One of Moline’s progressive and popular citizens, who, by his own unaided efforts and individual worth, has gone forward step by step until he now holds the position of cashier in one of that City’s leading banks, is O. Frederick Anderson, a man who merits the respect and regard of all who know him.
He was born in Trehorna, Sweden, July 1, 1866, the home of his parents, Alfred Anderson and Ama Greta (Johansdotter) Anderson, the former of whom died January 25, 1881, and the latter is still living. October 27, 1868, Mr. Anderson, with his parents, came to America, and coming West, located in Moline. Here their son attended the public schools, and after completing the grammar department left the Moline schools to attend the Davenport Business College, from which he graduated. He began his business career at the early age of seventeen, when he accepted a position as collection clerk in the Moline National Bank. Conscientious and faithful in his duties, his rise was rapid, until today he is cashier of the Moline Trust and Savings Bank, being elected to that position in July, 1900, having formerly filled the position as teller of that bank.
On December 16, 1891, he married Miss Sena Nielsen, a Moline young lady. Her father, Peter Nielsen, was a native of Denmark, and her mother Nellie Nielsen, of Sweden. Both Mr. and Mrs. Nielsen are living, and make their home in Moline. To Mr. Anderson and his wife one son, Frederick Nielsen Anderson, was born December 4, 1903.
In politics Mr. Anderson is a staunch Republican, and three times he has been honored by his party by being elected City Treasurer of Moline. Each time he received large majorities, and the strength of the vote he polled is a striking indication of the confidence his fellow citizens reposed in him. He has been a member of the board of directors of the Moline Public Library continuously since June 22, 1895, and in 1904 was elected president of that body, a position that he now holds.
Mr. Anderson has always taken a deep interest in civic matters. He is a member of the Moline Club, of which he has been a director and vice-president. He is a prominent Mason, and has been master of Doric Lodge, No. 319, of Moline. He is also a member of the Odd Fellows and Red Men. He was one of the founders of the Rock Island County Historical Society, and has been its treasurer since its inception. He is a public spirited citizen that his city can be proud of.