Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf ·...

20
CHAPTER XIII. FAYETTE STREET, EAST OF MORGANTOWN STREET. Fayette street was laid out by William Lyon through a tract Henry Beeson had sold to James McCullock and which subsequently came into the possession of John Lyon, from whom seven and a half acres were sold to William Lyon, March 1, 1824. This part of the John Lyon tract had a frontage of 321.75 feet on Morgantown street and extended from the alley next south of Fayette street to the alley next north of that street. Through this tract Fayette street was opened 60 feet wide, and Mr. Lyon's plat extended eastward to the alley east of Beeson avenue; from whence it was extended through the John Collins eight acre meadow to Redstone creek, and still later, eastward till it joined the National road: thus forming a street nearly a mile long, 60 feet wide and the most desirable residence street in the town. The lots of the Lyon plat began at Morgantown street and ran eastward on the north side. Lot No. I is described on Morgantown street. Lot No. 2 was the first to be sold and Peter Lewis was the purchaser, August 16, 1824, for $200. These lots had a frontage of 50 feet and ran back various distances to an alley. Mr. Lewis built a moderate brick house on this lot which he made his home for a number of years. The Methodist Episcopal church purchased this lot for a parsonage in 1857, and in the old building was replaced by the present structure in 1887. Mrs. Anna Mariah McCall, who became the widow of the late Judge John Huston, was the purchaser of lot No. 3, Febru- ary 9, 1825. On this lot was built a double frame house which was occupied for many years by different tenants. Charles H. Seaton tore away this old frame and erected the present hand- some brick residence which he occupied until he purchased the Harrison Wiggins farm back of Chalk Hill and made it a most desirable county residence. Ex-Judge E. H. Reppert has oc- cupied this property for several years. George D. Stevenson was the purchaser of lot No. 4, which was next west of a twenty-foot alley. On this lot was erected a frame filled in with brick and plastered on the outside. This, it was said, was the first building erected on the new street, 316 Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved. Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Transcript of Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf ·...

Page 1: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

CHAPTER XIII.

FAYETTE STREET, EAST OF MORGANTOWN STREET. Fayette street was laid out by William Lyon through a

tract Henry Beeson had sold to James McCullock and which subsequently came into the possession of John Lyon, from whom seven and a half acres were sold to William Lyon, March 1, 1824. This part of the John Lyon tract had a frontage of 321.75 feet on Morgantown street and extended from the alley next south of Fayette street to the alley next north of that street. Through this tract Fayette street was opened 60 feet wide, and Mr. Lyon's plat extended eastward to the alley east of Beeson avenue; from whence it was extended through the John Collins eight acre meadow to Redstone creek, and still later, eastward till it joined the National road: thus forming a street nearly a mile long, 60 feet wide and the most desirable residence street in the town.

The lots of the Lyon plat began a t Morgantown street and ran eastward on the north side. Lot No. I is described on Morgantown street. Lot No. 2 was the first to be sold and Peter Lewis was the purchaser, August 16, 1824, for $200. These lots had a frontage of 50 feet and ran back various distances to an alley. Mr. Lewis built a moderate brick house on this lot which he made his home for a number of years. The Methodist Episcopal church purchased this lot for a parsonage in 1857, and in the old building was replaced by the present structure in 1887. Mrs. Anna Mariah McCall, who became the widow of the late Judge John Huston, was the purchaser of lot No. 3, Febru- ary 9, 1825. On this lot was built a double frame house which was occupied for many years by different tenants. Charles H. Seaton tore away this old frame and erected the present hand- some brick residence which he occupied until he purchased the Harrison Wiggins farm back of Chalk Hill and made it a most desirable county residence. Ex-Judge E. H. Reppert has oc- cupied this property for several years.

George D. Stevenson was the purchaser of lot No. 4, which was next west of a twenty-foot alley. On this lot was erected a frame filled in with brick and plastered on the outside. This, it was said, was the first building erected on the new street,

316

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 2: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

History of Uttiontozun, Pennsylvania. 31'7,

although i t was not erected on the first lot sold. Many tenants occupied this old building before it was purchased by Henry Clay Rush who occupied while he built a neat brick residence on the eastern part of the lot and moved into it. Mrs. F. C. Breckenridge purchased the western part of this lot, tore away the old plastered house and erected on its site a neat and modern two-story brick residence which she continues to occupy in con- junction with her business as a fashionable milliner. The daughters of John S. Craig purchased of Henry Clay Rush the brick residence and have since occupied it as a dwelling.

A twenty-foot alley is next east of the last described prop- erty, and immediately east of this was lot No. 5, which was pur- chased by John Phillips for $75. Alexander Turner built the frame dwelling still on this lot, and Mr. Turner was a large contractor construction of the National road, land west of the town, as mentioned a well remembered teamster about this property for several years. Mr. out by the building of the railroad to

here lived for many years. on the bridge work in the and owned much valuable elsewhere. Samuel Darby, the town, was a tenant in Darby was very much put Uniontown, as his business

of hauling goods from Brownsville was at an end. H e moved to Alliance, Ohio. Daniel Marchand Springer, one of the old line tailors of the town, purchased this property and occupied until his death. Mr. Springer carried on the tailoring business a t various places in the town for many years, and was an accom- plished workman in his line. His two sons, Thomas and John, enlisted and died while in the service of their country. Mrs. Springer, who was a daughter of Thomas Wathen, continued to occupy this property until her death. Dr. John F. Detwiler pur- chased this property from the Springer heirs in 1899, and im- proved it and occupies it as a dwelling and physician's office.

