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Otto KirchnerGerman entrepreneur, founder of the Svetoch factory.
Date of Birth: 11.03.1848
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Otto Kirchhoff: Founder of the Svetoch Factory
- Early Life and Arrival in Russia
- Establishment of the Bindery Workshop
- Growth and Expansion
- Acquisition of Steam Engine and Publisher
- Personal Life
Otto Kirchhoff: Founder of the Svetoch Factory
Otto Kirchhoff, a German entrepreneur, founded the renowned Svetoch factory in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
Early Life and Arrival in Russia
Otto Kirchhoff was born on March 11, 1848, in Anhalt-Zerbst, Germany. Like many other Germans, he emigrated to Russia in search of business opportunities, believing he had greater prospects there than in his homeland.
Establishment of the Bindery Workshop
On November 30, 1871, Kirchhoff opened a small-scale bindery workshop at 14 Malaya Morskaya Street in Saint Petersburg. With only two apprentices and rudimentary tools, he began working meticulously to establish his presence in the industry.
Growth and Expansion
Over the years, Kirchhoff's workshop thrived. By 1881, it employed 25-30 workers and boasted 13 state-of-the-art machines. Kirchhoff actively sought to expand his production, traveling abroad to study the latest technologies and practices. He visited major printing centers like Leipzig in Germany, where he gained valuable insights into binderies and machinery.
Acquisition of Steam Engine and Publisher
In 1884, Kirchhoff acquired a steam engine to enhance his production capabilities. He also established his own publishing house in 1879 to supplement his income during off-seasons. His publishing venture proved successful, particularly in the production of tear-off calendars.
Personal Life
Kirchhoff was married twice. In 1872, he wed Susanne Bescke, and in 1885, he married Julie Christine Georg Mölson. He had three sons from both marriages: Karl, Franz, and Friedrich.
