Fillmore County, Minnesota - The whole text, 1912 (part 12 of 20)

Mark Seeley was born in the town of Avon, Loraine county, Ohio, September 3, 1838, and removed to Harvard, MeHenry eounty, Ill., with his parents when eleven years of age, there receiving his education and growing to manhood. In the fall of 1861 he eame to this county and located in Beaver township, where he purchased eighty aeres of land, on which was a small log cabin, in which the family found a temporary home. As time passed he prospered by dint of hard labor, added to his land until he owned 320 acres, erected a good farm dwelling and a substantial set of outbuildings, and became one of the representative farmers of the township. In 1899 he rented his farm, purchased a home in Spring Valley and retired from active labor. In 1907 he sold his Spring Valley home and moved to San Jose, Cal., where he and his wife are now spending their declining years in quiet and peace. Mr. Seeley was married in this county in December, 1867, to Luella G. Baker, born in Delhi, Delaware county, Iowa, September 30, 1849. Mr. and Mrs. Seeley were the parents of two children: William A. and Jennie M. William A. lives in Spring Valley; Jennie M. is now Mrs. Leross Rix, San Jose, Cal., and has three children: Ruth, Calvin and Paul.

Joseph Richards, Sr., now deceased, was born in England, January 28, 1828, learned the stonecutter's trade as a young man, and came to America in 1852. He worked at his trade and at bridge constructing in Canada and the United States for several years. In 1856 he was married and in 1857 the young couple came to the farm in York township, where they lived the remainder of their days. Mr. Richards became a prominent man, took a great interest in school matters, served on school and town boards, and was greatly an ardent friend of every movement for the cooperation and betterment of the farmers, being a stockholder in the elevator at Lime Springs and the creamery at Chester. After a useful life, which was filled with good works, he died, July 15, 1912, at the age of eighty-four years, five months and thirteen days. Ilis wife, Elizabeth Ann Vincent, also a native of Cornwall, England, whom he married at Rouses Point, N. Y., July 27, 1856, died in 1904. They were the parents of nine children, three of whom died in infancy. Martha, who married W. C. Love, and Ruth, who married Frank Ogg, are dead; Mary is the wife of

John Love, of Fargo, N. D.; Joseph, Jr., lives on the home farm in York; John and William live in Sandstone, Minn. As an early pioneer Mr. Richards learned all of the hardships of those trying times of the late fifties. Ilis prosperity was won honestly, through hard work. His convictions, which were in advance of his times, were those which in the present year are gaining such favor throughout the nation. Living in a community where many of the pioneers were unlearned, he labored earnestly for the betterment of the schools, and lived to see his wishes realized. He was a useful, prominent, prosperous, substantial and Godfearing citizen, and his memory will ever be cherished.

Joseph Richards, Jr., a substantial and worthy citizen of York township, was born on section ten, where he still resides, November 1, 1864, son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Vincent) Richards. He received his early education in the district schools of his township, then attended the Preston High School, and supplemented this with a course in the Breckenridge Institute, at Decorah, Iowa. He also taught school one term. Thus equipped with a good business education, he started out in life as a farmer, working on his father's place with his parents until 1894, when he purchased eighty acres of the farm, erected a comfortable home and engaged in diversified farming on his own account. In addition to this he owns a half interest in, and operates, the property left by his father. Mr. Richards is one of the progressive farmers of York township, and, like his father, is of sterling character, and ever ready to help in the promotion of whatever may be for the betterment of his town and county. For seventeen years he served judiciously as justice of the peace, was chairman of his town for one term, and is now a member of the school board. He was married December 11, 1895, to Nina MeKenzie, who has proved a most efficient helpmate, a good wife and a loving mother. To them one child, Lloyd, was born, November 9, 1896. He is the pride of their household and is doing well with his studies in the Spring Valley High School.

E. G. Washburn, Spring Valley's successful and esteemed photographer, was born in Franklin county, New York, October 5, 1864, son of Charles and Emeroy (Baker) Washburn, natives of Vermont, who came to Spring Valley from New York in 1865 and now reside with the subject of this sketch, the father being a carpenter by trade. E. G. received the rudiments of his education in the schools of this village, and later attended the Illinois Normal School, after which he took a course in the Dixon (IM) Business College. Thus equipped with a good education, he entered the business world in the capacity of bookkeeper for Rice &

Lashbrook, grocers, in Austin, Minn. He remained with this concern for two years, and then entered the photographie studio of L. M. Schofield, with whom he formed a partnership, which continued through the year of 1889. Some time later Mr. Washburn entered the furniture and undertaking business in Spring Valley, but, deciding that the work of photography appealed most strongly to him, he eventually bought out Mr. Schofield, and has since conducted the business on his own responsibility. The success with which he has met in his chosen occupation is evidenced by his finely equipped studio, the artistic quality of his photographs, and, above all, his ever-increasing patronage. Mr, Washburn is a part owner of the F. E. Miland general merchandise store, located in Racine, which is carrying on a prosperous business, In political convictions the subject of this sketch adheres to the principles endorsed by the Republican party, and he has been elected to serve in many prominent offices. He has been village recorder for nine years, and a member of the schoo) board for six years. For eight years Mr. Washburn was a member of the Minnesota National Guard and a bugler in his company. He has also been a member of the Spring Valley Brass Band. Fraternally, Mv. Washburn affiliates with the Masonic order, and he has been worthy master of the blue lodge. October 19, 1897, he married Nellie Miland, and they are the parents of two children: Harry M., born April 15, 1900; and Marian E., born April 16, 1905. '

Joseph Peter Meighen, proprictor of ''Red Oaks,'' and since April, 1888 a resident of the town of Beaver, came to Fillmore county when a small boy, in 1855. He has watched the county grow from a pioneer community to its present thriving and prosperous condition. He was born in Vinegar Hill township, Jo Daviess county, Illinois, February 18, 1852, son of Felix Meighen and Eliza Jane (Foster) Meighen, who brought him to Forestville township when three years old. He received his education in the public school at Forestville and in St. John's College, Prairie du Chien, Wis. His father conducted an extensive mercantile business at Forestville during Mr. Meighen's youth, and he there received a practical business training, spending several years of his young manhood in partial charge of the business. November 238, 1876, at Forestville, Minn., he married Mary Elizabeth Smith. She was a daughter of Judge Dryden Smith and Elizabeth Ann (Hines) Smith, both pioneer residents of Spring Valley. Born July 14, 1854, at Decorah, Iowa, she came to Spring Valley with her parents in 1860. At the age of thirteen she was signally honored by receiving a second grade teacher's certificate on competitive examination from County

Superintendent of Schools D. L. Kiehle. In May, 1871, she commenced teaching in the public schools at Etna, and from that time until her marriage was engaged in public school work, teaching at Rushford, Fountain, Spring Valley, Grand Meadow and elsewhere. Two children were born of the marriage. The elder, John Felix Dryden Meighen, was born at Spring Valley, Minn., September 25, 1877. He is now a practicing lawyer at Albert Lea, Minn. The younger, Thomas Virgil William Meighen, was horn at "'Red Oaks,'' in the town of Beaver, October 29, 1893. He is still in college. From their marriage, in 1876, until April, 1888, Mr. and Mrs. Meighen resided most of the time in the village of Forestville. Sinee April, 1888, they have lived at "*Red Oaks,'' in the town of Beaver. Mr. Meighen is a member of the M. W. A., of the I. O. O. F. and of the Odd Fellows Eneampment. Tle belongs to the progressive element im the Democratie party and has always taken a keen interest in polities. For years he has been an officer of the local school district and at various times has held the office of town supervisor, justice of the peace and other town offices. His residence is one of the most attractive, both in beauty and in comfort, to be found in the econnty. Genial companionability and uniform good nature has won and held for him a host of friends, and he is highly esteemed as one of Fillmore county's wide-awake and enthusiastic farmers, always alert to whatever may be for the advancement of the farmer and the welfare of the town and county. In 1907 Mr. Meighen made an interesting journey to the little parish of Inver, in Donegal county, Ireland, from whence his grandfather, William Mehan (the original spelling of the name) migrated in 1792.

Halver E, Olson, a progressive farmer of Beaver township, was born in this county on July 9, 1866, son of Even and Ragnal (Halverson) Olson. Until he became seventeen years of age, the subject of this sketch attended school near his father's farm, and after completing his studies worked for his father until 1895. He then purchased the home farm, on which he has since resided. He earries on general farming, raises Shorthorn cattle and Poland-China hogs, and has owned and operated a threshing machine for the past twenty-two years. Mr. Olson is a staunch Republican. He was appointed by Gov. A. O. Eberhardt, in 1911, as state boiler inspector of the fifth senatorial district (Fillmore county). Mr. Olson has also held other prominent public offices: has been town chairman for many years, supervisor of the town for nine years, school director of district 102 for many years and constable for several terms. In all the offices to which he has been elected he has given his best efforts and has won the confidence and respect of his fellow men. In 1890 Mr. Olson married Minnie Hendrickson, of York township, and they are now the parents of eight children: Emil, Henry, Helma, Olga, Alvin, Agnes, Clara and Julius, who are all at home. The family attend the Lutheran church in Bloomfield, and are liberal contributors to its support.

Even Olson, deceased, one of the pioneers of Fillmore county, was born in Norway, and there went to school and spent the years of his boyhood. In the early fifties he came to America. Upon his arrival he proceeded west to Wisconsin, where he resided for four years, after which he came to Minnesota, in 1857, and bought 160 acres of wild land in section four, Beaver township, this county. He broke the land, planted crops, erected a log house and lived the life of the early pioneer. For about twenty years the family occupied the log house, after which it was replaced by a more pretentious dwelling. Mr. Olson was married to Ragnal Halverson in Norway, and she came with him to this country and proved a devoted and faithful helpmeet in all the trials which came during the years of hardship and privation which they experienced in this country. To them were born eleven children: Halver E., Edward, Ole, Martha, Lena, Alava, Julia, Bertha, Ella, Louise and Mary. The wife and mother entered into rest in 1897, and Mr. Olson died in 1902.

