My Genealogy Hound

THEODORE HOLLY, the successful manufacturer of Dutch cheese at Souderton, he being one of three persons in this country who are making it, is of German parentage, his father, Adam Holly, being a native of that country as well as his mother. Theodore Holly was born in Hilltown township, Bucks county, Pennsylvania, February 12, 1855.

Adam Holly, father, was born and educated in the Fatherland, attending the best schools, On leaving school he turned his attention to agriculture, of which occupation he had acquired some knowledge. He followed farming very successfully for a number of years. In the meantime he married Miss Anna Nortonheiser. The couple having decided to establish their future home in America, they emigrated to this country, landing in Philadelphia, and proceeding at once to Hilltown, in Bucks county. Mr. Holly immediately engaged in his old occupation, and became one of the progressive farmers of his section. In politics Mr. Holly was a Democrat, and while he never sought or held office, he was always willing to do whatever was possible to promote party success. In connection with his occupation of farming, Mr. Holly engaged in the manufacture of what is known as Dutch cheese, the secret of which he had learned in Germany. He was very successful in this branch of business and soon commanded a large trade. He died in 1888, and his wife is also deceased. The children of the couple were John, Gustav, Charles and Theodore, the last named of whom was reared to the occupation of farming, obtaining meantime what education was to be had in the country schools of the township.

On completing his school studies, Theodore Holly turned his attention to farming and also assisted his father in making the cheese. Soon after his father’s death he conceived the idea of carrying on the business on a larger scale. He accordingly removed to Souderton, where he built a large factory and is extensively engaged in the manufacture of that product, finding a ready market for all that he produces. It is sent to all the prominent cities of the country. Mr. Holly married, in 1887, Miss Emma Horton, daughter of John Horton, of Doylestown, the county seat of Bucks county, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Holly died in 1901. The couple had one child, William. Mr. Holly is one of the most enterprising citizens of the borough of Souderton, and is greatly respected by the whole community. He is a Democrat in politics, and is earnest in support of the principles and candidates of that party. He is not an office seeker, but has been elected a member of the town council. He is an attendant at the Catholic church, having been educated in that faith.