Wisconsin

Biography of John F. Wadewitz

John F. Wadewitz, born December 30, 1830, in Saxony, Germany, emigrated to the U.S. in 1850, initially residing in Racine, Wisconsin. Throughout his life, he engaged in various occupations, including farming and brick manufacturing, ultimately founding the Racine Trunk Company in 1886. After two marriages and raising five children, Wadewitz became an active member of his community and a dedicated Republican. Now retired and having traveled extensively, he continues to reflect on a life marked by hard work and perseverance.

Biographical Sketch of Fred Reichert

Fred Reichert, born on November 6, 1886, in Racine, comes from a family with deep local roots, tracing back to his grandfather, Frederick, a German immigrant. Following in his father Nichola F.’s footsteps, Fred became a contractor and also enjoyed a decade-long career as a professional polo player. He manages the Lakeside Auditorium and operates the North Side Beach for entertainment. Active in his community and a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, he is affiliated with the Elks and the Democratic Party.

Biography of F. Arthur Morey

F. Arthur Morey, a lifelong resident of Racine, Wisconsin, hails from a distinguished family lineage that traces back to 1626 England. Born in June 1870, he graduated from Racine High School and attended the University of Wisconsin. Morey entered the business world through various roles in wagon companies before joining his father in a real estate and loan business. Following his father’s and brother’s passing, he successfully managed the firm. Married in 1894, he and Alice E. Stephan have three children. Morey is active in both the Masonic fraternity and community service.

Biography of Christopher C. Gittings

Christopher C. Gittings, a prominent Racine attorney since 1889 and senior partner at Gittings Janechy, was born on October 29, 1862, in Racine County. He studied law under Henry T. Fuller and was admitted to the bar in 1889. He has held various legal and civic roles, including city attorney and postmaster, while also presiding over the Gold Medal Camp Furniture Company. Married to Laura A. Jones, Gittings is recognized for his legal expertise and community involvement, alongside his active participation in fraternal organizations.

Biography of Elmer E. Gittins

Elmer E. Gittins, born on August 31, 1869, in Racine County, has practiced law in Racine since 1898. He graduated from Wisconsin University with a Bachelor of Arts in 1895, followed by a law degree in 1897. Gittins has established a successful legal career and is a recognized figure in both Masonic circles and local politics, serving as district attorney from 1904 to 1908 and currently as chairman of the fire and police commission. He actively contributes to community development and civic improvement.

Biography of Arthur William Simonson

Arthur William Simonson, born on August 15, 1887, in Racine, succeeded his father as president of The Wisconsin Agriculturist, enhancing the paper’s reputation in agricultural journalism. Educated locally and at the University of Wisconsin, Simonson adopted modern practices to effectively serve the farming community. Elected as alderman and a trustee of Racine College, he champions local progress while maintaining an independent political stance. He is active in civic organizations, is a member of the Episcopal Church, and values constructive advancement in his pursuits.

Biography of T. D. W. Manchester

T. D. W. Manchester, born on October 18, 1840, in Cayuga County, New York, is a distinguished attorney and Civil War veteran who has significantly impacted Union Grove. He began practicing law after graduating from Union University in 1862 and served in the Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry, participating in key battles. Manchester settled in Union Grove in 1902 and is recognized for his legal expertise and community involvement, particularly in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He has lived retired since 1910, yet remains influential in local affairs.

Biography of John Martin

John Martin, a retired farmer in Union Grove, Wisconsin, was born on August 11, 1849, in Cornwall, England. He immigrated to the U.S. in 1868, initially working as a farmhand before purchasing 260 acres of cultivated land. A successful dairyman, he shipped milk to Chicago until his retirement in 1913. Martin is actively involved in local enterprises, serving as treasurer of The Greenhouse and president of the Union Grove Milling Company. He is a community leader and longstanding member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, contributing significantly to education and local governance.

Biography of Sinclair M. Driver

Sinclair M. Driver was a prominent figure in Racine’s industrial landscape, serving as president of the T. Driver Sons Manufacturing Company. Born on June 8, 1856, he joined his father’s business, eventually becoming its head after his father’s passing in 1899. Under his leadership, the company flourished in manufacturing sash, doors, and woodenware. He was also a dedicated Mason and active in the Presbyterian Church. Driver, who married Ida Davis, had seven children and was deeply involved in Racine’s growth and prosperity until his death in 1915.

Biographical Sketch of George B. Wilson

George B. Wilson, born in Boston in 1871, received a stellar education, graduating cum laude from Harvard in 1894. He trained as a mining engineer, managing mining operations in the West and Mexico. In 1910, he relocated to Racine, taking roles at the Mitchell-Lewis Motor Company and later as president of the Racine Rubber Company. Married to Helen Tumor Lewis in 1908, Wilson is a Republican, a Mason, and an active member of several professional societies and the Congregational church.