Sebert F. Leonard was born near Danville, Hendricks county, Ind., January 26, 1860, son of Elisha and Laura (Reynolds) Leonard. His parents were natives of North Carolina, but, feeling that a strife was about to arise between the North and South, and not being in sympathy with the Southern cause, they came north to Indiana, in 1857. In 1860 they came to Fillmore county, and in 1862 bought land on section twenty-three, Sumner: township, where the father died, February 16, 1896, and the mother May 19, 1906. Sebert F. was educated in the Sumner common schools. He has been a farmer all his life and his success is well evidenced on the home farm, where all the comforts. are provided and where the well kept buildings, the productive orchard and well filled barns speak of years of successful endeavor. He follows general farming and gives much of his time to stock raising, keeping a large herd of Shorthorn cattle, full blood Shropshire sheep and Ohio Improved Chester White hogs, his plan being to feed all the products of his fields so far as possible to his stock rather than to sell in the open market. He has a good number of well bred Belgium horses and is a part owner of a registered Belgium stallion. The home farm consists of 200 acres of excellent land, and im addition to this he owns more than 150 acres in Spring Valley and Jordan townships. On October 3, 1903, a tornado did much damage to the farm, entirely destroying all the buildings except the residence, thus causing a loss of about $5,000, and so damaging his apple orchard and waluut grove as td stop the trees bearing for some years. However, the damaged buildings were replaced by new ones and the place to-day does not give the idea that it ever suffered a disaster. Jt is worthy of note that the residence Mr. Leonard is living in was erected by his father in the summer of 1862. He hauled the finishing lumber by ox team from Winona, taking three days to make a round trip. It is also worthy of mention that Mr. Leonard cut 300 feet of lumber out of one log from a cottonwood tree which he planted at ten years of age. Mr. Leonard is a member of the Presbyterian church. In politics he is a Republican, but has never wished to hold office. He has, however, been school treasurer in district 123 for twentyfive years, and justice one term. On March 13, 1888, he married Elma Stuckman, who was born in Pleasant Grove township, Olmsted county, September 8, 1861. To them was born one child, which died in infancy. Mr. Leonard is a member of Meridian Lodge, No. 56, A. F. & A. M., of Chatfield; also a member and trustee of Chatfield Lodge, No. 89, A. O. U. W.

Ole B. Larson and Bertha Johnson, his wife, natives of Norway, came to America in 1850, and after living in Wisconsin four years came to this county, June 1, 1854, and took a claim of eighty acres in Preston township, where they built their home and engaged in farming. They toiled, labored and prospered, and added to their land from time to time until they owned 400 acres, all in one farm, and on which they spent the remainder of their lives. Mrs. Larson died June 22, 1885, and Mr. Larson died July 29, 1887. They were the parents of ten children: Mrs. Jane Taylor, of Preston; Lewis, who died on an ocean voyage; L. 0., who owns and conducts the home farm; Mrs. Cornelia Gilbertson, of North Dakota; S. O., who died in 1907; his twin sister, Mrs, Ellen Forthum, of Preston village; Mrs, Betsy Thompson, of North Dakota; Mrs. Mary Olson, of Amherst township; Antinetta, who died at the age of seven years and eleven months; and William, the youngest son.

Joseph F, Shutt was born at Fort Wayne, Ind., January 1, 1858. He received his education in the district and public schools. His first business venture in life was in the mercantile business at Maysville, Ind., for two years. He then went to Duluth, Minn., where he was a clerk in a stationery store for fourteen months, after which he accepted a position in the money order department in the postoffice of Duluth for two years. Ile then went to Seattle, where he clerked in the Arlington Hotel for six months, Then he returned to Minnesota and located on a farm in Canton township for three years. He then went to North Dakota and was located at Grand Forks for three years. Then he returned to Canton township, where he remained one year. Next he moved to Chester, Iowa, where he remained fourteen years, after which he returned to Canton township and engaged in farming with his brother-in-law, G. W. Willford. In October, 1910, he went to Canton village and there organized a firm known as Webster, Shutt & Co. In March, 1911, he sold out his interest, and from then until September, 1911, he was in the lumber yard at Canton village. He then bought his present farm on section 84, Spring Valley township, where he and his family now reside. He was married October 20, 1887, to Anna E. Willford, and to them two children have been born: Lela A., who is a teacher, and Ellis Fulton, who lives at home. The family faith is that of the Presbyterian church.

William Taylor, deceased, one of the early settlers of Fillmore county, was born in County Down, Ireland, April 23, 1835, a son of James and Sarah (Sturgeon) Taylor, natives of the same locality, where the father died, after which the family came to America. William lived with the family in New York state from 1851 to 1856, and then came to Preston, working about at various employment from October until the following spring, when the rest of the family arrived here. He pre-empted 160 acres in Fountain township. In 1886 he built a house on his claim, and here he and his wife took up their home. He devoted his entire fife to farming, increased his place to 200 acres, made many improvements, and became one of the substantial citizens of the eommunity. He died May 11, 1897. He was married March 7, 1869, to Jane Larson, who was born near Christiania, Norway, March 7, 1846, daughter of Ole B. and Bertha (Johnson) Larson. Mrs. Taylor still owns the home farm, which she rents. Aside from the farm she owns a very pleasant and comfortable home in the village of Preston, where she is spending her declining years.

James Forthum was born in Bergen, Norway, February 28, 1861, there received his education and grew to manhood. In 1869 he came to America, located in Buffalo county, Wisconsin, and there remained until 1891, when he came to this county and for two years lived in Lanesboro. In 1893 he purchased a farm in Fountain township, where he engaged in farming the balance of his days. On November 27, 1892, he married Ellen O. Larson, a daughter of Ole B. Larson, and to them were born two ehildren: Bertha M. and John O. Mr. Forthum died December 18, 1898. His wife lives in Preston village, with her sister, Mrs. William Taylor.

Henry Rudolph Lupien, for several decades a trainer of fast horses, was born in Montreal, Canada, April 22, 1855, going with his parents at the age of three years to Kankakee, Il., where he was reared on his father's farm, attending the common schools. and assisting his parents. In 1869 he went to Danville, Ill. and learned the barber's trade, in which line he has since continued the greater part of the time. In 1873 he went to Denver, Colo., and engaged in the same business. November 22, 1882, he arrived in Spring Valley, and in company with his brother conducted a shop until 1893, when he sold out his interest to his brother and went to Millbank, S. D., where he engaged in the trotting horse business, breaking, trainmg and racmg many fast horses. In 1895 he returned to Spring Valley, and on October 8 bought out his brother's business. Since that date he has conducted the Hotel Barber Shop, a place held in high favor by the people of Spring Valley, as well as by the traveling fraternity. Jle usually keeps two assistants. A hair tonic, invented by Mr. Lupien, will soon be put on the market, and has already proven its merits. Mr. Lupien is an enthusiastic fancier of fast horses, and has profitably spent much time in their breaking, training, raising and racing, being considered a reliable authority in his linc, and having been engaged in handling trotters, pacers and running horses since 1866. Since 1895 he has been one of the directors of the Spring Valley Driving Park. In 1898 he broke Nervolo, with a record of 2 :041%4, who was later sold to Seott Hutchenson, of Memphis, Tenn., for $15,000. In 1901 he bought Allie Dale, raced him successfully for two years, gave him a mark of 2:1114, and sold him in 1908 to J. J. Sturgeon, of Marshall, Minn., for $1,000. At present he owns and is racing Great Mix, a fast young pacer (by Allie Dale, 2:1114), who can step a 2:15 clip. He also has in training Maud Hamlin, who can step a 2:20 clip, and many others. He has handled such horses as Tom Hawthorne, trial mile 2:2314; Ben Swigest, mark 2:28; Solo, 2:23%; Hika Boy, mark 2:2334; Queen L., 2:16; Lady L. M. W., 2:17; Histro F., 2:2514; Blue Volo, trial mile, 2:24; Nervolo, 2:0444; Allie Dale, 2:1144, and many others. Fraternally, Mr. Lupien associates with the A. O. U. W. In polities he is a Republican. On October 9, 1886, he married Mary E. Rhines, of Spring Valley, and they have two children: Beryle and Harold H., both at home. The family faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Edward F, Harnish, son of Edward and Caroline Harnish, was born in Minneapolis, Minn., January 28, 1873. When an infant, he moved with his parents to Cannon Falls, Minn., and after the death of his father the family, consisting of the mother, twin sister and a younger brother, moved and settled in Hastings, Minn., where they have since resided. He attended high school and also business college at Hastings, and in 1890 began work as a printer's apprentice in the ''Democrat"' office, and continued working at this trade for several years. While living in Hastings he was a member of the state militia for three years. In 1896 Mr. Harnish went to Chatfield, Minn., to work in the ''News'' office for Wallace & Thompson. In 1899 Mr. Thompson having retired from the newspaper business, Mr. Harnish purchased a half interest of Mr. Wallace. Later, Mr. Stoudt bought Mr. Wallace's interest, and the firm Harnish & Stoudt was established. In 1900 Mr. Harnish was married to Helen M. Fairbank, in Chatfield. In 1902 Harnish & Stoudt bought the '' Chatfield Democrat,'' consolidating the two papers. In November, 1910, Mr. Stoudt retired from active business, still retaining his interest, Mr. Harnish continuing as editor and publisher of the paper at the present time. Mr. Harnish is a member of the Masonic Lodge, also of the M. W. A.

