Blue Earth County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1901 (part 13 of 15)

The lineage of the Shonts family is traced tu England where Joshua Shonts was born and reared, and where he married a descendant of Welsh ancestry. On coming to America they became interested in farm pursuits. During the '50s they settled in Wisconsin, where they remained for seven years, coming to Minnesota in 1863, and spending six months in Vernon township. Blue Earth county. Meanwhile they had purchased a farm in Shelby township and thither they moved, remaining there until 1876, when the property was sold. The next purchase comprised an unimproved tract on section seven, Pleasant Mound township, where Mr. Shonts remained until his death, January 15, 1901.

Biogkaphical History

William H. Shonts was born in Baltimore, i\[aryland, April 5, 1851, and spent the days of childhood in Baltimore, ^\aEconsin, and lUinnesota. After the death of his father he continued on the homestead where now he has a fine farm of one hundred and twenty acres, -with five acres of timber. During the year 1877 he was united in marriage with Miss Nellie Phillips, v.'ho was born in Canada., but at an early age came to Minnesota, her father becoming a respected citizen and prominent farmer of Blue Earth county, where he continued to reside until his death. Mr. and Mrs. Shonts attend the Christian church and are in hearty accord with all movements for the uplifting of humanity. Especially are they in sympathy with measures for the growth of their own community and the development of its large resources. Of their children one died in infancy and another, Percy, at the age of nine years. The eldest son, George, is now employed in Minneapolis. The other sons are at home and are named as follows : Lewis, Bert, Eoy, Frank and Charles.

SMITH, BENJAMIK D. - Ever since the territorial days of Minnesota the Smith family has bten identified with its history and development. The first of the family to seek a home in what then was considered the far Northwest, was Colonel Benjamin P. Smith who came from Ohio, and thenceforward contributed by personal self-sacrifice to the growth of his new home. The next generation was represented by John S. Smith, a native of Ohio, who died in Mankato March 5, 1906, at the age of seventy-one years. Coming to this state prior to its admission into the Union, he and his wife Mary P. (Dayton) Smith, were making their home at Vernon Center, Blue Earth county at the time of the Sioux Indian outbreak in 1862, and the danger became too great that they, with the other settlers, fled from the vicinity to Owatonna, this state. They then removed to Martinsburg, Ohio, returning four years later to Minnesota.

During the residence of John S. and Mary Smith at Vernon Center their son, Benjamin D., was born May 27, 1860, and he was two years old when the family returned to Ohio. Coming to Blue Earth county in 1866, they lived in the village of Garden City four years, then commenced farming in Eapidan. He was sent to the common schools, and in 1880, graduated from the Mankato State Normal school. In early manhood' he himself engaged in school teaching, then devoted himself to the study of law, being admitted to the bar of Minnesota in December, 1883 at Mankato, where since he has made his home. While engaged in a general practice of law, in 1886, he was elected county attorney of Blue Earth county, and re-elected two years later, filling -the responsible office with recognized ability. For years he has been a leading local worker in the Eepublican party, of whose county committee he has been chairman, and from 1892 until 1894, he was a member of the state central committee, having served also as a member of the state executive committee of Eepublican clubs.

In his marriage, which occurred September 15, 1892, Mr. Smith was united with Alice W. Ayres, of Oakham, Massachusetts. They are the parents of two children, namely: Winfield Ayres, bom October 19, 1893; and Minnie Francisca, September 4, 1895. The Commercial Club of Mankato has the name of Mr. Smith on its membership roll. Interested in fraternities, he long has been one of the most prominent members of the Modem Woodmen of America and- has officiated as chairman of the beneficiary committee of the Supreme Court of the Eoyal Neighbors of America, in addition to which he has for many years been affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows; the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the Ancient Order of . United Workmen.

Any mention of Mr. Smith would be incomplete without reference to his association with the Modern Woodmen of America. In September, 1888, he became a charter member of Blue Earth Camp No. 730, in which he served for three terms as first venerable counsel. In 1888, he was elected delegate to the Des Moines head camp. Two years later he attended a special meeting of the head camp in the same city, and was a membei of the committee of three from each state by whom the resolutions there adopted were drawn. During 1890, he served as a delegate to the Springfield session of the head camp; later was delegate-at-large for Minnesota to the Omaha head camp; delegate-at-large for this state at the Madison head camp, where he was chosen head adviser; (the office corresponding to vicepresident) and in July of 1895, was appointed a member of the board of directors of the Head Camp to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of J. G. Johnson, to become general attorney. At the Dubuque head camp he was again chosen a director, later re-elected at Kansas City in 1899, and at St. Paul, in 1901. In July 1903, he was honored with the office of general attorney, in which responsible and influential position he since has rendered services characterized by a profound knowledge of the law, keen sagacity, unerring tact and wise discrimination.

SMITH, CHAELES H. - The natives of Pennsylvania have constituted a very considerable part of the agricultural timber of Blue Earth county since the foundation of its written history, and to no class of men does the prosperity of the present more definitely point. Eepresentative of the Quaker state recruits is Charles H. Smith, the owner of a farm in this county, and member of a family known in the pioneer annals of both Pennsylvania and Minnesota. Mr. Smith is one of the ten children of Charles and Elizabeth (Smyth) Smith, natives of Ireland, and who came to the United States in a sailing vessel in 1843. Settling in eastern Pennsylvania, the elder Smith engaged in farming and also worked in an iron foundry, and during his eight year's sojourn in the state his son, Charles H., was born in 1853. Impelled by the promise of the northwest, Mr. Smith brought his family to Milwaukee, and a year later settled on a farm twenty miles out in the country. Upon coming to Blue Earth county in the early day, he bought the farm which since has remained in the possession of his son, Charles H. The father died in this county June 10, 1898, and his wife survived him until March 23, 1892. He was a Democrat in political faith, and in religion was a Eoman Catholic.

Charles H. Smith was educated in the public schools of Wisconsin, and is a farmer by both training and inclination. He has a fine place, devoted to general farming and stock, and which nets him a comfortable annual income. In 1891 he renounced bachelorhood and married Maria T. Dooley, a native of Wisconsin, and whose father, a native born Irishman, hale and hearty, and eight-eight years young, lives with her on the Smith farm. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are the parents of two children, Eaymond, aged fourteen years, and Margaret aged thirteen years. Mr. Smith follows in the political and religious foot- . steps of his father, and in all ways is a desirable and helpful citizen and farmer.

SMITH, WALTEE WYMAN. - -The greatest praise is merited by those men who, working their way up from poverty and obscurity, without means to aid in the securing of an education and without the prestige of influential friends, nevertheless have risen to positions of influence in their communities and have won a large degree of success in spite of hardships to be overcome and obstacles to be surmounted. While still a young man, with the future and all of its possibilities before him, Walter Wyman Smith already has gained a degree of success by no means to be regarded as insignificant. The familv from which he descended has been honored i') New Endand ever since the colonial period of our country's history, but they had little of this world's goods and it was necessary for him to put forth the most strenuous exertions in order to obtain for himself the education which he desired. That he was successful in his efforts i' evidenced hv his high standinc; as an attorney ill Mankato where he has ensaged in practice ever since the close of his university studies.

Born at Trempealeau, Wisconsin, January 4, 18G9, Walter Wyman Smith was next to the eldest among eight children, five of whom are still living-. His parents, Eben C. and Emily C. (Wyman) Smith, natives of Vermont. The latter moved with her parents to Wisconsin in 1853, and the former moved to' Hillsboro, Wis- consin in 1866 where he taught school. During his residence in the west he made a tour of inspection through several states, looking for a school and a favorable place to settle. With that object in view he walked from Eochester to Xew Ulm, Minnesota, and later proceeded to Cameron, Missouri, but the results were not favorable, and at the time of the great Chicago fire he returned to Vermont, settled on a farm, and engaged in agricultural pursuits. His death occurred in that state at sixty-four years of age, and his widow is still living in the old home neighborhood.

After having completed the studies of district school, Walter Wyman Smith entered St. Johnsbury academy, from which he was graduated in 1889. Later he became a student in Dartmouth college and completed the classical course in that famous old institution with the class of 1893. Immediately after his graduation he sought a home in the west. In the fall of 1893, he began to teach school in Minnesota. For two years he served as principle of the high school at Slayton, Murray county, and for one year he held the principalship of the Melrose high school. With the money earned through teaching he was enabled to pay his expenses in the University of Minnesota, where he took the regular law course, graduating with the class of 1900. While in that institution he was a member of the Kent literary society, and at Dartmouth he was a member of the fraternity. Phi Delta Theta. Upon graduating from the University of Minnesota law school was admitted to practice his profession, on motion of Dean Pattce, and he at once came to Mankato and formed a partnership with Jay H. Long under the firm title of Long & Smith. One year later the partnership was dissolved and since then he has practiced alone, having his office at present in the new ISTational Citizens' bank building.

The marriage of Mr. Smith occurred June 20, 1905, and united him with Kithrj-n A. Savage, daughter of J. T, Savage of Larrabee, Icwa. Prior to her marriage Mrs. Smith followed the teacher's profession with gratifying success. Through her mother she traces her ancestry to Chief-Justice Chase and President Madison. In religion both Mr. and Mrs. Smith are identified with the First Congregational church of Mankato, in which he has held the oSice of treasurer for five years and to which he has contributed as his means permitted. Numerous fraternal organizations have his name enrolled as a member, among them being the Modern Woodmen of America and the Modern Brotherhood of America, in which latter organization he has been an office-holder. It has been his custom at national elections to vote the Eepublican ticket, but his sympathies have been with the Prohibition movement and he favors plans looking toward the abolition of the indiscriminate sale of intoxicants. In all matters calculated to promote the prosperity of his town and the welfare of his state he maintains an earnest interest and to such he gives his firm support.

