From "HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY,"  Vol. I, pages 382-383.
Brant & Fuller, 1890.


JOHN F. MILLER

John F. Miller, a sucessful and prominent manufacturer of cigars and 
Wheeling stogies, at 2151 Market street, Wheeling, was born in 
Germany, December 31, 1851.  He was left an orphan by the death of 
his father, about two years later, and the widow and two sons then 
immigrated to America, and came directly to Wheeling.  They had been 
there but a short time, when in 1854, the mother died, and John F. 
left alone in a strange country,  was adopted by Frederick Newman, of 
Wheeling, with whom he remained until he was eighteen, when he bought 
his release.  During this period of adoption he learned the trade of 
a baker, but subsequently found employment with his uncle, John 
Schneider, and learned the craft of a cigar maker. He worked for his 
uncle six months, then at Parkersburgh a year for his brother, in the 
cigar trade there, then again for his uncle, and subsequently for his 
brother, who had removed to Wheeling.  After four years of this 
latter employment, he bought out his brother, and has ever since been 
in business for himself.  His first establishment was on the corner 
of Market and Twenty-second streets, but in 1880, he removed to his 
present location.  Beginning with two hands, his business has 
increased until he now employs on an average, twenty hands, and the 
product of his factory meets with a hearty welcome by the public.  
His success in life has been his own achievement, and it is a matter 
of much credit to him that in spite of the adverse circumstances, 
narrated in this sketch, he has been able to achieve such substantial 
success.  He is prominent in the affairs of the Fifth ward, and aids 
in public enterprises but has so far declined official position.  He 
is a stockholder in the West Virginia Tobacco company.  In October, 
1883, Mr. Miller was married to Lena, daughter of Herman Renner, of 
Wheeling, and they have two daughters: Carrie and Eva.  

       
(Linda Fluharty)