History of Langlade County, Wisconsin, 
from U. S. Gov't Survey to Present Time, with Biographical Sketches
Dessureau. Antigo, WI: Berner Brothers, 1922, p 324
Submitted by Cathy Kubly

John J. CHERF, retired farmer, the son of Joseph and Barbara CHERF, was born in Reedsville [Manitowoc County], Wisconsin, 16 July 1859.  He spent his boyhood and youth in Reedsville.  On 06 June 1880 the CHERF family decided to move to the wilderness of Langlade County [Wisconsin].  They took the Milwaukee, Lake Shore & Western railroad as far as Wausau and then "toted" their household goods and provisions from there via HOGARTY's stopping place to Neva Township [Langlade County].  Mr. [John J.] CHERF followed the three wagon loads of family property afoot.  His work was to drive the cattle, swine, and sheep.  The family arrived in this county on 10 June 1880, the trip taking four days.

Mr. [John J.] CHERF married Katherine KARBAN on 12 May 1886.  To this union five children were born:  (1)  Mary, now Mrs. George MANTHEY; (2)  Emil, city [of Antigo] letter carrier, ex-service man, who served in the area [area?] construction service, from which he was honorably discharged on 13 December 1919, and a member of the American Legion; (3)  Frank, a priest, now Professor at St. Procopius College, Lisle [DuPage County], Illinois; (4)  Albert, deceased; and (5)  John, an expert electrician.

Mr. and Mrs. [John J.] CHERF moved to Antigo on 10 March 1914, having retired for the Neva [Neva Township] farm.  The family residence is at 1118 Third Avenue [Antigo, Langlade County, Wisconsin].  Mr. CHERF is a member of St. John's Catholic Church.  He can recall many reminiscences of pioneer life in Langlade County.