Scott Co, Iowa - IAGenWeb Project
William M. Smith
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Smith, Weinkle, Goetch, Miller, Schnell, Jeske, Toppendorf.
To William M. Smith, Civil war veteran and survivor of some of its fiercest conflicts, Scott county pioneer, and formerly one of Davenport's foremost business men, must be accorded a prominent place on the list of her retired citizens. After a well spent, industrious life, it is his happy fate to enjoy the peace and leisure of retirement in his declining years.
He was born I Westmoreland county Pennsylvania, February 25, 1837, and is of German descent, his parent, Daniel and Barbara (Weinkle) Smith, being by birth subjects of the German emperor. The father was educated in the German schools, learned the trade of a blacksmith and entered the German army, where he served for the prescribed time. When still a young man he became a citizen of the United States, locating in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, where he followed his trade until 1854, when he brought his family to Scott county, Iowa. In Davenport he engaged in blacksmithing for several years, and both he and his wife died in this city.
William M. Smith received his education in the schools of the county in which he was born and after the family's removal to Iowa worked in sawmills until the breaking out of the Rebellion. In 1862 he enlisted in Company C, Twentieth Iowa Infantry, his service continuing until the close of the war. Joining the regiment at Clinton, Iowa, he went into camp with it at Camp McClellan for a short time. It was then ordered to St. Louis, Missouri, and after remaining there for a time, was inactive service in that state. It subsequently participated in a number of engagements, among them Prairie Grove, Arkansas; Vicksburg and Fort Blakeley. He was mustered out at the close of the war at Mobile, Alabama.
During the trying reconstruction period Mr. Smith came back to Davenport and established himself in business as a manufacturer of vinegar. In partnership with Edward Fay, he opened a store on Front street, dealing in wrapping paper and grocery sundries, and they continued together until 1882, in which year the partnership was dissolved and Mr. Smith organized the Amazon Vinegar & Pickling Company, a local company with a capital stock of thirty thousand dollars. For four years our subject acted as business manager, but in 1886 he severed his connection with the company and bought three hundred and twenty acres of farm land in Butler township, where he lived and engaged in agriculture until 1901, when he retired from active life and returned to Davenport.
In August, 1863, Mr. Smith married Miss Clara Goetch, a daughter of Herman Goetch, one of Davenport's pioneers. Thirteen children were born of the union, seven of them being deceased. Those living are: W. H. Smith, of Davenport, his wife having been before her marriage Miss Anna Miller; Hilda, who married Matthew Schnell, of Chicago; Gustave, a resident of Rock Island; Ella, the wife of John Jeske, of Davenport; Arthur, who is married and living in Davenport; and Freda, who married Henry Toppendorf of Rock Island.
The social is not wanting from Mr. Smith's nature and he is identified with several organizations, among them the Legion of Honor and the Knights of Pythias lodge No. 10, of Davenport. A self-made man, he has a successful lie to look back upon.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
D. J. McCarthy, M. D. Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: McCarthy, Duffy.
Dr. D. J. McCarthy, one of the leading members of the medical fraternity in Davenport, has here been engaged in general practice since December, 1900, making a specialty of surgery. His birth occurred in South Groveland, Massachusetts, on the 18th of March, 1874, his parents being Philip and Cecilia (Duffy) McCarthy, the former a native of Ireland and the latter of Massachusetts. The father is still a resident of the old Bay state.
D. J. McCarthy supplemented his preliminary education, obtained in the public schools of his native state, by a course in Holy Cross College of Worcester, Massachusetts. Subsequently he entered Georgetown University at Washington D. C., where he received the degrees of Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts, while in 1899 the degree of M. D. was conferred upon him. In addition to this very thorough collegiate work he was a believer, as he is still, in the doctrine of a sound mind in a sound body; and to this end he became a leader on the athletic field, leading the varsity baseball nine in its now famous victories against the eastern college teams, and being otherwise prominent in athletic circles. After leaving college he served on the university medical staff at Georgetown and the hospital staff at Providence hospital, in Washington, which is known as one of the strongest and most thorough hospitals in the United States. In December, 1900, he located for practice at Davenport, Iowa, and has here since remained, being now widely recognized as one of the most prominent representatives of his profession in the city. He makes a specialty of surgery and in this branch of practice has established an enviable reputation. He keeps in touch with the onward march of the profession through his membership in the various medical societies, and is a member of the board of Mercy Hospital, and of St. Luke's Hospital. He is also visiting physician to St. Vincent's Orphanage and Immaculate Conception Academy. The splendid practice which he now enjoys has come to him in recognition of his skill and ability in the field of labor which he has chosen as a life work.
Fraternally Dr. McCarthy is identified with the Knights of Columbus and the Knights of Father Mathew. He is a man of marked individuality, of strong character and stalwart purpose, who in citizenship and professional circles and in private life commands the respect of all with whom he has been brought in contact.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Rt. Rev. James Davis, D. D. Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Davis, Fogarly, Welch, Hennessey, McMullen, Cosgrove, Trevis.
The Right Rev. James Davis, bishop of Iowa, was born in November, 1852, in County Kilkenny, Ireland, a son of James and Margaret Davis, who were devoted to their church and their children were reared in a strong religious atmosphere. The eldest, Thomas, who died October 4, 1904, entered the religious order of the Carmelites and rose to the rank of provincial in Ireland. Richard is an esteemed Catholic priest of Louisville, Kentucky. Three sisters are connected with religious orders, one being Superior of Sacred Heart convent at Sag Harbor, Long Island. Another, St. Sebastian, is a member of the same order at Befie, France, and a third, Sister Constance, is Superior of the Immaculate Conception Academy at Newport, Kentucky.
The early religious instruction of Bishop Davis was received under the direction of the very Rev. F. Fogarly, P. P., at Donemagin. He began his studies for the church at Mr. Carmelite College, Knocktopher, under the direction of the Carmelite Fathers. After completing his classical courses, he entered St. Patrick's Ecclesiastical College in Carlow, where he completed his theological course. His ordination to the priesthood took place June 21, 1878, the Right Rev. Bishop Welch, of the diocese of Kildare and Longhlain, officiating.
