”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
WILLIAM C. WEGNER
Wm. C. Wegner was born in Prussia, Germany, Feb. 6, 1850, and attended the schools in the Fatherland until he reached the age of 15 years, when his parents came to LaPorte, bringing him along. This was in 1871. He entered his apprenticeship as a blacksmith with the late Wm. C. Pitner Nov. 16 of that year and has followed the trade uninterruptedly ever since. He did not fail to improve every opportunity afforded by the large Pitner establishment to acquire a knowledge of wagon and carriage making as well as every secret of the smithy, so when he commenced business for himself, which he did June 8, 1887, at his present location, 609 Monroe street, he was prepared to employ every scientific and up-to-date method in horseshoeing, general blacksmithing and woodwork, fine carriage repairing and repainting, wagon making and special order work such as delivery wagons and the like. He also fits new rubber tires on vehicles and repairs old ones. His motto is : "Not how cheap, but how good work call be done." He has enlarged his plant from time to time until now he occupies the premises at 607 and 609 Monroe street, a large two-story brick building. He has just invented and had patented an interlocking steel rake for road building which he manufactures. He is married and has three sons, of whom Edwin C. is in the blacksmith shop, Arthur F. is in the woodworking department, and Harry W., the youngest, is still in the high school. Mr. Wegner is an Odd Fellow and Maccabee and an earnest Republican in politics. He is an active member of the German M. E. church and a citizen of high repute.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
STEPHEN ZELTNER
Jolly Steve Zeltner is a good man to know, and every LaPortean does know him. He has halted the city's bread for a full generation and is not half through yet. He learned the trade in Cincinnati, where he was born Feb. 16, 1852, and educated in the public schools, and he spent five years in the business there learning how to concoct a multitude of toothsome pastries. In 1872 he came to the Maple City and was employed ten years in the local bakeshops. Then, in 1882, he opened for himself at his present location, 1018 and 1020 Main street, where he also resides with his wife and six children remaining at home. He was married in 1873. His specialty and almost exclusively his business is catering to the family trade, delivering his products of bread, cakes, pies and bakery goods of all kinds at the doors of his customers all ready for the table. He also has a large trade in fine bulk oysters, which he handles in the same very convenient manner. Mr. Zeltner is an Odd Fellow, a Ben Hur, and the father of the largest Maccahee tent in all Hoosierdom.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
HENRY A. BECHER,
Who is one of successful monument contractors in northern Indiana, has a large establishment at 1109 Main street. Mr. Becher was born in this city, Nov. 1, 1869, being a son of the late Conrad Becher, for many years an alderman and one of the most admired men in LaPorte. Early ill life, after a good education, he learned the stone trade and soon acquired an establishment that grew as time advanced, both in size and importance. Today his name is the synonym for good work. Not only has Mr. Becher an established reputation as a manufacturer of monuments, but he is also a most successful cut stone contractor and dealer in all kinds of building stone. He has furnished the stone trimmings for some of the most important buildings in LaPorte and neighboring cities. Among the more notable monuments he has erected is that over the grave of the late James O'Brien in Patton cemetery. It weighs 1.3 tons, is ten feet high and being of extra dark Quincy granite attracts much attention. So wide has Mr. Becher's reputation spread that he has erected monuments in Chicago cemeteries, and also over the last resting places of the prominent dead in other cities.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
EDWARD KANNEY
In all branches of constructing, designing and installing apparatus and systems of plumbing, heating, lighting, ventilating, sewage and draining Edward Kanney is the admitted expert of LaPorte, though he is still a young man to hold such a position of pre-eminence in so important a trade. He is a native of Ohio, his birth falling in 1873, and he has been in business for himself eleven years in this city. Before embarking in the enterprise on his own account he had five years of experience with leading plumbers in Cincinnati and Chicago and one year in LaPorte. He began his work in the trade when he was a lad of but sixteen years, but he had physical strength and endurance and he applied himself energetically to the task of perfecting himself in all the methods employed in the best shops. To his mind plumbing is a learned profession marked by constant progress and improvement and he is a close student of the processes and inventions made use of by progressive mechanics in his line. Many of the finest residences in the city, as well as the Home Health Club, the Planett Manufacturing Company's plant, and other public or semi-public buildings are successfully served by work he has put in. He is married and has four children and the family home is at 306 E. Main street. His place of business is at 614 Monroe street.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
MILLARD F. PARRISH,
