1899 BIOGRAPHIES N
- Z
From Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language Newspaper
Published between about 1874 and 1920
These bios are from a special 25th Anniversary Edition of September 20,
1899
Translated &
Contributed by David Reineke
This is an ongoing project. Please use the Free Find Search Engine,
which will be updated as names are added.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the
end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Rev. Joseph C. Nacke, Priest
The Rev. Mr. Jos. C. Nacke, priest at Saints Peter and Paul Church in Carroll,
Iowa, whose fine portrait we present in the above picture, was born on 10 April
1852 in Elsen, Westphalia, Germany. When he was a child of tender years,
his parents moved to America and settled in St. Louis, Missouri, where his
father worked at the trade of cabinetmaker. His parents lived in St. Louis
for two and a half years, and then they moved to West Point, Iowa, where their
well-behaved son received his first school instruction at the local parish
school. When he became a young man, he entered St. Francis College in
Quincy, Illinois, and after the energetic and pious young man had devoted
himself to four years of study with only short breaks, he left the school and
went to Teutopolis and entered the Diocesan College of Alton, Illinois.
Then, for several years the energetic student attended St. John’s University in
Sterns County, Minnesota, a very famous school. At the wish of the Rev. Archbishop Hennessey [Hennessy] of Dubuque, Iowa, he completed his
theological studies at St. Francis College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. On 12
August 1879, he achieved his most desired goal and had the great satisfaction to
be ordained a priest. His first assignment was Centralia, Dubuque County,
Iowa. The young priest then worked four years as pastor in Stacyville, Iowa,
and then he was called to Saints Peter and Paul Church in Carroll, Iowa, where
he has worked continuously since 28 September 1887. He has experienced the
great satisfaction of Saints Peter and Paul’s growing into one of the largest
parishes in the state under his personal leadership. Because of this, in 1898
the splendid brick church had to be enlarged with a transept, and in that year
the church was decorated with magnificent ceiling and wall paintings.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. I have not changed the place or name
spellings, but I have added some explanations in brackets, and some notes at the
end. It reads as follows:
Andreas Neppl
This gentleman first saw the light of day on 26 October 1856 in Arnbruck,
Bavaria, Germany. He attended elementary school there, and after completing
school, he learned the trade of miller and assisted in the business of his
father, who was a successful miller. In 1875, he immigrated to the United States
of North America and settled in Roselle Township, Carroll County, Iowa, where he
devoted himself to agriculture and rented a farm. After two years, on 12
September 1877, he married the virtuous Miss Maria Semler, and to this marriage
were born seven boys and three girls, all of whom are still living. In 1890, he
moved from Roselle Township to Carroll Township [now Maple River Township], and
in 1897 he moved to Kniest Township to the large Pudens [family] farm.
Mr. Neppl is a respected farmer, an honest German-American who, on account of
his upright character, is esteemed and respected by all his acquaintances and
neighbors.
He is a very successful cattle and swine producer, and for 24 years a loyal
reader of the Carroll Demokrat. It is the sincere wish of the Anniversary
Edition that the Neppl family continue to enjoy the best of health and that they
may prosper in all their undertakings.
Notes: The German town of Arnbruck is in Bavaria, about 40 or 50 miles east of
Regensburg, near the border of the Czech Republic.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Clemens Penkhus
This man conducts an enterprising shoemaker business and, along with it, has a
well-equipped stock of shoes and boots. His work is considered excellent, and
the merchandise that he keeps on hand is durable and of good quality. Therefore,
he enjoys an excellent business, and has earned the greatest respect of all his
fellow-citizens.
Clemens Penkhus was born on the 6th of November 1856 in Südholz, Oldenburg. He
learned the shoemaker’s trade and worked as a journeyman until he was called to
military service. He served with the 19th Dragoon Regiment, which was garrisoned
in Kloppenburg. He was honorably discharged after serving three years. After a
break of two years in Südholz, he emigrated with his parents to America. In the
winter of 1884-1885, he was working in Halbur, and in that spring he set up in
Templeton. On the 23rd of November 1886, he married Miss Rosa Ferneding, a
virtuous and cultured young woman. They were happily married for about 10 years
when, on the 29th of May 1896, his dear wife was torn from his side by death.
Three children were the fruit of this happy marriage: Maria, Heinrich, and Rosa.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the
end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Abel Peters
Mr. Abel Peters was born on 8 January 1839 in Neermoor, County of Leer,
Ostfriesland [East Frisia], and attended elementary school there. As a child,
he experienced the untimely loss of his parents, and he stayed with relatives
and friends until he was 15 years old. He then studied the blacksmith’s trade
for two years. As a 17-year-old youth, he immigrated to the New World on 4
April 1856 and settled in Freeport, Illinois. After working there for 15 years,
he married Miss Abba Roelfs on 6 April 1870. He then worked another four
years at farming, and in 1874 he moved to Wheatland Township [Carroll County,
Iowa], where he had purchased 120 acres of land. In 1881 he sold the farm
and purchased another of 20 acres. In 1893, he purchased another 120-acre
farm nearby, where he now lives with some of his children, and which is also
well supplied with all sorts of improvements and equipment. This happy
marriage produced six children, two of whom, however, died at a tender age. The children still living are: Claus, who occupies the 220-acre
farm; Margaretha, now Mrs. Aug. Jennewein; Edward; and Hempe.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Georg A. Poeppe
With special pleasure, the Anniversary Edition brings the biography of this man,
who indeed enjoys an excellent reputation, and not just among the German
citizens, but also among those of the English tongue.
