John Baptist "Johann" Stephani was the son of unknown German parents. He had a half brother (GP) Johann Joseph Stephani, Sr. (dates unknown), who married Helen Raaf.
John went into business with his younger brother, Jacob Stephani (1830-1878). They worked together as Stephani & Brother AKA Stephani Brothers, in Chicago. They were both born in "Prussia." John married Nancy Lederer (born in IL), the daughter of Henry Lederer and Mary Marie Catharina Kappes, at unknown date. His death certificate says he was in Illinois for 38 years or since ABOUT 1845.
Stephani children with wife Nancy:
Emma, 1857 - 1927, (Alwin W Hautau), below
Bertha E., 1859 - 1902, (Charles Bieling), below
Stephani children with unknown female:
Alfred Henry, 1865 - 1949, below
On the 8 Aug 1850 Milwaukee Ward 2, Milwaukee Co., WI census, I found John Stephany, 24, a clerk, born in Prussia, residing in what appears to be a boarding house. Possible candidate.
Possible immigrant candidates:
1) J. Stephani, age 23 (born in about 1827), a farmer, born in Germany immigrated on 21 Aug 1850 in New York, New York. He arrived via the ship called Cotton Planter, in steerage, which had departed from Antwerp. He was staying in the US. 2) Johann Stephany, born in Prussia, arriving on 26 May 1851, in NY, NY on ship named Edwina, from Antwerp, staying in the US. He was a cabin passenger.
In the 1854-1855 Hall & Company's Chicago City Directory, I found Jacob Stephani, a clerk, residing at 40 Franklin; Johann Stephani of S. & Bro, at 40 Franklin and Stephani & Bro. Vinegar Manufacturer at 40 Franklin. So it supports that Jacob was John's brother.
In the 1855-1856 Chicago City Directory and Business Advertiser, by Edward Hepple, E. H. Hall Compiler, I found on page 137:
Stephani & Bro. wines and liquors, 154 W. Randolph.
Stephani, Jacob (S.& Bro.) home 154 W. Randolph.
Stephani, Jahann, (S.& Bro.) home 154 W. Rand.
On the 1855 West Chicago, Cook Co., IL census, Jno Stephani is listed with 4 in his family (LDS FHLibrary).
8 Apr 1859, there was an advertised warehouse sale scheduled for 3 May 1859, by Albert E Neeley & Co. It was to pay warehouse charges by many, including the Stephani Bros, 3 kegs. The Press and Tribune.
His wife Nancy died sometime between the birth of daughter Bertha in Oct 1859 and 3 Jul 1860 (1860 IL census). Did it have to do with childbirth?
On the 3 July 1860 Ward 5, Chicago, Cook County, Illinois Census, in dwelling #810, on page no.106 (HeritageQuest), I found Liquor Dealers John Stephani, 34 and Jacob Stephani, 30; Emma Stephani, 4; Bertha Stephani, 2 and Mary Preble, 18. John has $1,000 in real estate and $10,000 in personal property and Jacob has $3,000. in real estate and $10,000 in personal property. The children were born in "Chicago" and the rest were born in Prussia. It would appear the children's mother has passed away. On the same 1860 census, John Stephani's in laws claimed they had 2 young Stephani children: Emma, 2 and Fanny, 1. I can only assume the in-laws shared them or watched them during the time their father was at work.
12 Nov 1861, He placed an ad in the Chicago Daily Tribune: To Rent: A 1 1/2 story Dwelling, containing six rooms and kitchen, with a nice garden, 100 x _?_, and large stable on West Madison street (Horse Railroad passing) for $150 a year. Inquire of Stephani Brothers, 128 West Randolph street.
14 Oct 1862, it was advertised that Stephani Brothers were taking orders for L F W Schindler Florist, on Division street for evergreen trees (I note John's father in law sometimes worked as a florist). Chicago Daily Tribune.
The 1862-1863 Chicago Directory is online (10-09) at http://genealogytrails.com/ill/cook/1862directory.html, listed on page 361: Jacob Stephani (Stephani Brothers) h 15 S. DesPlaines and beside him is John Stephani, of (Stephani Brothers) h 15 S. DesPlaines (h = home).
Burglary - The store of Stephani Brothers, on the corner of Randolph and Desplains streets was entered on Tuesday night by burglars. The safe was blown open, and one hundred dollars in money, a quantity of notes and other valueable papers abstracted. No clue has been obtained to the thieves. 9 May 1865 issue of the Chicago Tribune.
On the 1865 Ward 1-12, Chicago, Cook Co., IL census, Jno Stephani is listed with: 3 females, 10 and under; 2 females between 20-30; 1 male 30 - 40 and 1 male 40 - 50, total 2 males & 5 females for 7 tota (FS)l.
His son Alfred was born on 7 Oct 1865, in Chicago, with an unknown mother. Alfred's census in 1900, 1910, 1920 and 1930, claim his mother was born in MA. In 1870, there is one woman born in MA, Maria (Mrs. Levi Lovering), born about 1821.
In the 1866-1867 Chicago Directory, I found Jacob of Stephani Brothers at 21 Desplaines; John Stephani of Stephani Brothers and John & Jacob Stephani, Importers of Wines & Liquors at 128 W. Randolph St.
