Reuben Gackenbach was born at Trexlertown, Jan 10, 1815, died on July 15, 1887, aged 72 years. He is buried in the Union Cemetery in Allentown. He was a farmer and iron ore contractor and hauled much iron ore from Hoffmansville and Siegersville to Hockendauqua and Catasauqua. He hauled ore for twenty years and had in use many horses and mules. He was engaged in mining ore in Upper Macungie and Maxatawny townships, employing large forces of men. In connection with his various enterprises he conducted his own farm of 101 acres located near Siegersville.

In his mining operations, Mr. Gackenbach had as his associates Nathan and Uriah Biery, and later J. N. Schrader, who now resides at Breinigsville. He was one of the organizers of the Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Trexlertown and served it efficiently as a director for many years. He built an addition to the stonehouse and erected all the other buildings upon the farm now owned by Thomas Sherer in North Whitehall; built the house on the farm now owned by the estate of John Sieger, built the residence now owned and occupied by Dr. Joseph N. Mertz, of Siegersville. He possessed great business ability and was a most useful citizen in his community. He removed to Allentown in 1871 and occupied the residence No 32 North Tenth Street until his death. This homestead is now owned and occupied by his daughter, Kate. He was first a member of the Jordan Lutheran Church but later he joined the United Brethren Church, taking active interest in the church, serving it in various official capacities and lived an exemplary life. He frequently helped others to his own financial injury and his kindness of heart was a dominant characteristic of his useful life.

He was married to Maria Helfrich who was born September 18, 1816, died on Nov. 21, 1887. Their children are Daniel H., and Kate, who was married and has one daughter, Estella C., the wife of Harry T. Moyer. They occupy the homestead on Tenth Street, Allentown.