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Scott Co, Iowa - IAGenWeb Project
BIOGRAPHIES
Daniel
Gould
From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by Harry
E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
In a review of Davenport's history it becomes evident that Daniel Gould deserves
prominent mention among its builders and promoters. Coming to this city at an
early period in its development, he took an active part now only in its material
but also in its intellectual and moral progress, and the influence of his
character and work is yet felt in the lives of those with whom he was
associated, and in the business and intellectual activities which were
stimulated through his labors. He was born at Middletown, near Newport, Rhode
Island, in the year 1814. His father, George Gould, and his mother, Lydia Shove
Gould, were both of English ancestry. The Goulds of Rhode Island came from
Dorchester, England, in 1637, A. D. The old manor house, called "Upway
Manor," has been replaced by a much more modern edifice. The coat of arms
of the Gould family is a lion rampant with the insignia "Probitate et
Labore," honesty and labor. Jeremiah Gould and Priscilla Gould were the
first ancestors to settle in this country. Daniel, their eldest son, settled at
Middletown, Rhode Island, on a farm a portion of which has until recently
remained in the possession of the Gould family. He married Wate, daughter of
John Coggeshall (first president of the colony), on the 18th of June, 1651.
Daniel Gould was a sturdy adherent of the principles of the Friends Society. He
had great strength of character, as evidenced by having been one of a company of
Quakers (as they were then called in derision) to be scoffed and mocked by a
rude mob at Charlestone Ferry. He, with others, received thirty stripes upon the
naked back, was cast into prison and made to lie with his bleeding back upon the
bare boards. The only crimes of the sufferers were that they "were Friends
in their religious belief." This ancestor was gifted in writing both prose
and poetry. He traveled as a preacher on "truth's account" in Maryland
and Virginia. The extracts from his memoirs are very interesting.
There were seven generations between this first Daniel Gould and the one of the
present sketch, the name being handed down direct except in one generation. The
Goulds and their descendants were always landowners in and around the island of
Rhode Island. There is an island called Gould in Narragansett bay, which
belonged to the family of Goulds one hundred years after the first settlement.
The parents of Daniel Gould of this sketch removed from Rhode Island to
Cranston, Rhode Island, where the son spent his boyhood, assisting his father to
carry on a farm. His education consisted in what he could gain at school in the
winter months. He attended the Friends school of Providence, Rhode Island, which
is still in existence, being carried on in an up-to-date manner. The desire and
ambition of Mr. Gould was to become a lawyer. He, however, gave up his own
cherished plan in order to assist his parents. He was next to the eldest of
eleven children and from early boyhood the one always to be depended upon.
Nature had endowed him with a wonderfully robust constitution, else he must
otherwise have succumbed to the many accidents which befell him. Born with a
happy, buoyant disposition, he was ever the favorite among his comrades, as he
was also the trusty friend in after years.
In 1836 Mr. Gould married Miss Susan L. Baker, who died soon after, in 1837. In
1840 he married Miss Sarah Earle, a daughter of John and Rhoda Earle, of
Providence, Rhode Island. Her ancestors were also of English descent and of the
Society of Friends and were among the early settlers on the Island of Nantucket.
Mr. and Mrs. Gould lived in several of the manufacturing villages near Cranston.
Mr. Gould had charge of some of the large stores connected with the mills. Here
three of their children were born. Lydia Shove, born in 1843, died four years
later. In 1852 Mr. Gould removed with his family to Providence, Rhode Island,
where they remained until 1857, when they went west and settled at Davenport
Iowa. Their youngest daughter, Lillie, was born here. An old friend, Robert
Steare, of providence, came west at the same time and went into partnership with
Mr. Gould in a large carpet and furnishing business at the corner of Perry and
Second streets, the building owned by Mr. Dessaint. During the Civil war Mr.
Gould put up two stores of his own, adjoining the block on the northeast corner
of Brady and second streets, where he carried on business until he retired in
1881. The partnership between Mr. Gould and Mr. Steare was dissolved after a
year's time, Mr. Gould continuing the business alone. Mr. Gould was also a
manufacturer of furniture and owned his own factory on East River street,
located next to the woolen mill.
One of Davenport's most respected and honored citizens, Mr. Gould was repeatedly
urged to take the office of mayor of the city, but what time he could spare from
his business was devoted to the school interests. For fifteen years he was a
member of the school board - the longest time of service with one exception any
member had ever been upon the board. He served both as president and director,
and as chairman of the building committee he had the satisfaction of planning
and overseeing several of the largest school buildings of the city. When he
resigned from the board he was presented with a gold headed cane, beautifully
engraved - a present from the teachers of the city, by whom he was much
respected and beloved. He was the only member of the board ever to be thus
honored. He was called the Father of the Teachers. His portrait, presented by
his daughters to the school board, may be seen in the library of the new high
school, where it is hoped it may be an inspiration and example to others.
Mr. Gould was among the first organizers of the German Savings and Citizens
Banks of Davenport. His support and influence were eagerly sought by all new
enterprises. After his death, by request, his portrait was presented to these
banks and was placed in the reception room of the German Savings Bank. Mr. and
Mrs. Gould gave their interest and financial support to the organization of the
First Unitarian church of Davenport, but their loyalty to the Friends Society
prevented their ever becoming members. Mr. Gould was a good story teller. He
entered heartily into the spirit of his anecdotes, which never failed to
interest his audience. He and his wife were in sympathy with the early movements
of the temperance cause. They both took an active part in the movement for the
abolition of slavery, for their hearts were ever open to the cries of the
distressed and oppressed. Their thoughts and desires were toweard progression in
all directions.
Naturally their children, brought up under such influences, could but follow in
the same footsteps. The eldest daughter, Mary Elizabeth, was married to George
Wing, of New Bedford. She was finely educated and prepared to become a leader
and as such was always acknowledged. At one time she was the president of many
of the leading clubs and societies of Davenport, where she made her home for
some years. Afterward the family removed to Lincoln, Nebraska, where Mrs. Wing
died in 1895. The foundation of the Davenport public library was due in no small
measure to her efforts and counsel in its early days. Mr. and Mrs. Wing had five
children and all except one are now living. Daniel Gould Wing is the president
of the First National Bank of Boston and resides at West Newton, Massachusetts.
Alice Earle is not married. She has devoted her life unselfishly to others.
Elizabeth Russell married Professor De Witte Bristol Brace, of Lincoln, Nabraska,
who filled an eminent position as chemist in the state university. He had
attained more than a national reputation in his profession. Thomas Ellwood is a
prominent lawyer of New York city. Ellen Maria Gould, the third daugher of Mr.
and Mrs. Daniel Gould, has devoted her life to philanthropy. Sarah Lydia, the
youngest daughter, married Henry E. Lewis, of Claremont, New Hampshire. They
settled at Lincoln, Nebraska. They have had six children, four of whom are now
living. The eldest son, Harold Gould Lewis, is a graduate of the electrical
engineering department of Columbia University of New York city. The eldest
daughter, Edith Larabee, is a graduate of Smith College - a highly gifted young
woman with literary talent that has led her to do magazine work and places her
on the corps of editors of one of our prominent magazines. Ruth Stewart and
Helen Chace are promising young ladies, still occupied with their school work.
