|
About
David Leech
(page
2)
Leech built a
sawmill, gristmill and woolen-making shop,
all powered by water from the dam and
river. He also built boat yards and later
organized a boat line to carry passengers
and freight. He became the agent for
several Pittsburgh boat companies when the
canal opened and first boats passed
through here in 1828. At that time all
commercial activity and dwellings were
located along the riverfront, and River
Avenue later became the town's principal
business street.
The enterprising Mr.
Leech spent much of his wealth to foster
the town. He built several houses. Among
those still remaining are the former
Malarkey-Smail property at First and Main
Streets that houses the Leechburg Museum
and Historical Society, and the rear
portion of the Masonic Corinthian Club on
Market Street. He also built the first
schoolhouse in 1829, the same frame
building being used until 1843.
In 1853 Leech helped
organize Leech, Chamberlain & Co.
which built a rail line between Pittsburgh
and Kittanning. It was completed late in
1856.
Leech died two years
later on Nov. 3, 1858 after a long illness
and is buried in Leechburg Cemetery on
Pershing Avenue. [previous]
|
