w*r»
. &
U *7* y"J, 7^
^
,/~
J i- ^ « *^ ^V ^VB *bVB * ^ <>••••<**
CARL SCML'RZ. HISTORY OF V& GERMAN IMMIGRATION
IN THE UNITED STATES
AND
Successful German-Americans
and Their Descendants
BY GEO. VON SKAL
1908 I of CuI\mRESS*
I wo tAKiiei o SEP 17 laua
UUtt LX_ AAC. >
) | a. S « 3 J f a.
To the memory of the late
(Earl ^rlutrz who, a steadfast and loyal American, remained true to German ideals, and devoted his life to the betterment of his adopted country, never forget- ting or belittling the gifts he had received from the land of his birth,
this utnrk is iirMratrii
COPYRIGHT, 1908, BY
F. T. & J. C. SMILEY NEW YORK CITY —
INTRODUCTION
THIS work is intended to be a record of all that Germans have accomplished in the United States a record of honest endeavor, energy, perseverance, strength and achievement. It shall, in addition, show the part that the American citizen of German blood has taken in the making of these United States, in peace and war, on the battlefield as well as in the counting house, the workshop and laboratory, in the realm of science and education or in the long fight that was neces- sary to extend civilization and culture over a continent.
It contains a history of German immigration in the United States from the first settlements to the present day, showing what the Germans were who left the fatherland, why they came, and what they did in their new country. Every incident throwing light upon the work done by the German element has been made use of to give a complete, though concise, and impartial re- cital of its activity, and a description of the influence it has exerted upon the development of the Union. In the second part the biographies of many Americans of German nativity or descent are given. History is not complete if it chronicles only the deeds of the few who in times of strife and combat rise above the surface; it must tell us of the many who have fought and suc- ceeded. The value of so large and important a part of the American people as the German immigrants and their descendants can be fully understood only if it is shown how many of them have been successful, and how they have, by long and earnest travail, risen to unusual heights. THE EDITOR. CONTENTS
PAGE Introduction .
History of German Immigration in the United States - - - 7.42
A Martyr to Liberty -----.... - - n
The Pennsylvania Germans - --.-._.. 13
The Germans During the Revolution -----.. 18
From the Revolution to the Year 184S ------2 5 The Forty-Eighters ------28
The Civil War and the Years Following It 32
From the Franco-German War to the Present Day ------, 4
Conclusion ------in
The Percentage of German Blood in the American People - - - 41
Successful German-Americans and Their Descendants 43 —;
HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES
According to the last Census there were living ing for three and even four generations. Where, in the United States in 1900 not less than for instance, the knowledge of the German lan- 2,669,164 persons born in the German Empire. guage is cultivated, and the children are made Within the few years passed since then, no great acquainted with German literature, the German change can have taken place, for the number of influence upon the mind becomes strong enough German immigrants has probably not been much to be traced and in turn exerted even after all larger than the decrease of the German-Amer- connection with the Fatherland has long ceased. ican population by death or the return of Ger- Taking all these factors into account, and con-
mans to the Fatherland. There is, however, no sidering all manifestations of German origin doubt but that the number of Germans living as, for instance, the numbers of societies which
in the United States is considerably larger than are either composed of Germans and their de- the figures given above, for the Census, in de- scendants in the first generation, or which, al- termining nationality, does not take into account though outwardly American, pursue objects and race but political divisions, and calls only those ideals essentially German—and viewing the persons Germans who have been born within strength of movements based upon German ideas, the borders of the German Empire. Several the conclusion does not appear extravagant that hundred thousand immigrants who have come the so-called German-American element comprises from Switzerland, Austria and the Baltic prov- nearly ten per cent of the population of the Uni- inces of Russia, and who are thorough Germans ted States. The percentage of German blood in in race, tradition and customs, are not classed as the American people is undoubtedly much larger
such by the Census. It is, therefore a very con- careful and conservative investigators have placed
servative estimate if we assume that the num- it as high as twenty-five per cent. ber of Germans living in the United States ex- It goes without saying that so large a part of ceeds three millions. But even then we cannot the total population of the country must neces- estimate the strength of the German element and sarily have exerted considerable influence upon
the influence it exerts, correctly, because we must the formation of the character of the American take into consideration the descendants of the people. Whether this influence has always been immigrants, in whom, although moderated by used in the right way and with the full strength
American influences, German ideas and ways of it possessed is an open question and has been thinking are more or less preserved. Here sta- doubted by many, especially by Germans with tistics cannot help us, for while the Census Bu- scant knowledge of American conditions. The reau has given us a number of tables showing United States would long have been a German how many native-born Americans had German country and the English language would have fathers, mothers, or both, this information, val- disappeared if pen and printing ink could have
uable as it is, does not tell us how many of accomplished it. Extravagant love of race or these descendants may be called German-Amer- country and unreasoning enthusiasm based upon icans in the sense that they have retained some impractical hopes and dreams are, however, not of the valuable traits of their ancestors. How sufficient to bring about tangible results and do quickly complete Americanization destroys even not qualify their possessors to sit in judgment the last vestige of the German origin depends upon the work accomplished by Germans in
upon innumerable circumstances, and it happens America. To do this a thorough knowledge of frequently that children who were born in the history of the country, of its institutions and Germany and brought to America in early youth evolution, as well as of the German immigra- lose all distinguishing traits before they grow up, tion since its beginning is required. In another and retain nothing that betrays their origin, chapter the attempt will be made to show what while on the other hand, many families remain Germans could accomplish here, and what they German in disposition and certain ways of think- have done, but before this is undertaken a short 8 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION JX THE I'XITED STATES but exhaustive sketch of the history of German crania and Western Prussia, German provinces immigration will be given- rarily occupied by the Swedes. The leader
There is, unfortunately, n<> complete history of the first expedition was the same Peter Minne- of German immigration in existence. A number wit who had bought New Netherlands from the of works have been written dealing with single Indians and had later left the Dutch service. or treating short periods. But sufficient The treaty through which he acquired the neces- material is at hand to show how widely the qual- sary land for his new enterprise was written in ity of the immigrants differed in the several Low German or Plattdeutsch. Minnewit arrived periods during which Germans arrived here in in the spring of 1638 and succeeded in taking the large numbers, and how far apart these periods fur trade on the Delaware away from the Dutch. were. A careful examination of all known facts Three years later he disappeared, but whether will not only show what the Germans brought to he died or returned to Europe remains a mystery. America hut also whether they made full use of His successor was the Swedish officer, Johann the opportunities extended to them. And it may Print/, Edler von Buchau, another German and be stated right here that the result cannot fail a scion <>f a well known German family which to raise the popular estimate of the value of the still exists. While he ruled New Sweden the German immigrant. quarrels between this colony and the Dutch of The first traces of the German immigration New Netherland began, because the thrifty extend back to the settlement of Manhattan Hollanders wanted a monopoly of the fur trade
I>l.md by the Dutch. Peter Minuit or Minnewit, and did not intend to divide it with others. Print/, who was appointed director-general of New Neth- returned soon to Europe and was followed by erlands by the Amsterdam Chamber of Com- another German, Johann Resingh of Elbing. In merce and purchased Manhattan Island from the the meantime the Thirty Years' War had ended, Indian- foi tulders, came from Wesel and Sweden was too weak to assist the distant colony herefore a German. Among the colonists and when, in September, 1655, Peter Stuyvesant who arrived here during the first half of the appeared with a strong force before the Swedish Seventeenth Century were many Germans, prin- fortifications, Resingh was forced to surrender. cipally from the lower Rhine, from Geldern, He was permitted to return to Sweden with his Westphalia, Friesland and Ditmarschen. Ger- troops, but many of the colonists were killed or many and Holland were at that time neither po- robbed of all their possessions. The few who litically nor economically as sharply separated as were allowed to remain had to swear allegiance now. The Hutch language was closely related to to the Dutch Government. The second attempt the dialects spoken in the neighboring provinces to form a German colony in America had thus of Germany and its difference from them be- ended in complete disaster and did not even leave came more marked much later through the in- traces of the work done. fluence of the Flemish. German immigration But soon a mighty stream of German immi- was not confined to the districts named, however, grants began to flow. For almost one hundred for many came from Holstein, llesse, Thuringia, years they came to seek homes, liberty and peace. Swabia, the Efanse cities and from Switzerland. Not always in stub masses as during the first
'I'll'-'- col( '-I exert no influence whatever half of the Eighteenth Century, and sometimes upon the development of tin- new country. They interrupted, but still continuous and steady not numerous enough, consisted mainly of enough to mark an epoch in the history of the
laborers and mechanics, and I probably country. And the Germans who arrived here little education. They soon losl their iden- during that time were in the main so much alike tity, changed their name-- to make them sound and the motives which caused them to leave their Dutch, rmd disappeared completely among the Fatherland were so similar, ami at the same time Hollander-. Every trace of them would be lost so different, from the causes of later movements if shipowners in Amsterdam had not kepi and of the same kind, that this one must be treated
.'d the lists of the p; they for- by itself and may be designated as the religious warded to Alio period of German immigration.
A tew years later an attempt was made 1.. The Thirty Years' War had ended. Its rav- found a German colony in Delaware, near the ;i^es had well nigh destroyed the German nation
• the city of Wilmington. It is and changed a flourishing country into a desert. true that this settlement was founded by the Towns and villages were in ruins, horses and cat- Swedish Government and called New Sweden, tle bad all but disappeared. Worse than this; but incontrovertible proofs -how that the colo the spirit of the people, hunted, persecuted, robbed .itn.- almost without exception from Pom and murdered without interruption for thirty HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 9
years, was utterly broken. The burgher, once so are in existence consisted of farmers from Alsa- proud and active, had become weak and timid. tia and the Palatinate. They arrived in 1677 and Only masters and serfs were left. The people settled along the Wallkill River, where they had neither strength nor courage to fight for the founded the still flourishing town of New Paltz. rights that had been taken away by the soldier They were followed by a number of Huguenots who rode through the land and took what he and to this day most of the family names of the wanted. Germany was divided into small prin- district in question show the German or French cipalities without number, ruled by princes who origin. In 1709 came sixty-one families from the claimed to be set up by the grace of God, and Palatinate under the guidance of their pastor, who considered the land and the people as their Josua von Kocherthal, and founded Newburg. own personal property. The very meaning of They were the advance guard of the many thou-
freedom and liberty had become unknown ; noth- sands already moving towards the land of prom- ing but constraint was visible, in trade, in the ex- ise. Kocherthal was a man of great energy and
ercise of the religious creed and even in domestic skill ; he succeeded in settling nearly three hun- life. The long and bloody war had prevented the dred families on both banks of the Hudson.
extinction of Protestantism but it had not brought Hunterstown, Kingsbury, Annsbury, Haysbury, religious liberty. The people were powerless Rhinebeck, Newtown, Georgetown, Elizabethtown, against the oppression practised on all sides. Kingston and Esopus were founded by him. These Their only hope was in flight from unbearable colonists were at first treated with great respect conditions. And now began the remarkable spec- by the English authorities. They received as much tacle that whole congregations and communities land as they needed and the settlement at New- set out on the long and weary march to the At- burg was given five hundred acres to support lantic Ocean where ships were waiting to carry the Protestant Church. But as soon as the poor them to other shores. Led by their ministers Germans had changed the wild forest into well- and teachers, singing psalms and hymns, they tilled fields and blooming gardens the English marched thus, carrying their women and chil- and the Dutch sought means to deprive them of dren on heavy wagons drawn by the strongest the fruits of their labor. They succeeded in of the men, through Germany and Holland, fol- many cases and the greater part of the German lowed and persecuted by the Government until settlers on the Hudson lost courage finally and they had crossed the border. And down the river went to Pennsylvania where large numbers of Rhine floated large boats and barges carrying the their countrymen had taken undisturbed posses- population of whole villages with their belongings. sion of extended tracts of land. In 1747 the Not all these emigrants left their homes be- Protestant Church at Newburg was taken away cause they were prevented from exercising their from the remaining Germans by force. religion. Even at that time agents of ship- The greatest body to leave at the same time owners traveled through Germany, notably along started in the spring of 1709, after the hard win- the Rhine, in the Palatinate and in Swabia, try- ter that has been mentioned. They went through ing to persuade people to emigrate to America. Holland to England and the governments of both They were lavish in their promises and held out countries were practically helpless when this vast hopes that could never be realized, and they found army descended upon them. A large camp was many followers. Want and poverty and the formed near London and this is said to have con- seeming impossibility of ever improving the con- tained fifteen thousand people at one time. For ditions surrounding them drove many away. The a while it excited the curiosity of the Londoners terrible winter of 1708-9, when the birds froze and the Court visited it repeatedly. But it was in the air in their flight and the wine in the casks, impossible to feed this mass and means had to all the Catho- and when almost all the vineyards in the Palati- be found to disperse it. Almost nate were destroyed, caused the emigration of lics were returned to their homes. Nearly four many thousands. The devastation of the Palat- thousand were sent to Ireland where they re- inate by the French under General Melac, of tained their customs for over a century but final- seven which the ruins of the castle at Heidelberg still ly disappeared. Between six hundred and they remain as a memento, induced many others to hundred were sent to North Carolina where cross the ocean. But the desire to escape oppres- were swallowed up by the English-speaking popu- still found sion and constant want and to find civic and re- lation, although traces of them can be of ligious liberty were the general causes of this in the names of towns and families. Many mighty movement of many thousands of people the young men were drafted into the army, and to the privations they and gave to it the peculiar character it possesses. several thousand succumbed thousand that went The first large body of which authentic reports had to undergo. Of three in HISTokV OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE I'XITED STATES
to New York eight hundred died during the mans were not ended. The English and Dutch journey. Several hundred remained in New York, colonists locked upon the independent farmers the rest, probably two thousand, were given land who tilled their own land with envy and hatred.
on both banks of the Hudson, a few miles south They wanted to own the land and rent it out to
itskill. This was a distinct breach of the tenants working it. A feudal state with the aris-
promises made t.» them by the English Govern- tocracy possessing all the land was their ideal.
ment which had set aside for them the fertile They attacked the crown titles of the Germans district on the Schoharie and the Mohawk rivers. and constant quarrels were the consequence. n in their camp near London, the Germans Weiser went to London to get justice, but failed, had met several Mohawk chiefs who had invited was captured by pirates and sold into slavery. them to settle among them, and the crown had Years later he returned, an old man, but not granted the necessary permission. But when the broken in spirit. Rather than submit to the de- colonists arrived at New York Governor Robert mands of the English and Dutch landholders he Hunter decided that they ought to be made to decided to move his tents again. In 1723 he repay the their support and transporta- started out as the leader of thirty-three families, tion had caused, ami in order to accomplish this taking their women and children with them. nt them to the pine forests of the Hudson Guided by Indians they followed the Schoharie
to make pitch until their debt was liquidated. into the mountains till they reached the head- The enterprise tailed completely. The poor Ger- waters of the Susquehanna. Down this river they mans were without tools or implements and had went to the mouth of the Swatara and then along
en the most necessary means of subsistence. its shores to the region that is now Berks County, Hunter did not furnish them with the promised Pa. Here they found at last the peace they had took away their ritles, because he re- been looking for so long. They were given the mained in constant fear that they would go away, land they needed, and not far from where large and thus made it impossible for them to hunt numbers of their countrymen had already settled. game. Their children were taken away from them Their trials were ended. What the} accomplished and apprenticed to Englishmen in New York, and in I'.erks County will be told when the settlement two years elapsed before the first crop could be of Pennsylvania by the Germans is described, but
red In their despair the settlers revolted it must be mentioned here that they would never against their oppressors but were quickly sub- have succeeded in their search if they had not dued by British troop-,. But the man to meet the made friends of the Indians. Weiser and his son, emergency arose. Johann Konrad Weiser, who, Konrad, were just in all their transactions with as ..ne of the leaders of the settlers, had incurred the savages, treated them kindly and were not
Special disfavor • .-rnor Hunter, and only never molested but frequently assisted by children had been taken away from him, them when they needed help. They retained their ded about one hundred of the more enter- influence over them until they died. Konrad prising spirits to follow him to the Schoharie. Weiser became justice of the peace, colonel in the They set out in the winter of 1712, in deep snow, militia and official interpreter for the government pursued by soldiers, and arrived at their desti- of Pennsylvania, for he spoke the languagi nation after suffering terrible hardships, When all the tribes in the territory east of the Missis- they arrived among the friendly Indians they sippi. Mis services were constantly required for .veil nigh starved and exhausted, and in ad- negotiations with the Indians. ML daughter mar- dition they w. 1 by a formal order from ried the Rev. Heinrich Melchior Muhlenberg, who Hunter to return forthwith to their camp on the had come to America in 17.}-'. and hei two sons, dians offered t,, protect them General Peter Muhlenberg and Friedrich August, and the Governor did not have enough troops to risk president of the Pennsylvania convention which a war with the Mohawks. I he new ratified the Constitution of the States, and tlemenl flourished, and Weiser's little band was United joined by many of those who had remained tirst speaker of the House of Representatives un behind. Before many years had passed a string d.r Washington's administrations, played import- of vill the Schoharie ant parts in the establishment of the independence
Mohawk but the troubles of the Ger- of the I nitcd Siate- of America. HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 11
A MARTYR TO LIBERTY
We must interrupt our narrative here to give many charitable deeds one may be selected. Many the history of a man who may rightly be called of the Huguenots who came to America had been the first martyr to liberty on American soil. His compelled to flee from France without money or memory should be preserved and he deserves a other means of subsistence. They were as a rule place in this history, not so much because he was sold to the highest bidder who had to pay their a German, but because it seems to have been for- passage and in this way acquired the right to gotten that he died in a righteous cause. Even work these serfs— for that is what they were in in the text-books used in American schools he is fact—until he considered that they had repaid often called a rebel, and the impression prevails his outlay. Leisler happened to be at the wharf that his execution was the natural consequence of when one of these ships arrived. He felt deep disloyal acts. Nothing could be farther from the pity for the unfortunate passengers who were well truth. educated and had evidently been brought up in Jacob Leisler was born in the neighborhood of comparative luxury. Before the usual auction Frankfurt-on-the-Main as the son of poor peas- began, he paid the passage money for all of them ants. He was hardly more than a boy when he and sent them to a tract of land he owned on emigrated to the Netherlands and entered the Long Island Sound. There they founded a vil- service of a merchant as apprentice. In 1660 he lage and called it New Rochelle. came to New Amsterdam to engage in the fur When William of Orange became King of Eng- trade on his own account. Shrewd, frugal, care- land the Governor of New York and his aristo- ful and yet enterprising, he soon prospered. His cratic friends tried to suppress the news. The business became very large and compelled him to people, however, soon heard of the change and make frequent trips to Europe. On one of these naturally hailed it with delight. As the officials journeys he was captured by pirates and sold into continued their rule of oppression a riot broke out slavery but regained his liberty by paying a large on June 2, i68ojacob Leisler as the commander ransom. In the meantime England had taken of the militia was forced to take charge. He possession of the colony and changed its name to compelled Governor Nicholson to deliver into his New York. During the reign of Charles II and hands the fort and the treasury. A Committee of of James II the governors and other high officials Safety was organized with Leisler at the head. sent from England joined hands with the landed On June 22 the inhabitants formally took the oath proprietors in the hope of founding an aristocracy of allegiance to William and Mary. Later on that could rule the other inhabitants after the Leisler was appointed Governor of New York. manner of the feudal system existing in Europe. But his administration was not successful because The favorites of the King who had received the aristocracy did not recognize his authority grants of large tracts of land did not sell any of and tried to place obstacles in his way. When the it but rented it to those wishing to cultivate the war with France broke out he was unable to de- soil. The population became divided into two fend the colony, partly because the English gen- parts, the aristocrats and the common citizens erals did not consider themselves bound to act in who were preyed upon in every conceivable man- harmony with him, partly because he did not ner. The merchants naturally became the lead- possess the knowledge required for operations of ers of the people and Leisler was foremost among this kind. The reverses he suffered made it easy the defenders of equal rights and justice for all. for his enemies to gain the ear of the King, and He was kind of heart and possessed unlimited Leisler was deposed two years after he had taken courage. When Governor Sir Edward Andros at- office. tempted to deprive the colonists of the privileges In Leisler's place General Sloughter had been granted to them, Leisler protested and was thrown appointed, a man of loose habits and addicted to into prison. His friends desired to give bail to drinking. Sloughter was in no hurry to come to hospitality ex- release him, but he would not permit it. He said New York because he liked the that by furnishing bail he would recognize the tended to him by the landed proprietors whose authority of the governor to arrest him, and this plantations he passed on his way from the South. take pos- he did not want to do. He remained in jail until He sent a Captain Ingoldsby ahead to to de- Andros had to set him free. This action increased session of the colony, but Leisler declined Ingoldsby his prestige with the people immensely. From his liver the fort and the treasury because 12 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE UNITED STATICS
could ii"t produce any written order or authority tice requires it, however, to keep in mind that from Sloughter. This was the opportunity for Jacob Leisler was not a rebel, but a patriot and which Leister's enemies had-been waiting. In spite hero, and wherever we find a statement that does
of the fact that the former governor treated In- not agree with these facts it should be corrected.
goldsby with great courtesy and immediately [1 may be mentioned here that it was a German, up everything to Sloughter when the latter finally too, who first defended the right to a free press. arrived, they complained thai Leisler had wilfully Johann Peter Zenger had come to New York in ted the commands of the King. Sloughter 1710 as a boy and had been apprenticed to William appointed a special court consisting of four of Bradford, a printer. He was a very intelligent his own officers and four civilians, all enemies of and ambitious young man and won his employer's Leisler, to sit in judgment upon the late Governor confidence to such a degree that he became his ami his son-in-law. The composition of the court partner. But Bradford was a champion of the
> manifestly unfair that the accused and aristocracy and defended it in his paper, the New
practically the whole population, with the • York Gazette, while Zenger took the side of the tion of the aristocratic element, protested, l>ut common people. They parted, and Zenger founded
. !er would not listen to them. As was to the Weekly Journal, lie did not hesitate to at- be expected, Leisler and his son-in-law, Milbourne, tack Governor Cosby when he, in order to were found guilty of high treason and were con- strengthen his party, went beyond the limits of demned to death by hanging. But even Sloughter his authority. As repeated warnings could not ted to sign this severe decree, and Leisler's swerve Zenger from doing what he considered enemies had to arrange a banquet in order to his right and duty, Cosby had him arrested and
make the Governor drunk, in which condition it kept him in prison for nearly nine months. All an easy matter to make him sign anything. efforts of Zenger's friends to procure a regular They did not want to run the risk of a mitigation trial for him seemed to be in vain, but finally of the sentence after Sloughter had become sober the Governor yielded to the determined stand and consequently their victims were executed on taken by the people's party. Zenger was brought the morning of the following day while Sloughter to trial in 1735 and his friends secured for him •ill asleep. The scene was dramatic in the the services of one of the most brilliant advocates high( On the scaffold .Milbourne faced of the day, A. Hamilton of Philadelphia. The the instigator of this brutal act, the same Robert defence proved that every statement made by the Livingston who, in later years, became the op- Weekly Journal had been true, and the prose- r of the Palatines, and called out to him: cution attempted to show that the press had no
I ivingston, for this deed you will have- righl to criticise the government under any cir- to answer before the judgment throne of Al- cumstances. In a grand speech that has become mighty God." Leisler remained quiet and com- a classic and was widely and with great effect
: in a few words he stated thai he had done quoted wdien fifty years later the fight for a free nothing but his duty, and then said to the sheriff: press was successfully waged in England, Ham- "I am ready." At this moment dark clouds hid ilton plucked this claim to pieces, and the jury un, a terrific storm arose and the rain came acquitted Zenger immediately after the court had down in torrents. The immense crowd that had made- its charge. He was taken home by a Med around the gallows began to cry and throng that was wild with delight, and a few to pray, and loud condemnations against tin- Gov days later the aldermen of the city presented him ernor and the aristocracy were heard from all with a golden Snuffbox. The bold attempt to as Leisler was d< ad the people muzzle the press bad been successfully baffled fairly the stormed gallows and cut off his hair by a citizen of German birth. These two and hi- clothes; they were divided into bits and incidents indicate, what can be shown with the
i as relies litst of the martyr to help of many facts beyond confutation, that all liberie on American s,,j| Four years later the through the colonial days the Germans were English Parliament the judgmenl pro always arrayed on the side of the people and nounced by Sloughter's court. Lord Bellamount, liberty, and that it must be ascribed to them to later Governor of New York, stated, after a care- a large extent if all attempts to transplant the ful examination of the papers: "These men were European feudal system to America and to per murdered, cruelly murdered." Leisler's Jon le- with special privileges and the an indemnity of one thousand pounds from rirjit to govern the masses, were frustrated.
' wii, it was Bui tWO of tin no From the earliesl days they have stood firmly men that ever lived in tin- colony had been againsl Oppression and never faltered when the killed and could ii"t be broughl back to life Jus liberties of tbi' people had to be defended It HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 13
will be shown how they were among the first sion meant, and they were not willing to allow to take up arms during the war of the revolution. themselves to be robbed of the choicest fruit of They knew from bitter experience what oppres- all their sacrifices, liberty.
THE PENNSYLVANIA GERMANS
We must now retrace our steps because the and Delaware. Penn immediately resolved to German immigration in Pennsylvania must be found a state in which religious as well as po- treated as a distinct and separate chapter, and litical freedom should be granted to every inhab- has not been touched upon in order to furnish itant. He called it a "Holy Experiment." In a consecutive narrative of the fate of the Ger- pamphlets printed in English and German he
mans following the first settlers on Manhattan called attention to his plans. One of these fell Island. The Pennsylvania Germans, or as they into the hands of Franz Daniel Pastorius, a are generally called, the Pennsylvania Dutch, young law student, who was acquainted with sev- came in such numbers and kept so closely togeth- eral members of the society Penn had founded er for almost a century, preserving even to this at Frankfurt. He became so enthusiastic that day many of their customs and their language, he decided to emigrate. His friends were not though their speech has been corrupted by the ready to join him, but he found a number of adoption of English words and the change of Mennonites and Quakers at Kriegsheim and Cre- German expressions where they sounded similar feld who were willing to follow him. Pasto- to those used by Americans, that they must be rius set out almost immediately, arriving at Phil- looked upon as a group different from all the adelphia on August 16, 1683, where he was others. Their importance to the United States warmly welcomed by Penn. The ship Concord, may be judged from the fact that at the begin- frequently, and with good reason, called the ning of the revolutionary war at least 100,000 German Mayflower, landed the first thirteen Ger- Germans had settled in Pennsylvania, but it will man families on October 6, 1483, and this day be shown here that they exerted a strong influ- marks the real beginning of German immigra- ence not by their numbers alone but also by other tion into the United States, and is to this day and more valuable qualities. celebrated as "German Day." The little band The causes which drove these masses from settled near Philadelphia and founded German- their homes were the same that have been ex- town, not without trials and hardships, for most plained at length in the first chapter. The misery of the men had been weavers and were not used caused by the Thirty Years' War and by the to the hard work awaiting them. They succeeded, tyranny of the princess after peace had been however, and after about fifty more families had concluded, together with the failure of crops, followed them the tract of land heretofore held but above all religious persecution, were the mov- in common was divided. In 1691 Germantown ing forces. The emigration to Pennsylvania was made a city and the number of inhabitants differs from other similar movements, however, in had increased to such an extent that a number one important particular, inasmuch as it was of them could devote themselves to the indus- started by one man, William Penn. He had be- tries they had learned in their youth. Soon Ger- come a Quaker missionary and as such visited mantown became known for the excellence of the several places in Germany where small numbers linen and knit goods its inhabitants manufac- of Quakers existed or where similar sects had been tured. Thus the Germans laid the foundation of founded that might be converted to the creed one of the most important industries of the he followed. His eyes were turned towards United States long before Americans thought America where he hoped to find freedom of wor- of producing at home anything but the plainer ship for his followers. In Frankfurt-on-the- and coarser fabrics, and while all superior goods Main he succeeded in forming a society with the were imported from England.
object of buying a tract of land in America and The fame of Pennsylvania soon spread all emigrating thither. The opportunity for execu- over Germany. The country where every one ting his plans came when Charles II, in pay- could follow his religious convictions and where ment of a debt of sixteen thousand pounds the nobody was persecuted, punished or banished for crown owed to Penn's father, gave the son the belonging to any church not recognized by the vast tract between the colonies of New Jersey government—and only the Catholic, the Lutheran 14 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE IXITED STATES
and the Reformed Church were officially sanc- leadership of David Williamson, set upon them tioned—seemed indeed like the promised hind. and with almost incredible cruelty annihilated The sufferings the German people had undergone them. The unarmed Indians were allowed to as- had created in this nation, so much given to in- semble in two houses where they took leave of trospective contemplation, a deep religious feel- each other, prayed and sang hymns in the Ger- ing which was not satisfied but rather offended man tongue until the last one had been mur- by the dogmatic strictness of the established dered in cold blood. Only two boys, who had churches. New sects sprang up almost every day, been fortunate enough to find secure hiding places, every one attempting, in it- own particular way, escaped. The villages and the work of the Mo- the true teachings of the Savior ac- ravian missionaries, extending over many years, cording to the ideas of the founders. Some of were wiped out of existence within a few hours. them found their peace in the most remarkable To defend this awful deed some historians have and sometimes strange forms of worship but all claimed that the Indians and their teachers were imbued with that deep religious feeling a danger to the white population because they which has found expression in the word pietism. allowed hostile savages to dwell near white set- They all sent colonies to America. The first tlements under the guise of peaceful converts. were the Mystics, who arrived in l
sing their hymns or pray to the good Lord to and education. Hardly a village was without a deliver them, having an unbounded faith in His teacher and there were few children who did not will and kindness. Their firm belief that they learn how to read and write. Many of the im- were in His hands helped them to endure all migrants were quite well educated and there was suffering. even a sprinkling of what might be called learned For many of them the hardships were not men among them. Their leaders had almost ended when they had reached the new country. without exception received a university education. As soon as emigration increased to such an ex- It stands to reason that they would not have gone tent that the carrying of passengers became a to America with a horde of utterly ignorant profitable business, shipowners sent agents to people, nor would they have been selected as Germany and Switzerland promising free passage leaders by them. Daniel Pastorius, Josua von to America. Many availed themselves of this Kocherthal, Johann Kelpius, Heinrich Bernhard seemingly liberal offer. Others who could have Koster, Daniel Falckner and others were men paid were induced to spend their money before of the very highest attainments. Additional embarking, and were then carried free. But proof is furnished by the fact that the German when they reached America they were sold to settlers sent to Germany for their preachers people needing help and had to work for them when the original leaders had died. They wanted until their passage money was paid. Children men of intelligence and learning to lead them, whose parents died during the voyage were sold and they could not get them in America because into virtual slavery and the property of any pas- there the schools had not progressed far enough. senger who died was taken possession of by the It was quite natural that they looked upon their captain. These abuses lasted until long after ministers as the intellectual leaders because their the Revolution. It has been said that the custom whole life was centered in religious thought and of selling passengers to work for their passage they could not imagine any other way of satis-
was not wholly bad, that it was certainly not fying their thirst for knowledge. In this man-
looked upon as a disgrace, that it helped many ner many eminent men came to America as to come here who would otherwise have been preachers and teachers and the German parochial compelled to remain in misery, and that this schools were soon readily acknowledged as su- semi-serfdom gave the immigrants an opportun- perior to the English. Among these men was ity to acquire a knowledge of their new sur- Heinrich Melchior Muhlenberg. He had studied roundings before they were compelled to strike at Goettingen and Halle and came to America out for themselves. There is some truth in this in 1742 where he soon became the organizer of but it must not be forgotten that a great many of the Lutheran Church. Within a few years he the immigrants were of good education and not had united the different congregations and cre- used to work as menials, and that frequently the ated an organization that has lasted to this day. different members of a family were sold to dif- What Muhlenberg did for the Lutherans, Mi- ferent parties living widely apart. In this way chael Schlatter accomplished for the Reformed parents and children, brothers and sisters, and Church. The leader of the Moravians, Count even husband and wife, were sometimes separated Zinzendorf, failed, however, when he came to forever. It must, however, be said that the im- America, in 1741, with the intention of carrying migrants sold for service were as a rule treated out his plan of uniting all the different sects in fairly well, protected by the law and furnished one Protestant Church. Numerous others came with an outfit when their time had expired. Still but not enough to satisfy the colonists for in the system was cruel, and not much more can be examining the documents of the time we hear
said for it than that it might have been worse continually that more ministers and teachers were yet. wanted.
These immigrants were by no means unedu- It is true that the German settlers bitterly op- cated and ignorant as has been supposed by many posed the establishment of the free common writers. The vital fact must be kept in view schools but this does not prove, as some writers that most of them did not go to America in have claimed, that they were hostile to education. order to improve their material welfare alone. On the contrary, they saw clearly that their own This was one of the motives but by no means schools were better than the first common schools the strongest. They yearned for religious free- established, and for this reason wanted to retain dom, for freedom of thought, and nobody cares the former. They also desired very much that for this whose mind has not been awakened. their children should learn the language of their
Since the Reformation it had become the general parents. Above all, however, it was their deep
custom in Protestant Germany to unite religion religious feeling which made it practically im- 16 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE UNITED STATES
possible for them to permit their children to printing house that used German type, lie came attend a school in which either religion was not to America in 17J4 and first tried farming in taught at all. <>r where different creeds were Lancaster County hut did not succeed. In 1738 treated with equal respect. They believed firmly he imported a printing-press and type from Ger- that the child belonged first to God, then to its many and established a business in Germantown parents and then to the state. The fight was a that soon reached large dimensions. His first hitter and a long one hut it was finally won by publication was the "High-German-American Al- 177s. the common schools, and it i- significant that manach," which appeared regularly until the governor of Pennsylvania who succeeded in Many other publications followed, mostly hymn having the system adopted was a German, George and prayer hooks hut also quite a number of Wolf. That the Pennsylvania Germans were historical works, English and German school not opposed to education a- such i- besl shown books and political pamphlets. On August 20, by the fact that the state they helped to [739, he published the first number of the first found contain- more high schools than most of German newspaper on American -oil (the abor- the others, and that many of these institutions tive attempt on Franklin's part deserves no con- were founded by German-. These people were sideration). The paper was at first published very pious hut by no means narrow-minded fan- monthly, then semi monthly, and finally weekly. atic-. The different sects often clashed on re- It had a very large circulation for those days ligious questions hut they never carried their .tinl exerted great influence. Saur's greatest differences so far as to persecute those who be- work, however, was the printing of the first lieved differently. They admitted every man's Bible on American soil. Not the first German right to hold and preach his particular religious Bible, hut the first Bible of any kind, for the convictions. While witches were burnt and first Bible in the English language was not Quakers executed in New England the Pennsyl- printed in America until forty years later. Saur's vania Germans, though divided into many sects, enterprise was really gigantic, for the type, lived together in peace and practised toleration. specially cast for this work, had to be imported They had themselves suffered too much and the from Germany, and the facilities at Saur'- dis- true Christian -pirit had taken possession of them posal were of a very limited kind. In addition, too fully to allow them to harm others who did it was a great question whether the undertaking not try to harm them, hut simply had chosen a would pay, for the expenses were very large. But different road to reach the same goal. Their Saur succeeded, the Bible appeared in 174-'. had
cial influence upon the development of the a large sale and several edition- had to be religious life and the relations between church printed. The paper was furnished by another and state, a- well a- between the different sects, Pennsylvania German, William Rittenhouse, who cannot he overestimated. had built the first paper mill in America. From
It ha- already been mentioned that the Penn now on German printing houses and new-papers sylvania Germans were a- solicitous for their increased rapidly; in 1753 Franklin stated that mental a- for their material welfare. It was only of the six printing houses in the province two natural that above all they wanted hook- treat were German, two English ami the other two ing the religious side of life, for the whole trend half English and half German. Of the news of their mind tended t,, keep them away from papers founded in that period -everal are still worldly things and from literature of a worldly in existence. kind. Besides, tiny could not have kepi Up a But it is as a fanner that the Pennsylvania connection with the Fatherland close enough to German excelled. Me did not. like hi- American •hem informed of the literary activit) go brother of different origin, continually try to
ing on ti I nsequently hymn and prayer make new conquests, read] to give up the home
' ' for of a farther west. I k- wen which the ierman printers the hope rinding better one published. Not they alone, for American print- Me loved the -oil a- he loved hi- family. When er-, among them the greal Benjamin Franklin, he had found the -pot that suited him he stayed
printed in 1 1 1 cultivated it 'until he the pri- I honk- and new-paper- and had changed man language. In fact, Franklin published not meval forest into a veritable garden spot. The only the first German hook- printed in America. ..il in Pennsylvania for farming purposes hut al-o the first newspaper of which, however, i- limestone and almost every acre of this soil only a few numbers appeared. This was in [732 i- -till in the hands of the descendants of Ger- and up to that time only -mall pamphlets and man settlers. I hey farmed not for one harvest leaflets had been printed. But to Christoph Saur hut forever, thej did not dream of leaving the belongs 'he credit of having founded the firsl - the firsl Btrength of the soil HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 17
had been exhausted. They carefully burned the vania, and nowhere else can, therefore, their in- trees they had felled to clear the land as well as fluence upon the formation of the character of the stumps and roots, and did not let them rot the American people be better observed. They their characteristics to a marked de- like other settlers ; in this way they enriched the still retain soil and saved their ploughs. They introduced gree, the peculiar forms of the religious life, the irrigation and treated their horses so well that habits and even the physical appearance of their they could do twice the work other farmers forebears. Their language is still different from
it made them do. They built large and substan- that of other parts of the population ; is a tial barns, known to this day as "Swisser Barns," composite of English and German words and and they erected comfortable stone houses. The forms, foreign to either and yet in many re- Pennsylvania farmer introduced horticulture and spects akin to both. It is wonderful how these
truck farming in America, and it is not sur- people have preserved, at least in part, the lan- prising that he prospered and increased. From guage of their ancestors who settled in Pennsyl- the neighborhood of Germantown the Germans vania more than two centuries ago, for they did spread over Montgomery, Berks and Lancaster not receive any additions to speak of which kept the memories of the Fatherland counties ; they crossed the Susquehanna and set- might have tled York and Cumberland. Northampton, Dau- and its language green and fresh. Most of the phin, Lehigh, Lebanon, Centre and Adams fol- immigration from the same districts that came lowed. Under Jost Hite they advanced into the in later periods remained in the cities or went Shenandoah valley and founded Frederick, Rock- to the West and Northwest. We find likewise the ingham, Shenandoah and other counties in Vir- traits that distinguished the first settlers still in and ginia. Others went to Ohio. Everywhere the existence ; the strong desire for independence Pennsylvania German became the pioneer of civ- the almost stubborn resistance against every fan- ilization who cleared the forest and prepared the cied or real attempt to encroach upon their rights, soil for the masses that were to follow him. the untiring industry, strongly marked honesty, At the beginning of the Revolution there were frugality and the inclination to take life seriously. at least one hundred thousand Germans or chil- All these qualities have produced a conserva- dren of German parents in Pennsylvania. John tism which has frequently caused the statement Fiske estimates that the descendants of the Eng- that the Pennsylvania Germans were obstinate lish who emigrated to New England before 1640, and self-willed but which withal has exerted a number about fifteen millions. According to this very beneficial influence. It has kept them and estimate, there must be at the least five million their offspring upon their farms and perhaps re- descendants of the Pennsylvania Germans in the tarded the development of the region they in- cities United States. There are certainly two millions habited in a certain sense ; at least their of them in Pennsylvania alone. The others have have not grown as rapidly as those of the West, spread all over the country. They are difficult but on the other hand the soil their ancestors to trace because their names have been changed conquered has not been given up and left long ago, in many cases so much that the orig- unfilled because the young men became restless
inal can hardly be discovered. It is comparatively and went away to more distant regions, as has easy to detect the German origin in Wanamaker, been the case in New England. The compact Pennypacker, Custer, Beaver, Hartranft, Keifer, mass of the Germans in Pennsylvania still forms people Rodenbough, etc., but it becomes more difficult a reservoir from which the American when the name has undergone several transfor- draw strength and conservatism, and it is still a mations, as for instance Krehbiel to Krehbill, great factor in the equalization of the many Grebill, Grabill and finally Graybill, or Krumm- qualities brought here by immigrants from widely bein to Krumbine and Grumbine, or Schnaebele differing countries. The statement is justified to Snavely, Gebhard to Capehart, Herbach to that the often ridiculed and sometimes despised of the Harbaugh or Gne'ge to Keneagy, and it is almost Pennsylvania Dutchman has been one impossible to trace the descent if the names have most valuable factors in the development of the been translated like Froehlich into Gay, or Klein mighty republic that has arisen on the North into Little or Small. The radical changes have American continent, and he deserves the fullest mostly been made by those families who went to appreciation and gratitude. the bulk of the German immigration of other states ; of those remaining in Pennsylvania While the larger part has retained names which show the the period under consideration went to Pennsyl- German root and can be traced with comparative vania and New York, it must not be supposed ease, except of course where the name has been that these states alone received settlers from Ger- translated into English. many. All through the South we find German Nowhere else have the Germans remained to- names in old records and deeds. According to gether in such compact masses as in Pennsyl- the Colonial Records of Virginia, a number of ; 18 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE IWITKl) STATES
the victims of the massacre of March 22, 1622, we find German settlements, for in 1740 Waldo- led by Chief Opechancanough, were undoul borough in Maim- was founded and about ten Germans. We know that the Salzburgers set- years later Leydensdorf in the same state, it- tled in Georgia in [734 and that a large body of name indicating the sufferings the immigrants immigrants from Switzerland arrived in South had tn undergo. But, as lias been stated, most
Carolina in 17.}-'. About the same time German of these groups have entirely disappeared among Valley and Friesburg were founded in New the English population, and none of them dif- Jersey and a German Roman-Catholic Church ex- fered enough from the great mass thai settled in Maryland in 1758. liven in New England in Pennsylvania to deserve separate treatment.
THE GERMANS DURING THE REVOLUTION
We have seen that during colonial times the had never ceased. So the great movement for Germans were always found on the side of the liberty and for independence found them in a common people and sturdily opposed all at- receptive mood and fully prepared. tempts of the aristocratic element to curtail the Another factor must he taken into considera- liberties granted by the crown, but they were tion. The German immigrants and their children alway> loyal to the Government. In the war still loved their Fatherland. They had left it against the French and the Indians the French to escape oppression, persecution and tyranny, had counted on the assistance of the Germans, hut in their hearts lived the wish to see the especially of those in the Mohawk valley who Fatherland delivered from the conditions that had been so cruelly treated by the English, but made the German people so miserable. To see they remained true to their Government. They the great German Empire restored to its old had to pay dearly for it, for in November, 1757. power and importance was a dream they cher- a part] of Frenchmen and Indians, under Captain ished. When they heard of the deeds of Fred- Belletre, appeared, burned all the houses and erick the Great of Prussia, when they read how barns, killed or maimed the cattle, massacred the he had taken a firm stand for religious liberty settlers, their women and children and carried and had vanquished the princes and princelings many of them into captivity. In the following who had oppressed them, their hearts went out spring the attack was repeated, bul in the mean- to him. lie became immensely popular all time the settlers had erected a fort and defended through the German colonies. Taverns bearing their lives successfully under the leadership of his name were found in almost every village Nicolaus Herckheimer, of whom we will hear where Germans lived and his portr.ait had a place more later on. Their houses ware, however, in every dwelling. They saw in him the great again burned to the ground. The Germans in liberator, the unrelenting foe of oppression in Pennsylvania furnished many volunteers for the every form, as indeed many Americans of his war. Of the officers of the provincial militia time did. The\ look inspiration from him and more than one third wen- Germans. Conrad his deeds, and their yearning for freedom, their
Linger, commanded a battalion of readiness to fight and if need lie to die for n be whom two-thirds were Germans, and Nicholas came stronger as they followed his triumphant
•holt's regiment was composed of his career. Taking it all in all. no pan of the popu- countrymen entirely. Another regiment, cmn lation of the colonies was more ready for the manded by General Bouquet, a Swiss whosi Revolution and for the complete separation of the name was Straus, consisted entirely of German colonies from England, than the Germans. officers and nuii. Bui there is no doubt that the When the call to arms was sounded the Ger
f defending life and home against a mans were ready. They had long prepared for it cruel and unrelenting foe had as much influence and drilled in every township. Pastor rlelmuth upon the position taken by the Germans as loy- of the Lutheran Church at Lancaster writes "ii alty. They had no h.ve for the English, nor February -'5, 1775. that the whole country was
it. had they any i Outside of Pennsyl- ready for war, that every man was armed and vania they had been badly treated wherever they that the enthusiasm was indescribable. Even the settled, the promises made to them had been ml MennoniteS, whose creed forbade broken, and the to deprive them of their them in hear arms, came forward and renounced liberty as well as of the fruits of their industry their creed in this time of great emergency. It HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 19 is a significant fact that the first company of jor Helffenstein stood at his side. A tremendous militia to arrive at Cambridge in 1775, after the wave of enthusiasm swept over the multitude; battle of Lexington, came from York County, fathers who were too old to go to the war Pa., and was composed entirely of Pennsylvania pushed their sons forward and wives their hus- Germans. The commander was Captain Henry bands and before the day. closed three hundred Miller and the company had marched five hun- men had enlisted. A few days later Muhlen- dred miles to reach its destination. But Penn- berg had a regiment of four hundred and fifty sylvania did not stand alone ; from Georgia to the men, more than most regiments numbered. He Mohawk valley every German settlement sent its did splendid service in Virginia, the Carolinas, young men to fight for liberty. One of the most Georgia, in the battles of the Brandywine and dramatic incidents was furnished by Johann Germantown. At the end of the war he was Peter Muhlenberg, the eldest son of Heinrich made a major-general and served as vice-pres- Melchior Muhlenberg, who has been mentioned ident of the Executive Council of Pennsylvania, as the organizer of the German Lutheran Church did valiant work to induce the Pennsylvania Leg- in America. Johann Peter had been sent to Ger- islature to ratify the Federal Constitution, be- many to study theology but his fiery temperament came a member of Congress, United States sen- chafed under the restrictions placed upon him. ator and later, until his death in 1802, internal He ran away from the seminary at Halle where revenue collector at Philadelphia. he had been sent by his father and apprenticed How great the enthusiasm was among the Ger- himself a at life did to merchant Lubeck. This mans is shown by an incident of almost hu- not suit him any better and he listened willingly morous aspect. At Reading three companies of to the promises of fame and glory held out by militia had been formed who drilled diligently. one of the many English recruiting officers who The old men of the town did not want to be plied their questionable trade in Germany. He left behind and formed another company to became a private in a regiment of dragoons and which nobody under forty years of age was ad- soon earned the sobriquet "Devil Pete" by his mitted. The commander was ninety-seven years recklessness and daring. But his regiment was old, had served forty years in the Prussian army sent to America and his father purchased his and taken part in seventeen battles. The drum- release. Johann Peter seemed to have quieted mer was eighty-four years old. Whether this
; at least finished his studies, down he passed the troop ever saw active service is not known. The examinations and became pastor of the German German butchers guild of Philadelphia passed Lutheran Church at Woodstock, Va. But the resolutions demanding independence for the colo- change was only apparent and probably executed nies in 1774 before the question whether the more to please the father than from inclination. colonies should separate from England had been spent in the for- The young minister more time decided in the affirmative. A splendid figure, ests and on the mountains bunting game than worthy of being remembered, was the baker, at church work and became a firm friend of Christoph Ludwig, at Philadelphia. He had been George Washington and Patrick Henry. When born in 1720 at Giessen in Germany and had the movement for independence began he entered learned his trade from his father. When he into it with heart and soul and served as presi- was seventeen he enlisted and fought with the dent of the Council of Safety and as member of Austrians against the Turks and later under the the convention at Williamsburg which elected great Frederick against the Austrians. Then he delegates for the first Continental Congress. Fi- became a sailor and passed several years of his nally, in January, he assembled his congre- 1776, life in the East Indies. In 1754 he settled in gation and from the chancel told them that the Philadelphia, started a bakery and amassed con- arrived citizen serve time had when every must siderable wealth. When the Revolution broke his country to the best his ability; that be- of he out he was fifty-five years old, but he threw lieved could in field than in the he do more the himself into the movement with the ardor of a church, that for this reason he had accepted a and young man. He served on almost all the Revo- commission as colonel to raise regiment a German lutionary committees and when the convention and asked all men who could bear arms to fol- of 1776 proposed a popular subscription in order low him. With these words he threw off his to raise money for the pui chase of arms, and priestly and stood before the congregation gown when there was hesitation as to the advisability in full regimentals. then left the chancel, He of such a step, Ludwig arose in his seat and took a position in front of the church doors and said: "Mr. President, I am only a poor baker, gave orders to sound the drums and swear in but I am willing to start the list with two hun- recruits. Lieutenant-colonel Baumann and Ma- dred pounds sterling." This action ensured the 2u HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE UNITED STATICS
success of the undertaking. On May 5. 1777. Lud- whether he came from the seacoast or from Can- wig was appointed baker-in-chief for the army. ada. He was well aware of the fact that his As such he showed his honesty by pledging him- cause was List if two hostile armies operating self to furnish one hundred and thirty-five from those points could unite and thus divide
Is of bread for every hundred pounds of the colonies into two halves unable to communi- Hour, while hi- predecessors had given only one cate with each other. This was exactly what hundred pounds of bread. The army inspectors Bourgoyne had planned and Washington ex- had nut known, though the bakers probably pected. Neither could know that Howe would knew, that the weigh! of the moisture contained leave Xew York and go to Philadelphia instead in the bread must be deducted Washington ap- of pushing north to join Bourgoyne. But both preciated Ludwig's services highly and never knew that the question whether the army coming failed to receive him when he came to Philadel- from Canada could reach the valley of the lower phia; in fact, the lowly baker was repeatedly in- Hudson might decide the war. Washington had vited to the great man's table. sent his best generals and troops to stop Bour- One of the most heroic figures of the war of goyne's advance, but the Englishman had so far the Revolution was Nicolaus Herckheimer, who overcome all resistance. He had reached Fort has already been mentioned as the leader of the Edward and waited there for news from Howe. German settlers in the Mohawk valley during When this failed to arrive he determined to ad- the French War. These settlements formed the vance as soon as his right wing under General frontier between New York and the Indian ter- St. Leger would reach him. St. Leger had started ritory and a wall which protected the white in- from Montreal and, landing at Oswego, had habitants of the colony against the attacks of reached the portage from Lake Oneida to the the savages. The English authorities did not Mohawk and thereby the direct and easy road take great pains to help the settlers in their to Albany. Had he been allowed to continue his with the Indians, in fact they let them shift march he would have protected Bourgoyne's right for themselves as we have seen. The Germans flank successfully, at the same time threatening of the valley of the Mohawk, therefore, formed the left flank of the American army. But at four companies of riflemen who had to hold the upper Mohawk Fort Stanwix had been themselves ready at all times to defend the set- erected and this was held by seven hundred tlements against the Indians. Herckheimer was Americans under Colonel Gansevoort. At the their commander. When the Revolution broke out beginning of August St. Leger appeared before the whole population of that section hailed it the fort with seven hundred regulars and over with delight and offered to serve against the one thousand Indians led by Chief Josef Brant. English Government. Herckheimer was appointed He asked Gansevoort to surrender but the commander of the militia of western Xew York American refused, he and his men knowing the with tlu- title of brigadier general, by the con- importance of holding their position as long as vention which had taken charge of the colony. possible. The very next day they received the
At first it did not seem a- if Herckheimer would welcome news that Herckheimer with the Ger- have to do much more than protect the border man militia was on the way to succor them. He against Indian raids, but it developed soon that had collected his force of four battalions, all to- In- was distined to plaj a very important role in gether eighl hundred men. as soon as he had the war for liberty. hi aid of St. Leger's approach. On the evening In the summer of 1777 General Bourgoyne of AngUSl fifth, he reached the point where the Canada with a lar^e army to reach Oriska joins the Mohawk River and the
Xew York by way of Lake Champlain and Lake presenl village of Oriskany is situated. \' tin- same time Admiral Howe was in From here he sent messengers to Fort and around Yew York with another lar^e army. Stanwix and decided to advance as soon The presumption was natural that an attempt as he knew that Gansevoort could sup-
In- - would made to unite thes ( two armies. Now port him by a simultaneous attack upon the ene- Washington knew very well that he cuild never my. This prudent and wise determination did, d if he did not prevent the union of the no', however, please the younger and less expe British forces, not only in this case but during rienced element among his command. They the entire war. All his manceuvers and the wanted to attack in the early morning regard- his ion "f all positions and winter i less "f the dangers connected with a fighl against always done with one object in view: to large numbers and in a dense forest where the be able at any time to strike at an enemy advan- enemy could nol 1" Seen. Herckheimer resisted cing against the line of the upper Hudson, their urging as long as he could, but when some HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 21
of the rashest among them said he had become even a question whether Bourgoyne could have afraid of the Indians in his old age, he reluct- been prevented from reaching New York. Wash- antly consented to the advance. Events unfor- ington himself said that Herckheimer brought tunately proved that his judgment had been cor- about a change in the situation in the northwest rect. After the long and slim column had en- when it seemed hopelessly dark, and when every tered the forest on a narrow path it was sud- quality of leadership seemed to be absent. And
denly beset on all sides by the Indians assisted he added : "General Herckheimer served and gave
by a detachment of regulars. Herckheimer or- his life to his country because he loved it, and dered his men to hide behind the trees and suc- not because he desired preferment, fame or ceeded in getting them together in some kind riches." of order. A short hand-to-hand fight convinced The most prominent German in the War of the the Indians that victory could not be won as Revolution was, without question, Friedrich Wil- easily as they had believed. Herckheimer was helm von Steuben. We are, indeed, justified wounded by a shot through the knee that shat- when we say that his services to Washington and tered his leg. He ordered his men to place him the American cause were of greater importance on a saddle under a large tree and from this and value than those of any other foreigner position encouraged them and gave his orders as serving in the American army, not excepting if nothing had happened to him. About noon a General Lafayette. As an individual Steuben did thunderstorm with a heavy fall of rain inter- far better and more valuable work than the rupted the bloody work for some time and gave Frenchman, whose importance was based on the Herckheimer the opportunity to place his men in fact that he represented a whole nation and a large circle and close together. He also gave brought the aid and enormously valuable assist- orders that two men should be behind each tree ance of the French Government. Lafayette be- because the Indians had waited until a volunteer came the exponent of all that France did for had fired his rifle when they jumped on him and the United States, and upon him were showered scalped him. His men obeyed him willingly now. the expressions of the gratitude the American Late in the afternoon heavy firing was heard people justly felt for his country. A dashing from the direction of Fort Stanwix. The gar- figure, of undaunted courage, though lacking in rison had made a sortie and was on its way to experience, with many amiable traits which were join Herckheimer. The enemy, already discour- more prominent than during the later years of aged by the strong resistance of the Germans, his life, he fully deserved the love and admira- fled precipitately. The day was won and Herck- tion extended to him. But for the practical heimer's judgment was vindicated. But a high services he rendered as an individual we look price had been paid. Two hundred of the militia- in vain in the annals of the great struggle. Steu- men were either dead or so severely wounded ben played an entirely different part. He had that they could not be removed. Many more had very little opportunity to show his ability as a been captured by the Indians. Whole families general in the field, he did not look for glory were wiped out. Nine members of the Schell or admiration but worked hard and unceasingly family were left on the battlefield, two of the and found contentment and happiness in strict
Wohlleben, several Kast, Demuth, Hess, Kau- and unremitting devotion to duty. Thus it came mann, Vetter, Orendorff, etc. Herckheimer him- about, as it is always in this world, that La- self lived but a few days longer; he did receive fayette became a popular hero and received in- the congratulations General Schuyler sent him numerable proofs of the appreciation felt for him but died soon after. The city of Herkimer was while Steuben had to wait many years before named after him and the state of New York Congress gave him a pension sufficient to pass erected a monument in his honor. He had ren- his remaining years in peace and comfort, and dered the American cause a service, the value is all but forgotten by the American people. of which can hardly be estimated high enough. Friedrich Wilhelm August von Steuben was Oriskany was the first successful engagement in the son of an officer who had served in the Rus- the efforts to resist the advance of Bourgoyne; sian and the Prussian armies. Hardly seventeen Herckheimer's victory discouraged the British years old, the son entered the army of the Great troops and the Indians who left their allies in Frederick in 1847, soon after the close of the sec- large numbers, and made it possible for Gates ond war with Austria. When the Seven Years' to advance against Bourgoyne without running War broke out, Steuben was first lieutenant, and the danger of being attacked in flank and rear. took part in the battles of Prague and Rossbach. The surrender at Saratoga would have been im-' During the year 1758 he served as volunteer in
possible without the victory of Oriskany; it is General von Mayr's Free Corps, one of those .
22 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE I'XITED STATES detachments which were so frequent in former until he had shown by his services that he had They did not belong to the regular army, earned it. acted independently and were meant to harass He arrived at an opportune moment. Wash the enemy in his flank and rear by appearing sud- ington was in camp at Valley Forge with an denly at the most unexpected places and disap- army that lacked practically everything neces- pearing again as quickly. After the death of his sary for active warfare. It was the darkest commander he was appointed adjutant-general to time of the whole war. The American army had General von Huelscn, took part in the battles of neither sufficient clothing, nor ammunition, nor Kunersdorf and Liegnitz and the operations ions. It had dwindled to five thousand against the Russians, was taken prisoner by them men, many of whom were sick, insufficiently clad but soon set free. The close of the war found or without arms. The discipline was lax and him an aide-de-camp to the King and quarter- there was nothing like uniformity in drill and
r general <>f the army. For a time he had tactics. Each colonel drilled his regiment in the commanded a regiment hut the King was forced way he found best, and quite a number of them to economize after peace had been declared and, possessed little or no knowledge of military like many other officers. Steuben was reduced to science. After a few conversations with Steuben, the rank of captain. This and other reasons Washington was convinced that he had found in which have never been fully explained, induced him the man for the hour. He ordered him to him to resign his commission, although the King take temporary charge of the duties of the in- had given him many proofs of his favor. Dur- spector-general, a very wise move, because it did ing the next ten years Steuben served as court not arouse the natural jealousy of the American marshal to the Prince of Hohenzollern-Hechin- officers which a permanent appointment would gen and after that for three years in a similar have done. Steuben took charge immediately, capacity to the Margrave of Baden. But his drew up rules and regulations and a complete ambition could not be satisfied by the quiet life military code, and compelled the regimental com- at one of the many small German courts. He manders to interest themselves in their men. He traveled extensively and made repeated efforts to not only supervised the drill, but formed a corps procure a commission in the Austrian army. In of one hundred and twenty nun under the pre- this he did not succeed and made up his mind text that a special bodyguard for the general-in- to go to England. On his way there he visited chief was necessary. This corps he drilled in Paris and did not want to let the occasion pass person and its proficiency soon aroused the am- without calling on an old friend, the French bition of every colonel to show equal results with minister of war, Count St. Germain. The Count his men. This was exactly what Steuben had immediately tried to persuade him to go to intended and expected. In his diary he describes America and join the Colonial army. After much at length tlie methods he pursued and one can- 'ion— which was justified, for Paris was not withhold the greatest admiration from the full of French and other officers who had gone man who, without any knowledge of the con-
•I erica with letters of recommendation and ditions and the language of the country, immedi- even promises from the American agents, but ately perceived how he hail to proceed, what had been refused commissions ami had returned pan- of the European systems could he adopted pennile Steuben derided to follow St. Ger- and how this army, officers as well as men, had
to lie to it main's advice, i n spite of the fact that the Amer- handled in order make a homogene- ican agents, Deane and Franklin, refused to pay ous and effective body that could meet the well- even his traveling Franklin said he drilled Britishers in compact formation on their would try to induce Con| give to Steuben ow n ground. The results of Steuben's work were a lai [ land, hut this promise seemed so quickly. < >n April 30, 177N. a little more than il.en declined it and preferi six weeks after the German had begun to drill offer his service-, without stipulating any reward, the army, Washington asked Congress to give his arrival at Boston lie wrote letters to him a commission. In his letter he said: "II
the I ami to General Washington in would lie an injustice it' I were to continue leav- which he s.-,i(l that he had given up all his offices ing the services of Baron von Steuben unmen- and his income in order to gain the honor, if tioned. Mis ability ami his military accomplish-
need he with his blood, to become one of tl . as well as the untiring energy which he fender~ of liberty. He asked for commissions liown since he entered our service, compel for himself and hi- companions, hut stated ex- me to state that he is a distinct gain for our
ly that hi' expected no reward of any kind army, and I recommend him to the special at- HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 23 tention of Congress." Steuben was accordingly enemy's fire, and after Stony Point they acknowl- appointed major-general and inspector-general of edged freely that his views were right. the army. We cannot follow General Steuben's career
But the great test was yet to come ; the question during the entire war. He served as inspector- had to be decided how Steuben's reforms would general, as chief of the general staff and for influence the action of the troops under the fire some time in the South. He was in command of the enemy. He had not long to wait. On May in the trenches before Yorktown when Corn- 20, 1778, Lafayette had made a demonstration wallis offered to surrender. During all these against the enemy and advanced a little too far. years he had worked hard and used what time When Washington saw that Lafayette was in he could spare to perfecting the rules and regu- danger of being cut off he gave orders to ad- lations for the organization of the American vance in force. Within less than fifteen minutes army in war and peace. It was Steuben who first the whole army was in position. This was a proposed the foundation of a military academy feat never before thought even possible. Steu- and when Congress erected the academy at West
ben's work had accomplished it. But a still bet- Point his plans were used to a great extent. ter demonstration of the value of his services When General Lincoln resigned as Secretary of was soon to be given. On June twenty-eighth the War in 1783 nobody doubted that Steuben would battle of Monmouth was fought. Although most of be appointed his successor. His ability as well his generals, especially Charles Lee, advised as his unselfish devotion to his new country had
against it, Washington decided to attack the been sufficiently proven. But Congress selected British army under Clinton. He alone was con- General Knox who, though brave and an able fident that his army was now in a condition to commander, had never shown any special fitness cope with a well-drilled and disciplined body of for this office, on the absurd plea that so im- troops. The result vindicated his conviction. portant a place should not be given to a man When the advance guard under Lee had been not born in America. A few months later Steu- repulsed and its retreat began to assume the pro- ben resigned his commission, and the thanks of portions of a complete rout, Washington ordered Congress were voted to him, coupled with the
Steuben to collect the fleeing soldiers and to re- promise that his valuable services would be fit- store them to order. Not only did Steuben suc- tingly rewarded. Congress also gave him a ceed in this but all the other troops remained sword. This he received three years later, but firm and were not in the least influenced by the he had to wait seven years before the pension spectacle Lee's detachment offered. This would promised to him was granted, in spite of the not have been possible before the army had been fact that Washington and others urged Congress
reorganized by Steuben ; the fleeing advance to action. All of Steuben's efforts to get at least guard would have carried the others along and an accounting and reimbursement for the sums the engagement would have been lost. Washing- he had expended out of his own pocket were ton acknowledged freely that the credit for the unsuccessful. For years he had to live in bitter victory at Monmouth had to be ascribed to Steu- poverty, in a cheap boarding house in New York, ben, in spite of the fact that the German had and without the assistance of some personal not been actively engaged in the battle itself. friends he might have starved. In 1790 Con- Even Alexander Hamilton, not a friend of Gen- gress was at last induced to grant him a pension eral Steuben at that time, declared that he had of $2,500 per annum. Several states had given been greatly surprised by the ease with which him tracts of land, among them New Jersey, the fleeing regiments were re-formed and the which offered him the confiscated possessions of others kept in good order, and added that at that a Tory named John Zabriskie. When, however, moment only he had grasped the value of disci- Steuben heard that Zabriskie was penniless, he pline and military training. One year later an- transferred the gift to him. He accepted a quar- other illustration of the excellence of Steuben's ter section of sixteen thousand acres from the methods was furnished, when the American state of New York near Utica. Here he erected troops stormed Stony Point at the point of the a modest house, gave some of his land to for- bayonet without firing a single shot. When he mer officers and rented another part to colonists. began his work, the bayonet was looked upon Giving considerable attention to agriculture, he
with contempt by the Americans; like all insuf- lived there during the summer and passed his ficiently drilled troops they wanted to shoot as winters in New York City. He died on No- soon as they saw the enemy. He had taught vember 28, 1794. The cities of Albany and New them to remain cool and collected under the York had made him an honorary citizen and he 24 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES
load a gun. The spirits of the soldier- re- had been appointed :i regent of the University to vived at this Spectacle, they gave three cheers of the : i New York. Another German served as general in Wash- for Molly Pitcher, redoubled their efforts and that -.'- army, Johann Kalb, or, as he called 1 the British to retire. It is reported himself, Baron Kan de Kalb. But he was more llei--. whose wounds were not serious, was made spot. of a Frenchman than a German. He had been am by Washington on the must be mentioned, not of born in Germany, it is true, but emigrated to Two more names France when hardly more than a boy. His work warriors, but of men whose services were of nation in the of as uaiicr did not please him and he decided to great value to the young hour is Friedrich enlist, but as he did not care to servo as private its greate-t need. One of them he assumed the predicate of nobility and secured August Muhlenberg, a brother of the Reverend a a commission as lieutenant in the regiment I. w and General Johann Peter. He wa- also min- endal. De Kalli was a good soldier and fought ister of the gospel, but soon exchanged the chan- in all the campaigns of the French army from cel for the political platform. Of commanding ability, a of the Continental Con- 1743 to 17'M. He then resigned and married the he was member daughter of a wealthy merchant. He must have gress, president of the Pennsylvania convention enjoyed the confidence of the French Government which ratified the Constitution of the United to a high degree for when the first news arrived States, Speaker of the Pennsylvania Legislature, that the British colonies in America were dis- and Speaker of the first and second United States satisfied with, and might revolt against, English Congress under Washington's administration. The rule, de Kalb was sent to America to inves- other is Michael Hillegass, who was treasurer the situation. On his return he reported of the Continental Congress. that thing- were not ripe yet. hut would he in Enough has been said to show that the Ger- a few years. When the Revolution hroke out de mans did their full part—and perhaps more—to Kalh went to America in the company of La- win independence for this country. They did He was made a major-general and ren- then, as always afterward, prove their loyalty dered valuable services. After heroic efforts and devotion, their trustworthiness and their to save the troops under his command from an- righl to receive full and complete justice. If is them, nihilation by .'in enemy many times stronger, he this was not, and not now, given to was killed in the battle of Camden, S.C., on they do not complain but find solace in the con- August 10, [780. sciousness that they are doing their duty and do This narrative would not be complete without not require praise from others. mention of a picturesque figure that has become The history of this period would not be com- immortal under the name of Molly Pitcher. It plete if we did not mention the Hessians, as the seems almosl an irony "t' fate that great gen- German troops fighting with the British army eral- should have been forgotten because they were generally called in America. They were were not bom on American soil, while this sim- by no means all Hessians but came from several ple woman, also of German birth, is still re- of the small German principalities. It would be membered, and this only because the name the entirely wrong to draw from their presence the soldiers gave her induced people t.i believe that conclusion that the German people were in sym- she was an American. Her real name was Maria pathy with England. These troops were sold by Ludwig and she was in the service of Dr. Irvine their ruler- for cash, and compelled to tight for of Philadelphia. When she left hi- service she a cause which did not interest them in the least married Wilhelm Heiss. lb- enlisted in the ar- They had no choice, and even the princes who tillery when Dr. Irvine became colonel of the -old them cannot be called allies of Great Britain. tyrants who gave 1 Pennsylvania Infantry. Hi- wife went They were simply heartless with him. for the soldiers, nursed the their helpless subjects to the highe-t bidder. If •id the wounded, and, during the frequent the American colonies had been willing and able engagements, carried water to the tiring line in 1.1 pa\ a better price there is no doubt that the a large pitcher. In this way she earned the Hessians would have been sold to them. These name under which history know- her. In the soldiers interest us because a g lly number of battle of Monmouth the battery to which Heiss them remained in America after peace had been belonged suffered severely from the British fire. concluded. Thej were loyal and fought bravely of the men, including Molly's husband, had whenever called upon, but naturally felt no en- been Wollllded .'Hid tile fe-t ShOWed thusiasm. When they were captured by the Amer- weakening. Thereupon the courageous woman thej considered that their duty wa- done sprang forward, grasped the rammer and started and did not need very close watching as a rule. HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 25
Many of the prisoners were given into the cus- ica returned. According to very conservative es- tody of German farmers for whom they worked timates at least five thousand of them remained. willingly and with whom they felt quite at home. Some of them had intermarried with the families There were so many of them that at one time of German settlers, others had become used to the Congress seriously considered the advisa- the new country, and many did not care to go bility of forming a regiment composed of Hes- back to conditions that had become distasteful sians, for quite a number had taken such a liking to them after they had learned to appreciate re- to their new-found friends that they were willing ligious and political liberty. They settled mostly to take up arms for them. The project was, among the Germans in Pennsylvania, New York however, abandoned. But when peace came not and the neighboring states. No distinct traces all the Hessians who had been brought to Amer- of them have remained.
