Joseph C. Herkner, jeweler, of Grand Rapids, Mich., is a native of Germany, born December 1, 1840. His parents, Joseph and Elizabeth Herkner, came from the ‘Faderland’ to Grand Rapids, November 15, 1849; his father died in August, 1850.

Joseph C. Herkner was educated in the city schools, and in 1856 went into the business house of N. T. Butler, to acquire the details of the jewelry trade. He served his apprenticeship and found employment in this city until 1861. At the breaking out of the war, he enlisted in company D., 1^st Michigan engineers and mechanics, and served valiantly and faithfully until honorably discharged September 30, 1865. He enlisted as private, and soon received the appointment of orderly-sergeant, and in November, 1861, that of first Lieutenant, and in February, 1864, became a Captain. At the close of the war he returned to this city, and in 1870 established himself on Monroe street, where he has since managed a successful and creditable business. His store is elegantly arranged and fully stocked. He was married, in 1867, to Clara L. Calkins, daughter of Charles P. Calkins, of this city. They have one daughter.

Mr. Herkner was one of the organizers of company B., of the Second regiment, national guard, in 1872, and acted four years as its captain. He afterward was on the brigade staff of Gen. Smith as lieutenant-colonel and inspector-general of brigade, and continued as such during the term Gen. Smith was in command.