My Genealogy Hound

JAMES WAGNER. Numbered among the capable and successful business men of Hellertown is the gentleman aboved named, who is well known, not only in Lower Saucon Township, but also throughout the entire county of Northampton. He is a representative of a family that has been identified with the history of this section for several generations. His father, Charles Wagner, a native of Northampton County, was born in 1811 and died in 1876, having resided here throughout his entire life. His occupation was that of milling, in which he gained a competence.

In everything pertaining to the welfare of the county Charles Wagner took an active part, giving his sympathy and active assistance to all measures for the benefit of the people. In politics he was an advocate of Democratic principles, and upon his party ticket was at different times elected to offices of trust and honor. In educational affairs he was especially interested and served for some time as a School Director. As Deacon and Elder, he was one of the prominent workers in the Lutheran Church, and in that faith he passed from earth. He and his wife were the parents of two sons and two daughters, namely: James, the subject of this article; Milton, a graduate of Franklin and Marshall College, who died in 1886, after teaching school successfully a couple of years, or until his health failed; Matilda, wife of Jacob Koplin; and Selinda.

Prepared for practical business by a thorough education in the public schools of Hellertown, our subject afterward started in the milling business as an employe in his father’s mill. About 1868 he and his cousin, Jacob Wagner, purchased his father’s mill, and the concern has since been carried on under the firm name of J. & J. Wagner. Under the practical management of the members of the firm the business has been conducted so as to produce the best financial returns, and at the same time guarantee satisfaction to the patrons. It is considered one of the substantial enterprises of the village, and merits and receives a large patronage from the people.

The lady who in 1870 became the wife of Mr. Wagner, and who has since been his faithful help-mate and counselor, was Amanda Laury, daughter of John Laury, of Lower Saucon Township. Three children were born of their marriage, but Mary and Annie have been taken from the home by death, Eva being the only survivor. In his political affiliations Mr. Wagner is a Democrat, and. is actively interested in the success of his party. For fifteen years or more he has served as School Director in the borough of Hellertown. In religous affiliations he is a Lutheran, devoted to the faith of his forefathers, and takes a warm interest in the progress of that denomination. He has served as Elder and Treasurer of the church, and is one of its most energetic workers. A public-spirited citizen, he takes an intelligent interest in all matters pertaining to borough and county improvement.