Biographical Sketch of Allen A. Alderfer
Allen A. Alderfer, born August 16, 1865, in Sterling, Illinois, was a prominent merchant in Topeka, Kansas. He moved west at twenty-one, working with the Santa Fe Railway before establishing his grocery business, where he built a loyal clientele. Alderfer had a diverse career, previously employed at both the Topeka Flour Mills Company and Shawnee Milling Company. A lifelong bachelor, he was active in community organizations including the Masons and Odd Fellows, and was a dedicated Republican.