My Genealogy Hound

JAMES W. GILBERT, who is now living retired in Pottstown, was born in Phoenixville, Chester county, Pennsylvania, January 8, 1864. He is the son of Washington and Catharine (Royer) Gilbert, both of whom were born in Pennsylvania.

Washington Gilbert (father) was by trade a tinker and a tinner. He removed from Chester county to Montgomery county many years ago, residing in Upper Pottsgrove township. He lived there on a farm until he went to Pottstown, where he died February 20, 1892. His wife is still living in Pottstown. Both were Lutherans. Washington and Catharine (Royer) Gilbert had two children: James W. and George, of Lehighton, Pennsylvania.

James Gilbert (grandfather) was a tinker and a farmer in Upper Pottsgrove township, Montgomery county. He was born in Falkner’s Swamp, New Hanover township, Montgomery county, and was of German descent. His wife was Sarah Bickel and they had one son, Washington Gilbert.

Samuel Royer (maternal grandfather) was a printer by trade but later became a farmer. He resided north of the borough of Pottstown. He married Miss Van Buskirk, and they both lived to be advanced in years and had a large family. Samuel Royer belonged to the State Militia.

James W. Gilbert removed from Chester county with his parents when he was eight years of age and spent the remainder of his boyhood days on the farm in Upper Pottsgrove township, attending the schools of the vicinity. He was elected constable in his township, and after removing to Pottstown was elected and served two terms in the same office, also being a member of the police force of the borough of Pottstown for several years.

James W. Gilbert married Miss Ida Dierolf, daughter of Mabray and Hannah (Weiler) Dierolf. They have two children: May and Charles. Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert reside at No. 509 North Charlotte street.

Mrs. Gilbert’s parents were natives of Berks county, where they still reside, being engaged in the occupation of farming.

Mr. Gilbert is living retired.