Representative Athelston Gaston

Athelston Gaston (April 24, 1838 – September 23, 1907) was a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Pennsylvania. As a member of the Democratic Party representing Pennsylvania, he contributed to the legislative process during one term in office, participating in the democratic process and representing the interests of his constituents during a significant period in American history.

Gaston was born on April 24, 1838, in Castile, Wyoming County, New York. In 1854 he moved with his parents to Crawford County, Pennsylvania, a relocation that would shape the course of his personal and professional life. Growing up in a largely rural region, he became closely acquainted with the agricultural and commercial conditions of northwestern Pennsylvania, experience that later informed both his business activities and his public service.

After settling in Pennsylvania, Gaston engaged in agricultural pursuits, working in farming and related activities until 1873. That year he transitioned into the lumber industry, becoming a dealer in and manufacturer of lumber. His involvement in this sector coincided with a period of significant economic development in Pennsylvania, and his business interests placed him among the region’s active commercial figures. The lumber trade became his principal occupation and provided the economic foundation for his later entry into public life.

Gaston’s prominence in Meadville, the county seat of Crawford County, led to his election as mayor of Meadville, Pennsylvania, a position he held from 1891 to 1895. As mayor, he was involved in the administration and oversight of municipal affairs during a time of growth and modernization in the city. His service in local government enhanced his reputation as a civic leader and helped establish the political base that would support his subsequent candidacy for national office.

Building on his local political experience, Gaston was elected as a Democrat to the Fifty-sixth Congress, serving in the U.S. House of Representatives from Pennsylvania for one term. During this period he took part in the legislative work of the House, representing the interests of his district and contributing to national deliberations at the turn of the twentieth century. He was an unsuccessful candidate for reelection in 1900, which brought his congressional service to a close after a single term.

Following his departure from Congress, Gaston returned to Meadville and resumed his activities in the lumber business. He continued to be identified with the commercial life of Crawford County, maintaining his role as a dealer and manufacturer of lumber. Although no longer in federal office, he remained a figure of local standing whose career reflected the close relationship between business leadership and public service in his era.

Athelston Gaston died on September 23, 1907, when he was killed while on a hunting trip along Lake Edward in northern Quebec, Canada. His death occurred far from his Pennsylvania home, and there was no ceremony at the place of his passing. His remains were returned to Meadville, where he was interred in Greendale Cemetery, underscoring his enduring connection to the community in which he had lived, conducted business, and held public office.