Death of Samuel Black

Samuel L. Black Obituary

(McKeesport Daily News, 1906)

Aged Father of Former Mayor Passes Away

His Son at Mt. Clemens at the Time of the Summons–Brief Sketch of An Honored and Eventful Career–Funeral Thursday.

Samuel Black, one of the oldest and most highly honored residents of McKeesport, died at 7:15 p.m. at the home of his son, ex-mayor Robert J. Black, No. 249 Ninth Avenue. His demise was quite unexpected.

Mr. Black had been in poor health for some years past and had been confined to the house most of the time. Last week he appeared brighter than ever and his son, Former Mayor Black, left on a vacation in Mt. Clemens, Mich., where he was at the time of his father’s death. Deceased was taken worse on Sunday but his condition was not considered dangerous until a short time before his death.

Samuel Black descended from old Puritan stock. He was born in Freeport, Pa., September 30, 1828, and would have been 83 years old next September. He moved to Tarentum, Pa., when quite a young man and engaged in the blacksmith business, which he followed until the infirmities of old age compelled him to retire from active business. He was married when quite a young man to Miss Maria Hare of Tarentum and to them three sons were born. The wife died about 13 years ago. The sons were the late Dr. J.T. Black of Duquesne, the late Dr. Charles H. Black of Turtle Creek, and Dr. Robert J. Black, former mayor of McKeesport, who is the only surviving child.

Samuel Black came to McKeesport about 20 years ago and had resided here since. He was very well known throughout the city. He was a member of Tarentum lodge of Odd Fellows and was a member of the Tarentum Methodist Episcopal Church. He had never transferred his membership from the lodge or church. Dr. Black was notified of his father’s death at Mt. Clemens and telegraphed that he would be here tomorrow.

Funeral services will be held at the house, No. 309 Ninth avenue, at 7:30 on Thursday evening. On Friday morning the remains will be taken to Tarentum for burial.