Soon thereafter he came to the he United States and entered upon his clerical duties in Iowa, he having been adopted by the Right Rev. Bishop Hennessey, of Dubuque, during the time he was studying in Carlow. After a short period spent at the cathedral in Dubuque, Bishop Davis was assigned to St. Peter's church at Windham, Iowa, where he remained for two years. He was then at St. Mary's church at Oxford, Iowa, for four years, and it was while he was there that the original diocese of Dubuque, then embracing the whole state, was divided and Davenport made the see (sic) city of the new diocese. The Right Rev. McMullen, D. D., was the first bishop, he being succeeded by the Right Rev. A. Cosgrove, who in 1884 assigned Father Davis to St. Michael's church at Holbrook, Iowa. There he was given full opportunity to demonstrate his ability as an organizer and upon the resignation of the Very Rev. A. Trevis of Cathedral, Father Davis was appointed in November, 1889, to preside over the Cathedral congregation at Davenport. From the beginning he faced hard work, the erection of the Sacred Heart church. He brought to bear his magnificent powers of organization, worked unceasingly with faithful zeal, and had the satisfaction of participating in its dedication. After six years of remarkable work, Father Davis was appointed to the office of vicar general made vacant by the death of the Very Rev. A. Trevis, December 18, 1895. In the years that followed he continued to labor faithfully for his church and the people under his charge, and November 30, 1904, he was consecrated bishop to succeed Bishop Cosgrove.
Probably there is no dignitary of the church in America who is more universally honored and beloved, irrespective of religious beliefs, than Bishop Davis. Learned, experienced and sympathetic, he not only is laboring for the good of his own people but to advance Davenport and Iowa and to maintain the highest possible standard of morality.Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Henry Diehn, Sr. Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Diehn, Krabenhoffer, Neimand, Vickbolt, Timming, Goetsch, Schraeder, Schoffenburg, Ehlers.
Henry Diehn, Sr., the vice president of eh Davenport Cigar Box Company, one of the flourishing industries of the city, was born in Mecklenburg, Germany, June 6, 1837, and is a son of John and Margaret Diehn. He received his education in the public schools of his native land, later finding employment in the brickyards there. In 1868 he determined to try the opportunities for advancement said to be found here accordingly sailed for America. He landed at New York, came almost immediately to Davenport, where the first employment he was able to secure was in a brewery. He worked there five years and then became connected with Moeller's cigar box factory, in which he learned the business thoroughly. He was ever eager to better his fortunes and establish himself securely in the commercial world, and accordingly, about 1884, he and two friends, George Krabenhoffer and Christ Neimand, organized the Davenport Cigar Box Company, with a factory on Western avenue. A year and a half later Mr. Neimand sold his interest to Theodore Krabenhoffer and retired, and in 1896 the present company was incorporated with other stockholders and local capital. From the beginning it has been a prosperous concern, doing each year an amount of business in excess of that of the preceding year and fully justifying Mr. Diehn's confidence in his ability, his sagacity and in his power to wrest from circumstances surrounding him the means for advancement, for he has been largely instrumental in its success.
Before he came to the United States Mr. Diehn wedded Miss Fredrica Vickbolt, whose birth occurred October 24, 1840. She passed away July 26, 1907, and is survived by five of her six children, Christ, employed in the box factory, married Miss Emma Timming, and they have one son, Julius. Mary became the wife of Herman Goetsch and they have three children, Arthur, Herbert and Ella. Henry, Jr., foreman in the factory, married Miss Louise Schraeder, and they have a daughter, Leona. August, a resident of Ottumwa county, Iowa, was married to Miss Charlotte Schoffenburg and is the father of three children, Verona, Barnhart and August. Herman, who lives in Davenport, wedded Miss Dora Ehlers. Louisa is deceased.
While Mr. Diehn has been most closely identified with the concern of which he is vice president and which he was active in promoting from the beginning, he has not been blind to the business opportunities afforded by other firms, but has become a stockholder in the Farmer's Bank and in the Independent Brewing Company. He has always been active in the commercial affairs of Davenport, although of recent years he has taken less part than in the past. He came to the he city with the determination to make a place for himself and despite competitors may feel gratified with the success the past has brought him.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Oliver W. Kulp, M. D.
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Kulp, Cauffman, Bettendorf.
Dr. Oliver W. Kulp, physician and surgeon of Davenport, his native city, was born July 4, 1874, the son of Dr. John H. Kulp, who was a native of Sherman, Summit county, Ohio, born on the 21st of June, 1849. John H. Kulp obtained his literary education in the Mennonite Academy at Wadsworth, Ohio, an din 1869 came to Iowa, taking up the study of medicine in the medical department of the University of Iowa, which institution conferred upon him the degree of M. D. in 1872. He had studied under the direction of Professor Robertson, of Muscatine, Iowa, who was professor of the theory and practice of medicine in the University of Iowa. Prior to his graduation he entered the State Hospital for the Insane at Mount Pleasant, Iowa, as apothecary and hospital clerk and after receiving his degree he was appointed second assistant physician of that institution, which position he held for two and a half years, when he was made first assistant. He likewise spent one season at post-graduate work in Bellevue Hospital of New York city and in 1874 opened an office at Davenport, Iowa, continuing a successful and prominent practitioner of medicine here until the time of his demise. He gradually began specializing in nervous and mental diseases and diseases of women and eventually devoted his attention exclusively to those branches. For more than twenty years he acted as trustee of Mount Pleasant Hospital, was a member of the consulting board of St. Luke's Hospital and served as alienist of the insane department at Mercy Hospital. He was likewise surgeon for the Burlington, Cedar Rapids & Northern Railroad. For two terms he acted as president of the Scott County Medical Society, while in the Iowa and Illinois Central District Medical Society he was also elected to that responsible position, serving for one term.
On the 24th of September, 1873, Dr. John H. Kulp was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary E. Cauffman, of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, by whom he had two sons: Oliver W., of this review; and Ray Ranney, who is mentioned elsewhere in this work. Both have followed in the professional footsteps of their father. John H. Kulp was a republican in his political views, while fraternally he was identified with the Masons and the Knights of Pythias.
Oliver W. Kulp was educated in the public schools, wherein he continued his course until graduating from the high school. He then entered upon the study of medicine in the Iowa State University and was graduated in the class of 1896, after which he entered his father's office and practiced as his partner until the outbreak of the Spanish-American war, when he enlisted as a private of Company B, Fiftieth Iowa infantry, with which he served until stricken with swamp fever. He still remained an active member of the National Guard, holding the rank of captain until February 10, 1910, when he resigned. Since his return home he has devoted his attention to his practice. He takes a deep interest in public affairs but is not an office seeker. His political support is given to the republican party where national issues are involved but at local elections he casts an independent ballot.
In 1902 Dr. Kulp wedded Miss May Bettendorf, a daughter of W. P. Bettendorf, and they have one son, John William. Dr. Kulp is identified with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and with other fraternal societies.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Charles Murray Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Murray, Rigg, Clay.
Charles Murray, one of the prominent and highly respected farmers of Davenport township, was born I Scotland, April 8, 1850, and is a son of Charles and Barbara Murray. In the year 1856 the parents brought their family to the United States, landing at Philadelphia, whence they made their way to Scott county, Iowa, influenced in their choice of a destination by the fact that the father had a brother, George Murray, living in this locality. On reaching Scott county he rented land from his brother George until his savings were sufficient to enable him to purchase a farm, and in time he became the owner of two farms in Hickory Grove township. He afterward sold those properties and bought the farm upon which his son Charles now resides. At one time it comprised three hundred and twenty acres of fine land, highly improved, and the parents made their home upon this place until they were called to their final rest, the father passing away at the age of seventy-five years, while the mother was seventy years of age at the time of her death.
