Blue Earth County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1901 (part 2 of 15)

The marriage of George Beise took place November 30, 1872, and united him with Miss Willi elmina Krensky, a native of Germany, and a daughter of John Krensky, who became a prosperous farmer of Winona county, where she grew to womanhood. Five children comprise the family of Mr. and Mrs. Beise. The eldest, Mrs. Julia DeWolf, is the wife of a minister holding a pastorate in South Dakota. John H. is engaged in the drug business at Fergus Palls, Minnesota. Mary married Henry Obitz and makes her home in Ottertail county, this state. William carries on a farm which was formerly a part of the old homestead and is situated in Medo township. The youngest member of the family is Ida, who remains at home. The farm is considered to be one of the best in the locality and its improvements bear mute testimony to the energy and thrift of the owner, who has been satisfied with nothing short of the best. In the raising of stock he has aimed to keep only good grades, and the animals now on his farm include some fine Percheron horses, shorthorn cattle of blooded types and Poland-China hogs from thoroughbred ancestry. Stock-raising he has found to be a profitable adjunct of general farming and hence he has devoted considerable attention to the work, the result being that'he is considered an excellent judge of fine stock as well as an authority in the best methods of raising the same.

BENEDICT, HON. CLIFFOED L. - There iife probably few men in the c'ty of Mankato whose circle of acquaintances is larger than that of Mr. Benedict, the popular ex-postmaster. Beared in Blue Earth county from an early age, he has been familiar from childhood with the names ynd personalities prominent in th^'s region. Furthermore his acquaintanceship throughout the county had been extended by reasons of the fact I hat he has been more or less before the public as a Eepublican local leader and the incumbent of official positions of trust. The first office to which he was chosen, that of county attorney, came to him in 1898 four years after his admission to the bar, and his acceptable service resulted in his re-election to the office in 1894, remaining in the position for four )'ears altogether. Later higher honors were conferred upon him. In recognition of his prominence in the Eepublican party and also of his high mental endowments, in 1898 the party selected him as their nominee for the state senate, and he 'vas elected without opposition from any party. During the period of his service in the senate he gave support to measures for the" benefit of the l>eople, always having in view the ultimate development and prosperity of the state. Since October of 1902 he has filled the position of postmaster at Mankato. Besides his other political associations he has been for years the manager of the congressional campaigns of Hon. J. T. Mc- Cleary, for which important task his pleasing address, political sagacity and tactful manners admirably qualified him.

Born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, October 31, 1862, Clifford L. Benedict is a son of Thomas and Harriet (Brown) Benedict, natives of Ohio and I'pnnsyh'ania respectively. In an early day the father brought the family to Minnesota and took up land in the Indian reservation near Good '.rhunder, Blue Earth coimty. Besides tilling the soil, he took . an interest in local afEairs, was a prominent Eepublican in his township and aided in the promotion of the community's welfare. (m this place he died in 1893 at the age of fiftynine vears and here his widow still makes her ]\ome. During the early period of the family's residence on this farm the neighborhood was sparsely settled and schools had not yet been introduced into each district, for whicli reason the son, Clifford L., found it impossible to attend school until he was twelve years of age. Under tlie careful training of his mother he meantime secured the rudiments of an education and native ability enabled him to atone for early deficiencies. After starting to school he attended the Good Thunder schools and later was a student in the State Normal at Mankato. The knowledge gained in the Normal prepared him for the work of reaching and for two terms he taught in the home district, later was chosen principal of the Good Thunder school and after a year became principal of the Mapleton schools, where he remained for two years. During liis leisure hours he devoted himself to the study of law and after resigning at Mapleton he entered the office of Freeman & Pfau at Mankato, wliere he prepared himself for a professional career. May 22, 1888, he was admitted to the bar, since which time he lias engaged in practice in Mankato.

The marriage of Clifford L. Benedict and i\label Goodell of Nicollet county was solemnized June 29, 1892, and has been blessed with three children, Harold L., Florence G. and James L. Tlie family have a high social posit'on and number their friends among the most refined and cultured people of their home city. The fraternal relations of Mr. Benedict are varied and important, and include membership in the Masonic order. Independent Order of Odd Fellows, B. P. 0. E. No. 225, Knights of P\thias, Ancient Order of United Workmen, Eoyal Arcanum and Samaritans.

Biogeaphical History

whole of that period he has been a resident of Blue Earth county, since 1891 making his home in Mankato, where he is engaged in the buying and selling of live-stock. There are few men in the county more familiar with current topics than he, and from early life he has been stanch in his allegiance to the Eepublican party. The opinions which he formed concerning the tariff, currency and other party issues have not been changed by the careful study of his mature years, and he continues as devoted in his allegiance to Eepublican principles as when the ardor of youth l"d him to ally himself with the cause. During 1877-78 he had the honor of representing his district in the state legislature and during Iiis service in the lower house he gave his support to tlie high license bill, the bill for the soldiers' heme relief fund, and other measures that he considered important to the welfare of the people. The record which he made as a legislator was creditable to his ability and loyalty and gave prestige to his district. At this writing he holds the office in Mankato of city treasurer.

Born in Kenosha county, Wisconsin, December 18, 1839, Charles Bennett was a son of Moses 0. and Esther (Carpenter) Bennett, natives of Eutland county, Vermont, who on removing from New England established themselves near Cleveland, Ohio. The site of their home came to be known as Bennett's Corners, this name being given in honor of Moses 0. Bennett. Prom there the family removed to Wisconsin and as early as April of 1856 became pioneers of Minnesota, settling on the LeSueur river in Mankato township. Blue Earth county. Their new location afforded an excellent water-power for a mill and it was natural that the father should establish milling interests. These he conducted with fair success for many years. A man of religious devotion and generous nature, he felt the need of a meeting-house in the community and accordingly erected the first church at Tivoli. This building, a block-house, was used for school purposes until the township was divided off into districts and houses erected for school purposes. Had he been spared longer, undoubtcilly he would have accomplished even more for the benefit of his community, but eight years

In a family of fourteen children all of whom attained years of maturity, Charles Bennett . was third youngest, Levi and Lewis being younger. Only four now survive, those besides himself being Josiah, a resident of San Francisco, California; Nathan, living in Mankato township; and Levi, whose home is in Kebraska. There being a large family of children and the father having only limited means, it was not possible to give them good educational advantages, and the broad knowledge which Charles Bennett acquired he owes to self-culture and habits of close observation. Spending his early years on a farm, he learned lessons of self-help and selfreliance.

Mr. Bennett's identification with the conditions evolved by the Civil war began August 19, 1862, when he enlisted in the company of Captain William Bierbauer, under general command of Colonel Charles E. Elandrau, and was present at the second attack of the Indians on the town of New Ulm. During the entire day he was in the thick of the fight on the outside line, and at night, with eight others, he lay under a garden fence as an outside guard. He was an eye witness to the shooting of Captain Dodd, of St. Peter, on East Main street, by the Indians during Saturday afternoon, and also was in the charge against the Indians along the Bluff about sunset, when Newel Houghton, of the Winnebago Agency, was killed. Mr. Bennett was present at the hanging of thirty-eight Indians at Mankato, and two at Port Snelling during the winter of 1863-64, he at that time being a soldier in Company E, Second Minnesota Cavalry, imder Captain E. P. Slaughter, in which he enlisted in 1863, serving three years. At this grewsome hanging hi« company served as guard at llie scaffold.

Eeturning from the war, Mr. Bennett purchased his father's saw mill on the LeSueur river at Tivoli, and with Nathan Bennett, his brother, and 0. E. Harvey, his brother-in-law, continued to operate the mill for some time. His next venture was the purchase of land in EedwQod county, this state, where he engaged in general farming about four years. While there he was a member of the board of county commissioners, resigning at the end of a year to remove to Eagle Lake, Blue Earth county, in 187?. For sixteen years he engaged in the buying and selling of live stock, but since 1891 has made Mankato his home. During his residence at Eagle Lake he was treasurer of the school board seven years and took a keen interest in educational work.

The marriage of Mr. Bennett which united him with Elizabeth, daughter of Edwin Davis, of Utica, New York, occurred at Mankato Feb. 35th, 1873, where she died Sept. 22nd, 1907. They are the parents of three daughters, namely: Maude E., wife of P.- J. Stower, of Frederick, Wisconsin; May B., a teacher in the public schools of Blue Earth county; and Imogene, who married Edward J. Harris and lives at Spo- Icane, Washington. Fraternally connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Mr. Bennett has filled the chairs in the local lodge and Las represented it in the grand lodge. In memory of his war service he mainta'ins membership in Wilklns Post, G. A. E., and during the period of his residence at Eagle Lake was honored with the office of commander of that post.

BENNETT, OSCAE E. - Of the men who are lending dignity, practicability and special qualifications to the manufacturing interests of Mankato, none are held in higher esteem than Oscar E. Bennett, junior member of the brick making, firm of Wheeler & Bennett. Mr. Bennett is approaching his sixtieth year, and forty of these years have been devoted to the brick industry. Many of the buildings which make for the artistic and substantial appearance of this and other towns in the state are constructed of the products of these kilns, the brick being noted for its strength and durability, and its successful weathering of the heat and cold and storms of many succeeding seasons.

