Buena Vista County, IA
USGenWeb Project

That the agriculturalist finds in the rich soil and productive land of Buena Vista county ample opportunity for the scope of his energies is indicated by the fact that so many of the native born remain within her borders. This is true of Samuel L. Nitzke, who was born here June 4, 1877, a son of Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Nitzke, now living retired in Storm Lake. The father was born in Germany and for many years was prominently identified with the farming interests of Buena Vista county, being number among it most substantial residents. More extended mention of him is made on another page of this work. His family numbers ten children, the brothers and sisters of our subject being: Mary, the wife of Ed Hanke, who follows farming; Annie, the wife of Will Ahntholz, who also follows farming; Lilly, Alfred, Benjamin and Andrew, all of whom are still under the parental roof; J. Louis, who is a farmer and is mentioned elsewhere in this volume; and Edward J., who is also represented in this work.

Samuel L. Nitzke pursued his studies in district school No. 7, attending to the age of nineteen years, when, putting aside his text-books, he gave his time and attention to work on the farm. He later worked three years in the employ of others. In 1905, however, feeling justified in purchasing land of his own, he became the owner of one hundred and sixty acres, situated in Coon township. On the place stands a nice country home, in the rear of which are found good and substantial outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock, whiled the land has been made very productive through the care and labor which Mr. Nitzke has bestowed upon it.

Mr. Nitzke was married to Miss Ida Zemke, who was born in Wausau, Wisconsin, July 9, 1884, and who presides with gracious hospitality over her home. By her marriage she has become the mother of a son and daughter: Clarence, was born March 17, 1903; Viola, who was born March 27, 1905. The parents are faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Nitzke is independent in his political views and affiliations, voting for the man whom he regards as best fitted for political preferment, regardless of party ties. His success has by no means the result of fortunate circumstances but it has come to him through energy, labor and perseverance, directed by an evenly balanced mind and by honorable business principles. In manner he is quiet and straightforward and his word has become a synonym for business integrity.