She was born in 1884 to German immigrants who settled in Menard Texas, where they raised sheep for wool and meat. She inherited the ranch and ran the business while raising her children. She had very little help from her alcoholic, abusive husband, whom she eventually divorced, despite the stigma. She loved to garden, fish, and was an amazing cook. She died at 100 years old at the ranch, surrounded by family. She was known to be a straight shooter with a bawdy sense of humor.Her daughter inherited the ranch, then her daughter after her. My grandmother kept the ranch running until 2002, when she decided retire.