Smith, John F.

SMITH, STEHR

Posted By: Roseanna Zehner
Date: 7/25/2006 at 17:27:11

SMITH, JOHN F.

John F. Smith tried various occupations while a young man, and spent three years at the shoemaker's bench. In 1871, against the wishes of his parents he came to the United States, borrowing money with which to make the journey, and landing in New York September 5, 1871. He had two uncles in this country, but was without money to reach them. Being independent in his spirit, he determined to get along on his own resources, and after much difficulty secured a place on Long Island where he earned five dollars a month and his board during the winter. During the winter he acquired quite a command of the English tongue, and in March he found work at two dollars a day near Cortland, New York, and in the following August he repaid his borrowed passage money, and then wrote to his uncle in Iowa. With that gentleman, who was in the butcher business in Durant, Cedar County, Iowa, he secured a position, which he held for a year. For the purpose of thoroughly mastering the trade he went to Davenport and found work at good pay. In June, 1875, Mr. Smith reported at Durant, where he formed a partnership, and bought out his uncle.

For a year and a half he continued to carry on the trade, when he sold out to his partner, but bought another butcher business in the same place. He bought a shop at Wilton Junction, Iowa, the firm name being Smith & Bannick, and during ten years the business of the firm more than quadrupled. In 1886 he and his partner invested in a tract of land in Cleveland Township, which has since become valuable.

Mr. Smith found his health failing in 1897, and the partners divided the property of the firm. Mr. Smith taking the land in section 18, Cleveland township, where he now lives. He has made no attempt to farm. In 1899 Mr. Smith built a home with hardwood floor and hot air heating, and here he lives a retired life, attending mainly to his own hogs and cattle. He is a Democrat. He takes much interest in school matters and is always alert for the best interest of the community in this direction.

The wedding ceremonies of Mr. Smith and Miss Theresa Stehr took place in 1894, and to this union were born three children: Nyle F., Leota C. and Nella. By a previous marriage Mr. Smith had one daughter, Clara, who is now at home. In 1891 Mr. Smith and his family made a trip to his old home.

Source: Compendium of History Reminiscence and Biography of Lyon County, Iowa. Published under the Auspices of the Pioneer Association of Lyon County. Geo. Monlun, Pres.; Hon. E. C. Roach Sec’y; and Col. F. M. Thompson, Historian. Geo. A. Ogle & CO., Published, Engravers and Book Manufacturers. Chicago, 1904-1905

Transcribed by Roseanna Zehner, Darlene Jacoby and Diane Johnson