Mr. Gould retired from business in 1881. He was presented with a very handsome
gold watch chain by his employes, many of whom had been with him from youth to
manhood. Mr. Gould was greatly surprised and pleased with this testimonial of
their respect and good wishes. The anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Gould's golden
wedding occurred December 4, 1890, but, owing to Mrs. Gould's feeble condition,
it was celebrated very quietly. The last ten years of Mr. Gould's life were
devoted to his invalid wife. His attentions were of such a nature that they
attracted the observation of the community and remain a lasting monument to the
love and devotion of a very noble man to a faithful, devoted wife. Mrs. Gould
died April 13, 1897, and was soon followed by her husband, who died August 28,
1897.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
Joseph N. Greene
From "Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
There are many admirable traits of character exemplified in the life of Joseph
N. Greene, who is now one of the patriarchal citizens of Davenport, having
reached the age of eighty-four years. Much of his life was devoted to the art of
photography but since 1894 he has lived retired. A native of Pennsylvania,
Joseph N. Greene was born in Clearfield county, March 6, 1826, and is a son of
Isaac and Elizabeth (Liebengood) Greene. The father was a carpenter by trade and
during the latter part of his life engaged in boat building on the canal at
Blairsville, to which place he removed with his family son after the birth of
his son Joseph. The latter there resided until about 1862 and acquired his
education in the public schools of that town. He now has in his possession a
picture of the old log school building which was erected in 1830 and was used as
a church and place of public meetings as well as for educational purposes. His
father built the first house in Blairsville and the family were closely
associated with the development and progress of the town. Both the father and
mother died there, the former passing away at the age of fifty years, while the
latter, long surviving him, reached the very advanced age of fifty years, while
the latter, long surviving him, reached the very advanced age of ninety-four
years. Her parents were among the first settlers of western Pennsylvania and as
pioneer residents aided in planting the seeds of civilization in a virgin soil.
Joseph N. Greene, who was the fourth in a family of nine children, after
pursuing his education in the schools of Blairsville, learned the trade of boat
making under his father and followed it until after his father's death. He built
a boat for himself about 1848 and used it on the canal there. In 1861 he
organized a company at Blairsville for service in the Civil war, for his
patriotic spirit was aroused by the attempt of the south to overthrow the Union.
The organization became known as Company I of the Eleventh Pennsylvania
Volunteer Infantry. They enlisted at Blairsville and went into camp at
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Mr. Greene being elected captain of the company. They
remained in Harrisburg for about four months and then proceeded to Washington,
D. C., joining the Army of the Potomac. Mr. Greene was in a number of skirmishes
up to the time when he was honorably discharged on account of ill health in
1863.
Returning to Pennsylvania, he established his home in Allegheny, where he turned
his attention to photography. In 1865 he removed to Geneseo, Illinois, and
conducted a photograph gallery there until 1879, after which he went to Morrison
and later to Sterling, Illinois, where he remained for two years. On the
expiration of that period he came to Davenport and since 1894 has continuously
lived retired. During his active connection with the photographic art he kept in
touch with all the modern processes of taking pictures and, with keen
appreciation for the effects of light and shade as well as for pose, he produced
excellent work that gained for him a liberal patronage and made his business a
profitable venture.
On the 13th of November, 1862, Mr. Greene was married in Davenport to Miss Susan
Brown, a daughter of Squire James and Mary (Donley) Brown. Mrs. Greene was born
in Pennsylvania and in her infancy was brought to Scott county, Iowa. Her father
first came to this county in the fall of 1844 and the mother brought their
children the following spring to the new home which he had prepared. Mr. Brown
rented a farm on Duck Creek, which he occupied for two years and then purchased
an adjoining tract of land of one hundred and sixty acres, where he made his
home for some time. Eventually he sold that property, however, and removed
nearer Davenport, where he bought another farm, residing thereon until the death
of his wife about 1882. He then retired from active life and took up his abode
in the city. He was not only a prominent agriculturist but also took an active
part in public affairs, serving as justice of the peace of Pleasant Valley
township for a long period, during which time his fair and impartial decisions
won him high encomiums. He was also school director and held other offices in
the township. He gave his political support to the democracy and his allegiance
to the Catholic church, in the faith of which he died in 1893 at the age of
eighty-six years. His wife had passed away at the age of seventy-four years.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Greene were born eight children: Carrie, who is a Sister of
Mercy in the Mercy Convent at St. Louis; Josephine, who is the wife of W. A.
Craft, of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and has two children, Dora and Gertrude;
Agnes, Pius and Lourde, all now deceased; Mattie, the wife of James Shelby, of
Davenport, and the mother of eight children: - Harold, Hugh, Hildegard, Jerome,
Lourde, Barthela, Monica and Regina; Gertrude, the wife of Albert Osterman, of
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Isaac, at home. Mr. Greene has belonged to a
large number of fraternal orders but is not affiliated with any at the present
time. He is a prominent member of the Catholic church and his life has been in
harmony with the teachings thereof. For eighty-four years he has traveled life's
journey, faithfully performing the duties that each day has brought, and his
trustworthiness, his energy and his reliablity have gained him the high and
favorable regard of all with whom he has been associated.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
August Haase
From "Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
The Haase family is one of the oldest in Davenport and August Haase, a native of
Hanover, Germany, was the eldest of the name to settle in the town which was the
beginning of the present thriving city on the Mississippi. He was born in 1816
and received his education in Germany, where he learned his trade, that of a
miller. In middle life he was seized with the desire to try his fortunes in the
wonderful America, about which so many of his associates were speculating. Upon
arriving here he first took up his residence in Wisconsin but later came to
Davenport, making the journey in a unique and primitive fashion, by building a
flatboat and floating down the Mississippi river, reaching Davenport in the
spring of 1869. In course of time he establsihed himself in a profitable
business, opening a restaurant with a saloon and billiard hall in connection. He
had a family of six children, of whom Carl, the eldest, was lost at sea in 1875.
The others were Agnes, Clara, Gustav, and William and Sophia, twins.
Gustav Haase was born in Germany and had already received his education when his
father brought the family to America. For a time he gave his assistance to his
father and then went into the wholesale liquor business on his own account.
After the tragic death of his brother Carl, who had had an interest in the firm,
the younger brother William became a partner. William had previously been in the
dry-goods business. The brothers were but twenty-three and twenty-one years of
age at that time, the youngest wholesale liquor dealers in Iowa. Gustav was
married March 30, 1879, to Miss Lea Tanner, and William, March 24, 1880, wedded
Miss Agnes Clug, two children, Inez and Claire, having been born of their union.
