Henry Krueger

Henry Krueger, who engages in general farming on section 31, township 3, range 9, Monroe County, was born June 29, 1841, in Germany, and is the only survivor of a family of four children, the other three having died in infancy. The parents, Christian and Wilhelmina (Susavendt) Krueger, were also natives of Germany. At the age of thirty-none, the father accompanied by his family, left that country and crossed the broad Atlantic to America. He landed in New Orleans, and thence came to Monroe County, Ill., where he engaged in farming up to the time of his death. He was an industrious and energetic man, and placed his land under a high state of cultivation. He passed away at the age of seventy-five, and was laid to rest in this county. His wife died several years previous to his demise. Both were members of the German Evangelical Church, and were highly respected people of the community. In his political affiliations the father was a stanch Republican.

Henry Krueger spent the first thirteen years of his life in Germany, and then came with his parents to the New World. He attended school in the Old Country, but is largely self-educated. From and early age he was inured to the labors of the farm, becoming familiar with the business I all its details, and to his father he gave the benefit of his services until his marriage. This important event was celebrated on the 29th of June, 1865, Miss Wilhelmina Brandt becoming his wife. The lady is also a native of Germany. By their union were born thirteen children, but eight of the number are now deceased. Those still living are, Wilhelmina, Christina, Louisa, William and Mortitz. The family is one widely and favorably known in this community, and its members rank high in the social circle in which they move. Their home is the abode of hospitality and good cheer.

Mr. Krueger has lived a quiet and unassuming life, devoting his entire time and attention to agricultural pursuits, with which he has been familiar since early boyhood. He is regarded as one of the enterprising and progressive farmers of the neighborhood, and the neat appearance of the place indicates his thrift and careful supervision. His land is under a high state of cultivation, and is well improved. His possessions stand as a monument to his labors, for his property has all been acquired through his own unaided efforts. He may therefore truly be called a self-made man.