John P. Force

Source: History Morris County New Jersey, Volume II, Lewis Publishing Co., 1914

About twenty-five years ago Mr. FORCE engaged in business at Dover, and from a start on a modest scale has developed perhaps the best establishment in the city, and a very profitable undertaking. He belongs to a family which for several generations has been substantially represented in New Jersey.

John P. FORCE was born in Warren county, New Jersey, in 1856, son of Nathan, born June 22, 1821, and Jane (PIERSON) FORCE, both natives of New Jersey, the father a carpenter by occupation. The grandfather, John FORCE, was born November 11, 1783, married Susan HEGERMANN. In the family of the parents were the following children:

Elizabeth, wife of John DALRYMPLE;
Emma, wife of Jacob HOUSER;
Sarah, wife of Jasper SNYDER;
John P.;
Nathan Jr.

John P. FORCE had a common school education only, and lived at home until he reached his majority. His early experiences were those of an industrious and hard working young man, and he had to create most of the opportunities for himself. When he became of age, he went out west and spent eight years in different sections of the United States. From boyhood up he has had a natural inclination for horses, and since coming of age has always dealt in these animals to a greater or less extent. In 1894 he established a livery barn at Dover, and now has a well equipped business, employing about four hands regularly, and keeping fifteen horses besides a complete outfit of carriages, automobiles, and other vehicles needed in the business.

In September, 1882, Mr. FORCE married Mary CASTNER, born in Hunterdon county, New Jersey, daughter of Theodore and Margaret (SLAYTON) CASTNER. In the CASTNER family were the following children:

Curtis,
John.
Herman,
Ollie, wife of Jacob DUNHAM;
Carrie, wife of William JENNINGS, deceased;
Marietta, wife of Theodore HUMMER;
Mary, wife of John P. FORCE.

Mr. and Mrs. FORCE have one daughter,

Estella, wife of Leo TOTTEN.

Mr. and Mrs. TOTTEN have two children,

John and
Edna.

In politics Mr. FORCE is a Democrat, has voted for many of the presidential candidates of that party, but in many matters is independent. He is affiliated with the R. A. and with his family attends the Presbyterian church.

This biography was transcribed by John Cresseveur (1949-2003).