Robert Foerderer

Robert Foerderer was an American businessman and politician who served as a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives for Pennsylvania's at-large congressional district from 1901 to 1903 and for Pennsylvania's 4th congressional district in 1903. His career in politics was marked by his involvement in various congressional committees and his contributions to the leather industry through innovative tanning techniques. Foerderer passed away while still in office, leaving behind a legacy that intertwined his business acumen with his political endeavors.

Early life and career

Robert H. Foerderer was born on May 16, 1860, in Bad Frankenhausen, located in the region of Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt. His parents were U.S. citizens who were visiting their birthplace at the time of his birth. His father, Edward Foerderer, was a manufacturer of Morocco leather, which likely influenced Robert's future career in the leather industry. Foerderer received his education through a combination of public and private schooling in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, but he did not pursue a college education.

In 1881, Foerderer married Caroline Fischer, and the couple had two children. His early career began with a brief stint as a bank clerk, after which he entered the leather industry as an apprentice in his father's business. This foundational experience provided him with the skills and knowledge necessary to establish his own enterprise.

In 1885, Foerderer founded Robert H. Foerderer, Inc., a company dedicated to manufacturing leather goods. He made significant advancements in the leather tanning process by inventing a chrome tanning technique that utilized chromium sulfate. This innovation allowed for the production of a softer and more supple leather, significantly reducing the tanning time from four months to just two to three weeks. He branded this new leather product as Vici Kid, with "Vici" meaning "I conquered" in Latin, and "kid" referring to the goat skin used in its production.

Foerderer's company began in a modest one-room factory in the Frankford section of Philadelphia. Over time, it expanded to cover 17 acres and employed over 4,000 workers, processing approximately 50,000 skins each day. The company also utilized by-products from leather production to create hide glue and goat hair for various applications. The glue manufacturing facility was located in Philadelphia's Bridesburg neighborhood, while the goat-hair factory was situated near the main leather plant.

Foerderer's Vici Kid leather gained widespread recognition after winning the grand prize and gold medal at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. This accolade significantly boosted the product's visibility and demand in the market. In addition to his work in the leather industry, Foerderer held various leadership positions, including serving as president and director of the Keystone Telephone Company and holding board memberships with the Philadelphia Rapid Transit, the Columbia Avenue Trust Company, and the Quaker City Trust. He was also active in several social and fraternal organizations, including the Union League of Philadelphia, the Columbia Club, and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

In 1895, Foerderer acquired the summer home of Charles Macalester in the Torresdale neighborhood of Philadelphia. This estate, originally named Glengarry, was renamed Glen Foerd, which would later become a historic house museum.

House tenure

Foerderer's political career began when he was elected as a Republican to the 57th United States Congress in 1900, representing Pennsylvania's at-large congressional district. His tenure in the House of Representatives began in 1901, during which he served on several important committees, including those focused on banking and currency, enrolled bills, and ventilation and acoustics. His legislative work reflected his business background, particularly in matters related to finance and industry.

In 1902, Foerderer was re-elected to serve Pennsylvania's 4th congressional district, a position he held until his death in 1903. Throughout his time in Congress, he was involved in discussions and decisions that impacted both his constituents and the broader national landscape. His business experience likely informed his approach to legislative matters, particularly those related to commerce and industry.

Foerderer's time in office was cut short when he passed away on July 26, 1903, while still serving as a U.S. Representative. His death occurred at his home in Torresdale, and he was interred at Philadelphia's Laurel Hill Cemetery. Although the official cause of death was recorded as Bright's disease, there is speculation that he may have suffered from chromate poisoning due to his prolonged exposure to chromium during his work in the leather industry.

Legislative focus and committees

During his congressional tenure, Robert Foerderer was a member of several committees that played crucial roles in shaping legislation. His involvement in the banking and currency committee indicated a focus on financial matters, which aligned with his background in business and manufacturing. This committee was responsible for overseeing issues related to the nation's banking system, currency policy, and financial regulation.

Foerderer's participation in the committee on enrolled bills involved the review and approval of bills that had passed both chambers of Congress, ensuring that they were correctly formatted and ready for the President's signature. His work on the ventilation and acoustics committee reflected an interest in public health and safety, particularly in relation to building standards and the environment.

Despite his relatively short time in office, Foerderer's contributions to the legislative process were significant, particularly in areas that intersected with his professional expertise. His dual role as a businessman and politician allowed him to advocate for policies that supported the interests of his constituents while also promoting the growth of industries in which he was deeply invested.

Following Foerderer's death, Reuben Moon was elected to fill the vacancy he left in Congress. His legacy continued through his family, particularly his son, Percival, who took over the management of the leather goods business. Percival Foerderer is noted for building the La Ronda mansion and estate in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. The Glen Foerd estate, which Robert Foerderer had purchased, is now maintained as a historic house museum, and its grounds serve as a public park, preserving the memory of his contributions to both the business and political spheres.