Frederick Voltz et al. vs. John Stephani, et al. Appeal from Superior Court. Submitted by appellants. Chicago Tribune, 14 Sep 1867.
On the 1870 Ward 10, Chicago, Cook County, Illinois Census, dated August 19th, I found Liquor Dealer John Stephani, 44 living with housekeeper Louisa Hagenow, 23. He has $25,000 in real estate and $10,000 in personal property. They were both born in Prussia. His father and mother are foreign born and he is a U.S. Citizen.
1874-1875 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: Jacob Stephani, Capitalist 2, 124 W Randolph St. and lived at 861 W Monroe St.
1876-1877 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: John J. Stephani, house at 885 W. Monroe and Jacob Stephani, capitalist at 124 W. Randolph, house at 885 W. Monroe and also probably boarding there is Alfred Stephani, at 885 W. Monroe. John Stephani (Sr.) is a capitalist at 124 W. Randolph, house at 797 W. Harrison
John Stephani's Cook Co., IL probate was recorded 31 Jan 1883. Executors Bonds and Letters of Testamentary. Julias and Rudolph Rosenthal plus Abram M Pence file an Executor's Bond for John Stephani, for Julias alone. He resided at 3247 Wabash Ave and Rudolph and Abram at different addresses.
I note a possible brother or relative, George B Stephani, 1829 - 1882, buried at Graceland Cemetery in Chicago. He was born in Germany and was a merchant of wholesale wine and liquor. Also there is Charles Stephani, born 1 Nov 1825 in
Baden-Baden, Stadtkreis Baden-Baden, Baden-Württemberg, Germany and died 14 Mar 1902 in O'Fallon, St. Clair County, Illinois at Walnut Hill Cemetery (FaG #167964890).
Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, Volume 23, Saturday, May 19, 1877: in the U.S. Circuit Court, #14686: Ezra Millard vs Louise M and John O Pister, J. W. Ehrman, extr etc. of Jacob Pister dec'd S. A. Levy, John Stephani, Thos S. Robinson, trustee, The Downer & B Brwg Co. and Harrison Knickerbocker and F. A. Manique. Bill to foreclose. Hitchcock & Dupree solrs.
1877-1878 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: does not list John J. Stephani, only John and Jacob at Stephani Brothers at 124 W. Randolph, Jacob lived at 885 W. Monroe and John (Sr.) lived at 797 W. Harrison.
1878-1879 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: Jacob has passed away and only John Stephani is listed, real estate at 124 W. Randolph, house at 797 W. Harrison.
On the 1880 District 114, Chicago, Cook Co., Illinois Census, I found single real estate man John Stephani, 53; servant Annie Terwell, 19 and Lena Murwig, 19. John and his parents were born in Germany. Annie was born in Wisconsin and Lena and both of their parents were born in Holland. He's the right age. He lives at 797 Harrison Street, dwelling #236.
John Stephani's wrote his will on 10 Jun 1882. It was probated on 29 Jan 1883 in Cook Co., IL will book 3, p 454-455. He was a resident of Chicago and left to his beloved niece Helena Stephani household items, books, photos at his residence and office plus $2K in money or notes given for that sum by Hannah and Swen J Blomquist, secured by a 15 Aug 1881 Trust Deed (Cook Co. Book 1149, p 7) for Lot 5 Salle's Subdivision of lot 5 in Chapman's Subdivision of Block 1 in Ashland. Plus his account at the Bank of Leopol Maher, minus funeral expenses. 3) to his beloved brother Johann Joseph Stephani of Poppelsdorf, born near Bonn, Prussia all the rest of his estate. 4) All deeds, etc. from his brother Joseph to be returned to his brother. 5) appoints the public administrator of Cook County, IL as executor. It was witnessed by Oto Peltzen and John Z Rittmann (see photo).
Was his "beloved brother" still in Bonn? Follow the inheritance and the bank.
Chicago und sein Deutschthum, Cleveland, OH, 1901-1902, mentions Leopold Mayer (in his will above) in German. He was born in1827. Mentions "die Bank den Namen Leopold Maher & Co," page 283.
John Stephani's Cook County, Illinois Physician's Certificate of Death #14952 gives the following data:, male, white, age 56, occupation: Capitalist, died 22 January, 1883 at 3 P.M., single, nationality and place where born: German, resided in this state for 38 years (or about 1845), died at 757 W. Harrison Street in Chicago, cause of death: Apoplexy & Auto Alcoholic, Gastritis, Place of Burial : Rose Hill. The informant was D W Canaham.
GP shared the family connection based on German Stephani birth records (unseen by me). John's half brother (with different mother) Johann Joseph and his wife Helen Raaf were the parents of siblings Helen Anna Catharina Stephani Neff and Joseph Stephani, John's half niece and half nephew who also share the marker together, below.
The shared gravestone says:
NEFF
AUGUST E NEFF
(Shriner's logo)
1866 - 1927
HELEN S., HIS WIFE,
(Eastern Star logo - 5 sided star)
1866 - 1957
JOSEPH STEPHANI
1874 - 1951
JOHN BAPTIST STEPHANI
1827 - 1883
Bio researched and written by LSP. Do not reproduce.
