From the Commemorative Biographical Record of Northeastern Pennsylvania,
Published in 1900. Pages 1805-1806
EUGENE HELLER liveryman and proprietor of the North Gap House in Smithfield township Monroe county is one of the well known residents of this section having made a wide acquaintance in the vicinity of Minsi during the years he has carried on his present business and while engaged with the Susquehanna & Western railroad as general agent at Minsi station. Mr Heller is a native of Stroud township Monroe County, born in July 1857 a son of Philip Heller and a grandson of Anthony Heller who was one of the pioneer settlers of that part of the county.
Philip Heller was born in Stroud township and passed his entire life there settling on a farm in Poplar Valley where he commenced life for himself and clearing out a good sized farm on which he and his family had a most comfortable home In addition to the necessary work involved in clearing and putting the land under a profitable state of cultivation he expended much labor on it in making general improvements and he erected a large stone dwelling and commodious and substantial outbuildings. He married Sallie A Miller and they both died on the old home farm he in 1868 she in 1874. Their family consisted of eight children four sons and four daughters:
Anthony married Miss Sallie Miller of Monroe county and followed farming until his death on his farm in Cherry Valley Stroud township where his wife and only child Lizzie still make their home.
Lydia A became the wife of Jonathan Hartman of Monroe county and they settled in Lackawanna county this State where he died leaving seven children: Marion, Frank, Edna, Agnes, Bessie, Amelia, and Rose. Mrs Hartman and her family reside in Lackawanna county.
George was a carpenter by occupation he died some years ago unmarried.
Rosanna is the wife of Wilson Felker of Bangor Penn and they have a family of five children: Florence, Alice, Clarence, Eugene, and Amy.
Peter died at the age of twenty two years unmarried.
Eugene is sixth in the family.
Alice is the wife of John Philips of Titusville NJ and has two children Melchoir and Alonzo.
Agnes married George Ganger of Bangor Penn they have no family.
Eugene Heller received his education in the district schools of Poplar Valley and was trained to farm work from his earliest years after his father's death working out among neighboring farmers by the day to assist in the support of the family. His wages at first were only twenty five cents per day but they increased though somewhat slowly as he grew older and in time by economy and careful management he succeeded in saving enough to buy a house and lot in Cherry Valley where he and his mother made their home for a number of years. He finally sold this place and came to his present location in Smithfield township near Buttermilk Falls where he invested in real estate and erected a fine home and substantial outbuildings his residence which is one of the most commodious in the neighborhood being furnished with all modern improvements for comfort and convenience and delightfully located.
For some thirteen years Mr. Heller was general agent at Minsi station for the Susquehanna & Western railroad, becoming well known throughout the surrounding country in this connection but since his marriage he has been engaged in the livery business and opened a summer boarding house at his residence where he and his wife entertain a large number of city guests each year. They have spared no pains to provide their patrons with all material comforts and a more enjoyable retreat for summer months can scarcely be found east of the Rockies. Mr Heller furnishes carriages for his guests between the depot and his home which is only a short distance from Minsi station giving them an opportunity to see a few of the many attractions afforded by this picturesque locality which is noted for the sublime beauty of its scenery and the purity of the air Delaware river and two miles from the famous Delaware Water Gap and among the many other beautiful sights to be found here we mention Buttermilk falls, Marshall's Creek falls, Water Gap and Wind Gap while a fine view of the Blue Ridge and many points of interest in the Delaware Valley may be had from the house. There are interesting walks and drives in every direction and all in ail the region is deservedly popular especially during the warm weather among those who are seeking a delightful resting place and appreciate the beauties of Nature.
In 1886 Mr Heller was united in marriage with Miss Maggie Bush daughter of Emil and Mary A Bush prominent people of Shawnee Monroe county and two children have blessed their union, Maud born in July 1889 and Ralph B born April 13 1897. The daughter is attending the State Normal School at East Stroudsburg.
In religious connection Mr and Mrs Heller are members of the Presbyterian Church of Shawnee. Politically Mr Heller has been identified with the Democratic party but only as a voter for he has no aspirations for public preferment. However he takes a loyal interest in the welfare and advancement of his town where he is regarded with respect by all who know him.