Their father, Peter, was very severe and hard to get along with. He showed almost no love for his family. As a result the boys left home as soon as they were able and went west to Nebraska. Detlef left first. Later the other sons came. Otto took a load of oats without permission and sold it in town for money to go west on. He felt he was entitled to it as he had helped on the farm.
Otto came to Grand Island and on up to Loup City then went into a pool hall and got a ride out to Detlef’s.
Otto married Amelia Hansen who resided near Detlef. They farmed and operated stores in town. Once Peter came out to see how the boys were getting along. Otto did not know he was coming until he looked out of his store and saw him across the street. After awhile he came across the street and visited Otto. He also visited the other boys and it was an enjoyable time.