Scott Co, Iowa USGenWeb Project
John W. Crowley Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Crowley, Smith, Diehn, Keuhl.
Beginning at the lowest round of the ladder, but by his own splendid efforts
advancing steadily, with no retrograde movement in the whole course of his
career, a glance at the life of J. W. Crowley, president of the People's
Construction Company, can not be otherwise than inspiring. He was born July 26,
1865, in Arena, Wisconsin, his parents being Thomas and Bridget (Smith) Crowley.
The father was a native of Ireland and upon coming to the United States located
in New Jersey. Attracted by the report of opportunity of the west he came to the
Mississippi valley and for some time found employment on the construction of the
Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway. He also mad a venture at agricultural
work, but eventually took up the railway construction again. His health failed
him in his later years and he lived retired at his home until his death. Our
subject's mother is still living at the age of eighty-two years.
J. W. Crowley received a common-school education and at he age of sixteen
entered the arena of life as a wage earner. He had the advantage of at first
working under his father's direction and during two winter seasons he clerked in
a store. A cousin engaged in railway work next gave him employment, and then for
a while he was a traveling salesman for a publishing company. After another
season on the pay roll of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway Company,
he secured a position, in 1887, with the Flynn & Williams Construction
Company, which was operating a large tract of land near Arena, Wisconsin. When
this company changed the scene of its activities to Iowa where laying work and
continued in this capacity for two years. In 1889 he assumed a similar position
with another railway company operating in Missouri and Illinois. When the work
of double tracking the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific was undertaken, Mr.
Crowley was offered a responsible position which necessitated his removal to
Buffalo, Iowa, and in course of time he was transferred to the bridge
department. Not impeded by fear of change he next assumed a position in the
Eagle Manufacturing Company. In 1896 he was made superintendent of construction
in the steel department of a large factory located in Moline, Illinois.
Mr. Crowley's association with the city of Davenport began in 1897, when he was
employed by the board of local improvements as inspector of construction. HE
held this position for two seasons and then removed to Kansas City, Kansas,
where for some time he superintended various construction enterprises. He
returned to Davenport and the city again secured his services as inspector of
construction. His splendid executive ability and sound judgment having become
widely recognized, the Davenport, Rock Island & Northwestern Railway offered
him the position of superintendent of construction and bridge of work, which he
held until 1900. During the following year he filled a similar position with the
Flick& Johnson Company and then organized the Crowley & Diehn
Construction Company, Mr. Crowley assuming the office of president. This concern
was reorganized in April 1902, as the People's Construction Company, with Mr.
Crowley still at the head, and taking everything into consideration, it is not
astonishing that it has taken its place among Davenport's leading industries.
On May 30, 1900, Mr. Crowley was united in marriage to Miss Augusta Keuhl, who
is of German parentage. They have a fine family of five children. Helen
G., at home; Walter L., who attends St. Ambrose's College, as does Raymond J.;
Frances R. in school; and Emmett A., the youngest in the family.
Mr. Crowley and his family are communicants of the Catholic church. He is
identified with numerous orders, in all of which he enjoys prominence and
popularity. These fraternal relations extend to the Elks, the Knights of
Columbus, the Catholic Order of Foresters, the Hiberians, the Modern Woodmen of
America, the Woodmen of the World, and the Knights of Father Matthew, a
temperance society. Not taking into account Mr. Crowley's success in his
relations, both social and fraternal, Davenport is to be congratulated upon her
possession of a citizen who contributes so materially to her high standing in
the industrial world.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Hugo Moeller Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Moeller, Harder, Wehling, Stockwell, Hass, Wulf.
Hugo Moeller, city clerk of Davenport and one of the rising young men of this
city, demonstrates in his political career that there are certain men who are
bound to rise above their fellows through energy and mastery of detail. He was
born in this city, January 10, 1880, a son of John F. and Mary (Harder) Moeller.
The father came to Davenport in 1863 from Germany, his native land, and after
being engaged in several lines commenced manufacturing paper and cigar boxes.
