Charles Roehl facts for kids

Charles F. Roehl (born June 16, 1857 – died September 19, 1927) was an important pioneer and businessman in Bellingham, Washington. He was known as one of the city's most successful businessmen. He helped Bellingham grow through his work in trade and real estate.

Roehl arrived in Bellingham Bay in 1883. He bought some land from the government. He also purchased a lot on Elk Street. Charles and his brother, William Roehl, started a business together. They bought and sold goods as wholesale and retail merchants.

In 1883, an economic slowdown began in Whatcom (which later became Bellingham). This made the brothers close their business and leave the city for a while. In 1889, they came back. They started their trade business again.

Over the years, the Roehl brothers owned several businesses. Later, they focused completely on real estate. They built, owned, rented, bought, and sold many properties. Some of these were considered the best at the time. These included the Hotel Byron (which later became the Leopold Hotel) and the Lighthouse Block in Whatcom. They also owned the Knights of Pythias Building in Fairhaven, Washington.

Early Life and Family History

Charles Roehl was born on June 16, 1857, in Brandenburg, Germany. His parents were John Casper Roehl and Elizabeth Roehl (Kublanc). Both of his parents were from Germany. His family moved from Germany to America and settled in Texas. His father, John Casper, passed away in Texas in 1896. His mother, Elizabeth, died in 1902.

Charles Roehl was one of six children in his family. His brother, William Roehl, worked with Charles in their trade and real estate businesses for many years. Another brother, August, raised farm animals in Texas. Charles also had three sisters. Lottie married Peter Winter, who was a builder from Bryan, Texas. Alvina married Max Kiesewetter, a barber from Beaumont, Texas. Minnie married Fred Viereck and had five children.

Charles Roehl went to school in Germany. He finished school in 1873 and began working.

Community Involvement

Charles Roehl also took part in the city's social life. In 1899, he became the treasurer for a local group. This group was a branch of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. It was called New Whatcom Eyrie No. 31.

Personal Life and Legacy

Roehl's son, William F. Roehl, 1921

Charles Roehl married Emma Hull in December 1889. Emma was the daughter of Nathan Hull. Nathan Hull was an early settler in eastern Oregon. He was also a fruit farmer who later lived near Los Angeles, California.

The Roehls had one son, William F. Roehl. William went to school in Bellingham, Washington. He then graduated from Gonzaga College in Spokane. Later, he was chosen to attend the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. This was by U. S. Senator Piles. William graduated as an ensign in May 1914. He was later promoted to lieutenant.

William F. Roehl served in many different places. These included waters near Mexico, Central America, and Europe. In 1921, he was the chief engineer on the large warship New York. He chose this career instead of becoming a teacher at his old college.

Charles Roehl passed away on September 19, 1927. He was 70 years old. He died in Bellingham, Washington.