WILLOUGHBY B. KERN, The subject of this sketch is a man much respected in business and social circles, and one who by his strict morality and integrity of purpose has furnished an excellent example to others. He is at present the proprietor of a fine mercantile establishment in Neffsville, which is 19 x 10 feet in dimensions. It is stocked with a full line of groceries, dry goods, boots and shoes, and, in fact, everything needful in the city or country household. In 1885 Mr. Kern formed a partnership with A. P. Andrews, and together they carried on a mercantile business until March 1893, since which time our subject has been the sole proprietor.

W. B. Kern, of this sketch, was horn in November 1843, and is the son of Daniel and Eliza (Best) Kern. He was reared on a farm in Washington Township, and remained there until 1882, when he removed to Neffsville. He later drifted into the mercantile business, which he has followed since that time with more than ordinary success.

His father, who belonged to an old and prominent family of this county died in 1890, and the mother, who is now three-score and ten years of age, is still living, making her home with our subject.

In 1863 W. B. Kern and Miss Eliza Schneck were united In marriage, and their union has resulted in the birth of six children: Alice, who is the wife of O. O. Mosher; Herbert, Annie and J. Byron, and two who are deceased. Religiously our subject is an active member of the Reformed Church, which he has served as Treasurer. In addition to his mercantile establishment, he owns a farm of one hundred acres located in Washington Township, besides business and residence property in Neffsville. He has a number of warm friends, who recognize him as a leader among men and one entirety capable of fulfilling any duty imposed upon him in a most satisfactory manner. This confidence he showed was well placed when June 3. 1889, he was appointed Postmaster of Neffsvillc.