Both brothers are Lutheran in their religious conviction and both hold
membership in the Turners Society.
Carl Frederick Haase was born in Germany, in which country he received his
education and spent his earlier years. Upon coming to America he assisted his
father and engaged in various pursuits, finally entering into partnership with
his brother Gustav in the wholesale liquor business. His wife was before her
marriage Miss Augusta Albers and they were the parents of two chidren. In making
a trip to Germany in May, 1875, in company with his wife and children, their
steamer, the Schiller, was lost off the English coast, and they, together with a
number of other Davenport people, met their death. Mr. Haase's body was
recovered and buried on an island near the scene of the disaster.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
Franz Hagemann
From "Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
For more than forty-two years Franz Hagemann was continuously in the employ of
the Rock Island Railroad Company. He then retired from that business but as
indolence and idleness are utterly foreign to his nature, he could not be
content without some business duties and is now connected with a bakery and
confectionery establishment. He has a very extensive acquaintance among railroad
men here and his faithfulness, reliability and freedom from ostentation have
ever won for him the respect and good will of those with whom he has been
associated. He was born in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, January 28, 1840, and is
a son of Cort and Margaret Hagemann, who spent their entire lives in that
country, where the father conducted farming on a small scale. Franz Hagemann
attended school in Germany and there learned the carpenter's trade. He came to
the United States in 1867, landing at New York. The favorable reports which he
heard concerning business opportunities in America proved irresistibly
attractive to him and with the desire of benefiting his fanancial condition on
this side of the Atlantic he sailed for the United States. He did not tarry on
the eastern coast, however, but at once made his way into the interior of the
country, arriving at Davenport on the 14th of May, 1867, accompanied by his wife
and one child. He had two brothers here-Hans, who is now living in California,
and Hermann, who is now deceased.
After reaching Davenport Mr. Hagemann was employed for two weeks at his trade
and on the 28th of June, 1867, he entered the employ of the Rock Island Railroad
Company as a carpenter in connection with the building of freight cars. He was
employed in that way for about three years after which he was transferred to the
passenger coach department and on the 1st of April, 1883, he was promoted to the
position of foreman of that department and so continued for more than twenty-six
years, or until the 31st of December, 1909, when he retired. In recognition of
his long and faithful service the company gave him a pension. He only worked two
places in fifty-four years, being in the service of one employer in Germany for
twelve years and through practically his entire residence in Davneport being in
the employ of the Rock Island Railroad Company. On his retirement he was
presented with a fine gold watch, chain and locket by his fellow workmen. He is
now engaged in the bakery and confectionery business and has already made a good
start in that line. When he entered the employ of the railroad the line was then
being built west to Council Bluffs and was finished about as far as Des Moines.
Its president at the time was Mr. Tracey, with Hugh Riddle as vice president,
while A. Kimball was superintendent and Tom Twombley acted as master mechanic at
this place.
On the 6th of October, 1865, Mr. Hagemann was married to Miss Johanna Peters, a
daughter of Peter Peters, who died in Germany. They have become parents of nine
children: Amelia, who is the wife of Louis Schwenke, of Davenport, and has six
children-Ernest, Luella, Lillian, Edna, Walter and Lewis: Mrs. Clara Martin, a
widow who has two children, Florence and Loretta; C. A., of Davenport, who
married Ella Stramp and has two daughters, Norma and Mildred; Lewis, of
Davenport, who married Meta Jeske and has two children, Ruby and Vera; Harry, of
Davenport, who wedded Minnie Munike; and four who died in childhood.
Mr. Hagemann is a member of the Claus Groth Gilde and Germania Kranken Verein.
He is a very active man and appears at least ten years younger than his age.
Being of a cheerful and friendly disposition, he is well liked by all who come
in contact with him. Few men have more intimate knowledge of the early history
of the Rock Island railroad and he can relate many interesting incidents
concerning the happenings of that period. He has never regretted his
determination to seek a home in this country, for he here found good business
opportunities. He was not misled by any hope of winning success without earnest
and continuous effort but by reason of his diligence and fidelity he worked his
way upward and whatever success he has enjoyed has been richly merited.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
John H.J. Hamann
From "Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
John H. J. Hamann, who has lived retired in Davenport since 1896, was formerly
actively and successfully identified with agricultural interests and is still
the owner of a fine farm on one hundred and sixty acres in Sheridan township.
His birth occurred in Schleswig, Germany, on the 5th of October, 1824, his
parents being Hans D. and Ida E. Hamann, who spent their entire lives in the
fatherland. He acquired his education in the schools of his native land and
after putting aside his text-books began farming in association with his father.
During the Schleswig-Holstein wars, from 1848 until 1850, he served as a
teamster. In 1857, when a young man of thirty-three years, he determined to
establish his home in the new world and set sail for the United States, landing
at New York. His brother, Hans Hamann, who had emigrated to this country about
1848, was living in Davenport and this fact induced our subject to come direct
to Iowa. He immediately went to work for his brother on a farm in Davenport
township and for a time was busily employed as a farm hand, being engaged in
threshing, etc. Subsequently he rented a tract of land in Davenport township
from his brother, making his home thereon for six years, while during the
following eleven years he devoted his time and energies to the cultivation of a
rented farm in Sheridan township. On the expiration of that period he had
accumulated sufficient capital to enable him to buy land of his own and in 1875
he came into possession of an adjoining farm of 160 acres, taking up his abode
thereon. As there were only a few improvements on the property, he erected a
house, barns, etc., and soon the place was lacking in none of the equipments and
conveniences of a model farm of the twentieth century. He won a gratifying
measure of success in the conduct of his agricultural interests and was actively
engaged in the work of the fields until 1896, when he removed to Davenport,
where he has since lived retired. For about fifteen years he served as one of
the trustees of the Farmers' Insurance Company.
On the 17th of April, 1857, just prior to his emigration to America, Mr. Hamann
was united in marriage to Miss Louisa H. Grimm, who was born on the 22d of
January, 1828, her parents being Hans and Carolina A. Grimm. Unto Mr. and Mrs.
Hamann were born seven children. John A., residing in Davenport, wedded Miss
Carolina Wors, by whom he has a daughter, Hilda. Lewis C., who makes his home in
Lyon county, married Miss Lena Roheff and has four children: Clara, Grover,
Herbert and Ella. Alvina C., who gave her hand in marriage to Hugo Kuehl, of
Eldridge, is now the mother of four children: Emil, Hugo, Adelia and Alma.
Adelia wedded Otto Dehn, of Lyon county, and also has four children, namely:
Lewis, Mello, Herbert and Alma. Henry, who resides on the old homestead farm in
Sheridan township, married Miss Anna Hintz, by whom he has six children - Alma,
Cynthia, Elva, Maletto, Cora and Blanche. Louisa and Meta Hamann have both
passed away.
