John D. Scheldorf
Since sixteen years of age John D. Scheldorf has resided in Crawford county and he still lives on the old homestead in West Side township.
He is a native of Iowa, born in Clinton county, March 24, 1872, and is a son of Detlef and Margaret (Suhr) Scheldorf, both of whom were born in Germany. The parents came to America in 1871 and lived for four years in Clinton county, Iowa, when they removed to Sac county, and five years later took up their residence in Carroll county. The mother passed away in 1880 and eight years later the father came with his children to Crawford county, where he continued until his death, which occurred in September, 1909. There were six children in the family, two of whom are now living: John D., the subject of this review; and Hannah, the wife of Theodore Thompson, of Clinton county, Iowa.
John D. Scheldorf received his education in the district schools and at the age of sixteen came with his father to this county, continuing at home until after reaching his maturity. He early showed an inclination for agricultural pursuits and under his father gained a practical knowledge of farm work. He began business upon his own account by renting the old homestead, which he purchased six years later and has since managed under his own name. It consists of one hundred and sixty acres of good land and is located on section 11, West Side township. He is a general farmer and also engages in feeding and shipping stock, his labors having been abundantly rewarded. He has made many improvements upon the place, thus keeping abreast of the times and adding materially to the value of the property.
In 1900 Mr. Scheldorf was united in marriage to Miss Emma M. Ohde, who was born in Hayes township, November 10, 1880, a daughter of George and Anna (Everhardt) Ohde. The parents were born in Germany and came to America, making their home in Clinton county, Iowa, but later establishing themselves upon a farm in Crawford county. They are now living at Manning, Carroll county. There were eight children in their family. Five children have come to bless the union of Mr. and Mrs. Scheldorf: Marvel W., who was born February 15, 1902; Viola M., born May 30, 1903; Ranald D., born March 17, 1905; Rufert George, born January 15, 1907; and Wilbur John, born February 20, 1909.
Mr. Scheldorf deserves great credit for the excellent work he has done upon his farm and for his energy and enterprise. In everything he has undertaken he has always been true to every trust and well merits the esteem in which he is held by his friends and neighbors. . Politically he is affiliated with the republican party and has taken an active interest in local politics. He was elected as road superintendent and also served faithfully as a member of the school board. Few men have the good-will of their fellowmen in a higher degree.
Source: History of Crawford County, Iowa. Vol. II. Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Co., 1911.