On both sides of his family Mr. Bennett claims kinship with the men who laid the foundations of civilization along the Atlantic coast. His fathei', Enfus S. Bennett, was bom among the shut in hills of Vermont, and his mother Lydia A. Bennett, was a native of Maine. Bufus Bennett and his wife spent the first year of their marriage in Boston, Massachusetts, where they contracted the western fever, and removed to Green Bay, Wisconsin, later taking up their residence in Calumet county, the same state. Here Mr. Bennett operated a hotel, country store and postoffice for many years, his honesty and geniality winning him the popularity and prestige so often accorded men who are so closely identified with the every day needs of the people. At the end of the Civil war he abandoned merchandising and inn-keeping and returned to farming in Calumet county, thus renewing his youth in the many sided occupation in which he was reared in Vermont. Five years later he removed to Joplin count]', Missouri, where his death occurred in 1885, at the age of seventy-six 3'ears, his wife surviving him until 1897, in her seventy-fifth year. Mr. and Mrs. Bennett had ten children, eight of whom are living, Oscar being the sixth oldest in the family: Frank L., of North Mankato ; Elvira, wife of Abel Osgood, of McLeod county, this state; Helen, wife of James Cook, of Baker county, Oregon; Amos C, of Lovelace, Colorado; Arthur C, of Joplin, Missouri; Mar]', wife of James German, of Joplin : Maude, wife of Mr. Madison, of Joplin; George E., who was shot and killed at Fredericksburg, Virginia, during the Civil war; and Willard, who di'ed when young in" Wisconsin.

The youth of Oscar E. Bennett did not differ from that of other country bred lands of his time and place. The years passed uneventfully in work, attendance at the district school, and the usual diversions of the neighborhood until the outbreak of the Civil War opened up interminable avenues of interest and discussion. Mr. Bennett was about seventeen years old when he enlisted in Company K, Seventh Wisconsin Cavalry, and served for thirteen months. He saw much of the hideous side of the conflict, and returned to his home with broadened perceptions and intensified humaiiity. The monotony of the farm no longer seemed to serve his life purpose, and soon after his martial experience he sot himself the task of learning to make brick, an occupation which he followed in various yards until

1886, his last position being with the 0. E. Mather Company, of whose yards he was superintendent for several months. After forming a partnership with A. L. Wheeler, under the firm name of Wheeler & Bennett, in 1866, he built the present yards, and has so increased the business that a branch has been established at Duluth^ Minnesota, both plants being in fine working order and running to full capacity.

Mr. Bennett is one of the civic fathers of North Mankato, and has done much to bring this community up to its present high municipal standard. His large brick house, with its spacious and well kept grounds is a distinct addition to the architectural dignity of the place, and he has promoted its schools as a member of the board of education, aiding its first and infantile progress as a member of the fi-rst board of alderman after North Mankato was incorporated. Fraternally he is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Pellows, and he also is a member of the Commercial Club. He is an ardent sportsman, fond of hunting and fishing and is decidedly a social as well as business factor in the community. The marriage of Mr. Bennett and Kate Cook occurred in 1869, and of the union there is a son, Frank L. Mrs. Bennett is a daughter of Andrew and Phoebe Cook, of Stockbridge, Wisconsin, the former of whom first settled in South Bend, later moved to McLeod county, Minnesota, and still later to Mankato, where he died at an advanced age. Mr. Bennett is one of the sterling, dependable men of this part of Blue Earth county, and his rise to prominence upon the invisible assets of perseverance, grit and good judgment, should commend itself to the youthful aspirant for maniTfacturing and general success.

BESTMAISr, JOHF. - The industrial success of John Bcstman is centered around his splendid farm of two hundred and eighty acres in section 17 McPherson township, his connection as director and stock-holder in the St. Clair State Bank, and his presidency of the Home Insurance Company. Mr. Bestman lias been a resident of Blue Enrth county since 1865, and during this time has evidenced the ability to rise above difficulties

Coming to America in 1864, from Holstein, Northern Germany, where he was born in 1842, J[r. Bestman is one of the three survivors of the seven children of Henry and Anna Bestman, the former of whom was an artisan who spent his ent'ire life in his native land. Arriving in Mankato in 1865, Mr. Bestman had but an imperfect knowledge of the language of the realm, also of its customs and possibilities. He was equipped, however, with a thorough training in blacksmithing, and this he followed in Mankato about four years, and in St. Clair for ten years. He then engaged in farming on the place he now occupies, and has made a decided success of produce and stock-raising. He has invested heavily in improvements of all kinds, especially high grade machinery, and his family and stock are comfortably and modernly housed and maintained.

In 1869 Mr. Bestman married Henrietta Beyrsdorff, a native also of Germany, and of the union there are three sons and one daughter living, two children being deceased. Of the living children, Charles H. Lives in St. Paul; John H., and Helena A., are at home, and Herbert F. is assistant cashier of the New Eichland State Bank. Mr. Bestman takes commendable interest in politics, and at the present time is treasurer of the St. Clair school board. He has been connected with the St. Clair State Bank since 1907, and with the Home Insurance Company since 1881. Both enterprises are a credit to the locality, and an index to the sterling character and public spiritedness of the men directing their destiny. The career of this well know farmer, hanker and business man should be an inspiration to the youth struggling against odds, and especially to the stranger from foreign shores who arrives here without money or influence.

BEYEE, FEEDEEICK. - Into whatever portion of the United States the members of the Teutonic race have established their name and brought their families, they have been characterized by the thrift that marks an orderly spirit and the economy that wins success. The national traits are noticeable in the character and life of Frederick Beyer, who since 1866 has been identified with the farming population of Blue Earth county and who has been sufficiently successful to be enabled to pass his declining days in comfort besides assisting his sons materially in securing a start for themselves. Shortly after his arrival ;n this county he purchased land on section twenty-five, Danville township, and here he improved a valuable farm, with a substantial set of buildings and all the appurtenances of a first-class estate. In the raising of stock he proved himself to be an expert, having constant and gratifying success with his cattle, hogs and sheep, and also keeping a number of horses of fine breed on the farm.

Born in Pommern, Germany, August 8, 1834, Frederick Beyer was a son of Charles and Louisa Borchert Beyer, natives of the same place as himself. During 1855 the family crossed the ocean to America and settled in Dodge county, Wisconsin, where the father engaged in farming until his death six years later. There were ten children in the family, eight of whom remained in Wisconsin ; one daughter removed to South Dakota and Frederick was the only one to settle in Minnesota. The year after he came to Blue Earth county he established a home of his own, being united in marriage with Wilhelmina Yoecks, who was born in Pommern, Germany, and died on the home farm in 1904. Eleven children Were born of the union; namety: Matilda, wife of William Tolzmann, of Vivian, "Waseca county, Minnesota ; Robert, deceased ; Charley, a farmer of Danville, married to Louisa Brigger, of Faribault county; William, a farmer of Danville, who married Bertha Brandt, of Wells, Faribault county; Ida, deceased wife of Aiigust Burmeister; Herman, deceased; Amelia, wife of William C. Brandt, of Wells, Faribault county; Martha, deceased; Robert, deceased; Otto, a farmer in Danville; and Lena, wife of Fred Grote, of Wells, Faribault county.

The youngest son of Frederick Beyer is Otto, born in Danville township, Blue Earth county, December 4, 1875, and educated in the schools of the district. He has remained on the old homestead and the one hundred and sixty acres which he cultivates comprise the original farm, the supervision of which now rests in his hands. Inheriting the industry and capability characteristic of his father, he is proving a progressive farmer, and maintains his land in a high state of fertility. Supplementing the raising of general crops is the raising of stock, and in both of these departments of agriculture he is energetic and sagacious. October 13, 1898, he was united in marriage with Wilhelmina Eiewe, daughter of John Eiewe, a respected resident of Blue Earth county. Four children blessed their union, Frederick, Ernest, Esther and Walter. The family suffered a bereavement in the death of the only daughter at a very early age.

BIEEBAIJEE, ALBERT G. - Is a son of William and Louisa Bierbauer. He was bom at the city of Mankato, Minnesota, on September 13, 1859 and was educated in the public schools of said city and at the Englemann's school at Milwaukee, Wis. On completing his education he went into the brewing business with his father and on the latter's death, in November, 1893, he became the head of the great brewing plant of William Bierbauer at Mankato. Under his efficient lead the business has grown to nearly double its former size and is now one of the best and most substantial brewing plants in Southern Minnesota. In July, 1906, the business was incorporated with a capital stock of $150,000 under the name of the William Bierbauer Brewing Company, of which Albert G. Bierbauer is president. In December, 1908, this company purchased the good will and much of the machinery of the Standard Brewing Company. Mr. Bierbauer was united in marriage on February 6, 1894 to Miss Tillie Yj. Heidel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Heidel, of Nicollet county, Minnesota, and four children were born to them namely. Vera Louisa, Lillian Elsa, Helen Gertrude and Dorothy.- He was one of the charter members of the Elks Lodge of Mankato and for over ten years he has also been a prominent rnember of the Sons of Herman. Hunting and fishing have been his principal recreation. As big of heart as he is big of body, Mr. Bierbauer has a large circle of warm friends and his splendid business ability and integrity make him a prominent fig\ire among the captains of Blue Earth county industries.

