Scott Co, Iowa USGenWeb Project
P. J. Thede Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Thede, Peterson, Lensch.
P. J. Thede, who is cashier of the Dixon Savings Bank and is otherwise
substantially connected with the commercial life of the town, was born in
Liberty township, Scott county, June 18, 1887, a son of John H. and Catherine
(Peterson) Thede. They were also natives of Scott county and are of German
parentage. At present they are residing in Liberty township, where Mr. Thede has
pursued farming for many years. Six children were born to them: Lydia, who is
the wife of Otto Lensch, of Liberty township; P. J., the subject of this sketch;
Henry R.; Millie; Ella; and Verna.
P. J. Thede was reared upon his father's farm, in the work of which he assisted
greatly until he was sixteen years of age. Having completed the course of study
provided by the district schools of his locality, in 1903 he was enrolled as a
pupil in the Capital City Commercial College of Des Moines, Iowa, and from that
institution received his certificate for work completed November 25, 1905. He
then came to Davenport, where he accepted a position as time keeper with the
American Can Company. Later he was in the employ of the Davenport Fur
& Carpet Company until October, 1907, when he was called to Dixon to
become cashier of the Dixon Savings Bank. While he has proved himself a most
careful, accurate and conscientious employe, he has also found time to take up
other business, from which he has derived no small addition to his income. He is
the agent for several of the reliable fire insurance companies, conducts a
vigorous business in real estate and has also been appointed notary public. When
the German Mutual Telephone Company was established here Mr. Thede became its
secretary, which is another evidence that he is ever on the alert to make the
most of the opportunities for advancing his own interests and at the same time
contributing to the welfare of his associates. He belongs to the Dixon Lodge,
Knights of Pythias, and also to that of the Modern Woodmen of America. In both
of these organizations he has made stanch and loyal friends. A young man, who if
one were to judge only by his years, was just entering upon his business career,
has attained distinction which would seem to augur a most successful and
brilliant future.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Louis
Bennewitz Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Bennewitz, Swarting, Schlapkohl, Schroeder, Brandt, Pieper, Fick,
Sindt.
No history of Walcott would be complete without extended mention of Louis
Bennewitz, who, during his residence in this city has figured prominently in
business, financial and political circles. He is numbered among that class of
representative American citizens who claim Germany as the place of their
nativity and who, in the new world, have found opportunity for advancement and
progress in business lines. He was born in Sachen Gotha, Germany, on the 3d of
December, 1845, and is a son of Octav and Paulina Bennewitz, also natives of
that country.
Reared to manhood across the waters, Louis Bennewitz acquired his education in
the schools of Germany and remained at home until April, 1866, when he came to
America, making his way direct to Davenport, Iowa. He was first engaged in farm
work for about six months and then entered the employ of B. Swarting, with whom
he came to Walcott in 1867. In the following year he located in Davenport, where
he worked until 1870, and then returned to Germany, where he remained about a
year. Again coming to America, he was in the employ of F. Schlapkohl in
Davenport until 1872, after which he once more entered the services of Schroeder
& Brandt, former employers. He was thus connected until 1874, when he made
another visit to the fatherland which lasted nearly a year. The year 1875
witnessed his removal to Stockton, Iowa, where he entered business in
partnership with A. Pieper, and this connection continued until 1876, when he
came to Walcott and became the senior partner in the firm of Bennewitz &
Company, which was formerly known as the B. Swarting company. He has since made
his home in this city and has become well known as one of the leading business
men of the community. Although busily engaged in the conduct of his business, he
has nevertheless found time to devote to other lines of activity and in 1893,
when the Walcott Savings Bank was organized, he became one of the stockholders
and a few years later was appointed a director. In 1906 he was elected to the
presidency of that institution and since that time has manifested excellent
administrative ability and executive control. His opinions are often sought by
patrons of the bank and he has ever manifested toward each a sincere interest, a
kindly spirit and a thoughtful consideration that has made him popular with all
who have any dealings with the institution.
Mr. Bennewitz laid the foundation for a happy home life in his marriage in 1876
to Miss Mary Fick, a native of Holstein, Germany, and of this union have been
born two children, namely: Tillie, who wedded Louis Mack; and Robert, the
assistant cahier in the Walcott Savings Bank, who married Clara Sindt, a
daughter of Henry Sindt, of Walcott.
Mr. Bennewitz is well known and prominent in fraternal circles, holding
membership in Walcott Lodge, No. 312, K. P., and in Hiawatha Camp, M. W. A., of
Walcott, and likewise belongs to the Modern Brotherhood. In politics he is a
stanch republican, at all times taking a deep interest in community affairs and
something of the feeling entertained for him by his fellow citizens is manifest
in the fact that in 1894 he was elected mayor of the city, in which office he
served very capably and efficiently until 1897. He finds recreation in outdoor
sports and is an enthusiastic hunter, taking extensive trips through the country
in search of large game. A man of resourceful ability, constantly watchful of
opportunities, he has seized legitimate advantages as they have arisen and has
never hesitated to take a forward step when the way was open. Fortunate in
possessing ability and character that inspired confidence, the simple weight of
his character and ability has brought him into positions of trust and
responsibility and he ranks high among the well known and valued citizens of
Scott county.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Charles Edward Glynn, M. D. Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Glynn, Langan.