Charles Murray, who was one of a family of nine children, has lived in Scott county from the age of six years. He had begun his education in the schools of Scotland, but the greater part of his technical knowledge was received in the public schools of this county. He was trained in the work of the fields under the direction of his father and early became familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist as he plow his land and cultivates and harvests his crops. Throughout his entire life Mr. Murray has carried on general farming and stock-raising, making specialty of Poland China hogs and red polled cattle. He now owns eighty acres of arable land and his careful cultivation of his fields enables him to gather rich harvests annually.
In November, 1872, Mr. Murray was united in marriage to Miss Christina Rigg, a daughter of William and Mary Rigg, of Sheridan township, and they have become parents of five children: William C., Margaret, Louisa, Edward and Elsie. All are yet at home with the exception of the elder son, William, who is living in Lincoln township. He married Lillie Clay and has two children, Clay C. and Clyde.
Mr. Murray has always been a champion of the cause of education and is now serving as president of the school board. He has also acted for several years as school director, has been road supervisor and township trustee and in these various offices has discharged his duties with promptness and fidelity. He attends the Presbyterian church and holds membership with the Mystic Toilers of Davenport. A resident of the county for more than half a century, he is well known here, many of his stanchest friends being those with whom he has been acquainted from boyhood, a fact which indicates a well spent and honorable life. Moreover, he has been an interested witness of events which have shaped the history of the county and on many occasions has given his support to movements for the public good.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Louis William Steinberg Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Steinberg, Hagen, Ronneberg, Jackson, Schmidt, Doellinger, James, Clausen.
Louis William Steinberg was born on the 3d of November, 1822, in Münden, Hanover, Germany. He came to America with his parents at the age of ten years and landed at Baltimore, where he received his schooling and later went to Cincinnati, Ohio. There following the trade of tailor and cutter. In 1848 he married Anna Wilhelmine Hagen, who was born in Cuxhaven, Germany, on the 25th of March, 1822. Being left an orphan at a tender age, she was reared in the family of Dr. Ronneberg, of Hamburg. At the age of eighteen she came to America as companion to Mrs. Jackson, a relative of the celebrated statesman, General Andrew Jackson. They landed at New Orleans after being at sea nine weeks, making the voyage in a sail boat. In 1852 Mr. and Mrs. Steinberg came to Davenport, where they resided for nearly fifty years.
L. W. Steinberg was one of the first and most active members of the Maennercher of this city. He was also a member of Scott Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and was one of a committee of two to translate the constitution into the German language for the use of the lodge. Though quiet and retiring in his habits, he was passionately fond of music and flowers, and many there were who enjoyed the hospitality of his home, with its beautiful rose garden. He died November 5, 1895, missed and mourned by all who knew him. His wife, who survived him for ten years, passed away on the 23d of October, 1905, at the age of eighty-three years, honored and revered by all relatives and a host of friends. Five daughters are left to cherish the memory of a loving father and devoted mother. They are as follows: Pauline, the wife of E. H. Schmidt; Bertha, the widow of G. A. Doellinger; Cornelia, the widow of Ed James; Eveline, the widow of Otto Clausen; and Miss Tillie Steinberg. All are residents of Davenport.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Charles Keppe Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Keppe, Hepfner, Richard, Wonder, Curtis.
When Charles Keppe first came to Scott county, it was before it had given fullevidence of prosperity which has since distinguished it as an agricultural center and before Davenport had developed beyond village life. Indeed, one of the vivid memories of his youth, in connection with this locality, is the sight of Mr. Fulton and Antoine LeClaire pushing on wheelbarrows the first two loads of dirt which had been dug preparatory to the construction of the first railroad in this state. For many years he engaged in farming successfully upon a large tract of land in Sheridan township, but has now retired from active life and makes his home in Davenport.
Mr. Keppe was born at Neustadt-bei-Magdeburg, Germany, August 1, 1839, a son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Hepfner) Keppe. The former was born in the fatherland in 1797 and could remember many incidents connected with Napoleon's German war and in particular the excitement contingent upon his defeat of 1813. On the 1st of September, 1852, he and his family embarked at Hamburg for the voyage to America. Two months later, on the 1st of November, they touched at New Orleans, and then continued on their way to Davenport, which they reached on the 18th of the month, for their way to Davenport, which they reached on the 18th of the month, for their progress up the Mississippi was very slow on account of the ice. From the time they left Germany until they arrived here they had not landed. It had been a long and tedious trip, throughout which, both for his future reference and for the enlightenment of his sons, Mr. Keppe kept a diary in which the weather and the incidents of passage were set down. In the old country he had been a farmer, and when he came to Scott county, after spending one year in Davenport, he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in Sheridan township, which had been partly improved and for which he paid forty dollars an acre. There the mother died May 25, 1858,in the thirty-eighth year of her age, and there the father resided for twenty-five years, or until he retired from active life and removed to Davenport, where he died at the age of eighty-four. The old homestead has descended to his grandson, Henry Keppe.
On the 9th of October, 1867, Mr. Keppe was married to Miss Wilhelmina Richard, a daughter of Christian and Dorothy Richard. She was born in Germany, May 18, 1847, and came to America with her parents in 1854. Her life was brought to a close April 20, 1904. The four children who were born to Mr. and Mrs. Keppe have also passed away and all are buried in the cemetery at Oakdale. Charles, the eldest of the family, married Miss Minnie Wonder, of Davenport, and left one daughter, Elsie. Emma became the wife of Dennis Curtis, of Davenport, and is survived by five children: Madge, Charles, Nettie, Ralph and Frank. Adeline died unmarried at the age of twenty-five years. Agnes lived to be seven years old.
During the many years Mr. Keppe was a resident of Sheridan township, he was intimately identified with its public life. He was a republican in his political views and upon that party's ticket was elected to all of the various offices within the gift of the people. He belongs to the association of the old German settlers, and is a man highly esteemed by those who have come into contact with him in public or private life, for honesty and integrity ever marked his acts.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Henry L. Holland
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Holland, Schutz, Krahm, Meewes.
Henry L. Holland was for many years one of the respected and worthy citizens of Scott county and, though he has now passed away, he is yet remembered by many who knew him and who prized his friendship. HE was born in Mecklenburg, Germany, November 24, 1840, and was a son of Adolph and Caroling (Schutz) Holland. The family came to the United States in 1851, landing at New York, whence they made their way direct to Scott county, casting in their lot with its early settlers. They remained for two weeks in Davenport and then took up their abode in Winfield township, the father purchasing the farm upon which Mrs. Henry L. Holland now resides. He at firs bought on hundred and fifty-five acres of land and energetically began its development and improvement. For a long period he successfully carried on general agricultural pursuits but at length retired from active business life. His death occurred in Davenport and his wife died while a patient in Mercy Hospital.