BIBRBAUEK, JACOB. - A considerable portion of the pioneer population of Mankato consisted of men of German birth or parentage. Thus was given to the early development of the village the element of Teutonic thrift so indispensable to permanent prosperity. Conspicuous among the men who brought from Germany to Jlinnesota the sterling traits of character and keen energy associated with the primary growth of the northwest, we mention the name of the late Jacob Bierbauer, who was born August 38, 18] 9, in Ehenish Bavaria, Germany, near the shores of the beautiful stream whose name was borne by the province and whose charm has formed the theme of countless songs and poems. The family owned one of the large vineyards so numerous in that valley and they engaged in the m.anufacture of wine, from which they gained considerable wealth. The son was given excellent advantages in local schools and acquired a thorough knowledge of the cabinet-maker's trade, so that when he left home at the age of eighteen years he was qualified to earn his own livelihood. For a time he followed his trade in Switzerland, but returned to Bavaria at the time of the rebel- Ton and became a captain of infantry. The efforts of the people to secure liberty failed and he returned to Switzerland in 1849 in company with two brothers, but the three soon decided to seek a home in the new world and in 1849 crossed the ocean to Kew York, where they secured employment.

After two years as a ear2>enter in a piano factory Jacob Bierbauer removed to Erie, Pennsylvania, and during October of 1856 he came to the little village of Mankato, Minnesota, where soon he was joined by his brother, William. In the summer of 1857 they started here the first brewery west of St. Paul. The plant was small at that time, but since has been developed into one of the largest in the state. Disposing of his interest to his brother in 1862, he associated himself with a brother-in-law, William H. Eockey, and purchased the South Bend flour mill and saw mill located near the present site of the Blue Earth river bridge. Both mills they removed to ilankato. One was placed on Rock street and for years was known as the City flour mills. The other was located on Vine street west of Front. The conduct of the plants engrossed the attenlion of the partners, who built up a large custom trade and became very popular with their patrons.

Eeturning to h's old Bavarian home in 1866, ]\fr. Bierbauer, spent six months amid the scenes familiar to his childhood and enjoyed a visit with relatives and early friends. On his return in January, 1867, he sold h's milling interests to his brother-in-law and erected a large woolen factory on Yine street east of Front, which he operated until 1874 and then sold out to Christian Eoss. Soon afterward he went to Oregon and spent two and one-half jea.TS in that state. On his return to Mankato he engaged in the manufacture of a middlings purifier which he had invented. During 1882 he again took charge .of the City mills and for ten years acted as manager of the plant. This was the last business with which he was identified and his identification therewith was terminated a few years before his death, which occurred March 1, 1896. His body was interred in Glenwood cemetery, near the scenes familiar to his active manhood )-cars. In religion he was identified with the German Lutheran church, fraternally held membership with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and politically voted the republican ticket and took a warm interest in city politics, though never aspiring to office.

The marriage of Jacob Bierbauer took place December 14, 1854, and united him with Bertha, daughter of Dr. A. G. and Christina (Schultz) Dornberg, natives of Germany. Mrs. Bierbauer was born in Germany May 9, 1832, and accompanied her parents to the United States in 1848, settling in Pennsylvania, where she remained until her marriage. During 1858 Dr. Dornberg removed to Minnesota and settled at Mankato, wliere he became a popular pioneer physician and won a host of friends throughout this region. He survived Vs wife two years and passed away in 1878. Six children came to bless the union of Jacob and Bertha Bierbauer, namely; Oscar, who is now a dealer in grain and proprietor of the Mankato malt works ; Ida, who is married and makes her home in Milwaukee; Mrs. Emma Bettinger, a resident of Portland, Oregon; iliss Alma Bierbauer, Mrs. Mattie Paddock and Herman, who are well-known residents of Mankato.

Captain Bierbauer was married in 1858 to Miss Louisa Dornberg, daughter of Dr. A. G. Dornberg, of Mankato, and of their seven children the following six are living: Albert, Bruno, liudolph, "R'Tlliam, Addie and Ella. He died in this city November 30, 1893, and his honored remains are buried at Glenwood Cemetery.

BIEBBAUEE, CAPTAIN WILLIAM. - The Bierbauer brothers, of Mankato, were two of three brothers who became involved in the German revolution of 1848, which sent Carl Schurz, the Bierbauers and other valuable personal contributions to America. The latter were born in one of the greatest brewing districts of the world, and it was but natural when they settled in what n'as then the far west they should engage in the manufacture of malt and malt liquors. The location of William and Jacob Bierbauer at Mankato, in 1856, resulted in the establishment of the first brewery in the United States west of St. Paul.

Wilham Bierbauer was born in Einselthurn, Bavaria, February 36, 1826, received a good education in the Fatherland, and, prior to the Eevolution, served a term in the German army. Landing at New York in 1849, he became interested in the brewing business first at Seneca Falls, and subsequently at Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with the pioneer brewer of the Cream City, Phihp Best. Seven years after coming to America he located at Mankato, with liis l)rother Jacob, and founded a brewery which grew to be a large and prosperous plant. At first he occupied a small frame building erected in 1858, on North Front, but in 1863' removed to the present site, having liy purchase from his brother become sole proprietor of the business in 1865.

In the latter year occurred the Indian outbreak, which threw so large a portion of the v«t.ate into pan'c, and Mr. Bierbauer evinced his patriotism and braAery by raising a company of volunteers, of which he was made captain, and going to the relief of New Ulm, where he rendered valiant service. He was not only a brave iiian physically, but an honorable business man and a gentleman of culture and fine presence.

BISHOP, lEA, ]\r. D. - The genealogy of the Bishop family in the United States is traced to three brothers who crossed the ocean from England during the seventeenth century and settled in New England. The male^fgpresentatives of later generations bore an honorable part in the development of that then primeval wilderness and in the wars that secured supremacy for the English-speaking races. During the Eevolutionary war Ira Bishop went to the front and served the cause of the patriots with fidelity and bravery. A" ears afterward one of his sons, who bore the same name as himself, took part in the second struggle with England, and a son of the latter, Albert, was a participant in the Civil war. Those members of the family to whom Destiny did not bring the privilege of fighting for their country proved themselves valuable citizens along oiher lines of activity, and in every locality where represented the name has been known to its honor.

Not the least distinguished member of the family was Edward Bishop, M. D., who engaged in the practice of medicine in Chicago with remarkable success, and at the same time became connected with John Appelby, the famous inventor, in the manufacture of the setf-binder. Eventually he sold his interest for $100,000 and shortly afterward removed to Charles City, Iowa, where he remained until his death in 1906. The family of which Dr. Ira Bishop is a member comprised five sons and two daughters, tie being the eldest. Six of the number are still living. Of these John and Frank at one time resided at Mapleton, Minnesota, for some years, but have since removed elsewhere, John establishing his home in Princeton, this state, while Frank went to Whitewater, Wisconsin. Another brother, 5on. C. A. Bishop, is chief justice of Iowa and resides at Des Moines.

The Eevolutionary hero who bore the name of Ira Bishop was born in Connecticut. His son, Ira, Jr., was born in Vermont, and the latter's son, M! P. Bishop, was likewise a native of Vermont, but removed to Wisconsin and settled in Waukesha county in 1847. Agriculture and educational work occupied his attention, and during t!ie course of his active life he taught forty-two terms of school. In early manhood he married Eoxanna Alvord, who was born in Syracuse, New York, descended from a Scotch family that was represented among the colonial settlers of America. No great financial success crowned his life and labors, but be enjoyed the esteem of associates as a genial companion, honorable man and careful teacher. It was not possible for him to give his children the educational advantages he desired them to enjoy, but they fortunately possessed cons^'derable will power, great determination and the ability to surmount obstacles, so they were enabled to secure such advantages for themselves by their own exertions. When Ira Bishop had completed his early education he taught school and later spent three years in the Normal school at Whitewater, Wisconsin. As early as 1870 he made his first visit to Minnesota, traveling overland with Eichard Credicott and family, who settled in Mapleton. The young man remained from June until the middle of October in Blue Earth county and vicinity, Avorking at various occupations. On his return he traveled by train from Wells to his old home in Wisconsin. Prom an early age he had been ambitious to enter the medical profession and this desire saw the beginning of its fruition in 1874, when he entered Bush Medical College, Chicago, from which he was graduated in 1876.

After having practiced for one year at Palmyra. Wisconsin, Dr. Bishop came to Blue Earth county, concerning which he had pleasant recollections. It had been necessary for him to borrow money in order to secure his medical education, so he was entirely without funds on leaving Palmyra, and it took his last penny to buy a ticket to Minnesota Lake. Prom there he walked to Mapleton and found his old friends, the Credicott family. In a comparatively short time he had established an excellent practice.

Farms were then smaller than now and there were more people in Mapleton township than at tlae present time. In addition there were fewer physicians; indeed, for twenty years he was practically the only doctor in this section. A few years after coming to Blue Earth county he established domestic ties, being married. May 10, 1880, to Jennie Berry, a native of Lowell, Wisconsin, her father, John Berry, having been a pioneer of Wisconsin and also of Martin county, Minnesota. Dr. and Mrs. Bishop have seven children, Kathryn, Mary Anna, Ira, Elizabeth, Eernice, Euth and Clara.

For a number of years Dr. Bishop served as health officer, also held office as county physician. Always interested in educational work, he ably filled the office of inember of the school board and in other ways has been instrumental in promoting the standard of education in his town and county. Fraternally he holds meml)ership with the Yeoman, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Mutual Benefit Association, Modp]-n Woodmen of America, and Ancient Order of United. Workmen. For thirty years or more he has been an earnest and contributing member of the Baptist church and a supporter of its societies. Personally he is a man of genial nature and optimistic temperament, with a fund of anecdote always at his command, and with the cheerful presence that is no small factor of Kis professional success. When at leisure from professional work he has found pleasure in managing his farm and caring for the stock, orchard and creamery, and finds in such work a healthful relaxation from, ordinary cares. It has 'been his policy as a physician to recommend to his patients a "return to nature," and he advocates the theory that fresh air and correct food are raore important as health factors than most of the medicine prescribed for human ailments. To the people of Mapleton and Blue Earth county he is known and admired for those sterling traits of character and the high mental endowments that have brought him prominence as a citizen and as a physician.

