George began the this Ford Agency around 1915.

The above picture was taken around the year 1919, and looks north from Allen Street. The building burned down in the early 1970's. The Freese house in the background still stands adjacent to the Wentzville State Bank. Freese in the gentleman standing on the far left.

A Look Back At Wentzville's Own George Freese

George Freese came to Wentzville in 1914 a young man hoping to make his fortune. He promptly set out to do just that by opening a Ford dealership and garage somewhere between the years 1915 to 1918. Today it wouldn't be possible, but Freese started out selling his cars between $400 and $600. It's not known what he charged for repairs. Freese didn't just concern himself with his business. He has the distinction of generating the first electricity for Wentzville, using a portable gasoline engine and generator. To do so, he had to run a line to the Heady Hotel, and later the South Side Hotel on West Main Street. Freese also supplied the electricity for many of the church picnics. It wasn't until the 1920's that the electric company came in. Freese, having considerable community spirit, also supported the Boone Home located between New Melle and Defiance by loaning it many historic items. Even later on in life, Freese was active with his support of the Wentzville Historical Society when it was formed in 1975.

Source: Wentzville Union , February 16, 1977