Mr. Poeppe is a Son of the Red Earth [Westphalian] who is a credit to his small
hometown. He was born on 23 April 1863 in Rolfzen, Westphalia. After
successfully attending elementary school, he entered the Gymnasium [advanced
high school] in Steinheim. By the time he was 18 years old, he had quickly
completed all the classes of this excellent school, and in that same year he
carried out his long-held plan of emigrating to the United States of North
America. Upon arriving, he made his way to Carroll County, Iowa, where he
initially made himself useful in various jobs, and through his industrious
attendance in the public school, he acquired a thorough command of the English
language. He then attended the Teaching School for several years, and since then
Mr. Poeppe has been one of the most successful and popular teachers in the
public schools in Kniest Township. On 11 February 1890, he married Miss Helena
Wernimont, an esteemed young lady from Kniest Township. In 1891, he moved with his wife to Mt. Carmel, where Mr. Poeppe took over a general
merchandise business. At the same time, he was granted the position of
Postmaster by the Postal Service. After a few yeas, he went in as a shareholder
with “Ludwig Brothers” and the firm was then called “Poeppe and Ludwigs.” Since
1892, Mr. Poeppe has been the owner of a 160-acre farm in Antelope County,
Nebraska, and in 1897 he purchased a 120-acre farm in Kniest Township, which he
increased a year later by 40 acres. In late fall of the same year, he built a
large, comfortable house and stalls on this farm. After he gave up his business
in Mt. Carmel in the beginning of 1899, he moved to this farm so that, in
addition to his teaching occupation, he could devote his leisure hours to
farming. This happy marriage has produced five children, two of which, however,
died at a tender age. The names of the still-living children are George,
Theresia, and Theodor.
NOTES: Mr. Poeppe was one of several Germans from the area around Steinheim and
Rolfzen to emigrate to Carroll County. The Wiedemeier and Reineke families came
from Steinheim. In addition to Georg Poeppe, the Klocke, Spieker, and Pietig
families came from Rolfzen. The Thielke family also came from the nearby village
of Eversen. There are probably other families from the area who also settled in
Carroll County.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
John Rauch
In another place in the Anniversary Edition, the friendly reader will find an
accurate picture of old Mr. John Rauch, who, although he does not live in
Carroll County, is still kindred, and is strongly connected to the local
residents through family ties and friendship, as well as his many years in the
profession of elementary school and music teacher. Indeed, this popular man’s
large circle of acquaintances stretches not only over Sac, Carroll, and the
bordering counties, but also over parts of eastern Iowa, into Missouri,
Illinois, and Minnesota. Thus, many distant readers will be pleasantly surprised
to find mentioned here the kind, old, and successful school teacher, who is
still gratefully remembered by many people.
Mr. John Rauch was born on the 19th of November 1823, in Nenzing, District of
Vorarlberg, Tyrol [in Austria]. He first attended elementary school in his
hometown, and then in Bregenz, [Austria] on Lake Constance [a lake bordering on
southern Germany, western Austria, and Switzerland], until he was 17 years old.
For his advanced education, he attended the “Schulbrüder-Institut” [probably a
Catholic advanced school run by priests] at Kronburg, in Tyrol, where he studied
for three years, after which he was employed as a teacher and organist in
Schönwies, in Tyrol. In February 1852, Mr. Rauch married Miss Maria Anna Meyer,
a virtuous and educated young lady. And since he had long had the idea of
emigrating to the free states of America, he carried out his plan with his young
wife soon after the marriage. On the 5th of May 1852, the couple set foot on the
American Continent. Herr Rauch first made his way to Richville, which is now a
suburb of Chicago, where he found employment as a teacher and organist. After three years, he
took over the teacher and organist position in Dubuque, Iowa. Soon thereafter,
he was called to New Vienna, Iowa, where he worked at his position for six
years. Unfortunately, he received a heavy blow on the 9th of May 1858, when, on
that day, his faithful spouse was torn from his side by death. Three sons
grieved with their father over the loss of the dear wife and mother, but indeed
the three sons—too good for this world—followed after their dear mother in
death. On the 21st of October 1860, Mr. Rauch was married again to Miss Sybilla
Schmith, and in 1862 he was called as a teacher to St. Paul, Missouri, where he
remained six years. He then moved to Guttenberg, Iowa, and three years later to
Caledonia, Minnesota. After two years, he moved with his family to Dyersville,
Iowa, where he was employed in private businesses. In 1874, he purchased 160
acres of land in Viola Township, Sac County, just across the border from Carroll County, because he could find no suitable parcel of land among his friends in Carroll County.
Then he spent another six years engaged in his profession in Petersburg, Iowa.
In the spring of 1880, Mr. Rauch moved to his above-mentioned real estate, which
was still uncultivated at that time. The family still lives today on this farm,
which is now equipped with fine buildings, an orchard, etc., though during this
time, the active old man has always endeavored to do good works. For example,
for two years he conducted the German class and gave music instruction at the
public school in Arcadia, and for two years he was the organist under Rev.
Norten and Rev. Schulte at the Catholic Church in Breda. During the 18 years
that he has managed his farm, he has held several offices, but now the old
gentleman has gone into retirement and will probably move completely to his
beloved Breda. This marriage, which has been a completely happy one, was blessed
with 10 children, three of which died at a
young age. The names of the still-living children are: Frank, a railroad
telegraphist in Eagle Grove, Iowa; Elisabeth, Mrs. B. Grote; Agnes, Mrs. Wm.
