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Nicholas Schori, who was long a resident of this county, his home being now in Elgin, was born in Canton Berne, Switzerland, on the 28th of October, 1833, and his parents, John and Elizabeth (Spring) Schori, were also natives of the same canton. His father owned a farm in that country, but spent the greater part of his time in work at the mechanic's trade. In the family were eight children, of whom Nicholas is the eldest and only son. In the usual manner of farmer lads he was reared to manhood, receiving his education in the common schools of the neighborhood. It was his desire to try his fortune in the New World, and in April, 1857, in a western bound sailing-vessel he made the voyage to America, reaching his destination after thirty-seven and a half days. He was also the first of the family to come to the United States. The summer succeeding his arrival, he spent in work upon a farm near Rochester, N. Y., receiving $12 per month as a compensation for his services. It was in the autumn of the same year that he came to this county. In 1858 his parents and the remainder of the children came to the United States and joined Nicholas in this county. The mother's death occurred in Elgin in about 1885, but the father is still living in that town. He was also owner of a farm in this county, but before he laid aside business cares gave his attention to mechanical pursuits.

Nicholas Schori began farming for himself on his father's land, receiving half of the crops as his share. He was successful and was soon able to farm on his own account. Having operated rented land until he had accumulated a few hundred dollars he went to Ft. Atkinson, Iowa, in 1871, where he successfully carried on a lumber-yard for three years, at the end of which time he traded his property there for five acres where he now lives, and a brewery which he operated until the prohibition law came into effect. In 1888 he bought the Elgin roller mill, which he refitted in modern style, making it a first class mill. In connection with this he owns one hundred and thirty-eight acres of land in and near Elgin. He is also a heavy stockholder in the Elgin Canning Company, of which he is Trustee.

On the 4th of April, 1865, in Elkader, Mr. Schori was united in marriage with Miss Mary Lehman, a daughter of John and Mary (Miller) Lehman. The lady was born in the Canton Berne, Switzerland, February 9, 1847, and when five years old accompanied her parents on their emigration to America. By their union have been born six children: Rosaline, who died at the age of eighteen years; Emma, who died at the age of seventeen years; Frederick, who has been a deaf mute since eighteen months old, the affliction resulting from scarlet fever; George and Louise are twins; and Celia.

In political sentiment Mr. Schori is a supporter of Democratic principles. At present he is serving as Township Trustee, and at different times has held a number of official positions. He has made what he has by his own efforts, and has found much more pleasure and profit in brewing beer than in brewing trouble.