August Herman Zachau, one of the pioneer white settlers of Superior, Wisconsin, was born to Johan Frederick and Barbara Krause Zachau, August 3, 1825 in Koenigsberg, East Prussia. Forced to flee Prussia after his involvement in the 1848 revolution, Zachau traveled to the United States and settled first in Chicago, where he continued his trade as cabinetmaker and carpenter.
In November 1853 Zachau arrived in Superior. He rapidly became involved
in the building and development of the town and participated in many business and community activities. In his early years in Superior he worked as a carpenter, pile driver, and bridge builder. In the winter he transported provisions, fish, and furs between Superior and St. Paul. He built and managed the Nicolet Hotel until its destruction by fire, then operated a general store and mercantile business until the store, too, was destroyed in a fire. With the introduction of iron mining in the area, Zachau resumed his general contracting business and also dealt in cattle and ice. During the Civil War Zachau served as a second lieutenant in the Superior Home Guards, which guarded the area against possible Indian attacks during the Sioux war of 1862. He also held many town and county offices, among them sheriff of Douglas County for twelve years. Zachau belonged to many local clubs and organizations, including the Old Settlers Association, the Improved Order of Redmen (he was Keeper of Wampum), the Odd Fellows, Germania, and the Nemadji Cemetery Association. He remained active in his clubs and interested in family and business activities until his death on January 24, 1914.
August Zachau was married to Augusta Winter of Sheboygan. They had nine children, Carl (Charles), Herman A., August E., Frederick W., Theodore C., Edward Goethe, Frank Schiller, John, and Augusta C. F. (Mrs. Ernest Mast).