FROM THE REVOLUTION TO THE YEAR 1848
After the Revolution a period set in during farther toward the setting sun. Their names which comparatively few Germans came to the have been forgotten, with few exceptions, but it United States. The French revolution and the is known that the large majority of the settlers Napoleonic wars acted as preventatives to emi- who followed in the footsteps of the conquerors gration. This may appear contradictory at the and advanced along the banks of the Ohio River, first glance because, as a rule, troublous times making Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana habitable, are apt to drive people to seek new homes. It were of German blood. They also did a large is, however, quite natural. The events that led share of the winning of Tennessee. Here, as to the French revolution filled the German people everywhere, and at all times, the German settler with a new hope. The belief that absolutism, re- did the real work. He did not look for fame strictions and serfdom would be done away with, or glory, he did not seek adventures and the became general. Why go to foreign shores if spoils of war and the chase, but he cleared the the happiness that might be found there was al- soil and tilled it until it was changed into fer- most certain to arrive at home? And after the tile fields and gardens. Valuable as the pio- long wars had broken out the state needed every neer's work was, his methods could never have able bodied citizen at home, while at the same opened the land to civilization. His log cabin time the ports of the Continent of Europe were served him more as a place of retreat in times closed to navigation and the seas were no longer of need than as a permanent home, while the highways of commerce, but the scene of never- German immediately began to produce and to ending strife between France and England, mak- improve, preparing the country for peaceful and ing it difficult and perilous for merchant vessels permanent habitation by the millions who were to cross the ocean. It is true that German im- to follow soon. All during this period the Ger- migration never ceased completely, but it was not man proved his value for the land of his adop- numerous enough to make a strong impression tion and never ceased to be one of the most im- nor even to strengthen the already existing Ger- portant factors in its development. man settlements sufficiently to prevent their The Napoleonic wars had hardly ended when Americanization by slow but sure steps. Thus the immigration from Germany began to increase for nearly forty years the German element in the again. The great bulk consisted, as before, of United States remained stationary as far as the peasants who came to find new homes on virgin number of newcomers was concerned. soil. But withal a great change was discernible, But the Germans remained by no means idle. for there arrived also a large number of men of They continued to spread in the way we have the highest accomplishments and education, not indicated and carried their characteristics into as leaders of the masses or with them, but on new regions. They took part in the conquest of their own accord. Again it was persecution that the great western territory that had been pur- drove them from the Fatherland. They had to chased from the French Government. There go because they had been foolish enough to be- were, in fact, many Germans among the bold lieve that the German people did not rise against spirits who forced their way through primeval the great Napoleon for the sole reason of re- forest and over pathless mountains with the firm placing their princes and princelings upon the purpose to extend the frontier of the colonies thrones the conqueror had taken away from them. IX Till- I STATICS 26 HlSToRV OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION WITED
respect the year [848 forms a dividing line, be- They h;i
' while in procuring his release, not have been expected ponents did succeeded after a to leave Germany. After neither find a lil nor were they but he was ordered where he eked out a enough to make converts to their ideas. In this a few years in England, ;
HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 27 miserable existence with literary work, he came was fortunate enough to meet Lafayette, with to America in 1827. Here he started a swim- whom he had become acquainted in Paris. ming school and later on translated a German Through his assistance he secured employment encyclopaedia into English. This occupation as teacher of German at Harvard University. brought him into contact with many prominent Pollen's individuality made a deep impression men. His gifts and his knowledge were soon before many months had elapsed he was sur- universally recognized. When Girard College in rounded by a large circle of admirers, composed Philadelphia was founded the German Lieber not of students alone, but of men who repre- was chosen to prepare the course of instruction. sented all that was best and highest in the life In 1835 ne was called to the University of South of the nation. Before the term for which he had Carolina as Professor of History and Internation- been engaged was ended—Follen in the mean- al Law. There he remained until 1851. He left time had secured complete mastership of the because he could not and would not remain English language—a chair as Professor of the quiet in the conflict that began to separate the German Language and Literature was created for North and the South. It was well known that him. But his love of liberty drove him away Lieber was bitterly opposed to slaver}', but he as it had done once before. The movement for might have retained his position if he had kept the abolition of slavery could not leave a Follen quiet. His conscience did not allow this, and uninterested. With fiery eloquence did he rep-
on July 4, 1851, he delivered his celebrated "Ad- resent the Anti-Slavery Society before the Mas- dress on Secession" which has become a classic. sachusetts Legislature and on other occasions. He was- immediately discharged and went to But the time was not ripe for the sentiments he New York. After a few years of rest he be- so ably preached, and when the term of his pro- came Professor of History, International Law fessorship had elapsed he was not reappointed. and Political Economy at Columbia College. At Follen now became a minister of the Unitarian the outbreak of the Civil War Lieber was too church to which he belonged, but died, at the be- old to fight, but placed his services at the dis- ginning of a splendid career in his new field, posal of President Lincoln. In many speeches at the burning of the steamship Lexington in and pamphlets he argued for the cause. Fol- 1840, twice a martyr for liberty and freedom of lowing the wish of General Halleck he prepared thought and speech. the manual for the conduct of the army in times Dr. Karl Beck had come to America with of war, and during the entire war he was con- Follen and for the same reasons. He first taught stantly consulted by the President on questions school at Northampton, N.H., established a school of international law and the laws of war. He at Philipstown and finally was called to Harvard was recognized as an authority on such ques- as Professor of Latin. There he remained for tions by the whole world and several of his more than twenty years. Friedrich August Sei- books have become standard works, especially densticker and his son Oswald came in 1845, those on "Political Ethics" and on "Civil Liberty when the father, after having been kept in prison and Self-Government." for many years, was pardoned on condition Karl Follen was not as fortunate as Lieber. that he would leave Germany. Oswald Seiden- He also had taken part in the wars against the sticker became one of the most valuable his- French Emperor, had studied and later taught torians of the German-Americans. Beginning law at German universities. Of an inflammable with 1833 quite a number of Germans with temperament, with almost fanatical love for lib- similar antecedents settled in the neighborhood erty, he threw himself into the agitation for of Belleville in Illinois. They tried farming and political with all the ardor of a born freedom succeeded in a measure, some more and some poet. His songs and his speeches aroused the less. Unused to the spectacle of seeing men of enthusiasm of teachers and students. When the superior education engage in this occupation, the Russian Kotzebue was killed by the German people called them "Latin Farmers." Quite a student Sand, the fact that Follen belonged to number of them distinguished themselves. Georg the same society as the murderer gave the Gov- Bunsen introduced the Pestalozzi system of edu- ernment the welcome opportunity to ordef the cation into the United States Julius Hilgard arrest of the young professor. He fled in time, ; Chief of the United States Coast Survey for in the event of his capture he would have became been condemned to death. In Switzerland he and his brother Eugene, Professor of Chemistry found a refuge but only for a short space of in the Smithsonian Institute. Both were acknowl- time, for the German Government demanded his edged authorities in their respective fields. The extradition. Follen fled to America in 1824 and creator of the Bureau of the Coast Survey and 28 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE I'XITED STATES
rst superintendent was another German, sponsible for it, Johann August Sutter, born in Ferdinand Rudolph Hassler. Baden in 1H03, and he succeeded in winning the There were in fact many practical men among territory he had taken possession of for the
c- while failed. August » States, Astor had t ] i < - w h. > came here before [848. The greal United Johann August Roebling lia THE FORTY-EIGHTERS During the first three decades of the Nine- tinate and Rhenish Prussia, to the body of the teenth Century the number of German immi- people. Consequently the refugees were no long- grant- seldom exceeded one thousand within any er almost without exception men of high at- one year. When the July revolution had broken tainments and superior abilities, as had been the out in Paris in 1S30, the stream began to flow case before. These classes still formed a large with new strength. The German liberals had percentage, but with them came -mall shopkeepers, been encouraged by this event to double their artisan-, tanners and even laborers. The Forty- effort- for a constitutional government, while at eighters showed a high average intelligence but the same time their rulers were frightened by it were not, as has sometimes been supposed, with- and concluded to put down the liberal movement out exception highly educated. Quite a number with renewed vigor. The number of those who of them, in fact, were lacking in the experience, were forced into exile steadily increased. Thus, knowledge and judgment required to fully under- 530 and [840 over [5,000 Germans came stand the ideas they had been lighting for. These to the l'ii; - every year, and in the next frequently showed an exaggerated belief in their decade, the annual average of German immigra- own importance, and were apt to cover their tion, ros( to 43,000 souls. The arrival of the inability to defend their position by sustained Forty eighters, as those were called, who had to argument witli an aggressiveness sometimes verg- the Fatherland because they had taken part ing on intolerant and intolerable fanaticism. They in or sympathized with the German revolution did considerable harm for a time. For while ary movement of 1848 49, did nol begin until the leaders who-e names had become known to the latter year and reached it- height somewhal tlh- American people even before they arrived lUSe most of them lingered for w.ie received with open arms and showed them- some time in Switzerland, France and England, selves worthy of the appreciation extended to in the vain hope that the light would be taken them, many "I the rank and file repulsed the sym- up again. pathy felt for their cause by word and action. The immigration that came in consequence of The idea had taken possession of them that in the German revolution was in many respects dif- order to be truthful, the common usages of or- ferent from that which had immediately pre- dinary politeness must be dropped, and for the ceded it. While prior to ha- been same reason they believed themselves bound to d out, the liberal movement in Germany give expression to their own opinions without was practically confined t<> the educated cla 1 to the feelings of others and without being it had now spread, especially in Baden, tin- Pala called upon. Thus, for instance, many of the HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 29 newcomers, who were almost without exception the greatest benefit. For we must not forget atheists, or as they preferred to call themselves, that the man who is ready to sacrifice his all freethinkers, considered it their duty to ridicule for an idea is always superior to those who are all believers and to attack churches and ministers, willing to suffer oppression and tyranny as long as well as worshippers as narrowminded and as they are allowed to earn a scanty living. Thus unprogressive fools. Such behavior, coupled with even those who were not highly educated and an almost studied unconventionality of apparel who came from the ranks of the artisans and brought about a revulsion in the American mind, laborers were the best of their kind. They were and the German revolutionists were no longer filled with the same spirit that had made the looked upon as martyrs of liberty to be wel- colonies free and independent. They had been comed to the shores of the only free country on fighting for liberty without counting the odds the face of the globe, but rather as a danger to which were overwhelmingly against them. With a country whose people were imbued with deep all their faults they fitted into the institutions religious feeling and, it must be said, were at they found here and they became excellent that time rather provincial in their views on the Americans as soon as the natural opposition to larger questions which had come to the front in unaccustomed surroundings had worn off. And Europe. There can be no doubt that such ac- they brought certain traits which were still rare tions formed one of the contributing causes to in this new country, born in strife and inhab- the knownothing movement which swept over the ited by a people that had been compelled to use country during the Fifties. While indefensible its best gifts in the struggle for existence and in itself, it was, to some extent, a reaction against material welfare. These Germans were idealists the position taken by a part of the German rev- to a man ; they were filled with a deep love for olutionists which caused the latent nativism al- the beautiful in nature, in the arts and in liter- ways in existence to break out in agitation of ature. They saw in music not only a pleasant an unreasonable and most deplorable kind. This amusement which permitted them to spend a few feeling was intensified by the fact that quite a hours agreeably now and then, but the means number of the German immigrants for quite a of elevating the soul. They exerted a softening while considered this country only in the light of influence upon the American character, hardened a temporary home. They were waiting for a in the incessant fight with nature and the ele- new revolution in Germany and continued to ments. They strengthened by their teachings and dream of the establishment of the great German example the conviction that there was something republic, which would call them back to the higher in the life of man than the effort to Fatherland. In the meantime, they shifted for amass riches, and they showed to those among themselves as best they could, with a firm belief whom they had settled that life had a beautiful in their own superiority, which they never hesi- side to it and that no harm could come to the tated to express, and with very little regard for soul by enjoying it. Above all, they proved that the feelings of the people whose hospitality and the correct policy in everything was moderation, protection they were enjoying. and that all excesses were harmful, whether in All these defects disappeared quickly, however. the direction of self-denial or indulgence. They Even the most ardent spirits made their peace simply could not live without at least a taste of with the new conditions surrounding them and the beautiful, and wherever they settled they settled down to work. They became most valu- founded societies for the pursuance of higher able citizens of the republic, as soon as their hon- objects, especially singing societies, which have est, but under the circumstances, purposeless en- spread and improved to such a degree that they thusiasm had changed into the sober endeavor form an important and valuable factor in the to secure an existence by hard work and industry. life of the nation at present. They laid the Many of them, it is true, did not succeed, be- foundation for the development of athletics in cause their training had not fitted them for the this country through the numerous "Turner" so- combat that was before them. Comparatively cieties, the first of which had been founded by few were fortunate enough to continue in the Karl Follen, and which now sprang up every- professions they had followed before they emi- where. There were quite a number of poets and grated, and quite a number were compelled to of than average ability among the enter occupations which they would have con- writers more of the German- sidered far beneath them only a few years before. revolutionists, and the standard But they tried hard, and the great majority ac- American press rose quickly. The desire for a complished finally what they had set out to do. higher life, so strong among these men, did not For the United States this immigration was of only influence the German part of tne population, 30 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE IWITED STATES but also the native Americans wherever they like a complete list of the men who came to came in contact with the immigrai America in consequence of the German revo- Considering all circumstances, it did not take lt'.- in and reached eminence in one field of hu- so very long t<> bring about a readjustment. The man activity or another. We must confine our- Germans lost much of the roughness which, after selves to the most prominent among them. At all. was only external, adopted American ways the head of the list stands, of course, Carl and customs and became a homogeneous part of Schurz, the great orator, author and statesman. the American people, while the Americans Mis career would have been a brilliant one, even learned to overlook the traits that at first had if a native American had reached the same repulsed them, and began to appreciate the many heights. How much more admiration do we owe good and valuable qualities their new friends to him when we consider that this man came to possessed. The mutual appreciation was hastened America without knowing the language and the by political developments. Up to the arrival of customs of the country, and in spite of these the Fortyeighters the Germans had been Dem- drawbacks within a few years was counted among almost to a man. The Democratic party the ablest men of the nation! Schurz had hardly had attracted them on account of its greater taken his citizen papers when he was made the liberality towards foreigners and its freedom candidate of his party for the lieutenant-gover- from nativistic tendencies. When the great norship of Wisconsin, and took part in the coun- Je for the abolition of slavery commenced, cils of the party as one wdiose advice was to be the German revolutionists threw themselves into listened to and heeded. It was his influence more it with the same ardor with which they had than that of any other single man that induced fought for liberty in the Fatherland. It was the Germans of the West to enlist in the cam- sufficient for them that the liberty of human be- paign against slavery. After the election of Lin- ings was at -take, and their idealistic views of coln he was appointed minister to Spain and ren- life left them no choice. The active part they dered a great service to the country which is not took during the political campaigns which ended as generally known as it deserves. His obser- in the election of .Abraham Lincoln brought them vations in Europe prompted him to inform Pres- nearer to their fellow-citizens of American birth, ident Lincoln that the only way to prevent suc- illy as tli led in winning over the cessfully the recognition of the Confederacy by great body of German voters to the new Repub- the western European powers, notably England lican party. The task was a difficult one and and France, was the declaration of the American not quite free from dangers, for it must not be Government that it waged war for the abolition forgotten that the Germans were almost fanatics of slavery. It is well known that the Govern- in their adherence to the Democratic party at ment for a long time hesitated to do this for that time, and that they felt deep resentmenl many reasons, chiefly because the effect of such against their own countrymen who tried to bad action upon the Democrats in the North and them away from their political moorings although upon die border states was feared. Schurz's they were comparatively recent arrivals and cer- earnest appeal hastened the adoption of the only tainly did not possess the same knowledge of policy which could have prevented the strength- American institutions and the same experience ening of the Confederacy to the danger point. Me as thos,- who had already lived many years in served with distinction in the Civil War and the United States. But the work was a as United States senator for Missouri, and was plished and the Fortyeighters swung the German Secretarj of the Interior under Hayes. The most in Wisconsin, Illinois Indiana, Ohio, Iowa, important work in which he engaged and to which Missouri and other states, his life western a- well as in he consecrated almost whole con I Pennsylvania for the Republican party and the iii the relentless and unremitting fight against Union. It must be mentioned here that th< the s|„iils system and for the establishment of named had been largely settled bj < ier the merit system, generally known as Civil Ser- mans, not by revolutionists alone, bin by many vice Reform. For many years the president of farmers who had come j n the wake of the refu the National Civil Service Reform Association, he : illy, was overwhelmingly his full strength to this work. Me saw German and the same was true of whole dis clearly that th<- poils system was a cancerous in Indiana, Illinois, < mio and [owa, while h which was slowly but surely destroying ties like St. Louis, Cincinnati and [ndianapo the very life blood of the nation, ami that with- lis the German element formed a larg out its abolishment the public morals would be if the inhabit.: hopelessly corrupted, not to mention the impos- It i~. ol impossible to give anything sibility of ever securing a decent adtninist rat ion. ; HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 31 The work he has done in this direction is not he had been stronger in a physical sense and if yet fully appreciated, but some day the services conditions had been more fortunate. By no of Carl Schurz for the country he loved so much means must the inference be drawn from these will be recognized. As an orator he belongs in remarks that Oswald Ottendorfer did not par- the front rank, and few, if any, Americans of ticipate in public affairs ; on the contrary, he was his epoch have surpassed him. His literary activ- for many years a power in his party as well as ity was abundant, and his essay on Abraham Lin- in the independent element that esteems the wel- coln as well as his life of Henry Clay in the fare of the country higher than that of the party, American Statesmen's Series have become class- and even during his last years, when he was al- ics. He was the finest type of the Fortyeighter, most constantly confined to his room, his ad- always ready to fight, and if needs be to die, for vice was eagerly sought by men standing high his convictions ; never hesitating to defend them, in the nation. And while he and Schurz differed whatever the consequences might be for him radically in temperament, Ottendorfer was as the born idealist to whom wrong of any kind much an idealist as the former. Every move- was abhorrent, and who lived in the firm belief ment that promised to improve the conditions that no good could come from any other mode under which his fellow beings were living, or of of life than the steadfast pursuit of the highest the public morals, whether it emanated from his ideals. Always ready to suffer defeat in the political friends or opponents, was certain of conviction that right must triumph ultimately, he his earnest support. Like Schurz, he was a never compromised on points which he considered mighty power for good in the life of the nation. of vital importance in order to gain a temporary Hans Kudlich, the liberator of the Austrian success. He was so imbued with idealism of the peasants, arrived in the early fifties. As a young very best kind that his influence alone would have man he had been elected a member of the first been sufficient to prove the immense benefits Austrian parliament, and as such moved the abol- America derived from the German revolution- ishment of the mediaeval laws which compelled ists, but there were many like him, though not the servants to work for the owners of large es- quite so able and not of so farreaching import- tates without receiving pay, thus making them ance. virtual serfs of the nobility. These laws had Oswald Ottendorfer was another of the men long been abolished in other parts of Germany of this period who may justly be called great. but had remained in full force in Austria. While Several reasons may be assigned for the fact Hans Kudlich modestly declined to take the that he did not attain the same prominence as credit for this great reform and tried to arouse Schurz. Although a Unionist in the critical the impression that a mere accident made him epoch of the republic, he was a Democrat of take the step which any other member might firm convictions and could never bring himself to just as well have taken, it is nevertheless a fact look upon the Republican party otherwise than that he, himself the son of a peasant, and there- as the propagator of theories dangerous to the fore a daily witness of the wrongs perpetrated, continuance and life of the institutions forming was, from the beginning of his public career, the foundation of the Union. While he, like filled with the desire to free the sufferers from most Germans, did not hesitate to take a firm injustice. Great changes like this one are indeed stand against his own party whenever it suc- not brought about by single men; when the time cumbed to influences which, to his mind, were is ripe for them it requires only action at the wrong and dangerous, he lived and died a firm right moment to complete them, but they are adherer to the doctrines of the Democracy. Un- often delayed because an opportunity is lost. The der the circumstances it was natural that political man who acts when he knows that the right mo- preferment was not for him, because the party ment has arrived, and who thereby achieves the of which he counted himself a member was out result wished for is justly entitled to all the of power during the largest part of his life. In credit attached to the deed. History has recorded addition Oswald Ottendorfer had become the the fact that Hans Kudlich freed the Austrian editor of a great newspaper, the New Yorker peasants from serfdom, and nothing, not even Staats-Zeitung, which position compelled him to his own modesty, can take this away from him. devote a large part of his time and activity to And it was not only compassion with the suf- his business. All this might not have prevented fering servants that caused Kudlich to act, but his acceptance of political honors if his health his deep love for freedom and for humanity. had not been such that he had to husband his With all his enthusiasm for the cause of liberty strength very carefully. It is difficult to esti- he threw himself into the revolutionary movement, mate what this man would have accomplished if was condemned to death and fled to America', 32 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE UNITED STATES where he established himself as a practising phy- brought the Westliche Post in St. Louis to a high sician lmt engaged with the vigor he ha There were < 'tilers who reached political prom- bote in Milwaukee for many years. Before them inence, in those times always a proof of moral Eduard Schaeffer had founded the Nationalzei- and mental superiority. Gustav Koerner, who has tung der Deutschen, Daniel C. L. Lehmus had written a very valuable history of the German edited with success Die alte und die neue Welt, immigration before 1848, was elected lieutenant* and Heinrich Rodter had started the Volksblatt governor of Illinois, Jakob Mueller held the same in Cincinnati. From this time on, and under office in Ohio. Nikolaus Rusch in Iowa and Ed- the guidance of men of ability, the German press ward Salomon in Wisconsin. Quite a number of in America became an important factor in the German- served in the state legislatures and in life of the American nation. It confined it-elf Congre-s. The most valuable services were ren- no longer to entertaining its readers and giving dered, however, in the field of letters and on the them the news they wanted to hear, but it dis- battle-field. It has already been mentioned that CUSSed American political problems in an in- after the arrival oi the German revolutionists the structive way and -trove to explain to the newly German-American press began to spread and to arrived immigrant American institutions and cus- improve. This was quite natural, for among the toms. With few exceptions these newspapers immigrants were many who could use the pen were edited in a more independent spirit than the better than any other way to earn a livelihood, American papers. While tin > supported one of and the great mass of the Germans were used to the two parties, they never went so far a- to reading. We have referred to the New Yorker defend every one of its acts. They were always Staats-Zeitung founded by Jacob Uhl and ex- ready to criticize when this seemed necessary, panded into the greatest German paper by Oswald and the blind partisan-hip that know- no reason Ottendorfer. Hermann Raster, after a stay of ing was quite foreign to them. They were thus several years in New York, did the same service able to educate by encouraging the reader to for the Illinois Staats-Zeitung in Chicago, making judge for himself, and they did this work thor- it the best and most influential German paper in oughly. It ha- been continued to the present the West. Schurz founded the Abendpost in day by men of equal devotion to principle and, it, and later, with William Pretorius in many cases, of similar ability. THE CIVIL WAR AND THE YEARS FOLLOWING IT Tin- full story of what the Forty-eighters did panic- from Reading. Ailentown, Pottsville and for the United Stat.- ha- not been told because Lewiston, almost entirely composed of the de on,- chapter, and by no means the leasl important ScendantS of the German patriots of Revolutionary one. ha- to do with tin- Civil War. In recount- days. Of the eight thousand soldiers furnished ing the part the German- took in this struggle by Berks County, Pa., during the Civil War. fully there will be occa-ion to complete the Story. Bui eighty per cent bore German name-. A- aboul mention the deed- of the adopted citi- nine-tenth- of the inhabitant- were of German zen- let us glance at the behavior of tin- descend descent, and many families had anglicized their ant- of those German- who came more than a name-, there i- no doubt that the descendants of century before the North and the South met on the German immigrant- of former times fur- the battle field. We remember how promptly the nished their full ratio of fighters for the Union. Pennsylvania Germans had responded to the 'all It was the same all through Pennsylvania, and to arm- when the Revolution broke out and how in fact throughout the North. a company of German- from N . .1 k County was The American- of German birth responded in the lir-t troop to reach Washington after the the same waj Thej and their sons formed whole battle of Lexington. The spiril of the fathers regiment- and came to the front. From New lived in the children, for when Abraham Lincoln York, New Jersej and Pennsylvania in the East, needed protection in 1861 the first regimenl to from Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Ohio, Iowa and reach Washington was composed of live com Michigan they marched forth, ready to die in ; HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 33 order to save the country they had learned to love, Green; Ludwig Blenker saved the Union army Fortyeighters were from destruction. And the old from complete destruction after the first battle in the lead everywhere. They became regimental of Bull Run; Friedrich Hecker, Carl Eberhard commanders and generals, for most of them were Salomo, August Moor, Hugo Wangelin and versed in tactics and had fought before. The Adolph von Steinwehr served with distinction; all gallant Sigel, greatest of them was the Franz Alexander Schimmelpfennig was the first to enter in and who had led the revolutionary army Baden Charleston, Heinrich Bohlen fell on the Rappa- States. since then had taught school in the United hannock, and Max Weber was killed at Antietam At the outbreak of hostilities he was instrumental at the very moment when he was ready to break in saving Missouri to the Union cause. He and through the enemy's center, an advantage that of St. some others organized the German Turners would have routed the Confederates but was lost Louis into a regiment and offered their services through the death of the leader. to Frank Blair. Their example was quickly fol- Not Germans alone who lived in the United lowed by others, and it is an historical fact that States at the outbreak of the war fought for the without the German troops thus quickly gotten Union. Untold thousands came over the ocean the secessionists to take pos- ready the attempt of to join the ranks. It is true that many of them session of St. Louis would have been successful. were adventurers who did not care very much Sigel then took the field and prevented the Con- what cause they fought for, but even these ren- federate general Price from invading Missouri. dered valuable help and became good and loyal After having shown his ability in several small en- American citizens after peace had been restored. gagements he decided the battle at Pea Ridge, Many others came because they felt a deep sym- the first real success the Union side achieved. He pathy with the cause, as was natural, for the Ger- was made a corps commander and was the only man people took a very decided stand for the general who held his position against the on- North. The Union had no truer and stancher slaught of the enemy in the second battle of Bull friend than Germany, and this fact was so well Run. When the Union army was compelled to known that the recognition of the Confederacy by retreat Sigel covered the and kept the movement France and England was delayed until it became pursuing enemy at bay. He was undoubtedly a impossible by the position of the Prussian Gov- general of exceptional ability but had little ernment. Two reasons may be found for this, opportunity to show it. It cannot be left unsaid one of a practical nature, and the other a more that the "German" was not much liked by many of idealistic one. There were already several millions the other commanders, and that he was repeatedly of Germans living in the United States and the ordered to make attacks when the troops under vast majority of them was in the northern states; his command were entirely insufficient. His fail- many of them were Democrats in politics, but all ure in such cases was successfully used to keep were Unionists. The German people naturally him from getting the commands he was entitled took sides with that section in which almost all to. Personally Sigel was one of the most lovable their friends and relations lived. But not less of men, filled with a vast store of knowledge, strong was the feeling that the North fought an idealist of the first flower, and of a modest for humanity and for that liberty that is dear and retiring nature. to every sentimental German heart. For though All the Germans who reached the rank of gen- the statement may appear strange and almost eral in the Civil but War cannot be mentioned ridiculous to Americans, it is nevertheless a fact to show how numerous they were the most im- that the vast majority of the German people, portant shall be named. Besides Sigel the follow- though monarchists at home and always ready ing were made major-generals : Carl Schurz, who to submit to the will of the Government, at fought at Chattanooga and Gettysburg and com- heart loves liberty and is always ready to assist manded a corps at Chancellorsville; Joseph Peter other peoples to gain freedom. More Germans Osterhaus, who took part in the campaigns of have volunteered and died in the wars other Vicksburg, Chattanooga, Atlanta and Savannah nations have waged for freedom than in fights Stahel, distinguished himself Julius who at Shi- against oppression at home. This is one of the loh ; August Kautz, one of the most daring cavalry reasons why Germans so quickly learn to love leaders on the Union side; Gottfried Weitzel, who American institutions. commanded on the James River and led the first It may be mentioned here that there were a troops into Richmond, and Friedrich Salomo, who few Germans who took a prominent part in the had charge of Arkansas. Of brigadier-generals, Civil War on the other side. They were with- Adolph Englemann was killed at Shiloh ; August out exception Unionists at heart and opposed Willich saved Kentucky by his victory at Bowling to" secession, but felt constrained to follow their 34 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE UNITED STATES the use of the knowledge they had acquired, and when tl leracy was established Among them was General Johann Andreas Wag who emigrated for this reason alone. In the had rapid, and the ener, who defended Charleston againsl the Union United States progress been army. Karl Gustav Memminger became secre- sciences and arts were receiving the attention the two tary "' the treasury of the Confederate Govern- they deserved. Commerce between ment. countries was increasing rapidly. The number hankers grew ami We have seen thai over ninety-five thousand of German merchants and German immigrants had annually come to the their enterprises became more and more im- portant. While German universities were at- United 5 between [850 and [860. In the following decade the average was nearly as high, tended by American students, German professors reaching eighty-two thousand. Tims not much and teachers came to America. For the Amer- awakening and .in two millions of Germans came within ican had also gone through an twenrj years. Mosl of them were farmers, and learned the less, ,11 that practical knowledge ac- they spread all over the West and the Xorth- quired in the course of every day work is not The Gorman (.•lcnu-nt in the western sufficient to solve the great problems of mod mentioned, he- ern life He saw the need of the higher edu- . which we have repeatedly came more numerous and much stronger. Many cation based Upon the sum of the experience immigrants went farther west and when the gathered by others. He began to build up gi- great overland railroads had been completed they gantic industries and perceived that the rule o' swarmed to the Pacific Coast. Oregon and thumb worked well enough where every man pic Washington were largely peopled by Germans duced his own necessities or those of his imme- who, like their forerunners nearly two hundred diate neighbors, hut that more was required for before them, introduced horticulture in that large enterprises. The money he needed for his region so well adapted to this purpose, and there- railroads and other enterprises had been readily by laid the foundation for one of the greatest furnished by foreigners, and a large part of it industries of the presenl day. by Germans, and the goods he wanted could I'm other elements arrived in ever larger num- easily lie bought. But now that he desired to bers. Germany began to emerge slowly from make them at home he was compelled to look the condition^ under which it had suffered since for men wdio had been specially educated for the Napoleonic wars. Although the people them- producing them. The American began to found selves perhaps not fully aware of it, the were schools and colleges that would in time produce trend towards national unity and greatness be- what he wanted, but he could not wait for them. came apparent. It -till required a violent con- In looking around he found that Germany, above vulsion to bring it about, but it was in the air all other countries, was in position to supply what and the German people became more active, sell he needed, and he made quick use of it. Cut reliant and enterprising, and also more practical. the arrival of large numbers of graduates of The immigrants who were highly educated were universities and technical no longer composed of those who had been per German colleges really belongs in the next chapter, even though it be- I. who hail failed for some reason 01 or who were dissatisfied with their surroundings, gan about this time, as likewise the immigra- hut among them were many who knew that tion of trained minds of other professions in America offered them better opportunity large numbers. FROM THE FRANCO-GERMAN WAR TO THE PRESENT DAY Immediately after the war with France, Ger tin- probable future of German immigration to man immigration rose to very larg< Over America will he touched upon further on. four hundred thousand Germans arrived in 1X71, I he immigration during tin- period following 1872 and [873. It then fell off, hut increased to the Franco Prussian War and the creation of proportions heretofore unknown in [8£ tin- German Empire differed in many respects ar and 1892 nearly two millions from that of earlier tunes. The years between came Since then the German immigration has ind 1X70 had already foreshadowed the fallen off, and during the last few years has been change, hut though the German had begun to almost insignificant. The reasons for this and acquire a larger fund of M ]f reliance and of jus- HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 35 tifiable confidence in his own worth, he did not years of service under strict discipline gives to yet call himself a German outside of the borders a man the opportunity to find himself. The best of the Fatherland. Germany was still a geo- proof that this is fully recognized by the German graphical name only, and while numerous forces people is the fact that the number of young men were making towards unity, the inhabitants of who emigrate in order to evade military service all the large and small principalities were first is steadily growing less and has become almost of all subjects of their rulers, and in a political insignificant, while formerly it was very large. sense no Germany or German people existed. The In Germany more than in any other country, the governments of other countries did not know profession of the soldier is surrounded with a German subjects, and German ambassadors or dignity and gives a standing that produces pride German passports which would protect the trav- and self-consciousness—qualities which may eler in foreign countries did not exist. The sometimes be developed excessively but are nev- German going abroad was a Prussian, Bavarian, ertheless of great value. Hessian, etc., and only as such could he claim In short, the time had gone by when the Ger- protection or the rights accorded to foreigners man immigrants arriving in America were flee- outside of the jurisdiction of their home govern- ing from one kind of persecution or another. ment. The creation of the empire changed all They came with the firm conviction in their this, and for the first time the German citizen hearts that they not only received but also gave felt that he belonged to Germany and not to a something. Their aims were no longer confined small part of it, and that behind him stood the to the wish to find peace, protection and liberty, officials and the full strength of a mighty em- they wanted to reap the fruit of the gifts and pire. And inasmuch as this new empire had the labor which they placed at the disposal of been born out of a tremendous demonstration of their new country. There were perhaps not so strength and of unity of feeling and purpose, it many idealists among them who were ready to immediately became a power, recognized and re- sacrifice themselves for the benefit of mankind spected by all other nations, and at the same time without the slightest hope of reward, but they endowed its own citizens, for the first time in were all filled with the healthy idealism which centuries, with unlimited confidence in their own does not lose sight of the practical side of life. strength as well as in the present power and the The great materialistic wave of thought which future of their own country. The effect upon swept over the civilized world at the end of the German character was immediate and mani- the last century had already begun to exercise fested itself at home in the increase of enter- its influence. Even in Germany, the home of prise, in commercial and industrial life, and the idealistic dreamer, materialism was advancing abroad in greater readiness to demand the rec- with steady steps. This is not the place to dis- ognition a citizen of a world power is entitled to. cuss the relative values of the two theories of This showed in the German immigration during life, but it is necessary to mention which one the last third of the Nineteenth Century which, was the dominating one at the different periods not only on account of its numerical strength, in order to explain the difference between the but also for the reasons given, became more im- character of the immigration at various times. It portant and aggressive, produced greater results may be said in addition that the trend towards and exerted a larger influence upon the develop- the materialistic conception of life was greatly ment of the American people, than the German strengthened, if indeed not caused, by the ex- element in the United States had ever done be- ample the United States furnished, for their fore. unparalleled success in the direction of material Another factor must not be overlooked. Prac- progress caused many to overlook the fact that tically all the Germans that came to this country the American people possessed a large fund of during this period had served in the army, and idealism. In Germany, where for generations many had seen active service in one or several pure and almost transcendental idealism had been wars. Americans, who are naturally and rightly accepted as the highest aim, materialistic ten- averse to a standing army and compulsory mili- dencies were naturally softened and could not tary service, frequently overlook the fact that change the character of the people completely. this institution has large educational advantages. They rather produced a blending of the two the- It teaches a man to measure his own powers and ories which was followed by the happiest conse- to use them correctly, to overcome defects in quences until they became too dominant to leave character and temperament, and also many vir- the idealistic spirit undefiled. One of the first tues that are of great value in every walk of life. and most important consequences of the change in the effort to make science of prac- To use a short but very apt phrase : a very few consisted 36 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE UNITED STATES tical service. Germany, with her magnificent edu- No less an authority than Andrew Carnegie has nal system and her clear perception of the stated that the American iron and steel industry value of thorough knowledge, was the first could never have reached its present develop- country to erect commercial, industrial and tech- ment without the a-sistance of the German en- nical schools and colleges where the pupils were gineer who can he found in every office prepar- not only instructed in the ways of doing things, ing plans and devising means fur the work to as in the so-called manual training schools, nor he performed. There is hardly an industrial en- in abstract science, but where both methods were terprise, a large railroad company or a munici- combined Soon Germany trained large num- pality in the United States on whose staff of • t' young men in every branch of human engineers are not Germans. As soon as the knowledge after scientific methods, and the grad- American manufacturer grasped the fact that uate of a commercial it technical high school chemistry was a valuable aid and could save him combined the practical with the theoretical knowl- enormous amounts of labor and money, as well edge to such a degree that very little practise as insure the uniform quality of his product, he was necessary to make hi- services far more val- turned to the German chemist who is now found uable than those of his competitors in other coun- almost everywhere in the United States, not only tries. Germany began to supply a large part of in the manufactories of chemicals, but wherever the world with civil engineers, with chemists, ar- his knowledge can he used to advantage. When chitects, etc. German merchants were found in the glass-making industry emerged from the every important trading place on the globe, and primitive state during which only the cheap quali- even German clerks invaded other countries, es- ties were manufactured here, Germans were pecially England, where attempts were made to brought to America to do the work and to in- prevent their employment, which, however, was struct Americans. In the textile industries the unsuccessful as their worth was undisputed. This manufacture of silks and woolens is still largely union of scientific methods and research with in the hands of Germans. It is a well known the experience gleaned from actual and practical fact that the introduction of beer, which bids fair work showed in a development of the industrial to become the national beverage and has done so life such as the world had never before witnessed, much to promote moderation by reducing the con- for i; included the transformation of a whole sumption of strong liquor is entirely due to Ger- people which had, a- a whole, not unjustly been mans and that this enormous industry is still al- accused of being addicted to impractical dream- most entirely in their hands. It is hardly neces- ing, and of an inherent inability to produce re- sary to state that the manufacture of pianos in sults, into a hard headed, practical and enter- this country owes its development mainly to Ger- prising people with a char perception of the man immigrants and their descendants. One has usefulness and valu< of every deed and act. only to follow the advertisements in order- to Of such mould were the German immigrants be convinced of the fact that this vast industry of latter days. They fitted better into the indus may even at this late day he called a German one, trial life of the nation than their forerunners. though of course most of the founders of the They could immediately a--.i-t in the development great firms engaged in it have died. The piano of the natural resources of the country then un- manufacturers played an especially important role der way. Then- were many among them who, in the development of the country because they, like their forebears, tilled the soil and conquered or at least many of them, were instrumental in the wilderness, being the instruments that added bringing European artists to America and raising after state to the nation ; all of them brought the taste for and the appreciation of high-class the peculiar virtues with them which have long music to the present level. The claim is justi- recognized a- essentially German; all of fied that without their help the musical art in them were furthermore imbued with that touch the United States would he far below the high of idealism that has been so valuable an admix- standard it has reached To this we will refer ture to the American spirit, and many helped to again when we speak of the influence German build up the industries which quickly grew to immigration has exerted upon the musical life dimensions beyond the dream- of the most fertile of the American people. In going over the li-ts imagination In every field of human activity of the lithographers producing work of highly the brain and the brawn of the German became artistic quality tew American names will be an important factor, in some it predominated found, most of tin- establishments of this kind are and was the moving f( still managed by Germans or their descendants. It is impossible to go into details but a few This list could he extended indclinit ely, hut these of the most important facts must be mentioned. few examples will suffice to show what the Ger- HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 37 mans have done for America in this direction. Without debate the fact was conceded that Ger- It was the same in commercial and financial many was still the home of the exact sciences life. The German banking houses have grown in and the best source to draw from whenever number and importance until at the present day knowledge of and instruction in the way of ac- no transaction of great magnitude can be com- quiring it was needed. Thus a steady stream of pleted without their aid. Many of the insurance German teachers began to flow to these shores companies have been founded by and are still en- until there was hardly a university or college tirely managed by Germans. A German-American without German professors on its staff. Their in- invented the first practical and to this day the fluence is all the larger as it is exerted upon the best typesetting machine. In the import and ex- American youth at a time when the mind is still port trade of the United States more Germans plastic and ready to receive and retain impres- are engaged than men of any other nationality, sions. Of the learned professions that of medi- Americans not excepted. One of the great over- cine has given to the United States most. Ger- land railroad routes was planned and constructed man physicians of exceptional ability came to by a German, Henry Villard, who later on was America from the beginning of the Nineteenth instrumental in securing a firm basis for the de- Century, but their numbers grew to great propor- velopment of the electrical companies of the tions after the Franco- Prussian War until they country. formed a large percentage of all the physicians Leaving business and the more practical pur- in the United States. The great progress made suits alone, we find that the first exponent of in medical science is, to a large extent, due to political caricature, or cartooning, as the Amer- their example and their efforts to elevate the ican prefers to call it, was the German Thomas profession to which they belonged. Nast, while another German, Joseph Keppler, de- In the field of music the German has played a veloped and improved upon the somewhat crude more important part than in any other. It may though always effective methods of his predeces- almost be said that the history of music in Amer- sor. These two men may be called the origina- ica, from the moment when music ceased to be tors of this art in the United States, and among more than a pastime with which people were will- those now active in this line there are many Ger- ing to while away a few hours agreeably, is a mans, the most eminent being, without doubt, German history. As soon as the American be- Henry Mayer, who combines American wit with came musical, that is as soon as he began to German artistic feeling and French grace. Of perceive that beautiful music is art of the high- artists, the German immigration has given to est kind and elevates the soul, in making it re- America many shining lights. Emanuel Leutze spond to the most exquisite sensations and lifting should be known to every American, for one of it above all wordly things, the German composer his great paintings, "Washington Crossing the and musician came to the front. Delaware," has been reproduced innumerable It is well known that the Germans are a mu- times and is found in many American house- sical people. They had already produced com- holds. He painted the mural paintings in the posers of note when they began to come to new wing of the capitol, erected in the fifties. America. At that time it was hardly thought of One of these, "Westward the Star of Empire Takes in England that music was one of the fine arts. its Way," is almost as well known as the one The English colonists brought little or no knowl- mentioned above. Albert Bierstadt became one edge of music to America ; the Puritans discour- of the greatest of all American landscape paint- aged it even, and considered all music, except the ers, and some of his works, most of which were singing of psalms and hymns, sinful. Among the of colossal dimensions, found the fullest appre- German immigrants there were, no doubt, many ciation and admiration in Europe. His paintings who would even now be called good musicians, of the scenery of the Rocky Mountains and the but no record exists of them. They did their Sierra Nevada are unsurpassed. Henry Schrey- share in increasing the appreciation of good music vogel, born in New York, but of German par- but they did not accomplish much until the first entage, is best known by his painting, "My decades of the Nineteenth Century had passed. Bunkie." Among the many sculptors of renown From that time on we can trace the progress of who came from Germany, Karl Bitter deserves music in America. The beginning was not easy. the first place. If one desires to know how much—or rather how During this period the American institutions little—the American people at that time under- of learning extended their field of usefulness con- stood of music one has only to read the criti- stantly, and it was but natural that they came cisms that appeared in the newspapers when the into closer contact with the German universities. first artists of note were brought over and gave 38 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE UNITED STATES concerts. Some of the passages are so naive as art. After years of fruitful work in Milwaukee to be almost touching. It seems that the critics •Hided and took charge of the Chicago Sym- —and the audience, too, of course—were much phony Society. In St, Louis tin- Polyhymnia was more interested in the rapidity with which a pian- founded in [845 by Dr. Johann Georg Wessel- ist moved his fingers or the power with which hoeft, and the Philharmonic Society by Edward he worked the pedals than in the sounds he pro Sobolewsky in 1859. The Cecilia Society of Cin- duced. We read of one artist who had charmed cinnati wa- -tatted about the same lime. The the whole world that his playing showed that he mightiest warrior of them all in the fight for the had devoted considerable time to the study of ;nition of s^ood music wa- Theodore Thomas, harmony. In short, these criticisms show an ig- win 1 diil not know what defeat meant and wa- norance of music that could hardly he found to- ever ready 10 begin again when disaster had day in a border town. It hail to he overcome, overtaken him. After he left Xew York he took ami it -peak- volumes for the great gifts the charge of the Chicago orchestra and to him more American people possesses that within half a cen- than to any other single man America i- indebted tury it had emerged from such deep ignorance for the musical festival- now held from time and was fairly on the way that leads to the to time in many cities. Mi- wa- thr creator of complete mastering of one of tlie highest and most the L;reat Cincinnati Musical Festival and was beautiful arts. The part that the Germans played indefatigahlc in his efforts to make Americans in this evolution cannot he described lure at acquainted with the works of the modern com- length, hut the fact- thai can he given will he posers. It may fairly he said that he forced the sufficient to make good the claim that in this field public to like and appreciate what he knew was they did by far the largest part of the work. good in his art, and the fact that such work- did We find the first trace- of systematic efforts to not please his audience- at the start never made bring serious music before the public in 1838 him swerve from his path. Many German singers when Daniel Schlesinger, a German musician of and musicians of great renown came to the Uni- great gifts, became the conductor of the Concor- ted State- a- visitors and assisted in spreading dia of New York, a society devoted to the cul- artistic feeling. ture "f vocal and instrumental music. Almost at The movement was greatly helped by the Ger- the same lime, in 1839, another German named man singing societies. They had existed on a Schmidt organized a similar society in Boston. small scale for some time, hut they became large These firsl -park- kindled the sacred flames ami and influential when the German immigration in- in 1842 the Xew York Philharmonic Society was creased in the middle of the last century, and formed, which si ill exists and to which not only contained a much larger percentage of educated the city of it- birth but the whole country owes men and women. They were soon to he found a Kri-at debl of gratitude. Among its conductors in every place where Germans had settled. They were men like Theodore Eisfeld, who must also combined into federation- which held singing fes- he remembered a- the founder of a quartet that tival- at regular intervals in different cities. At rendered chamber music; Carl Bergmann, who such occasions Americans did not only hear good "U wa- active in the Opera field ; Henry C. music hut also learned how serious work can he Timm, Adolph Neuendorf, Theodore Thomas, combined with innocent enjoyment. In this way Anton Seidl and many other Germans. At the these societies became important educational fac- birth of tin- Philharmonic Society, twenty-two of tor-. Manx of them earned a national reputation, it- fiftj four members were Germans ; in 1900, out especially the German Liederkranz and the Arion of ninety four members eighty-nine were either of Xew York, tin- Germania and the Apollo Mu- hum in Germany or children of German immi- sical Club of Chicago, the Orpheus of I'-uffalo grants Not much later Eisfeld formed the New and thr Inner M.mnerchor of Philadelphia. Sev- York rlarmonie Society, which was devoted main eral of them added to their usefulness by engaging ly to the production of oratorio-. In 1N50 the a- conductors Germans of exceptional ability and celebrated Germania Orchestra came from Ger assisting them in their efforts to gel a foothold many and traveled all over the country with im- iii wider field-. Among the nun who began their mense success, awaking everywhere the taste for career in America a- conductors of German -inl- good music Manj of its members remained in ine; societies ami afterward became leaders of America when the orchestra wa- dissolved. The large orchestras were Man- Balatka, Leopold not did remain behind. In [850 I [an Ba Damrosch and frank van der Stucken. Others, latka formed tin- Musikverein in Milwaukee. Me like Carl Bergmann and Carl Anschutz, <1< \\a- one of thr pioneers of music in tin- western part of their time to -in^in^ socii states and did much for tin- advancement of the In the field of "pita thr Germans in America HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 39 have always stood for progress and it is due to past, it has learned to understand and to love their efforts that the works of the modern mas- the best and highest in the music of the present ters became known to the American people. In and the future. And this is true not only of 1850 Max Maretzek produced Weber's "Frei- opera but of every other kind of music. schutz," and in 1856 Beethoven's "Fidelio." Carl From this short sketch it will be seen that we Bergmann gave the first performance of a Wag- have not claimed too much when we said that the ner opera when, on April 4, 1859, he produced Germans taught the Americans to look upon music "Tannhauser." On this occasion the Arion So- as more than a mere pastime to while away a few ciety of New York furnished the chorus. Carl hours. They deserve the largest part of the credit Anschutz was the leader of the Strakosch and of if the United States has become a musical coun- the Ullmann opera companies, the latter giving try, if refined taste and good judgment as well as for the first time in the United States opera in full comprehension of the art of music and its German with Carl Formes and Madame Fabbri. aims have spread to an extent nobody would have In 1877 Adolph Neuendorf produced "Lohengrin" dreamed of half a century ago. Anybody who and "Walkuere" and the Pappenheim Opera doubts this may easily convince himself of the followed one year later with "Rienzi" and truth. Any history of music in the United States, the "Flying Dutchman." But the man who put any newspaper and even the programs of musical German opera on a firm footing in the United events will show that to this day Germans and States was Dr. Leopold Damrosch. He had been their descendants preponderate in the musical life the conductor of the Arion Society and had of the nation. They are found in overwhelming founded the Oratorio Society in 1873, and when, numbers among the singers and the musicians, the in 1884, Italian opera had failed again to satisfy leaders and the virtuosos, the musical agents and the New Yorkers, he organized a German opera the impresarios, and even among the teachers and company, brought a number of the best German the musical critics. Without them the demand for singers to this country and gave the first per- good music, now so strong in the United States, formances of Wagner's works in America that could not be filled, and would, in fact, never have were worthy of the great master. Unfortunately, been created. There can be no dispute over this he died before his first season was over, but the question if the facts are known, and it must not work was continued by Anton Seidl, who for be forgotten that only of late music has become a many years remained the greatest interpreter of calling in which others than a few great singers German operatic and orchestral music in the Uni- and virtuosos may reasonably expect to reap large ted States. Since the day when Leopold Dam- material gain. Most of the men whom we have rosch first lifted his baton in the Metropolitan named and the great host that cannot be men- Opera House in New York the best works of the tioned here, worked incessantly and gave their modern composers have been produced on the full strength without receiving more than a American operatic stage by the foremost singers meager reward. Many of them were, in fact, con- of the world, and the times are past forever tinuously in sore straits, and it was the love for when the old Italian opera alone satisfied the their art and the unbounded enthusiasm that is American public. Without losing the faculty of ready to bring every sacrifice for an ideal which appreciating what is beautiful in the music of the kept them at their work. CONCLUSION In order to do full justice to the Germans who fullest privilege to use his ability in any direction have settled in the United States it is necessary he might choose. Even the general views of the to consider the difficulties which they had to people in regard to the way of living and the overcome before they could fairly start on the social customs were foreign to them. All this road to success. Most of them did not know the they had to learn, and this could not be done language of the country which they had chosen without constant disappointments, for they did not as the field of their activity. Practically none of always meet with kindness. On the contrary, they them were acquainted with its political institutions had to overcome hostility from many quarters beyond knowing that they gave to every citizen which frequently made itself felt in attempts to the right to participate in the government and to ridicule their speech and customs, sometimes took every inhabitant, whether a citizen or not, the the form of contemptuous treatment, and in not 4(1 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE UNITED STATES a few cases led to brutal attacks. Naturally sen- Americans. In considering this statement we must sitive td criticism and slights, whether intended t'ir-t of all strongly emphasize the fact that the or not, the Germans suffered greatly under this American citizen- of German birth or descent treatment, but to tlieir credit it musl be -aid that never act in concert when American questions they did not hold the American people responsible are to be decided, that is questions which involve but understood that the acts they had jusl cause the interests of the American people as a whole. to complain of were committed by a small and It i- almost impossible to unite the German vote narrow-minded minority. Neither their apprecia- on purely political questions. It will sometimes be tion for the new conditions surrounding them nor casl almost solidly for one side or the other but their endeavors to prepare themselves for Amer- this i- only the case when questions are to be de- ican citizen-hip was lessened by the unpleasant ex- cided that, on account of their ethical or moral periences they had to undergo. With rare excep- importance, appeal strongly to the German mind, tions they took the oath of allegiance as soon or when effort- are made to deprive a part of the as the law permitted it and fulfilled their duties population of the right to live in the way it has en- with exceptional regard for the wel- been accu-tomed to because a few fanatics de-ire fare of the country a- they saw it. This was nat- to compel everybody else to accept their teach- ural, fur they did not gain American citizenship ings. When Germans come together to discuss like the native American who receive- it without political questions they do so because many of effort on hi- part. They, on the contrary, had them desire to hear arguments in their mother j dearly for it. They had left home and tongue, not being able to master them completely Fatherland ami parted from relative- and friends if delivered in English. They not only have the in order to serve their new country and they con- right to do this, but it i- to the interest of the sequently held in much higher esteem what was whole country when mean- are found to instruct acquired under difficulties and sometime- hard every citizen, no matter where he has been born, -hip- than the man is apt to do who has but to until he understands fully all questions in the de- stretch out his hand to grasp the ripe fruit. They cision of which he must participate. to this day, proud of their suffrage, It is quite true that in social life the German- and in using it follow their conviction- and con- American population keeps very much to it-elf. science more closely than the average American. The reasons for this are obvious. The German Party ties sil lightly upon them and they do not immigrant has no relatives or friends among the follow blindly leader- who cannot convince them native element, lie has left behind him the asso- of the disinterestedness of their motive-. Their ciations formed during his youth, which, for the independence and their disinclination to submit man who remains in the country of his birth, of to dictation "t- to subordinate their opinions to the themselves create a constantly widening .and will of others are some of the reasons why the changing circle of acquaintances. Tin- German in German-Americans have nol exerted more influ America must seek new friends and has to begin ence upon political organizations. That compara- life all o\ tively Germans have reached high political American is strange to him, the customs, the lan- illy explained by the fact that for guage and the people themselves. Quite naturally | mosl of them the English language remain-, after he associates with hi- own countrymen with whom all, a foreign tongue, and that the German is he can converse freely and who have the same hazard' hi- a venture as the tastes. After he ha- become used to his sur- embarking in the game of American politics may roundings and conquered the homesickness that justly he called. The influence of the German arises now and then he begins to associate with upon the course "i' politics has, however, been Americans, but a- a rule to a limited extent only very great, and in the main beneficial. The verj mile-- he i- -I. situated that he finds no other con- thai die so-called German vote always re genial society. Mi- preference for hi- own coun mained an uncertain quantity ami in man) trymen i- ii"t cau-ed by hostility to native Amer- ami cities held the balance of power ha- cau-ed the icans, but solely by the fact that the ta-te- and professional politicians in almost every important customs of tin- two element- differ widely, Their campaign to he mi. re careful than they would ways of amusing and entertaining themselves and have been if they hail known that the German other- are nut the same, and they follow different American voters would follow the parts- r< rule- even in eating and drinking. Aside from • if principles and consequences. that part of the population which ha- become cos- The Germans in the United State, have fre mopolitan in its way- uf living, the German does quently been criticized because they associate im! derive full satisfaction from the exclusive in- among themselves and do not mingle freely with tercourse with American-, and the American can- : HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IN THE UNITED STATES 41 not get used to German ways. This involves no country they now recognize as their own, the reproach upon either but is a natural condition. United States of America. If the complete Americanization of the German If at times German immigration has been immigrant is somewhat retarded by it, this may called harmful by some, the American people as be called a distinct benefit for the country. The a whole have always recognized its great value, many valuable traits of the German can only be and do, perhaps, appreciate it now more than preserved and made a part of the character of ever and to such an extent that they look with the American people if assimilation does not pro- regret upon its decline during the last ten years. ceed too quickly. They would be weakened and The time may come when a new infusion of perhaps lost altogether if the immigrant dropped German blood into the American body politic everything he has brought with him immediately may even appear highly desirable. It is by no after his arrival. The amalgamation comes quick- means impossible that this may happen at any ly enough, for the first generation born on Amer- time. The tide of immigration rises and falls ican soil is already thoroughly American in the periodically, and for all who would rather see full sense of the word, and in the second genera- children of the Teutonic race settle upon the tion the German origin of the family is as a rule land still unoccupied the following words of little more than a tradition. the greatest German-American, the late Carl If the Germans have, at least to a large extent, Schurz, spoken at a banquet given in his honor their own and separate social life, they are in only a few years before his death, may bring every other way an inseparable part of the Amer- encouragement. He said ican nation. Their loyalty to the country they "There has been a great deal of talk of late have chosen and to its institutions is unquestioned that the German element is in a state of decline and has been proven on every occasion. In peace because immigration has decreased, the old gen- and in war they have worked and fought with the eration is dying off, and the children of the Ger- same ardor and enthusiasm as the native Amer- man immigrants are getting completely Amer- icans. On every battle-field of every war that icanized. The fact is that since I came to this has been fought for the republic, German blood country the German element has been several has flowed freely. They have done their full share times in the same condition of seeming decline in the upbuilding of this great country, in the but has always recovered through increased im- conquest of a whole continent and the change of migration of highly desirable kind in regard to a vast wilderness into a land inhabited by mil- numbers, character and vitality. This immigra- lions and producing wealth beyond the dreams tion is dependent upon political and economical of avarice. In commerce and industry, in sci- conditions which are subject to constant changes. ence and art, in every endeavor that makes for The present decline may, therefore, soon change progress and improvement their influence has into a new and healthy revival." been potential and of the greatest benefit. They The time may arrive when doubt is permissi- have made a lasting impression upon the char- ble whether the United States is in need of acter of the American people, softening many further immigration or not. There is no doubt of its harsh traits, strengthening others that were possible that as long as there is work and room insufficiently developed, and contributing some for immigrants, and as long as there is work to of the most valuable qualities which have en- be done that can only be accomplished with the abled this great nation, composed of so many help of immigrants, it is highly desirable that different elements, to rise to the heights it oc- as large a proportion as possible of the addition cupies at present. And while they continue to to the population be of the Germanic races. The love and cherish the Fatherland that has .given history of the country proves that they have done them so much, they are proud of their Amer- more for its development than all the others. ican citizenship, and their whole strength is de- Therefore, let us hope tha,t Carl Schurz's voted to the greatness and happiness of the only prophecy may be fulfilled before it is too late. THE PERCENTAGE OF GERMAN BLOOD IN THE AMERICAN PEOPLE In order to ascertain what influence German Mr. Emil Mannhardt, secretary of the German- immigration has exercised upon the character of American Historical Society of Chicago, and a the American people it is at least useful to find historian of undoubted ability. Mr. Mannhardt out what percentage of the inhabitants of the has been very conservative in his estimates, and United States have German blood in their veins. has taken the lowest figures given by different The figures given here have been collected by authorities for the German element whenever : 42 HISTORY OF GERMAN IMMIGRATION IX THE I'XITRD STATHS authoritative statements were nut obtainable. The 7. Celts and Welsh conclusions he has readied will surprise those A who still believe that the L'nite 1. American-, that is that part of the B. 286,617 population which had been so thor- following conclusions oughly assimilated in 1830 that its From these figures the origin could not he ascertained 12,713,036 may he drawn : 2. Anglo-Saxons 1. The German element form- at present the \. 6,806,383 largest part of the population of the United B. 4^42,882 States. C. 1,069.37- 2. The German element i- twice as large as _' 1 . 1 1 8,640 the Anglo-Saxon and more numerous than the '• 3 < n Anglo-Saxon ami the American together. \ [2,046,919 3. The Anglo Saxon and the American ele- B. 8,714^33 ment together form thirty-seven per cent of the C. 4,716,431 entire population; the Teutonic element (Ger- 25,477,583 man-. Scandinavian- and Hutch) forty-three per 4. Scandinavians cent. A 4. The entire part of the population that may B 2,223,345 be designated a- of Germanic origin together C 515.555 with the American element comprises fifty-three 2,738,900 and one half million- or eighty per cent of the hutch and Belgians 5. white inhabitants of the country. A And these conclusion- had to the other-: B C. 50,010 1. The claim that the American people i- pre- JO' 1. J' XI eminently an English or Anglo Saxon people is rmans mixed with other Germanic races without foundation in fact. A 2. An immigration of at least forty millions l: of nun Germanic p< necessary in order C 29,942 to overcome the preponderance of the Germanic 52,318 elemenl in the United S SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS DR. HANS KUDLICH. 