- ANTON BEHRENDT, proprietor of the Union Hotel, and also of
the elegant new brick hotel
- called the Windsor, is a native of Western Prussia, and was
born on the 4th day of July, 1828. His parents, John and Mary
BEHRENDT, were born in the same country. Our subject learned
the gardener's trade in his native land, continuing to follow
that vocation until June, 1857, when he decided to try his fortune
in the New World, and emigrated to America. Prior to coming
to this country he served three years in the Prussian Army.
After landing on the shores of the United States he came directly
to Janesville, Wis., working at any honest employment that he
could find to do until Jan. 2, 1862, when he enlisted for the
late war as a private of Company K, 3d Wisconsin Cavalry, serving
in the ranks until August, 1865, when he received an honorable
discharge. He participated in the battle of Perryville, was
in the Red River Expedition, and also was on detached service
as Orderly on the staff of several different generals.
- On his return from the war Mr. BEHRENDT was united in marriage
on the 4th day of December,
- 1865, with Miss Mary NEWMAN, their wedding being celebrated
at Madison, Wis. The lady was born in Posen, Germany, is a daughter
of John NEWMAN, and came to America in December, 1861. Unto
them have been born seven children, three sons and four daughters:
Frank E., the eldest, is the manager of the Windsor Hotel; Anna
is the twin sister of Frank, who is followed by John, Eliza,
Lillian, May, and Edward.
- In 1865 Mr. BEHRENDT first engaged in his present business
as proprietor of the Farmer's
- Home on East Milwaukee Street, from which he removed to his
present location on North Fifth Street, in the Union House, in
1867. In 1888 he built the Windsor Hotel, adjoining the Union,
on the northeast corner of North Main and North Fourth Streets,
a description of which is given in the sketch of Frank E., who
is manager. Mr. BEHRENDT is a worthy citizen, highly respected
by all.
-
- Taken from "The Portrait and Biographical Album of
Rock County, Wis." (c)1889, pp. 787-788.
-
- Courtesy of Carol
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