February 15, 1849, was coincident with the preparations being carried on in hundreds of homes throughout the country for the arduous six month's journey across the western plains in search of the hidden treasure of tlie great coast country. No less earnest m their quest than the gold seekers were the parents of Mr. Bixby, H. A. and Mary B. (Palfrey) Bixby, who, in very early days, journeyed by stage and water- Tv'ays, and with ever increasing difficulties, from their native state of Vermont to the tlien wilderness of Wisconsin. When the scourge of the Civil war had lifted from the land the family moved during the summer of 186G, to Blue Earth county, settling on the farm in Garden City Township which now is owned and occupied by A. E. Bixby. Here the mother died in 1882,, and the father in 1891. Of the six sons born to this courageous pioneer couple A. E. only is a farmer, F. H. being deceased, while A. W. J. C, H. W., and William H., are residents of Garden City.

An entirely modern and up-to-date aspect is presented in the Bixby farm, which contains a hundred and twenty acres, and is well equipped with buildings, implements and general improve- .ments. The owner is engaged in the rai.sing of general produce and stock, having a good breed of cattle, horses and Poland-China hogs. He is a painstaking and conscientious farmer, maintaining neatness and order in all departments of his farm, and through rotation and modern scientific methods securing the best possible results from a given amount of land. In 1866 ilr. Bixby married j\Iary E. King, whose parents were natives of New York state, and A^ho also were early arrivals in Wisconsin, ilr. and Mrs. Bixby have no children of their own, but they adopted a son, Herbert, who in 1905 married Mable Smith.

The political preference of j\Ir. Bixby is with the republican party, but he has never been an office seeker, although he has acceptably served on the town board. He is fraternally connected with the Knights of Pythias of Garden City. Mr. Bixby is an upright and intelligent man, faithful to friends and duties, and is known as one of the county's helpful and progressive upbuilders.

BLISSENBACH, JOSEPH. - The man who would succeed in photography in the early pan of the Twentieth century is a long way removed from his prototype of ten or even live years ago. The mechanical operator lias become the master of chairo-scuro, the student of character, harmony and proportion, in short the artist whose pleasure and profit it is to recognize, and portray instantaneously, and in their proper relation, the things which shall beautify, enlighten and inspire the future environment of mankind. So congenial an opportunity has been selected by Joseph Blissenbach, whose ambition and indefatigable industry has raised him to the front ranks of photographic expression in the state of Minnesota, and who, in recognition of superior merit, was given the silver medal in the portrait class at the convention held in Minneapolis, September 3-4-5, 1906. At this convention were delegates from Wisconsin, Jlinnesota, Iowa and North and South Dakota, and the competition was such as to try the metal of the most expert and experienced. Mr. Blissenbach excels in enlarging and portraiture, and in his galleries are to be found the faces of many of the foremost people of the central northwest. Pie has been learning the business since he was twenty }-ears old, apprenticing to his brother, Augttst Blissenbach in 1891, and in June, 1904, purchasing the entire business, which he since has continued alone at 105 N(.)rth Front street.

Mr. BlissenbaclTs thoroughness and application largely are inherited from his Teutonic ancestors, and he himself spent the early years of his life in Cologne, Germany, where he waa born January 10, 1873. His parents, Peter and Katherine (Kirch) Blissenbach, also were natives of Germany, and the former came to Jlinnesota in 1868, locating on a farm in Murray county, where with the exception of two years spent in Mankato, he passed the balance of his life. His death occurred in the S2>ring of 1900, at the age of sixty-one years, his wife surviving him until 1904, at the age of seventy-one years. This couple had in all fifteen children, of whom five are living, Joseph being the thirteenth oldest in the family.

Germany^ and later attendance at tlie country schools of Murray county, this state. He was a diligent worker on the home farm, contributing his share towards the support of the large family, but his ambition soared beyond his surroundings, to the more satisfying occupation as his brother's photographic assistant in Mankato. November 8, 1899, he was united in marriage to Eosa Dahm, of Mankato, and of the union there is a son, Walter J. Mr. Blissenbach is a member of the Commercial Club, and otherwise is identified with the business- and social life of the community. Fraternally he is a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Order of Foresters. A helpful accompaniment of his work is an optimistic temperament, the faculty of seeing the best in people and conditions, and a never failing desire to please.

BOEHLAND, THEODOEB. - The first personal knowledge which Mr. Boehland acquired concerning the United States came to him at^the end of a voyage of eight weeks in a sailing vessel, which during the year 1856 brought him from his native home in Germany to the new world with its possibilities. For more than onehalf century he has been identified with our country and during more than forty years of that time he has been a contributor to the agricultural development of Blue Earth county, where he has developed from the wilderness one of the fine farms of Lime township. A long re.sidence in the northwest has given him a thorough acquaintance with the resources of this region and no one is more enthusiastic than he concerning the opportunities which the land offers to the young and energetic young farmers of the world.

Born in Prussia November 13, 1832, Theodore Boehland is a son of Frederick and Mary (Boelner) Boehland, also natives of Prussia, but emigrants of 1853 to the United States, where they established a home about twelve miles from Mili\aukee, Wisconsin. The father died there in 1854 and eventually the mother removed to Minnesota, where her death occurred in 1886 in Blue Earth county. They were the parents of thirteen children, but of this large family Ernest and Theodore are the sole survivors. The lastnamed was reared on a farm in Germany and received the advantages of the excellent schools of his native land, after which he worked as a farm laborer. As previously stated he came to the new world in the year 1856. Shortly after ills arrival he settled on land twelve miles from Milwaukee, and it was not long before he had saved enough to Justify him in the establiphment of a home of his own. In October of 1858 he was united in marriage with Amelia Tischendorf, who was born in Prussia December 3, 1834, being a daughter of David and Theresa (Vogt)' Tischendorf, natives and lifelong residents of I'russia. During the year 1857 Miss Tischendorf immigrated to the United States and settled in Wisconsin, where she remained for a considerable period after her marriage.

The first property owned by Theodore Boeh- ' land consisted of twenty acres situated twelve miles from Milwaukee. This he later sold" and invested the proceeds in the purchase of fifty acres of timber land, where he settled, remaining on that tract until May of 1867, the date of his removal to Minnesota and his settlement in Blue Earth county. Immediately after coming to this region he bought the farm where he since has made his home and where he has busily occupied himself with the improvement and cultivation of a productive estate. While laboring to provide for his family he at the same time has proved an accommodating neighbor and helpful friend, and with his wife he is highly honored in the community. In his family there were thirteen children, namely: Anna, Ernest, Sidonie, Gustaf, Emma, Theresa and Fredericka (twins, of whom the latter is deceased), Eobert (deceased), Amelia (deceased), Frank, Oscar (deceased), Helen and Theodore, both deceased.

BOMBEEGEE, M. D. FEANKLIN J. - The genealogy of the Bomberger family in America is traced back to Charles Bomberger, a member of a party of religious exiles from Switzerland who fled to England for refuge and were assisted by Queen Anne to come to the United States. The first location on the Schoharie river proved lo be unsatisfactory on account of the condition of the land. Accordingly the little expedition built a raft and on it proceeded down the Susquehanna river to the present site of Middletown, Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, where they made the first settlement, also making the original settlements in Lebanon and Berks counties. Charles had a son, Benjamin, whose son, Benjamin, Jr., was the father of Elias and the grandfather of Franklin J. Bomberger. The family has been noted for patriotic spirit and one of the ancestors, Benjamin, was a faithful 6:>ldier during the Eevolutionary war, taking part in the battle of Long Island and the memoi'able retreat across Xew Jersey. Elias Bomberger was born in Pennsylvania and engaged in stock-dealing throughout his active life, dying in 1897 at the age of fifty-eight years. His -^vife, who bore the maiden name of Ellen Snyder, died i;r 1886 at the age of forty-five. They were the parents of four children, namely: Mary, wife of Daniel Swope, of Pennsylvania; Franklin J.; Anna, who married Manford D. Poyntz and lives at Marshfield, Oregon; and Emma, Mrs. George Chute, of Two Elvers, Washington.

Born at Bethel, Berks county, Pennsylvania, February 18, 1866, Franklin J. Bomberger attended the common schools of his native town, and the State Normal at Kutztown, Pennsylvania, from which he was graduated witli the ' class of 1885. A year later he was graduated from the Palatinate C^ollege at Myerstown, Pennsylvania. For a year he taught school near his old home, after which he came to Minnesota and secured a position in the school at Lake Crystal, Blue Earth county, a year later becoming superintendent of the schools at Blue Earth City. For six years he filled the position with efficiency and success, after wdiich he resigned in order to make a tour of Europe. A portion of the year 1892 he spent in France, Belgium and Great Britain, where he enjoyed visiting spots of historic interest and learned much of value concerning the customs of the people. On his return to Minnesota he taught at Chatfield and /iumbrota. Meanwhile he had determined to take up the medical profession and accordingly ho entered the medical department of the University of Minnesota, from which he was graduated with the class of 1903. At the conclusion of his college work he opened an office at ilaplcton. Blue Earth county. During 1905 he tooTi a post-graduate course in the Johns Hopkins University at Baltimore. He has gained a high place among the physicians of this county and commands an increasingly important practice.