The demands made upon the members of the medical fraternity are in some respects
greater than perhaps upon any other class of citizens. If the minister is
reserved and austere we imagine that it is because he is engaged with thoughts
far beyond our mental ken; if the lawyer is brusque and crabbed it is considered
a mark of genius. There is demanded unfailing geniality and courtesy from the
physician, however, and to his broad professional knowledge he must add sympathy
and a quick, almost intuitive understanding of the mental phases which he sees
represented before him. Meeting the various requirements of the practitioner of
medicine, Dr. C. E. Glynn gives his entire time to his professional service and
is now president of the Davenport Hospital, one of the best appointed
establishments of this character in the state. He was born in Scott county,
January 9, 1873. His father, Thomas J. Glynn, was a native of Ireland and came
to the United states with his parents when a child of six years, spending
his boyhood days in Indiana. He afterward removed to Scott county, Iowa, and
became a prosperous farmer and stock-raiser, closely associated with the
agricultural interests of the county until 1892, when he sold out and has since
lived retired, making his home in Davenport, Iowa. He has always been active in
affairs of the county, contributing to public progress through his cooperation
in many movements for the general good. He is, moreover, recognized as a leader
in local democratic circles and was elected and served as chairman of the board
of supervisors. He married Anna M. Ennis, a native of Canada and of Irish
parentage.
The public schools of this county afforded Dr. Glynn his early educational
advantages and later he attended St. Ambrose college in Davenport, from which he
was graduated in the class of 1888. He afterward taught school for two years but
throughout that period had in view the object of eventually becoming a member of
the medical fraternity. He entered the college of Physicians and Surgeons at
Chicago from which he was graduated in 1902. He then began practice in Davenport
and, in association with Dr. J. Siewert Weber, he has organized and built the
Davenport Hospital for the treatment of medical and surgical cases. This is one
of the best appointed and most up-to-date accessories known to medical and
surgical practice at the present time. He is president of the hospital and is
also a member of the various medical societies, whose object is to advance the
efficiency of the medical fraternity by the dissemination of knowledge acquired
through original research and experience. He is likewise assistant medical
director in the director in the Germany Mutual Insurance company and aside from
his hospital work has a good private practice.
Dr. Glynn was married November 22, 1905, to Miss Blanch J. Langan, a native of
DeWitt, Iowa, and in this city they have many friends. Dr. Glynn is a member of
the Knights of Columbus and other fraternal orders. He is a member of the
American, the Iowa State, the Iowa and Illinois and the Scott County Medical
Societies.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
John Egel Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Egel, Isenacher, Schroeder, Kippe, Zeyer, Bakman, Brown, Carpenter,
Platt, Hovenagle.
John Egel, who for about thirty years was one of the leading agriculturists of
Buffalo township, and, now, having given up the arduous work of the farm I
residing in Blue Grass, was born in Germany, 1831. In 1854 he crossed the
Atlantic with the intention of making a place for himself in this land of
opportunities. For several years he made his home in the east, for the most part
in New Jersey, and then the fame of the richness of the Iowa lands having
reached him, in 1869 he came to Scott county. For many years he operated
tented land and it was not until 1882 that he purchased his first tract, which
embraced on hundred and twenty acres in Buffalo township, and then as success
attended his efforts he bought forty acres more, so that he owned a quarter of a
section. On it he engaged in farming until 1899, when he leased the farm to a
tenant and removed to Blue Grass, for he felt that the success he had gained
entitled his to a rest.
While living in Brunswick, New Jersey, Mr. Egel wedded Miss Barbara Isenacher,
who was also a native of Germany and was born in the same year as her husband,
that of 1831. Their union was celebrated in 1857 and in the course of years was
blessed with ten children, five sons, and five daughters, all of whom married
and were well established in life. Louise, died in 1890; John Chris wedded Miss
Rosa Schroeder and lives in Muscatine county, Iowa; Henry married Miss Catherine
Kippe and also resides in Muscatine county, Iowa; Henry married Miss Annie Zeyer,
of Buffalo. Charles married Miss Pauline Bakman. Louisa became the wife of Henry
Brown. Mary is the wife of James Carpenter, of Buffalo township. Catherine is
the wife of William Platt. Mrs. Nellie Hovenagle is the widow and lives in
Bluegrass.
When Mr. Egel was admitted to citizenship in this republic he looked to the
democratic party for political guidance and has since given to it his unswerving
support. While he ever exercises his right of franchise at election times, he
has never aspired to public office, nevertheless exhibiting an interest in the
welfare of his fellowmen and being ever ready to exert himself in their behalf.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Harvey E. Weeks Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Weeks, McGill, Pope.
