PHILIPP OLT
Philipp Olt, one of the earnest and zealous farmers who have helped to establish a high agricultural standard in Cincinnati Township, Tazewell County, and at the same time add to the favorable impression of those who value the thrift and uprightness of the sons of Germany, has occupied his present farm of 400 acres, on Section 22, since the spring of 1856. Mr. Olt was born in Germany, May 27, 1833, a son of John and Eva (Wigle) Olt and a grandson of John Olt, all natives of the Fatherland. His father lived to be sixty-five, and his mother, seventy two years old, both passing their entire lives in their native land.
Philipp Olt left home when eighteen years o age and came to America, arriving in New York in the fall of 1852. He afterward worked for three months in New Jersey. His objective point was Pekin, Ill., and the wages earned before coming to Illinois were gratefully received, for this addition to his depleted finances enabled him to accomplish the journey West. In Pekin he was greeted by his uncle Philipp, and was employed by him for a few years, or until his marriage in February, 1856, to Maggie Zebra, who was born in Germany in February, 1833.
Mrs. Olt came to America with her parents in 1852, settling on a farm in Cincinnati Township. A son and daughter have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Olt: Leonard, who married Anna Beck and has three children— George, Emil, and Alfred—and Catherine, the wife of George Henry, who also has three children—Philipp, Alfred and Maggie.
Mr. Olt votes the Republican ticket, and has upheld the principles of that party ever since arriving in America. He has a finely improved farm, and has wisely and intelligently adapted himself to its peculiarities of soil, erecting a fine country home, excellent outbuildings, and adding such implements as appealed to his judgment and needs. He is a straight-forward, genial, and generous-hearted man, and has the faculty of making and retaining friends.
Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and History of Tazewell County - page 1054