"Portrait and Biographical Record of Portland and Vicinity, Oregon." Authors: "a compilation of this work....by a number of writers". Chapman Publishing Co; Chicago, 1903. p. 471. BENEDICT BIRCHLER In picturesque Switzerland Benedict Birchler was born April 30, 1827, and there laid the foundation for the successful nursery business which he now conducts in Multnomah county. His parents were farmers and hotel keepers, from which environment he went when a comparatively small boy to learn the occupation of landscape gardener. In his native land he became thoroughly conversant with his delightful and ever widening art, his experience being augmented in Troy, N. Y., and Philadelphia, Pa., after his emigration to America in a sailing vessel in 1853, the journey taking sixty-three days upon the ocean. From the Quaker city in 1863 Mr. Birchler removed to Minneapolis, where he became particularly active in beautifying various parts of the city, and where he remained for three years. After removing to Portland he found employment at his trade for S. G. Reed, and laid out the grounds connected with the beautiful home of that prominent citizen, remaining with him for a period of seven years and eleven months. Later he superintended the landscape work of Mr. Reed's place at Mill and Market streets. Besides the beautiful grounds at Eleventh and Jefferson streets which he laid out, he also laid out the grounds at the corner of Seventeenth and Everett streets, formerly owned by R. B. Knapp. His present ten acres of land was purchased for $375, and at the time was covered with heavy timber, which had to be cleared before aught could be. accomplished. This property is located in Mount Tabor, and the improvements have been made with special reference to the production of fruits, ornamental trees, shrubs and flowers. Mr. Birchler has a most complete and comprehensive collection of the best known varieties of trees and plants, and his efforts to attain unto the best in his line have been prolific of public appreciation and gratifying financial returns. Through the union of Fredericka Homul and Mr. Birchler two children have been born, Emma and Henry. In politics a Republican, Mr. Birchler has been identified with political affairs only so far as the formality of casting his vote, for office holding and political strife seem remote from his absorbing and successful business. ******************* Submitted to the Oregon Bios. Project in June 2008 by Diana Smith. Submitter has no additional information about the person(s) or family mentioned above.