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Ludwig Rudolph & Amy Mathilda (Melville) moved from Bundaberg to Kingaroy in 1905 and Rudi established himself as a plumber and ironmonger. He bought 4 allotments in the business area of Kingaroy, and established his business.
Rudi built the family home near the Kumbia Road, and called it "Rose Villa". Photographed in front of "Rose Villa" is Rudi and Amy seated and surrounded by their children: Standing: 5.Frederick Charles Kimberley, 1.Hilda, 4.William Rudolph Leslie, 3.Elvina May, 2.Melville; Seated: 6.Ernest Fielden Theodore, 8.Lindsley George Duncan, and 7.Amy Maud Pearl.
Eventually he bought shares in the South Burnett Importing Co. His business grew when he contracted to supply the construction of the Kingaroy Peanut Silos. But the business was nearly destroyed by 2 events: embezzlement by a partner and by a fire in 1926. However, the Stehbens reputation and credibility was such that after the embezzlement, they were allowed to trade out of debt, provided that the accounts were the responsibility of a member of the family. After the fire, four shops were built on the site and became profitable quickly. Sons bought out the father's plumbing and ironmongery business, and STEHBENS BROS HARDWARE was established, becoming an important Kingaroy business.
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