S/O Jean Marie & Pauline Dorlace Adoue
"Galveston Daily News," 18 November 1911, p. 12
DEATH COMES TO BERTRAND ADOUE
Galveston Banker and Philanthropist Meets End Peacefully at His Home
MAN OF MANY INTERESTS
Distinguished Galvestonian Had Made a Prominent Figure in Southwestern Development Many Years
In the death of Bertrand Adoue, who passed away at 2:20 o'clock Friday morning, the city of Galveston has lost a man who ranked high in the long roll of those who combined the works of business man and philanthropist. Galveston has been fortunate in possessing many citizens whose ideals of civic development were in part realized by the growth of recent years. Among them Mr. Adoue was at once a worker and an optimist. Believing in the destiny of Texas, and the destiny of Galveston as well, he made his home in the Oleander City. And from his headquarters in Galveston there radiated a keen, co-operative energy that has been felt in business development throughout the whole Southwest. The manner in which Mr. Adoue had identified himself with many Galveston interests was well known during the day, Friday, when from business houses all over the city, from the Galveston Cotton Exchange to the outer edge of the business district flags were flying at half mast, and in many cases crepe was draped upon the doors. The firm of Adoue & Lobit was closed out of respect to the dead an whose life for the past forty years had been spent in developing the standing by which the firm was recognized not alone in America, but in Europe as well.
Expressions of regret about the city were universal among the business men who for years had known Mr. Adoue personally. The announcement of his death at an early hour Friday morning in The News came as a surprise to many who knew him, for although it was generally understood that Mr. Adoue was in poor health, his constant application to work, and his appearance in business offices and on the streets led all to believe that his condition was far from serious.
The only member of Mr. Adoue's family who was with him when the end came was his only son, Louis Adoue. Mrs. Adoue and Miss Mimi Adoue were at Fort Worth, Tex., while Mr. Adoue's other daughter, Mrs. Franklin McFarland, was at her home in Toronto, Canada, when the news reached her. Two brothers also survive Mr. Adoue – J. B. Adoue of Dallas and M. Adoue of Calvert, Tex. The family is expected to arrive in Galveston this morning.
Some of Mr. Adoue's business activities are indicated by offices which he is known to have held, although his interests were widespread. A member of the banking firm of Adoue & Lobit, a director of the firm of A. H. Belo & Co., publishers of The Galveston –Dallas News, since January, 1891, Mr. Adoue was also president of the Galveston Dry Goods Company, president of the Galveston Brewing Company, vice president of the Lasker Real Estate Company, vice president of the Galveston Hotel Company [owners of the Hotel Galvez], treasurer of the Surf Bathing Company, president of the Oatarman Widows and Orphans Home Fund, interested in the firm of Mistrot, Munn & Co., and an active participant in the development of many other industries throughout the Southwest. Mr. Aboue was also prominent in the Societe Francais Bienfaisance of Galveston, holding the office of president of the organization for twenty-seven consecutive years. He held the official positions of consul for France, Norway and Sweden at the port of Galveston, having acted in the capacity of Swedish consul for over thirty years.
Mr. Adoue's partner in his chief business interests, the firm of Adoue & Lotit, was Mr. Joseph Lobit. The two were together the evening before Mr. Adoue died, and Mr. Lobit, his partner's senior in age, has been completely prostrated by the unexpected death of the man with whom he has been associated for nearly half a century.
Bertrand Adoue was born in Aurignac, France, on Sept. 9, 1841. His parents although commanding high respect in the little French community, were very poor. At the age of 20, like many other ambitious young Europeans, Mr. Adoue came to the United States with a view toward bettering his fortune. His first home in America was in New Orleans. Here he arrived in the autumn of 1859, working as a clerk until 1863. During the civil war his fortunes had cast him into Brownsville, Tex., and at the end of the struggle he found himself substantially without financial means. In 1866 Mr. Adoue obtained a confidential position with the firm of Haswell & Son at Millican, Tex. Here his services resulted in a rapid rise to a partnership in the firm. He preferred to enter business independently, however, and concluded an arrangement with another young man, Mr. J. Lobit, estined to be his partner for the remainder of his business life.
The firm of Adoue & Lobit, grocers, started business in Bryan in 1867. Later on a branch in Calvert was established and the business grew rapidly. After the Central road was extended from Bryan to Calvert in 1869 Mr. Lobit remained at the head of the grocery business in Bryan, while Mr. Adoue moved to Calvert, establishing a bank there under the name of Adoue & Lobit. As had been the case in the grocery business, the banking venture succeeded phenomenally, and with an enlarged capital broader fields were sought. About 1872 the grocery business in Bryan was wound up, while Mr. Lobit, as representative member of the firm, came to Galveston and established a cotton commission and banking house at the Oleander City. In a period uncommonly short the banking connections of the new firm embraced all the great capitals of Europe and their banking operations in Texas included every section of the state.
The firm interested itself not alone in ordinary banking transactions but as developers of industries of every description. For years they were the exclusive handlers in Texas of all the by-products of cotton, such as oil, cotton seed cake and meal. Adoue & Lobit were the pioneers in finding a European market for these products. Also they assisted in the interior the people who were endeavoring to build up cotton seed oil mills, but who lacked the necessary capital.
