The Family of James H. Lyons, Generation Two: Part 1

As in the story of Benjamin Lyons, it is important to put into writing the interesting facets of his son, James H. – how he met his wife, his work in the community, and large family of 16 children. If their story is not told, this family disappears, and their unique place in Bedford County history is lost forever.

More is known about James H., the son of former-slave Benjamin and Mary (Heck) Lyons of Salemville, Bedford County, Pennsylvania, than the other four siblings (Mary, Catherine, Richard and Elizabeth). Born in 1826, he continued to live on the family farm, was a member of the Brethren...