An Illustrated History of the State of Washington, by Rev. H.K. Hines, D.D., The Lewis Publishing Co., Chicago, IL., 1893, pages 382-383 [Transcriber's Note: In this publication the surname was printed SOHUS, but in the copy I photocopied from, someone had changed the spelling to SOHNS everytime this surname appeared. It might indicate that this publication contained a typo/mis-spelling, and that someone was trying to show the correct spelling] SOHUS & NORVAL, wholesale and retail dealers in general merchandise at Vancouver. This business has been established in Vancouver for more than a quarter of a century, and has a reputation second to none in the State of Washington. They carry a large and well-selected stock of general merchandise, consisting of groceries, dry goods, clothing, hardware, etc. The enterprise was first founded by Sohus & Schule, who conducted the same many years, but about four years ago Mr. Schule disposed of his interest, and since July 1, 1892, the business has been conducted under the style of Sohus & Norval. Louis R. Sohus, the senior member of the firm, was born in Vancouver, Clarke county, Washington, October 3, 1858, a son of Hon. Louis and Tirza (Schule) Sohus. The father was born in Beerfelt, Germany, April 29, 1827, was reared and educated in the land of his birth, and emigrated to America in 1850. Two years later he came to the Pacific coast, via Panama route. In the early ë50s he was connected with the United States Army, later conducted a printing establishment in Vancouver until 1866, and in that year embarked in a general mercantile trade, which he continued many years. As a prominent and progressive citizen, the city of Vancouver, and Clarke county generally, is indebted to this gentleman. He was virtually the organizer of the First National Bank of this city, and this city is due the honor of settling the differences between the Catholic mission and citizens of Vancouver during his incumbency in the civic chair. His name is associated with nearly all public enterprises of the city, and among them may be mentioned the Vancouver, Yakima & Klickitat Railroad, the Michigan Lumber Company, and many other enterprises of great importance. From a financial standpoint he has been very successful in business life, but is now retired from active work. Mr. Sohus has represented Clarke county in the Legislature, and has also served in the more humble walks of public life, he has aided in promoting the interest of the community, has striven to anticipate their wants, and labored incessantly to add beauty to his surroundings. In public as in private life, his chief aim has been to act honestly and according to his best convictions. Louis R. Sohus, the subject of this sketch, attended the public schools of Vancouver, and also graduated at McClure's Academy, at Oakland, California, with the class of 1879. Since that time he has been engaged in mercantile pursuits in this city. In addition to his other interests, he is a stockholder in the Columbia Land & Improvement Company of Vancouver. Socially, he affiliates with the F. & A. M., has passed all the official chairs in the blue lodge, and is also a member of the chapter and commandery, Knights Templar. Mr. Sohus has also served as Chancellor of the K. of P. Submitted to the WA. Bios Project in September 2003 by Jeffrey L. Elmer * * * * Notice: These biographies were transcribed for the Washington Biographies Project. Unless otherwise stated, no further information is available on the individual featured in the biographies.