Charles F. Orthwein (January 28, 1839 – December 28, 1898) was a German-born American businessman from St. Louis, Missouri.

[4] The firm shipped grains to Europe from St. Louis, via New Orleans, Louisiana, and Galveston, Texas.

In 1879, Mersman left the business and was replaced by Orthwein's brother William.

[2] In the fall of 1880, Orthwein helped found the St. Louis Mining and Stock Exchange.

[6] With Corwin H. Spencer, Orthwein acquired the streetcar system in St.