William Haslett

Of Butler County, was born 1816 in Antrim County, Ireland, the son of linen manufacturer and merchant William Haslett Sr. of Pittsburgh.  Senator Haslett was educated in Pittsburgh common schools and Western University (Pitt). He moved to Butler about 1832 and read law with Judge John Bredin; was admitted to the bar in 1837; briefly opened a private practice before pursuing the newspaper business, which became his career.  The senator was a Henry Clay Whig and a charter member of the Republican Party in 1856. His legislative service included a three-year term in the state Senate, 1850-1852; and two years in the state House of Representatives, 1864-1865.  He was appointed United States store keeper in 1870, which position he filled until his death. He married Harriet T. Purviance. The Hon. William Haslett died on December 10, 1872; his widow survived until May 3, 1881.
 
History of Butler County