Fillmore County, Minnesota - The whole text, 1912 (part 10 of 20)

Francis A. Neill was born in Ireland February 5, 1847, one of the seven children of John and Jane (McGinnis) Neill, the former of whom was born Jnne 10, 1812, and the latter July 8, 1825. After coming to America, one son, Pierce R., being born enroute on the Atlantic ocean, the family settled in Chautauqua county, New York, where the father took up work in the shovel factory. They remained in New York state twelve years and then came west to Minnesota, arriving in Winona the day President Lincoln was shot and locating in section nineteen, Sumner township, where the parents spent the remainder of their lives, the mother dying February 8, 1867, and the father October 19, 1887. Francis A. Neill, the subject of this sketch, was educated in the common schools of New York state and is the only member of his father's family now living in Fillmore county. After assisting on the home farm for several years he worked out eight years, and later bought jand in section twenty-nine, Sumner township, where he still resides, his present farm consisting of 240 acres of land in Sumner and Spring Valley townships. He has an excellent breed of Percheron horses, including ''Alpine,'' a horse of good pedigree which was imported from France. He also keeps about fifty head of cattle and raises from forty to fifty Poland China hogs annually. When Mr. Neill first bought his present home farm it was wild land without improvements. He erected the first house in 1877, and this served as a dwelling till 1896, when the present house was built. In polities he is a Republican; has been justice of the peace for twenty-eight consecutive years and still retains that office; and was clerk of school district 126 ten years and treasurer twelve years. He has long been interested in ereameries and has assisted in building several, being at present a stockholder in the Racine Creamery. Mr. Neill is a member of the Baptist church. On April 1, 1876, he married Mary Elizabeth Parkinson, daughter of William and Augusta (Freeman) Parkinson. To Mr. and Mrs. Neill have been born four children: Benjamin F., Floyd P., Anna HE. and W. W. Mrs. Neill and her danghter, though busy with the eares of the large farm which brings work to the women as well as to the men, have found time to cultivate their very unusual talent for painting, and the Neill home is well filled with their handiwork. Mr. Neill is a member of the State Horticultural Society and has made a special study of this line of industry. He has 118 plum trees and raises eighteen varieties, being proprietor of Neill's Minnesota peach plum, of which he cannot raise enough to supply the demand. He has also been successful in raising three crops of fine freestone peaches.

Nelson J. Shaw was born in New York state March 25, 1843, son of James H. and Persis Shaw, who came to Minnesota in 1855 and settled in section twenty-six, Bloomfield township, where they erected a house of logs, which had a dirt floor and a roof made of slabs. In this rude dwelling these worthy people resided for twelve years, after which they built a hewn log house which was finally replaced by the comfortable home which stands today and in which they spent the rest of their lives, the husband and father dying in 1901 and the mother two years later. Nelson J., the subject of this sketch, attended school a very short time, and was early confronted with the necessity of hard labor, privation and denial. In earliest boyhood he was compelled to labor with the energy of a man, and often for weeks at a time he had nothing to eat but potatoes, skim milk and salt, working all night at times Without pay. When he was twenty-three years of age he started ont for himself, rented some land and engaged in farming. Since that time Mr. Shaw has traveled about more or less and at the present time resides in Bloomfield township on his farm. A greater portion of his land he now rents, poor health preventing his working as he did in former years. Politically Mr. Shaw votes independently. He has held the office of constable for one year. On March 12, 1866, Sara J. Barnes, of Dane county, Wisconsin, became his wife, and she has proven an estimable wife and helpmeet.

Sunnyside Poultry Yards. The Neill Brothers, B. F., F. P. and W. W., are widely known as successful breeders and exbibitors of several varieties of pure blooded poultry, their specialty being Rose Comb Rhode Island Reds, Rose Comp White Leghorns and Rose Comb Brown Leghorns. They have won many prizes and enjoy a large trade in fancy birds, being enthusiastic and proficient in their chosen vocation. They issue a neat circular describing their stock, and are modern chicken fanciers in every respect.

William Meighen, honored pioneer and distinguished citizen, was born in Greene county, Pennsvlvania, December 5, 1816, son of William and Elizabeth (Hughes) Meighen. He was reared in his native state, studied surveying, and there remained until twenty-seven years of age. In 1845, deciding to seek his fortunes in a newer country, he came west, and lived a year in Burlington, Towa, then a pioneer village. A year later he went to Galena, Mil., and engaged in lead mining in company with his brothers, Felix and Dennis, remaining there until the year 1849, when he organized a party with which he crossed the plains to California in quest of gold. In 1852 he retuned to Galena and was elected sheriff of Joe Daviess county. In February, 1855, he came to Minnesota and opened a real estate office in the then thriving village of Forestville, and from that date until the close of his long and useful life, while looking after his large estate, he devoted much time to public questions, always in the interest of the masses, for with his broad vision of men and events he could clearly see that all legislation must be for the general public and not for the favored interests, if the Republie is to endure. He lived in Forestville until 1871, when he removed to a farm in the township of Carimona and started developing and improving the place which, under the name of ''Sunnyside,'' is now one of the finest country estates in the county, the home being stately and beantiful, the barns being modern and commodious and the land being well cared for in every particwar. So snecessful was Mr. Meighen in his farming and in other lines of business that at one time he owned nearly 8,000 acres in Fillmore county. IIe took a keen interest in public affairs, and was a deep thinker and active worker along these lines. Originally a Republican he early espoused the cause of the Greenback party and later of the People's party, his devotion to the principles of these movements meaning to him a sacrifice of time, political offices and money. In 1859 he was elected the second chairman of supervisors in Forestville township, and as such sat on the second of the two county boards of supervisors. In the session of 1859-60 and the sessions of 1868-69 he sat in the lower house of the Minnesota state legislature, and in 1874, 1875 and 1876 he sat in the upper house of the same body. In addition to this he held many local offices and was prominent in many political conventions and eommittees. In 1879 Mr. Meighen was the candidate for governor of the state on the Greenback ticket and made the canvass entirely at his own expense. During his extended service in both branches of our state legislature he took a leading part in accomplishing much important legislation. He enjoyed ihe honor, never conferred on any other lay member of the state senate, in being chosen chairman of the judiciary committee of that body, the committee at that time beimg composed of sonie of the most distinguished lawyers in the state. Although Mr. Meighen never made a profession of the law he was surely ''learned in the law.'' During the vears of his service in the legislature of this state the leading question was that of the old ''Minnesota Credit Railway Bonds.'' They were conceived in iniquity and a base fraud from the start, and in the opinion of Senator Meighen the people were under no obligation, legal or moral, te pay them. Thns believing he fought every move on the part of the holders of the bonds looking to their payment. He was largely instrumental in securing the amendment to our state constitution which prohibited the legislature from accepting any proposition looking to their payment without first submitting same to a referendum vote of thie people. After several propositions had been submitted, and in turn voted down by the people, the bondholders despaired of ever being able to collect anything on these bogus bonds unless they could get the supreme court of the state to call the amendment to the state constitution uncoustitutional and thus circumvent the popular wi] in the matter. This scheme was hatched by the bondholders and pushed through by Governor John 8. Pillsbury in the year 1881. This scheme provided for the reconstruction of the supreme court by increasing the number of judges from three to five members and Governor Pillsbury was to appoint two Democrats as the new members, he being a Republican, aud not wishing to have the Republican bench bear all the blame. The appointments were made, thus making a non-partisan bench, the three old members being Republicans and the two new ones beings Democrats, thus taking the matter out of party polities. This court, thus reconstructed, decided in a case brought by a holder of.some of the bogus bonds, as it was expected to decide, that the ''constitution of the state was unconstitutional,'' thus leaving the settlement of the bonds with the legislature, a majority of which was elected by the corrupting influence of the holders of said bonds. After the constitutional amendment had been repealed by the supreme court Governor Pillsbury immediately reconvened the legislature in a special session in the summer of 1881, and that body promptly accepted the bondholders' offer; and there was saddled upon the people of this state the most fraudulent of all the fraudulent claims that the citizens have had to meet. The people of Minnesota have paid several million dollars principal and interest on this bogus claim and not until the year 1910 was the last payment made. At some length this previously unrecorded history as to the last chapter in this raseally bond deal is here given as a part of the biography of Senator Meighen because the one who has given this information has heard this narrative from his lips on more than one oceasion and because of his active and loyal fight for the people against this as well as all other schemes for robbery during his legislative career, and lastly to furnish further evidence from the supreme court archives why our judges, first of all, should be subject to the recall. The death of Senator Meighen March 22, 1899, at an honored old age, was sincerely mourned throughout the county. Mr. Meighen was married December 27, 1868, to Catherine Foster, who proved a most helpful and sympathetic helpmeet in all his undertakings. This union was blessed with six children: William James, Jane Elizabeth, Mary C., Susan, Martha J. and Felix Hughes. William James has a fine farm ealled ''The Oakland"' in Carimona township. Felix Hughes lives at ''Sunnyside.'' Jane Elizabeth married John Ryan, of Carrolton township. Mary C. married Henry Ford and died January 11, 1896. Susan and Martha J. are living with their mother at her attractive home in Wykoff. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic church.

William J. Meighen, one of the younger farmers of Fillmore county, was born in Forestville, this county, April 2, 1871, son of Senator William and Catherine Foster Meighen. He was reared at ''Sunnyside,'' the famous Meighen home, and attended the neighboring schools. At the present time he owns a beautiful estate of 400 acres called ''The Oakland,'' and here he carries on general farming and makes a specialty of raising Red Poll cattle.