William McMullen was the purchaser of lot No. 6 for $75. William Loomas came into ownership of this lot, and while in the ownership of his heirs the frame residence thereon became a wreck. Charles T. Cramer purchased this lot and built thereon a modern two-story brick residence which he occupied for several years. Mrs. William Trader purchased this property and made it her home until her death, after which Amos S. Bowlby pur- chased it and made this his home until his death. John Thorn- dell purchased this property in 1911, and after adding many im- provements, made it his home.

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 3: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

318 History of ilttiontoran, Pcn~zsylva~zia.

David H. Weems bought lot No. 7 for $85. A small two- story brick house still stands on this lot which a t one time was owned and occupied by Jonathan Fisher, who carried on glove making for many years, having a number of hands in his emplov. H e purchased deer hides and tanned them 011 this lot and I& buckskin gloves made from the product. This property was sold from Mr. Fisher in 1858, and John i luston became the owner. Daniel Smith was an occupant of this property for many years. Mr. Smith carried on an iron store for several years, and was appointed postmaster to fill out the unexpired term of William McDonald, May 19, 1843, and served till May 5 , 1845. He was elected burgess of the town in 184'7 and in 1852, and again in 1853. He was elected a justice of the peace in west ward, 1845, and for several terms thereafter, and some of these times without opposition. He was one of the most conspicuous residents of the town, and always presided as a justice of the peace with the dignity and wisdom of a judge. Esquire Smith was a leading and active member of the Episcopal church, and was its organist for many years. H e was instrumental in secur- ing the loan of the bell which called the worshipers together for many years, as related elsewhere.

Daniel Smith had three sons and two daughters, viz. : Frank, William, Thomas, Rachel and Elizabeth. Frank was with William Walker in one of his filibustering expeditions against Nicaragua. He was captured, but was assisted out of his peril- ous predicament by the interposition of friends and had nothing further to do with Walker, who was finally captured and shot, although he had many adherents to his cause. Frank Smith re- ceived a commission as lieutenant in the United States navy a t the breaking out of the civil war, and served until its close.

Lieutenant Smith wrote a letter to his father, dated U. S. S. Pensacola, April 27, 1862, off New Orleans, in which he de- scribes the shelling of Forts Jackson and St. Philip on the 17th inst. thus: " I saw the old Star of the West, the ship that took me to Nicaragua, burn. During the engagement I was in the engine room, and when one of our engineers, Mr. Huntley, at the signal bell, was wounded in the head a t the third fire, he was carried below, and I took his place. Here I witnessed the most fearfully grand sight to be beheld, yet escaped unharmed, although grape and shell flew over me in the most menacing manner. O u r ship was pierced in divers places, a i d the rigging

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 4: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

History of Uniontowtz, Pennsylvania. 319

somewhat cut, yet we all escaped in this last encounter. On the 25th the squadron anchored in front of the Crescent city. Capt. Baily, 2nd in command, went ashore to demand the uncondi- tional surrender of the city. General Lovell, in command, prom- ised to withdraw all his troops to avoid the shelling of the town, but could not surrender the city. As soon as we reached New Orleans we hoisted the stars and stripes on the mint, and a t 11:OO o'clock we were having service on deck to return thanks to Almighty God for our victory. Before the services were con- cluded, however, the look-out reported that our flag was down. A rush was made for the guns, and if primers had been in them the city certainly would have received a broadside, and, as the wharves were crowded, great execution would have been done. As it was, the howitzer in the main-top was fired which served as a warning, although they did not haul their flag down; and until the surrender of the city, the commodore would not allow any other flag to fly."

William Smith, also, bore a con~mission in the United States navy and lost his life in the ill-fated ship, Tulip, November 11, 1864.

Thomas Smith became a lieutenant-colonel in the United States army where he served during the late civil war and in the Cuban war. He died at Portland, Oregon, March 3, 1901.

Rachel Smith was married to Arnold A. Plumer, and Eliza- beth became the wife of C. H. Beall.

Armstrong Hadden purchased this property and by adding a hall to the east end, converted it into two tenements which were occupied by Joseph M. and John M. Hadden. After Mr. Hadden's death it became the property of Mrs. Agnes Robinson and from whom i t descended to her son, Harrold L. Robinson, Esq., who had occupied the property for several years. After Mr. Robinson's removal to his new home a t the east end, this property was occupied by various tenants.

Armstrong Hadden built a frame tenement on the eastern part of this lot as a residence for Henry McClay, in 1872. Mr. McClay occupied this house until after the death of Mr. Hadden when it was sold to Mrs. McCullough. Frank A. Hill purchased this h o k e and lot and moved the frame back from the street and veneered it with brick, making it a nice modern residence into which he moved. Logan Rush purchased this property and made it his home.

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 5: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

320 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania.

