Ner Middleswarth facts for kids

Ner Middleswarth (born December 12, 1783 – died June 2, 1865) was an American politician. He was a member of the Whig Party. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives for Pennsylvania's 10th congressional district from 1853 to 1855.

Middleswarth also served in the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives. He was a member from 1815 to 1841. During this time, he was chosen as the Speaker of the House twice. He also served in the Pennsylvania Senate for the 15th district from 1853 to 1854.

Middleswarth as a captain in the War of 1812. This picture is from a 1906 book about Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania.

Early Life and Family

Ner Middleswarth was born on December 12, 1783, in New Jersey. His family had Dutch roots. His parents were John and Martha (Reed) Middleswarth. His father, John, was a Quartermaster Sergeant. He served in the New Jersey militia during the American Revolution.

The Middleswarth family came from the Netherlands. They first settled in New Amsterdam (now New York City). Then they moved to Flatbush and later to Somerset, New Jersey.

In 1792, when Ner was about nine years old, his family moved. They moved to Northumberland County, Pennsylvania. He grew up on a farm there. He had one brother, Abraham, and four sisters: Mary, Martha, Rachel, and Rebecca.

Ner Middleswarth had very little formal schooling. He only went to school for about three months. However, he taught himself to read and write. He learned both English and Pennsylvania German. He could speak both languages very well. He grew up to be a strong man. He was known for being loyal to his friends and neighbors. Ner married Christine Schwartzkop. Together, they had twelve children.

Serving His Country

In 1812, Ner Middleswarth showed his leadership. He gathered a group of volunteers. He became a captain in the War of 1812. His company was part of the Pennsylvania Riflemen. In 1814, he formed another company. This group joined General Thomas McCall Cadwalader's Division. They fought during the Niagara campaign.

After his military service, Middleswarth began his political career. In 1815, he was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He was re-elected many times. He served in the Legislature from 1815 to 1842.

His fellow representatives chose him as Speaker of the House twice. He held this important role in 1828 and again in 1836.

Later, he was elected to the Pennsylvania State Senate. He served one term there. From 1853 to 1855, he was a member of the United States House of Representatives. He represented Pennsylvania's 10th congressional district. He was first a member of the Whig Party. Later, he joined the Republican Party.

In 1858, he took on his last public role. He served as an Associate Judge in his county.

Later Life

Ner Middleswarth was also successful in business. However, he lost a lot of his money. This happened because of a failed iron business. It was called "Beaver Furnace" and was near Paxtonville, Pennsylvania.

Ner Middleswarth passed away on June 2, 1865. He was 81 years old. He is buried with his wife, Christina Schwartzkop. Their graves are at Beavertown Cemetery in Beavertown, Snyder County, Pennsylvania.

See also

• Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Sources

• The Political Graveyard