Nieland - South Dakota Genealogy

Biography of William L. Nieland

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

William L. Nieland was born on October 17, 1867, in Yankton County, South Dakota, to German immigrants Henry and Henrietta (Zeanter) Nieland. Henry, a homesteader since 1865, secured 160 acres for farming. William pursued farming as well, becoming a prosperous landowner with over 700 acres. He married Anna Madsen on December 14, 1891, and they had four children: Clara, Henrietta, Arthur, and Harry. A community-oriented individual, William served on the school board and was active in the Lutheran church and Woodmen of the World.

Biography of John Reich

John Reich, born February 16, 1863, in Russia, is a prominent figure in Scotland, Bon Homme County, South Dakota. He is a successful merchant and postmaster, as well as one of the town’s pioneers. Reich’s family emigrated to the United States in 1873, settling in Bon Homme County. Following his father’s death in 1879, Reich began his independent career at seventeen. He apprenticed as a tinner and later opened his own shop, eventually partnering with his brothers Jacob and Christian in a hardware business. Appointed postmaster in 1902, Reich is a respected Republican and active community member. He married Otillie Nieland in 1886, and they have three children: Robert W., Helen, and Delia.