In addition to his complex business interests, which included the chief office of three of the large breweries of Texas, Mr. Adoue was keenly interested in many philanthropies. Convinced that home-making was one of the chief objects of an education, he joined with Mr. M. Lasker in gratifying a pet philanthropy by endowing the Galveston public schools with what has been pronounced the most complete and adequate manual training and domestic science equipment "West of the Mississippi." These two men, working together, paid all expenses incident to the first year's operation of these departments.
In 1871 Mr. Adoue was married in New Orleans to Miss Albertine Schneider, who survives him. Three children also survive, Mrs. Franklin MacFarland [nee Pauline Adoue] of Toronto, Canada; Miss Mimi Adoue and Louis Adoue, both of Galveston.
Funeal services are to be held this afternoon at 3:30 o'clock from the Adoue residence at 1516 Postoffice street. Rev. Charles S. Aves of Trinity Episcopal Church is to preside. The interment will follow at Cahill Cemetery.
The active pallbearers who have been appointed are W. C. Skinner, I. A. Stein, George Sealy, Emil Westerman, Paul Lobit, Victor Baulard, Sam Miller, D. Rossi, Ed Lasker and P. J. Clarke.
The honorary pallbearers are Joseph Lobit, S. P. Mistrot, Jens Moller, H. Wilkens, H. Prince, W. S. Davis Jr., John Sealy, I. Heffron, J. H. Langbehn, J. B. Stubbs, M. Lasker, Walter Gresham, Dr. William Gammon, Sam W. Block, H. Hmilton, R. L. Autrey, E. O. Flood, Charles Fowler, R. Waverly Smith, J. P. Alvey, H. O. Stein, C. L. Beissner, I. H. Kempner, I. Lovenberg, George D. Briggs, Ed Borelli, John Lubben, W. C. Ansel, William Scrimgeour.
AS OTHERS SAW HIM
Brief Comments From Galvestonians Who Knew the Man Upon the Passing of Bertrand Adoue
Throughout the city of Galveston on Friday the men who for years past had been associated with Mr. Adoue, personally or in business transactions, commented freely upon the past life of the man who died early Friday morning. Known to practically every Galvestonian, Mr. Adoue was looked upon in loco parentis by many who went to him for advice, and who always received it. From the men who, perhaps, had known him best, came the comments that follow.
M. Lasker of Texas Star Flour Mills – Bertrand Adoue was an extraordinary man in many respects – entirely a self-made man. While possessing that great self-reliance and self-confidence that most self-made men posses, he had a vain of humor in his makeup, lacking in most men of his caliber. It enabled him to spice the most serious transactions, for those who were in consultation with him, by the apt application of some anecdote or simile. While humorous, the little sidelight brought the desired truth home to his hearers in the most convincing manner.
While a most tremendous worker and earnest business man, he always found time to say a good word, giving a bit of advice here and some encouragement there, to the most humble with whom he came in contact. He was absolutely democratic in his views and in his treatment of all persons he met, either in business or socially. His treatment toward the occupants of palace or cabin, in either of which he was alike at home, was tempered with the same cordially familiar strain. This was an attribute peculiarly his own, and was prominent regardless of the high station of one man or the humble position of another.
As a counselor with whom to advise, either in personal matters or matters concerning the good of his state, city or the community at large, Mr. Adoue was an invaluable aid. Always earnest and honest in his efforts to reach a proper conclusions, he was most convincing in his manner of imparting it. He has been second to no citizen of Galveston in working for her development and best interests, and few citizens have equaled him in efforts or in production of results with regard to bringing about the growth of his adopted home city.
I have known Mr. Adoue nearly forty-five years, and intimately during the last forty years of that period. We have had many important transactions together, and although both reputed to be men of rather positive views; there has never arisen a misunderstanding between us. During my life I have suffered keenly the loss of friends by death, and the loss of associates as well. Of all such bereavements, however, not one has cut more deeply into my feeling than has the demise of Bertrand Adoue.
Hon. Walter Gresham – The state of Texas as well as the city of Galveston has sustained a great loss in the passing of Mr. Adoue. He was a man of great originality and constructive force, inspiring confidence in all who knew him. He was broad, liberal and patriotic in his views, looking to the very right of every proposition that confronted him. In his dealings with his fellow-men he always kept the golden rule as his guiding star. Few men are gifted with a stronger mentality, and none with a kinder disposition. He was bold and fearless in the discharge of his duty, but always conservative and considerate of the rights of others. He was foremost in every movement for the advancement of Galveston. His efforts in behalf of the seawall and grade raising and in behalf of the causeway were very effective in bringing those great works into being, and as a member of the deep water committee he was one of the most earnest advocates of the harbor improvements at this port.
Hon. George B. Mann, County Judge, and formerly of the Law Firm of Mann & Baker—I have, known Mr. Adoue -for a number of years, and have held him in the highest regard and esteem as a citizen, financier and business man. He possessed a truly wonderful faculty for business, and a judgment in affairs that closely approached the keynote in his life of success. He possessed a judgment in all department of life that is rarely equaled. His career was most remarkable. He started in a small way and attained a measure of success that is seldom granted man. He has always held the respect of the community, and has contributed much toward its upbuilding. As a financier he had no superior in the men of today.