About four years ago, Harvey E. Weeks came to the city of Davenport as secretary
and treasurer of the Peoples Light Company and of the Tri-City Railway Company
and has since been identified with the business and commercial interests of the
city. He is a young man of enterprise and experience, and in the few years that
he has been proving his ability to the people of Davenport has won a right to be
considered one of the most progressive and valuable citizens here.
He was born in Upper Alton, Illinois, March 19, 1874, his parents being Captain
Joseph H. and Martha M. (McGill) Weeks. The former was a native of Oyster Bay,
New York, and was a contractor and builder. He removed to Upper Alton, Illinois,
in 1860, where at opening of the Civil war he enlisted as private in Company F
Seventeenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He served throughout the years of the
great struggle and attained the rank of captain. Returning to his home after its
close, where he passed the remaining years of his life thirteen years of which
time he was postmaster. His death occurred July 13, 1907. His wife is still
living in Upper Alton.
Harvey E. Weeks, who was the first son of the four children born to his parents,
was reared in the city of his birth, and, after having completed the course
prescribed in the public schools, he became assistant postmaster at Upper Alton,
Illinois, serving in that capacity for four years. this was necessitated by the
fact that his father's health was so impaired by seven months confinement in
Andersonville prison during the civil war that he was incapacitated for active
business. During those four years, Mr. Weeks took special studies in Shurtleff
college. In 1895 he received the appointment of committee clerk in the state
senate of Illinois, serving during the session of 1894-95. On June 1, 1895, he
entered the employ of the public service corporations which afterward were
merged by J. F. Porter under the name of Alton, Granite & St. Louis Traction
Company. He remained with that concern until June, 1906, having steadily risen
in those years until he was secretary of the com!
pany. When he severed his connection with them he came to Davenport as secretary
and treasurer of some of the more important companies which are developing the
resources of the city and serving the needs of its citizens. He has filled his
position with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of those who placed
confidence in his ability, trustworthiness and business acumen. He has already
made a place for himself among his associates. His career has been a steady
advance from one responsible position to another, and as it has been the result
of his own efforts he has every reason to feel a gratification in the guerdon
the years have brought him. In addition to the concerns mentioned at the opening
of this sketch, Mr. Weeks is secretary and treasurer of the Davenport Gas &
Electric Company of Davenport, the Peoples Power Company of Rock Island and
Moline, East Moline and Watertown Railway Company of Moline; and he is also a
director in the Cottage Camps Company of Davenport.
On the 27th of June, 1895, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Weeks and Miss
Lutie Vashti Pope, a native of Kane, Illinois, and daughter of Jacob G. and
Susan C. Pope. Two sons have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Weeks: Harold Parker and
George Edward.
The family belongs to the Calvary Baptist church. Mr. Weeks has always been an
adherent of the political principles of the republican party. He is a member of
the Davenport commercial Club and Davenport Outing Club. Fraternally he is
affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of America. He is secretary and treasurer of
the American Street & Interurban Railway Accountants' Association, an
association composed of the accounting officers of all the street and interurban
railways of the United States, Canada and Mexico, which position he has held for
three years. hard working and popular, he has attained to a respected position
among the people of Davenport.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Wilhelm
Wulf Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Wulf, Hass, Thomson, Groht, Stropfen, Siebke.
Wilhelm Wulf, one of Hickory Grove township's leading men, is German by nativity
, his birth having occurred in Holstein, February 11, 1858. When only about
sixteen years of age he and his brother Charley became imbued with the desire to
try their fortune in "the land of promise," and upon landing on our
shores came at once to Davenport, where they have since resided. His parents
were John and Doris (Hass) Wulf. His father died when he was a lad of about six
years of age, responsibility in consequence falling upon his shoulders at an
unusually early age. The mother, born July 26, 1816, followed her sons to
America in 1875 and made her home with Charley, her death occurring April 19,
1909. Although advanced in years she enjoyed good health nearly to the time of
her demise and took much pleasure in her American home and friends. In the
family were six children as follows: Mrs. Louisa Thomson, of Davenport, widow of
Christ Thomson; Lena, who married William Groht and is deceased; Christina, the
wife of Peter Stropfen, a retired farmer living in Davenport; Doris, the wife of
John Hass, of Durant; Charley, a citizen of Cleona township; and Wilhelm, the
subject of the sketch.
Wilhelm Wulf was reared on a farm and its wholesome, independent life has
appealed to him sufficiently to induce him to cling to agriculture all his life.
He spent his first five years in this country as a farm hand, but in 1880 rented
property which he managed successfully for a number of years. In 1895 he bought
one hundred and sixty acres in Cleona township and foru years later sold this to
become the owner of his present homestead in sections 30 and 31, Hickory Grove
township. This first consisted of two hundred and fifty-seven and a half acres,
but Mr. Wulf has added to it until it now amounts to three hundred and thirty
acres. On this very desirable tract he engages in general farming and stock
raising and his advanced agricultural methods have been productive of the best
results.