From the last described property to the eastern limit of the Lyon plan of lots, including Nos. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13, was sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part of No. 8 came into the possession of Joseph P. Mc- Clelland who conveyed it to Rebecca Watson who made her home in an old frame house on the rear of the lot. The second Beeson mill race passed through this lot. Rebecca Watson was born a slave and was sold several times as property. Wil- liam Willey, brother to U. S. Senator Waitman T. Willey, was her last owner, and set her free. She bought this lot in 1866 and in the fall of the following year she took unto herself a husband in the person of Henry Keary with whoin she lived twenty-five years, when he died; and Rebecca, in rehearsing the story of her checkered life, when she came to the death of her husband, said, " Then it pleased the good Lord to set me free again." Rebecca was cared for in her last days by the good people of the Metho- dist Episcopal church, of which she was for many years a faith- ful member, and was buried in the Methodist graveyard on Peter street.

Frank A. Hill purchased this lot and erected thereon a modern brick residence in which he lived for several years. He sold this to Rev. W. Scott Bowman, a Presbyterian minister who occupied it as a residence.

James Hadden purchased a lot of 50 feet frontage, next east of the before described property, and in 1871 erected thereon a two-story brick residence which he occupied until 1875, when he sold it to Rev. Henry Lucas, a minister of the Methodist Protestant church, who occupied it until his death, and his widow still continued to occupy it until she sold it to Mrs. Agnes Robinson. Mr. Lucas erected the brick addition on the west as a photograph gallery for his son, John, who was suc- ceeded in the business by Wm. Moore and others, when the bui1din.g was changed to a dwelling for which it has since been used.

On the large lot immediately west of what is now South Beeson avenue, Alfred Patterson erected the large double brick residence now occupying the lot. The western part of this property was occupied for some time by the Patrick family, one of the leading families of the town at the time. It later passed into the ownership of William A. West who occupied it for

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 6: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

History of ~nioniown, Pennsylvania.

many pears. Mrs Mary A. Hagan purchased this western half in 1906, and is still the owner.

Charles H. Rush and family occupied the eastern half of - this property for several years, as did Samuel E. Ewing, Esq., and others. Mrs. Mary A. Hagan purchased this p-opeIty a i d some of the members of the family occupy it.

East of South Beeson avenue to the alley on the east was a lot that lay vacant until William N. Irwin and George B. Rut- ter erected thereon a large frame building as a planing mill and carpenter shop, and where they dealt in lumber and contract work. They placed but little machinery in the mill and used no steam power. This firm did not last long. W. C. McCor- mick purchased this property and here conducted a grain and feed store and other business for several years. Thomas S. Col- lier purchased this property, fronting 131 feet on the north side of Fayette street and 149 feet on the east side of Beeson avenue in 1901, and here carried on a coal yard and feed store for some time. He erected a modest double frame on the corner of this lot which has been occupied by various tenants, and the frame shop has been occupied by various kinds of business.

A ten foot alley which marked the old mill race separated the William Lyon plan of lots from the Hugh Thompson meadow which was subsequently laid out in lots to conform to the lots on Fayette street. The first lot on the east side of this alley was occupied by a small frame house which was occupied by various tenants. David Dougle purchased the next lot east, from Alfred Patterson, who had purchased a part of the Hugh Thompson meadow and laid it out in lots, and in 1842 he erected the double brick residence still standing on the lot. Mr. Dougle removed to Washington county but continued to own the prop- erty for several years. Joel Greene owned and occupied this property for a while. M. Myers, a saddler and relative of Greene, lived here a while, since which it has been occupied by various tenants. J. K. Ritenour is the present owner. William B. McCormick conducted a grain and feed store next east of the Dougle house for some time. Robert Hagan purchased this lot and continued the business of a feed store and coal yard for several years. Harry Hagan erected a large, three-story brick ware house on this lot which has been used by the Uniontown Grocery company who conducted a wholesale business. Next east of this ware house is the right-of-way of the South West

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 7: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

322 History of Uniontown, Peiznsylvania.

Pennsylvania railroad, and next east of this is South Gallatin avenue.

Lewis Wood erected a frame building on the corner ot South Gallatin and East Fayette street which he occupied as a dwelling and his business as a tinner. K. Forzley bought this property and here lived and carried on a grocery and meat market, several others have carried on business in this room. Mrs. Miller mother of Sophie, Elias, Austin and Zach. owned and lived in the frame dwelling now known as 3'1 East Fayette street. Thomas S. Hepplewhite pur- chased this property and made it his home. Isaac Beeson owned the lot on the corner at the entrance of Iowa street into East Fayette onto which he moved the old Madison fire engine house from Morgantown street, and it became the home of Dicky Paine and his wife, Prissie Patterson Paine for some years. Samuel hlagie purchased this lot and erected thereon a comfortable frame dwelling.

