Francis Xavier Ziegler

August 9, 1856 — Public Schools.—At an election of teachers for the public schools of this borough, for the approaching session, held on Thursday evening last, the following were chosen:
Male.—F. S. Pyfer, G. M. Clawges, F. X. Ziegler, George Wilford, A. J. Hughes.
Female.—Mary A. Shoch, Sallie A. Carter, F. A. Jones, Sarah J. Haldeman, Mary E. Greene, Susan Lemon.
April 4, 1857 — We have noticed, that young men and boys, trained to business upon the public works, and in the establishments of enterprising individuals in and around Columbia, can always command good public situations of trust elsewhere. We gladly record the deserved good fortune of our young friend "Joe," who so ably, during the last winter, filled the office of assistant operator in the telegraph office of this place. He has been recently appointed to the charge of the office of the Great National Telegraph at Elizabethtown in this county. This does great honor to the intelligence of the lad, who is but fifteen years old, and to the excellent instruction of his father Mr. F. X. Ziegler, the operator at the Columbia office. We are informed that this gentleman has received the appointment of "Agent for Adams & Co's Express", voluntarily vacated by Mr. Jas. Moore. While sorry to loose Mr. Moore, who has been invariably courteous and accomodating in his treatment of all, we are satisfied that Mr. Ziegler will transact the business of the company to their entire satisfaction and to that of the public.
August 1, 1857 — F. X. Ziegler has been appointed telegraphic operator by the Pennsylvania Railroad, and National Telegraph Companies, and will hereafter operate for both lines at the office of the former.
December 31, 1859 — Extraordinary Telegraphing.—There were sent on Tuesday over the wires of the Atlantic and Ohio telegraph (Morse) lines, extending between this city and Pittsburg, five hundred and seventy-eight private dispatches, over five thousand words of news for the Associated Press, and an entire copy of the President's Message, containing over fifteen thousand words, to the Pittsburg Post, and all during the regular business hours of the day. The President's Message was transmitted on two wires in five hours and fifteen minutes. Two thousand and eighty-three words were transmitted by one operator—Mr. Ziegler— in an hour, Mrs. Fleming, of Pittsburg, taking it down by "the tick."
We copy the above from the Philadelphia Ledger of Thursday. The Mr. Ziegler referred to is A. A. Ziegler, a Columbian, brother of the veteran operator of the National office at this place, F. X. Ziegler, Esq., under whose tuition the junior Z's wonderful dexterity was mainly acquired. Mr. Ambrose A. Ziegler is undoubtedly one of the most efficient and speedy operators in the country; and we are glad to add that his talents are appreciated by the National Company, in whose service he occupies a foremost position.
Census 13 Jun 1860 > Pennsylvania > Lancaster > Columbia Boro - Series: M653 Roll: 1120 Page: 69
April 27, 1861 — The Home Guard.—A second "Home Guard" meeting was called for Monday afternoon, at 3 o'clock (the first meeting having been resolved into a regular volunteer movement) at Old Fellows' Hall. The meeting was organized by the selection of Philip Schreiner, Esq., as President, and Col. A. S. Green, as Secretary. The President briefly stated the object of the meeting to be the formation of volunteer corps, by those citizens who were not prepared to take active part in the present struggle between the Government and the traitors of the South, for the protection of our homes and property. A roll was prepared by the Secretary and those present invited to sign their names. On motion of Mr. F. X. Ziegler, the President appointed a committee consisting of Messrs. Ziegler, Wright and Grove, to prepare a code of rules for the government of the proposed company. On motion of Mr. Appold it was resolved that two companies, a rifle and a dragoon company should be formed. A number of names were appended to the pledge. The committee on rules was instructed to report at an adjourned meeting to be held at the same place on Tuesday evening, at 7½ o'clock;
On motion adjourned.
On Tuesday evening at the appointed hour the meeting assembled, but owing to the occupancy of the Hall by Capt. Fisher's volunteers it was thought best to adjourn to meet at the Town Hall next evening at 7½ o'clock;
On Wednesday evening, the meeting was called to order by by Philip Shreiner, Esq., Chairman, and Thos. F. Wright, Esq., appointed Secretary, pro tem. The report of the committee was received and the rules prepared a laptel[?], with slight amendment. The roll had by this time largely increased. It was resolved to meet next evening at the same hour and place for the election of officers. On motion adjourned.
On Thursday evening the meeting was called to order (P. Shreiner, President, A. S. Green, Secretary,) and after the adoption of the following resolutions, the election of officers was proceeded with:
Resolved, That the corps now forming, and denominated the "Columbia Home Guard," be constituted the Municipal Police Force of the borough of Columbia, and its vicinity, for the protection of the persons and property, and shall be subject to the municipal authorities of said borough.
