Life in Chicago, Illinois

Fidel Schlund lived in Chicago, Illinois from approximately 1859 to 1865. During that time he served as the President and as an Agent for the German Emigration Aid Society. He helped German immigrants who were settling in Chicago. Protecting them from swindlers or helping them after being swindled, helping find jobs, shelter, and helping with food and clothing for the especially needy. He was sworn in as Special Policeman for the German Immigration Aid Society June 9, 1860. He also served as temporary secretary of the German Immigration Aid Society and in many other clubs and groups.

The first documentation I could find of Fidel in Chicago was in the 1859 city directory. Notice his sons Alois Schlund, Anton Schlund, and Peter Schlund are also listed. 

Chicago city directory 1859.

The next record of Fidel in Chicago is in 1860.

Illinois State Archives 1860

On January 18, 1861 an assembly was held in Archer Road Hall in which Fidel purposed the organization of the South Side Union Club. Fidel Schlund was elected President. The following report by the German newspaper Staats-Zeitung describres the meeting. Two more reports by the newspaper follow, both regarding the German Home Guard.

Staats-Zeitung January 19, 1861

Staats-Zeitung March 15, 1862

Staats-Zeitung May 29, 1862

The following is an exert from the Illinois Staats-Zeitung on April 16, 1862, from the Annual Report of the President of the German Society of Chicago.

“It is true that the work of the organization is carried on through an agent, still I am sure that nobody will object if I, an officer, make a report on, and voice my opinion about the merits of the Society, especially its accomplishments of the past year. Among the many thousands of German residents of Chicago, there are undoubtedly hundreds who are unable to solve even the simplest problems of everyday life, and are therefore dependent upon the advice and guidance of an honest and intelligent person; then again, there are hundreds of others who need material assistance because they are unemployed, or because sickness or old age prevents them from working and earning a living. And all of them are directed to Mr. Schlund, the agent of the German Society of Chicago, and he will be gratefully remembered by many thousands of unfortunates for displaying a genuine German character--a kind, sympathetic disposition, and willingness to aid in any way he can.”

Fidel Schlund was listed in city directories for 1863 and 1864. He was listed as Agent of the German Emigrant Society.

Chicago city directory from 1863

Chicago’s Trade Assembly, Chicago city directory 1864