Primitive Methodist trade unionist and local preacher. He began work at 6, scaring birds, but ended up working in a Cleveland ironstone mine. He played an active part in the Cleveland Miners Association, formed in 1872, and was elected President in 1875 and agent in 1876. He was also a leading figure in the Continental Congress of Miners.
His son, also Joseph Toyn (1870-1938 em: 1895), was born at Skelton in Cleveland. He wrote Sowers and Reapers: a song service of praise (n.d.). He died on 28 November 1938.