Arthur, Rebecca P.

Rebecca P., widow of Col. John E. Arthur, died Friday evening at the residence of her son-in-law, John H. Keppelman, 144 north 4th, aged 73 years.

[Source: Reading Eagle, Saturday, 21 February 1903.]

Arthur, Rebecca P.

Arthur--In this city, on the 20th inst., Rebecca P., widow of the late Col. John E. Arthur, aged 73 years. The relatives and friends of the family are respectfully invited to attend her funeral on Tuesday at 2 p.m. from the residence of her son-in-law, John Keppleman, No. 144 N. 4th St. Services at the house. Interment at Charles Evans Cemetery.

[Source: Reading Eagle, Saturday, 21 February 1903]

Lt. Col. JOHN E. ARTHUR - John Arthur, the father of Lt. Col. John E. Arthur, was of worthy Scotch-Irish ancestry. He emigrated from county of Tyrone, North Ireland, to America in 1810, and engaged in the profession of teaching in Chester County, Pa. He was married, in 1813, to Rebecca Parker, who was of English descent. They soon after moved to Lycoming County, Pa., and he there continued his chosen occupation until his death, in 1830. Mrs. Arthur survived her husband forty-eight years, and died in 1878, at the advanced age of ninety-two years. The subject of this sketch was born in Muncy Creek township, Lycoming County, April 25, 1826; attended the public schools, and then was apprenticed to learn the blacksmith’s trade. He came to Reading when nineteen years old and secured employment as an apprentice at blacksmithing in the Reading Railroad shops. When the war began between United States and Mexico, he enlisted in Captain Thomas Leoser’s company, at Reading; went with it to Philadelphia; was transferred by railway to Chambersburg; marched from thence to Pittsburgh, the place of rendezvous, where they were assigned to the Second Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers, and were taken down the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers on steamboats. This regiment joined General Scott’s army at his place of rendezvous, on the Island of Lobos, in the Gulf of Mexico. With his regiment he participated in the siege of Vera Cruz, and after its surrender joined the triumphant march of General Scott’s army to the city of Mexico; on the way he took part in the battle at the mountain pass of Cerro Gordo, and was garrisoned for a time at the city of Jalapa, to keep the road open to furnish supplies for the army above. He joined the army again at the city of Pueblo; assisted in storming the fortress of Chapultepec, two miles from the city of Mexico, and at the Belen Gate, one of the entrance-ways to the city, he was wounded in three places by pieces of a rifle, shattered by a cannon-ball. There were five men near him killed at the same instant. After the capture of the city he remained there six months in the hospital, during which time his wounds were dressed by a Mexican surgeon.

He returned to Reading with his company after an absence of one and a half years. Of this company, twenty of its members are living in 1886. In 1854 he became assistant foreman of the blacksmith department of the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad Company’s shops.

At the outbreak of the Civil War, in 1861, he recruited Company B, of the Ninety-third Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers, which was assigned to the Army of the Potomac, and he participated with it in the siege of Yorktown, battles of Williamsburg and Fair Oaks, and in the terrible fighting for seven days before Richmond. All of these were memorable engagements in the Peninsula campaign of 1862.

At the battle of Fair Oaks he was commended for his coolness and bravery by his brigade commander, General Peck, after which event for several months he had command of the regiment, and in July, 1862, was promoted to lieutenant-colonel. Later in the year 1862 he was engaged in the battle of Chantilly and was present at the battle of Antietam. After about two years’ service, owing to physical debility, caused from a chronic disease, contracted in Mexico, he was discharged from the service on a surgeon’s certificate.

He then returned home, recuperated his health, and in 1863 became foreman of the blacksmith department of the railroad shops at Reading. During the second Confederate invasion of Pennsylvania he recruited a company for the emergency, composed of prominent business men of Reading. This company was assigned to the Forty-second Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers, of which he was chosen lieutenant-colonel. After a term of about three months’ service, he again resumed his duties at the railroad shops, in which position he rendered very efficient service for several years.

In 1870 Colonel Arthur was chosen city treasurer for the term of two years. At the next election he received the unanimous nomination of both political parties, and owing to fidelity of purpose and integrity of management of the finances of the city, was re-elected six successive times, serving in all fourteen consecutive years. He retired from that position in 1885.

On May 3, 1851, Colonel Arthur was married to Rebecca P. Moyer, daughter of Amos Moyer, of Reading. Their children are Mary, married to John H. Keppelman, of Reading; Frank M., draughtsman for the Lehigh Valley Railroad Company, at Easton; Amos A., a Methodist clergyman, stationed at Port Clinton, Schuylkill County; John E., a practical machinist; and Emily.

Appendix No. XLIV: Jno. E. Arthur's Re-imbursement

Report of the Committee on Finance

To the Select and Common Councils of the city of Reading:

Your committee on finance, in presenting an ordinance entitled "An ordinance to re-imburse Jno. E. Arthur for moneys deposited in the city treasury, to cover the loss of the city of Reading, by the failure of the banking house of Bushong & Bro., deem it proper to report that the said ordinance originated in the committee, and was framed and reported in response to a public sentiment, expressed with extraordinary unanimity, that the repayment of the money deposited in the city treasury by Col. Arthur, with interest, is a moral obligation which the city is bound in honor to discharge.