In 1887 Mr. Wulf was united in marriage to Miss Theresa Siebke, daughter of Marx
and Louise Siebke, natives of Holstein, Germany. She was born November 11, 1867,
in Muscatine county, Iowa. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Wulf have been born the following
children: Henry, Herman, Amelia, Mata, Ella, Rudolph and Helda. Louis, the third
child is deceased.
Mr. Wulf has many friends and is happy in all the relations of life. He is
recognized in the community as a man whose support is always ready for any
measure likely to prove conducive to the public good. Among other interests he
is a stockholder in the Farmers' Elevator Company of Walcott.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Peter A. Boyle Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Boyle, Copely.
Peter A. Boyle, a Harvard man whose liberal educational advantages well
qualified him for a successful professional career, continued in the practice of
law in Davenport for a number of years and is now giving his attention to the
supervision of important property interests. He was born in New Haven,
Connecticut, on the 11th of October, 1847, and is a son of John R. and Mary J. (Copely)
Boyle. His parents were natives of county Kilkenny, Ireland, but were of English
descent. The father's birth occurred May 15, 1815, and the mother was born
on the 12th of March, 1812.
John R. Boyle came to the United States in 1839 and settled in New England,
where he conducted an extensive business as a contractor and builder of canals
and railroads. He was married in New York City in 1842 and in 1850 came to the
middle west, where he was engaged in the building of the Michigan southern
Railroad. Two years later the family came to the west to Ottawa, Illinois. In
1854 they removed to Muscatine, Iowa, coming thence to Scott county in 1865. The
father assisted in building many of the western railroads, including the Union
Pacific and others. After taking up his abode in Scott county he purchased land
in Davenport township and settled upon a farm, hi remaining days being given to
general agricultural pursuits. His life was one of untiring business activity
and his strong purpose enabled him to carry forward to successful completion
whatever he undertook. He died September 16, 1895, while his wife survived until
the 16th of May, 1902. they were the parents of two children: C. R. Boyle, who
is now living in New York city; and Peter A., of this review.
Peter A. Boyle spent the first five years of his life in New Haven, Connecticut,
and afterward attended school in different places as his parents removed from
one point to another, the father's business calling him to different localities.
At length he was graduated from Griswold College in the class of 1870 and with
broad general information to serve as the foundation upon which to rear the
superstructure of professional learning, he took up the study of law in Harvard
University, from which he was graduated with the class of 1872. He then returned
to Davenport and entered upon active connection with the profession as a law
clerk in the office of Davison & Lane, formerly well known attorneys of this
city. After ten years devoted to the practice of law, he turned his attention to
his property interest, which now claim his attention.
On the 5th of June, 1884, Mr. Boyle was united in marriage to Miss Jessie A.
Boyle, of Birmingham, Alabama, and unto them were born two children: Mary Lee,
who died in 1898; and John R., who is now a high school pupil. The parents are
members of the Episcopal church and are prominent socially in the city, theirs
being one of the attractive and hospitable homes of wealth and culture. Mr.
Boyle belongs to the Commercial Club and has other social relations, being
usually seen where the most intelligent men of the city gather.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Johannes Thede Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Thede, Sierk, Pahl, Klink, Frey, Lensch, Ohde.
A prosperous farmer of Liberty township, who is contemplating retiring from the
active pursuit of his calling, and intends to take up his residence in the
village of Dixon, is Johannes Thede, who was born in Liberty township, June 28,
1860, about one and a half miles north of the farm on which he is now living.
His parents were Peter and Marie (Sierk) Thede, both natives of Schleswig,
Germany, where the former was born April 27, 1832, and the latter February 15,
1828. In 1857, singly and alone, they came to America, locating in Kempton,
Illinois, where they were married. Three years later, in the spring of 1860,
they came to Liberty township, this county, where Mr. Thede engaged in farming.
He was successful beyond the ordinary and as he saw opportunity invested in land
so that at his death he held five hundred and sixty acres in that township.
Toward the close of his life he relinquished the heavier cares and his death
occurred January 4, 1909. His wife had died some years!
previously, for she passed away in Dixon, May 8, 1903. They were the
parents of six children: Peter, of St. Louis, Missouri; Johannes, the subject of
this sketch; Henry, who died in 1893 at the age of twenty-one; Mary Lenora, who
became the wife of George Pahl, both now deceased; William, a resident of
Liberty township; and Erna, the wife of Charles Frey, of Davenport.
Johannes Thede was less than one year old when his parents removed from his
birthplace to the farm on which he now lives and which has since been his home.
He attended the public schools of the district, in which he obtained a fair
education, but his practical preparation for life was received during the time
he assisted his father in the cultivation of his land. A tiller of the soil from
choice as well as from inheritance, he has been one of those who have won a
conspicuous success form his vocation. Besides the homestead in Liberty
township, consisting of two hundred and sixty acres on sections 35, 36, and 25,
he owns an equal amount of arable land in Springfield township, Cedar county,
and five hundred and sixty acres in Oldham county, Texas. The place which he
makes his home is well improved and its fields excellently adapted to general
farming which he has pursued. For the past fifteen years, however, he has made a
specialty of stock feeding, feeding about one hundred head annually. He was one
of the prime promoters of the Dixon Savings Bank, in which he is a large
stockholder.
