Germania Mutual Insurance

Incorporated in February of 1878, with the first policy being written in March of 1878. Initially the Germania only provided fire and lightning coverage. Back in the 1800's insurance was difficult, if not impossible for farmers to purchase. As a result, local farmers got together to form a company that would meet their insurance needs. In those days, each member would sign a "premium note" which showed how much insurance you had and was also the way the company would collect money for the claims it paid out. If there were a claim, each member would be assessed so much money to pay for that claim. The premiums of the many paid for the losses of the few. Later on, some premium was collected ahead of time. If the amount they collected was too much, at the end of the year it would be returned to you. If it was a bad year for claims, the company might need to come back and collect more funds. All members participated in the results for the year.