reading in 1882 Mr. Bressler
engaged in business with Amos Esterly, under the firm name of
Bressler & Esterly, they continuing as partners until 1877,
when Mr. Bressler engaged in work by himself on Washington street,
opposite the post-office. Here Mr. Bressler continued until 1904,
when he removed to his late location, at Center avenue and Spring
streets his place of business being fitted with the latest improved
machinery. He employed from ten to fifteen skilled mechanics. His
shop was frame structure, 60 x 100 feet in dimensions, and in one
of the most desirable locations that could be found for such a
business.
Mr. Bressler was before the public as an
official having been elected recorder of deeds of Berks county in
1901, on t he Democratic ticket, in which office he served
faithfully for three years. He was a resident of the Seventh ward,
and during 1890-91 he served in the select council. He served as a
delegate to various conventions, among them the convention which
nominated William Jennings Bryan for the presidency, at Chicago.
Mr. Bressler was a member of the election board in his ward.
Mr. Bressler was married to Mary Esterly,
daughter of the late Amos S. Esterly, of Reading, who was a
well-known hotel proprietor of the city, and tow children were born
to his union, Mabel and Alice. Mr. Bressler was fraternally
connected with the Elks Lodge of Reading, No. 115.
p.
1719
Surnames: BREYFOGEL, BREYFOGLE, BREYVOGEL, ELY, WILSON, DRIEBELBIS,
GROSS, HINTERLEITER, BALDY, LAUTENSLAGER, CUTLER, REYNOLDS, DIXON,
JOHNSON, COCHRAN, LEMMON
Rev. Sylvanus Charles Breyfogel, D. D., L. L. D., one of the four
bishops of the Evangelical Association is a member of an early
settled Berks county family, and was born July 20, 1851, near
Pleasantville, Oley township, son of Rev. Seneca and Sarah (Ely)
Breyfogel.
The Breyfogel (sometimes Breyfogle and
Breyvogel) family history has not been definitely traced beyond the
shores of the New World. There are two traditions concerning the
origin of the family--one giving the early home in France, and the
other in Holland. The general appearance of the family, with the
dark complexion black hair and eyes of the Latin races, gives great
weight to the former, for the blue eyes and flaxen hair of the
Dutch are noticeably lacking. The two traditions can be reconciled,
however, and both, to a certain extent, be considered correct, as
at the time of the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes many from
France fled for refuge into Holland. Breyfogles living in Germany
state that from Holland one branch went to America and one to
Germany. Of the latter branch representatives are found in
Goppingen and in Worms, and also one family in Westhofen. These
families, however on investigation, are unaware of any relationship
with, or direct knowledge of, each other. Of the Westhofen
Breyvogels was Wilhelm Immanuel Breyvogel, who in 1843, was sent to
Wisconsin as a Roman Catholic (the religion of this branch)
missionary, and there died in January, 1907.
(I) Among the passengers on the ship "Phoenix," from Rotterdam,
William Wilson, master, qualified at Philadelphia Oct. 20, 1744,
was one John Peter Breyvogel, who must have been at that time over
sixteen years of age, passengers under that age not being obliged
to qualify. he had no family with him. On the Breyvogel farm near
Kutztown was once the grave of Peter Breyvogel, marked by a
headstone, but the land has been put under the plow, and the waving
fields of grain cover the once hallowed spot. At the court-house in
Reading is the record of Jacob Breyvogel, administrator of Peter
Breyvogel, June 17, 1789, by bond of George Breyvogel, 50, filed
Oct. 17, 1796. As near as can be gleaned from early records the
children of John Peter Breyvogel were: George, mentioned below;
Peter, born Dec. 5, 1746, who died Dec. 7, 1819; Jacob, who had two
children, Charles and Joshua; Solomon; and a daughter who married a
Row. Some records indicate a son John in place of Solomon, but as
there is nothing recorded other then the name he probably died
young.
