Fillmore County, Minnesota - The whole text, 1912 (part 17 of 20)

Mrs, Frances Elton, the successful and popular photographer of Preston, was born in Onalaska, Wisconsin, daughter of Nathaniel and Sarah (Bemis) Roberts. Nathaniel Roberts came to Wisconsin from Vermont in the pioneer days, settled near Onalaska, carricd on farming operations for many years and died when his daughter Frances was but four years old. After his death Mrs. Sarah Roberts moved to Minneapolis, where she engaged in the confectionery business, in which work she met with a marked degree of success for a number of years, but owing to trouble with her hands, caused by the contact with sugar and coloring matter, she disposed of the business and moved to Austin, where she lived for three years, passing away in 1910. Frances, the daughter, reecived her education in the city schools of Minneapolis, and there grew to young womanhood. After leaving school, she secured employment in a photograph gallery, and by faithfal application to her work soon learned the business. She later married Andrew Elton and to them have been born two children, Marian E. and Marjory E. In her present oceupation Mrs. Elton is recognized as a thorough business woman, respected by the community in which she resides. Her studio is well equipped and modern in every respect.

Rasmus Rasmussen was born in Norway in 1858, son of Rasmus and Annie Serena Rasmussen, who brought their family to America in 1870, and purchased a farm in Tolt township, which they broke and improved. The subject of this sketch. has always lived with his family, and now owns the home place of 100 acres, where he carries on general farming and stock raising, in sections twenty-seven and twenty-four. He married Petrina Noem, a native of Holt township, daughter of Peter and Annie Noem. They have had five children, those living being Lena Rebecea, Alfred Andreas, Arthur Rudolph and Clarence Edward.

Wallace W. Dikeman was born in New York, April 19, 1848, son of Levi and Margaret Dikeman, both natives of New York. He received a common school education, and came to Rushford, this county, during the Civil War, working for various farmers. In 1865 he purchased a farm in section fifteen, Holt township. This place he still owns. Wis wife owns forty acres in section sixteen, and the whole farm of eighty acres is rented on shares, Mr. and Mrs. Dikeman live in a pleasant residence on a Jot of one and a quarter acres, owned also by Mrs. Dikeman. Mr. Dikeman has been supervisor of the township, and is now overseer of roads. He has been associated with school work for the past forty years, and is now clerk of the school board. He is a Democrat in polities, and the family faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal ehurch. The subject of this sketch was married, October 27, 1861, to Lavina Walker, born in Le Roy township, Lake county, Ohio, June 27, 1842, daughter of Tyler and Polly (Roe) Walker. To this union were born four children, of whom three, Margaret E., Herbert L. and Ruby P. are living. Margaret married William McDowell, and they live in Lily, South Dakota. Herbert L. married Laura Nihl, and they live in Minneapolis. Ruby married Frank Hanses, and they live in Valley City, North Dakota.

Carl Skarstad, a successful and industrious farmer, is a native of Arendah) township, born in 1880, son of Jens and Anna Skarstad, natives of Norway. He was educated in the common schools of Fillmore county and worked for his father until 1904. During that year, Mr. Skarstad moved to his present farm, consisting of 360 acres in sections twenty-seven and thirty-four, 200 acres having been purchased in December, 1910, and 160 acres in 1908.

Mr, Skarstad carrics on general farming and dairying, preferring Shorthorn cattle. He also raises Poland China hogs and keeps several horses. In political opinions he endorses the sentiments of the Republican party, but has been too closely occupied with attending to his work on the farm to become an office seeker. On June 15, 1904, Helen, daughter of Mrs. Gurene Benston, became the wife of Mr. Skarstad and to them have been born: Gerhard O., Archie J., Clifford H. and Olive Helene. The family attend the Lutheran church, of which they are esteemed members.

Michael B. Ramsey, who has represented the people of Arendahl township in many prominent public offices, was born at Sogen, Norway, in 1855, son of Bottolf Peterson and Gertru Michaelson (Bothun) Ramsey, who in 1862 came from Norway to America, and located in Winneshiek county, Iowa, where the father followed his trade as shoemaker, the family moving to Fillmore county in 1867, and taking land in Pilot Mound, where the father erected a log cabin, in which they lived for many years. Michael grew to manhood on the home farm and was given a common school education. In 1880 he rented some land which he worked on shares, and the following year rented from Erick Erickson. The farm of 200 acres in section nine, Arendahl township, which he later purchased, is now one of the well-kept places in the community. Mr. Ramsey engages in diversified farming, raises Short Horn cattle and Poland China hogs, keeps seven good horses for general farm and driving purposes and fancies pure bred Plymouth Rock chickens. Mr. Ramsey was one of the promoters of the Lanesboro and North Prairie Telephone Company, being one of the first to realize the importance of organizing this company. He has been treasurer of the company, served as such for two years, and at present he is its vice-president. Politically he is a Republican, and has served as supervisor of the township, chairman of the school board and road overseer. He owns stock in the Arendahl creamery and has other business interests. For some years, Mr. Ramsey has been chairman of the board of trustees of the United Lutheran Church, and he has given general satisfaction in all offices which he has held. He was married November 18, 1880, to Carrie, daughter of Erick Erickson and Betsie Anderson Svern, his wife. To them have been born: Carl M., Edward B., Julia, Andrew, Betsie 0., Martha P., Alfred C., Peter, Clarence M., Unnie C. and Bennie E.

Luther 8. Kingstad was born November 20, 1880, on the farm which has since been his home in Preble township. He is the son of Nels and Serena Kingstad, who were natives of Norway and came to America in 1855. They took a claim in Preble and there struggled to make a home and a farm from their wild land claim. In this they succeeded. Luther S., received his schooling in the common schools and later assisted his parents on the farm. When grown to manhood, he and his brother, Oscar, rented the parents' farm, which they afterward bought. They continued to work their farm in partnership till February 5, 1907, when Luther bought Oscar's share, and hag since conducted the farm alone. He now owns 197 acres in sections twenty-one and twentytwo in Preble, and follows general farming. He keeps about twenty head of general purpose cattle and raises annually about 125 hogs. He keeps from forty to fifty sheep and ten or twelve horses. He is a member of the Lutheran church. In politics he is a Republican and has been for some years treasurer of the school district number nine. He was married in October, 1905, to Lizzie Amdahl, a native of Preble where she was born March 8, 1885.

Rev. Endre Jaastad was born in Norway, May 21, 1846, son of Lars and Christine (Lussan) Jaastad. He attended the seminary at Storoeian, Norway, came to America in 1869, studied at Luther College at Decorah, Jowa, one year, and then entered Concordia Seminary at St. Louis, Mo., from which he graduated in 1873. He was ordained at La Crosse that year, to the ministry of the United Lutheran church, and came directly to Rushford, where he has done excellent work. He is married and he and his wife have had nine children, of whom six are living.