He has erected a comfortable house, and good outbuildings, and is thoroughly equipped to carry on general farming in the most modern manner. He has affiliated himself with the A. O. U. W. and is in every way a respected and valued member of the community, a worthy son of a worthy sire. He married Mary A. Healy, daughter of Thomas and Mary (Kelly) llealy, and they have four children: Hughes, William, Donald and Claire. Mr. and Mrs. Healy were born in Ireland, and came to the United States in 1853, stopping a while in Syracuse, N. Y., after which they came to Minnesota, and settled in Carimona, this county, where they passed the remainder of their lives, the father dying June 15, 1906, and the mother, December 25, 1872.

Felix H. Meighen, son of Senator Wm. and Catherine (Foster) Meighen, was born at Sunnyside, Carimona township, September 8, 1886. He received his early education in the public schools of Forestville and Carimona. In 1900 he entered St. Thomas College at St. Paul, where he completed a four years' course, after which he returned to Sunnyside, the old homestead, which he eonducted for one year. After the completion of the year's work he made his home in Wykoff until the early part of 1910, after which he went to Preston, where he remained until the time of his marriage with Lucille Essex Wright, which oceurred August 30, 1911. Shortly after, they took up their residence at Sunnyside, which he is successfully conducting. Te is the owner of 492 acres of land, 260 acres lying in Carimona township and 232 acres in Forestville. Tle is a member of the Woodman Lodge of Wykoff, Minnesota.

John Johnson, a reliable farmer of Canton township, was born in Norway township, this county, January 18, 1855, son of Gullick and Sigrie Johnson, the farm name in the old country being '*Waa.'' He was reared on the home farm, which he and his brother Ole now operate. The place consists of 160 acres, the farm being picturesque enough to be called an estate rather than a mere farm. The buildings are excellently kept, and a general air of well-being and neatness pervades the entire surroundings. John is a bachelor and makes his home with his mother and his brother Ole and family.

Gullick Johnson, a pioneer, was born in Norway, his farm name in the old country being ''Waa.'' He came to America in 1851, and located in Muskego, Racine county, Wis., where he lived three years. Then he came to Norway township, Fillmore county, but here he and his family remained but a short time, moving soon to Houston county, where they lived until 1868. In that year they located in section four, Canton township, on which at that time there was a log cabin, which was the family home fora while. Later a frame house was built. On this place Gulliek earried on general farning until his death, August 20, 1906. His good wife Sigrie has now reached the good old age of eighty-six years.

Ole Johnson, an up-to-date agriculturist, was born in Houston county, Minnesota, August 21, 1858, son of Gullick and Sigrie Johnson, but has spent the larger part of his life on the farin where he still resides. He married Mary Berg, and they have four children: Selma, Thomas, Marie and Ella. Mr. Johnson's mother and his brother John, live with bim on the hoime place whieh is well cultivated, with a comfortable home, and suitable buildings for the housing of stock, produce, implements and tools.

Edward Inglett, a highly esteemed eitizen of the township of Canton, was born in London, England, Oetober 17, 1856, and with his parents came to America in 1861. They located in Brownsville Ridge, Houston county, this state, and there purchased 120 acres, the father carrying on general farming there to the present day. Edward was reared on the home farm, and there remained until fourteen years of age. Then he worked for his uncle and others until he was nineteen years of age, at whieh time he went to Iowa, and learned the blacksmith trade. After a while he started railroading, but afterward again returned to his trade Later he went baek to farming, and purchased a place in section twenty-four, Canton township. The farm contains eighty acres, and in addition to this, Myr. Inglett has twenty acres in section twenty-five and 120 acres in section thirteen. By his wife Betsy, he has ten children: Libby, William, Blanche, Harry, Lee, Lloyd, Florence, Floyd, Pearl and George.

Peter P. Thompson, a pioneer, was born in Norway, in September, 1848, aud came to Amevica with his parents in 1850, residing in Rock county, Wisconsin, until 1857 wheu he came with them to Newburg townsbip, this county, where the father died in 1870. After a life devoted to farming, Peter P. and bis wife are now living in the village of Mabel.

L, P, Thompson, a substantial farmer of Newburg township, was born on section ten, in the town where he still resides, September 24, 1870, son of Peter P. Thompson, the pioneer. He was reared on the home farm and attended sehool in district two. He married Clara, daughier of Christian Storlie, and this union was blessed in time with nine ehildren. After their marriage they lived at home for a time, and then started farming on section ten. Later they moved to section fifteen, and there they have lived since 1903. Myr. Thompson has mace many additions to the bnildings and has greatly improved the land. The farm is an excellent estate, and all of the 200 acres are under cultivation with the exception of twenty-five acres which is in timberland.

Nels H. Nelson, one of the pioneer settlers of Harmony township, was born in Norway, July 24, 1840, son of Herbion and Augusta (Austin) Nelson, natives of Norway. They with their family came to America in 1842 and located eighteen miles west of Milwaukee, in Waukesha county, where they remained for twelve years. In 1854 they came west to Minnesota and located in Harmony township, where the father purchased a claim of 150 aeres in section twenty-four, for which he paid the government $200. That same year he erected a log cabin. He and his sons broke, cleared aud grubbed the land and followed general farming. The father died in 1884 and the mother three years later, in 1887. They were the parents of six children. Esther, who became the wife of Ole Morem, is now deeeased. Austin lives iu Harmony township. Augusta, who married Erick Eriekson, is now deceased. Nels H. lives on the old home farm. Ausne is now Mrs. Nels Nelson of Harmony township. Betsy is now Mrs. Halvor Fosse, and they live near Forest City, Iowa.

Nels H., subject of this biography, came to America with his parents when but two years of age, locating with them in Waukesha county, Wisconsin, and coming with them to this county in 1854. We attended the distriet schools in Waukesha county and in Harmony township, this county, after whieh he engaged in farming with his father on the home farm. They worked and toiled together for several years and erected a fine set of outbuildings. Several year's before his father's death, he purchased the old homestead on which his entire life has been devoted to agricultural pursuits. He has greatly improved the land and buildings and has followed general diversified farming. Mr. Nelson has always taken an active interest in the progress and upbuilding of his town and county and in the early day he served as school treasurer of his district. He is an independent Republican and is a member of the Lutheran church of Harmony, 10 which he is a liberal contributor. Aside from his farm, he owws three lots in Thief River Falls, Minnesota.

land, August 1, 1829, and crossed the water to Canada in 1843. There he resided until 1856, when he came to Fillmore county, Minnesota. He took up a claim in Harmony township, but later disposed of this claim, and located in section fourteen, adjoining the present village of Harmony. He has the distinction of having been the first constable of Harmony township, his election dating from May 1], 1858. In 1864 he enlisted in the Third Minnesota Volunteer Infantry and served until the close of the war. His wife was Mary (Craig) Ryan, a native of New York state.

John Craig, and Elizabeth Craig, his wife, parents of Mrs. Thomas Ryan, and grandparents of Thomas E, Ryan, moved from Canada to Fillmore county in the fifties, being numbered among the early settlers.

Thomas E., the subject of this sketch, was reared on the home farm, and attended the district schools. He learned the trade of harness making with C. A. Thompson, and Patrick A. McKay. This business he eventually purchased from the estate of Patrick McKay in 1908. Mr. Ryan has been working at his trade for eighteen years. He has a fine store and his shop has all the Jatest machinery for the manufacture of harnesses. He has allied himself with the M. W. A.

Alonzo G. Gray, the pioneer, was born in Herkimer county, New York, in 1821, son of Elias Gray and Mary (Wheaton) Gray, the former a soldier in the War of 1812. Alonzo G. Gray married Luey Ann Murch, and brought his family to Minnesota in 1854, settling in Newburg township, and preempting the 14714 acres, on which he lived until a short time before his death, which occurred in April, 1896. His wife died in 1905, and both are buried in the Lenora cemetery. Mr. Gray was active in the formation days of the county, and a believer in progress and righteousness. He was 2 natural lawyer, a strong intellectual man, substantial of body and mind, weighing some 235 pounds, and being noted for his splendid manhood. The Gray family combines the best blood of northern Europe, having English, Scottish, Welsh, Irish and German blood, probably mixed with a Viking strain.

William F. Gay, a prominent resident of Bloomfield township, is of Canadian birth and parentage, born March 10, 1861, son of Nelson and Mary (Brothers) Gay. He passed the years of his boyhood in attending school and assisting on the home farm, coming to this county with his parents in 1872. In 1893 he purchased land and started farming for himself. He now owns eighty acres in section twenty-seven, and forty acres im section twenty-five, his home in the village of Etna, which he purchased from Lee Rix, a former merchant of Etna, being located on the latter section. Mr. Gay carries on general farming, but rents most of his cultivated land. Aside from his farm holdings, he owns stock in the Farmers' store at Spring Valley, and in the creamery at Chester, Iowa. He is a Republican in polities, but bas never cared to seek public office. The subject of this sketch was married, November 23, 1897, to Rose Brodbent.

