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         J. H. F. L. E. WEBER, dealer in general merchandise at Wapello, and a pioneer settler of Louisa County, is a native of Germany, and was born Sept. 28, 1840. His parents were John Henry and Johanna Margaret (Hirt) Weber, with whom he emigrated to America in 1848, coming directly to Wapello. His father was a blacksmith by trade, and opened a shop in this city. Frederick attended school until the fall of 1852, when the family removed to a farm in Wapello Township, where he was trained to farm work, and when arrived at man’s estate he followed that vocation for himself.

On the 28th of February, 1861, Mr. Weber was united in marriage with Miss Margaret Reif, a native of Ohio, and a daughter of Franz Reif. Three children were born of their marriage, two sons and a daughter: Henry Albert, who married Miss Louisa Keck, and is now an express agent at Wapello; the daughter, Amanda Johanna, and the younger son, John Frederick, are at home. Mrs. Weber died Oct. 1, 1879.

Mr. Weber remained on the farm until 1881, when he sold out and engaged in his business in Wapello. He occupies the first floor of the new Masonic building on Second street, where he carries an average stock of general merchandise of the value of from $6,000 to $8,000. He has a large and well-arranged store, and has built up a good trade.

On the 4th of June, 1880, Mr. Weber was again married, to Miss Louisa Reif, a sister of his former wife. They have one child by this union, a son, . . .

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. . . Oscar George. Mr. and Mrs. Weber are members of the German Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a member of Wapello Lodge No. 212, A.O.U.W.; is a Republican in politics, and has held various township and school offices. Mr. Weber’s parents both died on the farm, the mother’s death occurring May 9, 1852, the father surviving her until July, 1874. Both were highly respected and worthy people.