SNOW, JOHN E. - Of late years photogi-aphy has lifted from the mechanical, into the fine arts, for, although the primary processes are chemical and scientific, and depend for their performance upon mechanical means, modern photography differs from that of the earlier days in that artistic taste, and even genius, has stamped it as a fertile field for the display of originality of a high order. The successful conduct of a business in this line also calls for adaptability, unfailing courtesy and enterprise; so that the field is well calculated to invite men and women of culture and strong character.

John E. Snow of Mankato, has made a substantial place for himself in this artistic business, his fine taste and business judgment having brought him a profitable patronage among the educated and cultured people of the city. He is a Canadian, bom August 15, 1868, in the province of New Brunswick, and is the son of Eufus and Caroline (Nevers) Snow. His parents, who were also natives of the province mentioned, passed over the line into Maine, thence to Wisconsin in 1883, and subsequently resided in Creorgia and Tennessee. Most of his father's life has been devoted to the work of the ministry, but the later years in Tennessee have been given to agricultural pursuits. Four children have been born into the family: Horace H., who ii a resident of Areola, Illinois, Hannah, widow of Daniel Chamberlain, of Menominee, Wisconsin; John E. ; and Carrie, deceased, formerly the of William Norris.

Mr. Snow received not only a thorough training in the public schools, but pursued courses in the State Normal and Business College of Dixon, Illinois. His first practical experience in the working world was as assistant superintendent of a lumber company in Northern Wisconsin, his identification with photography commencing in 1885, when he associated himself with his brother, H. H., at Zumbrota, Minnesota. Follojving his profession, he then traveled for a time tlirough Illinois and Kentucky, and in the following year was employed by his brother in the management of a gallery at Fort Dodge, Iowa. After being thus engaged for three years, he reiurned to Zumbrota, later locating in Mankato and buying the gallery of S. E. Blake. With the rapid increase of his business, Mr. Snow was obliged to increase his accommodations, and removed to his present spacious and finely appointed parlors at No. 313 South Front street. He was president for two years of the Northwestern Photographers' Association.

Mr. Snow is widely known both because of his prominence as a photographer and on account cf his leadership in several of the fraternities. He has filled all the chairs in the order, Modern Woodmen of America, was State President of the Equitable Fraternal Union and is an active member of the United Order of Foresters, B. P. 0. E., and E. A. lodges. His marriage to Miss Margaret Hower, of Fort Dodge, Iowa, occurred February 13, 1893, and they have one child, Cecil J., born May 27th, 1893.

SOWERS, THEODORE. - This honored pioneer of Blue Earth county came to Mankato as early as the year 1855, and for some time followed the trade of a carpenter in the then small village. After five years he relinquished work at his trade in order that he might take up a claim and begin the improvement of a farm. Ever since 1860, he has made his home on the same land in Vernon Center township. Meanwhile he has witnessed many changes. The surrounding country has been brought under cultivation, new modes of farming have been adopted, labor-saving machinery has been introduced, hamlets Iiave grown into prosperous towns, and farmers have enjoyed a share of the general success.

Born in Fayette count]', Pennsylvania, May 13, 1838, Theodore Sowers is a son of William A. and Sarah (Stein) Sowers, also natives of the Keystone state. The father was born at Germantown, in 1801, and after gi owing to manhood he engaged in the business of buying and selling horses, also conducted general farm pursuits, and bought and sold sheep, driving his flocks from Washington and Fayette counties to the eastern part of Pennsylvania, where they readily sold at fair prices. During 1841, he removed further v.est with his family and took up timber land in Miami county, Indiana, where he developed a tract of two hundred and forty acres. In Miami county he remained until his death, which occurred in 1885. His wife had passed away one year after the removal of the family to Indiana.

After having assisted his father on the home farm until he was twenty-one years of age, T];eodore Sowers started out to earn his own Avay in the world and for fourteen years he cDgaged in carpentering in Wabash county, Indiana. From there he came to Minnesota, in 1855, and secured work as a carpenter in Mankato, but five years later he came to Vernon Center townsliip, where by industry and unremitting application he has become the owner of two huntlred and eighty acres of land, all under cultivation, divided by substantial fences into fields of convenient size, drained by means of a thorough system of ditching, and improved with good buildings, including a substantial house erected in 1890. All of the property has been secured by tlie owner's untiring efforts.

The marriage of Mr. Sowers was solemnized in 1859, and united him with Margaret Schuler, daughter of Robert Schuler, a native of Lycoming county, Pennsylvania, and a pioneer of 1837, in Wabash county, Indiana. With his viie and family he settled on a tract of raw land in Wabasli county, where he took up the ttisk of improving a farm and earning a livelihood on the frontier. Later, when driving back to his old Pennsylvania home, he was killed by a runaway horse. By precept and example Mr. Sowers has given his influence to the cause of prohibition, and in religion he has been an exemplary member of the Presbyterian church, giving to its missionary enterprises and aiding other worthy movements as his means permit. Of his marriage five children were born, namely: Adra, who married John P. Kendall, a farmer in an adjoining county; William A., who operates and lives on land adjoining the old family homestead; EfEie, deceased; Madge, who married Eev. T. Ross Paden, a minister of the Presbyterian denomination, now residing at Allegheny, Pennsylvania; and Robert, who married Mamie Townsend and makes his home on a farm adjoining the property owned by his father.

SPAULDIIsrG, CHARLES GUY. - Were a stranger to inquire concerning the prominent men of the village of Mapleton, at the head of the list would appear the name of Mr. Spaulding, who has been identified with the history of the place through a long period of years and in addition to building up extensive business interests has been the incumbent of many offices of trust and responsibility. The position lie now holds, that of postmaster came to him by appointment under the McKinley administration in 1901, and in 1905 he was again appointed to the office under President Roosevelt. The appointment is a fitting recognition of his constant and valuable services in the interests of the Republican party, whose principles he has upheld and whose local success he has fostered by his fine business ability and wise judgment.

Of eastern birth and parentage, Mr. Spaulding was born in Lancaster, Coos county, ISTew Hampshire, October 6, 1836, being a son of Samuel F. and Luev M. (Cole) Spaulding, natives respectively of New York and ISTew Hampshire. The paternal grandfather, Phineas Spaulding, was a native of Massachusetts and traced his lineage to old colonial stock. The years of active life were spent by Samuel F. Spaulding in Few Hampshire, where he accumulated a competency. During 1870, he removed to Iowa, purchased farm lands, and superintended his property, although practically living in retirement. After his death, which occurred at the age of eighty-one, his wido-w remained in Iowa, where she passed away at the age 'of ninety-three years. Of her ten children six are still living, the sixth in order of birth being Charles Guy, of Mapleton, who received his education in E"ew Hampshire schools and started out in the world for himself at the age of twenty-three. For eighteen months he remained in Illinois. During the spring of 1863 he went to Minneapolis, and two and one-half years later he removed to Faribault county, Minnesota.

Coming to Mapleton in 1874, Mr. Spaulding immediately -erected the first elevator in the village and bought the first load of grain ever sold here. The original building still stands, a substantial structure notwithstanding its long use. During 1896, he erected a second elevator with a capacity of twenty thousand bushels, but this he has rented to other parties since 1904. During the long period that he engasjed in the buying of grain, he formed many warm friendships with farmers of the township, who found him to be reliable, accurate and painstaking. The building of the elevator brought many people to town with their grain and thus increased the trade generally, so that he proved of the utmost assistance in the early commercial development of the place. The biiying of grain by no means represented the limit of his activities. The creamery business while still in its infancy found in him an enthusiastic advocate. As early as 1885, he built the first creamery in Blue Earth county, there being: at the time only three other creameries in this section of the state. The creamery was located at Mapleton and for nine yoar« he gave it his personal supervision as manager. Along another line he proved helpful to the early development of Mapleton, and that was through the establishment of what was practically the first implement store in the town. In this business he continues to the present time, having a large warehouse near the depot, and representing for

During Augaist, of ISTS, ilr. Spaulding was united in marriage with DL4ight E. Berry, a native of Wisconsin, and a daughter of J. S. and Mary E. Berry. Their children are Marietta E., Charles G., Lncia E. C, and Arthur M. It is worthy of mention that for forty 3'ears Mr. Spaulding has been a member of the school board. Ten years of this service \\-as in Grapeland district and, thirty years in ^fapleton, where for fifteen years he officiated as president of the board. His association with tlie scliools has been productive of an advancement in the standard of education, the introduction of improved text-books, the transforming of bare school rooms into attractive aj;d comfortably furnished houses, and the raising of the standard of scholarship set for teachers and student. During the service of ilr. spaulding as mayor of ]\lapleton for some five terms he proved a capable executive and the council also had the benefit of his impartial judgment for ten years. In addition he was twice honored by election to the Minnesota state legislature, where he served in 1883-84 and 1885-86. During this time he was the author of the first dairy and food law enacted in the state and also aided in the passage of other important bills. Attending- all of the county conventions of the Eepublican party, he frequently has been chosen cliairman of such meetings, also has been chairman of the loral committee and has been present at numerous state conventions of the partv. Tlie only fraternal organization with which he has ideiilified himself is the Masonic order, in which he became a charter member of the blue lodae at IMapleton and since then has been active in upholding and exemplifying the lofty principles of brotherhood and philanthropy for whicli the order stands.