The committee gave the whole subject very careful consideration, in view of the fact that it is a debt which the city could not be required by any legal proceedings to pay, and that the amount of money contemplated in the appropriation, could be retained in the city treasury and applied to other purposes; but the conclusion was irresistible that the only course to be followed was that indicated by a higher sense of public honor and duty than that found in the mere technical requirements of the law, and that the only acceptable response to the public sentiment upon this subject, was the doing of complete fairness and justice to a faithful public officer, whose present misfortune is only attributable to the fact that he stood in the breach when the peril came, and was less prompt than his contemporaries to ask relief at the hands of the public, from what was justly and generally considered a public calamity.

The power of councils to make the appropriation is unquestioned, as it may either be treated as a loan to the city, or as money which came into the treasury by mistake or accident, and which therefore ought not to be retained. It is certain that this sum of money was not derived by the city from any of its sources of revenue, and that the city did not know it had been put into the treasury and it cannot therefore be morally treated as belonging to the city; but without regard to any of these considerations, the councils have full power to make the appropriation.

Some time before the loss was sustained, councils by resolutions directed the treasurer to deposit the moneys of the city coming into his hands, in the Farmers' National bank, the Union National bank and the Reading Savings bank, which directions he observed as to all future deposits and at once began to withdraw the large deposit then existing at the banking house of Bushong & Bro., and at the time of the failure had reduced the same to $7800, while the deposit at the Farmers' bank was upwards of $48,000 and at the Union bank upwards of $40,000, showing a compliance with the directions of councils, in making the designated banks the depositories of the city funds from and after the passage of said resolution, and the exercise of a prudent judgment in withdrawing the funds from a bank not designated, although enjoying the fullest public confidence.

Under similar circumstances (not one of them having the force of a legal claim), the county treasurer, the school treasurer, the then city solicitor and the treasurers of all private corporations of the city were exonerated, thus recording the public sentiment that it was esteemed a public calamity and not a proper occasion for a resort to individual responsibilities, and your committee is of the opinion that the case of Col. Arthur, by reason of his conduct in making up the loss at the expense of all his private means, and of making no demand upon the city, (for he is not now demanding it) is more meritorious than that of any of the other cases. We strongly recommend the passage of the ordinance, thereby placing Col. Arthur, after the lapse of six years, on equal terms with all the other exonerated officers.

Respectfully submitted,

J.G. Leinbach,
Ferd. Winter,
Thos. J. Dotts,
Committee.

Reading, Pa., Jan. 14, 1884

Source: Appendix to the Journals of the Select and Common Councils, pp. CVIII-CX.

An Ordinance

Making an additional appropriation to reimburse John E. Arthur for monies deposited in the City Treasury, to cover the loss of the city of Reading, by the failure of the banking house of Bushong & Bro.

Whereas, Upon the failure of the banking house of Bushong & Bro., November 17, 1877, there was deposited to the credit of the city of Reading, in said banking house, the sum of seventy-eight hundred (7800) dollars which was lost by said failure;

And Whereas, John E. Arthur, the city treasurer, without the request or knowledge of the city, but of his own motion and accord and out of his own private means, paid into the city treasury the amount of said loss, and retained for himself the certificates of deposit issued therefore by said banking house;

And Whereas, All the other public officers entrusted with the safe keeping of the moneys of the cou[n]ty of Berks and the city of Reading, viz: The county treasurer, the school treasurer, and the then city solicitor, were exonerated and relieved from all liability arising out of the losses occasioned by the failure of the said banking house of Bushong & Bro., and the Reading Savings Bank, upon the ground that those institutions had enjoyed the public confidence, and that a deposit of the public moneys therein, by the officers entrusted therewith, was within the line of that ordinary prudence, care and judgment, which they are required to exercise in the performance of their duties;

And Whereas, Having exonerated and relieved its other officers, the city cannot in justice or good conscience retain the money of John E. Arthur, paid into the treasury aforesaid, without notice or complaint, and which payment was not disclosed by him but only discovered and made known through the auditing officers of the said banking house of Bushong & Bro.; therefore,

Sec. 1. Be it ordained by the Select and Common Councils of the city of Reading: That the sum of seventy-eight hundred (7800) dollars, with interest, from November 17, 1877, be and the same is hereby appropriated to John E. Arthur in repayment of the said sum deposited by him in the city treasury; to be paid out of any moneys in the city treasury not otherwise appropriated, and the said John E. Arthur is hereby authorized and directed to place in the treasury, certificates received by him, as aforesaid, as a voucher for the deposit to the credit of the city with Bushong & Bro., on the 17th day of November 1877, as aforesaid.

Approved January 16, 1884.

Wm. G. Rowe, Mayor.

Source: Appendix to the Journals of the Select and Common Councils, p. CLXXXVI-CLXXXVII.