Nelson J. Gay, deceased, with his wife, Mary Brothers, came from Canada in 1868, bringing their family and settling in Burr Oak, Iowa. In 1872 they came to this county and settled in Bloomfield township, where he rented land several years and subsequently spent ten years at Rock county, after which he returned to his old home in Canada. He then returned to Minnesota, in 1897, and passed away on September 3, 1906. His wife died in Rock county in 1873. They were the parents of five children: William F., of Etna; Ida, of Oregon; Charles, of Canada; Arthur, of North Dakota; and Cornelius, deceased.

David McMaster, a well-to-do farmer, residing in the village of Canton, was born in section thirty, Canton township, son of George and Martha (Cadman) McMaster, the pioneers. While David was still of tender years, the family moved to section twenty-eight, near the village, and there he spent his boyhood, attending the school in district twenty-four, and assisting his father on the farm. He owns considerable land and still devotes his life to agricultural pursuits, although he makes his home in the village. The subject of this sketch married Celia O. Bates, a native of Canton, and they have two children: Hazel V. and Vernon A,

George McMaster, now deceased, an honored veteran of the Civil War, and early settler, was born April 27, 1830, in the state of Massachusetts, where he was reared and where he learned the spinners' trade. In 1849 he moved to Vermont, where he married Martha Cadman, and there resided until 1853, Then the young couple came westward to Illinois, and in 1855 drove from Galena to Decorah, Iowa, where they joined the company of Captain J. W. Elliot and came to Fillmore county, where the McMasters located on a farm on section thirty, where they lived a number of years. It is said that he built the first shanty between Elliota and Big Spring on the St. Paul and Dubuque territorial road. In 1864 he enlisted for one year in Company D, First Minnesota Heavy Artillery. In 1869 he sold his former farm and moved to section twenty-eight, near the village of Canton, where he pur- chased 120 acres of land and erected a house of hewn blocks. While in aetive life, Mr. MeMaster was a farmer and devoted considerable time to stock raising. In his latter years he retired. He died in 1910, and his wife passed away September 12, 1869. To Mr. and Mrs. George MeMaster were born six children: E. J., October 27, 1855; M. M., November 16, 1858; John, August 16, 1860; G. J., August 18, 1862; David, Oetober 3, 1864; and M. J. March 26, 1867.

Martin M. Matson, a modern agriculturist of Canton township, was born in Henrytown, township of Amherst, Mareh 15, 1877, son of Math and Enger Matson. Math, the father, was born in Norway, und eame to America about 1876, locating in Amherst, this county, where he lived until he moved his family to Harmony about the year 1895. There he rented a farm and lived the remainder of his days. Martin M. obtained his schooling in Harmony ind has always devoted his life to farm pursuits. He married Genar Lansrud and they have four children, Arnold, Barnerd, Garfield and Victor. Mr. Matson is operating a farm of 207 acres in section three, Canton township.

Thomas Alfson, a capable farmer living in the township of Harmony. was born near Tinn, Prestegeld, Norway, May 26, 1856, son of Charles Kitile, who brought lus family to America in 1859. They lived some four years in Ridgeway, Iowa, and then in 1863 eame to Harmony township, and settled in section one, where the father built a log house, stable and granary. It was here that another brother, Tobias, was born Mareh 3, 1868. The father and mother continued to live here until their death, the father passing away in 1903 and the mother in 1873. Thomas was reared on the home farm, and obtained his edueation in the schools of district forty. He has never married. His well-kept farm comprises one hundred acres, and his pretty little home among the hills presents a picturesque view of contentinent and prosperity as well as of intelligent and painstaking eare.

Eugene B. Hartwell, manager of the Harmony yard of the Colman Lumber Co., was born in Oakland Valley, Franklin county, Iowa, January 14, 1869, son of Sammel and Mary (Biglow) Hartwell. Samuel Hartwell came from Hubbertson, Mass., and his wife from Fitzwilliain in the same state. They both came west at an early day and settled in Lowa. By trade Samuel Hartwell was a harness maker, but after coming west he devoted his life to farming, until the outbreak of the Civil War, when he enlisted and served until the close of the hostilities. Upon his return he again took np farming, but on aceount of his health he was obliged to give up this occupation. Ile is now employed at his trade in New Hampton, Iowa. Eugene B., the subject of this sketch, attended school in Hampton and New Hampton, Iowa, and later learned the trade of harness making in the former town. Subsequently he was employed four years in a harness shop in Preston. After this he conducted a shop of his own in Harmony. Since 1899 he has been engaged in his present occupation. He is one of the well-known men of the village and is a member of Canton Lodge, No. 191, A. F. & A. M., as well as of the M. W. A. Mr. Hartwell married Ruby, the daughter of Stephen and Sarah Ford, and they have one daughter, Marguerite.

John J, Lunde, an estimable citizen and early resident, now deceased, was born in Dane county, Wisconsin, January 22, 1850, and came to this county with his parents April 7, 1853. He grew to manhood on the farm in Preston township, attended school, and assisted his parents. February 2, 1877, he married Pauline Munson, the daughter of Ole Munson, the pioneer, and a year later, they located on a farm of 170 acres in section twenty-three, and started agricultural pursuits for themselves. Their house, which was built of stone, was at that time considered one of the finest in that part of the county. Later, as opportunity made it possible, 'Mr. Lunde built an addition to his house, thereby making it more commodious and comfortable. He erected good outbuildings, and made many improvements, bringing the place to a high stage of cultivation. In 1894 he purchased the Ole Munson farm of 190 acres, adjoining his place, thus making a fine farm of 360 acres, on which he engaged in general and dairy farming. His prosperity inereased with the years, and he was recognized as an industrious man of sterling character, faithful in all that he undertook, and highly esteemed in the neighborhood. His death, which occurred November 25, 1902, was a loss, not only to his family, but to the community and town. Besides his widow, who still lives on the home farm, he left six children: George A.; Otto M., Emelia Andrine, now Mrs. Hans Holger; Rudolph M.; Josephine P., the wife of Ingard Kenniberg, and Clarence M. The family faith is that of the Lutheran church.

David A. Peirce was born in Hudson, Maine, October 2, 1830, one of the ten children of David and Sarah (Plummer) Peirce. He married Amanda M. Brailey on Mareh 29, 1856, and came to Le Roy, Minn., on June 10, the following year, where he preempted land in section one. In 1862 he moved his family to the village of Spring Valley and enlisted in Company E, Seventh Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, serving two years and ten months. After he was mustered out, he and his family continued to live in Spring Valley and vicinity until the spring of 1869 when they moved to Bath township, Frecborn county, Minnesota, where they resided until fall of 1885 or 1886, when, owing to Mrs. Peirce's ill health they returned to Spring Valley village. There Mrs. Peirce died January 23, 1887. Since then Mr. Peirce has made his home with his oldest daughter, Mrs. M. N. Johnson or with his youngest son Varney J., who has the old homestead in Bath township, excepting nine years when he and his son lived in Roseau county, where he filed his soldier claim on a quarter section in Cedar Bend township, which he still owns, as well as a quarter section in Wadena county, two miles from Aldridge. Mr. and Mrs. Peirce came of the good old Puritan stock and have stood for all that made for good citizenship in progress and education. To them were born five children: Sarah A., wife of M. N. Johnson, of York, Fillmore county; Frank D., editor, at St. Paul; Clara C., who died December 6, 1890; Eleanor P., married to Chas. C. Marquis, of Waukegan, Ill.; and Varney J., on the old homestead, Bath, Minn. Mr. and Mrs. Peirce sacrificed themselves much to give their children the advantages of a good practical education and instilled in their heart what is far better, the elements of useful citizenship.

Mathias N. Johnson, the oldest of the two sons and three daughters of Neils and Elene Johnson, was born at Vestre Thotens Christains Amt, Norway, October 26, 1850. Here he lived with his parents attending school and church, being leader in the boy's choir, until the spring of 1869, when he emigrated to America, arriving in Bloomfield township, Minnesota, June 10. He attended school, worked as a farm hand, rented land and finally, Angust 29, 1882, purchased his present home ''Hjem vi Fandt'' located in York township, on the south half of the northwest quarter of section seven. His farm is one of the best improved in the locality and has good buildings with many of the modern conveniences, which indicates the industry and thrift with which it has been managed. His specialty is fine horses and a high grade of shorthorn cows noted for their milk and cream giving qualities. His mechanical ingenuity has been of inestimable value in making and repairing, and many of his appliances are worthy a patent. On May 8, 1880, he was united in marriage to Sarah Amanda Peirce of Bath township, Freeborn county, Minnesota, at Preston, Minn. Rev. Stephen Drew, formerly pastor of the Congregational Church of Albert Lea and Hartland, officiating. Mrs. Johnson was the oldest of the three daughters and two sons of David A. and Amanda Brailey Peirce, born in Marriville, Maine, February 24, 1857, and coming with her parents to Le Roy township June 10, of the same year. There her father

"took up land'? and there they lived until the Civil War broke out when her father enlisted and her mother with her three little ones moved to the village of Spring Valley, Minn. There she attended school until the spring of 1869, when the family moved to Bath township, Freeborn county. She attended district school at home until fifteen and then accepted a position as teacher in which capacity she continued for cight years, going to high schoo} either at Albert Lea or Owatonna between terms. She was in charge of the Freeborn village graded school for the years of 1877 and 1878. In 1879 she taught in Geneva, also the first term in the village of Hartland. She had the distinction of being the first student edncated wholly or in part in Freeborn county, to receive a Kirst Grade Certificate there. Mrs. Johnson was a born student and instructor. Never did the dull, bashful or timid child have a more ardent friend and counselor. Since her marriage she has taught evening school in her own home for several winters, welcoming students and giving them home care while she thoroughly coached them. Always the friend of the unfortunate child; having one or sometimes several at a time to care for in her home, she is always willing and ready to answer the call of the sick and afflicted, especially the poor. Mrs. Johnson's great love of dumb animals and Horticulture has made her a willing efficient helpmeet to her husband in all his undertakings, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have an adopted son, Willis N., a bright earnest student, who resides with them on the home farm. They all are members of the Etna Union Church, where they attend and are active workers in that organization and are much respected. Mrs. Johnson is an earnest member of the Etna W.C. T. U. Mr. Peirce and Willis are honorary members. Mr. Peirce, the aged father, also makes his home here.