On the 8th of April, 1884, Mr. Thede was married to Miss Katharine Petersen, who
was born in the same house that was the birthplace of her husband, January 23,
1864. Her parents, Henry and Wiepke (Klink) Petersen, were both natives of
Schleswig, Germany. They were married in the old country and came to America
about 1856, locating first in Illinois. About five years later they came to
America about 1856, locating first in Illinois. About five years later they came
to Scott county, which remained their home for the rest of their lives. Mr.
Petersen was actively engaged in farming but, having obtained a gratifying
income, retired to Dixon, where his death and that of his wife occurred. He
owned at one time seven hundred acres of land in Liberty township. Five children
were born to Mr. and Mrs. Petersen: Mrs. May Ohde, a widow living in Seattle,
Washington; George, of Liberty township; Charles, a resident of Dixon; Mary, who
is unmarried and makes her home in Dixon; and Katharine, the wife of our
subject.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Julius Sander Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Sander, Mack, Ranzow.
The great business prosperity which has come to Davenport in the course of years
is reflected in the success of Julius Sander, a dealer in general hardware, farm
implements, seeds, buggies, wagons and automobiles. Having come to this country
when a mere boy, with nothing but his own abilities and his determination to get
ahead, the position he holds today is the result of his unaided efforts, and
ready discernment of potential needs and the quality of being a good manager.
He was born in Neumünster, Holstein, Germany, July 31, 1857, and was reared and
educated in the place of his birth. In 1871, although but fourteen years of age,
he emigrated to America, coming direct to Davenport immediately after landing
upon our shores. Upon his arrival here he secured employment as a clerk in the
hardware store of the old firm of E. H. Mack & Company, which was located on
Second Street where the Davenport Savings Bank now stands. He remained with that
concern, until 1876, when it went out of business, and for five years he worked
for Sickles Preston. At the end of that period, in 1871, he had saved enough
money and acquired a sufficient familiarity with business methods here to
warrant his embarking in business for himself. Accordingly at 325 West Second
street, he opened a hardware store, which was well supplied with all the
articles generally to be found in such an establishment. With fourteen years of
success behind him, in 1895 he opened another store at 420 West Fourth street,
where a large and varied line of farm implements were put on sale. In 1902 he
combined the two stores, securing his present location at 218, 220, and 222
Ripley street, and here, keeping abreast of the times, he has added automobiles
of reputable make, besides carrying a good line of buggies and wagons. Indeed,
he has left no opportunity pass by unheeded, without trying to wrest from it
some measure of advancement for himself. In consequence his is one of the
busiest stores in the city, and the record of its sales will stand comparison
with even larger concerns. In addition to hardware interests, Mr. Sander has
been active in the financial circles here, for in 1893 he was one of the
organizers of the Farmers & Mechanics Savings Bank, of which he is still a
director, and later he was one of the organizers and directors of the Guarantee
Mutual Life Insurance Company of Davenport. He holds the position of vice
president of the Fairmount Cemetery Association and has made his influence felt
in all walks of life.
In 1881 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Sander and Miss Lina Ranzow, a
daughter of Charles F. Ranzow, now deceased. They have a son, Harry, who assists
his father in business, and a daughter, Paula, who is attending high school.
Mr. Sander has always given his support unfailingly to the democratic party, by
which organization he was elected in 1908 to the board of county commissioners
of Scott county. He holds the position of president of this body and will
continue to exercise the duties of that office through the three years of his
term. He belongs to several organizations, some of a fraternal nature, others
social and still others of a beneficent character, for his is a member of the
local Masonic lodge, the Turners, the Sharp Shooters Society, the Columbia
Relief Society and the Davenport Cremation Society.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Charles
H. Alt Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Alt, Hansen, Danz.
Charles H. Alt, a successful farmer of Buffalo township, was born in the
province of Schleswig, Germany, September 25, 1870, his parents being Karl and
Catherine (Hansen) Alt, both native of the same section of the fatherland, where
the former was born in 1833 and the latter in 1842. In 1885 the father came to
America, and although he settled first in Rock Island county, Illinois, after on
year's experience he came to Scott county, Iowa.
Charles H. Alt, being about fifteen years of age when he left his native land,
had already received a thorough training in the rudiments of education as taught
in Germany. However, after he reached Illinois he again entered school that he
might obtain a knowledge of the English language and customs more systematic
than could be obtained through intercourse with the men and women he should
meet. He assisted in the work that was carried on upon his father's farm,
assuming many of the heavier responsibilities of its operation as the years
proved he was a man of power and ability. Later when he married he made it his
permanent home. Although yet a young man with the most productive years of his
life still before him, he has already made a record of which he has no reason to
be ashamed. The condition of his buildings, the cultivation of his fields, tell
their own story, that their owner is a man of industry and good management.
While he is never sparing of hard work, he is caref!
ul that neither time nor substance is wasted, and consequently should enjoy a
pronounced success as the years pass on. In 1908, he purchased his present farm
consisting of ninety-two acres in Buffalo township.
