John Knepfly
John Knepfly (also, Neffley and Kneffley)
New Albany, Indiana circa 1845-1880
One of the most successful jewelers in New Albany was John Knepfly, a German immigrant from Baden, born circa 1811. The name of John Knepfly (spelled Neffley) appeared in the New Albany City Directory for 1845 - 46, where he was listed as a jeweler. More than a few spoons bearing the mark of Knepfly have been seen, indicating that he was likely a silversmith as well. The success of his business is reflected in the fact that he had assets of some forty-five thousand dollars by 1860. On the Federal Census for that year, Knepfly’s wife, Margaret is also listed as being born circa 1824, and a native of Switzerland. At the time of that census report the oldest child was listed as age 18, born in Indiana. This would indicate that John Knepfly was in New Albany as early as 1842.
1845- 1880
New Albany, Indiana
JOHN KNEPFLY SILVER DESCRIPTIONS COMPOSITION: COIN SILVER (2) Teaspoons, 5.25 inches, engraved: C.B.O. (1) Teaspoons, 5.5 inches, engraved: E.A.L. (3) Teaspoons, 5.625 inches, engraved: W.I.C. (1) Teaspoon, 5.75 inches, engraved: M.L.W (1) Tablespoon, 7.25 inches, engraved: W.I.C. (1) Tablespoon, 7.5 inches, engraved: M.F. (1) Tablespoon, 8.5 inches, engraved: E.I.C. (1) Tablespoon, 8.5 inches, engraved: K.M.S.