Legislator Details
Vital Records Information:
Marital Information:
married Sarah E. Taylor, daughter of Thomas & Harriet (Kirk) Taylor, 3/31/1873 in Philadelphis, PA; children: Mary E., Alma & 2 others.
[one became Mrs. Arthur D. Campbell, the other became Mrs. A.W. Langley]
Number of Children: 4
Background
Education:
attended Dickinson Seminary in Williamsport, PA & Union Business College in Philadelphia.
Biographical Sketch:
Of Irish descent; son of John & Catherine (Bradigen) Devlin of Co. Meade[sic](Meath?), Ireland. He did farm work for a time. Enlisted at 15 in Co. F, 48th Reg. Penn. Volunteers, 8/12/1861; severely wounded 4/2/1865. After the war he was in business in Shenandoah, PA and Philadelphia. Failing health in civilian life caused him to leave the business field. Moved to Detroit 9/1879 to be employed in the finishing trade in the Pullman Palace Car Works. He was purchasing agent for a Detroit railroad. He served as deputy commissioner of labor, US Consul in Windsor (5 years, July 1885-90) and as clerk for the water board. Member of the GAR.
Notable Facts:
Strong supporter of labor reform. Nominated to fill the vacancy of Simon C. Kerren. Consul in Winsor, Ont. for 5 yrs.