"While the 93d Regiment was passing through Washington and Georgetown, we passed in review on Pennsylvania avenue, and among the thousands who lined the pavements was a small group, among whom was a very tall gaunt man, with a pale looking countenance, dressed in a black frock coat, clinging somewhat indifferently to him, stooped shoulders, a black silk hat, with a thoughtful and serious cast of face, who called out 'Bub!' 'Bub!' Capt. Arthur heard him, and noticing that he was addressing me, informed me of it and gave me permission to leave the ranks. I no more thought when the tall, gaunt looking gentleman, with pleasing friendliness of manner, grasped my hand and said, 'Excuse my manners, it was jealousy on my part, that made me call you out to size you up.' He said, 'How tall are you, and what is your age?' I told him, 'I am 6 feet 6-1/2 inches, and in my 17th year, and weigh 140 pounds.' He forthwith drew out of his pocket a black covered memorandum book, and with an ordinary stub pencil noted down my answer. Then he introduced himself in this characteristic way: 'I am old Abe!' I was startled, but felt honored; he next introduced me to Vice-President Hamlin as 'My Son,' and I noticed Gen. Cameron and Governor Curtin stood in the group. He noted our combined heights in the memoranda, giving each full name as follows:

Mahlon Shaaber, B, 93d P.V. 6 ft. 6-1/2 in.
Abraham Lincoln, President 6 ft. 4 in.
Hannibal Hamlin, Vice-President 6 ft. 2-1/2 in.
General Cameron 6 ft. 1 in.
Governor Curtin, Pennsylvania 6 ft. 2 in.
---------------
Total 31 ft. 4 in.

"He said jokingly this incident, where so many tall men have met, will not occur again. After quite a prolonged conversation he volunteered good advice to me. He indicated what my habits should be, my diet in camp, that I must eat no pastry, pies, etc., and emphasized the precaution against the use of intoxicating drinks. He told me when lying down to sleep I should always rest the head lower than the chest to expand my lungs, and seriously added 'I am afraid that you will not stand the service.' I essayed to leave, but just then thinking of the orders about stragglers, I asked him to give me a pass, as the patrolmen might gather me in to the guard house. He at once reproduced his memorandum book, tore out a blank, and wrote these words, 'Pass the soldier on his way to camp, by request of, Abe Lincoln.' My knapsack was captured in battle and the memento lost. When the grand old man bade me good bye, he embraced me, virtually putting his arm around my neck, and said with kindly emotion, 'Good-bye, my son. God bless you. Come soon and dine with me.'

"At a subsequent time accompanied by Sergeant Fritz, of Company B, I paid a visit to Washington to exchange clothing drawn by me which were too short. On our return to camp we called on the President at the White House. We were ushered into the Blue Room by a colored attendant, where the President arose from a chair where he was engaged in writing, and at once recalled the former meeting and gave us a kindly welcome to the White House. He showed us the spacious building, and presented us to the invited guests of the day. Being invited to dine I lost courage and made up my mind to decline. Mr. Lincoln insisted and said 'I will give you a seat on my right as my particular guest.' I confessed that I was afraid and ashamed to sit with such elegantly dressed company in my shabby clothes, when the Presaident characteristically replied: 'It's not the clothing that makes the man, my son, it's the heart. I think more of a man dresssed in blue for love of his country, than of those gay visitors, whose chief business in these trying times is simply to dress for receptions.' I, however, declined, stating that I would enjoy my bean soup and hard tack better than the reception diner. The President took both hands in his and gave me a parting blessing
and dismissed me saying: 'If you lie around Washington in the future call again.' It was always my great regret in after life, that I did not dine with the President. [Signed] Yours truly, Mahlon Shaaber."

Mexican War Pension Records
Joined Army Dec. 16, 1846 at Reading, PA
Mustered in at Pittsburgh, PA Jan. 5, 1847

Sept. 11, 1847 wounded severely during charge on Sept. 13, 1847.

Left “sick” in hospital City of Mexico Sept. 15, 1847

Enrolled in Company B, 93rd Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers
Sept. 13, 1961 at Reading PA
as Captain John E. Arthur

Promoted to Lt. Col. Commission dated July 10, 1862. John W. Johnston resigned.

Washington DC Nov. 25, 1862

Resigned due to disability at Stafford Court and honorably discharged Nov. 14, 1862

93RD. PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEER INFANTRY at FAIR OAKS

HDQRS, NINETY-THIRD PENNSYLVANIA REGIMENT,
Camp ----, Va., June 2, 1862.
CAPTAIN: In compliance with orders received from brigade headquarters on Saturday, May 31, 1862, the Ninety-third Pennsylvania Regiment left their camp at Seven Pines at 1 o'clock p.m. to take position in an open field some 500 yards in advance of their old camp. They were under the command of Col. J. M. McCarter, assisted by Capt. J. E. Arthur as lieutenant-colonel and Adjutant Lewis as major. After the regiment being formed in line of battle, heavy firing was heard on our right. By direction of General Peck three companies of the Ninety-third, under the command of Adjutant Lewis, were posted along by the road to the right of the regiment. From this line a clear view could be had of the clearing in front, together with the woods on the right and left. After a few minutes the entire regiment was ordered to the extreme left of General Casey's division, being compelled to force their way through a thick woods to attain that point.

