When the Freedman department store, of which Isidor Freedman is the head, was opened for business its selling force consisted of but two clerks, and something of the splendid development of the trade is indicated in the fact that there are now two hundred and fifty salespeople and other employes, a result which is the visible evidence of the indefatigable energy and initiative spirit of Mr. Freedman, who received his business training under the direction of his father, Louis H. Freedman, who for some years was one of New Haven's most prosperous merchants. The present business, however, was started as an independent venture by Isidor Freedman and is the outgrowth of his close application and energy.

A native of New Haven, he was born February 28, 1862, of the marriage of Louis H. and Rachael (Strauss) Freedman, who were natives of Germany but in early life came to the United States and were married in New Haven in 1850. For many years the father was identified with commercial interests as a dry goods merchant, his life's labors being ended, however, in death on the 9th of April, 1909. His widow survived until March 19, 1914.

The youngest of their six children, Isidor Freedman, was sent to the Webster grammar school in his youthful days and afterward attended the Hillhouse high school. When his textbooks were put aside he became a clerk in his father's store and remained with him from 1879 until 1886. He was ambitious, however, to engage in business on his own account and carefully saved his earnings until his industry and economy had brought him sufficient capital to establish a small store. After a brief period he formed a partnership with Adolph  Mendel, and with two clerks they carried on the business, soon winning an increased patronage, however, that necessitated the employment of other help. The business has enjoyed rapid but substantial growth and theirs is today considered one of the largest stores of the state. They carry a complete line of general merchandise of all descriptions, such as is found in a first-class department store, and they handle a distinctively high-grade line of dry goods, ladies' wearing apparel, dress goods, shoes and men's clothing and furnishings. Their business is governed by the best known principles. They sell merchandise of trustworthy quality and aim at perfect store service and delivery.

On the 5th of January, 1895, in New York city, Mr. Freedman was married to Miss Sarah K. Kahn, a daughter of Meyer and Henrietta Kahn. They have one child, Ruth F., who is a graduate of Johnstone's School and Miss Boardman's boarding school for girls and is the wife of Edwin Hays, of New York city.

Mr. Freedman has membership with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and in club circles is well known as a member of the Harmonic. Racebrook Country and Sterling Clubs. Actuated by laudable ambition, he has in his career made steady progress and the qualities which he has displayed have won for him not only financial success but also the high respect of colleagues and contemporaries.