My Genealogy Hound

AMBROSE E. LAUBACH. It is nearly ten years since this gentleman became connected with the Bethlehem Electric Light Company, which he is now serving in the capacity of foreman. When very young he commenced his apprenticeship as an engineer and machinist, and is thoroughly well versed in his trade, being familiar with all its details. In his present capacity he has served the company faithfully, and they esteem him highly for his merits and services. The birth of our subject occurred in Seidersville, Northampton County, December 16, 1860. His father, Josiah, and his paternal grandfather, Reuben, were both natives of the same place, the latter being engaged in the distillery business. Josiah Laubach was for many years engaged in agricultural pursuits in Lower Saucon Township, after which he was employed as an engineer in the zinc mines at Friedensville, continuing there until the works were closed. Afterwards he came to Bethlehem, becoming an employe of the Bethlehem Iron Company, where he still remains, though his home is in Seidersville. He is a member of the Reformed Church, and in politics a Democrat. His wife, Susannah (Boehm) Laubach, was born near Kellertown, being the daughter of Thomas Boehm, who was a miller by trade, and followed that calling until he retired. He and Mrs. Laubach became the parents of two children: Ambrose E., and John Q., who is an engineer in the employ of the Bethlehem Electric Light Company.

Our subject was reared under the parental roof, attending the common schools until reaching the age of twelve years, when he began working in the line which he has since followed. At first he was assistant engineer in the Friedensville mines, and when they closed he went to Hellertown, and there became engineer and assistant in the machine shop of the Saucon Iron Company. After four years of faithful service with that company, he went to Ambler, Montgomery County, where he acted as engineer in the chemical works for a period of three months. Coming to South Bethlehem at the end of that time, he accepted a position as engineer with the Bethlehem Iron Company, holding the same for two years.

On the 1st of August, 1885, Mr. Laubach became engineer of the Bethlehem Electric Light Company, and when two years had passed he was promoted to the position of foreman of construction, when the large engines were placed in the works. He devotes all his energies to the interests of the company, and being a man of practical experience as an engineer and machinist his services are esteemed most valuable to the welfare of the concern.

While a resident of Seidersville, in January, 1881, Mr. Laubach wedded Miss Mary Harning, who was born in Upper Saucon, Lehigh County, and of their union has been born one child, Oliver C. The pleasant residence of the family is located at No. 25 Spring Street, West Bethlehem. A member of the Masonic fraternity, Mr. Laubach belongs to Hellertown Lodge No. 563, F. & A. M., and is also a member of the orders of the Golden Eagle and Knights of the Mystic Chain of South Bethlehem. Being musically inclined, he has devoted considerable attention to the cornet, and as a member of William Baohman’s Band of Seidersville has since its organization played on the B-flat cornet. Politically he uses his ballot and influence in support of the Democratic party, and in matters of faith Is identified with the Reformed Church.