In early manhood Mr. Alt was united in marriage to Miss Louise Danz, a daughter
of Chris Danz, of Muscatine, Iowa. A son and a daughter have been born to
them-Herbert and Catherine. The family are members of the Lutheran church, while
Mr. Alt has always given his allegiance in political matters to the democratic
party. While he is not an aspirant for office, he has won the confidence of his
fellow citizens who elected him to the position of director of the Blue Grass
schools. He belongs to Blue Grass Lodge, No. 26, of the Modern Brotherhood of
America, and to the Grange, and he has made friends who loyally accord him
respect and good will.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
William Schmidt Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Schmidt, Paustian, Holdorf, Meier, Lehmkuhl, Brockmann, Seemann, Hinz,
Boecken, Wessel.
William Schmidt is a native son of Iowa and possesses the enterprising spirit
which has been the potent force in the rapid upbuilding and development of the
middle west. He is now engaged in farming in Sheridan township, Scott county,
where he owns one hundred and sixty acres of productive land, pleasantly
situated about a half mile east of Eldridge.
His birth occurred in Butler township, this county, on the 9th of March, 1860,
his parents being Detlef and Catherine Schmidt, both of whom were natives of
Holstein, Germany. The father was a blacksmith there and came to America when a
young man, making his way westward to Davenport. Soon afterward he secured
employment as a farm hand in this county and, carefully saving his earnings, was
at length enabled to purchase land in Butler township, whereon he resided until
his death, which occurred when he was forty-two years of age. His widow long
survived him and died at the age of seventy-four. In their family were eight
children: Anna, the wife of Adolph Paustian, of Pottawatamie county, Iowa;
William, of this review; Sophia, the wife of Charles Holdorf, of Pottawattamie
county, Iowa; Charles, who is living on the old homestead farm in Butler
township; Adolph, of Pottawattamie county; John, of the same county; Nancy, a
resident of Davenport; and David, whose home is in Butler township.
William Schmidt was a pupil in the district schools of Butler township in his
boyhood days and afterward worked on the home farm up to the time of his
marriage, when he removed to another farm in Butler township, which was owned by
his mother. After occupying and cultivating it for ten years he removed to his
present place of residence, first renting the land, while in 1900 he purchased
the property from Claus Meier, his father-in-law. He has since erected a fine
residence and made other improvements which add much to the value and attractive
appearance of his place, his farm being one of the well developed properties of
the township. The place is neat and thrifty in appearance and indicates the
careful supervision and practical methods of a progressive owner.
It was on the 15th of March, 1884, that Mr. Schmidt was united in marriage to
Miss Anna Meier, a daughter of Claus and Catherine (Lehmkuhl) Meier, who were
natives of Germany and early settlers of this county. Her father came to the
United states when a young man and established his home in Scott county, Iowa,
purchasing land in Lincoln township. He now lives retired in Davenport. His
first wife died at the age of twenty-three years, leaving two children: Henry,
now a resident of Allens Grove township; and Anna, now Mrs. William Schmidt. For
his second wife, Mr. Meier married Miss Gretge Paustian a native of Holstein,
Germany, and to them were born four children, namely: Albert, who is married and
lives on the homestead; Louisa, the wife of Carl Brockmann, residing near
Donahue, Scott county; Adele, the wife of Julius Seemann, of davenport; and
Walter, who married Minnie Hinz and lives on a farm near Davenport. The mother
of these children died February 9, 1909. Mr. and Mrs. Schmidt have two children:
Olga, the wife of Ernest Boecken, of Walcott, Iowa; and Arthur, who lives on the
home farm. He married Millie Wessel and thy have one child, Leota.
Mr. Schmidt has spent his entire life in Scott county and has, therefore, been a
witness of its growth and progress for fifty years. This half century has
witnessed many notable changes for all of the evidences of pioneer life have
been replaced by those of modern civilization. He has always advocated progress
and improvement and in as far as possible has aided in the work of general
advancement. He is regarded as an enterprising farmer and his success is well
merited as it has been attained entirely through his own labors.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Frederick
Rock Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Rock, Kleinschmidt, Wilson, Carstens, Baustian.
A public-spirited man with an eye single to the general good, even at the
occasional expense of personal interest, is a credit and a boon to any
community. Such a one is Frederick Rock, a citizen of Walcott. He was born
December 11, 1834, in the principality of Waldeck, Germany, his parents being
Christian and Wilhelmina (Kleinschmidt) Rock. Early in life he became imbued
with the desire to come to America, whose wholesome ideas in the matter of
equality had in some way reached him across the seas. He did not allow this
ambition to remain a dream but came to America in 1857, landing in New York in
the month of May. He made his way almost at once to Davenport and in a short
time found employment with Robert S. Wilson, a Scott county farmer, with whom he
remained for four years. At the end of this time he had become sufficiently well
acquainted with the ways of the land of his adoption to make a more independent
venture and he rented a farm in Hickory Grove township, where he lived for
another four years. In 1863, as the result of excellent management, he was
enabled to purchase a farm, a very desirable tract of eighty acres located on
section 4, Hickory Grove township. Here he lived until 1906, when he retired and
removed to Walcott to make his home.
