George Boenau
George Boenau is known to everybody in Shelby. He landed there in March, 1863. That was his first experience in political campaigns in Ohio, and a hot one it was. He applied for naturalization as soon as eligible, and became a true American citizen. He soon acquired the English language, became a student of American affairs, and also of the principles of the American Democracy, ever loyal to his adopted country and the party of his choice. Providence has endowed him with a ponderous brain. He carries a level head on broad shoulders, set upon a sound, compact body, as well as the SHIELD by his side, and thus has made the best possible use of American institutions. He is an ardent German-American. Mr. Boenau understands general politics and has been a profound student in all religions. He despises trickery, deceit and demagoguery and gives no countenance to either; says but little until he is attacked and then can wage as good an argument as any to support his views. Independent, self-reliant and confident, he gives way to nothing but the word of God and what he terms good common sense. He carries the SHIELD and other publications, does just what he believes to be right, collects the amounts due his newspapers without fear or favor or partiality, when due and when people fool him in this, the second time it will be his fault. He never trusts a dead-beat if he knows it. He pays as he goes and makes a fair competence. Everybody respects him, and thus he lives and thus he will die -- a reliable American, a Democrat, and faithful servant of the press and the people. Long live George Boenau.
Richland Shield & Banner: 21 July 1894, Vol. LXXVII, No. 10