"Galveston Daily News," 18 November 1911, p. 12
DEATH COMES TO BERTRAND ADOUE
Galveston Banker and Philanthropist Meets End Peacefully at His Home
MAN OF MANY INTERESTS
Distinguished Galvestonian Had Made a Prominent Figure in Southwestern Development Many Years
In the death of Bertrand Adoue, who passed away at 2:20 o'clock Friday morning, the city of Galveston has lost a man who ranked high in the long roll of those who combined the works of business man and philanthropist. Galveston has been fortunate in possessing many citizens whose ideals of civic development were in part realized by the growth of recent years. Among them Mr. Adoue was at once a worker and an optimist. Believing in the destiny of Texas, and the destiny of Galveston as well, he made his home in the Oleander City. And from his headquarters in Galveston there radiated a keen, co-operative energy that has been felt in business development throughout the whole Southwest. The manner in which Mr. Adoue had identified himself with many Galveston interests was well known during the day, Friday, when from business houses all over the city, from the Galveston Cotton Exchange to the outer edge of the business district flags were flying at half mast, and in many cases crepe was draped upon the doors. The firm of Adoue & Lobit was closed out of respect to the dead an whose life for the past forty years had been spent in developing the standing by which the firm was recognized not alone in America, but in Europe as well.
Expressions of regret about the city were universal among the business men who for years had known Mr. Adoue personally. The announcement of his death at an early hour Friday morning in The News came as a surprise to many who knew him, for although it was generally understood that Mr. Adoue was in poor health, his constant application to work, and his appearance in business offices and on the streets led all to believe that his condition was far from serious.
The only member of Mr. Adoue's family who was with him when the end came was his only son, Louis Adoue. Mrs. Adoue and Miss Mimi Adoue were at Fort Worth, Tex., while Mr. Adoue's other daughter, Mrs. Franklin McFarland, was at her home in Toronto, Canada, when the news reached her. Two brothers also survive Mr. Adoue – J. B. Adoue of Dallas and M. Adoue of Calvert, Tex. The family is expected to arrive in Galveston this morning.
Some of Mr. Adoue's business activities are indicated by offices which he is known to have held, although his interests were widespread. A member of the banking firm of Adoue & Lobit, a director of the firm of A. H. Belo & Co., publishers of The Galveston –Dallas News, since January, 1891, Mr. Adoue was also president of the Galveston Dry Goods Company, president of the Galveston Brewing Company, vice president of the Lasker Real Estate Company, vice president of the Galveston Hotel Company [owners of the Hotel Galvez], treasurer of the Surf Bathing Company, president of the Oatarman Widows and Orphans Home Fund, interested in the firm of Mistrot, Munn & Co., and an active participant in the development of many other industries throughout the Southwest. Mr. Aboue was also prominent in the Societe Francais Bienfaisance of Galveston, holding the office of president of the organization for twenty-seven consecutive years. He held the official positions of consul for France, Norway and Sweden at the port of Galveston, having acted in the capacity of Swedish consul for over thirty years.
Mr. Adoue's partner in his chief business interests, the firm of Adoue & Lotit, was Mr. Joseph Lobit. The two were together the evening before Mr. Adoue died, and Mr. Lobit, his partner's senior in age, has been completely prostrated by the unexpected death of the man with whom he has been associated for nearly half a century.
Bertrand Adoue was born in Aurignac, France, on Sept. 9, 1841. His parents although commanding high respect in the little French community, were very poor. At the age of 20, like many other ambitious young Europeans, Mr. Adoue came to the United States with a view toward bettering his fortune. His first home in America was in New Orleans. Here he arrived in the autumn of 1859, working as a clerk until 1863. During the civil war his fortunes had cast him into Brownsville, Tex., and at the end of the struggle he found himself substantially without financial means. In 1866 Mr. Adoue obtained a confidential position with the firm of Haswell & Son at Millican, Tex. Here his services resulted in a rapid rise to a partnership in the firm. He preferred to enter business independently, however, and concluded an arrangement with another young man, Mr. J. Lobit, estined to be his partner for the remainder of his business life.
The firm of Adoue & Lobit, grocers, started business in Bryan in 1867. Later on a branch in Calvert was established and the business grew rapidly. After the Central road was extended from Bryan to Calvert in 1869 Mr. Lobit remained at the head of the grocery business in Bryan, while Mr. Adoue moved to Calvert, establishing a bank there under the name of Adoue & Lobit. As had been the case in the grocery business, the banking venture succeeded phenomenally, and with an enlarged capital broader fields were sought. About 1872 the grocery business in Bryan was wound up, while Mr. Lobit, as representative member of the firm, came to Galveston and established a cotton commission and banking house at the Oleander City. In a period uncommonly short the banking connections of the new firm embraced all the great capitals of Europe and their banking operations in Texas included every section of the state.
The firm interested itself not alone in ordinary banking transactions but as developers of industries of every description. For years they were the exclusive handlers in Texas of all the by-products of cotton, such as oil, cotton seed cake and meal. Adoue & Lobit were the pioneers in finding a European market for these products. Also they assisted in the interior the people who were endeavoring to build up cotton seed oil mills, but who lacked the necessary capital.
