C. Henry Bohm
C. Henry Bohm, one of the thrifty and energetic sons of Germany who has been a factor in the agricultural development of Washington township, was born in Oldenburg on the 16th of December, 1856.
His parents, Henry and Sophia Bohm, are still living in the fatherland. Five children were born to them, of whom the son Henry is the eldest. The others are: Lizzie, who lives in Germany; Doris, now Mrs. Krueger, living in Hanover township; Augusta, who married August Miller, of Goodrich township; and Antone, living in Germany.
C. Henry Bohm obtained his education in the common schools of his native land. When he was old enough to lay aside his text-books he obtained work on a farm and continued in this occupation until he was twenty-seven years of age, at which time he decided that the United States afforded better opportunities for industrious young men than the old country and so took passage for America. Upon his arrival here he made his way westward to Rock Island, Illinois, where he obtained employment in a sawmill.
He remained there but a few months, however, and then came to Crawford county, Iowa, where he worked as a farm hand for two years, first near Denison and later in Milford township. During that period he accumulated the means necessary to begin farming for himself, so rented land in Goodrich township, which he cultivated for six years. At the end of that time he went to Paradise township, where he rented land for two years and then bought eighty acres but soon afterward removed to Washington township. He farmed there as a renter for three years and then bought the land he was cultivating, making all of the payments. in five years. Later he bought his present homestead, consisting of two hundred and forty acres on section 19, Washington township, where he engages in general farming and stock-raising, in both of which he is meeting with marked success. During the period of his residence he has effected many improvements, making his farm one of the most valuable in that portion of the county.
In 1885 Mr. Bohm was united in marriage to Miss Christina Moss, a native of Germany, who passed away in 1894. Five children were born of this union, but the eldest son, William, is the only one now surviving. For his second wife Mr. Bohm chose Miss Lena Grammerstrof, their marriage being solemnized in 1895, and unto them were born the following: Emil, Carl, Eddie and Augusta.
The family always attend the Lutheran church, with which denomination the parents are identified by membership. Ever since he was granted the full rights of citizenship Mr. Bohm has given his political support to the republican party, considering that its policy is best adapted to subserve the interests of the majority. Although he does not actively participate in municipal affairs, not aspiring to public office, he fulfills the demands of good citizenship by going to the polls on election day and casting a ballot. Mr. Bohm's life, like those of many of his fellow countrymen, most clearly demonstrates what it is possible to accomplish in America with an asset of perseverance and determination.
Source: History of Crawford County, Iowa. Vol. II. Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Co., 1911.