Hearne History - Page 234

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he never ceased to take a lively interest in everything for the good of the community or the elevation of the human race.

Though Mr. Hearne was best known as actively engaged in manufactures and though he was largely instrumental in building up some of the most important industries of the town, perhaps his best monument-the one, which most truthfully records his character for posterity-is the Hearne Tabernacle, on South Street. This he built but a few years ago. Intending it to be a church for the people, non-sectarian, devoted to the practical as well as religious uplifting of the people. Its work is too new in the community to require that it be dwelt upon now. The force it has already exerted has done great good among that class of people whom the other churches do not reach, and in future years, through the ministrations of those whom he chose to have of his church, thousands will arise and call him blessed.

During his brief illness he was tenderly attended by his sons. Messrs. Frank J., William H., Julian, and Garth, and his daughter-in-law, Mrs. William H. Hearne. When Mr. Hearne's death was announced yesterday, it created profound sorrow in business and social circles. Few residents of this city ever held as high a place in the esteem of the entire people as did Mr. Hearne.

He was a native of Delaware, and was born Sept. 24, 1818. In 1837 he was married to a sister of Governor Ross, of that State. In 1857 he removed to Missouri, engaging in the tabacco business at Hannibal. Five years later he removed to New York, conducting a similar business there until 1865, when he went back to Hannibal for two years. He came to Wheeling in 1867, becoming a partner in the firm of Dewey, Vance & Co., owners of the iron works now known as the Riverside.

During his connection with the company the plant has been from time to time enlarged and improved until it now gives employment to 2, 500 men. Upon the reorganization and incorporation of the company in 1874, Mr. Hearne became general manager, holding this position for two years, being succeeded by his son, Frank J., but still remaining a director and stockholder. He was also the leading spirit in the organization of the company which built the North Wheeling pottery and he finally acquired nearly

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Notes:

Thanks to Candy Hearn for transcribing this page.


Copyright (c) 1999, 2007 Brian Cragun.