Page 329

JOSEPH C. KLAHOLT - Among the prominent dealers in jewelry in the Capital is the gentleman above named, whose fine establishment occupies a favorable location on the south side of the Square. The store is commodious, beautifully fitted, and furnished with an elegant line of goods, including the ordinary articles of adornment for the person and the home, such as diamonds, watches, solid and silver-plated ware, and the various combinations of precious metals and stones made up into clocks, jewelry, etc. Mr. Klaholt also carries a stock of musical instruments and is connected with other business enterprises in the city, although his personal attention is mainly given to the first named. He is a practical jeweler, a keen judge of gems, and possesses excellent taste in the selection of that which is beautiful and stylish.

Mr. Klaholt is a native of Springfield, having been born here August 10, 1854. He received his education in the city schools and after completing his studies, engaged in different occupations until 1870, when he entered the jewelry establishment of A. Claus. He remained with that gentleman eight yeas, then accepted a position with W. C. Sommer, whom he bought out in 1881. He has continued the business at the old stand, building up his trade from year to year as the population of the city has increased and the work of his establishment has become better known. He began business for himself with but a moderate stock which he has gradually increased until his manufacturing and salesrooms afford constant occupation to seven men.

Our subject is connected with the Springfield Furniture Company, holding the office of Director; he fills the same position in the Workmen=s Building and Loan Association, both of which corporations he was interested in organizing. The Association is in a very prosperous condition at present and is doing much to aid in the upbuilding of the city, supplying the working class with comfortable homes at rates within their reach. Mr. Klaholt belongs to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and to the society of St. Vincent De Paul.

At the home of the brides=s parents in this city June 5, 1870, Mr. Klaholt was united in marriage with Miss Marie F. Thoma. The bride is a daughter of Gregory and Sophia Thoma, is intelligent and well-bred, and with her husband commands the respect of the acquaintances. The congenial union has been blest by the birth of four children: Paulina, Carl, Ada and Frances.

The father of our subject was Joseph C. Klaholt, Sr., who became a resident of this city in May, 1850. He was first engaged in tailoring and afterward in the grocery business. He was a native of the kingdom of Prussia. His widow, formerly Miss Paulina Smith, of St. Louis, Mo., is still living here. The family consists of three sons and one daughter, all residents of this county. They are named respectively, Joseph C., Henry, August and Pauline, the latter now being the wife of William G. Laugeman.

In connection with this sketch the reader will notice a lithographic portrait of Mr. Klaholt.