David Heimberger (Father of Rose, Erna, and Carl)
Born: Sindoesteun/Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany, February 26, 1845
Died: January 27, 1911, Leadville, Colorado
Married to Minna Brann, December 25, 1885

Minna Brann Heimberger (sometimes spelled Mina)
(Married to David Heimberger)
Born: Dec 1861
Died: March 26, 1919, Leadville, Colorado
Marriage to: David Heimberger, MD,
December 25, 1885

Rose Heimberger Kahn Blair
Born: September 18, 1886
Died:
Married Garson J. Kahn, September 18, 1905
Married Albert L. Blair, January 19, 1919

Helen “Erna” Heimberger
Born: July 5, 1891
Died: February 7, 1968
Married to Edward L. Janowitz, February 27, 1913
(Son of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Janowitz)
Married to Pawel “Paul” Chamison, June 17, 1923

Carl Daniel Heimberger
Born: December 30, 1898
Died: Aug 15 1954, Chicago, Cook County, Illinois, United States of America

Jacob Oppenheim Heimberger
(Father of Lucile and Sylvia)
Born: June 2, 1867
Died: June 1, 1904
Married Hattie Leon, January 12, 1892.

Hattie Leon Heimberger Bergman
(married to Jacob Heimberger)
Born: April 1868
Died:

Lucile Heimberger
Born: July, 1893 (1900 census)
Died:

Sylvia Heimberger
Born: August 22, 1899, (1900 census)
Died:

Dr. David Heimberger was born in Baden, Germany, in 1845. He came to the United States as a child with his parents and siblings. [1] David studied medicine at Belleview College in New York. After graduation he immediately took up his profession. When David first came to Colorado he lived in Denver. He was a founding member of the Hebrew Benevolent Association, created in 1871; Julius Londoner [2] acted as president with Dr. John Elsner as his assistant, Charles M. Schayer and Dr. Heimberger were the secretaries. [3] David was also a founding member of The B’nai B’rith, Denver Lodge No. 171, joining the lodge when he was 28. [4] He and Dr. Elsner were business partners until 1873 when he then served as the elected Denver county physician. [5]

In December of 1873, David accepted the position of doctor at the Los Pinos Indian Agency. [6] He was the first president of the town of Saguache when it became incorporated in February of 1874. [7] He adopted his nephew, Jake Oppenheimer, giving him the last name of Heimberger, at the bequest of his widowed sister who had relocated to Colorado after her husband’s passing. [8]

Jake was an excellent student. He was soon accepted into Jarvis Hall, a liberal arts, grammar and military college in Denver. After finishing the course at Jarvis Hall, Jake was accepted to the University of Colorado, at Boulder. [9] From 1881 to 1886 his uncle, David, was editor and proprietor of the Saguache Chronicle, [10] Jake helped with the paper when he was home on vacations. It is here that he nurtured his love for the newspaper business. [11]

The first indication of Dr. Heimberger’s interest in mining comes from an article in the Saguache Chronicle in 1883. He had a specimen from his new prospect and “invited everyone to call on the doctor at the office of this journal (Saguache Chronicle), and see something that is calculated to dispel the blues and make them glad that they are citizens of this wonderful county that is attracting so much interest both at home and abroad.” [12] Dr. Heimberger’s mining interest continued and at one time he owned more than one hundred mining claims. [13]

Dr. David Heimberger and Miss Minna Brann married on December 25, 1885, in Denver, [14] Minna was well educated, had a university degree, and was already an accomplished musician at the time of her marriage. [15]

In January of 1886, David was involved in an angry dispute on a corner in Saguache with a Mr. Porges. David attempted to draw a dagger from his cane. Charges regarding the conceiled weapon were filed and he was acquitted. [16] Soon after this event he moved his family to Leadville where he opened his medical practice at his home 130 West 4th Street. [17] David also sold the Saguache Chronicle and moved his newspaper to Leadville naming it the Leadville Journal. The following was transcribed from the Saguache Democrat.

Democratic Daily Assured.

Leadville, Colorado January 15- Dr. Heimberger, who contemplates starting a Democratic paper here, has decided to bring his newspaper plant from Saguache up at once. He will shut the Rocky Mountain News out completely, as that paper is very unpopular in Leadville, and does not fill the requirements of the Democracy of Lake County. [18]

In 1887, Jake attended school, worked as a circulator for the Leadville Journal, and lived at home with his adopted father at their residence. [19] Jake began to show up in the Leadville social circles, on Valentine’s Day he attended the Leadville Turn Verein Ball [20] and on November 29, he was a guest at Mrs. Meirendorf’s home for the christening of her three children. [21] Minna performed at many social events and fraternal organizations. On March 24, 1888 the Leadville Evening Chronicle published this article:

The World of Melody

The Cecillan Piano society is almost entirely composed of married ladies, there being seven members who are attached to that useful appendage, yclept, a husband, and but one single lady, the latter being Miss B. G. Beede. The other members are Mrs. Judge Goddard, Mrs. Dr. Heimberger, Mrs. T. A. Dixon, Mrs. Dr. D’Avignon, Mrs. Charles Cuno, Mrs. Dean and Mrs. C. J. Moore. The society meets every two weeks for social enjoyment as well as study and selects such music, generally sonatas, as they may be able to agree upon for practice during the interim of the following fortnight. The next meeting will be held on Friday evening at the residence of Mrs. Cuno. [22]