John went into business with his younger brother, Jacob Stephani (1830-1878). They worked together as Stephani & Brother AKA Stephani Brothers, in Chicago. They were both born in "Prussia." John married Nancy Lederer (born in IL), the daughter of Henry Lederer and Mary Marie Catharina Kappes, at unknown date. His death certificate says he was in Illinois for 38 years or since ABOUT 1845.
Stephani children with wife Nancy:
Emma, 1857 - 1927, (Alwin W Hautau), below
Bertha E., 1859 - 1902, (Charles Bieling), below
Stephani children with unknown female:
Alfred Henry, 1865 - 1949, below
On the 8 Aug 1850 Milwaukee Ward 2, Milwaukee Co., WI census, I found John Stephany, 24, a clerk, born in Prussia, residing in what appears to be a boarding house. Possible candidate.
Possible immigrant candidates:
1) J. Stephani, age 23 (born in about 1827), a farmer, born in Germany immigrated on 21 Aug 1850 in New York, New York. He arrived via the ship called Cotton Planter, in steerage, which had departed from Antwerp. He was staying in the US. 2) Johann Stephany, born in Prussia, arriving on 26 May 1851, in NY, NY on ship named Edwina, from Antwerp, staying in the US. He was a cabin passenger.
In the 1854-1855 Hall & Company's Chicago City Directory, I found Jacob Stephani, a clerk, residing at 40 Franklin; Johann Stephani of S. & Bro, at 40 Franklin and Stephani & Bro. Vinegar Manufacturer at 40 Franklin. So it supports that Jacob was John's brother.
In the 1855-1856 Chicago City Directory and Business Advertiser, by Edward Hepple, E. H. Hall Compiler, I found on page 137:
Stephani & Bro. wines and liquors, 154 W. Randolph.
Stephani, Jacob (S.& Bro.) home 154 W. Randolph.
Stephani, Jahann, (S.& Bro.) home 154 W. Rand.
On the 1855 West Chicago, Cook Co., IL census, Jno Stephani is listed with 4 in his family (LDS FHLibrary).
8 Apr 1859, there was an advertised warehouse sale scheduled for 3 May 1859, by Albert E Neeley & Co. It was to pay warehouse charges by many, including the Stephani Bros, 3 kegs. The Press and Tribune.
His wife Nancy died sometime between the birth of daughter Bertha in Oct 1859 and 3 Jul 1860 (1860 IL census). Did it have to do with childbirth?
On the 3 July 1860 Ward 5, Chicago, Cook County, Illinois Census, in dwelling #810, on page no.106 (HeritageQuest), I found Liquor Dealers John Stephani, 34 and Jacob Stephani, 30; Emma Stephani, 4; Bertha Stephani, 2 and Mary Preble, 18. John has $1,000 in real estate and $10,000 in personal property and Jacob has $3,000. in real estate and $10,000 in personal property. The children were born in "Chicago" and the rest were born in Prussia. It would appear the children's mother has passed away. On the same 1860 census, John Stephani's in laws claimed they had 2 young Stephani children: Emma, 2 and Fanny, 1. I can only assume the in-laws shared them or watched them during the time their father was at work.
12 Nov 1861, He placed an ad in the Chicago Daily Tribune: To Rent: A 1 1/2 story Dwelling, containing six rooms and kitchen, with a nice garden, 100 x _?_, and large stable on West Madison street (Horse Railroad passing) for $150 a year. Inquire of Stephani Brothers, 128 West Randolph street.
14 Oct 1862, it was advertised that Stephani Brothers were taking orders for L F W Schindler Florist, on Division street for evergreen trees (I note John's father in law sometimes worked as a florist). Chicago Daily Tribune.
The 1862-1863 Chicago Directory is online (10-09) at http://genealogytrails.com/ill/cook/1862directory.html, listed on page 361: Jacob Stephani (Stephani Brothers) h 15 S. DesPlaines and beside him is John Stephani, of (Stephani Brothers) h 15 S. DesPlaines (h = home).
Burglary - The store of Stephani Brothers, on the corner of Randolph and Desplains streets was entered on Tuesday night by burglars. The safe was blown open, and one hundred dollars in money, a quantity of notes and other valueable papers abstracted. No clue has been obtained to the thieves. 9 May 1865 issue of the Chicago Tribune.
On the 1865 Ward 1-12, Chicago, Cook Co., IL census, Jno Stephani is listed with: 3 females, 10 and under; 2 females between 20-30; 1 male 30 - 40 and 1 male 40 - 50, total 2 males & 5 females for 7 tota (FS)l.
His son Alfred was born on 7 Oct 1865, in Chicago, with an unknown mother. Alfred's census in 1900, 1910, 1920 and 1930, claim his mother was born in MA. In 1870, there is one woman born in MA, Maria (Mrs. Levi Lovering), born about 1821.
In the 1866-1867 Chicago Directory, I found Jacob of Stephani Brothers at 21 Desplaines; John Stephani of Stephani Brothers and John & Jacob Stephani, Importers of Wines & Liquors at 128 W. Randolph St.
Frederick Voltz et al. vs. John Stephani, et al. Appeal from Superior Court. Submitted by appellants. Chicago Tribune, 14 Sep 1867.
