My Genealogy Hound

M. X. CHUSE, Bloomington; was born in Switzerland in 1831; when he was but 14 years old, he, with his parents, emigrated to America, landing in New York City; thence to Albany, N. Y., and from there West to St. Louis; here Mr. Chuse was working on a farm at Jefferson Barracks about four months; then to Centerville, St. Clair Co., Ill., farming a short time; he also commenced to learn his trade of harness-maker; he returned to St. Louis and finished learning his trade there; and, about this time, was Mr. Chuse’s first experience in the Fire Department; in 1845, he ran with the Washington Fire Co., No. 2; when he became of age, he joined Liberty, No. 6; this was about 1849. In 1850, he moved to Bloomington, which has been his home ever since he commenced at his trade as harness-maker; from this, he managed to save money, and carried on a very extensive business; he also was engaged in the wholesale saddlery, harness and leather business, the firm being Chuse & Risser. Twenty-five years ago, Mr. Chuse rang the first fire bell to call a meeting to organize a Fire Department, and ever since then, he has been connected with the Fire Department; he was first a pipeman, then assistant foreman, then foreman, and chief engineer; today Bloomington has probably one of the best regulated Fire Departments for a town of its size in the country. Mr. Chuse is also Superintendent of the Water Works, which has the stand-pipe system, with a stand-pipe 210 feet high, perhaps the tallest in the State; Mr. Chuse superintended the building of the Water Works, from the time they were first started until their completion. Such is a short sketch of Mr. Chuse, one of the best known and most respected men of Bloomington.