George A. A. Voige (1833-1902)[1]Find A Grave, “George A A Voige,” Memorial ID 197063231, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed May 30, 2023 was a cigar manufacturer and tobacco merchant who lived in Cincinnati, Ohio and Newport, Kentucky in the second half of the 19th century.
Biography
Early life
Georg August Adolph Voige was born on September 17, 1833 in Bücken, Germany. Today, Bücken is a part of Landkreis Nienburg/Weser in Niedersachsen. At the time of Georg’s birth, it was part of the Kingdom of Hanover. Georg was baptized at the Lutheran church in Bücken five days later, on September 22, 1833.[2]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Taufen 1805-1833, page 271, image 274, Georg August Adolph Voige, baptism 91 for 1833, baptized 22 September 1833, … Continue reading
Georg was the fifth child of Jobst Wilhelm Voige (c. 1798-1866)[3]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Beerdigungen 1853-1871, page 153, image 154, Jobst Wilhelm Voige burial record, number 17 for 1866, funeral on 7 … Continue reading and Catharina Margareta Adelheid Mühlenfeld (1801[4]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Taufen 1787-1804, page 432, image 219, Catharina Margareta Adelheid Mühlenfeld baptism record, number 110 for 1801, … Continue reading-1866[5]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Beerdigungen 1853-1871, page 157, image 158, Catharine Margarethe Adelheid Voige geboren Mühlenfeld burial record, … Continue reading). Jobst may have been a brewer by profession, as multiple records seem to list his occupation as “bruger,” an archaic German word for “brewer.” That said, the records are not the easiest to decipher, and it is possible that it is actually a different word.[6]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Beerdigungen 1853-1871, page 153, image 154, Jobst Wilhelm Voige burial record, number 17 for 1866, funeral on 7 … Continue reading[7]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Taufen 1805-1833, page 271, image 274, Georg August Adolph Voige, baptism 91 for 1833, baptized 22 September 1833, … Continue reading
Jobst and Catharina Voige had seven children:
- Johann Diedrich Wilhelm Voige (born 1823[8]Evangelische Kirche Binnen (Kirchenkreis Nienburg) (Binnen, Niedersachsen, Germany), Kirchenbuch 1803-1852, page 391 (penned), page 157 (stamped), image 164, Johann Diedrich Wilhelm Föge baptism … Continue reading)
- Johann Heinrich Voige (born 1824[9]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Taufen 1805-1833, page 382, image 192, Johann Heinrich Voige baptism record, number 80 for 1824, baptized 31 October … Continue reading)
- Catharina Dorothea Voige (born 1827[10]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Taufen 1805-1833, page 448, image 225, Catharina Dorothea Voigen baptism record, number 120 for 1827, baptized 14 … Continue reading)
- Johann Diederich Voige (1830[11]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Taufen 1805-1833, page 247, image 250, Johann Diederich Voige baptism record, number 97 for 1830, 10 September 1830, … Continue reading-1847[12]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Beerdigungen 1808-1849, page 410, image 257, Johann Diederich Voige burial record, number 51 for 1847, died 5 June … Continue reading)
- Georg August Adolph Voige
- Maria Sophia Elisabeth Voige (1836[13]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Taufen 1834-1852, page 56, image 30, Maria Sophia Elisaeth Voige baptism record, number 104 for 1836, baptized 27 … Continue reading-1838[14]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Beerdigungen 1808-1849, page 382, image 193, Maria Sophia Elisabeth Voige burial record, number 6 for 1838, died 23 … Continue reading)
- Wilhelmina Sophia Carolina Voige (1839[15]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Taufen 1834-1852, page 106, image 55, Wilhelmina Sophia Carolina Voige baptism record, number 67 for 1839, baptized … Continue reading-1842[16]Evangelische Kirche Bücken (Kirchenkreis Hoya) (Bücken, Niedersachsen, Germany), Familienbuch 1664-1893, page 188, Jobst Wh. Voige and Cath. Marg. Adh. Mühlenfelds family record, Archion, accessed … Continue reading)
Georg attended the school in Bücken until he was 14 years old, when he started an apprenticeship as a brush maker. This apprenticeship was in Hoya, a little over 3 kilometers north of Bücken. After 3 years as an apprentice, he traveled on foot to Bremen (about 50 kilometers northwest of Bücken) to begin work as a journeyman brush maker. He worked in this role for the next year and a half.[17]Armin Tenner, Cincinnati Sonst und Jetzt (Cincinnati: Druck von Mecklenborg and Rosenthal, 1878), page 280, HathiTrust, accessed June 4, 2023
In Cincinnati
In 1853, Georg left Germany for America. The port he left from, the ship he sailed on, and the port he arrived at are all mysteries currently. However, as he was working in Bremen, it is likely that he boarded a ship there. Once he arrived in the United States, George headed straight to Cincinnati, Ohio.[18]Armin Tenner, Cincinnati Sonst und Jetzt (Cincinnati: Druck von Mecklenborg and Rosenthal, 1878), page 280, HathiTrust, accessed June 4, 2023
On July 22, 1854, George Voige married Catharine Margaretha Faber in Cincinnati.[19]“Ohio, County Marriages, 1789-2016,” George Voige and Catharine Faber marriage record, July 22, 1854, Hamilton County, Ohio, volume B6, page 291, record number 815, FamilySearch, accessed … Continue reading George was 20 years old at the time, and Catharine was 18. They were married by William Engel, who was pastor of the Third German Methodist Episcopal Church in Cincinnati.[20]Williams’ Cincinnati Directory [1855] (Cincinnati: C. S. Williams, 1855), page 279, Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library, accessed June 15, 2023 This seems to be the first record linking George with the German Methodists–a linkage he would maintain for the rest of his life.
Catharine was born in Hastedt, Bremen (now part of the Hemelingen district of the city of Bremen), on May 5, 1836.[21]Hastedt, Bremen, Germany, Zivilstandsregister, 1811-1911, Gerburten 1814-1868, page 609, record 23 for 1836, Catharina Margaretha Faber birth record, 5 May 1836, FamilySearch, accessed June 15, 2023. As George had been working in Bremen before coming to America, it is possible that they first became acquainted in the Old World. Catharine’s parents were Hermann Faber (1797-1856)[22]Hastedt, Bremen, Germany, Zivilstandsregister, 1811-1911, Tote 1814-1868, page 469, record 18 for 1856, Hermann Faber death record, April 1, 1856, FamilySearch, accessed June 15, 2023 and Ilse Margarethe (Margaret) Kuhlmann (1796-1881)[23]Find A Grave, “Margaret Faber,” Memorial ID 208846887, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 15, 2023.
George’s early years in Cincinnati were spent working as a brush maker.[24]Armin Tenner, Cincinnati Sonst und Jetzt (Cincinnati: Druck von Mecklenborg and Rosenthal, 1878), page 280, HathiTrust, accessed June 4, 2023 His initial brush making job in America was in the shop of Jacob Huth (1812-1873)[25]Find A Grave, “Johann Jacob Huth,” Memorial ID 131876587, Saint John Cemetery, Saint Bernard, Hamilton County, Ohio, accessed June 16, 2023. Cincinnati’s 1858 directory lists George as one of the proprietors of the Voige & Dallmann brush manufacturing company, located at 524 Sycamore Street.[26]Williams’ Cincinnati Directory [1858] (Cincinnati: C. S. Williams, 1858), page 255, Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library, accessed June 16, 2023 This company seems to have been very short-lived, as it does not appear in other directories or in any of the biographical sketches of George Voige. What is recorded is that George went on to work at the C. & W. Claassen brush factory at 578 Main Street[27]Williams’ Cincinnati Directory [1862] (Cincinnati: Williams & Company, 1862), page 102, Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library, accessed June 17, 2023, which was owned by Claas (Charles) Claassen (1820-1877)[28]Find A Grave, “Claas Claassen,” Memorial ID 141001521, First German Protestant Cemetery, Avondale, Hamilton County, Ohio, accessed June 16, 2023 and Wolbert Claassen (1825-1883)[29]Find A Grave, “Wolbert Claassen,” Memorial ID 113417695, Walnut Hills Cemetery, Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, accessed June 16, 2023. According to George Voige’s biographical sketch in Cincinnati Sonst und Jetzt, he worked for the Claassen brothers for six years.[30]Armin Tenner, Cincinnati Sonst und Jetzt (Cincinnati: Druck von Mecklenborg and Rosenthal, 1878), page 280, HathiTrust, accessed June 4, 2023 If that is accurate, it is likely that it was not six consecutive years.
George and Catharine do not appear to be listed in the 1860 U.S. Census, but they were definitely living in Cincinnati. The 1859 Cincinnati directory lists them as living at 17 Schiller Street[31]Williams’ Cincinnati Directory [1859] (Cincinnati: C. S. Williams, 1859), page 294, Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library, accessed June 18, 2023, and the 1861 directory lists them at 57 Hamilton Road[32]Williams’ Cincinnati Directory [1861] (Cincinnati: C. S. Williams, 1861), page 344, Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library, accessed June 18, 2023. By 1860, George and Catharine had two children: William H. Voige (born in 1855)[33]Find A Grave, “William H Voige,” Memorial ID 107771088, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023 and Elizabeth M. Voige (born in 1858)[34]Find A Grave, “Elizabeth ‘Lizzie’ Voige Wendt,” Memorial ID 107227145, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023.