In April of 1888, David moved his house on West 4th Street, about fifteen inches, and was preparing to add three rooms in the front and two in the rear. [23] On September 4, David and Minna were among around sixty guests who attended a reception at the new residence of Mr. and Mrs. Richard at 212 West 7th Street. At twelve an elegant repast was served, while an orchestra played sweet strains of music. Many members of the congregation were present. [24]

Dr. Heimberger’s interest in mining expanded over into Pitkin County as evidenced in this September 5, 1888, article in the Aspen Evening News. Dr. Heimberger editor of Leadville Journal came to the city (Aspen) on the Midland at noon and is looking to local developments. [25]

In December of 1888, David decided to end his newspaper career and sold The Leadville Journal to L. A. Leonard of the Leadville Dispatch. [26]

Jake’s love for the newspaper business continued when he finished his schooling in 1889, he returned to Leadville and took the advertising solicitor position with C. C. Davis of the Herald Publishing Company. [27] He made his home with his family at 130 West 4th. [28]

Jake and his future wife, Hattie Leon, [29] began to appear at the same social events. On March 11, Jake and Miss Leon attended the same party given by the Misses Schloss [30] the residence of their father, Mr. Jake Schloss, at 218 West 5th Street. [31] Jake and Hattie both attended a luncheon at Mrs. Joe Cohn’s [32] home on West 7th Street on May 13. [33] On July 22, Jake went on an outing at Twin Lakes and it was reported that they made the trip in one hour and 45 minutes. [34] He and Hattie both attended the Assembly Ball, in on July 23. [35] Minna led an active social life: she played an instrumental solo for a gathering of friends of Eastern Star on June 7; [36] on October 4, she was elected treasurer for the Hebrew Ladies Benevolent Association; [37] and on September 26, she played a piano solo at the Y. M. C. A. Ball. [38] Jake, a very popular young man, was very active in various clubs and lodges; he was elected financial secretary of the Patriotic Sons of America Camp No. 22 in on December 31. [39]

The Heimbergers attended many social functions in 1890. On January 5, Jake joined a large party on a sleigh ride to Evergreen lakes, “dancing figuring conspicuously in the entertainment.” After enjoying a sumptuous banquet they left, singing songs on the return trip, [40] On January 14, David and Minna attended a get together at the Schloss’ home, where they sang a duet, Poet and Peasant, and were declared the hit of the evening and on the 25th . [41] Mrs. Baer gave a nice get together for her friends on January 26th. Minna was present as were many members of the congregation. [42] Jake was on the floor committee at a commemorative Ball given in remembrance of Washington’s Birthday on February 22. [43] Children’s birthday parties and receptions were often reported in the newspapers social columns. On February 2, Rose Heimberger attended a birthday celebration for her friend Minette Baer [44] . [45] David and Minna attended a reception for the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. M. Kahn [46] for their daughter, Mrs. Sam Mayer [47] , on a visit home on March 2. [48] On March 28, the new Alpha Club was formed with Jake, a founding member, attending the weekly dances. [49] The three of them attended the Purim Ball, David served on the Reception Committee, and Jake on the floor committee, [50] and on June 5, Jake and Miss Leon attended the Strawberry Ice Cream Festival and Hop [51].

In July, Mr. H. Brann of Ft Worth visited his brother-in-law Dr. D. Heimberger. When interviewed by a reporter, on the 22nd , he spoke at length about the wonderful city of Fort Worth, Texas, where he had made his home. The reporter asked what he thought about Leadville, he said he thought the number of stores was simply astonishing and a “tenderfoot” wonders where all of the trade comes from. [52] On September 14, Minna played the organ for the Rosh Hashanah celebration [53] and, on September 30, a reception was given at her home for the members of the Temple Israel choir which was composed exclusively of volunteer talent and consisted of members with varying religious affliations. [54]

On October 5, Jake attended a reception for Miss Tille Kahn prior to her departure for Denver and the east. [55] Jake and David were at the Hebrew Ladies Benevolent Association at City Hall on December 6 [56] and on the 29th of December they were all present at a birthday party at the Pechners’ home. [57]

In January, 1891, the ladies of the city served meals to raise money for the new quarters of the Y.M.C.A. All of the Leadville area churches participated. Minna and Hattie represented the Temple Israel. [58] Jake attended the first dance given by The Order of the Eastern Star on February 11. [59]

On May 11, 1891, President Benjamin Harrison visited Leadville while on a tour of the United States. An article in The Evening Chronicle stated:

For Everybody

“The representatives of the three leading press associations of the United States, and the president’s two stenographers will become the guests of the press of Leadville and a committee consisting of Messrs. Butler, Knight, Heimberger and Murphy will take charge of them on arrival, and accompany them on the tour of the mines, imparting to them information regarding the resources and history of the district. The visitors will each be presented with a copy of Nowland’s “Leadville” photographs and views in pocket album form, etc. The local press gang is very likely to load their guests with mining camp yarns, and will also endeavor to sell them some stock in the (sp) Thin Space lode.” [60]