SPECK, EOBEET. - Noticeable among the large farms of Blue Earth county is the tract in Lyra township that is owned and operated by Eobert Speck, who has resided upon the place ever since 1873, and meanwhile has brought the land under cultivation, maintained the fertility of the soil by a careful rotation of crops, added to his holdings from time to time and put up buildings as needed and desired. As a result of his unaided exertions he now owns three hundred and ninety-six acres in one body. Of this large homestead three hundred acres are under the plow, the balance* being utilized for the pasturage of the shorthorn cattle and Poland-China hogs kept on the farm. A special feature of the place is the dairy industry, the returns from which form a valuable addition to the owner's annual income.

Born in Germany, August 29, 1855, Eobert Speck is a son of Henry and Sophia (Peale) Speck, the former still living in Germany, and the latter deceased in that country. There were seven children in the family, namely: Max, Eichard, Robert, (Henry deceased) , Ida (deceased), Betty and Margaret. Pour of the survivors remain in Germany, Eobert having been the only member of the family to seek a home in the new world. It was in 1871 that he crossed the ocean and immediately after landing he proceeded to Minnesota, where he spent two years in Nicollet county, coming from there in 1873, to Blue Earth county and settling on the farm he now owns.

The marriage of Eobert Speck, in 1881, united him with Miss Amelia Peale, daughter of Charles and Fredericka Peale, natives of Prussia, but pioneers of Blue Earth county, Siiimesota, and for years active farmers of this region. ^Irs. Peale is deceased, but Mr. Peale is still living and makes his home in this county. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Speck consists of two sons, Paul and Hammond, both at home. Parents and sons attend the Lutheran church and maintain n warm interest in its missionary enterprises. Politically Islr. Speck has been a stanch supporter of the Democratic party and on that ticket was elected to membership on the town board, where he rendered efficient service.

SPEAGUE, WESLEY D. - Tlie pro.rronitors of the Sprague family in Amei'ica were three l)rothers who crossed the ocean during the colonial period of our country's history, and thence- forward labored to promote the development of the primeval vs^ilderness. From ISTew England tliev followed the tide of emigration toward the west. H. S., son of Briar Sprague, was born in Essex county, New York, and remained there until death, meanwhile following the lumber business and agricultural pursuits. His marriage united him with Lenora, daughter of Captain Elisha Stanton, a captain in the war of 1812, and a participant in the memorable battle of Plattsburg. The genealogy of the Stanton family in this country extends back to the colonial epoch.

The family of H. S. Sprague consisted of seven sons and five daughters of whom seven are now (1907) living. The eighth child was Wesley D., born at Moriah, Essex county, New York, February 13, 1844, and reared at the old homestead in the Adriondack region. Nothing of moment occurred in his early life until the outbreak of the Civil war, v/hen the hitherto peaceful current of his days was brought to an end. October 14, 1861, he enlisted in Company K, Ninety-Sixth New York Infantry, under Colonel James Frairman, and was mustered into service at Plattsburg. New York. From there the men were sent further south to serve under General McClellan. Their first sight of actual warfare was at Yorktown and Williamsburg, after which they were participants in the battles of Fair Oaks, Long Bridge Jones' Ford, Malvern Hill, Charles City Cross-roads, Blackwater, Kinston, Whitehall, Goldsborough, Swift Creek, Little Wa.shington, Foster's Mills, Gardner's Bridge, Petersburg, Drury's Bluff, Cold Harbor, Fort Harrison, Fair Oaks, and the campaign resulting in the fall of Eichmond.

On enlisting in the Union army ]\[r. Sprague had entered for three 3"ears or until the close of the war. In December of 1863, he was discharged by reason of his re-enlistment as a veteran volunteer. July 1, 1864, he was promoted to be a corporal, and July 10, 1865, he received a further promotion, being commissioned Sergeant. During November of the same year he was commissioned quartermaster sergeant of the regiment and continued in that capacity until he received an honorable discharge February 6, 1866, after a service of four years and four months. During that long period he was incapacitated for service owing to sickness in 1862, about ten weeks, after which he was continually with his regiment. At the time of his enlistment he was seventeen, a year younger than the age stipulated. At the time of his re-enlistment the papers describe him as twenty years of age, five feet, eleven and one-half inches in height, with fair complexion, blue eyes, light hair; and by occupation a farmer. It might also have been stated that he was broad of shoulder, full of chest, strong in limb and firm of jaw.

In the battle of Fort Harrison, September 28, 1864, there were one hundred and sixty-seven men who made the charge on the fort. Of these one hundred and thirty-seven were killed or removed wounded from the field. Colonel Stephen JMoffitt of the regiment said of sergeant Sprague: "He was a good soldier, always ready to do his duty. On one occasion when several color bearers were shot down. Sergeant Sprague sprang forward and voluntarily took the colors and served in that capacity for one year, or until he was promoted." Ever since the close of the war Mr. Sprague has maintained the warmest interest in army affairs and has been active in the Grand Army of the Eepublic. It has been his custom, whenever possible to attend the national encampment and renew his associations with the few remaining members of his company.

r'pon the close of his term of service in the army Mr. Sprague returned to Essex county. New York, and remained there until March of 1870. At tliat time he removed to Minnesota and settled near Mapleton, Blue Earth county, where, he engaged in farming continuously until 1903, and then sold his farm, moving into the village of Mapleton, where he resides in practical retirement. His modern residence with its pleasant surroundings forms a comfortable and attracj:ive home, but his children have mostly scattered to other points and are filling places of usefulness in the world. For many years he has been blessed by the companionship of an estimable wife, to whose helpful spirit and noble character he owes not a little of his success. Prior to their marriage July 3, 1866, she was Eose D. Eichardson, and was bom in Clinton, New York, being a daughter of A. C. Richardson, of that county. Of the children born to their union one (lied in infanc-v unnamed and Grant A., also is deceased. Hiram A. resides at Windom, this state; .SugJc L. makes her home with her parents; ITarrv L. ; diaries 0. carries on farm pursuits at Windom, this state; John H. is engaged in the land business at Fairmont, this state; ;N"ellie A. married E. Wishert and resides in LeSueur countj^, Minnesota; and Eussell E. is living in South Dakota. In fraternal relations ijr. Sprague is a master Jlason and a member of the Mutual Benefit Association. Enterprises for the benefit of his home city receive his sagacious assistance, and he has been particularly helpful in establishing on a firm basis for future growth a number of progressive municipal and commercial projects, notably the First National Bank, upon whose directorate he has been a prominent member for some vears.

The above might he placed as a fitting tribute upon the grave of the late Dr. Edwin D. Steel, of Mankato, who passed from the scenes of his self-sacrificing life . on the 21st of September, 1905, at the untimely age of forty-three years - at an age, when, through his professional ability, and his earnest and kindly acts as a man, he geenied at last in a position to be able to ease his burdens of life and calmly enjoy the good will of his fellows. But such were not the decrees of Providence; for the martyr received his reward otherwise, and passed to the mansions of his Father.

Dr. Steel, whose death caused such profound regret and deep sorrow, was the son of ilr. and Mrs. David Steel, and was born in Belgrade, Nicollet county, Minnesota, on the 14th of June, 1862. His father first located in Lime township. Blue Earth county, settling there before the Indian uprising of 1862, but afterward fixing his home in Nicollet county, where he passed the last years of his life. The son, Edwin D., attended the country schools of the latter county during his boyhood daj-s, afterward becoming a pupil at Mankato and when a young man finished the regular course at the State Normal School, graduating from the latter in June, 1889. His helpful and sympathetic nature however, had always inclined him toward the practice of medicine and he decided to follow his natural bent, toward which end he entered the medical department of the State University and, after completing a four years' course therein returned to Mankato.

At the first of his practice Dr. Steele was in partnership with Dr. J. W. Andrews, this association continuing nearly three years, when, by mutual consent, it was terminated. Afterward, u.ntil his death, he faithfully and successfully prosecuted his professional labors alone. His skill as a physician and surgeon was pronounced, but not more so than his gentle, sympathetic, hopeful, inspiring and uplifting influence in the sick room; and this essential combination of the ideal practitioner made him one of the most popular, beloved, prosperous and incessant workers in the profession of Southern Minnesota. At the time of his death he was president of the Blue Earth County Medical Society and for years liad l)ccn secretary of the Minnesota Valley Medical Association. In his religious belief he was an Episcopalian and a communicant of the St, John's church.

On the 18th of July, 1903, Dr. Steele was united in marriage to Miss Irma Prengel, daughter of ^Ir. and ^Irs. T. F. Prengel, formerly of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and their one child is IMarcclla Eecd Steel. Of the paternal family three brothers survive the Doctor - L. B. Steel, of Belgrade, who resides on the old home farm ; John Steel, of Decoria, Minnesota, and IST. M. Steel, of Mankato. The deceased was well knovni in fraternal circles, being a member of the Elks, Knights of Pythias, A. 0. TT. W., Modern Woodmen of the World, Knights of Maccabees and Eoyal Xeighhors. Notwithstanding his wide acquaintance and popularity, he was intensely domestic in his tastes and devoted to his wife and child.

STEPHENS. .ALBERT M. - About the time of the arriv.il of the Taylor colony in Minnesota there came to tliis state from Iowa a young farmer in search of cheap and desirable lands, a search that resulted in the securing of a tract of unimproved land in Shelby township and gave to Mr. Stephens his first association with the agricultural affairs of Blue Earth county. From that time to the present he has been the owner of the same property, but during 1903, he retired from the personal management of the estate and came to Amboy, where he owns and occupies a pleasant cottage in the west part of the village. Though retired from heavj' labors he still maintains a deep interest in local affairs and by thoughtful reading has l-.opt posted concerning national problems. For the past twenty-six years he has held office a? justice of the peace, and meanwhile has filled other local positions of trust and responsibility.

