John Mattes (politician)
John Mattes | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1856 Nendingen, Kingdom of Württemberg |
| Occupation(s) | Brewer, politician |
| Years active | 1886–1918 |
| Known for | Brewing industry; Nebraska Legislature; Mayor of Nebraska City |
John Mattes (born 1856) was a brewer and political figure based in Nebraska City, who held positions in the Nebraska Legislature and served as mayor. Originally from Nendingen, Kingdom of Württemberg, he immigrated to the United States, initially residing in Iowa before becoming a partner in his uncles' "Mattes Brewery" located in Des Moines in 1886.
During his time in Nebraska City, Mattes occupied various public roles, including mayor, state representative, and senator for Otoe County. He notably opposed women's suffrage. Additionally, he worked as an agent for the United States Department of Agriculture under President Grover Cleveland.
In 1906, he renamed the family brewing enterprise to "Otoe Brewing Co." The brewery ceased operations in 1917 as a result of statewide prohibition laws in Nebraska. Between 1917 and 1918, Mattes held the position of President pro tem of the Nebraska Senate.
Family
Paul Mattes fathered seven children: Frank P., Mary, Pauline, Rosa, Hoyt, Francis, and Lotte. Frank later became general agent for Cincinnati's Moerlein Brewery. John Mattes was married to Katie Schaefer, and they had one daughter named Nora Angeline (born 1883).