Upon coming into position, and in fact before the men could be thrown into line, the enemy, who were in overwhelming force in front, opened a heavy fire. This was answered in good style, and evidently with great effect, by the Ninety-third. After holding this position for nearly an hour our regiment was compelled to fall back a distance of 30 yards, where they again opened fire. From skirmishers who had been thrown out from our left we found that the enemy had outflanked us at that point. This was the occasion for the regiment falling back, which we continued to do, fighting at each halt, until the enemy were upon our extreme left. This position was held until the enemy again flanked us on the left, when we retired to a distance of 150 yards to a road running through the woods. The Ninety-third formed on this road to prevent a farther advance of the enemy.

After remaining in this position for some time two regiments of the enemy were seen coming toward our right at a double-quick, and knowing that a force of the enemy was on our left, and General Casey's center falling back at the same time, the Ninety-third were compelled to retire, though in good order, to the position first occupied by them. By direction of General Peck the regiment was placed in line on the left of the One hundred and second Pennsylvania Volunteers on the edge of the woods on the right of the first position. We remained in this position for a short time, engaged in throwing up breastworks of logs and brush as a protection against the enemy's fire, whom we expected every moment to advance from the woods in front. From this position the One hundred and second and Ninety-third Pennsylvania Volunteers were rapidly pushed forward to the right of General Casey's line, being compelled to attain their position to pass through a perfect storm of shell and bullets. Upon attaining their position the Ninety third opened a heavy fire upon the enemy who were in front. At this point the enemy's fire was hotter than at any other along the line. The enemy's force was much larger than our own, and they pushed forward in a most determined manner. The Ninety-third maintained their position until nearly all their ammunition was exhausted, when they were ordered to fall back a short distance to a ravine, where they made another stand, and remained until they expended the remainder of their ammunition. They then very unwillingly retired to the woods, where they took position, being unable to make longer fight except by the bayonet. The remnant of the regiment was formed in the rear of the rifle pits, where they still remain.

During the fight the horse of Colonel McCarter was killed and the colonel himself wounded. General Heintzelman supplied him with a second, which was also shot. He was a second time wounded by a shell from the enemy, and has since been sent home unfit for duty. Adjutant Lewis' horse was also shot under him. One commissioned officer was killed, I mortally wounded, 3 wounded, and I is missing, supposed to have been made prisoner.

The officers and men throughout the regiment displayed great gallantry and are deserving of all praise. Many of our killed and wounded we were compelled to leave on the field, the enemy pushing forward so fast and in such overwhelming numbers that we were unable to get them off. Accompanying is as correct a list of the killed, wounded, and missing as I am able to furnish at present. Parties are now out in search of the bodies of their comrades, and when they report I will be able to give a correct list.(*)

I have the honor to be, &c., your obedient servant,
J. E. ARTHUR,
Captain, Commanding Ninety-third Pennsylvania Vols.
Capt. W. H. MORRIS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Peck's Brigade.

SOURCE: Official Records of the War of the Rebellion

Arthur, John Elliott (Col.)

Death of Col. John E. Arthur. His highly honorable record in 2 wars--was city treasurer 14 years--how he made good a loss of $10,000, and was later reimbursed by the city--twice refused to receive a pension.

Col. John Elliott Arthur, one of the most highly esteemed residents of Reading, died at his home, 127 South 4th, at 9 o'clock Sunday evening. Though ailing for ten days, his condition was at no time considered serious, and Sunday evening during a visit by his son, John E. Arthur, Jr., and daughter and son-in-law, Mr. And Mrs. John H. Keppelman, appeared in excellent spirits.

Shortly before 9 o'clock his son and Mr. And Mrs. Keppelman left. They had barely reached their houses when they were summoned to the father's bedside, but when they arrived Mr. Arthur had breathed his last, death having been due to heart disease.

Two Unusual Events in His Career

Two incidents in his life characterized him as a remarkable man. The most notable of these occurred while he was city treasurer. He had about $10,000 of the city's cash deposited in one of the local banks and when it failed in '77, the money was lost. Colonel Arthur told no one, but made good the amount by drawing upon his own private resources. In order to do this it was necessary for him to sell most of his property and building association shares.

The matter was adjusted and no one knew of the self-sacrificing deed performed by Colonel Arthur until three or four years later. How it was divulged came about as follows: The late judge Bruckman was chairman of the Finance Committee of Councils, and was one of those appointed to adjust the financial difficulties of the bank which had failed and in which Treasurer Arthur had deposited the city's money. An ordinance was introduced in Councils to increase the salary of the city officials and the matter was referred to the Finance Committee.

As chairman of the committee, Judge Bruckman was opposed to increasing the salary of any official with the exception of Treasurer Arthur. Then for the first time, it was related by him how the City Treasurer had made good the large sum of money lost by the city through the bank failure. Not only was the salary of the official increased, but to answer to a public sentiment, the necessary legislation was immediately introduced in Councils and he was reimbursed for his loss with interest. There was a general demand from the taxpayers that this should be done.

The second incident, and one which is known to have occurred only a few times in the history of this government, was his refusal to accept a pension which was twice offered him for his gallant services in the cause of his country. He received a letter from the Department at Washington, stating that they only had a few other instances of this character on record.