John E, Kennedy, a substantial farmer of Harmony township, was born in McHenry county, Illinois, April 12, 1857, son of Moses and Bridget (Kelly) Kennedy. The family came west in 1869, and settled in section 32, Harmony, where for several years they lived in a log house. Later, 2 more pretentious home was erected. After a life filled with hard work, Moses Kennedy died in 1884 and his wife in 1898. Of the family of three boys and four girls, John E. was next to the youngest. Tle was reared on the home farm and attended school in district 44. Since then he has devoted his life to farming. The farm consists of 100 acres, with a comfortable home and large outbuildings. Mr. Kennedy married Mary Ann Fleming, an Iowa school teacher, daughter of John and Bridget Fleming, early settlers of that state. This union has been blessed with two children: Genevieve, who is attending the seminary at Winona, and Mary, a pupil in the Harmony high school.

The Right Reverend Monsignor James Coyne was born in Ireland, in the County Roscommon, in 1841. He was educated and ordained a priest in the College of Maynooth in 1869. He spent his first ten years as priest in missionary work and teaching in the Diocesan College of his native place. In 1880 he was stationed in Grand Meadow, Mower county, Minn., and in 1881 was removed to Lanesboro to take charge of the Catholic parish there. He was Vicar General of the Diocese of Winona during the last fifteen years of the late Bishop Cotter's life. In 1890 Father Coyne was created Monsignor, and after the death of the Bishop he acted as administrator of the diocese until the consecration of the present Bishop, Right Rev. P. R. Heffron. The Roman Catholic Chureh of Lanesboro was built in 1872 by the Rev. William Reardon, now Monsignor Reardon.

Thaddeus A. Wilkins, now residing at Spring Valley, a railroad mail clerk on the route between Minneapolis, Minn., and Osage, Iowa, was born in Stockton, N. Y., March 25, 1848, son of Cordello and Sarah (Kelley) Wilkins. He came to Minnesota with his parents when he was but seven years old, and grew to manhood in Fillmore county. In February, 1864, before he was sixteen years of age, he enlisted in Company B, Hatch's Battalion, Minnesota Cavalry, doing scout duty in the western part of the Dakotas for nearly three years. After serving out his enlistment, he returned home and entered into partnership in the hardware business with his brother-in-law, James Scott, at Spring Valley. A year and a half later he disposed of his interests in this concern and went to Madison, Wis., where he attended a commercial college for a year. Then he again returned to Spring Valley, and engaged in the insurance and general collection business. Later he was appointed deputy sheriff, and served in this capacity several years. He received his present appointment in 1885. Politically, Mr. Wilkins upholds the tenets of the Democratic party. He is a member of Burdick Post, G. A. R.; Spring Valley Lodge, No. 58, A. F. & A. M.; of the Royal Arcanum, and also of other organizations. The subject of this sketch married Medora E. Ober, of Preston, this county, daughter of Joseph and Rosannah (Chatfield) Ober, and this union has been blessed with two sons. Floyd died in infancy. Thad. A., Jr., is a popular dairyman.

Thaddeus A. Wilkins, Jr., was born in Spring Valley, son of Thaddeus A. and Medora E. (Ober) Wilkins. He secured his education in the public schools, learned the jeweler's trade, worked at this trade several years, and attained a substantial place in the community. Since 1904 he has been engaged in the dairy business, being located on land pre-empted by his grandfather, Cordello Wilkins, a mile and a half southwest of Spring Valley. This place, christened the ''Spring Brook Dairy Farm,"' is a model country estate in every particular, and is noted for its registered Jersey stock. In 1891 Mr. Wilkins maried Elizabeth Perl Bryan, of Wells, Minn., and this union has been blessed with four daughters. Calla Chatfield Wilkins graduated from the Spring Valley high school in 1912. Beryl Winifred is still in the high school. Dora and Dorris are in the graded schools.

Cordello Wilkins. In 1855 Cordello Wilkins, then an energetic young man who was engaged in carriage manufacturing at Stockton, N. Y., closed out his business there and, imbued with the spirit of progress and a desire to found for himself a new home in the wilderness, started for Minnesota with his wife, Sarah, and his children, Harriet H., Roseltha N. and Thaddeus A. Finding the village of Spring Valley but recently platted, he purchased a part of the interest of Nelson Burdick, one of the proprietors, and also pre-empted 160 acres, and soon acquired another 160, making 320 acres adjoining the village on the west. He at once became the prime factor in the growth and prosperity of the then little hamlet, engaging in the real estate business, and also having lumber and milling interests. In company with Ansel Crane, he put up the first mill in Spring Valley village. This mill was later moved to ''Ifard Scrabble,'' so ealled, it is said, from Mr. Wilkins' remark that it was going to be a hard scrabble to get the mill moved there. Mr. Wilkins built the first frame house in Spring Valley, was commissioned one of the first postmasters, and served as one of the justices of the peace for several years. For thirteen years he spent his time in promoting the best interests of the thriving community which was gathering about him, the genial hospitality of the Wilkins home and the business sagacity of the head of the household being known and appreciated by all who came under its influence. In 1864, in company with Major Fifield, an old-time partner in the real estate business, he purchased the Stanwix hotel at Preston, and conducted this and a farm near by for two or three years. But his life, which had been spent in promoting others' interests, came to an untimely end in 1868, when he was but fifty-two years of age, his death removing from the county one of its best citizens. Being of a fraternal nature, Mr. Wilkins allied himself with the I. O. O. F. and the A. F. & A. M., in which circles his memory will ever be held dear. His widow survived him for many decades, and passed away May 21, 1900. She was a woman of sterling worth and character, and her good deeds are written on the hearts of her friends and relatives.

Joseph Ober, pioneer hotel-keeper, came to Minnesota with his family in 1855, and located near Brownsville, in Houston county, where he kept the ''Seven by Nine.'' When the land office was removed from Brownsville to Chatfield, in 1856, Mr. Ober moved to Preston, and erected the Minnesota House, which under his management became one of the most popular hotels in southern Minnesota. His wife, Mrs. Rosannah Chatfield Ober, was noted for her good cooking and kindly acts, being known by the old settlers as ''Mother Ober,'' so called for her motherly deeds. Of their nine children, five are now living: L. M. Ober lives in Glendora, Cal, Medora E, Wilkins lives in Spring Valley. Chastina Kelley lives in Preston, Minn. C. H. Ober also lives in Preston. Joseph E. Ober is the state agent for the Chicago, Milwankee & St. Paul at Austin. Mr, and Mrs. Ober are laid at rest in the cemetery overlooking the village of Preston.

James Scott was born in Springfield, N. Y., in 1836. In 1857 he came to Spring Valley, making the trip with .a party which consisted of his brother, Thomas Scott, and wife; N. B. Smith and family; Dr. Gilbert and family; and the Peabody family. This energetic little band of sturdy people arrived at the spring from which the valley derives its name, and partaking of its sparkling water, unhitched their horses, and cast their lot with the good people who, few in number, had preceded them here. Mr. Scott pre-empted 160 acres of land and later worked at his trade as a tinner. Soon he erected a store building and engaged in the hardware business. In 1860 he married Roseltha N. Wilkins, daughter of Cordello Wilkins, and this union has resulted in seven children, four of whom are living. The oldest, Cordello, is in the express business in Spring Valley. W. J. Scott is in the harness and saddlery business in Centralia, Wash, Elmer Scott is in the ''hack'' business in the same place. Frank Scott is on a claim near Whitney, 8. D. In 1887 Myr. Seott took his family to Egerton, Minn., and remained there until 1903. Then, hoping that a change of climate would be beneficial to his, health, he took his wife and son Elmer to Centralia, Wash. In 1905 he was laid to rest in Spring Valley cemetery. Mr. Seott was a member of the Methodist church and a man highly respected for his sterling qualities, having the faculty of making friends with all of those with whom he came in contact. His widow lives in Centralia, Wash., and visits Spring Valley frequently, calling ou her old friends and making many new ones.

Lawrence Bar was born in Bavaria, Germany, May 18, 1838. He came to America with his parents when five years of age, and was reared on a farm in Tioga county, New York. The family caine to this county in 1856, and located in Forestville township, where they were among the first settlers. Lawrence remained at home until 1862, when he enlisted in the Third Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, serving in Company C for nine months, after which he was discharged on account of ill health. He then returned to his home, In 1868 he began teaching school, and two years later started clerking in a store. Later he became interested in agricultural ventures. For several years he engaged in the boot and shoe business in Spring Valley, but in 1891 sold out and moved to Centralia, Wash., where he engaged in a similar business, conducting the same successfully until he had one of the largest establishments in southwestern Washington. Of late years the firm has been known as L. Bar & Son. In 1910, with other business men, he assisted in organizing the Farmers and Merchants' Bank, of Centralia, and although he did not participate actively in the management of the bank, he was honored by being elected president, and the bank was put on @ substantial basis. December 30, 1911, when an attempt was made to rob the bank, Mr. Bar lost his life in protecting the funds, the assassin's bullet wiping out the life of a truly good man, Mr. Bar, from a humble station in life, by patient endeavor, persistent effort and business capacity, placed himself in affluent circumstances. But he never forgot those who were less fortunate. He was unostentatious and unselfish, and went through life with the respect and esteem of all. The widow, Harriet Wilkins Parsons Bar, lived in Spring Valley for thirty-six years. The kindliness of her nature prompted her to charitable acts, and she made friends with all with whom she came in contaet. She will long be remembered for her sterling worth. She, Hattie May Parsons, a daughter by a former marriage, and William L. Bar, cashier in the bank for which his father gave his life, all live in Centralia, Wash.

