Born in South Russia in 1886, G. C. Nitschke’s life journey led him to America in 1894. Marrying Katherina Heyd in 1908, they established a robust family legacy near Ashley. The Nitschkes, blessed with nine children, cultivated a life of faith and hard work on their expanding homestead. G. C.’s commitment shone through his 16-year service on the school board and his contributions to the Peace Lutheran Church. Their story is a testament to resilience, community, and enduring family bonds.
G. C. Nitschke was born in South Russia on July 28, 1886. He was confirmed in April, 1900 in the Lutheran faith. He came to this country on November 21, 1894, with his parents and two brothers. He married Katherina Heyd on March 17, 1908. The ceremony was performed by Reverend Tempke. She was born in South Russia on July 19, 1885. Mrs. Nitschke came to America at the age of one with her parents. In April, 1899, she was confirmed in the Lutheran faith.
Mr. and Mrs, Nitschke were blessed with nine children: Arthur, the eldest, now farming near Ashley; Mrs. Philip (Rose) Eszlinger; Mrs. Gottlieb (Bertha) Eszlinger; both living with their husbands who farm near Ashley; August, who owns the “Nitschke Blacksmith” in Ashley and also farms near Ashley; Rudolph, Richard and Roland, all farming near Ashley; Ferdinand, at home; and Mrs. Wemer (Elsie) Hoffman, farming near Leola, South Dakota. Two children passed away in infancy.
The Nitschkes homesteaded on Section 24, Township 130, Range 69 in McIntosh County. They still reside on the same farm. Much extra land has been added since. Many improvements have been made with the passing years. They endured many hardships and had to work very hard, with crude implements and with horses being used to work the land.
Mr. Nitschke had the distinction of serving on the school board for sixteen years.
The Nitschkes are members of the Peace Lutheran Church in which Mr. Nitschke was confirmed and helped construct in the year 1916.