Jake and Hattie Leon began to appear more often at the same social functions during 1891. On July 26, Jake and Hattie were part of a group outing at Twin Lakes, [61] August 1, finds Jake and Hattie at the Assembly Ball, [62] and on October 14 Jake attended the Letter Carrier’s Ball. [63]

On January 14, 1892, at the Denver residence of Hattie Leon’s aunt, Mrs. Koch [64] , Jake and Hattie were united in marriage. A number of friends were present. The ceremony was performed by Dr. Friedman of Temple Emanuel. [65] After the ceremony they returned to Leadville to their home at 126 West 7th Street where they remained throughout their marriage. [66]

On March 2, David and Minna attended the Hyman-Isaacs wedding of Miss Dora Isaacs [67] and Mr. Max Hyman. [68] In June, they attended the fourteenth annual strawberry festival and ball given by the Hebrew Ladies Benevolent Association at City hall. [69] On June 12, Minna’s brother, Herman Brann, of Fort Worth and her sister, Mrs. Kalliski, of Denver came for a short visit. [70] On June 16, Clyde Hollingshead, aged about 15 years got into an altercation with a larger boy. Clyde pulled out a knife and stabbed his opponent. Dr. Heimberger was called to the house of the victim, Nathan Swartz, and placed a number of stitches in the “gaping” wound. [71] On August 21, Jake and Hattie entertained a number of young people in the evening in honor of Messrs. Sinehelmer and Friedlander who were visiting in the City. [72] The October 9 issue of the Herald Democrat lists David as delinquent on his taxes. [73] The October 11 school report shows Rose is attending the Seventh Street School and had perfect attendance for the month ending Oct 8. [74]

July 11, 1893. This article in the Herald Democrat.

Joe Rameaux, doing a dry goods business on East Sixth Street has turned over his stock in trade to Dr. Heimberger on account of his inability to pay certain claims which the latter had against him. He will continue business until he can realize sufficiently on the stock to pay off the indebtedness. [75]

On July 6, 1894, David and Minna attended a Fourth of July party at Becker’s Lake. [76] In August Hattie’s sister, Clara Leon [77] , came to visit. [78] On October 11, Hattie sang in the choir for Yom Kippur. [79] On the 19th, Mrs. Heimberger, was president of The Jewish Ladies Reading Club when they gave a dance at the Vendome hotel. [80] On November 4, Jake and Hattie attended a birthday party for Miss Lizzie Schayer [81] . [82]

On November 27, David was called out the Rio Grande Depot to tend young Mary Fikani. The unfortunate girl, nearly eleven years old, was attempting to sell specimens to the passengers on the train which was passing through the city. As Mary was waiting to receive money from a gentleman in the smoking car, her dress became entangled in the trucks and she was thrown to the ground. The entire train passed over her left arm at the shoulder. Mary was taken to her home across the street from the depot. Drs. Heimberger and Sol and Lee Kahn arrived and spent some hours amputating the child’s arm. [83] After much concerns her condition improved and it was reported that she was recovering. [84] The school report for December 2, shows Rose is attending the Central School and has perfect attendance, again. [85] On December 29, Dr Heimberger attended a Lake County Medical Association meeting. [86]

Hattie’s sister, Clara Leon, left Leadville on January 21, 1895, after an extended visit. During her stay she was one of the Sunday school teachers at the Temple Israel and before her departure she was presented by the other teachers a beautiful silver clock. [87] Clara returned to Leadville and attended a card party at Miss Tillie Kahn’s residence on August 11. [88] On February 15, 1895, Jake was on the reception committee of the Woodmen’s Measure Ball. The Measure Ball was so named as each lady was measured, numbered, tagged, and then the corresponding tag was placed in a jar. Each man paid a dollar for a lady five feet tall and five cents an inch for every inch over five feet. [89] The annual Purim Masque Ball was held on March 14, Hattie attended as a school girl and Jake as a washerwoman. [90] I. Leon, well-known at the time for his travels, and his wife arrived in the city to visit Jake and Hattie. [91]

In 1880, U.S. President Emeritus Ulysses S. Grant toured Colorado. He spent several days visiting the Heimberger ranch, near Saguache. Jake loaned his fishing tackle to the General to use and it wasn’t returned at the time.

The April 28, 1895. The Evening Chronicle:

Anent the general observance of the birthday anniversary of General Grant and the movement looking to the collection and preservation of relics and mementos of his illustrious career and tour of the world, the fact may be noted that Mr. J. O. Heimberger, of the business department of this journal has a fishing pole which the general used upon the occasion of his visit to Colorado in 1880. Upon that occasion the hero of Appomattox indulged in his favorite pastime to some extent. IN the crystal waters of the Saguache in company with ex-Governor Routt and while the guest of Dr. Heimberger, the pole and other accessories were loaned to the great captain by young Heimberger, who only recently recovered the now priceless mementos. General Grant after his departure from Colorado, recalled the circumstances of using the paraphernalia and of not having returned it to its owner and wrote to Governor Routt authorizing him to purchase a new outfit for young Heimburger (sp) providing the borrowed one could not be found. The latter, however placed a high estimate upon the original fishing pole, because of its illustrious association, and kept after the old governor until it was recovered from collection of old heirlooms and restored to its delighted owner. [92]