The family record shows that James Stephens a native of Massachusetts, removed to New York and later went into Pennsylvania, where he transformed a tract of timber land into a valuable farm, remaining there until his death at the age of eighty-four years. While he made his home at Cooperstown, New York, his son Alfred was born there, and the latter in early manhood took up land adjacent to the homestead in Pennsylvania, where he remained until the age of eighty-four years, when he was called to enternal rest. Ris marriage united him with Melissa Sumner, a native of Massachusetts. Her father, Jabez Sumner, was born in the old Bay state and sensed in the Revolutionary war with honors.

Among the ten children of Alfred Stephens only four are now living. The only surviving son, Albert M., was born in Susquehanna county, Pennsylvania, November 16, 1830, and at the age of twenty-two years he started out in the world to earn his own way. For a time he held a clerkship in 'a store " in New York state, but the work was not congenial. In 1854, he started for the then unknown regions of the Mississippi valley. After a sojourn of a few months in Illinois, he pushed on further west and settled iu Iowa, in 1855, but the next year he made another move, this time in Minnesota, where he took up a claim out of which he has evolved a valuable farm. When he came to this county he was a bachelor, but a few years later he established a home. In April of 1861, he married Angeline Tiffany, a member of the family whose most distinguished representatives are the jewelers and diamond merchants of that name in New York City. Born in Susquehanna county, Pennsylvania, she came in the spring of 1859, to Minnesota, with her father, Virgil Tiffany, who for years carried on a hotel at Shelbyville. Of her marriage to Mr. Stephens there were the following children : Charles and Frederick, deceased; William and May, both of whom now living in North Dakota ; and Mina, deceased. Both Mr. and Mrs. Stephens are fond of reading and devote much of their time to a persual of current literature. In religion she is identified with the Christian church and has been one of the most active workers in the Ladies' Aid Society. The family of which she is a member belongs to patriotic lineage. Both maternal and paternal ancestors took part in the Eevolutionary struggle and her grandfather enlisted in the war of 1812, in which through daring, patriotic valor and knowledge of military tactics he rose to the rank of colonel, and as such served until honorably discharged at the close of the

STEWAET, WILLIAM E. - It has been possible, by a course of frugality and by the exercise of will power; for hundreds of young men to overcome the obstacles confronting them in youth and to attain a satisfactory degree of success. I'he standing of Mr. Stewart as a popular and progressive business man proves what it is within the power of young men to accomplish. Handicapped by the death of his father, the poverty of the family and the difficulty of securing an education he nevertheless discharged every duty toward his mother and the other children, and at the same time was able to advance his own interests ixntil he has gained an education and startec: in business with every prospect of success.

On a farm near St. Clair, Blue Earth county, Minnesota, William E. Stewart was born February 10, 1868, being a son of William and Sarah F. (Peabody) Stewart, who descended from Massachusetts ancestry and came from Wisconsin to Minnesota in 1866. The father entered a claim in Blue Earth county, but relinquished the land on his removal to Faribault county. Later he l-turned to this county and settled on the farm fbere he died in 1884, at the age of fifty-four j-eais. His widow survived him for a long period, dying in 1899, at the age of fifty-seven. There were four children born to their union, namely: William E. ; Bub}', wife of James Davidson, of Janesville, Wisconsin; Bert W., also of Janesville, that state; and Charles, living in Everett, Washington.

On account of the lack of means from which the family suffered, William E. Stewart was put out on a farm to work at the age of nine 3ears rtud remained iintil fourteen, meanwhile receiving $6 j)er month during the summer season, while in the winter months he was given the privilege of attending school and vi'orking for his board. The deep snows and rigorous climate caused his attendance at school to be a matter of discomfort and even of suffering, for he was illy clad, using his wages to aid the family rather than to clothe himself. However, a determined spirit is not easily daunted, and with the optimism of youth he labored and learned, eventualty, by Ihe utmost self-denial, being able to secure the advantages of training in the Mankato State gformal School and the Mankato Commercial College. Meanwhile he worked at such occupations as would aid him in defraying the expenses of an education, and was employed at farming, market gardening, and brick making.

As traveling sales agent for the J. I. Case Threshing Machine Company since 1901, Mr. Stewart has proved his suitability to the position. The company recog-nized his efficiency by making l^im manager of the ^Mankato branch, and "in 1905, he became manager of the southern district of Minnesota, in which capacity he has rendered excellent service and made a creditable record. He is sole proprietor of the Mankato Brick and Tile Company's plant at j\Iankato, a small business giving employment to sixteen men and three boys. In politics he is a republican and has served as a delegate to the state convention of his party. A resident of North Mankato, ho has filled the office of ^'illage treasurer and has been an alderman for two or more years.

ca. December 1, 1898, he was united in marriage with Miss Lulu S. Wells, daughter of Wallace and Helen (Cole) Wells, of Lake Crystal, Blue Earth county. They are the parents of thi'eo sons, Xelson Wells, John Peabody and James Cole.

STEATTOX, ALFIIED G. - There are few portions of Minnesota that enjoy a wider reputation for agricultural pre-eminence than does Blue Earth county and it has been the good fortune of Mr. Stratton to acquire by inheritance and purchase a considerable area of excellent farming land. His total possessions aggregate four hundred and thirteen acres, of which one hundred acres lie in Vernon Center township and the balance, including his residence, in Eapidan township near the village of Good Thunder. General farm products are raised, and in stock he has a goodly number of shorthorn cattle, Poland-China hogs and Clydesdale horses. Interested in horticulture, he has devoted considerable attention to experimenting apples in oi'der to discover the varieties best adapted to tlie climate, and he now has a fine orchard of six acres in bearing. In addition he has a vineyard of one and one-half acres of grapes suited to this part of the country, and he also has some fine varieties of raspberries and strawberries on his place.

Born in Dodge county, Wisconsin, Xovember 19, 18-58, Alfred G. Stratton i.< a son oi James and Martha (Taft) Stratton, natives of Vermont, but in early life residents of Ohio and later pioneers of Wisconsin, thence reiuovin^- to Blue Earth county, IMinnesota, where they remained until death. In all the places where they made their home they devoted themselves entirely to farming. Of their nine children only four are living, Alfred G., being the youngest of these. AVhen he was thirteen years of age he inherited the farm where he now lives, but his success was not due wholly to inheritance, for he possesses onerpy, intelligence and sagacity that would have brought him a fair degree of success under all circumstances.

The marriage of Mr. Straiton in 1882, united him with Jliss Minnie Enmrill, daughter of Solon and Eosina (DcWolf) Eumrill, natives of A'ermont and pioneers of Minnesota. Their advent inio this state occurred prior to the Indian troubles. At first they mfide their home in SLerling townsliip, Blue Earth county, and here Mr,-. Stratton was born and reared.

Mrs. Eumrill is still living and makes licr home with a married daughter near Spokane, Washington. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Stratton consist of the following named children : Grace, Sidney, Bert, George, Edward, Claude, Glenn, Allen, William, Eoy, Thomas, Bessie and Wallace. In fraternal relations Mr. Stratton holds membership with the Modern Woodmen of America at Eapidan. Politically he supports Republican principles. In addition to the office of school director, which he filled for six years, and has proved an impartial, able and trustworthy official.

STEONG, GEORGE D. - Early in the colonial history of our country the Strong family immigrated hither and settled in New England, where ever since the name has been represented by people of recognized worth of character and irreproachable integrity. The branch of the family now under consideration became transplanted into New York during the first half of the nineteenth century, the founder of the race in the Empire state having been Dwight C, a native of Massachusetts and a son of Hugh Strong, a lifelong resident of the old Bay State. While living at Lowell Dwight C. Strong married Emetine Mason Bill, a native of Vermont, her father. Dyer Bill, having been born and reared in that state, where members of the family yet reside. After the family had removed from Massachusetts to New York and settled at PayettevillSj Onondaga county, a son was born December 1, 1848, to whom was given the name of George. When the latter was eighteen months old the father died, leaving the widow with four sons. He had been engaged in the buying and selling of teazles and cloth and had laid the foundation of a business which, had he survived, undoubtedly

Some time after the death of Mr. Strong his widow became the wife of Warren White and they removed to the northwest in the spring of 18G5, settling in Blue Earth county, Minnesota, where Mr. White took up land in Sterling township and ever since has been identified with the agricultural development of this region. While the family made their home in York state the Son, George D., was sent to district schools, where he acquired a common school education. Prom there he accompanied his step-father to Minnesota and secured employment on the farm of William Lattimer in Winnebago county. The careful saving of his wages enabled him to secure a start in agricultural affairs and laid the foundation of his present prosperity.

The marriage of George D. Strong and Ida May Franklyn was solemnized May 16, 1875. Mrs. Strong was born in Waushara county, Wisconsin, and was one of seven children, of whom three now survive, her brother being William Pranklyn of Eapidan, Blue Earth county, her sister is Mrs. Alice Eenyolds. The father, John A. Franklyn, was a native of Herkimer county, New York, whither his father. Mason Franklyn, had removed from New England. The mother bore the maiden name of Martha A. Valentine and was also a native of Herkimer county. As early as 1855 the parents became pioneers of Wisconsin, where they engaged in developing a farm out of a raw tract of uncultivated land. From that state in 1867 they removed to Minnesota and settled in Sterling township. Blue Earth county, where they developed a productive farm.

