Mr. Bode acquired a good practical education in the public schools of Hanover, and as a youth developed those physical and intellectual char- acteristics which have contributed materially to his success in life. In 1866 lie came to this country, landing in New York City, where he began his career as an errand boy in a grocery store. In 1869 he removed to Union Hill, Hudson County, N. J., and accepted a clerkship in a store, which he held until 1872. On June 2, 1872, he purchased his present store on the corner of New York Avenue and Columbia Street in the Town of Union, and there he has resided ever since, being the oldest and probably the best known groceryman in that section of the county, and especially on the hill. Dealing in groceries, flour, feed, etc., Mr. Bode has been very suc- cessful, and by constant attention to business has gained a high reputation. Honest and straight-forward in all his relations, and progressive and patriotic in both public and private affairs, he enjoys the confidence and esteem of his fellow-citizens.

In politics he is a stanch Republican and a prominent factor in the councils of his party. He was a member of the Board of Education of the Town of Union from 1886 to 1889 and from 1892 to 1895, and served one year as Chairman. He is a member of Palisade Lodge, No. 84, F. and A. M., of Jackson Lodge, I. O. O. F., of the Knights of Honor, of the Indepen- dent Schuetzen Corps of Union Hill, of the Zwievelberger Bowling Club, and of the German Lutheran Church.