In 1865 Mr. Rock was united in marriage to a lady of his own nationality, Miss
Margaretha Carstens, daughter of Claus Carstens, a native of Holstein, Germany.
Three children were born to them but only one is living, Ella, now the wife of
Otto Baustian. Mr. and Mrs. Baustian reside on the old Rock homestead in Hickory
Grove township.
An evidence of the esteem in which Mr. Rock is held is the fact that he has been
called upon to fill several important offices. He has served as trustee of
Hickory Grove township and for over twenty years was justice of the peace. In
the latter capacity he made a most remarkable record, for in all the twenty
years a case was never appealed to a higher court after he had made his
decision, his keen insight and unimpeachable justice being readily recognized.
Mr. Rock is at present an advocate of the principles of the republican party and
its administration of affairs, but he was originally a member of the democratic
party. In 1893 he received the nomination of the gold democrats for the
legislature but retired from the race before the election. He holds the position
of president and secretary of the Mutual Fire insurance Company of German
Householders and is secretary of the Walcott Mutual Fire Insurance Company. He
is a stock holder in the Farmers and Mechanics Savings Bank of Davenport and
also in the Farmers Savings Bank of Walcott, having at one time been vice
president of the latter institution but compelled to resign on account of ill
health in his family. In a word Mr. Rock is in all his relations worthy of
respect and confidence, a man of integrity and progressiveness.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Albert W. Hamann Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Hamann, Koenig, Hass, Heuck.
Albert W. Hamann, prominent as a representative of the legal profession and also
active in political circles in Davenport, has found I these two fields scope for
his energy and laudable ambition-his dominant qualities. One of Iowa's native
sons, his birth occurred in Audubon county, November 8, 1876. His father, C. H.
Hamann, was a native of Germany and, coming to America in 1855, established his
home in Davenport, where he resided until 1873. In that year he removed to
Audubon county, where he turned his attention to farming. He later returned to
Davenport, where he established a wagon manufactory, becoming one of the
pioneers in this field of business in the city. He retired from active life in
the year 1890, and died in 1899, respected and honored by all who knew him. In
early manhood he had wedded Marie Koenig, who was also a native of Germany and
came to Davenport in 1856 with her father, Carl A. Koenig, one of the early
settlers of this city.
Brought to Davenport during his early boyhood, Albert W. Hamann acquired his
education in the public schools here, passing through consecutive grades to his
graduation from the high school as a member of the class of 1893. He then
entered the University of Iowa, where he won the degree of Bachelor of Arts, and
with broad literary knowledge to serve as the foundation upon which to rear the
superstructure of professional learning he entered the law department of the
Iowa State University and was graduated in 1898. The following year he pursued a
post-graduate course in law at Columbia University of New York city and returned
to Davenport.
When he entered upon practice here his equipment was unusually good. To an
understanding of uncommon acuteness and vigor he added a thorough and
conscientious preparatory training, while in his practice he has exemplified all
the higher elements of the truly great lawyer. He became associated with Carl F.
Hass, and under the firm style of Hass & Hamann the partnership has since
been maintained. His diligence and energy in the preparation of his cases, as
well as the earnestness, tenacity and courage with which he defends the right as
he understands it, challenges the admiration of his associates. His fidelity to
the interests of his clients is proverbial, yet he never forgets that he owes a
higher allegiance to the majesty of the law.
From his youthful days Mr. Hamann has been actively interested in politics and
served for one term in the twenty-ninth general assembly of Iowa, giving earnest
and careful consideration to each question which came up for settlement. In 1902
he was a member of the code supplement committee. In 1904 he was elected county
attorney and acceptably filled that position for four years. His standing among
fellow members of the bar is indicated in the fact that in 1908 he was elected
president of the County Attorneys Association of the state. In 1902 Mr. Hamann
was united in marriage to Miss Clara Heuck, a native of Germany, who came to
Davenport with her parents in her girlhood days. They are prominent socially,
and Mr. Hamann is a popular member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of
Elks. He is recognized as a young man of high character who has demonstrated his
worth in his chosen profession and in citizenship, and undoubtedly has before
him a bright future.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
B. L. Schmidt Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Schmidt, Moeller, Martzhan, Kohrs, Sternburg, Struck, Koch, Kroeger.
B. L. Schmidt, president of the Schmidt Brothers company of Davenport, is a man
of considerable force of character who has risen to his present position through
the exercise of his native ability, combined with hard work and strict economy.
Mr. Schmidt was born in Davenport, October 22, 1869, a son of Carl F. and Sophia
(Moeller) Schmidt, both natives of Germany. The father came to Davenport in
1847, and although a cabinet-maker by trade, he farmed in Blue Grass township
for fourteen years after coming here. Later he removed to a suburb of Davenport,
where until his death, in 1889, he raised grapes and made wine. He and his wife
were married in Scott county, and they had eight children, five of whom grew to
maturity: L. W.; Minnie, now Mrs. A. F. Martzhan; B. L.; Hulda, now Mrs. J. L.