On the 1870 Ward 10, Chicago, Cook County, Illinois Census, dated August 19th, I found Liquor Dealer John Stephani, 44 living with housekeeper Louisa Hagenow, 23. He has $25,000 in real estate and $10,000 in personal property. They were both born in Prussia. His father and mother are foreign born and he is a U.S. Citizen.
1874-1875 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: Jacob Stephani, Capitalist 2, 124 W Randolph St. and lived at 861 W Monroe St.
1876-1877 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: John J. Stephani, house at 885 W. Monroe and Jacob Stephani, capitalist at 124 W. Randolph, house at 885 W. Monroe and also probably boarding there is Alfred Stephani, at 885 W. Monroe. John Stephani (Sr.) is a capitalist at 124 W. Randolph, house at 797 W. Harrison
John Stephani's Cook Co., IL probate was recorded 31 Jan 1883. Executors Bonds and Letters of Testamentary. Julias and Rudolph Rosenthal plus Abram M Pence file an Executor's Bond for John Stephani, for Julias alone. He resided at 3247 Wabash Ave and Rudolph and Abram at different addresses.
I note a possible brother or relative, George B Stephani, 1829 - 1882, buried at Graceland Cemetery in Chicago. He was born in Germany and was a merchant of wholesale wine and liquor. Also there is Charles Stephani, born 1 Nov 1825 in
Baden-Baden, Stadtkreis Baden-Baden, Baden-Württemberg, Germany and died 14 Mar 1902 in O'Fallon, St. Clair County, Illinois at Walnut Hill Cemetery (FaG #167964890).
Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, Volume 23, Saturday, May 19, 1877: in the U.S. Circuit Court, #14686: Ezra Millard vs Louise M and John O Pister, J. W. Ehrman, extr etc. of Jacob Pister dec'd S. A. Levy, John Stephani, Thos S. Robinson, trustee, The Downer & B Brwg Co. and Harrison Knickerbocker and F. A. Manique. Bill to foreclose. Hitchcock & Dupree solrs.
1877-1878 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: does not list John J. Stephani, only John and Jacob at Stephani Brothers at 124 W. Randolph, Jacob lived at 885 W. Monroe and John (Sr.) lived at 797 W. Harrison.
1878-1879 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: Jacob has passed away and only John Stephani is listed, real estate at 124 W. Randolph, house at 797 W. Harrison.
On the 1880 District 114, Chicago, Cook Co., Illinois Census, I found single real estate man John Stephani, 53; servant Annie Terwell, 19 and Lena Murwig, 19. John and his parents were born in Germany. Annie was born in Wisconsin and Lena and both of their parents were born in Holland. He's the right age. He lives at 797 Harrison Street, dwelling #236.
John Stephani's wrote his will on 10 Jun 1882. It was probated on 29 Jan 1883 in Cook Co., IL will book 3, p 454-455. He was a resident of Chicago and left to his beloved niece Helena Stephani household items, books, photos at his residence and office plus $2K in money or notes given for that sum by Hannah and Swen J Blomquist, secured by a 15 Aug 1881 Trust Deed (Cook Co. Book 1149, p 7) for Lot 5 Salle's Subdivision of lot 5 in Chapman's Subdivision of Block 1 in Ashland. Plus his account at the Bank of Leopol Maher, minus funeral expenses. 3) to his beloved brother Johann Joseph Stephani of Poppelsdorf, born near Bonn, Prussia all the rest of his estate. 4) All deeds, etc. from his brother Joseph to be returned to his brother. 5) appoints the public administrator of Cook County, IL as executor. It was witnessed by Oto Peltzen and John Z Rittmann (see photo).
Was his "beloved brother" still in Bonn? Follow the inheritance and the bank.
Chicago und sein Deutschthum, Cleveland, OH, 1901-1902, mentions Leopold Mayer (in his will above) in German. He was born in1827. Mentions "die Bank den Namen Leopold Maher & Co," page 283.
John Stephani's Cook County, Illinois Physician's Certificate of Death #14952 gives the following data:, male, white, age 56, occupation: Capitalist, died 22 January, 1883 at 3 P.M., single, nationality and place where born: German, resided in this state for 38 years (or about 1845), died at 757 W. Harrison Street in Chicago, cause of death: Apoplexy & Auto Alcoholic, Gastritis, Place of Burial : Rose Hill. The informant was D W Canaham.
GP shared the family connection based on German Stephani birth records (unseen by me). John's half brother (with different mother) Johann Joseph and his wife Helen Raaf were the parents of siblings Helen Anna Catharina Stephani Neff and Joseph Stephani, John's half niece and half nephew who also share the marker together, below.
The shared gravestone says:
NEFF
AUGUST E NEFF
(Shriner's logo)
1866 - 1927
HELEN S., HIS WIFE,
(Eastern Star logo - 5 sided star)
1866 - 1957
JOSEPH STEPHANI
1874 - 1951
JOHN BAPTIST STEPHANI
1827 - 1883
Bio researched and written by LSP. Do not reproduce.
John Baptist "Johann" Stephani was the son of unknown German parents. He had a half brother (GP) Johann Joseph Stephani, Sr. (dates unknown), who married Helen Raaf.
