Establishing himself in business shortly after his arrival in this country, he has, by perseverance and energy, won the respect of his fellow-citizens and the confidence and esteem of numerous acquaintances. He has been a prominent member of the Hudson County Republican Committee since 1888. In 1887 he was elected a Councilman of Weehawken and filled that position for four years, serving also during his term of office as Town Treasurer. His faithful conduct of these duties was able and efficient. In 1898 he was the Republican candidate in his district for member of Assembly, and, although defeated, received a handsome vote, running more than 4,000 ahead of the gubernatorial ticket, and reducing the usual Democratic majority by several hundred. These facts not only attest his popularity, but have a special significance when it is remembered that the nomination was wholly unsought by him. He is a progressive, patriotic citizen. and in social and fraternal affairs has long been a prominent factor. He is a Past Master and an active member of Palisade Lodge, No. 84, F. and A. M., and a member of the Hoboken Independent Schuetzen Corps and of the New York Schuetzen Corps. In 1890 Mr. Basse organized in Weehawken the Germania Verein No. 1, and under his presidency during the first two years that body prospered and grew rapidly, being now one of the strongest social organizations in North Hudson County and including in its membership every prominent German-American in the town. He has shown rare tact in managing successfully several social functions in Weehawken.