Redstone creek was the eastern end of Fayette for many years after that street was laid out. The creek was crossed by a foot bridge until 1839, when the first wagon bridge was erected. Henry Eeeson, Jr., son of Henry Eeeson, the founder of the town, erected a sau--mill a short distance north of East Fayette street, on the eastern bank of Redstone creek. This mill was operated for several years by Henry Beeson and sub- sequently by Isaac. A small frame tenement stood just south of the mill and was generally occupied by the man in charge of the mill, and is still standing. The school board of Union Borough purchased the ground on which the old saw-mill stood, and erected thereon a frame school house to be used by the colored children, for which a colored teacher was employed. Dissatisfaction arose as to the separation of the races, and the colored children were admitted to the other buildings along with the whites. The building was then remodeled and painted white and the name changed from that of " colored school build- ing" to that of the " White school building" in honor of Joseph White, who had served on the school board for many years, and the small children of the near-by section of the town were assigned to this building.

The congregation of The Tree of Life, known as the Ortho- dox Jews, purchased this property from the school board and converted i t into a synagogue. This synagogue was dedicated

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 8: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

Monday night, October 12, 1908; Rabbi Shinky, chief rabbi of the Orthodox Jews of Pittsburgh, making the dedicatory ad- dress.

At the death of Isaac Beeson the old saw-mill and lot be- tween it and Fayette street became the property of his daughter, Mrs. Louise Hamilton, and the front lot now belongs to the estate of Hon. J. K. Ewing. East of this property the right- of-way of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad crosses East Fayette street.

A two-story white frame house stood east of the B. & 0. crossing a few feet back from the street. The boards were nar- row, grooved and tongued and placed vertically on the sides. A covered porch extended along the front of the house. Andrew Dutton was a tenant of Isaac Beeson here for many years, as were George McLaughlin and Jimmy Hagan.

James Moran purchased 146 feet frontage immediately east of the E. & 0. crossing and erected a row of six neat and com- fortable dwellings which have since heen occupied by various tenants. Jacob McFarland purchased a lot east of the Moran row and erected thereon a neat frame residence which he oc- cupied for some time. This subsequently came into the owner- ship of George W. Litman who made it his home until his death, August 21, 1904.

Samuel Magie purchased the lot on the western corner of Pennsylvania avenue and East Fayette street, and Miss Ida L. Gray purchased this lot and erected thereon a fine, modern, brick residence, and occupied it from the time of its completion.

Max Baum purchased a lot of 228.5 feet frontage on the north side of East Fayette street and immediately east of Penn- sylvania avenue, which was previously a part of the tract run- ning through to East Main street and belonging to D. Kaine, Prof. Cox, a t one time president of Madison college, Isaac Skiles and A. D. Boyd. William J. Sturgis, Esq., purchased the lot next east of Pennsylvania avenue and erected a fine brick residence which he occupied upon its completion.

A lot was purchased from E. D. Fulton by what is known as " T h e Reformed Church " among the Jewish people, and a Jewish synagogue, known as the Temple Israel was erected thereon a t a cost of $85,000, which was dedicated August 30, 1907', by Rabbi Dr. Joseph Krauskope.

R. P. Kennedy purchased the YO-foot lot between the syna-

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 9: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

gogue and Willson avenue, on which stood a very small frame house which had been erected by Isaac Skiles, Jr., as a home for " Aunt Betsy" Guthrie, the widow of Rev. James Guthrie, and former widow of Jesse Beeson. In this she made her home for a short time. Henry Melier, a well-known gardner in the early history of the town, and who formerly owned considerable iand and gardened a t the west end of town,-lived here a while, as did many others. James Henderson erected on this lot a fine modern brick residence which he occupied from its com- pletion. Orran W. Kennedy, a prominent coal and coke operator, erected a fine, modern, frame residence on the eastern corner of Willson avenue and East Fayette street which he occupied from its completion. Harvey T. Jaco built and occupied a comfort- able frame residence next east of 0. W. Kennedy.

The family of Alfred Gorley erected a frame residence on the west side of Stewart avenue and occupied it for many years. John C. Wood built a frame residence on a lot of 124 feet on the north side of East Fayette street and east side of Stewart avenue, and lived here for some time. H e was a manufacturer and dealer in furniture. His sister, Mrs. Robert Hagan, erected a small, double, frame tenement just east of the above. Charles T. Cramer purchased this lot, from Stewart avenue to an alley on the east and tore away the old buildings preparatory to the erection of a fine, modern residence which was completed in 1912 from which time he made it his home. Charles T. Cramer erected a comfortable frame dwelling east of the alley mentioned, and made this his home for several years from the time of its completion. Thomas H. Lewis and Robert Knight bought a considerable frontage on East Fayette street and Mr. Lewis built a frame residence which he occupied for a time. George H. Miller bought the Lewis house and added many im- provements and made this his home until his death, Novem- ber 24, 1905. His son, Clyde, still holds the property. Mr. Miller had been a thrifty and honored business man of the town for many years. Robert Knight built a frame residence east of the one erected by Thomas H. Lewis which he occupied for several years. Enoch H. Abraham purchased this property and greatly improved it and occupied it while superintending the Warren glass plant near the foot of Grant street. Harry Whyel bought this property and further embellished it and here

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 10: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

History of Uniontown, Pcrztrsyhania. 325

made his home. H e was superintendent of the H. C. Frick coke works a t Leith for many years.

Harry S. Clark, a druggist, purchased a lot of 54 feet front- age immediately west of Grant street in 1899, and erected thereon a modern frame residence and occupied it from the time of its completion.