John went into business with his younger brother, Jacob Stephani (1830-1878). They worked together as Stephani & Brother AKA Stephani Brothers, in Chicago. They were both born in "Prussia." John married Nancy Lederer (born in IL), the daughter of Henry Lederer and Mary Marie Catharina Kappes, at unknown date. His death certificate says he was in Illinois for 38 years or since ABOUT 1845.
Stephani children with wife Nancy:
Emma, 1857 - 1927, (Alwin W Hautau), below
Bertha E., 1859 - 1902, (Charles Bieling), below
Stephani children with unknown female:
Alfred Henry, 1865 - 1949, below
On the 8 Aug 1850 Milwaukee Ward 2, Milwaukee Co., WI census, I found John Stephany, 24, a clerk, born in Prussia, residing in what appears to be a boarding house. Possible candidate.
Possible immigrant candidates:
1) J. Stephani, age 23 (born in about 1827), a farmer, born in Germany immigrated on 21 Aug 1850 in New York, New York. He arrived via the ship called Cotton Planter, in steerage, which had departed from Antwerp. He was staying in the US. 2) Johann Stephany, born in Prussia, arriving on 26 May 1851, in NY, NY on ship named Edwina, from Antwerp, staying in the US. He was a cabin passenger.
In the 1854-1855 Hall & Company's Chicago City Directory, I found Jacob Stephani, a clerk, residing at 40 Franklin; Johann Stephani of S. & Bro, at 40 Franklin and Stephani & Bro. Vinegar Manufacturer at 40 Franklin. So it supports that Jacob was John's brother.
In the 1855-1856 Chicago City Directory and Business Advertiser, by Edward Hepple, E. H. Hall Compiler, I found on page 137:
Stephani & Bro. wines and liquors, 154 W. Randolph.
Stephani, Jacob (S.& Bro.) home 154 W. Randolph.
Stephani, Jahann, (S.& Bro.) home 154 W. Rand.
On the 1855 West Chicago, Cook Co., IL census, Jno Stephani is listed with 4 in his family (LDS FHLibrary).
8 Apr 1859, there was an advertised warehouse sale scheduled for 3 May 1859, by Albert E Neeley & Co. It was to pay warehouse charges by many, including the Stephani Bros, 3 kegs. The Press and Tribune.
His wife Nancy died sometime between the birth of daughter Bertha in Oct 1859 and 3 Jul 1860 (1860 IL census). Did it have to do with childbirth?
On the 3 July 1860 Ward 5, Chicago, Cook County, Illinois Census, in dwelling #810, on page no.106 (HeritageQuest), I found Liquor Dealers John Stephani, 34 and Jacob Stephani, 30; Emma Stephani, 4; Bertha Stephani, 2 and Mary Preble, 18. John has $1,000 in real estate and $10,000 in personal property and Jacob has $3,000. in real estate and $10,000 in personal property. The children were born in "Chicago" and the rest were born in Prussia. It would appear the children's mother has passed away. On the same 1860 census, John Stephani's in laws claimed they had 2 young Stephani children: Emma, 2 and Fanny, 1. I can only assume the in-laws shared them or watched them during the time their father was at work.
12 Nov 1861, He placed an ad in the Chicago Daily Tribune: To Rent: A 1 1/2 story Dwelling, containing six rooms and kitchen, with a nice garden, 100 x _?_, and large stable on West Madison street (Horse Railroad passing) for $150 a year. Inquire of Stephani Brothers, 128 West Randolph street.
14 Oct 1862, it was advertised that Stephani Brothers were taking orders for L F W Schindler Florist, on Division street for evergreen trees (I note John's father in law sometimes worked as a florist). Chicago Daily Tribune.
The 1862-1863 Chicago Directory is online (10-09) at http://genealogytrails.com/ill/cook/1862directory.html, listed on page 361: Jacob Stephani (Stephani Brothers) h 15 S. DesPlaines and beside him is John Stephani, of (Stephani Brothers) h 15 S. DesPlaines (h = home).
Burglary - The store of Stephani Brothers, on the corner of Randolph and Desplains streets was entered on Tuesday night by burglars. The safe was blown open, and one hundred dollars in money, a quantity of notes and other valueable papers abstracted. No clue has been obtained to the thieves. 9 May 1865 issue of the Chicago Tribune.
On the 1865 Ward 1-12, Chicago, Cook Co., IL census, Jno Stephani is listed with: 3 females, 10 and under; 2 females between 20-30; 1 male 30 - 40 and 1 male 40 - 50, total 2 males & 5 females for 7 tota (FS)l.
His son Alfred was born on 7 Oct 1865, in Chicago, with an unknown mother. Alfred's census in 1900, 1910, 1920 and 1930, claim his mother was born in MA. In 1870, there is one woman born in MA, Maria (Mrs. Levi Lovering), born about 1821.
In the 1866-1867 Chicago Directory, I found Jacob of Stephani Brothers at 21 Desplaines; John Stephani of Stephani Brothers and John & Jacob Stephani, Importers of Wines & Liquors at 128 W. Randolph St.
Frederick Voltz et al. vs. John Stephani, et al. Appeal from Superior Court. Submitted by appellants. Chicago Tribune, 14 Sep 1867.
