The story of Helmut, Marvin, and Warren
The Three Brothers Behind Clinton’s Giant Trolls
In Clinton, something unusual has taken shape.
Towering wooden figures—massive, hand-built trolls—now stand along the landscape, drawing visitors from across the region.
But behind these larger-than-life sculptures is a much quieter story.
Three brothers.
One farm.
A lifetime spent together.
Their names were Helmut, Marvin, and Warren Suehl—and while they never sought attention during their lives, their legacy is now helping shape one of the most unique public art projects in Iowa.
What Is a Thomas Dambo Troll?
These sculptures are the work of Thomas Dambo, an internationally known artist from Denmark.
Dambo creates giant trolls using reclaimed wood and recycled materials, placing them in natural settings around the world.
Each troll is:
- Built from salvaged materials
- Designed to interact with its surroundings
- Given a name and a story
And in Clinton, those names carry a deeper meaning.
Each troll is named after one of the Suehl brothers:
Helmut. Marvin. Warren.
A Life Built on Routine and Brotherhood
For decades, the Suehl brothers lived and worked side by side on their family farm north of Clinton.
They never married.
They never left for bigger cities.
They never chased recognition.
Instead, they chose a different path:
- Farming the same land year after year
- Supporting one another through every season
- Living a steady life rooted in hard work
To many, their lives may have seemed ordinary.
But there’s something powerful about three brothers choosing to stay together—not out of necessity, but out of commitment.
Helmut Siegfried Suehl
Born: December 23, 1913
Died: July 23, 1999
Helmut was the oldest of the three brothers and helped set the tone for the life they shared.
His World War II draft card lists his occupation as farming, and he served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army. I have not yet identified the details of his military service, but if anyone has any tips or clues – let me know.
Following the war, Helmut’s occupation in the census records was listed as “Chemist at the Food Co.” Helmut is buried alongside his brothers and parents at Oakland Cemetery in Clinton.
Marvin Herman Suehl
Born: March 17, 1918
Died: April 26, 2008
Marvin carried that same steady presence.
His World War II draft card lists him as “not employed, under doctor’s care,” offering a small glimpse into a more private part of his life.
He graduated from Lyons High School and spent his entire life farming the family land. Marvin was also active in the community:
- Member of St. Paul Lutheran Church
- Past Master of Western Star Lodge No. 100 A.F. & A.M.
- Member of the Clinton Radio Club
His life wasn’t defined by headlines—but by consistency, community, and quiet contribution.
Warren John Suehl
Born: March 8, 1924
Died: April 4, 2021
Warren was the last of the three brothers to pass, closing the final chapter of their shared life on the farm.
His draft card lists him as a farmer working on his father’s property north of Clinton.
Warren remained deeply involved in the community:
- Member of St. Paul Lutheran Church
- Served on the Hampshire Board of Trustees
- Sang in the church choir
- Honorary member of the Andover Fire Department
He also had a creative side—performing on the Showboat, a reminder that even the quietest lives hold unexpected depth.
Their Parents and Danish Roots
The story of the Suehl brothers begins with their parents: John Jacob Suehl and Magdalene Olsen.
Their mother, Magdalene Olsen, was born in July 1886 in Vester Marie in Bornholm, Denmark. Along with her parents, Jens Sigfred Olsen and Helena Gronlund, and siblings, she immigrated from Denmark in 1894 and moved to Clinton, Iowa, where she met her husband, John Suehl. John was born 04 Aug 1883 in Clinton, Iowa to father Herman Suehl and mother Hellena Schwartz.
That Danish connection adds an unexpected layer to the story.
It’s unclear whether Thomas Dambo was aware of the family’s heritage when creating the Clinton trolls. I’ve heard that the story of the three brothers was provided by a person who cared for them at the end of their lives – and also donated materials for the building of the three trolls.
But whether intentional or coincidental, the connection feels meaningful:
A Danish artist… creating art tied to a family with Danish roots.
From Farm Fields to Giant Trolls
Today, the Suehl brothers’ legacy lives on through these towering sculptures.
Their story helped shape a project that now brings visitors, curiosity, and creativity to the area.
And in many ways, the trolls reflect the brothers themselves:
- Built to last
- Rooted in the land
- Quietly powerful
A Legacy That Lives On
The Suehl brothers likely never imagined their lives would connect to international art and tourism.
They didn’t set out to make headlines.
They didn’t chase recognition.
They simply lived with purpose.
Now, every visitor who comes to see the trolls near Clinton is also, in a small way, experiencing their legacy.
Where to Find the Trolls Near Clinton
If you’re planning a visit, finding the trolls is part of the experience.
Three of Thomas Dambo’s massive wooden trolls are located in and around Clinton—and each one is named after one of the Suehl brothers.
Here’s where to find all four Thomas Dambo trolls in Iowa.