George Jenkins, a well known colored man, owned the first lot east of Grant street, and here he and his wife lived in a small shanty still standing. Rebecca Porter, a colored woman owned and lived in a small house east of the Jenkinshouse. Isaac W. Semans bought both of these lots and tore the buildings away. John W. Darby owned and occupied the next lot, on which stood a frame house. Mr. Darby served as register and re- corder of the county for two terms, being elected to these of- fices Kovember .?, 187.5, and again November 5 , 1878. He was much respected by the community. Nathan Woodward owned and lived next east of John W. Darby in a red frame house, and after his death it was owned and occupied by his daughter, the wife of S. G. Patterson.

George Whyel owned a fine, large lot east of the above de- scribed properties. On this lot a large hippodrome was con- structed in 1910 and several exhibitions were held, but after several unsucc~essful attempts the project was abandoned, and in 1912 the structure was torn away. Across a ten-foot alley east of the hippodrome lot Benjamin Douglass, a worthy colored man, built a frame house and lived there until his death. It has since been in the occupancy of his son, Gilson Douglass. Armor S. Craig built two neat frame dwellings east of the Douglass property which have been occupied by his sons, -4ltha and Armor D. C. C. Woodfill built a frame tenement east of the Craig property, and Alex. Johnson built the last house on the north side, in which Johnson lived.

FAYETTE STREET, SOUTH SIDE. William D. Swearingen purchased 40 feet of the eastern

part of the Alfred Patterson lot, on the south side of Fayette street and next east of Morgantown street, on which he erected a two-story frame dwelling some twenty feet back from the street. Mr. Swearingen occupied this house but one year when he moved to the village of Monroe and took charge of the flouring mill built there by Thomas Hopwood, which he ran for

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 11: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

326 History of U~tiorztowrr,, Penmylva~zia.

20 years. William McCleary, the son-in-law of Mr. Swear- ingen, moved into this house and occupied i t for some time. 01. Wells was also an occupant here. Peter A. Johns pur- chased this property and occupied it as a residence for many years and died here September 20, 1SX. Mr. Johns was a member of Col. Roberts' coixmand in the war with Mexico, was elected to the offices of register and recorder of the county, 1851, and as a member of the legislature in 1S55. He enlisted and served in the war of the rebellion and was appointed as postmaster a t Uniontown in 1870, which office he held a t the time of his death. He was admitted to the bar of Fayette county December 7 , 1557. His family retained the property some years after Mr. John's death. J. V. E. Ellis tore away the old house and erected the present brick residence and oc- cupied it.

Samuel T. Lewis, uncle of Marshall IT. and Samuel Lewis, bought lot No. 15 in William Lyon's plan of lots, on the south side of Fayette street, and next east of the above described prop- erty, January IS, 1897'. On this he built a two-story brick resi- dence which he occupied until his death. Daniel Lynch, who had served a term as high sheriff of Fayette county, occupied this house a t the time Isaac Skiles, Jr., married his daughter, Caroline. His daughter, Anna, married a wealthy book pub- lisher of Cincinnati. Benjamin Hellen purchased this property from Alexander Turner, October 7, 1S50, and this became the home of his son, Peter 13. Hellen, for many years. Peter Hook Hellen was engaged in merchandising in the early history of the town, and in 1553, he erected the three-story business block oil the southeast corner of West Main and Morgantown streets. The Hellen heirs conveyed this property to the members of the Great Bethel Baptist church who tore away the old buildings and erected a handsome stone parsonage. The members of the Great Bethel Baptist church began the erection of a two-story brick meeting house on the southwest corner of Union and Fay- ette streets in 1867, in which the first service was held in the lower room March 14, 1869, and here continued for ten years, until the auditorium was completed in 1879, and the dedicatory services were held August 17th of that year. The last public services were held in this brick church May 11, 1591, a t which time plans were conlpleted for the erection of the present stone structure. The corner stone of this building was laid with ap-

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 12: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

History of Uniontownf, Pennsylvania. 327

propriate ceremonies October 28, 1901, and the edifice was dedi-- cated, free of debt, with appropriate services, October 11, 1903.

John Bradbury purchased lots Nos. 18, 19, 20 and 21 east of Union street, the first of which Benjamin Wintermute owned and occupied and carried on his business as a stone cutter for many years. Mr. Wintermute was a son-in-law of Enos West who succeeded Wintermute in the ownership of this property and William A. West became an occupant. The title passed to Zadoc Fleming, another son-in-law in whose family it still remains.

Isaac Beeson built a large, two-story, double brick resi- dence on lots Nos. 19 and 20, in 1848; and Judge Samuel A. Gil- more was a tenant of Mr. Beeson in this house soon after his appointment as president judge of Fayette county. Alfred Howell, Esq., purchased the western half of this property in 1861, and added the third story and other improvements. Henry Jennings purchased this property from the Howell heirs and made it his home.

Mrs. William McClelland, widow of William RIcClelland who in his lifetime was proprietor of the old McClelland tavern, was an occupant of the eastern part of this property until her death. Rev. William F. Hamilton, son-in-law of Isaac Beeson, was an occupant for several years, as was Mrs. Eliza Beeson, widow of Isaac Beeson. William Beeson was in the occupancy of this property for many years, and died here May 14, 1913, in his 89 th year.