44 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS CARL SCHURZ was born March 2, 1829, in and died there on November 15, 1882. Schurz the village of Liblar, near Cologne; in 1840 he spent about two years in London and Paris, sup- entered the Catholic Gymnasium of Cologne, and porting himself by giving music lessons and by in 1846 proceeded to the University of Bonn with acting as correspondent of German newspapers. the intention of studying philosophy and his- In July, 1852, he married Margaret Meyer, the tory. Like many other ardent and generous- daughter of a well-known Hamburg merchant. minded young students, he fell under the influ- The match was a romantic one, the acquaintance ence of Professor Johann Gottfried Kinkel. being traceable to the fame of Schurz's exploit in Kinkel was a poet, an orator, an idealist, a man liberating Kinkel, and was the beginning of a fitted by nature to arouse the enthusiasm of long and happy union, broken only by the death youth, and ready, when occasion called, to at- of the wife in March, 1876. In September, 1852, test his faith by his works. He threw himself Schurz crossed the ocean and took up his abode unreservedly into the revolutionary movement in Philadelphia, where he remained for three of 1848, and served as a private among the in- years, removing then to Watertown, Wis. He surgents in the spring of 1849. Schurz, follow- attached himself at once to the newly formed Re- ing the example of his friend and teacher, served publican party, and in the following year, 1856, as adjutant of General Tiedemann, and, when the made German speeches which contributed so latter surrendered the fortress of Rastadt with materially to carrying Wisconsin for Fremont forty-five hundred revolutionary troops on July by a majority of more than thirteen thousand just be- 21, 1849, he made an almost miraculous escape votes, that in 1857, although he had but Republican can- from it through the sewer connecting with the come a citizen, he was nominated Rhine, and fled to Switzerland. In the following didate for lieutenant-governor, and came within summer he returned to Berlin, under an as- one hundred and seven votes of an election. Two sumed name, for the purpose of liberating Kin- years later he was offered the same nomination kel, who had been taken prisoner, tried for and declined it. His first English speech, made treason, and sentenced to imprisonment for life. in 1858, during the senatorial contest in Illinois With the aid of wealthy sympathizers, this daring between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Doug- and romantic project was carried to a successful las, attracted general attention, and was widely Irrepressible conclusion in November, 1850, and created a sen- circulated under the title of "The sation throughout Europe. Friedrich Spielhagen, Conflict." In the following year he began the lecturing the popular novelist, born in the same year as practise of the law in Milwaukee. On a decided Schurz, and his fellow-student and friend at tour through New England he made a policy of Bonn, has embalmed this adventure as a stirring impression by attacking the ideas and Constitu- episode in his book "Die von Hohenstein," in Douglas, and by opposing a proposed which Schurz figures as Wolfgang von Hohen- tional amendment directed against naturalized cit- again brought before stein, and Kinkel as Dr. Miinser. In fact, a izens. The latter subject he May, more remarkable instance of self-sacrifice and the National Republican Convention of of the Wis- heroism for friendship's sake has seldom been i860, which he attended as chairman delegation, and which, upon his motion, in- recorded, and it demonstrated the singular no- consin paragraph of the bility of Schurz's character. Schurz and Kinkel corporated in the fourteenth unequivocally pledg- escaped on a Mecklenburg vessel to Leith in party platform a declaration legislation by Scotland. Of the latter we may here take leave, ing the Republican party against all rights of immigrants merely mentioning that, after a five years' resi- which the existing political abridged. Moreover, he dence in this country, he held a professorship could be impaired or William Curtis in his success- at a girls' school in London, where he also es- supported George the platform of tablished a German newspaper, Hermann, in 1866 ful appeal for the insertion in Declaration of Independ- accepted a call to the Polytechnikum in Zurich, the sentiments of the 45 - 46 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS ence, which had been denied to Mr. Giddings. Al u,is received in Germany with distinguished con- idily cast the vote of his whole del- sideration; in an interview with Bismarck the :i f« >r William 11. Seward, Schurz was ap latter requested him to give a history of his pointed a member of the committee to notifj Kinkel exploit, and. after listening to the account Lincoln of his nomination; a member of the with great interest, remarked that he thought in National Republican Committee, consisting of one Schurz's place lie would have acted in the same representative from each state; and also a mem- Way. Having been appointed temporary chair- ber of the Executive Committee, which then con- man of the Republican Convention of May, 1868, sisted of only -even members. During the ensu- which nominated General Grant, Schurz was in- ing canvass he made many brilliant speeches in strumental in inserting in the platform a reso- German and in English, which were an important lution recommending a general amnesty. Liven factor in bringing about the election of Lincoln, during the war, and while in active service in who. after his inauguration, recognized the valu- the field, Schurz had not intermitted his activity able services of Schurz by appointing him United as a political orator, but had occasionally taken State- minister to Spain. Schurz presented his leave of absence when it seemed necessary to credentials to Queen Isabella on July 16, 1861, rouse public sentiment to support the Adminis- but in December resigned his post, and, after a tration, and in 1864 had made some notable brief vi>it to his native land, returned to his speeches in the second Lincoln canvass. A- a adopted country in January, 1862, to take ser- matter of course he was one of the most ef- vice in the Union Army. He was commissioned fective speakers in the campaign of 1808, which brigadier-general in April, and on June seventeenth resulted in the first election of Grant. On Janu- took command of a division in the corps of General ary 19, 1869, the Legislature of Mis-ouri elected Franz Sigel, participating in the second battle of him senator, and he took his seat at the special Bull Run (AugUSl twenty-ninth and thirtieth). session beginning March fourth, being the tir-t He was appointed major-general on March 14, German-born citizen who had ever been a mem- 1863, and on May second commanded a division ber of the upper house of Congress. The career neral Oliver O. Howard's Eleventh Army of Carl Schurz in the Senate would have been Corps, at the battle of Chancellorsville. With the sufficiently remarkable if regarded merely as a same corps he participated in the battles of Get- demonstration of his great gifts as a parliamen ty-burg and Chattanooga, and served under tary orator and of his readiness as a debater, i le Sherman in the Georgia campaigns. The sur- was not only the most effective speaker in the render of General Johnston to General Sherman Republican patty, but the greatest orator who has on April jo, [865, terminated the war; and appeared in Congress in our generation. Unlike Schurz, having obtained leave of absence, pro- many of his most distinguished colleague-, he his never resorted to inflated or bombastic rhetoric, ! at once to Washington and resigned commis ion a- general. Hi- resignation was hied and never stooped to any of the well-worn arti- from time May fifth, and was the first one received by the fices with which demagogues imme- War Department, with the sob- exception of Gen- morial have been wont to tickle the ears of the -poke eral Sigel's, which was tiled May fourth. In the mob. As was truly s.aid of him. he always to he summer of [865 Schurz was commissioned by a- a rational man rational men; wa- al- full of it, Presidenl Johnson to make a tour of the South ways sure of his subject and always that he em State- ami prepare a report on their condi and the natural consequence wa- always of tion and the state of public sentiment, He made had something to say that was worthy serious •011 differ ful ami conscientious study of the subject, even from those who mighl from and embodied the result of hi- investigations in him in opinion. Hi- iiiiumi.i1 natural gifts for a candid and judicial minded report, in which be oratory he had sedulously cultivated by a diligent of the best models, with the remarkable recommended that bet',, re readmitting the 1 stud) to full political rights a Congressional that although be had arrived at man' committee be sent there :• make a thorough sur- tate before acquiring a practical acquaintance with rarely, and und and suggest appropriate ! our language, his English style very lation. In the winter <,f [865 66 Schurz was even then only very slightly, betrayed his foreign -o Washington correspondent <>f the New York birth and education: and in acquiring perfect Tribune: in 1866 be went to Detroil and became .1 command of a foreign idiom he had never in he Detroit Post; in 1867 be removed :,, any d Feited his mastery of his native St. Louis to become editor and. with Emil Pre tongue To his other qualities he added a quick tortus, joint proprietor of the Westliche Post. vvi' and a biting sarca-m. which could cut very At tht- time he made a journey to Europe, and without ever Overstepping the bounds of GUSTAV H. SCHWAB. 47 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 49 parliamentary decorum, and which made him for- a national misfortune. The complimentary dinner midable both in attack and in defense. In fine, at which the sentiments just quoted found ex- we might say, speaking on Bacon's hint, that he pression was given to Schurz on April 27, 1875, was at once a full man, a ready man, and an to mark the regret which honest men of all par- exact man. But he has a better claim than that ties felt at his retirement from the Senate, at his to the respect of the American people. It is being (in the words of one of them) "exiled from Bacon, again, who tells us that "talk is but a one party by his independence and principles, and tinkling cymbal where there is no love," and repelled by the other apparently because it is too Schurz's greatness as an orator lies in this, that ignorant to recognize his value in public life." he not only spoke as a rational man to rational It was certainly an unusual tribute to be tendered men, but as a man of heart and of conscience, to a man whose public life was apparently closed, who judges other men by himself, and feels that and it found an appropriate echo on the following his best hold is in appealing to the better nature day in a banquet and serenade given by Germans, of his hearers. What he said of Sumner in his and a few weeks later in another banquet given unsurpassed eulogy of the Massachusetts sena- to him in Berlin by Americans and attended by tor, that "he stands as the most pronounced many Germans of distinction. But a more sig- idealist among the public men of America," might nal vindication awaited him on hi* return from with equal truth be said of himself. The course Europe. Although he had broken with and de- of events has taken his part in nearly all the fied the Republican party by taking sides against controversies which put him at odds with his it in the Louisiana question, in the matter of party in the Senate. He was in advance of public the Ku-Klux laws, in advocating a general am- sentiment, not so much by reason of any su- nesty; although he had opposed the Administra- perior foresight or political sagacity, as because tion in the San Domingo discussion, in the de- of his fidelity to his ideals, and his conviction bates on the sale of arms to France, and on that, in the long run, truth was bound to prevail. abuses in the New York Custom House : al- He was the original Independent in politics, and though he had originated the Liberal Republican the whole political faith of the Independent can movement in Missouri in 1870, and had thereby be educed from his utterances. He was a warm given the first impetus to the current of inde- advocate of civil service reform, of tariff reform, pendence in politics which has since swept the of currency reform, at a time when the friends country ; although he had presided over the Lib- of any kind of reform were few and far be- eral convention of May, 1872, which nominated tween, and had nothing to expect from either Horace Greeley for the Presidency and had ad- party but obloquy and sneers. Perhaps the great- vocated (with much reluctance, it is true) the est practical service he rendered at this time was election of Greeley; although he had done all in his unwavering advocacy of correct principles these things, and many others that equally demon- on the currency question. He was almost the strated how little amenable he was to the ordi- only public man who never made any concession nary canons of party discipline, and how much on this point to ignorant public clamor, and his he placed the cause above the party—in spite of mastery of the subject was equal to the honesty all this, no sooner had he returned home, than and courage with which he stood for the right. he was appealed to by the Ohio Republican Com- The two speeches against inflation and in favor mittee to stump that state in favor of Hayes and of a return to specie payments which he made honest money, as against Allen and inflation. in the Senate on January 14 and February Within a week he was in harness, and resumed, 24, 1874, were models of sound doctrine. Of with all his wonted boldness and brilliancy, the the second of them Professor Bonamy Price of good fight against financial folly, quackery, and Oxford, certainly a sober-minded and competent knavishness which he had fought in the Senate, critic, said that it was the ablest speech ever and which he was to fight over again for many made on banking in any parliament, that its range years to come. It was to his valiant efforts more and solidity were wonderful, and that it offered than to those of any other one man that the a body of detailed doctrine which almost through- victory then achieved was due. In the presiden- out will bear the test of the closest examination. tial election in the following year, he once more Any adequate account of Schurz's course in the cast in his lot with the Republican party, believ- Senate will confirm the judgment of William M. ing, as did many other Independents, that sound Evarts that Schurz had presented, under adverse currency and civil service reform were, on the circumstances, an instance of an elevated Amer- whole, safer with Hayes and his following than ican statesman, and the opinion of James Rus- with the Democratic supporters of Tilden. There sell Lowell, who thought his loss to the Senate was an impression abroad that he had received ; 50 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS positive pledges from Hayes that civil service re- taries had known nothing about, and probably form would be carried out in good faith. At all did not want to know about. He found the ser- events he threw himself into the canvass with vice in a deplorable condition, particularly the his customary energy, and his appointment by Indian Bureau. The Secretary of the Interior, Hayes to the secretaryship of the interior was and even the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, only a just recognition of the importance of his were kept in ignorance of what was going on, services, and at the same time a partial redemp- and contractors and Indian agents were allowed tion of tlic pledge, it" a pledge there was, in re- full swing. As fast as Schurz could fasten the gard to civil service reform, of which it was on responsibility for wrongdoing or negligent all sides admitted that Schurz was a sincere and even mere carelessness, he made changes and ardent advocate. So well was this understood by removals right and left, regardless, as he had the enemies of the reform that, while his nomi- ever been, of the enemies he made Mis efforts nation was pending, they spread a report that to check the timber thieves brought him into con- hi- confirmation would be opposed by some Re- flict with powerful corporations, and with his publicans from a "di passionate belief" that he old Republican antagonists in the Senate: while did not possess business experience and admin- his intelligent and well-considered Indian policy istrative ability enough for the proper discharge was attacked not only by a noisy company of of the multifarious duties of the office. The du- traders, who had a vested interest in corruption, ties of the office were, indeed, multifarious, but but by army officers on the one hand, and by well Schurz was soon to convince the country thai an meaning, sentimental philanthropists on the other. idealist can be a very practical man in any busi- All of these foes be faced undismayed, and did ness which i- compatible with honesty, industry, not allow clamor or vituperation to swerve him intelligence, and courage. He was confirmed from what he considered the straight path of on March eleventh, and before a week had ex- duty, lie put an end to the swindling of Indians pired he assured the clerks that no removals by agents who were appointed to protect them, would be made except for cause, unless the force and in four years gave the wards of the nation had to be reduced, in which case the least com- a better start towards civilization than they had petent would be removed; that no promotions ever had before. During his term of office the would be made except for merit, and that, a- agricultural products raised by them were doubled. there were no vacancies, no recommendations to In his first annual report he outlined an Indian office would be entertained. This was not empty policy, the chief points of which were: the main declamation, for Schurz did nol even bring a new tetiance of good faith with the tribes: the dis private secretary with him. On April -i x th he couragement of hunting; the concentration of promulgated an order providing for the investi tribes dependent on hunting within reservations; gation and practical determination of questions their conversion to agriculture and stock-raising connected with appointments, removals, and pro- the establishment of schools and of agency farms: ns by means of a board of inquiry com- together with many other similar measures which posed of three- clerks of the highest cla s; and FUggested themselves to a humane, conscientious, his subsequent actions demonstrated that there and highly educated official, who had taken pains was no sham about this measure, but that it was to master the subject, and was no respecter of meant in sober earnest. The reform of th< persons or of unreasoning prejudices. In other however, was but .a small part of the work. departments, he displayed the same capacity for The new Secretary, in violation of all precedent, practical business. During four years he recov made up his mind, to master personally the busi ered and paid into the Treasury almost as much of his office, which included the management money for timber depredations as had been col of the Indian service, with an armj of offi< lected in twenty two years before, and he was quarter of a million of Indians, and their land the first to demonstrate the ability of the Pacific . < establish ations ; the Pension >ffice, the Patenl railway companies to a sinking fund for Office, the census, the public land-, the geoli the payment of their indebtedness to the Gov ami geographical surveys, the transactions with ernment. Without going more into detail, it will 'he land grant railroads, and numerous other be seen that in his official career as a Cabinet matters lit- worked from nine till six, and some minister Schurz was as great a contrast to the times late at night, and made the most of his time ordinary politican as he was during his term in by devoting to business the bouts which most the Senate. Instead of laboring for bis own of his predecessors had tO politics ami aggrandizement, and striving to build up a party wire-pulling. As a natural consequence, be un of personal adherents, on whose cooperation he earthed numerous abuses which previous eoiih 1 count through thick and thin: instead of TACOB HENRY SCHIFF. 51 HENRY P. '."I 1'-' 1! M H'l' 52 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 53 currying favor with men of influence by con- scribed. This work, together with his contribu- niving at abuses which helped the party; instead tions to periodicals, notably his Atlantic Monthly of using his official power to reward his friends article on Abraham Lincoln, will insure him a and intimidate his enemies ; instead of resorting secure place among American authors. Repeat- to any such devices which are but too familiar in edly chosen president of the National Civil Ser- our politics, he was a veritable tribune of the vice Reform Association, his speeches and activi- people, always ready to use his great abilities to ties in that behalf were notable. He was also promote the public welfare, and for the further- connected with various large business enterprises, ance of good government. Apart from the spe- in which his capacity no less than his integrity cific services which he rendered as legislator, as gained him the esteem of his associates; but he administrator of a public trust, as a popular ora- was too honest and unmercenary, in a money- tor, in procuring the enactment of salutary laws, getting age, to enrich himself. His quiet re- in preventing the passage of bad ones, in purify- fusal to accept the large sum which admiring ing the civil service and purging it of scandals, German-Americans offered him was characteris- in promoting public economy and justice, in com- tic of the man. In the elections of 1888 and 1892 bating financial heresies and educating public he again effectively supported Cleveland, although sentiment—apart from all this, which would suf- in the latter year his health did not permit him fice to give him a strong claim on the national to take as active a part as he had been accus- gratitude, he has a still stronger claim to ad- tomed to do. His latest literary effort was de- miration and respect, in that, in a time of great voted to his autobiography, now in course of corruption and demoralization, he was found publication. Mr. Bryce has expressed surprise faithful among the faithless; faithful, that is, to at the want of influence upon American politics of a high ideal of public duty and private morality. the great German infusion, and it is certain His life will ever be a shining example to the that no one of the refugees of '48 attained any- rising generation, the hope of mankind, showing thing like the distinction of Carl Schurz, or had them that it is still possible for a man to achieve either so conspicuous or so happy a share in re- great honors and high station without bartering paying his debt to his adopted country. As a away his soul for a mess of pottage. It is his whole, it may be said of the Germans as of the unblemished character more than his brilliant Irish, that, deceived by the name of "Democracy," talents that will secure him a place in American they cast their weight—at least during the years history. Returning to private life, when his term of moral agitation—against the anti-slavery party. of office had expired, and making his home in In this particular Schurz shines by contrast, since New York, Schurz became one of the editors of he at once saw things as they were, and divined the Evening Post, when that journal changed own- the essential unity between the Slave Power and ership in July, 1881, and retained the position un- the despots of the Old World. He differed again til December 9, 1883. In 1884 he took a promi- from many of his countrymen in making a com- nent part in the Independent movement, which plete surrender to his new nationality, desiring was called into being as a revolt against ten- and aiming to be only a high-minded American dencies in the Republican party that represented citizen. Unlike his noble compatriot , Friedrich the antipodes of everything he stood for. He Kapp, he was not tempted by the conquest of had himself contributed materially by example German unity to return to his Fatherland. In and by precept to creating the public feeling the end, he came to think in English rather than which made such a movement possible, and he in German, though both languages were constantly contributed no less to its culmination in the elec- on his lips. In the multifariousness of his talent tion of Grover Cleveland, with whom he had, in- and his experiences in public and in private life, it deed, much in common. The leisure afforded him was not to be expected that he should be equally by his release from public duties he employed surpassing. His military career was certainly to good purpose in writing his "Life of Henry less brilliant, though not less creditable, than his Clay," which appeared in 1887, and at once secured civilian. As a journalist, too, he was less suc- him a high rank as a man of letters. It was cessful than as an orator, and in fact, the world widely recognized as the best life of Clay, and has seldom seen these two functions combined the best work of the series in which it was pub- (in the first order) in the same person. The lished. Its value consists not only in the correct- speaker's rhetoric is opposed to the directness ness of its style and in its readableness, but large- and terseness demanded of the daily writer for ly in its quality as a contribution to political his- the press, and as a speaker, it is to be observed tory by one whose own political experience gave that Schurz was accustomed to elaborate his him a peculiar insight into the period he de- weightier deliverances by a careful preparation 54 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS in his closet. The journalist has nci time for thi-, wa- wounded, hut after being nursed hack to and pays the penalty in an ephemeral fame. It life again, he wa- elected to the Congress which would be unjust t" close this imperfecl appreci- wa- called by the Emperor, under pressure from ation without a word as to Carl Schurz's private the party he represented. A constitution was character, which was both pure and amiable in framed by that Congress for the realm, and the a singular degree. He was very companionable, provision that wa- most importanl and enduring very warm and kindhearted, most affectionate in lathered by young Kudlich. The abolition his family relations; passionately fond of music; of tithes paid by the pea-ant- to the land owner-, absolutely simple and unaffected in his manner, and of the rohat, was championed by him. The and happy to escape from the observation of the peasants had been required to work without pay world and the exactions of society to be at home three days per week upon the land- of the lord-. with his hooks and engaged in literary pursuits. Most of tin good work accomplished by the Con- Like Lowell and like Curtis, he learned that the gress wa- -wept away when the counterrevolution —ion of these virtues, superadded to abun- occurred, hut the restoration of tithe- and the dant examples of public spirit, patriotism, and robat was not undertaken by the Emperor and self-abnegation, was no security .against the most to this day the Austrian peasants are exempt from vulgar and odious aspersions on the part of his those taxes. This great public service rendered political adversaries. Yet the fullest appreciation by Dr. Kudlich ha- made his name dear to mil- came, too. Hi- seventieth birthday was celebrated lions of Austrian peasants. It was during the not only in private by hi- friends but publicly by memorable siege of the Emperor's troop- under the Chamber of Commerce. Caricature w. Prince Windischgratz that Dr. Kudlich effected a busy with his line head and tall figure that few miraculous escape and endeavored to organize an public characters were more recognizable on the army among the peasantry with which to raise street: hut art will yet he worthily employed in the siege, hut after many futile efforts his plans a reverential monument to hi- memory. He died miscarried. He then joined General Siegel's rev- in New York City on May 14, 1906. olutionary army in the southern part of Germany, and when it met with disaster he tied into the DR. HANS KUDLICH.—Had it not been for interior of Switzerland. Hi- extradition was the downfall of the German and Austrian revolu- sought by Austria, hut Switzerland merely re- tionary movement in 1848, this country would quested him to withdraw from the country. From in all probabilities, have gained the subject Switzerland Dr. Kudlich went to Paris, and in of this sketch for one of her most distinguished [853 came to the United State-, settling in Green- countrymen who. during that eventful period, came point and later in Williamsburg. One year later to this country with a host of fellow subj he removed to Hoboken, X.J., where he has since The life of Dr. Kudlich ha- been set forth many resided, enjoying a large and lucrative practise times a- an example to those who desire to re of hi- profession. His home i- located at No. 506 main true to their ideals, no matter how alone Hudson Street, where he is -urrounded by .all that they might -land in their own convictions; and culture and taste can desire. It was during hi- again it prove- that notwithstanding the difficul exile in Switzerland that Dr. Kudlich first pur- ties encountered upon the thoroughfare- to a use sued the study of medicine and his course was ful career, that enviable height can only he Mir- concluded in the University of Zurich, graduating mourned by those who possess the -telling quali- therefrom in [853 with the highest honor-. After f the docti »r. II'- « as horn in Lobenstein, taking up his resilience in Hoboken, it wa- nol Austria, October 25, [823, and received a thorough long before his skill as a practitioner was ob- education in the Gymnasium College of Troppau, served and the practise lie established grew rap Austria. He attended this institution for -i\ idly; up to the time of his retirement from ac hi- in . in which time he mastered the Latin and tivitj was undoubtedly the largest the city. Creek language-. After his graduation from the During the year of [853 he married Mi-- Louise Gymnasium, he went to Vienna, where he to, ,k a daughter of William Vogt, a distinguished course in law, and which he continued up to professor in the University of Bern, in Switzer- [848, when the revolution broke forth. His land. Dr. Kudlich became associated with the patriotism asserted itself immediately, and he anti slavery movement shortly after his arrival of I hi- services for the uplifting hi- fellow in this country, ami was one of the most anient countrymen and the cause he was in sympathy supporters. ID was a trustee of the Lank of with. During an encounter with the Imperial Savings of Hoboken for many years, and was one troop- J,, March of 'he above year, and which of the founder- of the Hoboken Academy. For terminated victoriously for the revolutionists, he many years he was the president of the German JOSEPH SELIGMAN. 55 ISAAC N. SELIGMAN. 56 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 57 Club. He is also a member of the Society of last century, and Gustav Schwab, the father of German Physicians of New York and also the Gustav H. Schwab, married the daughter of Law- Hudson Medical District Society of Physicians. rence Henry von Post. Gustav H. Schwab was Nine children were born to Dr. and Mrs. Kud- born on May 30, 1851, on the banks of the Hud- lich, of whom seven are living. Their son, Will- son at the foot of One Hundred and Nineteenth iam T., is one of Hoboken's leading physicians; Street, where his great-grandfather had built a Paul F., who is temporarily in music, and Her- house in 1807, now obliterated by the Riverside man C, who was a former city magistrate by Drive. He received his early education at the Mayor Strong in 1895 and who resides in New hands of a private tutor, and in his fourteenth York; Hans V., who resides in Dedham, Mass., year was sent to the Gymnasium at Stuttgart, and is engaged in business there. While abroad Germany, where he remained four years under with his family in 1872 he visited Austria and the care of his uncle, Professor Christoph Schwab, received many expressions, both public and pri- another son of the poet. Having chosen a mer- vate, of the great affection entertained for him cantile profession, Gustav H. Schwab in his by his countrymen in appreciation of his valued eighteenth year was sent to Bremen, where he services rendered during the revolution of 1848. entered the office of H. H. Meier & Co., founded Notwithstanding his advanced years, he takes a by the brother of Caspar Meier in 1805, and keen interest in matters pertaining to the better- spent four years as a clerk in this business, after ment of German conditions in America, and his having spent a year in the office of the North advice upon the social and economic questions German Lloyd in Bremen. He then went to is regarded as authoritative. Liverpool, where he remained for half a year for the purpose of becoming acquainted with English GUSTAV H. SCHWAB is the grandson of the business methods, and in the fall of 1873 returned well known German poet, Gustav Schwab. His to his native city, New York, where he entered father, the son of the German poet, took up a the office of his father's firm, Oelrichs & Co., and mercantile career and after spending six years took charge of the agency of the North German in the office of H. H. Meier & Co. in Bremen, took Lloyd, which was in the hands of the firm of passage for New York in 1844, where he first Oelrichs & Co. On July 1, 1876, he became a established the firm of Wichelhausen, Recknagel member of the firm of Oelrichs & Co., and has & Schwab, and in 1858 entered the firm of Oel- continued active in the management of the firm's richs & Co. On his mother's side Gustav H. affairs, especially devoting his attention to the Schwab is a descendant of the early German set- steamship business until the present day. Early tlers in this country. One of his ancestors, Con- in his career Gustav H. Schwab devoted much of rad Weiser, entered the country in 1710 with a his time and leisure to public affairs and in 1890 large number of German emigrants from the was instrumental in forming the so-called "Peo- Palatinate. Conrad Weiser was then a young ple's Municipal League" that nominated Mr. man and became thoroughly acquainted with the Frank M. Scott for mayor. Although unsuc- Indians, learning their language and living with cessful, the movement demonstrated a wide-spread them for a number of years. He was instru- public sentiment in favor of the separation of mental in negotiating many treaties between the municipal affairs from national and state poli- colonies of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, tics, and in 1894 Gustav H. Schwab took an Virginia and North Carolina and the Indians. active interest in the formation of the Committee His daughter married the Rev. Henry Melchior of Seventy, the chair-man of which was Mr. Jo- Muhlenberg, one of the patriarchs of the Luther- seph Larocque, which nominated and finally an Church, whose daughter married Dr. John elected Mr. William L. Strong as mayor of the Christopher Kunze, a professor in Columbia Uni- city of New York as a protest against the mis- versity and pastor of one of the German churches government of the city by Tammany Hall. In in Xew York. The daughter of Dr. Kunze mar- later movements Gustav H. Schwab took a prom- ried Caspar Meier, the founder of the firm of inent part in the campaigns of the reform party Caspar Meier & Co., in 1798, which firm after- of the city of New York, in the formation of wards assumed the style of Oelrichs & Co. as, the Citizens' Union, and in the election of Mr. after the death of Caspar Meier, the laws of the Seth Low as mayor. Gustav H. Schwab has state of New York did not permit the use of also been active in his Assembly District, the the name of Caspar Meier. A daughter of Cas- Twenty-seventh A?sembly District of New York, par Meier married Lawrence Henry von Post, and in the election of local candidates in that dis- of an old Bremen family, who became a member trict. In questions of national concern Gustav H. of the firm of Caspar Meier & Co. early in the Schwab took a prominent part in the sound money 58 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS movement undertaken by the Chamber of Com- many. 011 January 10. 1S47. as the son of Moses merce of the state of New York, and in the ef- and Clara Schiff. He was educated in the schools ;ecure a revision of the tariff laws and of his native city and entered the employ of a the introduction of reciprocal track- arrange- commercial linn after completing his education. ments reign countries. On the death of At the age of eighteen, he decided to emigrate to father in 1888, who was a member of the America, and came to New York City, where he Committee on Foreign Commerce anil the Rev< engaged in the hanking and brokerage business. nue Law- of the Chamber of Commerce of the < Iperating on a modesl scale at the beginning, his of New York. Gustav II. Schwab was elected ability to grasp intricate financial problems and a member of this committee in his place, and a hi- skill in solving them, as well as his quick per- few years thereafter was made chairman of this ception of opportunities, were soon recognized by important committee. He has taken and still the men who at that time controlled the financial take- an active interest in the deliberations of the markets of the country. Hi- advice was sought Chamber of Commerce of the state of New more and more, his judgment was relied upon York. Gustav II. Schwab also took the place of by larger numbers from day to day. and his in- hi- father on the Board of Directors of the Mer- fluence in financial circles grew constantly both chants National Bank, of which hi-- father was a in America and Europe, until he had become director, and v. I. and i- now, a di- one of the central figures in almost every large rector of the United States Trust Company. He transaction that took place. He rose rapidly and i- also a member of the Hoard of Directors of is now the head of the large hanking house of the Atlantic Mutual Insurance Company. Gustav Kuhn, Loeb & Co., a director of the National City II. Schwab i> chairman of the Canal Committee Bank, Western Union Telegraph Co., Bond & of the New Y' 1 anal, to which the siate of New York ish Theological Seminary of New York, of the (position among her sifter states. N'urses' Settlement, .and a liberal contributor to As chairman of the New York Committee of the practically every Jewish and non-sectarian charity American Reciprocal Tariff League, Gustav 1 1. of \',w York City. A handsome stone fountain Schwab i- interested in the agitation for recip with bronze ornaments which stands on Rutgers rocal trad- agreements between the United States Square and bears the simple inscription: "Pre- and foreign nation- a- a necessarj condition tor sented to the City of New York, 1805." i- a gift the continued extension and growth of the for from Mr. Schiff. the name of the donor remaining eign trade of the United States. In charitable unknown for several years, until revealed by ac- work it should he added that Gustav II. Schwab cident. He presented to Harvard University the was formerly a director of the Juvenile Asylum and first Semitic Museum established in America and is still a member of the Board of Directors of devoted to Semitic studies in [903, and is chair- ' of n's Guild. I le was al »< 1 tor fourteen years man of the Semitic Committee the university. president of the German Society of the city of Mr Schiff is a former vice president of the New New York, .,nd is still a director of that society, York Chamber of Commerce, member of the Met- which was founded by hi randfather, ropolitan Museum of \rt. the Museum of Nat- Christopher Kunze, with other ural History, the American Fine Arts' Associa- ( Germans, in the year 1787. tion, and of many other communal and altruistic lb- ha- also taken a deep interest in .1; prac- I \n HENRY SCHIFF, banker and capi public affairs, and has been identified with talist, was bom at Frankfurt ..1: the Main. tically every movement inaugurated to improve HONORABLE CHARLES ADOLPH SCHIEREX. 59 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 61 the administration of the city and state. Mr. Schiff tingency. The master mind of Joseph Seligman was married on May 6, 1875, to Miss Theresa directed the vast operations with such success that Loeb, daughter of Solomon Loeb, his senior part- the business expanded rapidly and branch houses ner in business, and has two children. had to be founded in London, Frankfurt and Paris, as well as in the larger cities of the Uni- JOSEPH SELIGMAN, banker and capitalist, ted States. The parent house in New York was was born at Bayersdorf, in Bavaria, on Septem- presided over by Joseph, assisted by Jesse and ber 22, 1819, as the oldest of eight brothers, all James. Leopold and Isaac took charge of the of whom became active partners in the banking London house, William became resident partner in house founded by him. He received a superior Paris, and Henry and Abraham resident partners education and studied medicine at the University in Frankfurt. In 1872 a branch house was es- of Erlangen in his native country. After gradu- tablished in San Francisco under the supervision ating he devoted some time to theological studies, of Joseph, but was later on merged in the Anglo- but neither of the two professions satisfied his Californian Bank, which, however, retained its active mind which yearned for a larger field where connection with the Seligmans. During the dark knowledge and intelligence of high order could days of the Civil War Mr. Seligman was ever be made the basis of far-reaching operations. His loyal to the Government and proved a mountain university life had broadened his mind and kindled of strength for the Union. Through his influ- the love for freedom in his heart. Germany was ence mainly a market for United States bonds at that time undergoing a period of political was found in Germany and the sympathy of the reaction, and Mr. Seligman decided to emigrate German people strengthened. The London house to America at the age of seventeen. Soon after was made the authorized depository for the State his arrival he accepted a position with Asa Packer and Naval Departments, and it was Mr. Selig- of Pennsylvania, who was then beginning busi- man who formulated the plan under which a ness as a contractor. Young Seligman was em- syndicate took up the 5-20 bonds which the Gov- ployed as cashier but removed to Greensborough, ernment in 1870-1872 concluded to refund, thus Ala., after attaining his majority, and started in becoming as prominently connected with the re- business on his own account. His success in- funding of the national debt as he had been with duced his brothers to follow him and Jesse and the issue of the bonds. When it was decided to Henry established themselves in Watertown, N.Y., resume specie payments the Seligmans were in- in the furnishing goods business. In 1848 Mr. strumental in assisting the Government, and the Seligman, who had been very successful and had house took $20,000,000 of the $150,000,000 loan accumulated considerable capital, decided to trans- issued by the Government in 1879. Secretary Sher- fer his operations to New York City and commu- man of the Treasury and Secretary Thompson of nicated his intention to his brothers to whom the Navy publicly acknowledged their indebted- the narrow limits imposed upon business activity ness to Mr. Seligman for his assistance in crit- in a small town had also become irksome. In the ical monetary crises in their Departments. Since meantime the other brothers had come to Amer- 1876 the house has been connected with every ica, and the eight Seligmans united their re- important syndicate. Mr. Seligman evinced all sources and established an importing house in his life an honest and fatherly solicitude for the New York City which, under the able leadership welfare of his brothers, possessing in a high de- of Joseph, prospered from the start, and in such gree the devotion of his race to family ties. His a remarkable degree that at the beginning of home life was charming. He was intensely patri- the Civil War it was one of the largest and otic, a member and vice-president of the Union wealthiest in the city. Mr. Seligman's active League Club, a warm personal friend of General mind clearly perceived that the United States Grant and a member of the famous Committee Government would have to engage in immense of Seventy. He also served on the Rapid Transit financial operations to carry on the war, and that Commission which gave to New York its elevated consequently the banking business offered enor- railroads, and was connected with almost all the mous opportunities. His brothers coincided in great railroad enterprises which connected the his views and determined to give up the import- Atlantic with the Pacific and did so much for the ing business, transferring their united capital to development of the country. Mr. Seligman was a banking house. This they organized under the of an extremely charitable disposition and a friend word. His firm name of J. & W. Seligman & Co. With the of the poor in the fullest sense of the large amount of capital at their disposal, they name was connected with almost all the great could not only engage in extensive operations but charities carried on in New York, and he took also provide for an ample reserve for any con- great interest in the Ethical Culture Society, of 62 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS which he and Professor Adler were the leading ter, or in the interest of humanity at large, has spirits. Without question the l>t-t known found a liberal contributor and earnest CO worker one of the most prominent and popular Hebrews in Mr. Seligman. Hi- position in the front rank of the city, he gave large sums for benevolent of public-spirited citizens of this republic is purposes without asking whom they would benefit universally recognized and undi puted. His as long as they were worthy of support. He be- activity and the confidence he enjoy- j- shown by queathed one hundred thousand dollars for phil- the numerous positions of trust and honor he oc- anthropic purposes to such societies and institu- cupies Mr. Seligman i- a trustee of the Munich tions as his executors would select, and provided hire Reinsurance Co., Rossia hire Reinsurance Co., that no distinction should be made on accounl United State- Savings Bank, United Hebrew of religion or race. 1 1 i - wishes were carefullj Charities, Manhattan State Hospital (appointed carried out, but this large amount was but a by Governor Morton ami reappointed by Gover- trifle compared to the sums he gave away during nor Higgins), of the .Yew York Oratorio Society, his lifetime, lie died suddenly at New Orleans on Soldiers' and Sailor:-" Home Protective Associa- Sunday, April 25, t88o, while visiting his daughter. tion, Legal Aid Society, American Institution of Social Service, McKinley Memorial Association, ISAAC N. SELIGMAN, banker, was born on Fairmount College in Wichita. New York Sym- Island, NY., on July io, 1856, as the -on phony Society and of the Solomon and Betty Loeb of Joseph Seligman, the founder of the well Convalescent Home: trustee and treasurer of the known hanking firm of .1. & W. Seligman & St. John'- Guild, the Hudson-Fulton Celebration 1 Me received his first education in Europe, Committee, Carl Schurz Memorial Committee; hut returned in 1866 and entered Columbia Gram- trea urer and director of the City and Suburban mar School at the age of ten, graduating with lb pine- Company; trustee and chairman of the honor- in 1876, the Centennial year, from Colum- Finance Committee of the City Club; treasurer bia C"!l ge. While in college, he was president of the Citizens' Union since the Low campaign; of his class and took a lively interest in -.port-, treasurer of the Carl Schurz Columbia University being a member of the famous eight -oared crew Memorial Fund: chairman of the Finance Com- which won the race on Saratoga Lake in 1S74, de- mittee and trustee of the National Child Labor feating Harvard. Vale and nine other crews. Dur- Committee, treasurer and chairman of the An- ing the year- 1N77 and 1S78 he was connected drew II. Green Memorial Committee, vice presi- with the New Orleans branch of the firm of J. & denl of the Economic Association, treasurer ami W. Seligman & Co., and in [879 was admitted to member of the Executive Committee of the Cele partnership in the New York house. This firm was bration of the two hundred and fiftieth anniver- prominently identified with establishing the en d sary of the Jewish Settlement in Yew York City, the United Stati G rnmenl both at home chairman and trustee of the Endowment of the and abroad, with placing the bonds issued by the Chair at Columbia University of Social Ethics, American Governmenl under President Grant, director of the Academy of Design, General Grant and wnh the resumption of specie payment- under Tomb Committee, Finance Committee of the Canal lent Hayes and Secretary of the Treasury Association of Greater Yew York, and a member Sherman. Mr. Seligman i- now. since the death of the Committee on National Conference of of hi- unci.-, Jesse Seligman, the head of the Charities and Correction, of the Committee of will known banking linn. In [883 he married the Columbia University Memorial Hall, of the Mi-- Guta Loeb, daughter of Mr. Solomon Loeb Advisory Board of the Republican National Com of the banking house of Kuhn, Loeb X Co He mittee, tin- Yew York Historical Society. Cham- ha- always maintained hi- connection with Colum- ber of Commerce and of its Executive Commit bia College, ha- been presidenl of tin- Columbia tee "ii Taxation, the Executive Committee of the 1 lub for several years ami one of the prom Civic Federation, of the Committee of Nine on ineni members of tin- \lumni Association Presi Police Investigation, Citizens' Union Committee dent Seth Low appointed him a- one of the com of Fifty, Executive Committee of the Greal Na mittee to raise fund- for the new site of Colum tional Association for Advancement of Science. bia University. Il<- i- identified with almosl ever) Art ami Education, chairman of the Special loin charitable organization in New York City. He mittee on Commerce and Education appointed by has taken greal interest in every movement de the New York Chamber of Commerce, and a to signed improve the city admini tration, and it member of the University Club, Lotus Club. Art- may he truly -aid that every cause worthy of be Club. Mill Day Club. City Club. Lawyers Club. ing supported by good ami patriotic citizens, Yi u York Athletic ('lub. Union League ami the whether of a political or administrative charac Merchants' Ass< >ciati< »n JAMES SPEYER. 63 — SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 65 HON. CHARLES ADOLPH SCHIEREN.— ored methods which have stood the test of gen- The choice of Brooklyn as the place in which erations. A notable instance of this is the re- to make their home in America, by the par- tention of the old process of vat tanning with ents of ex-Mayor Charles A. Schieren, when rock oak bark, which requires four months to they came to this country in 1856, gave to produce a perfectly tanned hide. Mr. Schieren the city one of its foremost citizens. He was is still the active head of the company which born at Neuss, Rhenish-Prussia, February 28, bears his name. He is also president of the Ger- 1842. His education was begun in the schools mania Savings Bank of Brooklyn, a trustee of of his native town and continued in the public the Brooklyn Trust Company, a director of the schools of his adopted city. He was for sev- Nassau National Bank, a trustee of the Ger- eral years engaged in the cigar manufacturing mania Life Insurance Company, and a trustee of business with his father and in 1864 accepted a the Aachen & Munich Fire Insurance Company. position in the leather belting house of Philip He has been prominently connected with the F. Pasquay of New York. Upon the death of Leather Association of New York since its or- Mr. Pasquay in the following year, he was made ganization, and one of the founders and members manager of the concern, where he remained for of the National Association of Manufacturers three years. Having saved a moderate capital is a member of its Executive Committee, an from his earnings, he then embarked in business was formerly its treasurer. He is a recognized for himself, and from that small beginning has authority on the subject of leather and "belting, grown one of the largest and best equipped es- and his remarks in interview or in public speak- tablishments of its kind in the world. The ing are highly valued. He wrote "The Uses growth of the business was rapid and constant and Abuses of Belting," "Transmission of Pow- from the start, and its continued prosperity has er by Belt," "History of Leather and Belting," been directly due to the keen business foresight "From Tannery to Dynamo," which he presen/ed and executive ability of Mr. Schieren, who, before the National Electric Light Association during the forty years of its existence, has given in 1888, and the Technical Society of New York, it his close personal attention. He has also and which were subsequently published in the made a number of inventions which aided sub- trade journals. While the foregoing would seem stantially in the upbuilding of this great in- sufficient to fully occupy him, Mr. Schieren dustry. Among his inventions may be mentioned has always found time to take an active inter- the "Electric Belt" (which was coated to pro- est in public affairs. He was a member of the tect the leather), the "American Joint Leather famous "Wide Awakes," in i860, who did such Link Belt," and the "Perforated Belt." As de- splendid work toward securing the election of mands increased and conditions changed, the Abraham Lincoln to the presidency, and since output of his factories has been changed and that time has been an ardent advocate of the amplified, until the matter of supplying the principles of the Republican party. He took a market with just what is needed has been re- leading part in the reorganization of the party duced to an exact art, and his brand has been in Brooklyn upon the election district association made famous by the constant reliability of the plan, which finally led to the overthrow of Dem- goods produced. It was found necessary many ocratic sway in the city. In 1893 he was nomi- years ago to establish branch houses in the lead- nated by his party for the office of mayor of ing cities of the country, and now such houses Brooklyn and was elected by an overwhelming are maintained in Boston, Philadelphia, Pitts- majority of thirty-three thousand votes. The burg, Chicago and Denver, also in Hamburg, Ger- campaign was conducted along the line of anti- many, while a large lace leather tannery has machine rule, and was one of the first of its been operated in Brooklyn since about 1880. But kind in the country to result in success. Mr. probably the most noteworthy extension of facili- Schieren has a national reputation as a reformer ties was the establishment of the Dixie Tan- in politics, but his work has been toward secur- neries in Bristol, Tenn., in 1893. This plant and ing purity in politics, rather than in support of its adjunct, the Holston Extract Company, cov- so-called "Reform" movements which usually ac- ers thirty-one acres, and has a capacity of over complish a little more than to thwart the people as one hundred thousand hides a year. Here, as in a whole in their real choice of public officials. His all the other departments of this vast business, term as mayor was signalized by the straight- are employed all the best methods and processes forward business methods employed, and the known to the leather and belt making arts. Some large number of important public improvements of these methods are the latest results of sci- which were planned and executed. During his entific experiments, and some are the time-hon- term of office Wallabout Market was remodeled 66 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS from an unsightly, inconvenient mass of wooden crossed the ocean, the new chancel stained-glass buildings, to a substantial, picturesque, and valu- windows in the Lutheran Cathedral in Neuss, Ger- able market, having twice its former capacity. many, in which he was baptized, heing of his do- Through his influence and energetic advocacy the nation. He also presented to the cathedral in bill was passed by the Legislature in 1895 au- Speyer-on-the-Rhine the colossal bronze statue thorizing the construction of the Williamsburg of Martin Luther, the base of which was given Bridge, the initial plans were made and the work by other German-Americans. He aided in the 1. By the addition of five new parks, Mr. erection of the Luther statue in Washington and Schieren's administration more than doubled the was a member of the committee which erected area of the parks of the city of Brooklyn. The the Beecher and Stranahan -tatues in Brooklyn. largest "t' these, Forest Park, comprises live hun- He is a trustee of the Young Men's Christian As- dred and thirty-six acres, is noted for its ele- sociation, the Young Women's Christian Associ- vation, natural beauty, and fine view of both ation, and was for several years a trustee of the the ocean and Long Island Sound. Dyker Sunday School Union, the Union for Christian Meadow Park, containing one hundred and fifty Work and the Society for the Prevention of acre-, i- also of great importance, as it em- Cruelty to Children. He has been for many years braces several thousand feet of ocean front. Final a member of the Union League Club of Manhat- plans were adopted and riparian rights secured tan and the Hamilton Club of Brooklyn. Mr. for the Shore Driveway, which, when completed, Schieren was married in 1865 to Miss Louise will he one of the finest in the world. He also Bramm, a daughter of George \V. Bramm of was "tie of the founders of the Brooklyn Mu- Brooklyn, and has four children: Charles A. seum and laid the corner-stone during his admin- Schieren, Jr.. Miss Ida May Schieren, George Ar- istration a- mayor for this magnificent building thur Schieren and Harrie Victor Schieren. on the Park Slope. It i- an instance worthy of Charles A. Schieren is a representative of the note, that during his occupancy of the mayor- large portion of the population of the United alty he devoted his entire time to the duties of States which has been furnished by the German >ffice. Hi- declined a renomination, retiring Empire, and he is one of which his native and his from 1 .nice with the city in splendid financial con- adopted country may well be proud. Brilliantly dition. Since then he ha-- received unsought ap- successful in all his undertakings, public spirited, pointment t<> several positions of honor and re- clean charactered, and ever read} to support by sponsibility. The late and greatly lamented Pres his means and influence any enterprise which has McKinley, of whom he was a close personal for its purpose the betterment and welfare ni the friend, appointed him a member of the Cuban community of which he has been an honored Relief Committee, of which he was treasurer. He member for half a century, he is a splendid speci- hairman of the New York State Commerce men of the highest type of American citizenship. Commission, appointed by Governor Black, which urged tin- enlargement of the Erie Canal, ami WILLIAM WICKE, presi.lent of the William was largely instrumental in passing the Barge Wicke Ribbon Company, was born at Neue- Canal referendum by a tremendous majority of rnuhle, near Hessen Cassel, Germany, on June nearly two hundred and forty-live thousand votes ; \. [84O. Me attended the puhlic Schools a' also a member of tin- Greater New York Char- -el until 1855, at which time he emigrated to ter Revision Commission, appointed by Gover America, arriving in New York on August second nor Roosevelt. He is now president of the of that year. His object in coming to this coun- : lyn Academy of Music, for the building of try at such an carh age was to assist his brother, which a million dollars has been raised. For < Wicke. who had established a good busi- many year-, and during his term as mayor, Mr. ness in manufacturing cigar boxes. After mas- Schieren advocated the consolidation of New tering that trade and when he was twenty one York and Brooklyn, and his influence aided years old, a copartnership was formed June 4. it greatly in finally securing enactment. Mr. 1 Sot. under the firm name of George Wicke and Schieren is a member of the Church of the Re- Brother, which was continued until 1S7J: on ac- deemer, English Lutheran, and is probably the count of illness, George retired from business. niipst prominent lay member of that denomina- William continuing under the firm name < tion in th>- United States 11'- is not only a lil> iam Wicke & Company. In [882 Mr. Wicke built eral supporter of his own church, hut has given an extensive factory on fust Avenue, between financial aid in the building of new churches and Thirty fust and Thirty-second Streets and East ctension "t religious work all over the coun River, on a plot covering twenty two city lots. It llis beneficence in this direction has even the largest establishment of its kind in the OTTO H. KAHX. 67 ( ARL WALTHER. D.D.. PH.D. f„S SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 69 Associ- world. In this factory he introduced silk-weav- Linnaean Society of New York, Prison Institute, ing, manufacturing cigar ribbons, bindings for ation, Tuskegee Normal and Industrial underwear, blankets and ladies' dresses. He also New York Botanical Garden, German Lieder- began the importation from Cuba and Mexico of kranz, Germanistic Society of America, Arion So- of cedar and mahogany in logs. The mahogany he ciety, Students' Club, Metropolitan Museum Art, Arion, National Municipal League and disposed of to furniture manufacturers ; die cedar Jung being converted into veneers at his own mills, this also a member of numerous other charitable in- product being largely utilized by himself for the stitutions. Mr. Wicke is a self-made man in manufacture of cigar boxes. His surplus stock everything that the term implies. His success in was disposed of to other cigar box manufactur- life is due entirely to his indomitable courage, fine ers. In 1891 he incorporated his extensive busi- business principles and conscientious scruples. For ness under the name of the William Wicke Com- his years he is a splendid type of vigorous man- pany. A branch house employing one hundred hood and of a most pleasing personality. He en- hands was opened at Tampa, Fla., for the manu- joys a large social and commercial acquaintance facture of cigar boxes. In 1899 the company and is universally esteemed. He is a large holder purchased seventy city lots at Glendale, Brooklyn, of Xew York City, as well as outside realty. Un- where an immense factory, giving employment to der his guidance Mr. Wicke's sons have acquired three hundred people, was built for the manufac- the practical methods he has so well mastered, for ture of silk ribbons and bindings. On January the continuation of the extensive business when 30, 1901, the Xew York City factory, where six he shall have laid aside the mantle of commercial hundred hands were employed, was totally de- life. stroyed by fire. The company decided not to rebuild but to devote their attention to the Brook- MAX AMS.—One of the many examples of lyn plant. The box factory at Tampa was also indomitable courage and perseverance that is so disposed of. The Brooklyn establishment contains prevalent in the German race, and to which this the most modern machinery and improvements. country owes much of its international promi- After the destruction of the Xew York City nence, is shown in the subject of this sketch. Born plant the corporate name of the concern was in Waldkirch, Baden, Germany, Xovember 2, public changed to its present one—William Wicke Rib- 1844, he received a liberal education in the bon Company. In cigar boxes alone the company schools of his place of nativity, graduating there- turns out every ten hours—a day's work—thirty- from at an early age. It seems that the future four thousand completed cigar boxes. The main of Mr. Ams was decided upon shortly after leav- business and executive offices are located at No. ing school, when fourteen, for he chose commer- 36 East Twenty-second Street, Xew York City. cialism at the start. Beginning as a clerk in a distance of The company's output is marketed throughout general store located at Freiburg, a the United States, but principally in Xew York twenty miles from Waldkirch, he laid the foun- City. The officers of the company are William dation of a most remarkable career. His clerk- ship ended when he was nineteen years of age, Wicke, Sr., president ; George H. Wicke, vice- trav- president, and William Wicke, Jr., secretary. On after occupying a place as bookkeeper and years, and during February 6, 1868, Mr. Wicke married Miss Louise eler in Pforzheim for three Margaret Linder of Weissenburg, Elsas. Six that time his capabilities had been developed to such a degree that a trip to the United States children have been born to the union, viz. : Louise this country Margaret, George Henry, William, Jr., Carl was decided upon, and he came to Wicke, Anna and Henry, the two latter having determined to make a name for himself. He went died in infancy. Carl Wicke, the younge=t son, to Detroit, Chicago and Milwaukee, but returned of six months, and is at present a student of Columbia Law School. to Xew York, after an absence his present enormous en- In politics Mr. Wicke is Independent. He is a started the nucleus of of member of a large number of social, benevolent terprise. It was only after the hardest kind and other organizations, prominent among them endeavor, close application, and the honorable are the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to methods he pursued, together with the high es- Animals, American Museum of Xatural History, teem he attained, and in which he is now held, Legal Aid Society, Association for the Protection that his name has been brought into such prom- of the Adirondacks, German Society, Citizens' inence, that the company he heads is internation- Union, American Scenic and Hi toric Preserva- ally preeminent. In 1873 he engaged in the man- tion Society, Young Men's Chr'stian Association, ufacture and packing of fine groceries, operating New York Academy of Sciences, Vereinigten along wholesale hues. In 1892 he organized the Deutschen Gesellschaften der Stadt New York, Marser Manufacturing Company, of which he is 7(i SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS the president The company maintain an exten- levied by Napoleon 1 on the city of Frankfort, one sive plant at Mt. Vernon, X.Y., where sterling of them was the imperial court banker, Isaac silver ware is manufactured, giving employment Michael Speyer. An uncle of Mr. James Speyer, to over five hundred -killed workmen. The stores Philip Speyer, established the Speyer firm in Xew and showrooms are located on Fifth Avenue and York in 1837. He was joined by his brother, Thirty-first Street, New York City, where the Gustavus Speyer, the father of James Speyer, in 1S45. the firm Speyer product is disposed of at wholesale and retail. In In 1878 name became & e organized the Max Ams Machine Com- Co. After receiving his education in Frankfort- pany, which he heads. Mr. Ams i- a director of on the Main, Mr. Speyer at the age of twenty-two the American Encaustic Tiling Company and has began his business career in bis father's banking served in that capacity for the past twenty years. house in that city. He then went to Paris and He was a director of the Riverside Bank for ten London, and in 1885 returned to Xew York, years, but his multifarious duties compelled him where he has since resided and is now the senior to resign that post. In 1003 he organized the partner of the well known banking house of Max Ams Reef and Fish Company, of which he Speyer & Co., as well as a partner in the Frank- ;- its executive, and besides these interests he is fort, London and Amsterdam house-. Mr. Speyer a stockholder in various corporations. He is a enjoys a high reputation in the world of finance, member of the Arion Society and is affiliated and Speyer & Co. have been connected with with several societies and fraternal bodies. Mr. many of the most important financial underta- Ams was united in marriage on February 8, 1866, kings in relation to American railroads, and have to Miss Louisa Stoltz (now deceased), and to acted as fiscal agents for the Mexican and Cuban this union were born eight children, four of whom Governments, etc. He is a director and trustee have died. Those living are: Carl M.. Fred L., in the following corporations : Baltimore & Ohio Fmil A. and Louisa Theresa, now Mr-. C. B. Railroad Co., Rank of the Manhattan Company, Smith of Boston, Mass. Mr. Ams has given his Central Trust Company of Xew York. Citizen-' sons the benefit of his early training and is now- Savings & Trust Co. of Cleveland, Ohio. General rewarded by being ably assisted by them in his Chemical Company, German Savings Bank, Gi- various enterprises, thus relieving him of many rard Trust Company of Philadelphia, Guarantee heavy burdens; he is nevertheless seen regularly Trust Company of Xew York, Lackawanna Steel at his office every day and gives much of his Company, Maryland Trust Company of Baltimore, time in further developing his large interests. Xorth British & Mercantile Insurance Co., Rock Title < mce a year he goes abroad for recreation and Island Company, Guarantee & Trust Co., in touch with all things of international Union Trust Company and Lndergroun 1 Electric importance; i- a great reader, and has a finely Railways Company of London, Limited. He is equipped library. also vice-president and director of the Societe Fi- nanciere Franco-Americaine. lie ha- taken a JAMES SPEYER, banker and capitalist, was deep interest in public affairs as an independent born in New York City, in 1861, the descendant and non-partisan citizen, especially in municipal of an old family of Frankfort-on-the-Main, li.uns. He was vice president and treasurer of known fur centuries for the broad spirit of phil- i lie German-American Cleveland League in the anthropy it ha- manifested and fur it- will di- Cleveland campaign of 1892, an active member of in the Executive Committee of the Committee of I efforts in aiding those in need and bet- tering the condition of the poor, a- well a- on Seventy, and a charter member of die Citizens' account of tin- distinguished and prominent posi Union. In [896 he was appointed a member of the tion i' occupied in the commercial world. While Hoard of Education by Mayor William L. the name of Spire. Spira or Speier appears in the Strong. He wa- a supporter of Mr. McKinley chron ; cleS of Frankfort 011-th. Main a- early as both in iNuO and 1000. and i- an ardent sup- the middle of the Fourteenth Century, the first porter of President Roosevelt, lie 1- active in member of the Speyer family concerning whom charitable and educational affair-, and in fact in accurate data i- obtainable, ami of whom Mr. all movements which tend for the bettermenl of James Speyer 1- a direct descendant, was Michael social conditions in general. Mr. Speyer was r, who died in [686. An interesting illus- on,- of the founders and i- now president of the tration of tin- standing of die family, even a- far Providenl Loan Society. Me i- treasurer of the back a- 1792, 1- found in the fact that when in University Settlement Society and of the Peo- that year the French General Custine brought ple'- Symphonj Concert-, and i- connected with of three leading citizens of Frankfort to Main/, as a number other similar philanthropic 1 hostages for the payment of a war indemnity among them being trustee of Teachers College, JACOB LANGELOTH. 71 WILLIAM SI BAS1 IAN S I I UK. 72 CHARLES PFIZER. 73 A. B. II KINK. 74 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 75 Hospital Saturday and Sunday Association, Isa- ness sense and literary knowledge of high charac- bella Heimath and the Mount Sinai Hospital. ter the fact is largely due that this enterprise was His charity knows no difference of race, creed successfully launched, and that the city of New or color. He has given large sums for educa- York will soon have a playhouse where the best tional purposes, as for instance the building of classical and modern plays will be presented in a the Speyer School, and was also the creator of the perfect way by a stock company, and where art Theodore Roosevelt professorship at the Univer- in its highest sense will be fostered with the help sity of Berlin. Although not a clubman, Mr. of a school for dramatic art, an endowment fund, Speyer is a member of the City, Manhattan, a pension fund for actors, and other institutions Players, Racquet, Reform, Lawyers, Lotos, Whist, in keeping with the altruistic purpose of the enter- City Midday, New York Yacht clubs and the prise. In this as in other similar undertakings Deutscher Verein. In November, 1897, Mr. Speyer Mr. Kahn is moved solely by the desire to foster married Ellin L. Prince (Mrs. John A. Lowery), art and artistic ideals in the interest of the whole daughter of the late John Dyneley Prince, who people and mankind in general. He is very fond also takes an active part in charitable and philan- of gentlemanly sports, such as riding, golfing, thropic work in New York. automobiling, yachting and coaching. An expert driver himself, he is often seen tooling his splen- OTTO H. KAHN, banker and capitalist, was did four-in-hand and has taken several ribbons in born at Mannheim in Germany on February 21, contests at horse shows. Mr. Kahn lives during 1867. His father was a banker at Mannheim, six months of the year at Morristown, N.J., alderman of the city and knighted by the Grand spends two months at his summer home on Up- Duke of Baden. His mother was Miss Eber- per Saranac Lake in the Adirondacks and the re- stadt of Worms, the daughter of the mayor of mainder at his town house in Sixty-eighth Street, that city. Mr. Kahn was one of eight children, of New York City. He is a member of the Eastern whom several have distinguished themselves in Yacht Club, Lotos, City, St. Andrews Golf, Mor- various lines. His brother, Robert, is a composer ristown Field, Lawyers' and City Midday clubs of note and professor in the Royal Conserva- and of the Chamber of Commerce. He is also a large tory at Berlin ; another brother, Franz, has se- contributor to practically every charity cured a reputation as a jurist of great ability. worthy of support. On January 8, 1896, Mr. Mr. Kahn was educated in the gymnasium at Kahn was married to Miss Addie Wolff, daugh- Mannheim and after graduating attended lectures ter of one of the partners of the firm of Kuhn, at Karlsruhe for three years. After finishing Loeb & Co., and has four children : Maud Emily, his education he entered the service of the London Margaret Dorothy, Gilbert Wolff and Roger branch of the Deutsche Bank, where he remained Wolff Kahn. for five years, rising from one position to another and acting during the last year as manager. In HUGO WESENDONCK was born at Elber- 1893 he came to New York and entered the em- feld, in Germany, on April 24, 1817, and received ploy of Speyer & Co., bankers. Since 1896 he his education in the Gymnasium of his native has been a partner in the banking house of Kuhn, city. After graduating, he studied law at the Loeb & Co. Mr. Kahn is not only widely known University of Bonn and later in Berlin, where as an able and prominent financier but also he served as one year's volunteer in the Royal through his connection with the arts and litera- Rifles. Passing through all his examinations ture. He is deeply interested in all matters con- with great success, he worked for four years nected with the higher life. As a director of with the District Court at Elberfeld and finally the Metropolitan Opera House he has been es- established himself as attorney at Diisseldorf. pecially active and was instrumental in securing His knowledge of the law and his ability as an a new management when the present head of the advocate, rapidly brought him renown, and he enterprise decided to retire. It may, in fact, be was engaged in some of the most important cases said, that Mr. Kahn was the moving force that of the period, among them the litigation of a solved the difficulties arising from the situation, large railroad company for the right of way, and placed opera in New York upon a new and and the divorce suit of Countess Hatzfeld, known satisfactory basis. He is also one of the found- as the friend of Ferdinand Lassalle. The stir- ers and the most active promoters of the New ring times that preceded the revolution of 1848, Theater, an institution that is intended to present when the German people rose to secure the liber- to America a theater similar to the famous "The- ties so long promised but denied them, found the atre Frangais" in Paris. To Mr. Kahn's inde- young lawyer in the front rank of the movement. fatigable activity, combined with practical busi- He was elected to the Prussian House of Rep- 76 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS resentatives and to the German Parliament, found in him a generous contributor. His name which assembled at Frank furt-on-the-Main, and was connected with every movement in the in- was intended to formulate a constitution for the terest of the German population, as well as the new German Empire. This body was forced to whole people from the time he landed on these dissolve, its meeting place being surrounded by -hole- until his life work was completed. His it- troops, and some of members, Mr. Wesen- wife, whom he married in 1 S44 and who died be- donck among them, decided to continue their de- fore him in [889, ablj assisted him and was the liberations at Stuttgart. Here their meetings first president of the Women's Auxiliary of the were again prevented by force and the leaders German Hospital, when this institution was were indicted for high treason. Mr. Wesendonck founded. Mr. Wesendonck died on December fled to Switzerland and later to Paris, but was 19, 1900, and left two sons and one daughter. tried in his absence and condemned to death. Af- ter a short sojourn in France, he emigrated to HENRY EDEN.—Whal one may achieve by the United States and engaged in commercial strict observance of concentrated purpose is bril- pursuits in Philadelphia and New York City, the liantly illustrated in the career of one of New practise of law not appealing to him. But the York's oldest and highest esteemed commercial real work of his life, with wh'ch his name will men, Henry [den, who was always proud of the ever be connected, and which is a monumenl to fact that he wa- of German nativity. lie was hi- enterprise and sagacity, began in [860, when horn at Duvenstedt on November 1. [823. The he founded, together with hi- friend. Friedrich village free school furnished his rudimentary ed- Schwendler, the Gerniania Life Insurance Com- ucation, in fact it wa- the only tuition he ever pany. Mr. Wesendonck believed that an institu- boasted of. and during this period he lost no op- tion managed by Germans and conducted on < < r portunity to make the very he-t of the instruc- man principles of strictest honesty and economy, tion the institution offered, lie wa- about four- was nol only necessary, but would be eminently teen year- old when he sought employment and successful, and the future proved that he was acting upon the first impulse his mind dictated, he right. The Germania Life was organized as a turned hi- attention 10 the trade of wood carving. mutual company and some of the most prominent Finding tin- work congenial, he exerted all his citizens of the city acted as directors, among energies to master every detail, and at the age of them the mayor, the Prussian Consul and many twenty-six he completed his apprenticeship and hanker- and merchant-. The new company fell came to this country, lie settled on Baxter it- way carefully and preferred a slow hut sure Street, at that time a rather substantial residen- growth to large and quick results accomplished tial section, and for a year or more pursued his by unsafe methods. It- business soon spread chosen vocation with an earnestness that was over the whole United State- and was extended, characteristic. It was not long thereafter that in 1868, to Europe Its headquarters are now in hi- enterprising spirit a serted it-elf. The reali it- own building at No. 20 Nassau Street, New zation of hi- early ambition wa- materialized York, and the European business 1- conducted when in 1854 he started in business on hi- own from their offices at Behrenstrasse 12, Berlin. In account and established a thoroughly equipped addition, the company own- a fine building in St. -ix story furniture house at [94 [96 Hester Paul, Minn. While it- growth has been very Street. New York City, at that time the best isful, it has continued to follow the sound building in that neighborhood. It was here he and conservative principle- laid down by its manufactured and -old hi- product. For -even- founder, and was one of the few companies that teen year- he operated this business ami wa- very weathered the insurance investigation in m^i successful. In [865 his mind turned toward a without the discovery of a single flaw in man different channel, that of chandelier manufactur- agement or policy. Mr Wesendonck belonged ing. This wa- hi- firsl and only change during to that group of "Fortyeighters" thai brought so hi- whole busine - career, and it wa- a change much idealism and love for beaut) in every field for tlii' better. He realized this, after having of human endeavor to this country. His early looked over the new field and found it would be life had been passed al Dusseldorf, when thai far more remunerative than the former. He im- city was the home of many arti-t- of note, and mediately remodeled hi- building, the birthplace hi- home had been the gathering place for many of hi- second enterprise, and installed everything men of genius. He continued these traditions in hi- new venture would require, and again started his new country, and every enterprise thai was with greater determination to realize his idea of started, to increase the taste for art, the love a succes ful commercial life. Every year his for the beautiful and the uplifting of the people, industrj gained gradual strength and the day WILLIAM WICKE ABRAM JESSE DITTENHOEFER. 