Jacob Obermann
Jacob Obermann | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Germany |
| Died | April 24, 1887 (aged 68) |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, Brewer, Politician |
| Known for | Founder of Germania Brewery in Milwaukee, Wisconsin |
Jacob Obermann (March 23, 1819 – April 24, 1887) was a German-born entrepreneur who established himself as a key figure in Milwaukee, Wisconsin's brewing sector.
Personal life
Originally from Germany, Obermann relocated to the United States in 1843. He was affiliated with the Masonic Order and participated in the Turner Society. Obermann was married twice: first to Maria until her passing in 1852, and subsequently to Barbara, with whom he had four children. Additionally, he fathered at least four children, presumably from his initial marriage. He held a position on the Milwaukee Common Council and passed away in 1887; his final resting place is Union Cemetery in Milwaukee.
Career
Starting his professional journey as a shoemaker upon arriving in 1843, Obermann had established a retail outlet by 1849. In 1854, he launched the Germania Brewery located at the intersection of 5th and Cherry streets in Milwaukee, where he produced varieties including 'Standard,' 'Weiner,' and 'Extra Brew' beers. Collaborating with Max Fueger, he enhanced the enterprise by constructing an ice house in 1866. For about twenty years until 1874, this brewery held the distinction of being Milwaukee's largest. By 1880, production under Obermann and his sons reached 30,000 barrels annually. His brewery maintained a leading role within Milwaukee’s beer industry until his death. Obermann also contributed to establishing the Brewers' Insurance Company of America and was instrumental in founding the Mechanics Mutual Fire Insurance Company.
Aftermath of the brewery
Following Jacob Obermann’s demise, his sons continued operating the brewery; however, substantial financial setbacks stemming from a Chicago venture resulted in losses totaling $200,000. These difficulties led to receivership proceedings in both 1893 and 1895. Subsequently, ownership transferred through auction to Philipp Jung. Later on, Obermann’s son Gustav managed his own brewing operation toward the end of the nineteenth century.