H. LOUIS BROHM
It is with deep regret that the announcement is made of the death of H. Louis Brohm, train dispatcher at Salamanca, N.Y. Mr. Brohm died Tuesday Jan. 6, 1914, at his home in this city. Deceased had been in poor health for some time, but continued at his duties as dispatcher up to the time of his death. He worked the night of Jan. 5, as usual, going off duty at 12:30 A.M., and at 9:00 A.M., was found dead in bed.
Mr. Brohm entered the service of the Erie R.R. Co., in December, 1892 as an Operator; was made Extra Dispatcher September, 1905, and Regular Dispatcher February, 1907.
The funeral services were held at his late residence on Wilson St., Salamanca, N.Y., at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, Jan. 8. Remains were taken to Hornell on train No. 26, and interment took place in the Catholic Cemetery at that point.
GEORGE PETTIGREW BRYAN
The sad news of the death ot Mr. George P. Bryan, Trainmaster of the Tioga Division, has reached official and other ears along the line of the Erie Railroad, ere this, and it fell as a hard blow to all and especially those who were close to him in the daily routine of business life.
Mr. Bryan passed away at his home in Elmira, N.Y., Saturday, May 29th (1914), from an attack of heart failure, superinduced by rheumatism which developed from a cold contracted while in the performance of duty awhile back. A severe mental and physical strain overcame Mr. Bryan, as a result of many visits made to the bedside of a sick brother, between whom and himself a very warm attachment existed, and when the brother died the shock affected him visably.
After this bereavement, trouble occurred on his division which necessitated close application to duty and this he performed both day and night, absolutely oblivious of his own personal comfort and ill health. In connection with the performance of duty Mr. Bryan's ambition led him to push a defective motor car up hill for a long distance and that had a bad effect on his heart.
The attack of rheumatism referred to developed through getting wet while supervising work in his department, but loyalty to duty impelled him to stick to his post, even though ill enough to be in the hands of a physician. When he finally came home exhausted by his own efforts, he addressed his wife affectionately and calling her by name said, "I am all in" and took to his bed, where he remained until the summons from above came shortly afterwards.
The story of Mr. Bryan's identification with the Erie Railroad is one of intense loyalty and even self-sacrifice. He faced duty with a smile and never thought of his own rights or interests until the Erie came into its own; then he would turn homeward to await the coming of another day.
A high official of the Erie paid him a deserved compliment, when he said:
"Mr. Bryan was a loyal Erie man and was never tired serving it in the best way he knew how. It was his nature to sacrifice pleasure and personal comfort, until he was sure his duty to the company had first been performed. I never knew a more reliable or faithful man."
Mr. Bryan was born September 9th, 1865 and educated in Virginia. He entered the service of the Erie Railroad, February 7th, 1887. He came from distinguished Maryland and Virginia stock and was a man of liberal education, of bright intellect and an active and tireless worker. He was endowed with a lovable nature that endeared him to a wide circle of friends.
He leaves his widow and two little daughters to share the grief with those who knew him best and loved him for his splendid qualities. (P. 223)
S.B. CARLING
From an attack of bronchial-pneumonia, Mr. S.B. Carling, Signal Inspector, of the Allegheny and Bradford Divisions, died at his home, No. 21 Waite Ave., Salamanca, N.Y., at 3.00 A.M., Tuesday, February 17th (1914).
Deceased entered the service of the Erie Railroad Company, July 26th, 1892, as an Operator; promoted to Signal Inspector December 5th, 1906.
The funeral services were held at his late residence, Thursday, February 19th, 1914, and were attended by a large circle of friends. Interment took place in Wildwood Cemetery, Salamanca, N.Y. (P. 32)
THEODORE F. CLAY
After an illness of 18 months Theodore F. Clay, one of the oldest passenger conductors on the New York Division, died at his home in Suffern, N.Y., recently.
He was born in Unionville, N.Y., in 1851 and had been in the Erie's employ 38 years. Beginning as a Brakeman in extra freight service, he worked up to Conductor. In 1884 he was promoted to the passenger service and since then and up to the time his illness began, he ran local trains between Jersey City and Suffern.
He was among the first organizers of the fire department at Suffern and had served as President of the village and member of the Board of Education; also he was President of the Official Board of the Suffern M.E. Church, and a consistent member of the Order of Railway Conductors.