The early 1860s was a transitional time in George Voige’s career. While directories list his occupation as brush maker as late as 1862[35]Williams’ Cincinnati Directory [1862] (Cincinnati: Williams & Company, 1862), page 102, Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library, accessed June 17, 2023, he appears to have already started working in another industry: tobacco. Around 1860, but definitely by 1861[36]Williams’ Cincinnati Directory [1861] (Cincinnati: C. S. Williams, 1861), page 344, Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library, accessed June 18, 2023, he started working as a shop assistant at the cigar shop of Franz (Francis) Nülsen (Nuelsen) (1809-1863)[37]Find A Grave, “Franz Nuelsen,” Memorial ID 178058077, Wesleyan Cemetery, Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, accessed June 19, 2023 at 233 Main Street. Nülsen died in March 1863, and his brother Anthony hired George Voige to take over the management of the store.[38]“Lucht v. Behrens” in American Reports; Containing all Decisions of General Interest Decided in the Courts of Last Resort of the Several States, volume XXII (San Francisco, Cal.: … Continue reading George served as manager of the cigar shop for the next three years.[39]Armin Tenner, Cincinnati Sonst und Jetzt (Cincinnati: Druck von Mecklenborg and Rosenthal, 1878), page 280, HathiTrust, accessed June 4, 2023
Move to Newport, Kentucky
On August 17, 1868, George Voige made his first land purchase across the Ohio River in Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky.[40]Campbell County (Kentucky) Clerk of the County Court, Campbell County Deeds v. 7 (1868-1869), page 2, George A. Voige land purchase from Albert S. Berry, recorded August 21, 1868, FamilySearch, … Continue reading Exactly when his family began residing in Newport is unclear, but they were definitely there by June 20, 1870, when the 1870 United States Census lists his family in Newport. Two more children had joined the family since the previous census: Amelia (born 1864)[41]Find A Grave, “Amelia C Voige Poock,” Memorial ID 88322439, Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum, Dayton, Montgomery County, Ohio, accessed June 4, 2023 and Bertha (born 1868)[42]Find A Grave, “Bertha Voige,” Memorial ID 197063321, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023. Also living with the family was Catharine’s mother, Margaret Faber.[43]“United States Census, 1870,” Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky, page 103 (penned), page 341 (stamped), dwelling 654, family 816, George Viege, FamilySearch, accessed June 20, 2023
The early 1870s were rough for the Voige family. George and Catharine did have two more children in the early 1870s: George A. A. Voige Jr. (born 1870)[44]Find A Grave, “George A Voige,” Memorial ID 109029336, Highland Cemetery, Fort Mitchell, Kenton County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023 and Louis Jacob Voige (born 1872)[45]Find A Grave, “Louis Jacob Voige,” Memorial ID 208848071, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023. However, their daughter Bertha died at the age of 1 in 1870[46]Find A Grave, “Bertha Voige,” Memorial ID 197063321, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023. And then, on January 5, 1873, Catharine (Faber) Voige died at the age of 36.[47]Find A Grave, “Catharine Faber Voige,” Memorial ID 197063278, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 20, 2023 In their 18 years of marriage, George and Catharine had eight children, six of whom are identified in extant sources.[48]Armin Tenner, Cincinnati Sonst und Jetzt (Cincinnati: Druck von Mecklenborg and Rosenthal, 1878), page 280, HathiTrust, accessed June 4, 2023 At the time of her death, George was left with at least 5 children to care for.
George did not remain a widower for long–just nine months. On September 18, 1873, George married Anna Wendt in Newport. George was 40 years old at the time, and Anna was 25.[49]“Kentucky, County Marriages, 1797-1954,” Geo. A. A. Voige and Anna Wendt marriage record, September 18, 1873, Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky, FamilySearch, accessed June 6, 2023 Anna (1848-1926)[50]Find A Grave, “Anna Wendt Voige,” Memorial ID 141904778, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 22, 2023 was a native of Cincinnati and was a daughter of Ernst Friederich Wendt (1811-1905)[51]Find A Grave, “Frederick Wendt,” Memorial ID 164209129, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 22, 2023 and Verena Warth (1815-1915)[52]Find A Grave, “Verena Francis Warth Wendt,” Memorial ID 130579277, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky. Her father had a wide variety of occupations over the years, but in the 1870 United States Census, he is listed as a blacksmith in Newport.[53]“United States Census, 1870,” Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky, page 189 (penned), page 384 (stamped), dwelling 1179, family 1502, Fred Wendt, accessed June 22, 2023
Over the next eleven years, George and Anna would have three children: Ella Louise (born 1874)[54]Find A Grave, “Ella Louise Voige,” Memorial ID 208848098, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023, Charles Henry (born 1877)[55]Find A Grave, “Charles Henry Voige,” Memorial ID 79062189, Spring Grove Cemetery, Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, accessed June 4, 2023, and Alfred Marcus (born 1884)[56]Find A Grave, “Alfred M Voige,” Memorial ID 208846762, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023. Two children were lost to the Voiges in that timeframe: Ella Louise died in 1875 at the age of four months[57]Find A Grave, “Ella Louise Voige,” Memorial ID 208848098, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023, and Louis Jacob died in 1878 at the age of five years[58]Find A Grave, “Louis Jacob Voige,” Memorial ID 208848071, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023.
Methodist church involvement
On February 29, 1876, George Voige was named as one of the corporators of the new Salem Gemeinde church in Newport.[59]Chapter 274: An Act to incorporate the “Salem Gemeinde,” of Newport, Kentucky, in Acts of the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Kentucky [1875-1876], Volume I (Frankfort, Ky.: James … Continue reading This German-language church would later be known as the Salem Methodist Episcopal church, and George would remain a member of this church for the rest of his life. He also held leadership positions in the church. In 1879, he was the superintendent of the Sunday school.[60]“Newport,” Cincinnati Daily Star, August 8, 1879, Newspapers.com, accessed July 1, 2023 He also served “as president and a member of the Board of Trustees for many years,” only stepping down from these duties a year before his death.[61]“George A. A. Voige Died at his Washington Avenue Home,” Kentucky Times-Star (Cincinnati, Ohio), December 9, 1902, Kenton County Public Library, photocopied circa 2010
Starting in 1874, Methodists in the Cincinnati area began having camp meetings at Epworth Heights in Clermont County, Ohio , These were gatherings of thousands of people, featuring preaching, speakers, and recreation. While the Voiges may have been attending earlier Epworth Heights camp meetings, they were definitely doing so in 1888, when George Voige served as a teller at the campground.[62]Cincinnati Enquirer, August 8, 1888, Newspapers.com, accessed June 26, 2023 George was named as a trustee for the 1891 meeting.[63]Cincinnati Post, July 25, 1890, Newspapers.com, accessed June 26, 2023 He was later elected President of the meeting for 1892.[64]Cincinnati Post, October 22, 1891, Newspapers.com, accessed June 26, 2023 By 1895, George owned a “handsome home on the German grounds” at Epworth Heights, which was “occupied by the family for the summer.”[65]Cincinnati Enquirer, June 30, 1895, Newspapers.com, accessed June 26, 2023
Voige & Winter
While George and his family were now living in Kentucky, his business interests remained across the river in Cincinnati. In 1866, George Voige partnered with John A. Winter (1834-1916)[66]“Kentucky Death Records, 1911-1967,” John Augustus Winter death record, July 27, 1916, Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky, FamilySearch, accessed June 19, 2023 to start a new cigar company: Voige & Winter. This company, located on Main Street in Cincinnati, “entered upon a wholesale jobbing business in cigars and tobacco, including also the manufacture of cigars.”[67]Charles Theodore Greve, Centennial History of Cincinnati, Vol. II (Chicago: Biographical Publishing Company, 1904), pages 757-759, HathiTrust, accessed June 4, 2023 As early as 1866, Voige & Winter began manufacturing cigars under the brand name of “La Optima.”[68]Decisions of the Commissioner of Patents and of the United States Courts in Patent and Trade-Mark and Copyright Cases…During the Year 1911 (Washington: Government Printing Office, 1912), page … Continue reading In 1867, just their second year in business, Voige & Winter produced 513,000 cigars–the second-largest number manufactured in Cincinnati.[69]Dearborn County Register (Lawrenceburg, Indiana), February 6, 1868, Newspapers.com, accessed June 22, 2023 In the year ending June 1, 1870, Voige & Winter produced 1,352,000 cigars–a value of $60,000.[70]“United States Census, 1870, Schedule 4: Products of Industry,” Ward 2 Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, page 29 (penned), row 2, Voige & Winter, HeritageQuest, accessed June 24, 2023
Judging by tax records, Voige & Winter were Cincinnati’s seventh-largest cigar manufacturer in 1876, when they paid $9,300 in tax on cigars.[72]“Revenue on Cigars,” Cincinnati Enquirer, January 7, 1877, Newspapers.com, accessed June 27, 2023 That April, they celebrated their 10th anniversary:
A VERY enjoyable affair took place last Saturday afternoon on Mount Adams, at the head of the inclined plane, consisting of a supper given by Messrs. Voige & Winter, wholesale tobacconists, to their employes in appreciation of the gift received by them, each one having been presented on last Monday with a gold-headed cane in honor of their tenth anniversary. Addresses were made by H. A. Faber, Esq., and W. A. Cotter, Esq., and Mr. H. Meyer, the wholesale leaf tobacco dealer, also made some remarks. Numerous other speeches and toasts were given by those present, and the entire occasion was a success.