Geier; Karl; Wilhelm; Maria; and Christina.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Ed. F. Richmann
This man, of whom the anniversary edition presents a true photograph, is a
successful cigar maker, and the cigars that come from his works are favorably
known in the entire state. Mr. Ed. F. Richmann was born on 23 December 1861 in
Lehmsig, Province of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. When he was a six-year-old
boy, his parents emigrated to the United States of North America and settled in
Davenport, Iowa, where the young Edward attended the public schools. After
completing school, he learned the cigar-making trade in Davenport, and after a
successful term of apprenticeship, he worked in various American states, such as
Missouri, Illinois, and Kansas. In 1884, he made his way to Ida Grove, Iowa,
where he associated with a Mr. Degen and founded a cigar making business with
him. The name of the firm was Richmann & Degen. A year later he sold his
interest in the business and came to Carroll where he at first established a
cigar making business in Peter Berger’s building on Fifth Street. After operating for three years, he moved his works to
Kniest’s building on Fifth Street and at the same time opened a retail business
in cigars, tobacco, pipes, and cigar holders. In 1893, he moved his works and
store to Nockel’s building on the north side of the street. Here, in addition to
his cigar works and retail business, he opened a wholesale business in tobacco,
pipes, and cigar cases, and in 1898 he purchased the business block building.
We see here how a young and industrious man, through hard work and knowledge,
has gradually risen in commerce, and from a modest beginning has built a
significant and thriving business. Mr. Richmann also enjoys the respect of all
his fellow-citizens and is especially popular and esteemed in the
German-American community.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the
end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Bernhard Sanders
When the conversation concerns the old pioneers, then Mr. Bernhard Sanders
should not go unmentioned due to the fact that he came during the late 1860s
with his parents to Carroll Township, Carroll County, Iowa, where he purchased
an 80-acre parcel of land, which at that time was certainly unbroken and
uncultivated. After working several years as a farmer, he married the
respected Miss Elisabeth Werning. The young couple then moved to Kniest
Township, where the wife owned a fine farm.
Mr. Bernhard Sanders was born on 19 May 1845 in Fürstenau, Province of
Hanover, Germany. He spent his childhood in his hometown and attended
elementary school there. After completing school, young Bernhard devoted
himself to farming. When he was just 15 years old, his parents crossed the
ocean in order to establish a new home in the free country of America. They
settled first near Lyons, Clinton County, Iowa, where Mr. Sanders worked
loyally and hard on various farms for eight years, and then his parents moved
to Carroll Township, in this county.
As a widow, his wife brought a little son named Joseph into the marriage. The
names of the children of Mr. Sanders are: Heinrich, Karolina, Maria, Anna,
Elisabeth, Bernardina, Franz, Bernhard, and Clara.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the
end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Jos. Schäfer [Joseph Schaefer]
One may quite rightly point to this man as an example of how, through hard work
and persistence coupled with expert knowledge, one finally achieves a
comfortable and independent condition. He came, almost completely broke, from
New Vienna in March of 1869 as one of the first pioneers to Kniest Township. He
worked for a year as a farm-hand, and then he purchased a 120-acre farm in
Sheridan Township. But then he moved back again to New Vienna, where he worked
another two years as a farm-hand. Then he moved at first to his previously
purchased farm in Sheridan Township and married the respected Miss Elisabeth
Schulte. After eight years of untiring hard work, he sold the farm and then
acquired 160 acres in Wheatland Township, where he then moved with his wife. He
subsequently increased his real estate by about 200 acres. The Schäfer
family has lived here for 18 years. In 1893, he purchased the entire
section (640 acres) that had earlier belonged to Mr. Clemens Brüning [Bruening] and sold the previously occupied 360 acres. Mr. Schäfer lives
on this enormous farm with his family and operates it with his sons.
Mr. Joseph Schäfer was born on 6 March 1843 in Haaren, Westphalia, and
immigrated to America at the age of 23. After two and a half years working near
New Vienna, he moved to Carroll County. The names of the children produced by
this happy marriage are: Anna M., Anna E., Gertrude, Conrad, Johann, Joseph,
Katharina, Elisabeth, and Heinrich.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Wilhelm Scharpenkamp
Mr. Wilhelm Scharpenkamp was born on 13 August 1862 in Borbeck, County of Essen,
Prussia. He attended school in his hometown, and after completion, he worked
three years in the Bessemer steel works in Oberhausen. Then he took employment
at the Koenigsberg coal mine near Oberhausen, where he worked uninterrupted
until the spring of 1885. He then immigrated to America and landed in New York
on 13 March 1885. He made his way to Iowa, where he turned to farming in Carroll
County and worked on various farms for three years. On 31 January 1888, he
married Miss Maria Venteicher, and he then operated the farm of his
father-in-law, Mr. Herman Venteicher, along with Mr. Venteicher. Unfortunately,
Mr. Scharpenkamp’s wife passed away on 27 February 1889. On 22 April 1890, he
married Miss Anna Kruse, whereupon he and his young wife moved to the 80-acre
farm in Grant Township, which he had previously purchased from Mr. Venteicher,
and which was partially a gift from the old
man. In 1894, he increased his real estate by 40 acres, so that his property
amounts to 120 acres. This happy marriage has produced five children, and their
names are: Gertrude, Hermann, Theodora, Anna, and Katharina. Mr. Scharpenkamp
and his young wife enjoy an excellent reputation and are esteemed and respected
by all their acquaintances.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the
end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Rev. Joseph Schleier, Chaplain
The Rev. Mr. Jos. Schlier was born on 17 March 1872, the son of a farmer, in
Cassville, Wisconsin. When he was 7 years old, his parents moved to Shelby
County, Iowa, where their little son attended the parish and public schools. At
the age of just 16, he entered St. Benedict College in Atchinson [Atchison],
Kansas, where he completed the classical curriculum. Then the energetic student
attended St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota, where he finished the
curriculum in business, philosophy, and theology. He was then ordained a priest
on
21 June 1898 in St. Cloud, Minnesota, by the Rev. Archbishop Trobec. The
Reverend celebrated his first Holy Mass in Carling, Shelby County, Iowa, on 26
June 1898, and then he was called by the Rev. Archbishop Hennessy of Dubuque,
Iowa, to be the assistant priest at Saints Peter and Paul Church in Carroll,
Iowa. During his short stay here in this parish, due to his devoutness and his
good nature, the young and energetic priest has gained the respect and love of
all the members of the parish.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Louis Schröder [Schroeder]
This man was born on 7 August 1840 in Zaatzke, County of Ostpriegnitz, Province
of Brandenburg. He received his early education there, and then he devoted
himself to farming. In 1870, he moved to Berlin and acquired the burgership
[rights of citizenship], an obsolete tradition from the good old days, which was
associated with certain privileges. Mr. Schröder worked there for a time in a
hotel, then operated a restaurant and a beer pub, and later a transport wagon.