Since becoming a naturalized American citizen Mr. Hamann has given his political
allegiance to the republican party and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his
worth and ability, have called him to several positions of public trust,
including those of school director and road supervisor. He has long been a
prominent member of the German Pioneers' association of Scott county and has
recently covers more than a half century and he is widely recognized as one of
its most respected and venerable citizens, having now passed the eighty-fifth
milestone on life's journey. He is numbered among those who left the fatherland
to identify themselves with American life and institutions, who have pushed
their way to the front and who are a credit alike to the land of their birth and
that of their adoption.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
John Heinz
From "Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Allegiance to a high standard of commercial ethics and intelligent appreciation
for and improvement of opportunity have gained for John Heinz a creditable
position in the ranks of Davenport's leading business men. Born in this city on
the 19th of March, 1860, he is a son of Bonaventura and Margeretha (Trenkenshuh)
Heinz, the former a native of Baden, Germany, and the latter of Bavaria. The
father came to the United States in 1845 and took up his abode in St. Louis.
Soon afterward he enlisted for service in the Mexican war and following the
close of hostilities returned to St. Louis, where he remained until 1855, when
he made his way up the river to Davenport on the Golden Era. From that time
until he retired, at an advanced age, he was connected with river transportation
and was also wharf master for a number of years. He was likewise active in
public affairs and was influential among all classes. He came to be known as a
man whose word could be implicity relied upon and his keen insight made his
judgment such as awakened public confidence. His death occurred in 1901, when he
had reached the age of seventy-two years. In St. Louis he married Margeretha
Trenkenshuh and their children were: Fred; Carrie, who died in 1901 as the
result of an operation; Henry, who is now the publisher of the Muscatine (Iowa)
Journal; and John, of this review.
The last named was a public school student and then became associated in various
lines of business with his brother Fred. In 1885 he was appointed United States
gauger, which office he still fills, twenty-five years' service in this capacity
standing as incontrovertible proof of his trustworthiness and ability. He has
embraced his opportunities for the attainment of success through active
connection with various business concerns and is now a director of the Farmers
& Mechanics Bank, a member of the firm of L. M. Fisher, and also is
successfully engaged in the loan business. Whatever he undertakes he carries
forward to successful completion, brooking no obstacles that can be overcome by
determined purpose.
In June, 1886, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Heinz and Miss Emma Kruse, a
native of Davenport and a daughter of John Kruse, who was well known in the
transfer business here. Their two children, Cora I. and Grace C., are yet at
home. Mr. Heinz belongs to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and to
the Knights of Pythias fraternity and is a trustee of the Davenport Turnverein.
He was also one of the firemen of this city in the old days of the volunteer
department and is a popular and well known member of the Veteran Volunteer
Firemen's Association, the Schuetzen Verein, the Davenport Boat Club and the
Pastime Club. At all times he has stood for progressive methods in municipal
affairs, manifesting a deep interest in those projects which are a matter of
civic virtue and civic pride.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
Clarence C. Hetzel
From "Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
This is preeminently an age of specialization. Comparatively few men in any
profession attempt to cover the entire field of practice but give their
attention to a particular line, thus gaining skill and ability therein that
could not be acquired if time and energy had to be divided with other interests.
Dr. Hetzel has in his practice made a specialty of diseases of the eye, ear,
nose and throat and his broad study and comprehensive understanding have gained
for him a skill that is the source of the large practice that is accorded him.
He was born in Avoca, Iowa, May 10, 1877. His father, Fred G. Hetzel, was a
native of Wheeling, West Virginia, born June 10, 1846. When a boy he came to
Davenport with his father, Charles Hetzel, who engaged in farming on Telegraph
road, about six miles from the city, and there reared his family. He brought his
farm into a good state of cultivation, erected thereon a substantial residence
and became one of the prosperous and respected citizens of the community. It was
on the old homestead there that Fred G. Hetzel was reared and after attaining
his majority he turned his attention to the grain business. In 1871 he removed
to Avoca, where he established a hardware store and has since remained a
successful merchant in that place. He married Miss Belle Boyd, who was born at
Wilton, Iowa, October 30, 1854, and their family numbers five children, three
daughters and two sons.
Clarence C. Hetzel, the second in order of birth, pursued his education through
successive grades in the Avoca schools until he was graduated from the high
school in 1895, while later he entered the Iowa State University and completed
the medical course by graduation with the class of 1903. He has further
qualified for his chosen profession by study in the polyclinic and in Wills Eye
Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was also for one year in the hospital
at Iowa City, where he added to his theoretical knowledge the board and valuable
experience of hospital practice. He established his office in Davenport in 1904
and makes a specialty of diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat. In that
department he is thoroughly qualified and his reading upon the subject has been
extensive, bringing him broad and thorough knowledge. He is a member of the
American Academy of Ophthalmology, Otology and Laryngology. He also belongs to
the County, State and District Medical Societies.
Dr. Hetzel was married July 27, 1907, to Miss Alta S. Smith, a native of Harlan,
Iowa. He belongs to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and in all
social relations manifests a genial spirit and unfeigned cordiality. In his
practice he holds to a high standard of professional ethics and therefore enjoys
the respect of his brethren of the medical fraternity as well as of the general
public.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
H.J. High
From "Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Business enterprise finds a worthy exponent in H. J. High, the president of the
Dr. Dicks Malted Stock Food Company, and a member of the Tri-City Mill &
Feed Company. In the conduct of business affairs he manifests much of the spirit
of the initiative, seeking out new plans for the conduct of business interests
and meeting success through that close application which is undeterred by any
obstacles or difficulties that may arise. He is equally well known as a local
political leader and in various offices has proven his loyalty to those things
which are a matter of civic virtue and civic pride.
Mr. High was born in Davenport, July 10, 1864, and is a son of James L. and
Sarah (Bowling) High. The mother was a daughter of the late Mayor James M.
Bowling, who was one of Davenport's most prominent and honored citizens. James
L. High engaged in the livery business in Davenport, establishing a barn at No.
114 Harrison street in 1854. For a long period he continued in that department
of business but his life's labors were ended in death in October, 1876.
After benefiting by the instruction afforded in the public schools H. J. High
attended Griswold College and his advanced course there well supplemented him
for life's practical and responsible duties. He has made good use of his time,
his talents and his opportunities since starting in business life and in 1905 he
was one of the organizers of Dr. Dick's Malted stock Food Company, of which he
is now the president. This company is engaged in the manufacture of stock food
which finds a ready sale on the market, its excellence insuring a liberal
patronage. As its chief executive officer, Mr. High displays good business
ability and keen foresight, which enables him to formulate business plans and
policies in such a manner that substantial results are achieved. Moreover, he is
a member of the Tri-City Mill & Feed Company and is taking an active
interest in the development and expansion of the business.
In September, 1892, Mr. High was married to Miss Marie Arnould, a daughter of
Lewis and Cotilde (Huot) Arnould, both of whom are still living. Her father was
one of the early contractors of the city and many substantial structures of
Davenport still stand as monuments to his skill and handiwork.
