Transcribed by Mary Ann Kaylor

Page 1002

ACKERMAN, PHILIP, Jr. (deceased), with the passing away of a prominent man comes the realization of his many good traits of character, and an appreciation of what he accomplished in his brief span of life. To the dead is given an appreciation seldom accorded the living, and this comes as balm to the wounded hearts of those left behind, who sorrow over their loss and weep for the sound of the voice that is forever stilled. The family of Philip Ackerman, Jr., was called upon to sustain a sorrow of this kind, when he was taken from this life, September 6, 1896, while in the very prime of useful manhood. He was born in this city November 16, 1859, being a son of Philip and Elizabeth Ackerman. Phillip Ackerman, Sr., came to Springfield at an early day and built up a large business, becoming one of the wealthy men of this part of the state.

Philip Ackerman, Jr., grew up in Springfield and from boyhood was esteemed for his excellent, industrious habits. He became an expert bookkeeper and was noted for his faithful and painstaking work. Musical in his tastes, Mr. Ackerman became secretary of the musical club here and was also Secretary and Treasurer of the Capital City Cycling Club. Fraternally he belonged to Tyrian Lodge No. 333, A.F. & A.M., of Springfield. His religious connections with the Lutheran Church were of the most pleasant and he was regarded as one of its most useful members. In political faith he was a Democrat.

On September, 14, 1888, Mr. Ackerman was united in marriage at Springfield, Ill., with Alice C. Fagan, daughter of James and Bridget Fagan. Mr. Fagan was born in Ireland but his wife was a native of Galena, Ill. Both are now deceased, the father dying on September 10, 1896 at the age of eighty-six years, and the mother at the age of fifty years. Mr. Fagan was a farmer, carpenter, merchant and stockman and a very wealthy man at the time of his death. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Ackerman: James Waldo Philip, born August 29, 1889; and Helen Marie, born May 25, 1895, died on July 25, 1895. James Waldo Philip lives at home with his mother and is a bookkeeper. Mrs. Ackerman presides over her pleasant home at No. 913 South Fourth Street, where she dispenses a charming hospitality.

While he never aspired to public office, Mr. Ackerman exerted a strong influence during his too short life. He was recognized as one of the most honorable of men and his strict integrity and devotion to the interests of others committed to his charge made him popular with all with whom he was associated.