Counted one of the substantial business men of the city, conducts an up-to-date grocery at 103 Clement street, in a section of the city where the best class of citizens reside. Mr. Parrish is a native of Illinois, having been born Aug. 9, 1859, at Latham, Logan county, where he received his education and also laid the foundation for a successful career in commercial life. Although he has been engaged in the grocery business in this city but eight years, Mr. Parrish has for 15 years been connected with the retail mercantile trade, his conscientious attention to his business, the studying of his customers and the desire to anticipate their wants, being stepping stones in his successful business life. He was united in marriage Aug. 27, 1884, to Ida W. Reed of Lincoln, Ill., the wedding being solemnized in Sully county, South Dakota. Mr. and Mrs. Parrish have the distinction of being the first couple married in that county. They have an adopted daughter, Josephine N., aged three years. Mr. Parrish is a charter member of Maple City court, Tribe of Ben Hur, and a regular attendant of the Christian church. His residence is at 815 Rose street.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
CHARLES KRUEGER,
Proprietor of the LaPorte Feed Mill, located on J street, has been a resident of LaPorte since 1868. He was born in Loetz, Pommer, Germany, and received his education in the public schools of his native country. When he came to LaPorte he secured employment with Ludlow & Behrndt, who owned the first door and sash factory started in LaPorte. In 1885 Mr. Krueger opened the feed mill and cider press, which he still conducts, and it has been a growing success in every respect. Mr. Krueger, who is looked upon as one of the conservative and stable business men of the city, was some years ago appointed by the judge of the circuit court one of the five city commissioners of LaPorte, a position which he has filled with much credit. In 1871 Mr. Krueger was united in marriage to Miss Freida Tiedeman and they are the parents of seven children, four boys and three girls. In Odd Fellow circles and as a member of St. Paul's Evangelical church, Mr. Krueger command s the respect of all.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
FOSTER & D'GARMO
This enterprising firm was formed eight years ago and today it is one of the leading ones in the livery business in the city. James Foster, the senior member, came to LaPorte 16 years ago from Talbot, Benton county, this state, where he had been engaged in farming for 15 years. David J. DeGarmo is a native of New York state, having come to LaPorte in 1890 from Ft. Edward, Washington county, where he was previously engaged in the manufacture of carriages and wagons. The firm of Foster & DeGarmo, which is located at the corner of State street and Indiana avenue, does a general hack, livery, boarding and buss business, having a fine line of hacks and carriages of all kinds. The line of rubber-tired vehicles is one of the most complete and stylish in LaPorte. The two members of this firm are exceedingly delightful personages and both rank high in business circles.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
GEORGE BRUST,
Who represented his ward in the council for several years, was born in LaPorte county Nov. 4, 1868, and came to the city with his parents when six years old. He attended St. John's Lutheran school and the public schools, seven years each, and after several years of experience in the meat market business he opened, in 1896, with his brother, Carl, the present establishment at 501 Rose street. They started in a small way, but the business has grown until it is now one of the largest in the city. During his two terms in the council Mr. Brust was looked upon as a most stable member, conservative in his actions, but always on the side of progress. As chairman of the fire committee he did much for the advancement of the fire department in LaPorte. Mr. Brust is a member of St. John's Lutheran church.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
JOSEPH SCHOLL,
Who is the largest milk dealer in LaPorte, was born in this county Nov. 30, 1872. His education was secured in the township schools, and then he took up farming and dairying. In 1902 he started in the wholesale and retail business in LaPorte. At that time he had one wagon and handled about 40 gallons daily. He now runs four wagons and handles over 300 gallons of milk and cream daily. He has the distinction of being the only one in the business who was a milk dealer when he began delivering for his father. Mr. Scholl employs a scientific method of treating the milk which is served his customers, the milk being tested, clarified and pasteurizing guarantees its quality and purity. He was united in marriage in 1902 to Miss Jennie Graf of this city, and they have one child, Dorothy. They reside at 1101 Woodward street.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
JAMES W. BROEFFLE,
For several years the representative of the Second ward in the common council, was born Sept. 21, 1848, in Quaker Street, New York. His parents were William and Susannah Broeffle. He became a resident of LaPorte May 1st, 1889, and has resided here continuously since. He was educated at Troft's College, along literary and philosophical lines and devoted some years to writing and delivering addresses on evolution as applied to religion. Having a liking for the legal profession, he read law and has been a practicing attorney since he became a resident of LaPorte. He served three years as deputy prosecutor. As councilman he was the leader, and served as chairman of the waterworks and finance committees. Mr. Broeffle is well read, has a brilliant mind and has written many sweet poetic gems for circulation among his friends. He was married Dec. 2, 1884, at Marshalltown, Iowa, to Miss Helen Reynolds. Mr. and Mrs. Broeffle came to LaPorte to live as they deemed it the finest, purest city in all the West. They reside at 710 Tyler street.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
ETHAN ALLEN HILEY,