Mr. High takes a very active interest in politics and is well versed on the
leading questions and issues of the day. He has always given his support to the
republican party, has served as committeeman from his ward for a number of years
and is recognized as one of the local party leaders. On various occasions he was
called to public office, the duties of which he has discharged with promptness
and fidelity. He was appointed census enumerator in his ward, was city health
officer for four and a half years, was bailiff of the district court for two and
a half years and is now city milk inspector, while for thirteen years he has
occupied this position in connection with the state service. He regards a public
office as a public trust-and no trust reposed in H. J. High has ever been
betrayed in the slightest degree.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
Hugo Hoffbauer
From "Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
One of the prominent business men of the town of Buffalo, who despite the fact
that his many years would entitle him to a well deserved rest has not ceased to
give his best efforts to the mercantile business in which he is engaged is Hugo
Hoffbauer. He was born in Auleben, Germany, March 3, 1836, and is a son of
Frederic and Mathilda T. (Schneidewind) Hoffbauer. The former was a native of
Copenhagen, Denmark, where his birth occurred November 10, 1821, while the
latter was born in Prussia, Germany, in the year 1827. The couple were married
in the old country which remained their home until 1848, when Mr. Hoffbauer,
Sr., decided to try the opportunities said to abound in America. Accordingly
they crossed the Atlantic, landed in New York, August 3, 1848, and then made
their way west to Watertown, Wisconsin. There for two years the father followed
farming, at the end of that period going to Janesville, Wisconsin, where he
built a house-boat, on which the family floated down the Rock river to Rock
Island, which they reached November 4, 1852. For the next two years, while
living in this waterhouse, Hugo Hoffbauer found employment which changed the
mode of life of the family, for a storm arising in the river, the house-boat was
carried across to the Iowa shore. As the country appeared inviting they
determined to remain here, forthwith procuring a tract of land in Scott county
which they cultivated profitably for a number of years.
Hugo Hoffbauer was twelve years of age when his parents came to America and had
consequently received his education in the land of his birth. He accompanied
them from Watertown to Janesville, Wisconsin, and then assisted in the
construction of the house-boat. Finally, when they took up their residence in
Scott county, he did his full share in the cultivation of the farm. His life was
interrupted by the inauguration of the Civil war, for like many young men of
ambition Mr. Hoffbauer was very anxious to offer his services in the support of
the Union and at the same time win distinction on the field of battle. Therefore
he enlisted in the Fourteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, August 17, 1862, holding
the commission of lieutenant. After a little more than two years' service he was
appointed to a captaincy, November 17, 1864, in charge of a battalion. The
following spring, when an assassin's hand had deprived the nation of its
president, he and his men were appointed to guard Lincoln's remains as they lay
in state in the capitol at Springfield, Illinois. The memories of those days are
perhaps the most vivid of any in Mr. Hoffbauer's life; surely they have a
distinction which can never be shared by any others. The solemnity of the
occasion, the dignity of the man who virtually sacrificed himself for what he
believed to be right and then the soldier's associations, the reminiscences of
the field of struggle, all these things combined to leave an impression
indelible and unequaled by any other.
When the war was brought to a close and Mr. Hoffbauer received his honorable
discharge from the army, he returned to Scott county to continue in the
occupation which had been so rudely interrupted. In 1885 he reliquished active
farming and removed to Buffalo, where he engaged in the brewing business. In a
few years, however, he decided to make another change so bought the mercantile
establishment which he now conducts.
It was in 1859 that Mr. Hoffbauer wedded Miss Virginia Meyers, a daughter of
Jacob Meyers, of Buffalo township. Ten children were born of this union, but
only three are now living: Max, who married Miss Bessie Moorhead and is now
residing in Buffalo; Lewis, who wedded Miss Ella Mayhaus and is carrying on a
bottling works and ice business in Buffalo; and Lula, the wife of Lewis
Reinbrecht of Scott county.
In his early manhood Mr. Hoffbauer gave his political support to the republican
party but in 1872 decided the principles of the democracy were in more accord
with his own views. Since that time he has steadfastly supported its candidates.
While he was a resident of the country, he held all of the township offices
within the gift of the people. Since he has lived n Buffalo he has been equally
conspicuous in public affairs, for during a period of twenty years he was mayor
of the village, is at present a justice of the peace, and while Grover Cleveland
was president he served as postmaster. His discharge of the trusts imposed upon
him has always been marked with devotion to duty, carefulness and efficiency, so
that there has been little occasion for dissatisfaction with his administration,
while approbation is the general feeling. He was baptized in the Lutheran faith
but at present is not affiliated with any church but is associated with several
fraternal and social organizations, being a member of Banner Lodge, No. 16, K.
P., of the local G. A. R. post, of the Turners and the Ancient Order of United
Workmen. The friends he has made among his brothers in these societies are
unanimous in according him the respect and good will which he deserves.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
Adolph W. Holland
From "Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Adolph W. Holland, a retired agriculturist of Davenport, where he has made his
home for the past seven years, is still the owner of a well-improved and
valuable farm of one hundred and fifty-five acres in Winfield township and also
has ten acres of land in Allens Grove township, as well as some town property.
His birth occurred in Meckleburg-Schwerin, Germany, on the 28th of August, 1842,
his parents being Adolph and Carolina Holland. The father was a furniture maker
in that country. Having determined to bring his family to the new world, he took
passage on a vessel at Hamburg, which reached New York on the 3d of August,
1851, after an ocean voyage of seven weeks. It was on the 20th of that month
that he arrived in Scott county, Iowa, and here he purchased and located upon a
partly improved farm of one hundred and fifty-five acres in Winfield township,
being actively engaged in its further cultivation and development until the time
of his retirement in 1882. His remaining days were spent in Davenport, where he
passed away on the 29th of October, 1888, when seventy-eight years of age. His
wife, whose birth occurred in 1818, was called to her final rest in 1874. Unto
this worthy couple were born two children, namely: Henry, who passed away in
1903; and Adolph W., of this review.
The last named attended the schools of his native land until nine years of age
and after coming to this country continued his studies in Scott county for a
year and a half. After putting aside his text-books he turned his attention to
general agricultural pursuits and the work of the fields claimed his attention
throughout his entire business career. Subsequent to his marriage he rented his
father's place there carried on his farming interests continuously and
successfully until 1903, when he retired and took up his abode in Davenport. As
the years passed he placed many substantial improvements on the farm and it is
now a highly developed and valuable property, comprising one hundred and
fifty-five acres of land in Winfield township. His is likewise the owner of a
tract of ten acres in Allens Grove township and also has some town property.
Through the careful conduct of his agricultural interests he won the competence
that now enables him to live retired and he has long been numbered among the
substantial, respected and representative citizens of this county.
