Mathias Grossmann, 1899 Biography

GROSSMANN, SCHMITT

Posted By: David Reineke (email)
Date: 3/11/2007 at 18:59:06

I translated the following biography from Der Carroll Demokrat, a German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and 1920. It was originally published in a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the paper on Friday, 20 September 1899. Words in quotations are original. Any information in brackets or notes at the end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:

Mathias Grossmann

The above-named man was born on 19 January 1843 in Hermeskeil, County of Trier, Province of Rhine Prussia. After he completed his schooling, he learned the trade of slater with his father, and he stayed with his parents until his 20th year. He then served the King of Prussia in the 70th Infantry Regiment, which was then garrisoned in Sarlouis. As a hospital orderly, he took part in the campaign against Austria [Austro-Prussian War], after which, honorably discharged, he returned and took up his occupation with his father. In July 1860 Mr. Grossmann married Miss Margaretha Schmitt, but just three days later he had to leave his wife to answer the summons of his king, who was calling the Germans to war against France [Franco-Prussian War]. He again served as a hospital orderly and received honors. He was discharged with distinction, after which he remained in his fatherland until March 1872. He then immigrated with his young wife to America, settling first in Clinton County [Iowa], where worked at all kinds of jobs. On 1 November 1872 he and his family moved to Sheridan Township, Carroll County, where he purchased a 120-acre farm. He later increased his real estate by 137 acres, so the farm now consists of 257 acres. This happy marriage produced three children, two of whom died in childhood. The still-living son is named Johann. Mr. M. Grossmann belongs to St. Mary’s Parish in Mt. Carmel and is popular and respected among all his acquaintances.