In [sic] was in that year that Henry Gass, sr., who had been an apprentice cabinet maker in his native Switzerland, came to Columbus. He worked as a carpenter for a few months, and later in the same year opened his own cabinet whop [sic] and undertaking parlors on 7th street.
At the start Mr. Gass made his own furniture and coffins. An entry in his first book of accounts is to the effect that he made his first coffin Aug. 4, 1870, and it was for "a man killed by the Indians," with no further identification.
His business expanded to the extent that, in 1878, he built on [sic] store at 11th street and 23rd avenue. It was about this time that the pioneer merchant quit making his own furniture and began handling factory-made products. The building was destroyed by fire in 1910.
Mr. Gass then constructed a new brick building at 2415 13th street, which was the home of Henry Gass & Company for many years.
[The Columbus Journal, November 9, 1910]In 1922 Mr. Gass sold the business to his sons, Samuel and Henry, jr., who had long been associated with their father, and retired.
For the last few years there has been need of an ambulance in this city, especially for use in transferring patients to the hospital, and to meet this need Henry Gass last week purchased an up to date and modern amublance. It has a closed body and is the same style of vehicle used in the cities. Mr. Gass will use it in connection with his business, and they have arranged to answer promptly all calls for it.
In February, 1925, Henry, jr., bought the funeral business of his brother, consolidating it with his own establishment. Samuel continued for several more years as the Henry Gass & Company, handling furniture. Henry Gass, sr., died in 1926.
Herbert Ernst had entered employment in the firm in 1921 and Edward Wegrzyn followed in 1924. In 1940 Ernst and Wegrzyn became stockholders.
William F. Haney, who had married Marjorie, a daughter of Henry Gass, jr., became identified with the firm in April, 1940 and for several years was its active head. Mr. Gass died Dec. 30, 1951, and Mr. Haney passed away July 3, 1952.
Present stockholders and officers of the Gass Funeral Home are: Mrs. William F. Haney, president; Herbert Ernst, vice president and Edward Wegrzyn, secretary-treasurer.
The records after December 5, 1906 include a bit more information, with additional information found after July 16, 1912. During this period you will find the name and age of the deceased, whether single or married, and religion; date, place, and cause of death; location and date/time of funeral service and interment; charges and description of coffin.
Records from the late 1920's include additional information such as parents' names and places of birth.
There are exceptions, of course, and little tidbits of information can occasionally be found in the margins. But this will give you a general idea of what you may expect to find in the records.
NOTE: Gass-Haney is currently working on a database of their records. Please let them know that you appreciate their efforts with this tremendous project.