In this May 30th, 1885, dictation from Anton Eilers he mentions traveling in Europe for two years. However, he wasn’t there longer than six months (Jan 1882-May 1882). I can only conclude this was a transcription error or some other mistake. The original is Hubert Howe Bancroft Collection.

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Mr. A. Eilers
So Pueblo, Colo. May 30th, 1885

Was born in Germany January 14th, 1839 and educated at the Mining Academy of Clausthal and University of Goettingen. Graduated when 20 years of age and came at once to the U.S. Was employed by a firm of Mining Engineers in N.Y City for a number of years and in Dec. 1869 was appointed Deput of U.S. Mining Statistics and held position until 1876. Was in Salt Lake and rebuilt the Germania Smelter running it in 1877 and 1878. Next to Leadville, Colorado, in 1879 and built smelter there, remaining two years when health failed and sold out and traveled in Europe for two years and returned to Colorado.

Organized the Colorado Smelting Co in Pueblo and broke ground for the works in April 1883. Started work in Aug same year with one furnace and now have 4 furnaces with a local capacity of 200 tons per day. Employ 125 men and will increase capacity of works as fast as business demands it.