John Eymann, who owns one hundred and fifty-four acres of good land in Orient township, is one of the excellent citizens whom Germany has given to Iowa. His birth occurred in the fatherland, May 4, 1857, and he is a son of Cornelius and Katherine (Berkholder) Eymann, both natives of Germany, where they passed their entire lives. To them were born three children, but our subject is the only one now living. John Eymann received a good education in his native land and remained at home until he was twenty-three years of age. In 1880 he came to America, as he had heard much concerning the unusually good opportunities here for the young man ambitious to make his way in the world. He first located in Mahaska county, Iowa, and worked as a farm hand there for two years. At the end of that time he came to Adair county and continued in the employ of others for two years. In the meantime he carefully saved his earnings and then rented a farm, which he operated for thirteen years, after which he purchased one hundred and fifty-four and a half acres on section 5, Orient township, where he now resides. The place is splendidly improved and Mr. Eymann uses up-to-date methods in his work as an agriculturist. In 1884 Mr. Eymann married Miss Elizabeth Eymann, who, although of the same name, is not a relative. Her birth also occurred in Germany and she is a daughter of Peter and Mary (Grabill) Eymann, both natives of the fatherland. In 183 they emigrated to the United States and located in New Jersey, where her father passed away. Her mother is still living at the venerable age of eighty-eight years. They were the parents of ten children, but five of whom survive. Mr. and Mrs. John Eymann have two children: Helena, who for six years taught school but now is the wife of John Gildermister; and Cornelius, a resident of Greenfield. Mr. Eymann gives his political alegiance to the republican party and has served ably as school director. He and his wife both attend the Congregational church and their lives are forces for good in their community. The prosperity which they now enjoy is due entirely to their own labors and thrift. They have the confidence and goodwill of all who know them and there are many who are their warm friends. |