My Genealogy Hound

FREDERICK HARMSEN. Among the natives of Germany who rank among the prominent agriculturists of Randolph County may be classed the subject of this biographical notice, whose life has been such as to reflect credit not only upon himself, but also upon the land of his nativity. His estate is located in township 6, range 5, near the city of Steeleville, and on account of its first-class improvements and pleasant situation is conceded to be one of the most valuable farms in the county.

Born in Germany August 29, 1832, our subject is the second of a family of three children born to the union of Henry and Katherine (Biester) Harmsen, both of whom lived and died in the Fatherland. In the excellent schools of Germany, Frederick received a practical education, and at the age of fourteen years discontinued his studies and commenced to work upon a farm. He followed farming pursuits in that country until 1865, when he took passage on a ship and crossed the ocean to America. For a time he remained in Chicago, after which he spent a year in Randolph County, and then returned to Germany.

So pleased was Mr. Harmsen with the prospects and inducements America offered to settlers that in 1867 he returned hither and took up his abode in Randolph County, settling upon the place where he has since resided. Since locating here he has become known as one of the leading farmers and stock-raisers of the county, and as a result of his progressive spirit and energetic disposition he has gained prosperity. He devotes his attention exclusively to his private interests, and other than casting his ballot for the nominees of the Democratic party, is not interested in public affairs.

The first marriage of Mr. Harmsen occurred in 1867, when he was united with Miss Margaret Myers, whose parents spent their entire lives in Germany. Of this union there were born five children. Those who survive are: Agnes, who married Hermann Kuhlman and resides in California; Emma and Henry, who are at home. In 1886 Mrs. Margaret Harmsen passed away, and two years later our subject was united in marriage with Wilhemena Pagels, who was born and reared in Germany, and there also married. The parents of Mrs. Harmsen spent their entire lives in their native land, Germany. This marriage has resulted in the birth of two children, John and William, who are bright and intelligent. In their religious affiliations, Mr. Harmsen and his excellent wife are identified with the Lutheran Church.