JACOB KORTH, JR.

JACOB KORTH, JR., proprietor of the hardware store in Portsmouth, Iowa, established the business in 1887. He carries a good stock of shelf and heavy hardware; his store-room is large and well arranged for his stock. He has a profitable trade, and by his honorable dealings and genial and cordial manners is fast increasing it. Jacob Korth was born in Keokuk County, Iowa, May 8, 1864, and is a son of Jacob Korth, Sr. When he was eleven years of age his parents removed to Cass Township. He was reared to the life of a farmer, and received his education in the public schools of Keokuk and Shelby counties. At the age of seventeen years he engaged in clerking for his brother, P. J. Korth, and remained in his employ for three years. He then obtained a position in a general store in Council Bluffs, which he held for two years. He then returned to Portsmouth and again was engaged with his brother as clerk. He remained with him until he engaged in the hardware business on his own account in 1887. His excellent business habits and his extensive acquaintance are fast building him up a lively and paying trade. Mr. Korth has been twice married; September 14, 1885, he was married to Janey V. Harter, who died February 9, 1887. Be was married to his present wife, Susan Hammes, April 10, 1888. In political thought and action Mr. Korth is Democratic. He is a member of the town council. He a member of the Roman Catholic church, and is one of the popular citizens of Portsmouth.

Source: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby County, Iowa. pg. 594. Transcribed and submitted by Marthann Kohl-Fuhs