Is the proprietor of a successful meat market at 112 Clement street. He was born in Berrien county, Michigan, Aug. 8, 1871, and received his education in the public schools of Berrien county and Galena township, LaPorte county. His first venture in the meat market business was made in 1891, when he formed a partnership with Charles Seward, but a year later he disposed of his interest to his partner. In 1892 he engaged in the buying and selling of live stock, and four years later he acquired the place of business where he is now located. He was married in 1891 at New Buffalo, Mich., to Miss Augusta Walk, and they have three children, one daughter, Ethel G. Hiley, and two sons, Eli E. and E. A. Hiley, Jr. Mr. Hiley is an Odd Fellow, and also belongs to the First Christian church.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
ALBERT KREIDLER
For nearly 15 years continuously Albert Kreidler has been engaged in the meat market business in LaPorte and during that time he has established a reputation for himself for conducting an up-to-date establishment second to none in LaPorte. He was born April 8, 1859, at Altheim, Wutterberg, Germany, and came to America when a young man. His first venture in the meat market business in this city was in 1890, when he formed a partnership with Charles Kunze as Kreidler & Kunze, the firm purchasing the Fifth ward market on Second street. Three months later Kunze's interest was purchased by Frank Hausheer, and four months later Mr. Hausheer retired. Since then Mr. Kreidler has had no partner. For nine years he was located on Second street, during which time he established an excellent trade. Five years ago he bought the corner lot at E and Second streets, on which he erected a double business building. He occupies the corner room with his market and the adjoining place he leases for a grocery store. Mr. Kreidler carries a choice line of meats and does almost exclusively his own butchering, thus insuring only the best grade of goods. He was married June 10, 1884, to Miss Lucy Pfaffer of LaPorte and they have five children, three sons and two daughters. The family home is at 410 A street. Mr. Kreidler is a member of St. Joseph's Catholic church and belongs also to the Catholic Foresters and St. Joseph's Aid Society.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
FRANK C. FLENTYE
Another young business man who is rapidly forging to the front is Frank C. Flentye, proprietor of the meat market at 407 Second street. Since he took possession of the establishment it has rapidly advanced in prestige, and today its reputation for the best meats to be had is second to none in the city. Mr. Flentye was born in LaPorte, July 15, 1878, being a son of Christopher and Abby Flentye, two of LaPorte's most estimable citizens. After attending St. Joseph's school in this city until 1890 he entered St. Joseph's College at Rensselaer, where he remained for two years. In 1897 he became interested in a grocery and meat market in Chicago with his brother-in-law, under the firm name of Bennitt & Flentye. The venture was a success from the start, and today the establishment is one of the most popular in Englewood. In 1901 Mr. Flentye returned to LaPorte and purchased the market which he now conducts in an up-to-date manner, and where he carries a line of the finest line of meats. He has the distinction also of being the youngest and most enterprising man in his line of business. Recently he took up another venture, the conducting of a crematory for cattle, horses and other animals, and it is proving a success. Mr. Flentye resides with his parents at 202 D street. He is a member of LaPorte lodge. No. 396, B. P. O. Elks, and of G. H. Terpany tent. No. 25, K. O. T. M. He is also president and was one of the organizers of the LaPorte Gun Club.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
EPHRAIM D. HOOK
Who is best known because of his connection with the stock business in LaPorte county, was born in Ulster county, N. Y., Dec. 21, 1855, his parents being Henry and Maria Hook. His education was received in the public schools at Wawarsing, N. Y., and at the age of 14 he began work on a farm. When 21 years old he came to LaPorte county and secured employment on a farm near Rolling Prairie. After four years as a hired man, he rented a farm and began farming on his own account. He now has a splendid farm in Kankakee township, just at the edge of town. About 15 years ago he took up the stock business, buying and selling horses and cattle of all kinds, and he makes a specialty of dealing in horses. He is considered an expert author ity on horse flesh, his reputation being so well-known that last year he served as one of the special judges, at the Michigan State fair. He has sold hundreds of horses in LaPorte and Chicago and his advice is frequently sought by those contemplating the purchase of driving and speeding horses. His wife was formerly Nellie Hughes and they have two children, Raymond and Helen Hook, students in the LaPorte high school. Mr. Hook is an ardent Republican and also belongs to G. H. Terpany tent, No. 23, K. O. T. M. He lives on a 300 acre farm in Kankakee township.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
J. P. VANKIRK
J. P. VanKirk, mason and contractor, builder of cement walls and dealer in all kinds of building material, was born at Logansport, Ind., in 1848, lived until he was eighteen years old in Marshall county, where he attended the common schools, and located in LaPorte in 1864. In 1868 he married Mahala Wise of Marshall county and they have a married son and daughter, both residents of this city. His home is at 1006 Monroe street. He began the contracting business in 1871 and gradually added the other branches already mentioned, together with the manufacture of brick and of cement building blocks. He belongs to the Odd Fellows, Royal Arcanum, Ben Hurs, Maccabces and Woodmen of the World. Among the notable structures he has built are the City hall, Hall's Opera House, Swedish Lutheran church, High school building, Friends' church, Lonn building, King & Fildes woolen mill, the principal part of the Fox woolen mill, Samuel Fox's residence, C. H. Truesdell's residence, H. L. Weaver's residence, LaPorte electric lighting plant, Haverly's store, Ridgway block, Union Milk school house, Buck furniture factory, the principal part of the LaPorte Carriage works, Great Western Mfg. Co's plant, and many others. He has the contract for installing all the boilers for the Cable Piano Co., and has just completed the new Quisisana plant.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