Henry L. Holland spent his entire life from the age of eleven years in this county and was reared to the work of the farm, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. He had attended school in Germany and had learned to talk English there, having been provided with liberal educational advantages. After coming to the he United States he spent two years as a pupil in the high school in Davenport and a good education thus qualified him for the careful and successful conduct of business interests. He remained upon the home farm all his life and after his father's retirement took charge of the business, continuing to cultivate and manage the farm until his own demise.
Mr. Holland was united in marriage April 30, 1871, to Miss Sophia Meewes, who was born in Ransberg, Schleswig, Germany, September 26, 1852, a daughter of George and Anna (Krahm) Meewes. Her mother died when Mrs. Holland was but nine months old and she then lived with an aunt until fourteen years of age, when she came to the he United States in company with a friend. Her father had previously crossed the Atlantic and become the owner of a farm in Butler township, this county. Later he sold that property and removed to Liberty township, where he became the owner of three hundred and forty acres of rich and productive land. There he made his home until his death, which occurred in 1890.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Holland were born three children: Henry F., Walter W. and Hilda, all of whom are at home with their mother. The death of the husband and father occurred October 16, 1903, and it was the occasion of deep and widespread regret not only to his immediate family but also to many friends. He was an enterprising and progressive citizen, public-spirited in all of his relations to the community at large. He served as a trustee and school director, holding the latter office for sixteen consecutive years. He also served as constable and as road supervisor and in the discharge of his duties was ever prompt and faithful. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he was a member of the Turners Society of Eldridge. He wisely used the talents with which nature endowed him and in the conduct of his business affairs won a reputation as an honorable, upright man and at the same time gained a substantial measure of success.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Louis Maack Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Maack, Rump, Bennewitz.
Louis Maack, the present mayor of Walcott and the secretary of the firm of Stockdale and Dietz Company, is one of Scott county's native sons, his birth having occurred in Davenport on the 30th of June, 1873. He is a son of John and Dorothea (Rump) Maack, both natives of Germany, the father having been born in Mecklenburg, in 1825, while the mother's birth occurred November 23, 1838. They were married in the fatherland and came to America in 1866, locating in Davenport, where the father was engaged principally in the lumber business. He pawed away on the 6th of January, 1902, but his wife still survives at the advanced age of seventy-one years.
In the public schools of Davenport Louis Maack acquired his early education and he later pursued a course of study in the Tri-City Business College, from which institution he was graduated in 1893. In September of that year he came to Walcott and accepted a position as bookkeeper for the Stockdale & Diehn Company. He was diligent, capable ad faithful in the conduct of his duties and that his efforts were appreciated by his employers is indicated by the fact hat in 1901 he was appointed secretary of the firm at Harris, Iowa. There his ability and true worth were soon recognized and in 1901 he was appointed to serve out an unexpired term as mayor of that city. In 1902 he was regularly elected to that office and no better proof of the excellence of his service in that capacity can be offered than his reelection as chief executive in 1904. In that year he returned to Walcott, at which time the Stockdale & Diehn Company, which had been organized in 1857, was incorporated with Mr. Maack as secretary, in which capacity he has since served. This is one of the important enterprises of the town and his well directed efforts and intelligently applied labors in its behalf have been no small force in its continuous and steady growth. He is today one of the prosperous and influential citizens of Walcott, and his success indicates clearly the business ability which he has displayed and the honest methods which have ever been his.
It was in 1897 that Mr. Maack was united in marriage to Miss Tillie Bennewitz, a daughter of Louis Bennewitz, of whom extended mention is made elsewhere in this volume. Unto this union has been born one son, Roland, who is at home and is the light and life of the household.
Fraternally Mr. Maacke holds membership with Walcott Lodge, No. 312, K. P., and is likewise connected with the Odd Fellows Lodge of Lake Park, Iowa. Politically he has given stalwart support to the principles of democracy since age conferred upon him the right of franchise, and on that ticket in 1908 was elected to the office of mayor. He at once bent his energies to the performance of his official duties with the same thoroughness that has ever characterized his business career. He has never allowed partisanship to influence him but has given Walcott a businesslike, progressive and beneficial administration, in which he has inaugurated various needed reforms and improvements, nor has he failed to check those movements which he deems inimical to the best interests of the city.Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
W. F. Fidlar Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Fidlar, Luse, Lane, Griggs, Watson, Egbert, Chambers.
That W. F. Fidlar occupies a conspicuous and honorable position in commercial circles in Davenport is due entirely to his own efforts. At the outset of his career he realized that energy and determination constitute indispensable factors in success and therefore putting forth strenuous and intelligently directed factors in success and therefore putting forth strenuous and intelligently directed effort he has reached the prominent place which he now occupies in business circles as senior partner of the firm of Fidlar & Chambers.
A native of Ohio, Mr. Fidlar was born in Hebron, Licking county, on the 30th of August, 1841. His father, Samuel P. Fidlar, was a native of Pennsylvania and at an early day removed to Ohio. In 1859 he came to Davenport and was United States mail agent on the Mississippi in the early '60s, his time being thus occupied until his life's labors were ended in death in 1864. He had married Maria M. Moore, who survived him until 1891.
While spending his youthful days under the parental roof in Ohio, W. F. Fidlar there acquired his education and on coming to Davenport, when in his eighteenth year, he entered the employ of Luse, Lane & Company, bookbinders and printers, under whose direction he learned the trade. He remained with the house when the business was taken over by the firm of Griggs, Watson & Day, remaining with the latter firm as an employ until 1868, when the business was reorganized and he entered into partnership relations as a member of the firm of Day, Egbert & Fidlar. In 1880 a change in partnership led to the adoption of the name of Egbert, Fidlar & Chambers and on the death of Mr. Egbert the firm became Fidlar & Chambers. The success of Mr. Fidlar is due undoubtedly in part to the fact that he has always continued in the same line in which he embarked as a young tradesman, concentrating his energies upon this particular field, so that he soon gained intimate and comprehensive knowledge of the business in every department and was therefore able to intelligently direct any phase of the enterprise. Under his capable management the business has become one of Davenport's most successful industrial enterprises, with a patronage of large and profitable proportions.
