Transcribed by Mary Ann Kaylor

Page 1566

RIEGER, GEORGE - There is no question that the Germans give their young a better practical training than we do. It is a well recognized fact the workers and professional men of Germany training rank ahead of many efficient men, therefore, when a German comes to this county to engage in business he is warmly welcomed by the community fortunate enough to secure him as a citizen. An honored resident of Springfield, is George Rieger, now retired and residing at No. 227 West Madison Street. He was born in Germany, December 6, 1836, son of Joseph and Mary (Grimm) Rieger, natives of Germany. Neither of the parents came to America, but spent their last days in their native land. The father served in the wars against the great Napoleon, seeing service in Russia.

George Rieger worked on this father's farm and learned the millwright trade. Like all loyal Germans, he served his military term in the regular army, but after receiving his discharge decided to try his fortune in the New World, so came to America, in June, 1866, with Springfield his objective point. Arriving there, he found employment at his trade, and continued to work at it until his retirement.

Mr. Rieger was married in his native land, May 15, 1860, to Margaret Phillips, born in Germany. Her parents never left their native land. Mr. and Mrs. Rieger have had two children: Frank M., of Davenport, Iowa, an insurance agent, and Mary, wife of Peter Litrell, who is with the Striffler Ice Company, of Springfield.

Mr. Rieger was brought up a Catholic and belongs to SS. Peter and Paul Church. He is a member of St. Paul's Council, No. 57, Catholic Union. His political affiliations are with the Democratic party, but he has never tried to secure office. A quiet, unassuming man, he has always done what he believe to be his full duty and has made friends who appreciate his many excellent qualities.