Matthais P. Mergen, junior partner of the firm of Neumayer & Mergen, proprietors of the Neumayer Hotel, of Council Bluffs, was born in Leavenworth, Kansas, in 1872. His father, Philip Mergen, now lives in Omaha, was a native of Germany, who is now living retired from business, having for many years been an active factor in business circles wherein he won the competence that now enables him to enjoy his present ease. He married Walburg Tisch, and they had four children; Mathias P.; John P.; Mary, the wife of Antone Schmitz; and Louisa.

Matthais P. Mergen remained a resident of his native city until 1883, after which he spent six years in different parts of the west prior to locating in Council Bluffs in 1889. Here he entered business life, being employed in different ways until 1903, when he formed his present partnership with Mr. Neumayer. They are conducting the Neumayer Hotel, and have a large and growing business, drawing an extensive patronage from the country people who visit the city. They conduct a first class hostelry and their prosperity is well merited.

Mr. Mergen was married in 1903 to Miss Theresa Neumayer, and they have two children, Eleanor L. and Frances A. Mr. Mergen is independent in politics. He belongs to the Catholic Church and is well known in the city, where for eighteen years he has made his home, or since he attained the age of sixteen. He is yet a young man, energetic, alert and enterprising, and in the conduct of his present business has not only become well known but also has gained a gratifying measure of prosperity.