His wife came to Davenport with her father in the early '50s, having been born
in Germany. Six children were born to them: Minnie, now Mrs. Wehling; Henry;
Tillie, now Mrs. Stockwell; Hugo; Hannah, the deceased wife of Walter Hass, and
Walter, also deceased.
Hugo Moeller was educated in the public schools, graduating from the high school
in 1897. After being engaged in various kinds of work, he took a commercial
course in Brown's Business College. For three years thereafter he was an agent
of the Corn Products Refining Company, and worked hard to serve his house. A
strong democrat, Mr. Moeller has always given his party a considerable portion
of his time and was rewarded by election to the office of city clerk in 1906 and
has been continuously reelected. He is an excellent official, obliging,
courteous and hard-working, and the people of the city feel that no better man
could be found to fill the responsible office.
In 1905 Mr. Moeller was married to Emelia Wulf, a daughter of Herman Wulf. Mr.
Moeller belongs to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Fraternal
Order of Eagles and the O. O. O., and is very popular in them all.
Still in the very prime of his young manhood, with years of usefulness
stretching out before him, the idol of his party locally brilliant things are
prophesied of this representative son of Davenport.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
R. H. Harned Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Harned, Von Maur, Metcalf, Pursel, Reeder.
A man of well balanced capacities and powers, his strong character and
capabilities inspiring confidence in others, the story of the life of R. H.
Harned is one of orderly progression. He is preeminently a man of business
sense, easily avoiding the mistakes and disasters which come to those who,
though possessing remarkable faculties in some respects, are liable to erratic
movements that result in unwarranted risks and failure. His course has been one
which has stood the test of time and of public approval and as senior partner of
the firm of Harned and Von Maur he stands as one of the most prominent
representatives of commercial interests in Davenport. H was born at Shickshinny,
Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, October 30, 1864, a son of Clark and Isabella T.
(Metcalf) Harned the former a native of Shickshinny and the latter of
Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. After attending the public schools, in which he
mastered the fundamental principles of education, R. H. Harned continued h!
is studies in the Wyoming Seminary and Commercial College and made his initial
step in the business world by entering the employ of Fowler, Dick & Walker,
dry-goods merchants of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, under whose direction he
became acquainted with the dry-goods trade. He remained with that firm until
1887, when he entered into partnership with C. J. Von Maur and E. C. Pursel
under the firm style of Harned, Pursel & Von Maur, coming to Davenport in
that year on the 2d of April. They located at the southwest corner of Second and
Brady streets and prospered from the beginning, enjoying a constantly increasing
trade. In 1889, upon the death of Mr. Pursel, the style of the firm became
Harned & Von Maur, which has since been continued. The original store was
modest in its beginning but the energy, ability and character of the young men
told and the enterprise developed along substantial lines, the growth of the
business at last necessitating the erection of a new building for its
accommodation. In 1898 the business was incorporated under the firm style of
Harned & Von Maur. They remained in the original location until 1899, when a
lot was purchased at the southeast corner of Harrison and Second streets and
their present magnificent building was erected there. They have today one of the
finest, best arranged and most modernly equipped stores in the state. The
building has a frontage of eighty-six feet, is one hundred and fifty feet deep
and has three stories with basement. It is equipped with a power and electric
plant and the fittings of the store are most modern and attractive, including a
pneumatic cash system and every convenience and facility for the conduct of a
first-class department store. In 1906 it was necessary to lease a building to
serve as an annex in which to store the reserve stock in order that their third
floor might be utilized for retail purposes. Something of the growth of the
business is indicated in that when it was established, on the 2d of April, 1887,
they occupied a small store twenty by seventy-five feet. At the end of six
months it was necessary to double their space and similar additions were made
during the succeeding eighteen months. In 1892 an addition was made to the
block, doubling the space which they then occupied and after seven years they
removed to their present quarters. Thus from a modest beginning in a little
corner shop this establishment has grown with the passing years, its magnificent
success being due to the tireless energy, undaunted enterprise and reliable
business methods of the partners, who enjoy the public confidence in an unusual
degree. The simile of the acorn and the oak is especially applicable to this
business, the tree weathering all financial storms, activity and commercial
integrity constituting its roots, which have spread out and taken firm hold in
the soil of public confidence and public opinion.