He immigrated to America in 1871 and settled in Sac Township, Sac County, Iowa,
where he purchased and operated a 120-acre farm. On 21 July 1872, he married
Miss Wilhelmina Krüger, a respected young lady, who was born in Berlin. Mr.
Schröder operated his farm very successfully, and he later had occasion to
increase his real estate by 100 acres. The land is very productive and is
equipped with fine buildings. The Schröder family is very well known in Sac
County as well as Carroll County, and enjoys an excellent reputation. The
children’s names are: Louis, Meta, Hedwig, Anna, Paul, Otto, and Gertrude.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat,
a German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Joseph Schröer
Mr. Schröer was born in Alte-Geseke, Westphalia, on the 16th of July 1840. He
was a child of three years when his parents emigrated to America. They settled
first in New Orleans, after a year they moved to St. Louis, Missouri, then to
Galena, Illinois, from there to Nauvoo, Illinois, and then to Quincy, where as a
boy Mr. Schröer attended school. From Quincy, his parents moved to Bellevue, and
from there to Lyons, Iowa, where the father opened a wholesale business in beer
and liquor and ran a tavern. Then they moved to Savannah, Illinois, where the
parents bought a farm and engaged in farming with their son Joseph. On the 11th
of June 1861, Joseph married Miss Anna Elisabeth Niemann. After his worthy
parents had closed their weary eyes, Mr. Joseph Schröer moved to Arcadia
Township, Carroll County, Iowa, where he initially purchased 80 acres of land.
He later purchased an additional 80 acres, then another 160 acres, so that he
now calls 320 acres of the
finest land his own, and it is equipped with good buildings and a fine
residence. Mr. Schröer is a very respected German who is esteemed by all his
acquaintances. Unfortunately, on the 20th of January 1899, Mr. Schröer’s dear
wife died of consumption, a very hard blow for the husband as well as the
children. This happy marriage produced eight children, three of whom preceded
their mother into the better hereafter. The names of the children still living
are: Rudolph; Joseph; Maria, Mrs. Anton Rettig; Elisabeth, Mrs. Engelbert Hagen;
and Margaretha, who, along with her brother Joseph, still lives with her father.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Wilhelm Schüller [Schueller]
People familiar with the residents of Mt. Carmel will certainly also be
acquainted with the esteemed Mr. Wilhelm Schueller, who operates a successful
blacksmith and wagon-making shop there, and is respected and popular with all
his acquaintances due to his open and honest character. This biography is
accompanied by a picture of the man, which is certainly an accurate likeness.
He was born on 22 November 1851 near Cologne on the Rhine River. His parents
immigrated to America in 1852 and landed in New Orleans, where his father found
gainful employment for a time. The family then moved to Peru, Illinois, then to
Troy Grove, and then to Lee County, Illinois, where our Wilhelm completed his
early education. He then worked with his father, who ran a blacksmith shop, and
in his free time assisted in working on his father’s farm until he was 24 years
old. In 1869, the Schüller family moved to Boone County, Iowa, and in 1874 they
moved to Grant Township, Carroll County, Iowa, where the subject of our
description again assisted his father on the farm. On 24 October 1882, Mr.
Wilhelm Schüller married Miss Eleonora Baumhover, a respected young lady, and
then the young couple moved to Dubuque, where Mr. Schüller found employment in a
farm implement factory. On 17 March 1884, Mr. Schüller moved back to Mt. Carmel,
where he opened a blacksmith and wagon-making shop, which he has operated
successfully up to the present day. This happy marriage has produced 6 [sic]
children, of whom the oldest, a twin, is deceased. The names of the children
are: Antonius, Heinrich, Wilhelm, Maria, Wilhelm [sic], Cäcilia, Eleonora, and
Leo.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Heinrich Schulte
Mr. Heinrich Schulte, of whom we print a fine picture, also has the honor of
being among the earliest settlers in Kniest Township because he has lived in
Kniest since 1870 and has very actively participated in the development of this
township, as well as the community. Whenever the good of the community required,
he has always been ready to lend an energetic hand, and so he has naturally
gained the respect of all his fellow-citizens. Mr. Heinrich Schulte was born on
1 January 1850 in the County of Meppen, Province of Hanover, Germany. He spent
the years of his youth there, and after completing school, he assisted his
father in operating the farm. In 1869, he and his father emigrated to the United
States and settled initially in Boone, Iowa, where, however, they remained only
one year. They then moved to Kniest Township, Carroll County, where his father
purchased a 240-acre farm. Mr. Heinrich Schulte helped his father another seven
years on the farm, at which time he purchased 100 acres from his father. He worked this piece of land until 1882, when
he increased his real estate by about 110 acres. From this, due to making good
use of his time, his industriousness, and hard work, he has risen to his present
state of independence. For 15 to 16 years he has held the honorable office of
board-member at St. Mary’s Church in Mt. Carmel, and he enjoys an excellent
reputation among all German-Americans.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the
end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
The Rev. Father Schulte
Pastor at the St. Bernard Parish in Breda.