In addition to his complex business interests, which included the chief office of three of the large breweries of Texas, Mr. Adoue was keenly interested in many philanthropies. Convinced that home-making was one of the chief objects of an education, he joined with Mr. M. Lasker in gratifying a pet philanthropy by endowing the Galveston public schools with what has been pronounced the most complete and adequate manual training and domestic science equipment "West of the Mississippi." These two men, working together, paid all expenses incident to the first year's operation of these departments.
In 1871 Mr. Adoue was married in New Orleans to Miss Albertine Schneider, who survives him. Three children also survive, Mrs. Franklin MacFarland [nee Pauline Adoue] of Toronto, Canada; Miss Mimi Adoue and Louis Adoue, both of Galveston.
Funeal services are to be held this afternoon at 3:30 o'clock from the Adoue residence at 1516 Postoffice street. Rev. Charles S. Aves of Trinity Episcopal Church is to preside. The interment will follow at Cahill Cemetery.
The active pallbearers who have been appointed are W. C. Skinner, I. A. Stein, George Sealy, Emil Westerman, Paul Lobit, Victor Baulard, Sam Miller, D. Rossi, Ed Lasker and P. J. Clarke.
The honorary pallbearers are Joseph Lobit, S. P. Mistrot, Jens Moller, H. Wilkens, H. Prince, W. S. Davis Jr., John Sealy, I. Heffron, J. H. Langbehn, J. B. Stubbs, M. Lasker, Walter Gresham, Dr. William Gammon, Sam W. Block, H. Hmilton, R. L. Autrey, E. O. Flood, Charles Fowler, R. Waverly Smith, J. P. Alvey, H. O. Stein, C. L. Beissner, I. H. Kempner, I. Lovenberg, George D. Briggs, Ed Borelli, John Lubben, W. C. Ansel, William Scrimgeour.
AS OTHERS SAW HIM
Brief Comments From Galvestonians Who Knew the Man Upon the Passing of Bertrand Adoue
Throughout the city of Galveston on Friday the men who for years past had been associated with Mr. Adoue, personally or in business transactions, commented freely upon the past life of the man who died early Friday morning. Known to practically every Galvestonian, Mr. Adoue was looked upon in loco parentis by many who went to him for advice, and who always received it. From the men who, perhaps, had known him best, came the comments that follow.
M. Lasker of Texas Star Flour Mills – Bertrand Adoue was an extraordinary man in many respects – entirely a self-made man. While possessing that great self-reliance and self-confidence that most self-made men posses, he had a vain of humor in his makeup, lacking in most men of his caliber. It enabled him to spice the most serious transactions, for those who were in consultation with him, by the apt application of some anecdote or simile. While humorous, the little sidelight brought the desired truth home to his hearers in the most convincing manner.
While a most tremendous worker and earnest business man, he always found time to say a good word, giving a bit of advice here and some encouragement there, to the most humble with whom he came in contact. He was absolutely democratic in his views and in his treatment of all persons he met, either in business or socially. His treatment toward the occupants of palace or cabin, in either of which he was alike at home, was tempered with the same cordially familiar strain. This was an attribute peculiarly his own, and was prominent regardless of the high station of one man or the humble position of another.
As a counselor with whom to advise, either in personal matters or matters concerning the good of his state, city or the community at large, Mr. Adoue was an invaluable aid. Always earnest and honest in his efforts to reach a proper conclusions, he was most convincing in his manner of imparting it. He has been second to no citizen of Galveston in working for her development and best interests, and few citizens have equaled him in efforts or in production of results with regard to bringing about the growth of his adopted home city.
I have known Mr. Adoue nearly forty-five years, and intimately during the last forty years of that period. We have had many important transactions together, and although both reputed to be men of rather positive views; there has never arisen a misunderstanding between us. During my life I have suffered keenly the loss of friends by death, and the loss of associates as well. Of all such bereavements, however, not one has cut more deeply into my feeling than has the demise of Bertrand Adoue.
Hon. Walter Gresham – The state of Texas as well as the city of Galveston has sustained a great loss in the passing of Mr. Adoue. He was a man of great originality and constructive force, inspiring confidence in all who knew him. He was broad, liberal and patriotic in his views, looking to the very right of every proposition that confronted him. In his dealings with his fellow-men he always kept the golden rule as his guiding star. Few men are gifted with a stronger mentality, and none with a kinder disposition. He was bold and fearless in the discharge of his duty, but always conservative and considerate of the rights of others. He was foremost in every movement for the advancement of Galveston. His efforts in behalf of the seawall and grade raising and in behalf of the causeway were very effective in bringing those great works into being, and as a member of the deep water committee he was one of the most earnest advocates of the harbor improvements at this port.
Hon. George B. Mann, County Judge, and formerly of the Law Firm of Mann & Baker—I have, known Mr. Adoue -for a number of years, and have held him in the highest regard and esteem as a citizen, financier and business man. He possessed a truly wonderful faculty for business, and a judgment in affairs that closely approached the keynote in his life of success. He possessed a judgment in all department of life that is rarely equaled. His career was most remarkable. He started in a small way and attained a measure of success that is seldom granted man. He has always held the respect of the community, and has contributed much toward its upbuilding. As a financier he had no superior in the men of today.
