My Genealogy Hound

JOHN B. SWARTZ, a man of intelligence and excellent business capacity, who is largely interested in the development of Cumberland county, was born on a farm in Huntingdon county, Pa., Dec. 31, 1842, son of Joseph and Susan ( Shade) Swartz, worthy citizens of German descent.

Joseph Swartz, the father, was born in Perry county, Pa., in 1826, and he died Feb. 18, 1890. He was one of the prosperous farmers of Hopewell township. Cumberland county at the time of his demise. In religious belief he was a Baptist, while in political matters, he voted the Democratic ticket. His wife, Susan Shade, was born in Perry county, in 1827. The following children were born of their marriage, all of whom lived to maturity: Jesse; Catherine; John B.; Peter B.; Samuel M.; Martha M., wife of Matthew Kling; Elizabeth, deceased; Joseph, deceased; David, deceased; Anna, deceased; and Daniel, deceased.

John B. Swartz was educated at the district school in Perry county, near which he resided, and he moved with his parents to Hopewell township, Cumberland county, where he continued his studies two winters. Until he was twenty-four the young man remained with his father on the farm, then, in November, 1866, he married Miss Elizabeth Mitchel, of Hopewell township, daughter of William and Mary Hannah Mitchel, born in that township, Jan. 31, 1841. After his marriage Mr. Swartz settled in Hopewell, on a rented farm, and engaged in farming and stock raising, in which he was quite successful. Later, he bought a farm in Mifflin township, and moved there, soon buying a farm adjoining, making 300 acres in all, and upon it he erected an excellent house and barn. He continued to live upon it until 1900. In the meanwhile he erected a saw-mill, which he operated, his product being hard lumber suitable for railroad use and car building. In 1900 he removed to Newville, where he has since made his home, looking after his various interests, his son Joseph renting the farm.

The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Swartz were: Mervin H., of Hopewell township, a successful merchant; Frank S., of Newville, where he conducts a blacksmith and repair shop, and sells machinery; William N., in the United States mail service, his route being from Newville and Heberlig to Tabor; Joseph A., farming the home place; Ralph, who engages in farming, and also operates a milk separator; John A., of Bridgewater, Mifflin township, where he conducts a feed mill and engages in farming; Rena, at home. Mr. Swartz is a Democrat in politics, and ably served as assessor of Mifflin township for three years, was auditor for two years, and supervisor two years. Mrs. Swartz is a member of the United Brethren Church.