Nathaniel N. Kingstad is a native of Preble, where he was born September 18, 1868. He is a brother of the above mentioned Luther S., and they attended the common school of the home district. Having completed the common schools Nathaniel worked at home till twenty-five years of age. He then attended the Decorah Business School two terms. He later worked in Houston county for three years and with his earnings he purchased a farm in Preble. In 1904 he sold that farm and purchased his fatherin-law's farm, which has since been his home. He now owns 153 acres in section twenty-eight, and follows general farming. He has a herd of fifteen general purpose cattle and raises about seventy to eighty hogs annually. He keeps eight horses for farm work and driving purposes. He is a member of the United Lutheran Church, and was treasurer of the local church for a number of years. In politics he is 2 democrat and was for five years assessor in this township. He has also been constable, and is now director of the local school board, a position he has filled for more than six years. On September 30, 1896, he was married to

Matilda Hagen, daughter of Elias and Maria (Dahl) Hagen. She was born in Preble township, November 20, 1876. To this union have been born two children. Muriel Sydna was born September 22, 1899, and Nedella Evangeline was born December 9, 1901. For the two or three years prior to her marriage Mrs. Kingstad taught in districts 163 and 165, where she is very favorably known. Nathaniel Kingstad owned and operated the first steam threshing rig in his community, having previously taken a course in engineering at Minneapolis.

Even Ferden, president of the village of Rushford, member of the board of directors of the Peterson school, and vice-president of the Peterson creamery, is a native of Fillmore county, born in Arendahl township, October 15, 1872, son of Knut and Mary Ferden, who settled in Arendahl in the early sixties. The subject of this biography was given a common school education and completed his studies when sixteen years of age. After this he remained with his father on the home farm until about twentyseven years of age, then starting for himself by purchasing 160 acres in section thirty-one, Rushford township, where he has since resided and carried on farming industries. He raises Shorthorn cattle, and sells cream to the Peterson creamery. He annually disposes of about forty Chester White hogs. Mr. Ferden is independent in his politieal views. On February 4, 1892, he was united in marriage with Helen lossum and to them have been born: Clara, Mabel, Clifford, Ernest and the baby. The family attends the United Lutheran Church at Peterson.

Arne Arneson, deceased, farmer of Newburg township, and honored veteran of the Civil War, was born in Berum, near Christiania, Norway, May 16, 1842, son of Hans and Haagine Arneson. The family came to America in 1851, and located in Rock Prairie, Wis., where they lived until June, 1853, when they came to Newburg township, and settled in section eight, the present site of Newburg village. Here Hans Arneson built a black. smith shop which was one of the first in the county and which was patronized by the pioneers for fifteen miles around. In 1859 the family moved to the Iver Thompson place, and a year later to section twenty-six, Preble township. Here Hans Arneson erected a log cabin and earried on farming, ending his days, June 13, 1887. His wife passed away, January 26, 1892.

Arne attended the schools in Newburg and Preble. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company E, Seventh Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and was one of the guards and witnesses at the famous hanging of the Sioux Indians at Mankato, Minnesota, In 1864 he was wounded at the battle of Tupelo, Miss., and in 1865, was discharged from the hospital at Memphis, Tenn., returning home in May. He lived on the home farm until his retirement in recent years. He replaced the old log cabin with a frame house and brought the place to a high stage of cultivation. In 1909 he moved to section four, Newburg township, where he has a pleasant home and just enongh land to keep him busy, without overtaxing his energies. He was town clerk in Preble for eleven years, and was clerk of his school district for a long time. In 1873 he represented his constituents in the lower house of the Minnesota legislature. The subject of this sketch was married, July 31, 1875, to Malinde, daughter of Nels Johnson, and they have seven children: Ole J., Herman (deceased); Hanna, wife of Andrew Sherwin; James L., Nora A., Magdalene and Minnie A. Mr. Arneson died March 26, 1912, and his memory is highly revered.

Arne Arneson, a prosperous native farmer of York township, was born November 13, 1857, son of Ole and Asalug Arneson, natives of Norway. He grew to manhood on the home farm and attended the distriet school, later taking a high school course in Spring Valley, and finally completing his education with a year in Luther College. Thus equipped he tanght school for twentytwo terms in this county, two terms in Mower county and one term in North Dakota. In 1884, he setiled in section thirty-three, York township, and began general farming, which industry he has since continued with success, now owning 160 acres under a high state of cultivation, and keeping ahout forty head of Short Horn cattle for general dairy purposes. Politically be is an independent Republiean, and in recognition of his ability and fairmindedness the residents of his township have elected him to serve in many public offices, such as assessor for four years, town clerk for a similar period of time, justice of the peace for a while and member of the school board fifteen years. On June 1, 1886, Mary Iverson, daughter of John Iverson, hecame the wife of Mr. Arneson, and to them nine childreu have been born: Annie, a teacher in this county; Sever, working in a North Dakota bank ; and Ole, Bertha, Emma, Sena, Nellie, Myrtle and Ruth, all at home. The family attends the Lutheran church and is well thought of in that organization.

Ole Arneson, deceased, one of the pioneers of Fillmore county, was born in Norway, August 14, 1832, and there spent the early years of his life and received his education. When he was but seven years of age his father died and until he became 'twenty years old, Ole made his home with his mother. In 1855, he married Asalug Johnson and the following year brought her across the

Atlantic to America. Upon their arrival in this country they proceeded directly to Minnesota and settled near Harmony, where they resided for one year, after which they removed to section thirty-four, York. Here Mr. Arneson purchased land from the government at $1.25 an acre and erected a log house, broke the wild land and endured the many hardships incident to the life of the pioneers of the county. As time passed and his labors were rewarded with prosperity, he made many improvements on his property,, erected a larger and more substantial log house, put up necessary outbuildings, bought farm machinery and increased his agricultural activities. To himself and wife six children were born: Arne, Isabella, Cornelia, Betsey, Julia and John. Mr. Arneson occupied many responsible offices in the township and held the respect of all with whom he was associated. His death occurred in April, 1904.

Peter Alm, who for the past twenty-one years has been a resident of Rushford township, is a native of Hadland, Norway. He was born October 28, 1842, and grew to manhood in Hadland, and there was married. In 1868 he, with his bride, came to America. This trip, made in a sail boat, consumed eight weeks, and after landing at Quebec, Mr. Alm and his wife came west to Minnesota, settling in Arendahl township, where they lived for four years. In 1872 he moved to Rushford, bought a farm and has since engaged in agricultural industries, This property comprises 180 acres located in section three, and seventy-five acres of it are under cultivation. Together with general farming, the subject of this biography devotes much attention to dairying. As prosperity has afforded, he has made many improvements on his farm, erecting a handsome dwelling in 1900, and other buildings as needed. On December 19, 1868, he was united in marriage with Sarah Erickson and to this union seven children were born: Mary, and Emma married; Peter, Edward, Carrie, John and Henry. Politically Mr. Alm is a Republican. The family are members of the Lutheran church. Mrs. Alm died September 19, 1909.