The Rev. Conrad Ludwig Schulte was born on 27 January 1835 in Leiberg, Büren
County, Westphalia, Paderborn Diocese. He immigrated to America in 1847 and was
ordained a priest on 29 August 1863. His first mission was at Guttenberg,
Clayton County, Iowa, along with the two neighboring towns of Kanes and Elkport.
His second parish was Luxemburg, Dubuque County; his third was Festina, in
Winneshiek County, along with the branches of St. Lucas and Conover, of which
the former became his main parish in 1868, with West Union as a branch. In
1870 the Rev General Vicar Brazil sent him to New Vienna, Dubuque County.
He worked there as an energetic pastor for 12 years. In 1882 he chose St.
Bernard’s Parish in Breda, Carroll County, from several parishes which the Rev.
Archbishop had offered him. His works in this parish are probably
unknown to only a few readers of the Demokrat. We wish to only briefly
mention that under his care and leadership the parish school was established and the beautiful church and handsome rectory were built. From
here, the Lord called his true servant home after 33 years of zealous work with
one final test, which he endured with forbearance, namely a disease of the
throat, to which his once-strong nature fell sacrifice after a 12-month battle
on 27 September 1897. His earthly remains were interred at the cemetery of St.
Bernard’s Parish in Breda after a solemn funeral conducted by his three reverend
brothers who survived him. His grieving parishioners paid their last respects,
specifically with the erection of a very appropriate gravestone, under which he
may rest in peace until the final trumpet call wakes him and calls him to his
eternal reward.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the
end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Ludwig Simons
When one sets foot in the friendly little town of Maple River Junction, one
quickly notices the large business building of Mr. Ludwig Simons. It is a
business in general merchandise, which enjoys a good and wide customer base, and
where a rich selection of all customary goods is offered for sale at reasonable
prices. Mr. Simons, the friendly and obliging storeowner, has operated this
business since 1892, in which year he was also named postmaster, which office he
still holds today. He was born on 23 July 1862 in Lyons, Iowa, where he
attended the parish and public schools, and later the high school. In 1876 his
parents moved to Crawford County, where his father farmed. Young Ludwig then
went into farm work, and he assisted his father in running the farm. On 12
February 1885, Mr. Simons married Miss Louise Caspary, and then from 1887 to
1889 he farmed for himself. He then took over a farm in Carroll County,
and after three years he opened the business in Maple River Junction, which since then has enjoyed an excellent reputation and has acquired
good support.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the
end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Tiart Harms Taddicken
The bearer of this name was born on 7 Decamber 1843 at Middoge, District of
Jeverland, Grand Duchy of Oldenburg, Germany. During his childhood years, his
parents moved to Tettens, a neighboring town, where he received his schooling
and spent his youth. When he was just 15 years old, he went into the service of
some wealthy people, and on 16 November 1866 he married Miss Margaretha T.
Peters, a well-brought-up young woman. He remained in similar jobs until 1872,
and then he carried out his decision to immigrate to the free country of
America. On April 1 of that year, he and his young wife landed on the shore of
America. The young family settled first in Whiteside County, Illinois. In the
same year, he purchased 120 acres of prairie in Wheatland Township [Carroll
County, Iowa], where he settled in the spring of 1873, and where the family
still lives today. Under the management of Mr. Taddicken, the land is very
well cultivated and is equipped with good, durable buildings and other equipment and plantings. This happy marriage has produced six
children, four of whom, however, died at a young age. The children still living
are: Ansina, Mrs. H. Kuhse in Aspinwall, Iowa; and Miss Johanne, who still lives
with her parents.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Joseph Thielke
Mr. Thielke was born on 30 November 1845 in Eversen, County of Höxter,
Westphalia. He attended school in his home village and received First Holy
Communion in the local parish church. He then faced his first important
question, namely, what sort of occupation to devote himself to. Like his father,
he chose to be a peasant farmer and worked on his parents’ property. In 1867 he
was called as a soldier and served in the 6th Westphalian Infantry regiment, No.
55, which was garrisoned at Höxter. After three years of service, the war with
France began [the Franco-Prussian War]. Herr Thielke marched out with his
regiment to war and took part in the battles at Forbach on 6 August, at Collen
on 14 August, at Gravelotte on 18 August, and in various actions. The Regiment
later marched to the Swiss border in order to offer battle to Garibaldi, but
there was no encounter. After the war, Mr. Thielke was honorably discharged with
a decoration. After returning back home, he soon prepared to travel, and emigrated to the United States of North
America. After he had crossed the ocean and arrived here in America, he made his
way immediately to Carroll County, Iowa, where he purchased and operated a
120-acre farm in Grant Township. On 11 April 1877, Mr. Thielke married Miss
Louise Wiederien, a virtuous and cultured young woman. In 1894, he built a
splendid house, and during the next several years he built barns and stalls,
etc. , so that now the farm is among the most valuable in the township. Mr.