It may be said in praise of Conductor Clay, he was one of the best loved men wearing an Erie uniform. Always proverbial for honesty and uprightness, he enjoyed the full confidence of his associates and stood high in the councils of the Brotherhood. He was also very popular with those who rode with him from day to day, although a man of very quiet and unobtrusive manners. In the death of Conductor Clay the Erie has lost one of its True Blues and the conductors one who was in every sense a man.
He leaves his widow, two children and an aged mother. The funeral was largely attended by Erie men.
MORTIMER CRONIN
Mortimer Cronin died Tuesday afternoon, March 17 (1914), at the family home, No. 451 West Sixth street, Elmira, N.Y., after an illness of about one year's duration. Mr. Cronin was a telegraph operator on the Susquehanna Division of the Erie Railroad many years. He was formerly located in Elmira and moved to Hornell with the division dispatcher's office about ten years ago. Mr. Cronin returned to Elmira about six months ago. The decedent is survived by a son, John; two daughters, Mary and Jennie; also a sister and brother in Scranton. (P. 99)
JOHN DALEY
John Daley, for over 30 years a conductor on the New York Division, died at his home, Number 4 Tuxedo Avenue, Hawthorne, N.J., on May 20th (1914), after a long illness, at the age of 55 years.
Conductor Daley entered the service of the Erie Railroad when a boy and worked himself up to conductor. He also held the position of yardmaster at Waldwick, N.J.
He has a brother, Thomas, who is also an Erie conductor. In addition to this brother, deceased is survived by his widow and three daughters.
Funeral services were conducted at his late home and from St. Anthony's R.C. Church. Interment at Hohokus, N.J.
GEORGE DAVIS
George Davis, of the (Huntington, IN) Car Dept., died June 27th (1914). His widow and son have our sympathy.
ELIJAH J. DEPUE
On Feb. 9, last (1914), Elijah J. Depue, passenger Conductor on the New York, Susquehanna & Western Division died at his home in Stroudsburg, Pa., of anaemia, in the 53rd year of his age.
Since last April Mr. Depue had been confined to his home, helpless and suffering. He was born in Stroudsburg and early in life adopted the butcher's trade. Nearly 24 years ago he entered the employ of the N. Y., S. & W. as Brakeman and three years later was promoted to Conductor. Prior to his illness he was in charge of trains 2 and 5, between Jersey City and Stroudsburg.
He was a very popular Conductor, being of a happy and jovial disposition and always ready to crack a joke with those that rode with him. He was likewise a general favorite with his fellows, even outside the Erie ranks.
Being a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, he served as Librarian of the Sunday School up to the time of his death and at one time served on the Official Board of the church. He was one of those prominent in establishing the local Order of Railway Conductors and was its Secretary up to the time of his death. He was also a member of Barger Lodge, F. & A.M., St. Johns Commandery, Knights of Malta and Fort Brown Council, R.A. Barger Lodge was in charge of the burial, services also being held at Stroudsburg M.E. Church.
Mr. Depue left, besides his widow, one daughter, Mrs. Charles P. White of Stroudsburg. (P. 32)
JOHN DONNELLY
In the sudden taking off of Yard Conductor, John Donnelly, on the afternoon of December 22nd (1915), through an unfortunate accident in the Paterson yard, the Erie Railroad Company has lost a faithful, loyal and industrious employee who had given the greater part of his life to the company's service. Mr. Donnelly was one of the best known and most popular employes on the eastern end of the road and was possessed of an unfailing good nature and genial disposition, which had won for him a large number of friends. He was held in high esteem by his superiors and it was with sincere sorrow that the news of his death was received.
He was a model husband and father, and leaves behind him the memory of one who was in every sense of the word a good citizen and faithful friend. The funeral took place from his home in Paterson on Saturday, December 26th, and the service was at St. Joseph's R.C. Church, of which he had been a faithful member for many years. (P. 664)
PATRICK W. EAGAN
The death of Patrick W. Eagan, Erie railroad conductor, injured Tuesday, January 6th (1914), in a collision at Conewango Valley, occurred Wednesday afternoon. Mr. Eagan had been reported from the hospital as resting easily, but his body was paralyzed from the neck down and his condition was such that recovery was practically impossible.
Mr. Eagan had been in the employ of the Erie railroad for 34 years. He was 69 years old and would have reached the age of retirement in March of this year. He was thoroughly liked by the employes of the road and one of the efficient and highly-trusted men in its employ.
