Engels, Joseph

Joseph Engels, 1939 Birchwood avenue, Wilmette, is another pioncer who has remained close to the place of his birth. He was born on July 22, 1860, at 2403 Glenview road, in the house now occupied by his nephew, Anton Engels. On November 11, 1884, he was married to Margaret Wilhelm, whose home was on a farm adjoining west Winnetka avenue. Her parents’ house was built of logs, cut and hewn by her father, and some of them are still in use.

Early in life Mr. Engels learned the carpenter trade, which he followed for the greater part of his active life. For himself and wife he built a house on Lake avenue, just east of Ridge road, and later another at 1941 Birchwood, on the same block where they now reside.

Mr. Engels’ skill as a builder attracted attention, and he was engaged not only in construction along the North Shore, but was called upon for work in adjoining states. However, his home has been in New Trier township during all of his life.