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Lentz, George (1874-1971)
Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1969 Mar 28 p. 11
Birth date: 1874 Feb 14
text of obituary:
Resident of Meadows Home Recalls Early Days in Illinois
Meadows, Ill. — If you remember when Pres. James Garfield was assassinated, you have been around for awhile or if you voted in the presidential election when McKinley was elected, you must be past 90.
Living at Meadows Mennonite Home is an alert man who can accurately give personal experiences and information dating before the turn of the century. His name is George Lentz, born a Valentine baby, Feb. 14, 1874.
Mr. Lentz is known and respected by many McLean County residents having lived here since 21 years of age. He came from Ohio to work as a farmhand for $18 per month which was an increase over the $12 he had been receiving for the same type of work.
High school graduates were the exception rather than the rule in rural areas so Mr. Lentz was persuaded to take a "Teacher's Examination" in Bloomington which he passed and was qualified to teach grade school. In this profession he received the increased salary of $35 per month (no withholding tax!) for a seven-month school year.
Mr. Lentz' interest in farming caused him to leave the school room after seven years and follow the walking plow. He also helped open the grain fields with a cradle and saw the first binders come into use.
A big tent was erected in the Bloomington area in about 1908 and the famed evangelist, Billy Sunday, conducted a revival for about three weeks. Mr. Lentz recalls these meetings as of value to himself personally. He was active in community and church work, teaching Sunday school for many years.
Leisure time is no problem for Mr. Lentz. Good eyesight has made it possible for him to continue reading three to four books a month besides the daily papers and magazines. When he needs diversion he always has a jigsaw puzzle started on the board. He maintains an active correspondence which is appreciatee by his children and grandchildren. He has one great-grandchild.
(Mr. Lentz is a member of the Meadows Mennonite Church.)
The Mennonite obituary: 1971 Mar 30 p. 220
