Labor Day Message 2024

As we celebrate Labor Day, we’re reminded of the enduring spirit of the American worker—those whose dedication has not only shaped their families but also the very fabric of our communities. Whether we're enjoying a BBQ in the backyard, a picnic at the beach, or simply relaxing with loved ones, it's a time to honor the hard work that built our lives today. As we reflect on the past, let's remember the diverse occupations of our ancestors—whether in factories, fields, or on the rails—each one is a thread in the tapestry of our shared history.
These are some occupations of our Hostetter ancestors
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• Fred Hostetter, Jr – While early records show Fred was an electrical apprentice, he transitioned into transportation and spent most of his working years as a Trolley Car Conductor.

• Frederick Hostetter, Sr. - worked in construction, specifically as a mason. He must have been incredibly strong!

• “Gram” Golden Hostetter - In 1950 Gram could be found working as a kitchen helper in the City Hospital.

• Edward Golden in 1900 worked as a fireman in Bayonne, NJ. Later he became a pipefitter. A fireman would maintain a heating system in a building, while a pipefitter would install those systems.

• John Golden - in 1860 was recorded as a farm laborer in Pa, and in 1870 and 1880 a day laborer.

• Amanda Jane Lingenfelter Golden – had the work of being a mother to 8 children, but according to some very interesting newspaper articles also ran a boarding house later in life.

• William Johnston McGill – after serving and being wounded in Company F of the 9th Pennsylvania Reserves during the Civil War was discharged with an occupation of Farmer, although from 1870 to 1880 William worked as a Cooper in a shop. Around 1881 the family moved to Bayonne where he worked for The Standard Oil Company.

• William M Ross – in 1850 and 1860 was recorded as a cobbler, or a shoemaker as they are more commonly known.

• William Perry McGill – Farmer. “His farm was easily the model farm of the French Creek Valley, and notwithstanding his expensive improvements he was not in debt.”“He took an active interest in public utilities....” “He contributed liberally and judiciously to church, school, in which he took a great interest” "He was due the honor of securing and organizing the McGill school,” and fought for the free school law.

• Patrick McGill – operated a draying business during the Revolutionary War, along with his brother Arthur. After the war, they established The “McGill Settlement” which was later known as Saegertown. Settling a wild area like this required building their homes, raising barns and mills to grind grain, digging wells, caring for their horses and farm animals, along with simply farming the land. Patrick was also involved in community affairs.

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The strength of our community lies in the hard work and dedication of those who came before us. Their contributions continue to resonate, reminding us that every job, no matter how humble, plays a vital role in the story of our nation.
*The above McGill quotes are from the book: The McGills, Celts, Scots, Ulsterman, and American Pioneers: History, Heraldry and Tradition, by Augustus McGill.