An historical examination of the earliest pioneering family to have settled in the area known today as Upper St. Clair Township, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

Bob's Page

The purpose of the website with brief comments on genealogy.

About Bob

An overview of the background of Bob Fife who researched, authored and is now administering this website.

My Lineage

Traces a single, direct line from John Fife, born 1721. It's a six-generation overview of names and dates.

The Scotch-Irish

The Scotch-Irish, the Ulster Scot emigrants, and their reasons for coming to America during the 1700s.

John Fife, The Pioneer

Family history refers to him as John Fife, "The Pioneer". His was the earliest family to have settled in the area that we know today as Pittsburgh's south hills. John (1721-1800) and his wife, Margaret, raised six children and farmed land covered by one of the earliest Virginia certificates.

Son William Fife And His Revolutionary War Record

William (1751-1808) was the son of John Fife, "The Pioneer". He enlisted with the Continental Line in the war for independence. His unit was engaged in the battles at the Brandywine and Germantown, encamping at Valley Forge during the winter of 1777-78. He later served on the frontier where he was commissioned a captain in the militia in 1782. William and his wife, Margaret Boyd Fife, raised nine children.

Fife Men In The Revolutionary War

John Fife, "The Pioneer", his two sons plus two nephews are credited with military service during the War of Independence.

William Fife Senior, Brother of John

In about 1776, William Sr. and his wife, Jane, moved from the Philadelpha area to join brother John, and the two families farmed adjoining grants of land.

Matthew Fife, Brother of John

Matthew, the brother of John and William, remained in Ulster and lived to be 100 years old.

Evidence Versus Family Myths

Inadequate research and faulty information can lead to genealogical myths that don't die easily. Based on indisputable evidence, the true identity of Captain William Fife is discussed.

Photographs

Some photos are included to enhance the written material.