79 MICHAEL C GROSS. SI) SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 81 finally came when a change of quarters was HENRY SIEGEL, merchant, was born at found necessary. It was in 1887 that Mr. Iden Eubigsheim, in Germany, on March 17, 1852, constructed the present building at Nos. 42 to 50 as the son of Lazarus, burgomaster of the town, University Place, and realizing the importance of and Zerlina Siegel. He received his education in a modern equipped plant, he spared no expense to the schools of his birthplace, but came to Amer- make the new commercial home complete through- ica when but fifteen years of age and attended out. At the time of construction, this building the night schools in Washington, D.C., to com- was one of the largest in that section of New plete his education. Immediately after his arrival York, and, like the old Stewart Building, wa« in this country, young Siegel found employment an object of great interest to those visiting this in a clothing store in Washington at a salary of city. To-day this building is a landmark of old three dollars and a half per week. Full of am- New York, but containing everything modern bition and determination to succeed, he devoted for the manufacture of chandeliers, etc., and en- himself to his duties with such energy that he joying a patronage that extends all over this rose rapidly, and at the end of four years had country. All the employees, through the excep- been advanced to fifteen dollars weekly. In 1871 tional relationship that existed and still exists be- he went to work for his brothers who had estab- tween them and their employer, take a personal lished a store at Parkersburg, Pa., and five years interest in furthering the prosperity of the com- later, in 1876, removed to Chicago to start on his pany. On July 2, 1849, Mr. Iden married Miss own account. He establi:hed the firm of Siegel, Christine Greve of Germany. Three children Hartsfeld & Co., cloak manufacturers, which was were born to this union, two sons and one daugh- later on changed to Siegel Bros. While very suc- ter, of whom Henry, Jr., is the sole survivor. cessful in this venture, the real rise of Mr. Siegel On October 25, 1854, Mr. Iden was made an began when he started, in 1889, in conjunction American citizen and began at once to take with Frank H. Cooper, a department store under a great interest in the affairs of his adopted the firm name of Siegel, Cooper & Co. This has country. In politics he was a stanch Democratic been said to have been the first real modern de- supporter and his affiliation with that party con- partment store, and whether this is correct or tinued up to the time of his demise. He served not, the fact remains that the new firm intro- in the Fifth Xew York State Militia and was duced methods heretofore unknown, and rapidly honorably discharged August 12, 1862. Mr. Iden became one of the great retail trading centers of was a director of the old Third Avenue railroad the country. The business grew to such large company for many years and a director of the proportions that the firm soon needed more com- Union Square Bank, now the Corn Exchange modious quarters and erected the "Big Store" at State and Van Buren Streets, which was occu- Bank. He was not a club man, his leisure mo- pied in 1889. While this would have been suf- ments being spent quietly at home with his fam- ficient for an ordinary man, Mr. Siegel's tre- ily. He was a member of the Presbyterian mendous activity needed larger fields and in 1896 Church. Mr. Iden was always the personifica- another "Big Store" was erected in New York, at tion of energy. He was always busy, work and the corner of Sixth Avenue and Eighteenth Street, hard work was his pleasure. He always breathed which revolutionized the retail business of the good will and suggested mental, moral and physi- metropolis and forced other long-established con- cal wholesomeness ; he had a dignity of manner cerns to change their methods completely. Some and carriage that commanded respect and atten- years later Mr. Siegel retired from the Siegel- tion and the ability to make people feel at ease Cooper Co. and purchased the old house of Simp- was one of his greatest charms. He was gener- son, Crawford & Co., reorganizing the business ous to a fault and his philanthropy was known completely and building up a large retail trade. In to many deserving charities. Mr. Iden passed 1904 he opened his Fourteenth Street store, on old site away at his home in Mount Vernon in 1903 and the Macy at the corner of Fourteenth Street and Sixth Avenue, and in 1905 he added the vast interests he had built was left to the the Henry Siegel Co. of Boston to his chain of able administration of his son, Henry, Jr., who retail stores. Mr. Siegel himself ascribes his possesses many of his father's noble character- success to hard work and persistency, but this is istics. The employees of Iden & Company, after a rather modest statement. He is full of new the death of Mr. Iden, adopted resolutions of ideas and constantly adds methods heretofore un- sympathy and presented them to his son, one of known. He is in constant touch with every de- many tributes to a man of genuine sterling quali- partment and watches every development with the ties. utmost care. As a characteristic illustration the 82 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS fact may be mentioned thai Mr. Siege! His ideal i- to buy and distribute merchandise Exploration Co., Limited; vice-president and di- so economically that it may bring things hereto rector of the Birmingham & Atlantic Railroad fore unattainable to the family of average means and the United State- & llayti Telegraph & Cable within the reach of all. And while this implies Co.; trustee in the United States for the Frank- the reduction of expenses to the lowesl possible fort Transport, Glass & Accident Insurance Co., fully that one of the Munich Reinsurance Co.; trustee of the . Mr. Siegel understands and the greate-t dangers to a business of this kind lie- Aachen & Munich Fire Insurance Co.. the Ba- in the attempt to save in the compensation of varian Mortgage & Exchange Bank of Munich, the employee-, For their welfare he is most so New York Trusl Co.; director of the Alliance ( 1 Co., licitous, and always ready to devise new means Realtj a . Centurj Realty De La Vergne to help them. He furnishes them with free med- Machine Co., Lawyers' Mortgage Co., Mercantile ical attention, and with good and nourishing food National Bank, Mortgage bond Co., Omaha Water - than cost, and he assists their relief asso- Co., United Railroad- Co. of San Francisco, ciation-, savings banks, etc. Above all, he is Seaboard Air Line Railway. Realty Finance Co., intly on the watch to find men and women Richmond Trust & Safe Deposit Co., United Rail- who have earned the right to promotion and who. wax- Investment Co. of San Francisco, and the with a little help, may be started on the road to Van Norden Trust Co. Mr. Thalmann was mar- success. His solicitude in this direction may be ried in December, [88l, to Mi-- Michaeli- and surely designated as one of the reasons for his has two children. Edward b. and Raul Thalmann. own success. Mr. Siegel was married twice, in [885 '" Miss Julia Rosenbaum of Chicago, who LOUIS WINDMULLER, merchant, financier died in [886, and on April 25, t8g8, to Mr-. Marie and author, wa- born in Westphalia, Germany, an Wilde, the well known authoress. and received his education at Mun-ter in a gym- nasium founded by Charlemagne, He came to JUSTIN FREDERICK WILLIAM MOHR, the United State- in [853 and ever since has been n and coffee merchant, with extensive offices a residenl of New York City. Mr. Windmuller d in the New York Cotton Exchange build achieved business success and associated himself ing, i- a native of Bremen, Germany. For the with financial institution-. He took part in pa-t forty-two year- Mr. Mohr ha- been a resident founding the Title C.uarantee & 'Trust Co.. the of New York City, where he ha- long been pop German-American In- u ranee Co.. the Cierman Al- ular in the -elect Cierman circle-, lie i- a mem liance Insurance Co., the Maiden bane Savings her and president of the German Club, the most bank, the Maiden Lane Safe Deposil Co., the IVC of it- kind in the country; he i- also South Manhattan Realty Co. and the Bond & a member of the New York Cotton Exchange, Mortgage Guarantee Co. Mosl of these institu- > the New York , director of the tions he continue- to serve as director; he is Mutual Alliance Trust Company and several other president of the Maiden ban- Saving- bank. minor Organizations. In 1875 Mr. Mohr married Mr. Windmulb-r ha- taken a deep interest in a I in of Mi-- Clothilde Klein; the union ha- been il public affair-, especially the advocacy with two children, one deceased and a daughter sound currency, a purely revenue tariff and civil now married. Mr. Mohr has never been active in service reform, lb- ha- written many magazine political life, nor has he ever desired or -ought and newspaper article- on these subjects and 1 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 85 stands high as an authority on financial and Mr. Nissen was educated in the common schools economical questions. Amongst other magazine of his native town and afterwards became a clerk articles which have commanded attention are in the Imperial Court. Recognizing that the op- "History of Encyclopedias" and "Pleasures of portunities for advancement were very limited City Pedestrians" in the Review of Reviews; and could not satisfy his ambition, he emigrated "The Art of Drinking" and "A Plea for Parks" to the United States and arrived here in 1872 in the Forum; "Food That Fails to Feed" and with two dollars and a half in his possession. "Disposal of the Dead" in the North American But the determination to succeed was in him, he Review. He has written articles for the Out- accepted the first position that was offered to look, Harper's Weekly and numerous daily pa- him, and worked for four months in a barber- pers. Practically every movement for public im- shop as porter and bootblack. He then worked provements of one kind or another has found i 1 as dishwasher in a hotel on Dey Street, where him an enthusiastic and indefatigable supporter. his ability was recognized by the proprietor, who Of the many associations with which he is identi- made him first a waiter, then bookkeeper and fied the following may be named : the Cham- finally cashier. Mr. Nissen then sought and ber of Commerce, in which lie was chairman of found a clerkship in a factory but the firm failed the Committee on Internal Trade and Improve- and he lost his position. He had saved some ments, the Executive Committee for the im- money and decided to go into business for him- provement of the state canals, as member of self, but the next five years brought him nothing which he worked successfully for the amendment but a varied though withal valuable experience. of the Constitution, which made that improve- He tried the butcher business for a while with- ment possible; the Business Men's Relief Com- out succeeding, started a restaurant and sold it mittee and the Board of Trade, in which he is a again, invested the proceeds, five thousand dol- managing director. He is also interested in a lars, in the wholesale wine business and lost it number of charitable institutions, being treas- all within nine months, being in debt for one urer and director of the Legal Aid Society, which thousand dollars in addition. This did not dis- furnishes gratuitous advice to the ignorant courage him. He made the acquaintance of a needy without regard to nationality. Of his ser- diamond cutter, who carried on a small shop, but, vices in behalf of charity his efforts for the ben- like himself, had more debts than assets. Mr. efit of the German Hospital Fair in 1888 de- Nissen went into partnership with him, under serve especial mention. In connection with this the firm name of Schilling & Nissen, and quick- affair Mr. Windmuller arranged a collection of ly mastered the details of the business. He was paintings and a souvenir containing autobio- so successful in selling the goods his partner graphical contributions from the best American manufactured that the firm soon prospered. Its and German authors. He is known as an art name was later changed to Ludwig Nissen & connoisseur and collector of paintings and books. Co., and the firm drifted from diamond setting He was also treasurer of a fund for the erection to diamond importing. Five years after the of a monument to Goethe and vice-president of partnership had been formed Mr. Nissen bought the Heine Monument Society. Mr. Windmuller out his partner and formed a new partner- is connected with many clubs, among them the ship, the firm name remaining the same. The Merchants, German, Lotos, Underwriters, New house is now one of the best known and most York Athletic and Arion, the Metropolitan Mu- prominent in its line, in spite of the fact that it seum of Art, the Germanistic and the New York is comparatively young. Mr. Nissen's energy has Historical Society, of which he is a life mem- by no means been confined to his business. He ber. Few of the German merchants in New York has taken an active interest in public affairs, his City have been so closely identified with the life intelligent treatment of public questions and his of the nation during the last fifty years, in all strong character making a deep impression upon of its manifestations, in politics as well as in all who have come in contact with him. He has the development of the arts, literature and char- been identified with almost every movement in- itable undertakings of every kind. augurated for the general welfare, and the bet- terment of conditions in municipal affairs as LUDWIG NISSEN, merchant, was born at well as the government of the state and nation. Husum, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, on De- Many honors have been offered to him, some of tes- cember 2, 1855. He is descended, on his father's which he was compelled to decline, bearing side, from the great Danish statesman, George timony to his high standing in the community and Nicolaus von Nissen, and on his mother's side the appreciation of his character and services from the old noble family of von Dawartzky. by his fellow citizens. He has been president of 86 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS the New York Jewelers' Association, the Manu- undergo a thorough reorganization, he was facturers' Association of New York and the elected one of its new directors. The public Brooklyn League. He i- vice-president of the functions at which Mr. Nissen has presided, or Oriental Bank, a trustee of the Dime Savings in which he took an important part, are innu- Bank of Brooklyn and of Adelphi College, a di- merable. In addition he has never ceased tc rector of the Board of Trade and Transportation, work for the advancement of his own trade ; in First National Bank of Jamaica and Guardian iSod, he delivered a lecture on "Gems and Jew- Trusl Co., and member of the Chamber of Coni- els" before the Manufacturers' Association of merce of New York. In 189.' he was chairman Kings and Queens Counties, which was published of the committee representing the jewelry trade in the Jewelers' Circular and widely copied in which went to Albany to obtain a larger appro- France, Germany and England as well as in this priation for the World'- Fair exhibit of the Em- country. No better illustration of the oppor- pire State, the other members being C. L. Tif- tunities this country extends to a man of high fany and Joseph Fahys. He served as member character, ambition and intelligence can be fur- and treasurer of the Brooklyn Commission to nished than the remarkable career of Ludwig the Tennessee Centennial Exposition at Nash- Nissen, who landed in Xew York less than forty ville in 1897, and was appointed a member of the years ago practically penniless, and who is now Jury of Award- in the Department of Commerce not only a citizen of high standing and repute in and Manufactures. In 1808 Governor Black ap- consequence of his material success, but who has :d him one of the commissioners of the left his impress upon many of the most important state of Xew York to the Paris Exposition of events in the history of his new country, and lOOO, and he was later elected treasurer, lie is whose counsel and assistance are eagerly sought also one of the incorporators and trustee- of the by the best element among native Americans. Hudson-Fulton Celebration Commission by the i the Legislature of New York. Mis polit HENRY HEIDE, manufacturer, was born at ical activity has been pronounced. He served on ( Ibermarsberg in Westphalia, Germany, on Oc- the Brooklyn Citizen-' Committee of Fifty, or- tober 24, 1846, and received his education in the ganized for the establishment of non-partisanship elementary school of his birthplace. He came in municipal affairs, in 1897, and was nominated to America in 1866 and established himself as for the office of president of the Council of manufacturer of confectionery and almond paste. Greater New York, but declined. In 1898 he Starting on a small scale, his plant is now one of took an active part in the formation of the Brook- the largest in its line in the United States, and lyn League, designed to protect the interests of his goods are known and sold all over this coun- Brooklyn under the new charter. On his return try, Canada, Europe and Australia. A man of from Europe in 1000 he was mel by his friends striking personal appearance and of genial dis- on a special chartered tug and given a reception position, Mr. Heide is one of the most widely at tb<' Brooklyn Club, being Strongly urged to known and generally esteemed Germans of Xew accept a nomination for Congress, but declined. York City. Mis business, grown to large pro- In the same year and in i declined. < >n the other hand his growth architect and builder. When he reached his ma- in purely business matter- has been constant, jority, the qualities which were to make him one for, when, 1 a result of the revelations made of the prominent figures in the city of Xew York during the life insurance companies investigations and, in fact, in the United State-, manifested a few years ago, the Equitable Life Assurance themselves. Il<- fell that the opportunities he ty concluded to do some house cleaning and longed for would be denied t<> him in the nar- ERNST THALMANN. 87 HI KM \\ A. MIT/. ss EDWARD LAUTERDACH. 89 LEOPOLD STERN. 90 ; SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS, 91 row circle of a small German town, and he de- niless a little more than ten years before, a wealthy cided to emigrate to America. In 1847 he sailed man. ' Many other inventions followed; Mr. from Liverpool in the fnll-rigged ship Columbus, Weber patented a number of forms of design in then making her maiden voyage, and landed at bench work and furnace construction, among the Battery wharf with a small supply of money, them the Weber half-depth and full-depth recu- but full of ambition and determination. He perative systems. He personally installed the found employment with a local architect and bench work in the generating houses of the New builder, and the thorough training he had re- York Gas Company, the Manhattan Gas Co., the ceived, together with exceptional intelligence, Metropolitan Gas Light Co., the Mutual Gas quickly made him a valuable assistant. Hardly Light Co., the Municipal Gas Co. and the Knick- two years had elapsed when Mr. Weber decided erbocker Gas Co. In fact, wherever gas works to strike out for himself, fully convinced that construction was under way, Mr. Weber's name he would succeed. In this he was not mistaken, was almost sure to be connected with it, and to for the knowledge and rectitude of the young enumerate the places of his activity would re- builder were immediately appreciated. The con- quire the naming of almost every city of im- tracts he received were large and numerous, and portance in the United States. His fame ex- he built all the sugar refinery houses that were tended far over the boundaries of the country, erected and operated by the Havemeyer family in Cuba, South America, Mexico, and even far-away New York, Brooklyn and Jersey City. In 1854 China and Japan used his inventions. In addi- he erected for Mrs. Anna Uhl the first building tion, he invented an advanced lime process for the Nezv Yorker Staats-Zeitung occupied, at No. the elimination of carbonic acid from gas, and 224 William Street, and three years later he it may be said without fear of contradiction that built the second home for the Staats-Zeitung at Mr. Weber revolutionized the methods of man- No. 17 Chatham Street, the site of which is now ufacturing gas. In 1890 he partly retired from occupied by the Manhattan terminal of the active business, for in that year the corporation Brooklyn Bridge. In the meantime Mr. Weber of Adam Weber's Sons was formed which car- had become interested in the manufacture of ried on the business of the great factories con- firebrick and erected the first large firebrick fac- structed by the founder in the town of Weber, tory in the United States, in partnership with Middlesex County, N.J., known everywhere as a Mr. Balthasar B. Kreischer, the firm name being model establishment and surrounded by hamlets, Kreischer & Weber. This concern was dissolved also laid out and owned by Mr. Weber, which in 1857, and the succeeding firm of Maurer & shelter hundreds of workmen. The oldest son, Weber constructed the largest firebrick factory Oscar B. Weber, who, unfortunately, died sud- in the country at that time in New York City, denly in September, 1004, became president, and on East Fifteenth and Sixteenth Streets, be- the second son, Albert J., vice-president of the tween Avenues B and C. It covered an entire corporation. Adam Weber was preeminently a block and the plant included one of the largest man of resourcefulness, hard work and success. chimneys in the city. It stands erect to-day and Practical knowledge, acquired by observation and is familiarly known as the Weber landmark, a study, was most happily associated in him with point of guidance to many thousands of navi- the ardent desire to overcome obstacles and gators of the East River, who took their reck- solve problems that makes the inventor. To few onings from it to steer clear of the dangerous men has come success so widely appreciated and rocks that lined the shores of its turbulent tides. so free from envy as to him, for the question But his ever active mind was not satisfied with never arose whether it was deserved. A lover what he had accomplished, and always looked and connoisseur of good music, widely traveled out for new fields to conquer. In 1858 his in- and well read, w'th a refined taste for art, his timate knowledge of fireclays and their refrac- influence worked ever for the best. One of the toriness brought forth the idea of constructing pioneers among the Germans of New York City, a clay retort to supersede the iron type of re- not one of the thousands who left the fatherland torts then almost universally used in gas works. to seek success in the new country, has brought Innumerable objections were raised when he first greater honor upon his native and his adopted promulgated his theory, but he overcame them country. He was a member of the American Gas all and succeeded beyond his greatest expecta- Light Association and the Pacific Coast Gas As- tions. Within a few years Mr. Weber's retorts sociation ; the American Engineers' Club, German were adopted by practically all the gas works in Liederkranz, Arion, Lotos and Manhattan clubs America and Europe, and the returns from their a founder of the German Society, member of the sales made the man who had arrived almost pen- former Palette Club; a director of the Ger- 92 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS mania. German Exchange, Union Square and and wa- employed in quite a number of im- Corn Exchange Bank, the Trust Company of portant establishments, the last one being the America, the Independent [ce Co. and one of shops of the Mobile & Ohio Railroad in Mobile, the largest shareholders of the Consolidated Gas Ala. The genius slumbering in the hoy mani- Co. He was also a noted Mason and Past fested itself early; he wa- not satisfied with Grand Master of Trinitv Lodge No. u, with doing the work laid out for him, hut made sev- which Mr. Weber contributed wore legion, He eral valuable inventions, among them a new tury. The benevolent and charitable societies to Style of roof for railroad car- which is -till in which Mr. Weber contributed were legion. He use. Extensive travels and a sojourn of two took an active interest in public affairs, and dur- years in the South had hrought him face to ing hi- long connection with the Board of Edu- face with the great question of the day, tin- cation it was his persistence and zeal that se- es il- of slavery. Already on the road to success, cured the introduction of the teaching of German though not yet out of hi- teens, the idealism he- in the public schools of New York. For hi- work had hrought with him did not let him pursue in this connection he received a letter of thanks the course that might have hrought material suc- from Emperor William 1. and a decoration of cess quickly. When Abraham Lincoln, after the high order. He was captain of the Engineer fall of Fort Sumter, issued hi- first call for vol- Corps of the militia from [852 to i860, and unteer-. \oung Greenhut concluded at once that served in the Fifth Infantry during the War of it was his duty to tight for humanity and the the Rebellion. His home was Idled with art preservation of the Union. On April 17. 1861, treasures and he was happiesl when he could he enlisted as a private in Company A. Twelfth assemble his numberless friends within its hos- Illinois Volunteers, his being the second name pitable walls where they had the opportunity to on the enlistment rolls in the big city of Chicago. listen to the greatesl and besl singers and musi And he did not propose to play at being a sol- cians. A stanch Democrat, he could on occasion dier. As soon as his term of three months was forsake his party when it traveled road- which ended, he enlisted anew for three years and was he considered dangerous. Mr. Weber died Do made drill sergeant of his company. He served cember _'_', 1906. He was married on April u. under General Grant and was severely wounded 1858, to Miss- Catherine Elizabeth Kreischer, in the arm at the storming of Fort Donelson. daughter of the late Balthasar 1'.. Kreischer of This compelled him to take his honorable dis- Kreischerville, S.I . who. together with four chil- charge, hut not for long, for his wound had hard- dren, Lina A., Mathilde E., Charles C. and Al- ly been healed when he went to the front again. bert J., and a grandchild. Frances L., survive this time as captain of Company EC, Eight) sec him. The large attendance at the funeral and the ond Illinois Volunteers. Hi- regiment was com- innumerable letter- and despatches of condolence manded by that old German revolutionist, Col from all part- of the world formed a testimonial onel Frederick Hecker, and assigned to the of tl; teem felt for him wherever he division of General Carl Schurz, then in Vir- wa- known. lie certainly was a man of men, ginia. Mere the youthful captain saw some grand in more than one respect, and in him dwelt severe lighting. lie was in all the hattles of strength and resourcefulness, beautifully tem- the Army of the Potomac in iS(>j and ISO,?, in- pered by that charity which assists without inflict cluding Fredericksburg, the unfortunate affair ing regret, and to hi- home ami it- treasures he at Chancellorsville, where the German troops wa- a guardian animated solely by the spirit that saved tin Federal Army, and Gettysburg. Soon move- those whose loving carr i- the great lighl after hi- regiment was transferred to the West of their live-. to relieve General Rosecrans and Colonel Hecker wa- given the conunmand of a brigade in CAPTAIN J B. GREENHUT—What energy, Schurz's division, whereupon he selected the intelligence and perseverance maj accomplish i- young and brave captain a- hi- chef of staff. As illustrated in the life of Captain J B Greenhut, such he kept close to the enemy. After the mid- now one of tin- leading merchant- in the Uni night battle at the Wauhatchee, near Chattanoo- ted St.it' - Born in the town of Bischof Teinitz ga, he engaged in all the lights in that neigh in Bohemia on February 28, 1843, his parents borhood, the taking of Missionary Ridge and brought him to America in [852 and settled in Lookout Mountain, the "Battle Above the Chicago Young Greenhut had to go out into (loud-."' a- it ha- been called, and in the cam- the world early, like -o many of those who in paign to relieve General Ihirn-idc at Knoxville, later years have rerched prominence, He learned I rim. In [864, when the war neared it- end the trade of a tin and coppersmith thorough!} 1 Hecker had some disagreement with hi- JUSTIN FREDERICK WILLIAM MOHR. 93 Hi GO WESENDONCK 94 AUGUST GOERTZ. 95 ADOLPH ROTHBARTH. 96 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 97 superiors and resigned. The faithful chief of union was blessed with four children, of whom his staff considered it his duty to follow his one daughter, Fannie, and two sons, B. J. and commander. Mr. Greenhut returned to his first N. W., are living. He retains his residence at love and occupied himself with the invention of Peoria, where he spends much of his time, for a number of mechanical devices. Many of them his large interests in and around the city in were valuable and successful, especially an auto- which he laid the foundation for his fortune re- matic twine-binder for reaping machines, which quire his constant supervision. was adopted by the McCormick Reaper Co., and is still in use. But this field was too small for MARC EIDLITZ.—The American has unlim- the enterprising and restless young man ; he did ited admiration for the self-made man—the man his duty as a citizen and took part in the efforts who achieves success by his own effort through to improve the administration of the city of strength of character and indomitable power of Chicago. An appointment to the important of- will. But in judging men who have come to fice of deputy county clerk for Cook County the front the American is apt to overlook the was the well merited reward. However, the fer- fact that the foreigner who arrives at these tile mind turned to larger fields. In 1869 he en- shores without a knowledge of the language and gaged in the distilling business and conducted it the customs of the people, who has no friends with unprecedented success until 1895. Assisted or relatives to guide him and who must, there- by his practical experience, he saw at once where fore, blaze his own path in a wilderness, has a savings and improvements could be introduced, much heavier task to accomplish than any na- and erected the largest distillery in the world tive. If such a man not only succeeds but be- at Peoria, 111. The Distilling and Cattle Feed- comes a leader in his chosen field, all honor ing Co., organized in 1887 with a capital of thir- is due him. A man of this kind was Marc ty-five millions of dollars, was the child of his Eidlitz, one of America's foremost builders. He brain. This company, comprising practically all was born in Prague, the capital of Bohemia, on the large distilleries in the country, had been January 31, 1826. • After attending the common planned by Mr. Greenhut with the greatest care schools it became necessary for him to earn his and foresight, and became the forerunner of own living and he secured employment in a mer- many similar consolidations, none of which, how- cantile establishment. In 1847 his father died and ever, proved more successful. Still there was an the young man immediately departed for Amer- immense amount of work connected with his ica to find the larger sphere for which he felt management, and while its founder was in the himself fitted. His courage and purpose was flower of manhood and in the fullest possession shown by his decision to acquire all the details of his strength and faculties, he looked around in connection with the best work and he began for a more peaceful occupation. This he found by apprenticing himself to a mason builder for in the East, where, in 1896, he bought an inter- a term of four years. The full weight of this est in the Siegel-Cooper Company, which had step can only be appreciated when it is kept in undertaken to build the, largest department store mind that young Eidlitz had already reached his in Xew York. He acquired the control of this majority and had never done manual labor. Such business in 1901 and became its president, while was his zeal and so energetically did he apply his son, B. J. Greenhut, was made secretary and himself to his self-appointed task, supplementing treasurer. In 1906 he bought the site and store his daily toil by work during the evening hours, formerly occupied by B. Altman & Co., a new that before the expiration of his term of ap- and modern building, and opened this in the prenticeship, he was given a position as foreman fall of 1907 as a department store conducted on in charge of a building. A few years later, in the lines which had brought success to Mr. Alt- 1854, he started in business for himself with a man. The lad who started out to carve his own capital of ten dollars. But he was by this time fortunes with no assistance than his strength well known and his integrity and reliability of purpose, the gifts his Creator had bestowed brought him many new friends. In 1857, when upon him and the teachings of devoted parents, barely thirty-one years old, he was selected to became a master of men and took part in the build the Broadway Tabernacle, for a long time shaping of the destiny of his country in peace one of the largest churches in New York. The and war. A life full of hard work and honest stonework for this building was brought from endeavor but also rich in the fruits that fall to the quarries and actually cut at the site. Shortly Build- those who justly succeed, is that of Captain J. B. afterwards he erected the Lord & Taylor Greenhut. Mr. Greenhut was married in 1866 ing on Grand Street, for a generation one of the to Miss Clara Wolfner at Chicago, and their landmarks of the city; Steinway Half on Four- 98 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS teenth Street, which for many years was the several year- until he had mastered his trade, but principal concert hall of this city. His reputa- during all that time tried to induce his father to tion was now firmly established and the city he allow him to learn the brewing business which had made his home soon became filled with the seemed even to so young a man more promising. fruits of his labor. Among the more important Finally his wish prevailed and he wa- placed as buildings he built are: The German Hospital, an apprentice into a brewery at Offenburg. He yterian Hospital, St. Vincent's Hospital, St. quickly acquired a thorough knowledge of his Francis Hospital, Baldwin Pavilion of the Wo- new trade and, after the custom of those time-, men's Hospital, Home of the Si-ters of Bon Se- started out to perfect himself by working in cours, German Dispensary and Library, Isabella other breweries. The first stop wa- made at Heimath, Metropolitan Opera House, Eden Mu- Heidelberg, and after that young Ehret worked irt of Astor Library, Seamen's Bank for for some time at Mannheim. Convinced by the Savings, Gallatin Bank, Temple Emanuel, Ger- reports of a cousin that he would find a larger man Club, .Manhattan Storage and Warehouse, field and greater opportunities in America, he de- stores for Arnold, Constable & Co., Lord & Tay- cided to emigrate to the United States and ar- lor. Le Boutillier Brothers, residences of J. Pier- rived in Xew York on November jo. 1857. He ponf Morgan, Adrian Iselin, Jr., Ogden Goelet, found no difficulty in securing employment, and Robert L. Stuart, Charles Moran, Peter Doelger worked at first for the firm of Romell & Co., and many others. But the enormous respon- and later on in the Anton Hiipfel brewery. sibilities and the concentration required by his Within the short space of three years he had business did not fully absorb the energies of risen to the responsible position of foreman and Marc Eidlitz. He became a pathfinder in yet brewmaster. But even this rapid advancement another direction, for he was instrumental in did not satisfy a man of the ambition, knowledge forming the National Association of Builders, and force of character like Mr. Ehret. 11 is aim an organization intended to give stability to the was to become independent and in 1866 he started Building Trades in uniting those engaged in them his own brewery in the neighborhood of Hell- and by adjusting disputes by arbitration. Mr. gate, from which it was given the name Hell- Eidlitz was. up to the time of his death, the gate Brewery. Mr. Ehret had himself selected president of the Building Trades Club of New the spot which was at that time far uptown York City, and a director as well as chairman and removed from the built-up portion of the of the General Committee of the National Asso- city, and there were many who looked upon the In s 1873 be w; i elected a director of the location as unwise, but he knew what he was Germania Bank, and in 1888 he became its pres- .loin;.;-, for he had found there what proved to ident, holding this position until his death. His be of the greatest value, namely water of the manifold and arduous duties did nol prevent him quality needed for his purposes. The growth of from taking active interest in many enterprises the new firm was astonishing and it soon dis- of a charitable or philanthropic character. He tanced all competitors, in spite of some serious contributed to every worthy object that was laid setbacks, as for instance a disastrous fire in 1S70. before him and showed especial interest in edu- 'I'he enormous establishment produce- now close cational matters, never forgetting the hardships to eight hundred thousand barrel- yearly, em- of lii- early youth, and for 1 1 n - reason ever ready ploys over live hundred men and uses over two isi young men who were similarly situated. hundred drays, thirty of which are electric he When passed away, on April 15. 1892, this trucks. It i- equipped with the best and most man. who. through hi- own efforts, had devel modern machinery, for Mr. Ehret is one of those oped from a friendless hoy into a successful man men who seem to be able to look clearly into with a national reputation, left innumerable the future and is ready to adopt every improve- friend- ami admirer-. His name i- perpetuated ment a- so,, n as it- value i- proven. When the the by work he ha- done and which i- being con brewing industry, which bad long been carried on tinued by hi- -on.. Otto Marc an. I Robert James, on rather primitive lines, was revolutionized by who were hi- a--.1ci.1te-. the introduction of modern business methods, Mr. I lire! wa- one of the first to reorganize his es- GEi >RGE I I IK I- I. brewer, was born at Hof tablishment. Personally, Mr. Eh re I i- quiet and n.ar Offenburg, in Baden, on April <,, unassuming and hi- greal modest) prevents him 1835, and received his education in the public from taking the position in public life which his schools of hi- birthplace \t the age of achievement- and his immense popularity enti- teen lie wa- apprt -in iced to his father, a thriv tle him to. He prefers to distribute the large ing cooper at Hofweier. Here he worked for -11111- he devote- to charitv and other underta- HENRY IDEN. 99 FRAN i. 111!) WILLIAM KEUFFEL. 101 i I II l ODORE I.I'M ENS HEITEMEYER l«i2 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 103 kings for the general welfare, in a quiet way, and and general publicity agent for the advertisers is averse to notoriety in every respect. A great and kept in close touch and almost familiar re- lover of music and a musician himself since his lations with all the great newspapers. This is childhood days, he finds recreation in listening best proven by the fact that the press of the to the very best the art has produced, and his whole country, separately and through its vari- highly refined taste is well known to music lov- ous organizations, at the news of his death has- ers. In 1866 Mr. Ehret married Miss Anna tened to assure the surviving relatives of the Hasslocher, who died in 1899 and left him nine high esteem in which Mr. Frank had been held, children, of whom the two sons, George, Jr., and the deep -regret felt at his departure. He and Louis, take an active part in the manage- did more than any one man to raise the stand- ment of his brewery. ard of the advertising agent ; an advertisement given out by Albert Frank & Co. was not only ALBERT FRANK.—The career of Mr. Albert taken everywhere without question but was in the Frank is remarkable in more ways than one, nature of a certificate of respectability for the though it may be summed up in the statement newspaper printing it. No wonder that the firm that it was the natural career of a truly remark- was immensely successful, and that its reputation able man. He was born in Breslau, the capital became world-wide. Albert Frank was thus a of the Prussian province of Silesia, in 1831, but self-made man in the highest sense of the word. received his education at Berlin, whither his par- He succeeded not only through his own efforts ents had removed soon after his birth. When and by the intelligent use of the education he had hardly more than a boy, Albert Frank left his received in school and in early life, but also by home to enter the employ of Baron Felleisen, creating something entirely new and hitherto not the head of the banking-house of Felleisen & Co., thought of. He perceived that there existed a bankers to the Russian Crown at St. Petersburg. necessity for a new way of handling financial In his capacity as secretary to Baron Felleisen, advertisements, and he conceived the methods he came in contact with many prominent people, that could bring about a change. He put them traveled extensively and had the opportunity to into practise and the success was the fruit of his use a pronounced gift of acquiring foreign lan- genius. He therefore stands before us, as far as guages. While still a young man, he had a good his business activity is concerned, as one of the knowledge of Latin, Greek and Hebrew, and best and noblest representatives of the multitudes spoke eight modern languages fluently. His love who have come from Germany to help make this for art had been kindled in his home, where he country greater and better. But aside from this had been surrounded by everything that culture he was a most remarkable man. His appearance and refinement could procure. In his new field was striking, almost commanding, but softened this trait of his character grew stronger and ex- by an air of refinement and a warmth that re- panded and when he, several years later, joined vealed the man of the world in the very best his uncle in the publishing business at Paris, the sense of the word ; the man who would be at art treasures of the French capital found in him home anywhere and would be recognized as ex- an appreciative and critical admirer. But among ceptional wherever he went. The friendly glow all the arts music appealed to him most, and an of his eye did not belie the heart, for Albert unerring taste combined with deep feeling for Frank was full of charity and always ready to the beautiful made him a master in judging and of help. He did not belong to many clubs, but to a enjoying whatever was brought forth. Towards large number of charitable organizations. His the end of the sixties Albert Frank came to New tastes were rather domestic ; the company of his York and established himself as a banker and daughters who had lost their mother early, a gold broker. But he soon abandoned this field good book or a discussion of an interesting sub- to enter a new one, or, more correctly, to cre- ject with a few friends of similar erudition ate an entirely new business. His thorough gave him happiness. He was an extensive reader knowledge of the banking and of the publishing and hardly a book appeared in any of the im- business led him to perceive that financial ad- portant modern languages that he did not at least vertising was done without system, and he set examine. His knowledge of the literature of about to introduce reforms beneficial to the ad- the civilized countries was marvelous but sur- vertiser as well as to the press. His firm, oper- passed by his familiarity with musical works of ating under various names as the partners every description. He knew the scores of whole changed but best known by the last and still ex- operas by heart and was a regular attendant at isting one of Albert Frank & Co., was much more every musical event of importance. He left three than an advertising agencv. It acted as adviser daughters, all happily married, and his business 104 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS eighl thousand ballots cast for William Travers i- being continued by his son-in-law, Mr. James his for district attorney hinged upon his Rascovar. It U not surprising that after Jerome rulings as eminently sudden death, on August 19. 1901, regrel was decision, his were regarded universal and the family was overwhelmed with fair by all concerned and were therefore never large signs of esteem and affection to such an extent appealed from. Judge Giegerich enjoys a among the German- that they felt as if the loss had not been their and well deserved popularity look as own alone but of the whole people. Few nun Americans of Xew York, who upon him who never held official position have been hon- one of the best representatives of their race, in ored by their contemporaries as Allien Frank character, achievements and ability. He is a Press Club, Fi- was. member of the Arion, German delia Gesang Verein, Catholic Club, Catholic LEONARD A. GIEGERICH, jurist, was born Benevolent Legion, Knights of Columbus, St. Sodality, York Historical in Bavaria on March 20, 1855. He came to New Francis Xavier Xew York City with his parents when he was one year Society, Manhattan College Alumni Society, Tam- of the ,.ld and received his education in the village many Society, honorary member New received school of Woodstock, Conn., and in the public York State Bar Association and has and parochial schools of New York City. He the honorary degree of LL.D. from Manhattan studied law and engaged in the practise of his College. He was married on September 6, 1887, '.oil, profession, after being admitted to the Bar in to Miss Louise M. I and has two sons, Leon- 1S77. From his early youth he had taken a lively ard A., Jr., and Arthur X. interest in public affairs and politics, making many friend- who admired his straightforward HUGO REIS1XGER, merchant, was born at way, his unimpeachable honesty and his genial Wiesbaden in Germany on January 29, 1856, as was disposition. He was elected member of assembly the youngest of six children. His father a philoso- in 1886 and made such a splendid record that it man of superior attainments, doctor of was warmly approved by the Reform Club. He phy, and had taken an active part in the Hungarian tc.k a leading part in the struggle for personal revolution of 1848, acting for some time as sec- liberty, which won for him the good will of all retary to Ludwig Kossuth. He bad settled at German-Americans. He refused all free railroad Wiesbaden and become proprietor and editor of to and Zeitung, the oldest daily pa- 3 and insisted Upon paying his fare the Mittel-Rheinische from the capitol at Albany. President Cleveland per of that city. Young Reisinger received his appointed him as collector of internal revenues in education at the gymnasium of his birthplace and business July, 1887, in which capacity he served until engaged in mercantile after leaving March, 1890, when he was appointed by Gover- school at the age of sixteen. Ten years later, business nor Hill a- a justice of the City Court for the having received a thorough education term expiring December 31. 1890. Before retiring and being established in business for some time, from the Bench, he had bi ted County he went to America as representative <>\ the fa- - up that position after less than mous Siemens Glass Works at Dresden. Arriving one year's service in consequence of hi- appoint here in January, 1884, he traveled all over the Uni- ment a- judge of the Court of Common Plea ted States and Canada several times in order to a full introduce the and with such signal suc- by Governor Hill. I te was ele< ted to term goods, met in iS«j_> on the nomination of all parties. This cess that iii [886 he established his present general court was merged in the Supreme Court in Jan importing and exporting business, which devel- nary, 1896 Ever since which time he has served oped into one of the largest in the United States as a justice of the latter court, he having been Since (886 Mr. Reisinger has lived in Xew York in reelected in too6 on the nomination of all parties City, spending four months of every year including the lawyers' nomination. II.- was a Europe in the interest of his business and for to the constitutional convention of New recreation He is a man of many accomplish- Vork State of 1894. Justice Giegerich has ments and widely known as an art connoisseur the confidence ami respeel of the Bar, His and collector. While fully appreciating the beauty high character led to his appointmenl by the and worth of the old masters and recognizing the Appellate Division, at the requesl of counsel fact that true art cannot be bounded by geo- lines, has for both sid< - upon a large num graphical or national Mr. Reisinger de- ber of contested ballots in the memorable election voted himself to introduce German art into this of 1905, when William R Hearst was a candidate country and to secure for it the position it de- for mayor against Colonel Georg< B McClellan, With this purpose in view, he has writ- Although the title of th.- office of mayor and ten a number of newspaper and magazine articles HENRY SIEGEL. 105 MARC KIM. I IX. 106 HERMANN JOHANNES BOLDT. 107 HENRY A. C. ANDERSON'. K)8 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 109 and carried on an agitation that promises to bear unique display in the Paris Exposition, amongst fruit in the near future. He owns the largest and which was a highly artistic group of meerschaum most complete collection of modern German pipes, successfully portraying all the presidents paintings in the United States, as well as the best from Washington down. Mr. Demuth received and most valuable in an artistic sense, and he is for his exhibit the well-deserved gold medal, a arranging for an exhibition of German art in triumph of the ambition and energy of the New America which is intended to arouse an interest World against the accumulated knowledge and in the work of German artists heretofore sadly experience of the Old. Politically, Mr. Demuth lacking. Mr. Reisinger has founded a yearly prize has always affiliated with the Republican party. in Berlin for German art, known as the Hugo He has never desired nor held any public office. Reisinger prize, and is acknowledged to be an He is a member of the most important benevolent expert judge of paintings. He is very fond of and educational societies, as well as hospitals too outdoor sports, a golf player of no mean ability, numerous to summarize. He is also a member of a noted whip, frequently tooling his splendidly the Chamber of Commerce, the Civil Service Re- appointed four-in-hand through the park, and a form Association and life member of the Amer- fine rider. Mounted on his favorite horse and ican Museum of Natural History, which, through accompanied by his two sons, who are as accom- his liberal contribution, is enabled to exhibit to plished horsemen as the father, the little caval- the public a most unique collection of antiquities cade attracts much attention by its dashing ap- of pipes found in the Old Country. Mr. Demuth, pearance and soldierly bearing. Mr. Reisinger is in October, 1861, married Harriet Laurent, the a member of St. James Lutheran Church, the living children being Louis, Edgar and Aimee. Deutsche Verein, Garden City Golf Club, Subur- Mr. Demuth is a man of unusual intelligence, is ban Riding and Driving Club, National Arts Club, full of public spirit, charitable, genial and as pop- Metropolitan Museum and an officer in various ular amongst his friends as he is strong, practical corporations. He was appointed honorary com- and true in his commercial relations. missioner to Europe by President Francis of the World's Fair at St. Louis in 1904, and was dec- HERMAN A. METZ, merchant and manufac- orated by the German Emperor in recognition of turer, was born in New York City on October his services with the Royal Order of the Prus- 19, 1867. His career is one of the most remark- sian Crown. On February 10, 1890, Mr. Reisin- able among German-Americans and their de- ger was married to Miss Edmee Busch of St. scendants. Compelled to go to work while still Louis and has two sons, the oldest one, a lad of attending school, at the age of thirty-two he was sixteen, being of a serious and studious bend of the head and sole proprietor of a large business mind, is now preparing to enter Harvard Univer- concern which he had entered as office boy when sity for the study of law. fourteen years old. Mr. Metz received his edu- cation in the public and in private schools in WILLIAM DEMUTH, merchant, was born at New York, and in 1881 entered the employ of drugs Rimbach, Odenwald, Germany, November 1, 1835. Schulze, Berg & Koechl, manufacturers of He received his early education in Darmstadt and and chemicals, as office boy. Full of ambition, as a poor boy of sixteen years came to America the boy perceived immediately that his education and settled in New York City, where he has re- was not sufficient to allow him to rise as quickly sided ever since. His extraordinary ambition and as he desired, and he devoted his evenings to his intelligence showed itself in his youth, and the study of chemistry at Cooper Union. Having of he soon established what is now and has been for finished his course, he entered the laboratory years past, the largest manufactory of pipes and the firm, was traveling salesman and Boston smokers' articles. His progressive and inventive agent for two years, and became vice-president talent remodeled the entire industry, and his in- and treasurer of Victor Koechl & Co., incorpo- the ventions are to-day universally adopted by all the rated, in 1894. Five years later he purchased presi- manufacturers of pipes. Aside from his devotion interest of Victor Koechl and became the has to his business, he also found time to cultivate dent of the concern. Since then the business has his artistic taste which he happily applied in a not only continually increased, but Mr. Metz commercial sense. This he showed repeatedly in become interested in many other enterprises of dispose his highly rewarded effort in exhibiting the finest importance. His vitality and ability to the specimen of the art of pipe manufacturing at all of work is truly stupendous, and in spite of business important exhibitions, such as Philadelphia, Paris large extent and great variety of his to and Chicago, showing in each one something new interests he has found time to devote himself remarkable. and individual. Everv one will remember the public affairs to a degree in itself 110 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND TIIKIk 1 >l .m 1 A I ).\.\TS Mr. Metz has been a delegate to a number of ent site of the -plant of the John Eichler Brew- Democratic state conventions, and to the na- ing Co., at Third Avenue and One Hundred and tional convention at Indianapolis in 1896, mem- Sixty-ninth Street. The brewery Mr. Eichler ;' the Brooklyn Hoard of Education for sev- acquired wa- -mall and lacked all improvement-, eral years, and of the county, general, executive the business hem- carried on in a desultory way, and state committees of the Democratic party. and it required all the indomitable energy of the In November, 1005, he was elected controller of new proprietor to develop it. Hi- financial re- the city of New York and has as such redoubled source- were limited, hut with restless energy his activity in every direction. He i- a member he went to work and turned hi- splendid facul- of the Reform, Chemists', Crescenl Athletic, Ger- ties to account. From the start he had resolved mania, Riding ami Driving, National Civic and to use hi- full strength and not to rest until he- Brooklyn Democratic clubs, of the German Lied- had succeeded This he accomplished. His ster- erkranz, Arion, German Hospital societies of ling integrity, his thorough knowledge of his New York and Brooklyn, Brooklyn Institute of profession and his ability were speedily recog- Art- and Science-. American Museum of Nat- nized, and willing hands came forward to furnish ural History, Metropolitan Museum of Art. the mean- that were necessary. It wa- a long Chamher of Commerce. Board of Trade and and uphill tight, for Mr. Eichler was never sat- Transportation, Manufacturer-' Association and I with what he accomplished until his ideal the Society of Chemical Industry of London. Mr. was reached. He kept on improving and enlar- Metz -erved on the committees on import and ging the plant, and every new invention was sure appraisement ami for the revision of the customs to be tried and if it stood the test to he adopted administration of the Merchant-" Association, i- in hi- brewery. But the deserved reward finally captain in the Thirteenth Regiment, N.Y.S.N.G., came and the day arrived when the John Eichler and a Mason of Commonwealth Lodge 400, Jeru- Brewing Company's plant was conceded to be salem Chapter No. 8, Adelphic Council No 7. one of the best equipped in the United State-, and Palestine Commandcry Xo. 18. Mecca Temple of it- owner could proudly look upon his achieve- the Mystic Shrine, and Thirty-second Degree ment- with the satisfying knowledge that he had Ma -on New York Consistory. done what he set out to do. When Mr. Eichler's health began to fail in 1888, he consented to the JOHN' EICHLER, brewer, was born at Roth- organization of a stock company with himself as enburg in Bavaria on October 20, [829, and edu president, Jacob Siegel, a- vice-president and in the of schools his native city. After treasurer, Louis J. Heintz as secretary and John leaving school, he entered the brewery of Wolff C. Heintz as trustee for the stockholders. When. • at Rothenburg, where he served hi- ap in [890, the grippe made it- tir-t appearance in prenticeship. He then found employment in the Xew York, Mr. Eichler was one of it- first vic- Wertheim Brewery at Baden and later in the tims, and while he recovered from the attack, Hasenhaide Brewery at Berlin. Having studied he never regained hi- health completely. His the business thoroughly ami mastered ever} de originally robust constitution, which had with- tail of hi- profession, Mr. Eichler, who at that stood the tremendous activity during many years time already wa- considered an expert in his of ince -ant labor, was severely shaken, and death held, to decided look for wider opportunities claimed him on August 4, 1802, while he was on a than the fatherland, with it- many barriers for \i-it at Gollheim, in the Rhenish Palatinate. His men who desired to rise by their own effort-, af brother in law, Mr Jacob Siegel, went to Ger- forded. He sailed for America anil arrived at many and brought back the remain-, which were Xew York- in [853, at th.- age of twenty four, interred in the family burial plot in Woodlawn rinding employment almost immediately a- brew tery. Mr. Eichler was married in 1857 to master in the Franz Ruppert, or Turtle Bay Mi-- Mar> Siege] of Gollheim, who proved a Brewery. Tor an enterprising spirit like Mr. valuable helpmate and adviser in building up one Eichler this wa-. of course, but a period of tr.-m- of the lari^e-t business enterprises in Xew York he saved hi- money, studied the new con City, and remained constantly at hi- bedside dur- ditions surrounding him and worked industriously ing his illness. He wa- a member of a large until the opportunity he had Teen waiting for number of social and benevolent organizations, ! itself In [86i hi- ambition wa- realized among them the United State- Brewers' Vssocia and he went into business on hi- own account lion, Brewers' Board of Trade of New York and with Mr. Solman a- partner. Within a few ity, Brewers' Exchange, New York Produce h'- bought out hi- partner and purchased Exchange, German Society, German Liederkranz, the Kolb Brewery which wa- located on the pres \rion, Beethoven Mannerchor, Eichenkranz, MAX AMS. Ill JOHN MARTIN OTTO, 112 MATTHTAS HOHNER. 113 HANS HOHNER. 114 ; SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 115 Freimaurer Sangerbund, Schnorer Club, Morris- His death was due primarily to a cold contracted ania Sangerbund, Harmonic Singing Society, New during a trip to Washington for the Cleveland York Independent Schuetzen Corps, Morrisania inaugural ceremonies. He was taken down while Schuetzen Corps, Rheinpfiilzer Mannerchor, Five in the capital, and was brought home for treat- O'Clock Club of Morrisania, and a Mason of ment. An operation for appendicitis performed Wieland Lodge and Ivy Chapter. John Eichler's upon him was unsuccessful and he failed to re- life and achievements form a lasting monument cover from the effects of it. He was a member to the qualities of the man, and an illustration of of many organizations. He founded the famous what unfailing industry, sterling integrity and Schnorer Club and was its president five terms. firmness of purpose may accomplish. He belonged to the Produce Exchange, the Cen- tral Turn Verein, the Lexington Democratic Club, LOUIS J. HEINTZ (deceased), whose name, the Harmonic Singing Society, the Morrisania character and services are still frequently recalled Liedertafel, the Arion, the German Press Club throughout the Bronx (New York City), which and many more. He is buried in Woodlawn. Re- he championed and whose favorite son he was, membering his devotion to their interests, the shows plainly how deep and lasting the impress people of the Bronx still mourn his loss. Some was he made. He was only thirty when he died day, perhaps, they will give him a public memo- he was rich and might have taken life at ease; but rial — for certainly he well deserves it. he was enterprising, aggressive and public-spirited and threw himself, instead, into the work of up- ADOLPH G. HUPFEL, brewer, was born in building and developing the community in Which Orange County, N.Y., receiving his educa- his lot was cast. From one of the numerous tion in the public and private schools, coming to obituaries published at the time of his death, New York City in 1854. By political affiliation March 12, 1893, we take the following account he is a Democrat, but has never held or sought a of his life : He was born in Manhattan, at Fifty- political office. The Hupfel Brewery, of which fourth Street, near Tenth Avenue. His father he is the head, is numbered among the pioneer died when he was a boy and after his school brewing industries which have made Bronx days were over he entered the brewery of his Borough noted. The buildings occupied by this uncle and thoroughly mastered the business. He establishment have stood so long on St. Ann's was secretary and treasurer of the John Eichler Avenue and One Hundred and Sixty-first Street, Brewing Company and married the daughter of that they have become known as landmarks in the the brewer, Ebling. He was president of the Bronx. Among the organizations of which Mr. Brewers' Board of Trade of New York and Hupfel is an active member, may be mentioned vicinity and was identified with other important the New York Produce Exchange, Brewers' interests. It was, however, in his public career Board of Trade, of which he is the ex-presi- that he cut the most distinguished figure. His dent ; Associated Brewers ; ex-trustee and ex-treas- admirers still hold that, as a man of the people, urer State Brewers and Maltsters ; ex-director of he would have risen, had he lived, to high po- the Union Railway, North Side Board of Trade, litical station. Until he came to the front mis- New York Botanical Society, Wieland Lodge government had been very much the lot of the No. 714, F. & A.M., Freundschaft Lodge No. 4, "Annexed District." He it was who succeeded, Improved Order of the Knights of Pythias, Mel- after much opposition at Albany, in getting rose Turn Verein, Arion Liedertafel, Central through an act providing a separate board of im- Turn Verein, German Hospital, Deutsche Gesell- provements for the district. Under this statute schaft, Terrace Bowling Club, Manhattan Club, the district obtained the power to have its own Democratic and Schnorer clubs. On May 13, department of street improvement. Toward the 1873, he married Miss Magdalen Kuntz, to whom expense incidental to the passage of this bill he four children have been born, viz. : Catherine G., contributed out of his own pocket liberally. This Adolph G., Jr., Antoinette G. and Otto G, all of action in behalf of the taxpayers of the Twen- whom are living. ty-third and Twenty-fourth Wards was appre- ciated. He was selected as the proper man him- JOHN CHRISTIAN GLASER HUPFEL, self to put the law in motion and was nominated, brewer, was born in New York City on December accordingly, as the first street commissioner, was 12, 1842, as the son of German parents. Educa- endorsed by the Taxpayers' Association, the coun- ted in Public School No. 49 in East Thirty-sev- ty Democracy and the Republicans, and trium- enth Street, he engaged in the brewing business, phantly elected. His administration—of which it which he has carried on with success. Having was said that, in the discharge of his duty, he did studied his trade both here and in Germany, Mr. more even than the public could reasonably ex- Hupfel was able to introduce new methods when- pect—was interrupted by his sudden taking off. ever they stood the test he knew how to apply and L 16 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS id bring his plant up to the highest grade of effi- accustomed to manual labor, he was forced to ciency. He has been closely identified with every seek other ways of supporting himself and bought movement designed to improve the conditions a -mall stock of merchandise, traveling through under which the brewing business is carried on, the country as a peddler. This venture did not and with every effort to lift it upon a higher level. appeal to him and after a few weeks he returned Public-spirited and charitable, he is a regular to New York, where he found employment in a contributor to a large number of associations de- high school as teacher of languages, which posi- voted to the public welfare. Fond of healthy tion he filled with success and distinction until sports and social diversions, Mr. rlupfel is de- the Hungarian patriot, Louis Kossuth, arrived in servedly popular and has a large circle of friend-. America. Mr. Mayer joined the agitation started He is a member of the Arion and Jung-Arion to secure recognition of the independence of Societies, the German Liederkranz and its Bach- Hungary, which, however, proved a failure. He elor Circle, Fessler Lodge No. 576 F. & A.M., thereupon decided to secure a thorough knowl- Beethoven Maennerchor, Tammany Hall, Ter- edge of the country where he had decided to re- race Bowling Club, New York Athletic Club, Red main and went South. Here he established him- Bank Yacht Club. Rumson Polo Club, Automobile self in commercial business and met with decided Club of America, founder of the Original Brew- success. In i860 he married Miss Bernhardt of ers' and Coopers' K.U.V., Metropolitan Museum Xew York, who has been his faithful companion of Art. Isabella Heimath, Wartburg Orphan-' and loving helpmate in adversity as well as in Farm School, German Society, German Hospital, happiness. Seven children, four sons, one of Charity Organization, New York Zoological So- whom died while on duty on the Peninsula and ciety, American Forestry Association, Presbyte- three daughters, were born of the union. When rian Hospital. St. Mark's Hospital. New York the Civil War broke out, Mr. Mayer threw in his Skin and Cancer Hospital, St. John's Guild, New lot with "the Confederacy, and served as com- York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to missioned officer of the Albany Guard-. Fourth Children, New York Society for the Prevention Regiment of Georgia. A severe illness com- of Cruelty to Animals and the Society for Im- pelled him to resign his commission and he took proving the Condition of the Poor. On May 10, his family to Xew York, leaving behind him all 1868, he married Miss Anna Lebkuchner and he had amassed in many years of hard work and had five children: Anna G., Anton C. G., prac- devotion to his business. At his arrival in Yew tical brewer; Adolph G. mechanical engineer, and York he wa- practically without mean-, but his Christian G.. lawyer, who are associated in busi- spirit was not broken, his ability unimpaired and ness with their father: and Frederick G., who his sterling integrity known to a large circle of died in infancy. friends. He started again in business on his own account but later on became a partner in the Clif- DAVID MAYER, presidenl of the David May- ton Brewery on Staten Island which his brother er Brewing Co., was born at Bodenheim on the had established. When this establishment was Rhein on January 8, 1827. He received his edu- destroyed by tire in [879, Mr. Mayer reestablished cation at the gymnasium of Main/, where he grad the business in the upper part of the city and uated and upon the study of medicine since that time has been at the head of the David at the University of Giesen. At the outbreak of Mayer Brewing Co. in the borough of the Bronx. the revolution of 1848 1849 in the Palatinate and Mr. Mayer is in the fullest and best -ense of the Grand Duchy of Baden, Mr. Mayer, who was word a s,lf made man, having achieved success imbued with the love for freedom, joined the by hard work, indomitable energy and upright, Student-' and Turner-' Legion and fought under correct business method-. Of dignified bearing, ral Mieroslawski. The revolutionists were lie i- a German of the old school which is rapidly routed at Kirchheimbolanden, where they met a disappearing, but ha- done so much for this superior f< regulars of the Prussian army, country by faithful devotion to ideals and un- while they were insufficiently organized and swerving honesty. He i- of benevolenl disposi- armed After the battle Mr. Mayer went to Ba tion, ready to assist those who are in need of den and foughl under General Franz Sigle in sev- and deserve help, and very charitable in an unos- eral engagements, retreating with the revolution- tentatious way, preferring to give quietly instead ary army to Switzerland, where his regiment was of proclaiming to the world the good he does. Mr. disbanded. He then, like so many of his com Mayer i- a member of many educational, philan- patriots, fled to America, the land of liberty and thropic, literary and charitable societies and one lom, and worked for a time a- laborer on of the few surviving members of the Association the Erie Railroad, then being constructed. ' n 1 if ( ierman Patrii >t- of [848 49. ADAM WEBER. 117 1.1'IAVIi, NISSEN. US Fl.ORIAN KRUG. 119 EMANUEL BARUCH. 120 ; SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 121 WILLIAM PETER, the founder and presi- employed throughout the various departments. The dent of the William Peter Brewing Company, firm's main office, which is located on Hudson was born at Achern, Baden, Germany, March 16, Avenue, was erected in 1900 and is a credit to 1832. The schools of his native town furnished Union Hill. Classical in architecture, built of his early education and he graduated from same marble and brick and containing appointments of at an early age. His studies were concluded at richness and convenience. Directly opposite is the the Moravian Brother's Institute of Koenigsfeld, residence of Mr. Peter, one of the handsomest in Baden, after having taken a two years' course. At Union Hill, and where he has resided for twenty- the age of sixteen young Peter entered upon the two years. Mr. Peter incorporated his brewing field of brewing, which, at that time was in its interests on May 1, 1890, and the concern became infancy compared to the great industry of to-day. known as The William Peter Brewing Company Apprenticing himself under a brother-in-law, he the stock is held by Mr. Peter's own immediate learned the trade thoroughly and continued in this family. The officers of the company are : Will- capacity for two and one-half years. So indus- iam Peter, president ; William Peter, Jr., vice- triously had he applied himself during his ap- president ; Emil Peter, secretary ; William Braun- prenticeship, his qualifications were such that as- stein, treasurer ; August Peter, assistant secretary sured him the foundation he had endeavored to and treasurer, and Charles Peter, manager. All of attain. He came to this country in 1850 with Mr. Peter's sons have received a careful commercial his parents and settled in New York City. The training and the efficient way in which they trans- trade he had chosen offered better opportunities act their official and other duties is characteristic here and he found little difficulty in procuring of the father. In 1859 Mr. Peter was united in employment. For four years' he worked in vari- marriage to Miss Magdaline Jaeger of Bavaria, ous breweries. In 1854 he made his first trip Germany ; six children were born to this union. to Cincinnati, Ohio, and was employed there in Mrs. Peter died in 1868. Later Mr. Peter again the same capacity until 1857, when he returned to married, this time a Mrs. Caroline Ohlenschlager the East. At the age of twenty-eight he estab- (nee Apply) of Zurich, Switzerland, who died lished a business of his own in the western sec- in 1900. Two children were born to this mar- tion of the city and conducted it in a small way riage. In 1902 Mr. Peter married Miss Sophia with an output of but two and three-quarter bar- Vogel of Carlsruhe, Baden. Mr. Peter is a great rels per day. In 1862 he purchased property at lover of art and music. He goes abroad once a Union Hill, N.J., and during the same year he year and always finds the time to portray the erected a small plant that had a daily capacity of beautiful scenery in Switzerland and Germany in twelve barrels. After a copartnership of one oil. His home contains many creditable works of year, he sold his entire interest to his partner his own. and during the year of 1864 he accepted a posi- tion as foreman of the Fausel Brewing Com- JACOB RUPPERT, brewer, was born in New pany of Union Hill, where he remained until York City on March 4, 1842, as the son of Ger- the spring of 1865. He again engaged in busi- man parents, and received his education in the ness for himself during that year, erecting a public and private schools of his birthplace. At brewery having a daily capacity of seventy bar- an early age he engaged in the restaurant busi- rels. From 1866 to 1868 the firm was known as ness and later on started a brewery, being one of Peter and Brock and later as Peter and Hexamer, the pioneers of this industry in the United States. but it was not until 1870 that Mr. Peter became While the conditions favored the growth of his sole proprietor, and the first real progress that enterprise, it was his business ability, his fore- was made, and which has terminated so success- sight and thorough knowledge which made his fully, commenced that year. The facilities and brewery one of the largest in this section of the capacity of the plant were greatly enlarged and country. It has been enlarged from time to whenever anything new appeared in the line of time and equipped with the most modern appli- brewing that meant advancement, Mr. Peter imme- ances, for Mr. Ruppert was always ready to in- diately installed same. Like all large enterprises, its troduce new methods as soon as their value had growth was gradual and each year marked a step been proven. From small beginnings his inter- forward. To-day this imposing plant, with its ests have grown to very large proportions, and modern fire-proof buildings, machinery and meth- he is now interested in a number of other enter- ods, stands as a monument to the memory of its prises. A Democrat in politics, Mr. Ruppert has founder. The annual output is over one hundred served as presidential elector for the state of and twenty-five thousand barrels and a yearly ca- New York on the Democratic ticket, but has re- pacity of five hundred thousand. Eia^htv hands are fused all other offers of public office. He is a 122 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS member of the Arion and the German Lieder- Harvard University, the entire receipts being de- kranz and of a large number of hospital and by Mr. Conried to the fund for the es- other benevolent societies. In 1864 Mr. Ruppert tablishment of the new German Museum at Cam- married Miss Anna Gillig. Six children were bridge. In 1904 Mr. Conried took charge of the born to him, of whom four, Jacob, Jr., Anna Metropolitan Opera House, and the artistic as Schalk, George and Amanda Scllick, are living. well as the financial success of this institution under his leadership is too well known to re- HEIXRICH COXRIED, impresario, was born quire extended recapitulation. In 1008, at the unusually successful season, he de- al Bielitz, Austria, on September 13, 1855. He close of an was educated by private tutors and graduated sired to retire from this position because he from Schottenfeld College in 1869. Following needed rest and desired to devote himself the wish of bis father, he learned the trade of a entirely to the new National Theater where weaver, but having a natural and profound fond- cpects to realize his plans as to what the ness for the stage, he decided to follow that pro- perfect stage should be. He is an indefati- fession and made his debut at the Imperial Court gable worker. During his short career he has over one thousand plays and Theatre at Vienna on February 23, 1873. His staged advancement was rapid and he bad already at- crossed the ocean nearly one hundred times in spite of his tained high rank in his new calling when he ac- the interests of his enterprises. In found time to deliver lec- cepted in 1878 a call from the United States and arduous labors he has and Colum- became stage manager at the Germania Theater tures on the drama at Yale, Harvard bia universities and the University of Pennsyl- in New V<>rk City. As stage manager and as the degree of from actor his success was pronounced, and in the vania. He has received M.A. nu- following year he made a triumphant tour of the Pennsylvania, Harvard and Columbia and decorations European monarchs, German theaters in the United States as a star. merous from a Knight of the Order of the !'< t some time he was connected with the Thalia and has been made the Emperor of Austria-Hun- Theater in New York, where he acquired well Iron Crown by Crown rved fame by magnificent productions of gary, Knight of the Order of the Royal King of modern plays and comic operas. He then formed by the Emperor of Germany. The rank Cavaliere, a connection with the New York Casino and Italy conferred upon him the of nobility. later organized the Conried Opera Company raising him to the Mr. Conried was daughter of F. M. which gave performances all over the United married in 1884 to Augusta, Spcrlin, and has one son, Richard Conried. - with great artistic and financial success. In iSg_> Mr. Conried became proprietor and manager of the Irving Place Theater in New- C. F. ACKER MAW, retired, and residing at York which be devoted exclusively to German No. 86 Pierrepont Street, Brooklyn, was born at drama. This institution be raised to greal dis- u, Anhalt, Germany, April 5, 1835. He tinction nol only through the engagement of attended the Gymnasium school of his native some of the foremost German actors, but also city until he reached the age of fifteen years, at obtained through tli!- greal care which he bestowed Upon which time he went to Bremen, where he importing tin- production of modern and classical plays. The a position with an export and house, Irving Place was soon known as a model theater with whom he remained for a period of four and its fame spread tar beyond the German- years. On September [6, [854, when at the age speaking population. There Mr. Conried intro of nineteen, he landed in America, locating at N.Y., and after various mer- duced to the American public such am I Brooklyn, holding Sonnenthal, Mitterwurzer, Barnaj Schratt, cantile positions in New York he, on January 1, Gallmeyer, Knoack, Agnes Sorma and many oth- [859, established the importing and export firm ers and produced the wurks of modern authors of Meissner, Ackermann & Company, which grew bk<- Hauptmann, Ibsen, Voss, Sudermann and in time to be the most extensive in the petroleum Fulda, together with many classical plays. For Orl trade in the country. In [86] Mr. Ack- more than a decade Mr. Conried devoted a lar.uc ermann soon after the discovery of petroleum part of hi t" the elevation of the Vmer his firm made their first shipment, which Lirew ican sta^e, being firmly convinced that the uni- from year to year to very large proportions and versity, the church and the stage form the three shipped this commodity to all parts of the world. great universities and lias given performances In [890 Mr. Ackermann retired from active busi at Yale, Harvard and other institutions of learn life, having behind him an unblemished ing. bearing all the exp< nses \ memorable event reputation throughout the commercial world. He was the production of Goethe's "Iphigenie" al enjoys an extensive acquaintance both in this CAPTAIN J. B. GREEN HUT. 123 JAI OB U Kil' MAN \. 124 BENEDICT PRIETH. 