Biographies
LOUIS ELKUS
Without
considering whether or nor they are fitted for a higher charge than the one
which has been entrusted to them, many people are bitter in their denunciation
of fate, feeling assured of their ability to serve in some particular niche
which they fancy has been unjustly denied them, and forgetting the old adage
concerning the wisdom of him who keeps on improving himself, whether or no he
descries upon life's ladder a higher position which may, if he be prepared,
belong to him. Fully cognizant of the importance of making himself familiar
with the line of work in which he chose to cast his efforts, and mindful also
of the necessity of daring in the presence of confidence in his own powers, was
Mr. Elkus, who passed away at his home in San
Francisco, after a successful and honorable career as a leading manufacturer
and retail clothier of that city. Of Teutonic origin, his birth occurred in
Berlin, Germany, where, also were born his parents. Leaving school at the age
of thirteen he immigrated to America and engaged as a cap manufacturer in the
east. In 1850, after an eventful trip by way of Cape Horn, he arrived in
Sacramento, where he established a clothing store, later opening a factory
devoted to the manufacture of furnishing goods and clothing, and he
successfully conducted both ventures until his death.
Mr.
Elkus was married to Miss Cordelia
deYoung, and they were the parents of ten children,
of whom seven are living. Albert, the oldest, began early in life to interest
himself in his father's business. Born in Sacramento, August 17, 1857, he
received his education in the schools of his home section, graduating from high
school when but sixteen. Shortly thereafter he accepted a position as
typesetter in the service of the Sacramento Bee, resigning after two
years to become his father's bookkeeper. In this capacity he learned the
business thoroughly and became proficient in the management of every detail of
the business, much to his father's satisfaction. Many times has Albert Elkus demonstrated his capability and adaptation for the
various situations he is required to meet and the offices of honor which he is
called upon to fill and, as his father's successor, he has maintained most
progressive measures, being also widely known for his just measures toward
those who are subordinate to him.
A
man of exemplary principles and high regard for others, industrious and
ambitious to a high degree, the life of Louis Elkus
was well spent and no shadow of unfair advantage in his dealings remains to
sully the name borne by his son.
Transcribed by Sally Kaleta.
Source: Willis,
William L., History of Sacramento County,
California, Pages 999-1000. Historic Record Company,
© 2006 Sally Kaleta.