James B. Reilly
Biography from Biographical Annals of Lancaster County, PA, page 1374
Submitted by Wanza CampbellJAMES B REILLY, who built, owns and conducts the "St. Charles Hotel" at Atlantic City, N.J., was not born in Lancaster, but he spent his boyhood there, and his father resided in the place, and is one of the city's most prominent men.
Michael REILLY, the father, came from Ireland to America many years ago, and was long a railroad contractor, besides engaging in many other enterprises. For a time he was sole owner of the Quarryville railroad, and as an individual, purchased the farm which through his efforts has since become the beautiful Conestoga Park of Lancaster. He has made his impress on many important affairs in the community. Michael REILLY married Miss Anna Maria MC GOVERN, daughter of the late Thomas MC GOVERN, also a heavy contractor. This union was blessed with a family of several children, four of whom are living: James B., proprietor of the "St. Charles Hotel" at Atlantic City; John, assisting his brother James B.; and Frank and Charles, at home in Lancaster.
James B. REILLY was born in Belvidere, N.J., his father being engaged in contract work there at the time. He spent his younger days in Lancaster, and was educated in its public schools. His first mercantile venture was in the coal business, but he abandoned that to engage in the contracting business with his father. No contractors were better known than McManus & Reilly, and James B., as a member of the firm, took an active part in its affairs. A great deal of work was done for the Pennsylvania Railway Company, but many other large undertakings were also carried through during the thirteen years of active operation.
In 1896 Mr. REILLY bought mine acres of land at Atlantic City, and began the great task of erecting fifty buildings, of which the magnificent "St. Charles" forms a leading part. With the exception of the hotel Mr. REILLY has disposed of nearly all the property. St. Charles Place of which Mr. REILLY was projector, builder and owner, comprises one of the finest parts of this famous sea side resort.
Mr. REILLY was married, in 1881, to Miss Mary E. BRYANT, daughter of the late Daniel BRYANT, known as America's most famous minstrel, and whose hall years ago in New York was the center of amusement for all classes of citizens. Seven children have been born to this union, all of whom are living: Bryant, James and Charles attending Mt. St. Mary's College at Emmitsburg, Md.; and Anna Marie, Helen, Bessie and Richard, at home.
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