Postby dognose » Sun Mar 13, 2022 5:56 am
CHARLES C. STIEFF
Baltimore
DEATH OF CHARLES C. STIEFF
Baltimore Sterling Silverware Manufacturer a Victim of Heart Trouble
Baltimore, Md., May 26.—Charles C. Stieff, founder of the Stieff Co., sterling silver manufacturers, and one of this city’s most widely known business men, died suddenly tonight at his desk in the Stieff building, 17 N. Liberty St. Mr. Stieff was 61 years old. Death was caused by heart disease, with which Mr. Stieff had suffered in a mild form for a number of years.
Despite the fact that Mr. Stieff knew of the weakened condition of his heart he made it a daily rule to call at his office and to discuss business affairs with his friends and employes of the Stieff Co. Meeting Mr. Stieff on the street a few days before his death friends did not believe that his condition at that time was serious. The silver manufacturer knew of his physical condition but he did not falter. His step was springy and he did not have the appearance of an ill man. He had often told his friends that when death came to him he wished to die in “harness.”
So, after dining with his family at his home, 104 Ridgewood road, Roland Park, Mr. Stieff told his son that he was going down to the office. Mr. Stieff was sitting at his desk on the mezzanine floor of the store when he was stricken. He died within an hour. Gideon N. Stieff, president of The Stieff Co., and Mr. Stieff’s only son, was present when his father died. Dr. Gilbert H. Alford, Mr. Stieff’s son-in-law, arrived before Mr. Stieff’s death.
Mr. Stieff was a native of Baltimore, having received his early training in public and private schools. He was the son of the late John L. Stieff, California pioneer. For nearly 40 years Mr. Stieff was engaged in the manufacture of silverware. Five years ago he relinquished the presidency of his firm, Gideon N. Stieff succeeding him. Mr. Stieff served a number of terms in the City Council and at various times was a member of the Baltimore Board of School Commissioners. His primary interest, however, was in the jewelry trade. He was an ardent member of the Jewelry and Kindred Industries Board of the Merchants’ and Manufacturers’ Association.
Some time prior to his death Mr. Stieff was instrumental in a movement for the training of youth for the jewelry and silver manufacturing business here.
Mr. Stieff is survived by his son, Gideon N. Stieff; a daughter, Mrs. G. H. Alford, and a grandson, Charles C. Stieff, 2nd. A brother, J. C. D. Stieff, also survives the silversmith.
The funeral will take place Tuesday and burial will be in the Stieff memorial ground in Baltimore Cemetery.
Source: The Jewelers' Circular - 30th May 1923
Trev.