In 1899 Mr. Harned was married to Miss Mary Reeder, a native of Bordentown, New
Jersey. They have two daughters, Eleanor M. and Louise I. The family residence
is a splendid home on Mississippi avenue, attractive by reason of its
hospitality as well as its tasteful furnishings. Mr. Harned is a member of the
Golf and Outing Clubs and also the Commercial Club of Davenport. He is also
greatly interested in church and philanthropic work and is now serving as a
trustee and ruling elder in the First Presbyterian church, in which he has long
held membership. He is also connected with the Young Men's Christian Association
and is a cooperant factor in various lines of activity expressive of the
recognition of the brotherhood of man and the Fatherhood of God. He stand today
in his mature years a strong man, strong in his balanced mentally and
physically, he has never feared to venture where favoring opportunity has
presented, and his judgment and even-paced energy have carried him forward to
the goal of success.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Alexander
W. Brownlie Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Brownlie, Neil, McCosh, Van Patten, Fluke, Thompson, Calderwood,
Fleming.
Alexander W. Brownlie needs no introduction to the readers of this volume, for
he has made his home within the borders of Scott county for more than three
score years and ten, having been brought here by his parents when in the second
year of his age. He was successfully engaged in farming and stockraising
throughout his active business career but is living largely retired at the
present time, enjoying the fruits of his former toil in well earned ease. His
birth occurred in Canada on the 22d of May, 1837, his parents being James and
Ritchie (Walker) Brownlie, both of whom were natives of Scotland. The father was
born on the 26th of November, 1807, and the mother's birth occurred in the year
1810. They were married in Canada and remained residents of that country until
1838, when the family home was established in Scott county, Iowa, the father
coming here a few months prior to the arrival of his wife and three children.
James Brownlie took up a timber claim at Long Grove, w!
hich place at that time boasted only one shanty. He constructed a sod house or
dugout and after residing therein for a year built what was considered a
commodious log house in those days. In 1851 the primitive structure was replaced
by another residence, which is still standing. James Brownlie accumulated about
four hundred acres of land and devoted his time and energies to general
agricultural pursuits throughout his entire business career, bringing his fields
under a high state of cultivation and improvement. He held various positions of
public trust and responsibility and was one of the six men (all Brownlie by
name) who organized the Christian church at Long Grove, in 1839. Preaching
services were conducted in his home from 1839 until 1846, when a log church was
erected, and he served as an elder until his demise. This church is the oldest
in Scott county. Mr. Brownlie was called to his final rest in 1893 and the
community thus lost one of its worthy pioneer settlers who!
se labors had proved a important element in the work of early development and
upbuilding. His wife passed away in 1889. Their children were six in number, as
follows: Jane, who id deceased, as is also her husband, James Neil; Mrs.
Isabelle McCosh, who has likewise passed away; Alexander of this review;
Catherine, the deceased wife of John Fluke, of Grinnell, Iowa; Andrew, who has
also been called to his final rest; an Robert, who is a resident of Long Grove.
Alexander W. Brownlie began his education under the preceptorship of his
parents, as there were still no schools in the pioneer community. When he
was about ten years of age a little "temple of learning" was
established at Long Grove with Phillip Van Patten as instructor, and there he
pursued his studies for a time. He remained under the parental roof until he was
married and then purchased and located upon a tract of one hundred and sixty
acres near Long Grove. Part of the land was broken and after the remainder had
been made ready for farming purposes he erected a dwelling and there carried on
his agricultural interests for about twelve years. On the expiration of that
period he took up his abode on another farm of one hundred and thirty acres a
little nearer Long Grove and, disposing of his original property soon afterward,
was actively engaged in its operation for a great many years. In 1876 he became
interested in the live stock business in association with his brother Robert and
they carried on their operations in this connection for about a third of a
century, making a specialty of shorthorn cattle, Poland China hogs and Percheran
horses. He is still engaged in the live stock business to some extent but is
living largely retired at the present time, making his home at No. 501 Kirkwood
avenue in Davenport. He is one of the stockholders in the Stockmen's Bank at
Long Grove, which he assisted in organizing in May 1907.