CHARLES O. LARSON
A history of the city of LaPorte would not be complete without a reference to Charles O. Larson, who can point with pride to the erection of more fine residences and large buildings within the past few years than any other contractor. He was born in Sweden, Nov. 13, 1865, and came to America when a lad of 19. He worked as a stairbuilder when he came to LaPorte in 1891, having learned the carpenter trade in Chicago and having there had seven years' experience. In 1894 he started in the general contracting business and since that time he has been so engaged, excepting for a year or two that he was superintendent of the LaPorte Door and Sash Mill, of which company he is one of the officers and a director. Among the more prominent buildings he has erected are E. H. Scott's fine residence, the Rustic Hickory Furniture Company's plant, the Weiler business building and a number of school houses in the county. He also remodelled Charles E. Russell's beautiful home and has just completed the construction of the $100,000 piano plant of the Hobart M. Cable company. He is about to commence the erection of a $10,000 high school building at Kingsbury. In addition to these he has built and remodelled hundreds of residences of minor importance. In 1889 Mr. Larson was united in marriage to Miss Helen C. Nicholas of LaPorte, and they have one son, aged 11 years. Mr. Larson is a member of the LaPorte court of Foresters and belongs to the Swedish Lutheran church. In every movement that tends to advance LaPorte Mr. Larson may be found in the front rank. He was a member of the committee which had much to do in securing the Planett Manufacturing Institution for LaPorte and in other ways has shown his public spirit.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
AMEL T. ANDERSON
One of the leading builders in the city is the subject of this sketch. Amel T. Anderson was born in Sweden March 10, 1869, and came to LaPorte in 1883, a boy of 14 years. He soon found work on a Porter county farm and after two years took up similar work in Henry county, Illinois, returning then to this city. Here in 1889 he was employed by his brother, Gust, starting with the Lonn block on Main street. This continued until Gust's death in 1900, when Amel and another brother, Edward, purchased the business and carried it on with excellent success until the spring of 1903, at which time a dissolution took place and Mr. Anderson has since conducted a large business of his own. All over the city there are handsome structures standing as witnesses to his skill and industry. Early in 1903 he purchased a fine property at Tenth and E streets and built there a commodious home for his wife, who was Miss Charlotte Wise of LaPorte, and their five children. Mr. Anderson is a Maccabee and also belong to the Scandinavian Relief Society connected with his church, the Swedish Lutheran. Though yet a young man he occupies a prominent place in local business circles.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
JOSEPH WAINSCOTT,
Who attracted considerable attention to himself a year ago by coming into LaPorte and securing the contract for the erection of one of the finest homes in the city, is a Hoosier by birth, being a native of Fairview, Switzerland county. He first saw the light of day on May 8, 1862. His parents were Richard and Mary A. Wainscott. The family moved to Noblesville, Hamilton county, this state, when the subject of this sketch was a child and in the school of that city he received his education. When a lad he learned the carpenter's trade with his father, beginning when but 13 years of age. In 1880 Mr. Wainscott moved to New Carlisle, where he did a contracting business until April, 1903, when he located in LaPorte. He has followed the same business here with much success. Not only is he an expert carpenter, but an architect as well and makes plans for buildings. His office is located on Clay street, a half block south of Main street. Among the more notable buildings planned and erected by him are the First National bank at New Carlisle, the Masonic and Odd Fellows block at Union Mills, the Kreiger block and City hall at Chesterton and the residence of County Clerk Geo. M. Fountain in Chapin Park, South Bend. Mr. Wainscott was married Jan. 9, 1892, at Cassopolis, Mich., to Miss Letie E. Mell, who was born and reared at New Carlisle and lived there until 1890, when the family removed to Cassopolis. In 1890 Mr. Wainscott became a member of the Masonic lodge at New Carlisle, where he still retains his membership. He is also a member of the LaPorte lodge of Elks. He has always been a strong Republican and in the spring of 1904 was nominated for alderman by the Republicans of the First ward. He is a S. of V., his father having enlisted in the 39th Indiana volunteers and served for four years in the civil war. Mr. and Mrs. Wainscott reside at 603 Detroit street.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
FRED SCHUTTLER,