At the time of this death David had acquired a fair bit of property; in June, 1896, he was granted permission to erect a building at 805 E Eighth Street. [93] On October 13, David and Minna hosted a party to celebrate the anniversary of the Ladies Reading Club, [94] and on October 20, Jake and Hattie traveled to St. Louis, staying in the Planters’ Hotel. [95]

In 1897, the women’s clubs of Leadville, the Home Reading club, The Jewish Reading club and the French History club began taking up the cause to build a public library. Minna was a charter member in the first public library association, [96] later becoming the vice-president. [97] In January, David took Dr. Ballin, recently arrived from Germany, as a partner in his practice and moved his office to 303 Harrison, over Smith’s Store, [98] On January 25, David and Minna attended the wedding of Mr. Louis L. Cohn and Miss Amelia Friedlander at the Temple Israel. [99] Jake and Hattie attended a wedding in Denver for Dr. Sol. G. Kahn and Miss Lillie Rose at David May’s home, on February 8. [100] Hattie and her daughters must have stayed in Denver after the wedding because Jake was called to Denver on February 16 on account of the illness of his daughter, by the time he arrived she had improved so much that he decided to return to Leadville. As he was boarding his train, a messenger stopped him to tell him that his wife had become violently ill and he returned to the hospital to care for her. [101] On March 21, a charity tea was given by the Hebrew Ladies Benevolent Association.in the home of Mrs. Charles Sands [102] . Minna helped with receiving the guests, [103] and on March 28, David and Minna entertained the members of the medical society and their wives in their home. [104] Rose Heimberger, who was eleven years attended a surprise party for Ophelia Holmes on May 9,. [105] And on June 13, Rose attended a meeting of the Junior Music Club. [106]

David continued to construct buildings and purchase property and on June 28, he was granted permission to frame building at 138 Elm Street. [107]

A dangerous and highly contagious scarlet fever epidemic hit Leadville in late 1897. As many as forty people reportedly died from the disease and half as many more due to the after-effects of it. [108] In November, David tended to a patient that presented with a red rash; he diagnosed the illness as German measles and quarantined the household. Other doctors examined the patient and declared the patient to be infected with scarlet fever. The board of health had decreed that all cases of scarlet fever must be reported to the board and set stringent regulations to govern the citizens of Leadville to halt the spread of the disease. [109] David was charged with failing to report. [110] On November 23, his case was dismissed. The judge ruled that he was not negligent in the performance of his duties. [111]

In February of 1898, David ended his partnership with Dr. Balin and moved his office back to his residence, 130 W. 4th. [112] On August 1, a cold-blooded murder occurred at Allen’s big barn, on the corner of Fourth and Pine streets. Zeke Dawson was heavily under the influence of alcohol when he got into an altercation with W. H. Mantz. Dawson was known to have a bad temper when he was drinking. He and Mantz had words; Dawson attacked Mantz with a knife and stabbed him to death. Dr. Heimberger attended to stabbing victim, but was too late to save the victim. [113] David was very involved in the Silver Republication political party, becoming a delegate for Precinct 4 on August 28. The Silver Republicans had split from the Republican Party over the issues of free silver and bimetallism. The party was mostly located in the western states with silver mining. [114] In December, David was elected the Board of Directors of the new Board of Trade, an organization to further the interests of Leadville businesses. [115]

On May 14, 1899, Hattie gave a party at her residence, 126 West Seventh Street, to meet Mrs. Alfred Freedheim [116] and also Mrs. B. Plant of Cincinnati. [117] On May 15, “The 1899 confirmation class of the Jewish Sunday school, yesterday was confirmed in the Jewish faith and a beautiful and appropriate ceremony formed the main part of the proceedings. Rose , now an accomplished pianist, played a piano solo and Minna read The Confirmation. [118] On August 2, Jake first appears in the masthead of the Herald Democrat with J. H. MacLennan and J. O. Heimberger listed as proprietors of The Leadville Publishing and Printing Company. [119] On August 21, a daughter, Silvia, was born to Jake and Hattie. [120] On September 4, Jake was elected Trustee in the Temple Israel election. [121]

In 1900, David and Minna moved down to Denver, where David opened a medical practice. In the 1900 Denver City Directory, his home was listed as 25 Champa St., Denver and his profession was listed as a physician. [122]

David remained active in Leadville mining, in February, David was working on developing mining in the downtown area. [123] The Toledo Avenue Mining Company was the largest development of the downtown mines. The concern leased several mines, including the O’Donovan Rossa, 60 feet of the May Queen, the Oro, and the New Year’s. The intention was to form a stock company, capitalized at one hundred and fifty thousand dollars, a limited amount of the shares were to be placed on the market. [124] David lost an estimated ten to fifty thousand dollars on the failed venture. [125] On April 1, Lucile attended a birthday party for Jack Gould. [126] On October 31, Hattie’s brother, Mr. Julius Leon has purchased the F. A. McLister Confectionery establishment at 425 Harrison Avenue. It was renamed “Leon’s confectionery [127].