Henry Theodore Wilson was born in Rushford township, March 18, 1869, son of Oliver Wilson, a native of Norway. The subject of this sketch grew to manhood in Rushford and acquired his primary education in the district schools later becoming a student in the Rushford high school. Until twenty-five years of age, Mr. Wilson worked with his father on the home farm, after which he started for himself. He now owns 360 acres on sections one and twelve and of this farm about 140 acres are under cultivation. He raises stock and also engages in dairying, keeping about twenty-five or thirty-five head of Shorthorn cattle for that purpose. In political views he is independent, voting for the man, rather than for party. He is now serving as trustee of Rushford village. Fraternally he is affiliated with the M. W. A. In November, 1894, he married Marie Alm and to this marriage have been born Oliver Palmer, Emory Amos, Ingham Karl, Maria Henrietta and Esther Lucille. The family attend the Lutheran church.

Ole Tew, who for over fifty years has been a resident of Rushford township (now village of Rushford), was born in Norway, June 18, 1854. In 1858 the family left the mother country for the United States and arriving here settled in Rushford township, this county, two miles south of Rushford City, at that time a very small village. One year they lived there and then moved northwest of Rushford in Winona county, where they lived two: years. They then moved south of Peterson and after a year's stay in Holt township they made their permanent home in section twenty-nine, township of Rushford. Mr. Tew received his education in the common schools and then assisted his father on the home farm for some years. He then left home and for several years followed the trade of coopering, working at this trade at Peterson, Minneapolis, La Crosse and Houston, Minn. He returned to take care of his aged parents, and remained till his father's death which occurred on February 1, 1896. His mother died March 20, 1910. While a resident of Houston Mr. Tew learned the trade of paper hanger and painter, which he has worked at intervals aside from the farm work. He has a farm one mile south of Peterson, which is very advantageously situated. Here he owns ninety acres and follows general farming. In politics he is a Democrat, but has never aspired for office. June 4, 1877, he was united in marriage with Carrie Peterson of Rushford township, and to them have been born six children: Christian of Peterson, Serena Marie now Mrs. Anton Williams of St. Paul, Alfred of St. Paul also married, Morris living in St. Paul and Carl and Mabel at home. The family worships at the Hauge Lutheran Church, Peterson.

Olaus Buross was born in Norway in 1854, son of Christopher and Maria Buross, who came to America in the sixties and settled in Norway township, this county, where he acquired land then in an uncultivated state and worked that land into a good farm. Olaus received his education in the common schools and assisted his parents very materially in the farm work. After he grew to manhood he purchased the home farm from the parents and they lived with him until the time of their death. He owned, 120 acres in sections thirty-four and thirty-five, Norway, where he followed general farming all his days. On January 6, 1898, he married

Jonete Erlandsen, a daughter of Casper and Maria Erlandsem of Preble township, where she was born. This union was blessed with three children: Marie, Clara Catherine and Olaf Joseph. The Norwegian Lutheran is the family chureh. After the death of Mr. Buross, February 26, 1902, his nephew, Conrad Buross, rented the farm and has sinee conducted it for Mrs. Jonete (Erlandsen) Buross, who still owns the home place. Conrad was born in Rushford, August 6, 1886, and received his education in the Rushford schools... He married, September 5, 1910, Gina Hauge, a native of Caledonia, where she was born, May 6, 1892.

Jens Norby was born at Throndjhem, Norway, September 29, 1848, son of Gories and Carrie Norby, natives of that country, who came to America in 1870 and setiled in Preble township, this county, where the father bought land, which he grubbed and broke and made to yield abundant crops for many years, the father dying in Norman county in 1888, and the mother on the farm in 1907. Jens now owns the family homestead of eighty acres of well cultivated land on section eighteen, Preble township, where he engages in general farming, keeps fifteen head of dairy eattie, three horses and also other farm stock. He has long been a Republican and has served most ably as supervisor of the township for two terms, and director of the school board for many years, being now schoo] treasurer. In all offices which he has occupied he has given his best efforts and met with the approval of the citizens of his township. Mr. Norby married, November 28, 1877, Carrie Olson, who has borne him seven children: Carrie, Olaus, Julius, Mary, Joseph, Matilda and Cora. With his family, Mr. Norby is a regular attendant of the United Lutheran Church.

John §. Johnson, who operates his farm of eighty acres, located on section ten, Preble, and assists in caring for his mother's homestead in the same section, was born in Norway, January 9, 1863, son of Simon and Elizabeth (Anderson) Johnson, who brought him to the United States at three years of age, living one year in Newburg township, this county, then moving to Preble and homesteading forty acres of wild land, which the father broke and cultivated, and for many years followed general farming, the father dying May 9, 1911, and the mother still making her home there. John 8. grew to manhood in his parents' home and attended the district school near by. In 1888 he bought his present farm and now engages in general diversified farming, raising cattle for market and dairy purposes and keeping five horses for the carrying on of his farm work. He owns stoek in the Mabel elevator, and has various other business interests. He is a member of the United Lutheran church, and politically is affiliated with the Republican party, though his duties on the home farm have prevented his accepting public offices. June 25, 1887, he married Annie Seglem, who was born in Newburg township, on September 23, 1868. To this marriage eight children have been born: Edward, Emma C., Selmer, Peter, Josephine M., Mary, Carl Odin and Clarence O. (deceased).

Rasmus C. Spande, one of the early settlers of Preble, was born in Norway, May 4, 1831, and at the age of eighteen secured employment in a mercantile establishment in Stavanger, not far from his birthplace. April 16, 1854, he set sail for America, and on June 24, of that year, located in section twenty-seven, Preble township. In 1854 he married Serine Tostensdatter, by whom he has ten children.

Albert Spande was born in Newburg township, March 18, 1871, son of Bjorn and Anra (Kingstad) Spande, who came to America in 1854, pre-empted a quarter section of land in Fillmore county, eleared the farm, prepared it for cultivation and carried on general farming for many years. Albert, the son, grew to manhood on the old homestead. After graduating from a course in the Decorah Institute, at Decorah, Jowa, he became a teacher at nineteen years of age, serving in Winneshiek county, Iowa, two months, and then in Newburg and Preble townships until 1896. In 1897 he bought 120 acres of timber land, cutting the timber, erubbing the land and cultivating the soil He now owns 433 acres on sections eighteen, nineteen, twenty-nine, thirty and thirty-one, and carries on general mixed farming, raising stock and owning a dairy herd of twenty-five cattle. Ile also owns nine horses and raises about seventy-five hogs annually. He attends the Lutheran chureh. A Republican in politics, he has been prominently identified with public life, having been elected supervisor for one term, justice of the peace for six years, and road overseer for many years, until the system changed. In 1898 he married Amelia Johnson, a native of Norway, and to them have been born three children: Anna Margaret, born in 1899, and Milton and Alton, twins, born in 1902.