Immediately after his marriage Mr. Strong operated a rented farm in Sterling township, but in a short time he removed to Amboy and became grain-buyer for Peavey & Co., whose interests he represented in the village for twelve years. At the expiration of that period he purchased a farm one half mile from Amboy and for four years engaged in agricultural pursuits on that land. On selling the property he bought a farm two and one half miles south, where he remained for four years, and then sold at a fair price. The following four years were devoted to the livery business, but eventually he traded the business to Kinney Brothers for one hundred and sixty acres two miles west of Amboy. On this place he now resides. The land is crossed .by the Blue Earth river and is under a fair state of cultivation. liaiubletonian horses of a line strain, Durham cattle and blooded Poland-China hogs are specialties of the owner, and in each he is recognized as an expert judge and an authorit)'. An apple orchard provides the family with an abundance of apples of the varieties best adapted to the climate. Other improvements include a substantial barn, a neat residence with modern conveniences and other buildings needed on a farm. A neat grove serves as a protection for the buildings from the storms of winter.

During the period of his residence in Amboy Mr. Strong served as a member of the city council for two terms, and in addition he was engaged as bailiff in court in Mankato for several terms. Fraternally he is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Mutual Benefit Association, in the latter of which he officiated as secretary for many years. In religion he is not a member of any denomination, but contributes to the Methodist Episcopal church, with which Mrs. Strong is actively associated. Educational movements and philanthropic enterprises receive his encouraging assistance and practical sympathy, and he especially favors those projects having for their aim the permanent welfare of the agricultural interests of the county.

SWENSON, AXDEEW. - The name of this well known resident of Mankato indicates his ancestry. Many generations of the family lived and died in Sweden, and it is but natural that the race should possess the rugged characters born of contact with the stern and rock-bound shores of their native land. The opportunities afforded by the United States, where the soil was less rocky and the land more fertile than that of the home country, caused Peter Swenson in 1854 to cross the ocean and start anew amid the unfamiliar surroundings of a land far-distant from his own. Coming to Minnesota and taking up raw land in Carver county, he gave his attention to the difficult task of transforming an unproductive tract into a fertile farm. The balance of his life was quietly passed in the daily round of agricultural duties, and his death occurred in 18-38 at the age of fifty-one years. During the brief period of his residence in Minnesota he won the respect of acquaintances by his manly character and industrious life. SomB time after his death his widow, Hannah, came to Blue Earth county, and here she passed away in 1890 at the age of seventy-eight years.

Of the children of Peter and Hannah Swenson the following are now living: Andrew, Swen, Peter, Betty (Mrs. Charles Frederick), and Mathias. Those deceased are as follows : Swan, who was drowned at Shakopee, Scott county, this state; Christina; Anna; and Nels, the first-born of the chUdren, who died in Lincoln township in 1905. The second of the children was Andrew, born in Sweden, December 27, 1834, and twenty years of age at the time of emigrating to the United States. After a brief sojourn in Illinois he came to Minnesota and settled in Carver county, where he engaged in farm pursuits until 1865. Meanwhile the Civil war had come on, and in July of 1864 he became a volunteer in Company H, Fourth Minnesota Infantry. Accompanying his regiment to the front, he took part in the battles of Altoona, Georgia, and Kingston, North Carolina, and accompanied General Sherman in the memorable march to the sea. For two months sickness kept him confined in a 4iospital at Chattanooga, but with that exception he remained with his regiment until hostilities ended.

Eeturning to Carver county, Mr. Swenson made arrangements to remove to Blue Earth county, whither he came with two others in 1865 and took up a homestead in Lincoln township. Until 1901 he remained on the same farm. During that long period a wonderful transformation was wrought in the appearance of the farm. Substantial buildings were erected as the need arose for their use. Fields were subdivided by excellent fencing, a proper rotation of crops brought profitable returns for care and cultivation of the land, and each year saw the granaries filled with the products of the owner's wise management and constant toil. Eventually he reached a position where the need for continued application no longer existed, and thereupon he bought a cum-

Always interested in securing good schools, Mr. Swenson served with fidelity as a member of the school board from its organization until his removal from the farm in 1901, being its clerk for twenty-one years. For a time he ofEiciated as a member of the board of supervisors, also held office as town clerk and for twelve years filled the position of township assessor. As Justice of the peace he proved to be the possessor of considerable knowledge of the law, and his decisions were always characterized by impartiality and wise judgment. During the session of 1883-84 he held the position of sergeant-at-arms of the state legislature. In politics he has been stanch in his allegiance to Republican principles ever since he became a citizen of the United States and had grasped the fundamental differences between the two leading parties. In religion, a Baptist, he- has been deacon of his church and for some years served as secretary of the Sunday school.

The first marriage of Mr. Swenson took place in 1859 and united him with Miss Clara Erickson, daughter of Rev. John Briekson. When only twenty-five years of age this - estimable woman was taken from her home, in August, 1867, leaving three children, namely: James, now living at Lake Crystal, Blue Earth county; Alice, Mrs. George Kimball, x>t Mankato; and Samuel T., now living in Butte, Montana. The present wife of Mr. Swenson was Miss Carrie Granlund, daughter of Andrew and Irene Granlund, natives of Sweden, and emigrants to Carver county, Minnesota, during the year 1855. For a time Mr, Granlund made his home in that county and engaged in preaching, but later he removed to Lincoln township. Blue Earth county, and became one of the most influential men of the township, he later moved to Lake Crystal where he still lives, at the age of about eighty-six years. His wife had passed away in 1876 at the age of fifty-four. The children of Andrew and Carrie Swenson are named as follows : Charlotte B., wife of Ellsworth Acres, of Lake Crystal; Lorinda A., who is engaged in missionary work in St. Paul, Minnesota; Oscar E., now living at Bode, Humboldt county, Iowa; Kora L., and

TABATT, EDWARD M. - The family represented by this progressive farmer of Blue Earth county was established in the United States by his father, John, a native of Hermansdorf, Germany, and an emigrant of March, 1872. After a brief visit in Wisconsin he came to Minnesota and settled in Blue Earth count}', where he took up land in Pleasant j\Iound township section ten. For years he devoted himself to agricultural pursuits with unwearied energy, but after a long and successful afsoeiation with farm work lu' retired in 1898 and removed to Amboy, residing there until his deatb, which occurred August 19, 1906. By his juarriage to Wilhehnina Deptke he had nine children, all but one of whom are still living. The youngest, Leonara, occupies the old homestead of two hundred acres ijuproved with a neat residence, substantial barns and a grove that affords excellent protection from the storms of winter. In 1898 Leonard married Minnie Winkoff, who was born and reared in Blue Earth county, being a daughter 01 Christopher Winkoff, a pioneer of Pleasant i\Iound township. Leonard and his wife have two daughters, Irene and A'erona. Fredrick, who was the oldest, emigrated with his father in 1872, owns a one hundred and sixty acre farm in Pleasant ilound township, well improved. John, fl'ho was the second son, married Emma Schwanz, October 13, 1895, lived on a farm in Pleasant Mound township which he owned, but was obliged oji account of his health to retire and he moved to Amboy, where he was sick for twelve years and died October 12th, 1908. The eighth among tlie children comprising the family circle was Edward, born April 23, 1872, and reared in his native township of Pleasant j\Iound. Primarily educated in the country schools, he later attended the liigh school at Worthington, Minnesota, and since leaving school he has been a reader of cnrrent newspapers and periodicals, thus acquiring a broad fund of valuable information. October 18, 1894, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary Zellmer, who was born in Wisconsin, coming from there in lS7'-i, to Minnesota^ and settling in Pleasant Mound township^ this county, where her father, ^Villiam Zellmer, became a successful farmer. The children of Mr. and ]\[rs. Tabatt are Agnes, Prieabert and Edna.

Through a course of energy and perseverance Mr. Tabatt has improved one of the best farms of his locality, the same comprising one hundred and sixty acres under cultivation. The land iri rolling and affords a natural drainage, which is a feature of importance in wet seasons. On the farm may be seen horses, cattle and hogs of the best breeds, for stock-raising is an important adjunct of farming in the estimation of Mr. Tabatt. The condition of the buildings bespeak his careful attention. The barns are large and well adapted to their varied purposes, and the residence is modern in its equipment. The grounds and buildings are sheltered by a grove planted by tlie owner with a view to protection from the blizzards of winter. In all of his work Mr. Tabatt is progressive and practical, and he is highly regarded throughout the county, occupying a position among the most enterprising farmers and patriotic citizens of his community.

TAYLOE, BENJAMIN. - In the ability and character of its native-born sons the state of Minnesota vies with all other commonwealths. As we glance over the names of young men who are coming to the front in the professions, in business enterprises and in agricultural affairs, we find many of them to be the sons of pioneers who made the family name an honored one in years gone by. Growing to manhood amid the scenes of birth and childhood, they have become familiar with the possibilities and opportunities afforded in this region and have been ready to grasp every chance for securing a foothold along the line of their varied specialties. Such might be given as an epitome of the life of Benjamin Taylor, one of the rising young lawyers of Mankato and the son of an honored pioneer, now deceased, who formerly held a prominent place in the flouring interests of Minneapolis.

Benjamin Taylor, Sr., a descendant of English ancestry and a native of Pennsylvania, sought a home in the midst of the undeveloped opportunities of the northwest. A miller by trade, he soon rose to a position of influence in the milling interests of Minneapolis, ^\-here as a member of the firm of Taylor Brothers he founded an industry that at a later date was owned by the Pillsbury interests. At the time of his death in 1887 he was sixty-two years of age. During early manhood he had married Hannah Monaghan, who was born in Pennsylvania and traced her lineage to English and Irish progenitors; her death occurred in 1906 at the age of seventy years.

