My Genealogy Hound

OSWALD & COMPANY, dealers in groceries, drugs, hardware, queensware, etc. Mr. Oswald is one of the shrewd, honorable businessmen of White Hall, and in connection with his enterprising partner, Mr. Loehnstein, transacts a large business. Mr. Oswald was born in Germany, in 1839; at sixteen years of age he emigrated to America; from the city of New York he made his way to Pennsylvania, and with light capital and an enterprise far beyond his years, he began the selling of goods from house to house. From Pennsylvania he made his way to Illinois, locating near Peoria, taking up his old occupation; making considerable money for a time, he became a farmer; in 1862 he enlisted in Co. I, 91st Ill. Infantry, and became a participant in many important engagements; honorably discharged on the close of the war, he returned to Greene County; in 1860 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Jane Moore, a daughter of Wm. Moore, by whom he had eight children, four of whom are living: William, Herman, Lena, and Ettie. Mrs. Oswald died during the present year; an estimable lady, her death was universally regretted by all who knew her. Ten years ago Mr. Oswald came to White Hall; he had but small capital, but he had pluck and energy, perseverance and honesty of purpose; these traits of character have carried him successfully through life.