Who was born in Germany, Jan. 28, 1855, and came to LaPorte in 1864, is one of the well known contractors of the city, having during the years that he has been in the business erected scores, if not hundreds, of houses that are a credit to his workmanship and a credit to the city. Mr. Schuttler attended both St. John's Lutheran school and the public schools of LaPorte, after which he learned the furniture trade in Robert Buck's manufacturing plant, being with that concern for 14 years. He then did carpenter work with Fred Droege and for two years was with Contractor Heusi, after which, in 1884, he engaged in the contracting business for himself, and has met with excellent success. He has felt the building boom that struck LaPorte and is reaping a benefit therefrom. He has just closed the contract for the erection of seven new houses, this being but a small part of what he will have to his credit at the end of the year. His wife was formerly Miss Bertha Schweder, and they have three children, one daughter and two sons. The sons are engaged with their father in the contracting business. Mr. Schuttler is a member of St. John's Lutheran church and resides with his family at 1412 Second street.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
EDWARD H. BOETTCHER,
Who has been a resident of LaPorte for more than a quarter of a century, was born at Statine, Prussia, Germany, Feb. 3, 1848. He was educated in the schools of that country and then began the life of a sailor on the high seas, for 12 years plying between Europe and Asia. In I 876 he came to LaPorte and 14 years ago he entered the saloon business. For the past eight years he has been at his present location, 1010 Main street, owning the building which he occupies, the first floor as a sample room and the second as a dwelling. He was married March 9, 1877, to Miss Louisa Rantz and they have seven children. Mr. Boettcher is actively identified with LaPorte lodge, No. 36, I. O. O. F., and is a prominent member of the German Evangelical church.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
FREDERICK STRUSS,
The well-known carpenter contractor, was born in Germany, July 27, 1862, and became a resident of LaPorte in 1881. His parents were Ernest and Golker Struss. His education was received in the public schools of Germany, though at the age of 14 he started to learn the carpenter trade. Five years later he came to the United States, locating in LaPorte. For four years he was employed at Buck's furniture factory and then he worked at the carpenter trade for a number of years. In 1893 he engaged in the contracting business, making a specialty of residences, of which are many handsome ones in the city that attest his skill and ability. He was married in 1884 to Alwene Kruzer of this city and they have five children, two boys and three girls. Mr. Struss is a devout attendant at St. John's Lutheran church. He is an ardent Democrat, and a brother of Alderman Charles Struss. He has a pretty home on First street.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
WALTER W. WISE
That LaPorte is the best place in the world is the opinion of Walter Wise, one of the prominent mason contractors. Though born and reared in this city he left it when a young man and for more than ten years lived in other cities, but last February he returned and is today in the front rank of the hustling contractors.
He was born March 10, 1868, and after attending the public schools of LaPorte went to Chicago, where he graduated from a business college in that city. He was a clerk in Linquest & Peterson's grocery for a number of years and then conducted a grocery in Chicago for three years. After seven years as a mason contractor in Indianapolis he returned to LaPorte county, locating at Union Mills, where he followed farming and mason contracting until the 1st of February, 1904, when he came to LaPorte. Since that time he has had many good contracts, especially in the putting in of foundations for some of the best houses in the city. Mention may be made of several residences on which he has done the mason work - Wm. Noble's new home on Monroe street, Dr. Wilcox's three houses, the three houses erected by Mrs. Martha B. Talmage, and Wm. Helmick's flat building on Jefferson avenue. Mr. Wise was married to Miss Nellie Tryon and they have one son. The subject of this sketch is a member of the Swedish Relief and Aid Society of this city and of Indianapolis lodge No. 25, Knights of Pythias. He resides with his family at 202 G street.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
EMIL DANIELSON,
Who has been reared in the contracting business, his father having for many years been the leading stone and mason contractor in LaPorte, is rapidly showing his ability and ere many days have passed will be able to point with pride to many of LaPorte's handsomest structures as monuments to his creative genius. He was born in LaPorte Aug. 5, 1874, and after an education received in the public schools of the city he learned the mason trade, working at it for ten years here. He then removed to Peru, where for five years he did contract work, having to his credit many of the larger buildings erected in that city during those five years. In February, 1904, he again became a resident of LaPorte, and his past work soon brought him an abundance of contracts. He has just completed the Weiler building on Michigan avenue, one of the prettiest in the city and is now at work on a $10,000 school house at Kingsbury. He is a young man of energy and perfectly capable of successfully carrying out that which he sets before him to do. He was married April 4, 1900, to Miss Edwina Schweder of this city and they have one son. Mr. Danielson resides with his family at 502 E street.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
THOMAS A. WHORWELL,
For nearly I5 years chief of the LaPorte fire department, has been a resident of this city since he was a child. Although he was born near Paterson, N. J., Dec. 10, 1853, he was brought to LaPorte county by his parents, John and Mary Whorwell when but four years of age. He attended the LaPorte public schools and also T. L. Adam's private school. Since 16 years of age he has devoted his time to the plastering trade and has had nearly all of the large contracts in this city, having plastered the Odd Fellows building, the Ruth C.