Frank J. Thayer was born in the house which he occupies at the present time, on the family homestead in Spring Valley township, April 9, 1872, son of William T. and Ella (Smith) Thayer. His boyhood was similar to that of other boys reared on the farm, being spent in attending school, helping his father and preparing himself to take charge of a farm when he should become of age. In 1895, he rented some land in Forestville and Spring Valley townships, and now resides on the home farm, where he cultivates 160 acres and engages in stockraising and dairying. He has rented a farm west of Racine, which he expects to occupy some time later. He prefers Poland China hogs for general market purposes, and raises a good breed of farm horses. Politically, Mr. Thayer is a Republican and he has been elected to serve as road overseer for several years. Fle is a member of the M. W. A. of Spring Valley and is a man respected by all with whom asso- ciated, cither in business or social circles. On February 28, 1898, he married Effie McClary, daughter of Eliphlet and Mary (Shaw) McClary, of Etna. Mr. and Mrs. Thayer have two children: Harold, born December 13, 1898, and Mildred, December 1, 1899.

William T. Thayer, one of the early settlers in the county, was a native of Pennsylvania, where he spent the days of his youth. Ile came to Minnesota and settled in this county. After a few years he married Ella Smith of Spring Valley township. For many years they resided on section nineteen, Spring Valley township, where Mr. Thayer made many improvements and carried on general farming. To himself and wife six children were born: Charles T., now of Los Angeles, Cal.; Frank, on the old homestead; Nora B., now Mrs. Charles Rose of Olympia, Wash.; Clyde, of Ethanac, Cal.; Ara L, now Mrs. Frank Hess; Ella, now Mrs. Archie Jorris, both of Spring Valley, Minn. In 1882 Mrs. Thayer passed away and Mr. Thayer now makes his home in California.

Louris S. Rendahl was born May 16, 1884, son of John O. Rendahl, a native of Norway, who came to the United States in 1876, and settled in Wisconsin, afterward coming to Minnesota and settling for a time near Rochester, later purchasing 160 acres of wild land in section seven, Beaver township, this county, which he cleared and broke, ereeted necessary buildings and made a comfortable home where the family has continued to prosper. He was married before coming to the United States and raised his family here in Beaver where they had good school advantages. John O. died May 2, 1911 and his wife, June 29, 1907. Louris 8. Rendahl reeeived his education in the common schools which he attended until seventeen years of age. He then continued to assist his father until 1908, when he took over the management of the home farm which he has since conducted. [le now owns 360 acres of land, all but eighty acres of which is in this county, having a well cared for farm and giving particular attention to stock raising. His sisters Julia and Emma keep house for him. He is a member of the Lutheran ehurch in Ostrander.

Ole J. Holte, a prosperous farmer of York township, was born in Norway, August 14, 1859, son of Halvor Holte, who came to the United States in 1875. This family settled in Beaver township and the subject of this sketch assisted on the home farm, and attended the common schools at convenient times. He remained at home until twenty-five years of age and then rented land in York township, for five years. By saving and careful management Mr. Bolte was then able to buy 160 aeres in section eighteen where he still resides. He follows general farming and has a good herd of Shorthorn cattle and sells his cream to the Chester, Iowa, creamery, in which he is a stockholder. He has a large flock of sheep and raises hogs, chickens and ducks. Some years ago Mr. Holte built a large and comfortable house and has all necessary farm buildings in good condition and is now building a silo. On November 18, 1886, he married Cecelia Lundervold of Beaver township, and to them have been born ten children. Henry is in California. Lars is in South Dakota. Bert is in North Dakoia. Oliver is a student at Waldorf College, Forest City, Towa. Elmer, Flossie, Francis, Williain, Albert and Iferman are at home. Mr. Holte is « member of the Lutheran chureh of Bloomfield in which he has several times held office. In polities he is a Republican but has never aspired to public office.

Melvin Eugene Baker was born in Dlinois, November 28, 1848, son of Lyman J. and Betsy E. (Mason) Baker, natives of New York, who moved to Illinois, where the father followed his trade of stone masonry. In 1856 they came to Spring Valley, later moving to Bloomfield township, near Etna. Here the parents farmed for over thirty years afterward leaving the farm and moving to Spring Valley, where they died. Lyman I. Baker was a veteran of the Civil War and served in Company J, Sixth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. M. E. Baker, the subject of this sketch, was reared near Etna and attended the common schools of the county until eighteen years of age. After he left school he began to learn the carpenter trade which he mastered and at which he continued to work for over fifteen years In Etna. He then moved to Spring Valley. In 1907 he went to Bottineau county, North Dakota, where he was in the contracting and building business. After three years he returned to Spring Valley, where he has since resided. Mr, Baker is a member of the Methodist church and in polities is a prohibitionist. He married Elner Fate, on August 9, 1876, and to them were born five children, two of whom died in infaney. Grenville is a lawyer and resides in North Dakota. Alta married Ralph Price. James is a farmer of Dutton, Montana. The wife and mother died December 2, 1900, and since that time Mr. Baker has made his home with Mrs, Price, his daughter.

E. G. H. Adams was born in Milford, Massachusetts. [is father was a Vermont Yankee, and his mother was born and reared in Massachusetts. When E. G. H. reached the age of three years the Adams family moved to Northfield, Vermont. From the age of three until he was eleven, the boy did odd jobs such as attending the common schools and fishing in summer and coast- ing in winter. At the age of eleven he was transplanted to one of those stony farms in Cabot ''to make a man of him.'' This was against the boy's will. He had no interest in the control of soil conditions or how to preserve the necessary supply of moisture, But the fishing was better than at Northfield, and so was the sport iu winter. So the years passed and one Monday morning he left the farm for Montpelier, the capital of the state, and he next morning entered the office of the '' Argus and Patriot,'' an office famed for its fine job printing and Thomas Jefferson Democracy. Four years later to a day he left the printing office and entered the employ of the Boston and Maine railroad, working his way up to a locomotive engineer. His last year of railroad life was as assistant to the chief clerk of the general passenger and ticket agent of the road, having charge of all the conductors and baggaye masters. He made good use of this year and at its close went to Williamstown, Mass., and the day after his arrival found him manager of five Western Union Telegraph offices, and working No. 6 wire out of Albany, N. Y. At the end of the year he married Emeretta A. Fyler, a Vermont girl, joined the Masons, and came to Spring Valley, Minnesota, on a visit with his wife. He has not apparently got his visit made out for he is still here. He opened up a store and sold goods until the wheat crop failed ; then closed the store, bought a printing press and type, rolled up his sleeves and went to printing. Te is still at it. In August, 1884, Mr. J. Sawtell Ford, of Clicago, offered a cash prize for the best specimen of job printing west of the Mississippi river. The prize was awarded to Mr. Adams, the second prize going to San Francisco, Cal. Mr. Adams was in the service of the U. S. Internal Revenue service under Grover Cleveland's first term. In 1889-1890 and again in 1892 he was the Worshipful Master of Spring Valley Lodge No. 58, A. F. & A. M., and in March, 1911, was elected secretary of the same lodge. The same month he was elected village recorder of Spring Valley. He was re-elected to both offices in 1912. He has one son, Dion Bartley Adams, foreman of the Leicht Press, Winona, Minnesota.

George Vehrenkamp, a progressive and prosperous farmer of Fountain township, was born in Germany, October 17, 1865, son of Dietrich and Louise Vehrenkamp, who spent the span of their years in the Fatherland. He received his education in the land of his birth, and there remained until 1890, when he came to America and located in West Salem, Wis. In 1892, he came to this county and made his home in Fillmore township until 1894, when he purchased his present farm of 200 acres in section thirty-three, Fountain township. He has greatly improved this land, and rebuilt his house and outbuildings. He has also purchased eighty acres in Forestville, which he works in connection with his home place. Mr. Vehrenkamp was married, September 21, 1894, to Dora Kohlmeyer, born June 17, 1872, near West Salem, Wis., daughter of Henry and Maria (Nordbrinck) Kohlmeyer, the former of whom is dead and the latter of whom lives near Wykoff in this county. Mr. and Mrs. Vehrenkamp are the parents of two children: John, born February 5, 1896, and Alvena, born March 4, 1898. The family faith is that of the German Lutheran church.

