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CARL A. HELMLE. This gentleman has been connected with the commercial life of Springfield since 1854 and his name is well known to the most of the citizens of the capital as that of a worthy representative of the better class of Germans. He belongs to one of the oldest and most influential families of Carlsruhe, the capital of the Grand Duchy of Baden, and by birth, education and the manner in which he has spent his mature years, is fitted to stand as a type of the race.

In the city of Carlsruhe our subject opened his eyes to the light September 10, 1827. His parents were Heinrich and Caroline (Himmelheber) Helmle. When old enough to attend school young Carl was sent to the Lyceum of Carlsruhe in which he received his education. He never had any desire to study the classics, but wished to enter a military academy. He was finally dissuaded by his mother, a highly accomplished lady, and influenced to choose a mercantile life. Soon after beginning his business career he became bookkeeper in an extensive commission and forwarding house, and after leaving his position accepted a situation in Brussells, Belgium, and afterward removed to Paris, France. Indoor life and too close confinement began to impair his health and for the purpose of recuperating and prompted also by his love of independence and liberty, he determined to go to America.

Mr. Helmle accordingly closed up his affairs and embarked, arriving in New York City, November 21, 1849. He had letters of recommendation to leading business houses in that city, but feeling that his health demanded outdoor occupation he went on to Missouri and engaged in farming. Here, February 20, 1853, he was married to Miss Marie Flesche. In June following, not succeeding in his new vocation as he had hoped, he came to Springfield, Ill. In company with Frank Reisch, he opened a general store. The firm subsequently engaged in the brewing business, beginning on a small scale, manufacturing but one thousand barrels the first year. The business gradually increased and became one of the largest of its kind in the State. In 1864 Mr. Helmle dissolved partnership and began the wholesale liquor business in which he still continues, having established a fine trade throughout Central Illinois.

Mr. Helmle has always been a Democrat and he has filled many public offices with acceptability. As a business man he is prompt, systematic and accurate, giving his personal attention to all the details of his affairs. In public enterprises he has always borne a worthy part and especially given his attention to educational interests. As a man, he is highly esteemed for his personal and social qualities. He has devoted much time to self-culture and by extensive reading has acquired a valuable fund of information. He has collected a library containing many rare volumes, adorned his residence with valuable paintings and other works of art, and enjoying an ample income lives surrounded by the pleasures and comforts of a happy home.