Orfila, Frank Joseph

Submitted by Mike Miller

Orfila, Frank Joseph, prominent and well known steamship agent, was born in New Orleans, La., Nov. 17, 1865. His parents were Frank and Florence (Arroyo) Orfila, both natives of Spain who came to America at the ages of 9 and 12 years respectively. They were married in New Orleans and reared a family of 9 children, Frank J. being fourth in order of birth. The father engaged in the syrup business in this city until his death in 1896. Young Orfila attended public school in New Orleans from the time he was old enough until he reached the age of twelve years when lie had to quit and go to work. He first engaged in a dry goods store in the Pontalba building but remained in this position only 1 year when he went to work on the sugar landing as weigher and gauger for Delery & Purvis. This work held him for two years when he secured employment with Hansell & Webster, sugar brokers and remained in their employ until the firm went out of business. By this time Mr. Orfila had saved a little money and with this he started a baggage transfer business which proved to be quite successful and was continued until June 25, 1885, at which time he obtained a position with Alfred M. Moulton in the steamship business at 19 Camp street. After the death of Mr. Moullon, Mr. Orfila succeeded to the business and still continues it. He is a member of the Catholic church and of the society of Druids. Jan. 11, 1890, he was married to Amelia A. Melcher, daughter of Charles Melcher of New Orleans. To Mr. and Mrs. Orfila 5 children have been born, viz.: Florence A., Frank T., Amelia I., Edward R., and Adele I. Mr. Orfila's life illustrates in a splendid way the opportunity offered to all those who persevere in the face of unfavorable fortune. He began life in humble circumstances and by close application to duty has risen to a position of influence both socially and financially.

Source: Louisiana: Comprising Sketches of Parishes, Towns, Events, Institutions, and Persons, Arranged in Cyclopedic Form (volume 3), p. 339. Edited by Alcée Fortier, Lit.D. Published in 1914, by Century Historical Association.