On the 22d of January, 1862, Mr. Brownlie was united in marriage to Miss
Elizabeth Thompson, who was born in England on the 22d of January, 1841, and who
in 1844 was brought to Scott county by her parents, the Hon. Hugh M. and Jane
Thompson. Her father represented this district in the state legislature for a
great many years and was also the president and manager of the Iowa Agricultural
College. Mr. and Mrs. Brownlie became the parents of four children. Sarah, the
eldest, wedded M. H. Calderwood, of Davenport, and is now the mother of seven
children, namely: Ethel, Blanche; Errett and Almeta, twins; Helen; Dwight; and
Ruth. William, the cashier of the Citizens First Bank of Davenport, wedded Miss
Mary E. Fleming, by whom he has one child, Aline. Annie, who gave her hand in
marriage to John Neil, of Cherokee, Iowa, now has four children: Iola, Jennie,
Laverne and Bernice. Andrew Brownlie is deceased. Mrs. Elizabeth Brownlie, the
wife and mother, was called to her final rest in the year 1874.
Mr. Brownlie is a lifelong member of the Christian church at Long Grove and has
always held official position therein, having continuously served as trustee
since its incorporation and as elder and Sunday school superintendent for about
thirty years. He has spent practically his entire life in this county and is
therefore familiar with its development from pioneer times down to the present,
having aided in the arduous toil which brought about the wonderful
transformation that is everywhere apparent in this part of the state.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Edward K. Ward Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Ward, Taylor, Crocker.
Edward K. Ward, United States veterinary inspector, with offices in Davenport,
was born in Guilford, Indiana, August 6 1864, his parents being Isaac B. and
Emma (Taylor) Ward. He spent his early years in the Hoosier state and took
advantage of her public-school opportunities. Later the citizens of his native
town recommended him for the office of postmaster, in which capacity he rendered
efficient service, and, known to be a stanch champion of the cause of education,
he was also made school director.
At the age of twenty-nine, Mr. Ward entered the veterinary college at Toronto,
Canada, with the idea of more thoroughly fitting himself for his life work and
after taking the full course secured his degree. Thus equipped he went to
Cincinnati, Ohio, where he engaged for a time in the practice of his profession,
and then further satisfied his educational ambitions by taking a post-graduate
course in the Columbian Correspondence School of Washington, D. C. Soon
afterward he removed to Chicago and entered the government service as assistant
veterinary inspector. After passing some time there, he returned t Cincinnati
and became assistant to the chief inspector. His next step was to come to
Davenport, where he accepted his present important and responsible position as
United States veterinary inspector, and where the associations formed by him
have been sufficiently pleasant to warrant his expectation of remaining here
permanently.
The marriage of Mr. Ward and Miss Pearl Crocker, a young woman of his native
state, was celebrated June 26, 1889. They have four children: Ama E., Pierman
C., Erdine and Carl.
The social is a pleasant ingredient in the composition of Mr. Ward's nature, and
he enjoys membership in the Masonic body and in an organization known as the
Grotto. He is to a great extent a self-made man, never satisfied with
mediocrity, and a worthy citizen whose high aims are not confined to his
profession but extend to every relation of life.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Adolph Priester Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Priester, Beuthien, Schlapp, Mixter.
Various business interests have felt the stimulus of the cooperation and sound
judgment of Adolph Priester, who through many years has been closely connected
with commercial and financial interests in Davenport. Difficulties have seemed
but to arouse in him renewed energy and determination and with progress as his
watchword he has pushed steadily forward, making for himself an honorable and
enviable position among Davenport's chief business representatives. He was born
June 30, 1848, in Holstein, Germany, and came to this country in August, 1857,
when a youth of nine years, in company with his parents, Carl and Elise (Beuthien)
Preister. The father was the founder of the family in the new world. He had
followed farming in Germany and after crossing the Atlantic to the United States
he made his way into the interior of the country and invested in land in Scott
county. With characteristic energy he then began the development of a farm and
soon brought his fields under a high !
state of cultivation.