Resolved, That the aforesaid municipal authorities be requested to furnish the necessary arms for the protection and defence of the said persons and property, said arms to be under supervision and control of said authorities.
Resolved, That each person whose name has already been, or shall hereafter be, enrolled as a member of this corps, shall take the oath of allegience to support the "Constitution of these United States."
The officers elected were: Captain, Wm. Hipple; First Lieut., Dr. J. Z. Hoffer; Second Lieut., Thos F. Wright; First Sergeant, David Evans; Second Sergeant, John D. Wright; Third Sergeant, Wm. F. Lloyd; First Corporal, Jacob Hardy; Second Corporal, Joseph Sample; Third Corporal, Pearce Lundy; Fourth Corporal, George Hiese.
The meeting adjourned. The company met of Friday evening at the Town Hall for drill.
The number of citizens enrolled in the "Home Guard" is eighty-one, and the list will be largely increased. When the company is fully organized we will publish the muster roll.
Besides those there are seventeen names subscribed to the Dragoon roll. This company will doubtless contain sufficient recruits to render it an efficient body of cavalry. It will act in conjunction with the "Home Guard" as a local guard and patrol.
In addition to these companies another is being formed of the younger men of the borough, who have not yet enlisted.—The company will be like the others for home protection, or to answer a call for service under the Government.
The military organization of our citizens during the present alarming crisis is not only a prudential but a necessary measure. We are sufficiently near the border to be exposed to peril even should the tide of war turn southward, as we sincerely hope it may. Marauding guerilla bands will doubtless be abroad, and more especially when our borders are left unguarded by the advance into the enemy's country of our regular forces, will ... [unreadable].
June 8, 1861 — Penn Mutual Life Insurance Co'r.—F. X. Ziegler, Esq., has temporarily accepted the agency of this Company—during the absence of Col. Welsh—and is prepared to attend to all business of the company, and take new risks, at his office in the basement of Black's Hotel. Mr. Ziegler is an experienced Insurance Agent, and no doubt will transact business to the satisfaction of all insurers. The Penn Mutual is second to the Life Insurance Company in the country, and no man can better invest his savings for his family than in a policy of insurance on his life.
October 12, 1867 — How the Express Office is Managed.—We have frequent complaints sent to us in regard to the management of the Adam's Express Agency, in this place; and we are all aware they are not without foundation. On Monday last, two persons waited at the door of the Express Office until 8 A.M., hoping to be able to send packages by the Reading train to New York, but were disappointed. Some time since, a gentleman had a box of live lobsters sent him, which were detained in the office some days, and were then delivered in a state of decomposition, with a bill of $7.00 to pay. A short time ago a small package of pamphlets was sent to this office, by Mr. Wiant, of Lancaster, upon which the express charges were $1.30 in place of 25 cents. We enquired into the cause of the overcharge, but no redress as yet has been obtained.
The citizens of a live progressive town like Columbia, should not submit to such impositions. Think of a town of over 8000 inhabitants, having to wait for a wheelbarrow express. We have no express wagon—have to wait till goods are delivered by wheelbarrow. Whew! what a progressive and fast Company is this Adams Express in Columbia.
Since the above was in type, Mr. Farrell, (to whom the lobsters were shipped,) says that we are mistaken in reference to the charges, that there was nothing but the freight to pay, but that the lobsters were spoiled, and that he does not know where the blame rests, &c.
Two packages were received at the Express Office, on Monday evening Inst, for this office, and were not received by us till Thursday. The cause of the delay, it is said, was that no way bill accompanied them. Persons had better have their goods shipped by regular freight lines, or around by Reading, than by such a slow coach as this. With all due respect to Mr. Ziegler, the agent here, we do say that the Adams Express Company is badly managed, so far as Columbia is concerned.
October 30, 1869 — Messrs. A. J. Kauffman and F. X. Ziegler have formed a co-partnership Land Agency, for the sale of real estate, collection of rents, &c. All business entrusted to their care will promptly attended to. Owners of property for sale or rent, can safely entrust their business into their hands. Widely known, and possessing superior business facilities, the firm will soon command their full share of patronage.
Census 11 Jul 1870 > Pennsylvania > Lancaster > 2-WD Columbia - Series: M593 Roll: 1354 Page: 136
April 13, 1878 Hyacinths.—Mr. F. X. Ziegler has in his garden a magnificent display of hyacinths, which he has been cultivating for a long time, and which he has greatly improved by cultivation. What a wealth of beauty and fragrance he enjoys.
