My Genealogy Hound

WILLIAM E. ASH, of Lehighton, who for the past thirteen years has filled the position of adjuster with the American Fire Insurance Company of Philadelphia, was born in Wayne County, Pa., August, 19, 1860, in the old house built and owned by Gen. Samuel Meredith, the first Treasurer of the United States, serving under Washington. This house was built in 1802, and was known as the Belmont House. The parents of our subject were Robert and Rebecca (May) Ash. The father was a farmer by occupation and followed that pursuit for many years in Wayne County, but about 1863 removed with his family to Broome County, N. Y., where he is still living. He has now retired from active business life, resting in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former labor. His father, John Ash, was of English descent. The maternal grandfather of our subject was Thomas May.

William E. Ash was the seventh in order of birth in the family of nine children, five sons and four daughters, of whom seven grew to mature years. He was a child of only three summers when taken by his parents to Broome County, N. Y., where he grew to manhood, spending the days of his boyhood and youth in the usual manner of farmer lads. He was early inured to the arduous labors of the fields, and soon became familiar with farm work in all its departments. During the winter season he attended the district schools of the neighborhood, and afterwards was a student in Binghamton Seminary. Having attained his majority he began work in the fire insurance business, traveling through the country as the representative of a company of Susquehanna, Pa., and another of Great Bend, Pa. He was afterwards connected with the American Fire Insurance Company, and is now one of its most faithful and trusted representatives. He has ever labored earnestly in the interests of the company which he represents and his efficient and meritorious service won him recognition and secured his promotion, in 1883, to the office of special agent for the states of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland and Delaware. His faithfulness to the company’s interests did not escape his superior’s notice, and soon after he was made adjuster, with headquarters at Lehighton.

On the 25th of March, 1886, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Ash and Miss Laura J. Clauss, a daughter of the late Granville Clauss, a highly respected citizen of Lehighton. Two daughters grace this union, Mary R. and Helen A. The parents are prominent people in the community, and hold an enviable position in social circles.

Mr. Ash takes quite a leading part in Masonic affairs and is a Knight Templar Mason, belonging to the Commandery in Mauch Chunk. A public-spirited and progressive citizen, he gives his support to all enterprises calculated to advance the general welfare and aid in the upbuilding of the community. He is now President of the Lehighton Water Company, which through well constructed pipes has brought to the city water from the springs in the mountains. In connection with his other property, he owns a good farm well stocked with cattle and horses. He is a lover of the noble steed and has some especially fine trotters. His handsome residence, situated on Third Street, commands a fine view of the city.