The marriage of Dr. Bomberger took place August 5, 1896, and united him with Miss Clara i'rye, daughter of Daniel Frye, of Elk Biver, this state. They are the parents of two children, Alice and Charles. In fraternal relations Dr. Jiomberger has been an enthusiastic j\Iason, belonging to the blue lodge, Eoyal Arch chapter and Knights Templar Commandery. All matters pertaining to his profession receive his thoughtihil attention. It is his aim to keep posted concerning every advance made in therapeutics. .Journals of a professional character find in him a thoughtful reader, and he has further enlarged ids professional interests by associations with societies of physicians, being a member of the state and national organizations, also president of the I)lue Earth County Medical Society.

BOECHEET, CHAELES W. - One of the noteworthy financial institutions of Blue Earth county is the First National Bank of Mapleton, which owns and occupies a substantial building on Main street, erected for their own use in the spring of 1903. The structure is of fire-proof brick with stone facings and. contains two stories, the second fioor being rented for otfices to professional men. The eastern corner of the first floor is occupied by the bank, while in the rear are directors room and cashier's offices. A large burglar-proof and fireproof safety-deposit vault affords to citizens an opportunity for the storing of valuable papers in quarters absolutely safe. The modern appointments of the bank and the many conveniences would do credit to a bank in a much larger city than ilapleton, and the fact that the institution has been successful from the first proves that a progressive small town appreciates the presence of a substantial financial concern, occupying its own building and provided with every convenience of modern banking.

The cashier of the bank, Charles W. Borchert, is a member of an old family of the state and was born in Vivian township, vVaseca county, November Zl, 1880, being a son of Harmon uorchert and a nephew of tne mayor of Mapleton (see his sketch on another page for the family history.) The eldest in a family of nine children, Charles VV. Borchert received his primary education in the schools of Vivian township and later was sent to the high school at Minnesota Lake, from which he was graduated with honors. On the completion of tliat course he entered the Mankato Business College, where he took a complete commercial course. Shortly after leaving the college he came to Mapleton and secured a position with the Mapleton State Bank, with which he remained until January 1, 1906, and since then he has been cashier of the First National Bank.

The establishment of the First National dates back to 1903, when it was founded with a capital of $26,000, to which since has been added a surplus of $1,000. The original officers were as follows: W. A. Hanna, president; William Troendle, vice-president; M. W. Mattecheck, cashier; and William Stroebel, assistant cashiej'. The officers of the present administration (1907) are as follows: E. "Hadley, president; William Troendle, vice-president; C. W. Borchert, cashier; and C. M. Credicott, assistant cashier. The growing prestige enjoyed by the institution is due to the high standing of its officers, whose careful and able management and whose ability to make investments without unduly risking the funds of the depositors are recognized by the people throughout the community, thus winning to the management that confidence without which successful banking cannot be conducted.

BOECHBET, WILLIAM. - The mayor of Mapleton is a prominent representative of an honored German-American family identified v/ith the history of Blue Earth coimty for a period of more than thirty years, its founder in this part of the country having been William B. Borchert, a native of Pommern, Germany, and a man possessing many sterling traits of character. While he was in his young manhood he married Erederica Kidder of Pommern, and they established a home in their native land, where they gained many friends and a high standing for industry and energy. However, they were unable to earn more than a mere livelihood and became dissatisfied with conditions as they existed in Germany. Ambitious to aid their children in securing a start in the world, they determined to establish a home across the ocean in a new country, where opportunities were greater than in the thickly-settled region where they had always lived. Accordingly they crossed the ocean in 1872 and came west, spending a month in Wisconsin, (Dodge county) where they had friends. Prom there they came to Minnesota and settled in Blue Earth county, where they soon won the friendship of their neighbors and secured a substantial footing as worthy citizens of the community.

In a family of seven children born to the union of William B. and Frederica Borchert, the next to the youngest was William, who is a native of Pommern, Germany, born May 3, 1854. His education was received in the excellent schools of Pommern and gave him a thorough knowledge of the German language. When the family came to America he was eightteen years of age and therefore was able to be of the greatest assistance in the developing of a raw tract of land into a productive farm. The family secured one hundred and sixty acres in Danville township and here they engaged in general farm pursuits. At this writing the estate is owned by .William Borchert, who has charge of its cultivation. About 1899 he purchased a farm within the village limits of Mapleton and by additional purchases he has acquired a quarter-section in one body, all within the corporation limits. On this place he makes his home. By reason of its proximity to town the farm represented a large moneyed investment and its improvements are of a character harmonious with its location in the suburbs.

The marriage of William Borchert took place in March of 1881 and united him with Louisa Beyer, a native of Wisconsin, and a, daughter of William Beyer, who now makes his home in Wa- seca county. Their family consists of the following-named children : Ella, who married Frank Eehse and lives in Sterling township, Blue Earth county; Lizzie, who is employed in the store owned, by L. Troendlo at ]\Iapleton; Emma, who is employed as bookkeeper in ^lapleton; Delila, who is engaged in teaching school; Arthur, Lilly, Eosie, Alvin, William, Eoland and Louisa, who are being educated for positions of usefulness and honor in whatever localities their lots may be cast. From early life J\Ir. Borchert has been interested in educational matters and it is his ambition that his children shall have all the advantages the local schools afEord. For nine years he served as clerk of the school district in Danville township and for a similar period he held office as township clerk, while for eight years he was a county commissioner during his residence there. Since coming to Mapleton he has been treasurer of the school board for three years and in ]\Iarch of 1907 he was honored by election to the responsible ofEice of mayor. In fraternal relations he is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Yeomen and the Sons of Herman.

BOSIN", FEED. - The identification of the Bosin family with Blue Earth county began during the third year of the Civil War, and has continued with growing influence and larger cooperation with local affairs up to the present time. Betaining those sterling teutonic qualities which make the transplanted German a welcome addition to any community in which he elects to reside, and also evidencing the German adaptability to strange prevailing opportunities, this family represents the best German-American element in the county, both commercially, morally and politically. Born in Prussia, northern Germany February 3, 1847, Fred Bosin is second eldest of the three children of ^Michael S. and Predericka (Mizner) Bosin, the other children being Sophia and August. Fred Bosin was a year old when his parents came to America in 1848, locating in Dodge county, Wisconsin, where the father engaged in general farming, and from where he moved to Blue Earth county in 1864. He improved a large farm in Eapidan township, and with his worthy wife lived to a good old age.

ilr. Bosin is indebted to the public schools for his educational start, and for his own enterpiise and progressivenese for the fact that he is a well posted and up-to-date farmer. He has expended the best work of his life on his farm of one hundred and ninety-two acres in Eapidan township, and in addition he owns a one and a half section tract of wild land near Dickinson, North Dakota. While living on the farm he was particularly successful in the raising of highgrade cattle and Poland-China hogs. He made all of the improvements on his place save the dwelling, and here his children were reared, his fortunes grew, and in 1903 he gave up the active cares of the farm and since has made nis home in Eapidan. The wife of Mr. Bosin formerly was Amanda Just, daughter of' W. Just, elsewhere represented in this work. The marriage occurred in 1874, and of the union there arc seven children: Otto, born September 13, 1875; Fred W., born October 24, 1877; Martha, born January 15, 1880; Daniel, born February 15, 1883; William, bom July 39, 1885; Karl, born March 24, 1888; and Edmund, born October 28, 1893. Of the children of Jfr. Bosin, two are maintaining with special emphasis the enterprise and progressiveness of their father. Daniel is operating a' general merchandise store, and William and Daniel as partners are conducting a hardware and implement enterprise. Both are successful business men, and promoters of sound commercial and general conditions.

BOS"\VELL, WILLIAM. - Blue Earth county has no more honored men than those whose active life tasks have been accomplished, and who, from tlii.'ir vantage ground of well earned leisure, look cidmly and approvingly upon the struggle for existence being conducted by a later generation. Among these, few have more conscientious labor to recommend them than William Boswell. Only one year the other side of fifty years, he has accomplished much more than the average in a given number of years, and there still burns within him the hres of youth and sjonpathy. He suggests the man who has lived broadly and usefully,

Mr. Boswell was loom in Maryland January 31, 1857, and was one of the seven children of John H., and P^lizabeth (Freeman) Boswell, the former of whom was born in England and died in Minnesota in 1870, and the latter of whom died in this county in 1895. Eroni Maryland, which long had been the home of the Boswell forefathers, removal was made by John H. Boswell to Washington, D. C, and five years later, in August, 1864, they arrived in Blue Earth count}-, which since has been their home. The father at that time took up the quaiter section of land, ever the agricultural destiny of which William Boswell, and now his tenant, hold sway.

In January, 1885, Mr. Boswell married Nettie M. Scott, a native of Wisconsin, and of the union there is a son, Clay Scott, now twenty years of age, who is engaged in the mercantile business of St. Clair. The Scott family, no less than the Boswell family were early arrivals in Blue Earth county, and took up government land. The grandfather of Mr. Boswell, however, was particularly prominent in the early days, gaining all of the prestige and wide acquaintance which came of keeping a hotel and postofEice at the Winnebago Agency for twenty years. Mr. Boswell is fraternally connected with the Woodmen and Masons, having been a member of Lodge iN"o. 12, A. F. and A. M., of Mankato, for the past twentythree years. During all of the years of his residence in Blue Earth county he has supported movements for the benefit of the people and has been unwearjing in his efforts to promote the common good.

