Luther B. Souder is proprietor of one of the oldest dyeing and cleaning establishments in Champaign County. It was originally established by his father more than half a century ago, and he has perfected and modernized its equipment and service until its facilities are now unexcelled by any similar enterprise in the county.
Mr. Souder is a native of Champaign, where he was born January 4, 1878, a son of Samuel H. and Lottie A. (Taylor) Souder. His father was born in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and his mother in Marysville, Ohio. Samuel Souder came to Champaign County in 1856, and was first identified with farming. In 1866 he established at Champaign a cleaning business, and by careful and thorough work soon had a trade that was profitable and satisfactory to himself and the community. He was active in this business until his death, which occurred in September, 1915. His widow is still living in Champaign. Their four children are: Louise, wife of Oscar L. Davidson, of Indianapolis, Indiana; Luther B.; Jennie E., wife of C. A. Carlson, of Champaign; and Mary, deceased.
Luther B. Souder grew up in Champaign, attended the local schools, and as something that would be of benefit to him in his business he took a special course in art and design at the University. As a boy he worked in his father’s establishment, and has succeeded to the proprietorship of the business.
He is a Republican in politics, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Modern Woodmen of America. On September 2, 1904, Mr. Souder married Edna W. Hall, who was born in Paxton, Illinois. They have four children: Robert Hall, ‘Luther Samuel, Eugene Phillip and Virginia.