On November 25, David filed with the county court his final report in the estate of Albertine Banguerel and was discharged as the guardian of Jules Banguerel. The boy was 14, years of age when David qualified as his guardian; the estate consisted of two small houses in Leadville and about 500 dollars in cash. He had seen to the care and education of the child and turned over the property free from encumbrances and an amount of money in excess of the original. [128]

On November 26, 1902, Jake purchased the entire interests and capital stock of the Leadville Publishing and Printing Co, Morning Herald-Democrat, the Evening Chronicle and Weekly Chronicle for approximately $40,000. The purchase price was paid in cash. [129]

On January 8, 1903, Jake was on a committee to draft a resolution to demand a tariff on Manganese Ore to give some relief to local mines and help to open up undeveloped areas of Lake County. [130] At the November, 1903 meeting of the Board of Trade, David introduced Col. James A. Shinn. Col. Shinn proposed a tunnel through the Mosquito Range. David told the board that of the advantages this project had over previous mining propositions. Col. Shinn extolled the virtues of this project, including an increased ore market, augmented commercial advantages, better railroad facilities, and it would cut the distance between Leadville and Denver by rail about forty miles. [131] In April, David visited Leadville to look after his mining interests. [132]

In February, 1904 David moved his family back to Leadville and reopened his offices at 618 Harrison (upstairs.) [133] David and Minna visited New York in March. [134] Jake Heimberger fell ill with pneumonia in the middle of May, 1904. His death, on June 1, came as a shock to friends and family. [135]

From the Leadville Herald Democrat,

June 2, 1904:

J. O. HEIMBERGER DEAD
CUT DOWN IN HIS PRIME

After Brief Illness the Owner and Editor of the Herald Democrat Passes Into Rest---Promising Career of One of the City's Lead in Business Men Cut Short.

AND LEADVILLE SORROWS FOR HER OWN

Jake Oppenheim Heimberger sank into the sleep that knows no waking at 5:35 o'clock yesterday afternoon.

Mr. Heimberger had been ill for two weeks, but his condition was not considered critical until yesterday afternoon. His illness was attributed to la grippe until last Sunday when the symptoms of typhoid fever developed rather alarmingly. The immediate cause of death was an obstruction of the bowels.

About 3 o'clock yesterday afternoon Mr. Heimberger began to sink rapidly. The physicians were hastily summoned and upon their arrival saw at once that the end was very near. Two hours later, surrounded by his family and a few intimate business associates and close personal friends, Mr. Heimberger closed his eyes upon earthly scenes.

Mr. Heimberger would have been thirty-seven years old had he lived twenty-four hours longer. He was born June 2, 1867 in New York City.

His father, Max Oppenheim, died in New York in December, 1870, leaving young Jake to the care of an invalid mother. Mrs. Oppenheim came to Denver at the invitation of her brother Dr. David Heimberger.

In 1873, Dr. Heimberger moved to Saguache. He had accepted the office of surgeon to the Indian agency at Los Pinos. When he moved south Mrs. Oppenheim and her son went with him. Mrs. Oppenheim died at Saguache in September, 1874. Before she died she called her brother to her and gave her son into his keeping, asking him to adopt the boy.

Dr. Heimberger complied with his sister's request and adopted the lad, giving him his own name. Jake lived at Saguache with Dr. Heimberger until he was thirteen years old. During that time the boy attended the schools at Saguache and had every advantage that could be offered in the little frontier town which Mr. Heimberger had laid out and of which he was the first mayor and president of the town corporation.

Bishop Spalding was a frequent visitor at the Heimberger home in those days, the Bishop being called to that region in the pursuit of his Episcopal duties. He took a deep interest in the young boy and readily agreed to entering the lad in Jarvis Hall when the subject was broached by Dr. Heimberger. The lad had pursued his studies so well in Saguache that he was qualified to enter the Denver school without further preparation. Accordingly he was sent to Bishop Spalding's institution where he advanced rapidly in his studies.

Dr. Heimberger had established the Saguache Chronicle and during the vacations Jake would return to Saguache from Denver and work in the office of the Chronicle. Here he learned the printer's trade and became intimate with all the details of the business. It was here that under the direction and instruction of his uncle and adopted father, he laid the foundation for the brilliant success of his Leadville career.

Finishing the course at Jarvis Hall, Mr. Heimberger was sent to the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Dr. Heimberger moved from Saguache to Leadville and established the Journal. At that time C. C. Davis was conducting the old Leadville Herald and Democrat. Mr. Davis' attention was called to young Mr. Heimberger and a position was offered to him as advertising solicitor on Mr. Davis' publications. Mr. Heimberger gave up his university course almost on the eve of his graduation and took the position on the newspaper.

That was in 1888 when Mr. Heimberger was twenty-one years of age.

Since that time he advanced from the subordinate position in the office to the sole ownership of the Leadville Herald Democrat. His life has been so intimately identified with the advancement of Leadville during these past sixteen years that his progress is known to everyone here.