Among the seven children comprising the family of Benjamin Taylor, Sr. the fifth in order of birth was given the name of the father and was born in the city of Minneapolis December 11, 1871. Primarily educated in the public schools of his native city the education there secured was supplemented by broader studies in large institutions of learning. Prom an early age it had been his desire to enter upon the practice of law and with that object in view he took a course of study in the law department of the University of Minnesota, from which he was graduated in 1895. During the same year he was admitted to practice in the courts of the state and immediately came to Mankato, where he formed a law partnership with George IT. Fletcher, son of one of the most influential men of the city. Since the dissolution of this partnership in 1899 Mr. Taylor has engaged in. practice alone, and now has his office in the Odd Fellows block. Both by native gifts and educational advantages he is equipped for the successful practice of his profession and already has won recognition as a skilled counseloiand sagacioiis attorney. While building up a growdng practice he has become identifled with local politics as a stanch Eepublican and has served as chairman of the city committee of the party, besides taking a warm interest in the political affairs of the state and the larger problems affecting the prosperity of the nation. Since coming to Mankato he has established domestic ties, his marriage June 12, 1901, uniting him wath one of the popular young ladies of the city.

Miss Lucy Pope, daughter of the late General E. M. Pope, who for years wielded a large influence in the Democratic political affairs of ilinnesota and held official honors under one of the governors of the state.

TAYLOE, BE^STJAMIX F. - The prestige of the Taylor family in Sterling township is materially strengthened through the general farming and stoclc-raising efforts of Benjamin Taylor, vrho was born in the township, on the old Tayloi' place, October 20, 1870, and who has known nc other home during his thirty-eight years of existence.

Educated principally in the district schools, and through the application of later years, Mr. Taylor has learned much from observation, and has the practical grasp of men reared in the hard sphere of agricultural experience. His two hundred acres of land evidences the labor of two generations of workers, and is most complete in both its home and general equipment. Stock raising is the preferred specialty of the owner, and large numbers of Norman horses, Hereford cattle, and Poland-China hogs attain maturity under the most favorable of conditioub. On the farm are several flowing wells.

In 1896 Mr. Taylor became a Benedict, marrying Ellis Herman, daughter of -John Herman, an old and respected settler of ilapleton township. Politically Mr. Taylor is identified with the Eepublican party, and has held many offices v.'ithin the gift of his fellow townsmen, including that of supervisor for several years, and member of the board of education. He is a well informed and agreeable gentleman, encouraging practical progress, and identifying himself with the principle local efforts to improve the moral, intellectual and commercial growth of the township.

TAYLOE, CHAELES T. - There is nothing of the dreamer or visionary in the makeup of the present mayor of Mankato. He is a man who sees things as they are, and as they must be in order to meet the requirements of a practical age and a progressive people. In doing ^\'ell the Ai'ork of today, ho knows that he is laying firm foundations for the civic prosperity of the future, and at the same time he is confirming the truism that few things are impossible to the persevering, invincible and determined American citizen. Mr. Taylor was elected chief magistrate on the Democratic ticket in 1903, and succeeded himself to the same office in the election of 1905, Avith a gratifying majority of votes. Four years as alderman of the third ward had thoroughly familiarized him with the needs and possibilities of the community, and his larger responsibility has afforded increasing scope for the elaboration and realization of existing municipal ideals. Conservative and moderate reform lias been the keynote of his administration, and not the least of his efforts has been to awaken the somewhat sluggish interesi in such important essentials as sanitation, paving and education. Each department under his jurisdiction has profited by the same concentration of resource, and upon the principle that gunnery to be the most effective must play continually upon the same point. There is noted a judicious disbursement of available funds, and a considerable lowering of the municipal debt. Also improvement in the efficiency and morale of the police and fire service, in the regulation and enforcement of taxation, and the lessening of vice, crime and sickness. Altogether, Mankato is to be congratulated upon having honored so purposeful, strong and honest a chief executive.

Born in Bed Wing, Minnesota, December 2, 1860, Charles T. Taylor is a son of Thomas and Ellen (McCormick) Taylor, the former a native of County Sligo, Ireland, and the latter born in St. John's Few Brunswick. Thomas Taylor reached Bed Wing, this state, in the early '50's, and died in Mankato February 13, 1906, at the age of seventy-nine years. He is survived b}' his wife. He was reared on a farm, became a contractor in later life, and eventually returned to the outdoor occupation of his youth. His capacity for public service was reqo'gnized in his election to the office of school treasurer, and justice of the peace of North Mankato village.

Charles T. Taylor was educated in the great field of human equality, the public schools, and inaugurated his independent career by learning the implement business in Xorth ' Dakota. In 1890 began his honorable and useful connection with Mankato, and his assumption of control of the farm implement, hardware and coal busintss purchased of E. I. P. Staede, which he has conducted with gratifying results at 112 East Main street. In 1893 Mr. Taylor was united in marriage to Mary White, of Bottineau, Xorth Dakota, and of the union there is a daughter, Lucy M., and a son, Clarence T. Mr. Taylor is markedly social in his tendencies, and is identified with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, Knights of Columbus and the Ancient Order of United Workmen. He is a member of the Democratic Central Committee, and has been very active politically for several years. He is a man of firm convictions and definite purpose, and remains unswerved in the midst of many contending factions. To know him is to know a high minded, genial, disinterested and approachable gentleman.

TAYLOE, THE FAMILY. - The genealogical records show that the Taylor ancestry was of honored Scotch origin. As far back as the history can be traced their representatives are shown to be men and women possessing the sterling traits that have made the Scots famous the world over. Nearly a century has passed since John Taylor and Margaret Baird were united in marriage in tlieir native parish in Scotland, the date of their union having been August IG, 1864. To their ]iiarriage were born five sons and four daughters. The second son, Robert, was born October 13, 1819, grew to manhood in his native land, meanwhile learning from his parents lessons of integrity, energy, persevei'ance and L'rugality that proved of inestimable value to him tlirough all of his busy later years. While still living in Scotland he was united in marriage, March 10, 1842, with Margaret Gentles, who accompanied liim on the long and arduous voyage to the new world. They became the parents of five children, but an epidemic caused the death of several of the children, and about the same time, (in May ol 1852) the wife and mother died in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Of the children there is only one survivor, Joim, the eldest S(m, who makes liis home in Lyra township. Blue Eartii couuty, ^Minnesota, and for years has cngiiged in agricultural pursuits.

After the death of so many of his family Piobert Taylor returnel to Kew York. While there he attended a meeting called for the purpose of organizing a colony of emigrants for the west. During the course of the meeting he made several remarks which displayed a thorough knowledge of the western region, their soil and the possibilities they ofEered to men of energy. His statements brought him into general notice and resulted in his selection as advance agent of the colony to select a suitable location. With that purpose in view he traveled tlirough the new and unsettled regions of Minnesota, the result being that May 11, 1856, the colony arrived at Mapleton and began their identification with the agricultural interests of Blue Earth county which has been helpful to the permanent development of the county and fortunate for the colonists from a financial standpoint. As tlie head of this colony, Eobert Taylor is given a moi'e extended mention in liistory than would be expected in these lines of genealogy. Suffice it to say here, in relation to his life in Blue Earth county, that lie was honored wherever known as a man of the highest integrity and keenest sense of honor and when he passed to his eternal rest, it was regarded as a general loss by the people of the county.

In New York City, Xovember 7, 1854, Roliert Taylor married Janet Gentles, a sister of his first wife, and a woman of exceptional ability and amiable disposition. Born in Scotland, January 23, 1833, she did not have any considerable advantages in girlhood, but has alwaj's been a lover of the choicest reading and is 60 well informed that conversation with her is helpful as well as interesting. Xow that the active work of life is over with her, she spends the greater part of her time with her books and papers and maintains a keen interest in the activities of the world. She is the honored mother of a large family, six sons and two daughters having blessed her union. Of these

Eobert, the fourth, son, died March 29, 1893. James S. is a merchant at ilapleton and stands high throughout all this region. T. B. itf known throughout Southern Minnesota as a. breeder of registered shorthorns. In addition to his agricultural activities he acts as president of the Mapleton State Bank. Prominent as a citizen, he has served as mayor and alderman several terms and has become known as a man whose word is as good as his bond. William W.j an extensive farmer of Sterling township has two sons and three daughters, and holds a high place in his township. Benjamin P. owns the old homestead on the M'aple river; a man of great energy, he has been prominent in educational work in his district and also has been active at Eepublican caucuses and conventions. One of the daughters, Nellie S., married William Morrow, a retired farmer of considerable wealth. The other daughter, Jessie A., who has considerable property, is a widow with a son, Eobert. The family have remained in the vicinity of the old homestead and have added to the prestige of the family name by their business honor, moral lives, energetic temperaments and eterling worth of character.

TAYLOE, T. B. - While the arid, sombre and accuracy compelling methods of banking have changed but little with the passing centuries, the popular conception of the bank president has undergone a marked metamorphosis. Pomierly relegated in the minds of the depositing public to the greatest conservatism of thought and action in his youth, and in maturity to the fireside, pew and whist table, today there seems no incongruity in the association of financial strength and dependability with vigorous participation in politics, general business, sportsmanship and social prominence. Neither is length of years or experience required for the establishing -jf popular confidence - the greatest asset of the successful banker, for the rapid acquiring of reputation and financial momentum is one of the chief characteristics of this stage of the world's progress. Proof of this truism exists in all progressive communities, and in Mapleton a comparatively young bank president is found in T. B. Taylor, the monetary head of the Mapleton State Bank.