125 JOHN B. OELK1 RS. 126 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 127 country and Europe. He is a member of the tober 15, 1890, to Miss Frederica V. Beck and Germania Club of Brooklyn, and was reared in has three children, F. M. Emile, Edmee Eloise, the Lutheran Church. Mr. Ackermann was one and Rudolph J., Jr. of the founders and is a charter member of the German-American Insurance Company of New HUGO SOHMER, manufacturer, was born at York and has been a director of it ever since Dunningen, near Rottweil, in the Black Forest in it was organized. He was joined in wedlock on Wuerttemberg, in 1846. His father was a physi- February 7, i860, with Miss Henrietta Marie cian and left nothing undone to give the boy a Wilckens, daughter of Dr. J. Frederick Wilckens, good education. At an early age Mr. Sohmer at one time a prominent physician of Xew York developed an unusual talent and love for music City. They have seven living children. and while still a child attended every concert in the old city of Rottweil and in Stuttgart, the RUDOLPH J. SCHAEFER, brewer and mer- capital of Wuerttemberg, thus preparing himself, chant, was born in New York City on February without knowing it, for the career he was to fol- 21, 1863. He received his education in the pub- low in later years. When he was sixteen years lic and in private schools of his birthplace, and old, the boy decided to emigrate to America. The passed through a business college. After leaving Wanderlust, which drives so many Germans into school, he became interested in the F. & M. Schae- foreign countries, had taken hold of him and he fer Brewing Company, of which his father had been heard so many wonderful stories about America one of the founders, and soon took an active part that he was determined to see the land with whose in the management. He is now vice-president of riches his imagination was filled. He arrived in this concern and president of the Schaefer (Real- 1863 and found work in the piano factory of ty) Company, and also a director in several other Schuetze & Ludolff. The ardent desire for knowl- industrial corporations. Mr. Schaefer has taken edge which the father had planted in the boy's a very active part in all movements inaugurated heart, and the ambition to rise gave him the for the welfare of the industry in which he is en- strength to overcome all obstacles. He used his gaged and is president of the Lager Beer Brew- evenings to increase his knowledge of music ers' Board of Trade of New York and Vicinity, through private lessons, at times suffering severe vice-president of the Associated Brewers of New privations because his earnings were small and York and Vicinity and treasurer of the New he was alone in the world, his father having died. York State and the United States Brewers' Asso- In 1868 Mr. Sohmer had earned enough money ciations. He is a member of the American Brew- to go to Europe, where he visited all the important ing Institute and has devoted much time and piano factories in order to increase his knowledge study to the modern development of the brewing of the business he had decided to embrace. At industry, introducing new methods into his es- Vienna he made the acquaintance of Mr. Josef tablishment as soon as they had stood the test of Kuder, a practical piano maker, and associated careful investigation. Of an active and lively dis- himself with him and several other experts in the position, Mr. Schaefer is fond of all manly sports, same line under the firm name of Sohmer & Co. such as riding, driving, skating, billiards, yacht- The new factory was started in 1872 at the cor- ing, rowing and swimming, and is a member of ner of Third Avenue and Fourteenth Street with the New York Athletic Club, the National Asso- limited means and could produce but two or three ciation of Amateur Billiard Players, trustee of pianos a week during the first year. But the fact the Larchmont Yacht Club and member of several that nothing but the very best material was used, other yacht clubs. He served as vice-president of and not a single instrument was allowed to leave the German Liederkranz and is a member of the the workshop that was not mechanically and ar- Lambs Club. In addition, he is interested in a tistically perfect quickly established the reputation number of charitable organizations and others of the new firm. After three years it became nec- working for the public good ; a trustee of the essary to enlarge the factory considerably, and in German Hospital and Dispensary, chairman of 1886 a new factory was built at Astoria, which is the Brewers' Auxiliary of the Hospital Saturday equipped with all modern improvements and and Sunday Association, life member of the So- known as a model establishment. The Sohmer ciety for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, piano has found its way in many thousands of member of the German Society, the Isabella Hei- homes, is used by the best and greatest artists, math, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and many and agencies of the firm have been established in other societies. He is a Lutheran and a Demo- almost every city in the United States. Mr. Soh- crat in local, but generally a Republican in na- mer's success has been pronounced, and is re- tional affairs. Mr. Schaefer was married on Oc- markable not only because it started from the 128 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS smallest beginnings imaginable, but also for the Brooklyn Arion, Saengerbund, Royal Arcanum, reason that it has not changed him in the least. and a Mason, also a director of the Mechanics Widely known, he i> as modest and unassuming I'.ank and trustee <>f the Cermania Savings Bank. a> at the beginning areer, full of devo In [88] Mr. Wissner was married to Miss Katie tii in to his duty and to his family, a member of Leckerling and has six children, four daughters many social organization?, but fund of home and two -I, us, who now manage his factory. life, a large contributor to a multitude of chari- ties, and a lover of good music who not only sel EDWARD LAUTERBACH, whose brilliant dom : good concert or opera, but is always career as a lawyer and politician has made his ready to assist gifted pupils and artists lacking one of the most familiar names in New York, the means fur a musical education. was horn in New York City on August 12, 1844. His education was begun in the public schools OTTO WISSNER, manufacturer, was born and continued in the College of the City of New near Giessen in Hessen, Germany, on March 2, York, from which institution he was graduated [853, and received his education in the Real-Gym- with honors in 1864. lie worked hard in school nasium at Giessen, evincing special interest for and college, as one to whom study was a privi- languages and becoming proficient in Latin, Greek, lege rather than a drudgery, and as soon as he English and French. At the age of sixteen. Mr. received hi- degree entered upon a course of Wissner came to the United States and found em- law in the offices of Townsend, Dyett & Morri- ployment in various piano factories, learning the son. After his admission to the Bar he became business thoroughly and from the bottom up. In a member of this firm, which was then reor- 1878 lie started hi- own factory in Brooklyn and ganized under the name of Morrison, Lauter- while he had to begin on a -mall scale, so much bach & Spingarn. The death of Mr. Spingarn was taken in the selection of the material terminated the partnership and Mr. Lauterbach and the construction of the instruments, that the formed his present connection with the firm of Wissner piano quick'y secured recognition among Hoadly, Lauterbach & Johnson. Individually, - and the public at lar.Lte. The factory and the linn is an mm ually strong one, and is well the salesrooms had to lie enlarged and agencies known throughout the country. Mr. Lauterbach were established in all the important cities of the has made an exhaustive study of the statutes United States. Mr. Wissner frequently traveled relating to corporate bodies, and has a high through the country and became widely known as a Standing at the Bar as a specialist in this depart- man of sterling integrity and unusual ability and ment of practise-. He has successfully conducted as a manufacturer whose knowledge of his busi a large number of important litigations involv- and enterprise had rapidly brought him into ing intricate points of law, and has a wide repu- the front rank of American industrial and artistic taiion for being able to settle large cases outside life. Artists like the late Anton Seidl. Htnil 1'aur, the courts In addition to bis other practise, Mr. Lillian Nordica, Julie Rives King, Jan ECubelik Lauterbach is a prominent figure in railroad cir- and many others used his pianos and became his cles as an organizer. He was instrumental in friends. Mr. Wissner took a lively interest in bringing about the consolidation of the Union musical affairs, and was always ready to assist and Brooklyn elevated mads, and the creation ferman organizations devoted to the mission of the Consolidated Telegraph and Electrical • if awakening and strengthening the love and :tp subway, ami was concerned in the reorganiza- preciation for good music in America. In [900 tion of many railroads. He was counsel for and he was appointed by the I Inited Singers of Brook a director of a number of street surface rail- lyn a member of a committee of three t<> transmit roads, among others the Third Avenue system. German Emperor the thanks of the singers Mr. Lauterbach has always been a Republican fur the silver trophy Emperor William had given and has taken as active a part in state and local as a prize f"r the singing festival held at Brook- polities ,,s the absorbing nature of his profession lyn, and tu present copies of the songs which had would permit. For some years lie was chairman been rendered at the competition fur it. The dele of the Republican County Committee of N'ew gation was graciously received by Emperor Will York and was associated with Chauncey M. He iani and treated with much di tihetion. Mr Wi- pew, Thomas C. Piatt, Frank S. Witherbee and ner i- an Independent in politics and lives in Frank Hiscock in the advisory committee of the Brooklyn, hut spends much of his time at his Republican State Committee. In the Republican ful summer home, The Westerly, in Nas- National Convention, held at St. Louis in 1S06, sau County. He is a member of 'In- German he was a delegate at large from New York, Lutheran Church, tin- German Liederkranz, was the member from N'ew York of the com- LOUIS WIXDMULLER. 129 ROHKKT VOM CLEFF. 130 HERMANN HEINRICH HORNFECK. 131 SAMUEL WEIL, 132 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 133 mittee on resolutions, and was one of the sub- one he was admitted to the Bar. His active committee of nine appointed to draft the plat- connection with the Republican party, then form- form, the financial plank of which presented the ing, began about the same time. Though his greatest issue that had been before the Amer- friends and relatives urged him to join the Dem- ican people for many years. Mr. Lauterbach ocratic party, which was then in supreme control was one of the three delegates at large from in the city of New York, his strong convictions the city of New York to the Constitutional Con- that slavery was a crime and should be rooted vention, which met in June, 1894. He was made out influenced him not to follow their advice. At chairman of the committee on public charities, that time New York City was virtually a pro- an appointment which was considered highly ap- slavery city, and during the draft riots at the propriate, as he has been very prominent in all breaking out of the Civil War, he was notified philanthropic and benevolent work, and is con- by the rioters to leave the city, which he declined nected officially with many charitable organiza- to do. In 1858 he was nominated by the Repub- tions. The cause of education has a sympathetic lican party for justice of the Marine (now City) and practical friend in Mr. Lauterbach, who has Court, but the party being in a hopeless minor- done much in various ways for its advancement. ity, his election was impossible. In 1864 he was Mr. Lauterbach is married and has four children. elected one of the presidential electors for the The oldest, a son, was educated for his father's state of New York, and as such he had the great profession and was admitted to the Bar at the honor to cast his vote in the Electoral College age of twenty-one. The other three are daugh- for Abraham Lincoln, with whom he became in- ters. Mrs. Lauterbach has for years been a timate and who, during his term, offered Mr. conspicuous figure in New York society, not only Dittenhoefer the appointment of United States in its brilliancy and pleasure-seeking, but also in judge for the district of South Carolina, his its beneficent activities. She became interested native state. He declined the appointment as he in the Consumers' League, and did much to se- was unwilling to abandon the large practise he cure legislation for the benefit of women em- had secured in the city of New York. In 1862 ployed in factories. She has been interested in Governor Fenton appointed him to fill the va- the movement for woman suffrage, the Prizon cancy caused by the death of Judge Florence Guild and many other enterprises for the im- McCarthy and he gave his entire salary during provement of social, industrial and educational the whole term to Judge McCarthy's widow, who conditions. was in want. This act of kindness and gener- osity has been characteristic of his life. At the ABRAM JESSE DITTENHOEFER, jurist, expiration of the term he declined a renomina- was born at Charleston, S.C., on the seventeenth tion, to enable him to devote himself to his large day of March, 1836. He is the son of Isaac and and lucrative practise. In 1876 he was a dele- Babetta Dittenhoefer. His father, a native of gate to the National Republican Convention in Germany, emigrated to the United States in 1836, Cincinnati, which nominated General Hayes for arriving in the city of Baltimore. He then moved president, and for eight weeks stumped without to Charleston, S.C., and subsequently to the city compensation in the states of Ohio and Indiana. of New York, where he became a successful For twelve consecutive years he was chair- merchant and a man of great local influence ; his man of the German Republican Central Commit- mother was also a native of Germany. His par- tee of New York and has always effectively ents were married in Baltimore. He acquired served his party as an influential factor in its his early education in the public schools of the councils and as an effective campaigner. Judge city of New York and later attended Columbia Dittenhoefer stands in the front rank of the New College Grammar School, then situated in Mur- York Bar and as a lawyer has secured a distin- ray Street, and in 1852 he entered Columbia Col- guished reputation. While his services have been lege, which was then situated in College Place; required in every branch of the legal profession, and Charles King was its president. During his he has been conspicuous in litigations relating to college course he was especially distinguished the law of the stage, being recognized as an au- for his proficiency in Latin and Greek ; the fa- thority on that branch of the law. He procured mous Dr. Charles Anthon, the professor of the incorporation of the Actors Fund of Amer- Latin, called him "Ultima Thule." After grad- ica, the great theatrical charity, and has served uation and in 1857 he entered the law office of as its counsel without compensation. It was Benedict & Boardman. At that time John E. largely through his efforts that the law giving Parsons, the celebrated lawyer, was managing- the license fees collected from theaters to the clerk in the same office. At the age of twenty- Society for the Reformation of Juvenile Delin- a 134 SIVCKSSM'L GER MAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS quents was repealed This stamped the theater that 'Hamlet' should not be produced anywhere a> the nursery of criminals and its repeal was else than at Stratford-on-the-Avon, would it he gnized as a great advance. In recognition of right to deprive the world of the pleasure and in- tlu- e services he was presented with a testimonial struction tu he derived from listening to that tin- and, together with ex-President Cleveland, Dr. equaled work on the stage?" He was counsel for Houghton and other distinguished men, was the captain and directors who were indicted in elected an honorary member. He also secured, connection with the burning of the General Slo- at the instance of the American Dramatists' Club, cunt, on which over nine hundred lives were lost. the amendment of the copyright law making it a IK is now one of the counsel of the Lincoln crime to steal the production of one's brain, as National Hank, of which General James, a mem it always was a crime to steal tangible property, ber of President Garfield's Cabinet, is president, lie has al-ci l>een distinguished in many commer- ami of many other corporations. An amusing cial and corporation cases and lias been frequent- incident in Judge Dittenhoefer's career occurred ly retained in important criminal cases. Early in a few years after he was admitted to the bar. A the seventies he was appointed by the Board of German by the name of David retained him to Aldermen of the city of New York as one of defend him. He had been charged with pur- unsel to represent them when they were in- chasing a quantity of clothing on false representa- dicted for granting permits to encumber the tions. When the case came on for trial it was streets with newspaper stands in violation of the the sixteenth on the day calendar. Every case charter and he succeeded in quashing the indict ahead of his having answered ready on the first ment. He made a telling point when he a-ked call. Judge Dittenhoefer left the court with in- the court to mark the newsboy, whose stand was structions to be sent for should, by any chance, the subject of controversy, as Exhibil A. lie his case he reached. In less than an hour, the was counsel for the old excise commissioners, calendar having broken down, his presence was Dr. Merkle and Richard Morrison, when they demanded. When he arrived the jury had already were indicted for an infraction of the law. and been empaneled. Being quite near-sighted he succeeded in obtaining their acquittal. When could imt find his client and requested his young their si',-,- — ,, r s. Commissioners Meakin, Fitzpat- man to look for him, who quickly reported that rick and Koch, were subsequently indicted, he he was sitting on his own jury. After much dif- was their leading counsel and after three years ficulty the judge, who felt inclined to punish him of litigation the indictments were dismissed on for contempt of court, allowed him to go. The a motion made by Judge Dittenhoefer. In 1896 judge then asked him how on earth he got on as of for one the counsel Elverton A. Chapman the jury. He answered: "Didn't I have to go? of the well known hanking firm of Moore & The clerk called my name." His name was in Schley and a number of newspaper correspond the wheel with a hundred others ami by a strange ents who wire prosecuted in Washington for re- coincidence when his case was called by the trial fusing to answer questions of tin' United States judge his own name was turned out among the Senate Committee investigating the Mi^ar tariff twelve to act as juryman. Judge Dittenhoefer scandal, Judge Dittenhoefer was conspicuous then asked him how he could have the cheek to and successful, gaining a notable victorj of sit on his own jury. His answer was: "Veil, «real value for of press. the liberty the He was who knows more about dis case den I do?" The counsel for the defendants in what are known as judge said that he was not a rascal but merely Ik Fraud Cases, instituted by the a fool who did not know any better. Judge Dit- United States. These were vigorously pro tenhoefer married in the city of New York i» ted and attracted great attention all over the 1S5N a Miss Rnglehart of Cleveland. Ohio, and world. Me succeeded in freeing his client. He has five children. One of them, his sun, Irving unsel for the Metropolitan ( )pcra Com Meade Dittenhoefer, is his partner, and a mem pany in the attempt on the part of the willow of her of the firm of Dittenhoefer, Gerber & James. the famous master, Richard Wagner, to -1 1. t'l it an injunction 1 tin 1 restrain pei man< cil \kl I S \. ST VDLEB was born at Ger "Parsifal." One of the arguments made b) Mrs. mersheim in tin- Bavarian Palatinate on July 15. Wagner's counsel was that Richard Wagner [848 He came to America in 1S51 with his par left the wish on his death-bed that "Parsifal" ents and received his education in St. Nicholas's should not he performed anywhere else than at Parochial School, the public schools and in He I. Beyreuth, and that said wish In mid he piously Salle Institute Vfter graduating, Mr. Stadler ted In reply Judge I >i t teiiho, f , r asked: engaged in the brewing industry and subsequently "Suppose Shakespeare had left the dying wish in the grain trade and eventually established GEORGE EHRET. 135 AUGUST MIETZ. 136 GEORGE C. DRESSEL. 137 HERMAN CHRISTIAN HENRY HEROLD. 138 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 139 himself as a maltster. The development of the wealth and progress. As an organizer of men brewing industry and the change to modern and affairs it was only natural that his work methods which almost revolutionized that trade should be crowned by that magnificent world in- during the latter part of the last century was dustry bearing his name. No merchant has foreseen early by Mr. Stadler and made use of proven more versatility, more originality in in every possible way. He clearly perceived the thought and action, no importer has made a ways and means with the help of which he could clearer record, has been a truer friend of right get to and keep at the front, and was soon recog- and justice and a better advocate of correct nized as one of the ablest men in his line. Of a business ethics and established sounder princi- genial disposition, warm-hearted and ever ready ples, both in that branch of the Government ex- to help those in need, it is but natural that he has ecuting the customs laws, than has A. B. Heine. a host of friends and that his popularity is not His voice was always heard in the forum when confined to his business associates. A Democrat, the Treasurer of the United States listened to the and from his early youth interested in public af- just complaints of the importing merchant; while fairs, political honors were offered to him re- his triumphs, his victories over dark and doubtful peatedly. He served as inspector of schools, as ways and means never inflated his mind in con- state senator from 1888 to 1892, as delegate to nection with the normal discharge of his duties the Constitutional Convention and as a member to the trade and the individual. It is always rec- of the State Democratic Executive Committee, ognized that as a leader in all movements for and only his determination to devote his time to the betterment of commerce, A. B. Heine takes his business affairs prevented his election to no back seat; he is nothing if not first, foremost, higher offices. He had by this time interested true and strong. As a perfect harmonious mani- himself in various enterprises and is now presi- festation of these virtues stands that monument, dent of the American Malting Company and of "that city on the hills" of which both hemi- the Sebastian Wagon Company, vice-president spheres speak in loud terms of praise and won- and treasurer of the Sicilian Asphalt Company, der; the largest industrial combination in em- vice-president of the Nineteenth Ward Bank and broideries and kindred products. a director of the Germania Bank, member of the Produce Exchange of New York and of the CHARLES PFIZER, manufacturer, was born Boards of Trade of Chicago and Buffalo. Fond at Ludwigsburg in Wuerttemberg, Germany, on of good and congenial societies, he is a member March 22, 1824. He received a very thorough of many clubs, among them the Manhattan, Dem- education in the schools of his native town, which ocratic, Army and Navy and New York Ath- furnished him with an excellent foundation so letic; the Geographical Society, German Society, that he was able, in later years, to build upon it German Liederkranz, Arion and many other pub- a rich fund of knowledge, although he never at- lic and charitable organizations. He is major tended a college or other high institution of learn- commanding the Old Guard. Mr. Stadler was ing. After leaving school, Mr. Pfizer served an married twice : in 1866 to Miss Josephine Contes, apprenticeship in a drug and paint house at Mann- who died in 1885, and on June 21, 1888, to Miss heim for several years. Having learned the Pauline Roesicke of Brooklyn, and has five business completely, he secured a position as con daughters. fidential clerk with a large exporting firm at Rotterdam, Holland, where he had occasion to A. B. HEINE, merchant.—Almost prophetic extend his knowledge and to develop the quali- were the words of the distinguished lyric poet ties that were the reasons for his success in later in, and namesake, Heine : "When you speak of the years. In 1849 a business depression set best of men, you must include him." A. B. Heine partly in consequence of the political upheavals is indeed one of the best merchants of the age, in Germany, and as all Europe suffered from combining at once the highest qualities of the old these conditions, Mr. Pfizer decided to emigrate conservative school with the most advanced, far- to America. Here, in a wider field, where his reaching, most courageous methods known to ability was not confined by narrow limits and tra- that division of commerce of which he became a dition, he established himself in Williamsburg, master mind. Liberated in his early life ancl then part of Brooklyn, as a manufacturer of business career from all the limitations which chemicals, with an office on Beekman Street, in are so often the real impediment to genuine suc- partnership with his brother-in-law, Charles F. cess, he soon made a mark quite equal to the Erhart. The firm rapidly acquired a reputation foremost men in the business which to-day ranks for the quality of their goods, for fair dealing second to none in magnitude, in volume, in and strict integrity, and the business grew from 14ii SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS year to year. Mr. Pfizer* s knowledge of his nunt tending to increase the knowledge of and trade was so complete, his education having given appreciation for the achievements on the part of him the opportunity to master every detail, and the German race in the realms of the arts, the lie was so eager to take advantage of every new sciences and literature has found in him a discovery in his line that his firm soon hecame willing and enthusiastic supporter. He married known as one of the most important and largest in June, 1 866, and is a member of the German in its line, the factory in Brooklyn occupying Liederkranz, German Society, German Hospital -ome thirty-four city lots. In 1870 the business Association and German Club. moved to Xo. 81 Maiden Lane where it is still carried < >n with a branch office in Chicago. Mr. JOHN" LOUIS SCHAEFER, merchant and Erhart died in 1891 and Mr. Pfizer retired from banker, was born in .Yew York City on August active business in 1900, when the concern was in- 4, 1867, the son of German parents, and educated corporated and is now in the hands of his two in the public schools and the evening high schools sons, Charles, Jr., and Emile Pfizer, and his of his birthplace. On leaving school, he entered nephew. William H. Erhart. Mr. Pfizer was a the employ of a mercantile house and rose so Republican in politic- but never held public office rapidly that he was vice-president and director though taking a warm interest in public affairs, of the world-famed firm, the Wm. R. Grace and being widely known as a man of correct Company, commission merchants and South and sober judgment, reliable and worthy of es- American bankers, before he was forty. He is teem and admiration. His long life has been a also a director of the Hamilton Bank Note Co., of splendid illustration of the possibilities offered by the Xew York & Pacific Steamship Co., the Cuban this country to the German who brings ambition, American Fertilizer Co., the Nitrate Agencies intelligence and firm purpose to these shores, as Co. and of the Advisory Board of the Corn Ex- well as of the great value of German emigration change Bank. Mr. Schaefer has taken a warm to the United States. Mr. Pfizer was married in interest in the affairs of the Lutheran Church, 1859 to Miss Anna llauseh and has five children. with which he has been connected all his life, three sons and two daughters, viz.: Charles, Gus- and is a trustee of St. Lucas Evangelical Luth- tave, Emile, Helen and Alice, all of whom are eran Church and the Wartburg Orphan Asylum. living. Mr. Pfizer's death occurred October 19, He was one of the organizers and founders of 1005. He was a member of the Germania Club the Luther League movement in the United States of I'.rooklyn, of the Brooklyn Riding and Driving Under the will of the late William R. Grace, the Club and of the Downtown Association of New founder of the firm that bears his name, Mr York City. Schaefer is trustee and treasurer of the Grace Institute for Girls. A Democrat in politics, he MICHAEL C. GROSS, lawyer, was born in has never taken an active part in partisan strife, New York City on February 18, 1838, as the and is a member of the New York Athletic Club, son of German parents. He was educated in Mariners Club and the Maritime Exchange. Mr. priva'' in New York and studied law. Schaefer was married in 1896 to Miss Susan being admitted to the Bar he practised his Karsch and has four children. Bernhard J.. Louis, profession in New York city and became rapidly Jr., Kathryn C. and Susan Grace. known. Soon after reaching his majority he d a member of the Board of Council AUGUST MIETZ, one of Xew York's fore- men from the Fifth Senatorial District and re- most manufacturers of marine and other types ted, serving in this capacity from of engines, was born in the picturesque town of [86] until [864 II'- had taken an active pari in Wilsnack, Province of Brandenburg, Prussia, De- politics as a Democral and displaying unusual cember 1. iS.^.j, and like many of those who ap- ability as an orator, a- well as lawyer, it was pear in this volume, obtained Ins early and only natural that he u I to fill ;i judicial schooling in the native town. Apprenticing him- office. Elected in November, 1865, In- served as self in iK.jo to a machinist, he learned that trade Justice of tin' Marine Court— the present City thoroughly; the foundation of the successful Court—from 1865 until January 1. 1S70 Since career ahead of him being laid by the close ap- ' then oted himself to tin- practise of his plication which characterizes the German race. ion. Although horn in America, Justice His aptitude fitted him for the vocation he had has always kepi in close touch with Ger- chosen at an early age, being only nineteen when Vmericans, and with everything worthy of ughl employment in Berlin. After six years admiration and emulation produced by the conn of diligent work, three as a mechanic and later try which gave birth to his parents Every n three years as foreman, which strengthened the LEONARD A. GIEGRICH. 141 s CARL II - 1/ 142 RICHARD A. FINN. 143 LOUIS \V\ HRAKA. 144 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 145 confidence in himself and prepared him for his Mr. Mietz is a lover of the home circle. He be- immigration to the United States in 1859. He longs to but few organizations, being a member came here determined to succeed, remaining one of the Arion and Eichenkranz, a patron of the year in New York, prior to his settling in the German Hospital and subscriber to various chari- southern part of this country. He was not long ties, and has devoted a great portion of his spare in finding what he came for, a permanency in a time to study and the advancement of his indus- city which afforded better opportunities. When try. He has been president of the American the Civil War began, he moved back to New York Carbonate Company, manufacturing liquid car- City (1861), found employment as a machinist, bonate acid gas, the plant being erected at Nine- then later as a contractor with the Aetna Sewing teenth Street, between First Avenue and Avenue Machine Company and in 1874 opened an iron A, for the past twenty-two years, and owns over foundry and machine shop at No. 87 to 91 Eliza- three-quarters of the capital stock. This company, beth Street, which was for years a necessity in having a frontage of two hundred feet on Nine- that section of the city. Notwithstanding the suc- teenth Street and running through to Eighteenth cess he attained, his ambition had not been Street, is to-day the largest of its kind in this achieved. He saw the importance of enlarging country, covering twelve city lots. He was the his interests, and not long thereafter purchased founder of this enterprise, but the active man- the adjoining property with the intention of erect- agement of the company he has entrusted to Mr. ing a modern plant for manufacturing purposes. Emil Rueff, his son-in-law. Mr. Mietz is a wor- His plans were carried out, and when his new shiper at the German Lutheran Church. On building (at that time) at No. 128 to 132 Mott June s, 1861, he married Miss Maria Lenz. Five Street and connecting with the original foundry children were born to them, two boys and three in Elizabeth Street was completed, his efforts girls. One daughter, Mrs. Emil Rueff, survives. were rewarded by great success on a much larger Mr. Mietz's personality is such that one never scale. In 1894 an opportunity presented itself to leaves him without a deep impression of his ster- Air. Mietz and, realizing the possibilities it prom- ling qualities. His life has been one of honest ised, acted upon the suggestion that has since endeavor and the enterprise that stands as a mon- placed him at the head of engine manufacturers. ument to his genius represents what a man can In the above year Mr. C. W. Weiss, a native of accomplish with a strength of purpose. Germany, and Mr. Mietz took out various joint patents on engines and they made an agreement CHARLES C. CLAUSEN, brewer, was born together whereby Mr. Mietz, with the capital and in New York City on January 7, 1844, as the equipped plant, took up the manufacture and sale son of German parents. He received his educa- of engines, giving them the name of the Mietz & tion in the schools of his birthplace and entered Weiss engines. Mr. Weiss has charge of this the business founded by his father after gradu- department, with the result that Mr. Mietz to- ating. When the great change from old-fash- day has become a factor as a manufacturer of ioned to new and modern methods became nec- engines which are patented in the United States essary in the brewing industry, Mr. Clausen was and principal foreign countries, and exported to one of the first to see the importance of the all parts of the world; over thirty thousand horse- movement and devoted his whole energy to bring power in operation. A new adjoining building it about in the establishment in which he was in- was found necessary, and same was erected, terested. The immediate success following this making it one of the largest of its kind in the upheaval, as it may justly be called, was a splen- city. Having a frontage of one hundred and fifty did testimonial to his ability and foresightedness. feet on Mott Street, it runs through to Elizabeth, Although born in America,, Mr. Clausen has taken connecting the foundry. Mr. Mietz has spared a deep and active interest in the life and af- no expense in the installation of modern ma- fairs of the German-American population, assist- chinery for manufacturing purposes and to-day ing in every movement inaugurated by them and his name has become widely known through the worthy of success. His help and advice have been stationary and marine, gas, oil and alcohol engines as readily given as eagerly sought. As an exam- for which he finds an unlimited market. Gov- ple of the American citizen of German descent ernment bids have been awarded with the results who retains the love and admiration for all that as specified. Awards of the highest character, is great and good in the history and the character presented by the superior juries of the Paris, Pan- of the German race, and is anxious to increase American, Charleston and the Louisiana Purchase the influence of German immigration upon the exhibitions, are treasured by Mr. Mietz as tes- slowly-forming character of the American people, timonials of his workmanship. In his private life Mr. Clausen stands in the front rank. In poli- 14f. SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS tics a Democrat, he is a member of the Arion Tammany Hall, the office of Sachem has been ty, the German Liederkranz and the Lu- dignified with his incumbencj and as chairman of theran Church. He was married on June 13. the Executive Committee and Committee on Or- 1872, t" Miss Henriette !•'. Knoche and has three ganization and as a member of the Democratic children. State Committee, he served his party faithfully and with distinction. Mr. Sohmer is at present WILLIAM SOHMER.—Of the old German serving the state in the Senate and because of towns whose sons have won marked recognition his varied and unlimited experience, and his pecu- and distinction in this country, the historic Wuert- liar adaptability to the functions of a legislator, is tenburg is important as the ancestral environ a forceful and interesting figure in that body. The ment of William Sohmer. May _>6, 1852, wh- artless simplicity and inherent frankness that go in sed the day of his birth, following which not tn make up Mr. Sohmer's individuality assert his than five years elapsed before his parents respect in the social world. He is a member of embarked with him to New York. With a public the Xew York Athletic Club, the Catholic Club, school education supplemented by a thorough busi- the Arion, Liederkranz, Eichenkranz, Xew Yorker college course, as a foundation, Mr. Sohmer, Turn Verein, Beethoven Maennerchor, the Ger- at an early age. entered the insurance field, which man-American Schuetzen Club and the National at that time was in the early stage of it- devel- Democratic Club. He has a brother in this city opment. After remaining a few years in the ser- who i-, in the piano business. To those publicists vice of a prominent lire insurance company, Mr. who are watching for the finest result of assimi- Sohmer resigned the position of manager to es- lated citizenship in this country, William Sohmer tablish himself independently in the Metropolitan has, by force of his own magnetic personality, ex- Bank Building at No-. 1 and 3 Third Avenue, ercised an attention that ranks him high among where his offices have been located ever since. His the successful German-Americans whose standing unbounded enthusiasm and energy, coupled with has so contributed to the moulding of a true the telling advantages of business sagacity and American nationality. concentration of purpose, produced the natural re- sult of instantaneous recognition and today the THEODORE CLEMEXS HEITEMEYER name of William Sohmer is synonymous with was born at Paderborn in Westphalia on Sep- the modern systematization and expansion of the tember 26, [844, and received his education in insurance business in this city. The characteristic the High School and the Gymnasium at Mini- enterprise and compelling personality of Mr. ster, Westphalia. After various positions in the Sohmer attracted unconscious attention on all leather business he entered the firm of R. Xea sides and it was with a ei s< of confident gFati maim & Co. and established with his present •1 thai his friends hailed his association with partner the manufacturing concern of tine fancy political and governmental institution-. In 1889 leathers in Newark, X.J. In [888 the firm, find- the representation of the Tenth Districl was con ing better inducements as regards location and tided to him and so conscientious was hi- fulfil- commerce, erected their present large works 111 ment of the trusl that increasing majorities con- Hoboken. Mr. Heitemeyer has been the man ns up' m him. Mr. Sohmer aging partner at the works from the start and ippeared before the public as candidate for still gives the greatest pari of his time to their sheriff on the Democratic ticket and although it supervision. The goods produced by the linn are was an adversi election for the entire ticket, no known far and wide, and its success is not -ur- little significance lies in the fad thai he led all prising if it is borne in mind that thorough his as ndidates by eighl thousand votes. knowledge of the business in all its branches. In [89s he was elected register, again running far strict integrity, enterprise and an unusual or alxad of his ticket and at the expiration of his ganizing and executive ability are combined in term was prominently mentioned as the Demo the person of on,- of its members. Mr. lleite cratic mayoralty candidate for the ensuing ele< meyer is one of those men who appear to he sur- lion While the choice of the convention did not charged with energy, hardly ever resting and devolve upon him, he was nominated and trium- observing with a keen eye whatever is important phant! >untj 1 lerk by a majority of or of value. This valuable gifl of recognizing over seventy thousand votes. Mr Sohmer's the importance of every detail, or, 011 the other clean cut career serves to exemplify the aphorism hand, ever) defect almost before it manifests that it is but consistent honest) and steadfast. itself, together with the ability to decide quick of purpose that can ?tand the test of time. ly what must be done. is one of his mOSl Highly honored in the rolls of Democracy and marked characteristics. Mr Heitemeyer has y SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 149 traveled widely and is fond of social diversions. goods is not confined to the United States, but is He is a member of the German Verein, Ger- recognized over the inhabited world. The busi- man Liederkranz and Arion of New York and ness which Mr. Keuffel established forty years of the German Club of Hoboken and a director ago, when only he and his partner comprised the of the Trust Company of New Jersey. On July entire force, employs to-day close to one thousand 8, 1874, he was married to Miss Mathilde Wege- people. The great success which Mr. Keuffel ner. Of his three children the son, Robert, is a has attained in building up a business of such partner in the father's firm; one daughter, El- magnitude and standing is due to his untiring frida, married Count Tareggi, and Elizabeth energy, his farreeing understanding of the needs lives with her parents. and the possibilities of his business, his indomita- ble will to overcome obstacles and his enthusi- WILLIAM KEUFFEL, manufacturer, was asm which enabled him to call forth the best born at Walbeck, Germany, on July 19, 1838. efforts of those working with and under him. He received his education in the public and pri- His personality was so far above the average vate schools of his birthplace. At the age of that those who met him could not help recogniz- fifteen he left school and became an apprentice ing it. Mr. Keuffel has been a resident of Ho- in a general merchandise store where he re- boken almost from the day he landed in Amer- mained for four years, receiving a severe but ica and has taken a great deal of interest in thorough mercantile and business training, which public and social affairs in New York and Ho- fitted him for the successful career of later boken, being a member of many prominent or- years. He then entered the employ of a large ganizations. He has, however, never entered hardware house in Hanover, Germany, from politics. For many years he was the president where, several years later, he went to Birming- of the Hoboken Academy, the well known Ger- ham, England. In 1866 he came to the United man-American school, and later on he was much States where, in 1867, he founded, together with interested in the Manual Training School, of his friend, Hermann Esser, the firm of Keuf- which he was a trustee for a number of years. fel & Esser, now so well known. Drafting was He is also a member of the Advisory Board of at that time in its infancy in this country and it the German Hospital and Dispensary. Mr. Keuf- was Mr. Keuffel's foresight which appreciated fel has a fine summer residence at Elka Park its coming importance accompanying the phe- of which association he is honorary president. nomenal development of American manufactur- On December 26, 1871, he married Miss Bertha ing and engineering enterprise. To supply all Schneeberger of St. Louis. He has four chil- the requirements, in office and field, of the sur- dren. veyor, engineer, architect and draftsman and make a specialty of this business was the pur- CHARLES VINCENT FORNES.—Although pose of the new firm and Mr. Keuffel can well a native of the United States and the son of a be called the pioneer of this line, because, up to Frenchman who was brought to America by his the founding of his firm, drafting supplies had father at an early age, Charles Vincent Fornes not been carried exclusively by any house in the attributes a large part of his success in life to United States. The business, beginning in a the influence of his mother, who came from Ba- very small way, was successful from the start den, Germany, and whose family name was and already three years later the firm published Krumholz. Mr. Fornes was born on his father's its first catalogue of drawing and surveying in- farm in Erie County, N.Y., in 1848, as the sev- struments which has become a standard. Forty enth of nine children. When he was four years years of labor and progress see Mr. Keuffel at old the father, who had in the meantime re- the head of the largest house in its line in the moved to Niagara County, died and the widow world. His factories at Hoboken are one of had a hard struggle to keep the homestead and the landmarks of that city and cover over five bring up the children. Until he went to school and one-half acres floor space. The main store at the age of six, Charles V. Fornes spoke Ger- at 127 Fulton Street, New York, is a model es- man only and had to learn English before he tablishment, where every requisite of the engi- could play with his schoolmates. He was an ex- neer and draftsman can be found and where un- ceptionally bright and diligent scholar and when usual facilities are afforded for examining and he had to give up attending the summer term be- testing the many delicate instruments of pre- cause his help was needed on the farm, he used dion included in this line. Similar stores are the little money he could earn from time to time maintained at Chicago, St. Louis and San Fran- to buy books which he studied during the win- cisco, but the reputation of Keuffel & Esser ter. He soon was able to earn enough money to 150 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AXD THEIR DESCENDANTS pay iii^ way through Lockport Academy from school of Melrose, where instruction in English which he graduated when sixteen years old The and German was given, and from 1866-1868 in principal of this institution, B. M. Reynolds, was Melrose Public School. He attended St. John's so much taken with the bright young man that College at Fordham from 1868 until 1869, and he taught him Latin and Greek privately and Niagara University at Suspension Bridge, X.Y., offered to pay his expenses through Vale College. until 1871, returning to St. John's College until But Mr. Fornes's mother had become an invalid he graduated in 1875. He then entered the and needed his assistance and the dutiful son School of Mines, now School of Sciences, of gave up the opportunity to enter upon a scientific Columbia University, and studied civil engineer- career. He accepted a clerkship in the office of a ing, graduating in 1879. He received the de- grain dealer in Buffalo during the season of navi- grees of A.B., A.M. and LL.D. from Fordham gation and in the winter took charge of a dis- University and of C.E. from Columbia Univer- trict school in Erie County. His work there sity. After the completion of his studies Mr. Haf- caused the superintendent of puhlic schools of fen engaged in the private practise of his pro- Buffalo to offer him a principalship, which Mr. fession as civil engineer and city surveyor for Forties accepted and held for three years. He several years, but in 1882 decided to study and then decided to devote himself entirely to mer- practise civil and mining engineering in the Far cantile pursuits and entered a wholesale cloth West. Returning to Xew York in 1883, he was house as cashier and bookkeeper. Eight years appointed engineer in the Department of Puhlic later he formed the firm of Dahlmann & Fornes, Parks and served as such until 1893, when he which, in 1877, removed to New York and soon was promoted to the position of engineer in assumed the name of C. V. Fornes & Co. These charge and superintendent of the new parks of are the milestones in a career which began hum- the Twenty-third and Twenty- fourth Wards, city lily hut through untiring industry, sterling honesty of New York and adjoining in Westchester Coun- and a keen grasp for public affairs was destined ty. In 1893 he was elected commissioner of street to round out beautifully. In 1889 Mr. Fornes improvements for the Twenty-third and Twenty- was elected president of the Catholic Club and fourth Wards, now the borough of the Bronx, held this position until 1894. During this time and reelected until the creation of the Greater the beautiful club-house on Central Park South City of New York, when he was elected the first noted, lie was a member of the committee president of the borough of the Bronx. This of me hundred that had charge of the Columbus office he has held ever since, having been elected unial Celebration. In 1891 he was elected six times in succession to the highest office in a trustee of the Emigrant Industrial Savings the gift of the people of his territory. For ten Bank, and since 1896 he has been the treasurer years he has been the Democratic leader in the of the Catholic Protectory. He is also a di- Bronx and he has seen how the district in which rector of the City Trust Co., which he helped to he was born grew from a collection of hamlets organize. In tool Mr. Fornes was elected presi- and villages to a city of nearly four hundred dent of tlie Board of Aldermen, which position thousand inhabitants. Mr. Haffen was married required him to act a- mayor of the city of New in February, 1NS0, in Miss Caroline Kurz, who York during the absence of the mayor. 'I lie tact gave him nine children, eighl hoys and one girl, and ability he displayed during his term of of- of whom six are living. fice brought about hi- reelect inn two years later. Mr. Fornes received the nomination for Congress JACOI', WEIDMANN of Paterson, N.J., was of the Eleventh Congressional District and was born at Thalweil in the Canton of Zurich in elected to that bodj iii 1906 by a large vote. Switzerland, on May jj. 1845. "e was educated in the public schools of his birthplace ami ap- LOl'IS F. HAFFEN was born on November prenticed to a dyer when sixteen years old. He 6, 1854, in the old village of Melrose, town of learned his trade thoroughly, being naturally am- Morrisania, now part of the borough of the bitious, and therefore not satisfied with master- Mi- father was born in Germany in 1B14 ing the mere routine of the calling which he had and had come to America in [832, while his Selected. The knowledge he thus acquired made mother, a descendant of an Irish father and a it easy for him to secure employment when, in h mother, was burn in Ireland in [823 and 1867, he came to America. Me settled in South America in [840. The father Manchester, Conn., ami was employed in the dy< originally on a farm outside of Williamsburg, ing plant of the large -ilk manufactory of Cheney I I. bui moved to Melrose early in [851. Mr. Bros, from [867 until 1872. in that year the Haffen received hi- first education in the village plan hi' had always cherished and never lost sight WILLIAM DEMUTH. 151 JOHN LOUIS SCHAKKKR. 152 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 153 of, to make himself independent, ripened and sideration. His efforts in this direction are great- was successfully executed. Mr. Weidmann ly facilitated by his personality, for a man of started a dyeing establishment in Paterson at the more winning ways, with the engaging courtesy corner of Paterson and Ellison Streets. While of a gentleman of the old school, can hardly be large enough for that period, it was almost insig- found. To this we must add a vigor and spright- nificant when compared with his present gigantic liness seldom met with in a man of Mr. Weid- plant. It covered eight city lots and employed mann's years, and it will be understood at once between one hundred and two hundred work- that his great success was the natural outcome ing men. The capacity was from two thousand of his qualities. Mr. Weidmann is a Repub- to two thousand five hundred pounds daily and lican in politics, a member of the Union League the water was procured from the city with the Club and third vice-president of the American exception of one artesian well. But the work Silk Association. He married in 1870 Miss done was of such superior quality and the in- Ellenor C. Cheney and has one daughter, Esther. tegrity and reliability of the proprietor became so quickly known and appreciated that a larger THEODORE SUTRO, lawyer, was born at establishment was needed. The present plant Aachen (Aix-la-Chapelle), Prussia, on March 14, was started in 1886 and covers now forty-three 1845, youngest son of Emanuel and Rosa (War- and one-half acres of ground. It is the largest endorff) Sutro. His father, a large cloth man- dyeing establishment in the world, employs four- ufacturer and a man of literary and artistic teen hundred hands and can handle from ten taste, died in 1847, and three years later Mrs. thousand to twelve thousand pounds of raw ma- Rosa Sutro emigrated with her seven sons and terial every day. The question of procuring four daughters to the United States in order water in abundance, and of the right quality was to find a better field for their future, the revolu- of course of the greatest importance. Mr. Weid- tion of 1848 having disturbed business affairs mann had artesian wells drilled along the river and prospects in Germany. She was a woman of bank opposite the plant and the growth of the rare beauty, intelligence and strength of char- business can best be indicated by the fact that acter, and educated her children with great care. while as late as 1896 fourteen of these wells Theodore Sutro received his education at the were sufficient, the work now requires fifty-six City College of Baltimore, where the family had of them, drilled to a depth of four hundred feet located, at Phillips Academy, Exeter, N.H., at and furnishing every twenty-four hours about Harvard College, where he graduated with high ten million gallons of fine clear spring water honors in 1871, receiving the degree of A.B., splendidly adapted for dyeing even when the and at Columbia Law School, New York City, most delicate shades are used. The operations where he graduated with the degree of LL.B. in of Mr. Weidmann's firm extend all over the Uni- 1874, and in the same year was admitted to the ted States, and the plant is, as has been stated, Bar and commenced the practise of law. In 1878 the largest of its kind in the world. From what he was admitted to the Bar of the United States has been said it will be understood as a matter Supreme Court. While at Harvard, although he of course that Mr. Weidmann is much more than stood so high in his class that he was elected a dyer. He combines with a thorough knowledge a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Fraternity, of the technique of his business an exceptional Mr. Sutro paid his own expenses in an unpre- gift for organization, for systematizing labor and cedented manner. At the close of his freshman methods in such a degree that large operations year, he interrupted his studies for three years of a multifarious character can be carried on and accepted employment in a large importing simultaneously without interfering with each house in Baltimore, after which he returned to other or causing confusion. The whole gigantic college to complete his studies but at the same establishment is run so smoothly that delays time established a commission business in Bos- which might interfere with the work to be done ton, the profits of which paid his expenses at are practically unknown and as good as impos- Harvard and for the rest of his law studies. Af- sible, thanks to the genius of Mr. Weidmann ter he had commenced to practise, Mr. Sutro gave for organization. Another trait of this remark- this business to one of his former employers who able man is his endeavor to make his employees had met with financial reverses. His practise feel that he takes great interest in them, and his was successful from the start; he devoted him- success in doing this. He is ever watchful that self mainly to the interests of corporations and they are well treated, and leaves nothing undone mercantile houses, at first alone, and later as that can increase the comfort and the happiness member of a law firm to which ex-Governor Ed- of those whose work shows that they deserve con- ward Salomon of Wisconsin also belonged and 154 SUCCESSFUL < iFRMAX-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS which represented the- German and Austrian Gov- of the German Language Society, Association ernment- as well as many German institutions in of German Authors in America. German Social New York City. In 1887 he saved the interests Scientific Society and a member of the German- of the Sutro Tunnel Co. t''>r the stockholders American School Association; was vice-president who were threatened with foreclosure, and the of the Hundred Year Club; president of the able manner in which lie managed the litigation Legal and Medical Aid Society; president of the and reorganization of the company brought him Association for Public Duty; member of the much renown. In 1895 ' K ' accepted an appoint- Metropolitan Museum ni Art, Society for the ment as tax commissioner by Mayor Strong, and ntion of Cruelty to Animals, Oratorio Soci- served in this capacity for three years, his great ety, Association for Improving the Condition of experience as a lawyer proving of much value the Poor and the National Health League. Mr. to the department. Since then he has been en Sutro has been especially active in all matters gaged in many complex tax and other litigations. of interest and benefit to the German-American A Democrat in politics, he has been identified population of this country, and has served on with almost every movement for the betterment many occasions a- their representative. On Oc- of existing condition-;, followed the late Oswald tober I, 1884, Mr. Sutro was married to Mis- dorfer as president of the German-Amer- Florence Edith Clinton, a descendant of the well ican Reform Union and was a member of the known Clinton family of colonial times. Mrs. inn I Money National Democratic Convent Sutro was a most beautiful woman of singular in [896, and of the National Democracy and the gifts and accomplishments in all the higher Democracy. Mr. Sutro is known as a pow- fields of human activity, and her home was a erful and convincing orator and has also writ- center of attraction to distinguished men and ten many poems and a number of essays and women in all walks of life. She died, much too pamphlets on questions of taxation, corporation early, when scarce forty-one, on April 27, 1006. law, medical jurisprudence, mining, sociology, politic-, a- well as general literature. In 1904 CARL LKXTZ, lawyer, was born at Bam- some of hi- occasional letter- and poems ad- berg in Bavaria on July 1, 1845. After attend- dressed to his wife were gathered by her in a ing the schools at Jena and Wiesbaden in Ger- volume under the title of "Milestones on Life's many ami receiving a good education, he came to Pathway," and which, though privately printed, America when little more than a boy. and on his attracted wide attention. He is also a musician sixteenth birthday enlisted for the Civil War. and a connoisseur of art and in [905 a critical From July 1. 1861, until mustered out in Decem- and historical work from his pen, entitled "Thir- ber, 1864, he saw almost continual service, was teen Chapters of American History, Represented commissioned first lieutenant in May, [864, and by the Kdward Moran Serie- of Thirteen His- severely wounded at the battle of Cedar Creek torical Marine Paintings," elicited most favora- on October 19, 1864, losing his righl arm. After omment. Mr. Sutro i- connected with nu- having received his honorable discharge, Mr. merous clubs and scientific, literary, civic and Lentz continued his studies at the Columbian Uni- other organizations, in most of which he has held versity at Washington, D.C., passing through the important positions. 11<- has been president of law school of this institution and graduating in the Societj of Medical Jurisprudence, i- a mem- 1873. He settled in Newark, N.J., and engaged ber of the City and Siat.- Bar Associations and in the general practise of his profession with tin- American Bar A :iation, of which latter he greal and lasting success. A Republican in poli- is chairman of the Committee on Taxation: the ties, lie took an active part in public affairs and International Law Association, the National Tax served a- chairman of the Republican County ciation, the American Political Science \- Committee of K-sex County from [892 to 1906. sociation, Phi Beta Kappa Fraternity, Columbia He wa- also president of the State Board of Tax- University Alumni, the Phillip- Exeter ^.cade ation of New Jersey. Mr. Lentz has always taken my Alumni, Harvard, Reform, German, Lieder- a lively interest in movements either inaugurated kranz, Patria and Drawing Room clubs; a foun by citizens of German birth or descent, or likely der of the Signet Club of Harvard University, to increase their welfare and influence. Himself member of the Folk Lore Society, Genealogical a Herman by birth, he has never hesitated to ex- and Biographical Society, West End Association; ert himself in the interest of his countrymen wa- vice-president of the United Real Estate when his assistance could be of benefit. He has Owners' Associations; is pre idem of the United been for some time the president of the North- German Societies; president of the German- rn Saengerbund, an association composed American Alliance of New York State: dil of the German singing societies in all the states ADOLPH G. HUPFEL. 155 HENRY EGGERS. 156 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 157 between Lake Erie and Chesapeake Bay. In this city and graduated from the high school when capacity Mr. Lentz has displayed great tact and seventeen years old. Like practically the whole diplomacy, and thereby maintained the harmony population of the district in which he grew up, so necessary to the success of an association of his father was engaged in the business of manu- this kind. He is a member of the German Lu- facturing cutlery and fine metal goods. As soon theran Church and was married on October n, as the son had left school, he entered the father's 1876, to Miss Huldah E. Wildrick. One daugh- factory and learned the business from the bot- ter, Mrs. Wilhelmine Lentz Bailey, and one son, tom up and as thoroughly as is the custom where Carl Wildrick Lentz, are the fruits of this union. whole families have followed the same calling for generations, and wholesome pride in the fame RICHARD A. FINN was born in Oelze in of the goods produced is fully developed. Young Thuringia, Germany, on February 21, 1856, and Goertz learned rapidly, but when he reached his received his education in the public school of his majority, he followed the example of so many birthplace until he came to America, when four- young men to whom the narrow confines of a teen years of age. Here he attended public school small city and the conditions surrounding them for about one year in order to acquire a knowl- became irksome and emigrated to America in edge of the English language and then took a 1867. He settled at Newark, N.J., and readily course in a business college. In 1873 Mr. Finn found employment, for his skill was indeed ex- secured a position with the New Jersey Life In- traordinary. While he had every reason to be surance Company which failed in 1877, when he contented, his ambition to be independent never was appointed a clerk in the controller's office. left him and in 1881 he decided to strike out for In 1881 the chief clerk and cashier of this office himself. With two intimate friends he formed absconded, after having embezzled a large the firm of August Goertz & Co., and began amount of money, and Mr. Finn was selected manufacturing fancy metal goods in a factory to replace him. Since then he has held these po- on New Jersey Railroad Avenue. The business sitions under all the successive controllers of the prospered from the start and the small plant soon insufficient. city of Newark, ' whether Republicans or Demo- proved to be In 1885 the firm erected crats, and has in that time handled more than a new factory on Morris Avenue, which since two hundred millions of dollars. Although com- then has been repeatedly enlarged. There more ing in contact with all kinds of people in his than three hundred working men are kept busy daily work, Mr. Finn has remained true to the all the year and improved machinery is constantly traditions he brought with him to this country added to increase the output. As a business man and, while a patriotic American and a faithful and manufacturer Mr. Goertz is widely known official of an American city, has not lost his love and the enviable reputation he has acquired shows for German customs, nor his pride in German what integrity, persistence and sagacity can ac- achievement. All his children were educated in complish when combined with a thorough knowl- German schools of Newark and speak and write edge of business. At the same time Mr. Goertz the language of the Fatherland perfectly. He has taken a great interest in public affairs and seeks his social diversions mainly among his devoted much time to the German-American German compatriots, and is a member of the school on Beacon Street. He is a Republican but Aurora and Germania Singing Societies, the has never taken an active part in politics. A Newark Turn Verein, German Diogenes Lodge great lover of music, it was natural that he joined, F. & A. M., and of many other social and benev- soon after his arrival in Newark, one of the Ger- olent organizations. Mr. Finn is also secretary man singing societies, the Phoenix, as whose of two building and loan associations and treas- president he served for twelve years. He urer of Mt. Washington Lodge K. & L. of is a member of the Arion, the Germania and Honor. He takes a lively interest in all German the Harmonie, as well as of several other socie- affairs and is esteemed as a tower of strength in ties. Whenever the Germans of Newark under- all movements affecting the German-Americans, took a larger task than usual, Mr. Goertz was as well as on account of the honor his career ready with aid and advice. During the great and character have conferred upon his country- National Singing Festival of 1891 he acted as men in their new home. chairman of the reception and prize commit- tees, and at the more recent festival of 1906 he AUGUST GOERTZ, merchant and manufac- was unanimously elected president and succeeded turer, was born in Ohligswald near Solingen in in conducting this immense and difficult enter- Rhenish Prussia on September 23, 1846. He re- prise with so much skill and tact that not a ceived his education in the schools of his native breath of dissatisfaction was raised. He is one 158 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND Tl I Elk DESCENDANTS of the many German- who came to tin- country his birthplace and later in a private school where with not much more than a noble character, a students of the Gymnasium Josephinum in Hil- thorough knowledge of his business, and the firm desheim, who prepare themselves for a career as determination to succeed, and who have achieved teacher-, give instruction. At an early age he what they set out to do. Mr. Goertz is vice- learned the trade of dama-k weaving from his president of the Wesl Side Trust Company, a father and was later on apprenticed to the mer- member of the Chamber of Commerce and mem- cantile house of Ferdinand Meyer & Co. in ber of the Board of Directors of the German Braunschweig, where he had to attend a com- Hospital. He was married twice; on January 3, mercial school twice a week. Having thus re- [872, to Miss Catherine Larouette, and on June ceived a thorough education in every sense of 6, IOOI, to Mrs. Minnie Noll (nee Dietz). His the word, Mr. Oelkers decided to emigrate to first wife gave him three children, Frieda, Paula America, where he arrived in 1864, not yet and Fred, and Walter and Herbert are the fruits eighteen years of age. Not afraid of hard work, of his second union. he turned to what he could find, and was em- ployed for some time in an iron foundry. In BENEDICT PRIETH, journalist, was born at 1868 he formed a partnership with his friend. Graun in the Austrian Tyrol on January 7, 1827. Christian Deppe, and established a factory for He received a very superior education at the uni- variety wood work and ivory articles. When ties of [nnsbruck, Graz and Vienna, where celluloid was discovered and the use of this ma- he studied law and received the degree of LL.D. terial became general, the firm, with clear per- A man of great knowledge and high attainments, ception of the possibilities, discontinued the mak- he preferred the career of a newspaper editor to ing of ivory article- and used henceforth cel- the practise of law, and settled in Newark, N.J., luloid. Mr. Oelkers has been very successful in 1857, founding the Xew Jersey Freie Zeitung, in his business, using his knowledge to great ad- whose editor he remained until his death in 1879. vantage and quickly establishing a reputation for His influence soon extended over the whole state honesty and reliability, but has found time to and even beyond it- boundaries, and his counsel devote a considerable part of his energies to pub- was eagerly sought by men interested in public lic affairs. A Democrat in politics, he served for affair-. A Republican in politics and always many years as treasurer of the Democratic Com- ready to fight for the principles he advocated, mittee of Essex County, but resigned when Will- never wavering in his devotion to the cause he iam J. Bryan was nominated in 1896, and joined had embraced after carefully examining its right- the Gold Democrats, attending the convention at eousness, he never accepted public office, although Indianapolis that nominated Palmer and Buck- he could easily have secured it. Mr. Prieth did ner, as a delegate. He has been a member of the not only as-ist his countrymen, the German- Board of Education of the city of Newark for Americans of his state, in every way possible, seven years and in 1904 was appointed member but he was of great value to them as a repre- of the Board of Fire Commissioners. Mr. Oel- sentative, his exceptional attainments winning for kers belongs to many benevolent and social or- him the esteem and admiration of the whole com- ganizations and is very active in German af- munity, thus increasing the influence of the ele- fairs, serving as first vice-president of the United ment with which he was identified. He was un- Singers of Newark for seventeen years, and as a doubtedly one of the best and mosl powerful director of the Northeastern Saengerbund for journalists German immigration has given to the twelve years. He is one of the most prominent United States, and his devotion to his ideals was figures in German Catholic circles and has de- instrumental in improving the tone of public di- voted much time and energy to their affairs, fill- ii and of everything in which he took an ing the office of state president of the German interest He lived to see the paper to which he Catholic Associations of New Jersey. For the had devoted his life's work become a powerful last five year- he ha- been pre-iden! of the Ger- institution. Married in i860 to Mi-s Theodora man Catholic Central Federation of the United Sautermeister, he left five children, Benedict and State-, an association extending over all the Edwin Prieth, Mrs. Henry Thielen, Mrs. Charles of the Union and composed of close on to V Feick and Mr- Lothar W. Faber. one hundred and twenty thousand members. Mr. Oelkers was married twice: to Miss Mary Uelene JOHN' B. OELKERS, manufacturer, was horn Schmitt, horn in Newark as the daughter of Ger- at Algermissen near Hildesheim, Province Han man parents, who gave him six children, of over in Germany, on December 17. [846, and re whom two boys and one daughter are alive, and ceived his education in the parochial school of after her death to Mi-- Elizabeth Mary Jackes, DAVID MAYER. 159 FREDERICK JOSEPH. L60 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 161 also of parents, born in America German whose charming and contented circle. His charity is as seven children, five boys and two girls, are liv- unostentatious as extended and while he is a ing. At his home in Newark, Mr. Oelkers is member of and contributor to many hospital and respected and looked up to by the people of all other charitable associations, hardly a day passes classes and nationalities, regardless of their de- without some person or some worthy cause re- scent religious belief. positive or Although a ceiving substantial aid from him. Mr. Eggers is and consistent Catholic, he is thoroughly liberal a member of Grace German Lutheran Church, in his views and actions where others are con- the Arion Society, the Columbia Yacht Club and cerned, conceding to everybody the right of full the Produce Exchange. He was married on Feb- freedom in his convictions and opinions. No bet- ruary 12, 1885, to Miss Hermenia Schmidt and ter proof of his popularity and the esteem he has six children, Hedwig, Henry who is associ- enjoys can be cited than the fact that he was ated with his father in business, Hermine, Her- elected a member of the Board of Education man, Helen and Elsie. three times in succession with steadily increas- ing majorities in a district where hardly ten per HANS HOHNER, merchant and manufac- cent of the voters are Catholics. turer, was born at Trossingen in Wuerttemberg on April 25, 1870. His father, Matthias Hohner, HENRY EGGERS, merchant, was born in the born at Trossingen on December 12, 1833, was a province of Hanover in Germany on December clockmaker by trade, manufacturing his clocks 31, 1850, and educated in the schools of his birth- during the winter and traveling during the spring place, supplementing his education by a course and summer through Southern Germany and in the evening schools of New York City, where Austria in order to sell them. The hardships he he graduated. At the age of seventeen, Mr. Eg- encountered and the small profit he realized from gers decided to seek his fortunes in America and this method of earning his living induced him to landed in New York on August 13, 1868. He look out for something more promising. He was found employment as bookkeeper in the whole- in the habit of carrying a few harmonicas or sale grocery house conducted by John H. Brett- mouth-organs with his stock of clocks, and found mann and remained there until 1872, when he ac- that they were more easily disposed of. Slowly cepted a position as office manager with Mahnken the conviction grew in him that he could do & Morsehouse, likewise wholesale grocers, being a much larger and more profitable business by promoted after a short time to the position of devoting himself entirely to harmonicas if he sales manager. After a few years he decided could only procure them more cheaply by manu- to make himself independent and on April 1, 1879, facturing them on a larger scale. He put his started in the wholesale grocery business under idea into practise in 1857 when he ceased making the firm name of Mohlman & Eggers, this being clocks and started manufacturing harmonicas ex- changed on May 1, 1884, to Henry Eggers & Co. clusively. His facilities were naturally limited The business grew rapidly to large proportions but he found it very simple to produce the neces- and has for many years amounted to several sary tools, owing to his skill as a mechanic. Up millions a year. This is due principally to Mr. to that time the making of harmonicas had been Eggers's intimate knowledge of, and to his con- treated as a secret, but Mr. Hohner took a stant devotion to, the business. He declined all broader view of the matter and took into his offers to become interested in banks or other en- employ everybody who wished to learn the trade. terprises, believing that a director should really The sequel proved that he was right, for the direct, and knowing full well that he could not business started in so humble a way has assumed spare the time to watch other affairs without gigantic proportions, and has changed the little neglecting his own interests. Mr. Eggers is a village of Trossingen, where formerly only a few gentleman of the old school and believes in the clockmakers carried on a small and unimportant strictest kind of honesty. His maxim, that six- industry, into a busy industrial center. From the teen ounces and not a particle less make a pound, very beginning Mr. Hohner followed two princi- governs all his transactions, and nothing can ples strictly : Firstly, that all goods turned out swerve him from the path of duty. He is just as by his factory must be perfect and first class in firmly convinced that a man can only succeed if every respect, and secondly, that the process of he does not allow other interests to interfere with manufacturing must be simplified to increase the his work. True to this belief, he does not spend rapidity of the output, and to reduce the cost. much time in clubs or society, but devotes al- One of the first improvements he introduced con- most every hour he can spare from his business sisted in cutting the metal plates from large to his family, where he is the beloved head of a sheets, instead of casting them singly as had been 162 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS the custom. He also had his name stamped upon New York City and succeeded not only in con- every instrument thai left the factory, and the tinually extending the business of the firm but excellence joods is best proved by the also in making many warm friends. He was mar- fact that in 1866, less than ten years after he had ried in 1893 to Miss Caroline H. Birk, and is a started his factory, part of a shipment of har- member of the Arion Society. monicas was rejected by an American buyer be- cause, probably in consequence of an oversight, CHARLES CHRISTIAN WEHRUM was one the name of the manufacturer had not been of those Germans who have achieved success ill stamped upon the instruments. The buyer de- America entirely by their own efforts, and who clared that harmonica- without the name Hohner base -urmounted obstacles which only excep- were unsalable. In 1880 a new large factory tional qualities can deal with. He was born at was erected at Trossingen, and the first steam Pirmasens in the Rhenish Palatinate on October plant in that village installed. Later on branch 1, 1841, and came to America in January, 1852, factories were built in several of the neighbor- after having attended the schools of his native ing villages and the establishment of Frederick city for a few years. His parents settled in Hotz in Knittlingen in Saxony, which is reputed Third Street, near Avenue A. New York City, to have been the first harmonica factory in the and the boy was sent to Public School No. 13 in world, was purchased. All the branches were Houston Street. When he was thirteen years old equipped with modern and labor-saving ma- his mother died, and he went to East Cambridge chinery. In September. 1900, Mr. Matthias Hoh- for one year to learn the art of wood carving. ner retired from active business, after forty-three Returning from school, he worked for four year- of unceasing work. He placed the estab- years at making gilt mouldings, and was for a lishment in the hands of his five sons, Jacob, while associated with his stepfather in the deco- Matthias, Jr., Andreas, Hans and William, who rating business. At the outbreak of the Civil have continued it on the same lines. A concep- War, young Wehrum, hardly nineteen years old, tion of its growth may he formed from the fact enlisted at Fort Warren in the Twelfth Massa- that it was started in 1857 with one working man chusetts Infantry, commanded by Colonel Flet- and turned out six hundred and fifty harmonicas cher Webster, the only son of the great Daniel in the first year, while in 1007 it employed two Webster, who had outlived the father. After thousand and fifty hands and produced nearly the two months for which he originally enlisted -even million instrument--, besides one hundred had expired he reenlisted and took part in every and fifty thousand accordeons, the manufacture campaign of his regiment until he was mustered of which was begun in 1003 in a factory especially out with the rank of captain in July, 1864. Dur- erected for tin- purpose. Matthias Hohner, the ing that time he saw a great deal of active ser- founder of the firm which now enjoys a world- vice and participated in thirty-three battles. At wide reputation, died on December II, 1002, be- Antietam he was severely wounded but rejoined loved and mourned by all who knew him. He his command as soon as he could leave the hos- was a member of the Chamber of Commerce and pital, and was commissioned adjutant on account a trustee of the National Association of Musi of his soldierly qualities and high order of in- cal Instrument Maker-, mayor of his native city telligence. He was again wounded at Gettysburg for -i\ years and member of the Board of Conn but took part in the campaigns under General cil for thirty years. The nomination for sena- ('rant until mustered out. The value of his ser- tor offered to him by tin- National Liberal Par- vices is eloquently attested by the following sen- ty of Germany be had declined. In the i tence, added by his colonel to his discharge: "In time branch offices had been erected in New character a brave and excellent officer, distin- York, London, Toronto, Warsaw and Vienna. guished for energetic attention to his duties in The fourth -on of the founder. Han- Hohner, camp or field, always reliable, always at hi- post took charge of the New York office, the most of duty." The young captain — for he was only important of all. for America had from the 'art twenty three years old — returned to New York taken a large part of the output. Hi- headquar- and entered the employ of a firm dealing in lum- ters were at first at 354 Broadway, but were moved ber, some years later known as C. W. Allcott idwav after the building mentioned had & Co. Here, too, he was "always reliable, al- Keen destroyed by fire. Mr. Hans Hohner was way- at hi- post of duty," and rose from -tep to ted in the schools of his native city anil -tep, until eight years later he was admitted to die High School of Commerce at Stuttgart, where partnership. Under his management the firm he graduated with honors. Since 1890 he has, grew to be one of the largest in its line in the with short interruptions, been a re idenl of city, and Mr. Wehrum amassed a fortune large HEINRICH CONRIED. 163 a MF.R. U.4 ADOLPH C. HOTTEXROTH. 