(II) George Breyvogel, son of John Peter, was born Feb. 4, 1747,
and died Oct. 6, 1827. He married Catharine (Dreibelbeis) Ely, born
Dec. 5, 1745, died Dec. 7, 1819. By her first husband Catharine had
two children, a son and a daughter, who both went West. To George
and Catharine were born children as follows: Jacob D.; Solomon,
born Jan. 22, 1780; died Nov. 11, 1817; George, born Sept. 2, 1782,
died May 5, 1875; Catharine, born Oct. 20, 1784, m. Jacob Gross,*
and died Oct. 21, 1881; Esther m. Jacob Hinterleiter. George
Breyvogel's will made June 25, 1822, was probated Oct. 26, 1827. He
mentions his sons Jacob D. and George, gives 350 to be divided
equally among the children of his deceased son Solomon, gives 500
to daughter Catharine, and 373 to daughter Esther.
[*Note: Per Judy, Catharine m. Joseph Gross, not Jacob Gross.]
(III) Jacob D. Breyvogel, son of George and Catharine, married
Susanne Baldy, who for her second husband married a Lautenslager, a
relative of her daughter's husband. They lived at Lockport, N.Y. To
Jacob and Susanne Breyvogel was born: Catharine, who m. a
Lautenslager (on May 18, 1901, he was still living, then over
ninety years of age), and their daughter, Mrs. Cutler, lives at
Waterloo, Iowa; Joshua D., born Sept. 17, 1806; Charles, who went
to California in 1849, and found and lost the "Breyfogel Mine,"
still searched for (his wife's name was Hannah); Mariah, m. to John
Lemmon; Harriet, who died unmarried; Jacob (no heirs); Josiah,
formerly of Lockport, N. Y., who died in Chicago and Lucas C.
formerly of Lockport.
(IV) Joshua D. Breyvogel, son of Jacob D. and Susanne, was born at
Lockport, N. Y., Sept. 17, 1806, and moved to Delaware, Ohio. He
died Jan. 28, 1868. On July 28, 1838, he married Mary Reynolds who
made her home at No. 582 South Limestone street, Springfield, Ohio.
Their children were: Imogene, born May 6, 1839, died April 16,
1866; Roland C. born Sept. 16, 1842, was a captain in the Union
army in he Civil war, and died from the effects of wounds July 28,
1870; William D., Born Feb. 26, 1845, died April 30, 1865, from
wounds received in he Civil War (he was thanked by General Hancock
for conspicuous bravery at the battle of Gettysburg); Joshua, born
May 12, 1848, is mentioned below; Arthur R. born June 11, 1849,
died Dec. 1, 1861, Mary R., born Oct. 24, 1853, died Jan. 16, 1907.
(V) Joshua Breyvogel, son of Joshua D. was born May 12, 1848. He
served three years in the Civil war. On Jan. 17, 1870, he married
Mary E. Dixon and they became the parents of six children, namely:
William R. born June 2, 1872, m. Aug. 5, 1901, Mary E. Johnson, and
has a son Robert, born Oct. 21, 1902; Nellie, born April 3, 1875,
m. June 19, 1901; Harry Cochran, and has a son John A. born Aug.
26, 1903; Alice, born in 1878, died in Kansas in 1879; Jessie R.
was born Jan. 31, 1880; Arthur, born Feb. 5, 1894; lives at No. 77
York street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; William also lives at No. 77
York street, Toronto.
p. 1159
Surnames: BALL, DEISHER, FALTER, FRY, GRAVY, HEILMAN, REICH,
SCHULTZ, SEIDEL
Peter F. Brickel, a highly esteemed resident of Reading, Pa., who
lives in his own home at No. 1037 Washington Street, has been an
employee of the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad Company for
nearly thirty years. Mr. Brickel was born Sept. 24, 1862, in
Reading, son of Francis (Falter) Brickel.
Francis Brickel was born in Bavaria, Germany,
Oct. 9, 1809, and came to America in 1849, locating at Eleventh and
Penn Streets, Reading, where he died May 1, 1890. By occupation he
was a laborer. He was a member of St. Paul, Church, and was buried
at the Catholic cemetery. Mr. Brickel married Mary Falter, who was
born in 1826, and died Jan. 5, 1890, four months prior to the death
of her husband. They had a family of seven children: Kate, m
(first) William Schultz and (second) Andrew Gravy; Helen m. Marks
Heilman, of Pottstown; Mary m. Cyrus Schultz, who is a teller in
the National Union Bank, of Reading; Rose m. Calvin Fry, deceased;
Frank lives at Reading; Peter F.; and Thresa m. Harry Ball, of
Reading. Peter F. Brickel was educated in St. Paul's parochial
school, Reading and when sixteen years of age learned the trade of
machinist in the shops of the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad,
for which company he has worked ever since 1879, having never been
employed by any other firm. He is a skilled machinist, and one of
the company's most trusted employees. Mr. Brickel is connected with
the St. Boniface and Holy Cross Beneficial Associations, and with
Reading Aerie No. 66, F. O. E. He is religiously identified with
St. Paul's Catholic Church, of Reading.
