Rev. Adam Smith, pastor of the United Brethren church, Monona, was born in Worms, on the River Rhine, Germany, on the 30th day of May, 1840. His parents, John and Barbara (Genuine) Smith, were married at Worms, where eight children were born, seven living-- John, Jacob, Adam, Charles, Cathine, Ann and Lucy. Mr. Smith was a professor in Burstadt College, and died in 1880. Mrs. Smith is still living in her native country. Adam was educated in Burstadt College, going as far as the third department, and receiving a certificate in the English and German languages. In 1860 he left his native country for the United States, and located in New York City, where he was employed in the German missionary calling for two years. He then came to Freeport, Stephenson County, Ill., and engaged in the general mercantile business, which he prosecuted for four years. From there he went to Waverly, Bremer County, Ia., where he embarked in the boot and shoe business, and in the meantime joined the conference, which called him to different fields. In 1863 he married Caroline Meincer, of Stephenson County, Ill. Their union has been blessed with five children-- Bertha, Louis, George, Julia and Caroline. Mr. Smith is a man of superior mental endowments and fine oratorical powers. source: History of Clayton
County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1062 |