My Genealogy Hound

PETER F. H. SCHARS is one of the most popular and influential men in Buffalo county. One has but to call at his beautiful home in Thornton township and be greeted with that warm and genial welcome extended alike to everyone, to discover the real secret of Mr. Schars’ popularity. The “latch string” of his door hangs out to king and peasant alike, and no one goes from his threshold without having been made to feel that the welcome he received came from the heart of an honest and sincere man. Mr. Schars is a native of Germany, was born December 20, 1844, and came to America in 1852, with his parents, both of whom were natives of the “Father-land.” Young Schars was not old enough yet to appreciate the great possibilities offered in the new world to the honest, industrious sons of toil who flock to its shores from the overcrowded marts of other lands. A permanent settlement was made at New Baltimore, Mich., where the parents of this worthy son still reside. It was here that young Schars was reared to manhood; where he enjoyed the blessings of free schools; where he received his first lessons in patriotism; and where he had the principles of American manhood instilled in his very being. After Mr. Schars had attained his majority, he engaged in mercantile business at New Baltimore, Mich., and for eight years he continued to do a successful business. During his career as a business man, he was called upon by the people to fill various local positions of trust, and the prompt and efficient manner in which he discharged his public duties have been the chief characteristics of his successful career since. In 1879, he came to Buffalo county, Nebr., and immediately purchased a farm in Thornton township, where he now resides. His home-farm comprises a half-section, and a more beautiful tract of land can not be found in the country. The buildings are neat and substantial, and the sprinkling of numerous shade trees lend an air of cheerfulness that is so essential to a pleasant and beautiful home. Mr. Schars was married, September 13, 1870, to Lydia H. Hatheway, who was born in Marion, Mass., and is the daughter of New England parents. He was elected sheriff of Buffalo county, Nebr., on the republican ticket, in 1883, and reelected in 1885. His career as sheriff was distinguished chiefly by the fearless, yet courteous, promptness with which he discharged his official duties. He has since served as supervisor of his township two terms, and is now the president of the county board.