Mr. Taylor suljscribcs to the advanced conception of the men of his calling. He is wide awake, many sided, resourceful and extremely public spirited. An evolution of the farm, he spent the first twenty-five years of his life in Sterling and Mapleton township, Blue Earth count}', Minnesota, where his birth occurred April 11, 1860. After his marriage, April 16, 1885, to Phoebe, daughter of B. B. and Susan Cornell, formerly of Mapleton, and now of Newberg, Oregon, he located in the town of Mapleton, and since has been a moving factor in various grooves of activity. For a time Mr. Taylor was identified with a large stock company, and thereafter became the partner of Mat Olson, of Wells, this state, with whom he continued to conduct a large stock-raising and purchasing business until 1900. Since then he has carried on the enterprise alone, and now is doing an annual business of about one hundred thousand dollars. His part in developing the live stock interests of this part of the state has been and still is an enormous and far reaching one, winning him an enviable reputation as a maintainer of the highest possible stockraising standards. For the furtherance of his business he owns a farm of one hundred and sixty acres adjoining Mapleton on the west, a highly developed property, having large feed-raising and storing facilities.

Mr. Taylor's identification with the Mapleton State Bank began several years ago, and he has been president of the institution for the past three years. The bank is capitalized for $15,000 and is in a flourishing condition, enlisting the confidence and support of the most exacting element in the community. Politically Mr. Tayloi' is professedly independent, with strong leanings towards the Eepubhcan party in national affairs. Many political honors have been conferred upon him by his fellow townsmen, and his local standing was never more emphatically manifest than during his two elections as mayor of Mapleton, he having no opposition in the first instance, and in the second he received every vote. He also served as alderman several terms, and has been a member of the library board for several years. The town has no more enthusiastic fratemalist, or one who more keenly appreciates the many advantages which accrue from membership with the Masons. He is connected with the Blue Lodge, and largely was instrumental in securing the erection and furnishing of the present lodge rooms. He is at the present time W. M.

The Scotch settlers and institutions of Blue Earth county have found in Mr. Taylor a practical and telpful friend. Particularly has he labored for the best interests of the Maple Eiver Burns Club, to the presidency of which he succeeded upon the retirement from office of the first president, James Ellis, eight years ago. The Burns Club maintains the original purpose of its organization, celebrates yearly the anniversity of the famous poet, and has done much to establish a local understanding and appreciation of his place among the great human singers of the world. Commendable interest and enthusiasm centers around the Heather Curling Club, of which Mr. Taylor is president. The association is an incorporated one, and is noted for holding its own with the other curling clubs of the state. The rink used by the curlers was instigated principally by the president, and he, as well as the club as a whole hold numerous medals and trophies of the game. Too much cannot be said in praise of the sane and successful business career of Mr. Taylor, or of his attitude towards societly, literature and the healthful pursuits of living. His career has broadened ])erceptibly the channels of human brotherhood, and his liealth, well trained mind and vital interest in affairs promises much for the future welfare of the community.

TAYLOE, WILLIAM W. - The high standard of agricultural practice attributed to Blue Earth county owes its existence largely to the intellectual and manual contribution of such many sided and experienced men as William W. Taylor who not only profits by the teachings of an earlier generation of agriculturists, to which belonged his father, but who has improved thereon by reason of excellent educational and general advantages at the disposal of the young men who have come upon the scene since tlie Civil war. Mr. Taylor was born in Sterling township September 23, 1S6T, received his preliminary working training on the old Taylor homestead, and was educated in the country school?, the Mapleton high-school and the State Normal University.

The marriage of 'SLr. Taylor and Emma Daly, occurred October 10, 189fi. and was the occasion of his removal from the old farm to his present home, which formerly \\as the Jacob Conrad property. His father-in-law, W. G. Daly was an earlv settler of Blue Earth county, and a veteran of the Civil war. ^Ir. and Mrs. Taylor are the parents of five children, Cleo N., Leona J., Vivian P.. William Guv. and Lisle Eobert. Mr. Taylor is the owner of one hundred and seventy-one acres in one body, besides two lake lots, and is engag-ed in general farming and stock raising, making a specialty of Norman horses and Poland-Ciiina hogs. He has a fine modern residence, equipped with hot air heating apparatus, hot and cold water, and all conveniences possible to acquire remote from the cities. He is a great admirer of good stnck, and thoroughly kind and humane in his treatment of the same, providing them with warm shelter, the best of food, and the best of care under all circumstances. He is a thorough student of advanced fanning and stock raising methods, keeps posted upon current events of the day, and is particularly broad and tolerant in his views of life.

Of Scotch ancosirv. 'Mr. Tavlor lielps to keep alive in the New World the customs and traditions of the mother country of bis earlv sires, h(M'ng a member of the Thistle Club, and an active participant in its curling matches and bonspiels. The annual celebration of the birthday of Eobert Burns, finds him ever ready to do homage to the beloved poet of humanity, and he is also an attendant at the old settler's picnics and meetings. Fraternallv he is a memlier of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Eebfkahs. Modern Woodmen of .Vmerica and the Fraternal Union. He is popular and higlilv esteemed, and one of the community's most broad minded and enlightened farmers.

THEW, J. H. - Coming to Blue Earth county at the age of twenty-eight some years after the close of his honorable and active service in the Union army during the Civil war, Mr. Thew at once identified him, self with the agricultural interests of Vernon Center township, and from that time to the present he has been intimately associated with movements for the permanent upbuilding of his community. When he acquired land in the township he found himself the possessor of property needing the most careful cultivatiotf in order to secure profitable returns. In order to render possible the raising of crops during wet seasons it was also necessary for him to undertake considerable ditching, besides which he built fences, erected a neat house and substantial farm buildings. Eventually he sold this farm of two hundred acres and in 1904 moved to what is known as Old Vernon, where he Ijought a homestead of two acres and since then has lived practically retired from agricultural pursuits.

Born at Plattsburg, New York, July 9, 1840, J. H. Thew is a son of the late Gilbert and Jane (White) Thew, natives of New York state. The mother was born in 1817 and died in 1873; the father was bom in 1820 and attained the age of eighty years. During 1856 the family removed from the east to the frontier of Wisconsin, settling in Juneau county, ' where the ft'.ther followed the blacksmith's trade. In 1869 he came to Blue Earth county, whither his son had preceded him by one year. Buying a small tract of land in Vernon Center township, he engaged in farming and also had a blacksmith shop on the land. Upon retiring from active labors he made his home with his sons until he died.

When the Civil war broke out J. H. Thew was living in Wisconsin. Shortly afterward he offered his services to the Union and was accepted as a member of tire Tenth Wisconsin Light Artillery, army of the west, with which he served about three and one-half years, until the close of the war. Altogether he took part in sixtytiiree engagements, among these being all the skirmisher; and battles during Sherman's march to the sea, and the General Kilpatrick raid around Atlanta, which lasted for five days and nights, with a rest of only t^o hours during that time. He was also present at Corinth, Mississippi, at Stone river and in man}- other encounters with the Confederates. In the battle of luka Springs, Mississippi, he received an accidental wound from his own side of the field, but with that exception he was fortunate in escaping in-

Upon being honorably discharged at the close of the war Mr. Thew returned to his home and in 1867 he man ied Sarah A., daughter of Thomas and Eliza (Turner) Green wood^^ natives of Maine. For many years ilr. Greenwood followed the carpenter's trade and also engaged in farming in Adams county, Wisconsin, where both he and his wife died. Six children were born to the union of Mr. and Mrs. Thew, but two daughters, Laura M. and Clara A., have been removed from the home by death. The eldest son, George S., occupies a farm in Vernon Center township near his father's home. The second son, M. T., resides in Mankato. The youngest son, Daniel H., is a farmer of Vernon Center township. The only surviving daughter, Eliza, . married E. P. Eobinson and resides in Old Vernon. Ever since the Civil war Mr. Thew has been stanch in his allegiance to the Eepublican party and has been interested in the activities of the Grand Army of the Eepublic. Among the offices which he has held may be mentioned those of county supervisor, school director and member of the board of township trustees, in all of which positions he proved to be efficient and public-spirited. In religion he is identified with the Methodist Episcopal church.

THOMAS, PEANK G. - While the business interests of Mankato are largely in the hands of men of long experience, there is nevertheless a goodly proportion of the younger element noticeable in commercial circles, and these are the men who in future years will bear the responsibilities of the city's business progress and civic growth. Prominent in the latter class we "find the name of Prank G. Thomas, who represents that type of enterprising, progressive and keenwitted business man so necessary to the permanent prosperity of any town. The story of his brief life is the story of opportunities carefully improved, self-reliance developed by an independent spirit and success achieved in the line of a chosen pursuit.

Born in Menominee, Michigan, Feb. 27, 1875, Frank G. Thomas is a son of Samuel and Martha (Levar) Thomas, natives of Maine, vcho came to the northwest almost one-half century ago. The father followed the occupation of a stationary engineer throughout much of his active life and since 1889 has made his home in Mankato. The genealogy of the family shows that their ancestors came from England and Scotland. Out of a family of ten children, Frank G. Thomas was the eldest, and he received a fair education in the grammar and high school of Mankato. After leaving school he became an employ in the drug store owned by Br. P. FoUman, under whom he made a careful study of pharmacy, and became so well versed in the science that he was enabled to pass a highly creditable examination before the board of state examiners in 1898. Returning to his position with Dr. Follman, he remained in that store until 1905, meanwhile carefully saving his earnings for the purpose of investing them in a business of his own. July 13, 1905, he opened a drug store at No. Ill Xorth Front street, where he has a model and up-to-date establishment, provided with every equipment necessary for the successful prosecution of the business.