Isaac Skiles, Jr., built the house east of the Beeson prop- erty in 1848, and occupied it for several years. His brother, William Skiles: senior member of the popular dry goods firm of W. & T. D. Skiles, occupied this residence for some time and died here December 18, 1862. Amos Bowlby bought this prop- erty and resided here for several years, and conveyed it to M. H. Bowman; and Chas. F. Kefover, Esq., was its occupant for several years.

The next house east was apparently built a t the same time and by the same person, as they were twin houses. Both stood a little back from the street and had small yards enclosed by an iron fence and stone steps leading to the door. Louis D. Beall, one of the best known liverymen and horse dealers of the town, owned and occupied this property, and died here May 6, 1871. Morgan H. Bowman purchased this property and greatly en-

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 13: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

325 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania.

lsrged and improved it making it one of the most desirable residences on the street.

Alfred Patterson, Esq., purchased all of the eastern part of the William Lyon plan of lots, beginning a t the present resi- dence of M. H. Bowman and running eastward on both sides of Fayette street to and including the alley east of Beeson ave- nue. Mr. Patterson sold to Mrs. Ann Bowie a lot of 45 feet frontage on which she erected a good two-story brick house which she made her home the remainder of her days. Mrs. Bowie came from Maryland with her sons, Lucien B., Theo- philus, John and George. Col. Thomas B. Searight bought this property about 1866, and here made his home which is still in the possession of his family.

A frame house was built next east of Searights for a home for Dr. William Fuller, son of Dr. Smith Fuller. Here he lived for some time. David Freedberg bought this property and added many and valuable improvements and made it his home. Dr. Fuller erected a small, one-story frame building on his lot which he used as an office in the latter part of his medical practice. This building was removed to the rear of the lot. A brick residence was erected on this lot which was occupied for a time by Hugh L. Rankin, and later by Miss Lizzie Fuller who owned it and the frame before mentioned.

Alfred Patterson, Esq., erected the large, double brick house on this lot in 1842, and occupied the eastern part from the time of its erection until his removal to Pittsburgh. Mr. Patter- son erected a small brick building on the corner of his yard which he occupied as a law office for some time. Joshua B. Howell was the first tenant of the western part of this double brick from the time of its completion, and in 1856 he purchased 124 feet frontage, including the western half of his house and running to the Searight property. Dr. Smith Fuller purchased all this property in 1866, and here made his home until his death, March 14, 1892. His son, Dr. John M. Fuller still owns and occupies the property.

Zalmon Ludington purchased the Alfred Patterson resi- dence and lot east and occupied i t for several years, after which Nathan Divvens, a successful tobacco merchant owned and oc- cupied it for several years, and it is still owned by his heirs. The vacant lot east of this residence was absorbed by the open- ing of South Beeson avenue. Mr. Ludington and wife conveyed

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 14: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 329

to Mrs. Albert G. Beeson the eastern lot of the Lyon's plan of lots, on which, in 1878, she erected a comfortable brick resi- dence which she occupied for several years and still owns.

James R. Cray erected two modern brick residences next east of South Beeson avenue which have since been occupied by various tenants.

Mr. Shipley erected a brick residence lining on the alley east of the Mrs. Beeson residence and occupied for some time. He was followed by a number of tenants. Robert Hagan is the present owner. A neat frame tenement was erected just east of the Shipley building and is owned by Robert Hagan, who also erected a brick tenement next east of the above.

David Lewis built the two brick houses next east of the before mentioned property. David Lewis was one of the aristoc- racy of the colored folks of the town, and was a barber by trade. He carried his shaving tools about the town and waited on his numerous customers at their residences. He was a leader in the church and colored society. He was the father of Tabitha, who became the wife of Martin Armstead, and of Eliza, who became the wife of Alexander Moxley. These two daugh- ters were of the most respectable colored residents of the town. David Lewis lived in the part later owned and occupied by William A. Donaldson and built the western part for a home for his mother. James Monahon owned and occupied the western part for several years. It is now owned by Robert Hagan.

William A. Donaldson purchased the David Lewis resi- dence and made it his home the remainder of his life, and his family still own and occupy the property. William A. Donald- son was born at Emmittsburg, Md., February 14, 1818, and came to Uniontown in 1839. He was a buggy and coach and sign painter, and was a master in his line. He was a leading member of the Methodist Episcopal church for many years. Mr. Donaldson erected the double frame tenement east of his residence which has been occupied by various tenants.

Charles E. Kremer purchased a small lot immediately east of the South West Pennsylvania right-of-way and erected a small frame residence which was subsequently enlarged and converted into a dwelling and business room. T. Sutton Wood erected a frame dwelling and business room next east, and oc- cupied it with his bushes5 as a tinsmith. This property was

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 15: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

330 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania.

slrbsequently much enlarged, and owned and occupied by Joshua Scott.

Nathan Allen, a well known colored man of the town, owned the lots next west of Redstone creek and here lived in a small house. William Hall, the coach trimmer and carpet layer, pur- chased this property and erected thereon one or two frame dwellings. At his death these passed to the ownership of his nephew, Fred Thomas.

James E. Cottom erected a brick business block and dwell- ings immediately over Redstone creek in 1911.

