he Pioneer Transfer is the oldest transfer business in Redlands, and was established by Rivera Brothers in November, 1887. It was purchased by E. A. Ball, February 8, 1894. In June, 1895, Emil Suess, in partnership with O. D. Collins, bought out Mr. Ball and continued to run the business, under the firm name of Collins & Suess, until Mr. Suess purchased his partner's interest, January 29, of the present year. It has always done a large portion of the furniture, piano, baggage and freight transferring in Redlands.

Emil Suess was born near Zurich, Switzerland, in 1868, and was brought by his parents to this country when six months old. He lived with his parents and Fort Madison, Iowa, and Guide Rock, Nebraska, and worked upon the farm, after their death at the latter place, until he came to California and located at Ojai valley, Ventura county, in 1887. For some time he was employed at the Galley Cottages, a summer resort, and in driving stages, etc. In June, 1893, he came to Redlands and worked for two years for his brother, J. J. Suess, proprietor of the Star Grocery, and until he purchased, with his partner, the Pioneer Transfer. Mr. Suess was married in Redlands, April 30, 1895, to Miss Martha Kindscher, a native of Nebraska, whom he had known from childhood. He is an Odd Fellow, and was for three years a member of Co. G., N.G.C. In the fall of 1893 he joined the city fire department, and is now assistant chief.

The Pioneer Transfer conducts a general transfer business, small packages as well as large receiving careful attention. Baggage is the main feature and Mr. Suess has one of his teams at all arriving trains. Families intending to remove to Redlands will, on application by letter, receive rates for moving household furniture from freight trains to any desired point. Pianos are handled with great care. All work is done promptly and satisfactorily. The office is at 220 Orange street.

(Source: Illustrated Redlands, 1897, p. 85)