Biography - William Gartner
WILLIAM GARTNER, one of the most prominent and enterprising farmers of South Litchfield Township, resides on section 19, where he has a fine farm and an elegant home. Born in the kingdom of Prussia, on the 7th of November, 1845, he passed his early youth in his native land. He was the youngest of the family of three children born unto Charles and Charlotta Gartner. His father died when William was only six months old, and his two sisters died in this country. His mother married again, becoming the wife of Henry Stockamp, and to them was born one child.
Our subject acquired a good education in the schools of his native land, and
in 1859, when thirteen years of age, came with his mother and stepfather to
America. The family located in South Litchfield Township, where for a short
time William attended the public schools, but he was soon obliged to begin
life for himself. His mother died at his home in 1869. Mr. Gartner entered
upon his business career us a farm hand, working by the month for five years
for small wages. In 1864, having acquired a small capital, he made his first
purchase of land, consisting of eighty acres, which formed the nucleus of
his present fine farm. He is now one of the extensive farmers of the
community. His first home was a little frame house 12x14 feet, and in it,
with him, lived his mother and step-father. This dwelling still stands upon
the farm, and, in contrast to his present beautiful and commodious
residence, indicates the enterprise and well-directed efforts which have
brought him success. From time to time he has added more land until now he
owns four hundred acres, which are under a high state of cultivation. All
the accessories of a model farm may there be found, and the place is
complete in all its appointments.
As a companion and helpmate on life's journey, Mr. Gartner chose Miss Mary
Schweppe, also a native of Prussia. Their union was celebrated in 1869 and
unto them have been born two children: Henry W., who was born February 11,
1873, and William F., who was born January 5, 1877. The family are all
members of the German Lutheran Church, and are highly respected people, who
hold an enviable position in social circles. Mr. Gartner is a stanch
Republican in politics. He has made a study of the history of the two
parties and is an earnest advocate of the principles which he endorses by
his ballot. He has filled the office of School Director for a number of
years, and the cause of education finds in him a warm friend. His success in
life has all been acquired through his own efforts, and he certainly
deserves great credit for the fact that through his industry and enterprise
he has won the property which is to-day his. His example is well worthy of
emulation, and we are pleased to enter this record of his life in the
history of his adopted county.
Extracted 04 Dec 2016 by Norma Hass from 1892 Portrait and Biographical Record of Montgomery and Bond Counties, Illinois, pages 151-152.