The remains were laid at rest beside his wife. Mr. Eagan is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Harry Stenger of Chicago Junction, 0.; a sister, Mrs. Brian Mulhein of Akron, 0.; a half sister, Mrs. Hugh Kelley of Akron, 0.; a half brother, John J. Shanley, Jr., of Kent, 0. (P. 743)
H.H. EGGLESTON
H.H. Eggleston, until his retirement in 1909, the oldest bridge foreman in the employ of the Erie railroad company, died recently at the home of his son, W.O. Eggleston, 566 East Washington street, Huntington, Ind. He was eighty-seven years, four months and three days old. He had been in failing health for several years, but had been confined to his home only a few weeks.
Mr. Eggleston was born in Syracuse, N.Y., April 2, 1827, and early in life took up bridge work. In 1859 he entered the employ of the Erie railroad company as a Bridge Foreman and remained in its employ until 1909, when he retired from active work. He came to Huntington about eighteen years ago.
He is survived by one son, W.O. Eggleston; two grandchildren, Mrs. Ed. Booth, of Huntington and H.H. Eggleston, of Des Moines, Ia., and five great grandchildren. He was a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and of the Methodist Church.
SYLVESTER ANTHONY EHINGER
Sylvester Anthony Ehinger, second year Machinist Apprentice, died August 11th (1914). He was born in Huntington, IN June 22, 1895, and was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church. Many contributions of flowers were received. The Erie employees presented a beautiful design, "Gates Ajar." He had a host of friends. We extend our sympathy to his parents.
JAMES FINICAL
Death entered the ranks of Galion machine shop employees, claiming James Finical, apprentice and a promising young mechanic. A number of his fellow shop employees attended the funeral. (P. 299)
CORNELIUS FINN
Cornelius Finn, brother of John Finn, Wreckmaster, at this shop (Buffalo Car Shop), passed away on the 27th day of December, 1914, after a few days of sickness. "Conney," as he was familiarly called at this shop, had spent the greater part of his life with us and will be greatly missed. A beuatiful floral offering was sent to the family with the sympathy and condolence of his associates. (P. 746)
C.G. GILBERT
Mr. C.G. Gilbert, Agent of the Erie Railroad at 28th St. Station, New York City, died August 25th, of heart failure, superinduced by rheumatism.
Mr. Gilbert entered the employ of the Erie Railroad Company, Duane Street Station, September 1, 1900, after a long experience in the service of the Lehigh Valley Railroad Company at Jersey City. He was employed to fill the position of clerk, and was later promoted to the position of accountant. In May, 1909, he was appointed Agent at 28th Street Station, New York City.
While employed at Duane Street Station, Mr. Gilbert suffered an attack of rheumatism, which left his heart in a weakened condition and finally caused his death.
He recently secured a leave of absence and under his doctor's direction placed himself at Idle Ease Inn, Newfoundland, N.J. He leaves his widow and daughter, who reside at 516 Summit Avenue, Jersey City, N.J.
Deceased was a Free Mason of many years standing. (P. 419)
MICHAEL HERZOG
Michael Herzog, who was employed as machinist at Buffalo Machine Shop for a number of years, passed away at his late home, No. 351 N. Division St., Sunday, Feb. 15th, 1914. Mr. Herzog was very popular among his fellow workmen, who contributed towards a floral offering, which was sent to his late home, expressing their sympathy. (P. 42)
JOHN HEALY
It is with deep regret that we announce the death of Mr. John Healy, which occurred at his late home, No. 78 Pine St., February 24th, 1914. Mr. healy is survived by his widow and eight children, among whom are Michael P. Healy, Road Foreman of Engines, Buffalo Division; Martin and John C., Locomotive Engineers; Henry, Dr. Edward Healy, Mrs. W.P. Reynolds, Mrs. Patrick O'Neil and Mrs. Herman Bick. Mr. Healy was of a very pleasing disposition, and was well liked by all with whom he came in contact. Buffalo Machine Shop extends its sincere sympathy to the bereaved ones. (Machine Shop News, P. 42)
It is with extreme regret that we announce the passing away to the great beyond of one of our old tried and true employees, Mr. John Healy, Foreman of the Maintenance of Way Dept. Mr. Healy was with the Erie about 45 years. He started as a water boy, but his steadiness and perseverance won for him a position of Supervisor, where his record was first class. At his own request, he was given the position he held at the time of his death. Too much cannot be said in his praise, and the Erie Car Shops extend their sympathy to his bereaved family and friends. (Car Shops News, P. 43)
JOHN W. KLINE
Advises have been received telling of the death of John W. Kline, the oldest Section Foreman on the Cin�cinnati Division, if not on the entire Erie system, and who was once a supervisor.