BOWE, PATEICK H. - The hardware business in St. Clair has an enterprising and progressive promoter in Patrick H. Bowe, one of the three survivors of th& seven sons of John D. and Margaret (Dumey) Bowe, natives of Ireland, and farmers by occupation. The history of the Bowe family in Blue Earth dates from 187-, when John D. Bowe came from Illinois and seventeen years in farming in Illinois, where his death occurred October 28, 1884. He came from

Ireland to the United States in 1850, and spent seventeen years in farming in Illinois, where his son Patrick H., was born near Jacksonville, February 15, 1863.

The hardware merchant of St. Clair received his preliminary education in the public schools of Illinois, and all his reasoning life has been a reader of newspapers and good literature, thus keeping abreast of the times and in touch with happenings all over the world. Progression is the keynote of his career, and it is this which enables him to maintain an up-to-date store, equipped with all kinds of hardware necessities, and which brings him a dependable trade from a large section of country. He takes a keen interest in politics, has filled several important offices, and at the present time is promoting the cause of practical education as a member of the school board.

October 10, 1873, Mr. Bowe was united in marriage to Ella Morris, who was born in the state of 'New York. To Mr. and Mrs. Bowe have been born four sons and two daughters, Ada, John Emmett, James Leo, Cora, Clemence and Clayton. Mr. Bowe stands high in the public estimation, both as man and merchant, and his contribution to its business and general advancement is of a second and practical nature.

BOWEN, DAVID E. - Having passed his entire life in Minnesota, of which he is a nativeborn son, Br. Bowen is familiar with its transformation from a frontier region into a prosperous commonwealth. Ko one maintains a deeper pride in its growth than does he, and particularly is he interested in the progress of Blue Earth county, where since boyhood he has made his home and where now he conducts agricultural pursuits on section twenty-eight, Cambria township. While quietly pursuing the even tenor of his way on his homestead he has not neglected the duties falling upon every loyal citizen. Movements for the benefit of the township and county receive his stanch support. Projects for the benefit of the people are given his hearty cooperation. It is to such men as he that we owe the high standing of the county as an agricultural region and a prosperous locality.

The Bowen family is of Welsh estraction. Evan Bowen left his native Wales and crossed the ocean to America in 1840, settling in Pennsylvania. At that time he was a bachelor, but in 1847, he established domestic ties, being united at Charleston, Tioga county, with Jane Edwards, and they began housekeeping in the east. As early as 1855 they became pioneers of Minnesota, settling in Nicollet county, where their son, David E., was born May 31, 1857. From there the fiimily came to Blue Earth comity in 1865 and six years later the father died at Mankato. The mother survived him for many years and passed her last days in Colorado, where she passed away in 1895. Primarily educated in Nicollet county, David E. Bowen received his grammar-school education in Blue Earth county and pursued his studies with such success that he was early qualified to teach. For seven winter terms he taught school and, during the intervening summer seasons he engaged in farming in the same neighborhood. In addition he filled the office of town clerk for ten years, and more recently he has acte(^ as manager of the Cambria creamery, besides superintending the management of his farm.

Tlic marriage of David E. Bowen and Mary A. Hughes was solemnized November 7, 1889, and resulted in the birth of two sons and three daughters, namely: Henry, who is now sixteen years of age; Esther fourteen; Alva twelve; Miriam, ten; and Evan, eight. The wife and mother was taken by death from the midst of the home circle February 27, 1903. The family hold membership with the Congregational church and Mr. Bowen holds official position therein as deacon, besides being active in missionary and cliaritable work sustained by the congregation. Though not prominent in politics and never aspiring to the title of politician, he keeps well posted concerning the issues of the century and gives his vote to principles represented by the Democratic party.

BOYNTON, GEOEGE T. - While New England was in the earliest period of its development two brothers, bearing the names of William and John Boynton, came hither from England and in 1()38 became freeholders in the town of Eowley,

Massachusetts. Shortly afterward William sought a more genial climate and settled among the colonists of the south, but John remained in New England, and from him sprang the present representatives of the family. Among his descendants was one who bore the same name as himself and who was born in New Hampshire, but spent his life almost wholly in Vermont, wnere he died in October, 1867, at the age of !-eventy-five years, after a busy existence devoted to agricultural pursuits. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Isabella Nelson, was born in Termont and died there at the age of eightysix years. Out of their family of eight children the sole survivor is George T., and he and his brother, T. N., were the only members of the family to settle in Minnesota.

Born at Derby, Orleans county, ^'ermont, November 25, 1827, George T. Boynton received his education in the free schools and academy of his native town. At the age of twenty-iive years he left the old homestead and started out to earn his own way in the world, first going to Templeton, Massachusetts, where he was employed for three years in a large wholesale grocery. On leaving there he went to Eoxbury, Massachusetts, and secured work in a factory where chairs were manufactured by machinery. At the expiration of seven years he left the factory and sought the large opportunities of the northwest, coming to Minnesota in 1858 with his brotlier and stopping first at Mankato, then making a tour of inspection to Garden City, but returning to Mankato the same year. Here was established the niercant]le business of T. N. & G. T. Boynton, but after a year he sold his interest to his brother, who removed the stock to Garden City and tJiere built up a prosperous and growing trade. From that time George T. followed various occupations, but principally gave his attention to the buying and selling of real estate and for fifteen years carried on a large grain business, besides having interests at Garden City. A fair degree of success has rewarded his judicious exertions and he now is living retired, in the enjoAiiient of an income sufficient to provide himself and wife with all the comforts of" life. It has been his privilege to witness the development of Minnesota from a wilderness into a progres-

£ive state with growing population and increasing wealthy and no one has taken greater pleasure tlian he in witnessing this prosperity. With tl^e growth of Mankato his name is closely linked. In him its welfare has been conserved and its interests promoted. All movements for its permanent development have received his practical support. On the organization of the Mankato National Bank he became a stockholder and director and later, on its reorganization as the Mankato State Bank, he was chosen a director, which position he now tills. In addition he acts as a director in the Mankato Savings and Building Association, of which institution he is vice president.

The marriage of Mr. Boynton took place Noveuiber 12, 1878, and united him with Miss Aurilla Elizabeth Bush, daughter of James and Harriet (Gates) Bush, and a lady possessing the g-raceful attributes of character that have endeared her to a large circle of friends. During the year 1853 her parents came to Minnesota, where they became pioneers of Preeborn county and engaged in farm pursuits. The father died May 6, 1900, at the age of seventy-five years, having long survived his wife, who passed away on Christmas day of 1857 at the age of thirty^ three years. Mrs. Boynton has a brother residing at Sauk Center, Minnesota, who is a patriotic, progressive citizen and who during the Civil war spent two years in the army with the Twenty-second Minnesota Cavalry. During the girlhood years of Mrs. Boynton educational advantages were meager in Minnesota, so she was sent back to New York state to the old home of the family and for eight years she remained at Ellington, Chautauqua county, meanwhile receiving excellent advantages in the academy Tn that town. On the completion of her education she returned to Minnesota, where she since has made her home.

BRACE, CHESTER H. - No man possesses a greater faith in the future of Blue Earth county and none maintains a greater pride in the abundance of its resources than does Chester H. Brace, who is extensively engaged in the realestate business at Amboy. At the time of embarking in the business there were some who predicted a lack of success, but youthful energy and a generous use of printer's ink conquered the situation, and today there is no real-estate agent in the entire county whose future shows greater promise than does his. A specialty made by him is in land lying in the south-half of this county and the north-half of Faribault county, where the soil consists of a heavy black loam averaging three feet deep on a clay subsoil.

As early as 1855 the Brace family became established in Minnesota. Edward, son of Avery Brace, and a native of Syracuse county, Ne^; York, passed through Chicago when it was a small town and visited various sections in search of a suitable location. Taking up a claim in Faribault county in 1855, he soon sold his right to the land and moved to Blue Earth county, where he took up a tract in Shelby township. In the development of the locality he bore an active j)art, and no movement for the benefit of the people lacked his sustaining aid. For over fifty years he remained on the same place, meanwhile erecting buildings, putting up substantial fences, and bringing the land under cultivation, so that it ranked among the best farms in the neighborhood. In the spring of 1906 he removed to California to make his home in a climate whose delightful warmth suited the needs of his weakening physical powers. In spite of having reached the age of eighty-six years and notwithstanding his very busy life, he is well-preserved, ith none of his faculties impaired.

The marriage of Edward Brace united him with Isabel Va Nice, a native of Indiana. They became the parents of four children, namely: ilinnie, who married C. J. Louer and lives at Shelby, this state; Chester H., of Amboy; Nora and Dora (twins), the latter of whom accompanied her father to California, while the formei is the wife of E. N. Chord, of St. Paul, this state. The only son was born in Shelby, township. Blue Earth county, August 33, 1864, and received his rudimentary education in countrj schools near the home farm, after which he had the advantage of a course of study in the Wesleyan Methodist Seminary in Dodge county, Minnesota. On completing his studies he re- turned to assist his father on the home farm, but in 1891 he embarked in farming for himself in Shelby township. Coming to Amboy in 1903, he opened a real-estate office, where now he has, occupying a conspicuous place, a display of the products of the county that is universally admired. A stranger viewing these varied products realizes for the first time the possibilities of the soil of this section, and even old residents are often surprised at the results others have attained in the cultivation of this rich soil. Besides his other interests ilr. Brace owns one hundred and sixty acres four miles from Amboy of which the entire tract is under cultivation. A neat residence is surrounded by a grove that furnishes shade in summer and protection from the stern winds of winter. Good barns and substantial outbuildings furnish adequate accommodation for stock, grain and machinery. The place is maintained under a high state of cultivation and ranks among the best in the township. December 14, 1897, Mr. Brace was united in marriage with Carrie Belle McLain, a descendant of Scotch ancestry and a native of Franklin county, Maine. Her father, John A., son of the late John McLain, was born and reared in Franklin county and spent much of his active life in Maine, but eventually came west to Minnesota, where he now resides at Amboy.

