George Sellmansberger

GEORGE SELLMANSBERGER. To be able to look back over almost a third of a century spent in active usefulness in one locality, is, indeed, an enviable experience; and such is the privilege of the subject of this sketch. George Sellmansberger is a pioneer farmer of Walton township, Labette county, Kansas, where he is now spending the sunset of life in ease, having passed the eighty-first milestone of his existence. He was born in Germany, in 1819, and came to America when thirty-two years of age. Locating in the state of Minnesota, he there followed agricultural pursuits until 1869. Desiring to locate in a milder climate, Mr. Sellmansberger then came south to Kansas. The trip was made overland in a wagon, and consumed about a month's time. Upon his arrival in Labette county, he took up a claim comprising the south half of the north west quarter of section 25, in Walton township. This farm was the scene of many a hard year's toil before it reached its present state of cultivation. It is still the home of its aged and honored owner, whose activity would shame the indolence of many a younger man.

He married Theresa Holtzheuar, who was born in Germany, in 1820. They reared a large family composed of 12 children, as follows: Elizabeth; John; Mary; Joseph; George; Robert; Benjamin; Godfrey; Theresa; Mary (2d); Rudolph; and John (2d). John and Rudolph are engaged in mining; George and Godfrey are farmers, - the latter having charge of the home place, for his father. Joseph has also followed agricultural pursuits, and owns the southeast quarter of section 27, Walton township, Labette county. Mr. Sellmansberger has made a close study of the most practical and approved methods of farming, and is now reaping the harvest of his hard work in the possession of a sufficiency of well tilled land, and a comforting bank account. Although virtually retired from active, pursuits, he still takes a great interest in municipal affairs, and is a public spirited citizen. He is independent, in politics; he and his family are members of the Catholic church.