Transcribed by Mary Ann Kaylor

Page 1680

VAN HORN, FREDERICK - Among the enterprising successful merchants of Springfield, Ill., who have built up large enterprises from small beginnings is Frederick Van Horn, who is a life-long resident of the city and is actively interested in all matters pertaining to the public welfare. Mr. Van Horn is well-known in Springfield and vicinity for his public spirit, and is active in the councils of the Republican party. He has contributed liberally to many public enterprises since engaging in business and is always ready to forward any movement having for its object the betterment of the moral or material condition of his fellows. He was appointed a member of the Board of Education in May, 1907, and is at present Treasurer of the Board of Trustees of Concordia (Lutheran Theological) College, at Springfield.

Mr. Van Horn was born in Springfield, October 2, 1862, and is a son of Henry and Catherine (Raps) Van Horn, natives of Germany. Henry Van Horn was a wagon manufacturer by occupation. Frederick Van Horn received his education in the schools of his native city, and was there married July 27, 1887, to Miss Julia D. Eberlin, born in Springfield, October 26, 1864. Of this union four children were born, namely: Elenore Anna, Kathryn Louise, Walter Frederick and Dorothy. Mr. Van Horn is a member of Trinitatis Lutheran Church. The family reside at 902 North Fifth Street.

Mr. Van Horn engaged in business on his own account January 20, 1892, beginning with a small notion store and increasing his stock from time to time, as the increase in his trade warranted, until he now has a well-conducted department store and employs ten person. He has a reputation for honest and upright dealing and has the confidence and good will of his patron. His establishment is located at 516 East Adams Street.