Transcribed by Mary Ann Kaylor

Page 1706:

WESTENBERGER, GEORGE L. - The mercantile interests of Springfield have assumed mammoth proportions, and are requiring the efficient services of a number of the city's best business men to control them. Aside from being the State capital, Springfield is the center of a vast, rich farming community, that looks to it as a source of supply, and to meet the requirements of these customers the merchants offer special inducements in both quality and prices, carrying large and varied stocks. One of the most reliable of these mercantile firms is that operated under the name of Westenberger & Wetterer, of which L. Westenberger is the senior member. He was born January 29, 1876, in Springfield, a son of the well known Garhard and Mary Louise (Bretz) Westenberger.

George L. Westenberger was married at Ruma, Ill., to Miss Lillian O'Harra, daughter of J. R. and Margaret (Kaveney) O'Harra, of Litchfield, Ill.

One of the most pleasant events in the Westenberger family, occurred February 7, 1910, in the celebration of the golden wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Gerhard Westenberger. After the celebration of nuptial high mass at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, the aged bride and groom, of fifty years ago, were showered with rose leaves. They then held a reception which lasted the remainder of the day, and throughout the evening. The eight daughters of the couple assisted in receiving the guests in the evening, and a fine musical program was rendered. Guests from outside the city were present, as well as many from Springfield an vicinity, and the occasion will not soon be forgotten.

George L. Westenberger and his wife are consistent members of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, taking an active part in its good work. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus, and can always be counted upon to do his full share of the work of that order, and he is also a member of St. Vincent's Society. His attention to business, his knowledge of its exacting requirements, and his pleasant, genial manner, have been strong factors in securing his success and establishing him firmly in the confidence of the public.