Anton H. Dammen was born in Amherst township, October 26, 1864, son of Hans H. and Carrie H. Dammen, natives of Norway, the former a blacksmith by trade who brought his family to the United States in 1851, settled in Elgin, Clayton county, Jowa, and continued to follow his trade until 1855 when he came to this county and located in Amherst, where he pre-empted a quarter section, and worked on his claim for two years, later growing discouraged and returning to his former home in Nor- way, but not finding things as he hoped, returning after a comparatively short stay to this county, farming until some twenty years ago, and then making his home with various members of his family. His children were: Hendrick, Mary, Lesa, Carrie, Bertha, Annie, Anton H. aud Andrew. Anton attended the country school in his district and assisted his parents on the home place. When nineteen years of age he began going to South Dakota for his summers, working five seasons, for his brother, Hendrick. Later he and his brother bought 100 acres together, subsequently acquiring the old homestead. This was later divided. Anton H. now owns 200 acres in section six, Preble, and section one, Amherst. He follows general farming and keeps about thirty head of cattle, twenty-five sheep and six horses and raises from forty to fifty hogs annually. He is a member of the Lutheran church. In politics he is a Republican, and has been director of local school board. He was married in 1892 to Tella Ask, who was born in Preston township, February 4, 1871. They have adopted one son, Lee.

Ole G. Haugen was born in Preble township, April 7, 1867, son of Gullick and Martha (Erickson) Haugen, natives of Norway, who came to America in 1852, settled first at Coon Prairie, Wis., and later removed to Stillwater, where the father was employed as a woodsman during the wiuter months and im a saw mill summers, eventually moving to Fillmore county and locating on a farm in Preble township, where the subject of this biography was born. Ole G., attended the district school when a boy and worked on the home farm until he attained his majority, after which he rented a farm ou shares for four years, later going to North Dakota for two years. He then returued to his old home in Preble on account of the illness of his father, who died March 4, 1895. Subsequently he purchased the homestead, to which he has since added, now owning 230 acres on sections thirty, thirty-four and thirty-five. He has about fifty-seven head of cattle and ten horses, aud annually raises about eighty-five hogs. Being a staunch Republican he has been elected to represent the people of his township in many of its public offices and was treasurer of the school board for six years. Among business interests, he owns stock in the Mabel elevator. After the death of his sister's husband, Ed. Elefson, Mr. Haugen assumed charge of her farm of 120 acres on section twenty-seven, Preble. He married Christina Storlic on December 8, 1898, aud to them were born two children: Gilman Clifford and Melia Benson. Mrs. Christina Haugen died on September 11, 1908, and the home is looked after by Mrs. Ed. Elefson. The family faith is that of the Norwegian Lutheran church.

Ludvig H. Larson, was born on the farm which he now occupies, May 20, 1877, son of Jacob C. and Anna Maria Larson, who were born in Norway, there educated and later married. In 1860 these parents came to America and settled in Preble township, where the father engaged in farming until the outbreak of the war, when he enlisted and went South with his regiment. He served for his adopted country until the end of the war, after which he again returned to his home in this county. Ludvig, the son, spent his early years in obtaining a common school education and has always lived on the home tarm, which he now works on shares. The old homestead comprises 160 acres on section twenty-five, Preble, and eighty acres are on section thirty in Houston eounty. Among many business interests with which Mr. Larson is identified is the Spring Grove Grain and Stock Company. He is affiliated with the United Lutheran church, and a member of its board of directors. He belongs to the Republican party and is clerk of the school board in his district.

Charles A. Housker was born in Preble township, where he now resides, June 12, 1881, son of Issac and Karina Housker. During his early years, the subject of this sketch went to the district school, and assisted with the duties of the home farm. When he becametwenty years of age, he started operating a farm for his father on shares. In 1906 he bought a farm, which he operated for three years, after which he disposed of the property and bought his present place of 163 acres on section thirty-six, where he does general farming and raises eattle, sheep, horses and hogs. He is actively interested in the political affairs of the township, being a member of the Republican party, and has served as clerk of the school board, which office he holds at the present time. October 1, 1902, Mr. Housker married Annie Stigen and to them were born: Arthur, Rudolph and Amelia. Mrs Annie (Stigen) Housker died December 26, 1908, and on October 4, 1910, Mr. Housker married Laura Nordvick, who has born him one child, Thelma.

Edward Iverson, prosperous and respected native citizen of Preble township, was born January 24, 1859, son of Christian and Bertha (Housker) Iverson, natives of Norway, who came to America in the early days and located in Illinois, later coming to Minnesota and taking a farm in Preble, where the father broke and cultivated his property and carried on general farming for the remainder of his life. Edward was ever an ambitious boy and when not attending school was acquiring valuable know!}- edge of general farming by assisting his father, with whom he remained until 1881. Being then twenty-two years of age, the subject of this biography started in life for himself and went to Tiolstad, Minn., where he was employed for two years. At the expiration of that period of time, he returned to Preble and bought a farm, which he operated for five years and then sold. In 1888 he bought of S. S. Hookland his present property, which comprises 200 acres on sections twenty-nine and thirty-four im Preble and forty acres on section three in Newburg township. He has improved his farm and made it one of the well kept places in the community. He carries on general farming and dairying, keeps thirty head of cattle for general dairy purposes and fifteen horses for farm and driving. He owns stoek in the Mabel elevator and has various business interests. Politically he is affiliated with the Republiean party and among public offices which he has oceupied is that of treasurer of the school board for six years. In 1882, March 13, he was united in marriage with Martha Hookland, who has borne his seven children: Sibert, Clarence, Alfred, Edwin, Blanche, Roy and Lea. With his family Mr. Iverson attends the Methodist church, of which body he has long been an esteemed memeber.

Anton Housker was born in Preble township on the farm which he now owns and operates, January 1, 1874, son of Isaac and Karina Housker, who came to America from Norway, their native country, in 1866, and to Preble township that same year, buying the present homestead. On February 24, 1908, the father passed away and the mother now lives with the subject of this sketch. Anton Housker spent his boyhood years as do nearly all boys who are born and reared on farms. He went to school in the district near home and was employed on the home farm. In 1902 he bought the old homestead of 160 aeres on section thirty-six. He owns thirty head of good dairy eaitle, seven horses and a few hogs, and earries on general farming with a marked degree of success. He is a Republican in pohtical views but has been too occupied with the many duties on the home farm, to seek public office, though he has served as pathmaster. Fle was married December 13, 1904, to Lena Itsa, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tobal Itsa, and they have three children: Constance Amelia, Clifford Alvin and Amy Clarissa.