Adolph Priester began his education in the schools of the fatherland and
completed his course in the public schools of this country. He was reared to the
occupation of farming and became familiar with the duties and labors that fall
to the lot of the agriculturist, but, thinking to find other pursuits more
congenial, he turned his attention to merchandising, becoming active in the
management of a dry-goods store in this city. He was afterward associated with a
crockery company and later entered the Citizens National Bank, with which he was
connected for twenty-eight years as teller and assistant cashier. While still
engaged in the banking business he established an office for the conduct of an
insurance business, representing the Germania Life Company, and following his
retirement from the field of banking he was appointed state manager for the
company, which he has thus represented to the present time. In this regard he
controls an extensive insurance business annually, ca!
refully devising plans for the furtherance of the interest of the company in
this state. He is likewise a director of the Davenport Brewing Company and is a
well known business man.
On the 1st of December 1888, Mr. Priester was married to Miss Ida Koehler, a
daughter of Henry and Ottilie (Schlapp) Koehler. Three children grace this
marriage: Henry C., who has completed school and is now a private secretary to
Mr. Mixter, superintendent of the Deere Plow Company; and Walter and Oscar C.,
who are yet students. Mr. Priester is well known in fraternal circles and in
Masonry has attained the Knight Templar degree. He also belongs to the Knights
of Pythias fraternity and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and his
membership relations extend to the Turner Society and to the Commercial Club. He
manifests in his life many of the strong and sterling characteristics of his
German ancestry. Patriotism and progress might well be termed the keynote of his
character, for these qualities have been manifest in every relation of his life,
making him one of the valued citizens of Davenport as well as one of its
representative business men.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
James Garstang Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Garstang, Baker.
In the years of an active business life James Garstang was connected with
carpentering in Davenport and helped to erect many substantial structures here.
Now in his seventy-fifth year he is living retired, the fruits of his former
toil supplying him with the necessities and comforts of life. He was born in
Lancashire, England, February 29, 1836, a son of Collin and Anna Garstang. The
father was a loom-maker in England and came to the United States in 1849 with
his wife, his son James coming in 1853. After traveling to a considerable extent
in this county he ultimately settled in Davenport, where he remained until his
death, which occurred in 1867.
James Garstang came to the United states four years after his parents had taken
up their abode on this side the Atlantic, although they returned to England and
brought him to the new world. They landed at New York and all came direct to
Davenport, James Garstang arriving here on the day that he was seventeen years
of age. He attended school to a limited extent here and afterward drove a
team and was employed in other ways until about twenty years of age, when he
began learning the carpenter's trade, which he found a congenial occupation,
following it continuously until his retirement. As he prospered in his
undertakings he made judicious investments in realty and now derives a
substantial income form his property interests.
On the 30th of March, 1865, Mr. Garstang was married to Miss Mary Baker, a
daughter of William Baker and a native of England. She was born October 19,
1839, and came to the United States at the age of sixteen years. Her mother died
in England and her father died at sea while they were crossing the Atlantic.
Mrs. Garstang lived to the age of sixty-nine years, passing away November 12,
1808. There were two children of that marriage, Collin and William Edward, but
the latter died at the age of two years. The former was born December 7, 1867.
There are now two grandsons, Clifford S. and Lloyd W.
Mr. Garstang continued actively in business in Davenport for many years and was
always found reliable, painstaking and faithful in the execution of his work.
His industry and careful management at length brought him a gratifying measure
of success and with the retired men of affluence he is now numbered.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Ferdinand Wolf Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Wolf, Buck, Kettleson, Muller.
Ferdinand Wolf, deceased, was at one time well known among the resident farmers
of Scott County and, in fact, was a native son of the county, his birth having
occurred in Butler township, on the 18th of February, 1869. His parents were
Asmus and Catherine (Buck) Wolf, of whom mention is made on another page of this
volume. He was a pupil in the district schools during his boyhood days and he
remained upon the home farm until his marriage, aiding in the work of field and
meadow as the years went by and thus gaining practical knowledge of the business
which he decided to make his life work. At the time of his marriage he began
farming on his own account on a tract of land owned by his father-in-law in
Butler township. There he lived for five years. On the expiration of that period
he purchased the farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Butler township upon
which his widow now resides and one hundred and sixty acres adjoining the
homestead. He made all the improvements upon the place. He cultivated his fields
according to the most modern and progressive methods and years after yard
carried on the farm work in such a practical and progressive manner that
substantial success crowned his efforts.