Cincinnati Daily Star, April 10, 1876[73]Cincinnati Daily Star, April 10, 1876, Chronicling America, accessed June 19, 2023
Labor relations
Voige & Winter employed between 14 and 50 cigar makers over the years. In the year ending June 1, 1870, they employed 34 males over 16 years old and 6 “children and youth,” for a total payroll of $20,000.[74]“United States Census, 1870, Schedule 4: Products of Industry,” Ward 2 Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, page 29 (penned), row 2, Voige & Winter, HeritageQuest, accessed June 24, 2023 In the year ending May 31, 1880, they emplyed 42 males over 16 years old and 8 “children and youth,” for a total payroll of $20,981.[75]“United States Census, 1880, Schedule 3: Manufactures,” Ward 8 Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, E.D. 134A, page 1, row 3, Voige & Winter, HeritageQuest, accessed June 28, 2023 Their workforce shrank towards the end of the century. In 1900, they employed 15 males and 2 females.[76]Seventeenth Annual Report of the Department of Inspection of Workshops, Factories, and Public Buildings to the Governor of the State of Ohio, For the Year 1900 (Columbus, Ohio: Fred J. Heer, State … Continue reading
Before the advent of electric lighting, workers were dependent on natural light for their work. While the 1880 Census states that the typical working day was 10 hours[77]“United States Census, 1880, Schedule 3: Manufactures,” Ward 8 Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, E.D. 134A, page 1, row 3, Voige & Winter, HeritageQuest, accessed June 28, 2023, working hours would naturally be shortened for part of the year. This had a direct impact on the income of the workers. Workers were not paid hourly; instead, they were paid according to how many cigars they produced. Production of higher-priced cigars would net the workers higher pay. Below is the pay schedule that the cigar workers union in Cincinnati proposed to the manufacturers in 1883:[78]“The Cigar Strike Continued,” Cincinnati Enquirer, April 18, 1883, Newspapers.com, accessed June 29, 2023
- Loose Packing–All seed work, 13 cigars, or less, on top, per 1,000: For 1-20, $1.20; for 1-10, $1.
- All seed work containing more than 13 cigars on top, per 1,000: For 1-20, $1.40; for 1-10, $1.05.
- Seed and Havana, per 1,000: For 1-20, $1.40; for 1-10, $1.25.
- Clear Havana, per 1,000: For 1-20, $1.55; for 1-10, $1.35. All 1-40 or 1-80 5 cents each.
- Bundle Work–Seed, mixed or tipped: 100 in a bundle, per 1,000 $1.25; 50 in a bundle, $1.40; 33 in a bundle, $1.50; 25 in a bundle, 1 ribbon, $1.90; 10 or 12 in a bundle, 1 ribbon, $2.75.
- All bundles having more than one ribbon, 10 cents for every additional ribbon.
- All seed and Havana and clear Havana bundle work 10 cents per 1,000 above seed priced.
- Block pressing, tag work, right and left, 10 cents extra per 1,000.
Labor relations at Voige & Winter were not always smooth. The cigar makers at Voige & Winter struck several times over the years. The first strike noted in newspapers was a short-lived strike in 1877:
The cigar-makers employed in Voige & Winter’s cigar manufactory, 159 and 161 Main street, struck yesterday against a change in the character of their work. The firm employs twenty-four men in making the different brands of cigars, of which they make a specialty; seven of this number are engaged in making a cigar which retails at five cents a piece, and for which the workmen are paid $8 per thousand. The bulk of the hands have been making ten-cent cigars, and the stock in this line has accumulated, and the firm thought that they had enough until the stock was somewhat reduced. To make matters a little more equal, the proprietors informed them that they would be compelled to put them to making the five-cent cigar for two weeks, at the end of which time they should resume work on the ten-cent cigars.
There was considerable opposition to this, and they finally flatly refused to work at the five-centers unless they were paid $9 per thousand, an advance of $1 on what they have been paying for that grade of work. Messrs. Voige & Winter declined to accede to this demand for an advance, but argued that the change desired was only a temporary arrangement–only two weeks–and that it was only done to reduce the lot of goods which were on hand.
The workmen, finding that the firm would not retract, “struck.” The regular five-cent workers (or workers on five-cent cigars) joined them, and all work ceased. Several of the number had, however, last evening, decided to return to their work today.
“Striking Cigar-makers,” Cincinnati Enquirer, August 7, 1877[79]“Striking Cigar-makers,” Cincinnati Enquirer, August 7, 1877, Newspapers.com, accessed June 24, 2023
In February 1880, the cigar manufacturers of Cincinnati followed the lead of New York’s Lorillard Tobacco Company and demanded that all of the cigar makers sign a pledge that they would not belong to any labor union. Workers who did not sign the pledge would be locked out. In response, the members of the Cigar-workers’ Mutual Protective Union unanimously resolved that they would not resume work unless they were recognized as union members.[80]Cincinnati Enquirer, February 16, 1880, Newspapers.com, accessed June 29, 2023 The lockout was ended after a little more than a month, with very few concessions being made by the union. While the terms agreed to allowed each manufacturer to determine wages themselves, workers would no longer be required to sign an anti-union pledge, and workers would go back to work as union members. Voige & Winter were among the first of the cigar manufacturers in Cincinnati to ask their workers to return to work.[81]“Friede! Der große Strike der Cigarrenmacher zu Ende,” Westlische Blätter (Cincinnati, Ohio), March 21, 1880, Chronicling America, accessed June 29, 2023 This likely factored into Voige & Winter’s cigar production dropping to $53,400 of product in the year ending May 31, 1880[82]“United States Census, 1880, Schedule 3: Manufactures,” Ward 8 Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, E.D. 134A, page 1, row 3, Voige & Winter, HeritageQuest, accessed June 28, 2023, versus the $60,000 produced in the year ending June 1, 1870.[83]“United States Census, 1870, Schedule 4: Products of Industry,” Ward 2 Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, page 29 (penned), row 2, Voige & Winter, HeritageQuest, accessed June 24, 2023
A reduction in the cigar tax scheduled for May 1, 1883, led to a city-wide strike of cigar makers that April. This strike ended relatively early for Voige & Winter, after they acceded to the demands of the union:
The cigar-packers at their last meeting rejected the proposition of the manufacturers to give them an increase of five cents per 1,000 for packing cigars, and yesterday, as their original demands were not acceded to, they ceased work…
The matter seems to be difficult of adjustment, for the reason that there is a clash between the jobbers on the one hand and the workmen on the other, who all desire to profit by the proposed reduction, and the manufacturers, inasmuch as they are working for neither honor nor glory, likewise desire to secure a share of the wealth accruing from the tax reduction. One manufacturer stated that the men had been making from $15 to $25, per week, and are still crying for more, and that they could not stand it, since they are now running their business as close to the line of demarkation between profit and loss as they can, and that any increase will have to come out of their own pockets. In an endeavor to explain the situation he said:
“The cause of all this trouble is the reduction of the taxes on cigars which was made by the last Congress. As soon as the act authorizing that reduction was made, all the cigar-makers, packers and every body else set to work to reap the benefits of the reduction. We allowed them $1 out of the $3, which was distributed equally among the workers. Now, unless we can get that dollar back from the jobbers it must come out of our pockets. So far in one direction. Now, on the other hand, the consumer of the cigars, when the reduction was made known, made up his mind to also benefit by it, not, perhaps, by a reduction in the price of the same quality of a cigar, but by obtaining a better quality for the same money that he had been paying for his cigars. You will perceive that there were two forces immediately placed in motion, the consumer on one hand and the workmen on the other, both determined to profit by the reduction. We are asked to sell a cigar that has been quoted at $10 for $7, and also to pay our workmen more wages. Now such a matter requires much consideration and [nice?] adjustment, and the manufacturer, the jobber and the retailer must all join hands to aid in it. We can, possibly, get $1 from the jobber, or in other words, we can get him to take a nine-dollar instead of ten-dollar cigar for $7, and then give our workmen the extra dollar, but we can not get the jobber to accept an $8 85 cigar for $7. We could adjust the $1 increase in wages asked by our workmen, but it will be impossible for us to get any more.”
In regard to the matter of a compromise with the workmen, he said that the manufacturers would meet them half way.
The strikers held a meeting yesterday afternoon in Arbeiter Hall with closed doors. One of them in conversation afterward said that the average wages of workmen in his line for the last six months have not exceeded $13 per week, and he thought that the manufacturer who stated otherwise concerning salaries would have difficulty in substantiating the assertion. Continuing, he said:
“On an average the wages paid, for packing cigars in Cincinnati have been lower by fully 20 per cent, than what are paid in most other cities, but especially so in the large cigar markets of the country. In some shops in the city more wages are paid than in others. We have estimated the average wages paid, and ask for an increase of 15 per cent, on the average. Let me tell you something else: We are not able to work right along like the makers are. We are always liable to interruption on account of the light. We must have a good, bright, natural light to do our work, and in the winter our working hours are only about six in a day, and some days we are unable to do any thing. Now, to sum it all up, I want to say that our demands are reasonable and just, and we will not place the manufacturers of this city at any disadvantage for competing with manufacturers in other cities by acceding to our demands.”
