My Genealogy Hound

WILLIAM HECK, Sr., one of the leading citizens of Cannelton is a native of Nassau, Germany and was born October 19, 1835. He is one of eight children born to John and Christina (Lawrence) Heck. His education was acquired in his native land and in October, 1850, he started for America where he landed in due time at New Orleans. After this he was engaged for short time in Smithland and Caseyville, Ky. In June 1850 he settled at Cannelton where his home has ever since been. Until 1858 he was employed in the coal mines. In that year and in company with his brother he began keeping a general store. In 1865 he sold out to his brother. Until 1872 he then conducted a brewery and from that time on was operating a coal mine on his farm near town. In 1876 he was elected justice of the peace and he has held that office ever since. Sophia M. Arnolds became his wife February 2, 1858; to them have been born eleven children these eight now living, John J., Fred W., Elizabeth K., Katie, Henry J., Charles L., Whilleamen and Edward C. The family belongs to the Protestent Lutheran Church. He belongs to the I. O. O. F., German Benevolent Society and is captain of the German Fire Company. His politics are Democratic.