Aquila Knauss was born in Emaus on March 6, 1819, and spent most of his life in that pioneer village, being one of its faithful and valued citizens. He was engaged in various enterprises in his time, having been justice of the peace, postmaster, station agent, the first town clerk and church organist, was a merchant, and for a time conducted the Eagle Hotel. In 1863, he became agent and weighmaster of the Allentown Iron Company, and moved to East Macungie. This position he held until the company abandoned its business. He conducted a small farm in connection and lived retired there in his declining years. He was married to Margretta Weiler, daughter of George Weiler and his wife, a born Schaeffer, members of prominent families in Berks County.