CARL G. BENJEGERDES
The student of history cannot carry his investigations far into the records of northern Iowa without learning of the close connection of the Benjegerdes family with the agricultural development of this section of the state. Actively identified with farming is Carl G. Benjegerdes, who is living on section 31, Lincoln township, Worth county. He was born in Garnavillo, Clayton county, Iowa, on the 14th of August, 1875, a son of John Diedrich Benjegerdes. The district schools accorded him his educational privileges until he had mastered the branches of learning therein taught. He afterward became a student in the Garner (la.) Business College and in the Nora Springs Seminary. On the 25th of October, 1899, he was united in marriage to Miss Eliza H. Dobel, a daughter of William Dobel, one of the well known and substantial pioneer citizens of Worth county, who is now living in Kensett, Iowa.
In the spring following his marriage Mr. Benjegerdes began farming on his own account by renting land from his father, thus taking possession of the farm whereon he now resides. In the spring of 1918 he purchased this tract of land from the estate and has one hundred and sixty acres which he is carefully, persistently and successfully developing and cultivating. To his place he has added various substantial improvements and it is well equipped with all modern accessories and conveniences which contribute to the success of the farmer. Aside from carefully tilling his fields he is connected with other business interests and is a stockholder in the Farmers Cooperative Elevator Company and in the Farmers Cooperative Creamery Company of Manly.
To Mr. and Mrs. Benjegerdes have been born five children: Gertrude, Lizzie, Walter, Irene and Leslie. The parents are members of the German Evangelical church and Mr. Benjegerdes is a republican in politics where national issues are involved but casts an independent local ballot. He has never sought or desired office, preferring ever to concentrate his efforts and attention upon his business affairs, which he has wisely directed, winning substantial success thereby.
SOURCE: HISTORY OF MITCHELL AND WORTH COUNTIES, IOWA, 1918, VOL. II; Pages 629 & 630
Transcription by Gordon Felland, 8/17/2006