My Genealogy Hound

WILLIAM P. MESSINGER. As an example of the usefulness and prominence to which men of character and determination may attain, it is but necessary to chronicle the life of William P. Messinger, the efficient and capable Principal of the public schools of Pen Argyl, and Postmaster of that place. He is a man of superior mental endowments, strengthened and enriched by the highest culture. He was born September 21, 1865, and is a son of Peter and Sarah (Germantown) Messinger. His paternal ancestors were Irish, having originally come from Cork, and his maternal grandparents were German. John Messinger, his grandfather, was a native of Northampton County, and is buried in the Forks Township churchyard. In politics he was a staunch Republican. He had six children, two sons and four daughters, four of whom are living.

Peter Messinger, father of William P., was born in Forks Township, about six miles from Easton, Pa., and was a miller and baker by occupation. When the Civil War broke out he was one among the first to offer his services in defense of the Union. He enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Fifty-second Pennsylvania Regiment, and took part in several engagements. He was honorably discharged from the service in 1865. In politics he was a Republican for a number of years, but now votes the Democratic ticket. Of his eleven children, four still survive, viz.: R. Fredrick, William P., David M. B. and John J. F.

The subject of this sketch was reared in Easton and Williams Townships, and in his youth worked in a quarry at Edelmans for about four years. At the expiration of that time he returned to Easton and entered Trach’s Academy of that place, now known as Easton Academy. It was largely through the kindness of Prof. R. H. Trach, then the Principal, that he was educated. Being without means to pay for his board and tuition, this gentleman secured for him a paper route, and furnished his board for his work around the school in the way of janitor duties. After graduating he taught school in Washington Township, and later was elected Principal of the West Bangor schools, where he remained for a time. He then went to Northampton and was Principal of the schools there for three years, giving good satisfaction in that responsible position. In 1888 he took charge of the schools of Pen Argyl, and has successfully conducted them ever since, with the exception of one year, which he spent principally in travel, being connected with the Pen Argyl Iron Works as a salesman. He was one of the organizers of the Pen Argyl Electric Light and Power Company, served as its first Secretary, and is still a member of the Board of Directors.

In his political views Mr. Messinger is a Democrat, and has been a member of the County Committee for a number of years, also frequently serving as a delegate to the various conventions. He was appointed Postmaster June 26, 1893, by President Cleveland, and received his commission July 7 of the same year. At that time the office was fourth class, but has since been changed to third class. He was re-appointed October 27, the appointment being confirmed by the Senate December 11, 1894. His leisure hours are often devoted to music, of which he is very fond, and he is a fine performer on various instruments. In religious belief he is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

Socially Mr. Messinger is connected with Pen Argyl Lodge No. 594, F. & A. M., of which he was the first Master, and was active in its organization. It He was one of the charter members of Bangor Chapter No. 274, in which he holds the position of King. He is also identified with Hugh De Payen’s Commandery, K. T., of Easton, and Bushkill Creek Lodge No. 878, I. O. O. F.

Our subject is a contributor to scientific journals, on the subjects of entomology and pedagogy. He has a large entomological collection, in which as well as in mineralogy, he takes a great deal of pleasure. His broad knowledge has been gained through his own efforts, and is the result of private study and research.