Mr. Kline died recently at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Earl S. Helt, Marion, Ohio, of Diabetes, with which he had suffered for some time past. Mr. Kline had previously returned with Mrs. Helt from a visit at the home of another daughter, Mrs. G.C. Schempp, Tacoma, Wash, and it was supposed the trip had improved his health.
With the passing of John Wesley Kline the Erie loses its oldest Cincinnati Division section foreman and a man well known in rail�way circles, as every member of his family is connected in some way with the railroad. He is known from one end of the system to the other.
The decedent was born in Little York, Pa., Dec. 28, 1848. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. Martin Kline. He accompanied his parents to Burbank, 0., and lived there for a number of years, and while there he married Miss Mary Surman, who preceded him in death, fourteen years ago.
The couple moved to Galion 27 years ago and he lived there until coming to Marion last February. He was supervisor on the Cincinnati Division of the Erie while at Galion, hut with advancing age was given a section here.
He was affiliated with the Metho�dist church at Galion, as well as with the Odd Fellows, Owls, and the Masons. He was a splendid, sturdy man, full of the old-fashioned virtues and of rugged character. His death was re�ceived with sorrow by a large circle of friends, especially among rail�roaders.
He is survived by L.H. Kline, his son, yardmaster at Dayton, Mrs. G.C. Schempp of Tacoma, Wash., and Mrs. E.S. Helt, whose husband is an Erie employe, and at whose home he died. Two brothers also survive; George Kline of Dayton, an Erie passenger conductor, and William Kline of Galion, engineer on the work train and foreman of the ditching gang. Mrs. Disa Schempp of Burbank, a sister, also survives.
By his request the Masonic fratern�ity had charge of the funeral.
JOSEPH F. LINDEN
Death called another veteran from our midst when Joseph F. Linden, terminated a long career of usefulness and faithful service, after 41 years' employment with the Erie. Mr. Linden was employed in the coach department as carpenter, working under different heads of the department and his services were appreciated by all. A good husband, shop mate and citizen will be missed from the scenes in which he mingled. He was born at Richmond, Ind., June 5th, 1840; therefore almost 74 years of age. The employes of the (Kent) coach department acted as pall bearers and accompanied the remains to Standing Rock cemetery, where he was buried.
O.S. LYFORCE
The death at Chicago of Mr. O.S. Lyforce, formerly (Meadville) Division Superintendent in the (18)70's, recalls many pleasant memories of a very popular and efficient railroad man. He lived to the ripe old age of 90 years.
MARTIN LYON
Mr. Martin Lyon has been called away by death. His name can be added to the four Meadville veterans who have passed away since January, 1914. (P. 44)
JOHN MANQUIN
It is with deep regret that we announce the death of John Manquin, foreman at the Buffalo Car Shop. John was a hale fellow and in his private life was greatly respected by all who knew him. He was held in high esteem by all who knew him at Buffalo Car Shop. He was for a number of years connected with the Pullman Company, both at Detroit and Buffalo. As Assistant Foreman to Mr. W.T. Duffin, Pass. Dept., he was invaluable. He was in his sixty-fourth year and had twenty years service with the Old Reliable. His illness was of short duration. Buffalo Car Shop extends sympathy to his bereaved family. May he rest in peace.
JOHN McDONALD, Cleveland, OH Shops
We were very sorry to announce the death of our old comrade and Veteran, John McDonald, which took place in October (1914) after a short illness. His exact age is not known, but records show him to have been 82 years old. His time of service was well on to 50 years, with a record hard to beat. Always benevolent, jolly, and hearty with a kind word for all. In bygone days he was known as the "Night Owl." For over 30 years he was on nights.
ELIAS A. MILLER
On December 7, 1914, Elias A. Miller died at his home, 825 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, N.Y., at the age of 79 years, with a record of forty-five years of continuous employment in the service of the Union Steamboat Company and its successor the Erie Railroad Lake Line.
Mr. Miller was born November 29, 1835, at Eggertsville, Erie County, New York, where he lived until he came to Buffalo in 1856. In that year he secured employment with the New York Central Railroad in their lake freight office, where he remained for eleven years.
