When but six years of age, entered the public schools of Mauch Chunk, afterward became a pupil in the schools of Bethlehem, and subsequently was a student in the military academy at Eagleswood, New Jersey. There he remained until 1866, completing his education, and then entered the service of the Lehigh and Mahanoy Railroad (afterward consolidated with the Lehigh Valley Railroad) with which he remained until 1898 as superintendent of the coal branch. He then resigned that position to become general manager of the famous Switchback Railroad, and is now serving in that capacity. He has thoroughly acquainted himself with the details of railroad operation, and has so controlled the affairs of the company that he has made its business profitable to those whom he represents as well as to himself. His political allegiance is given to the Democratic party, and while he is a stanch advocate of its principles he has always refused to hold office. A Mason of high standing, his life is in exemplary accord with the teachings of the craft. He attends the Episcopal church.