L. D. Hamlin, who is a native and life-long resident of this county, was born in York township, August 22, 1858, son of Alonzo Hamlin, the pioneer. He received his education in the common schools of his home township and grew up attending to those tasks which fall to the lot of the farmer's son. He spent the greater part of his boyhood in Forestville township, where he moved with his parents as a boy, and where he lived till twenty-three years of age, when he bought eighty acres in section 29, Forestville township. Here he built a home and lived a short time, then sold and purchased eighty acres in the same section, later adding to this farm by the purchase of eighty acres more. He farmed this 160 acres till 1904. In the latter year he sold his Forestville property and moved to Bloomfield township, just outside the Spring Valley city limits. He there lived five years, and in 1909 moved to Spring Valley, which has since been his home. Since 1906 he has been seeretary of the creamery here and has rendered valuable service to the patrons of this institution. He still owns property in Bloomfield, in which his son

Mr. And Mrs. K. T. Soland

George is also interested. Mr, Hamlin was married June 1, 1881, to Josephine Gates, of Spring Valley, daughter of George Gates. To Mr. and Mrs. Hamlin have been born three children. Lyle is now cashier of the First National Bank of Spring Valley. George, who married Helen Green, resides on the farm in Bloomfield. Fern is now Mrs. B. W. Hingeveld, of York township. In polities Mr. Hamlin is a Republican. He is a member of the Masonic blue lodge and chapter.

K. T. Soland was born in this county January 1, 1872, son of T. G. and Margaret Soland, now of Amherst township, the former born February 24, 1826, and the latter January 19, 18386. The subject of this biography attended the common schools of the county until he became eighteen years of age, after which he took up work on the farm with his father, and later elerked in his brother's store near home. He then formed a partnership with O. H. Gilbertson, of Spring Valley, and in 1906 purchased his partner's interest, since which time he has conducted the establishment by himself. He later purchased Mr. Gilbertson's Preston business, which he later disposed of to Mr. Bradburn. Mr. Soland handles all grades of foreign and domestic granite, and has a full equipment of marble-working apparatus, including a pneumatic plant for cutting and lettering. He erected and inseribed the J. P. Tibbetts monument in Preston, which weighs 30,000 pounds, and which is one of the largest and finest monnments in the county. Mr. Soland is vice-president of the Minnesota Retail Monument Association. He is a stockholder in the Farmers' Store of Spring Valley, a member of the Commercial Club, captain of Hose Company No. 1 of the volunteer fire department of Spring Valley, and a member of the Equitable Fraternal Union. Politically, he endorses the tenets of the Republican party. Mr. Soland inherits his abundant energy from his father, who, though now advanced in years, is hale and hearty, and often walks from his farm to the village of Lanesboro, a distance of six miles. Mr. Soland married Dena Gelen, born in Spring Valley, November 10, 1878. The family church is the Norwegian Lutheran.

Ole O. Gelen was born in Norway, March 12, 1852, and there received his education, after which he came to America, locating first at Rushford, this county, where he learned and followed the painter's trade. A few years later he came to Spring Valley and here engaged at his trade, which vocation he still follows. He was married December 10, 1878, to Carrie Thompson, born in Norway, December 3, 1860. She came to America'with her parents at three years of age, and Jocated with them at Blooming

Prairie, this state. Mr. and Mrs. Gelen are the parents of two children. Osear is a painter of Spring Valley. He married Martha Sukow and they have one son, Maynard Wesley. Dena is the wife of K. T. Soland, a business man of Spring Valley. Mr. and Mrs. Gelen are members of the Norwegian Lutheran chureh.

George Gates aud Adaline Phelps Gates, his wife, eame to Fill more county in 1866, and spent the remainder of their days here. George Gates was a native of New York, where he obtained his early education, receiving his diploma from Jesse T. Peck. He followed teaching for thirty-three years. In his latter years he was engaged in farming. He died in 1904, at the age of eightyseven. His wife was a native of Ohio. She died in 1903, at the age of seventy-eight.

Forest Edward Langworthy, the genial editor who has been one of the newspaper men of southern Minnesota a large part of his life, was born in Grand Meadow, Minn., February 17, 1861, son of B. F. and Sarah (Clemens) Langworthy. His mother was a native of Vermont and was of the same Clemens family of which ''Mark Twain'? was a member. The subject of this sketeh was educated in the common schools until about fourteen years of age. He then attended the La Crosse (Wis.) high schools until nineteen years of age. Subsequently he went into the printing business with his father on the ''Mercury,"' first at Grand Meadow and then at Austin. From Austin the ''Mereury"' was moved to Spring Valley, and since that time Mr. Langworthy has been in that village. In 1903 he purchased the ''Vidette,'' and has since combined the two papers, and now issues the '' Mercury-Vidette.''? He is at present very pleasantly located in a building on Church street, which was erected for the accommodation of his plant. In polities he is a Republican, but has never sought public office. On December 21, 1885, he was united in marriage with Blanche HE. Beers, and to this union have been born three sons. Earl Ray is clergyman. Elmer De Loss is an ensign of the United States Navy, having finished his course at the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis in 1910. Glenn Franklin is a student in the Spring Valley high school.

B. F. Langworthy, deceased, was born in Vermont, January 20, 1822, and lived in his native state till 1834, when the family moved to Hlinois. In 1846 he went to Oshkosh, Wis., where he opened a store. In 1856 he came to this county and located in Chatfield, where he was connected with the banking firm of Langworthy, O'Farrell & Company for two years. In the fall of 1859 he was elected to the legislature from Mower eounty, to which he had moved the year previous. He later beeame route agent for the railroad mail service and moved to La Crosse, Wis., where he lived four years. In 1880 he and his son, Forest E., established the Grand Meadow ''Mereury.'' Later they moved their paper to Austin and later to Spring Valley. In 1849 he married Sarah M. Clemens and to them were born two children. Emma C. married D. L. Tanner, of Mower county. Forest H. is a newspaper publisher in Spring Valley. Mr. Langworthy lived a long and active life, which was filled with useful work for his friends and his community. He died January 21, 1907, and was survived by his wife less than three years, she dying in August, 1910.

J. H. Haslam was born in Dlinois, November 8, 1850, son of James Haslam. The family moved from Dlinois in 1855 and located in section 13, Bloomfield township, this county, where the father took a elaim of 160 acres. Here the family home was built and here they continued to live till 1868, when they went to Kansas, where the father died in 1870. The subject of this sketch reccived a meager education in the common schools and then assisted his mother and his younger brothers and sisters. When he was thirty years of age he purchased a farm in section 36, Bloomfield, where he still resides. Here he erected a house and other necessary buildings and has added to his original buildings from time to time as more space was needed. He was of thrifty inclinations and by careful investments and good management he and his wife were enabled to buy additional tracts of land in the locality till they had about 800 acres. He keeps about seventyfive head of full-blooded Durham cattle, markets annually a goodly number of Chester-White hogs, and has from eighteen to twenty horses for farm and driving purposes. On December 1], 1880, he married Sabina Le Fevere, who was born December 1, 1860. This union has been blessed with two children. H. V. was born October 28, 1881, and lives on a part of the home place near his parents. He married Edith Kingsbury and they have one ehild, Elizabeth Lilly. Annie L. was born November 16, 1883. She married H. L. Eggrichs. They reside in Bloomfield. and have one child, Dale Haslam.

Henry M., Hellickson is one of the progressive and representative farmers of Bloomfield township, a leader in his community, and a worthy son of staunch pioneer forebears. Born in Racine county, Wisconsin, November 18, 1852, a son of Matthew W. and Anna Hellickson, the territorial pioneers, he was by them brought to Fillmore county as a child of one and one-half years. He received his edueation in the common schools of Bloomfield township, and worked with his father. Eventually he started life for himself on a 120-aere farm, on which he toiled and labored, prospering with the years, and adding to his property from time to time, until at present he owns 3874 acres in sections 16, 20 and 21, Bloomfield township. Je earries on farming and stock raising along the latest improved methods, and is a successful man in every way. Politically, Mr. [Hellickson has chosen to remain independent. He is a trustee of his church, a stockholder in the elevator and creamery, and has been a member of the school board for six years. The subject of this sketch married Anna Langum, in Oetober, 1885. They are the parents of nine children: Arthur Milton, William Elmer, Frank Herbert, Ellen Henrietta, Ella Agnes, Alton Raymond, Allen Clifford, Walter (deceased), and Minnie Josephine, Ellen and Ella and Alton and Alien are twins. The family faith is that of the Norwegian Lutheran church.

Matthew W. Hellickson, a territorial pioneer, and one of the first to settle in Bloomfield township, was born in Tinn, Telemarken, Norway, February 12, 1815, and came to America at an early day, settling in Wisconsin. In 1854 he left Racine county, near Milwaukee, with his brother, Ole, at the head of a band of Norwegian pioneers, headed for the west. Upon reaching Fillmore county, the party decided to settle in Bloomfield township, and Matthew W. selected a claim on section 21, where he broke the land, ereeted buildings and engaged in agricultural pursuits, there spending the remainder of his days, He passed away in the fall of 1897, and his wife, Anna, died in February, 1911. They were the parents of seven children: Hellick (deceased); Julia (deceased); Henry M., of Bloomfield; Martin, of Stearns county, this state; Edward (deceased); Hellick {seeond), of Chicago; and an unnamed infant, now deceased. Matthew W. Hellickson, or Mathias Hellickson, as he was more commonly known, was one of the makers of the county. Sturdy of body and staunch of spirit, undaunted by hardships and undismayed by difficulties, he was an important factor in the development of his township and community. Shrewd,, honest and farsighted, he encouraged his fellow-settlers and fellow-countrymen during the disastrous year of 1857, and bade them to look to the future which he so clearly foresaw. Never shirking his duty, ever upholding that which he believed to be right, he lived his life faithfully from day to day, and won the esteem of all with whom he came in contact. It is such lives as his which teach a lesson of what sturdy perseverance and hard work can accomplish in this land of opportunity. Mr. Hellickson's faith in the county has been justified, and he lived to see his hopes realized, his declining years being filled with all the blessings which a prosperous eareer, the respect of a community and the devotion of a family can bring.