The strikers declare that they will listen to no offers of a compromise. There are about eighty men in the strike, and thirty are still at work in the houses which have acceded to the demand. John C. Lueke, D. W. Stadecker & Co., Peter Ibold, the Cincinnati Cooperative Cigar Company, Isaac Reis, and Voige & Winter have all granted the increase. A number of others have signified their willingness to accept the scale, provided the larger manufacturers will do likewise.
“The Cigar Strike Continued,” Cincinnati Enquirer, April 18, 1883[84]“The Cigar Strike Continued,” Cincinnati Enquirer, April 18, 1883, Newspapers.com, accessed June 29, 2023
The last recorded strike against Voige & Winter was in 1892. The strikers were protesting alleged underpayment:
Cigar-makers at Voigt [sic] & Winter’s establishment, 175 Main Street, went out Saturday. They are union men, but claim they have been paid from $1 to $3 less than union prices. The International Union took a hand in the affair and directed a strike. Thereupon the local union sent a committee to discuss the situation with Voigt [sic] & Winter, but they declined to meet them, stating that they would treat with the men themselves, but not with the committee appointed by the union.
“Cigar-Makers Go Out,” Cincinnati Post, June 6, 1892[85]“Cigar-Makers Go Out,” Cincinnati Post, June 6, 1892, Newspapers.com, accessed June 27, 2023
Fire
On the night of July 18, 1888, a 3-alarm fire swept through Voige & Winter’s factory:
Officer Hannon and Private Watchman John Conway, while standing talking at the corner of Fifth and Main a few minutes before twelve o’clock last night, had their attention attracted to a dull red blaze in the second story of Voige & Winters’ big tobacco establishment, No. 175 Main street. An alarm was sent in immediately by Conway from Box 34, followed quickly by a second and triple, for the fire was in a very dangerous locality. The building is a four-story brick. In the middle of the second story, piled against the south wall, and nearly reaching the ceiling, was a large quantity of old boxes and kindling-wood. It was among this refuse that the flames started. Just opposite was the elevator-shaft. When Captain Bunker, of the Threes, reached the head of the stairway, he and his men were beaten back by the intense heat, which was sufficient to melt the lead-pipe running along the posts of the elevator-shaft. Bunker and his men, however, stood their ground, and fought the flames back from the shaft. Their gallant and successful struggle no doubt prevented a most disastrous conflagration. The flames, in the mean time, had crept up the stairway into the third floor, but were met by the streams poured in from the front. By a literal deluge the fire was overcome.
The damage by the flames was comparatively small, but that from water will reach up into the thousands. On the first floor was a large stock of packed goods, while the front of the second was occupied as a packing-room. Back of this was stored a considerable quantity of smoking tobacco in small bags and boxed. The cigar factory was on the third story, and a portion of the same floor was used for the storage of large boxes of tobacco. On the fourth floor were a number of big boxes containing stems and refuse tobacco. The cellar was also stored with a large quantity of tobacco. The water poured through from the third and second floors, but the damage was materially diminished by the prompt and effective work of the Salvage Corps, under the direction of Captain Newman.
Mr. Winter, of the firm, arrived soon after the fire was extinguished. They carried, so he said, nearly $60,000 and $70,000 in stock. His partner had placed the insurance, but Mr. Winter thought the policies would probably aggregate $40,000. It was impossible to approximately estimate the loss, as it depends to a great degree on the damage by water and smoke. It might reach $30,000, and possibly more. Mr. Winter was unable to suggest any explanation as to the origin, but he considered the fire very mysterious. There had been no fire whatever about the place, and every body had left the house by seven o’clock in the evening. Chief Wisbey, however, was very pointed in his comments on the carelessness of having such a quantity of inflammable material so close to the elevator shaft. But for the timely discovery and very effective work of the department no doubt there would have been a most disastrous fire. The firm is a very old one, and has occupied for ten years past the building, which is owned by the estate of R. S. Thoms. The damage to the building will amount to only a few hundred dollars. The water ran through the south wall and damaged the stock of the tobacco firm of F. & H. Berning from $200 to $300.
According to Cincinnati Fire Department records, the damage was far less than originally estimated. They put the damage at $13,059, all of which was covered by insurance.[86]Annual Reports of the City Departments of the City of Cincinnati for the Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 1888 (Cincinnati: The Commercial Gazette Job Print, 1889), page 1105, HathiTrust, accessed … Continue reading Unsurprisingly, this seems to have had a significant impact on their production for 1888, which amounted to 673,815 cigars[87]Tobacco: An Illustrated Weekly Journal for Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Cigars, Manufactured Tobacco and Smokers’ Articles, volume VII, number 11, July 19, 1889, page 6, HathiTrust, accessed … Continue reading–far fewer than their production in the 1870s.
“Dangerous Flames,” Cincinnati Enquirer, July 19, 1888[88]“Dangerous Flames,” Cincinnati Enquirer, July 19, 1888, Newspapers.com, accessed June 24, 2023
Retirement
In October, 1902, George Voige and John A. Winter retired from Voige & Winter. The company lived on as a corporation, led by George Voige, Jr.:
The oldest cigar factory in the First Ohio District, which has been operated in Cincinnati by Voige & Winter since 1866, has been discontinued by the owners. It was the first factory in this district to be licensed by the Government after the war, and has been run ever since. However, last year the firm of Voige & Winter became the local jobbers for the nickel goods of the American Cigar Company, and since then has been devoting its energies in that line.
The process of incorporating the company is now moving, and papers will be filed shortly. The members of the old firm will not be identified with the new. Mr. Voige has been seriously ill at his home in Covington for several months, and Mr. Winter will retire to attend to his real estate interests. The leading movers in the new company will be Messrs. George Voige, Jr., and Dickerson.
“Change in Cigar Business,” Cincinnati Enquirer, October 29, 1902[89]“Change in Cigar Business,” Cincinnati Enquirer, October 29, 1902, Newspapers.com, accessed June 26, 2023
Later life
In his later years, George Voige was involved in many community organizations in both Cincinnati and Newport. In 1878, George was elected to the board of directors of the Mutual Insurance Company in Cincinnati.[90]Cincinnati Daily Star, January 22, 1878, Newspapers.com, accessed July 1, 2023 In 1886, he was vice president of the Aurora Fire Insurance Company of Cincinnati.[91]Leading Manufacturers and Merchants of Cincinnati and Environs [1886] (New York: International Publishing Co., 1886), page 84, HathiTrust, accessed July 1, 2023[92]Andrew Morrison, Industries of Cincinnati (Cincinnati: Metropolitan Publishing Company, 1886), page 186, HathiTrust, accessed July 1, 2023 He was on the school board in Newport in 1882, serving on both the finance committee and the supplies committee.[93]“Newport,” Cincinnati Enquirer, January 2, 1882, Newspapers.com, accessed July 1, 2023 In 1891, George was nominated to be a director of the Campbell County Protestant Orphans’ Home.[94]Cincinnati Enquirer, January 4, 1891, Newspapers.com, accessed July 1, 2023
In 1902, illness caused George to retreat from public life. He was relieved of his church duties in September “at his urgent request.”[95]“George A. A. Voige Died at his Washington Avenue Home,” Kentucky Times-Star (Cincinnati, Ohio), December 9, 1902, Kenton County Public Library, photocopied circa 2010 In October, he retired from Voige & Winter.[96]“Change in Cigar Business,” Cincinnati Enquirer, October 29, 1902, Newspapers.com, accessed June 26, 2023
George A. A. Voige died at his home in Newport, Kentucky on December 8, 1902 from bronchopneumonia.[97]Newport (Kentucky) Board of Health, Vital Records, 1884-1928: Deaths 1884-1905, image 545, Geo. A. A. Voige death record, recorded December 12, 1902, record 676 for 1902, FamilySearch, accessed June … Continue reading He was 69 years old at the time of his death. After a funeral at the Salem M. E. church, he was interred in Evergreen Cemetery.[98]“George A. A. Voige Died at his Washington Avenue Home,” Kentucky Times-Star (Cincinnati, Ohio), December 9, 1902, Kenton County Public Library, photocopied circa 2010[99]Find A Grave, “George A A Voige,” Memorial ID 197063231, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed May 30, 2023
Children
