History of Lee County, Illinois - Bushnell Historical Society

18 HISTORY OF LEE COUNTY
valuable property and remained active in its operation iintil Ms
death. He passed away August 11, 1912, and was laid to rest in
Ashton cemetery. His death was widely and sincerely regretted,
for his honorable and upright life had gained him many friends in
his native township.
In 1897 Mr. Meister was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth
Walter, who was born in Germany, May 1, 1866, a daughter of John
and Anna E. (Shady) Walter, also natives of Germany. The
parents came to America in 1868 and located in Bradford tovm-
ship, where both passed away. In theii' family were seven chil-
dren, of whom six are yet living. To Mr. and Mrs. Meister five
children Avere born, Clara M., George C, Mary L., Wilbert W., and
a child who died in infancy. Mrs. Meister owns the homestead and
makes her home upon it. She is well known in Bradford township
and her many excellent qualities of mind and character have
gained her a wide circle of friends.
HENRY W. REITZ.
Henry W. Reitz, who was born June 20, 1860, a son of Adam and
Barbara Reitz, now lives retired on his excellent farm located on
section 34, Ashton township, Lee count}', the operation of which he
leaves to his oldest son, John A., whose career is recorded under a
separate caption. Mr. Reitz of this review remained under the
parental roof until twenty-four years of age, when he married
Miss Mollie Ventler. He enjoyed a common-school education and
when young became well acquainted with such agricultural
methods as lead to success. He made good use of his knowledge
and l»rought his fann holdings to a high state of cultivation before
he turned over the actual management of his land to his son,
although he still resides upon his farm, having, however, largely
withdrawn from the active work connected therewith. After his
mari'iage he engaged in farming, buying the property upon which
he yet lives and Avhich comprises one hundred and sixty acres. He
gave liis sole attention to improving this land and placing thereupon
niddern equipment, and as ])rofits resulted he acquired more
pro])erty, now owning three hmidred and ciglity acres. Two sets
of buildings can be found upon his land and all of these are in the
best state of repair.