It was on the 16th of March, 1894, that Mr. Wolf was married to Miss Alvina
Muller, a daughter of Ernest and Christina (Kettleson) Muller. Mrs. Wolf was
born in Butler township and her parents were both natives of Germany. Her
father, who was born in Westphalia, came to the United States at the age of
seventeen years with his mother. They first settled in Ohio and later came to
Iowa, taking up their abode at LeClaire. Mr. Muller was a carpenter by trade and
followed that pursuit for some time, but later turned his attention to farming.
The first land he bought was in Butler township and from time to time he added
to his original holdings until he had about six hundred and ninety acres in
Butler township on the homestead. He was a man of good business ability and
sound judgment, and the careful manner in which he controlled his farming
interests enabled him to become one of the large landowners of the community. He
filled the office of justice of the peace for a number of years and his
decisions were always strictly fair and impartial. In 1874 he was elected on the
republican ticket to the house of representatives and filled that position for
three terms to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. He lived retired on his
farm for a number of years prior to his death, which occurred in retired on his
farm for a number of years prior to his death, which occurred in 1899, his
remains being interred in Fairview Cemetery.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Wolf were born five children: Malitta, who was born November
24, 1897, and died when about seventeen years of age and settled near Dixon,
Iowa. She died in 1898 and her remains were also interred in the Fairview
cemetery.
The death of the husband and father occurred on the 3d of September, 1909, and
his remains were interred in Fairview cemetery. He had served as school director
for three years and was a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. While his
time and attention were largely devoted to his farming interests, he yet
advocated progress in all matters of citizenship and endorsed all practical
methods for the benefit of the county. He had wide acquaintance in the township
in which he lived and his many good qualities won him the esteem and high regard
of a large circle of friends as well as the love of his own family.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
H. H. Boettger Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Boettger, Hansen.
H. H. Boettger, a cigar manufacturer and representative of some of the leading
cigar producers in the country, is well established in Davenport. He was born
here, April 5, 1884, a son of H. J. and Doretta (Kiene) Boettger. The father was
born in Germany and came to Davenport in 1882. He was a cigarmaker by trade and
finally established himself in the business of manufacturing cigars, having
carried it on for the past fourteen years. Mrs. Boettger was also born in
Germany, but they were married in the vicinity of Davenport. Three sons have
been born to them: H. H., Edward A. and Christian.
H. H. Boettger was educated in the public schools and the high school of
Davenport. He then took a commercial course in Brown's Business College. Having
learned the trade of making cigars in his boyhood. Mr. Boettger naturally
turned toward that occupation when he was ready to begin his business life,
joining his father in his enterprise, and they now have a fine trade,
manufacturing their own brands.
A democrat in politics, Mr. Boettger has taken so active a part in labor matters
that in November, 1908, he was elected a member of the lower house of the state
assembly and has made a record for himself that indicates that he will be called
upon to represent the people in still higher offices.
In 1904 Mr. Boettger was married to Ellen Hansen, who was born in Davenport, a
daughter of Jens Hansen, and they have two children: Evangeline and Elizabeth.
Mr. Boettger belongs to a number of fraternal orders as well as several social
organizations and is very popular in them all. Brilliant and self-confident,
knowing well what he can do and prompt to carry out his ideas, he easily meets
every demand made upon him. His plans for the future and for the betterment of
the condition of working people are many and worthy of being executed. Not only
is he a statesman but he is very successful in business and understands every
detail of the work he and his father are so successfully prosecuting.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
George O. Hoffmann Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Hoffmann, Paustian, Hansen.
