Husikamp

The Huiskamp Legacy: Pioneers of Industry and Philanthropy in Keokuk, Iowa

Written by Erika Barrett

The Founding Father Henry Christian Huiskamp

Born in Amsterdam, Holland, in 1830, Henry Christian Huiskamp was the patriarch of the Huiskamp family and the founder of the Huiskamp Shoe Manufacturing Co. He immigrated to St. Louis at the age of 12 and later moved to Keokuk, Iowa, where he established a shoe company that became a cornerstone of the local economy and an integral part of the community's identity. Henry's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to quality laid the foundation for what would become a multi-generational legacy.

"Henry C. Huiskamp...established the Huiskamp Shoe Manufacturing Co., of which he remained president up to his death...He came back to St. Louis in 1895 and was at the head of the M. A. Seed Dry Plate Co. until 1902." - St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 1906.

Community Builders and Philanthropists

The Huiskamp family's influence extended far beyond the confines of their shoe factory. They were pivotal in supporting and enhancing community infrastructure, particularly through their contributions to local education and public resources.

The Generous Benefactors

Several members of the Huiskamp family played significant roles in the establishment and enhancement of the Keokuk Public Library. Henry C. Huiskamp was a primary benefactor for the library building at 3rd and Main, while Eva, James, Logan, and Carl Huiskamp were instrumental in establishing the new library at 5th and Concert.

"H. C. was a primary benefactor for the library building when it was constructed at 3rd and Main. Eva, James, Logan, and Carl would play an additional role in establishing the new library when it was constructed at 5th and Concert." - Historical records.

A Legacy in Education and Arts

Mary Huiskamp, a descendant of the family, became a prolific writer, inspired by her childhood experiences in Keokuk. Her stories and books, especially the Katie John series, are cherished for their heartfelt depiction of young life along the Mississippi River.

"As a child, I would 'romantically' sit under a gooseberry bush to compose a fairytale...Keokuk and the river was stimulating to the imagination." - Mary Huiskamp, reminiscing about her inspirations for writing.

Industry and Innovation

The Huiskamp Shoe Factory was not only a major employer but also a pioneer in the adoption of industrial technologies. The factory's operations showcased an early use of intricate machinery which greatly increased productivity and quality in shoe manufacturing.

"Just think of it! The work has hardly been fairly started and yet G. L. Huiskamp informed a representative that nearly 2,000 pairs of shoes were made at the Huiskamp factory last week."

- Constitution-Democrat, 1889.

The End of an Era

Despite the economic challenges over the years, including the Great Depression and changes in market demands, the Huiskamp family maintained their commitment to the community and their employees until the very end.

"Huiskamp Brothers Company traces its origin back to 1854...We make this announcement with much regret and only wish that our economic contribution in payroll and business to this fine community of ours might continue for another 100 years." - Company statement on closing.

Conclusion: A Pillar of Keokuk's Heritage

The Huiskamps were more than industrialists; they were community pillars who significantly impacted Keokuk's social, economic, and cultural life. Their legacy is not only embedded in the products they created but also in the enduring community structures they helped to build and the lives they touched.

Sources:

1. St. Louis Post-Dispatch

2. Daily Gate City

3. Main Street Keokuk, Inc.

4. Historical records from the Huiskamp family files