HOWARD R. KNECHT belongs to one of the best old families of Lower Saucon Township, Northampton County, and for many years has occupied a high position in social, political and business circles of the community. He is a member of the firm of John Knecht & Son, who carry on one of the most important industries of this region, and of which his father, now deceased, was the founder. Our subject possesses in a marked degree the traits of character which made his father so highly esteemed and so successful in life.

Howard R. Knecht was born in Shimersville, September 4, 1856, and received a public-school education. He further pursued his studies in Nazareth Hall, from which he was graduated in 1886. He then commenced working for his father, helping to manage his business, and on attaining his majority became a partner with his father in the milling business, and on the death of the latter succeeded him. He is earnest and energetic in the management of his affairs, and is one of the most enterprising businessmen of this locality. In addition to his milling interests he is a Director in the Easton National Bank, the First National Bank of Mauch Chunk, and is identified with the Bethlehem Iron Company, the Pennsylvania Railroad Company and the Lehigh Valley Railroad Company. He is possessed of a very genial disposition and courteous manners, which readily win friends. September 21, 1882, Mr. Knecht married Laurenti, daughter of Dr. B. C. Walter, of Farmersville, this county. Two children have come to bless the union of this worthy couple: Florence Anna, born September 29, 1883, and John Walter, born February 8, 1885. In politics Mr. Knecht is a Democrat and takes a leading part in educational and civic affairs. He is a member of the Reformed Church of Freemansburg, and is a Trustee of the Allentown College for Women.