April 27, 1878 Lillies—Lillies of all the early varieties are now in full bloom, and among the prettiest and sweetest of them all is the Lily of the Valley. Mr. F. X. Ziegler left a bunch of them in our office on Friday morning. They are the loveliest flowers of spring.
May 8, 1880 — Beautiful Flowers.—Mr. F. X. Ziegler, Locust street above Fourth, is now reveling in the sweet perfumes of lilies of the valley of which he has several hundred bulbs. They are the sweetest and most beautiful, modest little flowers that grow. Mr. Z. has unusual success with his flowers. He is patiently waiting for moss roses, which are developing rapidly under the influence of our warm May weather.
Census 16 Jun 1880 > Pennsylvania > Lancaster > 2-WD Columbia - Series: T9 Roll: 1141 Page: 128
August 28, 1880 — A queer looking peach can be seen in Geo. Erwin's window, No. 123 Locust street, raised by Mr. F. X. Ziegler, No. 456 Locust street. He reports a great many double peaches this year—two peaches grown together on the same stem.
April 9, 1881 — Thirty-three Years in Service.—The Telegraph office in Black's Hotel, has been closed. Mr. F. X. Ziegler, manager of the old Western Union, will act for the consolidated company, at the old place. Mr. Ziegler has been manager for the chief telegraph office in this borough since 1848—a period of 33 years. Of course the business has been conducted by various companies—first the Columbia & Lancaster Telegraph Co., then the Atlantic & Ohio, next the Western Union, American Union and Atlantic & Pacific Companies. Mr. F. E. Ziegler, son of the manager, and his right hand in business, will, as he has heretofore, perform the most important duties of the office, as years begin to "bear the old man down."
During Mr. Ziegler's management, the public have not only been politely, faithfully and reliably served, but Mr. Z. has made for himself a record with the companies he represented, of which any man may be proud. He is known and trusted to a degree which rarely exists between principals and agents, and he has frequently been given discretionary powers in certain cases which the officers themselves hesitated to exercise. So careful has been his management, that the confidence of his principals is equalled only by the faithfulness which has marked his relations with his old friends and neighbors of Columbia whom he has served so long.
June 11, 1881 — Beautiful Flowers.—We are indebted to Mr. F. X. Ziegler for many floral favors. He cultivates some of the most beautiful and rare flowers grown, and he gives them to his friends with a liberal hand.
July 9, 1881 — A Faithful and Obliging Official.—The people of Columbia have every reason to feel greatful to Mr. Frank E. Ziegler, the assistant manager of the Western Union Telegraph Co, at Columbia. During the hours and days of agony which followed the shooting of the President, Mr. Ziegler was ever ready to furnish the latest dispatches which he could obtain from any and every source. He was in constant communication with the central office in Philadelphia, and as fast as bulletins were received they were sent around to the Spy office and posted on the Spy window. Even in the press of business which frequently occurred, Mr. Ziegler cheerfully inconvenienced himself to furnish the latest news to the anxious public. In this he was greatly aided by Mr. J.L. Mingle, of the Philadelphia office, to whom also the public in general and the editor of the Spy in particular are indebted. We express the deep sense of gratitude which the people feel towards Mr. Ziegler for his kindness and devotion to the people of Columbia in thus supplying them with the latest information.
July 9, 1881 — An Old Relic.—While cleaning out the cellar of the State Department, Harrisburg, the other day, there was found a portion of an old telegraph instrument, consisting of a key, magnet or relay and the base to which they were fastened. Inquiry revealed the fact that it was a part of the instrument used in Gov. Curlin's department during the entire period of the late civil war, and by which so many messages fraught with importance were sent and received. It was first used by William B. Wilson, then by Oliver Sees, Samuel Gibson (late manager W. U. at Pittsburg), Albert Burkholder and Richard B. Ziegler, all of whom were operators at the Executive Department. The old, worn out, dirt-stained and useless machine had seen its best days and was useless for anything except as a curiosity. It was given to Mr. R. B. Ziegler, of the Western Union office, and a son of Mr. F. X. Ziegler of Columbia, as one of the best qualified to own it, for of all who "ticked wire" on the old instrument, none but him at present are practical operators. Mr. Ziegler prizes it very highly.
July 21, 1883 — No Strike in Columbia.—The Messrs. Ziegler, father and son, of the Western Union Telegraph Company, at Columbia, are loyal to the company's interests, as they always have been. They are at their posts, notwithstanding the strike of about six thousand of their brethren of the key board. Mr. Ziegler, the father, says whenever the company's service don't suit him he will quit, but he will not allow any organization to regulate his employment.
