Although Mr. Farr had received only a district school education in Gettenbach, it was largely through his own efforts, after his arrival in this country, that he completed his studies and gained a practical experience. He began life as a clay laborer. Afterward he purchased a canal boat and spent several years as captain of that craft. He lost money in this venture, however, but with characteristic energy and perseverance engaged in contracting on a small scale, and by faithful attention to business soon built up a large and successful business. He is now one of the largest contractors in Bayonne, doing almost the entire work for all the factories at Constable Hook. He is not only financially independent, but a large owner of real estate and one of the city's prominent and respected residents.

In public life Mr. Farr has also achieved a high reputation. He served as School Trustee in 1878, 1879, and 1880, and as Councilman in 1882, 1883, 1884, 1885, 1886, 1887, and 1890, being President of the board for two years. He was Mayor of the City of Bayonne in 1891, 1892, 189:1, and 1894. During his administration electric lighting was introduced and a pure water supply for the city was inaugurated. The fire alarm system was established, and the cost of all the city improvements was reduced to about one-half of that under the preceding administrations. He re-organized an inefficient police department and inaugurated many other improvements which have since resulted in so much benefit to the community. His administration was so acceptable to the people that he received both the Democratic and Republican nominations in 1893, as well as several citizens' nominations. In that year he had no opponent. While in the Council he was instrumental in exposing a $40,000 defalcation in the treasurer's department. Mr. Farr organized the Centerville Building and Loan Association and was its President during the last nine years. He has been a member, a Deacon, and a Trustee of St. Paul's German Lutheran Church of Bayonne since its organization, and is also a member of the Bayonne Board of Trade, which he served for a long time as Vice-President. He is a Director of the Charity Organization Society, a member of the Board of Directors of the German Lutheran Hospital of New York City and Vicinity, and for several years served as President of the board. He is also a member of the Good Government Club of Bayonne, a member of the Board of Trustees of the German Lutheran Home for the Aged of New York City and Vicinity, a member of the Board of Directors of the Hudson County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, a member of the Bayonne Musical Society, an honorary member of several fire companies and other associations, and until recently was a Trustee and Treasurer of the German Lutheran Emigrant Mission of New York City. In all these capacities he has displayed marked ability, sound judgment, and unselfish devotion. He is a public spirited citizen, thoroughly identified with the affairs of his adopted city and Mate, and active in promoting every worthy object. During his entire life he has maintained the confidence and respect of all who know him.