In 1892, Mr. Brickel married Mary Elizabeth
Seidel, daughter of Philip and Mary Elizabeth (Reich) Seidel, of
Stony Creek, and granddaughter of Jacob and Lydia (Deisher) Seidel.
To Mr. And Mrs. Brickel there have been born these children:
Francis, who died aged fourteen months, fourteen days; Mary E., who
died in infancy; Leon Philip, and Paul Peter.
p. 1426
Surnames: BRICKER, BECKER, SEITZINGER, MOLL, MCKENTLEY, SCHMEHL,
KISSINGER, KERCHOFF, SHALTER, BAKER, BUTZ, CLYMER, HOMAN, SWAVELY,
MILLER
Edwin L. Bricker, of Reading, PA., proprietor of the "Excelsior
Hotel," located at the corner of Tenth and Perry streets, was born
in Muhlenberg township, Berks county, Nov. 18, 1860, son of
Frederick S. and Hannah (Becker) Bricker.
Jacob Bricker, the grandfather, was a native of
Pottsville, where he carried on carpentering until his death in
young manhood. He married Harriet Seitzinger, and they had the
following children: Albert, who lived at Fleetwood, Henry, who died
at Reading; and Frederick S. After the death of her first husband,
Mrs. Bricker m. (second) Henry Moll of Berkley, and they had two
children: John; and Sallie, who married Henry McKentley.
Frederick S. Bricker was born July 24, 1830, and
died March 23, 1897. As a young man he removed from Pottsville to
Alsace township, where for sixteen years he was engaged in
railroading and assisted in the construction of the East Penn
Railroad in 1857. He owned a tract of forty-seven acres in Alsace
township, but this he sold in later years and came to Reading,
where he worked in the car shops until his death. He was a Lutheran
member of Alsace Church, and was buried at Shalters Church. Mr.
Bricker was married to Hannah Becker, who was born Jan 1, 1833, in
Alsace township, daughter of Daniel and Magdalena (Schmehl) Becker.
She now resides with her daughter, Mrs. Annie Kissinger, on North
Ninth Street, Reading. To Mr. and Mrs. Bricker the following
children were born: Emma, widow of Amos Kerchoff; Rebecca, m. to
Washing Shalter; William of Reading; Edwin L.; Irvin, John and
Charles of Reading; Alice, m. to Samuel Baker, deceased; Annie, m.
to Amos Kissinger; Katie, m. to William Butz; Howard, a resident of
Reading; and Laura, who died in infancy.
Edwin L. Bricker was reared in Alsace township,
where he attended the public schools. After leaving school he
commenced working for Clymer & Co., at the Mount Laurel
furnace, following the iron business until 1898. He then became
proprietor of the "Excelsior Hotel," which he has conducted to the
present time. His house has seventeen large rooms, and he has made
a success of the business, possessing his share of the traveling
public.
Mr. Bricker is a member of Aerie No. 66, F. O.
E.; Muhlenberg Lodge, No. 1085, I. O. O. F.; Berks County Liquor
Dealers Association, and the Eagles' Mountain Home Association. He
is a Republican in politics. Mr. Bricker and his family are
connected with Shalters Lutheran Church of Alsace township.
On Dec. 23, 1882, Mr. Bricker was married to
Debora Homan, daughter of John and Lydia (Swavely) Homan, of
Muhlenberg township, and granddaughter of Matthias Swavely. Seven
children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Bricker, as follows: Harry, born
Oct. 14, 1833 (m. Herma Miller, and has one daughter, Pearl I.);
Edwin Weston; Edna; Clayton, who died young; Elma; Eva, and Lida.
