Lancaster – Pennsylvania Genealogy

The VanDyke Family of Smethport, Pennsylvania

Old town hall, Allegheny City, torn down in 1863

This genealogical sketch traces the VanDyke family from its Dutch origins and early American tradition to several generations in northwestern Pennsylvania. It follows Augustus VanDyke and his descendants, including machinist Abram VanDyke and his children, many of whom lived in Bradford, Oil City, Kane, and nearby towns. The article also profiles Rev. William Elmer VanDyke, whose career led from store clerk and supply company manager to Episcopal ministry, including service in Smethport, Kane, Pittsburgh, and Osceola Mills. Alongside family marriages, occupations, and children, the piece preserves a detailed record of the family’s ties to local history and church life.

The Artley Family of Williamsport, Pennsylvania

This genealogical sketch traces several generations of the Artley and Cowan families, beginning with Abraham Artley, a Tioga County farmer and church member, and following his descendants through Williamsport, Liberty, Jersey Shore, Bradford, and other Pennsylvania communities. It highlights Jonas Artley’s work as a hotelkeeper and oil businessman, along with the family’s civic, religious, and fraternal ties. The article also follows John Huling Artley’s move into the oil industry and connects the Artleys through marriage to the Cowan line, including William Carl Cowan and Civil War veteran George J. Cowan. Together, the families reflect regional migration, occupations, and kinship across Pennsylvania and nearby states.

Lancaster City Pennsylvania History

Lancaster City, located near Conestoga Creek, is a bustling urban center with paved, well-lit streets and modern brick homes. It features a courthouse, numerous shops, and a lively atmosphere marked by various forms of transportation. The city’s history reflects its loyalty to British royalty through street names and is dotted with quaint, old taverns. Significant developments include the establishment of public buildings, churches, and early manufacturing. Lancaster became an important trade hub and was briefly the state capital. Population growth and infrastructure improvements have shaped its vibrant community over the years.