My Genealogy Hound

Heinrich Schmidt, farmer, is the son of Johan H. and A. M. Elizabeth (Wulfmeier) Schmidt, both natives of Niederjoellenbeck, Kreis Herford, Prussia, Germany; he was born about 1798, and she about 1808. They spent their lives on a farm in their native country. In their family were seven sons, of whom only one, our subject, came to America. He was the eldest child and was born in Prussia, Germany, October 14, 1835. He was reared a farmer, and received his education in the German language. In 1852 he left his home and set sail for the United States. Arriving in St. Louis, he found nearly all his money gone and attempted to find two of his uncles, whom he thought were working in the city, and who had urged him to come. His efforts to find them were fruitless, however, and he has never heard from them. He soon found a place to learn the cabinet-maker’s trade, at which he worked for about ten years, being a first-class workman. Having saved his money, he came to Franklin County, in 1862, and in connection with William Herhold, built the Beemont Mills. The following year they purchased the farm upon which Mr. Schmidt now lives. In 1869 they made a division, he taking the farm and his partner the mill. Mr. Schmidt now owns 390 acres of land, and is a successful farmer. In 1864 he married Miss Mary Flottmann, who was born near Terre Haute, Ind., February 10, 1844. Seven children were the result of this marriage: Anna M. E., Mary H. J., Frederick W., John H., Wilhelmina K., M. Louise and W. Emma. All the family belong to the Evangelical Church. He is a Republican in politics, and when the first call for troops was made he volunteered in Company B, First Missouri Infantry (United States army), and about two months later was transferred to Company I, Fifth Missouri Regiment. He went out for three months, and served nearly five. In 1864 he again served in the enrolled militia, and for a time held the position of second lieutenant. As a farmer, he has met with unusual success, and is respected by all.