p. 1098
Surnames: BRICKER, MOYER, HOYER, POTTS, BOSLER, HETRICH, GRUBER,
HERB, BROCKWAY, HETTINGER, COX, REBER, RUMBLE, MILLER, FISHER,
DEPPEN, GERNANT, DUNBAR, BRIGHT, HAHN, SEENLEY, KAUDIG, SELTZER,
DERR, ALDRICH
Thomas C. Bricker, floorman in the large department store of Lord
& Gage, Reading, was born near Womelsdorf, in Heidelberg
township, and received his education in the common schools and at
the Palatinate College. He then taught public school for three
terms, assisting the railway agent at Wernersville during the
summer season. From 1877 to 1879, he acted as the assistant agent
and operator at Boyertown, and from 1879 to 1884, as station agent
at Langhorne, on the New York Division of the Philadelphia &
Reading railroad. He was then transferred to Wernersville, where he
continued until 1890, excepting a brief service as agent on the
Bulson Street Wharf, at Camden, New Jersey.
In 1890 Mr. Bricker formed a partnership with
his brother for carrying on the hardware business in Reading. They
purchased the store of Jackson & Obold, and carried it on for
four years under the name of Bricker Bros. The Wernersville State
Asylum having been completed about this time, the steward's clerk
was offered him, and he accepting it, the firm sold their stock and
discontinued their business. Mr. Bricker filled this position in a
satisfactory manner for two years, when the board of managers
advanced him to store-keeper. After serving for a year as
store-keeper, his services and efficiency were so highly
appreciated by the board that he was promoted to the responsible
position of steward, Dec. 1, 1896, and this he filled up to August
15, 1908, when, on account of ill health, he resigned. His
residence is at Wernersville, where he erected a very attractive
home for himself and his wife. He assisted in organization and
building the Trinity Lutheran Church of Wernersville, in 1896, and
officiated as secretary of the congregation and superintendent of
the Sunday-school from its organization. He also assisted in
organizing the public library, and the water company of the
village, becoming president of the former, and one of the directors
of the latter. Soon after his resignation as steward of the Asylum,
Mr. Bricker came to Reading, where he is employed as floorman in
the large department store of Lord & Gage. He travels to and
from Wernersville.
David Bricker, father of Thomas C., lived
retired for some years in Wernersville, after having been a farmer
for some thirty years in Heidelberg township. He was born in 1836
and died in 1904. His wife was Caroline Moyer, a daughter of
William and Hannah (Hoyer) Moyer, of Womelsdorf, and they had five
children; Martin, who died when a young man; Daniel M., now
deceased, m. to Lizzie Potts; Thomas C.; Ella C., m. to John
Bosler; and Emma C., m. to Eugene Hetrich.
Mr. Bricker's grandfather was Christian Bricker,
a farmer of Heidelberg. He m. Hannah Gruber, and they had five
children; Jonathan m. to Mary Herb; Jacob, m. to Annie Gruber; John
m. to Elmeda Brockway; Daniel, m. to Rebecca Hettinger; and Kate,
m. to David Cox. Christian Bricker's antecedents came from Cocalico
township, Lancaster county, in the vicinity of Brickerville.
Thomas C. Bricker m. Luneta E. Reber, daughter
of Levi F. Reber, of Wernersville. Her father, a native of Penn
township, m. Mary A. Rumble, of Ringtown, Schuylkill county, by
whom he had five children; Luneta; Theresa, m. to Elijah H. Miller;
Sarah; John H.; and Robert, who died young. Mrs. Bricker's
grandfather, John B. Reber, was of Penn township, where he carried
on a large gristmill and farm, and he also became interested in
coal operations in Schuylkill county. He was born in 1818, and died
in 1894. He was married three times. His first wife was Sarah
Fisher, of Heidelberg township, by whom he had two children; Mary
A., m. to Dr. James Deppen; and Levi F. His second wife was Mary
Gernant, daughter of John Gernant. His third wife was Montana
Dunbar. Her great-grandfather was Conrad Reber, born in 1788, and
died in 1854. He was married to Susanna Bright of Bernville, and by
her had ten children. His father, Thomas Reber, born in 1746 and
died in 1821; and his grandfather, Johann Bernhard Reber, emigrated
from Langenselbold, Germany, in 1738, landing at Philadelphia;
naturalized in 1768; m. Johanna Magdalena Hahn, who whom he had
five children, John, Ludwig, Thomas (above named), Valentine and
Peter.
Mrs. Bricker's grandfather on the mother's side
was Henry Rumble, whose wife was Salome, and they had six children
besides Mrs. Reber, mother of Mrs. Bricker, namely; Henry m.
