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History of
Iowa County, Iowa, and Its People R JOHN RIESS submitted by Dick Barton John Riess, a stock-raiser who owns two hundred and fifty-six acres of good land in English township, was born in Iowa county on the 12th of January, 1861 , of the marriage of George M. and Margaret (Biesnecker) Riess, both natives of Germany . In 1857 they came to America and made their way to Iowa county, Iowa , locating upon the farm in English township which is in the possession of their son John. The first residence of the family in the new world was a log cabin with a clapboard roof and a puncheon floor and door, but later when material prosperity had rewarded their labors they erected modern and commodious buildings. The parents continued to reside upon that farm until called by death. To their union were born two children: David, who has passed away; and John, of this review. The latter received his education in the public schools and remained at home with his parents, assuming charge of the operation of the farm when he became of age. He now owns two hundred and fifty-six acres of land on sections 29, 32 and 20, English township, and makes a specialty of raising and feeding high grade stock. As he has had much experience in that line of work and understands the principles underlying successful stock-raising, he is rewarded by gratifying financial returns, his stock bringing a good price in the market. Mr. Riess was married in 1893 to Miss Barbara A. Price, who was born in English township. Her parents were John and Barbara (Bonneter) Price, both natives of Germany , who in 1857 came to America and located in English township, Iowa county, Iowa . Both passed away in this county and their demise was mourned by many friends. To them were born ten children, seven of whom survive. Mr. and Mrs. Riess have four children: Walter H., who is now attending high school at north English; Raymond F.; Mildred; and Harold W. Mr. Riess is a republican and has served as trustee and as a director of the school board. He is at present treasurer of that body and keeps in close touch with the work of the school, seeking always to promote its advancement. He is one of the directors of the Millersburg Savings Bank and is recognized as a man of sound business judgment. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Evangelical church, whose teachings constitute the guiding principles of their lives, and they are highly spoken of in their community.
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