JACOB EISELE. Among the early settlers of this township conspicuous for energy and courage in struggling against adverse circumstances and the hardships and perils of pioneer life, Jacob Eisele is worthy of an honorable place. He was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, March 6, 1831, where he attended school regularly until he was fourteen years of age. He then devoted six years to learning the carpenter’s trade. Ambitious to acquire greater independence than it seemed possible for him to attain in his native land, he resolved to come to America, whither so many have turned from foreign lands in search of freedom, riches and a home, and who, when they come equipped with courage, industry and integrity of character, are seldom disappointed in their quest.

April 26, 1853, Jacob Eisele sailed from Havre, and landed at New York on the 13th of the following June. After his arrival he went directly to Pittsburgh and engaged in farm work twenty-four miles from that city at $6 per month. He remained there until autumn when, in the hope of improving his circumstances, he pushed farther westward and came to Stephenson County. When he arrived in America he was in debt for his passage across the Atlantic, and had been reduced to such extremities that it was two years before he could pay off his indebtedness and begin even with the world. On his arrival in Stephenson County he obtained employment on a farm at $10 per month, and retained the position until 1860, when he worked for two summers at sixty cents a day, and during the winter season chopped and hauled wood.

In 1862 Mr. E. purchased fifty acres of wild land, covered with a thick growth of underbrush, interspersed here and there with clumps of large trees. He built a little frame shanty and began resolutely to clear and improve his land. Here he made his home for twenty years. In the meantime he had increased his farm to over 100 acres, having at one time added to it twenty acres and at another, forty. In 1882 he sold his property there and came to this township, where he now owns a farm of 120 acres, all of which is enclosed.

In 1860 our subject married Miss Hannah Ridel, also a native of Wurtemberg. They have a family of six children – Lydia, William, John, Julia, Anna and Ella. Lydia married John H. Zipse, and lives in West Point Township. Mr. Eisele and his family are highly esteemed members of the Methodist Church, and it may be said of him that he possesses the respect and confidence of all who know him. By the exercise of industry and good judgment he has worked his way successfully, struggling against many disadvantages and obstacles, and is now in the enjoyment of a pleasant home and independent circumstances.

Contributed by Carol Parrish from Portraits & Biographical 1888 Stephenson Co IL Pg 218