My Genealogy Hound

THOMAS T. RIDINGTON. John Ridington, father of Thomas T. Ridington, was born in England. He was educated in that country, and became a contractor and civil engineer, which occupation he followed through life. He married Miss Rosina Symons, also of England. Among their children was Thomas T. Ridington, the subject of this sketch.

He was born on the homestead in county Cornwall, England, June 13, 1829. He was educated there in such schools as were available, and went to work with his father in the contracting business. Later he learned the trade of blacksmith and boiler maker, and also gave some attention to carpentry. He remained in England until June 15, 1866, when, having decided to emigrate to America, he set sail for this country on the steamship “City of Boston,” and landed in New York, after a voyage lasting twelve days. He then went to New Hampshire, where he followed the trade of carpenter. After remaining there some time he came to Norristown, and secured a position with Boyer & Wentz as a carpenter. He was a man who could adapt himself to any and all circumstances, and had the confidence of his employers because he had their interests at heart. He remained with Boyer & Wentz until 1875, when he removed to his present home at Lansdale, Pennsylvania. He established himself in the iron business, becoming associated with Heebner & Sons. He remained in that business for many years and was very successful. He retired a few years ago, and has since lived at leisure in his handsome home in Lansdale, where he is surrounded with all the comforts of life.

He married in England in 1853, Miss Wright, who died in 1894. They had the following children: Thomas, married Annie Wetherill, and has thirteen children; Joseph, died unmarried; John J., married Esther Krupp, and has one child; Richard M., married Mary Cassel, and has three children; William R., unmarried, a minister at Malvern, Chester county, Pennsylvania; Mary J., married J. B. Stokes, and has two children. Mr. Ridington married (second) Agnes Sibbald, of Philadelphia. No children were born of this marriage.

Mr. Ridington is a Prohibitionist, although he was formerly a Republican. He never sought or held office. He is a member of the Masonic Order and of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and of the Improved Order of Red Men. He is secretary of the Lansdale Water Company. He attends the Methodist church, manifesting much interest in its welfare and growth. Mr. Ridington is a useful citizen, and is highly respected by the whole community.