403 JEFFERSON ROAD

This charming Gothic Revival home is one of the earliest houses built by the N.O. Nelson Manufacturing Company. Purchased in June of 1892 for $1,590, it was only the third warranty deed recorded for the new Leclaire suburb. 

The first owners were transplants from New York City, Frederick and Elizabeth (Bott) Merkle. The Merkles and their family moved to Leclaire in June of 1891 shortly after the new bath tub works was completed. Fred worked with copper and began employment with Nelson as a tub liner. By January 1892, less than 6 months after arriving in Leclaire, he was promoted to forman of the Copper Shop and a few months later purchased the little house at the corner of Jefferson and Holyoake. 

On September 18, 1907, Fred Merkle passed away at a young age of 45 years old. He was preceded in death by a son, Frederick, and survived by his wife and four children, Bertha, George, Charles, and Lillian.