Carl T, Kjos was born in Arendahl township on August 9, 1872, son of Mr. and Mrs. T. Kjos, natives of Norway, who settled first in Dane county, Wis., and later came to Arendahl, where the father now resides, the mother having passed away some years ago. Carl T. attended school until eighteen years of age and helped with the work on his father's farm for many years, also working out to some extent. In 1896 he bought eighty-five acres in section seven, Rushford township, where he now earries on general farming, raising Shropshire sheep, Poland China hogs, graded cattle and farm horses, and doing some dairying. A Republican in his political convictions. Mr. Kjos has never sought publie office, though he has been elected to serve as a member of the board of directors for school district 160 for a period of two years. On February 26, 1902, Minnie Solberg became his wife and to this marriage have been born three children: Norman, a student in Rushford; Alta and Clifford. The family belongs to the Lutheran church and contributes to the support of that organization.

Gerhard Byholt, one of Norway township's highly respected citizens, was born in that township April 23, 1874, son of A. S. and Gunild Byholt. Gerhard attended the common schools until seventeen years of age. Being fond of books and school he then passed the teachers' examination and for four years taught in this eounty.. He then returned home and worked with his father on the family farm, whieh he later bought. He now owns 180 acres of land in sections twenty-two and twenty-three, and has 140 acres of this under cultivation, engaging in general farming and giving especial attention to stock. He has about thirty head of dairy eattle, raises from forty to sixty hogs annually, and keeps seven head of Percheron horses. In 1909 he erected a large and beautiful house which is one of the finest in this township, which is noted for its fine homes. In 1894 Mr, Byholt was united in marriage with Hilda Hanson of Preble township and to them have been born four children: Martha, Gerda, Stella and Herbert. The family worships at the Highland Prairie Lutheran Church. In political views Mr. Byholt is a Republican and has repeatedly been elected to offices of trust and responsibility. He was assessor three years, town clerk four years and treasurer of school district fourteen for fourteen years. He is secretary and manager of the creamery at Bratsburg, secretary of the I'armers' elevator at Rushford and viee-president of the Preble Mutual Insurance company. In 1911 he was elected to represent the barley growers of this section before the Pure Food Commission in Washington, D. C.

William Williams, a representative farmer of Norway township, was born in Norway, Mareh 20, 1853. With his parents, William and Karn Williams, he came to America during the year of 1866. The family came west to Iowa after their arrival in the United States and located on a farm, where the father and son broke the land and prepared it for the planting of crops. They carried water for more than a mile as wells were scarce in those days and conveniences few. The father died in 1900. William, the subject of this biography, remained with his parents on the home farm and moved with them to Fillmore county in 1875, settling in Norway township. He bought the home farm in 1900 and now follows general diversified farming and stock raising. He has ever been both industrious and ambitious and has prospered as the years have passed, being now a stockholder in the Norway creamery and also owning shares in the Rushford Elevator Company. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church and is affiliated with the Republican party.

Martin Gilbertson was born in Norway township in 1873, and now rents for cash the farm of 160 acres in section 35, Norway township, on which his parents, Even and Elesa Gilbertson, settled when they came to America in 1872. Martin was married March 8, 1912, to Belle Knutson, born in Norway in 1873. Martin is a good farmer and pays eash rent. He has a suitable number of domestic animals and a full line of farm equipment. His brother, Carl E. Gilbertson, was also born in Norway.

Jacob Austin, progressive farmer, living on section 31, Preble township, was born in Norway on September 4, 1875, son of Ole J. and Gunhild (Schie) Austin, both of whom are now residing in Stavanger, Norway. The subject of this sketch was educated in his native country and came to America in 1892. After arriving in Minnesota he was employed by farmers in this county for several years, after which he went to North Dakota and there homesteaded a claim of 160 acres, which he later disposed of in trade for the farm of 158 acres which he now occupies in Preble. This property has been sold to Ed. Erickson, who is to take possession on November 1, 1912. Mr. Austin carries on general farming, keeps about fifteen head of cattle, raises fifteen hogs a year and has six good horses for general farm and driving purposes. Politically he is affiliated with the Democratic party but has never sought publi¢ office. He married Malinda Anderson, March 19, 1905, and they have three children: Oma, Gordon and Emilie.

Colbin Thorson was born in Pilot Mound township in 1865, son of Elling and Martha (Knutson) Thorson, natives of Krosered, Norway. These worthy people came to America in 1860, located first at Beloit, Wisconsin, and the following year moved to this county and located in Chatfield township, there purchasing a farm. Two years later they sold this property and bought one in Pilot Mound. They sold this in 1869 and again moved to

Chatfield, and bought a farm which they operated until 1875,- when he sold out, thereafter living on rented farms. Colbin, the son, was given a common school education and remained at home working for his father until 1887. During that year he rented the property on which he resides at the present time. This farm comprises 360 acres located on section 7, Pilot Mound, and 80 acres in Chatfield township. Mr. Thorson owns 40 acres in section 20, which he rents to Ole Pikop. He carries on general farming and stockraising, making a specialty of Shorthorn cattle, Poland China hogs and guinea fowls. In politics he has long voted the Republican ticket. He has served on the school board for four years and occupied the office of pathmaster for five terms. He has also served as collector for the Root Prairie church and as auditor of the Pekin church. When a lad of fourteen years Mr. Thorson went to Polk City with his father, covering the distance by means of a team of oxen. They took a claim there which they released after eight months and came back to Chatfield. November 19, 1892, Mr. Thorson married Inger, daughter of Ole and Annie (Iverson) Thrulson, and they are the parents of Edne Odin, born June 18, 1896.

Edward Erickson, deceased, one of the well-known and highly esteemed citizens of Preble township, was born in Norway, April 6, 1847, and spent the years of his boyhood in his native country attending school and acquiring the valuable knowledge which was the foundation of his success later in life. His parents, Eriek and Elizabeth Erickson, never came to this country, but lived and died in Norway. Edward came to America in 1874 and upon his arrival in Minnesota, secured employment of various farmers in this county. In 1891 he bought 80 acres on section 32, and there toiled and saved, becoming more prosperous with each succeeding year. Jn 1872 he married Oleana Julson in Norway, who accompanied him to America two years later. To them a family of thirteen children were born: Bertha, Erick, Brady, Elizabeth, Henry, Oscar, Minnie, Edwin, Clara, William, Julia, Dena and Stella, of whom Bertha married Andrew Rasmussen and lives at Highland, this county; Elizabeth is the wife of Herbert Pierce, of Iowa; Minnie married Nels Ford and lives in Houston county, and Clara is Mrs. Albert McCallum, of Stacy, Minnesota. On July 12, 1900, Mr. Erickson passed away. His widow now owns the home farm, which is operated by their son, Brady.

John C. Hanson is a native of Minnesota, born in Lanesboro, July 15, 1870, son of Mons and Martha Hanson, natives of Norway, who came to America in 1861 and settled on Highland Prairie, this county. In August, 1862, he enlisted in the Union

Army, was sent to the front, where he served with honor to himself and his adopted country until the close of the war, and was honorably discharged March 25, 1865. After the war he returned to Fillmore county and later bought the present Hanson farm in section 5, Preble. The Hanson family united their efforts in making an excellent farm from the wild Jand. The father died on April 25, 1909, and was survived by his wife only till December 31, of the same year. J. C. received his education in the 'common schools and has always lived on the home farm. He follows general farming, has a good herd of from fifteen to twenty head of eattle, keeps eight horses and a few sheep, and raises from thirty to fifty hogs annnally. He is a member of the Lutheran chureh. In political struggles he is a Republican, and though he never sought high office he has been road overseer three years. On April 6, 1911, Mr. Hanson married Belle Anderson, born in Holt township, January 4, 1873, and to them a child. was born May 8, 1912.

