One of the solid citizens of the village is Mr. August C. W. Michalsky, who
has lived in Harlem area for many years. He was horn in Prussia in 1856, where
he learned the cabinetmaker's trade. In 1872 he came with his parents to
Chicago, where he lived for a short time and worked at the carpenter's trade.
Desiring to see more of his adopted country and America, he traveled
extensively in the United States and Canada.
In 1878 he came to Harlem, where he was employed at his trade. Later he did a general contracting business on his own account. In 1887 he became foreman for Bedard & Morency in mill work, where he remained until 1895. After leaving Bedard & Morency he conducted a large business on his own as a building contractor. He built a number of handsome residences in Oak Park and other towns. In 1902 he erected a large college building at Hillside, Wisconsin, costing over $60,000. He was also superintendent of many other large public and private buildings. In 1904 he was appointed superintendent of the construction department by the Proviso Land Association at Maywood. Illinois. Since his connection with the Proviso Land Association he erected seventy large buildings. He was the first village clerk of Harlem appointed by the court. He posted the notices notifying the people of the election for village incorporation.
Mr. Michalsky was a sociable and energetic gentleman. He belonged to several social and fraternal orders. He married one of Harlem's daughters, Miss Minnie Everet in 1880. By 1906 they have eight children living:
- Alfred (who is married)
- Mrs. Emma Lutz (who lived in the village)
- Oscar, Walter, Alinda, Irvin, Gertrude and Winfield who lived with their parents at their pleasant home at 27 North Marengo Street.