Palmer Lillie and Martha (Bushnell) Lillie, his wife, pioneers of this county, came from Ohio, in 1858, and settled on section eighteen, Jordan township, where they preempted land. There they resided until some time in the seventies, when they moved to section sixteen, in the same township, and there spent the remainder of their lives, Mr. Lillie dying in March, 1897, at a few days over fifty-two years of age, and his wife in the same month in 1907. These worthy people underwent many hardships in the early days of their residence in this county. Mr. Lillie hauled wheat to Winona by means of an ox team, the trip taking five days. Often on these trips, his wife accompanied him, taking her knitting along, and thus profitably spending her time. Water had to be hauled a long distance, and the wild prairie and timber land required breaking and cultivating. But with the years they prospered, and spent their declining years in comfort. Mrs. Lillie was the daughter of Theodore Bushnell, who was born in 1783, and died in 1845, he being one of the noted Hartland Bushnells of Connecticut. Mr. and Mrs. Lillie had two sons and one daughter. Leon L. and William live in Jordan. Jennie married Alfred Crosby and they have one son, Palmer.

Leon L. Lillie, commissioner of Fillmore county, and one of the leading farmers of Jordan, was born in the township where he still resides, December 3, 1859, son of Palmer and Martha (Bushnell) Lillie, the pioneers. He was reared on the home farm, attending the district schools, and leading the useful life of a boy of his day and generation. In time he started farming on his own account, and gradually built up a successful industry, owning at the present time 190 acres, a part of which he rents. The farm is noted for its stock, and Mr. Lillie raises about 100 Shropshire sheep and about the same number of Poland China and other breeds of hogs each year, in addition to having a fine dairy herd of cows, and about ten blooded Clydesdale horses. All this stock is well housed in modern farm buildings. The family residence, which is a model farmhouse in every particular, was erected in 1905, replacing a former structure which was burned.

Since early youth, Mr. Lillie has taken an interest in public affairs. A staunch Republican in politics he has served in various town offices, was justice of the peace for many years, aud for some twelve years was clerk of school district ninety-eight. Two years ago he was elected to his present county office. Fraternally Mr. Lillie associates with the A. O. U. W., and the Beavers. Ile was married, Deeember 20, 1894, to Sarah Gilerist, daughter of Aaron and Maria (Gardiner) Gilerist, natives of Ireland, who came to Minnesota in 1860, and are now living in Olmsted county. Myr. and Mrs. Lillie have three children: Lucile, born September 13, 1899, Dorris, born August 12, 1900, and Theodore, July 20, 1906, all attending school in their home district.

Mrs. Lucinda Miller Onstine, reputed to be the first public school teacher in Fillmore county, was born at Cross River, New York, September 9, 1837, daughter of Enoch and Sarah Ann (Seofield) Miller, natives of that state. She was educated in the public schools and when seventeen years of age came to Minnesota with her parents, living a while near Winona and later moving to Canton, this county, where she taught school. Then she went to Freeborn county, but soon returned and was married February 27, 1856, to C. C. Onstine, to whom she bore six children: Charles, George, Sylvester, William, Henry and Lulu May. Charles died at the age of seventeen. George died in infancy. Sylvesler was cashier in O'Farrels Bank, and held that position for twelve years. He died at thirty-three years of age. William is deputy game warden at Brainerd, Minn. Henry is a carpenter in Chatfield. In 1868, Mrs. Onstine came to Chatfield, where she has since made her home, with the exception of two years, when she lived at Brainerd, Minn. She is a member of the Episcopal church of Chatfield, and is held in high esteem by all who know her. It is interesting to note that when her parents started for Minnesota, they went to Buffalo, New York, on the canal and from there to Chieago in a sail boat, the trip consuming a month's time. They later settled in Columbia, Wis., and eventually moved to Minnesota. The father died at Santa Moniea, Cal. The mother died in Iowa with her son. Mrs. Onstine's one brother, Harris, fought in the Indian wars in Minnesota and the Dakotas.

Ole Egge, a staunch old citizen of Canton township, was born in Hadeland, Norway, in May, 1839. He came to America in 1870: with his wife and son Ole, and located in Greenfield, Harmony township, where for four years he was employed at various work. At the end of this time he purchased a farm, in section twentythree, Canton township, where he built a frame house and pro- ceeded to cultivate his farm. He is now practically retired from active life, and his son-in-law is looking after the home farm, which comprises eighty acres of land, practically all of which is under cultivation. His wife died November 28, 1906. Ilis children are: Annie R. (deceased), Ole, Bernt, Dena R., Julius, Albert and Martin. Ole and Bernt are in Oregon. Dena R. was born in Canton, attended school in district thirteen, married Carl Soiney and has three children: Bula, Osear and Sidney. Julius lives in Lakewood, Iowa, Albert in Canton, Minn., and Martin in Canada. The family faith is that of the Norwegian Lutheran church.

Anton Erickson, a successi'ul farmer of Canton, was born in 1845, near Christiana, Norway. He came to America with his parents in 1870, and lived a year ona small place which his father purehased in Amherst. The subject of this sketch then went to the township of Norway, where he engaged at his trade as a wagon maker for six years. Then he moved to Canton and purchased a farm in section seventeen. The place consists of eighty acres of well cultivated land, and here My. Erickson has erected a home and barns, and successfully carries on general farming. He married Julia Grunwold, and this union has been blessed with six children: William, Alfred, Mary, Edna, James and Alice. The family worships at the Norwegian Lutheran church at Henrytown.

Elisha Barber, a progressive farmer residing in the township of Preston, was born in West Virginia, March 18, 1869, son of Martin and Mary Barber, who came to Minnesota in 1875 and settled in Carimona, where the father was occupied in general farming until the time of his death. Elisha, the son, received his education in the common schools of Fillmore county, worked for his father on the farm, and since reaching his majority has been a resident of Preston township. He now carries on diversified farming, together with dairying, and his industrious habits are making him suecessful in his work. He married Olive Engebretson, and they are the parents of two children - Elmer E. and Olvin M. Mr. Barber has been elected to serve as one of the supervisors of the township for six successive years, and his record m this capacity has won the confidence of the residents of the community and township. At present he is operating the D. N. Little farm, which is well cultivated and cared for.

Michael Anstett, one of the earliest pioneers, was born in France May 5, 1831, son of George and Katherine (Schwel) Anstett, who lived and died in their native country. In 18538 Michael left his old home, sailed across the ocean and landed in

Canada, where he spent one year, after which he came to the United States and located at Locust Lane, Iowa, where he remained but a short time and then set out on foot for Preston, making the trip in the winter when the ground was white with snow. There was but one house at that time in what is now the village of Preston. The following spring he homesteaded a claim of 160 acres, where he began farming. He later erected a saw mill, which he operated for John Kaercher for three years. In 1862 he purchased some land in section 9, where he built a house and barn and developed and improved the place. For many years he made his home here and with his faithful wife endured many hardships incident to pioneer life. He left the farm in 1886 and moved into Preston village, where he now lives in retirement and eomfort, enjoying the reward of years of activity and industry.

Charles EB. Dunn was born in the township of Preston, October 7, 1876, son of Samuel S. and Theodosia (Halsey) Dunn, passed the years of his boyhood acquiring an education and fitting himself for the useful life of a successful farmer, and now carries on farming operations on the old homestead, which comprises 120 aeres of well improved land, made more productive and valuable each succeeding year under his careful management. Samuel 8. Dunu, his father, was a native of Huntington county, New Jersey, and he came west to Wisconsin in 1856, where he followed agricultural pursuits until 1864, at which time he came to Minnesota and located in section thirty-five, Preston township, where he erected a handsome stone residence and passed the remainder of his life. To himself and wife eleven children were born, William I., Ella, Lucy A., George H., Orel J., Alice, Marcus, Norman, Elwood, Herbert and Charles E. Mr. Dunn departed this life in 1907, and his widow died two years later. They were estimable people, who had borne the hardships and privations incident to the life of early settlers, but had overcome great difficulties, and advanced toward prosperity each year.

Samuel Anstett, a well-known Preston farmer, was born in this township, February 26, 1866, son of Michael and Katherine (Moebs) Anstett, early pioneers. He was engaged during the brief period of boyhood in attending school and assisting his father with the multitudinous duties of a farmer's life, and so paved the way for his success. In 1886 he took entire charge of the old homestead and is successfully carrying on general farming there now, making a specialty of raising Shorthorn cattle. His farm comprises 240 acres and he owns in addition to this another farm of 120 acres located in section 16. In 1904 Mr. Anstett erected a new house and good outbuildings and in many ways he has greatly improved his property. He is secretary of the Preston and Harmony Telephone Company, which was incorporated in 1909, and he has always taken an active interest in the general improvement of the township in which he was born and grew to manhood and where he now resides. Anna Zimmerman became his wife, and their marriage has resulted in the birth of three children - Pearl, Stella and Bessie.

C. Webster Hill was born on section 33, Harmony township, where he still resides, September 6, 1858, son of Charles R. and Sarah Hill, natives of New York state. C. R. was born in Allegheny county in 1814 and in his twenty-third year moved to St. Joseph county, Michigan, and was married. They made their home in Michigan till 1852, in which year Mr. Hill, in company with a number of his acquaintances, went to California. They drove ox teams the entire distance and a whole day of exceedingly hard work was needed to cover the distance we now go in an hour in a comfortable train. In 1855 he returned from California and moved his family from Michigan to Fillmore county, Minnesota. He here took the claim where his son, C. W., now lives. It was here the elder Hills made their home and lived the pioneer life of those days. In the month of March, 1878, the mother died, and in the same month twenty-one years later C. R. Hill died. They were the parents of five children - Homer, Jane, Harriett, C. Webster and George Washington. After C. Webster had completed the work in the common schools of the township he went to South Dakota in 1879 and located a homestead, but did not remain there long. The next seven years he spent in travel, research and adventure, and in 1886 he returned and bought the old family home in Harmony and since has followed the stock business and general farming. Although he ships many cattle and much other stock from Harmony, and his business in this line is extensive, his farm has not been neglected. It is well cultivated and cared for in all departments, buildings are well repaired and renewed as necessary, and the entire farm bespeaks the enterprise and progress of the proprietor. In 1888 he married Lois Haskins, and to this union have been born five children - Virginia, Dwight, Joseph, Hazel and Helen, all of whom are at home. Mr. Hill is a Republican and has served as treasurer of school district 44 some years.

