The Lesemann homestead consists of 210 acres located on section 9, Kent Township, and is in charge of the subject of this sketch, who is the son of Charles and Mary (Diestelmeier) Lesemann. They were both natives of Germany, and when they emigrated to this country, the former was about twenty-one and the latter about sixteen years of age. After they were married, they settled in Kent Township in 1848, where they have lived with the exception of a short residence in Freeport. The father of our subject was a stonemason by trade, and after coming to this country that was his principal occupation, although he also farmed to a considerable extent. He prospered in both lines of business and became the owner of 200 acres of land, on which he erected good and substantial buildings, and made all other necessary improvements. His death occurred on the 9th of June, 1878, while living on this property. Their family consisted of eight children, five of whom grew up - Mary C., Charles C., Matilda M., Fred H. and Minnie E. Those who died were Minnie C., Carrie and Daniel. Mary is the wife of Charles Gassman, and resides in Erin Township; Matilda is the wife Rev. John Hoffmeister, and resides at Waterloo, Iowa.

Charles C. Lesemann married Anna L. Gassman, on the 24th of March, 1881. She was a native of Stephenson County, having been born in Erin Township, April 2, 1858. To them have been born two children - Edwin C. and Laura M. Mr. Lesemann since the death of his father, has had the management of the old homestead, and under his care, the standard of the farm has been kept up. Mr. and Mrs. L. are members of the Evangelical Church. Mr. L. belongs to the Republican party. He is Director of the schools of his district, which office he has filled for six years.

Contributed by Carol Parrish from Portrait and Biographical Album of Stephenson County, Ill. (1888), p. 373