Thomas, the eldest son of Peter Steckel, was reared upon the old home farm, and early became familiar with the work connected with its development and cultivation. He continued there until fourteen years of age, and as opportunity permitted attended the public schools. In 1834 he came to Allentown, and secured employment in a hosiery factory in order to learn the trade of weaving stockings. He followed that pursuit for seven years, or until he had attained his majority, at which time he was given one hundred dollars in compensation for his services, and thus made a start in life. At that time he entered into a partnership with Enoch Newhard, and was engaged in the manufacture of stockings until 1871, when he retired from that business. In that year he purchased land and began its improvement, erecting thereon many houses both for sale and rent. His realty operations brought to him a handsome competence, making him one of the substantial citizens of his community. He also built the silk mills at Allentown, and thus in the course of years he advanced from a humble position in the business world to one of prominence. His labors being of great value, not only contributed to his individual prosperity, but also to the general success and commercial activity of his adopted city. In 1857 he was elected a director of the Allentown National Bank, and although he is now eighty-five years of age he seldom fails to attend a directors' meeting. He was in 1898 stricken with partial paralysis, but, while he has to be moved about in a wheel chair, his mind is still keen and clear as ever, and he gives his personal supervision to the control of his invested interests. Mr. Steckel is a supporter of the Democratic Party, with which he has been allied since being a voter. In community affairs he takes a deep and active interest, and his fitness for leadership has found recognition in his election to public office. He served for two years in the city council, and in 1857 he was chosen treasurer of Lehigh County. He was also identified with military affairs, serving as major in the state militia.

Few men who have reached the advanced age to which Mr. Steckel has attained have continued to exercise as strong and potent an influence in business circles as he has done. Because he has reached the evening of life he has not considered it necessary to withdraw from active participation in public affairs, but still maintains a keen interest in the city and its progress. Such a career should serve as an inspiration to old and young, and is indeed an example well worthy of emulation.