James Lee, a substantial citizen of Fountain township, was born in Dwainsburg, Schenectady county, N. Y., June 30, 1833, son of Thomas and Mary (Sarsfield) Lee, also natives of New York state, where they devoted their life to farming. James came west to Whitewater, Wis., in 1852, and worked out as a farm hand until 1854, when he came to Minnesota, and took a claim in Pleasant Hill township, Winona county, where he carried on farming until 1869, when he came to this county and purchased eighty acres in section 31, Fountain township, which he broke and developed and brought to a good stage of cultivation. As the years passed, he prospered, and in time acquired another forty acres, located in section 30, adjoining his original purchase, When the family first came to this county they moved into a log shanty which was on the place, This was soon replaced with a frame dwelling, which was destroyed by fire about thirty years ago, after which the present home was erected. He has also erected a substantial set of outbuildings, and the neat appearance of the place speaks well for the thrift of the owner. Mr. Lee was married at Winona, March 31, 1862, to Sarah J. Preston, and this union has been blessed with three children. Ella is now Mrs. Robert Shipton, of Washington, Sumner township, this county. Frank is a cigar manufacturer and merchant at Billings, Mont. W. Il. is a real estate dealer in Spring Valley. An adopted daughter, Ethel, is a teacher in the home district, 77, and lives at home. Mr. Lee has served as treasurer of this district for several years. The family faith is that of the United Brethren church. J.S. and Mercy Ann (Way) Preston, parents of Mrs. Lee, were natives of New York state, and came to Wisconsin in an early day, settling in Pleasant Hill township, Winona county, this state, in 1855. Some years later they moved to Homer township, in the same county, where they carried on farming for many years, after which they moved to Winona, where Mrs. Preston died. Mr. Preston now lives with his daughter, Mrs. James Lee, of Fountain.

Cyrus L. Wooldridge, now deceased, successful farmer, efficient member of the legislature, enthusiastic church worker, and capable man of affairs, was born in Clearfield, Pa., September 16, 1853, son of Edward and Mary (Smith) Wooldridge, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Minnesota in 1860, and settled near Marion, in Olmsted county, later coming to Sumner township, where they passed the remainder of their days, the father dying

March 22, 1901, and the mother May 13, 1901. Cyrus L. grew to manhood on the home farm, pursuing his studies in the district schools of his neighborhood and the high schools of Chatfield and Rochester. He also had the great advantage of a elose and affectionate companionship with his father, whom in after life it was said he closely resembled, a man deeply religious, a student of the Bible and of human nature, a man often sought for counsel and advice beeause of his rare judgment and sterling integrity. At an early age, Cyrus joined the United Brethren chureh, as the resalt of an old-fashioned camp meeting held in the vicinity, and his after life was ever permeated with a deep religious conviction. Being the second son in a family of twelve, and moreover the son of thrifty, hard-working parents, he naturally learned to work and to look upon work as the honorable means of securing a living and a competence. After he attained the years of manhood, he bought a farm adjoining the home place and lived there the remainder of his life. He toiled and prospered for many years, attaining a commanding position in the community, doing faithful service in various school, town and eounty offices. In 1893 and again in 1895 he was sent to the lower house of the Minnesota state legislature, where he was known for his unswerving honor and unfailing good sense. At the time of his death he had received the nomination for the position as county commissioner from the second district. He was also vice-president of the First National Bank, of Stewartville. He was the administrator of many estates, and in this capacity won the gratitude of those whom he served. His unexpected death, September 23, 1910, as the result of an operation, was sincerely mourned throughout the community in which for so many years he had heen so prominent a figure. At the time of his death a newspaper said: ''He was a strong, useful, Christian man, and will be greatly missed hy the community, but especially by his own family, the members of which were wont to say, when any important subject was under discussion, 'Let us talk it over with father,' or, 'I will see what father thinks about it.' ''

The subjeet of this sketch was married, September 28, 1873, to Luey A. Linton, born in Clayton county, Iowa, May 9, 1852, daughter of Thomas C. and Esther (Phillips) Linton, the former a native of Kentucky and the latter of New York state. The Lintons came to Fillmore county in 1856, and settled in Jordan township, the father dying in January, 1884, and the mother in April, 1862. Mr. and Mrs. Wooldridge were blessed with four children. Ervin was born August 24, 1874, married Gertrude Loucks, lives at Maxbas, N. D., and has two children: Hobart and Cyrus. Edward T. was born October 8, 1876, married Edna Kendall, lives on section 14, Jordan township, and has three chil- dren: Curtin, Lucy and Arden. Homer was born January 14, 1882, married Jennie Crofoot, and is assistant cashier in the First National Bank of Stewartville. Walter was born July 29, 1884, married Alta Truesdell, and resides on section 9, Sumner township.

Alfred Crosby, now deceased, was born in Oneida county, New York, April 16, 1835, son of Isaac and Mary (Jefferds) Crosby. At the age of twenty-three he came west with his parents and settled with them on a farm in sections 18 and 19, Chatfield township, where he assisted his father and brothers in developing and tilling a farm, the family becoming one of the most honored and respected in the community. At the time of his father's death, he inherited a part of the home farm, and there followed farming the remainder of his days. He was a stanch Republican in politics, and served the town as supervisor, tnd his school district as director. His death, October 10, 1907, was sincerely mourned by a wide cirele of friends. The subject of this sketeh was married, September 7, 1861, to Jerusha W. Thacher, born September 9, 1837, in Forest Lake, Susquehanna county, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Crosby are the parents of five children: Minnie M., Albert T., Charles D., Glidden and Cormella. Minnie M. is now Mrs. James Moore. Glidden is dead. Albert T. and Charles D. conduct the home farm, and Charles D., Cormella and the mother still live in the old homestead.

Walter E. Craine, manufacturer, was born in McHenry county, Mlinois, January 19, 1848, son of Giles and Eliza (Holden) Craine, with whom he came to Winona county, this state, in 1856. After receiving his education he learned the blacksmith trade, an occupation he followed in Chatfield, this county, from 1876 to 1895, part of the time in partnership with his father. From 1895 to 1898 he was engaged in operating a drilling machine, clover huller and thresher. In 1898 he came to Jordan township, purchased forty-five acres of land, and opened a blacksmith shop, saw mill and machine foundry, which he is still suecessfully conducting. He is a stanch Republican. Being a good citizen, he is well thought of in the community, and enjoys the respect and esteem of his fellow-men. My. Craine was married, November 10, 1869, to Edna Cowley, born in Wisconsin, December 26, 1852, daughter of John and Marinda (Riee) Cowley. Mr. and Mrs. Craine have five children: Altie married Edward Crowson; Allie married Claude Stocker; Minnie married Iugh Greenlec; 'Verna married James Clickner; and May died April 27, 1903.

Illinois from Ohio, and in 1856 came to Winona county, this state, where they lived until 1876, when they came to Chatfield, this county, where the father worked at his trade as a blacksmith the balance of his days. He died in January, 1897, and his wife passed away in February, 1895,

John Cowley, father of Mrs. Walter E. Craine, was born on the Isle of Man, and married Marinda Rice, a native of Vermont. They came to Winona County, this state, in January, 1859, the father dying there in 1880, and the mother in Chatfield in June, 1907.

Bennett Taylor, now deceased, might well be called the Father of Orchards in Fillmore county. It was through his efforts that many of the orchards of to-day were planted, aud almost wholly due to his interest and knowledge that they were properly cared for. He was born in Pennsylvania, May 10, 1830, and until fifteen years of age lived in Green county, where he attended the common schools. He then came west and settled in Quincy, IIl., where he learned the cabinet-making trade. The land of promise attracted him and in 1856 he came to Minnesota and located in Forestville village, then a town of four hundred people and a center for the marketing in this section of country. He there opened a shop and did a cabinet business until 1864, when the flood destroyed his shop. As soon as he arrived hére he became interested in growing small fruit. In 1864 he bought land in section 14, Forestville township, where he thereafter made his home, interesting himself in the growing of apples, grapes, berries and other fruit. When he fully realized what the possibilities of the fruit culture meant to southern Minnesota, he went energetically about the business of encouraging farmers to plant the fruit vines and trees. He raised stock for their use and put in all his time assisting those in his locality to get started. In a short time he had a thoroughly organized nursery, and several salesmen in the country. So anxious was he to have Fillmore county go forward as an apple-raising district that he sold apple trees under contract at one dollar each, planted the tree on the buyer's land, and cultivated and cared for it till it came to bearing, taking his pay, without interest, from the first apples the tree produced. The Forestville Nursery Company continued to do a thriving business till 1884, when the health of Mr. Taylor began to fail. After that time the nursery was taken over by C. R. Morgan & Son, who continued to do business in a much larger way, handling both a wholesale and retail trade until 1905. Since that time Mr. Morgan has been a large shipper of apples and other fruits of his own raising, having one of the largest orchards in the state. Aside from his work as a cabinet- maker and nurseryman, Mr. Taylor was the patentee of several very useful inventions, including a grain register, a hand cultivator, a bee swarm catcher and a honeycomb leveler. He was a man of large public interest and was ever active in movements for the general good. In 1862 he married Hannah Broadbent, and to them was born one son, Herbert Spencer Taylor, now of Forestville, and one daughter, who is now Mrs. Courtland R. Morgan, of Forestville township. Since the death of Mr. Taylor, August 10, 1896, his wife has lived in California, at Santa Clara, where she has many relatives and friends.

