The subject of this sketch and his brother James, who own and cultivate a valuable farm in Benton Twp., are successful farmers and are also known as experienced breeders of fine trotting horses. Born in this county March 29, 1829, Andrew Wells is the son of John and Elizabeth (Hunter) Wells. His father, who was born in Orange Co., NY, Jun 8, 1804, was in early life a mason, but afterward abandoned the trade and turned his attention to farming.
For a number of years he was the owner of a small store in Factoryville, PA, and there owned a hall which was rented by the Knights Templar. On being burned out, he left the place and removed to Vineland, NJ, where he died at age 83. His wife, who was born in Orange Co., NY, Sep 10, 1803, died in Factoryville at the age of 52. Of their twelve children all but one attained mature years and eight are still living. The paternal grandfather of our subject was William Wells, who died about 1838. The maternal grandfather, Robert Hunter, was born Dec 8, 1775, served for 3 months in the War of 1812, and died Sep 18, 1864. He married Esther Clark, who was born Jun 25, 1780 and died Jan 17, 1843. from Orange Co., NY, Robert Hunter and his wife moved to PA and both died here several years later.
Until the age of 27 Andrew Wells lived with his parents. May 16, 1856, he married Miss Mary Sherrer, who was born in Prussia Sep 15, 1839, and was one of 4 children, all but one of whom are living. After the death of her mother, Margaretha (Feltz) Sherrer, in Germany, her father Jacob, crossed the ocean and settled in Archbald, PA, where he died about 1849. Mr. & Mrs. Wells became the parents of 5 children, of whom Willie died at the age of 17.
The others: Judson H., who is at home assisting on the farm; Vernon B., engaged in the banking business in Nebraska and is also the deputy treasurer; Frank A., residing in Benton twp.; and Alpha L., who received a good education and is popular in the best social circles in town.
In connection with his brother James, Mr. Wells shortly after his marriage purchased the old homestead, where they raise their horses. In political belief both are Republicans. While their ancestors were Universalists, the family of our subject attends the Baptist Church.
Source: "Portrait & Biographical Record of Lackawanna, Wyoming & Wayne Counties, PA" printed in 1897
1850 Census for Benton, then Luzerne County
e-mail: Wells Family Research Association