On the 1870 Ward 10, Chicago, Cook County, Illinois Census, dated August 19th, I found Liquor Dealer John Stephani, 44 living with housekeeper Louisa Hagenow, 23. He has $25,000 in real estate and $10,000 in personal property. They were both born in Prussia. His father and mother are foreign born and he is a U.S. Citizen.
1874-1875 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: Jacob Stephani, Capitalist 2, 124 W Randolph St. and lived at 861 W Monroe St.
1876-1877 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: John J. Stephani, house at 885 W. Monroe and Jacob Stephani, capitalist at 124 W. Randolph, house at 885 W. Monroe and also probably boarding there is Alfred Stephani, at 885 W. Monroe. John Stephani (Sr.) is a capitalist at 124 W. Randolph, house at 797 W. Harrison
John Stephani's Cook Co., IL probate was recorded 31 Jan 1883. Executors Bonds and Letters of Testamentary. Julias and Rudolph Rosenthal plus Abram M Pence file an Executor's Bond for John Stephani, for Julias alone. He resided at 3247 Wabash Ave and Rudolph and Abram at different addresses.
I note a possible brother or relative, George B Stephani, 1829 - 1882, buried at Graceland Cemetery in Chicago. He was born in Germany and was a merchant of wholesale wine and liquor. Also there is Charles Stephani, born 1 Nov 1825 in
Baden-Baden, Stadtkreis Baden-Baden, Baden-Württemberg, Germany and died 14 Mar 1902 in O'Fallon, St. Clair County, Illinois at Walnut Hill Cemetery (FaG #167964890).
Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, Volume 23, Saturday, May 19, 1877: in the U.S. Circuit Court, #14686: Ezra Millard vs Louise M and John O Pister, J. W. Ehrman, extr etc. of Jacob Pister dec'd S. A. Levy, John Stephani, Thos S. Robinson, trustee, The Downer & B Brwg Co. and Harrison Knickerbocker and F. A. Manique. Bill to foreclose. Hitchcock & Dupree solrs.
1877-1878 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: does not list John J. Stephani, only John and Jacob at Stephani Brothers at 124 W. Randolph, Jacob lived at 885 W. Monroe and John (Sr.) lived at 797 W. Harrison.
1878-1879 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: Jacob has passed away and only John Stephani is listed, real estate at 124 W. Randolph, house at 797 W. Harrison.
On the 1880 District 114, Chicago, Cook Co., Illinois Census, I found single real estate man John Stephani, 53; servant Annie Terwell, 19 and Lena Murwig, 19. John and his parents were born in Germany. Annie was born in Wisconsin and Lena and both of their parents were born in Holland. He's the right age. He lives at 797 Harrison Street, dwelling #236.
John Stephani's wrote his will on 10 Jun 1882. It was probated on 29 Jan 1883 in Cook Co., IL will book 3, p 454-455. He was a resident of Chicago and left to his beloved niece Helena Stephani household items, books, photos at his residence and office plus $2K in money or notes given for that sum by Hannah and Swen J Blomquist, secured by a 15 Aug 1881 Trust Deed (Cook Co. Book 1149, p 7) for Lot 5 Salle's Subdivision of lot 5 in Chapman's Subdivision of Block 1 in Ashland. Plus his account at the Bank of Leopol Maher, minus funeral expenses. 3) to his beloved brother Johann Joseph Stephani of Poppelsdorf, born near Bonn, Prussia all the rest of his estate. 4) All deeds, etc. from his brother Joseph to be returned to his brother. 5) appoints the public administrator of Cook County, IL as executor. It was witnessed by Oto Peltzen and John Z Rittmann (see photo).
Was his "beloved brother" still in Bonn? Follow the inheritance and the bank.
Chicago und sein Deutschthum, Cleveland, OH, 1901-1902, mentions Leopold Mayer (in his will above) in German. He was born in1827. Mentions "die Bank den Namen Leopold Maher & Co," page 283.
John Stephani's Cook County, Illinois Physician's Certificate of Death #14952 gives the following data:, male, white, age 56, occupation: Capitalist, died 22 January, 1883 at 3 P.M., single, nationality and place where born: German, resided in this state for 38 years (or about 1845), died at 757 W. Harrison Street in Chicago, cause of death: Apoplexy & Auto Alcoholic, Gastritis, Place of Burial : Rose Hill. The informant was D W Canaham.
GP shared the family connection based on German Stephani birth records (unseen by me). John's half brother (with different mother) Johann Joseph and his wife Helen Raaf were the parents of siblings Helen Anna Catharina Stephani Neff and Joseph Stephani, John's half niece and half nephew who also share the marker together, below.
The shared gravestone says:
NEFF
AUGUST E NEFF
(Shriner's logo)
1866 - 1927
HELEN S., HIS WIFE,
(Eastern Star logo - 5 sided star)
1866 - 1957
JOSEPH STEPHANI
1874 - 1951
JOHN BAPTIST STEPHANI
1827 - 1883
Bio researched and written by LSP. Do not reproduce.