Mr. Fidlar is not a politician in the commonly accepted sense of the term but at all times manifests that deep interest in public questions which every American citizen should display, and has served as alderman of his ward. He is a very prominent mason and much respected in the fraternity. He became a member of Davenport Lodge in 1864, has always been most loyal to the teachings of the order and when the Masonic Temple was erected he was made one of its first directors. He has taken all the degrees up to the thirty-third and has filled the various chairs in the blue lodge, chapter and commandery. He is a man of high character, exemplifying in his life the beneficent spirit of the craft and is held in highest respect socially and in a business way, for the policy which he pursues has always been in harmony with high commercial ideals. In the conduct of his business he has ever felt that the output of the house should be its best advertisement and therefore has maintained the highest standard of excellence in product. Close application and energy have enabled him to overcome all difficulties and obstacles in his path and his capable utilization of opportunity and coordination of forces have brought him into important relations with the business interests of his adopted city.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Ludwig W. Schmidt Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Schmidt, Moeller, Martzhahn, Kohrs, Wichmann.
Prominent among Scott county's esteemed and substantial citizens is Ludwig W. Schmidt. He holds the splendid farm upon which he is now living in especial affection, for it was here that he was born, May 26, 1857. As his name indicates, Mr. Schmidt is of German origin, his father being Carl F. Schmidt, of Schleswig-Holstein, born April 30, 1828. His grandfather, Fritz Schmidt, was a German school teacher, who in the year 1848 came to America with his five sons of whom Carl was next to eldest. With the idea of engaging in farming they settled in Blue Grass township on land which they purchased from the government, and proceeded to enjoy success in the land of their adoption. This property is still in the possession of the family, Richard Schmidt at the present time residing upon it.
When twenty-six years of age Carl Schmidt left the paternal abode and took possession of a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, upon which his son Ludwig was born and which he afterward possessed. In 1855 he married Miss Sophie Moeller and Ludwig is the eldest of the five children born to them. His brothers are Benjamin L. and Franz L. Schmidt, and his sisters Mrs. August F. Martzhahn and Mrs. John Kohrs, all four of whom reside in Davenport. The father died in 1886, but his wife survives him and makes her home with one of her daughters in Davenport.
When Ludwig Schmidt was about nine years of age his father removed from his farm to the vicinity of Davenport, where in the public schools he with the other children received their education. Upon leaving school he entered upon a life of usefulness by assisting his father, who at that time was conducting a vineyard. After his marriage he took possession of his father's homestead and is still living amid the associations of his early boyhood.
When twenty-three years of age Mr. Schmidt was united in marriage to Miss Emma Martzhahn, a daughter of Fritz Martzhahn, of Scott county. Their union has been blessed by the birth of eight children: Fritz C., aged twenty-seven, still at home, Louis, aged twenty-five; Bruno L. and Ella, twins, twenty-three years of age; Sophie, the wife of George Wichmann, of Davenport; Alfreda, aged sixteen; Benno F., aged fourteen; and Minnie, aged twelve.
Mr. Schmidt is a public-spirited citizen who enjoys the confidence of his fellowmen. He has done efficient public service, having been president of the school board and is now treasurer of the school board of Blue Grass township. Besides his agricultural interests he is a director of the Davenport Slaughtering & Rendering Company; a stockholder in the Blue Grass Savings Bank and the Home Saving Bank of Davenport, and is connected with his brothers' business, the Schmidt Brothers Ice Shipping Company, of Davenport.Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Willie M. Moeller Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Moeller, Feuerbach.
Willie M. Moeller is one those citizens of Cleona township who have remained true to the locality throughout the entire course of their lives. He was born October 6, 1875, upon the homestead where he still resides and is thus bound to it by stronger ties than fall to the lot of many men. His parents, Henry and Caroline (Feuerbach) Moeller, at the time of their relinquishment of the farm, removed to Walcott, where they still reside. The management of the farm now devolves upon our subject and his keeping in touch with the latest in scientific agricultural investigation has been productive of the most satisfactory results. The Moeller property consists of one hundred and ninety-six acres on the section 25, of Cleona township, on the Hickory Grove township line. The subject of the line sketch has been very successful in the breeding of shorthorn polled Durham cattle, of which he owns about one hundred head.
Mr. Moeller received his early education in the schools of his district and gained a practical training by assisting his father in the manifold duties which every well improved farm presents. Later he engaged in school teaching, properly directing the course of the young idea. He is well and favorably known in the community in which he has lived for something over thirty years. He is the eldest in a family of seven children, and one of these, his brother Ferdinand, is associated with him in the cultivation of the estate.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Edward and Theodore Brus Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Brus, Schluter, Robinson, Oswald.
One of the extensive farms in Buffalo township is that cultivated by Edward and Theodore Brus, sons of Jacob Brus, who was one of the prosperous German farmers of Scott county. He was born in Prussia, November 29, 1829, and was about eighteen years of age when he came to America with his father, John H. Brus, for his mother, who was Miss Mary Schluter in her maidenhood, had died in the old country about 1850 and with his father engaged in farming. The latter died in 1879. In 1861 Jacob Brus began farming for himself. He was married on the 7th of January, that year, to Miss Eliza J. Robinson, a daughter of John H. and Mary E. (Oswald) Robinson, and they became the parents of eleven children: John H.; Anna M; Charley H; Rosa A.; Willie; Edward T; Ella E.; Ida J.; Flora M, who died in 1878; Theodore J.; and Lena E.
In his agricultural pursuits the father was especially successful for he owned five hundred and sixty acres in Buffalo township and three hundred and twenty in Blue Grass township, making over eight hundred acres which were under his control. He was one of the most enterprising as well as successful men in his locality and his influence was widely felt in the township for he served most efficiently as trustee and school director and was also supervisor of the county. He resigned the heavier responsibilities of his life even before his death, many of which have been assumed most ably by his sons, Edward and Theodore.
Edward and Theodore Brus, native sons of Scott county, are by their daily life and the return they win from their labor upholding the reputation for prosperity enjoyed by this section of Iowa. With their sister Miss Ella they live upon the extensive tract of five hundred and sixty acres in Buffalo township. Keeping the example of their father before them, they have continued in his footsteps, enlarge the number of improvements upon the farm and increased its cultivation, so that it is one of the excellent farms of the whole township, no only in size but in the fertility of the soil. Both are members of Banner Lodge, No. 16, Knights of Pythias, and Theodore is also connected with the Modern Woodmen. They are democrats in their political sympathies, interested in local affairs, though not aspirants of official preferment. Edward, however, has been a member of the school board for a number of years.Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Ben Harvey Schmidt, M. D. Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Schmidt, Koehler, Hageboeck, Reith.
With determined and commendable purpose to reach a worthy place in the medical profession in his native city, Dr. B. H. Schmidt entered upon active practice in Davenport in 1898, since which time his course has been marked by a steady progression that has won him an extensive clientele in the tri-cities. He was born in Davenport, June 15, 1875, and is the youngest of the six living children of Hugo and Zella (Koehler) Schmidt, who were natives of the province of Westphalia, Germany. They came to America in their childhood days and were married in Davenport. In the maternal line the ancestry of the family is traced back to the beginning of the seventeenth century. The father figured for a number of years as one of the leading and distinguished bankers and merchants of this city. He was at different times connected as cashier with the Citizens and First National Banks, on which his personality left a deep and lasting beneficial impress. Later he became the owner and manager of an extensive cracker business and continued in that line until his death, which was occasioned by an accident. His children are all yet residents of this city.