William Henry Kendall, deceased, was born at Roxbury, Vt., July 22, 1844, son of William H. and Lucinda (Beckwith) Kendall. Until twenty-one years of age he remained at home with his parents and attended school. In 1865 he came west to Minnesota and in 1873 purchased a farm in section 4, Sumner township, where he carried on general farming for the remainder of his life. Mr. Kendall was a progressive and ambitious man and made many improvements on his farm by erecting good buildings and clearing and cultivating the soil. He was a Republican in political views, and served as member of the school board for many years. Tle married Anna Eliza Myers, and to this marriage were born six children: C. L., now of Arkansas; J. W., of Olmsted county, Minnesota; Edna, the wife of Ed. Wooldridge, of Chatfield; Irvin H., of Norwich, N. D.; Myrtie Jane, who died in 1897; and Frank A., who resides at Norwich, N. D. Mr. Kendall died on March 22, 1887, at the age of forty-two years. His death removed from the community a respected citizen and beloved friend and neighbor, and a devoted husband and father. Mrs. Anna E. (Myers) Kendall was born August 24, 1852, in Rockford, IIl., daughter of John A. and Frances (Strange) Myers, who came to Minnesota in 1857, and settled in Olmsted county, Pleasant Grove township, where they engaged in general farming for many years. The father died in 1882 and the mother in 1886. Mrs. Kendall now resides on the old family homestead in Sumner.

Bela K. Ingalls was born in Erie county, New York, April 3, 1833, son of David and Elizabeth (Richardson) Ingalls, natives of Vermont. David Ingalls came to Minnesota in 1856, and died in his son's home some years later. Bela K. received his education in New York state common schools and later assisted his father on the home place. In 1854 he came to Stillwater, Minn., and to this county in 1855, taking a claim of sixty acres in section 31, Forestville township He here worked at farming till war time, when he enlisted in Company K, Minnesota:Heavy Artillery, which was stationed at Chattanooga, Tenn. After the war be returned to the peaceful pursuits of agriculture on his former claim. He added to his original holdings from time to time till he now has a large and very weil cared for farm of 278% acres. In 1884 he moved to the location where he has since lived. Though he does not now do much in the way of active farming, he still superintends the work of the entire place. Formerly he raised much stock. He is a stockholder in the Ostrander Creamery, and formerly kept an excellent herd of thirty Jersey cows. He raises from twenty-five to forty head of Duroc Red hogs annually and keeps four horses for farm work. Mr. Ingalls is a Republican in politics, but never aspired to public office. He has his enjoyment from the calm oversight and improvement of his farm and possessions, rather than in the exciting arena of public strife.

William Baxter Nicholls, the pioneer, now deceased, was born in England, December 16, 1828, son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Baxter) Nicholls, who brought him to America in 1847 and located in Kane county, Illinois. The subject of this sketch came to Minnesota in August, 1856, and located a claim on the Root river in Mower county. IIe was burned out a month later, and then rented various farms until he could save enough money to pay for his claim. Then he returned to Illinois. Two years later he came to Fillmore county and purchased eighty acres in Bloomfield township, engaging in general farming, and increasing his holdings until he had 280 acres in Fillmore county aud 160 acres in Burley county, North Dakota. He was married at Chicago, February 20, 1853, to Elizabeth Larrington, born in Cambridgeshire, England, November 7, 1837, daughter of Robert Larrington and Sarah (Smith) Larrington. Mr. and Mrs. Nicholls were the parents of ten children: James I., of North Dakota; Loren and Lora, deceased; Ida, now Mrs. Robert E. MeNee, of Bloomfield township; William, of Canada; Charles, of Spring Valley; Flora, now Mrs. Johnson, of Minneapolis; Edwin, of Canada; Albert, who conducts the home farm; and Sidney B., of Canada. Mr. Nicholls died June 19, 1910.

R. H. Reynolds, retired farmer, living in Jordan township, was born in Sumner, November 24, 1869, son of William R. and Rachel Reynolds. He attended the distriet school near home until seventeen years of age, and, until his father retired from active life, worked with him on the home farm, assuming its entire responsibility in 1897. The property comprises 160 acres in sections 20 and 29, and here for many years Mr. Reynolds carried on general farming, together with stock raising and dairying. Ile raises blooded Shorthorn cattle, both for market and dairy purposes, breeds Oxford sheep, Red swine, and farm horses for home use and sale. For seven years Mr. Reynolds suffered from the effects of being kicked by a horse, and eventually gave over the management of his farm to a renter, though still residing thereon. He is a Republican in his political opinions, but never sought public office. On May 25, 1902, he was united in marriage with Margaret E. Mower, youngest daughter of John Mower. She was born in Jordan township, this county, August 28, 1880, attended the district schools, and completed her studies in the Spring Valley high school. To this marriage four children have been born: Emeline, Robert, Harvey and Margaret, all at home. Mr. Reynolds was reared in the Friends faith, his father's family being devout Quakers.

Robert E, McNee, a representative citizen, was born in Delhi, Delaware county, N. Y., September 20, 1848, son of William B. and Susan Jane (Craig) MeNee, the pioneers. He came with them to Illinois in 1854 and to Minnesota in 1855, growing to manhood on the home farm in Bloomfield township. He now owns 820 acres in sections 14 and 15, Bloomfield, which he farmed with success for many years. He rents a part of his land and is reaping the well deserved fruits of a life well spent. His home is spacious and comfortable, and restful alike to family and stranger. Mr. MeNee inclines toward the tenets of the Republican party. While in no sense a politician or an officeseeker, his duty has called him to serve in several public positions, and he has served as supervisor of his township for several years, as well as in the various school offices of his district. Aside from his farm holdings, he owns stock in the First National Bank of Spring Valley. Mr. MeNee was married, November 27, 1890, to Ida E. Nicholls, born in Chicago, April 3, 1861, daughter of William B. and Elizabeth (Larrington) Nicholls, the pioneers. This union has been hlessed with three children, all of whom died in infaney,

William Hazelton, deceased, was one of the early pioneers of Fillmore county. Born in Canada, he there grew to manhood and was educated. Wishing to start in life on his own responsibility, he came to the States and secured employment of various farmers in Ohio, where he met and married Mary Welch, a native of Maine. For several years after their marriage they made their home in Ohio, but in 1856 came to Minnesota and pre-empted a elaim in section 81, Sumner township, where he spent the remainder of his life. He broke the wild land, fitted it for cultivation, erected suitable buildings, and made many improvements. Mr. and Mrs. Hazelion were the parents of ten children: Angeline and Hiram are dead; Mary lives in Racine, Minn.; William lives in Becker county, Minnesota; Frank and Emma are dead; Martha lives in Washington; Orin lives in Sumner township, this county; Lorin is dead; Francis lives in Sumner township. Mr. Hazelton died March 4, 1885, and his wife died October 11, 1899.

William B. McNee was born in Delhi, N. Y., November 16, 1815, and was married February 27, 1845, to Susan Jane Craig. In 1854 they came west to Illinois, and in 1855 came to Minnesota, taking a pre-emption claim in section 13, Spring Valley township, and secured Peter 8. De Groodt to pre-empt in section 14, Bloomfield township. Here they began a life of hardship, and underwent all the privations incident to life in those days. But soon buildings were erected and the land broken, and Mr. MecNee became a successful cattle raiser and wheat grower, adding to his acreage, and becoming a prominent man. In 1890 he moved to Spring Valley and lived in that city until his death, January 23, 1904. His widow died January 30, 1911.

James Tabor, deceased, one of Jordan's earliest settlers, was born in England, July 23, 1795, and obtained his education by attending evening school, while employed in the day time. At fourteen years of age, he learned the wagonmaker's trade, a vocation he followed for three years. At the end of this period he entered the English army, serving four and one-half years, until honorably discharged. In 1817 he was united in marriage with Jane Exton. In 1830 they left their native land for America, and landed at Quebec, going from there to Montreal] on a flat-boat, thence to Wellington. Mrs. Jane (Exton) Tabor died in 1832, and the following year Mr. Tabor married Ann Hill Nash, also a native of England. They lived in Simcoe county about eighteen years, where Mr. Tabor was employed in farming and running a whipsaw. He furnished the first lumber for the first boat operated on Lake Simcoe. They subsequently moved from Simcoe county to Waterloo county, where Mr. Tabor took a 200-acre tract of land, being among the first settlers in the township of Marysborough. Mr. Tabor improved the land, erecting a house and necessary outbuildings, and there resided until February, 1855, when they came to this county as pioneers, and took land on section 32, Jordan township. It is said that the first religious services in town were held at their home. Mr. Tabor was one of the judges at the first election held in the town of Jordan, and was more or less identified with the early history and affairs of Jordan township. He continued to live on his farm until the time of his death, which occurred June 11,

Mr. And Mrs. John Tabor

1869, after which Mrs. Tabor made her home with her children until she passed away. By his marriage to Jane Exton, Mr. Tabor had six children: Jane, born March 24, 1819, died July 9, 1833; Thomas, born April 29, 1821, is also dead; William J., born August 14, 1823, is dead; Sarah was born April 29, 1826; Ruth, born June 18, 1828, died May 1, 1831; Ruth, born in September, 1832, died in October of the same year. By his marriage with Ann Hill Nash, Mr. Tabor had nine children: Mercy, born November 28, 1834, died in August, 1844; John was born March 14, 18387; Charles W. was born February 23, 1839; James was born February 8, 1840, and died in September, 1844; Albert was born December 21, 1842, and died August 18, 1844; James was born December 27, 1844; Henry J. was born September 8, 1847; Mercy A. was born May 14, 1850; Matthew A. was born March 8, 1855.

