Born in Philadelphia. Resident of Philadelphia. Graduated from Yale College in 1844. He won prizes for the study of Latin and Greek. Married Catherine Anna Schenk on October 22, 1852. They had five children.

Employed as a school teacher and principal. Superintendent of Schools in Camden, New Jersey in
1869 to 1875. Author of Grammar of the English Language and Elementary Grammar of English. Principal of the FewSmith Classical and Mathematical School in Philadelphia.

His collection was purchased by Mason and offered for sale at auction October 4, 1870. The collection included an 1804 cent restrike in white metal. Other highlights were an 1836 Gobrecht Dollar that realized $32.50, a Libertas Americana Medal at $35 and a 1791 Washington Cent described as unique for $60.

He died at home in Mechantville, New Jersey.