W. Earl Trauger, conducting a jewelry business in Racine, was born in Morrison, Illinois, January 31, 1878. a son of Charles and Alta (Ewing) Trauger, the former a cigar manufacturer. While spending his youthful days under the parental roof of his native city, W. Earl Trauger mastered the branches of learning taught in the graded and high schools and afterward took up the trade of a jeweler at Morrison, while subsequently he worked in the same line in Chicago. His residence in Racine dates from 1906, in which year he entered the employ of F. P. Beswick and in that connection he formed a wide acquaintance among Racine’s citizens, so that he started in business on his own account well situated as to winning trade. He bought out his employer on the 1st of January, 1916, and is now successfully conducting his store at No. 311 Sixth Street. His entire business experience has been along the line of the jewelry trade and there is no phase of the work with which he is not familiar. He also knows the market, so that he makes advantageous purchases and profitable sales, thus gaining the legitimate reward of earnest effort and close application.
On the 26th of June, 1912, Mr. Trauger was united in marriage to Miss Maude E. McAllister, of Morrison, Illinois. They have gained many friends during their residence in Racine, the number being constantly augmented as the circle of their acquaintance broadens. They are members of the Presbyterian Church and their influence is always on the side. of right, progress and improvement. Mr. Trauger does not hold to any political faith but reserves the right to vote independently, yet keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day.