Dr. Schmidt, whose name introduces this review, pursued his literary course in the public schools of Davenport, passing through the grammar grades to the high school. He early determined to become a physician and, with this end in view, when fifteen years of age entered the office of Dr. Hageboeck as a student. Subsequently he matriculated in Rush Medical college at Chicago and was graduated therefrom with the class of 1897, after which he went to pursue post-graduate work in Vienna and Berlin. In the latter part of the year 1898 he returned to America and opened an office in Davenport. From the beginning his success was assured because he had in him those qualities which overcame all difficulties and obstacles and pressed steadily forward to the goal. Added to a thorough preparatory training he had a natural adaptability and his energy and industry were moreover numbered among his chief characteristics. Under Mayor Waldo Becker he was made city physician in 1901 and served until 1903. This entailed membership in the board of health and constituted him adviser thereto. Smallpox becoming epidemic in Davenport during his term of office, his skill as a physician and as an official received rigorous test and the result redounded greatly to his credit. He has always devoted his attention to the general practice of medicine and surgery, having many patrons in the tri-cities, while his professional service is constantly increasing in volume and importance. Progress is the keynote of his life and through close study and earnest purpose he has made continuous advance. He is very careful in the diagnosis of his cases and in the application of remedial agencies and thus he has come to be recognized as one of the most reliable physicians of Davenport. Aside from an extensive private practice he is examining and consulting physician to the Germania Life, Pacific Mutual, Danish Brotherhood and Merchants of Burlington insurance companies and contract physician to the Mutual Manufacturers Accident Association.
In 1899 Dr. Schmidt was married to Miss Helen Reith, a native of this city and the daughter of Henry Reith, who came from Germany in the '60s. They now have one child, Kurt, who was born March 16, 1904.
Dr. Schmidt belongs to the Knights of Pythias society and Woodmen of America, in both of which he is examining physician. He is likewise connected with the Turner Society, the German Free School, the Ethical Society, the Shooting Association, the Arsenal Golf and the Schuetzen Clubs, all of which indicate the nature of his interests and his recreation. He likewise belongs to the County, State and National Medical Associations and is interested in every onward step made by the profession in the effort to secure for man a key to that complex mystery which we call life. His deep interest, his ambition and his natural inclination are bound up in his profession, to which he is an honor and in which he has achieved distinction.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Carl F. Hass Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Hass, Buhman, Stieger, Wriedt, Behrens.
In the quarter of a century in which Carl F. Hass has been a member of the Davenport bar his constantly expanding powers have brought him distinction and honors. He is now senior partner of the law firm of Hass & Hamann, whose clientage is surpassed by none in extent or in the nature of the litigated interests involved. Like many of Davenport's most prominent and forceful citizens, Carl F. Hass was a native of Germany, his birth having occurred in Lütjenburg, Holstein, on the 3d of April, 1857. He spent the first seven years of his life in that country and in 1864 came to America with his father, John F. Hass, who was born in Lütjenburg in 1823. He had there married Dorothea Buhman and ere crossing the Atlantic their family numbered a daughter and son. A number of their German neighbors accompanied them, so that there was quite a little colony that left the fatherland for the United States. John F. Hass was a shoemaker and followed that trade industriously until 1885, when he retired from active business life, spending fourteen years in the enjoyment of well earned rest, after which he was called to his final home in 1899. His widow still survives, as do the daughter and son, the former being Mrs. Caroline Stieger, of this city.
After coming to Davenport with his parents Carl F. Hass entered the public schools, graduated at a comparatively early age and began clerking in a mercantile establishment. He determined, however, to obtain a thorough business education and to this end attended Montague & Lillibridge Business College. In 1874 he became a clerk in the law office of Bills & Block and utilized his leisure hours for the study of law, being admitted to the bar in 1882. He remained with the firm, however, until January 1, 1883, when he entered the office of W. J. Birchard, clerk of the district courts, as his deputy, there continuing until April 1, 1884. On that date he returned to the office in which he had formerly been a student and clerk, there remaining until the dissolution of the firm, when he was admitted to partnership relations by Mr. Bills, the new firm of Bills & Hass maintaining a continuous existence until the death of the senior partner in 1897. Mr. Hass was then alone in practice two years, or until the 31st of July, 1899, when he was joined by A. W. Hamann in forming the present firm of Hass & Hamann. The trend of his mind is analytical, logical and inductive. He readily sees the relation of cause and effect, his application of legal principles is seldom, if ever, at fault and his legal opinion and statements are seldom questioned seriously. His legal practice is directed more particularly to the settlement and management of estates.
In 1883 Mr. Hass was married to Miss Minnie M. Wriedt, a native of Scott county and a daughter of Claus and Anna (Behrens) Wriedt. Mr. Hass belongs to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Turners Society. He is interested in the problems of politics but not in the active work of the party to the extent of giving much time to effort for the election of its candidates. However, he is not unmindful of the gravity of many municipal problems and the weight of his influence is cast on the side of reform, improvement and continuous progression. HE has been characterized as "quiet, reflective, reticent; a doer rather than a talker, direct and lucid in conversation; steady, sure and safe." Such an expression from those who have long known him is perhaps the best summary of his character.Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
William M. Lillis Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Lillis, Grace, Halligan, Volz, Kinnally, O'Donnell.
William M. Lillis, who throughout the period of his connection with business affairs of Davenport has been a representative of commercial interests, is now secretary of the Halligan Coffee Company, an enterprise of large and growing proportions which owes its success in no small degree to the business discernment, energy and acumen of Mr. Lillis.
William M. Lillis is one of Davenport's native sons. His father, John Lillis, was born in county Clare, Ireland, June 10, 1834, and in 1845 came to America with his father, Martin Lillis, who in that year emigrated with his family to Canada. There he remained for several years, during which period John Lillis was a pupil in the Canadian schools. In 1850 the family home was established in Scott county, Martin Lillis settling on a farm at Long Grove upon the Wapsipinicon river. He became not only a diligent and industrious farmer but also a highly respected citizen. He was a man of strong character, who fearlessly advocated whatever he believed to be right, while in his business affairs his activity was such that he contributed to general prosperity as well as to individual success. He died in 1888.
