The real estate development company E. Trump & Son was co-founded by Elizabeth Christ Trump following the death of her husband in 1918. Born in 1880 in the Kingdom of Bavaria, she evolved from a homemaker in the Bronx into a pivotal business figure who managed and expanded property holdings in the United States over several decades.
Early Life in Kallstadt
Born Elisabeth Christ in Kallstadt, she was the daughter of Philipp Christ and Anna Maria. The family operated a vineyard, though Philipp also worked as a tinker to supplement their income. Their home on Freinsheimer Strasse was situated near the residence of the Trump family, including her future husband, Frederick Trump, who had emigrated to North America in 1885.
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Frederick returned to Germany in 1901 and married Elizabeth on August 26, 1902. The couple settled in the Morrisania neighborhood of the Bronx, where Elizabeth initially managed the household while Frederick worked as a barber and restaurant manager. Following a brief return to Germany, they permanently relocated to the United States in 1905, eventually moving to Queens where Frederick turned his focus to real estate development.
Operations of E. Trump & Son
After Frederick died during the 1918 flu pandemic, leaving an estate valued at $31,359, Elizabeth assumed control of his property assets. She directed contractors to build houses on vacant lots and acted as a mortgage provider to buyers. She initially operated under the name E. Trump, transitioning to E. Trump & Son in 1924 to facilitate advertising. Despite later accounts suggesting her son Fred led the firm, her involvement remained central, and she continued overseeing business interests into her later years.
Fast facts
- Born: 1880, Kallstadt
- Died: 1966, Manhasset
- Citizenship: United States; Germany
- Spouse: Frederick Trump
- Children: Elisabeth, Fred, and John
- Company founded: E. Trump & Son
- Burial site: All Faiths Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What was the original purpose of E. Trump & Son?
The company was established to manage and increase real estate holdings inherited from Frederick Trump by constructing homes on existing lots and financing buyers through mortgages.
Did Elizabeth Christ Trump remain active in her business?
Yes, she stayed involved in the family enterprise throughout her life and was known to handle administrative tasks, including managing laundromat coin collection in her 70s.
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