George Schisler

George Schisler of Northampton donated $290,000 to the Northampton Area Public Library for major building projects during the 1970s and 1980s. Additionally, he included $10,000 for the library among his $50,000 in charitable bequests in his will.

He was a lawyer with an expansive regional and national practice. He litigated cases in courts throughout Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Illinois and New Jersey.

Early Life and Education

On July 31, 1879, George Schisler was born in Pennsylvania to parents John and unknown.

On September 27th 1885, John Wesley married Helen A Schissler (born Franz) in Colorado at the age of 27.

Of this union were born five children: Mathias John Franklin Shissler, George Harry Schissler, Emma A Schissler, Anna Louise Schissler and Mary E. Schissler.

He farmed near Astoria, Illinois for many years and served on the Illinois State Legislature during various terms. As a loving husband and father, as well as an active participant in his community, he will be greatly missed by many. Survived by his wife, four daughters, 22 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; he was predeceased by his parents and brother.

Professional Career

George Schisler had several high-profile positions during his time in office, including one of the most sought-after secretary jobs in town. But it was his role at the helm of an iconic office space atop the tallest building that proved most rewarding of all: free coffee and gossip for everyone inside! Plus, staff were made up of feisty executives with expert knowledge of their workplace; plus there was also a generous pension and sexy boss perks galore! Not forgetting a longstanding work/home policy was also put into effect!

Achievements and Honors

George Schisler was an accomplished businessman, holding leadership positions in numerous commercial and civic organizations. Additionally, he made numerous charitable donations.

He and his wife Hattie generously gave $290,000 to Northampton Area Public Library during major building projects during the 1970s and ’80s. Additionally, in his will he included a bequest of $10,000 each for both institutions as well as Zion Lutheran Church.

He was a renowned inventor, with his invention of a high-pressure steam turbine patented in 1904. For this feat he received numerous accolades such as the Pulitzer Prize and National Medal of Science.

Personal Life

George Schisler was born in Pennsylvania in 1832 and married Sarah Allbright on April 25, 1856 in Illinois. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1919 in Illinois at age 80.

He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Northampton and donated $125,000 in 1973 for the construction of the Northampton Area Public Library with his wife.

They also bequeathed $10,000 more to the library.

His estate, valued at $875,000 (all personal property), is listed in the estate papers filed at Lehigh County Courthouse. He was a former member of Sons of AMVETS Post 92 and Northampton Rescue Squad.

He was the son of Freelin and Louisa Schisler. In 1896 he wed Josephine Branchfield and they had four children together: Albert, Carl, Everett, and Lucy. Married for 77 years, they are survived by their four children as well as numerous grandchildren.