West Liberty History 1838-1938

Source: One Hundred Years of History
* Commemorating a Century of Progress in the West Liberty Community * WEST LIBERTY, IOWA
PETER POLDERS

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Polders were among the early settlers in West Liberty, coming here about 1856. The railroad had not yet reached the town.

They lived first in a little building on Third street near where the A. and P. store now stands. This served as a home and a workshop. Mr Polders was a boot and shoe maker and worked at his trade until late in the night. Many travelers going through were attracted by his light and stopped for aid or directions, and many times Mrs. Polders would arise to cook something for the hungry wayfarers.

The Polders had one child at this time, Henry, who still resides in West Liberty and who, until the last few years, has carried on the shoe business which his father established in that early day.

Their first real house was built where Swart and Brooke's garage now stands. Here was born Amelia Polders Kimball, who still lives here; Charles of New Orleans; Will of Eugene, Oregon, and Minnie, of West Liberty.

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