Henry Attemeyer
Henry Attemeyer was born in Horstl, Prussia, in the year 1806. Having a desire to seethe New World, he left his native place and sailed for New York, where he landed, after an uneventful voyage, in the year 1837. From New York city Mr. Attemeyer went to Michigan, where he remained for nearly two years. In 1842 he came to Cincinnati, and commenced work as a stone-mason, in the cellars of the buildings on Pearl street. At this time he was moneyless; but cheered by the encouraging words of an excellent wife he went to work on low wages, and soon became known for his intelligence, industry, and correct business. From day-labor and small wages, Mr. Attemeyer soon turned his abilities to contracts, big buildings and the gains which, by honesty and persevering industry, make a man rich.
In the year 1845 he contracted for the material and stonework of St. John's church, on Green street, and this job being soon satisfactorily disposed of, Mr. Attemeyer increased his facilities for larger operations, and became at once a reputable contractor, builder and manager. Among other buildings, too numerous to be mentioned here, reference must be made to the sub-structures of the Carlisle buildings, Burnet house, Jewish synagogue, numerous buildings on Pearl and other streets, and the house of refuge at Camp Washington. The latter is one of the most magnificent stone structures, and in substantiality and finish is comparable with the best known edifices in the State. Having done his work well, established a splendid reputation, and accumulated a hundred thousand dollars, Mr. Attemeyer retired from business. To St. Bernard, north of Cincinnati, he removed some sixteen years ago where, with his aged wife and children, he is now resting in the enjoyment of the good things of earth. A Democrat on State and National controversies, Mr. Attemeyer cares not for party restrictions or prejudices in local affairs, and in the township, county and corporation elections, always votes for the best man.
In religion, as in politics, he is always liberal with those who do not entirely agree with him; and devotedly attached to the Catholic church, he is a defender of that faith with a kindly regard for the opinions of his neighbors, and is perfectly willing for any person to go to Heaven who wants to go - and can get there. With no enemies, but many friends, Mr. Attemeyer's fine residence and improved grounds, his genial manners and generous hospitalities are attractions which make this suburban house the resort of many friends and place of pleasant visits by many from abroad.
From History of Hamilton County, Ohio, Henry & Kate Ford, L. A. Williams & Co., Publishers, 1881