Sketch of His Life

Colonel Arthur was born in Muncy Creek township, Lycoming County, April 25, 1826. He was of Scotch-Irish ancestry. His father came from County Tyrone, Ireland, and was a school teacher in Chester County and later in Lycoming for 20 years. The son, John E., attended the public schools and while a lad was apprenticed to the blacksmith trade. At the age of 19 years he came to Reading and entered the employ of the Reading Railway Company as a blacksmith.

At the breaking out of the Mexican war he enlisted in Captain Thomas Leoser's company, which was raised in this city, and assigned to the 2nd Pennsylvania Volunteer Regiment.

Col. Arthur was a corporal in his company, which is today known as the Reading Artillerists. His reminiscences of that war were highly interesting and it was one of his greatest enjoyments to meet his old comrades in arms in after years. These reunions have not recently been held, as there are only a few remaining survivors of the Mexican war in Reading.

The company made the trip to Chambersburg by rail, marched from thence to Pittsburgh and then proceeded down the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers by steamboats. Colonel Arthur participated in the siege of Vera Cruz and with General Scott's triumphant army marched into the City of Mexico. While the assault on Chapultepec was being made he was wounded. After one and a half year's service he returned to Reading, being discharged on account of his wounds. He was spoken of as an exceedingly brave soldier, and time and time received the commendation of his superior officers.

The war over, he returned to civil life. He again took up the blacksmith trade and in 1854, was made assistant foreman of this department at the Reading railway shops. At the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861, he recruited Co. B, 93d Pennsylvania Volunteers of which he was commissioned captain. With his command he participated in the siege of Yorktown, the battles of the Wilderness and Fair Oaks and the terrible seven days' fighting before Richmond. For distinguished service at the battle of Fair Oaks he was promoted to lieutenant colonel of his regiment. Later he was engaged in the battle of Chantilly and was present at Antietam. After two years' service, owing to physical debility contracted in Mexico, he was obliged to return home.

In 1863 he assumed the foremanship of the blacksmithing department of the P&R shops, where he remained until the emergency call for troops during the Confederate invasion of Pennsylvania when he recruited a company, which was assigned to the 42d Pennsylvania Volunteers., and of which command he was made lieutenant colonel. After three months' service he again entered the Reading Railway shops, where he remained until 1870, when he was chosen City treasurer on the Democratic ticket. At the ensuing election he received the unanimous nomination of both political parties and owing to fidelity of purpose and integrity of management of the finances of the city, was re-elected six successive times. He served in all 14 consecutive years, when in 1885 he refused a re-nomination at the hands of his party and retired, much to the regret of the citizens in general. Amidst all the changing political conditions at City hall, he was re-elected, when the opposition party was victorious with all its other candidates. He had the esteem and confidence of all classes of citizens as few officials ever possessed. His name was a synonym for integrity and honesty and it may be truly said of him that his word was as good as his bond. Fidelity was his strongest characteristic. In all his relations, whether to his family, in business affairs, to his employers, or as a public official he was animated by a conscientious desire to do right, a quality for which he was admired by all who knew him.

Although to all appearances of reserved manner, he was one of the most companionable of men. As city treasurer he established a high standard of efficiency, which he ever maintained. With his entrance into the Reading Railway shops he was at once recognized as a competent and faithful employee. When he arose by his won exertions to positions of responsibility in the same plant he retained the good will and confidence of the men under him. He had a highly honorable career as a soldier in two wars, and in civil life his record was unblemished. He was admired for all those traits of character, which stamped him as a valued member of the community. For a number of years he was secretary of all the West Reading building associations. He resigned about two years ago.

Colonel Arthur was for some years secretary of the Fire underwriters Association of this city, but retired from active work owing to advanced age.

On May 3, 1851, he was married to Miss Rebecca P. Moyer, of this city, by the late Rev. Dr. Aaron S. Leinbach. Seven children were born in the union, two of whom--James Ancona and Fannie Louisa Arthur--died in youth, while his widow and five children--Mary E., wife of John H. Keppelman, this city; Frank m. Arthur, Philadelphia; Rev. Amos A. Arthur, Bristol; John E. Arthur, Jr., and Emily R., wife of Samuel A. Mester of York--survive, together with 2 brothers, Henry Arthur of Three Rivers Mich., and James Arthur of Muncy.

He was a member of the Odd Fellows and Masonic fraternity and St. Matthew's Lutheran church.

In 1887 he was the Democratic candidate for mayor against James P. Kenney, and was defeated for the office by but 104 votes.

[Source: Reading Eagle, Monday, 12 March 1900.]

Arthur, John Elliott (Col.)

Arthur--In this city, on the 11th inst., Col. John E. Arthur, aged 73 years, 10 months, and 14 days. The relatives and friends of the family also Salome Lodge No. 105, I.O. of O.F. Reading Encampment No. 43; Chandler Lodge No. 227, F. & A.M.; Neversink Lodge No. 323, K. of P. and the survivors of the Mexican War are respectfully invited to attend the funeral from his late residence, No. 127 South Fourth St. on Thursday afternoon at 1:30. Services at house. Interment at Charles Evans Cemetery. Please omit flowers.

[Source: Reading Eagle, 13 March 1900.]

Arthur, John Elliott (Col.)

