~Page 815~

Henry W. Gross

The gentleman whose name appears above is one of the many thousands of German-born people who cast their lot with Iowa and have done so much to make her the proudest of all the agricultural commonwealths. Though, as a general thing, Germans seem to prefer the pursuits of cities, they also show a fine adaptation to the country when their lot is cast in that direction. There are no better farmers, as they possess the very qualities necessary to succeed in the exacting work of farming. They are economical and doggedly persistent in carrying out their objects. They also have excellent judgment of stock and farm values, knowing exactly what things are worth and how to get them. Iowa has no better farmers than the population that came to her from Germany, and her obligations to these people as state-builders are very great.

Henry W. Gross was born in Germany May 9, 1873, his father being named Henry. He had the benefit of a good education before leaving his native land, being a pupil in the excellent schools of that country for nine years. When his father decided to emigrate to America he brought his son along, locating near Eldorado in Fayette county. Henry attended school at this place for about three months, his teacher being Rev. G. Blessin. He went to work for his father on the latter's farm and kept this up for three years. Next he worked out for ten years, going through all the hardships and drudgery incident to such a life. The training, however, was valuable, as he learned all the details and endless routine of farm work, preparatory to the time when he should have a farm of his own. This opportunity came to him after his marriage, when he found himself in charge of one hundred and sixty acres of land east of Eldorado. He has been engaged in the business for ten years and has something to show for his work. He has made many improvements, including buildings of various kinds, such as he needed in the operations. The whole farm has been touched up, the fencing is kept in good order, the soil in proper shape for cultivating and all other things are done that bespeak the progressive farmer. Mr. Gross is fond of stock and keeps a good grade on his place. He does not attempt fancy farming, nor does he handle the expensive thoroughbreds, but he farms in a general all around way which, after years of experience, has been found safest.

In 1900 Mr. Gross married Sabina, daughter of Fred Vagts, whose sketch will be found elsewhere in this work. Mr. And Mrs. Gross have three children, Arthur, Richard and Lottie. The family are members of the Lutheran church and Mr. Gross is independent in politics."

~transcribed for the Fayette Co IAGenWeb Project by Richard Smith