Andreas P. Hatling was born in Norway, November 20, 1839, son of Peter and Ellen Hatling, life-long residents of that country. andreas received his education in the common and parochial schools of his native country. In 1869 he came to the United States and settled in section 2, township of Preble, where he owns a fine farm of 280 aeres. Ile grubbed and broke this land and followed general agricultuve a long period. For many years he has not done any active farming, and his son, Martin P., now operates the farm, which is well stocked and equipped with all modern conveniences for the proper conduct of a large farm. Martin P. also operates his own farm of 140 acres in section 11. Andreas Hatling is a member of the Lutheran church. In polities he is a Repnbliean. He married Andriana Norgaard and to them were born seven children: Martin P. married Gena Gilbertson Sandsness and they have two children, Levane Ellsworth and Alpha Berniee. Olga married Mandius Johnson, and they reside in Rushford. Stella is at home. Andrew died in 1909.

Casper Erlandson was born in Christiania, Norway, October 12, 1842, son of Nicholi Erlandson. Casper lost his mother when but two days old. He reecived his schooling in the common and parochial schools of Norway and in 1869 came to America and settled in Preble township, this county. For some time he grubbed land and did other work for farmers, In 1873 he purchased his present excellent farm of 160 acres in section 11, where for nearly forty years he has been busily engaged in general farming, 115 acres being in a high state of cultivation. The first large barn which he erected was struck by lightning and burned. This was a severe loss to him at the time, but was long since made good by other and more substantial buildings. Mr. Erlandson has a herd of twelve to fifteen general purpose cattle, raises five to ten hogs annually, and keeps three horses for farm and driving. He is a deacon in the Lutheran church. In polities he usually votes with the Republican party. Ile has been town supervisor and road overseer, and was for nine years treasurer of the school district in which he resides. He was married in Christiania, Norway, April, 1865, to Maria Jacobson, and to them were born eight children: Isabel, Julia, Nicholi, Maria, Martin, Emma, Carl and Olga.

Torger 0. Solie is a native of Ringerike, Norway, where he was born December 26, 1842, son of Ole and Annie Solie. His parents both died in Norway, their native land. He reeeived his schooling in the common and parochial schools of Norway, where he lived till he was eighteen years of age. He then joined a party of his countrymen and came to the United States. He eame direetly to Minnesota, and here in this county worked out two years. With his savings he bought two oxen and a plow. The following year he took contracts to break land for farmers. By the end of that year he had money enough to enable him to purchase a farm. The land he bought was in section 18, Preble, and consisted of 160 acres of excelient land. This has sinee been his home, where he follows general farming. He keeps twelve head of general purpose cattle, raises from twenty {o thirty hogs annually, and keeps four horses. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran chureh. In polities, being broad-nunded, he usually votes with the Republican party. He has never sought political preferment, but has served several terms as road overseer and has displayed his native ability in this position as a promoter of good roads, of which we hear so mueh and see so little these latter days. IIe has also been direetor of the school board in district No. 8, as well as trustee of his church. Emeline Rye became his wife and to them were born eleven ehildren, nine of whom are still living: Emelia, Oliver, Oscar, Anthony, Carl, Willie, Charlotte, Helen and Mary. After the death of his first wife Mr. Solie inarried Thora Tostenson in 1888. She died in 1897.

Gilbert Hanson is a native of Norway township, where he still resides. He was born November 22, 1876, son of Johnson and Lena Hanson, who were natives of Norway and eame to America in 1862, locating first in Winona, where they lived and labored about ten years. In 1872 they came to Norway township, where they worked for land holders. Gilbert received his education in the common schools until he was fifteen years of age, since which time he has entirely supported himself. Formerly he worked ont for farmers, but since his marriage he has rented land. He married Maris Ness, August 1, 1905. She was born October 28, 1877, at Sheldon, Houston county, Minnesota. This union has been blessed with three children: Henry Benhard, Adeline Geneva and Mildred Gelana. Mr. Hanson now owns all the machinery he uses on this farm of eighty acres which he rents in Preble township, and keeps ten head of general purpose cattle and other stock necessary to the proper conduct of a small farm. He is a member of the Lutheran church and in politics is a Republican.

Milo Bathrick was born at Stoughton, Dane county, Wisconsin, in 1849, son of Otis and Florence (Miller) Bathrick. The father was a native of Worcester, Massachusetts, and later a resident of Indiana, from which state he moved to Wiseonsin in 1841. In 1857 he moved to Rushford with his family, erected the first stone building in the town, and for some years conducted a general store, which he eventually disposed of to B. O. Daley, after which he engaged in farming for the remainder of his life. His death occurred in 1892. Milo, the son, received his early schooling in Rushford, and upon completing his studies in 1873 secured employment in the mill at that place. After remaining for several months in the mill, Mr. Bathrick decided to engage in farming, so bought land, and for the sueceeding ten years carried on agricultural industries. In 1883 he returned to Rushford and entered the Rushford City Mill, where he is now employed. Mr. Bathrick has occupied various public offices and he is a man respected by all with whom he has dealings, of either business or social character. He married Alice Smith and to them five children have been born: Alice, Lettie, Ambrey, Maude and Lico. Alice, the wife of Peter Ogard, has two children, Matthew and Alice. Lettie married Helmer Peterson aud has one child, Helma. Mr. Bathrick served as a school board member nine years.

Ole G, Millie, an energetic and progressive citizen of Norway township, ig now operating a 600-acre farm, which he rents of M. A. Maland on shares. Mr. Millie owns a farm comprising 160 acres located on section 21. Born in Eidsvold, Norway, on March 28, 1849, there the subject of this sketch grew up and attended school. His parents, Gilbert Olson and Ingebor Maria Millie, were born and spent their entire lives in Norway. In 1879 Ole G. came to America and to this county, locating in Norway township, and there renting a farm, where he began agricul- tural operations. Mr. Mille is a Republican in political opinions and he has oceupied various public offices in the township, having been elected clerk of the school board and also road overseer. He is both sensible and far-seeing in carrying on the work of his farm, and the general well-kept appearance of the property under his management proves conclusively that he takes more than ordinary interest in his farming. He married Annie Maria Hoel on January 11, 1871, and they have become the parents of Gilbert, Ole, Martin, Oleana, Martin, Nicoline, Andrew, Alma and Nicolai, of whom Martin the first, Alma and Nicolai are deceased.

