My Genealogy Hound

FRED A. RATHERT, a well known merchant tailor and clothier of Red Bud, is recognized as one of the prominent and valued citizens of this community, who has the high regard of all with whom business or social relations have brought him in contact. We feel assured that this record of his life will prove of interest to many of our readers. He was born in Westphalia, Germany, in 1846, and is the only child of William and Marguerita (Schoenebaum) Rathert, who were also natives of the same country. The mother died during the infancy of her son, and the father afterward married Miss Elizabeth Schwier. They became the parents of six children: William and Henry, both of whom still reside in the Fatherland; Christian, who is engaged in merchandising in Red Bud; Christina, Rike and Mary, who are also living in Germany. A half-brother of the family, Charles Wehking, is a resident of St. Louis, where he is engaged in business as a carpenter and builder. He served in the army for about four years during the late war, and was Paymaster of one division.

Fred A. Rathert was a young man of twenty-three years when he bade adieu to home and friends and native land and sailed for America. At length he reached St. Louis. He could not speak a word of English, but he determined to conquer the difficulties and obstacles in his path. As time passed, he acquired the language of the country, and he continued working at the trade of tailoring in St. Louis until June, 1871, when he came to Red Bud, forming a partnership with Henry Heuer. This connection continued for a year. In 1874 Mr. Rathert established a regular merchant-tailor business, and in 1878 erected the building which he now occupies. He carries a fine line of goods, and on account of his excellent workmanship and moderate prices, he has received from the public a liberal patronage.

In 1876 Mr. Rathert was united in marriage with Miss Annie Saxenmeyer, and unto them have been born two sons: Oswald, who is now attending the Lutheran College of Addison, Ill.; and Paul, at home. The parents are both members of the Lutheran Church and take an active interest in its welfare. In June, 1890, Mr. Rathert returned to Germany to visit his aged father. It was the last time he ever saw him, for the father has since passed away. Returning home, he resumed business, and in his work he has met with a high degree of success, becoming a substantial citizen. His determination to seek a home in America has proved to be a wise one, for prosperity has rewarded his efforts. In politics he is a stanch Republican, but has never been an office-seeker, preferring to devote his entire time and attention to his commercial interests and the enjoyment of the home circle.