My Genealogy Hound

REV. THOMAS JAMES FERGUSON was born in Dry Run, Franklin Co., Pa. His grandfather, David Ferguson, coming from the North of Ireland, located there in his young manhood. He belonged to the Scotch-Irish race that has given so many noble men to the State and nation. David Ferguson married Margaret McKibben, and of this union James Ferguson was born in 1809, and lived his years near his early home.

James Ferguson was successful in business, a ruling elder in the United Presbyterian Church, and was held in high esteem by all who knew him. He was for several years Associate Judge of Franklin county, and he discharged the duties of the office with fidelity, and with credit to himself. He married Mary A. Doyle, and Thomas James Ferguson was one of five children given to them.

Thomas James Ferguson was born Oct. 19, 1852, and he received his education at Chambersburg Academy, Westminster College, and Western Theological Seminary. In October, 1878, he became pastor of the Silver Spring Presbyterian Church.

To few ministers is it given to become a factor in the varying phases of country life, such as Mr. Ferguson has been. His influence has been felt far beyond the confines of his church. There has been no movement for the betterment of the country that has not had his support and encouragement. He has been interested in better roads, better schools (serving as a school director for a number of years), and better farming. He has labored to unite the Christian forces of his locality, and to create closer fellowship along Christian people, and he has bade God speed to every man who served His Master. He holds the respect and admiration of the entire community.

On June 9, 1887, the Rev. Mr. Ferguson was married to Miss Grace Ewalt, whose family history is associated with the history of the valley from the beginning. Their children are Margaret, Mary McCormick and Virginia.