My Genealogy Hound

AUSBACK, M. R., of the firm of S. M. Crooks & Co.; born July 11, 1845, in the province of Lorraine, France. The larger part of his education was received at Cologne. He has been engaged in the mercantile business nearly all his life. When nineteen years of age he enlisted in the French army, as first lieutenant in the “chevaux leger” (light horse), and was stationed at Strasbourg. After nearly a year’s military experience he resigned his commission and came to the United States, in 1867. The first year after his arrival was spent in traveling. His business life in America began as a clerk in the retail department of A. T. Stewart’s great business house, in New York City. In 1869 he visited the celebrated “oil region” of Pennsylvania, remaining there a short time only, when he came to Iowa, locating at Sidney, Fremont county. He entered the employ of Thomas Malloy, as manager of his general store and pork-packing establishment. The year 1874 finds him at Riverton, engaged in business enterprises in his own name. In 1877 he disposed of his business at the last-named town, and coming to Clarinda, purchased his interest in the firm of which he is at present a member. Mr. A. was married January 4, 1870, to Miss Helen L. Jewett, of Illinois. Three children have been born to them: Mollie, Guy and Pearl. He not only enjoys the confidence and esteem of the citizens of his town, but is a leader among the people. His executive ability is great, and indicative of a strong will and great force of character.