S/O Jean Marie & Pauline Dorlace Adoue
"Galveston Daily News," 18 November 1911, p. 12
DEATH COMES TO BERTRAND ADOUE
Galveston Banker and Philanthropist Meets End Peacefully at His Home
MAN OF MANY INTERESTS
Distinguished Galvestonian Had Made a Prominent Figure in Southwestern Development Many Years
In the death of Bertrand Adoue, who passed away at 2:20 o'clock Friday morning, the city of Galveston has lost a man who ranked high in the long roll of those who combined the works of business man and philanthropist. Galveston has been fortunate in possessing many citizens whose ideals of civic development were in part realized by the growth of recent years. Among them Mr. Adoue was at once a worker and an optimist. Believing in the destiny of Texas, and the destiny of Galveston as well, he made his home in the Oleander City. And from his headquarters in Galveston there radiated a keen, co-operative energy that has been felt in business development throughout the whole Southwest. The manner in which Mr. Adoue had identified himself with many Galveston interests was well known during the day, Friday, when from business houses all over the city, from the Galveston Cotton Exchange to the outer edge of the business district flags were flying at half mast, and in many cases crepe was draped upon the doors. The firm of Adoue & Lobit was closed out of respect to the dead an whose life for the past forty years had been spent in developing the standing by which the firm was recognized not alone in America, but in Europe as well.
Expressions of regret about the city were universal among the business men who for years had known Mr. Adoue personally. The announcement of his death at an early hour Friday morning in The News came as a surprise to many who knew him, for although it was generally understood that Mr. Adoue was in poor health, his constant application to work, and his appearance in business offices and on the streets led all to believe that his condition was far from serious.
The only member of Mr. Adoue's family who was with him when the end came was his only son, Louis Adoue. Mrs. Adoue and Miss Mimi Adoue were at Fort Worth, Tex., while Mr. Adoue's other daughter, Mrs. Franklin McFarland, was at her home in Toronto, Canada, when the news reached her. Two brothers also survive Mr. Adoue – J. B. Adoue of Dallas and M. Adoue of Calvert, Tex. The family is expected to arrive in Galveston this morning.
Some of Mr. Adoue's business activities are indicated by offices which he is known to have held, although his interests were widespread. A member of the banking firm of Adoue & Lobit, a director of the firm of A. H. Belo & Co., publishers of The Galveston –Dallas News, since January, 1891, Mr. Adoue was also president of the Galveston Dry Goods Company, president of the Galveston Brewing Company, vice president of the Lasker Real Estate Company, vice president of the Galveston Hotel Company [owners of the Hotel Galvez], treasurer of the Surf Bathing Company, president of the Oatarman Widows and Orphans Home Fund, interested in the firm of Mistrot, Munn & Co., and an active participant in the development of many other industries throughout the Southwest. Mr. Aboue was also prominent in the Societe Francais Bienfaisance of Galveston, holding the office of president of the organization for twenty-seven consecutive years. He held the official positions of consul for France, Norway and Sweden at the port of Galveston, having acted in the capacity of Swedish consul for over thirty years.
Mr. Adoue's partner in his chief business interests, the firm of Adoue & Lotit, was Mr. Joseph Lobit. The two were together the evening before Mr. Adoue died, and Mr. Lobit, his partner's senior in age, has been completely prostrated by the unexpected death of the man with whom he has been associated for nearly half a century.
Bertrand Adoue was born in Aurignac, France, on Sept. 9, 1841. His parents although commanding high respect in the little French community, were very poor. At the age of 20, like many other ambitious young Europeans, Mr. Adoue came to the United States with a view toward bettering his fortune. His first home in America was in New Orleans. Here he arrived in the autumn of 1859, working as a clerk until 1863. During the civil war his fortunes had cast him into Brownsville, Tex., and at the end of the struggle he found himself substantially without financial means. In 1866 Mr. Adoue obtained a confidential position with the firm of Haswell & Son at Millican, Tex. Here his services resulted in a rapid rise to a partnership in the firm. He preferred to enter business independently, however, and concluded an arrangement with another young man, Mr. J. Lobit, estined to be his partner for the remainder of his business life.
The firm of Adoue & Lobit, grocers, started business in Bryan in 1867. Later on a branch in Calvert was established and the business grew rapidly. After the Central road was extended from Bryan to Calvert in 1869 Mr. Lobit remained at the head of the grocery business in Bryan, while Mr. Adoue moved to Calvert, establishing a bank there under the name of Adoue & Lobit. As had been the case in the grocery business, the banking venture succeeded phenomenally, and with an enlarged capital broader fields were sought. About 1872 the grocery business in Bryan was wound up, while Mr. Lobit, as representative member of the firm, came to Galveston and established a cotton commission and banking house at the Oleander City. In a period uncommonly short the banking connections of the new firm embraced all the great capitals of Europe and their banking operations in Texas included every section of the state.
The firm interested itself not alone in ordinary banking transactions but as developers of industries of every description. For years they were the exclusive handlers in Texas of all the by-products of cotton, such as oil, cotton seed cake and meal. Adoue & Lobit were the pioneers in finding a European market for these products. Also they assisted in the interior the people who were endeavoring to build up cotton seed oil mills, but who lacked the necessary capital.