165 CHARLES VINCENT FORNES. K.6 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 167 enough to permit him to retire in 1889. This Hospital, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Amer- did not mean to him that he should live out his ican Museum of Natural History and the Loyal life in idleness but he had now the time and League, also a Mason of Eastern Star Lodge No. opportunity to devote himself to matters that 227 and Empire Chapter No. 170. His death oc- had always appealed to him. He became a stu- curred March 11, 1908. dent of the Civil War and wrote a number of monographs dealing with different events and EDWARD PAUL REICHHELM, manufac- phases. Among them are a sketch treating the turer, was born at Striegau in Silesia, Germany, beginning of the war, an exhaustive study of the on November 13, 1843, and came to America with great battles, separate papers on the battles of his parents in 1848, when five years old. He re- Antietam, Gettysburg, Chancellorsville, the Wil- ceived his education in a country school and later derness and Spottsylvania Court House, a treatise in Dr. Dulon's German-American Academy, one covering the actions of the Army of the Poto- of the first German-American schools in this mac after Gettysburg and a sketch of the end country and justly celebrated for its excellence. of the war, including personal reminiscences. After graduation he studied mechanical engi- Many of these papers were read before organiza- neering at Cooper Institute at night, while ap- tions of veterans and other associations, and in prenticed to the firm of A. & F. Brown at the a series of lectures in the Normal College of the age of sixteen, to learn the trade of machinist. City of New York Mr. Wehrum went over the When the war broke out, young Reichhelm's en- same ground before large and enthusiastic audi- thusiasm induced him to run away from home ences. While never active in politics and de- and to enlist in the Third Missouri Infantry on cidedly independent in the treatment of all public September 5, 1861. He rapidly gained promotion questions, Mr. Wehrum was appointed a com- and was advanced from grade to grade, until he missioner of education by Mayor Grant in 1891. received a commission as lieutenant in the Fifty- In this capacity he made a brilliant record. He first United States Colored Infantry, being ap- devoted practically his whole time to the dis- pointed regimental adjutant and mustered out on charge of his duties and displayed such syste- June 16, 1866, with the rank of captain. Mr. matic and practical activity that he was soon rec- Reichhelm saw hard and severe service and took ognized as one of the ablest members of the part in twenty-three battles, among them Pea board. He fought with energy and insistence for Ridge and the taking of Vicksburg. He was the continuation of instruction in the German lan- wounded several times and repeatedly commended guage in the public schools which was threat- for bravery upon the battlefield, at Pea ridge, ened by some of the authorities on the ground Arkansas Post, Chickasaw Bluffs and the assault that the knowledge of more than one language is upon Vicksburg on May 22, 1863. After re- of the greatest benefit and an important educa- turning from the war Mr. Reichhelm was em- tional factor, and that in a city with so large a ployed as a clerk until 1873, when he established population speaking German it was a matter of himself in the business of manufacturing and sell- course that this language should be selected. He ing mechanics' tools. In 1876 the firm of E. P. took the initiative in the movement to secure Reichhelm & Co. was founded and began busi- pensions for teachers who were compelled to re- ness at 65 Nassau Street, and in 1886 Mr. Reich- tire on account of advanced age, and to his ef- helm organized the American Gas Furnace Com- forts the success of this measure was due. When pany, of which he is president, and which is en- the bill finally passed the Legislature Governor gaged in utilizing several of his inventions for Flower expressed his admiration to Commis- the better use of gas in mechanical heating proc- sioner Wehrum for the energy with which he esses. The plant of this concern is located at had pu c hed it until it became a law. He was re- Elizabeth, N.J., and employs many skilled me- appointed by Mayor Strong but resigned before chanics. The system of heating invented by Mr. the expiration of his term in October, 1896, on Reichhelm has been adopted by many of the sci- account of ill health, to the great regret of all entific departments of the United States Gov- friends of the public schools. Mr. Wehrum was ernment, especially by the Bureau of Standards, married on May 26, 1868, to Miss Elizabeth the Mints and the Arsenals. It is also exten- Schumacher of Buffalo, who died on November sively used by scientific schools and colleges, 25, 1905, and left him seven children, six sons among them Columbia University, Stevens Insti- and one daughter. He was a member of the tute, University of Minnesota, McGill University Twelfth Regiment Massachusetts Association, of Montreal, Cornell University and many oth- Reno Post G.A.R., St. John's Guild, German Hos- ers. It has found its way abroad and is in use pital Association, German Society, Presbyterian in the British Mint, the British Arsenal, the Im- 5UO ESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS perial German Gun Factory at Spandau and in to the Pan-American Exposition at Buffalo. He the plants of large private concerns like Siemens has always been identified with the Republican & Halske of Berlin. The company has dealings party and in 1896 was a McKinley elector; he with practically all the large firms in this line in i- a trustee of Bellevue and allied hospitals; a the United Si the Westinghouse Com director of Market and Fulton National Bank, pany, the General Electric Co., U.S. Steel Cor- the Great Eastern Casualty Company ; as well as on and many others. .Mr. Reichhelm has a trustee and director in a number of other in- received many medals and awards in recognition stitutions. Mr. Stern is a member of the Freund- of the value of thi- system of heating, among schaft and Republican clubs; a member of the them the John Scott Legacy medal of the Frank- Chamber of Commerce, also a member and trus- lin Institute of Philadelphia, several medals from tee of Temple Beth El. He married in 1883 and the American Institute and a number of exposi has two son-, Nathan J. and J. Ernest. Mr. Stern tion prize- In [900 Mr. Reichhelm established i- a man of unassuming manner-, of an agreeable the American-Swiss File & Tool Company at personality and is charitable to a marked degree. Elizabeth, N.J . for the purpose of making only the finest grade of files which, up to that time, JACOB WOLFGANG MACK, merchant, was had been exclusively supplied by Swiss file ma- born at Eurth in Bavaria on February 25, [845, kers who alone were able to turn out the finer and educated in the schools of his native city. He grades. This new enterprise was based upon a came to New York in 1863 and subsequently en- wide experience of treating Steel under heat, ami gaged in the machinery business with pronounced a long serie- of experiments, la-ting over four success. Mr. Mack has taken a lively interesl in Iving new methods in making files public affairs and in almost every movement in- which r. suited in the production of the best files augurated to reform the administration of the in the world. This was quickly recognized, and city. His zeal in this direction has brought him at the St. Louis Exposition in 1904 Mr. Reich a wide acquaintance, and his assistance has been helm received the first prize, a gold medal, for as eagerly sought as readily given. He is of the file- he exhibited. Mr. Reichhelm i- a re studious disposition, fond of literature and ex ident of Hudson County, N.J.. i- an independent ceptionally well read, and an accomplished lin- Republican and takes an active interest in all guist, having studied and learned almost all im- movements for good government ami the better- portant language-, some of them during the time ment d existing conditions. IK- i- presidenl of he could spare from his business. His accom the Park Commission of Bayonne, a member of plishments, and the attention he had paid t<> the Masonic Fraternity, Loyal Legion, Cooper educational matters, led to his appointment as Union Alumni Association, G.A.R. Post Geo. commissioner of education. He served two terms II. Thomas N New Jersey, the Anon in this capacity and was one of those to whom ('lull Society, Schubert (dee Club and Cosmo- the city of New Yofk i- indebted for the i of Jei 1 Mr Reichhelm attends the Firsl duction of modern methods in its public schools Reformed Church of Bayonnc. ()f hi- five chil- and the extension of the whole educational sys dren, three are alive: two -.m- who are associ- tem. Mr. Mack is a member of the Harmonie, ated in business with the father, and one unuiar German Liederkranz, National Arts, City Re- ried daughter. Mr. Reichhelm takes an occasional form. Lawyers' and Century Country clubs, the trip to Europe, hut like- 1110-t to spend his leisure Chamber of Commerce, Metropolitan Museum of time in reading and studying. Mi- favorite sub \ri. Museum of Natural History, Geographical political economy, and In- finds great Society and many other social and scientific as pleasure in evolving invention- and designing new sociations, a- well a- vice president of the Society method- that tend to improve the product for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. vhich enjo) the reputation of be ing the best of their kind. JOHN MARTIN OTTO.—Among those who have been iiist runieiit al in the progressiveness LEOPOLD STERN, manufacturer and im- of Williamsburg, New York City, the subject porter and senior member of the firm of Stern of this sketch has been foremosl in his support, Brothers & Company, was horn at Monzii nol only in an industrial way, but ha- devoted Germany. Thirty seven years ago Mr Stern ! table time and energy to all matters per- to New York, where I ided con- taining to the development and welfare of that tinuously ever since. He ha- always taken great section of Greater New York in which he resides. • in public affair- In 1001 he was ap Mr. Otto was born at Thalheim. W'uerttembcrg, . ernor Roosevell a commis ioner Germany, November t8, [843, where he received OTTO WISSNER. 169 WILLIAM PI l l R. 170 JOHN CHRISTIAN GLASER HUPFEL. 171 CARL FREDERICK GO] 172 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 173 his early education, and only schooling, in the Newark, Boston, Union Hill, Staten Island, etc German public institutions, which have always These swimmers are made out of XXX X tin, been noted for their thoroughness. He entered are easy to handle and so formed that they need upon his life's work at an early age, taking up no special weights to keep them in proper posi- the trade of cornice manufacturing, sheet iron tion. They are no doubt the best, most dura- working, etc. He was an apprentice in that line ble, practicable and cheapest swimmers that are for three years and every spare moment was manufactured. Their form also gives them the utilized for profiting himself in the vocation he advantage above all others, that they balance had chosen. It was not until i860 that Mr. Otto themselves and do not sink. Throughout his long decided to come to this country and establish a and successful career he has always been held in business for himself, but the undertaking was not the highest esteem by his fellow citizens and accomplished until 1865, when he founded his through honest endeavor and hard work he has present establishment, which is located at Xo. 46 built up one of Brooklyn's largest enterprises. In Maujer Street, Brooklyn. It was not long be- politics he has always been a stanch Republican; fore his personality brought him many friends his first vote was cast for Abraham Lincoln in and his business interests grew rapidly. When 1864. Aside from exercising his franchise right, the Civil War broke out he was one of the first Mr. Otto has never aspired to hold any public ; liberally to the to offer his services ; he enlisted and saw active office he has always contributed service throughout the entire campaign. He was Republican cause in the securing of good gov- honorably discharged from service. It was im- ernment. Mr. Otto is identified with many fra- mediately thereafter that he began devoting his ternal and social orders ; most prominent among entire time and attention to the establishing of them are Mansfield Post of Brooklyn, Coper- his present business. In 1872 he received patents nicus Lodge No. 545, Masonic Order, a member on "Otto's Iron Surface Coolers and Swimmers," and trustee of Williamsburg Masonic Board of which, in 1876, received the highest award at Relief ; a director of the German Savings Bank the World's Exhibition at Philadelphia, and are of Brooklyn, Arion Singing Society and of the the only ones so honored. These coolers of which German Lutheran Church. It was during the he is the sole manufacturer and patentee, have early part of his business life that he met Miss many advantages over all other surface coolers. Agnes Roehr and on the eleventh of November, Formerly it was an often repeated complaint that 1866, they were married. To this union have been Frederick, surface coolers always leaked and could only be born four children : three sons, Martin, kept tight by a great expenditure of time and Carl L., living, and a son and one daughter now money. By using these improved and patented deceased. Mr. Otto has given his sons a very surface coolers, all these difficulties are overcome. careful training for their life work, with a thor- One great improvement consists in the arrange- ough education. He has been rewarded by seeing ment of T-irons under the joints, between the them develop into successful business men. Carl several sheets of iron, which constitute the bot- studied architecture at Columbia College and com- tom of said pan, in such a manner that by such pleted his profession in the Paris Ecole des Beaux his return T-irons the bottom is strengthened and the edges Arts, from which he graduated. Upon of the sheets of iron are prevented from bulging to this country he opened offices at 130 Fulton up, thereby producing a flat and even bottom, Street, New York City, and has since then been en- which is a great desideratum in cooling pans. The identified with many important architectural several large rim of the pan is formed by bending the extreme terprises. He has constructed edges of the outer sheets upward to the desired churches in Brooklyn, the German Presbyterian, Street, Ger- height, and said rim is strengthened by angle- corner Bushwick Avenue and Ralph and Wood- irons, which are riveted to it, extending through- man Baptist Church, corner Evergreen and he gives out its entire length and width. By means of bine Streets, and several others, these T-irons the joints between the several every promise of becoming one of the best in his sheets are rendered tight and perfectly flat, the chosen profession. sheets being effectually prevented from bulging up, so that a cooling pan is obtained which is CHARLES ENGELHARD, merchant and superior in strength and durability to cooling manufacturer, was born at Hanau-on-the-Main, pans as heretofore constructed, and in which the on March 8, 1867. His father was Julius Engel- operation of cooling can be carried on with ease hard, a diamond merchant at Hanau, who died living, was Su- and facility. The swimmers, as made by Mr. in 1897. His mother, who is still Otto, were in use for some years in many sanne Holzmann, daughter of Philip Holzmann, of the large breweries in New York, Brooklyn, the founder of the firm of Philip Holzmann & 174 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCEXDAXTS Co. at Frankfort, one of the largest building and educated by an uncle who was secretary to Bishop engineering concerns in the world. Mr. Engel- von Wesenberg but had been transferred to a hard received his first education at the Realschule small town on account of his liberal political of his native city, but was, on account of delicate views. Mr. Welte's uncle was a man ni superior health, entrusted to the care of the Reverend attainments and instructed the nephew in nii:< ; c, Seeger at Seckmauern in the Odenwald, where physics, natural history, mathematics, etc. At he was given private instruction. He completed that time the industry of making musical clocks lucation at the Bender Institute at Wein- striking chimes at every quarter of an hour was heim in Baden and passed the examination secur- carried on extensively in the Black Forest and ing the right for one year's voluntary service in young Welte used his knowledge in improving the Army. After graduation, Mr. Engelhard the rather primitive product by enlarging the worked as apprentice in the banking-house of A. scale and inserting two or more stops for the Mumm & Co. at Frankfort-on -the-Main for two pipes. In 1845 he received an order from one and one-half years, when he went to London of the traders who visited the district once a where he was employed as clerk for two years. year to buy clocks, for as complete a musical He then returned to llanau. assisting his father clock as he could make, lie worked on this in- in his business until in 1891 he came to America strument for three years and succeeded in pro- and established himself in New York as the ducing something entirely new, imitating all the representative of W. C. Heraeus, platinum works, different instruments of a complete orchestra, in- at Hanau. This is one of the largest establish- cluding the bass drum, snare drum and the tri- ments of its kind and known all over the world. angle and playing Beethoven's symphonies as well One of the members of the firm is the brother- as overtures, opera selections, marches and dan- in-law of Mr. Engelhard. His activity is by no ces. The instrument was exhibited in 1S49 under means confined to this branch. Under the firm the protectorate of Prince Fuerstenbcrg ami met name of Charles Engelhard. Mr. Engelhard does with enormous success, the press calling it an or- e importing business on his own account, and chestrion, which designation has remained. Mi- i- the president of the American Platinum Works chael Welte continued to improve his invention at Newark. X.J., a director of Raker & Co., Inc., and orders increased, but for a long time orches- and president of the Eianovia Chemical & Mfg. trions were built only when ordered and practi- 1 E tlie same city; director and treasurer of cally all the orders came from foreign countries. the Glorieux Smelting & Refining Work- of In 1865 it became necessary to send a representa- [rvington, X.J., and director of the American tive to the United States and the oldest son, Kmil Electric Furnace Co. of New York City. Mr. Welte, was selected. He opened a store and [hard i- a member of the German Club, Ger- showroom on Fifth Avenue and soon did a man Liederkranz, German Society, Legal Aid thriving business. When he found that the Society, Chemists' Club, American Chemical So- wooden cylinders could not withstand the change 1 i.in Hospital Society, St. Marks' Hos of climate, he invented the pneumatic action pital Society, Yew York Diet Kitchen Association worked by paper rolls in 1S7S t.. 1883 for which and many other benevol inizations, and cured patents and which have since then belongs to the Dutch Reformed Church. Mi~ been successfully employed with other instru- al grandfather was the last teacher of the ments \ complete orchestrion represents all the Dutch Reformed School of the Huguenot set- instruments of an orchestra from the d< at tit 1 lanati on the Main. On April iS, note of the contra basso to the highest note of IOOO, Mr. Engelhard was married to Miss F.my the piccolo. Six hundred labia pipes rep- Canthal, eldest daughter of Commercienrath Can- tile full string quartette, the flute and piccolo, thai of 1 lanau. trombone, bass 1, trumpet, English horn, clario- nets and oboes represented by one hundred and EMIL WELTE, importer and manufacturer, seventy reed pipes, and by the combination with was bom at Voehrenbach in the Black Forest in the labia pipes, the character and the individu- Baden on \p r il 20, 1841 lb received his early ality of the orchestral instruments are repre- s education in the ( -h,„)ls f his birthplace and sented in a most realistic manner. Resides these, learned the trade of making orchestrions in the all the other instruments perform in perfect pre- ry of his father, attending at the same time cision, and in harmony, piano and forte as re- the Gewerbeschule \ further musical instruc- quired. The orchestrion music rolls reproduce tion followed by Hof Kappell, Meister Joseph practically every piece of music played by an or- Straus in Karlsruhe in harmonick of instrumen- chestra. The sale id these instruments has in- tation. The father, Michael Welte, had creased immensely and many of the crowned JOHN EICHLER. 175 fAI OB RUPP1 RT. 176 HERMAN JOSEPH. 177 PH J SI HAEFEK. 178 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 179 heads of Europe and other continents, as well as York under the name of the Dressel Railway men of the highest standing in every country of Lamp Works, with George C. Dressel as presi- the globe have bought them. Mr. Emil Welte is a dent, Frederick W. Dressel as vice-president and member of the German Liederkranz. In 1871 he Charles H. Dressel as secretary. When Mr. George married Miss Emma E. Foerstner of Norwich, C. Dressel died on July 3, 1899, after an illness Conn. His son, Carl M., is associated in business extending over a number of years, Frederick W. with the father and both associated with M. Dressel was elected president and Charles H. Welte and Soehne in Feiburg, Baden. Dressel vice-president, in which capacity they still serve. The products of the firm have been sold GEORGE C. DRESSEL, manufacturer, was and are used all over the United States and Can- born in 1828 at Frankfurt-on-the-Main and re- ada, and in recent years they have also been sold ceived his education in the schools of his native to Mexico, Cuba, South America, China and city. When he reached his majority, Mr. Dressel Japan. The continual growth of the demand for decided to find a larger sphere of activity and the goods made by the firm led to plans for an- emigrated to America, where he arrived in 1849. other increase of the plant and the addition of He had taken passage on a sailing vessel, the day new products, such as electrical goods, navy lan- of elegant and fast steamers not yet having ar- terns, automobile lamps, etc. The large factory rived, and the trip was connected with consid- is run in a most systematical way, which makes it erable hardship. But the young man came full a model establishment. The basement is used as of hope and energy and with the firm resolve to a storeroom for the material. On the first floor succeed. He entered the employ of the New we find the machine shop, press room, packing York Central & Hudson River Railroad, after and shipping departments and offices. The lighter working for some time as mechanic, and remained grades of work, such as spinning, assembling and with them for eighteen years in the capacity of japanning, are done on the second floor, while expert mechanic. In 1881 he resigned his posi- the third floor is entirely used for the manufac- tion and entered into partnership with his young- ture of locomotive headlights, with the exception est son, Frederick W. Dressel, under the firm of some space occupied by the buffing, plating name of George C. Dressel & Co. A small fac- and polishing departments. Each department is tory was erected on the north side of One Hun- practically independent, being managed by a fore- dred and Seventy-third Street which still stands man who is responsible to the firm direct, every and forms not only an interesting landmark but item of expense being charged to the department also shows how small the beginning of the pres- requiring the outlay. In the same way salaries ent immense plant was. The firm started by man- and running expenses are divided. In this way ufacturing a practical lunch satchel for railroad the management knows at all times how the sep- men and mechanics. The manufacture of signal arate departments are conducted, while at the lamps was later begun and this venture met with same time the different foremen are compelled such success that the manufacture of lunch boxes to use their knowledge and ability in the inter- was discontinued and the entire time and energy est of the business to the fullest extent. Sev- devoted to making and improving all kinds of eral years ago the firm added its own foundry lamps used in railroading. The eldest son, Charles and tinning plant to the factory, enabling it to H. Dressel, became a member of the firm in 1892, construct every part of their product except and the original establishment proved too small. steel, glass and sheet metals. The magnitude of A tract of land on Park, then Vanderbilt, Av- the operations may be understood from the fact enue was acquired in 1893 and the present fac- that while every railroad lamp serves practically tory erected in the following year. The new the same purpose, almost every railroad has some plant was equipped with the best and most mod- system that cannot or is not used by others. Thus ern machinery that could be secured and the firm the styles and colors of the lenses alone are very began to further extend its field by the manu- numerous and complicate what otherwise would facture of locomotive headlights. All the mem- be a comparatively simple operation. The main bers of the firm being experts in mechanics office is located in the factory building but it and of an inventive turn of mind, they constantly has been found necessary to establish another made improvements and secured patents which office in the business part of the city and branches proved of great value. Many of the articles man- in Chicago and Atlanta. ufactured by the concern have been accepted as standard by the largest railroads in the United FREDERICK JOSEPH, president of the New States. On January 15, 1895, the firm was in- York Butchers' Dressed Meat Company, was born corporated under the laws of the state of New January 31, 1851, at Reichelsheim, Darmstadt, 180 SUCCESSFUL i il-.R MAX -AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS where he received his primary education in the and Sulzberger Company, distinguished himself of concern. great local schools. Later. Mr. Joseph took a three a- the practical man the His were splendid years' course "t" study in the Boys' Seminary at business sagacity and foresight Pfungstadt und Michelstadt. At the age of four- assets which enabled the house to extend its op- its Hi- teen lie went to Frankfurt, where lie remained eration- and multiply output. name for one year, after which he returned t<> hi- na- then, a- to-day, -laud- a synonym of all that is of this tive place ami engaged in business pursuits with authoritative in the packing industry 1. Mr. hi- father, a gentleman who was widely and country and Europe. On May 1907, Joseph favorably known in that section of Germany as was elected president of the .Yew York Butchers' one of the largest owner- and buyers of cattle, Dressed Meat Company. Since hi- election to and with whom he remained until he was sev- the presidency of the company, it- output and the careful -ale- tripled. Judging from the past career enteen y< E age. It was under have business tuition of the elder Joreph (the father of its president, coupled with his great executive of the subject of this -ketch) that he obtained ability, it i- safe to assert that within a period valuable knowledge of manj of the details which of a few years, tin- concern will he one of the ractically fitted him in his subsequent career most extensive of its kind in this country. Mr. after coming to America which occurred in 1869. and Mrs. Joseph have five children living, viz.: When he arrived he had hut limited capital. Moses Henry, Leo, Hugo, Adele, now Mr-. Leon- After remaining a few months in New York ard B. Shoenfeld of Yew York City, and Beat- City he went West, locating at Chicago, 111., rice. Mr-. Joseph's father, the late Joseph where he obtained a position a- bookkeeper and Schwarzchild. Esq., was active in the German manager in a brewery of that city, and where Revolution of 1848 and wa- a warm friend of he only remained for a period of one year (1870- the late Carl Sclmrz. Mr. Joseph is not a club is of 1N71 1. In the latter named year he went to At- man hut one the splendid characters which tica. Ind.. where he remained intermittently until a do r In une life moulds. He is fond of travel :--- During the greater portion of the time and for the past thirty years has made an an- between [87] and [878, however, Mr. Joseph nual tour of Europe. During his long associ- in travel throughout the Far West section ation in the commercial world he has made many of the United States, and along the great cattle friends whose numbers are legion. His stand- ranges where he obtained practical details of ing for probity and integrity i- a fact where- the cattle and live stock business, adding it to ever he i- known. He ha- always been a man of his already great storehouse of knowledge. Dur- large charities —giving without any ostentation. ing this period he marie Chicago hi- headqu; hut tran-acted the greater portion of hi- busi- HERMANN WISCI I.MAY \\— A prominent of 111 New York City. In the early part member of that class of energetic men who are [878 Mr. Joseph located permanently at Yew engaged in mercantile life in thi- city and who York City, residing in East Fifty first Street. On constitute such an important factor in Brooklyn's February twenty-fourth of that year, when at the commercial importance, is Mr. Hermann Wisch- of twenty-seven, he married Mi-- Fannie mann. Like many other- who have built up large Schwarzchild, daughter of the late Joseph business interests here. Mr. Wischmann is an Schwarzchild, Esq., who was the founder of the adopted citizen of this country, having been great packing house of that name, ami of which born August [8, 1831, in the Kingdom of Han - the head up to the time of hi- retirement over, now a pan of Prussia. His father was a the ,11 t8£ thai time Mr. Joseph assumed farmer, living near the Baltic sea coast, who gave active duties of Mr. Schwarzchild, which con his son the educational advantages which were tinned until the winter of [907, at which time he afforded by the village school as conducted un- resigned, he having filled the pcition of vice der the well known and thorough German sys president of the company from the lime ol its tern. The lad lived quietly at home until he was incorporation up to the above year, ["hi close teen years of age, never having traveled far family and business relations from this source or seen a city. Two brothers had preceded him also enabled Mr Joseph to -till further in to America and their letters awoke in him the hi- knowledge of the dressed beef and pr< desire to have the quiet farm life, to see some- business, which, coupled with his own pi thing of the world and to try hi- fortune- in the idea-, i- in a great measure responsible for the United State: He accordingly took passag splendid -nee.-'- he ha- made of hi- commercial America, arriving in Yew York, as so many oth- life. For twenty-nine years Mi. Joseph, repre er- have dou,\ poor in pur-e, but rich in hope, ng hi- large interests in the Schwarzchild ambition and energy. His stay in the cil ; SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 183 tended over three years, during which time he only wealth but also the esteem of men for his was employed as clerk in the grocery business. integrity and manhood. His interest in the affairs Then came an opportunity to invest in an under- of the city leads him to favor those measures taking which promised well, and he put his sav- that would tend to the public good and to oppose ings in the New York Submarine Wrecking strongly all forms of dishonesty in municipal Company, an organization which was formed for matters, though he takes no part in politics be- the purpose of raising sunken vessels. The yond voting, and that the Republican ticket gen- company did not succeed and recovered neither erally. He is fond of reading and is well posted sunken vessels nor sunken capital, so Mr. Wisch- on the current events of the day. Affable in man- mann lost his all and was forced to begin again ner, his courtesy is genuine, springing from a at the bottom of the ladder. Notwithstanding kind heart that does much in charity towards re- the ebb of his fortune, he took unto himself a lieving the misfortunes of others. His church wife, whose acquaintance he had made in South connections are with the German Lutheran Brooklyn while duck hunting in the bay. Casting Church in Henry Street, Brooklyn, of which or- about for something to do, he remarked upon ganization he has been treasurer for many years. the crowds of people daily parsing over Fulton Always fond of society, he has been a member Ferry and reached the conclusion that a dining of several social organizations and a military saloon on the Brooklyn side, near the ferry, company; he is also a member of Joppa Lodge would be remunerative. He, therefore, opened of Free Masons, is vice-president of the Borough such an establishment at No. 25 Fulton Street, Bank of Brooklyn and a director of the Kings beginning in an humble way, but gradually en- County Bank. His time is still mostly devoted larging his accommodations as he was able. At to his large business interests, which he over- the end of six years he had accumulated some sees for himself, although receiving the assist- capital, and what was better, hand won the con ance of a young partner in carrying out the de- fidence and esteem of all who knew him. An tails. Mr. Wischmann is to be congratulated advantageous offer was made him, at this time, upon having won by his own exertions a suc- to go into the coffee trade as clerk in Waring's cessful career and a good name, both among busi- house, where he remained four years, giving such ness men and in society at large. satisfaction that a share in the business as part- ner was offered him, of which offer he availed JOHN GODFREY STEENKEN was born at himself. The firm relations existed for ten Bremen, Germany, on February 14, 1839, and years, when he decided to start in business for received his education in the schools of his native himself, having acquired the necessary experience city, graduating from the high school in 1854 at and some capital. He bought and rebuilt the the age of fifteen. Soon after leaving school he stand at No. 78 Fulton Street with Mr. Ho- emigrated to America and found employment as horst as his partner, who only remained for only errand boy with an exporting house. Here he a year, however. By close attention to his busi- stayed for two years but left as soon as he had ness and good management, Mr. Wischmann was become sufficiently familiar with American condi- able to increase his operations year by year, add- tions to see his way for advancement. In 1858 ing to his place of business, putting in a steam he joined the firm of Battelle & Renwick, man- engine and requisite machinery, until the small ufacturers of chemicals, at 163 Front Street, New store of a few years since has become a large York City, and rapidly worked his way up. The wholesale establishment dealing in coffees, teas splendid education he had received, the ambition and spices, employing a number of men and which filled the heart of the young man and his horses and turning out many thousands of dol- unswerving attention to duty brought him quickly lars' worth of manufactured products annually. to the front. He was admitted to partnership in Early in his business life he adopted the motto 1887 and when, in 1902, the firm which had been "Pay as you go," which has proved as advan- founded in 1840 was incorporated, Mr. Steenken tageous in his case as it universally does. No was elected a director and president of the com- man achieves success in mercantile life by acci- pany. In the meantime he had become inter- dent or accumulates property without faithful, ested in numerous other enterprises and is now persistent labor. The winner, while many are president and director of the National Sulphur losers, must combine industry, enterprise and in- Co. of New York, a director of the New York telligence with business tact ; at the same time Tanning Co. and the Argentine Quebrecks Co. he must be known to men to be honest and re- president and director of the Croton Chemical liable in his dealings. These qualities distin- Co. of New York; trustee of the Germania Sav- guish Mr. Wischmann and have brought him not ings Bank of Brooklyn ; member of the Chamber 184 SUCCESSFUL GERM AX-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS of Commerce, New York, and the Down Town eran Church, the German Club of Hoboken, the Association. He has been a resident of Brooklyn Hardware Club, New Y<>rk City; the Arion Sing- since 1866 and for twenty-five year- was ing Societies of both New York and Jersey City; urer of St. Luke's Evangelical Lutheran Church he was for many years district deputy in the Ma- ..11 Washington Avenue in that borough. On De- sonic fraternity and later a member of the Grand cember 13, 1866. Mr. Steenken was married to Lodge of Xew Jersey. An association that was Miss A M. Bischoff of Charleston, S.C., who dear to him was his connection with the German- died in October, 1891, and left him seven children, American School of Jersey City, he having served viz.: five sons and two daughters: Albert Daniel, as president of the board of trustees for many John Godfrey, Jr., Edgar Herman, George Will- years. He was also a member of the Deutsche iam, Elsie, Anna, Martha and Francis Lewi-. Gesellschaft, a noted German organization of Edgar Herman is secretary of the Croton Xew York City. On April 13, 1871, he married Chemical Co.; George William assistant secre- Mi-- Celine W. Oppitz, daughter of William Op- tary of Battelle & Renwick. His daughter, Elsie, pitz of Jersey City, who was a native of Bo- i- married to Christian E. Grandeman of Brook- hemia, but who came to America in 1848. Three lyn and the youngest son, Francis Lewis, a stu- children blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. vom dent at Harvard College since 1905. John God- Cleff, viz.: Celine, who married Dr. Louis H. A. frey. Jr., died in 1805 in his twenty-fifth year. As Schneider of Xew York City; Robert and Clara one of the substantial business men of New York, B. The death of Mr. vom Cleff occurred on whose rise has been as rapid as well deserved, Friday, September 13, 1907, at Watkins, X.Y. He and as a public spirited citizen, Mr. Steenken has was buried from his home in Jersey City on the brought honor and credit upon his Fatherland eighteenth of the same month, mourned by a as well as the country he adopted when he came large circle of friends and relative-. Mr. vom to America, and he may be classed among the best Cleff was a big-hearted, whole-souled gentleman, exponents of the valuable qualities which Ger- a generous and most considerate employer. He man immigration has contributed to the people wa- a man of high character, capable, thoroughly that have grown up on the new continent. honest and of unquestioned integrity. He is sur- vived by a widow, two daughters and a son. The ROBERT VOM CLEFF, deceased, founder of affairs of the house he founded are still being the house of vom Cleff & Company, was born at carried on a- usual. Cronenberg, near Solingen, Germany, January 29, 1847. He came to America in 1867 and for ADOLPH LAXKERIXG, manufacturer, was ars was employed in the New York born at Verden, Germany, on January 9. 1851, German Consulate. In 1873 he founded the busi- and received his education in the public schools of which he has always been the head, it of bis native city. After serving in various mu- being incorporated under the present style in nicipal and government office- lie entered the 1902, he becoming it- president. The business of Prussian army at the age of eighteen. During the house has always been the manufacture and the Franco-Prussian war he wa- assistant in importation of general hardware, such as pliers, the commissary department and later on placed nipper-, surgical instruments, jeweler-' tools, pocket in charge of a responsible position in the army ry and kindred lines, drawn principally from mail service. At the end of his term of enlist- Germany and France. Mr. vom Cleff was edu- ment he was honorably discharged with especial at the public schools of Cronenberg, gradu- mition of his services, and with a diploma ating therefrom at the age of fourteen years He which entitled him to the appointment as pay- was an apprentice in the cutlery trade Up to the master. He preferred, however, to return to venteen year-. After arriving in the civil life and secured employment as assistant United Stat ttled at Hoboken, N.J., where controller with th< Rhenish Railway Company at be remained until 1869, at which time he re tie and later on as private secretary and moved to Jersey City Heights. In [873 he en- head bookkeeper with one of the largest banking hi- to I in business on own account at X... [05 institutions of that city. In 1S75 be decided Duane Street, New Y'.rk City. In politics Mr. visit Chicago, where his married sisters lived, vom Cleff was a Republican. At one time be was and after a stay of several months, made up his I a mem!., r 1 rd of Education in mind t<> remain in America, inviting his brothers, v, but nil are. .unt of illl iiiahle George and Fred, t.. join him. Later he en- >'•.. cepl tlie office. He wa- «. He- of the found- ter, d the firm <>f Sandhagen & tobacco deal- ' -man American School of I er-, as partner. Frequenl trips t" the East in 1 lie wa- a member of the German I. nth the interest of bis business induced him to sever LOUIS F. HAFFEN. 185 I. HEINTZ. 1S() JOHN P. WINDOLPH. 187 BERNARD FERDINAND DRAKI NFELD. L88 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 189 his connection with the Chicago firm and he es- kenfeld & Co., has been located at 27 Park Place, tablished himself with his brothers at Hoboken New York, for over thirty years, and has in the cigar manufacturing and jobbing business. branches in Chicago and East Liverpool, Ohio. It Mr. Lankering has been extremely successful in gives employment to over one hundred hands and his undertakings, owing to his wide experience, is the largest and best equipped in its lines in the his hard work and sound business sense, and his United States, in fact it is the largest mineral sterling integrity. His many good qualities were color house in the world. Mr. Drakenfeld is a promptly recognized and his popularity grew all member of the German Liederkranz, the Arion, the more rapid as he showed warm and intelli- the Technological Society, Museum of Natural gent interest in public affairs. A Democrat in History, Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Ger- politics, he was appointed police commissioner man Lutheran Church, also a number of charita- in 1900 and elected mayor of the city of Hoboken ble and benevolent societies and is a Mason and in 1902. The same traits that had brought him an Elk. He married, on November 10, 1875, Miss success in his business were instrumental in Elizabeth E. Bettis of California and has two making his administration so satisfactory to the children, Bernard Ferdinand, Jr., who is associ- citizens of that at the Hoboken end of his term ated with him in business, and a daughter, the he was reelected with an increased majority. Mr. wife of Mr. E. O. Beyer of Neuss, Hesslein & Lankering is very active in social affairs. He is Co., New York. a member of almost all the singing societies of County, the Hudson German Club of Hoboken HENRY ENDEMANN, importer, was born at and many other social organizations. has re- He Dortmund in Westphalia on February 10, 1865. peatedly served as president of the Hoboken He received his education in the public schools Quartet Club and as master of Hudson Lodge, and the gymnasium at Dortmund and came to F. & A.M., now holding office in the Grand Lodge. America in 1884, when nineteen years old. He The Alliance of German Societies of Hudson succeeded in finding employment in Philadelphia County made him their president since 1906. at five dollars per week, but came to New York In this capacity he has rendered excellent ser- three years later and engaged as a clerk with vice in defense of personal liberty and in the agi- the firm of F. W. Biining & Co., china and glass tation against intolerance and fanaticism. The importers, becoming a partner after a few years. defeat of proposed legislation to establish local When Mr. Biining retired in 1894 the present option and final prohibition of the sale of intox- firm of Endemann & Churchill was established. icating beverages in the state of New Jersey is He has been very successful and while his start greatly due to his activity in organizing the Ger- in this country was not made under very aus- man element throughout the state and in arousing picious circumstances, the severe training he re- general sentiment against such laws. In 1883 ceived gave him the experience which, when com- Mr. Lankering married Miss Louise Tistedt, the bined with intelligence of a high order, unfailing daughter of one of the earliest and best known energy and strict integrity, always brings ulti- settlers of Milwaukee. They have one son. mate success. His business standing naturally led to an extension of his activities and inter- BERNARD FERDINAND DRAKENFELD ests, and he is a director of the Aetna National was born June 27, 1849, at Erlangen in Bavaria Bank and of the Consumers' Brewing Co. of and received his education at the gymnasium and Brooklyn at Woodside. An independent Demo- university of his native city. In 1869, when nine- crat in politics, who, like so many Germans, will teen years of age, he came to America and set- not hesitate to vote against his party when he tled in Los Angeles, where he rose rapidly in the conceives such action to be necessary for the good business with which he associated himself. Al- of the whole country. Mr. Endemann is also a though his future on the Coast was assured, he ac- member of the Arion, the German Liederkranz, cepted the invitation of his brother, Mr. Edward the New York Athletic Club and the German So- Drakenfeld, who had in 1869 established himself ciety. He was married on November 29, 1892, with Mr. John Marsching, under the firm name of to Miss Louise Lindenmeyr, daughter of the late J. Marsching & Co., in the business of importing John Lindenmeyr, the founder of the well known mineral colors and bronze powders in New York, paper-house, Henry Lindenmeyr & Sons, and has to enter the house with the view of learning the one son, Henry William. business and purchasing his brother's interest, which plan was duly consummated in 1886. In HERMANN HEINRICH HORNFECK, man- 1893 he bought out the interest of Mr. J. Mar- ufacturer, was born at Gera in Thuringia on sching. The business, now known as B. F. Dra- February 5, 1839. He attended the public school 190 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS of his native city and at the age of fourteen was York City, where he has resided ever since. His apprenticed to a furrier. He learned the busine S family consists of eight boys and four girls, four thoroughly, as was the custom in those days, and of the s, ,ns being now actively engaged in busi- when he decided to leave for wider fields he knew ness of the corporation of Schwarzchild and Sulzberger has more about his trade than many a manufacturer Sulzberger Company. Mr. always of the present time knows after many years. been a liberal contributor to numerous religious vend years he traveled in Germany, work- and charitable organizations. He has never taken any active interest in politics. corporation ing at his trade here and there, and always in The creasing his stock of knowledge. When he had of Schwarzchild ami Sulzberger Company, of reached his majority bis mind was made up that which Mr. Sulzberger is the head, saw its begin- he would ^ek a field where natural ability, am- ning in 1853. < >n the date above mentioned, the bition and intense desire to rise quickly were not slaughtering of fifty cattle weekly was consid hampered by narrow and antiquated restrictions, ered a large business and compared to the pres and where the man was judged alone by what he ent output of about fifteen thousand cattle per accomplished. He set sail for America and ar- week, together with the handling of thousands of rived here in i860. For a man of his stamp it sheep, lambs and hogs, -hows the progress and Schwarzchild was not difficult to secure employment, but this growth of the company. & Sulz- did not satisfy him. Slowly he fell his way and berger Company, more familiarly known as the truly one husbanded his resources mud he was able to es- "S. & S. Co.," may be classed as of pioneers in the of tablish himself in business on his own account. the handling refrigerated The sequel proved that the confidence in his abil dressed beef, and is now conceded to be one of the powers of the world, which is due ity was well founded, for he prospered from the packing in to of its start and the rapid increase of hi- business made a great measure the high standard goods and strict bu iness principles. During the it imperative to enlarge the facilities steadily until was carried tiled at his present place at 35 Wesl Thirty- early history the business on as a of which the were Mr. first Street. A lover of nature, he moved his firm, partners Joseph nee to Verona, in the Orange Mountains, in Schwarzchild and Mr. Ferdinand Sulzberger, the has lived ever since. A Republi- latter being president of the present corporation. can of independent mind, he never engaged ac- It early demonstrated itself to the firm that in of cattle, tively in politics and did not care for public office connection with the slaughtering the succcs- of although his standing in the community had be- an abattoir business depended largely on the most handling come such that he could have secured it easily. advantageous and utiliz- of ••.hen he had to send his eighl children to ing by-products which had been given little attention old-time school, the inborn desire of the German to secure and careless by the slaughter- him to ers, particularly the fats. The adoption of new ma- 1 education for his family induced chinery and ideas backed by the energy and ex- pj the position of school trustee al his place of firm resulted in placing on the of residence and he served in this capacity for ten perience the of years, winning the deserved approval of the resi market the famous "Harrison Brand" oleo on dents of Verona for his devotion to duty and oil, which soon found favor the domestic markets, and today i- the intelligence which marked his official and European conceded the leading brand, with a world famed demand Mr. Horn feck was married on February 5, t866, and reputation. In on account of increased to Miss Anna Kathrine Cimiotti, a native of Vi- [888, business, abroad enna, and has four sons and four daughters, one European Mr. Sulzberger went for the general promoting of their foreign inter- of whom is married to W. M LoftUS, 5Uperinten- rk O.N.T. thread works. Arriving ests. In [892 the rapid increasi of domestic export business outgrown the ca in this country with empty hands, he has sue and having his expectations and furnishes pacify of the New York plant, the linn saw the 1 beyond own of additional in the West and a splendid illustration of what the German may advantages an plant the of a corporation, at that achieve in Free America if endowed with nal negotiated purchase the Phoenix Tacking ural gifts and a noble character. Mr. Hornfeck time known as Company, a plant located at Kansas City, Mo., with i~ a member of th( Arion Society. having a few distributing branches in the East, and a re- FERDINAND SULZBERGER, president of altor car line, known as the ('old Blast of the the Schwarzchild and Sulzberger Company, was Transportation Company. Enlargements to several times its capacity, with born in the Grand Duchy of Baden sixty-five plant original facilities, inuncdi year- go In [863, while a young man, Mr. added modern machinery and Sulzberger came to America. locating in N SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 193 interests, the New York plant gradually increased possession of a newly erected one between Forty- the output of Kosher killed cattle for the sup- fifth and Forty-sixth Streets, and First and Sec- ply of Greater New York, as an equivalent for ond Avenues. This he conducted until his death volume transferred to Kansas City for export in 1862. His estate continued the business for and general branch distribution. On May 10, some years and then leased it to the firm of 1893, there was filed with the secretary of state Gillig & Oppermann, composed of Mr. Gillig's in Albany, N.Y., a charter of incorporation known son, John George, and Frederick Oppermann, Jr. as the Schwarzchild & Sulzberger Company, Mr. Gillig was married in 1841, and at his death which is the corporation of to-day. Branch left him surviving four children, one son and houses were rapidly established throughout the three daughters : John George, above mentioned, country and the export business was materially and who is widely known through his connec- increased. The "S. & S. Co.'s" success and tion with the business of his brother-in-law, Ja- growth again demonstrated the further enlarge- cob Ruppert, the well-known brewer of New ment of plant requirements, and in 1900 it was York City; Anna, the wife of said Ruppert; Cor- decided to build the famous Chicago plant, con- nelia K., widow of Dr. B. A. Mylius, and now ceded to be the finest in the world, which, with residing in Berlin, Germany, and Amanda B., the that at Kansas City, gave the company the ad- wife of John A. Douglas. vantage of being located on two of the leading cattle markets of the country, Kansas City and JOHN GEORGE GILLIG was born at New Chicago. With modern plants, an increased re- York City on January 8, 1852, the son of Ger- frigerator car line, and a complete equipment of man parents who lived at that time in Third live stock cars for transporting its cattle to New Street, between Avenues A and B. He received York, it put the company in an advantageous po- his early education in the public schools of New sition to compete for the general business of this York and in Fordham College and was sent to country and Europe second to none. The present Bamberg, Germany, to complete his course of officers of the company are Ferdinand Sulzber- study. After graduating, he entered the em- ger, president; M. J. Sulzberger, first vice-presi- ploy of a produce merchant at Bamberg and re- dent treasurer Sulzberger, vice- and ; J. N. second mained with him for one year. At the age of president and secretary ; G. F. Sulzberger, third eighteen Mr. Gillig returned to New York and vice-president. accepted the position as assistant receiving teller with the Germania Bank, resigning it in order GEORGE GILLIG was born at Zeuln, on the to take a position with his brother-in-law, Mr. river Main, Oberfranken, Bavaria, on October Jacob Ruppert, the well known brewer. Here he 9, 1809. At the age of twenty he became a jour- stayed for one year, and in the latter part of neyman brewer and for seven years and until 1872 joined the firm of Gillig & Oppermann, brew- 1836 worked as such in different cities in Ger- ers. In 1877 he decided to sell his interest in many. In the fall of that year he entered the the brewery and returned to Mr. Ruppert as fi- Bavarian Army and, serving three years, was hon- nancial and general manager, in which capacity orably discharged. Shortly thereafter he came to he is still active. Mr. Gillig is widely and fav- America, located in New York City and in 1840 orably known not only in the brewing industry established himself in business in a brewery oc- but also far beyond its limits as an active and cupying the present site of the Vanderbilt man- energetic man of business with a reputation for sion on Fifth Avenue, between Fifty nd Fifty- far-sightedness and strict integrity, endowed with first Streets. Subsequently he built and operated qualities of head and heart which have se- a brewery at Thirtieth Street and Lexington Av- cured him a large host of friends and admirers. enue and later on, in 1843, one in Third Street A Democrat in politics, he has never sought nor between Avenues A and B. During the following held public office, but confined his activity in this year and in the last mentioned plant he enjoyed direction to the prompt and conscientious dis- the distinction of being the first one to brew charge of his dutes as a citizen. He is a member lager beer, as we know it to-day, in New York of the Arion Society, the Terrace Bowling Club, City, the product of all the brewers prior to which he helped to organize in 1870 and of which that time being what was known as "small beer." he is treasurer since 1877; the New York Pro- Mr. Gillig was at this time also the owner of duce Exchange, Red Bank Yacht Club, and of a breweries at Staten Island and Williamsburg. He great number of other social, benevolent and sold the former to a Mr. Bischoff and the latter charitable associations, as well as a Mason, be- to a Mr. Hamm. In 1853 he sold the Third ing a member of Trinity Lodge No. 12 F. & A. Street brewery to Mr. Joseph Doelger and took M. On January 28, 1874, Mr. Gillig was married 194 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS to Miss Catherine E. Oppermann and has four the Auto Club of the Bronx, the American Acad S emy of Political and Social Science. Bedford Park children: George J.. Anna M . Mrs. Jacob and Mrs. John F. Betz, 3d, of Philadelphia. Property Association, Beethoven Maennerchor, City College \lmi:m Association, Fordham Club, ADOLPH C HOTTENROTH, lawyer, was Jefferson Club, Lawyers' Site Purchasing Com- pany. Yercin, National born -'ii M 9, in the city of New York as Melrose Turn Geograph- the son of German parents. Receiving his first ical Society, National Democratic Club, North education in the public schools of what was then End Democratic Club, New York University known as the annexed district and now as the Alumni Association, Schnorer Club, Tallaj sa Bronx, he was graduated from the College of Club, Taxpayers' Alliance. Twenty-third Ward the City of New York with the class of '88 and Property Owners' Association, Tammany Soci- from the Law School of the University of the ety, West Morrisania Club, Kingston Club and City of New York with the class of '90. Simul- is a Mason of Strict Observance Lodge. Mr. taneously with starting in the practise of his pro- Hottenroth is a director in a large number of cor States n, Mr. Hottenroth took an exceptionally porations, including the United Award active interest in public affairs. It may indeed be ami Assessment Company, Map and Abstract others, said that hardly another private citizen has bat- Company, Sandrock Realty Company and tled with equal fervor and persistence for the lie was married on April 28, 1900, to Mis- Ma- sons welfare of the people and especially the section mie A. Schmidt and has four children, two in which he grew up and now makes his home, and two daughters. Bronx. Elected a member of the constitu- tional convention in [894 by the citizens of New HERMAN JOSEPH, jurist, was born in New York, Putnam and Westchester Counties, he led York City September 10, 1858. He received his in the public schools of the city, at- the debate Oil the canal improvement, framed the education minority report and secured the adoption of the tending the old Allen Street School No, 42 and constitutional amendment which received the larg graduating at an early age. Later he finished his est number of vote- of any, and made possible education at New York University, graduating the improvement of the canals now under way. from that institution in 1878. After leaving school With equal determination and success he fought he entered the law office of Abraham Hershfield for the protection of Niagara against the threat- and during this time he devoted himself so closely ening destruction. From 1898 to 1892 he served to the study of law and showed such aptitude for a- member of the City Council, having been his chosen profession that he acquired not only of the a substan- a wide knowledge but also a deep insight unusual ! by the people Bronx by of his years. to the tial majority. Since 1004 he ha- been president of for one After being admitted his the Taxpayers' Alliance of the Bronx, the rep Bar in [878 immediately opened offices of tatives of over thirty property owner-' asso own at No. _><),} Broadway and engaged in gen 1 ciations having chosen him for this important practise. His success was assured from the start • m. He has been indefatigable in working and his ability, as well as his profound learning, for needed improvements, a- increased rapid were recognized by an ever-widening circle. The tran-it facilities for the Bronx, the live cent fare growth of his clientele compelled him to engage to I at he hill and many other important matters. fe ins'ti larger offices 287 Broadway and began luted and conducted to a successful conclusion take a deep interest in politics and educational against the mosl strenuous opposition the liti affairs. When, in 1898, Judge McKeon re 1 gation which compelled the Manhattan Elevated his position as justice of the Municipal Court, to Railway Company to give continuous service to Mayor Von Wyck appointed Mr. Joseph till and through the Bronx for a five cenl fare. Hi- the vacancy. In November of the same year he notable one, being achieved singly was elected for the remaining two years of the full of against a formidable arraj of the mosl able conn term and reelected for the term ten years has earned -el backed up with the immense wealth of that in 1900. On the Bench Judge Joseph ration. The result of its enforcement was a reputation for the dignity with which he pre- to usher in an era of growth and prosperity in in .1 courl that has not always had the for the Bronx, the like of which was never witi tune to be conducted by men of his ability. He in any other community. Mr. Hottenroth has an has decided man) (|iiesii,, n ^ of far-reaching im with immense circle of friends and is a member ol portance and the rapidity and penetration many clubs, among them the Arion Society, the which he di-po es of cases, the never failing fair parties, the correct interpretation of Bar ''. iciations of the State of New York and o both the Bronx, the Automobile Club of America and the law ami the reputation he has acquired for JOHN GODFREY STEENKEN. 195 / *^ - , H mm l ENGELHARD. 1% FERDINAND SULZBERGER. 197 Al'dl.ril LANKERING. 198 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 199 the clearness and precision of his decisions are Mr. S. M. Rohdenburg, trading under the firm but the natural outcome of deep study combined name of Timken & Rohdenburg. In 1870 Mr. with superior intelligence and sterling character. Timken purchased the interest of his partner in His success has been rapid but it may safely be the business and continued alone until 1876, at said that it has surprised none of his friends who which time he began a copartnership with Mr. H. knew the qualities of the man, and that his friends Jacobsen, conducting the business on a more ex- by no means believe that he has arrived at the tensive scale both in New York City and Hobo- end of his career, fitted as he is for splendid ken, N.J. Four years later—in 1880—another dis- work in a much larger sphere of action. His keen solution occurred, Mr. Timken succeeding to firm interest in educational affairs was shown at a business in New York, and Mr. Jacobsen to remarkably early age. After finishing his common that in Hoboken. In 1885 Mr. Timken removed school education he edited a journal that dealt his business to the latter city and in 1890 Mr. with evening school matters, and in this his August Hanniball, a son-in-law, confidential clerk ability asserted itself. He advocated many im- and adviser, became his partner; a year later he provements in the public school system and in retired from active business, leaving his son, J. 1873 (age fourteen years) he read an essay, pre- Henry Timken, and Mr. Hanniball to conduct the pared by himself, at Steinway Hall under the aus- affairs under the firm name of Timken & Han- pices of the late J. F. Wright, who was princi- niball. Later Mr. Hanniball succeeded to the pal of Christie Street School, advocating the in- entire business which he now conducts and which, struction of modern languages in the New York to-day, is the most extensive of its kind in Hudson public schools. Judge Joseph is fond of litera- County, N.J. Besides ably conducting these in- ture and arts and visits Europe every year to terests, Mr. Hanniball is the president of one of find the relaxation he needs after his strenuous the largest wholesale bakery establishments in work. He is a member of the Arion, Progress New York City. He is widely known as a gen- Club, Montefiore Home, Mt. Sinai Hospital, of tleman of honorable reputation, as well as being the board of governors of the Democratic Club, possessed of large commercial acumen. During Tammany Hall and the regular Democratic Gen- his lifetime, Mr. Timken was a man who took a eral Committee, the Elks, Eagles, a Mason and deep interest in all public affairs connected with belongs to a large number of other social and the city of his adoption. Not being a politician, charitable organizations. In politics he is a as the term is largely understood in the present Democrat. Judge Joseph was married in 1881 to day, his motives were based upon a higher plane, Miss Sarah Kurzman and has one daughter, Rose. always having uppermost in his mind everything that would in any way promote the interests of HERMAN L. TIMKEN (deceased), a former the people. He very properly became known far mayor of Hoboken, N.J., was born at Lilienthal, and wide as the "Reform Mayor" of Hoboken. Hanover, Germany, April 2, 1830. His father His first publ'c office was that of councilman hav- served with distinction as a soldier in the English ing been elected to that position from the Third Army under Wellington, also in the German Ar- Ward in 1869. He was reelected the following my under Bliicher and was roadmaster of his two years. After a temporary retirement on his district. After a service himself of seven years part for several years, he removed to the Second in the Hanovarian Army, Mr. Timken was pro- Ward, and in 1880 was returned as a member moted to the rank of sergeant. After severing of that district. In 1883 Mr. Timken was elected his connections with his regiment in 1857, he came mayor of Hoboken, serving for three consecutive to the United States, settling at New York City, terms, each administration being able, dignified where he secured a position working at his trade, and honest. During his several administrations of that of a wood carver and turner. Later he aban- the office he largely reduced the tax rate. He doned this class of work, engaging in the flour strongly favored the creation of the present paid business on his own account. Two years after fire department but was opposed in this effort. his arrival in this country, in 1859, he married In 1891 he received the nomination for sheriff of Miss Betty Kotzenberg of Hoboken, N.J., and Hudson County from the Jeffersonian Democracy during the same year became a resident of that but withdrew from the contest later. In the same city. A short time thereafter Mr. Timken be- year he was a member of the Board of Tax Com- gan laying the foundation of what grew to be an missioners, it being the last political office he ever extensive flour and feed business by establishing held. Mr. Timken was one of the organizers of the firm of Krone and Timken in New York City. Company D, first battalion of the old Second Two years later, after an honorable career, the Regiment, in which he served as captain. He firm was dissolved, Mr. Timken continuing with formerly served for some years as major of 2u<) SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS the Fifth Regiment, N.G.S.N.Y. He was vice- served in the Twenty econd Regiment and man- president and one of the organizers of the Sec- i.usiness which now hears the name of National Hank of Hoboken; was the first Charles F. Schirmer & Son. president of the American District Telegraph Company of that city. In matters relating to the HENRY A. C. ANDERSON, physician, son improvement of the city, Mr. Timken erected the of a Danish father and a German mother, was first French type of flat houses in Hoboken at horn in Hamburg, Germany, on August 2, 1841. the corner of Sixth and River Streets. Myers He received his elementary education in the Hotel, the finest in Hoboken, was also built by schools of his native city, hut his parents having him and belongs to his son, J. H. Timken He died, he was sent, when hardly twelve years of was a member and past master of Hudson Lodge, age, to American relatives in Xew York City, I & A. M., the German and Hoboken Quartet who had him attend the old Greenwich Street clubs, a director of the United States Shbetzen School. Having no opportunity to speak or hear Park Association and a member of the New York German spoken, he almost forgot the little Ger- Produce Exchange. On July 22, 1892, Mr. Tim- man he knew when he arrived here. In 1857 he ken's death occurred. He is survived by his wife came to Yorkville at that time a village, and and five children, viz.: J. II. Timken. II. L. Tim- found employment as office hoy with the Third ken. Alfred Timken. Bertha Hannibal! and \Y. II. Avenue Railroad Company. Some years later A. Timken. The death of Mr. Timken removed he entered the present P.ellevue University to from Hoboken one of her most honored citizens, study medicine, hut his patriotism caused him to a loving father and husband and a man of un- etdist as private in Company C, One Hundred and tarnished reputation. No man can leave a higher Twenty-seventh Regiment, X.Y.S. Volunteers, in "r better heritage to those who come after. August, 1862. After serving in the ranks for three months, the surgeon of the regiment had CHARLES F. SCHIRMER was born at Min- him detailed as his secretary. After the One den, Westphalia, Germany, on March 19, 1834, Hundred and Twenty-seventh Regiment was or- and received his education in the puhlic schools dered to Folly Island^ just outside of Charles- of hi- native city. His father intended to let him ton Harbor, with part of the old Eleventh Army study engineering, and he had already begun pre- Corps, Anderson attracted the attention of the paring himself for this profession when family chief medical officer who induced him to accept reveres interfered and the hoy of fifteen was the position of hospital steward of the depart- compelled to abandon the career originally laid ment. While on leave to Xew York, his regi- out for him and to learn a trade. He selected the menl was sent to Beaufort, S.C., and on his upholstering trade and finished his apprenticeship arrival there he was assigned to duty in the when eighteen vars old. While the instruction military hospital of that town. Young Anderson given to him had been very thorough, for at that was perhaps 1 he first man who saw the Blue and time an apprentice was not permitted to follow die Gray shake hands. At the hospital were sev- his trade unless he had proven that he had mas- eral wounded Confederate officers, prisoners of tered it. young Schirmer traveled fur over a year war. who had been sent there for treatment, and through Europi and learn more. Thus not one of them ever complained that he was equipped, he came to America in 1853, settling treated less kindly than the Union patients. Among at 1S1 Third Avenue, when- he established an up- them was Colonel Montague of Charleston, who holstery business. His confidence that the knowl- hobbled about on crutches, a trin- Southern gentle- edge of his trade he had acquired by hard work man in the fullest sense. On a sunny afternoon and intelligent devotion to his duties would hring a Union general, accompanied by a lady, called at him success in the wider field that America of the hospital and inquired if a Colonel Montague fered was not misplaced. Here, where no re was a patient at the hospital and on receiving an strictions and antiquated laws stood in the way, affirmative reply, requested that the Colonel be and where the faculties of the ahle .and ambitious called and he was asked to come to the office. He upholsterer could freely unfold them had hardly stepped in when the lady rushed at selves, h'' experienced a rapid and well '\<- erved him and throwing her arms around his neck, with Mr. Schirmer i- a Democrat-, hut has never a kiss aid: "My darling brother." Then the taken an active pari in politics nor held public two men, on,- m blue and the other in gray, shook office. He belongs to tin- Lutheran Church and has hands—General Robert Anderson of fort Sum- been a member of the \xion Club since [878. He ter fame and Colonel Montague of Charleston. was married in 1857 to Miss Elizabeth Hilsdorf Mrs Vnderson and Colonel Montague were sis- -on. re- -many and has one Charles J., Jr.. who ter and brother Vfter the war Anderson EDWARD PAUL REICHHELM. 201 ANTON I WAl.ii. 2 turned to the college and in due time received cine from the University of New York in 1879. the degree of doctor in medicine. He built up Since then he has been a practising physician in a large practise in Yorkville, which secured for New York City, limiting his practise to gynae- him not only a large income but also a well-de- cology, in which branch of his profession he has served reputation. However, his professional ac- become widely known and is acknowledged as an tivity, extensive as it was, did not suffice for authority. He is professor of gynaecology in his surplus energy and his almost restless tem- the New York Post Graduate School of the Uni- perament. He was a loyal and patriotic Amer- versity of New York, attending gynaecological ican citizen, but he loved German speech and surgeon to several hospitals, and consulting gynae- song, German literature and art and entered Ger- cologist to others. Dr. Boldt was formerly chair- man circles to become more proficient. Soon man of the section of obstetrics and diseases of after he recognized the fact that the Ameri- women of the New York Academy of Medicine cans of German birth did not occupy the posi- and president of the New York Obstetrical So- tion to which their intelligence and honesty justly ciety and the German Medical Society. A man entitled them, especially in public life, he conse- of wide learning, devoted to his profession, a quently devoted a large part of his time, energy diligent student and fond of good literature, Dr. and fortune to bring about better results. It Boldt is a member of a number of the leading may well be said that for the last twenty years national and international societies devoted to Dr. Anderson was a leader in every movement in- his special line of practise and of the German augurated to increase the influence of our Ger- Liederkranz. On August 20, 1891, he married man-American citizens for liberal government Miss Hedwig Krueger and has one son, Hermann and honesty in politics. He is now serving his Johannes, Jr. twelfth term as president of the Central Turn Verein and is virtually the founder of the Uni- OTTO GEORGE THEOBALD KILIANI, ted German Societies of the city of New York, surgeon, was born at Munich in Bavaria on Sep- of which he was unanimously elected president in tember 5, 1863, as the son of Hermann Kiliani, a 1892. He served in this capacity for two terms justice of the Royal Supreme Court, and his and his reelection was prevented only by his re- wife, Caroline K. Faulstich. He was educated fusal to sanction the changing of their consti- at the gymnasium at Augsburg, graduating in tution, which limited the term of service of the 1881, and studied medicine at the universities of president to two terms. Independent in politics, Munich, Halle and Leipzic, where he received he has unceasingly labored for the best interests his degree as doctor of medicine in 1888. A year of the public. He is at present honorary presi- before, on August 12, 1887, he had married Miss dent of the United German Societies president Lillian Bayard Taylor at Friedrichsroda in Ger- of the Central Turn Verein, a member of the many. Dr. Kiliani served as surgeon in the Third State, County and Greater New York Medical Royal Bavarian Artillery Regiment in 1890 in Societies, the Society of Medical Jurisprudence, Munich. He came to New York in 1891 and the Manhattan Clinical and Manhattan Medical has since practised his profession with pro- Societies, the Arion, Yorkville Maennerchor, As- nounced success, quickly taking rank as one of chenbroedel and Pomuchelskopp Verein, the Vet- the leading surgeons of the city. Since 1900 he eran Legion of the Civil War and Bunting Lodge has acted as surgeon to the Imperial German No. 655. He served six years as United States Consulate General. He is a fellow of the Acad- pension examiner under Cleveland and McKin- emy of Medicine, the New York County Medical ley. On December 1, 1903, Mayor McClellan Society, a member of the German Medical Soci- offered him the appointment of commissioner of ety, the Medico-Surgical Society, the Physicians' Bronx parks, but he declined to accept the honor. Mutual Aid Association, the New York Surgi- Dr. Anderson was married in 1874 to Miss Nan- cal Society and the Surgical Society of Berlin, nie Lungershausen of Thueringen, Germany, and and surgeon to the German Hospital. Dr. Kiliani has four children, two boys and two girls. is a constant contributor to medical journals and encyclopedias and the author of "Diagnosis, HERMANN JOHANNES BOLDT, physician, 1905, W 11." He is a Knight of the Bavarian was born at Neuentempel, near Berlin, Ger- Order of St. Michael and the Prussian Order many, on June 24, 1856, and received his early of the Red Eagle. With a large practise and fre- education in Germany. He came to America with quently being called into consultation in serious his parents when quite young and completed his cases, devoted to his profession and constantly education in this country, studying medicine and eager to increase his knowledge which rests upon graduating with the degree of doctor of medi- an exceptionally firm foundation acquired in 204 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS many years of study at the best German univer- matter- and served for several years as school lie- i> . Dr. Kiliani has little Leisure left and trustee and now a member of the board of longs to but two club-, the German and the New education where hi- ripe knowledge of conditions York Athletic and extended experience have been of the gr< value for the public schools of his native city. Dr. FLORIAN KRUG, physician, was born at Haupt is a Republican in politics, a member of Mainz, Germany, cm December i_\ [858. He was the Arion Society, .Yew York Botanical Garden, educated in the high school of his native city Xew York Zoological Garden, American Museum and, after graduating, studied medicine at the of Natural History, American Geographical Soci- universities of Freiburg, Marburg, Goettingen, ety and Metropolitan Museum of Art and of the Heidelberg, Vienna, Budapest and Paris. After County, State, American and German Medical completing his studies and having received the Societies. degree of doctor of medicine, he acted as a sisl ant to Privy Councilor Professor Dr. Hegar in HERMAN CHRISTIAN- HENRY HEROLD, Freiburg, Germany, at that time one of the most physician, was born in New York City March 4, eminent gynaecologists in the world. In 1884 Dr. [854. He removed to Newark. N.J., with his Krug came to New Y"rk and began practising his parents when a child, and afterward resided profession, confining himself more and more to there. His father and mother both died before his special field, thai of gynaecology. The large he wa- eleven years old and he was left the experience he had secured during the years of second in age of six surviving children to rely study and work in some of the most renowned entirely on his own exertions after that time, as clinics in Europe, and a genial disposition com- well as to assist his younger brother- and sisters. bined with authoritative firmness, rapidly secured He attended the old Twelfth Ward German and for him a splendid reputation among patients as English school, which was founded by his father well as physicians. Before many years he was uni in 1859, the public school of the same ward, and versally recognized as an authority in the field the Newark High School, earning his own living he had selected, and as one of the leading gynae- while in attendance on the latter. After leaving cologists of the country. He has acted as at- the high school in his senior year, he began his tending gynaecologist to the German Hospital of busine S life at the age of nineteen, in a gro- New York for over twenty years and when the cery store. In two years he had saved enough new Mount Sinai Hospital was erected he was to warrant him in entering Bellevue Hos- appointed gynaecologist to thai institution also, pital Medical College, New York, and he was He is not only one of the mosl successful among graduated Erom that institution in the class of the pi neration of German physicians in [878. He at once commenced the practise of his America, but has brougl credit and hon- profession in Newark and there built up a large or to German knowledge and science in tin- Uni and lucrative business, also establishing his Dr. Krug i- a member of tin- Ger youngest brother in the same profession. He has man Club, German Liederkranz, New York Ath- for many years been a member of the board of Club and of various other social and spurt- health of the city, entering it in 1883; two year- ing organizations and a fellow of practically rdl later he became its president and has continued the prominent medical societies in the United a- such till the present date. Hi- zeal and ef- and abroad. ficiency while a member of this board are most commendable. While devoted to his profes- LCH'IS II M'PT, physician, was horn in New sion, Dr. Herold ha- always taken a greal inter- York City on January 7, 1N51, a- the son of e-t in public affairs. In politic- he ha- been a German parents. He received hi- education in pronounced Republican and very popular with the public schi is city, where he gradu hi- party. He wa- an alternate delegate at large ated and afterwards Studied in Miami Cnivcr from the -tate of New Jersey to the national Re- sity at Oxford, Ohio, a literary college, 'he Med publican convention of iSJn^, which nominated College of Louisville, Ky., and the Medical General Harrison for President, and a district College of New York University. Having com- delegate from Newark to the national conventions pleted hi- studies and received the degree of Of 1892 and [904. He i- emeritu- surgeon 1" St. if of medicine, he in the general Michael'- Hospital and a member of the I practise of hi- profession in New York. Of County Medical Society. He was for fourteen studious habits and well read in the classic years connected with the National Guard as snr- well a- in modern English ami German literature. of the Fifth Regiment, from which position Dr. Haupl ''"'I. a great interest in educational he was placed on the retired li-t when, on the CHARLES CHRISTIAN WEHRUM. 205 CHARLES A. STAPLER. 206 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 207 reorganization of the First Brigade, N. G.S.N. J., Dispensary and employs most of his time not that regiment was disbanded. He is treasurer taken up by his arduous duties to study and of the Order of Military Surgeons of New Jer- writing. Dr. Denig has written many essays and sey. He is also president of the Security Build- articles on ophthalmic subjects, is a regular col- ing and Loan Association, and belongs to the laborator of the Zeitschrift fiir Augenheilkunde Masonic fraternity, Knights of Pythias, Benev- in Berlin, and is now publishing a book on eye olent Order of Elks, and numerous other organi- surgery which will appear in 1909. He is a fel- zations and societies. He was married November low of the New York Academy of Medicine, a 6, 1882, to Louisa, daughter of Thomas Kurfess member of the New York State and County Med- of Newark, N.J. His home is one of the most ical Associations, the German Medical Society, hospitable in the city, where he entertains a large the Heidelberg Ophthalmic Society and a number circle of friends. of other medical, social and charitable organiza- tions. Dr. Denig resides at 56 East Fifty-eighth SIGMUND LUSTGARTEN, physician and Street, New York City, and is unmarried. specialist on skin diseases, was born at Vienna, Austria, December 19, 1857, and he was edu- LOUIS ANTON EWALD, physician and sur- cated at the University of that place. He came geon, was born at Hammelburg in Bavaria on to New York City in 1889, where he has since June 13, 1871, as the son of Frederick G. and resided. Dr. Lustgarten held the chair as lec- Catherine Ewald. He was educated at the gym- turer on dermatology at the University of Vi- nasium at Munnerstadt and after graduating, fills position at Mount Sinai studied at the universities of Wurzburg, Berlin, enna ; he the same Hospital and at Montefiore Home, New York Munich and Greifswald. In addition to the study and City. He is author of a number of scientific of medicine, he devoted himself to geography knowledge communications and is correspondent member of geology, securing a more than ordinary Foreign Medical Societies of Paris and Vienna. of these subjects. He completed his studies in of medi- In politics he is independent, having never sought 1896 and received the degree of doctor In any public office. He married Beatrice Davis of cine from the University of Wurzburg. 