Michael Spurck

Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and History of Peoria County, 1902
Transcribed by John Melton!

Michael D. Spurck (deceased), manufacturer and dealer in agricultural implements, was born in Zanesville, Ohio, May 5, 1833, and died in Peoria, Illinois, June 18, 1897. His parents were George and Ann L. Spurck, who came to Peoria in 1845, and where they afterward became prominent in business and social circles. The first business venture in which the son, Michael D., was engaged, was in connection with his father in the distilling business, to which he devoted his talents and industry for several years with great success, both in a financial point of view and in laying the foundation for a future business career.

In 1860 Mr. Spurck was married to Miss Harriet U. Selby, the daughter of the late James Selby, who came to Peoria in 1847, and for a period of more than forty years, and to the time of his death in 1900, was one of the most prominent manufacturers and business men of the city. In company with his father-in-law, in 1863, Mr. Spurck began the manufacture of corn planters on a large scale, which was continued until 1896, when, on account of failing health, he retired. Out of the co-partnership grew the Union Corn Planter Company, which still exists, being conducted by his sons. In 1890 he organized the Spurck Paving Brick Company, and for several years was Vice-President of that concern. During his life he was connected with many other important business enterprises, his entire life being devoted to manufacturing and commercial pursuits.

Although not a politician in the ordinary acceptation of the term, his desire for the advancement of Peoria as a city, and his love for his fellow man, led him to take a keen interest in all questions affecting the welfare of society and the State, and to throw his influence on the side of right and justice. Intelligence, capacity and worth, as essential elements of the highest character, always found ready recognition at his hand, as can be attested by many a business man who receives his first impulse in a successful business career through his financial support and wise advice.

Mr. Spurck was eminently successful in his business enterprises, and, at the time of his death, was one of the largest property holders in the city of Peoria. He was shrewd, active and energetic in the utilization of his business opportunities, but hones in every sense of the term. Maintaining an unblemished character and spotless reputation, his home life was as happy as his business career was successful. He lived a rich, full and complete life, and died as he had lived--a God-fearing man.

As a result of too long and constant applications to business which had weakened his vital powers, Mr. Spurck succumbed to an attack of la grippe, on June 18, 1997. There still survive him his widow, Mrs. Harriet U. Spurck, and their seven children: Charles J., Rank S., Clara I. (now Mrs. Eugene P. Blake), Walter L., George A., Luella C. and Michael D., Jr., all residing in Peoria, except Frank S., whose home is in Nelson, Nebraska.

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