August Beversdorff Obit, Luling TX “Signal” 1916

(from records of Ruth Hudson Beversdorf Weed)

AUGUST BEVERSDORFF

(1849 – 1916)

Mr. August Beversdorff, one of the pioneer residents of Luling, TX, and a man whose handiwork may be noted in almost everything of good that has transpired in our city during his long residence here, closed his eyes in death at the family home on North Side, Sunday morning, March 12, at 7:40 o’clock, following a long and wearing illness.

Mr. Beversdorff was born in the realm of the Kaiser August 1, 1849, but coming to this country with his parents two years later, he knew no fatherland but America; no allegiance but to Texas.

His boyhood was spent at Victoria and the old city destroyed by storm, Indianola. He claimed in marriage the hand of Miss Mary Gantz, in the year 1874, and in the same year full of the hope and courage of rigorous youth, the Hand of their Destiny guiding them to Luling about the time the railroad came. A happy home and successful business career have been his portions here. As survivors of his home are his life companion and helpmate, four daughters, Mesdames Geo. V. French and R.J. Millican, Misses Lyl and Minnie Beversdorff and two sons, Henry J. and August Beversdorff, and the three children of a deceased brother, Sam Beversdorff and Mesdames J.P. Baker and A.L. Stagner, who were given the same love and affection as children.

Mr. Beversdorff was a charter member of the first volunteer fire company, the Hook & Ladder, organized in 1875. He has given good service to his city as mayor, alderman, and school trustee, and was member of the City Commission at the time of his death. He was prominent in lodge circles and practiced a true fraternity. He held membership with the Knights of Pythias, Woodmen, Practorians, A.U.O.W. and Herman’s Sons. He was a long time member of the Baptist Church and contributed liberally of his means toward its support.

The funeral services were held at the city cemetery under the auspices of the W.O.W., who marched from the home to the cemetery. Rev. Isaac Sellers of Weimar was the officiating minister, assisted by Revs. Paine and Renfro of this city. Rev. Sellers baptized Mr. And Mrs. Beversdorff when he was pastor here some thirty-five years ago. As a mark of respect, the schools and all business houses closed for the funeral, and contributed to the length of the procession, which was nearly a mile long. The beautiful and fragrant flowers bore pathetic testimony to the high esteem in which he was held throughout the town and community.

The Signal offers sincere condolence to the bereaved family and friends.