John went into business with his younger brother, Jacob Stephani (1830-1878). They worked together as Stephani & Brother AKA Stephani Brothers, in Chicago. They were both born in "Prussia." John married Nancy Lederer (born in IL), the daughter of Henry Lederer and Mary Marie Catharina Kappes, at unknown date. His death certificate says he was in Illinois for 38 years or since ABOUT 1845.
Stephani children with wife Nancy:
Emma, 1857 - 1927, (Alwin W Hautau), below
Bertha E., 1859 - 1902, (Charles Bieling), below
Stephani children with unknown female:
Alfred Henry, 1865 - 1949, below
On the 8 Aug 1850 Milwaukee Ward 2, Milwaukee Co., WI census, I found John Stephany, 24, a clerk, born in Prussia, residing in what appears to be a boarding house. Possible candidate.
Possible immigrant candidates:
1) J. Stephani, age 23 (born in about 1827), a farmer, born in Germany immigrated on 21 Aug 1850 in New York, New York. He arrived via the ship called Cotton Planter, in steerage, which had departed from Antwerp. He was staying in the US. 2) Johann Stephany, born in Prussia, arriving on 26 May 1851, in NY, NY on ship named Edwina, from Antwerp, staying in the US. He was a cabin passenger.
In the 1854-1855 Hall & Company's Chicago City Directory, I found Jacob Stephani, a clerk, residing at 40 Franklin; Johann Stephani of S. & Bro, at 40 Franklin and Stephani & Bro. Vinegar Manufacturer at 40 Franklin. So it supports that Jacob was John's brother.
In the 1855-1856 Chicago City Directory and Business Advertiser, by Edward Hepple, E. H. Hall Compiler, I found on page 137:
Stephani & Bro. wines and liquors, 154 W. Randolph.
Stephani, Jacob (S.& Bro.) home 154 W. Randolph.
Stephani, Jahann, (S.& Bro.) home 154 W. Rand.
On the 1855 West Chicago, Cook Co., IL census, Jno Stephani is listed with 4 in his family (LDS FHLibrary).
8 Apr 1859, there was an advertised warehouse sale scheduled for 3 May 1859, by Albert E Neeley & Co. It was to pay warehouse charges by many, including the Stephani Bros, 3 kegs. The Press and Tribune.
His wife Nancy died sometime between the birth of daughter Bertha in Oct 1859 and 3 Jul 1860 (1860 IL census). Did it have to do with childbirth?
On the 3 July 1860 Ward 5, Chicago, Cook County, Illinois Census, in dwelling #810, on page no.106 (HeritageQuest), I found Liquor Dealers John Stephani, 34 and Jacob Stephani, 30; Emma Stephani, 4; Bertha Stephani, 2 and Mary Preble, 18. John has $1,000 in real estate and $10,000 in personal property and Jacob has $3,000. in real estate and $10,000 in personal property. The children were born in "Chicago" and the rest were born in Prussia. It would appear the children's mother has passed away. On the same 1860 census, John Stephani's in laws claimed they had 2 young Stephani children: Emma, 2 and Fanny, 1. I can only assume the in-laws shared them or watched them during the time their father was at work.
12 Nov 1861, He placed an ad in the Chicago Daily Tribune: To Rent: A 1 1/2 story Dwelling, containing six rooms and kitchen, with a nice garden, 100 x _?_, and large stable on West Madison street (Horse Railroad passing) for $150 a year. Inquire of Stephani Brothers, 128 West Randolph street.
14 Oct 1862, it was advertised that Stephani Brothers were taking orders for L F W Schindler Florist, on Division street for evergreen trees (I note John's father in law sometimes worked as a florist). Chicago Daily Tribune.
The 1862-1863 Chicago Directory is online (10-09) at http://genealogytrails.com/ill/cook/1862directory.html, listed on page 361: Jacob Stephani (Stephani Brothers) h 15 S. DesPlaines and beside him is John Stephani, of (Stephani Brothers) h 15 S. DesPlaines (h = home).
Burglary - The store of Stephani Brothers, on the corner of Randolph and Desplains streets was entered on Tuesday night by burglars. The safe was blown open, and one hundred dollars in money, a quantity of notes and other valueable papers abstracted. No clue has been obtained to the thieves. 9 May 1865 issue of the Chicago Tribune.
On the 1865 Ward 1-12, Chicago, Cook Co., IL census, Jno Stephani is listed with: 3 females, 10 and under; 2 females between 20-30; 1 male 30 - 40 and 1 male 40 - 50, total 2 males & 5 females for 7 tota (FS)l.
His son Alfred was born on 7 Oct 1865, in Chicago, with an unknown mother. Alfred's census in 1900, 1910, 1920 and 1930, claim his mother was born in MA. In 1870, there is one woman born in MA, Maria (Mrs. Levi Lovering), born about 1821.
In the 1866-1867 Chicago Directory, I found Jacob of Stephani Brothers at 21 Desplaines; John Stephani of Stephani Brothers and John & Jacob Stephani, Importers of Wines & Liquors at 128 W. Randolph St.
Frederick Voltz et al. vs. John Stephani, et al. Appeal from Superior Court. Submitted by appellants. Chicago Tribune, 14 Sep 1867.
