Walther Collection

Collection — Multiple Containers

Identifier: 1998.072

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This collection contains several journals reflecting the Walther’s business transactions, and numerous photographs of the original furniture building from the 1890’s to the mid 1900’s. There are several articles that relate the Walther family and business history and also numerous legal documents, including contracts of land sales, additions and improvements to the furniture building, and court cases involving the Walthers. There are also Cape Girardeau city directories from 1932, 1945, and a souvenir business directory. Most of the collection is related to the furniture enterprise, but there is a journal and newspaper articles documenting the growth of the funeral home and the director’s duties.

Dates

Creation: 1864-1980

Rights Statement

Materials in this collection may be protected by copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code).

Biographical / Historical

August Walther began the "A. Walther" firm in 1864. By trade he was a cabinet maker who was also skilled in furniture and casket building. In 1896, August retired and gave ownership of the family business to his sons, Rudolph and Albright. August died February 18, 1898 and Rudolph renamed the company "Rudolph Walther’s" and in 1910, Albright sold his furniture interest to Rudolph. Rudolph died in 1912 and his sons, B.A. and G.C. took over the business renaming it, yet again, "Walther Furniture and Undertaking Company." In 1917, the two companies split with B.A. as president of the furniture company and G.C. as president of the funeral home and secretary-treasurer of the furniture company. In 1979, B.A. Walther passed away and the furniture company was sold to Tom Boudinot.

Extent

2 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Financial and legal papers, publications, ephemera, photographs, and ledgers documenting the furniture and undertaking business established by August Walther in Cape Girardeau in 1864, and owned by three generations of Walthers before its sale in 1979 to Tom Boudinot.