My Genealogy Hound

JOHN G. P. KESSLER, one of the enterprising citizens of Northampton County, and who for many years has been identified with the interests of Plainfield Township, is a native of the county where he still makes his home. He was born June 18, 1825, to the union of Philip and Catherine (Kindt) Kessler, also natives of this county. His great-grandfather, John George Peter Kessler, emigrated from Germany, the land of his birth, and made settlement in Northampton County during the last century, becoming one of the early residents of Plainfield Township, where he made his home near the post-office of Kessler’s. The grandfather of our subject, George Peter Kessler, was a child of three years when he was brought by his father to America, and with the family settled in Plainfield Township.

The father of our subject, Philip A. Kessler, spent his entire life in Northampton County, where he followed the occupation of a farmer. Of his family there now survive eight sons and daughters, namely: John G. P.; Andrew; Amandeus; Sidney; Thomas; Richard; Catherine, wife of Thomas Steele; and Julia A., who married Jacob Buss. In politics the father advocated the principles of the Democratic party, and cast his ballot in support of its nominees. His death occurred in 1872.

The subject of this sketch was reared to manhood in Northampton County, and in youth received a good education in both English and German. He early became familiar with the work incident to a farmer’s life, and on arriving at manhood chose agriculture for his vocation. At the present time he is the owner of two hundred and forty-eight acres, upon which good improvements have been placed. By his marriage with Eva Stecker, of Forks Township, four children were born, of whom three are living, namely: Philip A., Theron M. and George L. In his political belief Mr. Kessler is a Democrat. For three years he served as Commissioner of Northampton County, and his labors in that capacity were most commendable. In religion he is a member of the Lutheran Church in Forks Township, and has officiated as an Elder in the congregation for four years. During his residence in this county, covering the period of his entire life, he has witnessed many changes and marvelous improvements. By his upright conduct he has drawn around him a circle of appreciative and firm friends, by whom he is held in the highest regard.