Funeral of Col. Arthur. A large attendance of relatives, friends and organizations to which he belonged.

The funeral of Col. John E. Arthur took place from his residence 127 South 4th at 1:20 p.m. and was largely attended. The remains were attired in a black suit and reposed in a solid walnut casket with silver trimmings and plate inscribed with the date of death and deceased's name and age. The bearers were selected from among the members of Salome lodge, no. 105, IOOF, Reading Encampment no. 43; Chandler Lodge, No. 227; F. & A.M.; Neversink Lodge No. 323, K. of P., delegations of which were present together with city officials and a number of the surviving members of the Mexican war. Services were conducted at the house by Rev. Dr. Hufford. In his address he paid a high tribute to the deceased and referred to his many sterling qualities.

Relatives were present from York, Bristol and Philadelphia. By request of the family, there were no flowers save a cluster of roses from the children and grandchildren. Interment in Charles Evans Cemetery Funeral director; E.S. Miller.

[Source: Reading Eagle, Thursday, 15 March 1900, p. 1]

READING AND BERKS COUNTY
COLONEL JOHN E. ARTHUR-A name of permanent significance to Berks County and to the city of Reading, and one which is an ornament to the records of civic and patriotic activity is that of Colonel John E. Arthur. Many years have passed since he laid aside the responsibilities and duties of life, obeying the higher summons to which, eventually, all must respond. Yet so closely did his forward endeavors parallel the progress of his time that his life story is one of the keenest interest to every student of conditions and affairs, and it bears direct relation to the immediate advance of the present day. Colonel Arthur was a man singularly devoted to his own high appreciation of the meaning of the word duty. This principle governed his life and inspired his every act. His brilliant mentality and forceful, courageous spirit, together with his habitual attitude of looking forward, reaching upward, all these combined to form a majestic character, while his deep appreciation of the problems and achieve ments of others gave him that sympathy which even in his own day and generation made him honored and beloved.

The family of which Colonel Arthur was an honored representative came to America from the North of Ireland, emigrating from County Tyrone in the person of John Arthur, father of Colonel Arthur, in 1810. Engaged in the profession of teaching for some three years in Chester County, Pennsylvania, he removed to Lycoming County shortly after his marriage, but continued in the work of an educator. A pioneer in spirit he did much outstanding work in this profession during those early years of the development of the Public School System of Pennsylvania and much credit is due to his devoted endeavors. He was active as a teacher until his death at an early age in 1830. John Arthur married, in 1813, Rebecca Parker, who was born in Chester County, Pennsylvania, of English descent. She survived her husband for forty-eight years, passing away in 1878 at the great age of ninety- two years.

John Elliott Arthur was born in Muncy Creek Township, Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, April 25, 1826, and died April 1, 1903. His education was received in the public schools of his birthplace, and although it was limited to the common school course his keen mind and interest in study were the same throughout his lifetime of constant acquisition of useful knowledge, while his pleasure in literature and the arts made of him a highly cultured man. As a young man he mastered the blacksmith's trade, completing his apprenticeship at the Reading Railroad Shops where he became an employee at the age of nineteen years. In those early years Colonel Arthur's career was interrupted by the War with Mexico in which he took a prominent part. A considerable period passed after his return to civilian life before he was entirely recovered from wounds and hardships endured during the war. In 1854 he became identified once more with the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad Company, this time as foreman of their blacksmithing department. Civil War called Colonel Arthur a second time to the colors and before its close he was returned to his home broken in health and exhausted. He resumed his position as foreman of the blacksmith shop, however, before the close of the war, and while he was still again interrupted in the performance of his civilian duties by local military activities he remained with the same railroad for a number of years. In all his activities as a business man he revealed the ability to lead others which was so definitely marked in his military service. Rising in the organization until he filled a position of large responsibility, Colonel Arthur was a factor of importance in the history of the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad during the years immediately subsequent to the Civil War. In 1870 he was elected treasurer of the city of Reading on the Democratic ticket for a term of two years, and his servioes hi that largely responsible office were so entirely satisfactory to the people that no opposing candidate entered the field for the next election, both political parties giving Colonel Arthur the unanimous nomination, and the people following with a splendid vote at the polls. His remarkable judgment and absolute integrity were so fully recognized by the people that he was re-elected to the same office for six successive terms, serving thus from fourteen years of consecutive activity. His retirement from municipal office in 1885 practically closed his active career. The remaining years of his life were devoted to his real estate interest and other personal affairs.

