My Genealogy Hound

Hugo Kropp, proprietor of the Hermann brewery and malt house, is a native of Germany, born in 1842, and there he passed his youth and early manhood, immigrating to America in 1867. He first chose a location at Louisville, Ky., in 1868 going to St. Louis, thence coming to Hermann, Mo., in 1874, where, in 1877, he took charge of the brewery at this place. At that time it had an annual capacity of 454 barrels, and today, after material and extensive improvements, exports 4,000 barrels yearly, showing conclusively the business ability and determination of Mr. Kropp to make his business a success. He has served as a member of the town board, of which he has been chairman, has also filled other positions in public affairs, and at present is captain of the Hermann fire company. In 1872 his marriage occurred, and to himself and wife six children have been born. In this connection it might not be out of place to refer briefly to the fire department of Hermann, with which Mr. Kropp is connected. It consists of one steam and two hand engines, hook and ladder truck, two hose carriages, and is supplied with 1,000 feet of good rubber hose, on which Siamese couplings are used. The value of the department apparatus and supplies is placed at $4,000. The town owns the buildings, valued at $1,000. The membership at this time is seventy-five, all volunteers; the chief is elected by members of the department. The water supply is excellent, being obtained from the river and six cisterns, which have a capacity of 10,000 gallons daily.