Temporary record

As heir to a substantial cement production firm in Galena, Ill., during the 1890s, Henry Geiger rose into a position of respect within the local community. During the early part of the decade, Geiger courted Mildred Palmer, a school teacher who was a few years older than Henry (whom he married in about 1898), and joined the Illinois National Guard. Geiger rose through the National Guard to the rank of Colonel and Battalion commander. During the Columbian Exposition of 1893, Geiger's Battalion encamped at the fairgorunds, and he served in training camps during both the Spanish-American War and World War I.

Scope and contents:

The Geiger Papers consists largely of correspondence between Henry Geiger and his fiancee/wife, Millie, with a few letters from Henry's brothers and other relatives. Largely of a personal nature, these letters provide detailed information on the daily lives of Henry and Millie, including their courtship and marriage, their thoughts on love and commitment, Millie's 'nervous problems' as she aged, and Henry's service in the Guard. During World War I, Geiger's unit was active in guarding shipments of ammunition, training, and civil defence.

M-3230.3

Courtship--Illinois
Illinois National Guard
Married life--Illinois
Militia--Illinois
Women--Illinois
World War, 1914-1918

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