Transcribed by Mary Ann Kaylor
Page 1002
AARUP, PETER, a successful dairyman and gardener living near Springfield, was born in Vejle, Denmark, January 15, 1864, son of Wilhelm and Annie (Olson) Aarup, both natives of Denmark, the former born September 16, 1830, and the latter March 15, 1826. The father was for many years Superintendent of the system of waterworks in the city of Vejle, and has now retired on a full-pay pension. He came to the United States at the time of the World's Fair in 1893, and visited his son again in 1906. Both Wilhelm Aarup and his wife were children of Danish parents, who spent their entire lives in their native country.
Until he reached the age of sixteen years Peter Aarup attended school in his native city, then for two years attended the Horticultural College in Copenhagen, after which he secured positions where he could use his knowledge of landscape gardening, and laid out several handsome parks in his native country. He sailed for America June 20, 1883, arriving in New York July 4. He worked about nine months in Springfield, Mass, then came west, and after spending a month in Chicago came to Springfield, which he reached in April, 1884. He has since spent his time in expert gardening and now has a fine florist and greenhouse business. He has lived in Springfield Continuously since first locating there, except for two years spent in gardening in Greencove Springs, Fla.
January 10, 1889, Mr. Aarup was married, in Springfield, Ill., to Miss Erikka Klausen, born in Denmark, December 20, 1863, daughter of Edward and Maria (Zesophus) Klausen, both native of Denmark. Mr. Klausen died in Russia and his wife in Denmark. Children as follows blessed the union of Mr. Aarup and his wife: Annie, born December 20, 1890; Olga, March 8, 1891; Edwin, July 19, 1892; Mary, May 13, 1897; George, April 15, 1899; Helen, February 17, 1901; John, March 4, 1902. All were born in Sangamon county and all reside at home. Mr. Aarup has reason to be proud of his children, all of whom are a credit to their parents.
In political principles Mr. Aarup is a Republican, but in local affairs prefers to consider the man rather than the party. As to his religious views he endeavors to follow the Golden Rule as far as he can, and he is always ready to treat his fellows with consideration and fairness. He is most highly esteemed in the community where he lives, and enjoys universal respect and confidence.. He is a man of intelligence and excellent business ability and has won success by untiring industry and careful attention to every detail. He owns six acres in Section 10 of Woodside township and there owns a beautiful home. His land is easily worth $2,000 per acres, as it is on the edge of the metropolis, and is in a most pleasant locality and desirable location. Mr. Aarup has served as School Director and is now a School Trustee. Fraternally he is a member of Camp No. 333, Modern Woodmen of America, and of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.