| Henry Anton Peterson is rounding out a well-spent life as a helpful citizen of Burlington, Iowa. A native of Germany, being born in Pelvan, North Schlesvig, Nov. 3, 1836, and is the son of Irean Cornelius and Johanna (Lierman) Peterson.
He grew to manhood at his father's home, receiving such education as the schools afforded. Our subject was very successful in gardening in the old country till he made up his mind to come to America. He made this trip in 1879, and came direct to Burlington, where his son Herman lived. For a number of years he was a valued employee of the Rand Lumber Company.
Mr. Peterson married Miss Gustina Matilda Simpson, daughter of Lefrick and Johanna (Brodtcraft) Simpson. They were blessed with two sons: Herman Cornelius, who came to America in 1876 with his uncle, John C. Peterson, and married Miss Sophia H. Madison, daughter of Mads Hansen, (Danish way of naming children). This union was graced by seven children: Elma, Martin, Sophia, Mary, Harry, Minnie, and Henry. Minnie died at two years of age, and Henry at the age of three months. Herman C. learned the butcher business first, and worked at it for some time, and is now employed at Casper Heil's Brewery. Politically, he is a stanch Republican, also a valued member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and of the Fraternal Union.
Irean Cornelius, the second son of our subject, died at the age of twelve years, and in August, 1892, Mrs. Peterson passed away and is buried in Aspen Grove cemetery, Burlington, Iowa. Since her death Mr. Peterson has been very lonesome, and has made his home with his son Herman, who lives at 527 Montgomery Street. The character of Mr. Peterson is upright and honorable, his manner courteous and pleasant, and he has many friends and kind neighbors who respect him highly.
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