Elizabeth Seenley; Rebecca m. William Kaudig; Daniel m. Sarah
Seltzer; Joshua m. three times (first) Lucy Seenley, (second)
Hannah Derr, and (third) Jennie Aldrich; John P., and Jacob.
p. 606
Surnames: BRIDEGAM, BECKER, HERBINE, SHADLE, MESSERSMITH, HASSLER,
BELLS, HOBART, WALTZ, HARTMAN, HUNSICKER, FINK
William Bridegam, one of Reading's highly esteemed citizens and
retired business men, is a native of Berks county, born June 10,
1826, in Alsace township, son of David and Catherine (Becker)
Bridegam, also natives of this county.
David Bridegam was educated in the common
schools of his day, and when a boy learned the weaver's trade.
This, in connection with farming a small property, occupied his
time during his short life. He died at the age of thirty years,
having been married but eight years, and having four children:
Louisa m. Philip Herbine, and had eight children, John (deceased),
William, Lucy, Mahlon, Louisa, Katie, Amanda and James; William;
Augustus died single; and Lewis m. Mary Ann Shadle and had three
children, Augustus, Katie and James. Mr. Bridegam died in 1832,
while his widow survived him fifty-five years and died aged
eighty-six years. The maternal grandfather was David Becker, who
married Susan Messersmith. They were very prominent farming people
of Alsace township, and he was an extensive land owner. He,
however, disposed of his interests in Berks county and with a large
family removed to Ohio, where some of his descendants still reside.
William Bridegam was but five years old when his
father died, and his mother not being in affluent circumstances, he
was taken to raise by, Susan Hassler, with whom he remained until
eighteen years of age, receiving, however, but a limited education.
While yet in his teens, he was apprenticed to the tinsmith's trade,
and this he followed for fifty-four years. Through honest endeavor
and perseverance he has accumulated a competency and now in the
evening of his life is living quietly, enjoying the fruits of early
labor. Mr. Bridegam has been twice married, his first wife being
Rebecca Bells, by whom two children were born: Caroline, deceased;
and Susan, who became the wife of William Hobart. Mr. Bridegam m.
(second) Cynthia Waltz (now also deceased), and six children were
born to this union, as follows: Clara, m. Samuel Hartman; Sarah, is
a widow; Kate, m. John E. Hunsicker of Los Angeles, Cal.; William
E., is an electrician of Reading; Mary, is deceased; and Florence,
m. John Fink, of Schuylkill Haven.
In religion the family are members of St. James
Lutheran Church. Mr. Bridegam was formerly a member of the I. O. O.
F., and belongs to Reading Council, No. 46, O. U. A. M. He is a
very active man for his years, and is most highly esteemed in
Reading.
p. 1448
Surnames: BRIDEGAM, KERLING, AUER, HAGY, FRITZ, LEWIS, SCHAEFFER
William K. Bridegam, of Reading, PA., whose plumbing establishment
is situated at No. 552 North Front street, corner of Greenwich, was
born Sept. 23, 1875 in Temple, Berks county, son of James and
Isabella (Kerling) Bridegam, the former of whom, a retired
locomotive engineer, has been living in Reading since 1881.
William K. Bridegam was educated in the grammar
schools of Reading, from which he received his diploma in 1891.
After leaving school he drove a bakery wagon for a few months for
Charles Auer, and during this time learned telegraphy in the
evenings. After eighteen months with Mr. Auer, Mr. Bridegam
resigned and apprenticed himself to the plumber's trade with G. A.
Hagy, with whom he continued for about five years, then engaging
with S. E. Fritz and H. A. Lewis until 1901. In this year Mr.
Bridegam engaged in business on his own account at No. 129 West
Oley street, continuing there until October 1905, since which time
he has been at his present place of business, where he employes
sixteen men, as well as office help. He carries the most complete
line of samples in the city and does a large and profitable
business, giving special attention to gas, steam and hot water
fittings.
In October 1898, Mr. Bridegam was married to
Gertrude Schaeffer, daughter of the late William D. and Rebecca
Schaeffer, and to this union have been born one child,--Warren J.
In religious belief Mr. Bridegam is connected with the Reformed
Church, and is financial secretary of the Sunday school. He is a
member of the K. G. E., the K. of F., and the A. O. U. W. He votes
independently.