May 31, 1884 — After Nearly Half a Century.—Rev. William G. Stonex, rector of the Episcopal church at Connellsville, Pa., was in town on Monday and Tuesday, as the guest of Mr. and Mrs. F. X. Ziegler. Mr. Stonex was a former resident of Columbia, having been an early friend and companion of Mr. Ziegler's in their boyish days. This was his first visit in forty-nine years. What changes all these years have brought for him! He inquired for many old residents, who were boys when he last was here, but he couldn't find their homes until Mr. Ziegler took him to Mt. Bethel cemetery and pointed out the stones which mark their last resting places.
September 27, 1884 — Mr. C. E. Graybill, Mr. James A. Richards, Mr. Wm. B. Green, Mr. F. X. Ziegler, and others whom we cannot now recall, are positive in their declarations that bees injure or destroy grapes, peaches, &c. Mr. S. S. Detwiler is just as confident that they do not. All the parties base their opinions on personal observations. Let us have a committee to investigate the matter.
November 27, 1886 — Married.— On Sunday evening, at the home of the bride's parents, on Locust street, by Rev. William P. Evans, of the Second street Lutheran Church, Mr. Frank E. Ziegler, manager of the W. U. Telegraph Company, to Miss Kate Conklin, all of Columbia.
The Spy extends its congratulations to the happy couple, with the warmest wishes for a long and happy life.
March 19, 1887 — We are always glad to chronicle the success of a Lancaster county boy, be he Democrat or Republican, Jew or Gentile. It is now our pleasure to congratulate Mr. R. B. Ziegler, son of our worthy and esteemed old friend, Mr. F. X. Ziegler, of Columbia, on being selected Assistant Postmaster of Harrisburg, under Hon. B. F. Myers. Mr. Ziegler, for many years, has held a responsible position in the Western Union Telegraph office at our State Capital, and on all occasions has proven faithful to his trust. At the late election he was chosen a member of Councils from a strong Republican ward—thus attesting his popularity. We know him to be a quick, accommodating, intelligent and accomplished young man, and, therefore, one who will become a most efficient officer. He was an applicant for the deputy collectorship under Mr. John T. MacGonigle, but being a warm friend of ex-Senator William A. Wallace, he was not chosen. But the whirligig of time will bring its rewards and revenges.
June 16, 1888 — Mrs. Frances Jameson, Williamsport, is visiting her sister, Mrs. F. X. Ziegler, Locust street.
June 16, 1888 — A Golden Wedding—Mr. and Mrs. Francis X. Ziegler celebrated their golden or fiftieth wedding anniversary on Thursday, afternoon and evening, June 14th, with their family and a large circle of friends and acquaintances.
Among the guests were Mr. Ambrose Ziegler, of the Bell Telephone Company, Philadelphia, Dr. Joseph Mixsell, of the Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company, of Philadelphia, Robert B. Risk, of the Examiner, and George W. Schroyer, the florist, both of Lancaster, Mr. Richard Ziegler and family, of Harrisburg, and others who called during the day to present their compliments.
Mr. and Mrs. Ziegler were in excellent health and spirits, and gave their guests a warm and cordial reception. Besides those from a distance there were scores of Columbia friends, who called upon them during the day to present their congratulations and wish them long life and the enjoyment of many more years of wedded happiness.
One of the most delicate compliments that could have been paid Mr. Ziegler was the tribute of from the officers of the Penn Mutual Insurance Company, of Philadelphia, who sent a representative to Columbia to present their compliments and congratulations. It was a testimonial to his worth, efficiency, and integrity in the service of the Company, as its agent, for nearly thirty years past, during which time he has transacted for it a business aggregating many thousands of dollars.
Mr. Ziegler has been the representative of the Western Union Telegraph Company for nearly forty years, and the officers have given him many expressions of confidence, appreciation and esteem.
Mr. and Mrs. Ziegler were surrounded by all their children and grand-children, save one of their sons, Mr. Joseph Ziegler who is in Paris, where he is prosecuting his art studies. Three sons and five daughters joined in the anniversary dinner. It is a joyous family, combining all the elements which contribute to make domestic life happy, and bring joy and comfort to the parents in their declining years.
The Spy joins in the sincere congratulations upon this extraordinary anniversary occasion, with the hope that the golden days of Mr. and Mrs. Ziegler may be prolonged on earth, to end in the realization of better and more perfect spiritual joy in Heaven, promised to those who love and obey Him, who is the great head of the Christ's family on earth.
