Mrs. MARY B. GERBING - Mrs. Mary B. Gerbing, who resides at No. 1128 North Third street in Springfield, has made her home in this city continuously since 1871. She is a native of Germany, her birth having occurred in the fatherland on the 25th of April, 1857. Her parents were George and Eva Miller, both of whom were natives of Germany, where they always lived. Her father was a farmer by occupation, following that calling throughout his business career in order to provide for his family. Two of the children came to America - Mrs. Gerbing and John Miller, the latter becoming a farmer near Berlin, Illinois, where he remained until his death.

Mrs. Gerbing was educated in the public schools of her native country and after coming to America she established her home in Peoria, Illinois, where she became acquainted with George Gerbing and they were married there. He was also a native of Germany, born, October 7, 1846, and his father was principal of a high school in that country and spent his entire life there. After his marriage, George Gerbing followed the trade of painting and fresco work, both in Peoria and in Springfield. There were six children born of this union: Elizabeth K., who is one of the leading dressmakers in Springfield and resides with her mother; George, who died at the age of two years and six months; Harry, who married Effie Bang and is engaged in the painting business in Springfield; Annie, who also follows dressmaking and resides with her mother; Fred, who is a cigar manufacturer and resides in Memphis, Tennessee; and George, who follows the same pursuit and makes his home with his mother. The daughters are quite well known in social circles in Springfield and the different members of the family have many friends here. Mrs. Gerbing is a member of St. John's Lutheran church of this city while her two daughters hold membership in the Grace Lutheran church. Mrs. Gerbing owns a nice home at No. 1128 North Third street, and her two daughters also have property in that vicinity.