Thielke, along with his wife and children, enjoy an excellent reputation and are
popular with all their acquaintances. This happy marriage has produced six
children, whose names are: Edward, August, Anton, Veronika, Wilhelm, and Rosa.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Bernhard Thobe
And since this man has lived in Kniest Township for 25 years, he can also be
counted among the pioneers of Kniest. He was born on 23 February 1833 in Oddrup,
Parish of Essen, District of Löhningen, Grand Duchy of Oldenburg. There he spent
the years of his youth, and after his schooling he worked on various farms. In
February 1865, he married Miss Maria Bernhardina Nipper, and then he worked on
his own in farming until 1875. In that year, he moved to America with his family
and settled in Kniest Township, Carroll County, Iowa, where he still lives
today. A brother of his, who was living there since 1869 and was occupying an
80-acre farm, had died in 1874, whereupon Mr. B. Thobe took over his deceased
brother’s farm upon his arrival from Germany. He added to his real estate from
time to time, so that today he calls his own 280 acres of the finest land, which
is equipped with large and substantial buildings, and which he has successfully
operated with his children. He also has a large livestock population. The marriage was blessed with
nine children, of which the following are still living: Anna, Mrs. Bernhard
Benne, in Wheatland Township; Emma, a nun in the convent at Dubuque, Iowa; John;
Joseph; Maria and Josephina.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Johann H. Underberg
Among the oldest settlers and most beloved German-Americans are Mr. Johann H.
Underberg and his dear wife, of whom we present in another place [in this paper]
an excellent photograph.
Mr. Underberg is a farmer who, from modest beginnings, with hard work and
perseverance, and indeed often with hardship and the utmost exertion of his
strength, has finally succeeded to the point where he and his true life’s
companion may enjoy the fruits of his strenuous and productive labor in leisure.
Since the year 1897, he has lived in friendly Mt. Carmel, where he purchased a
fine home and leads a pleasant life with his good spouse, and if there is any
difficulty in the life of this family, it is the frail condition of the old
gentleman, who has been rather sapped of his physical strength for performing
hard labor. We heartily wish the old gentleman and his faithful spouse a
pleasant old age and the satisfaction of enjoying the health and happiness of
their fine children for a long time to come.
Mr. Johann H. Underberg was born in Rasfeld, Westphalia, Germany on 21 March
1839. When he was seven years old he immigrated to North America with his
parents, and they settled in Burlington, Wisconsin, where their well-brought-up
little son Johann received his schooling. He then worked on his parents’ farm
until he was 21 years old. During this time, his father passed away, and he and
his mother moved to Galena, Illinois, where he again devoted himself to
agriculture. In 1860, he and his mother moved to Sugar Creek, Clinton County,
Iowa, where he rented a farm. On 1 June 1868, he married the respectable Miss
Maria Kries, and in 1872, following the death of his mother in the fall of the
previous year, the young couple moved to Sheridan Township, Carroll County. In
the above-named township, Mr. Underberg purchased 86 acres and later increased
the size of his farm , so that today his real estate amounts to 240 acres,
including a fine residence and other buildings. This very Christian and happy marriage has produced 14 children, one of whom
died at a tender age. The names of the children are: Valentin, Susanna,
Bernhard, Johann, Franz, Wilhelm, Alois, Heinrich, Edward, Maria, Christina, and
Joseph.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the
end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Gottlieb von Glan
With special pleasure, the Anniversary Edition presents the interesting
biography of this experienced and widely traveled man, who is indeed well-known
throughout the county, and, he and his wife and children are respected and
esteemed by all their acquaintances. Mr. von Glan is one of the most capable
farmers in Carroll County, and through expert knowledge and hard work has
achieved significant success. He is a successful cattle-breeder and conducts
this branch of agriculture very profitably and on a large scale.
Gottlieb von Glan was born 26 July 1844 in Weener, Ostfriesland [East Frisia].
He spent his childhood in his hometown, and after he had completed the local
schools, he went to work on an overseas merchant ship. He traveled with the
ship from Rotterdam to Hartlepool, England, then to the south tip of Australia,
then to the East Indies, and from there, the ship made the return trip home. He
then worked for 10 years in various breweries, for example in Berlin,
Lippe-Detmold, and Dortmund, and during vacations he traveled through the entire
German Empire. He again crossed the ocean in May of 1870, in order to settle
permanently in the United States of North America. He made his way first to
Freeport, Illinois, and after a year he moved to Ackley, Hardin County, Iowa.
On 12 March 1872 he married Miss Maria Garrels, a virtuous young lady, and after
living there for two years, in the fall of 1873, the young family moved to
Wheatland Township, Carroll County, where Mr. von Glan purchased a 160-acre parcel of land. In 1880 he increased his real estate by
about 80 acres, and in that same year he took a pleasure trip to the old
fatherland. Three years later he purchased another 240 acres situated next to
the first-purchased farm. The extensive farm is distinguished by large, solid,
and well-built buildings for cattle and produce, and is equipped with a
comfortable residence.
This exemplary marriage was blessed with eight children, of which, however, only
six are still living, named: Hermann, Wobina, Heico, Gottlieb, Maria, and
Bertha.
Mr. Gottlieb von Glan is a 25-year reader of the “Carroll Demokrat” and an
active member of the Demokrat Printing Company.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Bernhard Vonnahme
Mr. Bernhard Vonnnahme, whose portrait we present in another place [in this
paper], was born on 15 February 1836 in Barkhausen, County of Büren, Westphalia,
Germany. He received his youthful education there, but he lost his father when
he was only 13 years old. Despite his extreme youth, he tried as much as
possible to substitute in the operation of his deceased father’s farm. However,
when he barely 18 years old, he also suffered the difficult loss of his beloved
mother. In 1860, Mr. Vonnahme was called to military service and assigned as a
musketeer in the 15th Infantry Regiment, which at that time was garrisoned at
Preusisch-Minden. He was discharged after three years of honorable service, but
just a year later the war with Denmark [Danish War] broke out, and he was again
called to arms. He distinguished himself as a worthy Son of the Red Earth [a
nickname for Westphalian] and was discharged with decorations. He then worked
again with his brother at farming and raising sheep, but on 2 May 1866 he was inducted again because the
war with Austria had broken out. Mr. Vonnahme took part in the entire campaign
and was frequently in the thickest hails of lead, but happily he survived all
danger and returned back home uninjured. In August 1869, he emigrated with
friends to America. He settled initially in New Vienna, Dubuque County, Iowa,
and married Miss Gertrud Ehrig. In spring of 1871, the young couple moved to
Kniest Township, Carroll County, Iowa, where they settled on a farm where Mr.
