JOHN KLONTZ

From the 1887 History of Vernon County, Missouri, p. 570:

John Klontz

(Farmer, Post-office, Deerfield).

   There are not many men in the present day who can at all times be pointed out as persons whose word would be considered as good as their bond, or who are considered the embodiment of honor.  Not but that there are such individuals, for there are -- a few -- and among them is the subject of this sketch, John Klontz, a resident of Vernon county for some 20 years.  Born September 10, 1818, in Berks county, Pa., he was the son of John and Magdalena (Fornwald) Klontz, themselves natives of the Keystone State, and the parents of 14 children; of these John was the fourth child.  He was brought up in the vicinity of his birthplace until the age of 19, then accompanying the family to Clarke county, O., where he made his home for ten years, or until removing to Stephenson county, Ill.  About seven years later he decided to locate further West and accordingly made a settlement in Winneshiek county, Ia., at a time when there were but three other families in the county.  The experience and hardships of pioneer life were endured without a murmur, and at last success attended his efforts in the securing of a good place.  From there Mr. Klontz came to Vernon county, Mo., and here he has since resided, perfectly satisfied that this locality is unsurpassed for the privileges of comfortable home life.  His farm of 285 acres is well improved and in good cultivation, and upon this he lives, surrounded by many of the comforts of life, enjoying the esteem and love of his many acquaintances and the happy family who are with him.  Genial, whole-souled and entertaining, his house is always a favorite place to visit, and one who enters it never leaves without appreciating the hospitality of its owner.  In 1839, Mr. K. was married to Miss Rebecca Kniss, of Berks county, Pa., and they have five children:  William, Peter, Samuel, Calvin and Tarintina, wife of Anson Sweeth.  Mr. Klontz has been unfortunate in several instances by the misfortunes and dishonor of those for whom he has gone security.  Among other items he lost $3,000 by the defalcation of Sheriff Shaw, but with the upright and sincere characteristics of honor above referred to he paid every cent of his share of the bond.

[Transcribed by Marty Patton]

Additional Klontz family information at http://lyndonirwin.com/klontz1.htm

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