Mr. Cottom also built the stone residence immediately east of the creek, and occupied it as a residence. He also erected two double frame dwellings east of his residence.

East of the Cottom houses Samuel C. and Alf Johnson built a large brick building in which they established machin- ists, hot water and steam fitters and a general repair shop, to which, in 1904, C. W. Johnson added a concrete automobile garage, subsequently the two were united and became known as the Fayette automobile garage, which has been owned and operated by different parties.

William R. Miller built a frame residence and plumbing shop east of the garage and here carried on his business for some time. He retired from the plumbing business and the room was rented for a grocery, and subsequently used by Daniel J. Johnson as a milk depot. Eggers and Graham erected a frame building next west of the B. & 0. railroad crossing as an office to their planing mill in the rear.

The first residence east of the B. & 0. right-of-way was erected by Milton Freeman who occupied it as a residence for a short time. He sold it to Frank Lewellen, who after occupy- ing it a while conveyed it to Robert Hogsett in 1902, since which time Mr. Hogsett has occupied it. George Daugherty built a double frame tenement next east of the Freeman house and sold it to Joseph Fell who still owns it. Sutton Wood built a frame dwelling next east, and after occupying it one year sold it to George W. Sernans who has since occupied it.

Hon. Frank M. Fuller, son of Dr. Smith Fuller, erected the fine brick residence next west of Pennsylvania avenue exten- sion, and occupied i t from the time of its completion until his death, July 10, 1905. Frank M. Fuller was born April 7, 1853, was admitted to the bar, 1879, was made secretary of the corn-

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 16: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 331

monwealth by Governor Pennypacker in January, 1903, which honorable position he held at the time of his death. His widow, who was Miss Amanda Wyatt, still owns and occupies the prop- erty. John Taylor erected a fine brick residence immediately east of Pennsylvania avenue and occupied it from the time of its completion. He was interested in the manufacture of coke. Fred C. Keighley erected the fine brick dwelling next east of the Tailor House and occupied it. He is considered the highest authority on the manufacture of coke in Fayette county. Mr. Keighley had built a frame dwelling on the eastern part of his lot in which he lived until he finished his present home. Mrs. William E. Hogg, his daughter, now occupies the frame.

Judge John Kennedy Ewing owned several acres of land fronting on East Fayette street. This fine lot of valuable ground the judge magnanimously offered to donate to the in- habitants of Uniontown upon which to erect a free public library. Mr. Andrew Carnegie having agreed to donate the sum of $5,000 toward the erection of a building for that purpose. The borough never decided to accept Judge Ewing's princely gift nor Mr . . Carnegie's generous donation. After the death of Judge Ewing his heirs laid out this plat of ground into building lots, and extended Willson avenue southward from Fayette street to the B. & 0. right-of-way on which have been erected several modern and comfortable dwellings.

On the first lot east of Willson avenue the Uniontown high school building was erected in 1910-11, as related elsewhere.

L. P. Whiteman erected the present residence of Capt. James &I. Hustead, known as 180 East Fayette street. Capt. Hustead added many and valuable improvements to this property and made it his home. Capt. Hustead is widely and favorably known as one of the most prosperous business men of the town, and his kindly and genial disposition has secured him hosts of friends. Thomas Hadden purchased several acres of land fronting on East Fayette street on which he erected a fine brick residence opposite the mouth of Stewart avenue in which he lived until he moved to Bucks county, Pa. H e sold this prop- erty to Harry Hazard , son-in-law to Judge A. E. Willson, who after occupying it a while conveyed it to Jasper Augustine who added many improvements and occupies it along with his magnificent county seat in Somerset county.

Charles E. Kremer, a plasterer by trade, built a moderate

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 17: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

frame residence next east of the Augustine residence which he occupied until he built a more pretentious dwelling on the east. This property was then conveyed to George Porter and from him to John Cope and then to Mrs. Mary Allen, widow of William Allen, the present owner.

Charles E. Kremer erected the frame dwelling known as 202 East Fayette street and has occupied it since its complefion.

William Swearingen's frame dwelling and small one-story frame building occupied as a store room stood back a short dis- tance from the line of the street and lined on a one-perch alley that led from Beeson's saw mill to the Barton mill road before Fayette street was opened out east to Grant street. Here Mr. Swearingen lived and conducted a small store. Mr. Swearingen was a miller by trade which he followed for many years. His wife was a daughter of .Adam Canaan. William G. Divvens married a daughter of Vr. Swearingen and occupies the property.

David J. Hopwood built the brick residence known as 214 E. Fayette street in 1883. He conveyed this to Nicholas Mc- Cullough who died here and the property was sold to Jacob C. Beeson who made this his home until his death, July 5, 1898, and his widow, who was a sister to Capt. Hustead, con- tinued to occupy it until her death, April 12, 1906. Mr. Beeson came here from Fairmont, West Virginia, where he had been a man of some prominence. He represented his district in the legislature for the purpose of establishing the new state of West Virginia, and was president of the First Xational Bank of Fair- mont for 15 years, and also served as treasurer of hfarion county. He was descended from Jacob Beeson, the founder of the west- ern part of LTniontown. This property descended to Bugh Hustead, the present owner.