Francis Edwin Titus was born in the village of Vienna, now called Phelps, Ontario county, New York, July 21, 1846. He is of Pilgrim-Puritan blood; at least one of his ancestors was a passenger on the Mayflower, which came to Plynrouth, Massachusetts, in 1620. One of his ancestors was among those who responded to the call of Paul Revere at Lexington. Two of his great-grandfathers were with Putnam and Warren at Bunker Hill. None of his ancestors are known to have come to America later than 1635. Like the rest of those pioneers they were inured to hardships and privations, which produce 2 sturdy race. In 1855 he moved with his mother, his father having died before he was a year old, and an older brother to Kane county, Illinois, in Blackberry township, and also spent about a year in Batavia. In 1857 he came to Fillmore county, Minnesota, living the first year in a_ vyeritable log eabin with a puncheon floor and a shake roof, in Canton township, on what is now the Maland farm, about one and a quarter miles west from Lenora. In 1858 he moved to and grew to manhood on a farm in section 84 in Amhersi township. excepting one year, which he spent in Wolworth county, Wisconsin. He attended school in the Henrytown district, and also attended the Chatfield High School part of two winter terms, but had to leave both terms on aceount of sickness. Althongh he attended sehoo! in two districts in the state of New York, three districts in illinois, one district in Wisconsin and two in Minnesota, still his school advantages have been very limited; but being naturally a student and improving all opportunities, supplemented with study at home, which he still continues, he ranks with the best educated people of Fillmore county. He worked on the farm in Amherst township, which he now owns, at first with an uncle and afterwards with his mother as housekeeper until, on account of poor health and his mother being an invalid, he moved to the village of Lenora, Minnesota, in 1870, where he has since resided with the exception of sixteen months' residence in Bixby township, Perkins county, South Dakota, where he filed on a homestead in November, 1909, and lived thereon until August, 1911, when he commuted for his homestead and returned to Lenora, Minnesota. He worked for a number of years in Lenora at broommaking and at photography for awhile. He was always a great reader. His house always was and is well supplied with books, papers and magazines. He was always well informed and took great interest in current events and especially in national politics, seldom in a partisan way but in a patriotic way, from the standpoint of a free, independent American citizen. He has been writing articles. for the loeal press as the spirit moved for about twenty years, expressing himself on nearly all important subjects that have come before the American people - tariff, finance, education, temperance, our colonial policy, ete., ete. He has delivered addresses: on Memorial day, Fourth of July, old settlers' day, and on the stump. He was a justice of the peace for nearly eighteen years, or until he refused to qualify again. He was on the school board' for twenty-six consecutive years, an officer of numerous local organizations and a notary public. He is the pioneer advocate of simplified spelling in Fillmore county. He has published several articles on this subject in the ''Preston Times. '' He addressed the graduating class of the eighth grade of the district schools of this county and their parents and friends in Preston, June 27, 1912, and secured thirty-eight signatures to an agreement to help introduce and adopt simplified spelling, thus starting the ball rolling in this county. Ile is a single man.

Harry T. Olin, the popular druggist of Wykolf, was born at Brookings, South Dakota, in February, 1888, son of T. P. Olin. When but a small boy the subject of this biography was brought to Red Wing by his parents, where he grew to manhood and received his education, completing the high school course in that eity. After finishing school he began the study of drugs in 1889 and he received a state diploma in 1904. He was employed by Charles T. Heller in St. Paul for a period of five years, after which he came to Wykoff and bought out Osear Hargesheimer. He now operates the store under the name of Olin Drug Store, and carries on a rapidly increasing and successful business, handling wall paper of all grades as well as keeping a valuable stock of drugs. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party, but is independent in his views. He is a member of the National Association of American Druggists, and is respected as an energetic and progressive citizen.

Albert Tbach, a representative farmer of Carimona township, is a native of Germany, born November 18, 1847, son of Joseph and Mary Ibach, who left the shores of the fatherland in 1853 and sailed across the briny deep for the United States, bringing with them their two sons - Albert and George. For one year after their arrival in this country they made their home in Buffalo, New York, after which they came West to Dubuque, Iowa. After spending two years in Iowa the family moved to Minnesota and located in section 14, Carimona township, where the father engaged in diversified farming. Albert, the subject of this biography, grew to manhood in Minnesota and received his education in the schools of Fillmore county. Upon reaching 18 years of age he secured employment of his brother, Joseph, in the Preston brewery, the framework of which institution was built in 1858 by Joseph Ibach, Albert's brother. At various periods Mr. Jbach was engaged in assisting his father on the farm, and eventually he purchased some land in section 28, where he established his home and carried on farming operations, being engaged in this occupation at the present time. This farm was purchased in

1887 and has been well improved and rendered more productive each year by Mr. Jbach, who is an energetic and industrious farmer. To himself and wife, who before her marriage to Mr. Ibach was Emma War, seven children have been born.

Fred Stede, a progressive farmer of the township of Preston, was born in the Province Waldeck, Germany, January 31, 1865. He acquired his education in the schools of his native land and after completing his studies served in the German army for a period of three years, being a soldier in the Highty-third Regiment, Battalion No. 3, Company 10. He crossed the ocean in 1888 and came to America, then proceeding West and settling in Minnesota. For a short time he lived in Preston village, after which he went to Harmony, where he worked out for four years. In 1901 he purchased a farm in section 21, which he operated for seven years, after which he bought his present home and property, where he carries on general farming together with some stock raising. His farm of 160 acres is well tilled and a valuable producer of grain. Mr. Stede has made many improvements on his possessions and he is both industrious and frugal in his habits, thus respected by his fellow men.

James 0, McNee, a prosperous farmer residing in Bloomfield township, was born in Delaware county, New York, January 23, 1846, son of William B. and Susan Jane (Craig) McNee. The father came to Minnesota in 1855, preémpted land in this county, and here passed the remainder of his years, his death occurring January 23, 1904, when he had reached the advanced age of eighty-cight years. James, the subject of this sketch, was edueated in the common district school near home and later completed his studies in Spring Valley, after which he assisted his father with the work on the farm. In 1869 he met with an accident whereby he lost an arm, and this incapacitated him for farm labor so he accepted a position teaching school and continued in this occupation until he was forty-four years of age. In 1884 he purchased a tract in section 23, where he carries on general farming and dairying, his entire holdings in the township comprising 425 acres, part of which he rents. Mr. MeNee is a staunch Republiean, and his ability has been recognized by the people in his township, who have elected him to serve as town elerk for fourteen years. He has also been census enumerator, and a member of the school board in district 109 for many years, serving with good sense and judgment in all offices to which he has been elected. He is a stockholder in the Farmers' store of Spring Valley, also in the Telephone Company. On September 17, 1890, he was united in marriage to Anna Katherine Sikkink, and this marriage has been blessed with three children - James C., Jr., born July 4, 1896; Robert E., born January 26, 1901, and William, born August 11, 1891, and died January 7, 1894. Mrs. Anna Katherine (Sikkink) McNee was born at Ratum, Winterswyk, Holland, March 31, 1862, daughter of William and Jennie (Grepik) Sikkink.

Virgil Dryden Smith was born in Illinois, August 3, 1852, son of Dryden and Elizabeth (Hines) Smith. As a youth he attended the public schools of Spring Valley and a private school at Decorah, Iowa, and remained at home until twenty-three years of ago, farming on the home place for his father. Later, in partnership with his brother, Hamilton, now in Tennessee, he farmed on section 34, Spring Valley township. In 1875 he went to lowa and located in Waverly, where he took up painting and paperhanging, in which lines he has continued to the present time. He remained in Waverly three years, and then went to Waterloo, in the same state, and there followed his trade till 1900. Business in connection with the family estate then called him back to Spring Valley, where he has since made his home. Mr. Smith ig a man of independent mind, but votes with the Republican party. He has never sought public offices, but has always taken an active part in politics as the duty of a good citizen. Gov. A. O. Eberhard appointed him game warden in February, 1911, and he still retaing that office. Mr. Smith has a pleasant home in the southern part of Spring Valley, where he and his sisters, Mrs. Fannie C. Kelley and Ada Smith, reside.