Sabin Home, the Swedish Lutheran church, the Park and High schools, the E. H. Scott residence and many other blocks and residences. He became connected with the fire department in 1876, and1 was first elected chief in the spring of 1890. He has been continued in office ever since. In addition to serving as chief he has charge of the telegraph fire alarm system. Mr. Whorwell is an ardent Republican and a prominent Odd Fellow, having passed through all the chairs and held the position of district deputy grand master of Laporte county for the past 11 years. He is also a member of LaPorte lodge, No. 112, Knights of Pythias.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
HENRY E. BROCKMAN
Another son of LaPorte whose indomitable energy and faithful performance of contracts have won for him the respect and confidence of the community is Henry E. Brockman, a skillful carpenter and builder and an experienced contractor. He came into the world Oct. 6, 1863, in the household of Mr. and Mrs. John Brockman of LaPorte and received his schooling in the parochial academy of St. John's German Lutheran church, of which he and his wife are members. April 24, 1890, he married Miss Anna Stormer at Otis, in this county , by whom he has two children, Henry and Frieda. Their residence is at 107 Fox street. Mr. Brockman has found no time for union with fraternities or the pursuit of political favors, holding to the conservative and prudent belief that success in this life is won by giving undivided attention to business, devoting a proper proportion of time to the discharge of religious obligations, which he has faithfully done. He learned his trade in early manhood and has followed it continuously with gratifying results. In 1896 he branched out on his own account and the substantial fruits of his handiwork are to he seen in every part of the city.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
WILLIAM C. MEINKE
Among the hustling young business men of LaPorte there is none more respected man William C. Meinke, proprietor of the Little Gem cafe, the leading restaurant in the city. He was born in LaPorte, July 24, 1877, his parents being John and Augusta Meinke. He was educated in St. John's Lutheran school and then graduated form Holmes' Business College. He began his business career as a printer, and then for three years was connected with Smith & Butterworth's shoe store. In 1902 he acquired the Little Gem cafe and since that time it has steadily increased in importance and the business has more than doubled. Mr. Meinke also has the restaurant and refreshment concession at the Bluffside Beach pavilion at Pine Lake, and makes a specialty of catering for large receptions and dances. He is a member of G. H. Terpany tent, No. 25, K. O. T. M., and of the LaPorte lodge of Elks. He resides at the family home, 302 D street.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
JACOB SPAHN
The local soda water, mineral water and ginger ale business is in the hands of Jacob Spahn, who makes everything in the line mentioned and supplies the trade of LaPorte and all the neighboring towns. He is a master in his branch of business and his customers understand that his goods have quality and his dealings are fair. His factory is at 601 Washington street at the corner of Clay, in a building specially constructed for the purpose. Mr. Spohn is a native of Chicago, the year of his birth being 1867, and it was in the Chicago public schools that he carried on his studies. Twelve years ago he came to this city to engage with G. H. Wagner in the bottling business under the firm name of Spahn & Wagner. This firm bought out the old established business of Charles Labes. In 1896 the firm was dissolved. Mr. Spahn continuing the business alone as the purchaser of Wagner's interest, and the trade has shown a perceptible increase every year. Mr. Spahn keeps posted and avails himself of all modern improved methods in manufacture, so that his product is at all times equal to any in the market. He is an Odd Fellow, a Knight of Pythias and an Eagle and personally he is an agreeable and popular gentleman, a faithful friend and a valuable citizen.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
CHRIST NOLL
The LaPorte agency for the justly celebrated Schlitz beer is one of the oldest agencies the company has, having been established in 1872 by Michael Noll, father of the present proprietor. For more than thirty years this product of Milwaukee's great brewery has stood the test of constant use in this vicinity and it has steadily grown in popularity and never failed in excellence. Christ Noll was born in this city Oct. 2, 1861, attended the city schools, married a LaPorte girl and has one son. He is an Elk and Odd Fellow. After assisting his father in the agency some years he engaged in the bottling business on his own account in 1887 and five years later assumed the wholesale business for this city and neighboring towns, in which he has built up and now enjoys a large trade in bulk and bottled beer. In 1892 he erected the commodious building now occupied by him at Washington and Clay streets. He has the exclusive agency for the Schlitz Milwaukee beer and supplies the saloon trade with bulk and bottled export beer, having also a very large family trade in bottled beer, which he delivers promptly as desired on telephone or other orders. The beverage he handles is reputed the world over for its purity and flavor and is a prime favorite for table and family use and in the general trade. Mr. No11 is a man of high standing in the community, a most agreeable acquaintance and an influential factor in local politics. In every campaign he is to be found at the head of some one of the Democratic committees. His pleasant home is on Linwood avenue near the shore of Clear lake.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
LOUIS H. VOEGLER.