BEADLEY, GEORGE E. - The general agent of the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha Eailway at Mankato, holder of farming property and city real estate, representative of a highly honored family of Blue Earth county and an able and most worthy citizen, George E. Bradley is a native son of Illinois and is a credit to his State. He was born January 9, 1863, the son of George Martin and Harriet (Wilkinson) Bradley, his parents, who were natives respectively of Kentucky and England, coming to this state at an early age. They were also married in Illinois, after which the husband bought a farm of three hundred acres in Lime township which is now in possession of his son, George E., and, although a portion of it is still uncleared it is considered one of the finest pieces of agricultural property in the township. The father was an industrious, successful farmer, a quiet, honorable and genuinely good man, not only respected but beloved; more than that, he applied his abilities and true worth to the upbuilding of his residence community in public and religious activities. At one time he sewed as Supervisor of the township, and was one of the founders and trustees of the First M. E. Church in the locality. George M. Bradley passed away September 17, 1899, in the seventy-first year of his age, and his widow, who was born on the 6th of ilarch, 1826, still survives him.

George E. Bradley is the third of a family of five children, all living, as follows: Amelia, wife of Lucius B. Fancher, a citizen of Minneapolis, Minnesota; Luella, now Mrs. Louis J. Van Fossen, of that city; Charles Herbert, a Minneapolis physician ; and Ada Belle, wife of C. B. Brainerd, of Devil's Lake, North Dakota. George R., was educated in the public schools of Mankato at the State Normal school and Hamline university but instead of adopting any of the learned professions first mastered telegraphy, and then acted successively as night clerk, bill clerk, and cashier in the office of the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha Railway. He was appointed to the last named position in 1889, and was promoted to be general agent in 1896. His long service with the company of itself indicates faithfulness and ability, combined with absolute and unfailing courtesy.

Mr. Bradley still retains the old homestead in Lime Township, with its farming interests, and is also the owner of a recently erected modern residence at 318 South Fourth street, Mankato. He is a local republican leader, a good enterprising citizen and -has well served his fellows as alderman of the fourth ward. Fraternally he is active and widely known, having filled all the chairs in the Modern Woodmen of America and being Past Grand in both the I. 0. 0. F. lodge and the Royal Arcanum Council. He is also an earnest member of the First M. E. Church, and in every way a citizen and a man to be admired and honored.

Ohio and New York, respectively. At an early day they came to Kenosha, Wisconsin, and more than half a century ago located their homestead in Blue Earth County, Minnesota, at one time owning land where now stand the Mankato postoffice and the residence of George B. Brett. Dr. Brooks also possessed a tract covering the site of the present race tracks, and in his active days ran the overland freighters between St. Paul and Mankato. In his early years he was a schoolmate of President Garfield, and v.-as always a stanch admirer of the martyr statesman and Christian gentleman. He died March 4, 1900, at the age of seventy-two years, a busy, useful and honorable man throughout his long life. The surviving widow, who is seventy-eight years of age, has been the mother of the following: Ellen, Mrs. W. P. Coffin, of Minneapolis; Nathan, a resident of Billings, Montana; Ida, living in Hitchcock, South Dakota; Mrs. George Bradley; Morgan, of Lime Township, this county; Carrie L., wife of Dr. C. H. Bradley, of Minneapolis; Charles, on the homestead farm in Lime Township; and Alice, deceased, who was the second child of the family. Mr. and Mrs. George Bradley have one child, Euth.

Before her marriage Mrs. Bradley was a highly successful teacher. She was educated in the public schools of Mankato and at the State Normal School, graduating from the latter with the class of 1880. Afterward she taught in the public schools of Blue Earth county for two years, and in the graded schools of Eagle Lake, same county, for a period of five years. She is a highly respected and cultured lady, and the family is among the most substantial in the county.

BEANDENBUEG, Dr., FEEDEEICK D. - In strict accord with the Teutonic temperament of faithfulness and tlioroughness, in pursuance of the approved business maxim "be sure you'r riglit, then go ahead," Dr. Brandenburg has had a most broad and careful preparation for his professional work and the general confidence of the community and his substantial progress as an able physician and surgeon have been the logical results. His father, Frank Brandenburg, was of the German province by that name, and his mother (Nee Elizabeth Lutz) was a native of Strasburg, coming to America some sixty years ago and locating in Pennsylvania. At Pittston, that State, Mr. Brandenburg was a merchant for many years, and there his son, the future physician was born. Twenty years ago the father was able to retire from business, and is still living in comfortable circumstances, a venerable gentleman of eighty-six years, his wife preceding him January 14, 1890, aged fifty-five.

Of the family of nine children. Dr. Brandenburg was the fifth, and was born at Pittston, February 26, 1862. His elementary and literary education was obtained in the public and high schools of his native town; at the Wyoming Seminary, Kingston, Pennsylvania, and at Lafayette College, Easton, that State, from which he obtained the degrees of A. B. and A. M. Various institutions of New York supplied him with facilities for a thorough professonaT training, as he graduated from the Bellevue Hospital Medical College, in 1885, with his degree of M. D. and in the following year pursued a supplementary course at the New York Polyclinic Medical School and Hospital. In 1887 Dr. Brandenburg located at Mankato for the practice of his profession, and was thus engaged for three years, when he was called to New York to fill the position of house surgeon in the Woman's hospital, serving thus from 1890 to 1892. The following three years were spent in Cleveland, where besides practicing in his private capacity, he was honored with appointments as Professor of Gynaecology in tlie medical department of the Western Eeserve University, and as gynaecologist to the Charity, Lakeside, City and German hospitals.

Ee-enforced in breadth of experience and professional reputation. Dr. Brandenburg returned to practice in Mankato, and since his re-establishment there in 1895, has come to be recognized as a leading surgeon and extremely popular and useful citizen. At the present time he is surgeon to the Immanuel and St. Joseph's Hospitals, and is a member of the American Medical and Si:ate Medical Associations, Blue Earth Medical Society, General Alumni Society of New York University and a Fellow of the American Academy of Medicine. He is also Medical Examiner for the Washington Life, Manhattan, Mutual, Home and Germania Life Insurance companies, of New York; Union Central, of Cincinnati, Ohio; and Phoenix Mutual Life Insurance Company, Hartford, Connecticut.

Dr. Brandenburg was married December 14, 1887, to Miss Bertha E. Swan, daughter of the late James B. Swan, a prominent citizen of Mankato, and they have two children, Lucile and Lenore. The Doctor is a Knight of Pythias and is high in Masonry, a member of Chapter, Commandery and Osman Shrine of St. Paul. He is also identified with the Odd Fellows fraternity, and not only a welcome figure to the circles of all these secret and benevolent orders, but to the private sociabilities of the best families of Mankato.

BRETT, GEOEGE EVEEETT - The minds ol men are as varied in their talents as faces are varied in their expression. It is the ill fortune of some to pass through the years of a long life, yet never find the occupation for which they were host adapted by nature. On the other hand, there are some who early in youth recognize the bent of their talents and devote themselves assiduously to the cultivation of the same. To the latter success invariably comes, and it is to this recognition in early life of the direction of his talents that the success of Mr. Brett may be attributed. When starting out to seek his own livelihood in the world, he determined to become a merchant, and in May, 1868, he established a dry goods business in Mankato, where he has since engaged in mercantile pursuits. Forty years have come and gone since he opened his store. Inevitably many changes have taken place in his home city and county during that long period. The men who were then the leaders in business activities have largely passed from scenes of earth. The city has grown and expanded to an extent then unanticipated. Factories have turned their busy wheels and brought support to hundreds of families. The hum of industry has not ceased, nor has the tide of progress been stopped in its ceaseless flow. With the growth of the city his own establishment has kept pace and for years he has been recognized as the leading merchant of the Minnesota valley.

The genealogical record of the Brett family shows that they are of colonial ancestry and honorable lineage, the line going back directly to John Alden and Priscilla, noted in the early history of New England. Other distinguished relatives were Phoebe and Alice Cary. George ]-]verett Brett ^-as born at Strong, Franklin county, Maine, November 23, 1S45, being a son of Cj-rus Hamlin and Mary (Hunter) Brett, the latter of Scotch descent. The father was a fine tenor singer and a talented musician and after e.jming to Minnesota in 1862 he taught music in various towns of the state, in which work he had engaged with success in Maine during younger years.