Jacob A. Jacobson was born in this county August 9, 1872, son of Andrew and Helga Jacobson, natives of Norway, who came to the United States in 1867 and after saving sufficient money purchased a farm. Jacob received his schooling in the common schools and was of considerable assistance to his parents on the home farm, doing the work that the average farmer's boy is required to do during his school days, and then continuing to work on the home farm. For a time he worked out. He later went to Dakota two years. On his return he rented land. He now operates eighty acres on section 36 of Norway township, and has the farm stocked for successful operation. Ile is a member of the Lutheran church. In polities he is a Republican. In June, 1902, he married Clara Hoff.

Lars C. Jenson, a native of this county, was born in Norway township April 14, 1861, son of Christian and Bertha M. (Stenagaard) Jenson, natives of Norway who came to America in 1853, first locating in Wisconsin and later coming to this county and homesteading 160 acres in Norway township, which had to be grubbed and broken. They labored under great difficulties for many years, the water even having to be hauled for several miles. The father died in 1898 and the mother now lives with her sons, John and Thor. Lars C. received his education in the common schools and assisted his parents on the home place till he grew to manhood. With the exception of a year in North Dakota he has spent his life in this county, working for farmers or renting land for himself until 1900, when he bought his present place of 160 acres in section 35, Norway township, which is in a high state of cultivation. He follows general farming and usually keeps about twenty-five head of general purpose cattle, nine horses, and other stock as is needed. He is a member of the Lutheran church. In political ideas he is a Repuhlican. Ile has always been active to seeure the greatest good to the largest number of farmers in his locality, and was interested in the organization of the Bratsburg Creamery, in which he is a stockholder. The'same could he said of the telephone lines of the township. Though he has never sought political preferment he has held some of the minor offices with much eredit. Mr. Jenson was married July 14, 1883, to Tilda Erickson, born in Norway township, November 24, 1863. This union has been blessed with twelve children. Clarinda, Catherine, Christian, Benhard, Tena, Ida, Ruth and Lillian are all living. John Helmar, Tina Jeanette, Cora and Leonard are deceased. Clarinda married Henry Eiken. John Helmar, a most promising young Man, caught cold while in North Dakota and this developed into a serious ailment. He was born December 21, 1883, and died May 26, 1908.

S. I. Norgaard was born in Norway on the last day of the year 1842, son of Iver and Marsta Norgaard, who came to the United States in 1866 and settled in Norway township, this county, on the land which now comprises the farm of 8. I. Norgaard, the soil being originally covered with a brush and grub growth which was removed only by long, hard labor. While attending the common schools the subject of this sketch put in all his spare time assisting his parents to make a home on the site they had chosen. When his parents died he was given the farm because of his hard work in winning it from the wild state in which they first took it. He now owns 240 acres, 80 of which is in section 34, Norway township, and 160 of which is in section 3, Preble township. He follows general farming and has from twenty to thirty head of general purpose cattle, raises annually from fifteen to twenty hogs, and keeps six horses for farm work and driving. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church. In political activities he usually votes the Republican ticket, but always for the man he considers most worthy. In 1891 he was united in marriage with Jennie Ingleson, and to this union have been born five children: Olga Marie, Eda Malinda, Albert, Leonard and Iwend.

Alfred G, Rustad was born where he now lives in Norway township, September 16, 1885, son of Gullick and Carrie (Tangen} Rustad, natives of Norway, who came to this country in 1867 and located in Norway township. They were hard working and thrifty and in 1877 had saved enough money to purchase a farm of 160 acres partly on section 36 of that township and partly over the county line. They here made their family home and lived contentedly among their friends, many of whom they had known in the old country. To them were born eight children: Belle, Annie, Lava, John, Martha, Christian, Carl and Alfred. Alfred received his schooling in the common schools and assisted on the home farm, which he now works for his mother. THe has a herd of twenty to twenty-five general purpose cattle, raises about twenty-five hogs annually, and keeps six horses for farm work and driving. He is a member of the Lutheran church. In politics he votes with the Republican party, and has always been active in those affairs which he believed wowd be for the public betterment. He is a stockholder in the Bratsbury Creamery and in the Farmers' Elevator of Rushford City.

Bernt M. Westby, a prominent citizen of Norway township, was born January 1, 1872, in that tewnship, son of Gulbrand and Maria Westby. He acquired his primary education in the common schools of the township and Jater completed his studies with a course in the Valder Business College, at Decorah, Iowa. He remained in his father's employ until 1895, during which year he rented the family homestead, which he operated for two years, after which he purchased his present farm of 200 acres on section 34. In addition to his farming he operates a threshing machine and wood cutting outfit. In political opinions the subject of this biography is a Republican and he has been elected to serve iu many responsible public offices, having been elerk of the school board for twelve years, town assessor for two years, and pathmaster for a similar period of time. In all these various capacities he has given general satisfaction. September 5, 1895, he married Caroline Gilbertson, born May 27, 1872, daughter of Olaus and Isabel (Erickson) Gilbertson. To Mr. and Mrs, Westby six children have been born: Osear Gerhard, Edgar Melvin, Oscar Gerhard, Clarence Bernhard, Carl Herbert and Lawrence Milford. The eldest child, Osear Gerhard, died January 11, 1903. The family attend the Norwegian Lutheran church.

Jens Christian Meinick Magelssen was born in Norway on June 28, 1843, son of Wilhelm Christian and Maren Dorothea Marie (Christie) Magelssen, who passed their lives in their native country. The subject of this sketch was educated in the common schools of Norway and completed his studies with a course in an agricultural college there. In 1888 he decided to leave the land of his birth and consequently embarked for America. Upon his arrival in the United States he proceeded west to Minnesota and here settled in Norway township, where for a time he rented a farm on shares. During the year 1895 Mr. Magelssen purchased forty acres on section 28, where at the present time he is engaging in agricultural operations. For many years My. Magelssen has taught in Norwegian schools in and about the township, being well fitted for this work and giving it his earnest efforts, meeting with approval in his methods and retaining the interest and respect of his pupils. On April 10, 1874, he married Tora Maria Magelssen, daughter of Thorbjorm Lekve and Maria Magdalena (Tsechudy) Magelssen. To ihis union have heen born Maria

Magdalena, Thorbjorm Wilhelm, Finn, Ingeborg, Trygve, Frithjof, Aslang, Borghild, Wilhelm Christian, Lief (deceased) ; Christian, deceased, and Jens Christian Meinick, Wilhelm Christian operates the home farm during the months that his father is teaching. Maria Magdalena is the wife of William Byer.

Ole Landswerk, deceased, was born in Norway June 29, 1849, son of Halvor and Margaret Landswerk. He received his education m Norway, there grew to manhood, worked at farming for many years, and in 1884 sailed for the United States. Upon arriving in this county he settled in Norway township, where he had many friends, and where he secured employment. After three years he purchased land in Holt township, but later sold this and rented land for five years. Subsequently he bought the present home farm of eighty acres on section 28, Norway township, where he followed general farming till near the time of his death, which oceurred March 18, 1902. In politics he voted with the Republican party but never aspired to public office. He was a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church of Highland Prairie. On May 3, 1876, he married Gunvor Running, and to this union were born nine children, six of whom are living: Halvor, Tolof, Harold, Carl, Andrew and Bertha. Carl and Andrew are now working the farm for their mother.

