The Life of WILLIAM PENN BAUM

William Penn Baum was born in Baltimore, Md., June 6, 1800, and died in Pittsburgh, Pa., Jan. 30, 1867. When he was twelve years of age he came to Pittsburgh with a friend of his father, Charles Volz, who was one of the influential men of those early times. He remained with Mr. Volz for a number of years, attending night schools and working during the day in Mr. Volz's office. Later he was engaged in the manufacturing business on Wood Street. After this business experience he went into the toy business on what is now known as Sixth Street. Later and until the time of his death, he was business agent for the Economites Society. He was a very active man in the commercial affairs of the city, being a director of the Merchants and Manufacturers National Bank from its organization until his death. He labored to build up the city and stood high among his fellow-citizens. He was an ardent Abolitionist and was among the active factors in the formation of the Republican Party, with which he ever afterwards voted. He was on a committee to look after the soldiers going into the Civil War. In his religious faith he was an Episcopalian, and was one of the founders of the East End Calvary Church, in which he served as a vestryman.

He married, May 10, 1832, Rebecca Roup, daughter of John and Kitty (Winebiddle) Roup. They were the parents of twelve children, ten of whom attained maturity; all born in the old Baum homestead, built one hundred and one years ago and still standing.