On the 25th of February, 1868, Mr. Holland was united in marriage to Miss
Margaret Helkenn, who was born in Holstein, Germany, on the 6th of September,
1849, her parents being Henry and Magdalene (Rush) Helkenn. The father, who
served in the Schleswig-Holstein wars from 1848 until 1850, brought his family
to the United States in 1858 and at once came to Scott county, Iowa. Two years
later he purchased a farm of two hundred acres in Sheridan township and forty
acres of timber land in Winfield township and throughout the remainder of his
life devoted his energies to agricultural pursuits. His demise occurred on the
9th of September, 1909, when he had attained the venerable age of eighty-eight
years and ten days. His wife, who was a sister of Lieutenant Governor Rush of
Iowa, passed away in 1892 when sixty-eight years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Holland
are the parents of twelve children.
Carolina, who gave her hand in marriage to Henry Rheimers, of Long Grove, is now
the mother of eight children, namely: Effie, Louisa, Rudolph, Rosie, Henry,
Laura, Adolph and Harry. Ella, residing in Davenport, is the wife of Henry
Reichter, by whom she has four children, as follows: Rosie, who is the wife of
Oliver Sampson and has one child, William; Margaret; Henry; and Adolph. Adolph,
who wedded Miss Clara Nutting, makes his home in Davenport, Iowa. Amelia is the
wife of Claus Hanson, of Long Grove, and has four children: Adolph, Edna, Nonie
and Lester. Laura, who is the wife of Henry F. Dorman, of Big Rock, Scott
county, likewise has four children, as follows: Emma, Martha, Albert and
Charley. Augusta, the wife of Fritz Hanson, resides in Winfield township. Emma
is the wife of John Erps, with whom she lives on her father's farm in Winfield
township. Frank W., Louis F., Nettie M., Lillie J. and Martha M. Holland are all
still under the parental roof. All of these children have been provided with
good educational advantages. Mrs. Holland has an interesting photograph showing
five generations of her father's family.
Mr. Holland is independent in his political views and has served as the
efficient incumbent in various positions of public trust and responsibility. He
held most of the township offices and did much to advance the cause of education
during his thirty-three years' service as a school director. He likewise acted
as treasurer of the school board and also capably discharged the duties
devolving upon him as justice of the peace and township clerk. His religious
faith is indicated by his membership in the Lutheran church, with which his wife
is also affiliated. Fraternally he is identified with the Ancient Order of
United Workmen, being receiver of the local lodge. He is likewise a prominent
member of the German Pioneer association. He has now made his home in Scott
county for more than fifty-eight years and has gained an extensive circle of
friends within its borders, his genuine personal worth commending him to the
confidence and esteem of all with whom he has come in contact.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
Mrs. Ida Horst
From "Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Mr. Ida Horst, who has made her home in the city of Davenport for the past two
decades, is the widow of Claus Horst, who carried on farming and stock-raising
in Davenport township and was quite an extensive landowner. Mr. Horst was born
in Holstein, Germany, on the 30th of December, 1819, his parents being Hans and
Margaret (Goetch) Horst, who spent their entire lives in the fatherland. He
obtained his education in the schools of his native land and continued to reside
there until 1847, when as a young man of twenty-eight he crossed the Atlantic to
the United States, landing at New Orleans in November. He made his way as far up
the river as St. Louis and there worked on a dairy farm during the winter,
having gained a thorough knowledge of dairying in Germany. In the spring, when
the ice in the river had melted, he came to Davenport, Iowa, and here worked at
various occupations for a time. In 1850 he purchased eighty acres of prairie
land in Davenport township, which he broke and on which he erected a dwelling,
taking up his abode therein. That farm remained his place of residence
throughout the remainder of his life but as time passed by and his financial
resources increased, owing to his well directed industry and capable management,
he added to his holdings by additional purchase until at his death he was the
owner of five hundred and sixty acres of valuable land in Scott county and also
had a farm in Lucas county, this state. In addition to cultivating the cereals
best adapted to soil and climate he was also engaged in the raising of cattle,
which branch of his business added materially to his income.
On the 17th of May, 1850, Mr. Horst was united in marriage to Miss Ida Hahn,
whose birth occurred in Holstein, Germany, on the 20th of February, 1828, her
parents being Johann and Margaret (Boege) Hahn. She was still young when her
father died and her mother afterward married again. In 1847 the family emigrated
to America, landing at New Orleans, whence they went to St. Louis and then came
to Davenport, arriving in this city on the 21st of June of that year. Mrs. Horst
went to live with an English family and thus learned to talk and read the
language. By her marriage she became the mother of seven children, the record of
whom is as follows: Louisa, residing in Davenport, is the widow of Herman Voss
and has one son, Bernhardt. Adolph, who makes his home in Sheridan township,
wedded Miss Alvina Misfeldt and has four children: Viola, Edna, Albert and
Bennie. Therese, who now lives with her mother, is the widow of Henry Horst,
whose demise occurred on the 2d of April, 1905. Edward, living in Sheridan
township, married Miss Katherine Kahler, by whom he has five children: Herman,
Hugo, Emil, Sadie and Elsie. Henry H., who resides in Davenport township,
married Miss Amelia Sueverkrubbe and has five children, namely: Martha; Malinda,
who is deceased; Herbert; Alfred; and Alma. One child of Claus and Ida (Hahn)
Horst died in infancy. Henry was accidentally killed when but thirteen years of
age.
Mr. Horst was independent in his political views and held several positions of
public trust in Davenport township, including that of rad supervisor. His
demise, which occurred on the 24th of May, 1881, was the occasion of deep and
widespread regret, for he had gained many warm friends during the long period of
his residence in this county. His widow continued to reside on the farm until
1889, since which time she has made her home in Davenport. She is widely known
in Scott county, where she has now lived for more than six decades and
throughout this entire period she has enjoyed the respect and esteem of those
with whom she has come in contact.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
Peter N. Jacobsen
From "Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Few among the older German settlers of Davenport enjoy a larger number of
friends and a more universal respect than does Peter N. Jacobsen, who, after a
life of diligence and well repaid toil, is living in retirement at 1823 Division
street. He was born in Eckernfoerder, Germany, March 24, 1833, a son of Claus
and Dorothy (Miller) Jacobsen. His paternal grandfather, Peter Jacobsen, was one
of the very wealthy and prominent men in his section of Germany and served in
the war with Russia. He married Miss Anna Maria Jochensen from Kollebig,
Germany. Claus Jacobsen, a miller by trade, never left the land of his birth. He
was the father of thirteen children, of whom Peter N. is the eldest and the only
one who came to this country besides his youngest sister. There is but one other
survivor of this large family, a daughter, living in Germany.
