Claus, H. V.

H. V. CLAUS, grocer and wholesale liquor dealer, Erie, was born in Germany, Nov. 6, 1840, son of John and Hedwig (Kuestner) Claus, natives of Germany. The former was a school teacher who came to America in 1852. Our subject was fifth in a family of seven children, and received his education in Germany. He was on a farm for several years after coming to America; clerked six years in Philip A. Becker?s grocery, and one year for F.L. Siegel. In 1863, he embarked in business for himself, and by industry and enterprise succeeded in building up a trade amounting to $150,000 per annum. Mr. Claus enlisted in 1865, in Co. K, 98th Reg. P.V.I., and served till the close of the war. He was united in marriage, in 1870, with Frances, daughter of Squire F. Curtze, who bore him the following-named children: Frederick, Adolph, Anna and Herman. Mrs. Claus is a member of St. Paul?s Episcopal Church.