Biographical Sketch of

August Krentz

Transcribed by Sandra Boudrou for the Marquette Co WI Pages


Source: Portrait and Biographical Album of Green Lake, Marquette and Waushara Counties, Wisconsin, 
published 1890 by Acme Publishing Co., Chicago, Pages 790 - 791 


August Krentz, a prominent farmer and a representative citizen of the town of Newton, Marquette County, who 
resides on section 30, where he owns 250 acres of land, was born in the Province of Posen, Germany, April 16, 
1838, and is a son of Godfred and Caroline Krentz, who were natives of the same country.  Their family numbered 
six children, three of whom are yet living, and residents of this county--Frederick being a farmer of the town 
of Newton, while Charles is engaged in merchandising in Westfield.  The family came to America in 1857.  Landing 
in New York City, they at once resumed their journey, and shortly afterward reached their destination which was 
Marquette County.  The father then purchased 150 acres of land, which is now the home of our subject, and began 
its cultivation continuing there to make his home until 1889, when he was called to his final rest, at the ripe 
old age of seventy-eight years.  He was of a rather quiet and retired disposition, but was a worthy citizen and 
had the respect of all who knew him.  His wife died in 1874, at the age of sixty years.  Both were members of the 
Lutheran Church.

August Krentz, whose name heads this notice, began his school life in his native land, and completed his education 
in Marquette County.  He was eighteen years of age when he crossed the Atlantic to America, and since 1857, he has 
been numbered among the enterprising and progressive citizens of the community.  In 1862, having resided in this 
country long enough to become a citizen, he left home and began traveling in order to familiarize himself with the 
habits and customs of the American people, and to learn the laws and methods of government of our country.  He 
visited many States of the Union, and in his journey acquired much valuable and useful knowledge.  On his return 
home, he purchased the farm of his father, comprising 200 acres, and about the same time was united in marriage 
with Miss Elvina Lamke, a native of Prussia, their union being celebrated on the 23d of January, 1864.  The young 
couple began their domestic life upon the farm which still continues to be their home, and where six children have 
been born to them, namely:  Sarah, Emma, Charles W., John G., Martin A. and Chris H.  They have all received liberal 
educational advantages, both in German and English courses, and are fitted for useful and honorable positions in 
life.  The eldest daughter has been a successful teacher in the town of Newton for several terms.

Since 1865 Mr. Krentz has served his township in some official capacity.  For the past ten years he has been Clerk 
of the town, having been elected to that office by the Democratic party, of which he is a strong supporter.  He does 
all in his power to aid in the social and moral advancement of the community, and is especially active in the 
educational interests of the county.  During the third of a century that he has passed in Wisconsin his life 
has been one of uprightness, and by all he is regarded as a man of sterling worth, who stands deservedly high 
in the esteem of his fellow-citizens.  He is numbered among the prosperous farmers of the community, having 
attained to that position by his own efforts.  Against the opposing influences of frontier life he has brought 
to bear perseverance, energy and a determined will, and has acquired a competence which surrounds his family 
with all the comforts of life.  His resid ence is a neat and substantial two-story frame structure, tastefully 
furnished, and provided with books, magazines, papers and other means of entertainment which will center the 
affections of his children on their home and not upon outside attractions. 






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