The military record of Colonel John E. Arthur began with his enlistment in Captain Thomas Leoser's company in a Pennsylvania unit for service in the Mexican War. Going with this company to Philadelphia, he was transferred to Chambersburg, and from that point marched to Pittsburgh. Recruiting en route had largely augmented the numbers of this military body, and upon their arrival in Pittsburgh Colonel Arthur was assigned to the second Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. The soldiers went to the front by river boats down the Ohio and Mississippi, joining General Scott's army on the Island of Lobos in the Gull of Mexico, Colonel Arthur participated in the siege of Vera Cruz in the spring of 1847, and after the surrender of that stronghold he accompanied General Scott to the city of Mexico, taking a gallant part in the short but spectacular battle at the pass of Cerro Gordo when the Mexicans fled before the invading army. Garrisoned for a time at Jalapa to keep a clear road for the commissary wagons to pass through to the other branches of the army, he joined his regiment later at the city of Pueblo and participated in the storming of Chapultepec, two miles outside the city of Mexico. At the very entrance of the city, at the Belen Gate, a rifle shattered by a cannon ball instantly killed five men and Colonel Arthur received several wounds from the flying fragments of metal. On September 14, 1847, that little contingent of some six thousand men under General Scott lifted the stars and stripes over the city of Mexico above the “Halls of Montezumas,” the stately buildings erected by successors of old Cortez. Stricken as he was just before the final success, Colonel Arthur was cared for in the military hospitals within the city for six months, his wounds dressed by a Mexican surgeon. It was after a year and a half that he returned with hi company to Reading, and of those who belonged to that company, twenty were still living in 1886.
It was one of the sadly needed seasoned veterans of the time that Colonel Arthur entered the activities of the Civil War. He recruited Company B of the 93rd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and with his company was assigned to the Army of the Potomac. He took part in the seige of Yorktown, the battle of Williamsburg and also the battle of Fair Oaks, and endured the seven days' siege of Richmond. Throughout the entire peninsular campaign of 1862 he revealed the strong and lofty spirit of the true soldier, receiving commendation from his brigade commander, General Peck, for coolness and bravery at the battle of Fair Oaks. For several months thereafter he was placed in command the regiment, and his promotion to the rank of lieutenant colonel was received in July of the same year. Later in that year Colonel Arthur served in the battles of Chantilly and Antietam. Past his first youth when he endured the activities of the Civil War, the strain of the conflict having left its mark, two years of service in the cause of the Union so aggravated a chronic disease contracted in Mexico and the trouble resulting wounds of that war early in 1863, that Colonel Arthur was honorably discharged from the service by recommendation of the military surgeons.
Returning home, Col. Arthur resumed work in the shops of the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad as soon as he had partially recovered his health. There the second Confederate invasion of Pennsylvania found him engaged in the interests of civilian life, still the military leader. He instantly recruited a splendid company to meet the emergency, practically all of the prominent business men of Reading rallying around him to drive the invaders back to their own territory. This company, under Colonel Arthur's command as lieutenant-colonel, was assigned to the Forty-Second Regiment of the Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. Although the duties of this unit amounted to little more than emergency service, Colonel Arthur held his commission for three years before finally resigning from military affairs. His record of faithful service forms one of best and inspiring pages in the annals of advance in Pennsylvania, and is a worthy record of patriotic endeavor.
Colonel John E. Arthur married, May 3, 1851, Rebecca P. Moyer, daughter of Amos Moyer, of Reading, and they were the parents of the following children - Mary E., wife of John H. Keppelman, (q. v.) of Reading 2. Frank M., a superintendent of the United Gas Improvement Company, Philadelphia. 3. Amos A., a Methodist clergyman, stationed at Philadelphia. 4. John E., foreman of the Consumers' Gas Company, of Reading 5. Emily, wife of Samuel A. Mester, formerly of Reading and now of Columbus, Ohio.

Clippings from the Reading Times and Dispatch, Monday, January 29, 1872
Local Affairs
Eighth Ward Republican Meeting

The Republicans of the 8th Ward are requested to meet at Hinnershitz's Hotel, Ninth and Washington Streets, this evening, at 7 1/2 o'clock, for the purpose of nominating Ward officers. A general attendance is expected.
Personal

Ensign H.M.M. Richards has been ordered to report at the Newport (R.I.) Torpedo Station. Mr. R. and wife left for Newport on Saturday morning.

J. Warren Tryon, Esq., of this city, was elected by the Grand Lodge, K. of P., which was in session in Philadelphia last week, D.D. Grand Chancellor of the Order of Knights of Pythias for the district of Berks.
Accident

A young man named John R. Stofflet was run over by the Liberty hose carriage, at the corner of Sixth and Canal streets, on Thursday night, and had his knee, ankle and thigh severely bruised.

There was a larger attendance at the annual meeting of the Berks County Agricultural Society, on Saturday, than has been known in the history of the organization for years.
Two City Auditors to be Elected

There will be two City Auditors to be elected at the ensuing City Election, instead of one, Mr. John Keppleman having been elected by Councils to fill a vacancy caused by the resignation of Col. John E. Arthur, City Treasurer. The Councils only have power to fill vacancies until the election. This will necessitate the nomination of an additional candidate by the Republicans.

Clippings from the Berks and Schuylkill Journal, Saturday, October 18, 1862

The 93d

The vacancies in the officers of the 93d Reg't P.V. have been filled up by promotion. Our gallant townsman, Capt. John E. Arthur has been made Lieutenant Colonel, and Capt. John Mark, of Lebanon, Major. Rev. J.M. McCarter, continues in his position as Colonel. The soldiers speak of Lieut. Col. Arthur in the highest terms. He has as we learn, been virtually in command of the Regiment for some time and acquitted himself with great credit in every battle in which the Regiment was engaged.