His son, John Lillis, determined to follow merchandising and established a grocery and dry-goods store in Davenport. As the years passed he won prosperity, carefully directing his business affairs and closely studying the needs of his patrons. He was a man of unswerving honesty, whose success was never won at the cost of another's advancement and wherever known he was esteemed and respected. In politics an ardent democrat, he was one of the small but enthusiastic band that kept the party alive during the troublous period of the Civil war. He was in fact recognized as one of the leaders of the democracy in Davenport and was called to several local offices, serving as city clerk for two terms and also as alderman. He was a devoted churchman yet was not aggressive in his religious views, according to others the right of personal opinion which he reserved for himself. He died in January, 1896. His wife, who in her maidenhood was Bridget P. Grace, was a native of Kilkenny, Ireland, and in her girlhood days came to the United States with her parents. Her mother died in Buffalo, New York, while the family were en route to their destination in the middle west. Her father, James Grace, settled in Rock Island, Illinois, and his daughter Bridget was reared in the Mississippi valley. She became a devoted wife and mother and spared no effort in preparing her children for places of usefulness in society. She died in 1892. Unto Mr. and Mrs. John Lillis there were born four children, William M., being the eldest and the only son. His three sisters are: Mary, who is now the wife of Thomas F. Halligan; Genevieve, the wife of Joseph F. Volz; and Mattie, the wife of M. J. Kinnally.
William M. Lillis acquired his early education in private and parochial schools and afterward attended the Davenport high school. Early environment naturally turned his attention to a mercantile career and after putting aside his text-books he joined his father in business, since which time he has been a representative of commercial interests in this city. In 1887 he became his father's successor and carried on the business until 1889, when he joined the Halligan Coffee Company and has since been its secretary. The business has enjoyed a steady and substantial growth and is today one of the important mercantile enterprises of the city. The business methods employed are such as will bear the closest investigation and scrutiny and the energy and enterprise of Mr. Lillis and the other officers of the company constitute the attributes of the success of the house.
In June, 1889, occurred the marriage of William M. Lillis and Miss Bridget O'Donnell, of Bloomington, Illinois, and of Irish parentage. Their three children are John Hugh, Irene Grace and Carmel. While a citizen of notable patriotism and loyal to every project which he deems of public benefit, Mr. Lillis is not a politician nor has he any desire for office, preferring to devote his time and energies to his business affairs. He cooperates in progressive public movements, however, as a member of the Commercial Club, is a member of the Davenport Academy of Sciences and belongs also to the Knights of Columbus. Honored and respected by all, there is no man who occupies a more enviable position in commercial circles nor more justly merits the regard and esteem which are uniformly accorded him.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
James G. Madden
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Madden, Spencer, Brownlee, Greer, Whistler, Taylor, Maw, Jackson, Johnson, Elmergreen.
James G. Madden is recognized as one of the capable and enterprising business men of Scott county, now engaged in buying and selling stock in partnership with the Brownlee brothers. All his life has been devoted to farming and stock-raising and he has labored diligently and earnestly to attain the success which is now his, making him recognized as one of the substantial residents of Winfield township.
It was in that township that his birth occurred May 18, 1858, his parents being John and Ellen (Spencer) Madden, who were early settlers here and were long numbered among the highly respected residents of the county. The father was born in Wigton, Cumberland, England, August 8, 1817, and at the age of sixteen years became apprenticed to the a boot and shoemaker of Liverpool, serving for a seven years' term. It was the custom in those days for the parents to pay to have their sons instructed in a trade and such were the terms of Mr. Madden's apprenticeship. After he had completed the term of service he began business on his own account in Liverpool, having a store near the famous Royal theater in that city. There he made a specialty to furnishing "leather wear" for actors and actresses. He made everything in the line of leather goods used by the profession and in that way became acquainted with all the eminent players and singers of that period-the '40s. He knew Charles Kean, Ellen Tree, Macready Creswick, Phelps, Anderson and Mrs. Warner among the actors, and Adelaide Kemble, Jenny Lind, Persiam, Grise, Mario, Rubini, Sontag, Henry Phillips, Lablache and Clara Novilio among the singers. He was acquainted with the stage managers of the Theater Royal and was often behind the scenes on big nights. His reminiscences of those days and of the famous players and singers were most interesting, for he had met many of them personally and could relate many anecdotes concerning them. Moreover, he was an excellent critic of both acting and singing. In February, 1843, John Madden wedded Miss Ellen Spencer, of Liverpool, who had almost as extended an acquaintance with the people on the stage as her husband.
In the spring of 1850 Mr. Madden carried out the plan that he had cherished for some time of coming to the he United States and investing his savings in a good farm. He landed at New Orleans on the 20th of April, accompanied by his wife and children, and proceeded at once up the river, arriving at Davenport ten days later. He then purchased the farm in Winfield township, two miles west of Long Grove, which he occupied until his death. He took out his first naturalization papers immediately after his arrival here and in May, 1855, received his second papers, and on that day was elected township clerk. He had already won the high regard and esteem of his neighbors, who expressed their confidence in and regard for him by choosing him for public office. From that time forward he was almost continuously in township or county offices and for more than twenty years was a school director. In business he was an energetic, progressive man, in his relations with his fellowmen was kind and charitable and a benevolent spirit prompted him to give generous aid to the he poor and needy. He was one of the founders of the Scott County Agricultural Society, which holds its fairs at Mount Joy, served as a director of the society for four years and as its secretary for three years. His first wife died in January, 1881, and in February, 1882, Mr. Madden wedded Mrs. Rebecca Greer. There were eleven children of the first marriage, eight of whom were living at the time of the father's death, but all have now passed away with the exception of Mrs. Greer, James G. Madden of this review and George M.
The death of Mr. Madden, in September, 1884, was occasioned by an accident. He was driving home from Donahue when it was thought his horse became frightened, reared, and turned and ran, going westward until it came to the he house of Henry Madden, brother of the deceased, where it entered the yard. The family recognized the horse and, fearing an accident, started out to investigate, finding Mr. Madden lying dead at the side of the road. His demise was the occasion of very deep and widespread regret, for he was held in high esteem by all who knew him. HE was a member of the Eastern Iowa and Central Illinois Bee Keepers Association and in that organization he made many friends and, in fact, won high regard wherever he went.
James G. Madden, whose name introduces this review, has spent his entire life in Winfield township and at the usual age entered the public schools, wherein he pursued his education. His school days over, he remained at home until his marriage, after which he rented the farm from his father, who, retiring from active business life, yet continued to live upon the old homestead, he and his wife occupying a part of the house. For four years after his father's death James G. Madden continued to rent the farm from the other heirs and then purchased the place, comprising two hundred acres of rich and productive land. He devoted his energies to its further cultivation until the holiday season of 1909, when he removed to his present home in Long Grove, which he purchased form W. T. Brownlee. During the greater part of his life he has carried on general agricultural pursuits, but is now concentrating his energies upon the business of stock buying in partnership with the Brownlee brothers. In this undertaking he is meeting with excellent success. He is also one of the stock holders of the Stockman's Bank of Long Grove and is serving on its advisory board.
