Joseph Hallermann, a well known citizen of Germantown, has been a resident of Clinton County for a period covering more than forty years. Of German birth and parentage, he was born in Hanover, in September, 1832, and grew to manhood in the land of his birth, where he was the recipient of a common-school education in that language. Believing that the New World offered opportunities to the young and energetic such as are not to be found in Europe, he determined to seek a home across the ocean.

Accordingly, in 1848 Mr. Hallermann crossed the Atlantic, and arriving in the United States, proceeded to Connecticut, where he made a short sojourn in Essex. Prior to emigrating he had learned the trade of a carpenter and shipbuilder and he was thus engaged in Essex. In 1849 he came west and spent a year in the city of St. Louis, from which place he came to Clinton County in 1850. Here he embarked at his trade of a carpenter, which he followed energetically and successfully until 1875. During that year he opened a store containing a stock of general merchandise, such as is to be found in every first class country establishment. Though he has not followed his trade for some years, he still takes occasional contracts for buildings. In addition to his other interests he is a stockholder in the mill at this place.

The lady who in 1853 became the wife of Mr. Hallermann bore the maiden name of Caroline VIBBALS and was born in this country. Two years after her marriage she died, and Mr. Hallerman remained a widower until 1871, when he was again married, choosing as his wife Miss Annie MEYER, a native of Clinton County. Their union has resulted in the birth of six children, named as follows: Benjamin, Henry, Lizzie, Josephine, Frank and Mary. With his family Mr. Hallermann holds membership in the Catholic Church, to the maintenance of which they give liberally of their means. Several of the children, in addition to receiving a common-school education in Germantown have had the advantage of an attendance in the school at Milwaukee, Wis.

Ever since coming to the United States Mr. Hallermann has been a loyal friend to our form of Government and has proved a good citizen in his community. He made a study of the issues of the day, the result being that he gave his support to the Democratic party. He has taken an active part in politics for many years and has frequently represented his chosen party as their delegate in county conventions. He has also held various town offices, in all of which he has rendered satisfactory service. Having been economical, industrious and energetic, he has thereby accumulated considerable means, and is recognized as one of the well to-do citizens of the community.

Source: Portrait and Biographical Record of Clinton, Washington, Marion and Jefferson Counties, Illinois, 1894, Chapman Publishing Co., Chicago, IL

Submitted by: Connie Albers

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