My Genealogy Hound

Below is a family biography included in The Portrait and Biographical Record of Randolph, Jackson, Perry and Monroe Counties, Illinois published by Biographical Publishing Co. in 1894.  These biographies are valuable for genealogy research in discovering missing ancestors or filling in the details of a family tree. Family biographies often include far more information than can be found in a census record or obituary.  Details will vary with each biography but will often include the date and place of birth, parent names including mothers' maiden name, name of wife including maiden name, her parents' names, name of children (including spouses if married), former places of residence, occupation details, military service, church and social organization affiliations, and more.  There are often ancestry details included that cannot be found in any other type of genealogical record.

* * * *

FREDERICK WILLIAM BRINKMAN, of the firm of S. & W. Brinkman, carpenters, builders and contractors of Chester, was born in St. Louis, Mo., September 3, 1856. He is the son of William Brinkman, a native of Germany, who came to the United States when a single man in 1845. The mother of our subject, who prior to her marriage was known as Louisa Brinkman, was born in Germany. The parents are still living, and make their home in this city, of which they are worthy and honored residents.

In a family of five children, the subject of this sketch is the second in order of birth. He acquired a good education in the public schools of this city. When his school days were over, he chose the trade of a carpenter for his life work, and learned the business with his uncle, Frederick Brinkman. After acquiring a thorough knowledge of materials and the modes of usage best adapted to various kinds of buildings, he formed a partnership with Sigmund Brinkman, his cousin, the firm title being S. & W. Brinkman. They have the reputation of being the most responsible contractors and builders in the city, and have erected many fine dwellings and business blocks. The Grand View Hotel stands as a specimen of their workmanship, and in Steeleville and many other towns in the surrounding counties they have given entire satisfaction in their line of work.

October 28, 1881, F. William Brinkman and Miss Wilhelmina Meyer were united in marriage. The lady was a daughter of Louis Meyer, and was born in Randolph County. They were blessed by the birth of six children, who bear the respective names of Olga, Dora, Walter, Arthur, Clement and Edna. Mr. and Mrs. Brinkman are consistent members of the St. John’s Lutheran Church, and are people of true religious principles. Our subject is a man of solid worth, possessing in an eminent degree those traits that command respect in the business world and gain esteem among his neighbors and associates. Politically, he is a Democrat.

* * * *

This family biography is one of 679 biographies included in The Portrait and Biographical Record of Randolph, Jackson, Perry and Monroe Counties, Illinois published in 1894.  View the complete description here: The Portrait and Biographical Record of Randolph, Jackson, Perry and Monroe Counties, Illinois

View additional Randolph County, Illinois family biographies here: Randolph County, Illinois Biographies

Use the links at the top right of this page to search or browse thousands of other family biographies.