Peter N. Jacobsen received all of his education in the land of his birth, for he
attended a private school near his home. In early life he learned the miller's
trade, later becoming an overseer who traveled through the country
superintending factories for different concerns. He went to Schube, Germany,
where he remained for a time; from there to Pretsch; thence to Oldenburg, and
then to Wohedurst. He removed finally to Copenhagen, Denmark, where he remained
until he returned home to enter the German army. After his period of service, in
1857, he sailed for America, making his way immediately to Davenport after
landing upon our shores. First he worked as a farm hand and then rented land in
this county, finally buying eighty acres in Princeton township. His life having
been for so long devoted to milling, he shortly afterward took charge of the
Rush mill, which he operated and then rented. In 1860 he sold his property and
came to Davenport, where he secured a mill, which he conducted for several
years. This he also sold and embarked in the saloon business, to which he
devoted his attention until his son was old enough to assume its
responsibilities. He then retired from active life and has since devoted himself
entirely to matters which were calculated to advance the interests of his
compatriots in this county.
Mr. Jacobsen has been twice married. In 1857 he wedded Miss Anna Goetz and to
them were born seven children: Charley F.; Dora L.; Peter N., deceased; Anna;
Peter N., Jr.; Claus; and Henry. Mrs. Jacobsen died in 1885, and subsequently
Mr. Jacobsen wedded Mrs. Paulina Heunger. She had a daughter, Anna, who became
the wife of one of Mr. Jacobsen's sons.
Mr. Jacobsen has always been very active in the public affairs and has been
prominent in the numerous organizations which have been formed by his
compatriots for social or beneficent reasons. He belongs to the Northwest
Davenport Relief Society, Noto Themp Society and its relief corps, the Davenport
Singing Society (Liedertael), the German Relief, the German Pioneer Society, of
which he is vice president, the German School Society, and the German and
American Alliance.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
John W. Jamison
From "Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
John W. Jamison, residing at No. 1019 Scott street in Davenport, has lived
retired for more than two decades and is one of the oldest residents of the
city. His birth occurred in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, on the 25th of July,
1822, his parents being Francis and Nancy (Wallace) Jamison, who were natives of
Ireland and America respectively. The father was a farmer and miller by
occupation. John W. Jamison obtained his education in the schools of his native
county and after putting aside his text-books worked with his father on the farm
and in the mill. He likewise learned the shoemaker's trade and worked at that
occupation in Allegheny county until his removal to Scott county, Iowa, in 1855.
After a residence of three months in this county he returned to the Keystone
state for his wife and children and on establishing his home in Davenport
obtained employment in a mill. Subsequently he entered the service of Dawson
& Greggs, a shoe concern, with whom he remained for about five years, on the
expiration of which period he opened a shoe factory in association with Mr.
Murdock. Several years later they dissolved partnership and for a long time Mr.
Jamison remained the sole proprietor of the enterprise. Later he became
associated with his son, George W. Jamison, and thus continued an active factor
in commercial circles until his retirement from the shoe business in 1877.
During the following ten years he was employed in a clerical capacity by the
Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway but since severing his connection
with that corporation he has lived in honorable retirement.
on the 11th of February, 1845, Mr. Jamison was united in marriage to Miss
Rebecca Kelso, who was born in Pennsylvania on the 8th of September, 1816, her
parents being George Washington and Nancy (Murdock) Kelso. Her grandfather
participated in the Revolutionary war. Mr. and Mrs. Jamison became the parents
of six children, the record of whom is as follows: George W., the eldest, is now
a resident of St. Louis. At the time of the civil war, when but eighteen years
of age, he enlisted for one hundred days' service in the Union army and
reenlisted in 1864, becoming a member of Company G, Twentieth Iowa Volunteer
Infantry. He participated in a number of hotly contested engagements and when
the supremacy of the Union had been established was honorabley discharged. He
married Miss Matilda Hartung, by whom he has four children, namely: Lottie, the
wife of Edward Owens; Edmund K., a resident of Moline, Illinois, who wedded Miss
Emma Barroclough and has one child, Raymond; Archie, who makes his home in St.
Louis; and William, who is in the United states navy. Francis Jamison, who lives
in Moline, Illinois, wedded Miss Mary Binder and has three children: Ida, who is
the wife of George Saum and has three children - Mabel, Margaret and Mary;
Minnie, a twin sister of Ida; and Amy, who gave her hand in marriage to Charles
Berry and has one child, Beatrice. The other children of Mr. Jamison of this
review were: John, who has passed away; Robert, who makes his home in
California; Benjamin, who is likewise deceased; and Nancy, at home. Mrs. Rebecca
Jamison passed away on the 25th of March, 1907, and her loss was deeply and
sincerely mourned by all who knew her.
Mr. Jamison is a stalwart democrat in his political views and held the office of
city assessor in 1877. He joined the Masonic fraternity in 1858 and is one of
the oldest representatives of the craft here. He belongs to all the branches of
the order, has attained the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite and is
past grand treasurer of the grand lodge of Masons. He is likewise past grand
chancellor of the Knights of Pythias lodge. For many years he served as
superintendent of the Sunday school of the United Presbyterian church and has
always been one of its most active and valued members, holding various official
positions therein. He assisted in the erection of the first house of worship and
was one of the two men who contributed the funds for the seating of the edifice.
He is now in the eighty-eight year of his age and is one of the most venerable
as well as respected residents of Davenport, which city has remained his home
for fifty-five years. His record as a business man and as a private citizen has
been so honorable that he has gained the confidence and good will of all with
whom he has been brought in contact.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
Nicklaus Jansen
From "Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Nicklaus Jansen, who has lived retired in Davenport for the past eight years,
won his competence as an agriculturist and is still the owner of a fine farm of
one hundred and twenty acres of land in Allens Grove township, where he also has
a timber tract comprising seven and a half acres. His birth occurred in
Holstein, Germany, on the 4th of May, 1846. In his youthful days he attended the
schools of his native land and after putting aside his text-books began learning
the carpenter's trade. In 1867, when a young man of twenty-one years, he set
sail for the new world and after landing at New York came direct to Davenport,
Iowa. Here he began work at the carpenter's trade but in a short time turned his
attention to general agricultural pursuits and was employed as a farm hand for
about ten years. On expiration of that period he purchased and located upon the
farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Allens Grove township which has since
remained in his possession. The property was well improved and he made his home
thereon for twenty-three years, annually gathering bounteous harvests as a
reward for the care and labor which he bestowed upon the fields. He next bought
a sixty-acre tract of land in Allens Grove township, on which he resided for two
years, at the end of which time he disposed of the place to his son-in-law and
took up his abode in Davenport. Here he has lived retired since 1902, enjoying
in well earned ease the fruits of his former toil.
