John Friggle 1905

John Friggle 1905

John Friggle (1835-1918), born in Loddiswell, Devonshire, England.

John was with his family in 1841. He was an agricultural labourer with a farmer, Thomas Crocker, at Rowden Farm in 1851 (as Fragill). John lived in England up to the age of eighteen years, when he enlisted for service in the Crimean War in 1835. He was in the army for 626 days, being a member of Company Ten, in the Engineer Corps. In 1865 he came to America, landing at New York City, whence he proceeded to Quebec, but after a month's stay there located at Rochester, NY, where he spent a year. Then he came to Venango County, PA., and soon acquired valuable interests at Oil City, having a line of boats for the transportation of oil down Oil creek, as well as several teams of horses engaged in the same work. This business was so remunerative that he continued it for many years, meantime, in 1872, establishing his home upon the farm in Cranberry township which he still occupies, formerly known as the White property, later as the Brannon place. Here he has 100 acres of valuable land, and was profitably engaged in its cultivation until his retirement several years ago. Though thoroughly public-spirited and loyal to the best interests of his locality, Mr. Friggle has preferred to exercise his influence in matters of government indirectly, having no desire for the honors of office. However, he served a term as road master, performing his duties with the same care as he would bestow upon his private affairs. He has always been considered one of the worthy citizens of his community.

A History of Venango County

Submitted by William Cunningham, great grandson
