William H. Rock

As printed in 1910

WILLIAM H. ROCK.

The strong traits of character predominant in the German race have been conspicuous in winning for William H. Rock the substantial position he holds among the farmers of Aliens Grove township. There he engaged m farming for more than a quarter of a century until 1908, when he retired from active life and took up his residence in Dixon. He was born in Waldeck, Germany, December 2, 1853, a son of Louis and Fredericka (Bick) Rock. They spent their entire lives in the country of their birth and were the parents of seven sons and two daughters. Three of the former came to this country: WiUiam

H., the subject; and F. H. and C. H., who settled first in Qinton county, Iowa, and later moved to Woodbury, county, Iowa.

William H. Rock attended the public schools of his fatherland until he was seventeen years of age, when he decided to come to America. After crossing the Atlantic he made his way immediately to Davenport, arriving here some time in the early part of 1870. He had little difficulty in finding work as a farm hand, receiving a small wage in compensation for his labor. Until he was twenty-six years of age he worked for others and then bought a tract of one hundred and sixty acres in Berlin township, Clinton county. Upon that he engaged in farming for a number of years, finally selling it in order that he might buy the two hundred and forty acres in Aliens Grove township which was for so many years his home. It is situated about two miles south of the village of Dixon and is a fine arable tract. He improved it greatly during the years it was his home and from the cultivation of its soil derived a large profit. As the years brought him success he invested heavily in land elsewhere, purchasing one hundred and sixty-nine acres in Liberty township adjoining the corporate boundaries of Dixon, and five hundred and fifty-five acres in Oldham county, Texas. As these landholdings represent his own efforts he felt that he was well justified in relinquishing the heavier cares of life and enjoying a respite from his toil.

In 1882 Mr. Rock wedded Miss Louise Rock, who was born in Scott county. November 1, 1860, a daughter of Christian and Wilhelmina Rock. They were both natives of Waldeck, Germany, and had come to this county sometime in the '50s. They are now residing in Aliens Grove township. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Rock: Minnie, now the wife of Louis Wunder, of Hickory Grove township; and Herbert B., Hugo and Hellmuth, who are living upon their father's farm in Aliens Grove township. The eldest of the sons is married.

When Mr. Rock became a citizen of this country he those the democratic party as his guide in political matters and to its support has since given his unqualified allegiance. He was active in the affairs of Aliens Grove township, although never an office seeker, having for six years efficiently fulfilled the duties of assessor and for seven years having served the people as trustee. When the Dixon Savings Bank was organized a few years ago Mr. Rock became the vice president, a position he still holds. His activity in promoting this enterprise is but another indication of the progressive spirit which has been conspicuous throughout his life.

As printed in History of Davenport and Scott County Iowa : Illustrated (1910). See the original pages. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.