Frank William Fries, was born on May 1, 1893 of German-born parents in Clydes Patch (Hornsby), Illinois.
Frank was the son of Jacob & Katherine Fries.
In approximately 1904, the family relocated to Gillespie, Illinois, which was also located in Macoupin County.
Here he attended the public schools.
On the 1910 Census, he is listed as a resident of Ward 2 in Gillespie, Cahokia Township, Macoupin County, Illinois.
His occupation is listed on this census as a grocery store clerk.
He then worked as a coal miner from 1915 until 1917.
On June 5, 1917, he registered for the World War I draft in Precinct 8 of Cahokia Township. On this registration, at the age of 24,
he was tall and of a medium build. His eyes were brown and he had a light brown hair color. He also listed a disabled right shoulder.
His occupation was listed as a policeman for the City of Gillespie.
He entered the U S Army during World War I and served as a Sergeant in the 37th Company
of the 153rd Depot Brigade.
Upon returning to his home, he was employed as a coal mine operated during 1920 and 1921. He then worked in insurance
from 1920 until 1927, when he moved to Carlinville, the county seat of Macoupin County.
About 1930, he started a produce business as a wholesaler.
He was elected Sheriff of Macoupin County in 1930 and remained in this position until 1934.
From 1934 to 1936, Frank W. Fries was a Representative in The State of Illinois Legislature.
He served as United States Congressman from January 3, 1937 until January 3, 1941. During the 1940 elections,
he was defeated, preventing him from serving another term in office.
During the following years from 1941 through 1969, he served as a Arbitrator in the Coal Mining Industry.
Upon returning to Gillespie, he reamined there until his death on July 17, 1980.
He is buried along with his wife, Grace, in Holy Cross Cemetery in Gillespie, Macoupin County, Illinois.
Also see :
Frank Fries Memoir
Coal Mining and Union Activities Project
Interview and memoir by Nick Cherniavsky & Barbara Hendon, 1973
Archives/Special Collections LIB 144, University of Illinois at Springfield
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