His tenure is notable for devising a more systematic method of record keeping that was required by the role of Illinois Secretary of State along with recommending a manual of state government.

[1][2] Rummel was born in Baden, Germany in 1838 and later immigrated to America at the age of 13.

Shortly after arriving in America, he took up an apprenticeship with a printer based out of Chicago.

[1] In 1858, Rummel moved from Chicago to Peoria, where he shortly thereafter became co-owner of a newspaper named the Illinois Banner.

[1][3] Rummel was elected as the Secretary of State of Illinois in 1869 and is remembered for reducing the cost of public printing as well as his immense dedication to records management.