June 16, 1888 — Two Weddings in One—Our venerable townsman, Francis X. Ziegler, esq., yesterday celebrated his Golden anniversary of marriage to his estimable spouse, and with her was the recipient of many kind congratulations and valuable gifts. This from its comparative rarity, is indeed a notable occurrence, but not less so is that here chronicled, the recognition of the Silver Anniversary of the wedding of the same good citizen to a worth corporation, well known to the clients of Mr. Ziegler as "The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company, of Philadelphia," whose President and officers appeared at the reception by proxy, sending as their representative Dr. Joseph Mixsell, of the Home Agency Department, who bore their assurance of esteem and confidence, together with their congratulations.
Of this well-founded and discreetly managed Pennsylvania institution our readers need no instruction. For more than a quarter of a century its receipts and disbursements in this vicinity have been administered by Mr. Ziegler with entire satisfaction to the policy owners, and we predict that this double anniversary will strengthen the bonds.
When this latter union was entered upon, "The Penn Mutual" was considered a wealthy corporation, with several millions of holdings—now its total assets foot up $13,000,000, of which $2,500,000 is "surplus" or margin in excess of present liabilities.
December 14, 1889 — In New Quarters.—The Adams Express Company's offices have occupied the new office on Walnut street, just above the passenger station. This is the second move in a quarter century. When the writer came to Columbia, over twenty years ago, the office was in the building in rear of the Tremont House. The delivery of packages was made by Mr. Clem Ziegler, who either carried them in hands and arms, or hauled them on an ordinary baggage truck. To such proportions has the business grown that now Clem has an office and storage room of his own and has a team for the delivery of goods. The Z has always been associated with the Xpress company
Census 12 Jun 1900 > Pennsylvania > Lancaster > 5-WD Columbia - Series: T623 Roll: 1422 Page: 154
30 Oct 1890 (Harrisburg "Daily Patriot") -- Mrs. Maria Ziegler, relict of the late John Ziegler, of Columbia, Pa.,--died at her residence in New York city, October 26. She was the daughter of the late Henry and Julianna Lechler, of Lancaster, and born at the old homestead on the corner of North Queen and Walnut streets, Lancaster, on the 14th day of January, 1798. She was the mother of Mr. F. X. Ziegler, of Columbia, and grandmother of Mr. Richard B. Ziegler, assistant postmaster of this city. Her age is remarkable, but to great physical vitality she added acuteness of mind and a marked individuality of character, which were not lost, even her four score and ten years were passed. These qualities of mind and body she gave to her children. Though long removed from the house of her birth, and thus remembered only by Columbia's older citizens, her many years were a blessing in the city of her adoption, in teaching the value of high thinking, noble acting and a sense of moral and religious duty. The crown of more than full years and the plaudit of well done good servant has at last come to her as a reward.
22 Dec 1902 -- Francis Xavier Zeigler, for many years Adams Express agent at this place, and one of our oldest and best known citizens, died at his home on Saturday afternoon at 3:45 o'clock. Death was due to a complication of diseases, incident to old age. Deceased was born on North Front street, near where the White Swan hotel now stands, eighty-five years ago. He was a son of the late John and Mary Zeigler, and resided in Columbia his entire life. After receiving a common school education he learned the cooper trade, which vocation he followed for several years. He gave up coopering and became a school teacher, which vocation he followed until 1848, when he entered the employ of the Western Union Telegraph company as their agent in this place, and which position he was compelled to relinquish about three years age, owing to old age. He was also agent for the Adams Express company from 1860. In 1888 Mr. and Mrs. Zeigler celebrated their golden wedding anniversary, and the old couple were then enjoying excellent health for people of their years. About ten months ago Mrs. Zeigler was called to her rest, since which time Mr. Zeigler gradually began to sink until death ended his sufferings. Mr. Zeigler is survived by the following children: Catharine, Jane, Agnes, Richard, Frank, Mary and Clement. The funeral will take place from the Holy Trinity Catholic church on Tuesday morning at nine o'clock.

News about Francis Xavier Ziegler

Census 13 Jun 1860 > Pennsylvania > Lancaster > Columbia Boro - Series: M653 Roll: 1120 Page: 69

Census 11 Jul 1870 > Pennsylvania > Lancaster > 2-WD Columbia - Series: M593 Roll: 1354 Page: 136

Census 16 Jun 1880 > Pennsylvania > Lancaster > 2-WD Columbia - Series: T9 Roll: 1141 Page: 128

Census 12 Jun 1900 > Pennsylvania > Lancaster > 5-WD Columbia - Series: T623 Roll: 1422 Page: 154