Henry Mueller purchased the Paterson, New Jersey bottling operation of George Spreitzer in October 1900.
Spreitzer was listed in the Paterson directories with the occupation “mineral waters” dating back to at least 1885. His business began listing 7 Cross Street as their address sometime around 1890.
The sale to Mueller was announced in the October 10, 1900 edition of Paterson New Jersey’s “Evening News.”
Bill of Sale
George Spreitzer and Mary E. Spreitzer to Henry Mueller. Conveys four horses, five wagons, harnesses, lot of bottles, steam pumps, boiler, shafting and belting, engine tanks, stock and fixtures at 7 Cross Street, Paterson. Dated October 6, 1900. $8,800.
This timing is confirmed by the Paterson NJ City Directories. George Spreitzer & Co was listed in the 1900 Directory at 7 Cross St and Henry Mueller was listed at the same address in the 1901 Directory. Both were listed with the occupation “Mineral Water.” Mueller remained at 7 Cross Street through 1911. Then he’s listed at 17 White Street from 1911 to 1914. I actually found him listed at both locations in 1911.
Henry Mueller passed away in August, 1914 after which his son, Charles Mueller, apparently took over the business. Charles was listed as a bottler at the 17 White Street address until June, 1916 when he also passed away. Possibly ill prior to his death, classified ads announcing that the business was for sale began appearing in Paterson’s “Morning Call” as early as April 29, 1916. It was still being offered for sale as late as June 21st as evidenced by the following “Morning Call” item.
What subsequently became of the business is unclear.
Cross Street has been subsequently renamed and is currently called Cianci Street. If the Cianci Street numbering system is similar to Cross Street the business was located in what is now Lou Costello Memorial Park.
The bottle I have is a Hutchinson soda (8oz) embossed with the Cross Street address so it dates between 1900 and 1911.