William was a wealthy mine operator residing at Philipsburg, ... a leading spirit in the varied activities of the community. His family has been prominent in this section from the days when the unbroken forests marked the “frontier line,” and Col. John Holt, who settled in Bald Eagle Valley in 1782, is said to have been the first white man who followed the Indian trail to Snow Shoe to hunt game.

Born at the old homestead ... , and there his youth was mainly spent, his elementary education being supplemented by a course of study during 1874 and 1875 in the Normal School at Millersville, Lancaster Co., Penn. At his father’s death he was appointed administrator of the estate, and at present he is the attorney for the estate. Until 1892 he was engaged in the lumber business; but since that date his time has been occupied with his extensive coal operations. In June, 1894, he organized the Snow Shoe Mining Co., of which M. D. Kelley has since become president, with T. B. Budinger, treasurer, and which he as manager has successfully conducted. The mine has a capacity of from 250 to 300 tons per day.

Mr. Holt has an interest in the old homestead, and at times resides there. He has never married. Socially, he is prominent, and he belongs to Bellefonte Lodge, F. & A. M., and Moshannon Commandery, K. T., of which he is at the present time E. C. In politics he is a Democrat.
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His middle name from this source is as indicated but may well have actually been “Foreman” his mother’s maiden name. 3