The cozy home which Mr. Thomas has established in Mankato is presided over by his wife who was Jennie E., daughter of Patrick Madigan, of this city. Desiring to aid to the extent of his ability in movements for the development of his home town, Mr. Thomas .has allied himself with the Commercial Club as offering the best means for aiding public-spirited projects. In fraternal relations he holds membership with the Ancient Order of United Workmen. Among the people of the town he ranks as an enterprising young man, one who merits success by reason of his enterprise, business acumen and industrious character.

THOMAS, JOHN E. - Within the peaceful borders of the shire of Montgomery, Wales, successive generations of the Thomas family lived .and labored and there they were laid to rest as one by one they passed from the scenes of earth. Among the first to establish this branch of the family in America was Eii'hard J., the son of John and Elizabeth Thomas, who immigrated to the United States in 1848 and settled at Eaeine, Wisconsin. He was born April 3, 1826, at Cumj'-dail, Manafon, ]\rontgomeryshire, and was a young man of rugged health, great education and an exxcellent knowledge of the milling business, which he followed in this country for eighteen years. ]\rarch 31, 1853, at Eacine he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Baxter, and a native of Llanfaircaerinion, ilontgomeryshire, Wales, born August 31, 1830.

Coming to Minnesota in 18G3, Eichard J. Thomas settled at South Bend and embarked in mercantile pursuits with a brother-in-law, \A'. W. Davis. During August of 1865 they came to Mankato and opened a grneery. A few years later j\rr. Thomas bought his partner's interest and continued the business until 18S3, meanwhile establisliing a large trade tliroughout the city. At his death, whicli occurred April 25, 1891, he left his wife and thi'cp children, John E., Elizabeth and Jennie, to mourn tlie loss of a devoted husband and father. Like many other members of his family, he jiossesscd musical ability of an high order. While living in Wisconsin he was a member of the famous Cambrian quartet led ))y Professor John P. .Tones, and later, for more than twenty years, he led the choir of the First Prcsliyterian church of ilankato. Frequently he won prizes at musical contests both as a singer and as a composer. Peaceable, upright and kind-hearted, he was esteemed by all.

During the residence of the family at Eacine, ^Visconsin, John E. Thomas was l)orn April 20. 1853. At the age of ten years he accompanied his parents from his native city in ^linnesota and settled with them at .South Bend, thence coming to Manlvato in 1865 and attending the schools of this city until he had acquired a fair common-school education. For five years he clerked in his father's grocery. During the year 1875 he entered upon his banking experiences wliich have led, through successive promotions, to his present position of influence in the financial circles of Sfankato. First as bookkeeper foi* the Citizens National Bank of ]\rankato he relaained until January-, 1884, when he went to Minneapolis and for two years was engaged as bookkeeper and teller in the Nicollet Xational Bank. At the expiration of that time he returned to Mankato and effected the organization 01 the Mankato Xational Bank, capitalized at $100,000, he being chosen the cashier of the new concern. On its reorganization as the ]\[ankato State Bank, capital stock $50,000, he was continued in the position of cashier, which he holds al' the present writing.

In addition to his banking business, Mr. Thomas has other interests and has been a constant contributor to movements for the benefit of the city. Through his membership in the Commercial Club he has striven to promote the business growth of the city and has given staunch allegiance to progressive plans. As a director in the Citizens' Telephone Company, he has been identified with an important local enterprise that has proved helpful to the city's advancement. In fraternal relations he holds membership with the lodge and chapter of the Masonic order, also is identified with and treasurer of the Knights of P3-thias, Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and Order of Eagles. The family talent for music has been his inheritance, and for a number of years he has been a member of tlie choir of the First Presbyterian church.

Mr. Thomas spent his early years as is usual with farmer boys in New England, obtaining a fair education at the district school and working hard on the home place. Unlike agriculurists of the west the Yankee farmer has seldom enough land to "go 'round to the boys," and it is the rule for the latter to leave home early and assume some form of clerical employment. Percival followed the rule, leaving the home farm at the age of fifteen and, for a number of years, clerking at various stores in Charleston and Newport, Vermont. Pie then ventured into North Dakota for a year, returned to his native state where he remained for a year and a half, and finally in 1885, located at Minneapolis and became a permanent resident of Minnesota.

Prom 1885 to 1890 Mr. Thomas busied himself at Minneapolis at various mercantile pursuits, and for the succeeding six years represented wholesale houses throughout the state, by these experiences getting a thorough insight into both retail and wholesale methods. In 1896 he assumed the management of the Mankato Fruit Commission compan}^, and the qualifications mentioned have made him especially valuable in his managerial capacity.

Mr. Thomas is a member of the Mankato Commercial Club, and belongs to the A. P. & A. M. and the Eo3-al Arcanum. He was married April 19, 1894, to Miss Margaret B. Parker of ^linneapolis, ilinnesota, and they have one child, Hortense Adelaide

THOMAS, PERCIVAL S. - Percival S. Thomas, manager of the Mankato Fruit Commission company for many years is a Vermont man of energy, sound judgment and long business experience. He was born in the Green Mountain State in the year 18()2, the son of Amos and Nancy (Kenyon) Thomas, both natives of New England, wlio as thrifty farmer folk, spent the years of their maturity in Vermont. The mother ])assed away at the untimely age 'of forty-five years, dying in 18G-2, while the father lived until 1888, or into his sixty-fourth year. Five of their seven children are still living, Percival S. being the youngest of the family.

THOMPSON, HENRY OSBORN. - Judging from the many sided results thus far accomplished the key note of the life of Henry Osborn Thompson is emphatic and sustained usefulness and practically. Himself trained in the hard school of practical experience, Mr. Thompson comes honestly by his grit and determination, for beliind him are ancestors inured to the perils and privations of pioneership, men who, without hesitation or backward glance dared the perils 01 the wilderness, and wrought out of little material and under the most terrible of hardships the character and success which lies at the foundation of this commonwealth.

Born in a log house, December 16, 1847, in riartland, Waukesha county, Wisconsin, December 16, 1847, Mr. Thompson is a son of John Crozier and Esther Thompson, the former a farmer by occupation who moved from Wisconsin to Garden City, Minn., June 1, 1855, where he died Nov. 20, 1908, at the age of 84 years, 6 months and 4 days. William E. Thompson, grandfather of Henry Osborn, was born in New York state of Irish parents, and married Anna Brown an eastern woman of American birth and parentage, and came also to Blue Earth county in 1855. At thai time the Indian trail still was a feature of the Minnesota landscape, the wigwam was the prevailing style of architecture, and when the settlers went to bed at night they never knew what danger lurked in their midst, whether from prowling wolves or that more intelligent and wily menace, the hostile Indian. At best the life of the pioneer was one of untold hardship, and this family had their share in taming the wilderness and establishing civilized conditions.

Mr. Thompson received a common school education, and, reared to that occupation, eventually fallowed farming on his own responsibility for; more than thirty years in Ceresco township, this county. He also has been interested in several business undertakings, among them cheese manufacturing, for which he built a factory and operated the same for two years. For six years he carried the United States mail from Ceresco, P. 0. in Ceresco township to the village of Vernon Center, and back. In 1900 he was elected a director in the Shelby Farmers' Mutual Fire Insurance Company, and elected secretary of the same in 1905, a position which he still maintains. In 1901, he was elected treasurer of the Willow Creek Telephone Company, and holds the position at the present time.

^Fr. Thompson is emphatically a Bryan Democrat. He has held several local offices, and in 1890, was elected chairman of the board of supervisors. In 1906 he was a candidate for representative in the state Legislature and in an overwhelmingly Eepublican county was defeated by only ninety votes. In 1890 and 1900 he was, census enumerator. Fraternally he is connected with the Modern Brotherhood of America, having

Joined the same in 1896. With his family he finds a religious home in the Christian church. At Eapidan, this state, November 26, 1874, Mr. Thompson was united in marriage to Hatnet A. Eew, a graduate of the State Normal School at Mankato, class of 1871, and who subsequently engaged in educational work in the public schools of Minnesota and Iowa for three years. To Mr. and Mrs. Thompson have been born three children : Ealph Henry, Lulu C, and Eay E. Ealph Henry married Marion Jamieson, October 20, 1906, and Eay E. married Alice Myrtle Mills January 24, 1908.

THOMPSON, JOHN C - So many have come and gone since the advent of Mr. Thompson in Minnesota, that, to recall the days of his boyhood in the east, is like reading a page from a half-forgotten biography. When he was a lad had not girdled the continent, the ships )f commerce had not yet borne our flag to the uttermost parts of the earth, the vast and fertile region west of the Mississippi was yet scarcely trod by the foot of white man; and the possibilities of our country were unrealized. The state of New York, which so long has boasted its greatness as the empire state of our Union, was still primarily an agricultural region, in which manufacturing enterprises had not been established. Schools were few and Mr. Thompson, who was born in that state in 1824, found that text books of that day were few in number and crude in quality. His school days were passed at Salem, Washington county, which was the home of his parents, William E. and Anna Desire (Brown) Thompson, the former of whom was a mechanic by trade. Several generations of the family resided in New York, having drifted there from New England during the early days.