Charles Frederick Bliss facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles F. Bliss
|
|
|---|---|
From Portrait and Biographical Album of Racine and Kenosha Counties, Wisconsin (1892)
|
|
| Member of the Wisconsin State Assembly from the Racine 1st district |
|
| In office January 5, 1874 – January 3, 1876 |
|
| Preceded by | John Elkins |
| Succeeded by | Norton J. Field |
| Personal details | |
| Born | December 27, 1817 Niederweiler, Grand Duchy of Baden |
| Died | July 11, 1894 (aged 76) Racine, Wisconsin, U.S. |
| Resting place | Mound Cemetery, Racine |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse |
Catherine E. Closs
(m. 1841; died 1893) |
| Children |
|
| Occupation | Baker, confectioner, soda-water manufacturer |
Charles Frederick Bliss (born December 27, 1817 – died July 11, 1894) was an important person in Wisconsin history. He was a German American immigrant who became a successful baker and businessman. He also served as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, which is like the state's parliament. He represented the city of Racine in 1874 and 1875.
Contents
Charles F. Bliss's Early Life and Journey
Charles F. Bliss was born on December 27, 1817, in a village called Niederweiler. This area is now part of southern Germany. When he was about 15 years old, his father passed away. In 1833, Charles and his mother decided to move to the United States.
They first settled in Huron, Ohio. Sadly, his mother died just a few months after they arrived. Charles then moved to New York state. He worked in cities like Buffalo and Rochester. In Germany, he had learned to be a baker. But in New York, he worked as a cooper, which is someone who makes barrels. This job helped him earn more money.
Moving to Wisconsin and Starting a Business
In October 1848, Charles Bliss moved west to Wisconsin. He chose to live in Racine. There, he went back to his original job as a baker. He also became a confectioner, making sweets. Later, he started a business making and selling soda water and beer.
In 1875, he sold his bakery business. After that, he focused mainly on making soda and cider vinegar.
Involvement in Politics and Community
Charles F. Bliss was very active in local politics. He was part of the Democratic Party. He served on the Racine County board of supervisors in 1858, 1859, and 1861. This board helps manage the county.
He was also a member of the Racine city council in 1859 and 1872. The city council makes decisions for the city. In addition, he was a school commissioner in 1865 and 1870. School commissioners help oversee the local schools.
In 1873, Charles Bliss was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly. This is where state laws are made. He represented the first district of Racine County, which was just the city of Racine at the time. He won against the person who held the position before him, John Elkins. He was re-elected in 1874. However, he decided not to run for a third term in 1875.
Charles F. Bliss passed away at his home in Racine on July 11, 1894, after being ill for several weeks.
Family and Community Life
Charles F. Bliss married Catherine E. Closs on October 25, 1841, in Buffalo, New York. Catherine was also an immigrant from Germany. They had five children together. Catherine passed away in 1893.
Their oldest daughter, Mary Jane, married Louis Christian Klein. He was also a German American immigrant and a pioneer in Racine. He also served in the State Assembly, just like Charles.
Their oldest son, George Seymour Bliss, was a well-known businessman and farmer in Racine. George's son, Harold Bliss, was a college student studying dentistry. He passed away in Chicago in 1903.
Charles F. Bliss was also involved in many community groups. He was one of the first leaders of the First German Evangelical Lutheran Congregation of Racine. This church is still in Racine today. He was also active in groups like Freemasonry and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. These are social and charitable organizations.
