My Genealogy Hound

CHARLES H. COHN. This gentleman is distinguished in the annals of Allentown as Chief of its Fire Department. Born in Jackson, Tenn., he is the son of Henry and Hannah (Henry) Cohn, natives of New York. Charles H. spent the first nine years of his life in Tennessee, and in 1863 accompanied his parents on their removal to the Keystone State. This was during the war, and the family remained in Philadelphia until the close of hostilities, when they returned to Jackson, Tenn., and there, made their home for about four years, when they made their way to Ohio, and lived in Cincinnati a twelvemonth.

In 1869 the elder Mr. and Mrs. Cohn, with their family, returned to Pennsylvania, and while residing in the Quaker City our subject learned the trade of a cigar-maker. This he followed until 1871, in the above place, and at the expiration of that time coming to Allentown, continued to work at the occupation until 1883, spending the last three years of that time as foreman in the factory of Felton & Schurman. When leaving the shops, Mr. Cohn went on the road as traveling salesman for the same company, his route lying through Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, New York and Pennsylvania.

Mr. Cohn continued to travel in the interests of the cigar trade for two years, when he abandoned the road and engaged in business for himself, manufacturing a fine grade of cigars. This he carried on very successfully until 1893, in April of which year he was appointed to his present responsible position for three years. He has full control of the various fire departments of the city, and in every way is considered a thoroughly, efficient executive. Mr. Cohn was instrumental in securing a chemical engine, costing $1,450. He has full control of the finances, and is also Secretary of the Fire Committee.

August 19, 1893, Mr. Cohn of this sketch and Miss Emma Ritter, of Allentown, were united in marriage. The lady is a daughter of Daniel and Mary Ritter, and was born in 1851. The Republican party finds in Mr. Cohn one of its most prominent and active members. Socially he is an Odd Fellow, belonging to Allen Lodge No. 71; is Past Chancellor of Greenleaf Lodge No. 257, K. of P.; is a member of Lochawonk Tribe No. 201, I. O. R. M.; and is connected with the Patriotic Order Sons of America.