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Valentine Kern |
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Valentine Kern, who owns and operates a good farm of two hundred and forty acres on section 31, township 3, range 8 west, is numbered among the leading agriculturists of Monroe County. His place is improved with substantial buildings and all the accessories of a model farm. It is neat and attractive in appearance, and the well tilled fields indicate to the passer-by the careful supervision of the owner. The father of our subject, Francis Kern, was born in the province of Deburg, Germany, in 1809, and there wedded Mary Schroet. It was in 1840 that he crossed the briny deep to the New World. He spent the winter in St. Louis, and the following spring came to Prairie du Long, Monroe County, and located a mile and a half south of Freedom. After a short time he settled on section 31, where he entered eighty-four acres of Government land, and in the midst of the forest hewed out a farm. He built a good home and placed the land under a high state of cultivation. He continued the operation of his farm until his death, which occurred in 1881. In the family were only two children, who are now living: Valentine, and John, who engaged in agricultural pursuits in Missouri. The father was one of the first German settlers of this community, and was an honored and highly respected citizen. He held membership with the Catholic Church. On the 26th of August, 1841, on the old home farm, occurred the birth of Valentine Kern. He was reared in the usual manner of farmer lads, attending the district schools through the winter season, and aiding in the labors of the farm during the summer months. Thus he grew to manhood, and the home of his boyhood is still his place of residence. In the year 1864, Mr. Kern was united in marriage with Miss Catherina Purtle. The lady was born August 27, 1843, and is a daughter of Patrick Purtle, one of the earliest settlers of Monroe County. By the union of this worthy couple has been born a family of six children, as follows: Valentine, who was born April 29, 1865; Mary M., March 4, 1868; Henry, March 12, 1870; John, September 3, 1873; Elizabeth, April 14, 1877; and Christian J., March 1, 1884. The eldest son married Maggie Steppig, who was born May 16, 1869, and they live on section 31, township 3, range 8. Mary is the wife of George Stadter, a resident of Monroe County. The other children are still under the parental roof. The family circle yet remains unbroken by the hand of Death. The household is the abode of hospitality and good cheer, and its members rank high in the social circles in which they move. Mr. Kern devotes his entire time and attention to the improvement and cultivation of his farm, which is one of the best in the community, and his labors are rewarded by a good income. He has led a busy and useful life, yet never neglects his public duties. He takes a warm interest in everything pertaining to the welfare of the community, and is a valued citizen. In politics, he is a Democrat. He and his family are members of the Catholic Church of Red Bud. |