P. H. Hynes

page 338

One of the busiest, most energetic and progressive business men of Monroe county is P.H. Hynes of Avery, the secretary of the Smoky Hollow Coal company, and in his official capacity he controls the operations of six hundred men employed in the mines, besides a large number of bookkeepers and other employed in clerical capacities. From a humble financial position he has gradually worked his way upward through close application, unremitting diligence and honorable methods, and today occupies an enviable position as a leader of industrial interests in this part of Iowa, and his example is one well worthy of emulation.

Mr. Hynes is a native of Champaign county, Ohio, born in 1865, a son of Patrick and Mary Hynes. His mother died in 1890. His father, who was born of Irish parentage, died in 1869. The son, P.H. Hynes, was reared in Keokuk county, Iowa, and his school privileges were supplemented by study at home and by knowledge gained in the school of experience. Possessing an observing eye and retentive memory he has continually added to his knowledge until he has made it a potent factor in his successful business career.

When a boy he began work in the coal fields in a humble way, but his earnest labor and close application won the attention of those who employed him and he was promoted from time to time. He lived successively in Lee county, Mahaska and Monroe counties, and as the years passed gradually progressed in the business world until for the past ten years he has filled the responsible position of secretary of the Smoky Hollow Coal Company, of which Mr. Evans is the president. Mr. Hynes is virtually in control of the business and his practical understanding of every department of coal mining from the time the shafts are sunk until the product is placed upon the market makes him splendidly qualified for the supervision of the extensive interest of the company.

More than six hundred miners are employed, together with superintendents, bookkeepers and other clerks, and one thousand tons of coal are taken from the earth and prepared for distribution throughout the country. The company pays good wages, has done much for its men in providing comfortable homes, and the treatment of employees is always just and fair, so that the feeling is one of general satisfaction, and the men entertain genuine respect for the officers of the company.

In 1894, in Monroe county, Mr. Hynes was married to Miss May Appleman, a lady whose many social qualities and intellectual worth have endeared her to those with whom she has been brought in contact. She was educated in this state and is a daughter of W.S. Appleman, for many years a well known citizen of Avery. Mr. and Mrs. Hynes now have one son, P.H., Jr.

In his political views Mr. Hynes is a Republican and is regarded as one of the leading workers of the party in his town. He has frequently served as a delegate to party conventions and does all in his power to promote the growth and secure the success of the organization. Socially he is connected with the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America. In manner he is genial, pleasant and easily approachable and always gives courteous attention to those who seek an audience with him in business hours, while in social circles he is known as a companionable and popular gentleman.

He is also a man of fine personal appearance, being six feet in height and well proportioned. He has in Avery a beautiful home, furnished with many evidences of refined taste and culture. He is widely known in business, social and political circles in the state, and has high standing, because of his strong personality, his unquestioned integrity and sterling manhood.