Today in Wheeling History: April 10--Fritz Luikert, renowned Wheeling butcher and creator of famous "Unzer-Fritz" bacon and sausage, was born in Fulton, West Virginia (1857).
Fritz Luikert, a renowned butcher from Wheeling, West Virginia, announced his decision to close his butcher business located at 3034-36 McColloch Street after 67 years in the industry, 46 of which he spent running his own shop. Born on April 10, 1857, in Fulton, Luikert started his career as a hog driver at the age of 14, earning 25 cents a day. He learned the art of sausage making from John Muth, a famous sausage maker of the 1880s, and worked for several prominent businessmen, including Michael Reilly, before starting his own business in 1892.
Luikert's dedication to quality and his fair treatment of customers earned him a loyal following, with many families purchasing his meats for generations. His famous "Unzer-Fritz" bacon and sausage became synonymous with Wheeling's culinary reputation. Despite his success, Luikert remained humble and committed to his hometown, never leaving Ohio County for more than a month throughout his life. At the age of 81, Luikert decided to close his shop at 3034-36 McColloch Street indefinitely, citing the need for rest after a long and successful career. His retirement marks the end of an era for Wheeling's food industry and the loss of a beloved local figure.
To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/2dzjd5ra) (https://tinyurl.com/yrnw2t59)
Photo Credits: Wheeling News-Register
Fritz Luikert, a renowned butcher from Wheeling, West Virginia, announced his decision to close his butcher business located at 3034-36 McColloch Street after 67 years in the industry, 46 of which he spent running his own shop. Born on April 10, 1857, in Fulton, Luikert started his career as a hog driver at the age of 14, earning 25 cents a day. He learned the art of sausage making from John Muth, a famous sausage maker of the 1880s, and worked for several prominent businessmen, including Michael Reilly, before starting his own business in 1892.
Luikert's dedication to quality and his fair treatment of customers earned him a loyal following, with many families purchasing his meats for generations. His famous "Unzer-Fritz" bacon and sausage became synonymous with Wheeling's culinary reputation. Despite his success, Luikert remained humble and committed to his hometown, never leaving Ohio County for more than a month throughout his life. At the age of 81, Luikert decided to close his shop at 3034-36 McColloch Street indefinitely, citing the need for rest after a long and successful career. His retirement marks the end of an era for Wheeling's food industry and the loss of a beloved local figure.
To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/2dzjd5ra) (https://tinyurl.com/yrnw2t59)
Photo Credits: Wheeling News-Register
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