Joseph Gans
Values Codes I – E – L
Joseph Gans was born in 1838 in Neustadt, Germany.
He came to New York in 1861, at the age 0f 23.
Along the way . . . .
In 1862, Joseph Gans crossed the Isthmus of Panama, visiting various western states – California, Oregon, and Idaho.
He tried out various jobs, including butchery and freighting.
Helena, Montana
In 1866, Joseph Gans moved to Helena, Montana.
He opened a general merchandise store.
He also tried his hand at ranching. “XIT” was his brand.
In 1876, Gans entered into a partnership with Henry Klein.
By 1882, their mercantile firm, Gans & Klein Co., was quite successful.
Louis and Herman Gans, also worked at Gans & Klein.
Joseph Gans also raised sheep in Wyoming during this time.
Helena, Montana, Vintage Map
Fraternal
Joseph Gans was a Master of King Solomon Masonic Lodge No. 9.
He also served as its Treasurer 35 times.
Family
In 1876, Joseph Gans married Frederika (Rachael) Kaufman (1847-1928).
Together they had 5 children: Sara (1878-1947); Marvin Lloyd Gans (1881-1947), who took over running Gans & Klein; Carrie M. (1887-1890); David S. (1890-1960); and Mrs. Henry Weigel.
Joseph Gans died in 1917.
He is buried at the Home of Peace Cemetery in Helena.
Frederika Gans died in 1928.
Sources
- Julie L. Coleman, Golden Opportunities: A Biographical History of Montana’s Jewish Communities (Helena, MT: SkyHouse Publishers, 1994).
- Moses Morris papers, 1894-1932, Montana Historical Society Research Center – Archives and Photographs Archives. http://184.168.105.185/archivegrid/collection/data/420247227
- Birth/Death Date information from findagrave.com
- Montana Women’s History, http://montanawomenshistory.org/using-quilts-as-a-window-into-montana-womens-history/#more-2082
Samantha Silver is curator for this Joseph Gans exhibit.