J. D. Bickel, dairyman, and one of the prominent business men of Giard Township, was born in Hessen, Germany, Aug. 11, 1854, a son of Valentine and Catherine Bickel. He was educated in his native country, and in 1872 came to the United States, where he soon learned the English language and obtained employment as clerk in a store. In 1876 he was taken in partnership in his present business, an account of which is given in this work and in 1878 formed a partnership with C.J. Neill, and the business has been conducted under the firm name of Bickel & Neill since. In 1877 he married Mary Hanson, who was born in Wisconsin. Three sons blessed this union, viz.: Milton, Willis and John. Mr. Bickel has shown much ability in building up a business since coming to this county. source: History of Clayton
County, Iowa, 1882, p. 818-819 |