On the 1870 Ward 10, Chicago, Cook County, Illinois Census, dated August 19th, I found Liquor Dealer John Stephani, 44 living with housekeeper Louisa Hagenow, 23. He has $25,000 in real estate and $10,000 in personal property. They were both born in Prussia. His father and mother are foreign born and he is a U.S. Citizen.
1874-1875 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: Jacob Stephani, Capitalist 2, 124 W Randolph St. and lived at 861 W Monroe St.
1876-1877 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: John J. Stephani, house at 885 W. Monroe and Jacob Stephani, capitalist at 124 W. Randolph, house at 885 W. Monroe and also probably boarding there is Alfred Stephani, at 885 W. Monroe. John Stephani (Sr.) is a capitalist at 124 W. Randolph, house at 797 W. Harrison
John Stephani's Cook Co., IL probate was recorded 31 Jan 1883. Executors Bonds and Letters of Testamentary. Julias and Rudolph Rosenthal plus Abram M Pence file an Executor's Bond for John Stephani, for Julias alone. He resided at 3247 Wabash Ave and Rudolph and Abram at different addresses.
I note a possible brother or relative, George B Stephani, 1829 - 1882, buried at Graceland Cemetery in Chicago. He was born in Germany and was a merchant of wholesale wine and liquor. Also there is Charles Stephani, born 1 Nov 1825 in
Baden-Baden, Stadtkreis Baden-Baden, Baden-Württemberg, Germany and died 14 Mar 1902 in O'Fallon, St. Clair County, Illinois at Walnut Hill Cemetery (FaG #167964890).
Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, Volume 23, Saturday, May 19, 1877: in the U.S. Circuit Court, #14686: Ezra Millard vs Louise M and John O Pister, J. W. Ehrman, extr etc. of Jacob Pister dec'd S. A. Levy, John Stephani, Thos S. Robinson, trustee, The Downer & B Brwg Co. and Harrison Knickerbocker and F. A. Manique. Bill to foreclose. Hitchcock & Dupree solrs.
1877-1878 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: does not list John J. Stephani, only John and Jacob at Stephani Brothers at 124 W. Randolph, Jacob lived at 885 W. Monroe and John (Sr.) lived at 797 W. Harrison.
1878-1879 Lakeside Directory of Chicago: Jacob has passed away and only John Stephani is listed, real estate at 124 W. Randolph, house at 797 W. Harrison.
On the 1880 District 114, Chicago, Cook Co., Illinois Census, I found single real estate man John Stephani, 53; servant Annie Terwell, 19 and Lena Murwig, 19. John and his parents were born in Germany. Annie was born in Wisconsin and Lena and both of their parents were born in Holland. He's the right age. He lives at 797 Harrison Street, dwelling #236.
John Stephani's wrote his will on 10 Jun 1882. It was probated on 29 Jan 1883 in Cook Co., IL will book 3, p 454-455. He was a resident of Chicago and left to his beloved niece Helena Stephani household items, books, photos at his residence and office plus $2K in money or notes given for that sum by Hannah and Swen J Blomquist, secured by a 15 Aug 1881 Trust Deed (Cook Co. Book 1149, p 7) for Lot 5 Salle's Subdivision of lot 5 in Chapman's Subdivision of Block 1 in Ashland. Plus his account at the Bank of Leopol Maher, minus funeral expenses. 3) to his beloved brother Johann Joseph Stephani of Poppelsdorf, born near Bonn, Prussia all the rest of his estate. 4) All deeds, etc. from his brother Joseph to be returned to his brother. 5) appoints the public administrator of Cook County, IL as executor. It was witnessed by Oto Peltzen and John Z Rittmann (see photo).
Was his "beloved brother" still in Bonn? Follow the inheritance and the bank.
Chicago und sein Deutschthum, Cleveland, OH, 1901-1902, mentions Leopold Mayer (in his will above) in German. He was born in1827. Mentions "die Bank den Namen Leopold Maher & Co," page 283.
John Stephani's Cook County, Illinois Physician's Certificate of Death #14952 gives the following data:, male, white, age 56, occupation: Capitalist, died 22 January, 1883 at 3 P.M., single, nationality and place where born: German, resided in this state for 38 years (or about 1845), died at 757 W. Harrison Street in Chicago, cause of death: Apoplexy & Auto Alcoholic, Gastritis, Place of Burial : Rose Hill. The informant was D W Canaham.
GP shared the family connection based on German Stephani birth records (unseen by me). John's half brother (with different mother) Johann Joseph and his wife Helen Raaf were the parents of siblings Helen Anna Catharina Stephani Neff and Joseph Stephani, John's half niece and half nephew who also share the marker together, below.
The shared gravestone says:
NEFF
AUGUST E NEFF
(Shriner's logo)
1866 - 1927
HELEN S., HIS WIFE,
(Eastern Star logo - 5 sided star)
1866 - 1957
JOSEPH STEPHANI
1874 - 1951
JOHN BAPTIST STEPHANI
1827 - 1883
Bio researched and written by LSP. Do not reproduce.
Inscription
N E F F
AUGUST E NEFF
1866 - 1927
HELEN S., HIS WIFE,
1866 - 1957
JOSEPH STEPHANI
1874 - 1951
JOHN BAPTIST STEPHANI
1827 - 1883
Family Members
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