Biography of Morris Carl Matsen

Morris Carl Matsen, born on August 17, 1881, in Jutland, Denmark, immigrated to the United States in 1898 and settled in Racine. Initially learning the moulders trade, he eventually established a successful wood and coal business, which includes moving and storage services. With a growing patronage and a workforce of twenty-five, he has become a notable entrepreneur in Racine. Married to Sophie Nelson, they have four children. Matsen is recognized for his industriousness and community involvement, maintaining an independent political stance.

Biography of Harry W. Apple

Harry W. Apple, born on June 29, 1875, in Norway Township, is a prominent agriculturalist and lifelong resident of the area. The son of German immigrants Adam and Dorothy Apple, he inherited his father’s prosperous farm, which he expanded to 175 acres of well-cultivated land. Married in 1905 to Nellie Smith, they have four children. A member of the Methodist Church and the Masonic lodge, Apple is respected in his community and active in local affairs as a Democrat.

Biography of John M. Scott

John M. Scott, born on January 17, 1844, in Racine County, displayed remarkable inventive talent as an entrepreneur. After serving in the Civil War with the Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry, he returned to Racine, where he developed several significant inventions, including a washing machine and improved railway spikes. Scott married Katie A. Marshall in 1871, and they had several children. A member of the Grand Army of the Republic and the Congregational church, he lived by principles of progress and improvement, contributing notably to the industrial sector.

Biography of Andrew Simonson

Andrew Simonson, born in Norway in 1861, immigrated to Racine, Wisconsin, in 1869. After early struggles, he entered the dry goods business, eventually transitioning to journalism. He founded and developed The Wisconsin Agriculturist into a leading agricultural publication underpinned by his dedication to the farming community. Simonson was also an influential civic leader and served as Racine’s postmaster. Described as a “man’s man,” he was known for his character, humor, and genuine appreciation for others, leaving a lasting impact on his community.

Biography of Peter T. Stoffel

Peter T. Stoffel, born in Racine on July 8, 1864, has been a significant figure in the city’s dry goods trade for thirty years. He co-founded a successful store with his brother Jacob and expanded it into one of Racine’s leading enterprises. Stoffel is also known for his public service, having served as an alderman and president of the council, where he implemented key reforms, including modernizing the city’s cemetery and fire department. He is a dedicated member of St. Johns Lutheran Church and a supporter of community welfare initiatives.

Biography of Simon M. Reinardy

Simon M. Reinardy, born on November 18, 1868, in Chicago, is a prominent druggist in Burlington known for his business acumen and community involvement. The son of German immigrants, he pursued pharmacy education after working with Prasch Brothers. In 1889, he acquired a drug store, expanding his business over the years. He actively participated in public service, serving as County commissioner and alderman, and is a member of the Knights of Columbus. His family includes two marriages and several children, reflecting his commitment to both business and community.

Biography of Jerome I. Case

Jerome I. Case, born on May 6, 1887, is a prominent figure in Racine’s history, continuing the legacy of his grandfather, founder of the family’s manufacturing enterprises. Raised in a business-oriented environment, he gained hands-on experience at the J. I. Case Company, rising through the ranks based on merit. In 1891, he became Racine’s youngest mayor, demonstrating strong leadership. Married to Constance Allien, he focuses on public welfare and holds a significant role in the family business, reflecting both tradition and innovation.

Biography of Ezra R. Burgess

Ezra R. Burgess, born on September 13, 1873, in Mount Pleasant Township, is a prominent Racine attorney and partner at Gittins Burgess. Descended from a New England family, he graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in law in 1898. He has since specialized in municipal law and served as Racine’s city attorney for a decade. Married to Gretchen A. Rickeman, they have two children. Burgess is also active in local fraternal organizations and supports the Republican Party.

Biography of P. H. Adland

P. H. Adland owns a well-improved 185-acre farm, having transitioned to a largely retired lifestyle while still receiving a substantial income from his property. Born into a Norwegian immigrant family, he was engaged in agriculture from an early age, following in the footsteps of his industrious father, Thomas Adland. Both father and grandfather contributed significantly to the agricultural development of Racine County. P. H. Adland married Minnie Olsen in 1907 and remains an active citizen supporting community initiatives while adhering to his Lutheran faith.

Biography of Ellis J. Gittins

Ellis J. Gittins, born on December 13, 1867, in Racine County, Wisconsin, rose through the ranks of the J. I. Case Threshing Machine Company, starting as a humble employee in 1888 and ultimately becoming its vice president. His trajectory reflects the potential for success available to ambitious individuals in America. A member of the Republican party and active in Masonry, Gittins’ career exemplifies dedication and adaptability in the corporate world, showcasing his extensive knowledge and leadership within the company he served for nearly three decades.