Army Correspondence

Letter from the 93rd Regiment,
Camp near Clear Spring, MD
October 13th, 1862

Dear Journal: We have often thought how conspicuous a part circumstances bear in the formation of a man's character. And, as impulses, emotions and desires mould that character, may we not claim for them a corresponding degree of subjection to such present influences. In the army we realize the truth of this theory more sensibly than ever before, and, consequently, what would have been pleasure at home, here becomes a sad and painful reality. We allude to the approach of autumn. In the family circle us coming is hailed as the harbinger of social endearments and the warm glow of the fireside never fails to disarm the wintry chill of its bitter sting; but to the soldier without any weapon to meet its rude assault, it comes like a conqueror. It waves its sceptre over us and the bravest cower before its dread approach it haunts our sleep--breathes its icy breath upon our trembling limbs, and fear usurps the sway of refreshing slumber; its fell blast sweeps past the sentinel's post--touching upon the wind-harps melancholy chords a requiem to departed comfort--and its cadences linger with sorrowful dalliance upon the ears of him who fears, yet reveres, the doleful teaching.

Soon the "melancholy days" will come. Even at this time they seem to be upon us. A heavy mist has spread its folds over hill and dale, and a sprit gloom sits brooding over the coming prospect. The pathway of the Future looks dark and dreary, and, although its uncertain windings are illumined by a glimmer from Hope's bright rays, still the end is lost in uncertainty and doubt; and while we trust, we cannot rely; while we fear, we dare not submit to the conflicting emotions which ever pervade our being. Happiness then, becomes a fugitive bird, and soars far away into unseen realms; yet it sends back, upon the wings of thought, a welcome messenger of love and peace, that tells of a better country, alone congenial to its existence, where sorrow and trouble never come, and adversity does not wage war against the brave and good. To this blest abode, then, the soldier may look for comfort, for, as earth's vanities loom up before him as a passing dream, he feels that there alone is the happy goal we all desire—the delightful story of "our sorrows o'er."

The above train of thought was induced by surrounding influences. A raw air is coursing through our camp, and, bundled together in their little d'Abritents (?), or gathered around the smoky camp-fire, the "boys" seem to dread it as a fearful enemy. Our situation is in close proximity to a little village known as Clear Spring. The inhabitants of this place are loyal, and treated us with much kindness. The march from Drainsville hither was difficult and arduous, on account of the mud; yet by dint of a whole night's trudging, we managed to accomplish it. The rest of the Brigade passed right through to our present encampment, but the "93rd" was filed into the principal street, had their arms stacked, and allowed the privilege of enjoying themselves in any and every way opportunity might offer. In this manner Saturday and part of Sunday were spent, when we were ordered to join the Brigade.

We are now lying near the foot of a large hill, resembling somewhat in appearance the much-loved "Penn's Mount." Our situation does not command a view of a very long range of country, for the prospect is circumscribed by the hilly ranges that wind in zig-zag turning around us—leaving us, in a measure, hemmed in between. It is reported that some twenty-five hundred Rebel Cavalry, with one light battery, have passed up in this direction, and we are no doubt placed here in order to intercept their return.

Capt. Arthur has received his commission as Lieutenant Colonel of the "93rd." This honor could not have fallen upon more worthy shoulders. Of a good judgment, cool and self-possessed while in the field—blessed, alike, with a fine military knowledge—he is just the man for the post, and we feel assured the future, if opportunity should offer, will continue to him the prestige of a name his courage has won on the bloody fields of Williamsburg and Fair Oaks.

For the last fortnight we have had nothing to do but drill, &c. plenty crowned our board, gentle weather lent its blessing, and the record is replete with pleasing incidents. Among others, we were favored with a visit from our mother. Keenly anticipating our wishes, she brought with her a good supply of those home niceties—and your correspondent has, as a consequence, fared well since her arrival. But how sad the hour of parting! And how loth we were to say "good-bye." Yet, as every picture has its dark shades, so is every joy of life more or less tainted with sorrow—and our experience only verifies the universal sentiment of a lifetime—that all is vanity and soon passes away. R.G.R.

Clippings from the Reading Daily Eagle, Wednesday, July 25, 1877

The belief is gradually becoming general in this city that the men who burned the Lebanon Valley bridge were strangers, and that the ringleaders of the strikers here came from other places.

Information has reached the Eagle office that some of the officials have positive information as to the guilty parties who fired the Lebanon Valley bridge, and that arrests may be probably made today.

Following are additional volunteers enrolled at the Mayor's office this morning up to 10 o'clock: Dr. W. Murray WEIDMAN, Jesse G. HAWLEY, Daniel D. LERCH, William S. MONYER, Isaac G. ECKERT, Edward LICHTENTHALER, Col. John E. ARTHUR, Howard RUNKLE, James H. HALE and Harry GREEN.

Clippings from the Reading Times and Dispatch, Monday, January 29, 1872
Local Affairs
Two City Auditors to be Elected

There will be two City Auditors to be elected at the ensuing City Election, instead of one, Mr. John Keppleman having been elected by Councils to fill a vacancy caused by the resignation of Col. John E. Arthur, City Treasurer. The Councils only have power to fill vacancies until the election. This will necessitate the nomination of an additional candidate by the Republicans.