Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Whiteside County, IL
Originally published 1885 Chapman Bros., Chicago, IL

Transcribed by: Becky Jones

Page 268

John H. Bley, farmer, section 18, Hopkins Township, is a son of John H. and Maria Bley, who were natives of Germany, where they died. They had a family of three children,--John H., Elizabeth and Frederick. Mr. Bley, of this sketch, was born in Germany, July 3, 1835, lived in his native land till 1860, when he came to America and direct to Whiteside County, locating in Hopkins Township. Soon afterward he purchased 160 acres of land, where he settled and has since lived. He is now the owner of 215 acres in the township, most of which is cultivated.

Mr. Bley was married in Hopkins Township, March 15, 1869, to Margaret Staassen, who was born in Germany, July 9, 1843. They have had eight children, six of whom are surviving, viz.: Johanna E., Emily M., Frederick G., William M., Anna H. and John H., Jr.; two died in infancy.

Mr. and Mrs. B. are members of the German Lutheran Church. In politics he is identified with the Democratic party.