George A. A. Voige and Catharine Faber had eight children[100]Armin Tenner, Cincinnati Sonst und Jetzt (Cincinnati: Druck von Mecklenborg and Rosenthal, 1878), page 280, HathiTrust, accessed June 4, 2023, six of whom are identified in extant sources:
- William H. Voige (1855-1914)[101]Find A Grave, “William H Voige,” Memorial ID 107771088, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023 married Emma Goessler on December 11, 1878 in Newport.[102]“Kentucky, County Marriages, 1797-1954,” William H. Voige and Emma Goessler marriage record, December 11, 1878, Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky, volume 8, page 344, FamilySearch, … Continue reading They lived in Campbell County, where the 1900 U.S. Census lists William as a bookkeeper for a furniture company.[103]“United States Census, 1900,” District of the Highlands, Campbell County, Kentucky, E.D. 34, sheet 14 (penned), page 175A (stamped), dwelling 164, family 173, Wm. H. Voige, FamilySearch, … Continue reading
- Elizabeth M. Voige (1858-1903)[104]Find A Grave, “Elizabeth ‘Lizzie’ Voige Wendt,” Memorial ID 107227145, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023 married Edward C. Wendt on December 13, 1882 in Newport.[105]“Kentucky, County Marriages, 1797-1954,” Edward C Wendt and Lizzie Voige marriage record, December 13, 1882, Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky, volume 10, page 476, FamilySearch, … Continue reading They lived in Newport, where the 1900 U.S. Census lists Edward as a dealer in hardware.[106]“United States Census, 1900,” Ward 3 Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky, E.D. 16, sheet 13 (penned), page 118B (stamped), dwelling 209, family 298, Edward Wente, FamilySearch, accessed … Continue reading
- Amelia C. Voige (1864-1928)[107]Find A Grave, “Amelia C Voige Poock,” Memorial ID 88322439, Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum, Dayton, Montgomery County, Ohio, accessed June 4, 2023 married Louis D. Poock on October 15, 1890 in Newport.[108]“Kentucky, County Marriages, 1797-1954,” Louis D Poock and Amelia C Voige marriage record, October 15, 1890, Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky, volume 15, page 187, FamilySearch, … Continue reading The 1900 U.S. Census finds them living in Germantown, Ohio, where Louis was a boot and shoe salesman.[109]“United States Census, 1910,” Germantown, Montgomery County, Ohio, E.D. 85, sheet 7 (penned), page 169A (stamped), dwelling 175, family 181, Lewis D. Poock, FamilySearch, accessed June 9, … Continue reading By 1910, they had moved to Troy, Ohio, where Louis was working as a landscape architect.[110]“United States Census, 1910,” Troy, Miami County, Ohio, E.D. 101, sheet 1 (penned), page 65A (stamped), dwelling 3, family 3, Lewis D. Poock, FamilySearch, accessed June 9, 2023 They later moved to Dayton, Ohio, where the 1920 U.S. Census lists Louis as a landscape gardener.[111]“United States Census, 1920,” Ward 8 Dayton, Montgomery County, Ohio, E.D. 163, sheet 4 (penned), page 282A (stamped), dwelling 58, family 63, Louis D. Poock, FamilySearch, accessed June … Continue reading
- Bertha Voige (1868-1870)[112]Find A Grave, “Bertha Voige,” Memorial ID 197063321, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023 died when she was 1 year old.
- George A. A. Voige (1870-1923)[113]Find A Grave, “George A Voige,” Memorial ID 109029336, Highland Cemetery, Fort Mitchell, Kenton County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023 married Amelia C Schleutker on April 26, 1898 in Newport.[114]“Kentucky, County Marriages, 1797-1954,” George A. Voige and Amelia C. Schleutker marriage record, April 26, 1898, Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky, volume 23, page 9, FamilySearch, … Continue reading The 1900 U.S. Census finds George and Amelia living in Newport, where George was following in his father’s footsteps as a dealer in tobacco.[115]“United States Census, 1900,” Ward 3 Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky, E.D. 16, sheet 13 (penned), page 118B (stamped), dwelling 207, family 295, George Voige, FamilySearch, accessed … Continue reading By 1910, they had moved to Covington, Kentucky, where George was working as a tailor.[116]“United States Census, 1910,” Ward 6 Covington, Kenton County, Kentucky, E.D. 116, sheet 5 (penned), page 170B (stamped), dwelling 91, family 109, George A. Voige, FamilySearch, accessed … Continue reading
- Louis Jacob Voige (1872-1878)[117]Find A Grave, “Louis Jacob Voige,” Memorial ID 208848071, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023 died when he was 5 years old.
George A. A. Voige and Anna Wendt had three children:
- Ella Louise Voige (1874-1875)[118]Find A Grave, “Ella Louise Voige,” Memorial ID 208848098, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023 died in infancy.
- Charles Henry Voige (1877-1955)[119]Find A Grave, “Charles Henry Voige,” Memorial ID 79062189, Spring Grove Cemetery, Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, accessed June 4, 2023 married Ida Mae Irwin on December 26, 1900 in Newport.[120]“Kentucky, County Marriages, 1797-1954,” Charles Henry Voige and Ida Mae Irwin marriage record, December 26, 1900, Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky, volume 27, page 75, FamilySearch, … Continue reading They lived in Fort Thomas, Campbell County, Kentucky, where the 1910 U.S. Census lists Charles as a bank clerk[121]“United States Census, 1910,” Magisterial District 4, Campbell County, Kentucky, E.D. 49, sheet 2 (penned), page 233B (stamped), dwelling 21, family 23, Charles H. Voige, FamilySearch, … Continue reading, and the 1920 U.S. Census lists him as a “paying teller” at a bank.[122]“United States Census, 1920,” Fort Thomas, Campbell County, Kentucky, E.D. 52, sheet 5 (penned), page 248A (stamped), dwelling 48, family 49, Chas. H. Voige, FamilySearch, accessed June … Continue reading
- Alfred Marcus Voige (1884-1970)[123]Find A Grave, “Alfred M Voige,” Memorial ID 208846762, Evergreen Cemetery, Southgate, Campbell County, Kentucky, accessed June 4, 2023 married Mary J. Muehlmatt on October 14, 1908 in Newport.[124]“Kentucky, County Marriages, 1797-1954,” Alfred M Voige and Mary J Muehlmatt marriage record, October 14, 1908, Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky, volume 44, page 46, FamilySearch, … Continue reading They moved to Akron, Ohio, where the 1920 U.S. Census lists Alfred as a “checker” at a rubber factory[125]“United States Census, 1920,” Ward 2 Akron, Summit County, Ohio, E.D. 142, sheet 4 (penned), page 85A (stamped), dwelling 77, page 81, Alfred Voyge, FamilySearch, accessed June 10, 2023, and the 1930 U.S. Census lists him as an insurance salesman.[126]“United States Census, 1930,” Ward 2 Akron, Summit County, Ohio, E.D. 77-31, sheet 6A (penned), page 154A (stamped), dwelling 73, family 79, Alfred M. Voige, FamilySearch, accessed June … Continue reading The Great Depression was not kind to Alfred, and the 1940 U.S. Census lists him as being unemployed for 132 weeks, though he was then working as a time keeper for the WPA.[127]“United States Census, 1940,” Ward 3 Akron, Summit County, Ohio, E.D. 89-60, sheet 1B (penned), page 818B (stamped), household 21, Alfred N. Voige, FamilySearch, accessed June 10, 2023 The 1950 U.S. Census lists him as working as an inspector in the aircraft industry.[128]“United States Census, 1950,” Ward 3 Akron, Summit County, Ohio, E.D. 89-120, sheet 2 (penned), dwelling 19, Alfred M. Voige, FamilySearch, accessed June 10, 2023
Obituaries
GEORGE A. A. VOIGE DIED AT HIS WASHINGTON AVENUE HOME
Has Been a Resident of Newport for About 35 Years and Stood High in the Community–A Widow and Six Children Survive Him.
George A. A. Voige of the well-known firm of Voige & Winter, Main street, Cincinnati, died Monday night at his residence, 922 Washington avenue, after a long illness, of rheumatism and dropsy. He was about 69 years of age and has been a resident of Newport about 35 years. In 1866 he formed a partnership with John A. Winter, establishing the firm of Voige & Winter, and had been actively enaged in the business up to a year ago, when he was forced to retire, on account of illness. Deceased was prominently identified with the Salem M. E. church, he having served as president and a member of the Board of Trustees for many years and was only relieved of his arduous duties at his urgent request last September. He leaves a wife and six children, four boys and two daughters. Of the boys, William is identified with the insurance business; George some time ago took the father’s place in the firm of Voige & Winter; Charles is connected with the First National bank of Cincinnati, and Albert is completing his education. His daughters are Mrs. E. C. Wendt and Mrs. L. D. Poock. The funeral will take place Thursday afternoon, with services at the Salem M. E. church.
“George A. A. Voige Died at his Washington Avenue Home,” Kentucky Times-Star (Cincinnati, Ohio), December 9, 1902[129]“George A. A. Voige Died at his Washington Avenue Home,” Kentucky Times-Star (Cincinnati, Ohio), December 9, 1902, Kenton County Public Library, photocopied circa 2010
VOIGE–George A. A., at his residence, 922 Washington avenue, Newport, Ky., Monday evening, December 8, in his seventieth year. Funeral services will be held at Salem M. E. church on Thursday at 1:30 p.m.