When C. C. Davis left Leadville and his daughter took the management of the newspaper, Mr. Heimberger was practically business manager and was the main factor in the success of the institution during a period when the Leadville press was in danger of dissolution.In 1899, the Herald Democrat changed hands and was controlled by the Leadville Publishing and Printing Co., Mr. Heimberger as business manager and Mr. H. Mac Lennan as editor, conducted the business.

On November 26, 1902, little more than a year and a half ago, Mr. Heimberger bought the plant and business of the Leadville Publishing and Printing Company and assumed absolute control and the management of the business which included besides the extensive job department, the publication of the Herald Democrat, the Evening Chronicle and the Weekly Carbonate Chronicle.

Under his management the publishing and printing business became profitable. He had the faculty of making a success of everything he undertook, which faculty largely consisted in his case of intense application to business, straight-forwardness and sterling honesty in all dealings with his fellow men and strict adherence to those principles which he believed to be right.

Mr. Heimberger was married twelve years ago to Miss Hattie Leon. Mrs. Heimberger and two children survive him. The children are Lucille, who is in her eleventh year and Sylvia in her sixth year. Mr. Heimberger is also survived by his adopted father, Dr. David Heimberger and by his brother-in-law, Julius Leon.

Mr. Heimberger had the fraternal instinct highly developed. He was not a "joiner", but he did have high regard for the principles which are exemplified in the great fraternal orders. He was a member of Leadville Lodge No.216, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Silver Camp No. 12, Woodmen of the World, Violet Circle No. 1, Women of Woodcraft, and had just started on the journey along the lofty pathway of Masonry.

The death of Mr. Heimberger was noted with expressions of deepest regret throughout the city yesterday evening. The news of his demise spread very rapidly and many heard of the sad ending of his illness who had not known that he was dangerously sick. Everyone who heard the sorrowful tidings gave expression to sympathy with the bereaved family and appreciation of the manhood of Mr. Heimberger.

The universal opinion expressed was that Leadville had lost a good citizen and a businessman whose place could not easily be filled.

Mr. Heimberger always had the welfare of Leadville at heart. He was loyal to Leadville when others were complaining; he upheld the business and mining interests of Leadville in his publications when others were crying failure and hard times; no matter what the gloom or foreboding that settled down over the commercial and mining interests of Leadville in her darkest hours, Mr. Heimberger was optimistic and voiced his high hopes for Leadville when it required an effort to do so.

Leadville, said many of her prominent men yesterday, has lost one of her staunchest and best friends.

Mr. Heimberger was a man of friends. He had a sunny, happy disposition which drew friends to him. Strictly business in his material relations, there was yet nothing harsh or repellant and his best friends were those who were most intimately associated with him in business affairs. There was that in the glance of his clear dark eyes which went to one's heart and told one that back of those eyes vibrated the soul of a man and the heart of a brother.

Mr. Heimberger's success in business was due largely to his own efforts. Starting at the lowest rung in the ladder he mounted to the top. There was a reason. Mr. Heimberger's life was exemplary. He had no bad habits. His life was clean. He started out in life with a high ideal of manhood and lived as near to his ideal as a human being could.

He was honest. Business success is very frequently attained by methods which will not bear the light, which can only be followed at the sacrifice of conscience and principle. This was not Mr. Heimberger's success. He dealt honorably with all men, even when there was strong temptation to relax a little of principle. His word was good.

He was a veritable dynamo of business energy. That was not the least factor in his success. He was always busy doing something toward a definite object. His manner on the street was frequently noted, the distinguishing feature being that he was always in a hurry. There was no time to waste, and he wasted none. At the same time he always had time to be pleasant and courteous. He never was too busy to be kind.

These elements probably contributed to his success. Judging from his life such elements will contribute to anyone's success. But another factor in his success which probably comes from and includes all these elements and many more, was the man's personality. A man's personality is hard to define; it cannot be analyzed as can his honesty or his energy, it is the man himself. Mr. Heimberger was a man of strong personality; there was a magnetism about him, about his actions, his voice and his appearance which attracted men to him. In social life he was admirable. His home life was happier than the average. He was loved in his home and admired in his social circle. Is there any higher tribute to his personality? [136]

Jake’s funeral service was held at Temple Israel on June 3, 1903. The services were attended by everyone who could obtain entrance. The building seats about 170 persons, there were 250 within its doors during services and many more waited outside that would have entered had there been any room. Inside the temple was reserved for bereaved family, a limited number of representatives of the congregation, the Elks, the Woodmen, the Women of Woodcraft, the Masons, the employees of the Herald Democrat and the Typographical Union. Once they were seated the doors were opened and the Temple filled to overflowing. [137]

In June, Hattie took over the operations of the Leadville Printing and Publishing Company with Mr. James M. Knight who managed the affairs of the company. [138] The 1905 Leadville City Directory shows Mrs. J. O. Heimberger as president of the Leadville Publishing and Printing Company at 125-127 East 5th Street with her residence still at 126 West 7th. [139]

On February 6, 1905, Carl sang “Any Rags “at the crowded Imperial Theater amateur night, and then slept between acts because he was so small. [140] On March 26, 1905, David and Minna entertained their friends at an elaborate reception to announce the engagement of their daughter, Miss Rose, to Mr. Garson G. Kahn of Trinidad. [141] On April 2, Erna attended a surprise party for Miss Ida Gaffert [142] and, on June 9th, she was a performer in the Elk’s Juvenile Opera as part of a chorus of Fairies. [143] On September 5, a reception was given by the officers of the Woman’s club to the members and their friends at the home of Mrs. Stickley. The Stickley home was profusely decorated in sweet peas and dahlias. The afternoon was spent in social chat, and in listening to a delightful musical program which consisted of, among other entertainers, an instrumental duet by Minna and Miss Heimberger: [144]

After 1904, Hattie and her children appear to have left Leadville, as they are no longer recorded in city directories, afterwards.

