JOHN DIETRICH, firm of Rissinger & Dietrich, butchers, brick and ice dealers, Mason City; born in Snyder Co., Penn, April 29, 1834, where he worked at brick making and carpentering until 23 years of age, when he emigrated to Illinois in April, 1857; located half a mile east of where Mason City now stands. In 1858, he commenced the manufacture of brick, supplying the wants of Mason City some four years. He then followed carpentering and the undertaker's business until 1867. when he associated with his present partner, and again engaged in making brick; in 1872, they added the ice business, and in September, 1878, again extended their business by adding the butcher business. Mr. D. is the oldest continuous business man in Mason City, coming here when there was not a single house upon the spot where Mason City now stands. He has held the office of Alderman of the Third Ward for three years. His marriage with Caroline Harmon was celebrated in Pennsylvania. Eleven children were the fruit of this union, of whom four are now living: George L., Caroline, Harry L.. and Evelina. Mr. D. is a son of George Dietrich, who was born in Snyder Co., Penn., in 1803 ; came to Mason City in 1858, and followed shoemaking until 1873. Married, in January, 1831, Sarah Houseworth ; she died in Mason City Aug. 17, 1875.Five of their children now survive; Jeremiah and a son-in-law lost their lives at the battle of Lookout Mountain.



Maintained by Mason County Coordinator Donna Mayer