On the 13th of February, 1877, Mr. Jansen was united in marriage to Miss Julia
Krousa, a native of Holstein, Germany, and a daughter of Henry and Anna (Hensen)
Krousa. The father passed away when his daughter Julia was but five years of age
and the mother afterward married again, becoming the wife of John Kardell. In
1852 Mrs. Jansen was bought to the United States by her parents, who became
early settlers of Davenport. Unto our subject and his wife have been born three
children, namely: Alvina, who gave her hand in marriage to Ferd Weisenberg, by
whom she has three children - Arnold, Ellis and Orville; Carrie, who married
George Thoem, of Davenport, Iowa, and is likewise the mother of three children -
Edna, Harry and Leroy; and Celia D., who is still at home. Mr. Jensen has lived
in this county for more than four decades and is a well known member of the
German Pioneers Association. The hope that led him to leave his native land and
seek a home in America has been more than realized. He found the opportunities
he sought and through their wise utilization worked his way steadily upward
until he gained a place among the substantial and respected citizens of his
community.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
Jacob Johannsen
From "Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Jacob Johannsen, who in the years of an active business life followed farming
but is now living retired in Davenport, has demonstrated in his life record that
success is not a matter of genius, as held by some, but is rather the outcome of
clear judgment, experience and intelligently directed industry. He was born in
Holstein, Germany, February 6, 1836, and is a son of Jacob and Margarethe
Johannsen, who spent their entire lives in their native country. The subject of
this review attended school in Germany and through the periods of vacation
worked on the home farm. The favorable reports which he heard concerning America
and its opportunities led him to the belief that no country held out as great
inducement, and accordingly he made arrangements to cross the Atlantic. Bidding
adieu to home and friends, he landed at New York on the 25th of May, 1857, but
did not tarry on the eastern coast. He at once made his way into the interior of
the country, arriving in Davenport on the 1st of June. His lack of financial
resources made it imperative that he at once seek employment and he began work
as a farm hand, spending five years in that way. He was then married and rented
land until his industry and economy enabled him to secure capital sufficient to
purchase a farm. In 1868 he bought eighty acres in Davenport township, to which
he removed. The farm was improved and he at once began its further development
and cultivation, making his home thereon until 1880. In the meantime he had
added to the place and retained the ownership thereof until 1885, when he sold.
He had retired in 1880, however, and in that year took up his abode in
Davenport, where he has since lived, enjoying a well earned rest.
On the 17th of March, 1862, Mr. Johannsen was married to Miss Dora Hein, a
daughter of Henry and Catherine Hein, who were natives of Germany. Mr. Johannsen
is a member of the German Pioneers association. For more than a half century he
has lived in this county and has therefore witnessed much of its growth and
progress as the work of development has been carried forward by the enterprising
and progressive class of people who came here to enjoy the natural advantages
offered. Working resolutely and persistently day after day, Jacob Johannsen at
length became the possessor of a comfortable competence that now supplies him
with all of the comforts and some of the luxuries of life. He has never had
occasion to regret his determination to come to the new world, for he found good
opportunities here and in their improvement reached a place among the
substantial citizens of Scott county.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
William Johnson
From "Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
William Johnson, who is now living retired in Davenport, was for many years
identified with the industrial interests of the city as a carpenter. His birth
occurred in Ireland on the 23d of November, 1829, his parents being Thomas and
Eleanor Johnson. The father, who was a farmer and weaver by occupation, brought
his family to the United States in 1849, locating at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
where he worked as a weaver. Four years later, in 1853, he came to Davenport,
Iowa, settling on a tract of thirty acres which he purchased near Walcott. The
land was all wild prairie but he set resolutely to work, erected a house, fenced
the fields and improved the property. He was not long permitted to enjoy his new
home, however, passing away about a year after his arrival in Scott county. The
demise of his wife also occurred about the same time.
William Johnson obtained his education in the schools of his native land and was
a young man of twenty when he accompanied his parents on their emigration to the
new world. While in Philadelphia he worked at the weaver's trade but after
coming to this county turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits and
was thus engaged for about five years. Subsequently he acted as a colporteur for
the Presbyterian church for about five years, on the expiration of which period,
in 1866, he was married and took up his abode in Davenport. He then learned the
carpenter's trade and worked at that occupation for many years, erecting a
number of houses. When at length, owing to his untiring industry and good
business ability, he had accumulated a handsome competence he retired from
active life and has since enjoyed the fruits of his former toil in well earned
ease.
On the 28th of March, 1866, Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth
Steel, who was born in Ireland in 1848, and came to this country about 1865. Mr.
and Mrs. Johnson became the parents of five children, the record o whom is as
follows: Brice, who is a grocer of Davenport, has been twice married, his first
union being with Miss Ruth Hage, by whom he had a daughter, Elizabeth Ruth. For
his second wife he chose Miss Rose Lingerfeldt and they had a son who is now
deceased. George, living in Davenport, married Miss Elizabeth Blair, by whom he
has two children. William R. Johnson is still under the parental roof. Cora
follows the profession of school teaching in Davenport. William passed away when
about two years of age.
Mr. Johnson of this review has now attained the venerable age of eighty years
and has lived within the borders of Scott county for more than a half century.
Coming to the United States in early manhood, he found the opportunities which
he sought and through their wise utilization won a measure of success that now
enables him to spend his declining years in retirement - surrounded by all of
the comforts and many of the luxuries that go to make life worth living.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
Simon
Koch
From" Vol 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by
Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Simon Koch, who at the time of his death was the possessor of more business
property than almost any other capitalist of Davenport, reached his enviable
financial standing through the avenue of indefatigable and honorable business
activity, and his life record, therefore, may serve as a splendid example to the
ambitious young man who desires to attain success without infringing upon the
rights of others. Mr. Koch was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, October 28, 1834,
and was in his eighteenth year when he bade adieu to the fatherland and sailed
for the United States. He located in Pennsylvania in 1852, retaining his
residence in that state for two years, after which he came to Davenport. He made
his home in this city for about sixteen years and in that time was married, in
1869, to Miss Elizabeth Harrison, a daughter of Peter Harrison, who came from
England to the new world in 1850 with his father, John Harrison, who established
the family home in Scott county. The latter was engaged in farming here and continued
to occupy the old homestead place until he was called to his final rest. His
son, Peter Harrison, in response to the country's call for troops, enlisted for
service in an Iowa regiment and did active duty at the front until the close of
the war, when he returned to Davenport. 'After a short time, however, he went
south to live. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Koch were born six children: Mrs. J. Ryan,
Lillian, Matthias, Otto S., William and Frank.
Following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Koch remained in Davenport until the
early'70s, when they removed to Chicago and there Mr. Koch engaged in contract
work or the Union Pacific Railroad Company in partnership with the father of P.
W. McManus. They were engaged extensively in building bridges and trestles and
doing important engineering work. It was through that avenue of business that he
gained the monetary influence which he held until his death, his success being
evidenced in his extensive investments in real estate, which made him the
possessor of more down town property than was held by the great majority of
capitalists in this city. He was a man of keen business discernment, seldom, if
ever, at fault in a matter of judgment, and his sagacity and enterprise enabled
him to win success where others met with failure. He seemed to know just when,
where and how to place his invested interests and the rise in realty values
consequent on the growth of the city has made his property a constantly
increasing source of profit. His political allegiance was given to the democracy
and his religious faith was manifest in his membership in the Catholic church.
He was generous in his support thereof and was also the patron of many worthy
organized charities.
Transcribed
by Debbie Gerischer
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