Robert Harrison Stickler (1888-1970)

Biography
Robert born 1888 in Lansford, PA., was the eighth child of Isaac Stickler and Martha Ann Hill. He grew up in Lansford and at one time had a bout with typhoid fever. When he was thirty seven years of age he married Bertha Cunning of Lansford, the daughter of William Cunning and Sally Griffith.

Robert also owned a bakery shop for quite a few years. His wife, Bertha, was also employed as an office manager for Margargee Brothers, Philadelphia, for thirty years and retired in 1971. Robert was active in town politics and received the job of postmaster of Lansford by political appointment. The event caused considerable scandal as others seeking the position had reportedly made cash offers. Robert died in 1970 at the age of eighty two.

The following article appeared in the Lansford Leader: -

POST OFFICE JOB SCANDAL - NEW CONGRESSMAN FACES. May expose Bidding for Place as Soon as He Takes Office. Lansford, Pa. Dec. 26. - The post office situation in the borough has become a public scandal. The term of David Johnson, efficient Democratic incumbent for more than eight years, expired in September, but no successor has been appointed. Three names have been certified by the Civil Service Commission, William Miller, Robert Stickler and David Edwards, the order mentioned.

It is known that Fred Lewis, Republican leader, promised Stickler the mob when the latter cast his fortunes with the Lewis line-up in the recent fight for control of the Republican machine. Now, Lewis hesitates and vacillates between Edwards and James, whose name is not among the eligibles. Rumours of cash offers for the recommendation are rife and not denied. David G. Watkins, old Penrose's lieutenant, a shrewd politician feared by Lewis is believed to the playing the cards quietly for Edward with Watkins it is "anyone but Stickler," as the Sticklers and Watkins do not agree.

Lewis and Congressman Kirkpatrick have allowed the entire matter to become the common gossip of Carbon County because they fail to win public confidence by appointing a man commanding public respect. Stickler and Jones are the popular choices, but, with Jones out of the running, it is believed Lewis will play safe, follow the precedent set by Penrose and Mutchler and "keep his promises" to Stickler, though it bring down the wrath of Watkins.

Congressman-elect Kent, a Democrat, is said to have his eye on the situation and may demand a cessation of the scandal that the Lansford post office is on the auction block. It is rumoured that Watkins has the ear of Kent and will carry publicity of the selling process to the floor of the Senate if it will enlighten the people of the activity of Lewis. While Watkins and Lewis fight it out, the Democrats look on calmly and await the name of the "highest bidder."

Contributors
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