Louis Vogt

Louis Vogt, who has for more than two decades been the owner of one of the best estates in township 1, ranges 9 and 10 west, Monroe County, is classed among the well-to-do farmers of his section. He is a native of Prussia, and was born November 11, 1842. He was bereft of both parents when but an infant and was reared by his uncle, Frank Jasper Vogt, who came to the United States when our subject was but four years old and located in this county. He was a man of means, and at once purchased a farm, comprising one hundred and fifty acres. He was never married, and his sister, Mary Frances, kept house for him. He died in 1856. Our subject remained on this farm until his marriage, which occurred when he was twenty-four years of age.

The early education of young Louis was received in the common and Catholic schools, to which faith he was reared. While residing with his uncle he became familiar with all the details of farming, and chose that vocation as his life work. At the time of his marriage, in 1867, he began renting land, but in 1873 was enabled to purchase land of his own, which comprised one hundred broad and fertile acres. He has since been engaged in general farming and stock-raising to some extent, in which he has been very prosperous. Some years ago he disposed of ten acres of his land, leaving him at the present time with one hundred and seventy acres, all of which are under the best state of cultivation.

The lady who became the wife of our subject bore the maiden name of Catherine Janson, a daughter of Valentine and Elizabeth (Seibert) Janson. To them were born nine children, six of whom yet are living, and are named" Elizabeth, Louis, Anna, John, Maggie and Edward. Elizabeth is the wife of Michael Schaff, and Louis is married to Lena Petri. The children have all received the best advantages for good education in the public and Catholic schools. Socially, Mr. Vogt is a member of the Catholic Knights of Illinois, and politically is a stanch Democrat. In 1890 he was chosen County Commissioner on his ticket and has since been re-elected. He also served as School Director and Road Commissioner of his township.