Of the various peoples and nationalities who have helped to build up and develop the many resources of the State of Iowa, and especially of the beautiful City of Davenport, none has contributed more largely to the results achieved than the thrifty and industrious German element. Honest and frugal and upright in their business relations, and conservative in their investments, they have been ready to support any enterprise intended to add to the material prosperity of their adopted city and country. One of the most respected citizens of this class was August Warnebold.
Born in the Province of Hanover, Germany, September 11, 1828, he came to America in 1854, and settled first in St. Louis, to which place his brother William - a candle maker by trade - had preceded him. He remained in St. Louis until 1855, when he removed to Davenport and opened a confectionery store. He shortly afterward engaged in the grocery business, and then in the grain business. Mr. Warnebold was very successful in the latter business and thus made a good start in life. He then bought several shares of stock in the Davenport Plow Works, and was elected vice-president of the company, and later president. In 1879 he began the milling business, and was engaged in that business when he died in 1891.
He was united in marriage to Miss Fredericka Wittenberg (who was also a native of Germany), in 1861, and six children were born to them, of whom two are now living. August Warnebold was a man of large influence and good business capacity. He was a director of the Oakdale Cemetery, and was instrumental in the organization of the Crematory Society, and in erecting the German crematory of Davenport, but died before it was completed. He was a member of the Turners, Schuetzen Verein, United Workmen and the Iowa Legion of Honor.
He was one of the originators of the First National Bank of Davenport, and was one of its first directors, which position he held for many years. He also served the city two years in the capacity of alderman.
BIOGRAPHIES