In addition to his complex business interests, which included the chief office of three of the large breweries of Texas, Mr. Adoue was keenly interested in many philanthropies. Convinced that home-making was one of the chief objects of an education, he joined with Mr. M. Lasker in gratifying a pet philanthropy by endowing the Galveston public schools with what has been pronounced the most complete and adequate manual training and domestic science equipment "West of the Mississippi." These two men, working together, paid all expenses incident to the first year's operation of these departments.
In 1871 Mr. Adoue was married in New Orleans to Miss Albertine Schneider, who survives him. Three children also survive, Mrs. Franklin MacFarland [nee Pauline Adoue] of Toronto, Canada; Miss Mimi Adoue and Louis Adoue, both of Galveston.
Funeal services are to be held this afternoon at 3:30 o'clock from the Adoue residence at 1516 Postoffice street. Rev. Charles S. Aves of Trinity Episcopal Church is to preside. The interment will follow at Cahill Cemetery.
The active pallbearers who have been appointed are W. C. Skinner, I. A. Stein, George Sealy, Emil Westerman, Paul Lobit, Victor Baulard, Sam Miller, D. Rossi, Ed Lasker and P. J. Clarke.
The honorary pallbearers are Joseph Lobit, S. P. Mistrot, Jens Moller, H. Wilkens, H. Prince, W. S. Davis Jr., John Sealy, I. Heffron, J. H. Langbehn, J. B. Stubbs, M. Lasker, Walter Gresham, Dr. William Gammon, Sam W. Block, H. Hmilton, R. L. Autrey, E. O. Flood, Charles Fowler, R. Waverly Smith, J. P. Alvey, H. O. Stein, C. L. Beissner, I. H. Kempner, I. Lovenberg, George D. Briggs, Ed Borelli, John Lubben, W. C. Ansel, William Scrimgeour.
AS OTHERS SAW HIM
Brief Comments From Galvestonians Who Knew the Man Upon the Passing of Bertrand Adoue
Throughout the city of Galveston on Friday the men who for years past had been associated with Mr. Adoue, personally or in business transactions, commented freely upon the past life of the man who died early Friday morning. Known to practically every Galvestonian, Mr. Adoue was looked upon in loco parentis by many who went to him for advice, and who always received it. From the men who, perhaps, had known him best, came the comments that follow.
M. Lasker of Texas Star Flour Mills – Bertrand Adoue was an extraordinary man in many respects – entirely a self-made man. While possessing that great self-reliance and self-confidence that most self-made men posses, he had a vain of humor in his makeup, lacking in most men of his caliber. It enabled him to spice the most serious transactions, for those who were in consultation with him, by the apt application of some anecdote or simile. While humorous, the little sidelight brought the desired truth home to his hearers in the most convincing manner.
While a most tremendous worker and earnest business man, he always found time to say a good word, giving a bit of advice here and some encouragement there, to the most humble with whom he came in contact. He was absolutely democratic in his views and in his treatment of all persons he met, either in business or socially. His treatment toward the occupants of palace or cabin, in either of which he was alike at home, was tempered with the same cordially familiar strain. This was an attribute peculiarly his own, and was prominent regardless of the high station of one man or the humble position of another.
As a counselor with whom to advise, either in personal matters or matters concerning the good of his state, city or the community at large, Mr. Adoue was an invaluable aid. Always earnest and honest in his efforts to reach a proper conclusions, he was most convincing in his manner of imparting it. He has been second to no citizen of Galveston in working for her development and best interests, and few citizens have equaled him in efforts or in production of results with regard to bringing about the growth of his adopted home city.
I have known Mr. Adoue nearly forty-five years, and intimately during the last forty years of that period. We have had many important transactions together, and although both reputed to be men of rather positive views; there has never arisen a misunderstanding between us. During my life I have suffered keenly the loss of friends by death, and the loss of associates as well. Of all such bereavements, however, not one has cut more deeply into my feeling than has the demise of Bertrand Adoue.
Hon. Walter Gresham – The state of Texas as well as the city of Galveston has sustained a great loss in the passing of Mr. Adoue. He was a man of great originality and constructive force, inspiring confidence in all who knew him. He was broad, liberal and patriotic in his views, looking to the very right of every proposition that confronted him. In his dealings with his fellow-men he always kept the golden rule as his guiding star. Few men are gifted with a stronger mentality, and none with a kinder disposition. He was bold and fearless in the discharge of his duty, but always conservative and considerate of the rights of others. He was foremost in every movement for the advancement of Galveston. His efforts in behalf of the seawall and grade raising and in behalf of the causeway were very effective in bringing those great works into being, and as a member of the deep water committee he was one of the most earnest advocates of the harbor improvements at this port.
Hon. George B. Mann, County Judge, and formerly of the Law Firm of Mann & Baker—I have, known Mr. Adoue -for a number of years, and have held him in the highest regard and esteem as a citizen, financier and business man. He possessed a truly wonderful faculty for business, and a judgment in affairs that closely approached the keynote in his life of success. He possessed a judgment in all department of life that is rarely equaled. His career was most remarkable. He started in a small way and attained a measure of success that is seldom granted man. He has always held the respect of the community, and has contributed much toward its upbuilding. As a financier he had no superior in the men of today.