George O. Hoffmann, president of the Shrecker Marble Works, is one of the
enterprising business men of Davenport. A native of this city, from his
childhood days he has heard stories of its growth, for his parents, Andrew and
Anna (Paustian) Hoffmann, were among its earliest settlers. When they came here
there was little to forecast the greatness to which it would attain and well can
they remember those first years with all their hardships, but looking back over
the passage of time they may feel a personal pride in the growth of the city for
they have aided in its development. Both are numbered among the respected
citizens of Davenport, where they are living in retirement.
George O. Hoffmann, the eldest of the five children born to his parents,
attended the public school in district No. 5, in which he received all of his
education. After he left hat institution, he learned the trade of marble
engraving, gaining a high proficiency in the art during the many years he was in
the employ of other men. Endowed with those qualities which make a man a leader
and not a follower, he was not satisfied until he commenced business for
himself. Accordingly, about ten or twelve years ago, he established the concern
of which he is now president. During its existence it has made a place for
itself among the business interests of Davenport and has won a large income for
the man at its head. The field of its operations is constantly increasing and as
this is the result of Mr. Hoffmann's own efforts he is well deserving of the
respect and esteem he enjoys among his fellow citizens.
It was in 1890 that Mr. Hoffmann and Miss Wilhelmina Hansen were united in
marriage and to them have been born five children: Florence, Hilda, Bertha,
George and Pearlie, all of whom are at home. Mr. Hoffmann belongs to the Modern
Brotherhood of America and to the Black hawk, in both of which bodies he is very
active and has many friends among his fraternal brethren.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Parke T. Burrows Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Burrows, McLane, Wolcott, McManus.
Parke Tunis Burrows is a Davenport architect who in the practice of his
profession has done much to enhance the appearance of the city in the
construction of substantial and attractive buildings, the list of which
indicates the nature of his work and the appreciation on the part of the public
for the value of his service.
Davenport numbers Mr. Burrows among her native sons, his birth having occurred
here, August 8, 1871. His father, Elisha G. Burrows, was likewise born in
Davenport, his natal year being 1840. He was a son of John McDowell Burrows, a
prominent figure in the early history of Scott county and of Iowa, having
located here in 1838. He was born in Elizabethtown, New Jersey, in 1814 and died
here in 1889. He conducted a general store, also engaged in the grain business
and owned and operated a private bank. Almost from the earliest occupancy of the
white man in this state the Burrows family has been represented in Scott county.
Elisha G. Burrows followed mercantile pursuits like his father.
Parke T. Burrows, reared in Davenport, attended the public schools and afterward
entered the University of Illinois, from which he was graduated in 1892. He then
spent three years in Chicago, studying architecture and gaining broad, thorough
and practical knowledge in the offices of leading members of the profession in
that city. In 1895 he returned to Davenport where he has since practiced. At
that time the firm of Hubbell & Burrows was formed, but in 1896 Mr. Burrows
became a partner of F. G. Clausen under the firm style of Clausen & Burrows.
That relation was maintained until 1904, when he became a member of the firm of
Temple, Burrows & McLane, which is still in existence. The years have
chronicled his growing power and ability in this city and elsewhere, including
St. John's Methodist Episcopal church, the high school, the public schools Nos.
11 and 13, the Davenport Hotel, the Commercial Club, the Lane building, the
Unions Savings Bank building, the First National Bank and others. Those who know
Davenport need but to see this citation in order to understand the position
which Mr. Burrows fills as an architect and builder in this city, for those
buildings are among the finest of Davenport. He has also erected many others in
Iowa and Illinois and is a member of the American Institute of Architects.
In 1902 Mr. Burrows was married to Miss Camilla Simmons Wolcott, of St. Louis, a
granddaughter of William McManus, a pioneer of Davenport. They have one
daughter, Camilla. While Mr. and Mrs. Burrows are well known socially in
Davenport he allows no outside interests to interfere with hi professional
duties, taking genuine pleasure in his work as well as appreciating the
opportunity which it affords him of promoting the adornment and improvement of
the city along architectural lines.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Ferdinand Schlapkohl Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E.
Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Schlapkohl, Korn, Wohlert, Petersen.