Among the men about town there is probably no one better known or liked than Louis H. Voegler, who is often called the "Prince of Good Fellows." Born April 16, 1865, in LaPorte, he has always made this city his home and always has stood for LaPorte - a booster in the strictest sense of the term. He was educated in the public schools of the city and then learned the printer's trade, being for 11 years employed in The Herald office. Afterward he entered the saloon business, being extremely successful in his two ventures in that line - The Maple City and The Buffet. Last year he opened the Pine Lake grove, a summer garden, near the city and this year he realized that it would take much of his time and so he disposed of his place of business in LaPorte. Mr. Voegler is an enthusiastic supporter of all kinds of legitimate sport, being always ready to lend a helping hand, whether it be a base ball game, a horse race, a whist game or a shooting tournament. He is a fine shot, frequently goes hunting with excellent results and is an enthusiastic fisherman. His wife was formerly Miss Anna Luebker of this city. They have three sons, Louis, Herman and Homer. The family lives at 209 C street, the old homestead. Mr. Voegler is a member of the LaPorte lodge of Elks.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
CHARLES LOETZ
At 612 and 614 Indiana avenue is the local emporium of Pabst's celebrated Milwaukee beer, the distribution of which in LaPorte and vicinity is handled exclusively by Charles Loetz. Mr. Loetz was born at Zandorff, Mecklenburg, Germany, Nov. 17, 1853, but has no personal recollection of the place of his nativity, having been brought to LaPorte by his parents within two years there after. His entire life since then, about half a century, has been spent in the city of his present home. He attended the German Lutheran school until he was fourteen years of age and was then employed in various useful pursuits until the grocery house of Charles Loetz & Brother was established in 1877. In this venture his sterling character as a business man was demonstrated and when, nine years later, he changed his business and later assumed his present agency his reputation was fixed and success assured. He handles both bottled and draught beer in all the brands produced by the Pabst mammoth brewery, including the Select, Blue Ribbon, Export and Red, White and Blue, in bottles, and the Bohemian on draught. Mr. Loetz is an Eagle and a Knight of Pythias. He resides at his place of business.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
WILLIAM F. WEILER,
Who has just completed an elegant two-story brick and stone business building at the corner of Michigan avenue and Washington street, which he will occupy as a saloon, was born in Michigan City, April 11, 1858, but has been a resident of LaPorte since 1879. He was educated in the public schools of Michigan City, where he also learned the meat market business. Upon coming to LaPorte he formed a partnership with H. Schafering, under the firm name of Schafering & Weiler and for three years they conducted successfully a meat market. In 1882 Mr. Weiler purchased the interest of his partner and continued the business alone for a year, when he disposed of the market. In 1886 he engaged in the saloon business at the corner of Washington and Adams streets and in a short time his place, known as the "Lake Erie Saloon," became one of the popular establishments in the city. After 18 years there he disposed of the place to Charles Smith and purchased of former Sheriff Bowen the residence at the corner of Main and Jackson streets, where he now residcs with his family. The building which is now being erected by him will be a great improvement to that end of Michigan avenue and will undoubtedly prosper under Mr. Weiler, for he is a hustler and a man of business ability. He was married in 1880 to Miss Henrietta Saloff and they have four children.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
C. W. KIPPHUT
To patronize home industry is one of the first principles of successful town building. The consumers of beer in La Porte who have used the product of Guenther Bros'. Crystal Spring Brewery have never been disappointed in its quality as a palatable and healthful beverage, and those who have relied on C. W. Kipphut to serve them with this brew have never had their confidence misplaced. At his bottling works at 509 Main street, phone 360, he has it in pints and quarts and delivers it promptly in any part of the city in bottles of either size. He handles the Guenther product exclusively and has a large and growing family trade for the Excelsior brand. Mr. Kipphut was born in LaPorte Feb. 14, 1864, and acquired his education in the city and parochial schoo1s. His household at 324 Place street consists of himself, his wife (who was Miss Bertha Krieman of LaPorte) and their one child, a boy. Mr. Kipphut has had long experience in the business in which he is engaged, having been seven years under John C. Wilhelm for the Cream City Brewery and three years for himself in his present establishment.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
LOUIS HEUN
