Mr. Berger acquired a limited education in the public schools of Davenport, but in the harder school of practical life he laid the foundation upon which lie has built a successful career. The death of both of his parents in 1873 threw him upon his own resources at the tender age of thirteen, and from that time to the present he has relied upon himself. Anxious and willing to work, endowed with plenty of pluck and energy, and determined to pave a way to success and reputation, he entered, in April, 1873, a manufactory of hats and furs in his native city, where he soon gained a valuable experience, which supplemented the earlier training he had obtained in the public schools.

In June, 1880, lie removed from Davenport, Iowa, to Jersey City, N. J., and entered the employ of the firm of Harris & Russack, of New York City, manufacturers of fine furs, remaining with them until 1889. On June 22, of that year, lie opened his own manufactory of hats and furs at 368 Central Avenue, Jersey City, where he has since continued. He started with a capital of $150, but with pluck, perseverance, and practical business knowledge acquired from his long association with his former employers soon built up an extensive trade.