BEINDORFF CHARLES, pioneer, Omaha, Nebraska, was born July 22, 1829 in Varel, Germany, in the Grand Duchy of Oldenburg and is a son of Christian William and Louisa Beindorff, the former a prominent lawyer having a considerable criminal practice.

Charles Beindorff acquired his education in the schools of his native town. The father died when Charles was only twelve years old and the latter became employed in a grocery store owned by his uncle. After four years he went to Breman and secured a position with a wholesale and commission house. He remained there one year and having reached the age for enlistment in the army, he emigrated to the United States to avoid military service.

He reached St. Louis, Missouri in 1850 and was employed in a hardware store six years. January 2, 1857 he moved to Omaha, Nebraska where he was employed as a draftsman for Poppleton & Byers. The following year he became surveyor for Oscar F. Davis and then engaged in the ice cream and bakery business for over a year. His principal work, however, for a number of years was in the commission business. He erected the building upon the northwest corner of 13th & Farnam streets, which he still owns, at a cost of $18,000.

Mr. Beindorff is a republican but has never desired public office. He was a member of the Home Guards during the war and served in the defense against the Indians. He is a member of the Lutheran Church.

He was married September 28, 1858 to Caroline Timme, a native of Germany but educated in Dubuque, Iowa. Their wedding trip was taken overland by ox team to Denver where they intended to remain. En route they were met by a party of Indians and Mrs. Beindorff was obliged to remain hidden in the bottom of the wagon-bed a long time to protect herself from the curiosity of the Indians. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Beindorff: Otto L., Omaha; Charles F., deceased; and Wilhelmina, wife of O.P. Burnett, Omaha.

Source: Illustrated History of Nebraska, page 590