Orin Hazelton, a respected citizen of Sumner township, was born in Ohio on April 20, 1854, son of William and Mary (Welch) Hazelton. He attended school until twenty-one years of age, and then continued to work on the home farm with his father for five years. He eventually purchased the old homestead, which he operates at the present time, and, together with his general farming industries, Mr. Hazelton raises stock. He makes a specialty of raising Duroc-Jersey and Ohio Improved Chester-White hogs, also good farm horses and dairy eattle, and Barred Rock fowls. Politically, he is a Republican, and he has been elected to the office of town chairman for several years, serving in that office to the satisfaction of his fellow-citizens. Fraternally, he is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge of Pleasant Grove, and the Modern Woodmen, of Racine. On December 21, 1879, Mr. Hazelton married Maranda Coulter, born December 25, 1860, in Fond du Lae county, Wisconsin, daughter of James and Emma (Allen) Coulter, the former of whom died at the home of Orin Hazelton, February 11, 1903, and the latter at Winnebago City, Minn., December 9, 1892. Mr. and Mrs. Hazelton have six children: Lorin C., Lindon Vincent, Laura Viola, Neva Grace, Earl J. and Clifford. Lorin C., Lindon V., Earl J. and Clifford are in Edgley, N.D. Laura V. is the wife of Henry C. Desler. Neva Grace is the wife of Herbert Wallace.

John Tabor, for considerably more than half a century a resident of Jordan township, was born in Canada, March 14, 1887, son of James and Ann Hill (Nash) Tabor. He was educated in the schools of Canada and the United States, and when coming to Jordan in 1855, at the age of eighteen years, assumed in full the responsibilities and work of a man. He pre-empted a claim, built a small cabin, grubbed out the land, and started agricultural operations. The small log house was replaced by a larger log house, and this, moved several rods south, is now a part of the present comfortable home. Both of the original buildings were of hewn logs. Poor health prevented Mr. Tabor from serving his country in the field during the Civil War. He now owns eighty acres of land, on which general farming and stock raising are successfully conducted. Politically a Republican, he has served as a member of the town and school boards with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his fellow-citizens. He attends the Washington Methodist chureh and contributes to its support. The subject of this sketch was married August 1, 1856, to Anna Mower, a native of England, and they have four children: Fred Edgar, on the home farm; Mary Ann, wife of Charles Gammell; Arthur Albert, of Jordan; and Emma Eunice, wife of Elisha B. Marlow, of Minneapolis. Mrs. Anna (Mower) Tabor died September 3, 1871, and Mr. Tabor was married in December, 1872, to Jerusha A. Pebbles Tedman. She died October 6, 1904. Mr. Tabor is a thorough believer in civie righteousness, and is affiliated with the Good Templars.

Fred Edgar Tabor, the son, is a representative citizen, and a member of the town board. In 1906 he took charge of the home farm, since which date he has conducted the place and looked after his father's interests. He married Jessie E. Irving, of Hyde Park, Dutchess county, N. Y., and they are the parents of five children: Mildred J., Earl C., Zillah, Erna G. and Raymond J.

Edward W. Clark was born in Illinois, July 12, 1877, son of O. G. Clark, and eame to Minnesota m 1881, with his parents, who settled in York township, this county, where they bought a farma and made the family home for fifteen years, the father now living in Colorado. Edward W. received his early education in the common schools of the locality in which he lived, and studied three years in Rochester, attending school till he was about eighteen years of age. He then remained at home with his parents till he was twenty years of age, at which time he began life on his own responsibility, and bought land in Spring Valley township, where he made his home and farmed till 1906, when he sold his Spring Valley farm and bought 160 acres in Sumner township, section 20. He is here fast making this land into one of the excellent farms of the locality. Though he follows general farming, he endeavors to feed most of his erops and market the live stock rather than sell the grain. He keeps about thirtyfive head of Shorthorn cattle, with a good portion of them milkers; has about sixty-five head of a good breed of Shropshire sheep, and raises Durock-Jersey Red swine. He has recently erected a large new barn and plans on making still further improvements in the way of buildings in the very near future. In December, 1897, he married Grada Meinen, a native of Minnesota, and to them have been born two sons, Erwin Stoddard and Floyd William, both of whom are stndents in the local schools. In polities Mr. Clark is a Republican, but has never sought publie office. He is a member of the Woodmen Lodge.

William W. Parkinson, writer, horticulturist, statistician and church worker, was born in Edwardsville, Madison county, Ill, July 14, 1837, son of William C. and Mary (McKee) Parkinson. In 1841 he removed with his parents to Lafayette county, Wisconsin, and there received his edneation and grew to manhood. In the fall of 1854 he came to Minnesota for a short time, returning in the spring of 1855 with two yoke of oxen, which he sold and bought a span of horses, with which he teamed from Chatfield to Winona until July 15 of the same year, when he went baek to Wisconsin. He returned again in the spring of 1857, and acquired 160 acres in section 19, Sumner township, and later added to this by purchasing forty acres adjoining and twenty acres of timber in Spring Valley township. In 1859 he built a house and there he lived until 1893, when he rented the farm to his son and moved to Pleasant Grove, Olmsted county, where he still resides. Mr. Parkinson is an independent voter, but a believer in the platform of the Prohibitionist party, having formerly been a Democrat. While affiliated with the latter party, he was a member of various committees, and at one time was sent to a state convention. He has been justice of the peace eight years aud notary public sixteen years, and still holds these offices. He served nine months as town treasurer by appointment. As a church worker, Mr. Parkinson is widely known. He has been a Bible student since he was old enough to read, and has been a Bible teacher for many years. He has also been an ordained elder in the church for twenty years, and has been a delegate to many of the national conventions of the church. As the result of his Bible research, he has written two pamphlets, one on the Abrogation of the Jewish Law, and one on the Action and Design of Baptism, which are important additions to the literature of the Christian church, of which he is a prominent member. Aside from these writings, he was one of the numerous farm-correspondents of the ''Orange Judd Farmer'' for ten years, and for twenty years chief statistician in Fillmore and Olmsted counties for the Agricultural Department at Washington. Ie has also done considerable other work of a statistical nature. As a farmer he was very successful, and as a horticulturist he raised the first apples in the vicinity of his farm. He also bought the first reaper in the neighborhood where he lived. All in all, he is a useful citizen, and it was with regret that his neighbors saw him leave the county, their regret being manifested by a reception which was tendered him, and in the many valuable presents which he received. Fraternally, Mr. Parkinson is associated with the Masonic Lodge. He was worshipful master four years, district deputy grand master one year, treasurer four years, and the present chaplain. He is also a member of the Territorial Pioneers and of the Fillmore County Old Settlers' Association. Mr. Parkinson was married July 15, 1855, the day after his eighteenth birthday, to Augusta M. Freeman, the cere-. mony being performed by George M. Gere, a justice of the peace of Chatfield. To this union were born four children, two boys and two girls. Almon F. lives in Mason City, Iowa; Mary E. is the wife of Frank A. Neill, of this county. Frost C. lives in Stewartville, Minn. Jennie B., wife of Walter Scott, lives in Pleasant Grove. Mrs. Augusta M. (Freeman) Parkinson died May 21, 1909, and on October 6, 1910, Mr. Parkinson married Mrs, Sarah W. Whiston, of Austin, Minn.

Mr. Parkinson is one of the oldest of the pioneers and has many interesting stories to tell of the early days. Galena, Il. was the nearest railroad point; Decorah, Iowa, fifty miles away, was the place at which supplies were purchased, and grain was hauled to Winona, fifty miles away. Until the railroads came closer, Mr. Parkinson himself often brought the mail from Winona to Chatfield in his water pail, while teaming, in 1855.

George McMaster, deceased, one of the pioneer residents of Fillmore county, was born in Massachusetts, April 27, 1830, and grew to manhood in his home state. In 1849 he went to Vermont, there working at his trade as a spinner. Four years later he moved to Illinois, and in February, 1855, drove from Galena, II1., to Decorah, Iowa. In the latter city he joined Captain Elliott's expedition and came to this county, where he located a farm on section thirty, Canton township. There for several years Mr. Mc- Master made his home, enduring many hardships and privations. In 1864 he enlisted in Company D, First Minnesota Heavy Artillery, and served one year. After being honorably discharged, he returned to his home in this county. Mr. MeMaster built the first shanty on the Territorial road, between Eliota and Big Spring. In 1869 he disposed of his farm in section thirty and moved to section twenty-eight, Canton township, where he erected a house of hewn logs and bought 160 acres of land. He later sold eighty acres of this, and still later bought forty more, making 120 acres in the present farm. He devoted considerable time to stock raising, and became one of the successful farmers in the township. He married Martha Cadman in Vermont, and through all the years of privation she proved a most estimable helpmeet. To them were born Edmund J., now living in Washington; Mona M., deceased; William J., of Canton; George J., of Lanesboro; David, of Canton; and Mary J., now Mrs. Fred Castor, of Canton. Mrs. McMaster entered into rest September 12, 1869, and Mr. MeMaster's death occurred in April, 1910.

