According to U.S. Census data and burial records, John C. Wilhelm was born on November 26, 1849, in Germany. The 1880 U.S. Census lists his occupation as a saloon keeper. The 1900 U.S. Census shows he immigrated to the United States in 1863.
The 1893–94 La Porte County Directory lists him as an agent for the Cream City Brewing Co. at 209 I Street.
By 1899, he is listed as a councilman for the Fifth Ward.
He died on April 22, 1910, in La Porte and is buried in Pine Lake Cemetery in La Porte.
More research is required.
1893-94 – Wilhelm John C., agent for Cream City Brewing Co., 209 I Street, home is the same address.
His brother, Fred, is also listed in the 1893-94 directory under saloons at 1006 Main Street.
1897-98 – Wilhelm John C (Pauline), agent for Cream City Brewing Co., home 209 I Street.
1899 – Wilhelm John C (Pauline), agent for Cream City Brewing Co., also councilman Fifth Ward, 209 I Street.
1902 – Wilhelm, John C. (Pauling) retired, home at 209 I Street.
His brother, Louis T. Wilhelm, is listed in the 1902 directory under saloons (imported wines, liquors, cigars, beer, ale, and porter on draught) at 918 Main Street. It’s not known if he ever had any bottles made with his name on them.
Undated photo of Fred Wilhelm’s German Beer Garden. The exact location is unknown, but it was on Clear Lake, and part of the lake can be seen in the background.
The two people in the foreground are identified as Fred Wilhelm and his wife. Note the sign on the corner of the building advertising Cream City Milwaukee Lager Beer, for which John C. Wilhelm was an agent.
Fred (1847–1899) was John’s brother.
Slide from the Michigan City Public Library / La Porte County CETA Special Projects program.
