Samuel Thomas, son of David and Elizabeth (Hopkins) Thomas, was born March 13, 1827 in Yniscedwyn, Brecknockshire, South Wales, and died at Catasauqua, Feb. 20, 1906. When 13 years of age, he came with his parents to America. He had at that time acquired the rudiments of an English Education and upon the arrival of his family here became a pupil at Nazareth Hall, where he remained for nearly three years.

On returning home he entered the shops of the Crane Iron Works, where he secured a practical knowledge of the business. At the age of 19, he took an active part in the management of the iron works, and also in developing their mining interests, and when 21 years of age, he went to Boonton, N. J., where he constructed a blast furnace.

In 1854, when the Thomas Iron Company was organized, he became general superintendent, at the end of ten years, was elected president of the company, continuing in services until 1887, when he resigned. In 1886, he started the construction of a blast furnace in Jefferson county, Alabama, four miles west of Birmingham, at a place afterwards named Thomas, after him. The furnace was started in May, 1888, when the construction of another furnace was commenced. And which was completed in the early part of 1890.

These furnaces continued in successful operation under his guidance until 1899, when the property sold. He then retired from active participation in business affairs.

Mr. Thomas was actively identified with the Presbyterian church of Hokendauqua, in which he filled the office of trustee for a number of years. He married (first) in March, 1848, Rebecca Mickley, a daughter of Jacob Mickley, born June 19, 1823. She died Nov. 16, 1891. The results of this union was four children: Gertrude, who married Dr. Joseph C. Guernsey, Issue: Ethel, Raymond, Madeline, and Newell: Edwin; Reed Dale; and Edgar M. who died in infancy.

Mr. Thomas married (second) in 1894, Julia M. Beerstecher a native of Switzerland.
Edwin Thomas, son of Samuel and Rebecca (Mickley) Thomas is one of the Catasauqua leading business men. He is president of the Catasauqua National Bank and is interested in various business enterprises. He is married to Ella Boyd, and they are the parents of the following children: Samuel B., H. Dale, and Ruth Thomas.