Elmer John Kreidler was born in Nazareth Township, Northampton County, Pennsylvania, June 23, 1865. He attended the public schools of the township and as a youth of sixteen years entered the store of William G. Beck, of which he is now the proprietor, as a clerk. Although he is now the owner of this property, Mr. Kreidler's connection with the store has not been continuous, for after five years he resigned his position as clerk with Mr. Beck and became his father's assistant on the home farm. Remaining at home for five years, he felt again the desire to enter business, and for three years, from 1890 to 1893, he engaged in general mercantile dealings in Hecktown, Pennsylvania, selling his business in the latter year and moving to Bethlehem. He remained in Bethlehem for ten years, then returned to Newburg and purchased the business in which he had first been employed. The principal need of the business was the introduction of modern ideas and methods, for its reputation and patronage were sound, and this element Mr. Kreidler supplied, improving the property to a great extent and operating an establishment that would be a credit to any community. Like his father, Mr. Kreidler is a supporter of the Democratic Party, and in 1896 and 1897 he filled the office of township assessor. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, the Sons of Veterans, the United American Mechanics, of which he was the first councillor in 1891, and the Knights of the Golden Eagle. He is a communicant of the Lutheran church and was secretary of the council of the Bethlehem church.

Mr. Kreidler married, August 4, 1887. at Newburg, Pennsylvania, Sarah Elizabeth Beck, daughter of Jacob and Susanna (Keinheimer) Beck, and a sister of Dr. Beck, of Newburg.