John Lemburg, Sr., was born in Wartenbeth, Holstein, Denmark. At the age of 14 years, he came to America and landed in New York in 1852. He came to Texas shortly afterward and took up residence in Mason County. In February 1867, he married Miss Sophia Carrie Dannheim.

After a long, busy, and useful life he died as he had lived - honored, trusted, and loved. He raised his own monument while he lived in the hearts of all who knew him. His life has completed its work well done. Years ago, Mr. Lemburg helped to fight the Indians and in establishing a home. During the Civil War, he was a Texas Ranger and on several occasions, he risked his own life and narrowly escaped death to protect inhabitants from the Indians, bandits, and outlaw gangs that frequently made raids. During the time of Fort Mason, Mr. Lemburg was appointed Sheriff by the commanding officer stationed here and later he was appointed by the Governor of Texas to serve as Sheriff. In the early days, he owned and operated a lumber mill in Mason and later a flour mill. He was badly crippled in an accident at his flour mill. He has seen hard times and has spent many a day at hard labor, but he saved some of his earnings all along and when old age overtook him he was prepared financially to take care of himself. He retired from active business in 1895. Services were held in the family home officiated by Rev. Rader and Rev. Schreiber. His wife, two children and a great-grandchild preceded him in death.

Survived by seven boys and five girls - Charles Lemburg, Ernest Lemburg, John Lemburg, Jr., Ed Lemburg, Will Lemburg, Jim Lemburg, Arthur Lemburg, Mrs. John Gelswendt, Mrs. Ben Hoerster, Mrs. P.W. Eber, Mrs. Max Loeffer, Miss Sophia Lemburg; 33 grandchildren.

Mason County News
June 17, 1920

Contributor: Searchers of our Past (47220553)