Edward Oramel Austin facts for kids

Edward Oramael Austin (born December 28, 1825 – died August 1, 1909) was an important person who helped start and build the town of Austin, Pennsylvania, in the USA. He is known as the founder of the town that was named after him.

Edward Oramael Austin was born on December 28, 1825, in Greene, New York. When he was about 16 years old, in 1841, he moved with his parents to Whites Corners, Pennsylvania. He lived there for several years. In 1856, he decided to settle in a place called Freeman Run, also in Potter County, Pennsylvania.

Building a New Town

When Edward Austin first settled in Freeman Run, he built a small cabin. This cabin was located where Main Street in Austin is today. Later, in 1878, he built a bigger home. Sadly, his original home was destroyed by a big flood in 1911.

Today, there is a copy of Austin's home built very close to where the first one stood. This new building is now a museum. It tells the story of Edward Austin, the Austin Dam, the 1911 flood, and the history of the town.

Edward Austin was a skilled surveyor. This meant he knew how to measure land and draw maps. He was also a Justice of the Peace for most of his life. This role meant he helped keep peace and fairness in the community.

Developing Austin, Pennsylvania

After settling in the area, which was then part of Sylvania Township, Austin began to develop the land. He built a road about 3 miles long from his home to Costello. This helped connect the growing community. Later, in 1870, he built a state road from Austin to Keating Summit. This road gave Austin a connection to the railroad, which was very important for trade and travel.

Edward Austin cleared his own land, which helped bring in new businesses. Because of his efforts, companies like Goodyear and Mr. Garretson's businesses came to the area. This helped the town grow and create jobs.

The town of Austin was officially named after him. It became an official borough in October 1888. Edward Austin actually owned the 147 acres of land where the town was built. Because he was a civil engineer and land surveyor, he was able to draw the plans for the town. He designed how the streets and lots would be laid out.

Public Service and Other Work

From 1847 to 1849, Edward Austin studied law. Even though he studied it, he did not plan to work as a lawyer. He also wrote about Potter County, and his writings were included in a book called Egle's History of Pennsylvania.

Edward Austin served his community in many ways for a long time. He was a Justice of the Peace for 55 years. He also worked as a school director for 40 years, helping to guide the local schools. In 1863, he was elected as a County Commissioner and served two terms. He also served in the Civil War from late 1862 until July 1865. He was a member of the Masons, a well-known community group.

Family Life

Edward Austin was married twice. His first marriage was on March 15, 1849, to Amelia Steadman. They had five children together.

Children of Edward and Amelia Austin:

• Charles Douglas Austin, born September 28, 1849, died June 2, 1933.
• Frank Purple Austin, born June 1, 1852, died January 7, 1891.
• Ralph Steadman Austin, born April 9, 1858, died February 27, 1929.
• Harry Edward Austin, born February 25, 1862, died October 28, 1887.
• Sarah Emma Austin, born November 27, 1864, died October 8, 1941.

After Amelia passed away in March 1875, Edward married Julia Allington Wales. They had three children together. Julia died on May 3, 1906, at their family home in Austin.

Children of Edward and Julia Austin:

• Jonathan Fredrick Austin, born April 10, 1876, died September 11, 1949.
• Agnes Mary Austin, born June 3, 1878, died November 20, 1931.
• Thomas Duel Austin, born August 28, 1881.

Edward Oramael Austin passed away at his home on August 1, 1909.