For more than 30 years Louis Heun has been a well-known figure in LaPorte business circles. He was born in Germany, Oct. 28, 1847, his parents being Henry and Marguerite Heun. After attending the schools in Germany he learned the shoemaking trade, but in 1867 concluded that America was a more desirable place and so soon made the trip to this country. He located in Milwaukee, where he remained but a short time, going from there to a Michigan lumber camp, where he worked for two years and a half. He then went to Chicago, where he learned the cigarmaker's trade. After two years residence in that city he located in LaPorte, securing employment with Kellermann, Stowell & Co., wholesale cigar dealers. In 1873 he started in business for himself and for 16 years was engaged in the manufacture of cigars, being very successful. In 1889 he opened a saloon, known as "The Loop," and has conducted the same since. He was married in 1872 to Miss Katie Becker of Lake county. Mr. Heun served as a member of the common council for two terms, from 1884 to 1888. He is a member of St. Joseph's Catholic church and of St. Joseph's Benevolent Society. Politically he is a Democrat. He resides at 911 Washington street.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
AUGUST KEMPF, JR.,
Who but recently became a resident of LaPorte, was born at Union Hill, N. J., Feb. 19, 1873, his parents being August and Ernestine Kempf. After attending the public schools of Hoboken, N. J., and Stillwell, Ind., to which place he came when quite young, he learned the meat market business and for several years was the proprietor of a store at Stillwell, where he also served as postmaster for two years, when he resigned, and was for four years a justice of the peace. Before coming to LaPorte in March, last year, when he purchased Conrad Weidner's place of business at 916 Main street, he was engaged for a time in the saloon business at Stillwell. He was married in 1896 to Emma Ewert, daughter of August and Richie Ewert, and they have one child, a son 4 1/2 years old. Mr. Kempf and family live at 402 Virginia avenue.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
CHARLES MINICH
Among the saloon men of La Porte there is none more thought of than Charles Minich, whose place of business is at 1012 Main street. He was born in April 3, 1859, his parents being John and Marv Minich, a most venerable couple. After attending St. Joseph's parochial school and the public schools he drove the delivery wagon for his father's grocery for ten years, after which he engaged in the saloon business. This was in 1895. He has been at his present location five years. He was married in 1882 to Miss Elizabeth Johanni. She passed away in 1903, leaving six children to mourn her departure besides the sorrowing husband. Mr. Minich is a member of St. Joseph's Benevolent Society, being secretary of the organization, and also belongs to the Catholic Foresters. He affiliated with the Democratic party and is a communicant of St. Joseph's Catholic church.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
EDWARD H. MEINKE,
Who is a son of John and Augusta Meinke of this city, was born in LaPorte, Dec. 30, 1878, and has been a resident of this city nearly all of that time. After attending St. John's school and the public schools he entered commercial life, being for a time associated with his father in the drav business. In 1902 he purchased the Noll saloon at 616 Indiana avenue, one of the oldest and best known establishments in the city, and has been very successful. Mr. Meinke is one of the popular young men about town. He is a member of the LaPorte Gun Club, the LaPorte lodge of Elks, the Elkhart Ariel of Eagles and the K. P. lodge at South Bend.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
CHARLES J. BAUMANN
There is probably no more experienced man in the grocery business than Charles J. Baumann, senior member of the firm of Baumann & Wilhelm, proprietors of the Fifth ward grocery at 405 Second street. He was born in this city May 29, 1871, and attended both the public schools and St. John's school. He passed through all the departments of the up-to-date grocery, spending 15 years in acquiring a thorough knowledge of the business. In 1902 he formed the partnership with Elmer Wilhelm, the firm doing a general grocery business and carrying a complete line of such goods as may be found in an enterprising establishment. Mr. Baumann is one of the workers of the Republican party in LaPorte, being a member of the city and county central committee. His wife was formerly Miss Emma Hacker and he and his family reside at 310 A street. Mr. Baumann is a member of St. John's Lutheran church.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876
ELMER H. WILHELM,
Junior member of the enterprising grocery firm of Baumann & Wilhelm, is a son of former Alderman John C. Wilhelm. He was born in LaPorte, Dec. 15, 1882, and after attending the public schools of the city took a course in the LaPorte Business College. He is a popular member of the Maple Leaf Club and Maple City court, No. 125, Tribe of Ben Hur. Two years ago he formed a partnership with C. J. Baumann, the firm purchasing the Fifth ward grocery of Joseph Graf, and since then their success has been remarkable, this being due to the fact that both are hustlers, carry a fine line of groceries and are most courteous to the trade. Mr. Wilhelm resides at the family home, 209 I street.
”History of LaPorte County, Indiana, and its Townships, Towns and Cities”
Jasper Packard
published by S. E. Taylor & Co., LaPorte, IN 1876