Jacob J. FUNK, banker, was born April 12, 1848, at Sylvan Grove Farm, Washington county, Maryland. He is the son of Jacob and Christianna (GOOD) FUNK. His father was a farmer, a county commissioner, a school commissioner and prominent member of the German Baptist church. He was of German descent, a man of strong convictions and prompt in all engagements. His mother was of Scotch descent.
The son's youth was spent on the farm. From an early age, he took an active interest in farm duties and, at the age of nineteen, assumed full management of the estate. He was little inclined to study. In lines of reading he found most interest in "Ancient and modern history, with current literature, and especially, the 'New York Tribune'". Mr. Funk attended the public schools a few months in the winter and later went to the State normal school at Millersville, Pennsylvania. His father died in 1875, and being unable to buy the farm on which he lived, he removed to Hagerstown, Maryland, in the spring of 1876, and obtained employment in the insurance office of H. A. McComas and Company, which position gave him an insight into the rules of commerce and business. He attributes his success in life to his early home surroundings, "his carefully selected companions and an exceptional wife whose forethought and judgment were faultless." In 1881, he was given a clerkship in the office of the Hagerstown Steam Engine and Machine Company and, by dint of great perseverance, was made manager of the local agencies. He was step by step promoted to the posts of assistant superintendent and finally treasurer and general manager in the company. The latter position he held until 1897. In 1889 he helped to organize the Second National Bank of Hagerstown, of which he has been president since 1893. He is identified with the Republican party. In religious faith he affiliates with the Presbyterian church. He has always been fond of horses and from boyhood has found his chief relaxation in riding and driving.
Mr. Funk says: "The foundations of my limited success were the frugal habits and early teachings acquired in a country home. My parents were plain, substantial, progressive people, of strong character with liberal views, and temperate in all things. I have always adhered to their early teachings and owe whatever of success I have attained to the lessons of strict integrity, self reliance and perseverence, patiently taught me by their precept and example. These qualities, in my judgment, will keep you free from harm and make you a least a respectable, law-abiding citizen".
He has been twice married. His first wife was Clara R. ZELLAR, to whom he was married December 10, 1873. She died in 1888, leaving one child, Bertha FUNK, who died at the age of 26. On December 24, 1903, Mr. Funk was married to Frances M. HEALEY.