Joseph Langlie was born in Norway, January 18, 1849, son of Andfind and Berret Langlie. After attending school, he was employed in a mereantile establishment. In 1882 he crossed the ocean, landed at Boston, and came directly to Lanesboro, this county, where he was employed by his brother in the general store of Nelson & Langlie, where he acquired a large acquaintance which has proved invaluable to him in more recent years. He was with Nelson & Langlie till 1894, when he left their employ and opened a grocery and bakery on his own responsibility. He conducted this business, meeting with excellent success till 1907, at which time he sold the entire enterprise. Since that time he has been extensively interested in Dakota land, but is now living a practically retired life. Mr. Langlie is a member of the Lutheran church and supports the principles of the Republican party. He married Bardine Oyen, and to this union have been born eight children: Bjorny, Bennie (deceased), Margaret, Agnes, Oswald, Ingvar, Henry, and Arthur (deceased). Bjorny married Carrie Dahl, and they have three children. Margaret married P. A. Kvearnum, and they have one child. Agnes married I]. C. DeVilliers, and they have two children. Oswald married Pearl Christianson.

J. C. Miller, retired farmer, living in the village of Lanesboro, was born in Upper Canada, August 8, 1848. During the fall of 1857 he came to Minnesota with his parents, who located in Amherst township, where his father purchased a farm. Later the family moved to a farm in the eastern part of Preston township, where the mother died im 1898, and the father in 1899. J. C. was a student in the country schools when a boy and remained with his parents on the home farm until twenty-seven years of age. From 1875 to 1902 he farmed on property which he purchased in Preston. During the latter year, Mr. Miller sold his farm and moved to Lanesboro, where he is spending his days surrounded by many comforts which his years of toil and industry have earned for him. His garden, which is one of the most productive in the village, occupies a greater part of his time during the spring and summer months. While on the farm he served thirteen years on the school board of district 136.

Ellen, daughter of Robert and Jeannette McCallum, became the wife of Mr. Miller, February 22, 1876, and they are parents of one son, Charles, now conducting a photographic studio in Houston. Mr. and Mrs. Miller make a home for Mrs. Miller's mother, the father having been killed by lightning.

James H. Leary was born in Owatonna, Minn., October 10, 1866, son of Daniel and Catherine (McCarthy) Leary. He attended the parochial schools at Winona, the grammar schools at Lanesboro, and St. Joseph's College, Dubuque, Iowa. Having completed his college course, he assisted his father, Daniel Leary, who was an extensive contractor on railroad work. Next he accepted a position with the Cudahy Packing Company, where he remained four years. Not wishing to be employed by others longer, he decided to enter business on his own responsibility. In 1908 he and Michael Barrett formed what has since been known as the Lanesboro Roller Mill Company. Both men continue actively in the milling work, and do a general milling business, with particular attention to their output of flour. Mollie Scanlan, daughter of Michael and Anna (Enright) Scanlan, became his wife, and to thein have been born four children: Mary, John S., Catherine A. and Elizabeth. Mr. Leary is a member of the Catholic church. He belongs to the Knights of Columbus, also the Ancient Order of Hibernians; In political views Mr. Leary is a Republican, but has never sought publie preferment.

George J, McMaster, a resident of the village of Lanesboro, was born in Canton township, August 18, 1862, son of George and Martha (Cadman} McMaster. He received the rudiments of his education in the common schools of his township, and after reaching sixteen years of age worked for various farmers for a period of four years, later going to Decorab, Iowa, where he entered Breckenridge Institute and took a two years' course, after which he returned to his home in Canton. For a period of time alter completing his college course, Mr. McMaster was employed in the capacity of clerk by James Manuel. Later, returning to the home farm, he worked for his father three years, and then, with Mr. Dunford, entered the lumber business, which they continued for two years. In the spring of 1894 he moved to Lanesboro, where he assumed charge of the Farmers' Co-operative Lumber Yards, and remained in this position until the yards were sold. Some time after this, Mr. McMaster went to farming in Amherst, on section thirty-three, there remaining four years. In 1898 he moved to Canton, but during the winter returned to Lanesboro and took charge of the Vickerman prop- erty. Fraternally, the subject of this sketch is affiliated with Lebanon Lodge, No. 102, A. F. & A. M., of which he is master; the I. 0. O. F. and the M. W. A.; and both he and his wife are members of the Eastern Star. He married Jennie, daughter of Charles and Mary Knox, and they are parents of Mary M. One child, Leone, died in infancy. Mr. MeMaster has given good service as a member of the village council of Lanesboro.

George Turner, retired farmer, and a citizen of the village of Lanesboro, was born in Lower Canada, November 10, 1843, son of Joseph and Mary Ann (Franklin) Turner. In 1853, with his parents, the subject of this sketch moved to Illinois, where they remained but a short time, after which they went to Wisconsin, going next to Iowa, and from there, in 1857, to Amherst township. During the first few years of their residence here, they endured many hardships and privations, but eventually overcame great difficulties and, as the years passed, grew prosperous. At the time of the Indian troubles, George, the son, enlisted in Company A, Second Minnesota Cavalry, and joined Sully's expedition against the Sioux. During the many encounters with this tribe they experienced great trials, dangers and sufferings. They were stationed at Fort Ridgely during the winter months, and there suffered greatly from cold and exposwre. In the warmer months they guarded the frontier. During February, 1866, the regiment started for Fort Snelling, and en route were caught in a terrible blizzard, many losing their lives in the snow. With the few survivors, Mr. Turner managed to make his way back to headquarters, and in April, 1866, he was honorably discharged. Returning to his farm in Amherst township, he resumed agricultural activities, in which he continued until 1895, during which year he decided to retire and move to Lanesboro. Mr. Turner is a strong advoeate of temperance, and an active church worker, having been elder of the Presbyterian church for thirty years. For thirty-seven consecutive years he has served as delegate to the county Repnblican convention. For some time he was a member of the board of supervisors of Amherst township, and a member of the school board for a considerable period. He is also a popular member of Hardy Post, G, A. R., of Lanesboro. Mr. Turner was married June 14, 1868, to Helen A. Weed, born in Milton, Ulster county, N. Y., daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Ann (Smith) Weed. To Mr. and Mrs. Turner have been born four children: Frederick Leonard, Charles I., George A., and Joseph V. Frederick Leonard died at the age of two and a half years. Charles I., a banker of Heaton, N. D., married Lillian Clark and has two children: Howard I. and Bernice. 'George A. is manager of the Cameron Transfer Company at Minneapolis.

He married Jennie Kimber and has three children: Max R., Ruth J. and Helen C. Joseph V. married Lydia Anderson and they have three children: Ralph J., Mary E. and Margaret A.

Tom Thompson, deceased, was born in Hadeland, Norway, November 27, 1850, came to the United States in 1869, and loeated on Highland Prairie, Holt township, this county, where he found work as a carpenter for three or four years. He later went to Lanesboro, working on the railroad and at his trade. He was employed by the John Paul Lumber Company as yardman and later as manager, in which position he continued till he and Ole Habberstad entered into partnership. For many years this partnership continued, the firm being engaged in the lumber and hardware business. Mr. Thompson married Hannah, daughter of Ole and Ingeborg Margaretha Ronsen (Benson) Habberstad, March 21, 1873, and to them were born three children: Minnie married Herman DeVillers; she died March 17, 1904, leaving one child, Lilian. Olaf T. married Louise Johnson; Teman married Hannah Johnson. The two sons are now con: ducting an extensive furniture business in Lanesboro. In 1906 Mr. Thompson retired from business, selling his interests. He died August 10 of the same year. He was a staunch member of the Lutheran chureh and voted with the Republican party. He served with credit as mayor of Lanesboro, was a member' of the village council for some time, and was president of the school board twenty-five years, giving the best of his time and energy that the cause of education might be advanced.

Julius Olson, one of the leading merchants in Lanesboro, was born August 9, 1867, son of Ebenhart and Kjestena Olson, the former of whom, after coming to the United States, was joined by his wife, who came in 1872, bringing their son Julius, the family home being in Lanesboro, where the father opened a shoemaker's shop, which he conducted for many years. Julius attended school in Lanesboro village when a boy and upon completing his education secured a position in Jacob Wahl's store, where for six years he served as clerk and laid the foundation for lis future suecess. Leaving Mr. Wahl's employ, the subject of this sketch went to Minneapolis, there accepting a position with Slaven & Broderick, commission merchants, with whom he remained for some time. Later returning to Lanesboro, Mr. Olson worked for Nelson Brothers, in whose employ he remained for twenty years, giving excellent satisfaction. He is now a member of the Langlie-Olson-Fladager Company, Incorporated. This company conducts the largest general store in the county, carrying an extensive line of dry goods, boots and shoes, groceries, and clothing. The direct business methods of the firm, the unfailing courtesy shown to all, and the high grade of goods carried, have won for the members of the firm and for the store a high place iu the confidence of the community. Mr. Olson was married August 7, 1895, to Anna Gravaas, who has borne him six children: Ellen C., Arthur J., Agnes G., Stella D., Gerald O. and Walter H. He is a member of the Lutheran church of Lanesboro, and has served his village as a member of the council.

Ole Hellickson. One by one the old people, our pioneers, are passing away, going over to the Great Beyond. This year the people of the county have been called upon to part with several of the first ones to make beloved Fillmore county what it is today. Among the last was that dear friend and neighbor, Mrs. Ole Hellickson, whose husband preceded her to the grave but a few months. Ole Hellickson was born December 138, 1811, at Tin, Tellemarken, Norway, so near to the famous Rukan Falls that a pebble could have been thrown from the cottage door iuto the torrent. Here he lived and here he grew to manhood, wooing and marrying Birgit Gusta in 1837. Long before Horace Greeley uttered his famous words - ''Go west, young man'' - Ole Hellickson took his young wife and infant son Hellick and started for America. After a long and tedious journey, lasting several mouths, they reached Milwaukee, Wis., then a mere trading post consisting of one log house and a few shanties. This was in 1839. Ole Hellickson was a truly brave man and his wife a coustant helper. In the fall of 1842 she was called Home, leaving little Hellick and his baby sister and devoted husband to mourn their loss. The little baby soon followed its mother to their iong but, all may trust, a happy home.