On the 15th of February, 1881, Mr. Madden was married to Miss Maria Whistler, a daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Taylor) Whistler. Her father was born in the county of Norfolk, England, September 30, 1813, became a farmer of that country and was married in England, September, 1845. In December, 1854, he came with his family to the United States, landing at New York, whence he made his way direct to Scott county, where he resided continuously until his death. At that time there were two children in the family, Sarah Ann and Christopher. On reaching Iowa Mr. Whistler settled in Buffalo township, where he purchased eighty acres of prairie land, on which he built a house, making it his home for a number of years. He then sold out in 1865 and invested in eighty acres in Allens Grove township. Upon that farm both he and his wife spent their remaining days, Mrs. Whistler passing away June 9, 1883, at the age of fifty-three years, while Mr. Whistler died February 21, 1891. In their family were five children: Sarah Ann, deceased; Christopher S., who is living in Donahue; Mrs. Jane E. Maw, of Donahue, Mrs. Madden; and Mrs. Alice Jackson of Nebraska. At the time of the death of Mr. Whistler one of the local papers said: "In the death of Mr. Whistler the community has lost a good neighbor and true friend, who retained his trust in God's holy word and was a faithful believer to the end." His daughter Maria was born in Buffalo township, this county, October 7, 1857, and by her marriage to Mr. Madden has become the mother of three children. The eldest, Raymond J., who was born February 12, 1882, married Anna Johnson and has a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Winfield township, whereon he resides with his wife and two sons, Ralph J. and Clyde R. Emery C. Madden, who was born December 27, 1883, married Amanda Elmergreen and lives upon the old home place. Nellie M., born July 21, 1894, died in infancy and was buried in the Long Grove cemetery.
Mr. and Mrs. Madden have a wide acquaintance in Long Grove and throughout the county, and their many good traits of heart and mind have won for them the friendship and regard of all with whom they have been associated. The hospitality of the best homes is cordially extended to them and they are well worthy of mention in the history of the county where they have always lived.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
Frederick Lambach, M. D. Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Lambach, Puls, Middleton.
Dr. Frederick Lambach, commissioner of insanity for Scott county and one of the successful and well known members of the medical fraternity of Davenport, was born in LeClaire, Iowa, April 4, 1866. He represents one of the old pioneer families of this part of the state. His father, Frederick Lambach, was born in Germany and in 1848, when a young man, came to the new world with his sister Elnora. They made their way to Scott county, where their two brothers, Christian and Henry, had already preceded them, being located in LeClaire. Two other brothers Charles and Francis, afterward came and likewise settled in LeClaire, where all engaged in farming. Frederick Lambach, Sr., was an engineer and master builder, as was his father before him, and in fact the family have been connected with building and engineering projects for generations. Frederick Lambach continued to engage in business along that line for a number of years and in 1870 turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits in Princeton township. He was identified with farming until 1894, when he retired and took up his abode in Davenport, where he passed away in 1895 at the age of seventy-one years. In politics he was a republican but the honors and emoluments of office had no attraction for him. Well known, he was also uniformly respected, for his life was the exemplification of those principles and characteristics which in every land and clime command regard.
His wife, who bore the maiden name of Sophia Puls, was a native of Mecklenburg, Germany. Her father, Christian Puls, settled in Blue Grass in 1850, and in this state she gave her hand in marriage to Mr. Lambach. Her death occurred in 1900, when she had reached the age of sixty-one years. In the family were four children, Ida, Gustav, Frederick and Robert, but the last named died at the age of thirteen years.
To the public school system Dr. Lambach is indebted for his early educational privileges. He attended the country schools of Princeton township and afterward entered the Davenport high school, from which he was graduated with the class of 1884. He had already determined upon the practice of medicine as his life work and in the same year matriculated in the University of Pennsylvania, from which he was graduated in 1887. He then spent one year in St. Mary's Hospital in Philadelphia and the broad and varied experience of hospital practice well qualified him for the onerous duties which devolved upon him when he took up the private practice of medicine in LeClaire. There he remained for nine years and in 1897 came to Davenport, where he has since resided. His ability is evidenced in the liberal patronage accorded him, for he now has a good general practice. He served as county coroner from 1897 until 1908 and was again called to office on the death of the late Dr. Middleton, being appointed as successor in the position of commissioner of insanity. He keeps in touch with the progress of the medical fraternity through his membership in the County, State and National Medical Societies.
In 1888 Dr. Lambach was married to Miss Anna 'Allen, a representative of a leading New Jersey family and of Revolutionary stock. Dr. and Mrs. Lambach have one son, Carl H. Fraternally the Doctor is connected with Trinity Lodge, A. R. & A. M., and Davenport Chapter, R. A. M., and Davenport Chapter, R. A. M. He is also a popular member of the Shooting Club and other societies and has those traits of character which readily win friends, while his genuine worth enables him to retain the high regard that is at once tendered him. He has worked earnestly to secure the success that is his, becoming worthy of a liberal patronage by comprehensive study and conscientious performance of every professional duty.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
W. R. Maines Biography
From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Maines, Gray, Chamberlin, Vollmer, Koch.
W. R. Maines, for fifteen years a member of the Davenport bar and now serving as justice of the peace, to which position he was elected in 1906, was born in Ashland, Kentucky, May 10, 1874. His father, P. M. Maines, was a native of Pennsylvania and when a young man went to Kentucky, being employed as a steamboat engineer during his residence there. In 1875 he came to Iowa and after one year spent in Clinton removed to LeClaire, Scott county, where he later coming to Davenport, where he continued as a steamboat engineer until his death in February, 1909. He was well known river man, having a wide acquaintance from St. Paul to New Orleans, being on the river in the palmy and exciting days of steamboating when the Mississippi was the principal means of travel from north to south and the vessels which plied its waters were well termed floating palaces. He married Nannie E. Gray, a native of Virginia.
Brought to Iowa when but a year old, W. R. Maines largely pursued his education in the public schools of Princeton and completed his more specifically literary course in Cornell College, at Mount Vernon, Iowa. Wishing to make the practice of law his life work, he began reading in the office of W. M. Chamberlin, and later entered the State University at Iowa City, where he spent one year. In 1895 he was admitted to the he bar and immediately afterward opened an office in Davenport, where he has since remained. For five years he engaged in practice with Fred Vollmer, under the firm style of Maines & Vollmer, but since that time has been alone. In 1906 he was elected justice of the peace and now presides in fair and impartial manner over the justice court in addition to attending to the duties of his law practice. Earnest application and unflagging diligence have constituted the basis of his progress success. He chose as a life work a profession in which he now occupies as a strong representative of the Davenport bar.
Mr. Maines has always been an active politician but not an office seeker. He belong to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and is a Past Worthy President of the local ćrie of Eagles. He is likewise connected with the Knights of Pythias, the Improved Order of Red Men, the Woodmen of the World, the Order of Owls and Knights of the Maccabees. In 1903 he married Louise A. Koch, a native of Rock Island and a daughter of Anthony Koch of that city.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann