My Genealogy Hound

Frederick W. Westphal, the leading butcher of Walnut Ridge, was born in Pomvaigne, Germany, November 7, 1844. He learned the tanner’s trade in his native country, and in 1869 came to Baltimore, Md. Mr. Westphal was desirous of seeing something of the country of his adoption, and shortly after his arrival at Baltimore, he went to Illinois, and thence to La Porte, Ind., where he settled down for a while, and worked on a farm. He then came to Chicago and worked at his trade, and afterward moved to Effingham, Ill., where he remained three months. His next visit was made to St. Louis, in the spring of 1878, and from there he came to the then small village of Walnut Ridge. In the second year of his arrival, he bought 160 acres of land, and has since that time homesteaded 160 more. He has also purchased enough additional land to make in the aggregate 420 acres. His homestead is three miles due west of Walnut Ridge, and has on it a fine fruit orchard, and at least 125 acres under cultivation. In the fall of 1887 he started in the meat business, and has succeeded in building up a good trade. He is a member of the Knights and Ladies of Honor, and Odd Fellows, and also of the Protestant German Church. Mr. Westphal has always remained a bachelor, as the lady has not yet appeared to capture his heart. His mother resided with him until her death, January 5, 1887. He is a much respected citizen.