Mr. Horstman received a thorough public school education in his native city, and at an early age learned the machinist's trade. On Lincoln's first call for troops in 1861 he enlisted in Company E, First New Jersey Volunteer Infantry, in which he served three months, when he was honorably discharged. He subsequently associated himself with the firm of Hughes & Phillips, manufacturers of machinery, of Newark, N. J.. with whom he remained thirty years, being foreman of their establishment during twenty years of that period. In politics Mr. Horstman is an ardent and consistent Democrat. He has for many years taken an active part in the affairs of the community, having served as Town Committeeman and as a member of the School Board of the Town of Kearny – a part of which now comprises the Borough of East Newark, of which he is at the present time Borough Recorder. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the Knights of Honor, an honorary member of the Aurora Singing Society of Newark. and President of the People's Building and Loan Association, with which he has been actively identified for more than twenty-seven years. Mr. Horstman is a public spirited, enterprising, and progressive citizen, has filled every position with acknowledged ability and satisfaction, and is highly respected by all who know him. He has always enjoyed the entire confidence of the community, and in both business and public capacities has achieved an excellent reputation.