Robert F. Hopwood erected a fine frame dwelling on the corner of East Fayette and Grant streets to which he has added extensive improvements, making it one of the desirable resi- dences on that street.

For many years a small passageway led from Grant stfeet to the National road. When the town council concluded ta open this passageway the full width of Fayette street they were met by considerable opposition. The small, inexpensive build- ings that were at first erected thereon have nearly all given place to more pretentious residences.

William P. Case bought the corner lot east of Grant street

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 18: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

History of Uniontown, Pen.nsylva~zia. 333

from Robert Bryner and built thereon a comfortable frame dwelling which he continues to occupy. Charles T. Cramer and William C. Black bought a lot of several feet frontage on which was a double frame residence which they moved to the rear and erected a frame dwelling which Mr. Cramer occupied for a while. They built next east a modern brick residence which has since been occupied by Mr. Black. They also built a frame tenement east of the brick.

Ira Seaton owns and occupies a small frame dwelling east of the before mentioned property.

Milbert Silbaugh owns two small frame residences next east of Seaton, a 15-foot alley separates this property from Mil- bert Silbaugh's comfortable frame residence in which he lives. -A vacant lot belonging to I. W. Semans lies between the Sil- baugh property and Whiteman avenue.

T. Sutton Wood erected a frame residence on the east corner of Whiteman avenue and here made his home. Then comes two vacant lots belonging to Mrs. D. J. Hopwood on the east of which is an alley, east of which are two vacant lots belonging to I. V.'. Semans. East of the Semans lots James Cottom erected a double concrete house in 1906, which was on the corner of Feathers avenue. East of Feathers avenue John S. Ritenour owns a vacant lot, and east of this Edward C. Cornish built and occupied a comfortable dwelling.

Fayette street-west of Morgantown street, was known as Fell's alley at the laying out of the town, and in 1842, was laid out as Fayette street.

Abraham Brown of Georges township purchased the old John Miller property on the corner of Mill and West Fayette streets and on the eastern part of the lot erected a neat brick residence.

Next west oi this he built two double frame dwellings which have been occupied by different tenants.

On the west side of Mill street William N. Irwin erected a neat frame residence which he occupied for several years. James I. Feather bought this property and made many improve- ments on it, and here made his home. Dr. T. F. Farmer erected a frame dwelling next west of the Feather's proper4y' and a frame office next west, which he occupied and carried on his business as a dentist. Jacob Howard built a frame residence next west of Dr. Farmer which he sold to Mrs. Craft. Edgar

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 19: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

334 History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania,.

Hackney bought this lot and erected a large double frame tenement thereon. Mrs. Marcy h i l t the next house west and lived here for some time. Mrs. Marcy was the widow of Henry G. Marcy, known as Governor Marcy, a well known stage driver on the old National road. This property was later owned by Mrs. Lil Thompson and is now owned and occupied by the family of George R. Messmore. Miss Ella 34. Lewis now owns and occupies a frame dwelling owned and occupied by the widow of Levingston Boring on the lot west, but was moved to its present position. Mrs. Elizabeth O'Eryon built a frame dwelling, now known as No. 119 and here with her son, Charles G. and family, has since made her home. A small frame build- ing that was used as a cooper shop stood near the eastern bank of Jacob's run and was used by Jacob Howard and others. I t was later occupied by Jerry Miller as a residence.

Robert Patterson erected two brick dwellings next west of Jacob's run, now known as Coallick run, which have since been occupied by various tenants. The Southwest !Pennsylvania railroad purchased the first of these and used it as an office and dwelling. The second was sold to Joseph Haky who oc- cupied it as a dwelling and undertaker's room.

Lewis Dawson built a brick residence next west of Straw- berry alley and occupied it from the time of its completion until his death. Miss Martha Wood built a frame residence next west of the Dawson residence and occupied it as such. Mrs. Tillie Wood, widow of General William Wood, built a frame dwelling next west of the Martha Wood brick, for a home for her daugh- ters, Jane and Anna, who have since continued to occupy if. The home of J. Kid. Ritenour occupies the corner of Mill and West Fayette streets, north side. This house was built by John Allen Messrnore who occupied it for some time. Mr. Ritenour has added many improvements.

The lot on which the fine home of Dr. Thomas N. East- man now stands was used as a garden patch by Nathaniel and Ewing Brownfield for many years, until Dr. Eastman bought it and erected the fine dwelling that now occupies it.

John W. Wood built a frame dwelling west of the Eastman house and occupied i t until his death, February 5 , 1910, since which his widow has occupied it. John W. Wood was a mem- ber of Company K, 116th Pennsylvania Volunteers in the war of the rebellion. He followed the business of saddle and har-

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com

Page 20: Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.elements.fay-west.com/pdf/haddens/ch13.pdf · 2016-07-20 · sold to Alfred Patterson, who afterwards sold it off into lots. A part

History of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. 335

ness making in this town for 37 years and was always known as a good workman and an upright business man. Members of the Wood family carried on the harness business in the town continuously for 112 years, and John W. was the last of the name to carry on the business.

Digital Scan by Fay-Wesy.com. All Rights Reserved.

Document is not to be posted on any other Web site but Fay-West.com