"Galveston Daily News," 18 November 1911, p. 12
DEATH COMES TO BERTRAND ADOUE
Galveston Banker and Philanthropist Meets End Peacefully at His Home
MAN OF MANY INTERESTS
Distinguished Galvestonian Had Made a Prominent Figure in Southwestern Development Many Years
In the death of Bertrand Adoue, who passed away at 2:20 o'clock Friday morning, the city of Galveston has lost a man who ranked high in the long roll of those who combined the works of business man and philanthropist. Galveston has been fortunate in possessing many citizens whose ideals of civic development were in part realized by the growth of recent years. Among them Mr. Adoue was at once a worker and an optimist. Believing in the destiny of Texas, and the destiny of Galveston as well, he made his home in the Oleander City. And from his headquarters in Galveston there radiated a keen, co-operative energy that has been felt in business development throughout the whole Southwest. The manner in which Mr. Adoue had identified himself with many Galveston interests was well known during the day, Friday, when from business houses all over the city, from the Galveston Cotton Exchange to the outer edge of the business district flags were flying at half mast, and in many cases crepe was draped upon the doors. The firm of Adoue & Lobit was closed out of respect to the dead an whose life for the past forty years had been spent in developing the standing by which the firm was recognized not alone in America, but in Europe as well.
Expressions of regret about the city were universal among the business men who for years had known Mr. Adoue personally. The announcement of his death at an early hour Friday morning in The News came as a surprise to many who knew him, for although it was generally understood that Mr. Adoue was in poor health, his constant application to work, and his appearance in business offices and on the streets led all to believe that his condition was far from serious.
The only member of Mr. Adoue's family who was with him when the end came was his only son, Louis Adoue. Mrs. Adoue and Miss Mimi Adoue were at Fort Worth, Tex., while Mr. Adoue's other daughter, Mrs. Franklin McFarland, was at her home in Toronto, Canada, when the news reached her. Two brothers also survive Mr. Adoue – J. B. Adoue of Dallas and M. Adoue of Calvert, Tex. The family is expected to arrive in Galveston this morning.
Some of Mr. Adoue's business activities are indicated by offices which he is known to have held, although his interests were widespread. A member of the banking firm of Adoue & Lobit, a director of the firm of A. H. Belo & Co., publishers of The Galveston –Dallas News, since January, 1891, Mr. Adoue was also president of the Galveston Dry Goods Company, president of the Galveston Brewing Company, vice president of the Lasker Real Estate Company, vice president of the Galveston Hotel Company [owners of the Hotel Galvez], treasurer of the Surf Bathing Company, president of the Oatarman Widows and Orphans Home Fund, interested in the firm of Mistrot, Munn & Co., and an active participant in the development of many other industries throughout the Southwest. Mr. Aboue was also prominent in the Societe Francais Bienfaisance of Galveston, holding the office of president of the organization for twenty-seven consecutive years. He held the official positions of consul for France, Norway and Sweden at the port of Galveston, having acted in the capacity of Swedish consul for over thirty years.
Mr. Adoue's partner in his chief business interests, the firm of Adoue & Lotit, was Mr. Joseph Lobit. The two were together the evening before Mr. Adoue died, and Mr. Lobit, his partner's senior in age, has been completely prostrated by the unexpected death of the man with whom he has been associated for nearly half a century.
Bertrand Adoue was born in Aurignac, France, on Sept. 9, 1841. His parents although commanding high respect in the little French community, were very poor. At the age of 20, like many other ambitious young Europeans, Mr. Adoue came to the United States with a view toward bettering his fortune. His first home in America was in New Orleans. Here he arrived in the autumn of 1859, working as a clerk until 1863. During the civil war his fortunes had cast him into Brownsville, Tex., and at the end of the struggle he found himself substantially without financial means. In 1866 Mr. Adoue obtained a confidential position with the firm of Haswell & Son at Millican, Tex. Here his services resulted in a rapid rise to a partnership in the firm. He preferred to enter business independently, however, and concluded an arrangement with another young man, Mr. J. Lobit, estined to be his partner for the remainder of his business life.
The firm of Adoue & Lobit, grocers, started business in Bryan in 1867. Later on a branch in Calvert was established and the business grew rapidly. After the Central road was extended from Bryan to Calvert in 1869 Mr. Lobit remained at the head of the grocery business in Bryan, while Mr. Adoue moved to Calvert, establishing a bank there under the name of Adoue & Lobit. As had been the case in the grocery business, the banking venture succeeded phenomenally, and with an enlarged capital broader fields were sought. About 1872 the grocery business in Bryan was wound up, while Mr. Lobit, as representative member of the firm, came to Galveston and established a cotton commission and banking house at the Oleander City. In a period uncommonly short the banking connections of the new firm embraced all the great capitals of Europe and their banking operations in Texas included every section of the state.
The firm interested itself not alone in ordinary banking transactions but as developers of industries of every description. For years they were the exclusive handlers in Texas of all the by-products of cotton, such as oil, cotton seed cake and meal. Adoue & Lobit were the pioneers in finding a European market for these products. Also they assisted in the interior the people who were endeavoring to build up cotton seed oil mills, but who lacked the necessary capital.
