SHAW, RICHARD. There was, perhaps, no man who occupied a more prominent position, or took a more active part in all that pertained to the general welfare of Clearfield County during the days of its infancy, than Richard Shaw. In every project looking to the advancement of the interests of the county and the prosperity of its people, he was foremost, and at the same time fully mindful of his duties to himself and his family. Mr. Shaw was born in the county Derry, Ireland, February 2, 1792. He was the second of 8 children, sons and daughters, born to Archibald and Mary Shaw. Each of these children grew to manhood and womanhood. The settlement of the family in Clearfield County dates back to the year 1810, at which time Archibald Shaw and family located on the Mount Joy ridges, a few miles north from Clearfield town.

On the 14th day of May, in the year 1816, Richard Shaw united in marriage with MARY IRWIN, daughter of Henry Irwin, who also was one of the pioneers of the county,
and one of its respected men. They had 11 children.

Soon after marriage Mr. Shaw moved to Bradford township, on a 100 acre tract known as the Bird Lands. Here he lived but 4 years, when he located on land at the mouth of Montgomery Creek, in Lawrence township, but soon again moved further up the river to the site of the present farm of Leander Denning. The places last named were not owned by Mr. Shaw, his interest being only a leasehold.

Having purchased the extensive tract of lands which have subsequently been known as the Shaw lands, situate on the west side of the river, opposite Clearfield town, he
moved there and made that his residence during the remainder of his life. As a farmer, merchant, and lumberman he was energetic, thrifty, and consequently prosperous. As
his means accumulated he invested them in real estate, and watching the gradual growth of the county seat, made most of his investments in that locahty. In 1840 he became the owner of the property known as the " Red Mill," which he owned, or controlled, up to the time of his death. His investments in Clearfield were, too, quite extensive, and
by various purchases he became sole owner of all the property on the north side of Market street, that lay between First and Second streets, with a considerable frontage on either of the last named thoroughfares. This land lay in the heart of the town, and rapidly increased in value, and, as occasion seemed to require, he caused to be erected thereon buildings suitable for mercantile and other purposes ; besides these lands he made extensive purchases in other localities, each of which was improved and turned to good purpose.

While thus actively engaged in his personal affairs, Mr. Shaw was not neglectful of the interests of his children, but gave each of them the benefits of his own business experience, and a good start in life on their attaining a proper age.

In political affairs he always took an active interest and warmly advocated the doctrines of the Democratic party. He was at one time appointed justice of the peace for
Lawrence township, and still later chosen to fill the more elevated and dignified office of associate judge of the county, his coUeague on the bench at that time being Dr. John P. Hoyt. From his incumbency of this office, Mr. Shaw was ever afterward known by the title of "judge."

For many years he was a member of the Presbyterian Church, in the interests of which he took an active part, contributing both of his attention and means for the welfare of that society and its members. In this as in other respects, his example has been followed by a majority of his descendants.

Richard Shaw died on the 17th day of August, 1876, having passed the 84th year of his life. His remains were interred in the Shaw family burying-ground, opposite the borough of Clearfield.