Vonnahme still lives today and, along with his seven children, engages in
agriculture and raising livestock on his extensive 400-acre property. The
greatest loss that this man has encountered was the death of his dear life’s
companion on 17 February 1896. The happy marriage was blessed with 10 children,
of which the following are still living: Joseph, Anton, Maria (a nun in the
Franciscan convent in La Crosse, Wisconsin), Frank, John, and Heinrich. In 1888, Mr. Vonnahme adopted a four-year-old girl, and she and the other children still today live together on the large farm
which they successfully operate under the direction of their father. Mr.
Vonnahme is one of the earliest settlers, he has held several offices, and is
still today the president of the Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Company.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Mathias Louis Weber
The bearer of the above name is among the earliest residents of Kniest Township,
and during the time that he has been settled here, he has witnessed first hand
the growth and strengthening of the German culture in that township, and his
name will be mentioned with honor in the history of this beautiful little spot
of earth. Mr. Mathias Louis Weber was born on 11 February 1844 in Consdorf,
Canton Echternach, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. After he left school, he learned
the trade of miller. In accordance with the old customs, he laced up his
knapsack and traveled through beautiful France, where he found employment for
two years at Notre Dame College in Rethel, in the Ardennes District, on the
Aisne River. He also worked a year in a large hotel in the medieval city of
Rheims [Reims], on the Vesle River, the coronation city of the French kings,
where he had ample opportunity to sample a few glasses of their famous
champagne. In 1866 he emigrated to the United States of North
America, where he initially settled in Black Hawk County, Iowa and found
employment on a farm. After two years, he made his way to Kniest Township,
Carroll County, where he took up the plow on a farm. On 15 October 1874, Mr.
Weber married Miss Elisabeth Gütz [Guetz] and then moved to Mt. Carmel, where he
opened a tavern which, however, he sold after only about half a year. He also
ran a tavern for about half a year in the town of Carroll, and afterwards, he
moved to his 80-acre farm in Kniest Township, which he had purchased a few years
before. He later purchased an additional 81 acres of land. This happy marriage
produced 15 children, two of which, however have died. The names of the children
are: Maria, Wilhelm, Frank, Nickolaus, Theodor, Joseph, Magdalena, Agnes, Paulus,
Emilie, Eleonora, Cecilia, and Edward.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
John M. Wernimont
Mr. John M. Wernimont was born on 6 February 1832 in Hopscheid, Canton of
Kappelle, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. He received his youthful education in his
hometown. At the age of 15, he learned the trade of stone mason. In December
1852, as an 18-year-old boy, he came to America. For two summers he worked at
his trade in Chicago, and for two winters he cut trees for the sawmills in Port
Washington, Wisconsin. Then he worked at his trade for three years in Dubuque,
Iowa. On 26 October 1854, he married Miss Anna K. Peters. Then for 17 years he
worked in agriculture with Kings and Fillmore in Dubuque County. In 1870, as one
of the earliest pioneers in Kniest Township, he purchased 169 acres of land and
moved there with his family in the spring of 1871. In 1876, he purchased an
additional farm of 240 acres. In 1889,he purchased 320 acres of land near
Worthington, Minnesota, where he lived for nine years with his wife and
children. He transferred his local land to all his grown married children. In his time he worked a lot at his trade, and he has
held official offices. This blessed marriage has produced 14 children. Those
children still living are: Maria T., now Mrs. A. Reiling; Wilhelm G.; Wendelin;
Lena R., now Mrs. Geo. A. Pöppe [Poeppe]; Theodor; Miss Anna; and Johnny.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the
end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Joseph Wiedemeier
The very fine portrait shows Mr. Wiedemeier and his spouse, who have lived in
Carroll since 1888. In that year, he and a partner purchased a business
building in Carroll, and since then they have been among the best businesspeople
in Carroll. At first they operated a successful tavern in the
above-mentioned building. During this time, his oldest son Joseph had
learned the mercantile trade, and so he sold his interest in the tavern and
building, and he and his sons Joseph and Anton started a dry goods and grocery
store on Fifth Street, which they operated with great success. The store
building is 100 feet long and 25 feet wide and is located in the main business
district of the town. The interior layout of the store is quite
comfortable and indicates the practical knowledge of the owners. The
various goods are nicely displayed and artistically arranged. Modern
women’s dress material, fine Brussels carpets, very fine lace curtains and
draperies immediately greet the eyes of the visitor. But the large inventory also includes all sorts of
men’s accessories, as well as a large selection of shoes, boots, and groceries.
Mr. Anton Wiedemeier is a woodcarving artist, and a “button case” which he made
is protected by a patent. He also fashioned other very fine articles for the
business, and the store may be considered a model business. In particular, he
works in framing pictures, and he does very fine work. Indeed, one can say that
Mr. Joseph Wiedemeier, and his sons Joseph and Anton, conduct a reliable and
honest business. The senior member of the business was born in Entrup, near
Nieheim, Westphalia, on 23 September 1844. As a young man he learned the trade
of mason, at which he worked for seven years. On 18 June 1870, he married Miss
Veronika Thielke from Eversen, near Nieheim, who was born on 28 September 1848.
Right after the wedding, the young couple immigrated to North America and
settled in Carroll, Iowa. Mr. Wiedemeier quickly purchased an 80-acre farm and sought employment on the Northwestern Railroad. After a year, he and his wife moved to
their previously-purchased farm and in 1876, he purchased another 114 acres.
