Solomon Karpen is a native of Prussia and was born in 1858. He came to America when 13 years of age and arrived in Chicago late in 1871. He began the manufacture of upholstered furniture in a basement on Milwaukee Ave. with the aid of one helper. From this small beginning has grown the present great firm of S. Karpen and Bros. who are the largest manufacturers of upholstered furniture in the U. S. The industry employs 700 workers, and its goods find a market in all parts of the world.

Mr. Karpen is a member of the North Chicago Hebrew Congregation and one of the most liberal contributors to the A. J. C. He, with his brothers, have built up a great industry, and are rated among Chicago's leading business men.