1897 father Montreal in 1891. he came to the United States where his had settled and established himself in the prac- City. His RUDOLF C. R. DENIG, physician, was born tise of his profession in New York specialty of at Frankenthal in Germany on December 8, 1867, rise was rapid and having made a an au- as the son of Hippolyte and Elisabeth M. (Dalle- gynaecology, he soon was recognized as ap- mand) Denig and received his early education in thority in this branch of medicine. He was and the gymnasium at Neustadt in the Palatinate, pointed gynaecologist to the German Hospital medicine to graduating in 1886. He studied medicine at the Dispensary in 1901 and professor of of universities of Heidelberg, Munich, Berlin and Fordham University in 1907. He is a member Wuerzburg, where he received the degree of doc- many medical societies and clubs, the Catholic tor of medicine, and later continued his studies Club, and the German Liederkranz. Dr. Ewald is known of in Vienna, London and Paris. Soon after be- one of the best and most favorably York and ginning his studies, he had made a specialty of the younger German physicians in New ophthalmic surgery, became assistant and in- his career has been as remarkable as brilliant. required by his large structor at the University Eye Clinic in Wuerz- Practically all the time not prof es ion burg and became rapidly known through his pro- practise he devotes to the study of his which he is inter- ficiency and knowledge in this field of medical and other scientific subjects in science. His rising fame as an ophthalmologist ested. caused Dr. Herman Knapp, the founder of the was born New York Ophthalmic and Aural Institute, to CARL OTTO PETERS, merchant, he received his induce him to come to America as his assistant. at Brunswick, Germany, where of his native city. He Dr. Denig arrived in New York City in 1896 and education in the schools and came to Amer- immediately took a place in the front rank of engaged in mercantile business as the representa- physicians engaged in work similar to his own. ica when quite young in years of the largest and most favorably He is an acknowledged authority in his chosen tive of several in Germany and France. For field and a large private practise together with known wine houses on the business of im- extensive work in hospitals and other institutions fifty years he carried success and gained furnishes proof of the esteem in which he is held porting wines with pronounced for himself and the quality by his colleagues as well as the public. He is an enviable reputation country. Mr. Peters ophthalmic surgeon to the German Hospital and of his goods all over the 208 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AM) TIIK1R DKSCKXDAXTS was a member of the German Club, German Lied- is also the general agent for the Royal Prussian erkranz, Arion, Manhattan Club, Jockey and Lo- mineral springs of Ems and Schwalbach and for tos clubs and of a large Dumber of benevolent the mineral waters of the spa Wildungen of Wal- and charitable organizations, lie was married in deck. During the Louisiana Purchase Exposi- August, 1861, to Miss Lizzie Liebrich and has two tion at St. Louis he acted as the business repre- children, Mrs. Louise Offelmeyer and Conrad L. sentative of the mineral springs owned by the rs, who is associated with him in his busi- Prussian Government. Mr. von der Bruck was ness. married in 1895. He is a member of the Arion, German Liederkranz, Kiehetikranz. Beethoven, RUDOLF HELWIG, importer, was born at German Press Club, the German Writers' Asso- Mannheim. Germany, on June 13, 1864. The foun- ciation and other social, literary and benevolent or- dation of his education was laid in the public ganizations, and is also a Mason. While retaining schools of his native city. After passing through all his affection for his native land, he has become them he entered Leeds College in Yorkshire, Eng- a loyal and devoted American citizen. land, where he studied commercial chemistry and dyeing, graduating in 1889. During the next ALBERT E. KLEINERT, building contractor, four years he was employed in England by a large was born on the Island Ruegen, Germany, on firm and gained the reputation of being an au- June 14, 1862. He was educated by private tu- thority in his profession. In October, 1893, he tors under the supervision of his father, wdio him- came to America and established himself in the self was a school teacher and a man of wide and business of importing high grade wood pulp. The unusual attainments. He planted in the boy's mind fact that he was an expert chemist and conse- the desire for knowledge and higher culture. Mr. quently a judge of what was needed in special Kleinert, after passing an examination practically lines of the paper trade, helped him greatly and and theoretically as a master builder, came to before long he occupied a commanding position America in 1882 and settled in Connecticut where in the branch he had selected as the field of his he remained until 1884, when he removed to activity. He now imports annually about twenty Brooklyn. Here he engaged in the building busi- thousand tons of the highest grades of sulphite ness and soon began to take large contracts, rap- pulp used for fine writing and bond papers, and idly establishing a reputation for good and relia- supplies manufacturers all over the country, it ble workmanship which, naturally, increased his being well known that he handles only the best trade until his operations were carried on on a qualities. An independent in politics, Mr. Hel- large scale. From the beginning he has evinced has partisan wig never taken an active part in . a deep interest in public affairs and organized the strife but confined himself to doing his duty as a Central & Smith Street Board of Trade and also citizen according to hi- convictions. He was mar- joined and became active in the Prospect Heights ried on December 7, 1895, to Miss Anna M. Stad- Board of Trade, thus joining several movements ler and has two children. A member of the Arion whose object was the improvement of public ad- and the German Liederkranz, he devotes more ministration and morals. In fact. Mr. Kleinert time to outdoor sports than to social amusements soon came to be looked upon as a man whose and belongs to the Wa-Wa Yanda Fishing Club assistance was of great value and whose readi- of I ire Lland and to a number of country clubs ness to assisl fearlessly every effort for better- where he can indulge his anient love for nature ment in the community led to his appointment by and all the pastimes a true sportsman cherishes. the borough president to the advisory committee of one hundred. He also received his appoint- CH \R1.KS V< IN DER BRUCK, merchant. ment by the mayor of New York Citj as a mem- was born in 1862 at bans in Hesse \'a- n, <, 1 ber of the HudaOn-Fulton Celebration Commis- many, and received his education in the Real sion. He is an Independent Democrat in politics Gymnasium at Wiesbaden where he graduated. and used all his efforts to bring his fellow Ger- He gained his commercial experience in Cologne, man-American citizens to the foremost position Berlin and other commercial centers of Germany. they should hold in this community. His services In (887 he established himself in business in Ww as a member and officer of the United German York as importer of mineral waters, and SO Singers of Brooklyn were instrumental in the successfully introduced the Rhens water— an al- bringing about of numerous concerts being given kaline table water from Rhens OH the Rhine—that in the public parks, devoting a larger part of his it is to-day one of the besl known and most energies to this work and encouraging his associ- popular mineral waters in the United State-. He ates with work and deed whenever called upon. HON. CHARLES G. F. WAHLE. 209 AUCUS1 P. WAGNER. 21ii : SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 211 As president of the Brooklyn Saengerbund Society reading X-ray meter and many instruments used for five consecutive years, instrumental in in he was plastic surgery, etc. Author : "The Recent bringing the same to the foremost position of any Roentgen Discovery, 1896"; "The X-Rays, Their kindred organization financially and socially. As Production and Application," 1896; Medico-Sur- a member of the German Hospital Association, gical Radiography," 1898; "Pen Lyrics," 1902; he served one term on the board of trustees. On "Olaf," a scientific novel, 1903; "The Grown Ba- March 18, 1888, he married Miss Emma Lousinger by Book," 1903; "Lisps and Lilts," 1905; "Fifty and has five children. Mr. Kleinert is a member of and One Tales of Modern Fairyland," 1906; "Ax- the following organizations : Kings County Demo- el and Valborg," 1907; "Subcutaneous Hydrocar- cratic Club, Brooklyn Lodge of Elks, Indepen- bon Protheses," 1908; also many papers on X- dent Order of Odd Fellows, Free Masons and rays and kindred scientific subjects, child's verse Mystic Shriners, Brooklyn Turn Verein, Municipal and contributions to the daily press. Residence Art Society of New York, the Brooklyn League The Japanese House, 131 Buckingham Road, Flat- and Allied Board of Trade and Tax Payers' bush. Office: 18-20 West Twenty-fifth Street, Association. New York City. PAUL LICHTENSTEIN, banker, was born at ADOLPH ROTHBARTH, merchant, was born Frankfort-on-the-Main, and engaged in the bank- at Frankfort-on-the-Main on May 20, i860, and ing business after receiving a superior education. received his education in the high school of his In 1868 he emigrated to America, settling in New native city. After leaving school he entered the York, where he has since been connected with old house of Rothbarth & Co., which had been some of the largest banking houses in the coun- founded by his grandfather, Phillip Rothbarth, in try. He is a member of the board of trustees of 1835 and is now carried on by the third genera- the German Society of the city of New York, of tion of the same family. The firm was and is the Deutsche Vere n, the Brooklyn Germania now one of the largest importers and exporters and the Crescent Athletic Club. In politics a of hops and Mr. Rothbarth became an expert on Republican, he is independent in his actions, and this article. At the age of twenty-two he started supported Grover Cleveland for the presidency. for America with the intention of establishing a Mr. Lichtenstein takes a warm interest in all branch office of Rothbarth & Co. He was en- matters relating to the arts and fine l'terature, tirely alone and left to his own resources, with and is known for lis judgment and refined taste. only such letters of recommendation as the son On August 28, 1872, he married Miss Clara Kapp, of an old established and well known house can the daughter of the well known lawyer, historian command. With characteristic pluck he opened and later on member of the German Reichstag, his office and set out to do business, relying on Friedrich Kapp. Of their three children, Julie his thorough knowledge of the goods he intended Louise and Friedr'ch L. Lichtenstein died in in- to deal in, and determined to succeed. Like his fancy, while Alfred F. Lichtenstein survives. grandfather and his father before him, he pros- pered and steadily increased his operations until FREDERICK STRANGE KOLLE, M.D., sur- he was in the front rank of his line of trade. His geon and author, born Hanover, Germany, No- fairness, his reliability, his expert knowledge of vember 22, 1871. Graduated in medicine from hops which made his judgment the final arbiter Long Island College Hospital 1893. First came of many a dispute, and his amiability gave him a to Flatbush as a visiting interne in March, 1893, standing in the community worthy of the name at Kings County Hospital, ending his term in he bears. In every way he upheld the traditions 1894, when he took up service at the Kingston of the family and of the firm to which he suc- Avenue Contagious Disease Hospital during the ceeded. Mr. Rothbarth is a member of the Ger- epidemic of smallpox. The same year traveled man Liederkranz and finds his relaxation in bowl- through Mexico and on his return to Brooklyn ing, fishing and other sports of similar nature. He settled into private practise early in 1895. One is connected with practically every charitable or- of the first X-ray investigators in the United ganization in the city of any consequence and States. Lecturer in electro-therapeutics and as?o- worthy of support and takes an active interest ciate editor Electrical Age, 1897-1902. Radio- in many of them in an official capacity. grapher to M.E. Hospital, Brooklyn. Settled was born in permanently in Flatbush in 1899. Inventor : ra- CHARLES J. OBERMAYER diometer, Kolle X-ray coil and switching devices, New York City on November 8, 1869, the son dentaskiascope, oesophameter, folding fluoroscope, of German parents, and received his education in X-ray printing process, Kolle focus tube, direct- the public schools and the College of the City of 212 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS New York. He kit the college to become a book- Brooklyn League, Prospect Heights Citizens As- keeper and later studied law while still acting as sociation, the Twelfth Street Reformed Church; bookkeeper and cashier for the German-Amer- chairman of the advisory committee of the Brook- ican Real Estate Title Guarantee Company, of lyn Nursery and Infants' Hospital ; president Xar- which he was later elected secretary and treas- ragansett burnishing Co.; director Home Title In- urer, having served in this capacity . for over surance Co.; director Fifth Avenue Branch Me- twelve year-. He is interested and affiliated with chanics Bank; Bibliophile Society of Boston. He many other concerns through investments or offi- keeps well informed on the issues of the day, giv- cial relations. He holds considerable real estate ing loyal support to the principles in which he be- in Manhattan and Brooklyn and his property lieves. Wherever Mr. Obermayer is known, he is claims much of his attention, but the greatesl part held in the highest regard on account of his ster- of his time is probably given to his financial in- ling integrity and his fidelity to principle. - in connection with the Greater New York- Savings Rank, of which he has been president JULIUS W. BRUNN, merchant, was born at since its organization and whose success and stand- Hamburg on May _•_>, 1833, and died at 430 Grand ing are essentially due to his efforts. The bank Avenue, Brooklyn, on December 30, 1907. He was organized on March 27, 1897, and opened was educated in private schools in his native city. for business on May third of the same year. The In 1854 he emigrated to America and entered the institution is located at the corner of Fifth Av- employ of a mercantile house. His energy and enue and Twelfth Street in Brooklyn and is the ambition led him to seek for wider fields and in only hank in the district. The necessity for such 1857 he established himself in the importing an institution to, and its great value for, the business on his own account. He was successful neighborhood have been attested by the prosperity from the start and on August 3, 1858, he formed it has enjoyed from the start. The career of Mr. the firm of Hagemeyer & Brunn, which rapidly Obermayer illustrates most forcibly the oppor- became one of the most important houses in the tunities which America affords to her citizens, line in which it was engaged, and is still doing recognizing their merits and rewarding their ef- business with undiminished prestige. Mr. Brunn fort- with success. While connected with many was always a strong Republican and counted extensive and important business interests, his many eminent men, like President Grant and efforts toward advancing the municipal interests Henry Ward Beecher, among his intimate friends. of Brooklyn are so incessant .and wisely directed He took a very active part in local affairs and and therefore so generally recognized that they devoted a large part of his energies to furthering cannot be considered as of secondary importance public improvements in Brooklyn and to the amel- when viewing his career of signal usefulness. ioration of conditions, especially in the govern- While the interest he has taken in practical poli- ment and the administration of the city. He was tics 1 1 much of his time, and while his a member of the German Club, the German Lieder- stalwart Republicanism on national and state kranz of New York City, the Germania Club and issues ha- been exceedingly valuable to his the Lincoln Club of Brooklyn. He was also a di- party, his services in that direction must neces- rector of the German Savings Bank. Mr. Brunn sarily he considered as less important than those was married in Europe on December 15, 1 S57, to of inucli greater value rendered to the community Miss Charlotte Elizabeth Going. Five children, a- a whole through public spirit, progressivi Constantin, Armin, Lincoln, Freda and Else, sur- and liberality, lb- i- yet a young man but has vive him. Mrs. Brunn died at her summer home, he impress of a forcible individuality upon Liskevcen Farm, South Woodstock, Conn., on busim ! and political life wherever his ac- July 31, 1004. tivity has been aroused. In [892 Mr. Ober was mayer married to Miss [da Bell Sabin, a HENRY W. B ^HRENBURG, a man of ,,f daughter of William !•".. Sabin. lb- is identified fairs, was bom at Hoboken, X.J. December 13. with a number of fraternal and religious move 1X71, where he attended the public schools. Mr. ments, including the Royal Arcanum, all Masonic Bahrenburg is a son of the late John Henry Bah- bodies, Chapters I. < ). of -elf Commandery and Hepta renburg, a splendid type the made G 1 lb- was presidenl of tl 11 League of Ameri man, who died in [889 •'"id who. when a boy of can Wheelmen in the United States, a membi twelve years of age, left his native town of Fis- the Crescenl Vthletic club. Automobile Club of cherhader, near Bremen, Germany, in 1838, and America, Twelfth Assembly District Republican emigrated to America. In [869 he established Club. Boston Bicycle « Hub, Good Road what is now the well known wholesale produce tion; trustee South Brooklyn Board of Trade, and commissi, ,11 house <>f J. II. Bahrenburg, THEODORE SUTRO. EMIL WELTE. JACOB WOLFGANG MACK. PETER H. RAPPENHAGEN. 213 KI'I'tii.F C. R. DENIG. CARL OTTO PETERS. JOHN BORKEL. JOB N Gl ORGE GILLIG. 214 GEORGE GILLIG. 215 .^ \ ANTHONY J. VOI.K. 216 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 217 Brother located at Nos. & Company, 103 and 105 approval of the lawyers and real estate men of Murray Street, New York City. The concern is this county. Register Gass has been prominent one of the largest, as well as one to-day of the in Democratic politics for over twenty years. For most reliable of its kind in the country. On many years he held the office of town assessor June 30, 1889, Mr. Bahrenburg died at his home of the old town of Westchester. After annexa- in leaving a daugh- tion Hoboken, widow and three he was elected as the first alderman from ters and three sons and mourned by a large circle that section of the greater city. For four con- of friends. During his lifetime he set a high secutive terms he was a member of the board, standard for the German citizen ; he was genial each term being elected by increased majorities. toward all correct in principle practise, and and Because of his personal popularity it was always both in business and social life, with an instinct- considered a hopeless task for any one to run ive love of what was right, and an equally de- against Mr. Gass. Nearly twenty-five years ago termined antipathy to all that was mean and Mr. Gass removed from Harlem to Unionport, wrong. Henry W. Bahrenburg, the subject of where he has since resided. He immediately es- this sketch, is well known in the financial and tablished himself in the real estate business and commercial world of New York City and Hobo- to-day is the recognized authority on real estate ken. He is a member of the old firm of J. H. in his section. No one ever thinks of consum- Bahrenburg, Brother & Company of New York; mating a real estate transaction east of the Bronx is president of the Mountain Ice Company of New River without first consulting Register Gass. Dur- Jersey, president of the New York and New Jer- ing his membership in the board of aldermen he sey Produce Company ; he is also interested in sev- was on all the important committees but concen- eral banking institutions of Hudson County, N.J. trated his efforts mainly on securing rapid transit In politics he is a Republican. He has never sought and other public improvements for the Borough nor desired to hold public office, his time being of the Bronx. No recent improvement in the fully occupied with his extensive private business Bronx has been secured without the active co-op- interests. On January 24, 1893, Mr. Bahrenburg eration of Mr. Gass. Mr. Gass is noted for his married Miss Jessie A. Gahagan, daughter of modest and unassuming work as a practical phil- the late James C. Gahagan, Esq., who was born anthropist. He is a member of many social and at London, England, in 1845. He came to Amer- charitable societies and his practical support is ica with his parents when he was a lad of six always sought when meritorious charitable proj- years of age, and has been an honored and es- ects are undertaken. He was one of the founders teemed citizen of Hoboken since 1865. Two chil- of the Odd Fellows Home in Unionport, which is dren have been born to the union : Charles Alfred a model of its kind. For many years he was and Frank Dudley, both of whom are living. Mr. a trustee of that institution and was active in its Bahrenburg resides at Summit, N.J., where he has management. He is still deeply interested in the a beautiful home over which his wife faithfully work of the Home. He is a member of the Chip- discharges her duties as a charming ho tess. Mr. pewa Democratic Club, treasurer of the Tam- Bahrenburg is a man possessed of agreeable and many Hall General Committee of the annexed dis- pleasing manners, a feature he displays in com- trict, prominent in the Westchester Maennerchor mercial as well as in his social walks of life. Al- and other German societies and he is also high up though a strict disciplinarian, by his kindly dis- in the councils of the Masonic order. Register . position, he commands the esteem of his em- Gass was born in Bavaria June 9, 1852, and was ployees and his perseverance, integrity and abil- educated in the primary and high schools of his ity to organize and execute have secured him a native country. He came to this country in 1872 high position in the business world. and settled in what was then known as the old town of Melrose. He became apprenticed to a FRANK GASS.—In public life and the busi- painter and after learning his trade moved to ness affairs of this city there is no more repre- Harlem and established himself in business. By sentative or progressive German-American than thrift and perseverance he soon made his mark Frank Gass, register of the county of New York and in a remarkably short time accumulated a and one of the leading Democrats of the borough prosperous business. In 1880 he decided to retire of the Bronx. Mr. Gass was elected to the high from the painting trade and moved to his present office he now holds in the fall of 1905, after a home in Unionport whither many of his friends heated contest, receiving the largest vote of any had preceded him. Although a young man he candidate on the Democratic ticket. Since as- soon became prominent in the politics of the old suming his present responsible position he has town of Westchester which was shown by his initiated many improvements that have won the election as assessor. He has for years been prom- 21S SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS inent in the- public eye and is noted for his pro- era! organizations, viz. : Trustee of the Home of bity and high civic and moral ideas. He is mar- Immigration, trustee of Orphan Asylum at Mt. ried and with his wife is active and prominent in Vernon, X.Y.; lir.-t vice-president of the Ger- the social life of Unionport. mania Saving- Bank of Brooklyn, a member of the German Hospital and the German Saenger- I'i:i IK II. RAPPENHAGEN, one of Brook- bund. lyn'- foremost citizens, was born April 27, 1831, at Hanover, Ottcndorf, Germany, and like many JULIUS STRAUSS, builder and real estate other successful men who began life in an hum- operator as well as a man of affairs, was born in ble way, received his education in the local public Xew York City December 1, 1862. He obtained schools of his native place. This period was a thorough education in the public schools, after brief, for he was only fourteen when he left his which he entered commercial fields at an early school to begin his fight for a future. Seeing age. For the past twenty years he has been a nothing in the way of a business opening, he pro- resident of Brooklyn, where he is largely inter- employment upon a farm and for years ested in real estate and building operations. Mr. he did the hardest kind of work. The de-ire for Strauss is considered one of the best authorities something more congenial whereby better oppor- on real estate values in the Greater City of Xew tunities might be realized, prompted him to come York. He is the treasurer of the Edgar Im- to this country in [851. His first position, on provement Company, whose extensive offices are arrival, was that of a porter in Stuart's sugar located at Xo. 12 Court Street, Brooklyn. The house, lie remained in that place for only two company figure among the most important real months, but the little experience he secured and estate and building corporations in Xew York as from which he made great use, convinced him developers and builders. Mr. Strauss is on the that the grocery trade was what he desired. The board of directors of Unity Church. Hebrew Or- next position he took was with a grocery house phan Asylum. Long I -land Safe Deposit Co., in the lower part of New York City; in this Training School of Jewish Hospital and is vice- new tiebl he worked hard to gather all the neces- president of the Citizens Trust Co. He married sary details thai would warrant him in embarking Miss Tillie Michel December 1, 1807. Mr. and in the business on his own account. One more Mrs. Strauss are prominently identified with change for the better, and in the latter place he Brooklyn social life and have a large number of remained for two years. At the end of that time warm personal friends. he had saved some money, but bad gained more experience. After having resided in Xew York EMIL V. WALDENBERGER, wholesale for fourteen years, he moved to Brooklyn in 1868 leather merchant, was born March 20, [845, at and settled at the corner of Park Avenue and Assamstadt, Baden. He was carefully educated Cumberland Street. It was there he realized his in the public schools and later wa- given private dream, for he conducted one of the finest gro- instruction in Latin and French preparatory to cery establishments in that part of Brooklyn entering the I'.o\ -' Seminary at Freiberg. It was which he establi hed with a cash capital of only the intention of Mr. Waldenberger to study the- eighty dollars. Each year his business grew, ology, but after some application to the profession and in iSS_> he retired from active life, having he decided his inclinations ran toward a com- achieved not only commercial success but the mercial career, which he later adopted. In 1866 1 of all who had come in contact with him. he came to America, locating in Xew York City, Politically, Mr. Rappenhagen ha- always been in- where he has resided ever since. I he first four dependent, lb- never sought any public office. years of his life in Xew York were spent in the Nearly nineteen years of hi- life have been given tea and grocery lines. He then obtained a position to miliar In [86o lie joined the State a- German correspondent for the Guardian Mu- Militia and from the rank of private he ro e to tual Life Insurance Company, 2-1 Broadway, that of first lieutenant, in which capacity he which be successfully tilled for four years. His served with great dignity for twelve years. It next occupation was that of bookkeeper in the wa- not until 1K72 that In- reached the height leather, upper and shoe finding house of Henry that was more suited to hi- personality ; he was Arthin, Xo- 84 ami 86 Cold Street, with whom made a major of the Fifteenth Battalion of he remained live year-. In 1S7S Mr. Walden- Brooklyn and held this command for six and berger engaged in that line of business on his own one-half years. On May i-\ 1854, Mr. Happen account, He achieved great success and on Sep- hagen married Mi-- Anna Katrina. N'o children tember 1. 1907, retired from active commercial bortl to thr union. lb- i- a member of sev life. Mr. Waldenberger is a member of the Arioti FRANK H. CORDTS. 219 i i - G. M ii. i.i R. T)|) BERNARD KARSCH. 221 HENRY L. SCHMIDT. GEURCE H. STEIL. JONAS WEIL. HON. I v OB H tUSSLING. 222 : SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 223 Singing Society, the Houseowners' Association turbances of those days. Mr. Hexamer was not of the Twelfth and Nineteenth Wards. For eight a club man. His only affiliation was with the years (1868 to 1876) he was a member of the Masonic order, Hudson Lodge. He attended the Eleventh Regiment, National Guard, State of New German Lutheran Church. On January 18, 1857, York. On October 10, 1874, Mr. Waldenberger he married Miss Anna Peter of Achery, Baden, married Miss Magdalena Bang. Ten children Germany, and to this union were born two chil- were born to the union, six ci whom are living dren, one of whom died in infancy. Mr. Hexa- and four deceased. The living children are mer died at his residence in Hoboken on June 1, Charles, Emmilie, Dora, Emil, George, Alfred. 1902, and was mourned by a host of friends who Tho^e who are deceased are Mary, Magdalena, remembered him as a loyal citizen, whose natural Gretchen and Herman. Aside from the various modesty, affability, and honorable business meth- social organizations he is affiliated with, he finds ods left a lasting impression upon those who had much time to spend with his family. His suc- the good fortune of his acquaintance. His son, cess in life has been acquired only through the Alexander Philip, was born in Hoboken on Octo hardest trials and hardships, and now at the age ber 29, 1857, and has taken up the reins where his of sixty-two he can lay aside the cares of a busy father left them and to-day is conducting the life and feel that he has really succeeded. finest and best equipped riding academy in Hobo- ken. He possesses many of his father's admira- PHILIP HEXAMER, one of Hoboken's old- ble qualities, and is one of Hoboken's best citi- est and highest esteemed citizens, was born Octo- zens, taking an active interest in city affairs. He ber 2j, 1830, at Meisenheim, Germany, and most is a director of the Trust Company of New Jer- of his early youth was spent around his native sey, People's Savings Deposit and Trust Company, town. He received his only education at Meisen- Bergen Lafayette Trust Company, Colonial Life heim, and that period was very brief as he left Insurance Company of America, Hudson County school at the age of fourteen years. He did odd Gas Company and belongs to the German Club chores on his father's farm for several years and of Hoboken and the German Riding Club of his early hardships were rather severe. He was Hoboken. about twenty-one years of age when he decided to come to America and face the world upon his SAMUEL STRASBOURGER, lawyer, was own responsibilities and reached New York City born in New York City on May 2^, 1867, and in the latter part of 1855. After a brief residence received his education in the public schools and the in New York, he moved to Hoboken, N.J. He College of the City of New York. He studied engaged in the bakery business and in a short law at the University of New York and received time he established two stores. He continued in the degree of L.L.B. After being admitted to this line up to the early sixties, when he bought the bar, he engaged in the practise of his pro- an interest in a riding academy originally es- fession in New York. Mr. Strasbourger has taken tablished by the Stevens family. Mr. Hexamer a warm interest in public affairs and served as joined forces with William Walter and under tax commissioner under Mayors Low and Mc- their able management the venture was crowned Clellan. He was first vice-president of the New with success. Later on his labors were directed in York Republican County Committee from 1904 a different channel. He engaged in the brewing to 1905, and a member of the Republican State business and for some time the firm was known Committee. Mr. Strasbourger is a member of the as Peter & Hexamer. A few years, however, Republican Club, the Bar Associations of New brought him back to his former business. He York City and the state of New York ; trustee of did not reestablish his riding academy until his the Hebrew Orphan Asylum and the Sydenham return from Europe in 1873. This academy, the Hospital, a thirty-second degree Mason and mem- best in Hoboken at that time, occupied the pres- ber of many other social and benevolent organiza- ent site of St. Mary's Catholic Church on Willow tions. In 1903 he married Miss May Blanche Avenue and Fourth Street. Up to the time of its Gayner and has two children. discontinuance, it was the headquarters of the followers of equestrian sports. In politics Mr. ADOLPH W. ENGLER, merchant, was born Hexamer was an Independent. He never aspired at Braunschweig, Germany, on September 23, to any public office. In the early sixties he was 1824, and received his education in the Real- one of the enthusiastic organizers as well as one Gymnasium of his native city. After his gradua- of the officers of a mounted volunteer military tion, Mr. Engler engaged in commercial pursuits troop which rendered valuable service to the city and came to America at the age of twenty-six of Hoboken during the early riots and other dis- years, settling at Baltimore and connecting him- 224 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS i, politics is self with the leaf tobacco trade On July 1863, years have gone. In Mr. Grill an in- iinded a branch house of the Baltimore firm dependent 1 )emocrat. of F. L. Brauns & Co., in New York City, under the name of Kremelberg & Co., which, under his JOHN P. WTNDOLPH was born in Prussia management, soon became one of the leading ex on June 30. 1S44, and educated in the public porting houses of leaf tobacco. Mr. Engler 1- an schools. After learning the trade of a gilder, he independent Democrat in politics and was for came to America at the age of sixteen years. In twenty-eight years trustee and secretary of the New York he soon found work at his trade and English Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity, of completed his education in the evening schools. In dis- [861, when hardly seventeen which he is still a member. He also has the years old, he enlisted tinction of being one of the oldest living members in the Seventh New York Volunteers, Company of the Deutsche Verein, Chamber of Commerce D, and served until mustered out in 1863. During and .\\\v York Produce Exchange. Mr. Engler this lime he was continually at the front and took ha- been married twice: in November, [858, to part in many engagements, notably in Virginia Miss Julia E. Spilckei, who died in March. 1873, and in the "Seven Days' Battle" under Colonel von and in April, 1S75. to Miss Elizabeth F. Brauns. George Schack. After his term of enlist- who died in November, 1906, both of Baltimore. ment had expired, he reenlisted in the Second Six children were horn to him: William S., New Jersey Cavalry and served until the end of F., the war in out. Adolph, Jr.. Henry R.. Ferdinand B., Minna 1865. When mustered he returned Julia E. to New York and worked at his trade on his own married to J. W. Lieh. Jr., ami account. From 1869 until 1884 he was engaged JOHN GEORGE GRILL, merchant, was horn in the hotel business, operating the Utah House at Hanau on the Main on September 24, 1865. He at Twentj fifth Street and Eighth Avenue. He received a superior education at the Gymnasium had always taken a lively interest in public af- of his native city and the Hoffmann Institute at fairs and politics and gained many friends by his Grill genial and his to others Si Goarshausen. After graduation Mr. disposition readiness help ;hool and served as one year's volunteer in who needed assistance. His election to the As- in was the Ninety-seventh Regiment of Infantry from sembly 1884 the natural outcome of his in activity in this was 1884 to 1885. He then engaged in business direction. He reelected in France and Spain but was sent by his Paris house [885 but declined a third nomination which was the to to America in 1888 and was successful from offered him. In the meantime he had retired hotel business start. Full of energy and of genial disposition, from the and devoted himself to ssing the gifl of making friends quickly and extensive dealings in real estate, in which he has endowed with decided business ability. Mr. Grill been verj successful. Following the urgenl wishes friends, tlie nomi- seemed to be cut out for the profession he se- of his he accepted Republican nation for for in lected, that of writing insurance in all its branches. alderman the Fifteenth Districl of ined 11. 1\ Poggenburg & Co., one of the [893 and was elected with a plurality five hun- • and best known firms in this line, and was dred votes in a district which normally giv< admitt rtnership after a few years. In Democratic candidate a majority of over twenty- fall of iSoj addition, he is treasurer of the firm of 11. S L< five hundred. In the he was elected dealers in pa vice-president <>i the Board "i Aldermen and clercq «!v Co., manufacturers of and Mr. Grill is widely known and a memb served as such for three years. At the end of his many clubs and societies, anion- them the New term he was appointed aqueduct commission York Athletic Club, German Liederkran/. Arion. the city of New York and still holds this ctffice. Melrose. Turn Verein, Masonic Club, German He has been the Republican leader <>\ the Eleventh Hospital Association, German Society and Fritz Vssembl] Districl for over ten years. Mr. Win- of is a member of many clubs and has been im. 1 le i- a Mason Kane Lodge dolph No. 4:4 He was married on January jo, [89I, active in all of them. Among them are the Re of Club. West Side Club. Union t,, Mis. Louise Poggenburg and has a family publican Republican seven children, three DO) and four uirB. Me is Republican Club of the Bronx and the Ninth and I district is a worthy representative of the younger genera- Fifteenth Assembly clubs. He a di- tion of Germans who have come to America and • of the Arion Society and was for four displayed the same splendid qualities which made president of the Heinebund, at the present their forerunners such valuable citizens of the time serving as vice president. As a Mason, he Union, though more practical and with a firmer is a member of Metropolitan Lodge, Washington w;rasp of the realities of life, and he bids fair Chapter and York Commandery, and the Veterans' to he a power in the community before many associations he belongs to are Janus C Rice Post, JOHN REIFE. 225 WILLIAM P. RINI I. II"! I 226 CHARLES F. HOLM. 227 .Toll N REIS1 N U'l BER. 228 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 229 No. 29 G.A.R., and the Veterans' Organization of work and no play makes Jack a dull boy," but the Seventh New York Volunteers. Mr. Windolph rather that youth and work should go together is also a director of the Side Bank. If and his West untiring application to his business is the the fact is taken into consideration that cause John P. that it is to-day one of the largest in its Windolph came to America with nothing but the line. Mr. Gerdau is fond of yachting and a knowledge of a trade and such natural gifts as member of the German Verein. In 1894 he mar- had been bestowed upon him, and that even his ried Miss Clara Ehlermann of St. Louis. education had to be completed after his arrival and while he was already earning his bread by JOSEPH FREY, manufacturer, was born at the work of his hands, the fact that he did achieve Altdorf in Baden, Germany, on November 6, success not only as far as the possession of world- 1854. He came to America with his parents when ly goods is concerned, but also by securing the es- a boy and received his education in the parochial teem and friendship of all who came in contact and public schools of New York City. After with him, and that substantial honors were given leaving school, Mr. Frey engaged in commercial to him, easily proves that he belongs among the pursuits and finally established himself as a man- American citizens of German birth who deserve to ufacturer of supplies for artificial flowers, in be placed in the front rank. He married Miss which line he has met with decided success. Be- Eva Appell of New York City and has six chil- ing gifted with great musical talent and an un- dren : August, Arthur, Louisa, Emilie, Emma and usually fine voice, he studied singing and became Lydia. well known as a church singer. He is a member of Mater Dolorosa Parish in Pitt Street, New HERMANN HEGEXER, merchant, was born York City, and has given much of his time and at Brussels, Belgium, as the son of German par- energy to church matters, especially devoting him- ents, and received his education in the Gymnasi- self to the interests of German Catholics. Mr. um of his birthplace. He engaged in mercantile Frey is president of the County Federation of business and came to New York in 1886, taking German Catholics, member of the Katholische charge of the foreign correspondence of a large Saengerbund, of the Catholic Club, the executive commission house. Having secured the necessary boards of the New York State Federation of familiarity with the American market, Mr. Hege- Catholic Societies and the German Roman-Catho- ner decided to make himself independent, and lic Central Federation of North America, St. Jo- went to Europe to secure agencies for high class seph's Benevolent Society, Fidelia Singing Soci- goods suitable for export to America. He was ety, Annunciation Council 71 C.B.L., and the successful in obtaining the agency of one of the German Liederkranz ; also a corporate member largest and best known lace houses in Brussels of the "Leo Haus" for the protection of German- and operated for a time in conjunction with a Catholic emigrants. He is an independent Demo- commission house. In 1896 he started under his crat in politics but has never held public office. On own name and has since then carried on the busi- October 16, 1883, Mr. Frey married Miss Anna ness of importing real lace and other similar Ziegler of New York City. His oldest son, Dr. lines with marked success. He spends four or Joseph L. Frey, is a graduate of Georgetown five months of every year in Europe and must be University and a practising physician; the other counted among the most noticeable and prominent children are Elizabeth, Leander A., Anna M. and of the younger generation of German merchants Maximilian Herbert Frey. in New York. He was married in January, 1888, to Miss Rosa Hofmann of Leipzig. HUGO H. RITTERBUSCH, lawyer, was born in New York City on September 26, 1862, as the OTTO GERDAU, merchant, was born at Ham- son of William Ritterbusch, born at Brunswick, burg, Germany, in the year 1852. After com- Germany, and his wife, Elise, nee Kohler. who pleting his education at the Johanneum and ser- came from Hesse in Germany. Mr. Ritterbusch ving an apprenticeship with a large mercantile was educated in Public School No. 58 from which firm in his native city, he went, in i8~r, to Lon- he graduated in 1877; he took the classical course don for the well known ivory firm of Heine Ad. in the College of the City of New York and grad- Meyer of Hamburg. One year later, in 1872, he uated in 1882 with the degree of bachelor of arts. decided to come to America and, arriving in New He studied law in Columbia University Law York, he established himself as importer and com- School, graduating in 1887 with the degree of mission merchant under the firm name of Otto bachelor of laws, and was admitted to the Bar of Gerdau, which, in 1906, was changed to the Otto the state of New York in 1888 and to the United Gerdau Co. Mr. Gerdau does not believe in "All States Courts in 1899. From 1883 until 1888 he 23o SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS was instructor in mathematics at Stevens High taking in one million dollar-" worth of such ac- School in Hoboken, X.J, and since that time he count- during the absence of the partner, C. 1 Y has been a practising lawyer in the city of New Dambmann, locked up in Lyons in consequence Y<>rk. He i- a Democrat in politics and a member of the French War when the French manager and of the genera] committee of Tammany Hall. Mr. clerk- resigned in order to avoid the in-ults of rbusch has been a resident of New York City their countrymen for serving a German employer. all his life, but passes a few months of every Mr. Dambmann was safe and unmolested as an year at his country residence at Central Valley American citizen and intimate friend of the Amer- '• in < nty, N.Y., where he indulges in his ican Consul-general Osterhaus. To-day domestic favorite pastime of outdoor sports, especially fish- goods are said to form the hulk of the business of ing, for Ik- i- known as an expert fly Fisherman. the big German dry goods importer-. The firm of He ha- taken an active interest in many of the C. F. Dambmann & C<>. was dissolved in [897 movement- inaugurated for the public welfare, for reasons which would form an interesting especially for the promotion of German art ami chapter of reading in a hook entitled "The Cur e music, ami the preservation of German social of a Protective Tariff." Mr. Seitz then traveled ms, a- well as in public demonstrations for for several years in this countrj and Europe. tlie general welfare. Mr. Ritterbusch never held Still too young to remain inactive, in [882 he be public office, hut i- president of the Heinebund came a member of the firm of Seitz ft Gould (suc- - - to Singii . an ex president and member of ors one of the oldest firms in the china the board of director- of the West Side Mutual trade. Cary ft Co. I. a- importer- of tea- and ex- Building, Loan and Savin-- Association; secre- porter- of American produce, grain, rosin and tary and counsel for the Central Valley Land Im- petroleum. By the well known Standard < til tac- provement Co.: member of the Arion Society and tic- playing false to almost every hou e distribut- veral year- one of it- directors, a member ing their oil in foreign countries, a loss of forty of the Columbia University and College of the thousand dollar- was sustained in two week-. Such too i Ww York Alumni Associations, a dele- lr--.ni- were discouraging and finding besides gate to tli,- United Real Estate Owners' Associ the tea and produce commission business to., spec ation, and counsel and director of a number of ulative, unsafe and unpromising, Mr. Seitx with- commercial enterprises. During the great Na- drew. In [889, with Messrs. Jungbluth and tional Singing Festival in 1894 he served on the Weingaertner, experienced drug importers, the hoard of director- and a- chairman of tin- press Arabol Manufacturing Co. wa- formed in order and printing committee. Mr. Ritterbusch mar- to exploil an invention for making artificial gum ried Mi-- Annie L. Maack. arabic, a promising enterprise in view of the Soudan being closed 011 account of the war with CARL 1-.MIL SI II Z. merchant and treasurer the Mahdi. However, dextrine knocked out the of the Arabol Manufacturing Company, horn in head of artificial and natural .mini arahic. Al II. Switzerland, August 20, 1843, obtained though expectations in this direction were frus lucation at the St. Gall Commercial School, i. principally owing to Mr. Weingaertner's the Academy of Science-. Geneva, Switzerland; untiring study and energy about two hundred new the Scl 1 of 1 >r Clayton Palmer Barnet, near article- were created ill the lim table glues London, and the evening courses of the Ecole des and adhesives for pasting and sizing silks, cotton-. 1<- Arts Paris. 1 also attended the woolen-, paper, Straw, wall-, etc.. such articles ! Military School for Artillery Officers at finding a ready sale in Vmerica and many foreign Thun. Switzerland, and was breveted lieutenant countries Mr. Seitz is a Free Trader and in illerj in 1863. Vfter having occupied cleri politic- an Independent, so called Mugwump, \t cal positions in prominent business houses in St. one time he wa- trustee of the German American Call and Paris, he came to \111erica in [866 In School of the Nineteenth Ward and for several 1870 ' junior partner in the old well years vice-president of the German Hospital M< and mo ' nan linn, i- -till a member of the German Liederkranz and t ,; I I lainhinann & Co., imp- . dry 1 Minn Singing Societies, the Metropolitan Mu - and woolen-, with a branch house at Lyon-, -.inn of \rt. Yew York Sw 1 (luh. German Hos I-'ran. [ the most promi pital and Dispensary, Deutsche Gesellschaft, ["o !i and Swiss manufacturers rev Botanical ("luh. National Geographical Soci Dambmann ft Co. was the iir-t German American Society for the Advancement of import house which, in 1870, took up th' -ah- of Science, Yew York Produce Exchange, Swiss unt • f American Benevolent Society, Smith Infirmary and Citi ) manufacturer- against cash advances, Mr. 1 'ni. .11. ( >n < :t( ibi r 1 1. 1869, Mr. Seitz GUSTAV HAUSER. 231 CARL ORDEMANN. 2.^2 \ OTTO WESSELL. 233 AIM IHK I.. \\ I 5S1 I.I . 234 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 235 married Miss Anna Margaretha Clausen. Four tunity to exercise his talents and develop his ex- children have been born, viz. : Carl Arthur, now ceptional qualities. He was elected vice-presi- doctor of chemistry; Oscar Roland, now vice- dent of the new corporation and, after the death president of the German Liederkranz ; Walther of Mr. Herman Hingslage, the president, in Robert and Ida Carolina. 1900, Mr. Riefe became the executive head of the company and still continues as such. CARL FREDERICK GOEPEL, merchant, was Beginning with a comparatively small plant, the born at Oberlungwitz, Saxony, on February 24, Consumers' Brewing Company of New York, 1845, where he obtained an education at the vil- Limited, is to-day one of the largest cooperative lage school. In 1865 he came to America, locating brewing concerns of its kind in the United States, in New York City, where he has continued to and supplies an annual demand of more than reside ever since. From 1865 to 1869, however, he 225,000 barrels of beer. Its vast interests are served in the United States Regular Army and far-reaching and the magnitude of its product was stationed most of the time in Texas. Mr. marks the company as one of the foremost con- Goepel is a Republican in politics; he has never cerns in the brewing industry. One hundred and held any political office, nor has he desired to. twenty men are constantly employed by this en- He is a prominent member of the Liederkranz terprising corporation. To the able administration German Society. In 1872 he married Miss Clara of Mr. Riefe, the company owes much of its great Heeser, who died in 1879. On August 24, 1879, success. Being a man of the old school, whose he married Miss Heeser, sister of his first wife, business principles are the same as those which he of New York City. They have nine living chil- employs in his private life, viz., a kind disposition, dren and one deceased. Mr. Goepel is a man who being rigidly honorable and charitable to a degree, is popular both in commercial and social walks he is held in the highest esteem by all in every of life. Mr. Goepel died suddenly on December walk of life. Mr. Riefe is honorary president of 5, 1907, and was mourned by a host of friends. the gigantic Plattdeutsche Volksfest Verein, hon- orary president of the Fritz Reuter Altenheim JOHN RIEFE, president of the Consumers' (Old People's Home), ex-president of Club Vege- Brewing Company of New York, Limited, was sack, ex-president of Amt. Hagener Club, member born at Gestemiinde, Germany, on September 9, of the Arion Society, member of the Herman 1846, where he obtained an education in the local Lodge, F. & A. M., and also member of the Luth- schools. At the age of fifteen, he was employed eran Church, as well as being associated with as an apprentice by a merchant, with whom he many other German societies. He was united in remained for four years. He then went to marriage with Miss Gretchen Horstmann, to Bremen, where he became connected with a dry- whom five daughters and two sons have been born. goods house, with which he remained for three years. In 1866, Mr. Riefe came to America and MAX F. ABBE, president of the Abbe Engi- settled in New York City. When he arrived in neering Co., was born at Berlin, Germany, where this country, he was unable to speak the English he received a fairly good education and was em- language. He secured a clerkship with a grocery ployed most of his time in the coal business. In concern and, after several years of hard work 1886 he came to the United States. In the fol- and steady application, he saved enough money lowing years of hard struggle he occupied vari- to embark in business on his own account. He ous positions, took up the study of machinery, opened a grocery store in Hoboken, N.J., which especially machinery for grinding and pulverizing he conducted for nine years. He then returned purposes. After making several inventions he es- to New York and became associated with the tablished himself in business in 1897 and has made Clausen & Price Brewing Company as a collector a success of it. Mr. Abbe's numerous inventions for that concern. Being possessed of great am- are patented all over the world. The machines bitions and endowed with a strong force of char- manufactured by his concern are bought by mine acter, Mr. Riefe was soon promoted to the posi- owners, cement works, sugar refineries, chemical tion of secretary and treasurer of the company. works, porcelain works and other different indus- His knowledge of the brewing process qualified tries and are also used in laboratories. The labo- him as an expert in 1890. With the co- atories of nearly all the universities and col- operation of Mr. H. H. Hingslage, Mr. leges in the United States adopted machines made Diedrich Knabe, Mr. William P. Rinckhoff and by his firm under patents secured by Mr. Abbe, Mr. Henry L. Meyer, Mr. Riefe organized who has thus protected more than thirty of his the Consumers' Brewing Company of New York, own inventions. The officers of the Abbe Engi- Limited, and he was then afforded a better oppor- neering Co. are Max F. Abbe, Lina Abbe and 236 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AM) THEIR DESCENDANTS Paul O. Abbe. A Democrat in politics, Mr. Abbe member of the Executive Committee. Mr. Rinck- i- a member of the Arion Society and the Amer- hoff resides at 457 West Forty-seventh Street ican Institute of Mining Engineers. He was mar- New York City, and he has a beautiful summer ried on December .>. 1877, to Miss Lina Bu In mie at Monsey, Rockland Co., X.Y. He is a and lias one son, Paul 0. Abbe, who is engaged member of the Arion Society, Herman Lodge 268, in business with his father. b. • the rank of captain of Company H of said United States, he studied law at the Columbia regiment, but upon his election as captain, for Law School and received the degree of LL.B. business reasons, he resigned from the National when he graduated in June. 1S82. In the same Guard. After continuing in the grocery business year he was admitted to the Bar of Xew York for some years, he sold his place in Harlem and State and two years later to practise in the Uni ventured into the liquor business, opening a liquor ted States Courts. Immediately after the com- store at Forty-sixth Street and Tenth Avenue pletion of his studies Mr. Holm engaged in the and while there he did a prosperous business. practise of his profession and devoted himself [883-87-88-90, he represented the Seventeenth As- principally to commercial and corporation law. sembly District in the city of Xew York in the lie is a member of the linn of Holm, Whitlock I of Aldermen, having been elected on the & Scarff and has organi/ed a large number of Democratic ticket. While a member of the cooperative enterprises of German retailers, Board of Aldermen, he was chairman of the among them in 1X89 the Consumers' Brewing Railroad Committee. He was vice chairman of Co. of Xew York, in 1898 the Excelsior Brewing the Democratic Club in hi- district for about Co., United Wine and Trading Co. and the Amer- twenty five year-, but retired from active politics ican Exchange Cigar Co., ami in later years in [906, ; devote all of his time to business. In the Ferd. Munch Brewing Co., United Na- lie joined with John Riefe, H. II. Hings- tional Bank, Hudson Trust Co., Kick Baking Co., 1 Diedrich Knabe and llcnr> L. Meyer in the Consumers' Pie Baking Co., and many similar organization of the Consumers' Brewing Company corporations of a cooperative character, all of of Xew York, Ltd., one of the largest co-oper- which have been very successful, paying good ative brewing companies in the country, of which dividends and whose stockholders number in the be was el retary, and in 1907 he was aggregate several thousand retailers with assets elected both secretary and treasurer of said running into the millions. Mr. Holm remains company. In iX*/>, together with F. II. ECastens, counsel for all these cooperative companies; he I Lang, Louis Struever and Luer Immen, he has probably created more of them than any organized the Artificial [ce Company, of which other lawyer, and while this fact speaks for his be was el< "lent. 'I'hi> company has One great popularity and the esteem in which he is of the largest ice plants in the City of New York. held by the ( iennans of Xew York City, the In [902, together with F. II. Ka tens, I Lang further fact that all these concerns are prosper- and Julius Rinckhoff, he organized the American ous and have stood the test of actual experience, Distilled Water Company. In 1900, he wa one speaks volumes for the knowledge and ability of of the directors and organizers of The United their organizer. He has also incorporated the National Bank Of Xew York City, which bank in Plattdeutsche Volksfesl Verein of Xew York, the was merged into the Hudson Trust Com Fritz Reuter Altenheim and many other socie- pane, of which company he is a director and a ties Mr. Holm is a Republican in politics, but FERNANDO A. WESSELL. 237 KM II. V. WALDENBERGER. 238 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 239 has never aspired to or held public office. He is larity that in 1900 he was elected Sheriff by a vice-president of the Hudson Trust Co. and held majority of over three thousand votes. In 1906 the same position in the United National Bank. he was elected Mayor of his native city after Until he served 1905 in the militia and was cap- a campaign of unusual bitterness, during which tain of Company of the C Fourteenth Regiment. the friends of liberty and toleration rallied He is a Mason of Herman Lodge and of the around him without regard to party. Mayor Thirty-second Degree Aurora Grata Lodge, as Haussling married Miss Ellen Elligott of New- well as of the Riding and Driving Club. Mr. ark and has two sons and two daughters, be- Holm was married twice : to Miss Carolina Mar- sides five grandchildren. tiensen, who gave him two children, Una and Ion C, and after her death to Miss Grace Boies, HON. CHARLES G. F. WAHLE, city mag- the also mother of two children, Tertia and istrate and a lawyer of great ability, was born Grace Holm. at New York City March 24, 1866. His father was Carl G. F. Wahle, a veteran of the Civil HON. JACOB HAUSSLING was born at War, well known in German veteran circles in Newark on February 22, 1855, as the son of New York City. He attended the public schools, Henry Hiiussling who had come to x^merica from the College of the City of New York and the Deidesheim in Bavaria in 1848. While the elder University Law School. He read law in the Haussling had not taken an active part in the office of Frederick H. Betts, at one time a part- revolutionary movement, his brother had taken ner of former Secretary of the Navy William up arms for liberty and fought in several en- C. Whitney, and was later admitted to the Bar. gagements with Carl Schurz. The reaction fol- In 1890 Mayor Grant appointed him school in- lowing the collapse of the revolution drove Henry spector for the Fifth Inspection District of the Haussling from home and fatherland. He set- city of New York. He led the first fight for tled at Newark and founded the mineral water the introduction of electric lighting in the schools business which is still flourishing and at present of his district in the city of New York, succeed- conducted by his son. Jacob Haussling received ing in calling to his assistance such men as his education in St. Mary's Parochial School, the Charles F. Chandler, the late Professor Morton Grammar School of the second ward, and finally of the Stevens Institute of Technology, Profes- in a business college. When he had finished his sor Cross of the Massachusetts Institute of studies, he was apprenticed to a marble polisher, Technology of Boston, Professor Freeman of but soon tired of the narrow confines of his Washington and others. In 1891 he was ap- home circle and decided to grow up with the pointed one of the commissioners of accounts of West, following the advice of Horace Greeley. the city of New York by Mayor Grant, the sal- Hardly sixteen years old, he went to Chicago, ary of the office being five thousand dollars; he which was emerging from the ruin the big fire was at that time just twenty-five years of age and had wrought, but did not remain long. Return- so far as the records of the city of New York ing to Newark, he took charge of his father's show, was the youngest man who was ever the business and succeeded in developing it beyond executive head of one of the municipal depart- his fondest expectations. When he started, a ments of the city of New York. He was re- one horse wagon was sufficient to serve all cus- appointed to the office by Mayor Gilroy. During tomers, but ere many years had passed, a regular his incumbency of the office of commissioner of wagon park was needed. Mr. Haussling also en- accounts he conducted a public investigation into gaged in the business of manufacturing soda wa- the accounts and methods of the Park Depart- ter fountains, which business was sold to an in- ment and succeeded in exposing a corrupt system corporated company. The manufacture of min- of management in various branches of the park eral waters is still conducted by himself and un- system, which resulted in the enforced resigna- der his name. It has grown to be one of the tion of many of the superintendents, and the largest in its line in the state of New Jersey. flight from the city of the chief gardener. The While Mr. Haussling did not seek for political reforms which have since been instituted in the honors, it was but natural that a man of his well Park Department are the result of that admin- known energy and character should be put for- istration. He was the secretary of the commit- ward by his many friends when the citizens of tee having in charge the Columbian celebration Newark looked for men to represent them. A in the city of New York and was appointed by straight Democrat, he was repeatedly compelled Mayor Gilroy a member of the committee to to take nominations for offices when the chances represent the city at the Manhattan Day celebra- for victory were slight, but such was his popu- tion at the Chicago celebration. He is a mem- 240 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS ber of the Bar Association of the city of New which brought him his degree as doctor of phil- York, the Society of Medical Jurisprudence, osopln on April 4, 1806. He found his position Tammany Society and Anawanda Club. He is at Stuttgart as uncongenial as had been the case chairman of the executive committee of the Ger with his predecessors, and resigned at the end man Democracy of the city of New York ami of the winter term of 1866-67 in order to go to has had charge of several vigorous political the United States. A few days after his arrival campaigns among Germans in the city of New he succeeded in securing the position as private York. He is also a member of the Liederkranz, assistant to Professor Charles F. Chandler of of which organization he has been one of the the School of Mines. Columbia College, and a board of directors and a trustee; of the German similar position with Professor Jay of Columbia Press Club, of which organization he was for College. Two years later he resigned these posi- many years the chairman of the finance commit- tions and accepted the place of assistant chemist tee; the German Scientific Society of New York in the Health Department of the city of New and other German charitable and social organi- York, where he remained until 1879, when he es- zations. He was one of the counsel who suc- tablished the laboratory for analyses and investi- cessfully appeared for the executive committee gations which is still in existence in the lower mmany Hall in it- fight to exclude William business portion of New York City. The inves- S. Devery from that body, is vice-chairman of tigations carried on by Dr. Endemann during the the executive committee of Tammany Hall, long years of his practise in New York cover a one of the vice-presidents of the general commit- very large field. In the analytical branch of his tee of Tammany Hall for the Thirty-fifth As- activity he has examined all kinds of food and sembly District, and one of the vice-presidents of drink. He demonstrated beyond a doubt that the Jefferson Tammany Club of the Thirty-fifth the self-purification of river waters by direct Assembly District. In addition to this, in mat- oxydation of sewage, notwithstanding a general ter- local to the Bronx section of the city of belief therein, is practically non-existent. During New York, he is a member of the Schnorer Club, the ten years of his service in the health depart- North Side Board of Trade, Bar Association of ment he furnished valuable assistance to the the Bronx, a vestryman of the Protestant Epis- coroners of New York and neighboring cities in copal Church of the Holy Faith, president of the cas,s of suspected poisoning. Physiological ex- ral Church Club of the Protestant Episco- aminations and others relating to the effective- pal Church in the Bronx and is a member of ness of disinfectants and antiseptics were made other organizations. Mr. Wahle was married to by him for the city of Xew York and the Federal Mi-> Florence (Catherine Budd of Sag Harbor, Government, and he appeared frequently in the who, with their four children, occupy a handsome pursuance of such cases before legislative com- home at 1239 Franklin Avenue, Bronx, New mittees at Albany and congressional committees York City. On the first of May, 1005, he was at Washington. The largest part of his time was appointed a city magistrate of the city of New naturally spent in the field of applied chemistry, York for the First Division. He has served as such as the manufacture of artificial stone, the president of the board <>f city magistrates and tanning, bleaching and dyeing of leather, the in- ich filled the position with great skill and vestigation of and experiments with asphalt, .yum dignity. As an orator, Mr Wahle has few equals resins, paper and paper stock, drugs, fats and anywhere in t! of New York. oils, including the refining of them, the preserva- tion of food and in many other directions, the re- SAMUEL THEODOR HERMANN (CARL sults of which wire published in numerous es- ENDEMANN, I'h.D, chemist, was born at Ful- says scattered through about twenty different da in I lessen, Germany, on April 4, [842, and re periodicals. In connection with these investiga- Ceived his early education in the College and tions upward of fifty patents were obtained which I'ol\ technical Institute at Kassel, the capital city are almost all in the hands of Dr. Endemann's of Hessen. After graduating he studied at the clients lb- also edited and published an Eng- University of Giessen in t86o and '6i and at Mar- lish edition of "Gerber on Milk," and edited sev- burg from [86i to [864 Successfully passing eral of the first volumes of the Journal of the through the examinations which entitled him to American Chemical Society. To this orgatu/a apply for the degree of doctor of philosoph tion the I" of his life were given, Dr. ion as tutor at the Polj technic In Endemann serving for many scats as director, stitute at Stuttgart, Wuerttemberg, where he sue member of the committee on papers and publica- ceeded in elaborating hi^ dissertation "Die sauren tions and as editor. The first practical impulse und neutralen Aether der schwefligen Saure," for the formation of this society was given by WILLIAM SOHMER. 241 l'liil.il' I. SCHMIDT. 242 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 243 him, and with the assistance of Dr. J. Walz, a as one of the leading German merchants of New small number of chemists was interested, but York City, on account of his success as well as the original plan of forming a small local soci- his character. ety was soon superseded by Professor Charles F. Chandler's idea of forming a national organiza- LOUIS W. HRABA, manufacturer of fine tion. Calls sent out met with a response suffi- leather goods, such as wallets, pocket-books, trav- cient to make this possible, though during the eling bags, tourist outfits, mounted in gold and first ten years of its existence the society was silver, etc., etc., with offices and salesrooms lo- greatly hindered in its prosperity and efficiency cated at 29 East Nineteenth Street, New York by the opposition of many enemies who only City, was born at Vienna, Austria, in 1853. At gradually came to see its usefulness and value. the unusual age of sixteen he graduated from the Dr. Endemann has frequently appeared in the Gymnasium, a thorough institution of that city. courts as expert, notably in cases referring to Shortly after his graduation he came to the Uni- artificial dyes, the manufacture of paper pulp and ted States. In 1872 he located in Hoboken, N.J., paper, and the utilization of wastes. He is an where he at present resides and where he is held original member of the Society of Chemical In- in the highest esteem socially, publicly and com- dustry and the American Chemical Society, a mercially. After arriving in this country, al- member of the German Technological Club of though only a boy, he possessed more than the New York, the German Chemical Society of Ber- usual grit for one of his years at that time ; he lin and the Verein Deutscher Chemiker. Dr. obtained a position with the leather goods firm Endemann married, on November 27, 1869, Ma- of Messrs. Enninger & Co., with whom he remain- ria Elisabeth, daughter of J. J. Miller, and had ed for a short time. After being identified with seven children, of whom six are living: Eleonora other houses in a similar line, in 1879 Mr. Hraba L. Grimes, Hermann K., Gertrude, Fred W., embarked in business on his own account and Clara and Elsa. made it a special point to produce the finest leath- er goods on the American soil. He has been JACOB LANGELOTH, merchant, was born successful in his undertaking and has won the at Mannheim, Germany, where he received his name and reputation in the American as well education at the Gymnasium, graduating there- as Vienna, Paris, Berlin and London markets from at the age of sixteen years. Before com- to stand alone without any near approach, as ing to the United States, Mr. Langeloth entered the maker of the finest and most artistic leather mercantile life at his native place in 1867. In goods that human skill can produce. His busi- 1873 he went to London, England, where he re- ness continued to grow rapidly and in order to mained until 1881. He then located at Frank- keep apace with the times, Mr. Hraba removed furt-on-Main where he became assistant manager to his present splendid and commodious quar- of the Metallgesellschaft. In 1887 he came to ters, No. 29 East Nineteenth Street. Mr. Hraba America, locating at New York City, where he in 1876 married a Miss Bruetsch, an estimable has continued to reside ever since. After his lady of Hoboken. They reside at No. 623 Bloom- arrival in New York he established the American field Street in that city. One of the pleasing Metal Company, limited, an extensive concern features Mr. Hraba possesses is that his success- of which he is president. Mr. Langeloth is a ful business career has never destroyed his great director of the Corn Exchange Bank, a mem- simplicity. In his social and commercial walks ber of the German Club, the New York Yacht in life he possesses none of those snobbish char- Club, the Midday Club, the Downtown Club and acteristics which so often spoil the successful other organizations. He is intimately connected man of business. with copper, lead, spelter, etc., mining and smelt- ing industries in this country, as well as Mex- AUGUSTUS G. MILLER, contractor and ico and Canada and among others is president of manufacturer, was born at Marktbreit, near the Granby Consolidated Mining, Smelting & Wuerzburg, in Bavaria, on July 14, 1869. He Power Co. of British Columbia, and vice-presi- received his early education in the schools of dent of the Balbach Smelting & Refining Co. of Wuerzburg and attended St. Nicholas Parochial Newark, N.J. He is widely known as an emi- School in New York City for two years, having nently successful business man of exceptional emigrated to America with his parents when still ability. Cultured and refined in his taste, he is a boy. Mr. Miller engaged in business when quite universally esteemed for his superior qualities young and became the pioneer of the Miller sys- and gifts. Although disinclined to take a lead- tem of sectional shelving used now by many ing part in public functions, he must be counted thousands of commercial and manufacturing con- 244 SUCCESS I-T'L i il.RMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS cerns in the city of New York and beyond its elected coroner for Hudson County in Novem- limit-. He lias always taken a very deep inter- ber, [903, by a majority of nearly fifteen hundred esl in public affairs of all kind- and served for \ote- in the ordinarily Democratic city of Hobo- seventeen years in the militia. From 1*^89 to ken, carrying hi- county by almost six thousand 1895 he was a member of the Eighth Regiment, Mr. Volk remains true to the traditions then transferred to the Seventy-first, took of the country where his parents were born, and his discharge and reenlisted in the Firsl Signal while a loyal American citizen, is ever ready to Corps, serving until 1905. During the Spanish- lend hi- aid to every movement in the interest American War he did his duty with his regi- of the German-American element. Of genial ment at Camp Townsend and was later on trans- disposition and fond of social diversions, his ferred to the armory for recruiting service, lie friends are very numerous, and his popularity is is commodore of the U.S. Volunteer Life Sav- proven by his success in business as well as poli- Corps, Districl No. 2, an organization which tics. He is a member of the German Evangelical is indebted to Mr. Miller's indefatigable zeal in Church at Sixth and Garden Streets, Hoboken, its behalf for a large part of its success. His Hoboken Board of Trade, the Independent and principal work has been in connection with City and Hoboken Schuetzen Corps, Lyra Sing- needed improvements in the Bronx where he ing Society, Turn Verein, Gehxder Freundschafts lives. He is presidenl of the United East Bronx Bund, secretary and treasurer of the Hudson Improvement Associations, an alliance of all the Consumers Ice Co., the Undertakers' Association important taxpayer-' associations east of the of his state and county. Hoboken Lodge 74, Elks, Bronx River. In this capacity he has figured Royal Arcanum, EC & L. of H., EC of II.. D.O.H., conspicuously in connection with all improve- a prominent Odd Fellow and a Mason of Hud- ments in the district known a- Chester. Care- son Lodge 71, as well as a member of many fully studying conditions before forming an other social organizations too numerous to men- opinion, his judgment is universally admitted to tion. Mr. Volk was married in September, 1888, he impartial and correct, and it may he said, to Miss Annie M. Kaiser and has three children, without fear of contradiction, that he has been Florence M. A.. Anthony J. Jr., and Anna M. M. identified with every public improvement in his Volk. section as one of the prime movers. He fathered and accomplished the construction of the two GEORGH M. HEUMAN, lawyer, was born 'runk sewers for Westchester ami Union- in New York City on September 21, 1876. He port at a cost of $2,500,000, the extension of the attended Public School Xo. 18 and took the re- subway along Westchester Avenue, the extension cent-' examination in order to study law. While of Tremonl Avenue east of the Bronx and many clerk in the law offices of E. 1'.. & W. .1. Amend other public work- of great value. In addition, lie took a course of one year at Columbia Uni- I the fight against the poor service given to versity and continued his studies in the Xew his districl by the Union Railway Company and York I. aw School, receiving the Academic Di- 1 them, with the a of the State ploma from the University of the State of New Railroad Commission, to furnish larger and York. He wa- admitted to the P.ar in 1000 and more frequent car-. Mr. Miller was married on i- now in general practise ai 290 Broadway. Mr. mber jo. [898, to Miss Clara Lohbauer, Heuman 1- verj fond of music. Me began studying daughter of the well known park proprietor of the piano at the age of seven and later devoted hester. lb- organized the Morris Yacht himself to the organ, this instrument appealing ('lub, i- a Mason of Harmony Lodge No [99 to him especially. Me studied for some time and belongs to a number of political organiza- under S. Austen Pearce, formerly organist of tions. In local politics he i- a Democrat but a St. Paul's Church in London. England, and was Republican in national affair-. organist and choirmaster of St. Ann's and St. Matthew'- churches in Brooklyn. Me i- a mem- ANTHONY J. VOLK, -0,1 of Jacob and Rosa ber of the Catholic Church and finds hi- social Yolk, wa- born at Hoboken on November 21, recreation in the Arion Club. On November 16, I I [e receh ed I iti( »n in the [oboken 1904, he married Mi-- Veronica D. Burgart. Academy and later in the public schools of his native city. After graduating, he engaged in BENNO LEWINSON, lawyer, wa- born at the undertaking business and soon established Buk, Germany, on September 27, 1854, and re- hi- education in the himself on his own account, He has been very I preparatory Louisen- successful and has taken a lively interest in stadtische Gymnasium in Berlin. In [866 he public affairs. A Republican in politics, he was came to America, entered tin' College of the City 245 JULIUS STRAUSS. 24'. SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 247 of New York and received the degree of M.S. State Legislature from the Tenth District of after '73 graduating with the class of ; and in New York City, which was then inhabited al- 1877 the degree of LL.B. from the law school most exclusively by Germans. He sprang into of Columbia University. He has been a resident prominence at one bound at the very opening of of New York City since his arrival in this coun- the legislative session by a vigorous attack on the try and practised his profession since finishing prevailing boss system in the Democratic party his studies. He is a Democrat in politics, a of the state of New York. The occasion for trustee of the College of the City of New York, his speech was the attempt of the bosses to dic- trustee of the New York Law Institute, one of tate the election of Edward Murphy, Jr., to the the "Judaeans," president of the Columbia Club, United States Senate over the opposition of a director of Temple Beth-El Club, a veteran in President-elect Grover Cleveland. That first ad- the German Liederkranz, a member of the Phi dress won for Mr. Kempner a wide reputation Beta Kappa and of many other organizations. He for independence and oratorical ability. During married on October 6, 1881, Miss Fanny Ber- the remainder of the session Mr. Kempner main- liner and has four daughters. tained a bitter fight against the debasing condi- tions existing in the Democratic party of New BENJAMIN L. BRANDNER, lawyer, was York. The forces of Tammany Hall were all born in New York City on August 13, 1868, the arrayed against his reelection, and defeated him son of German parents. He received his educa- in 1893, but the following year he again entered tion in Public School No. 35 and studied law in the field for the Assembly and was successfully Columbia University. Being admitted to the elected. He made a splendid record during his Bar, Mr. Brandner engaged in the general prac- second term. Mr. Kempner soon became known tise of his profession and met with immediate as a leader among those German-Americans who success. He is widely and favorably known for stood for good government and were opposed his social qualities as well as on account of the to Tammany misrule. In 1893 he published his position he has made for himself as a lawyer. pamphlet on the "Life of Boss Croker," the Though born in America, he may justly be called notorious Tammany chieftain, which book con- a German-American in the best sense of the tributed largely to Croker's overthrow. In 1894 word, because he is a worthy representative of the Committee of Seventy nominated Mr. Kemp- that element which appreciates fully all that is ner for sheriff of New York on the Fusion ticket, good and valuable in the German character, and but he declined to accept the honor. In 1900 is anxious to preserve these traits as long as he was made commissioner of public works of possible in order to strengthen their influence Brooklyn by Borough President Swanstrom and upon the character of the American people. In made a successful administrator. Mr. Kempner politics Mr. Brandner is a Democrat, and he is married in 1883 and has three children. His a member of the Arion Society, Tammany Hall two sons are graduates of Harvard College, the and the Anawanda Club. elder of whom, Clarence Kempner, is likewise a lawyer. OTTO KEMPNER was born in Austria July 5, 1858, and came to America with his parents FRANK H. CORDTS, president of the in 1867. He was educated in the public schools Frank Cordts Furniture Co., the largest retail and the Cooper Institute. At first he taught establishment of its kind in Hoboken, N.J., was school and in 1884 he was made principal of the born at Schulau, Holstein, Germany, December Freie Deutsche Schule, a school which was 20, 1863. He obtained his education in the Biir- founded in New York City by the German revo- gerschule of his native city. His father being lutionists of 1848. Mr. Kempner did not remain a seafaring man, young Cordts had an early long- long at the profession of teacher and was ad- ing for travel on the ocean blue. After a year mitted to the Bar after a course of legal study of service in the employ of the Hamburg-American at the New York University. When scarcely six- Line, he was honorably discharged at the New teen years old, Mr. Kempner manifested his in- York office of the company. About twenty-seven terest in public questions by appearing as a years ago he landed in Hoboken. He immediate- speaker in the presidential campaign of 1876. ly procured employment in a grocery store where Following the example of Carl Schurz, he advo- he attended strictly to his duties. Deciding to cated the election of the Democratic presidential go in business for himself, he next started a candidate, Samuel J. Tilden. He took an active bread route. Some six months later an oppor- interest in politics since that memorable cam- tunity offered itself and Mr. Cordts became the paign. In 1892 Mr. Kempner was elected to the proprietor of a small furniture store at old No. 248 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 76 Washington Street, and through constant at- graduated from the Royal Teachers' Seminary tention, increased trade to such an extent that a of the old city of Eisleben. After teaching school few years later he erected the building at in for a while Mr. Koch went out in search of a ington Street, a store and four floors, which broader field for his activities—to the United he occupied solely for the sale of furniture ami Siahs — and settled in Xew York City in 1884. floor coverings. Prosperity continued and eleven He chose the business career and by energetical years ago the magnificent emporium at the cor- study of the English language and by close at- ner of Second and Washington Streets was erect- tention to business he soon worked his way up; ed, a large six story structure. It is to-day the for a number of years he was manager of a most modern, as well as the largest house of its wholesale importing house. In the meanwhile kind .m the Hoboken side of the Hudson River Hermann Koch had chosen Long Island City, in and stands as a monument of honest and the l'.orough of Queens, Xew York City, as the straightforward dealings. On May 25, 1000, the place of his abode. Since 1905 Mr. Koch has Frank Cordts Furniture Co. was incorporated been established in the real estate and insurance under the laws of the state of New Jersey with business, with offices at Xo. 507 Broadway, Long a paid-up capital of $100,000. Mr. Frank H. Island City. His close study of conditions of the realty of Cordts is president of the company and Mr. market and his thorough knowledge Adolph F. W. Matthiessen, born at Oldesloe, values in Queens have given Mr. Koch the repu- Holstein, Germany, April 13, 1869, is secretary tation of one of the most successful appraisers of the concern. Trade of the Cordts Company is of real estate in Queens, whose advice is eagerly not confined to Xew Jersey alone; almost daily sought by investors in that section of the Greater the wagons of the company travel the full length City; his strict honesty and unswerving integrity of Manhattan Island and Brooklyn. At the age have secured for him the confidence of a rap- of twenty-one Mr. Cordts married Miss Kate idly growing clientage. While Hermann Koch has viz.: Adam, the oldest shown profound interest in the promotion of the Schmitt ; four children, son, \vh<> died recently; Frank, Jr., Fva and German language, German song and German Henry, blessed the union. Mr. Cordts has been social ideals in this land of his adoption, he has a member of the German Evangelical Church of at all times impressed his German friends with Sixth and Garden Streets for over twenty-five the utmost necessity of accpiiring the English He was made a deacon some twenty years language and becoming good and useful Amer- citizens. cherishes a ago and is acting in that capacity to-day. Being ican Although Mr. Koch a man fond of society he is a member of Hudson warm spot in his heart for the "Vaterland," and his affection for his old Lodge X". 