History of Early Pioneer Families of Hood River, Oregon. Compiled by Mrs. D.M. Coon
JOHN H. KOBERG AND FAMILY 1887
John H. Koberg was born in Schleswig, Holstein, Germany,
August 26, 1865. His father was an engineer and a machinist. He received
a good normal school education, and has always been a reader and seeker after
information. When a young man he learned the dry goods business and followed
it seven years in his native country.
In 1887 he came to the United States and joined his uncle
Hans Lage at Hood River. He was unable to speak a word of English but secured
a job in a sawmill, then the mill burned and he lost all his wages. He then
worked in The Dalles with Tackman & Company grocers. One year later he
went to the redwood country in California then returned and became car inspector
for the O.R& N. at Albina until 1892 when he went to Walla Walla and
took charge of a wrecking crew for this company. He was married March 21,
1894 to Miss Emma Lage, daughter of Hans and Lena (Hoeck) Lage. In 1895 he
came to Hood River and located by purchasing the Stanley home east of Hood
River. Their farm on the bank of the Columbia River proved to be very productive.
He has made a success of garden truck and early fruits.
In addition he has erected a pavilion and improved his
grounds until he has an attractive resort for summer outings, and a beach
safe guarded for swimmers.
They have two daughters and two sons. Mr. Koberg now
speaks good English and the family is welcomed in all social gatherings.
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