On September 19, 1905, Rose Heimberger and Mr. Garson J. Kahn married at the Temple Israel. It was said to have been one of the most elaborate Jewish weddings to have ever taken place in Leadville. Rose’s sister, Erna, was the flower girl and her brother, Carl, was the ring bearer. Rabbi Levy pronounced the marriage rites according to the canons of the Hebrew faith. [145] On November 2, 1906, it was announced that David had given up his office and residence at 618 Harrison Avenue and was to make his home in Denver in the future. [146] On March 30, Hattie gave Power of Attorney Julius Leon, her brother. [147] On August 8, the county court finalized the settlement of the estate of Jake Heimberger [148] and, on August 30, Hattie married Wolf Bergman in Chicago. [149] On June 21, 1907, Hattie had Jake disinterred from the Hebrew Cemetery in Leadville and his remains were sent to Buffalo, New York , where she lived. [150]

The 1910 census shows Erna living in Denver; her occupation was listed as a nurse in a hospital. [151]

Dr. David Heimberger died on January 27, 1911 of pneumonia. The following obituary appeared in the January 28, 1911 issue of the Herald Democrat. [152]

Death of Dr. Heimberger

After an illness of only a few days, Dr. Heimberger yesterday morning succumbed to an attack of pneumonia at his apartments in the Addington Block on Harrison Avenue. The aged man proved an easy prey to the dreaded disease and slowly his constitution, weakened by old age, gave way before the mighty enemy and death quietly and peacefully threw her dark pall over him and closed his eyelids to this world.

The deceased was born in Baden, Germany, in 1845 and at an early age came to America with his parents, brothers and sisters. The family settled in New York City and David entered Bellvue college where he took up the study of medicine. He was graduated from the institution and immediately began the practice of his profession.

Mr. Heimberger came to Colorado in 1868, arriving in Leadville in 1886. Here he continued in his profession for many years and had succeeded by his efficient services in building up a good practice.

Previous to his arrival in this city, Mr. Heimberger was located on a ranch near Saguache. He entertained General U. S. Grant at the ranch for two or three days, the time being spent by the distinguished visitor in hunting and fishing.

About four years ago, Dr. Heimberger left this city for Denver, where he has since lived on a chicken ranch near that city. Four months ago he again returned to Leadville with his family and it was his intention to remain here permanently.

The deceased is survived by a widow, two daughters, Mrs. Rose Kahn and Miss. Erna Heimberger, and a son, Carl, the latter 12 years of age.

Dr. Heimberger was the uncle of J. O. Heimberger, formerly owner of the Herald Democrat, whom he had raised from childhood.

C. H. S. Whipple paid Tribute to Dr. Heimberger in the January 31, 1911 issue of the Herald Democrat:

C. H. S. Whipple, Life-Long Friend, Tell of Career of Pioneer Physician.

The funeral of the late Dr. David Heimberger was held yesterday afternoon from the family residence in the Arlington block and was attended by a large number of friends of the deceased. The funeral services were conducted by N. H. Miller, and C. H. S. Whipple, ex-secretary of state and a life long friend of Dr. Heimberger, delivered a eulogy over the remains.

Many beautiful floral offerings were received as a mark of the respect and esteem which the deceased was held by all who knew him.

The following acted as pallbearers. Elias Pelton [153] , Alf Hoffman [154] , Ruben Fogel [155], Louis Janowitz [156] , Meyer Zeiler [157] , and C. H. S. Whipple.

H. Braum, of Fort Worth, Tex. A brother of Mrs. Heimberger attended the funeral.

Mrs. Whipple spoke as follows:

“I have been requested to say a few words in memory of the deceased, Dr. David Heimberger, who I have known and been associated with since my boyhood days.”

“As a citizen and the pioneer doctor of this state for more than 40 years past, he has made a worthy record. At one time the first county and hospital doctor of what is now known as Denver county and afterwards appointed as the U. S. government doctor for the Southern Ute Indians, it necessitated making his home at Saguache from which place he braved the storms and hardships of riding over Cochetope Pass to the Indian agency at least once a week, and through his efforts made the best Indian agency in the state.

“His kindness and attention had gained for him the everlasting friendship of Chief Ouray and all of the Indians.

“In the San Luis Valley at that time there was little to encourage him, but with his pluck, courage and perseverance with his associates, among whom were the Hon. Otto Mears, General Charles Adams, who at that date was acting under Hon. Carl Schurz, who was then secretary of the interior. Mr. Isaac Gotthelf and other prominent men they established ad made Saguache a permanent town.

