Tillie, as her family and friends called her, spent her early years on the Heine's family farm, situated on the northwest corner of what are now known as Barrington and Golf Roads in rural Hanover Township in the state of Illinois. Typical of other Hoosier Grove farmers, the Heine's made their living by tending a dairy herd. They also raised or grew most of what was needed for a very comfortable life. Chickens, geese and ducks supplied eggs, meat and feathers. Hogs, milking cows and cattle rounded out the meat and dairy needs. Along with a large garden there was an orchard of apple, pear, and peach trees.