In December, 1864, he was married to Miss Charlotee Platt of Dixon, Ill. She and their daughter survive him.
When the Union Steamboat Company was organized in 1869, Mr. Miller started with the company as one of the office force, and continued as a valued and trusted employee up to the day of his death. He held at different times the positions of Chief Clerk, Cashier and Accountant, and due to his long experience was considered an authority on marine practice in connection with lake traffic.
He was devoted to his work and duty and was seldom absent from his desk until within the last two years, when his health began to fail. A good and faithful worker, kindly in speech and act, blameless in his life, he will be remembered with love and respect by all who knew him. (P. 664)
RUSSELL PARDEE ORCUTT
The sincere sympathy of the officers and employes of the Erie Railroad Company are extended to Mr. George N. Orcutt, Assistant to the President, by reason of the bereavement he sustained in the death of his only son, Russell Pardee Orcutt, which occurred at Hot Springs, Arkansas, on Sunday morning, June 28th, last (1914).
Mr. Orcutt's health had been impaired for a long time by a severe attack of rheumatism, and he was sent to Hot Springs, in the belief that the baths would restore him. Typhoid fever, however, developed and being too feeble to withstand its ravages, he finally succumbed.
Mr. Orcutt was a young man of fine education and acquired the profession of Civil Engineering. This he followed by appointment as Division Engineer of the Rochester Division on May 17, 1909, which he retained until ill health compelled him to resign.
The remains were taken to Hornell, N.Y., his native town, where interment took place. Several of the official associates of Mr. George N. Orcutt, in the Engineering Department, and others from Headquarters, attended the funeral on June 30th.
Among the large number from out of town who attended the last sad rites are the following: E.W. Underwood, of Elmira, representing F.D. Underwood, president of the Erie Railroad; General George J. Schoeffel, Special Agent; R.C. Falconer, Superintendent Construction; N.W. Drinker, Principal Assistant Engineer; William Mortimer, G.W. Roebling, all of New York City; Mr. and Mrs. Josephus Albee, of Rochester; Mr. and Mrs. F.G. Robbins of Buffalo; E.I. Bowen of Rochester; R.C. Thurston of Avon and Attorney D.C. Newton of Geneseo.
JOHN W. RARICK, Meadville Shops
Machinist John W. Rarick, who for 38 years did the Lathe work for motion work, died after an illness of several months. Until his illness he was only absent from work when the Shops closed. He was an expert mechanic, a good citizen and a kind parent. He is survived by his widow and six children. He was a member of the Erie Employees Mutual Benefit Association and the Erie Employees Relief Association.
JOHN RODERICK
A serious accident occurred in our midst when, on Sept. 10 (1914), boilermaker helper John Roderick was struck by a cut of cars being switched in the vicinity of the Galion boilershop and so seriously injured that death occurred within several hours. Mr. Roderick entered the service 35 years ago, putting in his entire time at this shop. Fellow employees attended the funeral services in a body and gave a beautiful floral tribute.
Also, from the Sept. 11, 1914 issue of the Marion Daily Star:
John Roderick, aged seventy-four years, a boiler-maker helper in the Erie shops at Galion, met with an accident at Galion at 9:30 o'clock Thursday (09/10/1914) morning, that resulted in his death shortly before 1 o'clock. The victim was crossing the tracks at the shops with a bucket of water when the switch engine backed down. Spectators witnessing the position of Roderick called to him, but he failed to hear them. He was run down by the switch engine and his right leg was severed at the hip and his left foot crushed. He was removed to Good Samaritan Hospital, death following. He is survived by two sons, three brothers and two sisters, his wife having died about a year ago. He was well known by Erie employees in this city.
EDGAR GARY SACKETT
As a result of a stroke of paralysis, Edgar Gary Sackett, a Conductor on the Rochester Division, died at the Corning Hospital, March 5 (1914). On March 4, Mr. Sackett was seized with a paralytic stroke, while running his train between Painted Post and Corning and was removed to the hospital without delay. He was 65 years old.
Mr. Sackett was born in Livingston County, N.Y., in 1849. He entered the service of the Erie Railroad as Brakeman in 1873 and, at the time of his death, had performed about 40 years of faithful service for the Company. At the time of his death he was Conductor of Trains 134 and 463, running between Rochester and Corning.
