Husband Daniel Edwin Byles 1
Born: 15 May 1853 - Venango Co, PA 2
Christened:
Died: 21 Jul 1913 3
Buried:
Father: William Dwight Byles ( - ) 2 4
Mother: Nancy Smith ( -1890) 2
Marriage: 16 Apr 1890 - ? Venango Co, PA 2
Wife Minnie Freeland 2
Born:
Christened:
Died: Aft 1919
Buried:
Father: John Freeland ( - ) 2
Mother: Eliza Gorman ( - ) 2
Children
General Notes: Husband - Daniel Edwin Byles
He was born on his father's farm, where he grew up, acquiring the best education the country schools of the vicinity afforded. Later he took a course at the Eastman business college, Poughkeepsie, New York, and on his return home found a position in the office of the late Willis Benedict, at Enterprise, Pennsylvania, remaining there a short time. It was in 1882 that he entered the line which proved to be his life work, his first connection with the refining business being in the capacity of bookkeeper in the Independent Refinery at Oil City. Within a short time he had been promoted to the position of salesman at the New York office of the company, where he was retained until 1884, in which year he was recalled to the home office for more important duties. William Teege and Louis Walz having retired from the corporation, it was reorganized and Mr. Byles was assigned to the post of secretary, Peter Theobold becoming president and A. D. Deming treasurer. Upon the death of Mr. Deming Mr. Byles took over his responsibilities as treasurer, in addition to his previous cares, holding both positions for fifteen years before his death. The prosperous condition of the company's affairs suffices to vouch for his business qualities. As he acquired capital Mr. Byles also formed other important connections, principally in his home city, having been a trustee of the Pure Oil Company from 1896, a director of the Oil City National Bank, and stockholder in several other financial institutions there.
He found his relaxation from business in the promotion of social enterprises of various kinds. His large heart and tender nature would not allow him to neglect the poor of his community, and his contributions for their relief were large and frequent and used in the most practical manner. Some of this work he did personally, but more often he gave comfort and sustenance to individuals or families whose need was brought to his attention by those who came in contact with such cases. Charitable organizations also could count upon his help, and the benevolent enterprises undertaken by his church and fraternal associates were always well supported from his means. But he regarded the influence of wholesome recreation as of equal importance with the physical well-being of men, and it was his delight to provide desirable social opportunities for his city, more especially for the younger element. His efforts in this behalf were the means of securing a distinct advance in that respect in Oil City, and one that was of permanent benefit. He was foremost in Y. M. C. A. work there, serving as president of the local organization, and it was due largely to his activity that the fine building it occupied was made possible. He was one of the pillars of Trinity M. E. Church, which he long served as trustee, and for several years, until his death, he was superintendent of the senior department of the Sunday school. He was a trustee of Allegheny College, of Meadville, and one of the active members of the board. Though he had so many other interests he always kept in touch with his Masonic brethren, affiliating with Petrolia Lodge No. 363, F. & A. M.; Oil City Chapter No. 236, R. A. M.; Talbot Commandery No. 43, K. T., of which he was a past eminent commander; the Lodge of Perfection; Pittsburgh Consistory; and the Mystic Shrine.
He died the day following injuries received in an automobile accident. [CAB, 713]