One Township's Yesterdays Chapter XXVIII  

VAN SCHOIACK

The early life of L. T. VANSCHOIACK was marked by no event of particular interest until the year 1833, when he left the familiar haunts of his childhood and removed to Indiana, locating in Wayne County. In 1845, he removed to Illinois, and after a residence of five years in that state, returned to Wayne County, Indiana. There he engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1863. In that year he came to Marshall County and purchased the farm upon which he resided for a good many years.

Although in his early life, L. T. VANSCHOIACK enjoyed but few educational advantages, he possessed, however, a keen desire for knowledge and availed himself of every opportunity for gratifying that desire. By a diligent course of study he prepared himself for the vocation of teaching and taught school during the winter months. He was always provident and made it a rule to save it portion of his income, however small it might be. His fortune grew with the years. He was a plain, sensible farmer, skilled in husbandry, and thrifty. He was a conservative man, and honorable and upright in all his dealings. He was liberal in his support of public enterprises and religious and educational institutions.

His farm on the banks of Maxinkuckee was a model. It was one of the best in this part of the country. His lands in those rather early days comprised 105.80 acres on the lake, in Section 27. The farm was pretty well down toward the south end of the lake. One peculiar feature was that the public highway ran right through the barnyard in early times. In order to pass through, a person had to open and close gates at either side of the barnyard. East of the land, Mr. VANSCHOIACK had 120 acres in Section 26. All his property was in the old Indian reserve.

Mr. VANSCHOIACK was married, March 27, 1838, in Wayne Countv, Indiana, to ESTHER BULLA. There were twelve children, eight of whom were living in 1881. These were

Francis A.
Isaac A.
Lavina E.
Louisa J.
William J.
Elizabeth R.
Elsa B.
Edward P.

Mr. VANSCHOIACK was active in public affairs. He held the offices of justice and township trustee.