The death of this veteran was a severe shock to his railroad and other friends, with whom he was a great favorite. He was a man of exceptional character and integrity and had a nature as genial as a child.
He is survived by his widow, one daughter, Mrs. W.E. Lacy, a son, E.G. Sackett, Jr., an Erie Engineer, two sisters and several grandchildren, as well as two brothers. He was a member of the Order of Railway Conductors, Erie Employes Relief Association, the Livingston Historical Society and a charter member of Avon Hook & Ladder Company.
Funeral services were conducted at the late home of deceased, Avon, N. Y., by the Rev. C.N. Frost, D.D., Pastor of the Central Presbyterian Church, of which he was a member. (P. 99)
ALBERT SAULT
On Monday, March 16 (1914), Albert Sault died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Frank E. Older, 144 Clerk St., Jersey City. Funeral services were held at Clermont Presbyterian Church, Rev. Dr. J. Francis Morgan officiating. Interment was in Bay View Cemetery.
Mr. Sault was born at Athens, N.Y., seventy years ago. In early life, he followed the sea, acting as engineer on many of the old-time craft among them being the "North Star" and the "Henry Chauncey." After several years, tiring of this branch of seafaring, he purchased the tug boat "George Wood," which he operated for a number of years in and about New York Harbor. Disposing of the tug boat about thirty years ago, he accepted a position with the Erie Railroad Co. as engineer of the then handsome and up-to-date tug boat "Ramapo." After remaining in that position a short time he was transferred to the ferry department,
as chief engineer of the side wheel ferryboat "Jay Gould" and later the "Chautauqua, and at the time of his death was chief engineer of the ferryboat "Goshen."
During the thirty years that Mr. Sault was in the employ of the Erie Railroad Co., he endeared himself to all of his associates by his kind disposition and readiness at all times to console with and render assistance to his fellow men, when necessary. During the period that Mr. Sault was with the Erie Railroad Co. he resided on Jersey City Heights. About eight years ago, Mrs. Sault passed away and he then took up his residence with his daughter, Mrs. Frank E. Older.
The picture herewith shows Mr. Sault with his only grandchild on his knee. For the past few years it was very seldom that Mr. Sault was seen on the street, unless accompanied by this little Miss, whom he idolized.
Aside from Mr. Sault's acquaintance with Erie men, he was one of the best known among the Masonic fraternity in Hudson County, particularly a few years ago, when he was active in the work of the order. He was a 32d degree Mason, was three times master of Varick Lodge, F. & A.M., of Jersey City, was a member of Salaam Temple, Mystic Shriners, a member of the Scottish Rite; also a member of Esther Chapter of the Eastern Star, of which he was Past Grand Master. He was a member of Lincoln Lodge K. of P. and of the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association; also a member of the Erie Employes Relief Association. (P. 98)
J.H. SPRONG.
A death that has removed one of the real old timers from among the mechanics of the Hornell Shops, was that of Mr. J.H. Sprong, who passed away at the ripe age of 85 years, loved, respected and admired by a wide circle of friends, both in the employ of the Erie Railroad and elsewhere. He had resided in Hornell 45 years.
Mr. Sprong was a remarkable man in many ways. He was a natural born mechanic. There was little he set his hand to that he could not do. He built the house where he died, many years ago, almost entirely himself. He was a stone mason by trade and was first employed on the Erie in that capacity on the Eastern division. The brick depot at Cameron on the Susquehanna Division, was built by him. Mr. Sprong came to Hornell from the A. & G.W. R.R., where he held the position of conductor, having been transferred from the Susquehanna division, where he held the same position. He took a position in the Hornell paint shop under Master Mechanic W.E. Cooper during the foremanship of the late Col. W.N. Craw. This was his first experience in the line of painting, but he was not long in mastering the art, as it applied to locomotive work. In due time he was appointed Foreman to fill a vacancy in the paint shop. He held the position for many years and became quite noted for his work as a letterer and up to the last day he worked in the shop he did fine lettering accurately and neatly, and in a way that, considering his age, was surprising.
Before his last illness he used to amuse himself by writing the Lord's prayer in the circumference of a silver ten-cent piece. Mr. Sprong was an excellent reader and had he received the proper instruction in his younger days, might have distinguished himself as an elocutionist.
