Charles Roehl
Charles F. Roehl | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Brandenburg, Kingdom of Prussia |
| Died | September 19, 1927 (aged 70) Bellingham, Washington, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, real estate developer |
| Known for | Early settler and industrial development of Bellingham, Washington; liquor wholesaler and retailer; real estate ventures including Hotel Byron (Leopold Hotel), Lighthouse Block, Knights of Pythias Building |
Charles F. Roehl (June 16, 1857 – September 19, 1927) was an American entrepreneur and early settler originally from Prussia, who played a significant role in the industrial development of Bellingham, Washington. His influence was notable through his ventures in both commerce and real estate.
Arriving at Bellingham Bay in 1883, Roehl secured government land alongside a parcel on Elk Street. Together with his brother, William Roehl, he acquired liquor inventory from San Francisco and initiated wholesale and retail alcohol sales in 1884. A severe economic downturn in Whatcom (which later became Bellingham) compelled them to temporarily suspend their operations and leave the area. They made their return in 1889 to recommence business activities.
The Roehl siblings managed multiple liquor outlets, distributing cigars, wines, and premium whisky. However, changes in trade laws in 1902 created obstacles for their enterprise, leading them to withdraw from the liquor market. Subsequently, they concentrated solely on real estate, engaging in the development, ownership, leasing, and trading of key properties such as the Hotel Byron (which was later renamed the Leopold Hotel), the Lighthouse Block located in Whatcom, and the Knights of Pythias Building in Fairhaven.
Early life, family and education
Born on June 16, 1857, in Brandenburg, Kingdom of Prussia, Charles Roehl was the son of John Casper and Elizabeth Roehl, both of German heritage. His family emigrated to the United States and established themselves in Texas. Charles was one of six siblings, including his brother William, who later became his business partner. He completed his schooling at German institutions, graduating in 1873 before entering the workforce.
Career
Before relocating to the United States with his family in 1874, Roehl initially worked in Germany. His career in merchandising began in 1878 when he took a position as a store clerk.
Whatcom, Washington
Roehl moved to Washington State in 1883, arriving at Bellingham Bay on December 31. Although he had intended to continue on to Tacoma, Washington, Isaac Kalloch convinced him to stay in Whatcom (later renamed Bellingham). He purchased land and constructed a home before inviting his brother William to join him.
Together they started a wholesale and retail liquor operation in 1884 with stock supplied from San Francisco. Early optimism was fueled by plans for a railroad linking Whatcom to the Canadian rail network at Sumas, Washington, which spurred rapid growth locally. However, when Canadian authorities declined the rail connection proposal, an economic slump ensued that forced the Roehls to close their business and depart Whatcom.
San Diego, California
During this period of economic hardship in Whatcom, the brothers briefly separated as Charles relocated to San Diego; William joined him a year later. They invested substantially in San Diego’s growth but ultimately faced financial setbacks without realizing profits.
Resumption of trade in Washington
In 1889, the Roehl brothers returned to Whatcom and resumed their wine, liquor, and cigar enterprise with an emphasis on "the finest Kentucky whisky." Between 1896 and 1900 they operated a liquor establishment within the Lighthouse Block at Holly and Dock Streets—a major wholesale alcohol hub in Washington State. On June 1, 1900, they sold this business to Capital Brewing Company while simultaneously opening a new liquor venue at the Byron House featuring amenities such as a barroom, billiard hall, and private card room within a space measuring 27 by 110 feet.
In 1902, disputes between the U.S. and Canada over trade led to strict enforcement of the tariff act of 1897 that included seizure of liquor shipments—one notable incident involved confiscation of goods transported from Victoria to Whatcom. Later that year, the Roehls exited the liquor industry entirely.
Real estate ventures
Alongside their commercial enterprises, the brothers expanded into real estate, acquiring and developing properties regarded as some of the most distinguished in their era. They actively engaged in property transactions, resulting in considerable financial gains.
Their holdings comprised two brick rental buildings located on Holly Street, as well as a two-story brick rental property measuring 50 by 70 feet on Dock Street. Additionally, they owned the Knights of Pythias Building in Fairhaven and held a substantial number of residential properties throughout the Whatcom area.
A significant deal involved the sale of the Hotel Byron to Charles Wright and M. C. Dickinson; this establishment was subsequently renamed the Leopold Hotel and became known locally as one of the most up-to-date hotels. In 1902, they acquired the Lighthouse Block with initial plans to convert it into a hotel, but instead transformed the former theater space into office floors outfitted with steam heating and the city’s first magnetic elevator. After six years, in 1908, they sold this building to the First National Bank of Bellingham.
Additional involvement
Roehl participated in community affairs, holding the position of treasurer for the Fraternal Order of Eagles’ New Whatcom Eyrie No. 31 during 1899.
Personal background, family, and passing
In December 1889, Roehl wed Emma Hull, daughter of Nathan Hull, an early fruit cultivator from eastern Oregon who later settled near Los Angeles, California.
Their son, William F. Roehl, received his education in Bellingham’s schools and graduated from Gonzaga College in Spokane. He was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy through Senator Samuel H. Piles and graduated as an ensign in 1914, later advancing to lieutenant. William served across multiple naval theaters including Mexican, Central American, and European waters. By 1921, he held the position of chief engineer aboard the dreadnought New York, choosing this assignment over an instructional role at the Naval Academy.
Charles Roehl passed away at age 70 on September 19, 1927, in Bellingham.