Davenport has a large percentage of German people who, imbued with the spirit of
progress, sought the opportunities of the new world, bringing with them the
salient characteristics of the Teutonic race, which has ever been an important
element in the colonization of America. To this number belongs Ferdinand
Schlapkohl, now a retired business man and one of the veterans of the Civil war.
His life record commends him to the confidence and good will of all and cannot
fail to prove of interest to many of our readers.
Mr. Schlapkohl was born in Holstein, Germany, April 22, 1841, and is a son of
Henry and Margaret Schlapkohl. The father was a farmer in his native land and
left that country for America in 1853, accompanied by his family. He did not
live to reach his destination, however but died on the voyage. The mother
and her four children afterward continued on their way to Davenport, where they
had friends living. The two sisters, Kathryn and Dora, and the brother Henry
Schlapkohl are all now deceased, while the mother passed away in 1856.
Ferdinand Schlapkohl attended school for about six years in Germany and after
coming to America worked by the month as a farm hand in the summer seasons,
while in the winter he attended school. He also took care of race horses in his
young days and at different times was employed as a clerk in a store in Rock
Island, where he obtained his first experience in the grocery business. He then
enlisted on the 23d of September, 1861, as a member of Company I, Twelfth
Missouri Infantry. He was enrolled at Davenport and joined his regiment at St.
Louis, where he obtained his first experience in the grocery business. He then
enlisted on the 23d of September, 1861, as a member of Company I, Twelfth
Missouri Infantry. He was enrolled at Davenport and joined his regiment at St.
Louis, after which he went up the Missouri river to Jefferson City, where the
regiment were in camp for a couple of weeks, proceeding thence by rail to
Sedalia, where they spent two day. They afterward marched to Springfield,
Missouri, and winter quarters were established at Rolla, Missouri. In January,
however, they broke camp and proceeded southward into Arkansas, participating in
the battle of Pea Ridge, the next battle at Chickasaw Bayou occurring about New
Year's day of 1862, after which the troops took part in the battle of Arkansas
Post. Later came the battles of Jackson and Vicksburg, including the siege of
the latter place until its capitulation. From that point the regiment proceeded
to Memphis, where three days were spent, after which they started to Chattanooga
and took part in the battles of Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge,
proceeding on the Ringgold, where they again met the enemy in a hotly contested
engagement. From that point they went to Woodville, Alabama, and camped there
until May 1st. Mr. Schlapkohl with his command was all through the Atlanta
campaign and after the capture of the city he was mustered out at St. Louis,
September 23, 1864, by reason of the expiration of his three years' term of
service.
Mr. Schlapkohl then returned to Davenport and in 1866 joined Mr. Prim in the
grocery business on Harrison street. Later they removed to Second street, where
the business was conducted until 1871, when the partnership was dissolved, Mr.
Schlapkohl remaining alone in the grocery trade for thirty-seven years, or until
the time of his retirement in 1903. For more than a third of a century he was
one of the well known leading and prominent grocery merchants of the city,
having a large trade which came to him as the result of his well selected line
of goods, his careful business management, his reasonable prices and honorable
dealing.
On the 22d of June, 1868, occurred the marriage of Mr. Schlapkohl and Miss
Theresa Schmidt, a daughter of Carl Schmidt, of Long Grove. Unto them have been
born seven children: Hulda, who married Charles Korn, of Davenport, and has
three children, Gertrude, Ferdinand and Charles; Matilda, the wife of Chris
Wohlert, of this city; Henry, deceased; Marie, at home; William, a business man
of Durant, Iowa, who married Miss Petersen and has one child, Alice; Dora, who
is a teacher in the schools of Davenport; and Thelka, at home.
Mr. Schlapkohl is a member of the Unitarian church and also belongs to the
Turners and the Pioneer German Society. In politics he is a republican and is a
citizen of worth, loyal at all times to high principles of manhood and to the
best interests of municipal, state and national government. Moreover, he is a
self-made man, dependent upon his own resources from an early age, working
earnestly for the success which he has achieved, realizing ever that "there
is no excellence without labor." His diligence has constituted the key that
has unlocked for him the portals of success, enabling him now to live retired.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann