A large number of the most progressive, thrifty and intelligent citizens of our country have come hither from the empire of Germany, and the sturdy Teuton and untiring Saxon have done much to assist in placing the Union on its stable foundation of the present. Among this worthy number mention must be made of the estimable gentleman whose name is at the head of this article, and who has wrought in the interests of advancement and substantial progress and development for many years in the western country and for a score and more in Wallowa county, displaying a manliness, energy, integrity and capabilities that are instrumental in making him, as he is today, one of the leaders in the county, both in influence and possession of property and in wisdom.
As stated above, the subject of this sketch was born in Germany, the year of his nativity being 1860, and his parents John and Catherine (Weilbuldt) Schluer. After a faithful pilgrimage along life’s way, they rested from their labors, and their remains repose near Steinau, in the Fatherland. Our subject was trained in the public schools of his native land and there also was laid the foundation of thrift and industry that have characterized him in his course since that time. In 1875 he bade farewell to childhood’s familiar haunts, took leave from home, associates and loved ones and firmly set his face toward the land of the free. He landed first in California and in various portions of that and adjacent states he traveled and labored for seven years, and then made his way to Wallowa county. Here he selected a good portion and settled down, giving his undivided attention to general farming and stock raising. When a man of the character of Mr. Schluer turns his mind to any one industry it may be decided that success will follow his endeavors, for he is possessed of good judgment, vigor, ability and keen foresight. Success did attend upon his efforts, and he had the gratification to see his holdings increase rapidly and continuously until at the present time he is one of the heaviest stockowners of the entire county, and indeed of northeastern Oregon. He has done much to stimulate the stock industry of the county, handles good stock, does everything in a commendable manner and is progressive in his views and dominated by a broad public spirit.
Fratternally Mr Schluer is identified with the O.O.U.W., and is popular among his associates and fellows. Mr. Schluer has not seen fit to attempt the navigation of the matrimonial sea, but is content with the quieter joys of the celibatarian. He is one of the highly esteemed citizens of Wallowa county, characterized by moral qualities of worth and unswerving integrity, which commend him to the admiration of all.