Heinrich Hermsen, 1899 Biography

HERMSEN

Posted By: David Reineke (email)
Date: 3/3/2004 at 00:47:18

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. I have not changed the place or name spellings (for example, the article spells his name both Henrich and Heinrich), but I have added some possible corrections in brackets and some notes at the end. It reads as follows:

Henrich Hermsen

The good citizens of Kniest Township have the honor to have a representative in the United States Army in the person of Mr. Heinrich Hermsen, who as a valiant soldier took part in the war in Cuba against Spain. [Spanish-American War] He grew up in Kniest Township, and entered the military at Omaha in 1887. During the period of his service, his regiment was often employed to subdue Indian disturbances. When the war with Spain broke out, his regiment was among the first regular troops that landed and brought the Spanish to their senses. Mr. Hermsen especially distinguished himself at the battle of San Diago [Santiago] and participated in several engagements and skirmishes.

When the war ended with the total suppression of Spain, he was honorably discharged with great distinction. Taken with the notion of seeing his family once again, he returned on a visit to Kniest Township where he, like a dear and affectionate son, embraced his elderly mother and greeted his brothers and relatives, who were naturally overjoyed to see him healthy and safe and sound. Of course, the remaining citizens of Kniest Township were also happy to shake the hand of the dapper soldier after so long an absence. But the soldier did not permit himself to stay at home long; he soon reported again for duty, was mustered in, and now finds himself back in Cuba with his regiment, which according to the latest reports is located in Chienfuego.

Accompanying this article, the Anniversary Edition presents an accurate photo of the brave soldier, who has long since advanced to a higher rank.

NOTES: The article does not list place of birth or names of any relatives.