2019 Breeze Jan-Feb

The Refrigeration Historian (continued)

Association voted the doctors honorary membership at their convention in 1906. Doctor Siebel served on a committee in 1903 to standardize the rating of refrigera- tion compressors. In all, John had over 200 articles and publications to his credit. Over his career, Dr. Siebel was credited with the development of the sixth sense – that of mobility, which may have well been lost again to many over the last century. Dr. Siebel was one of the few to have the foresight to dream, the knowledge to achieve and the motivation to see things through to conclusion. Dr. Siebel was awarded a fellowship with the American Association for the Advancement of Science. On the personal side, John was known to be secluded from all but his closest friends. His character impeccable. He did enjoy spending money immensely; however, it was for philanthropic pursuits. Surprising for one prone to seclusion, he was known to have a superior sense of humor. This little-known talent may have led to his courtship and marriage in 1870 to Ann Regina Schaffer. Their union resulted in five children. These being Gustav, Fredrick, Ewald, John Jr and Emil. John served his fellowman on many boards including Cook County’s Board of Public Works. He taught Physics and Chemistry at the Chicago High School. He was a member of; the Academy of Science, American Society of Brewing Technology, the Lincoln Club, the Brewer and BrewMaster Associa- tion, the American Institute for Brewing and the old Germania Club. John Ewald Siebel was called home to our Lord God, December 20, 1919. Official records show he died of a nervous break- down. Given his great work in the Brewery

Industry and the timing of his departure, just a few days before prohibition was to take effect, many believe he died of a broken heart. Information from Ice and Refrigeration Illustrated, various web resources such as the Siebel Institute of Technologies and Periodicals. The information used to generate this article is believed factual. Should you have any corrections or additional information pertaining to this article please forward them to the Editor.

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