Gottlieb Grenz was born 9 January 1863 in Guldendorf, South Russia, to Christoph Grenz and Elisabetha Riedlinger. He married Christina Hogue who was born 17 October1866 in Grossliebental, Russia. In German it appears her name was spelled ‘Hock.’ All the children of Gottlieb and Christina Grenz were also born in Guldendorf. They described the village as a farming community.

At the time of their departure for America in 1905, a revolution or uprising was in progress. No trains were running so they walked to Kiev. From there they traveled by train to Helsinki, Finland, before boarding a ship for a seven day trip to Liverpool, England. Here they boarded the freighter, S.S. Noordland, which sailed 29 November 1905 on what was to be a harrowing voyage across the ocean to America. They arrived at the Port of Philadelphia on 13 December1905.

According to the ship passenger list, their destination was Anamoose, North Dakota, where brother –in- law, J.P. Huber lived. Also, according to the passenger list, Gottlieb had declared $1,000.dollars in cash, much more than most immigrants. The stoop at Anamoose was short for they were in the vicinity of Eureka, South Dakota, around Christmas time. They lived with, and worked for their sponsors during the winter. In the spring three quarters of land became available near Mound City and Gottlieb rented. The family members who were older got jobs as laborers and blacksmith’s assistants. While in South Dakota Gottlieb purchased a buggy, grass mower, wagon and hay rake for $180.

After two years, the family moved to the Hazelton district of North Dakota and Gottlieb purchased land in Liberty Township. He became an American citizen on 21 June 1912. Upon retiring, Gottlieb and Christina Grenz moved into the town of Hazelton. Son Jacob took over the operation of the farm. Gottlieb died on 22 September 1930 in Hazelton, ND. Christina died 5 December 1946, also in Hazelton, ND.