71, F. & A.M.; Hoboken Lodge of although he expresses on occasions, he is an ardent ad- Elks, No. 74: Royal Arcanum, No. 99; K. of P., love proper yet Garfield Lodge, X". -7: Plattdeutscher Volksfesl mirer of the democratic institutions of this country hails his great "Landsmann" Carl in of Xew York, Board of Directors Fritz and he •• Schurz, as a model American citizen. Hermann Altenheim Gesellschaft ; New York Schuetzen Corps; Hoboken Independent Schuet- Koch was instrumental in organizing the United Societies Island City in zen Corps and other organizations. IK- is very German Singing of Long 1899; he was their president for five years and fond 1 . horseback riding being his special hobby. He has been a member of the Germania he has been one of the directors of the "Nord Killing Chih of Hoboken fur many years and ( Istliche Sangerbund" ever since his home or- a of this great and at the pre erri time K president of the club. Be- ganization became member the ing congenial and affable in his manners and pos- influential "Bund." As speaker of Long very active sessing strict business principles, has made Mr. Island City Turn Verein, he has been Cordts many friends as well as the foremost mer- in the cause of that branch of athletics which is so to his earnest endeav- chant of Hoboken. M.- is a self-made man in dear the German heart) the truest sense of the word or to interest young Americans in these scien- tific physical exercises has been successful. But important HERMANN KOCH was born in beautiful Nermann Koch has not only been an life in Queens, he Thuringia, Germany, in l86l, as the son of the factor in German- American prosperous farmer, Friedrich Koch, and his wife, has also been recognized as one of Queens Coun- Sophie. He received his first education at the ty's most public spirited citizens; always mani- public '-chool of his home village, Obersdorf, festing a (hep interest in the advancement and and then attended a secondary school (Mittel- welfare of the community, the progress of pub- lic the rapid development of schule) at Sangerhausen. At the age of fi improvement and he entered a preparatory school and in [882 he that borough. As a member of local school ALBERT E. KLEINERT. 249 JOHN GEORGE GRILL. 250 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 251 board, District No. 42, for two years, Mr. Koch vessel of the German Lloyd that reached Ho- will be remembered for his undying efforts to boken after the great fire of 1900 had destroyed secure proper recognition for the needs and the docks. Mr. Hauser went aboard the steamer wants of the public school system of Queens. The in the lower bay and was warmly welcomed and erection of a number of new school buildings in entertained by the captain, escorting the ship Long Island City is traced back to his initia- until she reached her dock. In recognition of tive and energetical work. A Democrat in po- the courtesies extended, the Committee of Fif- litical faith, his unswerving integrity was so teen gave a reception in honor of the captain highly appreciated by his fellow townspeople that and the officers of the ship at Meyers Hotel, he was nominated and elected alderman of the which was largely attended. He is a member of Sixty-seventh District in 1903 by a very large the Hoboken Board of Trade and the Lyra Sing- majority. His record in that office is a credit to ing Society and a Mason of Hoboken Lodge No. himself and to his party; he was a true repre- 35. On November 30, 1871, Mr. Hauser was sentative of all the people, he was progressive married to Miss Marie Segger of Konigslutter in and always stood for the best interests of all Braunschweig, Germany. He had six children, his constituents, irrespective of party. With his four sons who are employed in his cigar factory extensive commercial pursuits and his deep in- and two daughters who are teachers in the Ho- terest in public affairs, he is strictly a home-man boken public schools. Mr. Hauser is one of the and devotes all of his spare time to the comfort most public-spirited citizens in Hoboken. He is and advancement of his family. His happy always ready to give substantial assistance to union with Emma Herrmann has been blessed every movement that has a tendency to promote with two sons. Heinrich, the oldest son, is public welfare. Once his word is pledged it re- about to take up the study of law at Cornell mains inviolate. University; Alfred, thirteen years of age, is a pupil of one of the public schools of Long Island HENRY L. SCHMIDT, manufacturer, was City. Mr. Koch is a member of Advance Lodge, born at Burg on the German island of Fehmarn received a thorough education in F. & A. M. ; Enterprise Lodge, No. 228, K. of in 1857. He city Pinneburg in Holstein P. ; Long Island City Lodge, I.O.O.F. ; Sunswick the schools of the of Council, Royal Arcanum Queensborough Lodge, and entered the employ of a firm of manufac- ; No. 878, B.P.O. Elks, also of a number of social turing druggists at Altoona in 1872 as office boy. and political organizations. His good qualities were fully appreciated and he rose rapidly until he filled an important position GUSTAV HAUSER, manufacturer, was born of trust. With this firm he remained until 1880 in in Vienna, Austria, on June 2, 1843, and edu- and in 1882 emigrated to America, settling cated in the public schools of his native city. Hoboken, where he has resided ever since. Al- After leaving school, Mr. Hauser engaged in most immediately he secured a position with the hotel business and was assistant manager or Charles Cooper & Co., manufacturers of chemi- manager of several of the largest hotels in Ger- cals at Newark, and the first firm in America many, among them Meisels Hotel in Vienna, to manufacture liquid carbonic acid gas for com- Caspers Hotel in Bremen, Streits Hotel in Ham- mercial purposes. Here he remained for ten burg and Gumprechts Wholesale Hungarian years as confidential man. On April I, 1892, Mr. Wine House in Hanover. He came to America Schmidt associated himself with Carl Puck, a in 1870 and entered the cigar business, starting manufacturer of mineral water at 114 Hudson the in 1872 the well known and still flourishing Street, Hoboken, and remained a member of Phenix Cigar Factory at Hoboken. His activity firm of Carl Puck & Co. until 1896, when he and his genial disposition won him a host of bought the interest of his partner and from then friends and brought not only success to his en- on carried on the business alone. Besides man- terprise but also made him one of the most pop- ufacturing mineral water, he deals in beer and car- ular Germans of Hoboken. He took an active ale drawing outfits and supplies and in liquid interest in public affairs and was appointed cat- bonic acid gas. His trade grew so rapidly that tle inspector under President Cleveland's admin- the new factory which he had built at 114 Hud- re- istration, which office he held from 1892 until son Street became too small and in 1899 he 1896. Mayor Stanton appointed him fire com- moved to the premises at 510 and 512 Fourth missioner of the city of Hoboken, in which ca- Street which he had purchased and fitted up as a pacity he served with distinction from 1892 to modern bottling establishment, said to be the most its kind 1897. In 1901 he was a member of the com- spacious and best appointed factory of mittee of fifteen appointed to receive the first in the state of New Jersey. He has taken a great 252 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS of Nickel Gross, manufacturers interest in all questions concerning his trade and firm Wessell, & Hudson County Bot- of piano action-. They began on a very modest : icted treasurer of the scale, hut with the firm determination to tler-* Protective Association in 1892, which posi- produce treas- only the highest grade of good- and thereby se- tion he still hold-. In [898 he was elected for policy urer of the American Bottlers' Protective Asso cure a reputation -uperior work. This ha- kept to the present day and formed ciation. He has held this office since then with- been up rapid out interruption, being reelected at ever) national the foundation for the great and success of convention of the association, a convincing proof tin- enterprise. Each member of the firm contrib- his part to Mr. had of the high regard in which he is held by the uted the success. Wessell representatives of his trade. In addition he is entire and absolute charge of the business de- partment and the finances. Mr. Wessell often a member of the executive committee of th< later years, to tell friends sociation, president of the Beer Pump Jobbers' took delight, in his how Association of Greater New York and director in those early days he personally delivered the to their and what a great day of the American Bottler-' Publishing Co. In actions customers, it their first porter and 1900 Mr. Schmidt was offered the nomination as was when they engaged water commissioner of the city of Hoboken and how later on a horse and wagon were bought ex- installed. In this connec- elected by a large majority. When his term and new machinery tion it be pointed out that the firm has nev- pired in 1905 he was renominated and again tnusl to the latest and most im- elected. He ha- been pre-ideiit of the board of er hesitated introduce water commissioners tor four consecutive term-. proved machinery whenever it appeared advis- C. able in order to improve or enlarge the produc- On October 31, 1885, he married Mi-- Johanna importance, the time Pausl of Hoboken, who ha- given him live chil- tion. A- the firm grew in dren, one -on and four daughter-. Mrs. Schmidt and attention of Mr. Wessell were more and more ha-, with her husband, attended every bottler-' devoted to visits to customers in the leading convention for the past ten years. He occupies cities of the country. The business of the firm known an enviable position as a business man and a pub- continued to grow until its products were Convincing proof of the keen in- lic-spirited citizen on account of his integrity everywhere. the partners and hi- readiness to work for the public good, a- sight into the future possessed by that the well a- in social circle-, where he is known a- a i- furnished by the fact they foresaw of piano a- early as genial companion and a patriotic American who future popularity the upright the ha- not forgotten the love for the country of his 1875, when the firm issued a circular to afterward were justly birth: in short, a model German-American. He trade of which they ever following line-: belongs to many societies, among them the Ho- proud, and which contained the Quartette Club and the I'm/ Renter Alien "We beg to inform our customers in the trade heim Association, to Advance Lodge 24 "t that we are now. and have been since 1^74- en- Ancient United Order of Workmen, B.P.O.E. gaged in making grand repetition and upright York, and piano actions. As was predicted, the demand for :. Herman Lodge 268 New a increase and Hudson Countj Court, 334-'. I.O.O.F. the uprighl piano has had steady it will lie the popular instrument in America, a- born has in for many years." OTTO WESSELL, manufacturer, wa- it is and been Europe no that the firm gave a great at Bramstedt, Holstein, Germany, in 1845- When There is question of piano- hy he wa- two years old hi- parent- emigrated to impetus to the introduction upright and continually America ami settled in Chicago. In [850 they making actions of the best quality an in- returned to Germany with him and remained pushing them forward. Mr. Wessell wa- always there for three years, when they again crossed defatigable worker and hi- ambition to be \- not allow him to take much rest, the Atlantic and settled in New York City in the bad did for soon a- young Otto wa- obi enough, In- wa- ap- hut hi- effort- were crowned with since--, prenticed to Mr. Lander-, a cabinet-maker in he reached high rank in his field and the boy his Clark Street, but after a short while learned the who had begun life with not much more than piano trade ami became an employee in the tic 11. .n determination to arrive at the top. became a tory of Steinway & Son-. Here hi- exceptional large manufacturer, esteemed by everybody with looked to by -kill a- an artisan, hi- quick perception and un whom he came in contact and up con faltering devotion to hi- duties soon attracted the thousands. Hi- friends included men in all and in attention of his employer- and he rose rapidly to dit ion- of rank in the musical industries circle-, ami a position of tm-t and importance. Bu1 Mr. business, commercial and financial Wessell wa- too ambition- to remain long an em- hi- strength of character a- well a- his pro- and ployee and -0011 started with two friends the nounced individuality, attracted recognition JOSEPH FREY. 253 HERMAN I.. TIMKEN. 254 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 255 compelled admiration. He died on May 25, 1899, 1846. He was educated in the schools of his at his residence in New York City and left a birthplace and came to America when only fifteen widow and two sons, Arthur, who is a practising years old. Here he began in the way which has lawyer of prominence, and Fernando, who, dur- led so many able, ambitious and energetic men ing the life of his father, received a thorough to success, making full use of the opportunities training in the factories of the firm and studied offered by American institutions. Systematically the science of making piano actions in every de- and persistently, though slowly at first, he forged tail. He is now in charge of the plant and the ahead, until he was in the position to establish business of the firm is still continuing on the himself as a manufacturer of paste and sizing, upward grade. building up a large and lucrative business and making for himself a reputation as an enterpris- ARTHUR L. WESSELL, secretary of the ing business man of sterling integrity. With house of Wessell, Nickel & Gross, was born at larger means at his command and a surprisingly New York City January 7, 1875. He was care- large fund of energy, he branched out and be- fully educated at the public schools, Columbia came interested in financial enterprises and real Grammar School, Columbia College and the New estate operations. By this time his standing in York Law School. In 1899 he was admitted to the community had become such that his advice the Bar, but has never followed the legal pro- and help were eagerly sought by many and posi- fession for a livelihood, preferring to devote his tions of honor were offered to him which he will- entire attention to the business of the extensive ingly accepted, discharging his duties in a way corporation is with which he connected. Mr. calculated to still increase the esteem of his Wessell is a Republican in politics, but has never friends and fellow-citizens. He was president of taken an active part in appertaining matters the Temple Israel and is a director of the United thereto, other than exercising his right of fran- Hebrew Charities, the Chatham National Bank, chise. He is a member of the New York Ath- the Coal and Iron National Bank, the Mount letic Club, the West Side Republican Club, Ger- Vernon Trust Co., the United Shoe Machinery man Liederkranz and Columbia University Club. Co. ; vice-president of the Hudson Realty Co., On September 25, 1905, he married Miss Edith the Lexington Realty Co. and the Vinyah Park Richards, to whom two children have been born, Realty Co. In a few decades the boy who landed Benjamin and Edith. Mr. Wessell is a fine type in America with little more than the firm purpose of young America. He possesses a keen and ana- to succeed and the strength that a good educa- lytical mind and his work has proven of marked tion, a splendid character and an iron determina- value to the company of which he is the secretary. tion furnish, had become an influential citizen whose readiness to assist whenever called upon FERNANDO A. WESSELL, treasurer of the has brought him a host of friends and admirers. Wessell, Nickel & Gross Company, is a native Mr. Weil was married on May 23, 1875, to Miss of New York City, having been born in this city Ray Schulhofer and has three daughters and January 5, 1877. His education was obtained at one son. the public schools. After leaving school he im- mediately connected himself with the piano forte JOHN MOSER of Brooklyn, N.Y., president action house of Wessell, Nickel & Gross and of the Frank Brewing Company of Evergreen, rapidly rose to the position he now holds. He is a L.I., is a member of the Brooklyn Arion Soci- member of the crack Seventh Regiment, N.GS. ety, the Hanover and Hamilton clubs, a director N.Y., of the German Liederkranz and New York of the Broadway Bank, the German Savings Athletic Club. Politically, he is a Republican, Bank and the Academy of Music (Brooklyn, but has never held any public office. He mar- N.Y.). ried Miss Elsie Cavalli on September 17, 1899, to whom one child has been born, Fernando Ar- AUGUST P. WAGENER.—There is not a thur. Mr. Wessell has inherited that genius member of the Bar who could more justly at> which has made the name so famous in the piano tribute his success to his own unaided efforts action industry and is devoted to his work for than can August P. Wagener of 51 Chambers the development of the house with which he is Street, New York City. His career has been so prominently connected, lie possesses a ster eventful, prosperous and remarkably successful. ling character and has made a strong impress Through his energy, industry and zeal he has on the trade. risen to the foremost ranks of the Bar of New SAMUEL WEIL, manufacturer, was born at York City. His fame has been heralded abroad Emmendingen in Baden, Germany, on April 24, through this and other countries by the extraordi- 256 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS in which he created either new nary attention that lias been paid in the New hundreds of cases or raised novel and unique questions; he is York dailies to some of his many remarkable law in this line of The literal story of how Mr. Wagener not only considered an expert busi- has a widow to get her made his waj would form not only the basis of a ness, hut assisted many also has many associations out novel but the hook itself. It could not fail to dues and pushed stimulate any reader capable of conceiving ambi- df existence that were not on a safe footing. 1S7S he defended forty-three tion, to courageous, persevering, determined ac- During the year men. at different times, in the Criminal tion. August P. Wagener was horn in Germany different of the United States Circuit Court, New April 7. [850, of German parentage and of a Branch in having good family. An inheritance of $100,000 from York, before juries, and succeeded pass- randfather in Prussia, that he should have forty men, charged with counterfeiting or shared, was. misspent by another and at the age ing counterfeit money, acquitted of the other was "lie six of eleven years he determined to take care of three: inie pardoned, served months remarkable case tried by himself and left home. In [862 he came to New and one two years. A was the case the Countess Ma- York, a; the aye of fifteen he enlisted in the him brought by the of a Russian Prince, old Twelfth Regiment Infantry, United States rie de Pruschoff, wife Regulars, where he served nine months, heing a to recover a painting by Murillo, known as stanch Republican and anxious to fight for the "The Flagellation of Christ." valued at one Union. After the war he managed the business hundred and fifty thousand dollars, which she Paris, where of an importer of musical instruments, and event- had brought to this country from of time. This pic- ually, about the year [868, began the stud) of law she had been the sensation her and was admitted to practice by the Supreme ture had been taken from a Spanish Convent Court of New York at the December term when the French occupied Spain, and it had come of the Countess in Paris. This of the year 1870, since which time he has been into the hands case created wide spread sensation. In the year in active practise in this city, a period Of over thirty-six years. In preparing himself [882 he brought a writ of habeas corpus on be- recover her child; and his studies, he became temporarily blind half of Savillar Downing to studying with night classes at Cooper Union Mrs. Downing claiming that she had, as she sup- Institute. His affliction retarded his course, but posed, buried her child, hut years afterwards dis- could not alter his purpose. His practise has covered and claimed a child known as Carlo covered all cases imaginable, criminal as well as Wilson as her own and disinterring the buried civil. Mis experience as a lawyer bordered on the child, discovered that it was not her own but a marvelous and the history of his thirty-sixjrears different and older child. The entire press of for this Of practise would fill volumes. Ill [887 he created the country had many months reported a wide spread sensation by proving that men and ease and were occupied by it. The cases against women were illegally held in the insane asylums; a number of usurers who charged two hundred he liberated about fort) alleged insane pet-sons. to three hundred per cent on loans on furniture Most (if these were without money, aid all they to poor people were another sensation, he win- could pay were their humble thanks; he returned ning over three hundred of these cases for the fathers to their children, husbands to their wives poor victims "t" Shylock money lenders on chattel and v their husbands and children, many mortgages, which were declared illegal by the sad scenes, tears, anguish and agonj did he wil COUrtS ami most of the usurers he drove out "t and the expense of manj of tins,, cases he the business. Idle habeas corpus case of (.'aid paid out of hi- own pocket. The whole press of Werner, whom he had broughl from Sing Sine New York came to his a and highly com- Prison to this city, and in which he ex- mended him for his charitable acts ami deeds. In posed to the public the cruelty practised "ii pris^ persons gave him a Oners in the prison, viz.: the dark cell, hanging public serenade and presented him with a up of prisoners in handcuffs, flogging and de lution, the stand of which was made by one of priving them of eating, etc. In the Congressional the released alleged insane men who had been investigation of [888 in this city he exposed the ned "ii Ward's Island for seventeen years, contract system of bringing musicians to America and who, on being released, found his wife and under contract 1" play in street hands and t" he siitne of his children dead and buried, hut still relumed I" Germany at the end of contract and found several of them alive. This stand and set the bringing over of criminals; as a result laws solutions is held in high esteem b) him. As have been enacted prohibiting their being im- a lav. lubs and 1< idges, ported, lie also represented the New York City he is considered "in- "f the very best, having • hands, so imported, before the Board of SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 259 Aldermen investigation and succeeded in having days. In 1868 he succeeded the above firm, hav- ordinances passed prohibiting the playing of ing worked his way up to the highest position on bands in the streets of New York. An- account of his ability, an achievement that any other sensation was created at the time that man might be proud of on account of the high the Chicago anarchists, who were to be hung for standing of the firm. From the time he became the killing of the police at the Hay Market in the possessor of the firm's cornice works he great- Chicago, 111., when he produced the confession ly improved the mode of manufacturing cornice of a firebug then in State's Prison at Sing and other ornamental work, and introduced prin- Sing, claiming that a person not arrested or con- cipally copper for ornamentation of first-class res- victed had thrown the bomb ; that the men con- idences, warehouses and churches. The copper victed were innocent. The entire press of the and bronze work on the Vanderbilt buildings, Fif- United States backed up this sensation and were ty-first Street and Fifth Avenue and Fifty- kept busy by it for weeks after that. In 1886 fourth Street and Fifth Avenue, the large mer- he was the Republican candidate for Congress in cantile buildings corner Waverly Place and the Ninth Congressional District in New York, Broadway, and Nineteenth Street and Fourth running against S. S. Cox (Sunset Cox), and al- Avenue, also the Germania Bank Buildings are though only four days in the field was only de- a few of the places in this large city that contain feated by a very small majority. As a soldier, samples of his original designs in copper work. in addition to being a private in the Twelfth His good work became known and talked about Regiment Regulars, as aforesaid, he served in all over the country, and to-day the John Bor- the old Fifth Regiment as a private, in the Fifty- kel concern is one of the best known in the trade. fifth Regiment as a lieutenant, and in the Elev- And the concern that was started in a modest enth Regiment, National Guards of the state of way in 1835, stands out alone for its good work New York, as adjutant. The New York press and straightforward business methods. The Lor- has at different times given his cases unlimited illard estate and the Horace S. Ely estate, and space, the Herald giving the Downing case a many of the large trust companies are a few of page; on other cases the Sun bestowed a page the names he carries on his books and whose and the Commercial Advertiser bestowed a page work he has done for the past thirty-nine years. at the time of its special number in describing In politics Mr. Borkel has always been a stanch this career worthy to be copied ; the New York Republican. He was president of the town com- Journal long afterwards gave a whole front page mittee at Rutherford, N.J., for two years. He to the Chicago anarchistic matter. is a member of Neptune Lodge No. 317, F. & A.M. ; a member of the Arion and Beethoven JOHN BORKEL.—Of the many men that have Singing Societies ; a director of St. George Me- settled on the hospitable shores of this great chanical School and of the Mechanics and and free country, few have achieved success and Tradesmen's Association. He has served on distinction in the same amount of time in his line many committees of various organizations. Mr. of business, as a metal worker, as Mr. John Bor- Borkel has two children, George and Elizabeth. kel, whose place of business is located on the He worships with his family at the Lutheran corner of Houston and Mulberry Streets in this Church. city. After receiving his education in Germany he sailed for this country, way back in the '50s, JOHN STENECK, banker, was born at Ham- arriving here laden with ambition and a determi- bergen in the province of Hanover, Germany, on nation to succeed; to-day he can boast of being May 24, 1846, and received his education in the very comfortable, and can proudly point to a town school of his birthplace. He went into busi- record of honesty, integrity and usefulness. Mr. ness at an early age and came to America in Borkel was born February 14, 1844, in the beau- 1866, settling at Hoboken. Here he established tiful city of Alzey, Germany, and was educated himself as banker and steamship agent as mem- at the Gymnasium, from which he graduated in ber of the firm of Meyer & Steneck, and met 1858. On his arrival here, during the same year, with decided success. His reputation as a finan- Mr. Borkel engaged as a metal worker in the cier of more than ordinary ability, sterling integ- large shipyards and right after the war, when rity and foresightedness grew constantly, and ship-building ceased in New York, he turned many offers were made to him to take an inter- his attention to making metal cornices. As such est in other financial institutions. He is now a he became foreman for Messrs. Connelly & Wil- director of the First National Bank and the Ho- son at No. 46 Rose Street, this being one of boken Bank for Savings at Hoboken, N.J. An the most prominent firms in that line in those independent Democrat in politics, he has never 260 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS aspired to public office, although his standing in ated in those days at the corner of Broadway and the community is such that he could easilj Prince Street, where he remained for several cure political preferment. Mr. Steneck is a years; be completed his apprenticeship member of the Lutheran Church, the German watch-maker and later became a journeyman in Club of Hoboken and a Mason. On August 22, a Maiden Lane jewelry establishment. In 1869, 1876, he was married to Miss Emma Schmittmann with the very modest capital of three hundred and had six children, o£ whom four arc living. dollars, he started in the jewelry business on his own account at 635 Eighth Avenue, where he was BERNARD KARSCH, the well known jeweler successful ami where he remained for twenty-five of Eighth Avenue, is a New Yorker by birth and years. Many years ago he bought the property was horn in William Street of German parents, at 641 Eighth Avenue, corner Forty-first Street, October 26, 1843. He was educated in the pub- intending some day to remove his business there lic schools of this city and has always resided and make the place his future home, which he here. His father, John Karsch, was prominent did in 1894. His establishment is one of the in German circles for many years and conducted finest retail jewelry houses in Xew York City. a dry goods business on Eighth Avenue, near Mr. Karsch retired from active business during Thirty-sixth Street. He was born in Rohrbach, the year 1007, his two sons becoming his successors. many years Mr. Karsch has Rhein Pfalz, Germany, February 3, 1816, and em- For migrated to America in 1839, landing in Xew been held in high esteem by his business asso- York City, where he began his career as a tailor, ciates and has for a long time filled the respon- working hard and saving his earnings until he sible position of treasurer of the Jewelers* Alli- had accumulated enough capital to start in ance and is also a member of the executive board business for himself. He opened a tailoring es- of the Jewelers' League. He is a trustee of the tablishment on Eighth Avenue, which he con- Franklin Savings Hank and is a member of the ducted for >everal years, and then went into the advisory board of the Corn Exchange Bank dry goods business, becoming one of the success- (Forty-second Street branch). He is a promi- ful men in that line of trade. Like the Astors nent member of the Liederkranz Society, is also and other early settlers he began to invest in a member of Copestone Lodge Xo. 641, F. & to Mis, real estate. His first purchase was a lot on Eighth A.M. In 1867 he was united in marriage Avenue, near Thirty-sixth Street, for which he Kathrine Albeit of Xew York. The union has six paid, in 1849, seventeen hundred dollars, and built been blessed with children, three of whom a house costing three thousand dollar-. The same are deceased; the living children are Frederick property sold two years ago for forty-five thou- \V. and John H., who have succeeded him in busi- sand dollar^, which shows the increase of values ness, and his only daughter, Susan, who is the in Xew York and the money that has been made wife of J. Louis Schaefer, vice-president and in real estate by our early residents. Mr. Karsch treasurer of the famous house of William R. retires ac- a devout Lutheran and was one of the Grace & Company. Mr. Karsch from founders of St. Luke's Lutheran Church on Wesl tive business cues in splendid health and spirits second Street, being also a trustee up to and carries with him the confidence and esteem the time of his death, which occurred in Janu- of his old business associates as well as a large in this country ary, 1890. lie was charitable and kind to all circle of personal friends, both wlio needed assistance and gave liberally of his and Europe. fortune to the Lutheran Church and orphan asy- 1.11' of I'll 1 SCHMIDT, who represents the 'i 1 >ld lum. I [e v 1 the school sui J. in the ful upright merchants who are rapidly passing Thirty third Districl of Xew York County s,,n away. In 1843 be married Miss Barbara Kirsch- Xew York State Assembly, i~ a of German mann of Schillerdorf, near Strassburg, Msace. parents who came to America in the early fifties. The union was blessed with a family of six He was born in the city of Xew York in the in the tin.- of which died in infancy, the remaining live year [870, where he received his education of fourteen are all well at present and residing in Xew public schools, graduating at the age York. Their names are: Bernard, Edward, John years. He then sought and obtained employment M., Henry and G All these sons became with a mercantile concern, by which he was em- ful business men in Xew York City. The ployed for about three years. In the latter part insurance subject of this biographical sketch is a worthy of [887 he engaged in the general bro- son of a worthy sire. Early in life be entered kerage business as a clerk, in which position he as an apprentice the obi, well known jewelry remained until August I. t802, when I house of Hall, Black & Company which was situ iploj of William Sohmer in the same line JOHN STENECK. 261 - - 1 1 . 1 1 1 1 1 HEXAMER. 262 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 263 of business and with whom he remained until German language, to foster the love for and the end of April, 1899. At this time came the knowledge of music, and to spread the interest formation of the firm of William Sohmer, Jr., & in the physical and mental welfare of the peo- Co., of which he was made a junior member. Mr. ple, he has taken an active and prominent part. Schmidt has devoted a great deal of study to the A public-spirited citizen, who never hesitates social problems of the day and took a great deal to come to the front with advice and assistance of interest in local politics from the time that he when important questions are at issue, his popu- reached his majority. Consequently he became larity and influence are deservedly large. A popular in social and political circles and was Democrat in politics, Mr. Froeb has never ac- nominated by the Democratic party and the In- cepted public office, although important positions dependence League jointly, in 1906, to represent were repeatedly offered to him, but followed the his locality in the State Assembly. Mr. Schmidt call of his party when, in 1908, he was selected was elected, receiving 7,013 votes, against 2,047 as one of the electors-at-large for the state of for his opponent. Speaker Wadsworth, early in New York. He is one of those Germans whose the session of 1907, appointed Assemblyman success so forcibly illustrates the opportunities Schmidt a member of the following committees: furnished by this country to the man whose char- Insurance, fisheries and game. During his first acter and ability, coupled with firm determination term the young assemblyman introduced and se- and restless ambition, raise him to the highest cured the passage of some important changes in point no matter how difficult the start may be. the charter of the city of New York which have He is a member of the Brooklyn Arion, of which worked a great benefit to the municipality. he was president for several terms ; the Brook- lyn Turn Verein and the Hanover Club ; a trus- CHARLES FROEB, merchant, was born at tee and second vice-president of the German Sav- Waechtersbach in Hessen-Nassau, Germany, on ings Bank of Brooklyn, a director of the Man- November 27, 1857, and received his education in ufacturers' National Bank of Brooklyn and pres- the schools of his birthplace and of Frankfurt- ident of the Froeb Company of 66 Broad Street, on-the-Main, where he graduated in 1871. He New York City. In December, 1880, Mr. Froeb came to America with his parents when still in was married to Miss Alma Kirchuebel of Brook- his teens and settled first in New York City and lyn and had five sons, of whom Augustus C, later in Brooklyn. Here he supplemented the Charles, Jr., Frank and Herman are alive. education he had received in his native country by attending the evening schools. He started in GEORGE H. STEIL, merchant, mayor of the business at an early age as clerk in a wholesale city of Hoboken, was born at Hoboken, N.J., liquor house in Murray Street, New York City, on March 29, 1861, as the son of German par- where he remained until 1883. By that time he ents. He received his education in the public had fully mastered the business and felt confident schools and under private tutors and graduated of his ability to attain success by his own efforts. at the early age of fifteen, whereupon he imme- He had already acquired a reputation by his diately engaged in mercantile business. His force- thorough knowledge of his trade and his strict ful character and unusual ability carried him rap- integrity, and when he decided to begin business idly to the front, and simultaneously with the on his own account, his success seemed assured. growth of his business interests his influence Indomitable energy and ambition enabled him to and popularity increased. Of a genial disposi- come to the front rapidly and his firm does at tion, of sterling integrity and strict but fair in present, after twenty-five years of existence, a his business dealings, and at the same time fond yearly business of over three-quarter million dol- of social diversions, Mr. Steil was ere long one lars. He took great care to educate his sons to of the best and most favorably known citizens of follow in his footsteps and to become good busi- Hoboken. As president of the Nehr Sanitary ness men and they now assist him in the manage- Bed Association, vice-president of the Hoboken ment of the concern that has assumed such large and New Jersey Crematory and representative of dimensions. Mr. Froeb is well and favorably the Consumers Park Brewing Co., his business known as a man who has become thoroughly activity was extensive and became constantly Americanized in the best sense of the word, but more profitable. It did not, however, suffice for retains a deep-rooted love for the Fatherland, the energy and vitality of a man like Mr. Steil, and appreciation for the many qualities which and with the patriotic desire to do his full duty have made German immigration of such great as a citizen, he took an active part in the discus- value to this country. In every movement car- sion of public affairs. His many excellent quali- ried on by German organizations to preserve the fications were quickly recognized and in 1893 ne 2f>4 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS was elected a member of the Board of Educa- and of several bowling clubs; honorary president of York tion which was followed by his election to the of the United Bowling Clubs New and City Council, where he served for ten yeai honorary member of the Federation of Bowling as of and of the Bowling Clubs of 51 ntative of the Fifth Ward, three years Clubs Germany is he arranged a chairman of the hotly. In 1905 he was elected Berlin. Bowling bis hobby and mayor of Hoboken on the Democratic ticket by a the excursions of American Bowlers to the Ger- majority of over one thousand votes and reelect- man Bowling Tournaments at Hanover in 1891 that ed on the citizen ticket in 1907, hi- majority be- and at Solingen in 1904. It may be said, too, ing almost twice as lar^e. Mr. Steil is president he has taken an active interest in every movement of this of th Public Library and of the Police inaugurated by the German-Americans city Board and a member of the Hoboken Cemetery ami vicinity to further and uphold a good cause Board and Industrial School Board. He he- and i- treasurer of the German Peace Society of longs to many social, political and fraternal soci- New York and holds the position of first vice- among them Euclid Lodge 136, F. & A.M.. president of the United German Societies of Xew Feld- Hoboken Lodge of Elks Xo. 74, Royal Arcanum York. On Xovember 19, 1869, Mr. and Mrs. mann, who had known each other from infancy, 99, Order of Eagles, Atlantic Boat Club, Ger- mania Riding Club, Friday Night Club, Re- were married and their happy family life was Club, Robert Davis Association of Jersey City blessed with ten children; seven are alive, one and Bruenning Howling Club, and is president of son, who is associated in business with his father, the Consumers' Park Bowling Club. Mr. Steil and six daughters, of whom five are married. Al- married Miss Margaret Sanderson Daniels of though Mr. Feldmann has been so successful New Orleans in September, 1889, and has three financially and socially, he is happiest when he can children. assemble his children and grandchildren around his table and preside at the family gathering, com- HENRY FELDMAXX was born at Butzbach posed of twenty-two persons. in the Grand Duchy of Hesse on February 12, [842. He received a first class education in the JOHX REISEX WEBER was born in Brook- excellent public schools and private academy of lyn on October 7, 185 1, as the son of German his birthplace. He also learned the trade of a parents who had emigrated to America. When baker from his father, but as he was always an he was three years old his parents removed to ambitious student, he had soon mastered the Xew York City and sent the boy to Public School French and English languages thoroughly, also Xo. 17 in West Forty-seventh Street, where he stenography, so that he was engaged by a lawyer's received his education. After leaving school. Mr. linn in Giessen to put down the court proceeding Reisenweber engaged in the liquor and restaurant in stenography. In order to perfect himself in business and conducted it so successfully that the profession, he foil,, wed the custom of that modest establishment on Eighth Avenue mar the time and wandered through Germany, France and Columbus Circle under his hands grew into one Switzerland. He arrived in America January 14, of the showplaces of the city. A shrewd business 1868. lb-re Mr. Feldmann found employment man and a genial host, lie made .^ood use of the with General Franz Siegel, who was New York opportunities arising from the growth of the city, manager of the Great Western Life Insurance increased his facilities, improved the establish- •any, acting as his agent and private secre- ment from year to year, and finally erected a tary. Before a year had passed, Mr. Feldmann magnificent building where a few decades ago a had secured the agency of a fire insurance com- one-story structure had been sufficient for the pany, and started in business tor himself. Since accommodation of his guests. His case is one of [878 he has been branch manager of the Royal those where the ascent to a position of import- insurance Company under the firm nam'- of Hen- ance in the community has been visible to all who ry Feldmann & Son, at [03 Second Vvenue, and followed his career. Strict and fair in his deal- lately added a new branch office at One Hundred ings, endowed with sound judgment and an un- ami Forty-ninth Street and Third Avenue, Bronx. usually large fund of common sense, charitable He i- widely known in German circles partly and always ready to help where assistance is through his activity in the insurance busim needed, Mr. Reisenweber has retained the same 110 1 through hi- participation in amiable and unassuming traits which charactcr- life, above all, however, in hi- endeavor to Spread him at tin- beginning of his career. His pop- and advance the German Ian-.- G 'man ideals ularity in the neighborhood where he has lived and German education. Mr. Feldmann is a mem practically all his life is well known and he might her of the Arion and Beethooven Singiti have secured almost any public office in the gift CARL EMIL SEITZ. 265 HUGO II. Ki I li.Ki:i -Ml. 2(>(, SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 267 of the people if he had been so inclined. He Later he took up a course of study at the Evening steadfastly refused all offers of this kind, but has High School in New York City. After leaving always taken much interest in public affairs and school, Mr. Berger decided to make architecture politics, serving as the Republican leader of his his life profession; placing himself under capa- district for many years and using his power for ble tutors and by diligent application he soon the benefit of his constituents. In 1898 be be- ranked among the foremost in his line. Having came president of the Excelsior Brewing Com- a thorough knowledge of everything pertaining pany and devoted much time and energy to the thereto, the selection of him for the position he development of this enterprise, having found an now fills was a wise one. Prior to his appoint- able and trustworthy assistant and manager of ment to the office of superintendent of buildings, the hotel in the person of his son-in-law, Mr. Mr. Berger, from 1902 to 1906, was inspector of Fischer. Mr. Reisenweber is a member of the tenements and plan examiner in the Tenement West Side Republican Club, the New York Ath- House Department. He stood first in a list of letic Club, the Arion and the German Liederkranz. over twelve hundred applicants admitted to ex- He married on December 19, 1871, Miss Freder- amination. In conducting the affairs connected ica Braun. Of his five children, Mrs. Emma R. with the administration of his office, civility and Fischer- and Mrs. Elizabeth R. Saltzsieder are courteous treatment are factors which are a part living, while John Reisenweber, Mrs. Barbara R. of Mr. Berger's everyday life. Those who know Fischer and Theresa Reisenweber are dead. and speak of him have nothing but good words to sound his praise. Mr. Berger is a consistent RUDOLPH OSCAR KRAUSE, druggist, was Democrat in politics and is a member of the born at Bromberg in Germany on February 8, Second Ward Democratic Organization. He is i860, and educated in the Real gymnasium of his also a member of Mechanics' Lodge, F. & A.M. native city. He served as one year's volunteer of Brooklyn. He has resided in the borough of in the Twenty-first Regiment of Infantry and Queens, New York City, since 1894. His reputa- learned the drug trade, studying the profession tion as a public and private citizen is and has of a pharmacist with such success that he passed always been above reproach. He is largely a the state examination with high honors. The self-made man and one whom not only German- field for the practise of his profession in Ger- Americans are proud to acknowledge, but fellow many being limited, because the Government pro- men of the country of his adoption as well. hibits the establishment of pharmacies beyond a fixed number, he came to America in 1881, set- WILLIAM SEBASTIAN STUHR, lawyer, tling in New York. His success was rapid, for was born at Brooklyn, N.Y., October 1, 1859, the besides mastering his profession to the fullest second son of William Stuhr, who was for many extent, he has the happy gift of making friends years a member of the Board of Freeholders of quickly. Mr. Krause takes a deep interest in lit- Hudson County, N.J. His parents, removing to erature and the arts, is exceptionally well read Hoboken the following year, he received his early and devotes a considerable part of his time to the education at the Hoboken Academy and subse- study of educational questions. He is a mem- quently studied four years in Europe. On his re- ber of the local school board of the Tenth Dis- turn he entered the University of New York and trict and has made a splendid record in this ca- was graduated therefrom with the degree of pacity. For three years he was president of the LL.B. in 1879. He was admitted to the Bar of New York Consolidated Drug Company, and is New Jersey as attorney November 7, 1880, and a member of the German Apothecaries' Associ- as counselor three years later. Mr. Stuhr was ation, as well as a Mason of Solon Lodge. He appointed Corporation Counsel of the city of married on July 14, 1881, Miss Olga Stuber and Hoboken in 1883 and reappointed the following has six children. year. In May, 1888, he was appointed Assistant Counsel to the Board of Freeholders of Hudson CARL BERGER, superintendent of buildings County and upon completing the work in hand, for the borough of Queens, New York City, also resigned September first of that year, believing a skilled architect by profession, is a native of the further continuance of that office unneces- Germany, having been born there on September sary and a useless expense to the county. He 27, 1869. Leaving the Fatherland while a young then devoted himself to his law practise. His man, he came to America, locating at Jersey genial disposition, together with his ability and City, N.J., where he obtained his primary edu- success, made him hosts of friends and he was cation in the public schools and graduating from not permitted to live long in retirement. In June, the high school of that city with high honors. 1889, he was elected chairman of the Jeffersonian 268 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS Democracy of Hudson County and in the fall of Democratic club-, German Licderkranz, Arion, that year was nominated by them for State Sen the < trdcr of Elks and of many other social, char- ator of the county; his nomination was also en- itable ami benevolent associations. dorsed by the Republican party. After a bitter contest, the regular Democratic candidate, Ed- HERMAN RINGE was born at Metropolitan, ward F. McDonald, was declared elected and took N.Y. He received his rudimentary education in his seat at the organization <>f the Senate of New the public schools and was graduated from the Jersey in January, 1890. Mr. Stuhr contested Boys' High School, Brooklyn, with high honors. the seat, and being successful was awarded the Mr. Ringe has practically resided in the Borough same by vote of the Senate, and he held it during of Queens, Xew York City, his entire life, where the remainder of the term. As a result of the he is popular and enjoys a wide acquaintance. testimony taken at the time more than fifty elec- Prior to his engaging in the public affairs of his tion officers were indicted by the Grand Jury, borough, he was for many years a successful and of that number forty were tried and convict- operator in the real estate and building world. ed. In 1891 the Democrats, gaining control of Early in life he espoused the principles of the the Senate, unseated Senator Stuhr. Mr. Stuhr Democratic party, of which he has always been was married on February 18, 1886, to Marietta, an ardent supporter, and in whose councils he daughter of Thomas Miller, Esq., president of stands high. He has held a number of prominent the Xcw York Cement Company, and who resides positions under the borough government of at Flushing, L.I. His wife was also a near rela- Queens, prominent among which are secretary tive of General Pettigrew, who was at one time of the borough, chief clerk in the highway de- governor of South Carolina. Mr. Stuhr is iden- partment, the latter position of which ho is at tified with a number of social, fraternal and be- present the incumbent. He is chief of the nevolent societies in Xew Jersey. Newtown Fire Department, a member of the Second Ward Democratic Association, of the ROBERT F. WAGXER, lawyer, was born in Foresters, Royal Arcanum, l'.lks. Eagles and of Germany on June 8, 1878, and came to America F. & A.M., Kismet Temple. Mr. Ringe was uni- with his parents when nine years of age. He re- ted in marriage on March 5, [896, to Miss Carrie ceived his education in the public schools and M. Keller: the children born to the union are earned enough money by selling newspapers to Herman, Jr., and Lester C, both of whom are support himself until he entered the College of living. Mr. Ringe is a man of wide experience, the City of Xew York, where he paid his way by possessing an unimpeachable reputation and has tutoring until lie finished his course as the orator the confidence and esteem of the entire commu- of the class of 1S0S He studied law at the Xew nity in which he resides. York Law School, graduating in 1900. Here again he wen renown as the best debater in the CARL ORDEMANN, deceased, was born at Since then Mr. Wagner has been engaged Hanover, Germany, April 10. 1854, where he at- in the practise of law and has rapidly risen to tended school, obtaining his rudimentary edu- the front, being entrusted with many large and cation. He completed his studies under the important cases. A Democrat in politics, he has tutorship of his father, who was a well known been elected three times to the Assembly with educator of Hanover, as well as a principal in majorities. Mi- record as a legislator is the local public -eh. 1. ,1-. After securing his edu- 'illy fine and he was identified with many of cation and serving his tinu irmy, young the mosl important measures passed during his Ordemann decided to go out into the world to term. He was active ami instrumental in securing earn his livelihood. He went to Bremen where upport of hi- party for the investigation of he obtained a clerkship, and at the age of twen the railroads in New York City, and the Public t\ five years he came to America and settled at Utilities lull. His efforts to secure the passage Xew York City, where- he resided up to the time of a bill fixing a five cent fare to Coney Island of his death. His first position obtained in New on all Street railroads have been unceasing and York was in a grocery store. He saved money tback or defeal could discourage or induce and rapidly acquired a good knowledge of the him to discontinue his fight for tin- measure. Mr. English language. Later, he opened a wholesale ner is called the father of this bill and the and retail liquor store on his own account in v with which he has pushed it and relent which he met with greal success. After COndud ! City, lessly fought its fr.es has won f<>r him t ine, stores in various sections of Xew York teem of his associates as well a- of the people at he retired from active business in 1800. Mr. Lutheran lb- i- a member of the Algonquin and < Irdemann was a member of the HERMANN KOCH. 269 CARL ISOGKK. 2711 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 271 Church, the Masonic Order, the Liederkranz, thanks, executed with much skill, and was made the Friday Bowling Club and the Liquor Deal- an honorary citizen of Emmendingen. To per- ers' Association. On March 14, 1875, he was petuate the memory of his father, he erected a united in marriage with Miss Frederica Metz- temple in East Sixty-seventh Street, between Lex- ner, daughter of Carl Metzner of Hanover, Ger- ington and Third Avenues which bears his name many. One child, a daughter, Dorothy, was born and is one of the finest edifices of its kind in New to the union. Mr. Ordemann was a man who York. With this place of worship a Hebrew free was fond of travel, art, literature and athletics, school is connected, seating about two hundred pastimes in which his wife also heartily joined and fifty pupils, many of them poor, but all well him. He, with his family, annually made tours taken care of. It has become the center around of Europe. Mr. Ordemann was extremely fond which the Jewish orthodox movements in the of horse-back riding, a form of exercise in which upper part of the city gravitate. Some time ago both he and his wife took much pleasure. He Mr. Weil contributed, together with his brother, was a man of great force of character, modest Samuel Weil, and his brother-in-law, Ferdinand and retiring in disposition. He had friends Sulzberger, a considerable part of the money whose numbers were legion, and to whom he al- required for the foundation of an orphan asylum ways remained true. His death occurred in in Baden. His highest ambition and fondest 1906, he being survived by his widow and daugh- hopes have been realized in the founding of the ter, who still reside in the beautiful home pre- Lebanon Hospital in New York City, for which pared by Mr. Ordemann at No. 169 West Eighty- he contributed an initial donation of ten thousand fifth Street, New York City. dollars in money, as well as land valued at fifteen thousand dollars, upon which the training school JONAS WEIL.—Among the citizens of New for nurses has been erected. This building is York who devote a large part of their time and known as one of the finest of its kind, is equipped means to practical philanthropy, few are better with the most modern improvements science has known, and none stands higher, than Jonas invented, and contains forty-five rooms, a large Weil, senior member of the real estate firm of hall for lectures and other accommodations. In Weil & Mayer. His gifts are so large, numer- addition Mr. Weil devotes his undivided atten- ous and well bestowed that he may be justly tion and energy to soliciting outside aid for the called one of the greatest benefactors of his time. welfare and maintenance of the institution which Mr. Weil was born at Emmendingen in Baden, has become a life work with him and of which Germany, and came to America in 1861. His he is the president. He is also president of the father, Ephraim Weil, who was highly respected Zichren Ephraim Temple. His home in East in the community for his integrity, religious fer- Seventy-fifth Street, near Madison Avenue, con- vor and splendid character, had given the son a tains many treasures of the kind appealing to the good education, and firmly planted in his mind highly cultured mind and is the center of an ideal the principles he believed in and practised with family life. Mr. Weil's two sons, Benjamin J., so much fidelity. Young Weil first engaged in and Lewis V., follow in the footsteps of the packing and live stock business and subsequently father, both being successful business men of in real estate operations. Applying to his busi- exceptonal ability and deeply interested in char- ness life the teachings he had received in his itable work. youth, he quickly won the esteem and confidence of all he came in contact with, and prospered GERHARD H. MENNEN (deceased) was steadily. And as soon as his means permitted it, born at Vegesack, near Bremen, on July 13, 1856, he began to contribute large sums to charities of and received his early education in the Latin all kinds. With increasing prosperity his dona- school and Gymnasium of Bremen. He left tions grew in size and number, and to-day there school when fifteen years of age and one year is practically no deserving charity in this city later (1872) came to the United States with his and even beyond its confines whose list of donors parents. His knowledge of the English language does not contain the name of Jonas Weil. All was limited, but he was not long in finding em- he asks is that the object is worthy and in the ployment. He held odd positions in New York interest of the needy and the thought never arises City and Hoboken, N.J., during the first year in in him to make a difference between Jew or this country. When at the age of seventeen he Christian. Every year he sends large sums to obtained a position with a New York druggist. the mayor of his native town and to the president This was the beginning of his subsequent career. of the Jewish congregation at Emmendingen. The evening hours were devoted to diligent study He has received innumerable resolutions of along the lines he had mapped out for himself, 272 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICAN'S AND THEIR DESCENDANTS and his efforts were rewarded on February 3, zines, hut also in every conceivable periodical. 1875, when be received his diploma and was grad- And when he believed that results would follow, uated from the College of Pharmacy. Mr. Men the price did not affect him, as long as it ap- nen then entered the employ of a retail drug- peared to he in proportion to the returns. He has gist at Newark, X.J.. and later was associated been known to pay as much as four thousand with Albert Brandt of the same city. In Feb- dollars for one page. Mis ideas can best he un- ruary, 1879, he established a retail pharmacy of derstood by referring to his own words: "My his own at Newark. His genius now asserted advertising hills amount to over $13,000 a week itself. The business prospered and Mr. Mennen and are steadily increasing; but my business is used his gifts and opportunities to the fullest also increasing. This was a fact: the volume of extent. Devoting himself strictly to his business, business transacted by him grew with every year he used every moment of leisure to experiments, of his life, and in the year preceding his death and long before he became famous through the it was larger than ever before. The talcum pow- talcum powder business which assumed such gi- der was used by the United States government gantic proportions, he placed on the market in during the Spanish War. It was used at the 1880 the celebrated •'Mennen Corn Killer" that military posts and hospitals in this country ami quickly became popular on account of its effi- sent to Cuba, Porto Rico and the Philippines. ciency and is today considered one of the best To-day the company enjoy this patronage. Mr. remedies for the purpose it was intended for. Mennen was a member of many social organi- The enterprise to which he owes his fortune, zations, was a Mason, and in politics a Repub- however, is the manufacture of talcum powder lican, but never radical in his opinions. Always which grew from a very small beginning in 1890 broad and liberal in his views, progressive and to the enormous industry of to-day. After many enterprising, he remained to his end, although investigations and experiments, Mr. Mennen was possessing a fortune exceeding a million dollars, convinced that the powder compounded from his the same earnest, straightforward, simple man he own formula had reached a grade of perfection had been when struggling for a modest living. He higher than any similar article on the market, and was one of the men who, in this age of large he introduced it to the trade, first in Newark, fortunes built up by exceptional intellectual en- where it was manufactured, and gradually extend- ergy, persistence and courage, qualified to take ing the sale all over the civilized world. This was charge of enormous enterprises, assuming the not accomplished at once, for Mr. Mennen was responsibilities and labors of leaders in their vo- careful to convince himself first of the merits of cations. No man in this country can he called his powder, in which he indeed firmly believed, self-made with greater right than Mr. Mennen, hut which he decided to test thoroughly by who not only achieved a great personal success, watching the demand following the first sales. hut also founded an enormous industry giving As soon as the facts had proven that the public sustenance to many, by his genius and his irresis not only appreciated the quality of the article tible energy. lie was esteemed and loved by all hut that the powder answered the most rigid who came in contact with him. and his death, requirements, Mr. Mennen began to advertise which occurred on February 3, [902, was an irrc- on a large scale. He became one of the 1. 1 parable loss to the community. Mr. Mennen was advertisers in the country, ami at the time oJ married on August -'". [882, to Miss Klma C. his death in i ed annually to over $-'50,000. To-day it is pro- widow, a s,,n. William G., and a daughter, Klma portionately greater. In Streel cars, in the cats C. R. '1'he husiness was first incorporated on other railroads, steamships, of the elevated and October 15. [892, and reincorporated February and magazines, in fact in ns, newspapers |S. [902, with Mrs. Mennen as president and place where people could see it. the words treasurer; John J. Korb, Jr., vice-president and that are now known in every household: "Men assistant treasurer, and Charles 1'". Klippcrt, sec mil'- Talcum Powder" were displayed. In an retary. Mrs. Mennen's efforts regarding the article of the National Advertiser it was stated education of her son to cope with the enormous that lie was not only one of the mOSl skillful enterprise which was founded by the subjeel of but also one of the ni' Mil advertisers this sketch have heen fully rewarded. Having in the country. Wherever he saw an opportunity been given every opportunity to tit himself for •end his busine S, he acted with promptness the continuance of his father's fame, he was and liberality, and his advertisements not only honors from Cornell University appeared in medical, fashion, musical and the graduated with atrical publications and all the modem maga- June IS, 1908. SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 273 OTTO G. FOELKER, lawyer, was born on public duty far above the usual average. Fol- December 29, 1875, at Mainz, Germany, and lowing is a letter from the Governor express- received his first education in the public ing his sentiments regarding the Senator's at- schools of his native city. At the age of thir- titude in connection with the anti-race track teen he left school and came to the United bill: "My Dear Senator— I desire to express States, engaging in the bakery business at my appreciation of your heroic action in com- Troy, N.Y., at the same time attending the ing to the Senate this morning. Your courage- public schools. In December, 1895, Mr. Foel- ous performance of duty at so grave a risk de- ker came to New York City, where he again serves the highest praise and will long be engaged in the bakery business, but one year pointed to as a fine illustration of fidelity and later decided to fit himself for a profession patriotic devotion to the interests of the state. that offered greater rewards to his ability. He I trust that you will not suffer any ill effects accepted a clerkship with the German Legal and that you will soon be restored to your full Aid Society in 1896 and attended the evening health and vigor. With assurance of my high schools. Later he took a one year's course in esteem and best wishes, I am, faithfully yours, the New York Law School to fit himself for Charles E. Hughes." Senator Foelker lives in the Bar. At the end of the course of study he Brooklyn and is a member of the following passed the examination and was admitted to clubs: Republican, Sixth Assembly District, the Bar in January, 1898. In the meantime Union League, Hanover, Kings County Repub- Mr. Foelker had made many friends and his lican, Invincible, Congress, Seward and Rens- ability, as well as his unswerving devotion to selear County Society, as well as of the principle, had given him an enviable standing Knights of Pythias, Royal Arcanum and the in the district where he lived. A Republican in Y.M.C.A. He was married twice: first to Miss politics, he was elected to the Assembly from Katherine Jordan and after her death to Miss the Fifth District in 1904 and again in 1905, Nettie Bodenstein. and in the following year to the Senate from the Fourth Senatorial District. His record as CARL WALTHER, Ph.D., D.D., was born a legislator is exceptionally fine. He did not on August 28, 1794, at Hof, near Bayreuth in confine himself to his duties as occasion re- Germany, and received his early education in quired but quickly became one of the active the schools of his native city and of Plauen in factors shaping the course of the legislature. Saxony. After graduating, he entered the Uni- Mr. Foelker was the first to introduce a res- versity of Leipsic in 1813, but his studies were olution demanding an investigation of the soon interrupted, for all Germany had risen insurance companies at the special session in against the French who, under Napoleon I, had 1905, and while his resolution was at first ruled the country with an iron hand for almost turned down, it was, a few days later, however, a decade. The German people at last decided introduced by another member and passed in to throw off the yoke of the oppressor, and consequence of an emergency message sent young Walther took an active part in the fight in by Governor Higgins. Senator Foelker for liberty. When peace was concluded, in 1814, took an active and important part in the in- he entered the University of Jena, studied philolo- vestigation, and furthermore distinguished gy and theology, and received the degree of Ph.D. himself by the independent stand he has and D.D. in 1817. In the same year he received taken in the efforts to prevent the several a call as assistant pastor from a church at Ham- power companies using Niagara Falls from burg, but soon after was elected minister for abusing the rights granted to them, and from Uelzen in the Kingdom of Hannover. Here he extending their operations to the detriment of remained for nearly thirty years, marrying Wil- this wonderful work of nature. When Gov- helmina Schuster of Uelzen and devoting himself ernor Hughes desired to stop gambling at the to the care of his parish as well as to extensive race tracks, the Senate divided evenly on the studies. In 1834 he was appointed superintendent bills proposed to execute the Governor's of all the churches in the districts of Hardegen, wishes, and the measures would have been Uelzen and Goettingen by the Hannover- lost if Senator Foelker had not gone to Albany ian Government. But though he had grown to cast the deciding vote in spite of the fact in years and wisdom, his love for civic liberty that he had not quite recovered from a severe and his belief in the right of the people to gov- operation and his physicians considered the ern themselves, had not cooled, and with the in- voyage dangerous in the extreme. In this, as crease of reactionary tendencies on the part of the in other cases, he has shown a devotion to government and the growth of the demand for 274 SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS freedom on the part of the pcopk-. he found him- the latter part of that year he established him- self in opposition to his superiors. While not self in business on his own account, and had as espousing the cause of the revolutionists, he free- associate Mr. Henry Budge. This partnership in constitutional continued until 1883, when he founded his presenl ly acknowledged his belief j eminent and the necessity to do away with ab- banking bouse, under the firm name of H. P. solutism. As a consequence he was transferred Goldschmidt & Co. Mr. Goldschmidl as well as to a pastorate at Winsen, mar Hamburg, but the firms with which he has been connected have this did not have the desired effect. He would always enjoyed a distinction for absolute integ- alliances not, and in fact could nut, suppress his desire to rity and reliability, keeping free from express Ins opinions, the conflict with the gOA and operations which might even in the most re- ernment increased and finally forced him to re- mote sense be called doubtful. Of strong char- sign his charge. In 1850 he decided to emigrate acter and a very independent turn of mind, Mr. inclinations to certain to the United States, a martyr tor liberty like Goldschmidt's have, a ex- so many others who came to America at that tent, made him averse to affiliations which pre- time. Mr. Waltber accepted a pastorate in Jer- vent the free development and manifestation of individuality. lover and of art, sey City in 1851, but was called to Amherst neat- A connoisseur Buffalo one year later, and in 1S53 went to Pitts- music and literature, his refined taste is well his burg, Pa., to take charge of St. Trinity Church. known and judgment generally accepted. His Here he found the peace his soul had been long- city residence at 20 East Sixty-fourth Street, as well his handsome villa at South ing for, and here he celebrated in 1867 the golden as Elberon, X.J., furnish anniversary of his service in the ministry of the proof of a highly cultivated taste, and faculty of ample to gratify Lutheran Church. He died at Pittsburg, Pa., in the using means the recognition and appreciation of beautiful. April, 1868. His son, Waldemar A. Waltber, the <)ii March 23, 1862, Mr. Goldschmidt was born at Uelzen in Hannover on March 3, 1833, mar- ried to Miss Georgette Woodleaf. came to America with bis father. He had been carefully educated by private tutors, and entered was born at Gunder- active business life immediately after bis arrival. ISAAC GOLDMANN sheim in Rhenish Hesse in Germany and received He identified himself with the paper industrj and bis education in ihe schools of his birthplace. At in 1859 founded the firm of Waltber & Co., an early age he was apprenticed to a printer at erecting bis first factory for the production of Alzey and rapidly acquired as thorough paper specialties and coated papers in Brooklyn, a knowl- rapidly X.V., in 1 861. His business increased and up to the time of his death, on January 10, 1898, he was active in managing and extending it, position branch until it occupied a leading in the of industry to which it was devoted. It is now carried on by bis sons, F. O. and C. F. Waltber, who were carefully trained by their father to fol- low in his footsteps, and have succeeded not only in continuing the business, but have greatly en Waltber was mar- 1 it. Mr. Waldemar A. ried in 1863 to Miss Emma Marquering. HENRY P. GOLDSCHMIDT, banker, was born on September 15. 1843, at Frankfort-on the- Main, where his family history dates back be- yond the Sixteenth Century, and received his ISAAC GOLDMANN. education in the Realschule of his native city. Graduating at the age of sixteen, he entered the as his opportuni- employ of a banking house and studied the busi edge of his chosen profession small from the ground up. In 1866 Mr. Gold ties made possible. But the limitations of a ambition and enter- schmidt was called to New York by the leading citj were too narrow for his Amer- German banking hous< of Ballin & Sander in the prising spirit, and in 1S07 he emigrated to nine years capacity of confidential clerk with power of at- ica, s.uiing in New York, where for iii the largesl printing estab- torney. When the firm was changed to I he worked some of His ambition never S. Ballin & Co., he was admitted to partnership lishments Of the metropolis. and remained with the concern until 1K79. In tied and he studied with Open eyes and ever SUCCESSFUL GERMAN-AMERICANS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS 275 wakeful intelligence the methods of his employ- ceived his education in the New York Free Acad- ers. In 1876 he felt that the time had come to emy. An unusual gift for music, combined with realize his fondest dream, to make himself inde- rare judgment and an extraordinary faculty of pendent and strike out on his own account. He discerning the powers of artists as well as the established a printing office at No. 16 North taste of the music loving public, led him into the William Street and quickly gained an enviable business of arranging concerts and tours of musi- reputation for prompt and accurate work. The cal celebrities. During the twenty years which business grew from the start, larger quarters he has devoted to this field of activity, Mr. soon became necessary, until he installed his Wolfsohn has introduced to the American public present plant in the large building at the corner a host of artists who either had already acquired of William and Frankfort Streets. The present prominence in Europe or who, under his guid- plant is one of the largest and best equipped in ance, became later on stars of the first magnitude. the city. In 1900 Mr. Goldmann incorporated He has had on his books at one time or another his business under the firm name of the Isaac almost every musical artist of note, as well as Goldmann Company, in order to perpetuate its many of the best known musical organizations. existence if he should ever desire to retire. He His judgment is universally accepted as sound is now assisted in his large and still growing and reliable, and his advice is eagerly sought by activity by his sons and nephews but remains all who are interested in musical affairs. Inde- the head and principal factor of the concern pendent in politics, Mr. Wolfsohn has never held, which is especially noteworthy on account of the or aspired to public office. He is a member of cordial relations existing between the firm and the German Liederkranz and of many benevolent the employees, now numbering over one hundred. institutions. On April 22, 1876, Mr. Wolfsohn married Miss Paula Kesker of Louisville, Ky. HENRY WOLFSOHN, impresario, was born in Of their two daughters, one died in early youth, Germany and came to the United States in his and the other is married to Mr. George Hammer- early youth, settling in New York, where he re- schlag, a manufacturer of paper. r . 1 N D E X Portraits and Biographical Sketches Portrait Biography Portrait Biography on on on on A Page Page H Page Page Max F — 23S Hornfeck, Hermann Heinrich 131 189 123 Ackermann, C. F — Hottenroth, Adolph C 165 194 Ams, Max 1 1 l 69 Hraba, Louis \V 144 243 108 200 Anderson. Henry A. C Adolph G 155 115 Hupfcl, Tohn Christian Glaser 171 115 B I Bahrenburg. \V 212 Henry — [den, Henry 99 76 Baruch. Emanuel 120 Berger. Carl 270 267 J Boldt, Hermann Johannes 107 203 ." Joseph, Frederick 160 '79 Borkel, John . 214 259 Brandner. Benjamin L — 247 Joseph, Herman 177 194 Brunn, Julius \V — 212 K C K.-ihn. Otto II 67 75 Clausen, Charles C — 145 Karsch, Bernard 231 260 Conreiil. Heinrich 163 122 Kempner, Otto — 247 Cordts, Frank H 219 247 Keufrel, William 101 149 Kiliani. Otto George Theobald — 203 D Kleinert, Albert E 249 208 Koch, Hermann 269 248 Demuth. William 151 109 Kolle, Frederick Strang — 21 1 Dennig. Rudolph C. R 214 207 Krause, Rudolph Oscar — 267 Dittenhoefer. Abram Jesse 79 133 Krug, Florian 119 204 Prakenfeld. Bernard Ferdinand 188 Kudlich. Dr. Hans 44 54 Dressel, George C 137 E L Langeloth, Jacob 71 243 Eggers. Henry 156 l6l Lankering, Adolph 198 184 George J 98 35 Lauterbach, Edward 89 128 Eichler. Tohn 175 I 10 Lentz, Carl 142 '54 Eidlitz. Slarc 106 97 Lewinson, Benno — 244 Henry 189 Endemann, — Paul — 21 Endemann, Samuel Theodor Hermann Karl 240 Lichtenstein, Lustgarten, Sigmund — 207 Engelhard, Charles 196 173 Engler, Adolph W — 223 Louis Anton 202 207 M Mack. Jacob Wolfgang 213 168 F Mayer, David 159 116 Feldmann. Henry — 264 Mennen. Gerhard II 181 271 Mm.-. A 88 109 Finn. Richard A. U3 157 Herman 136 140 Foclker. Otto G — 273 Mietz, August Miller. 220 Fornes, Charles Vincent 166 149 AugUSt G 243 William 82 Frank, Albert 191 103 Molir. Justin Fred'k —93 Frey. Joseph 253 229 Moser, John 255 Froeb, Charles — 263 N G Nissen, Ludwig 118 85 Prank 100 217 Otto — 229 21 :ch, Leonard A 141 104 • tbermayer, Charles 1 245 rue 215 193 Oelkers. John I! 1 26 158 214 '03 Ordemann, Carl 23a 268 1 Hi... Martin 112 168 I, Carl Frederick 172 235 John 95 157 274 P nry P $2 1 William 170 1 a 'mt. Captain B 123 92 J. Pi 1. rs, Carl Otto 214 207 drill, George 250 224 John Pfizer, Charles 73 130 Michael C 80 140 Prieth, 1'.. 11. did 125 '58 II R HafTen. Louis F 185 ISO Rappenhagen, Peter II 213 218 Louis 204 Haupt, — Reichhelm, Edward Paul 201 «67 251 Gustav 231 in 228 264 'inc. Hon laooh 239 104 K' iMiii;ri . I ! 11 '47 Hrgnrr, 229 k Hermann — Riefe, fohn 225 235 Heide, Henrv 83 Rinckhoff. William P 226 236 139 Heme. A. R 74 Ringe, Herman — 268 ;is 1 86 tiS J Ritterbusch, Hugo H 266 229 Heitemeyer, Theodore Clemen* 10a 146 96 211 208 Rothbarth, Adolph Helwig, Rudolph — Ruppert, Jacob '76 121 -man Christian Henry.... 138 204 M — 244 s Hexamer, Philip 262 223 r, Louis 152 140 Hohner, Hans 114 161 I lohn 178 127 Holuirr. Matthius 113 162 Rudolph J Holm. Charles F 227 236 Hon. Charles Adolph • • • • 59 6S . INDEX 277 Portrait Biography Portrait Biography on on on on S Page Page V Page Page Yolk, Schiff, Jacob Henry 51 58 Anthony J 2 i6 244 Schirmer, Charles F — 200 Vom Cleff, Robert i 30 184 Schmidt, Henry L 222 251 Von Der Bruck, Charles 208 Schmidt, Philip J 242 260 Schurz, Carl 2 45 W Schwab, Gustav H 47 57 Seitz, Carl Emil 265 230 Wagner, August P 210 255 Seligman, Isaac N 56 62 Wagner, Robert F — 268 Seligman, Joseph 55 61 Wahle, Hon. Charles G. F 209 239 Siegel, Henry 105 81 Waldenberger, Emil V 238 218 Sohmer, Hugo 164 127 Walther, Carl 68 273 Sohmer, William 241 146 Walther, Waldemar A — 273 Speyer, James 63 70 Weber, Adam 117 86 Stadler, Charles A 206 134 Wehrum, Charles Christian 205 162 Steenken, John Godfrey 195 183 Weidemann, Jacob 124 'So Steil, George H 222 263 Weil, Jonas 222 271 Steneck, John : 261 259 Weil, Samuel 132 255 Stern, Leopold 90 168 Welte, Emil 213 174 Strasbourger, Samuel — 223 Wesendonck, Hugo 94 75 Strauss, Julius 246 218 Wessell, Arthur L 234 255 Stuhr, William Sebastian 72 267 Wessell, Fernando A 237 255 Sulzberger, Ferdinand 197 190 Wessell, Otto 233 252 Sutro, Theodore 213 153 Wicke, William 77 66 Windmuller, Louis 129 82 T Windolph, John P 187 224 Wischmann, Hermann 257 180 Thalman, Ernst 87 82 Wissner, Otto 169 128 Timken, Herman L 254 199 Wolfsohn, Henry — 275 «2* ^ A s- s * I "C- ' * • .A A j£+ v<\ > V *L^A <^ 4 * J' ^ a *v A *W o WAR 78 * £ -Mk- ** A A^ ^ ** v o "^ »* A <. *'.. A ~V 1. ' » 011 561 581 6