Dryden Smith, now deceased, was one whose work was 80 much a part of the development of Fillmore county that any history of this locality which did not touch on his career would fail to give a true idea of the men and affairs which have worked together to the advantage of the present generations. He was born in Pike county, Dlinois, March 10, 1826, son of John M. Smith, and being fond of school and studies as a boy was no less a student as he grew older. In 1848 he began the study of law in the office of Attorney White, in Warren county, Illinois, and was admitted to the bar in Decorah, Iowa, where he began practice in 1854, being associated with some of Iowa's most brilliant legal minds. He came to Spring Valley in 1860 and was admitted to the Minnesota bar. Mr. Smith was a man of broad human sympathy and during his long residence here he often adjusted misunderstandings and differences of opinion which with considerable financial profit to himself he might have carried to the courts. He was three times elected probate judge. -As an indication of the democracy of both the man and the times it may be said that during his term of office he often walked to Preston early Monday morning after a Sunday spent at Spring Valley. In 1890 because of poor health it was necessary for him to discontinue his legal activities and from that time till his death he lived a retired life. He died February 22, 1900. His wife died January 18,1904. They were the parents of ten children - Hamilton H., of Talahome, Tennessee; Virgil D., of Spring Valley; Mary E., now Mrs. Joseph P. Meighen, of Beaver township ; Fannie C. Kelley, of Spring Valley; John M., deceased; Edward E., of Minneapolis; Florence N., now Mrs. Loren Nash, of Spring Valley township; Josie E., now Mrs. John Granahan, of Litchfield, Minnesota; Milton, of Minneapolis, and Ada A., of Spring Valley. Ada A. has taught school in this county for the past fifteen years. Mrs. Fannie C. Kelley is a teacher, an occupation she has followed for about forty years, largely in this and Houston counties, but also teaching for a time both public and private schools in Tennessee.

Charles H. Smith, president of the First State Bank of Spring Valley, was born in Crawford county, Pennsylvania, April 15, 1855, son of Nelson B. and Celestine A. Smith, both native Pennsylvanians, who came to Spring Valley in 1856, for five years conducted the Commercial House, and later went to Big Stone Lake where they conducted the Lake House, subsequently selling this and going to Madison, South Dakota, where the father and the son Carles H. had land and other interests. The father died seme years ago and the mother still resides in Madison, South Dakota. Charles IH. came to Fillmore county when a small child, graduated from the common and high schools of Spring Valley, and has since spent a large part of his life here. For more than ten years he was in the hotel business with his father at Spring Valley and at Big Stone Lake. Later he became interested in the vicinity of Madison, South Dakota, where he, together with his mother, at present owns 2,000 acres of land and where for twelve years he gave his entire time to the organization and upbuilding of a grist mill and a creamery business. Some years ago he returned to Spring Valley to assume charge of the W. H. Strong estate and attend to the general business and loans. Later he became president of the First State Bank of Spring Valley, which position he still occupies. He also retains his extensive business interests in South Dakota and spends a part of each year there. Mr. Smith was married September 23, 1893, to Homa A. Strong, and to them have been born three children. Pearl M. is a graduate of the Spring Valley high school, and of Miss Mill's school of oratory of St. Paul, having also taken a post graduate course at the Emmons school of expression of Chicago. William

H. graduated from ihe Spring Valley high schoo] and from the. Northern Military Academy of Highland Park, UL, being now a student at Hamline University. <Aurilla, a gradnate of Spring Valley high school, is now a student at Ferry Hall, Lake Forest, Ul. After completing her course there, she wil enter Wellesly College. Asa public spirited man, Mr. Smith is treasurer of the Spring Valley Cemetery Association, president of the Spring Valley Automobile Club, and member of the Spring Valley Commercial Club, Religiously, he is president of the board of trustees of the Methodist 1 piscopal church, to which body he and the members of his family have been liberal contributors. Fraternally he associates with Spring Valley Lodge, No. 58, A. F. & A. M., and with Robert Morris Chapter.

Anton M. Hanson, a highly respected farmer of Bloomfield township, was born on the farm which he now occupies, March 28, 1870, son of Gilbert and Martha (Thorson) Wanson. He went to the country school near home, and as he advanced in his studies, eame 10 Spring Valley, where he attended school twa terms, after which he went to the Decorah Institute for several terms, and then took a term's work in the State Agricultural College at Minneapolis. Then he taught school three terms in district 111, and in 1896 assumed charge of the home farm which eomprises 160 acres. He now carries on diversified farming, and keeps about thirty head of Shorthorn cattle, raises many Duroc Jersey hogs, for which he finds ready market, and keeps a nuinber of horses of a good graded stock. My. Hanson is a progressive Republican, and has been elected to serve in some of the responsible public offices in the township. He has held various school offices, and is now serving his second term as town clerk. Among other offices of trust which he has oceupied, are cirector of the Ostrander Creamery and secretary of the Ostrander and Cherry Grove Telephone Co. He is also treasurer of the Ostrander Lutheran church, of which he is an esteemed member. On November 25, 1897, Mr. Hanson married Emma Heimsness, daughter of Jens Heimsness of Beaver township, and three children have been born to hless their home: Alpha, Geneva and Theodore.

Gilbert Hanson, deceased, one of the pioneers of Fillmore county, was born in Norway, where he grew to manhood and was educated, later becoming a farmer. In 1854, he left the land of his birth and crossed the ocean to America, and in 1857 homesteaded the farm which is now occupied by his son Anton, in Bloomfield township, section thirty-three. During the Civil War, Mr. Hanson enlisted in Company J, First Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and fought for his adopted country until the close of the struggle, after which he returned to his farm in this county. In 1864 he married Martha Thorson and to this union have been born ten children: Matilda, Lewis G., Josephine, Anton, Henry C., Clara (deceased), Oscar, Clara, John and Gina. Mrs. Hanson died July 26, 1894, and Mr. Hanson, January 29, 1896.

William Warner Reynolds was born March 23, 1863, in Greensboro county, North Carolina, son of William R. and Rachel (Hodgson) Reynolds, natives respectively of Grayson county, Virginia and North Carolina, who moved from North Carolina to Indiana and after living there about five years, came to Minnesota and settled in Sumner township, purchasing, in 1877, a farm on section twenty, Jordan, where they lived the remainder of their days, passing away within a month of each other during 1905. William W., the son, received a common school education and worked on the home farm with his father. When he was twenty-five years of age he went to North Dakota, where he took a homestead and remained for eleven years, carrying on general farming. In 1889 he returned to Minnesota and worked in Jordan township for three years, after which he moved to his present location in Sumner. Here he purchased the T. 0. Kilborn mill which he has since continuously operated with the exception of the past severe winter. Jn connection with his milling interests, Mr. Reynolds also engages in farming, though on a small scale. He is affiliated with the Republican party and while never an office secker, has been treasurer of the school district 124-for five years. On November 14, 1888, he married Elizabeth Shoultz, born October 6, 1867, and they are the parents of one son, Clarence Vernon, born February 1, 1891. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and are held in high esteem throughout the community. Elizabeth (Shoultz) Reynolds was the daughter of Henry Shoultz and Anna (Dufford) Shoultz, natives of Pennsylvania. They came to this county in 1871, and engaged in farming in Fillmore township, where the father died in December, 1908. The mother is now living in Neilsville, Wis.

0. A. Wallace, progressive farmer residing in Sumner township, was born east of Spring Valley on January 3, 1870, son of Alhert and Emma Wallace, natives of Vermont and England respectively, who came to Minnesota in the early fifties and settled east of Spring Valley in Fillmore township, where they lived until 1880, the father being employed as carpenter. They are now residents of the state of Washington. O. A., the son, was given a common school education and later attended the high school in Spring Valley until he became sixteen years of age. In 1886 he secured employment as a grocery clerk, first in Wash- burn's store and then in Molstad's store. Later he was clerk in the post office, after which he was employed by the James A. Smith Lumber Co. During the year of 1907, Mr. Wallace moved to Sumner township and bought 240 acres of land in section thirty-three and forty acres in Spring Valley township adjoining, where he carries on general farming. He raises shorthorn cattle for dairy purposes and disposes of cream at the Racine creamery. He also raises Percheron horses and Poland China hogs. In November, 1900, he married Louise Nickel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Nickel, both now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Wallace have one daughter, Thelma, and they have also taken an orphan boy into their home. In political opinions, the subject of this sketch is independent and has never sought public office.

D. N. St. John was born in Otsego county, New York, October 16, 1837, son of James Harvey and Priscilla (Newcomb) St. John, natives of New York state, where they lived till 1844, when they came west and settled in Polk township, Washington county, 'Wisconsin, where the father homesteaded a claim, lived and raised his family. The subject of this sketch grew to manhood in Wisconsin and received his education in the common schools which he remembers as rather crudely prepared to give young America its life education. When he was thirty-one years of age he came to this county and purchased eighty acres in section thirty-two, Sumner township, which has since been his home, the house he first erected on his land being a part of the family dwelling of today. Since the first few years of preparing his farm for cultivation he has followed general farming, and now has @ well tilled farm and a very cozy and comfortable home. Mr. St. John is a man of wide interests and has taken a lively interest in the political issues and in local improvement projects. In politics he is a Republican and has been chairman of the town the past six years, a position which he still occupies, having been @ member of the town board more than twenty-five years. He has also been a member of the school board in district 126 many years, When dairying first came under consideration he felt that it was a means of further development for Minnesota and assisted in the organization of the Spring Valley Creamery of which he was for several years one of the managers. For the past twenty years he has been interested in the German American Fire Insuranee Company of Spring Valley, of which he is now vice president and a director as well as local representative. On December 23, 1860, Mr. St. John was married to Laura Brown and to them were born nine children. Ada A. married E. W. Loucks and now lives in Saskatchewan, Canada. George E. lives in Burton, Washington. Lewis D. died in infancy. Emma died in infancy. Ellen died when twenty-two years old. Rtth, who is now deceased, married James H. Richards. Bruce is at home. Charles B. is a restaurant owner in St. Paul, Minn. Laura Blanche married James A. Fisk, of Mankato, Minnesota. On June 24, 1890, the wife and mother died and on November 15, 1892, Mr. St. John married Caroline Hinze. To them have been born two children, Ernest Elias of Saskatchewan, Canada, and Altha Alice, who is at home.

