125 Years Ago

Herald of Dec. 9, 1897

Captain James Patterson, one of Williamsburg’s oldest, most prominent and highly respected citizens died at his home in that place Monday morning after a brief illness. Friday night he was seized with a chill, which despite the efforts of his physician, developed into typhoid pneumonia and death quickly followed. The deceased was born in Ireland, Nov. 5, 1826, and came to America in June, 1848, landing in Philadelphia, where he located until his health failed him. Embarking on a canal boat, he made the trip to Pittsburg, and thence to Hollidaysburg. From there he made a trip to Philadelphia, returning to Williamsburg where he abandoned the canal and where, after engaging in other pursuits for a while, entered the mercantile pursuit in which he remained until he died.

Prospects indicate one of the busiest winters for several years in the PRR shops at Altoona. There will be steady work for some months to come.