My Genealogy Hound

EDWARD JOHN KIESLING. There are many accomplishments in life, the securing of which will ever bring honor and praise to the one who has faithfully won them; but the greatest honor will ever be due to the man who, beginning at the foot of the ladder, with no capital but strong arms and a courageous young heart, pushes his way onward and upward to success. Such a one is the subject of our sketch, for his success is entirely due to the energy, perseverance and good judgment with which he has conducted his business enterprises.

In general blacksmithing, carriage and wagon manufacturing our subject has found a wide field for his labors, and has built up a large and lucrative trade, receiving a liberal patronage from the citizens of Sedalia and surrounding towns. A native of Germany, he was born near Muencheberg, Bavaria, June 4, 1863, and is a son of George and Margaret (Schmutzler) Kiesling, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father was a farmer in the Fatherland, in which country his death occurred. The mother was a Lutheran in religious belief, and had four children, three of whom are still living, our subject being the only one now in America.

Edward J. remained in his native land until reaching his fifteenth year, at which time, in 1878, he came to America, here meeting his brother John, who is now deceased. Locating in Cole County, Mo., our subject was employed on a farm for two years, and then apprenticed himself to learn the blacksmith’s trade in Westphalia, Osage County, Mo., continuing in that capacity two years. In 1882 he came to Sedalia, working at his trade in connection with different establishments, and in 1885 bought the shop he now owns, beginning business for himself at blacksmithing and repairing. He was so successful in this line that he was enabled, in 1894, to begin the manufacture of wagons, carriages, sulkies, and, in fact, all vehicles on wheels. About fifteen men are employed and he superintends the business himself.

In Sedalia, in the year 1884, occurred the marriage of Mr. Kiesling and Miss Bertha Maue, a native of Germany. To this union has been born a family of three children, George, Eddie and Walter. The family residence is at No. 312 North Prospect Avenue, and is the abode of hospitality and good cheer. Socially our subject is identified with the Woodmen of the World, and also belongs to the Sons of Herman. Politically he is a Republican, the principles of which party he supports with voice and ballot. He is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church, and gives generously to its support. Besides his manufacturing interests he is the owner of valuable real estate, and in all respects has shown himself to be one who is worthy of emulation.