CONRAD MAYREIS, of Beardstown, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt in 1842. His parents lived and died in the same place. He was given a common German schooling and when fifteen years of age came to this country and came on at once to Beardstown, Illinois, having left a sister, Sophia, in New York city, who had been the first of the family to cross the ocean. Sophia has been employed by the same family for the last forty years. Their family is represented by two other sisters, Caroline and Mary and brother John. Mr. Mayreis came here in 1857, learned the trade of boot and shoe maker and followed it until 1861. He then enlisted in Company K, Fourteenth Illinois Volunteers, Captain Reynolds in command, the regiment being known as the Springfield regiment, Colonel Palmer (ex-Governor) in command. Mr. Mayreis served with his regiment as Corporal of his company for two years and three months, in the Army of the Tennessee, and fought in the battles of Fort Donelson, Pittsburg Landing, Corinth, siege of Pittsburg and other minor engagements. He escaped unhurt and received honorable discharge at Vicksburg, Tennessee, and on his return to Beardstown engaged in the boot and shoe business from 1864 to 1886 and in the meantime superintended work on a farm, which he has improved and owns in Cass county. He started his present business of dealer in wines and liquors, in 1885, at the corner of Main and Washington streets and has since connected with it a well kept caf�. He is also agent for the Anheuser-Busch Brewing Company of St. Louis at this place.

He was married in this city to Miss Anna Mooman, who was born at Bielefeld, Germany, in 1844 and came with her parents when she was two years of age to the United States. The family settled at Beardstown where Mr. and Mrs. Mooman both died, being consistent members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Mayreis is the father of seven children: Frank, a partner in his father's business; Edward, who runs the restaurant; Conrad, at present running the farm; Minnie, wife of E. Rink; Henry, who is at an institute in St. Louis; Louis is at home in the public school; and Maria is also at home. Mr. Mayreis is a sound Republican in politics and has taken an active part in local matters, having an interest in the advancement of the city and county. Mr. and Mrs. Mayreis are leaders among their people and their children have all received a good education. They are all highly respected and admired by their large circle of friends.