Stanley A. Smith and Luella Zeigenfus

Pictures and Information from Mary Louise Parsons

Stanley Aquila Smith was born at Hotel 56, near Trachsville, Pennsylvania on April 11, 1907. He was the third son of Herbert Smith and Mary Estella (Green) Smith. The oldest son was Sphener( b. 1903?) and the 2nd son was William. William lived only about 6 months. Stanley's parents moved when he was little to the lower end of White Street, Weissport, PA, where he grew to manhood. Brother Alvin( b. 1909) and sisters, Verdie( b. 1914) and Alice( b. 1924) also grew up in Weissport. Stanley's father, Herbert, left the family about 1924 and Stanley assumed the responsibility as head of the family. The family struggled to make ends meet, growing and selling fruits and vegetables from their small plot of land north of Weissport (called Rickertsville). Stanley taught school at Cope's School, a country school, grades 1 thru 8, at age 17. He worked himself through college - first East Strousburg Normal School then Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA.

Photo of Stanley, about 1950

He met Luella Mae Zeigenfus at a Teacher's convention about 1929. Click here for Luella's Ziegenfus story

They were both teachers. They were married February 10, 1930 and lived for a short time in Weissport then moved to Palmerton, PA where they raised three children, Mary Louise, Charles Warren and Leah Jane. Stanley first taught science at Palmerton Public School then started a musical program and created bands for the high school (7-12 grades) and elementary schools.

Photo of Luella, about 1930

He was band director for many years at Palmerton High School and also directed community bands in Kunkletown and Ben Salem. All three children were very interested in music and learned to play the piano as well as how to play several band instruments. Mary Louise played cornet then later changed to French horn.

She was also piano accompanist for the choir and for many solos during her public school years. She went on to major in music at Wyoming University in Laramie, Wyoming.

Photo of Mary Louise, 1963

Charles' main instrument was the flute, in which he excelled. He also was in State Band and preformed solos in concert. He graduated in music from the University of Wyoming and went on to teach music in high school. He returned to music studies and graduated with a PhD in music. He taught in the music departments of Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, MO. and Western Kentucky University at Bowling Green, KY.

Photo of Charles Warren, 1979

Leah's primary instument was the oboe. She was a music major in college. She graduated with a B.A in music from the University of Wyoming. Then went on to receive her Masters from Michigan State University. Upon graduation she taught band and orchestra in the public schools in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Florida.

Photo of Leah Jane, 1960

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