My Genealogy Hound

TILGHMAN STATLER, manufacturer of carriages, buggies and light wagons, and proprietor of a general repair shop at Allentown, claims Lehigh as the county of his nativity, for he was born within its borders on the 23d of January, 1818. His father, John Statler, was also a native of that county, and was a miller by trade. The grandfather of our subject, Solomon Statler, was numbered among the pioneer settlers of this locality. The mother of our subject, who bore the maiden name of Harriet Hartzell, was also born in Lehigh County, and by her marriage became the mother of four children.

Our subject is the only member of the family now living. He began his education in Weaversville, Northampton County, and afterward attended the common schools of Lehigh County. When his education was completed he began life for himself, and served an apprenticeship to the carriage-maker’s trade under Jacob Lukenbach, of Bethlehem. While thus employed he also attended a night school, for he realized the value of an education, and wished to gain a good knowledge of the common branches and other studies which would be of benefit to him in his life work.

When his term of apprenticeship had expired, Mr. Statler came to Allentown and purchased the little wagon shop then owned by Stephen Barber. There he began the manufacture of carriages, buggies and light vehicles of every description, and also did all kinds of repair work along that line. His skill and ability soon won recognition in an increased patronage, and as his trade grew he enlarged his facilities. In 1842 he tore down the old shop and built a large brick shop, 26x152 feet, and three stories in height, in which he placed all the machinery necessary for the best prosecution of his work. He manufactures carriages, buggies, sleighs and light wagons, and receives from the publica liberal patronage. His plant is situated on the corner of Sixth and Linden Streets, and in connection with the main building there are ample warehouses, extra sheds and repair houses, and also sheds for storing lumber. Employment is furnished to from ten to twenty men during the busy season, and he has a large and reliable local trade. He looks after the business himself, although he takes no other active part in the work.

In 1839 Mr. Statler was united in marriage with Miss Mary Keiper, of Allentown, daughter of George Keiper. Three children have been born to them: Eugene H., who is now engaged in the grocery business; Jane, wife of D. Norris; and Clara, wife of Adam Sand. The parents are both members of the German Reformed Church and are highly respected citizens, having many warm friends in this community, where they have so long resided.

In his political views Mr. Statler is a Democrat, and for twenty years was an efficient and capable member of the City Council. His long-continued service well indicates his personal popularity and fidelity to duty and the confidence and trust reposed in him. In his business he has met with success, and in addition to his factory he owns five dwelling-houses, which he now rents. Although well advanced in years he is still well preserved, and will probabty be spared for many years of usefulness.