Two years later, his wife and two children made a visit to Germany, and on their
return he purchased another 88 acres. Mr. Wiedemeier served one term on the
town council, and he and his family are widely popular and respected.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Jacob Wiewel
This old pioneer of Kniest Township was born in Bobenheim, [Rhineland-Pfalz], in
the Kingdom of Bavaria, on 19 November 1843. After successfully completing
school, he worked with his father in the country. When he was just a youth of 17
years, he sought employment on the railroad, and in 1866 he immigrated to
America. On the 2nd of May, he landed in New Orleans and then made his way to
Memphis. Entirely out of money, he fell ill in Memphis. A sister worked for a
Jewish merchant, where Mr. Wiewel found a hospitable reception and received good
care from the charitable people until he was fully recovered. He then went to
Dunlit, Wisconsin, where he had relatives living. He worked on farms there until
1867, and then he went to Dubuque, Iowa. He worked there in a hotel for two and
a half years. In 1870, he came to Carroll County, where he moved onto a 200 acre
farm [in Kniest Township]. In 1871, he married Miss Lena Schulte, and they had
three children: Maria, Mathias, and Lizzie. Unfortunately, his wife died after
nine years of happy marriage. In 1881, he married Miss Katharina Discher, and
the following children are the fruits of this happy marriage: Helene, Berhardina
[sic], Johann, Katharina, Clara, August, and Wendelin. Mr. Wiewel is a
hard-working farmer and is popular and respected by all. He has a beautiful home
and fine livestock.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the end
are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Joseph Wiewel
Whoever has visited the friendly village of Mt. Carmel on a summer day and
looked around for a good refreshment has certainly also had the opportunity to
get to know the “Bayerischen Hof” [Bavarian Inn], which has been operated for
years by Mr. Joseph Wiewel, of whom we print a fine picture in another place in
this paper. Mr. Wiewel is a friendly, jovial innkeeper, who is always offers a
hospitable reception at any time, and who always keeps an excellent glass of
beer on tap.
He was born in Bobenheim, on the Rhine River, in the Kingdom of Bavaria, on 11
September 1837. He received his early education there, and after completing
school, he learned the trade of shoemaker from his father. Since his father
operated a small farm, he also assisted his father in the fields in his free
time. Having been found physically fit for service, he was inducted as a soldier
in 1860 and served six years active duty with the 13th Infantry Regiment. As a
reservist, he took part in the campaign against Prussia, and when the German
Brother War [Austro-Prussian War] ended, he was honorably discharged. He then
returned to work with his parents for a short time, and on 19 November 1867, Mr.
Jos. Wiewel married Miss Elisabeth Graf. On 1 May 1868, the young couple
immigrated to the United States of North America. They settled first in Grant
County, Wisconsin, where Mr. Wiewel established a shoemaker shop. On 19 March
1875, he and his wife moved to Mt. Carmel, Carroll County, Iowa, where they
acquired a fine home, and Mr. Wiewel worked at his trade and also opened the
above-mentioned inn. The Wiewel family lives there still today, highly respected
by all their acquaintances. This happy marriage has produced seven children, and
those still living are: Joseph, August, Maria, and Johann.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the
end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Nickolaus Witry
With special pleasure, we here present the history of a man who has lived for
many years here in the county and is honored and respected by all his
acquaintances. Mr. Nickolaus Witry was born on 8 March 1837 in Herborn,
Luxembourg. After his school years, he devoted himself to farming, working
part-time with his parents and part-time on other farms. He then learned the
trade of wagonmaker and worked at it for three years. After he had then worked
a while longer with his parents on the farm, he immigrated to America in 1866
and settled in Frenchtown, Blackhawk County, Iowa, where he again found
employment on a farm for a year. After a short break, during which he was again
employed at his trade, he again took up farming, and he and a partner purchased
100 acres of land near Independence, Pocahontas County, Iowa. He worked on his
own on this farm for two years, and then the partners sold the land, and in 1871
Mr. Witry purchased a 140-acre farm for himself in Kniest Township, Carroll County, Iowa, which he then operated. On 10 July 1873, he
married Miss Maria Kopra [possibly should be Cooper], and after the marriage had
been blessed with two children, his wife died on 9 September 1875. On 8 January
1876, he married his second wife, Miss Sophia Salmen, with whom he is still
joined in a happy marriage. Mr. Witry worked up to 1895 on his farm in Kniest
Township, which meanwhile he had equipped with fine buildings, and then, already
along in years, the couple moved to the town of Carroll, where they purchased a
beautiful home in the Fourth Ward near Saints Peter and Paul Church, so that
they could retire and enjoy the fruits of their hard and successful work. The
names of the children are Mathias and Clara, both of whom, however, died at a
young age.
I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a
German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and
1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the
paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Information in brackets and notes at the
end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:
Woodring & Son
Those familiar with the business world of Carroll will certainly know the
popular business of Woodring & Son, which is located next to the post office.
In 1881 these men came from Marshalltown to Carroll and took over the furniture
business of Mr. John Conter, for which they paid $500. But since then the
business has grown so much that it must be considered the largest business of
this kind in Iowa. It is a building 26 feet wide and 120 feet long, two stories
high, which is filled from top to bottom with the most customary, as well as the
fanciest, furniture. A large warehouse filled with all types of merchandise is
also located near the business. In the large store, one finds everything from
the usual kitchen furnishings, all the way up to the finest parlor and bedroom
furniture, carpets, and baby carriages. The stock of coffins is located in a
separate room. Mr. Woodring, Jr. is the only embalmer licensed by the
state board of health. The business is reliable, and so it has earned the support of the residents of Carroll County.
A
- G
H
- M N - Z
INDEX
