[Illustration: The Kirchner home
106 S. Thirteenth Street]
This early-day Fort Dodge home—built in 1866—is unique in that it is
still occupied by one of the members of the family of the builder.
The home was constructed by Jacob Kirchner, one of the first of a number
of industrially minded pioneer businessmen to locate in this growing
little town over a century ago. Located at the southwest corner of First
Avenue South and Thirteenth Street, the house carries the address of 106
S. 13th St.
Elmer Kirchner, son of this pioneer factory and flour mill operator, and
his wife, Wilma, reside in this historic home which they have occupied
since 1936. Two other sons of the elder Kirchner are also Fort Dodge
residents. They are Jacob Kirchner Jr. and John Kirchner—practicing
attorneys. Elmer is a retired farm manager and real estate broker. Prior
to the time the Elmer Kirchners moved into the house, it was occupied by
Jacob Kirchner Jr. and his mother for many years.
The elder Kirchner built the home after purchasing Block 18 in the area
between Twelfth and Thirteenth Streets and First and Second Avenues
South. Of two-story frame construction, the house is painted white and
has green shutters. In the years since it was constructed, the house has
been remodeled and modernized.
Kirchner was born in Germany and at the age of 2 came with his parents
to the United States. They settled first in Bern Township, N. Y. and
after several years moved to Iowa and settled in the Peterson area. When
gold was found in Colorado Kirchner joined the rush there, found some
gold and returned home.
Before moving to Fort Dodge in 1866 Kirchner bought and sold thousands
of acres of land in Clay County. On arrival here he built a saw mill,
sash and door factory at First Avenue South and Twelfth Street. Later he
rebuilt the sash factory into a large modern flour mill that produced
the finest white flour, whole wheat, meals and various milling staples.
He operated the mill for more than 30 years. The mill finally was
closed, was idle for six years and in 1912 burned to the ground.
Kirchner was active in Fort Dodge affairs, was one of the founders of
the Commercial National Bank and served on the City Council in 1874,
1875, 1879 and 1880. His brother Christian was also elected to the
council from another ward. The elder Jacob Kirchner died in 1909; Mrs.
Kirchner died in 1962.