Anton Schieferstein

Anton Schieferstein, one of the prominent and successful farmers of Monroe County, who carries on agricultural per suits on section 1, township 3, range 10 west, claims Germany as the land of his birth, which occurred on the 16th of February 1825. His parents, Casper and Mary (Keambel) Schieferstein, were also natives of the same country, and in its schools were well educated. The father earned a livelihood by selling yeast. He and his wife never left their native land, but continued there to reside until called to the home beyond. They were both members of the Lutheran Church, and both died when about fifty-two years of age.

Under the parental roof Anton Schieferstein passed his boyhood days, and in the public schools was educated, becoming familiar with al the common branches of learning. When he stared out in life for himself, he worked as a farm hand by the year for $15.00. After his marriage, he also engaged in peddling yeast, as did his father. Ere leaving his native land, he chose as a companion and helpmate on life's journey Miss Catherine Gardner, who was also born in Germany.

Hoping to at least secure a comfortable home, if not a fortune, in the New World, Mr. Schieferstein left the Fatherland and with his family crossed the briny deep. On arriving in this country, he came direct to Monroe County, Ill., and as he had no capital with which to purchase land, he rented a farm for two years. By industry and enterprise he was enabled to secure some money during that period, and on its expiration he bought eighty acres of land near where he now lives. He has added to this from time to time as his financial resources have increased, until he now owns over four hundred acres of valuable land under a high state of cultivation and well improved.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Schieferstein were born ten children, but six of the number are now deceased. The four still living are, Lizzie, Lena, Ben and Josephine. The last-named is still with her parents, but the others are all married. Our subject and his wife hold membership with the Lutheran Church, contribute liberally to its support, and take an active interest in its welfare. In his political views, Mr. Schieferstein is a stalwart Republican. He has led a busy and useful life, and by his well directed efforts, perseverance and economy, he has accumulated a valuable property, and his comfortable competence now enables him to live retired. He rents his land, and in his elegant home he is spending his declining years in rest from all business cares. He is a leading and influential citizen, and one who has the high regard of all with whom he has been brought in contact.