Educated principally in Maine, George Everett Brett was a youth of seventeen when the family came to Minnesota. In May of 1868 he embarked in the dry goods business at Mankato, where he still conducts a large store stocked with a varied assortment of merchandise arranged in ^uch a manner as to make of the building a bower of beauty and good taste. In the midst of the manifolcT cares connected with the management of a business of such magnitude, he has found time to participate in other activities, has been prominent for j'ears in the Board of Trade and as a member of the common council has labored for the material welfare of the people. He has also served as President of the Commer- Hal Club, and is now Vice President of the Jlankato Savings Bank. Inheriting from his father a love of music and a tenor voice of rare strength and sweetness, he has devoted considerable attention to music and lias been a member of glee clubs and leader of the Presbyterian c'durch choir for the past thirty-five years. Through his marriage, March 19, 1873, to Miss Lizzie Ellen Maxfield, he became connected with one of the most prominent families of St. Paul, where her father, Hon. James Maxfield, was long ihe popular and progressive mayor. Three children came to bless their union, namely: James Edwin, born July 1, 1875; Frank Everett, August 7, 1877; and Mary Maxfield, who was born January 26, 1879, received excellent educational advantages, and June 2, 1900, was united in marriage with Wilbur Morgan Taylor. They are the parents of four children, who in order

Biogeapi-Iical History

BREWEE, CHARLES H. - The claims to consideration on the part of Charles H. Brewer are founded upon an earnest desire to uphold the merit of a fine old pioneer name, identified with Blue Earth county for the past forty-five years, and representing at all times the best farming element of this part of Minnesota. Mr. Brewer was born on the farm he now owns and occupies, Ju.ly 28, 1871, and is one of the four children of Daniel D., and J\Iary (Gettie) Brewer, born in 1833 and 1837, respectively.

Upon leaving his native state to avail himself of the larger opportunities of the less settled west^ Daniel Brewer stopped for a time in both Illinois and Wisconsin, arriving in Minnesota in the spring of 1856. Pre-empting a farm in Winona county, he tilled its crude acres for seven years, but failing to realize expectations, came to Blue Earth county and purchased the land now owned by his son. He is still living, and in the possession of his faculties. He has rendered signal service to this his adopted state, setting a fine example of conscientious and successful farming, and filling with credit the majority of the local offices within the gift of his fellow townsmen.

Charles H. Brewer has known no other home than that where he now lives, or any occupation but farming. At the district school he laid the foundation of his present many sided knowledge, and he has given to the conduct of his farm the best of brain and effort of which he is capable. He has in all two hundred and fifty acres, and thoroughly understanding the science of agriculture, naturally derives a substantial income from this amount of land. He raises stock and general produce, has a fine residence, substantial barns, and ample protection for the result of his harvests. Around him is an interesting family of five children; Carrie, Gerald, Cyril, Esther and Lydia. Before her miarriage Mrs. Brewer was Gertrude Miller, a native of Rhode Island, and the wedding ceremony was performed September 27, 1897. Mr. Brewer is highly esteemed for his many sterling qualities, for his public spiritedness, thrift, geniality and integrity, and in consequence his friends are many and loyal.

BROOKS, MORGAN. - The present representative of Lime township upon the board of county supervisors is a native son of Blue Earth county and always has maintained a warm interest in activities tending to the development of agricultural and commercial interests. In Mankato township, in what is now a part of the city of that name, he was born April 19, 1864, being a son of D. R. and Sarah L. (Andrews) Brooks, natives respectively of Ohio and New York. During girlhood the mother accompanied members of her family from New York to Ohio, where she met and married Mr. Brooks, and in 1857 they made the tedious journey overland to l\]innesota, settling upon a homestead of unbroken land in Blue Earth county. As time passed by the land was brought under cultivation, substantial buildings were put up and many improvements were made of a permanent nature. Upon this place the father died March 4, 1900. The mother still remains on the farm three miles north of Mankato, which has been the family home since the year 1873. Eight children comprised her family, namely: Ellen, who married W. F. Coffin and now makes her home in Minneapolis; Nathan, living in Montana; Alice, who died at the age of five years; Ida, residing at Lake Benton, Minnesota; Myra, who married G. R. Bradley, of Mankato; Morgan, whose name introduces this article; Carrie L., wife of C. H. Bradley, of Minneapolis; and Charles, who makes his home in Lime township.

Ever since completing the studies of the schools of Lime township and the city of Mankato, Morgan Brooks has devoted his time and atten- 1ion to agricultural pursuits, and now occupies a high position by reason of his acknowledged judgment and energy as a farmer. Sis marriege took place in Blue Earth county January 20, 1892, and united him with Ella Bancroft, who was born near Kilbourn, Columbia county, Wisconsin, ilarch 25, 1868. Her parents, Dudley P. and Adelia (Briggs) Bancroft, were natives respectively of New York and Pennsyl- \ania and during the year 1886 came to Blue ]<]arth county, Minnesota. After having remained here for sixteen years in 1902 they removed to Minneapolis, in which city they now reside. They were the parents of seven children, of whom

For two years after his marriage Morgan Brooks remained on his father's farm. Meantime he had purchased a farm of his own and liiiher he came about 1894, since which time he has given careful attention to the cultivation of the land. At this writing he owns two hundred and twenty acres, the greater part of which is in meadow. One of his specialties is the making of hay for sale in the Mankato market. zVmong the people of Lime township he is respected as a man of intelligence, ability and tireless energy, and his services as township supervisor since 1904 and school director for more than twenty years have been helpful to the eSiir cational, agricultural and general interests of tlje locality. In his political views he is a Eepublican and maintains a warm interest in the success of the party. With his wife he enjoys the respect of acquaintances and numbers a host of warm friends among the people of the townbhip. Five children comprised his family, but ihe eldest daughter, who was born August 6, 1894, was taken from the home by death March 23, 1895. Those now living are as follows: Frank M., born June 23, 1893; Iva L., August 10, 1896; Ella M., August 9, 1900; and Harry Ti., August 13, 1904, all of whom are with their parents on the home farm.

BROOKS, WALTEE F. - Not only is the present county surveyor of Blue Earth county possessed of broad general information and editeation, but he has had thorough and exceptional training and experience along the line of his oiiosen occupation. Born in Eutland, Worcester county, Massachusetts, April 17, 18G1, he is a son of Daniel and Catherine (Eiley) Brooks, the former of whom was born in Eutland, and the latter in Boston, Massachusetts. The family came to Blue Earth county in 18C6 as a part of the large reconstruction emigration, settling on a farm in Medo township, on the old AYiunebago I'eservation, where the father successfully farmed and raised stock for many years. In 1891 he gave up farming and moved to the village of

Mapleton, later locating at Crystal Lake, where he now lives with his wife. Besides Walter F., who is the oldest, there are two other sons in ills family, of whom Dr. Charles D. is a physician at Eutherford, New Jersey, and Harlow is a professor in Belleview Medical School, New York City.

Five years old when he was brought to the Medo township farm by his parents, Walter F Brooks spent his youth as does the average country boy. In the district school he received his jireliminary education, later attending the State ?^ormal at Mankato, and in 1886 graduating from the Civil Engineering department of the Polytechnic Institute, at Worcester, Massachusetts, with the degree of B. S. After his graduation he was employed in the engineering department of various leading railroads in Minnesota and North and South Dakota, and the L'nion Pacific and Oregon Pacific railroads, later identifying himself in a similar capacity with the Mexican railroads. He then followed mining engineering and irrigation work on the PaciBc coast for five years, and in February, 1894, returned to Blue Earth county, and opened an office for general practice in engineering in Mankato.

In 1897 Mr. Brooks was elected surveyor of Blue Earth county, which position he still holds. I\lr. Brooks is identified with the Eepublican j)arty, the Presbyterian church, and the Masonic fraternity. His marriage to Margaret Limberf occurred at Eipon, Wisconsin, in 1896, and of the union there are three children : Katherine, Charlotte and George Freeman.

the energy and resource of the farmers of the present generation is not less commendable than that which enabled the earlier settlers to leave comfortable homes in the east and share the trials and deprivations of the unsettled northwestern country finds ample confirmation in the lives of many }oung agriculturists in Blue Earth (ounty, among them George Wellington Brown, vrhose unaided efforts have made him the owner of eighty acres of land in section 28, Shelby Township. Mr. Brown was born in Shelby Town-

James Lyman Brown was born in Compton, Canada, and was a son of Andrew Brown, who was born in the state of Maine and in early life moved across the border into Canada. James Lyman was of an ambitious nature, and in June, ]87'2, came to the United States, locating in Shelby township, Blue Earth county, Minnesota, where he engaged in general farming and stock raising until his death. May 7, 1890, at the age of fifty-one years. There were eight children in his family, of whom five now are living: Mary ¥.., now Mrs. John W.. Barr; William F., in Shelby Township; Arthur L., farming in Faribault county; George Wellington; and Homer A., in Faribault county.

Mr. Brown received the rudiments of his education in the district schools of Shelby Township and at the Winnebago Agency, but he is largely self educated, as he has been a wage earner since he was twelve years old. At that early age he left home and worked for small wages at ISTashville, this state, later going to Stevens county, where he gained his first real start in a financial way. He was frugal and thrifty, and in 1901 was able to purchase half of the original homestead in section 28, Shelby Township, his eldest brother coming into possession of the other eighty acres. He has made many fine improvements in addition to those credited to his father, including a grove, which he set out as a wind break, a most desirable addition when the northern winds sweep across the country. He is engaged in general farming and stock-raising, principally horses and hogs in the stock line. He is progressive and industrious, amiable and companionable, and has a host of friends throughout the county. Mr. Brown is naturally social in his tendencies, and derives great pleasure from his fraternal connections, being a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America.

1900 has been identified with this sheet and meanwhile has promoted the success of the publication by his editorial ability. Notwithstanding the fact that he is now (1908) seventy-six years . of age, he retains the energy and constitution of a man of sixty. Steady work at his desk or case for ten hours each day does not exhaust his strength, and he is able to read and set type without the aid of spectacles. After years of mental and physical activity, he fortunately retains the full use of all his faculties and is thus enabled to wield a wide infiuence throughout the county by means of his interesting and popular publication.