Knowing much of the good work done by the deceased during his life, I feel very glad to have the privilege of saying a few words of tribute-He was always kind and just, his love for his sister who was an invalid, who he faithfully took care of up and to the time of her death and who left one child, an only son whom the deceased was so fond of that he adopted him and by an act of the legislature of the Territory of Colorado obtained for him the name of Heimberger. He raised and educated him and prior to his death, he was the proprietor and the successful manager of the Leadville Herald Democrat. This was always a pleasant remembrance of the deceased.

“Then take his attention to his beloved family that are left behind him. This is another good and noble tribute to the deceased. He was a man of extraordinary talent, kind gentle ad humane-always ready to assist less able and less experienced people with his advice and help and in every way do any and all benevolent acts that he could do.

“Throughout his own domestic circle his conduct diffused peace and happiness; and as a general member of society, he conciliated and secured the well-merited esteem and friendship of every good and worthy person who was acquainted with the even tenor of his blameless life.

“Now that he has departed this life we have the satisfaction of knowing that he will rest in peace. [158]

Minna’s brother, Mr. H. Brann, came to Leadville for the funeral of his brother-in-law. On February 1, he departed for his home in Fort Worth, Texas. [159]

In April of 1914, Mrs. Heimberger and her son, Carl were still residing in Leadville at 618 Harrison Avenue. [160] Carl did well in school and was a member of the Laurel Club, a debating organization. [161]

In 1915, Minna was still active in the Women’s Club, on November 1, she read a paper on the music of France [162] and on the 6th of December she gave a talk on her experiences in Germany. [163]

The last thing we hear about David and Minna’s family living in Leadville was on July 6, when it was published that Carl was heading to Chicago to spend his vacation with relatives. [164]

In February, 1917, Hattie returned to Leadville with her new husband, Wolf Bergman. They had settled in Buffalo, New York. [165]

Mrs. Heimberger returned for a visit to Leadville in 1919 and passed away while visiting a friend. Her obituary appeared in the March 3, issue of the Carbonate Chronicle.

Mrs. Minna Heimberger

Mrs. Minna Heimberger of Chicago, widow of the late Dr. David Heimberger who was at one time a leading physician of Leadville, finished a hearty dinner at the home of Mrs. Jessie Sterling, 108 East Tenth Street, yesterday, slipped from her chair and died of heart trouble before medical aid could be summoned.

Mrs. Heimberger arrived here Sunday last to spend a few weeks at the home of Mrs. Sterling, an old friend and widow of one of the city’s prominent early-day lawyers. When she felt ill, Tuesday, a doctor was summoned. Her ailment did not appear to be serious, but the physician advised her to return to a lower climate. Mrs. Heimberger accordingly planned to depart this morning for Pueblo.

She ate a hearty meal at Mrs. Sterling’s home yesterday afternoon at 1 o’clock. At 1:35 she exclaimed that she felt suddenly ill. Before she arose from the table she unexpectedly became limp, slipped from her chair to the floor and died before it was hardly realized that she had become sick.

Mrs. Sterling sent messages yesterday afternoon to her two daughters, Miss Rose Heimberger of Pueblo and Mrs. Erna Janowitz of Chicago, widow of the late Edward Janowitz and to her son who also lives in Chicago. Funeral arrangements will be in charge of the Moynahan and O’Malia Undertakng Co.

A resident of Leadville for a number of years before removing to Pueblo and later to Chicago, a few years ago, Mrs. Heimberger was widely known among present-day residents of the city and since her arrival here, Sunday she had renewed many old acquaintances and friendships, being then apparently the best health and her usual cheerful spirits. She had intended to spend several weeks here, both to meet her old friends and to attend to business matters connected with real estate she owned in Leadville.

Mrs. Heimberger was born in Germany about 60 years ago, came to the United States, while a girl, and moved westward with relatives to Colorado. Following her marriage to Dr. David Heimberger, she and her husband came to Leadville in the early eighties from Saguache County. Dr. Heimberger quickly became one of the leading physicians of the booming mining camp and one of its most prominent citizens. He engaged continuously in mining operations, at one time holding about 100 mining claims. The Toledo Avenue Mining company, which tho it turned out unprofitably was one of the largest deep mining projects undertaken in the eighties in upper California Gulch, was organized and put into active operation largely thru Dr. Heimberger’s activity. He is said to have lost 10,000 or 50,000 dollars in the concern. The doctor and his wife also became owners of many real estate properties including the frame business building at the corner of East Seventh Street and Harrison Avenue, which is the chief remaining holding of the estate. Their home in those days was a model for the times situated in West Fourth Street.

Mrs. Heimberger in her youth received a university education, was highly accomplished as a musician and a woman of many talents. [166]

Jacob Heimberger is seated in the middle.

Grave marker for Jacob Oppenheim Heimberger in the Hebrew Cemetery in Leadville, Colorado

Headstone for Jacob Oppenheim Heimberger in Buffalo, New York

Sanborn map of 130 W 4th Street, circled, of the home of David Heimberger