“Death Notices,” Kentucky Times-Star (Cincinnati, Ohio), December 10, 1902[130]“Death Notices,” Kentucky Times-Star (Cincinnati, Ohio), December 10, 1902, Kenton County Public Library, photocopied circa 2010
The late George A. A. Voige, one of Newport’s substantial and widely esteemed citizens, was laid to rest today in Evergreen cemetery. Salem M. E. church, of which the deceased was one of its most liberal supporters and ardent workers for the last twenty-five years, was filled to its utmost capacity when the solemn services in honor of the dead were held. The pastor, Rev. Elias Reser, was assisted by Rev. J. H. Horst, presiding elder; Rev. F. Munz, editor of the Apologist; Rev. Christian Golder, editor of the Haus und Herd, and Rev. William Beall of the Walnut Hills M. E. Church. Each of the ministers named delivered an address eulogizing the many ennobling traits of the character of the deceased. The following favorite hymns of the deceased were rendered by the choir: “Rock of Ages,” “Blessed Are They Who Trust in the Lord,” “Jesus, Lover of My Soul.” Among a profusion of beautiful floral pieces was a magnificent emblem from the employes of the firm of Voige & Winter. The pallbearers were Messrs. John A. Winter, Adam Lepper, Henry Kolbe, John H. Dickerson, William James, and Charles Wendt.
“Five Ministers Conducted Funeral of Late Geo. Voige,” Kentucky Times-Star (Cincinnati, Ohio), December 11, 1902[131]“Five Ministers Conducted Funeral of Late Geo. Voige,” Kentucky Times-Star (Cincinnati, Ohio), December 11, 1902, Kenton County Public Library, photocopied circa 2010
Published Biographies
GEORGE A. A. VOIGE
For almost a half century, the late George A. A. Voige was a prominent factor in tobacco circles in Southern Ohio, for many years a directing force, a keen, far seeing business man whose judgment was so highly esteemed that great interests were placed under his management.
Mr. Voige was of German extraction, a native of Bücken, Hanover, born September 17, 1833, and he was 18 years of age when he came to America. Shortly after, in the “fifties,” he associated himself with Francis Nuelson, in tobacco trading in Cincinnati, and in 1866 was established the firm of Voige & Winter, John A. Winter being the junior partner, which firm remained in existence until November, 1902, at which time the business was merged into a stock company. When the partnership was formed, the firm entered upon a wholesale jobbing business in cigars and tobacco, including also the manufacture of cigars. The factory of Voige & Winter was the first one in Ohio to come under the internal revenue laws and this district number was labeled “No. 1.” During the many years of business life, it was the close and careful management of Mr. Voige which safely conducted this great business through financial crises and marked fluctuations, at no time showing any weakness but continually prospering until the time of the organization of the stock company. With the infirmities of age creeping upon him, Mr. Voige at that time withdrew from active management, retaining however his directorship on the board. The factory formerly in use was discontinued at that time, the new firm entering other avenues, becoming the principal local distributer [sic] of the nickel goods of the American Cigar Company.
Since 1898 Mr. Voige had not enjoyed his former robust health, but the immediate cause of his decease was bronchial pneumonia from which this most highly esteemed pioneer merchant and manufacturer died at his beautiful home on Washington street, Newport, Kentucky, December 8, 1902. His widow, formerly Anna Wendt, survives him with these children: William H., George A., Charles H., Alfred M., Mrs. Edward C. Wendt and Mrs. Louis D. Poock. The impressive services at the funeral of this valued citizen were held in the Salem Methodist Church of Newport, in which for many years he had been deeply interested and served as president of the board of trustees.
Mr. Voige was one of the typical representatives of his native land, possessing those characteristics which have made the Germany race so notable wherever found. Plain spoken, he was one of the most kind hearted men of the city and was ever in the forefront in charitable movements while his private benefactions were innumerable. His business integrity was dear to him and he carefully guarded it, leaving an honorable name to his children. With large means he was simple and unostentatious, was a true friend and was singularly devoted to his home and the welfare of his family. Among those who have made Cincinnati known to the world as a great business center and a home for the tobacco trade, few have occupied a more prominent position that [sic] George A. A. Voige.
Charles Theodore Greve, Centennial History of Cincinnati, Vol. II (Chicago: Biographical Publishing Company, 1904), pages 757-759[132]Charles Theodore Greve, Centennial History of Cincinnati, Vol. II (Chicago: Biographical Publishing Company, 1904), pages 757-759, HathiTrust, accessed June 4, 2023
GEORG A. A. VOIGE
In unserem Babel am Ohio, wie in der ganzen Union, ist Alles einem rachen Wechsel unterworfen. Heute reich, morgen arm. Heute ein hochnäsiger Beamter oden ein hochmüthiger Shoddy, morgen ein kriechender Lump, heute ein Knabe, morgen ein Ehemann. Aus dem Schneider Johnson wurde ein Präsident, und aus dem Schustergesellen Wilson ein berühmter Senator. Selten bleibt Jemand bei dem zuerst erlernten Gewerbe, und Mancher wechselt in rascher Reihenfolge ein halbes Dutzend Male sein Geschäft, bis er endlich das Rechte trifft, oder, was noch häufiger vorkömmt, ihm der Athem und die Currency ausgehen. Unser geschätzter Mitbürger, Herr GEORG A. A. VOIGE, hat sich aus einem Bürstenbinder zu einem renommirten Tabaks- und Cigarrenfabrikanten entpuppt und sich zu einer bedeutenden Höhe in dieser Geschäfts-Branche empor geschwungen. Es lässt sich hiergegen nichts sagen, denn er ist der rechte Mann am rechten Platze, welcher durch seine Freundlichkeit und sein liebevolles Wesen das alte deutsche Sprüchwort: “Grob wie ein Bürstenbinder” Lügen straft und sich einen vortrefflichen Ruf als Geschäfts- und Privatmann erworben hat.
Voige wurde am 17. September 1833 zu Bücken, im Hannover’schen, geboren, besuchte bis zu seinem 14. Lebensjahre die Schule seines Geburtsortes und trat dann bei einem Bürstenbinder zu Hoya in die Lehre. Nachdem er dort seine dreijährige Lehrzeit vollendet, zog er auf Schusters Rappen nach Bremen, wo er 1 1/2 Jahr als Bürstenbindergeselle thätig war. Im Jahre 1853 wanderte er nach Amerika aus, und beeilte sich das Ziel seiner Reise, Cincinnati, zu erreichen, wo er in seiner Profession anfangs bei einem gewissen Huth arbeitete, und dann in die Bürstenfabrik von C. & W. Claassen eintrat, wo er 6 Jahre blieb. Nachdem er fernere drei Jahre in dem Cigarren-Geschäft von Francis Nülsen, an Main, zwischen 5. und 6. Strasse, als Ladendiener und eben so lange als Geschäftsführer thätig gewesen, etablirte er im Jahre 1866, in Gemeinschaft mit seinem jetzigen Compagnon, John A. Winter, in No. 183 Main Strasse, eine Cigarren-Fabrik, unter der Firma Voige & Winter, welche sie später in ihr jetziges Lokal, 159 und 161 Main Strasse, verlegten. Die Firma beschäftigt, während der Geschäftssaison, gegen 70 Arbeiter in ihrem vierstöckigen Gebäude, dessen Räumlichkeiten theils als Laden, theils als Fabrik und Magazin benutzt werden.
Voige vermählte sich in 1854 mit Fräulein Catharine Faber, aus Hasted, bei Bremen, gebürtig, welche ihn mit 8 Kindern beschenkte, von denem noch zwei hoffnungsvolle Söhne und zwei Töchter, die Freude ihrer wackeren Eltern sind. Seine Gattin starb am 5. Januar 1873, und am 18. September, desselben Jahres, verehelichte er sich zum zweiten Male mit Anna Wendt, aus Newport, Ky., aus welcher Ehe zwei Kinder entsprossen sind, von denen eines den Eltern durch den Tod entrissen wurde. Sein ältester Sohn, Wilhelm Hermann, ist seit längerer Zeit in dem Bankhause von C. F. Adae & Co. thätig und berechtigt, wie seine Geschwister, zu den schönsten Hoffnungen.
Armin Tenner, Cincinnati Sonst und Jetzt (Cincinnati: Druck von Mecklenborg and Rosenthal, 1878), page 280[133]Armin Tenner, Cincinnati Sonst und Jetzt (Cincinnati: Druck von Mecklenborg and Rosenthal, 1878), page 280, HathiTrust, accessed June 4, 2023
Records
Census records
- 1870 United States Census, Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky
- 1880 United States Census, Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky
- 1900 United States Census, Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky
Will
George A. A. Voige of Newport, Campbell County, Kentucky.
In the Name of the Benevolent Father of All:
I, the said George A. A. Voige, being of sound and disposing mind and memory, considering the uncertainty of continuance in life, and desiring to make such disposition of my worldly estate as I deem best, do make, publish and declare this to be my last will and testament, hereby revoking and annulling any and all former will or wills whatsoever by me made.
First: I desire all my just debts and funeral expenses to be paid, as soon as possible after my decease.
Second: I give, bequeath and devise to my beloved and faithful wife, Anna Voige, all the the household goods she may select; my lot on Epworth Heights, Clermont County, Ohio; and one third of my entire estate, real and personal.
Third: I give and bequeath to my son Alfred the sum of seven hundred and fifty dollars, to wit: $500.00 to equalize him with my other children who received that sum upon their marriage; and $250.00 to equalize him with the four oldest children who are each to receive said sum in life insurance.
