From "HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY,"  Vol. I, page 280.
Brant & Fuller, 1890.


RICHARD S. FAIR

Richard S. Fair, of Wheeling, who is well known as a carpenter and 
builder, and also as a manufacturer of the celebrated Wheeling 
Roofing paint, was born in that city August 22, 1856. He is a son of 
John H. and Catherine (Longing) Fair, natives of Fort Erie county, W. 
Va., and Washington county, Penn., respectively.  They came to 
Wheeling in 1845, where the father was engaged at his trade as a 
carpenter and builder until 1886, the year of his decease.  He died 
June 19, at the age of sixty-three years.  He was a worthy and 
respected citizen, well-known throughout this region.  Four of his 
children were reared to maturity, Mary F., wife of Asahel McCulley; 
Henry W.; Richard S., and William A.  Richard S. was reared in 
Wheeling, and after he had received his education in the public 
schools he began work with his father, learning the trade of the 
latter, in the practice bf which he embarked on his own account in 
1880.  In 1886 he patented what is widely known as the Wheeling 
Roofing paint, for tin, iron and felt roofs, which he manufactures 
extensively, and finds a great demand for it.  In his business as a 
builder he also is prospering, and occupies a leading position in his 
business.  Mr. Fair is a member of the Fourth Street Methodist 
Episcopal church, and is a charter member of the Y. M. C. A.  He 
devotes much time to religious work, and is highly esteemed by all.  
He was married, in 1879, to Virginia G., daughter of Alexander and 
Martha E. (Davis) Dakan, of Wheeling, and by this union has three 
children: Richard K., Mary E, add Eva L. 


(Linda Fluharty)