In addition to his complex business interests, which included the chief office of three of the large breweries of Texas, Mr. Adoue was keenly interested in many philanthropies. Convinced that home-making was one of the chief objects of an education, he joined with Mr. M. Lasker in gratifying a pet philanthropy by endowing the Galveston public schools with what has been pronounced the most complete and adequate manual training and domestic science equipment "West of the Mississippi." These two men, working together, paid all expenses incident to the first year's operation of these departments.
In 1871 Mr. Adoue was married in New Orleans to Miss Albertine Schneider, who survives him. Three children also survive, Mrs. Franklin MacFarland [nee Pauline Adoue] of Toronto, Canada; Miss Mimi Adoue and Louis Adoue, both of Galveston.
Funeal services are to be held this afternoon at 3:30 o'clock from the Adoue residence at 1516 Postoffice street. Rev. Charles S. Aves of Trinity Episcopal Church is to preside. The interment will follow at Cahill Cemetery.
The active pallbearers who have been appointed are W. C. Skinner, I. A. Stein, George Sealy, Emil Westerman, Paul Lobit, Victor Baulard, Sam Miller, D. Rossi, Ed Lasker and P. J. Clarke.
The honorary pallbearers are Joseph Lobit, S. P. Mistrot, Jens Moller, H. Wilkens, H. Prince, W. S. Davis Jr., John Sealy, I. Heffron, J. H. Langbehn, J. B. Stubbs, M. Lasker, Walter Gresham, Dr. William Gammon, Sam W. Block, H. Hmilton, R. L. Autrey, E. O. Flood, Charles Fowler, R. Waverly Smith, J. P. Alvey, H. O. Stein, C. L. Beissner, I. H. Kempner, I. Lovenberg, George D. Briggs, Ed Borelli, John Lubben, W. C. Ansel, William Scrimgeour.
AS OTHERS SAW HIM
Brief Comments From Galvestonians Who Knew the Man Upon the Passing of Bertrand Adoue
Throughout the city of Galveston on Friday the men who for years past had been associated with Mr. Adoue, personally or in business transactions, commented freely upon the past life of the man who died early Friday morning. Known to practically every Galvestonian, Mr. Adoue was looked upon in loco parentis by many who went to him for advice, and who always received it. From the men who, perhaps, had known him best, came the comments that follow.
M. Lasker of Texas Star Flour Mills – Bertrand Adoue was an extraordinary man in many respects – entirely a self-made man. While possessing that great self-reliance and self-confidence that most self-made men posses, he had a vain of humor in his makeup, lacking in most men of his caliber. It enabled him to spice the most serious transactions, for those who were in consultation with him, by the apt application of some anecdote or simile. While humorous, the little sidelight brought the desired truth home to his hearers in the most convincing manner.
While a most tremendous worker and earnest business man, he always found time to say a good word, giving a bit of advice here and some encouragement there, to the most humble with whom he came in contact. He was absolutely democratic in his views and in his treatment of all persons he met, either in business or socially. His treatment toward the occupants of palace or cabin, in either of which he was alike at home, was tempered with the same cordially familiar strain. This was an attribute peculiarly his own, and was prominent regardless of the high station of one man or the humble position of another.
As a counselor with whom to advise, either in personal matters or matters concerning the good of his state, city or the community at large, Mr. Adoue was an invaluable aid. Always earnest and honest in his efforts to reach a proper conclusions, he was most convincing in his manner of imparting it. He has been second to no citizen of Galveston in working for her development and best interests, and few citizens have equaled him in efforts or in production of results with regard to bringing about the growth of his adopted home city.
I have known Mr. Adoue nearly forty-five years, and intimately during the last forty years of that period. We have had many important transactions together, and although both reputed to be men of rather positive views; there has never arisen a misunderstanding between us. During my life I have suffered keenly the loss of friends by death, and the loss of associates as well. Of all such bereavements, however, not one has cut more deeply into my feeling than has the demise of Bertrand Adoue.
Hon. Walter Gresham – The state of Texas as well as the city of Galveston has sustained a great loss in the passing of Mr. Adoue. He was a man of great originality and constructive force, inspiring confidence in all who knew him. He was broad, liberal and patriotic in his views, looking to the very right of every proposition that confronted him. In his dealings with his fellow-men he always kept the golden rule as his guiding star. Few men are gifted with a stronger mentality, and none with a kinder disposition. He was bold and fearless in the discharge of his duty, but always conservative and considerate of the rights of others. He was foremost in every movement for the advancement of Galveston. His efforts in behalf of the seawall and grade raising and in behalf of the causeway were very effective in bringing those great works into being, and as a member of the deep water committee he was one of the most earnest advocates of the harbor improvements at this port.
Hon. George B. Mann, County Judge, and formerly of the Law Firm of Mann & Baker—I have, known Mr. Adoue -for a number of years, and have held him in the highest regard and esteem as a citizen, financier and business man. He possessed a truly wonderful faculty for business, and a judgment in affairs that closely approached the keynote in his life of success. He possessed a judgment in all department of life that is rarely equaled. His career was most remarkable. He started in a small way and attained a measure of success that is seldom granted man. He has always held the respect of the community, and has contributed much toward its upbuilding. As a financier he had no superior in the men of today.
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