J. J. Sommer, a teacher of Osage City, Cole County, was born January 25, 1847, in Covington, Ky. He is a son of J. J. and Anna M. (Bahlman) Sommer, both natives of Oldenburg, Germany, who came to America in February, 1846. They were the parents of seven sons and one daughter, of whom all are living except one son. Our subject lived at home until he attained his majority, receiving his education mostly in the schools of his native place. After reaching his majority he entered the teacher's profession, and in 1866 or 1867 removed to Cole County, Mo., where he has ever since resided, and with the exception of one term has taught all this time at Osage City. April 6, 1874, he married Catherine R. Muller. They have two children, George J. and Octavia C. Mr. Sommer served as county school commissioner four years, and for the past fourteen years has been justice of the peace of his township. Of both offices he is the present incumbent. He is a member of the A. O. U. W., and in politics is a Republican. He owns his house and lot where he resides, in Osage City, and shows in having so long held his position as instructor that he has given good satisfaction and is a capable teacher.

Transcribed from:
History of Cole, Moniteau, Morgan, Benton, Miller, Maries, and Osage Counties, Missouri, Goodspeed Publishing Company (1889).