My Genealogy Hound

GEORGE MORRIS ECKELS, M. D., was born in Mechanicsburg April 29, 1857, and received the full benefit of its public schools. On leaving the public schools he took a course in the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, from which he graduated in March, 1879. Returning to Mechanicsburg he in connection with his brother, Walter L., bought the drug store of his former employer, Mr. Bridgeford, and under the firm name of Eckels Brothers, they have been conducting an up-to-date drug business ever since. In November, 1903, they purchased a drug store in Harrisburg, which Walter L. is now running in the name of the firm.

As were their ancestors before them, and as are the Eckelses generally in Cumberland county, the Eckels Brothers are Democrats, take an active interest in public affairs and bear their full share of the duties and responsibilities of citizenship. At the organization of the Pennsylvania State Legislature in January, 1883, George M. was elected transscribing clerk of the House of Representatives, which position he held during that session and through the extra session which followed. In September of that year he entered the medical department of the University of Pennsylvania from which he graduated May 1, 1885. He then began the practice of his profession at Mechanicsburg, practicing along with his drug business, and is still so engaged. In 1890 he was elected a member of the lower branch of the State Legislature and in 1892 re-elected, each time by handsome majorities. He is well known in all parts of the county, is frequently in the councils of his party and has rendered it faithful and efficient service.

On June 9, 1897, Dr. George Morris Eckels was married to Clara Agnes Hertzler, daughter of Elias and Sarah A. (Lehman) Hertzler, of Monroe township, and they have one child, a daughter, named Janet Wallace Eckels, born Oct. 26, 1898. The family affiliate with the Presbyterian Church of Mechanicsburg.

Walter Lowrie Eckels was born in Mechanicsburg April 19, 1859. He passed through all the various grades of the public schools of his native town and graduated from its high school. Upon leaving school he immediately entered the drug business and has been in it continuously ever since. Although diligent in his business he takes a live interest in public affairs and finds time to discharge the public duties that are sometimes assigned him. He served on the Mechanicsburg school board three years, during two of which he was president of the board. He married Miss Sallie Bowman, daughter of S. G. and Mary (Rupp) Bowman, but in a few short years was bereaved of her companionship. She died May 15, 1898, without issue.

Mr. Eckels belongs to the Presbyterian Church of Mechanicsburg, in which he holds the position of elder.