GEORGE F. THEDE

The name of Thede is one of the honored designations in Cedar county and especially in Farmington township, where the family is so well and so favorably known. Among the younger members of this family is George F. Thede, who was born in Muscatine county, Iowa, April 11, 1873, but has spent the most of his life in this county. He is the son of Juergen Thede, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work, and Maria Catherine (Broders) Thede. According to the universal custom in farming districts, he received his early education in the country schools and there evinced a taste for further study which led to his attendance at the Normal Scientific Academy, of Wilton, Iowa. He was an apt student and undoubtedly could have attained success had he devoted himself to higher education.

On leaving school Mr. Thede entered the real-estate business at Wilton, continuing for two years and handling Texas and Oklahoma lands. The atmosphere of business did not prove congenial to a young man who had been reared under the blue skies and amid the inspiring scenes of the farm. Accordingly he retired from the real-estate field and began farming and later came into possession of one hundred and sixty acres of the old homestead. His farm is one of the richest in the township and possesses a complete outfit of buildings which show good taste and practical judgment. Mr. Thede has been progressive as a general farmer, but during recent years he has acquired a herd of registered shorthorn cattle and also a herd of registered Duroc Jersey swine, and it is his intention to make a specialty of these breeds, for which there is a constantly growing demand. There is every probability that he will build up an excellent reputation as a breeder of fine stock.

On May 25, 1898, Mr. Thede was united in marriage to Miss Matilda Leth, of Cedar county, a daughter of Harry Leth, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. Two children have blessed this union, Vernon McKinley and Estella Augusta.

Mr. Thede ever since he arrived at his majority has supported the republican party as the one whose principles best represent the advancing demands of the age, and while he has not sought public office, he freely assists friends who desire to participate in its honors. Socially he is a highly popular man wherever he is known and is a member of the Knights of Pythias. Established in a comfortable home, the head of a happy family and successfully engaged in a business for which he is eminently adapted, the subject of this review has gained recognition as one of the enterprising farmers of the county and the respect of the people of the neighborhood.