ROBERT KERN, the third son of Nicholas and Elizabeth (Hartman) Kern, was born Dec. 22, 1833, in Lehigh county, and was reared upon the farm, acquiring his education in the public schools. To that foundation he added by reading and observation and became well informed on current events and topics of general interest. He followed farming for many years, discontinuing his farm operations in 1890. During the progress of the Civil War he was drafted, which entailed upon him an expense of $1800.00. In 1871, Mr. Kern established a coal business in Franklin, Pa., having for a partner several years, Tilghman Kuntz, after which he took his son, Weston H., into partnership and the firm had an extensive patronage. Mr. Kern donated the land upon which was built the Evangelical church at Emerald. He also assisted in building the Slatington and Slateville Evangelical churches, and was always liberal in church benevolences. He was a trustee and treasurer of the Emerald church for many years. He was also a trustee and treasurer of the Slatington church. He was a tax collector and for three terms an assistant assessor; was a member of the Masonic order and also of the I. O. O. F.

Robert Kern married, in 1853, Miss Julia A. Peter, daughter of Joseph Peter, of Lehigh county, born July 23, 1833.

Mrs. Julia A. Kern, the widow of Robert, resides in the old homestead at Emerald, her daughter, Henrietta, caring for her and administering to her every need. Miss Kern is actively interested in every department of church work. She was for years a teacher in the Sunday school.