I attended a private school in Huntingdon and then went to Wilson college in 1877. I had to return after one year to take care of my invalid sister.

I traveled extensively. I spent winters in Jamaica, Florida, Mexico and California. In 1905 I went on a trip around the world.

I gave my time and money to not only local churches, but built chapels in Alaska and Mexico.

At my death, I gave the structures that are today the Huntingdon County Library and the Huntingdon County Historical Society Museum and Research facility.