Fourth: I give and bequeath to my son Charles the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars to equalize him also with the said four children on account of such life insurance.
Fifth: I give and bequeath to my brother-in-law Henry A. Faber, the sum of one thousand and five hundred dollars in trust, nevertheless, therewith to purchase real estate and to pay the net income thereof to my daughter Amelia for her personal use and benefit during the life of her husband Louis Poock; and to convey the same after the death of her said husband, to my said daughter Amelia. In case she should die during the lifetime of either of the testator or her said husband, said property shall go to her children to the exclusion of her said husband.
Sixth: I give, devise and bequeath all the residue of my estate to my five children: William H. Voige, Lizzie Wendt née Voige, George A. Voige Jr., Charles H. Voige, and Alfred M. Voige, share and share alike. Provided, however, that any claim I may have against anyone of my said children or against his or her spouse shall be charged to such child in the distribution of my said estate and shall be considered as part of the residue of my estate under this item. This applies to those named in this item only.
Seventh: I do hereby nominate and appoint my said wife, Anna Voige, executrix of this my last will and testament, and as guardian of our minor child, Alfred.
Eighth: I direct that no inventory be required, and that no appraisement be made of my estate. I also direct that no bond be required of either the trustee or executrix and guardian herein appointed.
In testimony whereof I hereunto subscribed my name this fourth day of December, one thousand nine hundred and two (1902).
Geo. A. A. Voige
Signed, published and acknowledged by the said George A. A. Voige, as and for his last will and testament, in our presence, and subscribed by us as witnesses, in his presence, in presence of each other and at his special instance and request the day and year aforesaid.
Amelia Winstel
Amelia LepperCampbell County Court, Regular Term, 22nd day of Dec., 1902, Hon. W. J. Hissem, Judge, Presiding.
The foregoing last will and testament of Geo. A. A. Voige, deceased, was this day produced in open court, filed, proven, established, and ordered to record as the last will and testament of said decedent, whereupon the same is duly recorded in my office.
Jas. M. Betz, Clerk
Campbell County, Kentucky, County Court, “Campbell County, Kentucky Wills, 1863-1913,” volume 6 (1898-1903), page 533-534, Will of George A. A. Voige, recorded December 22, 1902[134]Campbell County, Kentucky, County Court, “Campbell County, Kentucky Wills, 1863-1913,” volume 6 (1898-1903), page 533-534, Will of George A. A. Voige, recorded December 22, 1902, … Continue reading
Property records
Hamilton County, Ohio, deeds
| Deed Date | Record Date | Grantor | Grantee | Volume | Page | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1864-04-26 | 1864-08-10 | R. A. W. Bruehl and Juliana Elizabeth Bruehl | George A. A. Voige | 298 | 583 | A lot in the City of Cincinnati commencing at a point on the south side of Hickory Street, 264 feet and 8 inches west of Linn Street, running west on the south side of Hickory Street 20 feet and 4 inches and extending back south on lines parallel with Linn Street the same width as in front 83 feet |
| 1864-09-26 | 1864-09-27 | George A. A. Voige and Catherine Voige | Viola Magill | 301 | 406 | A lot in the City of Cincinnati commencing at a point on the south side of Hickory Street, 264 feet and 8 inches west of Linn Street, running west on the south side of Hickory Street 20 feet and 4 inches and extending back south on lines parallel with Linn Street the same width as in front 83 feet |
| 1895-06-08 | 1895-06-08 | William F. Bruenger | George A. A. Voige and J. A. Winter | 787 | 233 | A lot in the City of Cincinnati on the south side of Lincoln Avenue, 650 feet west of Durrell Avenue, on Walnut Hills, being Lot 52 of the subdivision made in partition among the heirs of Rebecca Rusk |
| 1896-06-16 | 1896-06-20 | Julia A. Leighton | George A. A. Voige and J. A. Winters | 800 | 377 | Lot 52 of Rusks Division of No. 8 Williams of the City of Cincinnati |
| 1899-03-17 | 1899-03-23 | Bernard Henry Wessels | George A. A. Voige and John A. Winter | 827 | 563 | Lot 83 in Phillip M. Price’s first subdivision on Prospect Hill in the City of Cincinnati, designated as 1721 Highland Avenue |
| G. A. A. Voige | J. A. Winter | 884 | 201 | |||
| G. A. A. Voige | John A. Winter | 885 | 134 |
Campbell County, Kentucky, deeds
| Deed Date | Record Date | Grantor | Grantee | Volume | Page | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1868-08-17 | 1868-08-21 | Albert S. Berry | George A. Voige of Cincinnati, Ohio | 7 | 2 | Lots 37 and 38 in East Newport |
| 1869-06-07 | 1869-06-07 | George A. A. Voige and Catharine Voige of Cincinnati, Ohio | John C. W. Hagemeyer | 7 | 427 | Lots 37 and 38 in East Newport |
| 1869-07 | 1869-07-15 | Augustus Lockwood | George A. A. Voige of Cincinnati, Ohio | 7 | 500 | Lot 416 in the Buena Vista Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1869-07-19 | 1869-07-19 | James Deggett | George A. A. Voige of Cincinnati, Ohio | 8 | 17 | Part of lots 427, 428, 429 in the Buena Vista Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1869-07-24 | 1869-07-24 | George A. A. Voige and Catharine Voige of Cincinnati, Ohio | J. Henry Kanike | 8 | 29 | Lot 416 in the Buena Vista Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1871-04-12 | 1871-04-18 | William H. Weibe | George A. A. Voige | 10 | 383 | Lots 546, 565, and the northern halves of lots 545 and 566 in the Buena Vista Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1871-05-11 | 1871-05-11 | Henry A. Schriver | George A. A. Voige | 11 | 31 | Lot 161 in James Taylor’s Turnpike Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1872-08-05 | 1872-08-12 | Mary Ellen Winter and J. Aug. WInter | George A. A. Voige | 13 | 184 | Lot 51 in James Taylor’s East Row Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1873-01-14 | 1873-01-14 | George A. A. Voige | Henry A. Schriver | 14 | 78 | Lot 51 in James Taylor’s East Row Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1873-01-14 | 1873-01-14 | Henry A. Schriver | Geo. A. A. Voige | 14 | 79 | Southern half of lot 162 in James Taylor’s Turnpike Addition to the CIty of Newport |
| 1873-03-21 | 1873-03-22 | George A. A. Voige | Fred. C. Baehms | 14 | 216 | Lots 546, 565, and the northern halves of lots 545 and 566 in the Buena Vista Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1882-08-23 | 1882-08-24 | Louis O. Erwert and Theodore Erwert | George A. A. Voige and John A. Winter | 31 | 297 | Lot 247 in James Taylor’s East Row Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1882-08-23 | 1882-08-26 | William H. Lape, Trustee, under a deed of trust from James Taylor | George A. A. Voige and John A. Winter | 31 | 322 | Lots 244, 245, 246, 248, 249, 254, and 255 in James Taylor’s East Row Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1888-06-25 | 1888-06-30 | George A. A. Voige, Anna Voige, John A. Winter, and Mary Ellen Winter | Windisch Muhlhauser Brewing Company of Cincinnati, Ohio | 47 | 235 | Lot 255 in James Taylor’s East Row Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1888-11-07 | 1888-11-08 | George A. A. Voige, Anna Voige, John A. Winter, and Mary Ellen Winter | Laura A. Locke | 48 | 203 | Part of Lot 244 in James Taylor’s East Row Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1888-11-07 | 1888-11-08 | George A. A. Voige, Anna Voige, John A. Winter, and Mary Ellen Winter | F. J. Locke | 48 | 205 | Part of Lot 246 in James Taylor’s East Row Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1888-11-07 | 1888-11-08 | George A. A. Voige, Anna Voige, John A. Winter, and Mary Ellen Winter | F. J. Locke | 48 | 207 | Part of Lots 244, 245, and 246 in James Taylor’s East Row Addition to the City of Newport |
| 1902-11-21 | 1902-11-21 | Geo. A. A. Voige and Anna Voige | John A. Winter | 83 | 504 | Lots 247, 248, and 249 in James Taylor’s East Row Addition to the City of Newport |
City Directories
Personal listings
| Year | Place | Page | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1858 | Cincinnati | 255 | Voige Geo., (V. & Dallmann) s.w.c. Schiler and Hughes |
| 1859 | Cincinnati | 294 | Voige George, brush mkr., 17 Schilller |
| 1861 | Cincinnati | 344 | Voige Geo., clk., 233 Main, h. 57 Ham. Road |
| 1862 | Cincinnati | 323 | Voige George, brush mkr., 531 Sycamore |
| 1863 | Cincinnati | 341 | Voige George, foreman, h. 531 Sycamore |
| 1863 | Cincinnati | 341 | Voige Geo. A. A. clk. 233 Main, h. 531 Sycamore |
| 1864 | Cincinnati | 363 | Voigt George A. supt. 233 Main, h. 531 Sycamore |
| 1865 | Cincinnati | 379 | Voige George A. A. b. k. h. 593 Sycamore |
| 1866 | Cincinnati | 415 | Voige Geo. A. A. h. 214 Laurel |
| 1867 | Cincinnati | 472 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter.) h. 214 Laurel |
| 1868 | Cincinnati | 518 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) h. 214 Laurel |
| 1869 | Cincinnati | 569 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) h. 214 Laurel |
| 1870 | Cincinnati | 618 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1871 | Cincinnati | 696 | Voige George A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1872 | Cincinnati | 869 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1872 | Cincinnati (Newport section) | 1060 | Voige Geo. A. A. cigars, h. n. s. Tibbatts b. Putnam and Columbia [in Newport] |
