My Genealogy Hound

HENRY LUCHSINGER. There is no inheritance so rich as the record of the worthy lives of those who have parted with friends on earth, and have entered upon their final rest. Their example and the success which has rewarded their efforts inspires the young with courage and the middle-aged with renewed energy. For many years Mr. Luchsinger ranked high among the business men of Steeleville, and the city in his demise lost one of its most progressive residents. His lot was cast in the field of action, rather than in the field of meditation, of business and commercial enterprise. Here he was active, sagacious and daring, and in all his dealings was prompt, conscientious and decisive. Though subjected to two dangerous tests, success and reverses of fortune, the former did not unduly elate him, nor the latter daunt his spirit.

A native of Schwanden, Germany, and born May 10, 1831, the subject of this sketch was a son of Jacob Luchsinger, who died in his native country, as did his wife. Henry attended school in Germany until he was fourteen years of age, and then entered the army, and served for four years in the war between France and Germany. Having resolved to seek home and fortune in the land beyond the seas, he emigrated to America in 1855, and for a short time sojourned in St. Louis, whence he removed to Chester, Ill. A shoemaker by trade, he followed that occupation in Chester for six months, and then came to Steeleville, where he opened a shop and entered into business for himself.

By the exercise of tireless industry, Mr. Luchsinger was enabled from time to time to enlarge his store, and finally became the owner of a fine establishment, stocked with a full assortment of boots and shoes. He continued to conduct a large and profitable trade until his death, August 29, 1892. In the midst of new plans and enterprises, with the burden of business interests resting upon him, surrounded by the objects of his life-long care and love, he fell asleep. He was a member of the Lutheran Church, in which faith he died. Though not active in political affairs, he advocated the principles of the Democratic party. He is survived by his widow, a most excellent lady, whom he married in 1854 in Germany, and who bore the maiden name of Annie Aebli.