My Genealogy Hound

JOSEPH ISMERT, Superintendent of the Pinckneyville Milling Company, was born on the French frontier, September 26, 1853. His father, John Ismert, was a miller by trade, and accompanied by three brothers, he left his native land and sailed for America. He made a location in Buffalo, N. Y., where for some time he engaged in the operation of a sawmill, but later returned to France, where his death occurred in 1889.

Mr. Ismert of this sketch is one of four brothers, of whom John is one of the extensive stockholders of the Pinckneyville Milling Company, and is manager of the works. Our subject, who is the youngest, was educated in his native land, and after coming to this country learned the miller’s trade under his eldest brother, John. At the age of eighteen he bade adieu to his old home and friends and crossed the briny deep to the New World, having determined to seek a home and fortune in America. For five years after his arrival he was employed in a mill in Kansas City, Kan., and after leaving that place was employed in different mills in various towns. He spent six years as a miller in Freeport, Ill., and in 1889, in company with his brother John, he purchased stock in the mill at Pinckneyville. Soon afterward he was elected Superintendent, which position he is now filling to the satisfaction of all concerned. The mill has a capacity of four hundred barrels of flour per day, is supplied with the latest improved machinery and is complete in all its appointments.

On the 30th of July, 1882, Mr. Ismert was united in marriage with Miss Maggie Vogel. This most estimable lady is a native of St. Louis. Their union has been blessed with a family of five children, four sons and a daughter, namely: Joseph H., Leo M., Albert R., C. R. and Maud G. They are still under the parental roof. The Ismert household is the abode of hospitality and good cheer, and the many friends of the family are always sure to there receive a hearty welcome.

Mr. Ismert takes some interest in civic societies, and holds membership both with the Odd Fellows’ lodge and the Knights of Pythias fraternity. In connection with his business in this country, he also owns an interest in the estate in France, which was left by his father, who was a very wealthy man. Mr. Ismert’s life is characterized by industry and enterprise, and his well directed efforts have won him success in his undertakings.