| 1873 | Cincinnati | 847 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1874 | Cincinnati | 910 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1875 | Cincinnati | 935 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1876 | Cincinnati | 969 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1877 | Cincinnati | 1001 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1878 | Covington (Newport section) | 470 | Voige Geo. A., cigar manufr, res 268 Washington |
| 1879 | Cincinnati | 995 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1880 | Cincinnati | 1057 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1881 | Cincinnati | 1115 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1882 | Cincinnati | 1215 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1882 | Covington (Newport Section) | 272 | Voige Geo. A. A. cigars, h. 268 Washington Av [in Newport] |
| 1883 | Cincinnati | 1218 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1884 | Cincinnati | 1394 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1884 | Covington (Newport section) | 305 | Voige Geo. A. A. cigar manuf. h. 268 Washington Av [in Newport] |
| 1885 | Cincinnati | 1370 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1886 | Cincinnati | 1392 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1887 | Cincinnati | 1453 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1888 | Cincinnati | 1362 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1888 | Covington (Newport section) | 314 | Voige Geo. H. cigars, h. 268 Washington Av |
| 1889 | Cincinnati | 1380 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1890 | Cincinnati | 1376 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1891 | Cincinnati | 1428 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1892 | Cincinnati | 1539 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1893 | Cincinnati | 1586 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1894 | Cincinnati | 1557 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1895 | Cincinnati | 1696 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1896 | Cincinnati | 1514 | Voige Geo A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1897 | Cincinnati | 1582 | Voige Geo A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1898 | Cincinnati | 1639 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1899 | Cincinnati | 1670 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) res. Newport |
| 1900 | Cincinnati | 1739 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) 429 Main, res. Newport |
| 1900 | Covington (Newport section) | 391 | Voige Geo. A. cigars, h. 922 Washington Av |
| 1901 | Cincinnati | 1768 | Voige Geo. A. A. (V. & Winter) 429 Main, res. Newport |
| 1902 | Covington (Newport section) | 457 | Voige Geo. A. A. cigars, h. 922 Washington Av [in Newport] |
Company listings
| Year | Place | Page | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1858 | Cincinnati | 255 | Voige & Dallmann, (Geo. V., & Herman D.,) brush manuf., 524 Sycamore |
| 1867 | Cincinnati | 472 | Voige & Winter, (G. A. A. V. & August W.) cigars, &c., 183 Main |
| 1868 | Cincinnati | 518 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & August W.) cigars, &c. 159 Main |
| 1869 | Cincinnati | 569 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & August W.) cigars, &c. 159 Main |
| 1870 | Cincinnati | 618 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & August W.) cigars, 159 Main |
| 1871 | Cincinnati | 696 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & August W.) cigars, 159 Main |
| 1872 | Cincinnati | 869 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & August W.) Manufacturers and Dealers in Cigars, Tobacco, Snuff, &c., 159 Main |
| 1873 | Cincinnati | 847 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & August W.) Manufacturers of Cigars, 159 and 161 Main |
| 1874 | Cincinnati | 910 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. Winter) Manufacturers of Cigars and Dealers in Tobacco, 159 and 161 Main |
| 1875 | Cincinnati | 935 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & J. A. W.) Manufacturers and Dealers in Cigars and Tobacco, 159 and 161 Main |
| 1876 | Cincinnati | 969 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & J. A. W.) Manufacturers and Dealers in Cigars and Tobacco, 159 and 161 Main |
| 1877 | Cincinnati | 1001 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of La Optima and Prometheus and other Brands of Fine Cigars; Agents for Geo. W. Gail & Ax’s Fine Cut Chewing and Smoking Tobaccos and Snuffs; also, Dealers in Plug Tobacco, 159 and 161 Main |
| 1879 | Cincinnati | 995 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of Cigars and Tobacco and Dealers in Smokers’ Articles, 175 Main |
| 1880 | Cincinnati | 1057 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of Cigars and Dealers in Tobaccos, Snuff, Pipes and Smokers’ Articles, 175 Main |
| 1881 | Cincinnati | 1115 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of Cigars and Dealers in Tobaccos, Snuff, Pipes and Smokers’ Articles, 175 Main |
| 1882 | Cincinnati | 1215 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of Cigars and Dealers in Tobacco, 175 Main |
| 1883 | Cincinnati | 1218 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of Cigars and Dealers in Tobacco, 175 Main |
| 1884 | Cincinnati | 1394 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of and Dealers in Cigars, Tobacco and Snuff, 175 Main |
| 1885 | Cincinnati | 1370 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of and Dealers in Cigars, Tobacco and Snuff, 175 Main |
| 1886 | Cincinnati | 1392 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of and Dealers in Cigars, Tobacco and Snuff, 175 Main |
| 1887 | Cincinnati | 1453 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of and Dealers in Cigars, Tobacco and Snuff, 175 Main |
| 1888 | Cincinnati | 1362 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of and Dealers in Cigars, Tobacco and Snuff, 175 Main |
| 1889 | Cincinnati | 1380 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of and Dealers in Cigars, Tobacco and Snuff, 175 Main |
| 1890 | Cincinnati | 1376 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & Jno. A. W.) Manufacturers of Fine Cigars and Dealers in Tobaccos and Snuffs, 175 Main |
| 1891 | Cincinnati | 1428 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of Fine Cigars and Dealers in Tobaccos and Snuffs, 175 Main |
| 1892 | Cincinnati | 1539 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of Fine Cigars and Dealers in Tobaccos and Snuffs, 175 Main |
| 1893 | Cincinnati | 1586 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of Fine Cigars and Dealers in Tobaccos and Snuffs, 175 Main |
| 1894 | Cincinnati | 1557 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of Fine Cigars and Dealers in Tobaccos and Snuff, 175 Main |
| 1895 | Cincinnati | 1696 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of Fine Cigars and Dealers in Tobaccos and Snuff, 175 Main (new no. 429) b. 4th and 5th |
| 1896 | Cincinnati | 1514 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of Fine Cigars and Dealers in Tobacco and Snuff, 429 Main |
| 1897 | Cincinnati | 1582 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. V. & John A. W.) Manufacturers of Fine Cigars and Dealers in Tobacco and Snuff, 429 Main |
| 1898 | Cincinnati | 1639 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Cigar Manufacturers and Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Cigars and Tobacco, 429 Main |
| 1899 | Cincinnati | 1670 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Cigar Manufacturers and Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Cigars and Tobacco, 429 Main |
| 1900 | Cincinnati | 1739 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Cigar Manufacturers and Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Cigars and Tobacco, 429 Main |
| 1901 | Cincinnati | 1768 | Voige & Winter, (Geo. A. A. V. & John A. W.) Cigar Manufacturers and Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Cigars and Tobacco, 429 Main |
United States Census manufacturing schedules
| 1870 Census | 1880 Census | |
|---|---|---|
| Name of Corporation, Company, or Individual | Voige & Winter | Voige & Winter |
| Name of Business, Manufacture, or Product | Cigars | Cigars |
| Capital invested in the business | $15,000 | $30,000 |
| Motive Power | Hand | |
| # of Employees: Males above 16 years | 34 | 42 |
| # of Employees: Females above 15 years | 0 | 0 |
| # of Employees: Children and youth | 6 | 8 |
| Total amount paid in wages during year | $20,000 | $20,981 |
| # of Hours in the ordinary day of labor (May to November) | 10 | |
| # of Hours in the ordinary day of labor (November to May) | 10 | |
| Average day’s wages for a skilled mechanic | $2.00 | |
| Average day’s wages for an ordinary laborer | $1.00 | |
| Number of months in active operation (full time) | 12 | 12 |
| Value of Material | $28,400 | |
| Kinds of items produced | Cigars | |
| Quantity of items produced | 1,352,000 | |
| Value of items produced | $60,000 | $53,400 |
Employment statistics
The following is a table of employment data collected by the Ohio Department of Inspection of Workshops, Factories, and Public Buildings.
| Year | Name of Firm | Location | Business or kind of manufacturing | Male Employees | Female Employees | Minor Employees | Page |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1888 | Voige & Winter | 175 Main Street, Cincinnati | Fine cigars | 13 | 0 | 1 | 138 |
| 1891 | Voige & Winter | 175 Main Street, Cincinnati | Cigars | 15 | 2 | 0 | 176-177 |
| 1894 | Voige & Winter | 175 Main Street, Cincinnati | Cigars | 21 | 0 | 0 | 193 |
| 1896 | Voige & Winter | 429 Main Street, Cincinnati | Cigars | 18 | 1 | 0 | 139 |
| 1900 | Voige & Winters | 429 Main Street, Cincinnati | Cigars | 15 | 2 | 0 | 172 |
References