Frederick W. Jeche, extensive land owner and successful farmer residing in Sumner township, was born in Fillmore township, April 20, 1869, son of Frederick and Freiert (Ernstine) Jeche, natives of Germany, who came to this county in 1867 and homesteaded iu section twenty-nine, Fillmore township, where they made their home until the father's death in August, 1906, the mother now living with Mrs. Fred Freiheit, in Fillmore. Frederick W. attended school until sixteen years of age, after which he devoted his whole attention to working the home farm with his father. In 1897 he started for himself, by purchasing 260 acres in section twenty-four, Sumner, to which he has since added 120, now owning 380 acres. Here Mr. Jeche earried on scientific farming for many years and 1n his life's chosen occupation became most prosperous. He erected a fine house and good barns and also built a house and barns for his tenant, who now operates the farm. Mr. Jeche has practieally retired from the activities of farming but still resides on the old home place. [lis eattle are Shorthorns; and the hogs, which number about fifty, zre of the Poland China breed. He also raises horses for home nse and for sale and owns several valuable Belgian brood mares. In politieal opinions, Mr. Jeche is independeut, voting for principle rather than party. For two years he served as treasurer of school district 124. Alvina Freiheit of Fillmore township became his wife on December 5, 1895, and to them have been born Alma and Alfred, both of whom are students attending school and living at home. The family faith is that of the Lutheran church.

Henry Hockema was born in Folland and came to the United States in 1860. He was married in Wisconsin to Elizabeth DuMez, and together they came to this county and purchased 180 acres in section fourteeu, Sumuer township. In 1871 he built the fine brick residence, whieh now stauds; and he also erected barns and the necessary outbuildings, for the shelter of his stock and farm erops. When Mr. Hockema bought this farm it was somewhat improved, and as he toiled from year to year and prospered, it became one of the well kept places in the locality. He made a specialty of raising pure bred Holstein cattle and made two trips back to his native country to purchase the nucleus of his herd. lie was ever an industrious man, respected by the people with whom he had to deal, whether in business or social interests. He was a member of the school board and held other town offices. His death oceurred on February 27, 1909, and his widow survived him for two years, then passed away October 14, 1911. They were parents of seven children.

H. C. Hockema was born in the house in which he now resides, January 3, 1883, son of Henry and Elizabeth (DuMez) Hockema. At the age of sixteen he completed his studies in the district schools and afterward devoted his time and attention to assisting his father with the farm work. He now farms 300 acres of land and raises Shorthorn cattle which he disposes of to the markets, breeds from sixty to seventy-five Duroc Jersey hogs each year and keeps twelve horses with which to carry on the farm work. He affiliates with the Republican party but has not served in public office, He married Matie, daughter of J. H. Fauver, on August 3, 1905, and to them have been born two children, Marjory and Henry.

Charles Ellenberg was born in Sumner township, February 15, 1861, son of Henry and Margaret (Peters) Ellenberg, natives of Germany, who came to the United States in 1853 and to Sumner township in 1860, settling on sections thirty-four and twentyseven, the father dying in February, 1903, and the mother continuing to live on the home farm with her son Charles at the present time. Charles Ellenberg was edueated in the common schools and after finishing his schooling assisted his parents on the farm. He now owns 200 aeres of land in sections twenty-seven and thirtyfour, Sumner, where he earries on general farming. In polities he is a Republican but has never aspired to public office, although he has served several years as road overseer. Being socially inclined he is a member of Racine Camp, Modern Woodmen of Aincrica. On October 16, 1888, he married Alice Williams, a danghter of Uriah Williams of Sumner and to them have been born three children. Henry Lawrence is a student at the Spring Valley schools. Roy Edwin is at home assisting his father. Sarah Margaret is a student at Racine, Minnesota. The family faith is that of the Evangelical church at Sumner.

Uriah Williams was born in Highland county, Ohio, May 7, 1831, son of Flias and Perninah Williams, natives of Ohio, who in later life moved to Missouri, where they remained to the end of their lives, the father dying at the advanced age of ninety-seven years. The subject of this sketch lived in Ohio till sixteen years of age and then came west and located in Morgan county, Illinois, where he lived eight years. In 1855 he came to Sumner township and preempted a claim on sections twenty-three and sixteen. He worked out five years and in 1860 built a house of his land which at present forms a part of the home dwelling. In the earlier years he followed the usual idea of raising wheat, but after the wheat failures he has been interested to some extent in feeding cattle for the market. Mr. Williams has always voted with the Republican party. Although he has never sought public office he has been a member of the school board in district 123 for more than seventeen years, as well as chairman of the town board, supervisor and assessor, serving in various capacities until he finally refused to accept further official responsibilities. In April, 1860, he married Sarah Meriman, a native of Indiana and to them were born eight children. Frank Louis is a farmer in Sumner township. Henry lives in North Dakota. Minerva is deceased. Alice married Charles Ellenberg of Sumner township. A. J. is at the home plage with his father. Ralph lives in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Mary Agnes and Clara May are deceased. Mrs. Williams died in February, 1883.

Albert E, Doten, one of the successful farmers of Sumner township, was born in Wisconsin, September 8, 1859, son of Edward and Julia (Darling) Doten. When he was five years of age his parents moved to Massachusetts where his father enlisted in the Fifty-eighth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, and where the family remained while the father was in the war. After his return they came west once more and settled in Sumner township, this county, purchasing land in section twenty-two, where the father and mother lived till 1892 when they moved to Spring Valley where the father died and where the mother is still living. The subject of this sketch received his early education in the common schools and later in the high schools of Chatfield and Spring Valley. Having completed his high school work he entered the Minnesota State University, and took the four years' classical course. Thus prepared, he taught school several years in Fillmore and Martin counties, this state, as well as in South Dakota. While engaged as a teacher he also took advantage of his opportunities in getting in possession of valuable land which at that time was available under the homestead laws. In 1901 he purehased the present family home in Sumner township, now owning 200 acres of valuable land. Mr. Doten is a fine type of the modern educated farmer, and is ever ready to work for the good and advancement of the community. A Republican in polities, he has served in his present position of town clerk for the past eight years, and has been clerk of district 122 for nine years. In 1893 he married

J, F. Ballinger And Family

Clara Wooldridge, born November 8, 1862, daughter of Edward Wooldridge. Mr. and Mrs. Doten have six children. Helen is a student in the Spring Valley schools. Laurence, Agnes, Harlan, Olive and Stanley are all at home.

C. O. Comstock was born in Michigan, May 3, 1831, son of Milo and Peace (Perry) Comstock. He received his schooling in his native state and assisted his parents on the home farm. <As a boy he had a desire to see the western country and early in life determined to satisfy this longing. In 1877 he went to Texas and while there saw and still relates with much enthusiasm the events of the early days on what was then the western fronticr. In 1854 he came to Minnesota and secured 160 acres on sections twentynine and thirty-two, where he has since made his home. In polities he has always been a Whig and a Republican but has never sought public offices, although he consented to serve as town supervisor one term. He was married in February, 1855, to Katherine Carter, who died in 1887. To this union were born five children of whom four are living. Clara Jane married James Richards and now lives in California. Roby Ann married Henry Parker and lives in California. Addison J. is in business in Rochester, Minn. W. H. is at home and takes care of his father in his declining years. Joseph E. died of typhoid fever in 1876:

W. H. Comstock was born on his father's farm in Sumner township, April 13, 1864, and attended the common schools of the county until about cighteen years of age. Then for a number of years he continued to work on the home place for his father. He has here made his home to the present time but has been in the Southwest for long periods at different times. In 1902 he went to Texas and New Mexico and in the latter state took up a homestead which he held long enough to secure a clear title and then worked some years. In politics he is a Republican but never sought public office.

James F. Ballinger was born in Sauk county, Wisconsin, February 26, 1866, son of Ain and Minerva (Bailey) Ballinger, who are at present both residents of Wisconsin. The subject of this sketch grew to manhood in Wisconsin and received his education in the common schools until he was about nineteen years of age. Tle then came to Minnesota and worked out for H. E. King of Sumner township for ten years. In 1895 he bought land in sections nineteen and thirty, in Sumner township. He has added to this from time to time till he now owns 440 acres in Sumner and eighty acres in Mower county as well as 400 acres in western Wisconsin. He has made nearly all the improvements on his place, and owns a fine equipment of farm buildings, having a different set of buildings for each of the three farms into which his land is divided. He farms all his land in Sumner himself except 200 acres, and though following general farming, he keeps a large number of Shorthorn cattle and raises from sixty to seventy-five Poland China hogs annually. He also raises Percheron horses for his farm purposes and for the market. On December 25, 1894, he married Alta King, daughter of H. E. King, and to them have been born four children. Earl is a student in the Spring Valley high school. Homer, Roy and Ozro are all at home. Mr. Ballinger is a member of the Methodist church of Racine, Minnesota. In polities he is a Republican and has been director in school district 126 for more than fifteen years and also constable, though he has never sought offices and would prefer not to aecept them. He is very socially inclined but has never joined any fraternities. He is a stockholder and director in the Racine creamery; a stockholder and director in the Racine State Bank, and a stockholder jn the First National Bank, at Spring Valley.