He had a wonderful memory, and frequently recalled the words and music of songs he had not heard for half a century. He was liked by all who knew him. From one end of the Erie to the other he was known among the "old guard" and very often enquired after the members after being incapacitated for work. There are few left in the employ of the Erie today whose record extends farther back in the service of the company than did Uncle Henry's, who began with the Erie 54 years ago.
It is a pleasure for the Editor of this Magazine to add his meed of praise to that bestowed on this worthy departed Brother. He was many times a contributor, both of prose and verse, to the columns of the Erie Railroad Employes Magazine and his poem, entitled "Fifty Years Ago," containing nine verses, is a classic of its kind and clearly shows the poetic genius he possessed. It appeared in the issue of July, 1910.
Mr Sprong was a member of Hornellsville Lodge, No. 331, F. & A.M.;
Steuben Chapter, No. 101, R.A.M., DeMolay Commandery No. 22.
CHARLES W. SUTTON
Charles W. Sutton, an Erie pusher flagman, was struck by pusher engine 2600 at Gulf Summit at 9:10 p.m., Saturday night, August 15th (1914). His right leg was cut off and he was otherwise uninjured. He was taken to the Barnes Hospital at Susquehanna where he died a short time later. Sutton was a former resident of Port Jervis and very popular among the younger set of men at Port Jervis and along the Delaware Division.
J.J. WALSH
After a short illness, J.J. Walsh, one of the oldest machinists in the employ of the Erie Railroad, died at his home in Cleveland, in his 69th year, after a service of 51 years with the Company.
Mr. Walsh began work for the Erie in May, 1863, as water boy in the Maintenance of Way Department, and for one year looked after tools in the Susquehanna shop. In 1864 he secured a position in the Pattern Shop and when opportunity offered he entered the Machine Shop as apprentice, this being in 1865. Four years later he qualified as machinist. After two years of bench work in the Erecting Shop and Machine Shop at Susquehanna, he came to Cleveland and went to work under Master Mechanic Wright in the old shop on Literary Street.
In 1874 he was appointed Air Brake Inspector and is credited with having applied the first air pump placed in service on the Mahoning Division. Thereafter he was assigned as Air Brake Inspector and Repairs, although filling other responsible positions about the Willson Avenue plant.
Services were held at St. Thomas Church, where Father Mahn preached an eloquent sermon over the remains of deceased. (P. 224)
PETER WEBER
Peter Weber was an old employe of the Erie Railroad Shops, his em�ployment dating back nearly twenty-five years. He was the son of Andrew and Julia Weber, and he was born in Germany in 1862. His father and mother came to this country and settled in Ft. Wayne in 1870. Weber later moved to Huntington and was married to Miss Esther Engleman, August 13, 1889. Miss Engleman was a grand daughter of Chief Lafontaine, who was Chief of the Miami tribe. This tribe of Indians was one of the most prominent in the Wabash Valley. To Mr. and Mrs. Weber were born seven children. Six of them are living to mourn his death. Their names are: Mrs. Esther God�frey, Misses Jessie, Stella, Cecelia, Gertrude and Mr. Lawrence Weber, all of Huntington. Also three brothers who reside in Cleveland.
Peter was one of the most faithful and trusty employes of the Erie Shops. He served for many years as Bolt Maker and Handyman. He was held in high esteem by all who knew him from the Master Mechanic, down. He was an encyclopedia regarding material and all work in the Blacksmith shop. Having a pleasant and amiable dis�position it was a pleasure to know him. He will be missed very much by his fellow workmen.
His sickness was of short duration, he being at work on Friday and death occurring on the following Wednesday morning at 6 o'clock. The funeral was held from St. Mary's Catholic Church on Nov. 7th (1914) at 9 o'clock. Father Moorman conducting the services. The pall bearers were John Pheister, Peter Petrie, Frank Bir, J.H. Daltry, Ed. Lavine, Walter Goldsmith and M.0. Hildebrand.
EDWARD WHITE
Edward White, for fourteen years Treasurer of the Erie Railroad Company, died at his home, 829 President Street, Brooklyn, on Sunday, April 12th (1914).
Mr. White was born at Poughkeepsie, N.Y., and was well known in banking and railroad financial circles. In 1880 he came to New York and became the Assistant Cashier of the Chase National Bank. In January, 1885, he entered the service of the Erie Railroad Company as Treasurer, and served until October, 1898, when he was succeeded by the late Andrew Donaldson, then Third Vice-President.
Mr. White was sixty-nine years of age and is survived by his widow and one daughter. (P. 167)