According to History of Racine and Kenosha Counties, 1879: “E.J. Hueffner, wholesale and retail dealer in leather, shoe-findings and hides; was born in Germany in 1840, and came to Racine with his parents, Ernst C. and Julia Hueffner, in 1849; the business was established that year, by his father, who died in 1872; E.J. became partner in the concern in 1867. Mr. Hueffner has been Vice President of the Manufacturers’ National Bank since its organization, and is a Director in the Silver Plate Co. He was Alderman of the First Ward from 1873 to 1877, and was elected Mayor in April, 1879.”

Shoe and Leather Reporter, February 23, 1922
Death of E. J. Hueffner
Ernest J. Hueffner, of Racine, Wis., who has been identified with western finding and shoe store supply interests for the past half century, died at his home, 1526 College Ave., Racine, Wis., Wednesday, February 15. He was eighty-four years of age. Mr. Hueffner is a descendant of a family of tanners from continental Europe. He was born in Forst, Prussia, Germany, February 15, 1838. The Hueffner family have been in the leather business in Racine since 1848 when the senior Hueffner established a tannery there.