Kohrs, and F. L.
B. L. Schmidt was educated in the public schools of this county, and after
leaving school learned the trade of a machinist with William Sternburg in
Davenport. After working at his trade for five years, he took a course in the
Davenport Business College, and following this was made deputy county treasurer
under Henry C. Struck. He then became associated with Voss Brothers in the
manufacture of furniture fixtures, sash, door and blinds, making a specialty of
wooden soled shoes with leather tops. This connection lasted five years, when
Mr. Schmidt purchased the interests of Voss Brothers, and, taking his brother F.
L. into partnership, the firm became Schmidt Brothers. This was in 1897 and
until 1902 they were jobbers in the above mentioned lines, but in the latter
year they sold their business and bought the patent on the Little Giant ice
crusher and organized the Davenport Ice Chipping Machine Company, as well as the
White Lily Manufacturing Company, B. L. Schmidt being president of both until
1909, when he sold the plant of the White Lily Manufacturing Company. After this
they purchased the engine department of that company, to which they added the
Ice Chipping Machine Company, and changed the name of the firm to Schmidt
Brothers Company. In addition to this flourishing business, Mr. Schmidt is vice
president of the Davenport Slaughter & Refining Company; a director of A. F.
Koch Company; a director and vice president of the De Lux Textile Company; and a
director of the Union Life Insurance company, of Chicago. He was one of the
first directors of the Commercial Club and was one of the committee who raised
the funds to build the club house.
In 1896 Mr. Schmidt married Johanna Kroeger, who was an old resident here. They
have two children: Amy Louise and George L.
While never an office seeker, Mr. Schmidt was one of those who worked to secure
the present form of government in Davenport. Whenever any measure is on foot for
the betterment of his beloved city he is to be found in the front ranks, giving
freely of both time and money. He is a thirty-second degree Mason, a Knight
Templar and Shriner. He has always worked with untiring force, and seems to
enjoy it. Capable and full of plans for the future, he is very popular, and his
genial manner and kind heart win him friends everywhere.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Alfred G. Goldschmidt Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Goldschmidt, Henrechsen, Bremer.
Alfred G. Goldschmidt, city electrician, belongs doubly to Davenport, by birth
as well as by choice, since it was this place which witnessed his nativity March
30, 1868. His parents, Peter and Eliza (Henrechsen) Goldschmidt, were natives of
Germany. The father early in his career followed the trade of cabinetmaker,
which upon the widening of his business horizon he changed to that of furniture
dealer and undertaker. He and his wife landed in New York in 1852, on the Fourth
of July, which proved to be happily significant for he was to become an
enthusiastic American. Ten children were born to these good people, of whom
Alfred G. is the ninth in order of birth. Five of these are deceased. Mr.
Goldschmidt's paternal grandmother joined her relatives here after the death of
her husband in the old country, and here lived until her demise. The father
located in Davenport almost immediately and this city has ever since been the
family home.
For four years Alfred G. Goldschmidt attended the old German school of davenport
and after this primary preparation he entered the public schools, attending Nos.
8 and 3. He was graduated in 1882 and later attended the high school for one
year. He then matriculated in the University of Illinois, where he qualified in
that line to which his natural talents inclined him-mechanical engineering,
receiving at the end of his course the degree of Bachelor of Science. His first
practical experience was gained experience was gained in the employ of the
Davenport Foundry Machine Company, where he served for a year as a draughtsman.
Then going to Chicago, he entered the offices of the United States Electrical
Company and work of this nature exerted upon him such a fascination that he has
ever since associated himself with electrical concerns. He has divided his time
and energies between Chicago and Davenport. For two and a half years he was in
the service of the Bettendorf Company of Davenport. On August 1, 1895, he was
appointed city electrician by the city council, who created the office at this
time, Mr. Goldschmidt being the first incumbent. On January 1, 1901, he was
succeeded by J. E. Moore. He was then frequently out of the city on general
construction business for a Chicago form, at one time having charge of the
Silvis plant in Rock Island. In 1903 he became the superintendent of the
Davenport Gas & Electric and Street Railway Companies, which responsible
positions he held for two years. He then resumed his former position as city
electrician, which includes in its duties the inspection of all the wiring in
the city. His offices are located on the third floor of the city building.
On June 28, 1894, Mr. Goldschmidt married Miss Anna Bremer, whose parents came
from Germany and were among Scott county's early settlers. Their attractive home
at 2222 West Fourth street receives additional interest from the presence of two
children, Erma C., who is attending the public schools; and Alfred, Jr., who is
four years of age.
Mr. Goldschmidt's fraternal relations extend to the Elks, the Owls and the
Knights of Pythias, in all of which his membership is valued. He is a man who by
sheer native brilliance ha made his mark and placed himself in one of the finest
positions in the bestowal of the city.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann