Lohr, Peter

LOHR, APEL

Posted By: IAGenWeb volunteer
Date: 1/8/2024 at 17:38:40

The first furniture store in Osage was established by Peter Lohr in 1856. He manufactured much of the stock he handled. He is still in trade and has a large and increasing business. George W. Ferguson started the second furniture store, in 1868, occupying a building east of the library building. He ran for a few years, then sold to Peter Lohr.

Peter Lohr located in Osage in May, 1856. He was born in Hesse, Germany, May 3, 1830. He was apprenticed to his trade, cabinet making, when fifteen years of age and served three years. In 1851 he emigrated to America, going to Cleveland, Ohio, where he remained until coming to Iowa. He is the oldest cabinet maker in the city. He began in a limited way, by purchasing a small stock, and using a foot lathe, but has gradually increased until his stock will now reach $3,000. He has the reputation of being a splendid workmen. He was married at Cleveland, Ohio, in 1853, to Miss A. E. Apel, by whom he has six children: William F., born Aug. 25, 1854; George C., born Aug. 2, 1856; Charles H., born Feb. 27, 1859; Amelia C., born Dec. 12, 1860; Frank, born Nov. 13, 1862; Fred W., born Jan. 23, 1866. Mr. and Mrs. Lohr are members of the German Reformed Church. He is a republican and cast his first vote for Fremont. By his industry he has secured a comfortable property, and is classed among the well-to-do business men of the city.

~History of Mitchell and Worth Counties, Iowa
Springfield, Ill: Union Publishing Co., 1884; pg 409

(transcription source: Iowa Biographies Project)