Transcribed by Mary Ann Kaylor

Page 1201:

EGAN, EDWARD FRANCIS - It is often the case nowadays that men who are comparatively young stand at the head of successful business institutions; in these days when so many young men enjoy the advantages of an education in the modern business college, their training has fitted them to hold responsible positions, and they discharge their duties just as well as their predecessors, who received their training in the school of experience. Among the enterprising young business men of Springfield, is Edward Francis Egan, who has a natural ability in the line which he is engaged, and is a man of acumen and keen-sightedness. He was born in County Waterford, Ireland, April 25, 1874, a son of Thomas and Mary (Merinn) Egan, natives of the same place.

Thomas Egan was reared and educated in his native country and was there married. In 1888 he emigrated with his family to the United States, locating in Springfield, where the remainder of his life was spent. They had lost eight children in Ireland, and brought four with them, those surviving being: Mary, wife of B. Kirlin, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work; Richard, a contractor, unmarried; Nellie, unmarried, residing in Springfield; and Edward F. Thomas Egan was politically a Democrat. He was a member of the Catholic Church, as are the members of his family. He died March 29, 1907, and his widow, who survives him, still resides in Springfield. He was highly respected by all who knew him and made his presence felt among his fellow-citizens, The family residence is 131 Mason Street.

Edward F. Egan received his early education in the public schools of his native country and was fifteen years of age when brought by is parents to America. He was a wide-awake, ambitious youth, and soon adapted himself to his surroundings in the new country. After taking a commercial course in Springfield Business College, he entered the employ of the Springfield Iron Company, where he remained until 1895, when he formed the partnership with B. M. Kirlin, which still exists. In anticipation of this step he had begun to study along the line of embalming and kindred subjects, and is a graduate of the Barnes School of Embalming. The firm operates under the name of Kirlin & Egan. Mr. Egan is a man of modern methods and ideas, and much of the success of the business is due to his able judgment. He is thorough master of his art, and his manner of carrying on his work commends itself to every person of knowledge and discernment. The establishment is located on East Adams Street in pleasant rooms, equipped with the most modern fixtures and appliances, and they have facilities for carrying on their business in the most approved manner.

Mr. Egan is a good example of the men who have risen to prominence and financial success solely through their own efforts, being actuated by a high order of energy and acumen. He is popular in social, as well as business circles, where his high character and straightforward manner have been duly appreciated. Honest in his dealings he enjoys a good reputation, and his business prospects are bright. He is a member of the Illinois Undertakers' Association and is affiliated with the Knights of Columbus and St. Joseph's Court of Foresters. He is actively interested in public affairs, is a strong Democrat and a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church. He is unmarried.