Rev. Peter Isberg was born in Hardanger, Norway, July 22, 1850, and in 1867 he Ieft his native land in the sailboat Helvetia and after seven weeks of buffeting by the stormy Atlantic landed in Quebec. He came directly to Chieago and later to the neighborhood of Beloit, Wis., where he helped do farm work. He then went to Iowa and joined some of his relatives there, working as hired man for farmers about three years. During his early years he determined to prepare himself for the ministry. In 1870 he entered Decorah College, where he followed his studies until the year 1875, studied one year at the German Lutheran Seminary of Springfield, Dlinois, and took a final course for two years at Madison, Wisconsin, and was ordained in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, by the Rt. Rev. J. Frick. The following year receiving a call to Alpma, Michigan, he went there. He remained there three years and then accepted a call to Perry, Dane county, Wisconsin, where he remained as pastor seven years. IIe then came to Rushford township and for a time lived on the old Gjernes homestead, where his wife was born and had made her girlhood home. The farm work here to be engaged in was pleasant enough, but let no one having been a minister of the gospel for years get the idea that he is the best of farmers. So here it resulted in Isberg going to Stanwood and vicinity, Washington, where he had charge of ministerial work for about seven years. In 1895 his family came back to the home farm near Rushford while he stayed in the west and took up contracting. In 1905 contracting and carpenter work was promising in and about New Westminster, B. C., Canada, and Mr. Isberg went there and stayed a time. In 1910 he was sent to the convention of the United Lutheran church in St. Paul, and from that convention returned to his family home in this county. On June 11, 1878, he married Gudveig Gjernes, a native of Fillmore county, daughter of Styrk Gjernes, one of the earliest settlers of Rushford township. To this union have been born six children. Helga is a teacher in the county schools and lives at home. Anna married Oscar Berland of South Rushford. Alfred Michael and Styrk Egbert are at home. Ida died in infancy while the family was living in the state of Washington. Maria, the youngest, is at home.

Christian G. Westby was born in Norway, July 11, 1862, son of Gulbrand and Maria Westby, who brought him to America when he was seven years of age. For the first two years of their residence in this country they lived in Iowa, after which they moved to Minnesota and bought railroad land in Norway township, this county. Christian G. worked for his father on the home farm until he reached twenty-two years of age and then started for himself. He went to North Dakota for a time and then returned to Norway, where he rented a farm for one year. Then he went to Montana for three years. Upon his return to Norway township he bought ''Lone Ridge,'' his present valuable farm of 240 acres on section 26, one of the well kept and productive places in the locality. Mr. Westby follows general farming and stockraising, owning ten good horses for farm and driving purposes. He is a stockholder in the Norway Creamery and the Rushford Elevator. He is a Republican in politics and has served for three years as supervisor of the township. On June 28, 1894, he married Dora M. Elefson, who has borne him nine children: Mildred, Grace Udit, Ella Henrietta, Irvin Benhart, James Martin, George Oscar, Carl Myron, Joseph Gerhard and Doris Christina. Carl Myron died February 14, 1908.

Hans G. Westby, a prosperous farmer residing in Norway township, was born in Norway, June 27, 1860, son of Gulbrand and Maria Westby, with whom he crossed the ocean to America during the year 1869. After living two years in Iowa they came to this country and located in Norway township, the father dying March 14, 1901, and the mother now making her home with her son, Hans G. The subject of this sketch purchased the home place in 1898, now owning 200 acres in section 27. THe follows general farming, owns about thirty head of dairy cattle, and keeps cight horses for general farm work and driving. Affiliated with the Republican party, Mr. Westby has served in many public offices, among which are treasnrer of the school board for several years and also pathmaster. Among his varied business interests he owns stock in the Norway Creamery and Rushford Elevator. He married Stena Byholt December 11, 1898, and to them have been born: Gnnter Arthur, on March 5, 1899, and Maria Genevieve, April 6, 1901. The family is identified with the Norwegian Imtheran church.

Niles Carpenter was born near Buffalo, N. Y., in 1825. In 1856 he came to Highland Prairie, Holt township, this county. When he became county auditor he moved to Preston, and later located in Rushford. He was interested in the banking business for many years, His part in the official life of the connty is told elsewhere.

Oliver Wilson, one of the first settlers of what was then Rushford township, is one of the venerable figures of the county, honored and respected for what his long years have meant to the people of the connty. Ripe in years and judgment and wisdom, he is a worthy exainple to the younger generation of what a poor boy may by indnstry, integrity and applieation accomplish, though lacking the carly advantages which so many receive. He was born in Norway, March 13, 1836, and at the age of eleven years was bronght to America by his parents who settled in Winnebago county, Wisconsin. In 1852 he went to IHlinois and worked a year for a farmer whose place was near Belvidere. In 18538, at the age of seventeen years, he came to this connuty, driving oxen for Erick T. Lien. Several others were in the same party. This was the second settlement in what is now Rushford township, Oliver (or Havlor, as he sometimes signed himself) Goodrich and Ole Olson Tuff being the first settlers. The subject of this sketch being too young to take a claim, worked out asa farm hand until 1856, when he bought 160 acres in section 20, Rushford, and began farming on his own responsibility. The land was wild, tines were hard, and advantages were few. Life was lonely, for the nearest cabin was at Spring Grove. But with undaunted courage Mr. Wilson set at work. He erected a log shanty twelve by fourteen, fnrnished it as best he could, and here made a home for his widowed mother. Diligently he set at work breaking and developing his land. As time passed he prospered. Farming at first ocenpied his attention, and later he tnrned his thonghts to stock breeding. Later in life he bonght and sold horses, shipping by the car load. His own horses were of the pure Norman strain, and for some time he kept four stallions of this superior breed. For fifty-nine years he has made his home on his farm, and has added to his possessions from time to time until he now owns 680 acres in sections 20, 21 and 29, Rushford. For the past thirteen years he has rented his land and lived practically a retired life. Being so prominent a man it is natural that Mr. Wilson should be called to service in various public offices. He has occupied his present office of treasurer of Rushford village (township) for the past thirty years; he was town chairman two of the ten years he served as supervisor, he was assessor as long as he would consent to serve, he was road overseer of the village (township) for three years, and he was clerk of school district 17 for fifteen years. He has also served in other offices of public trust and private honor. In a business way he has been treasurer of the Rushford Creamery for many years. One of Mr. Wilson's greatest inspirations in life was the companionship, assistance and encouragement given by his devoted wife. From his marriage to Ingebor Svendseid until her death, November 10, 1892, she was all that a wife could be, looking after her household duties, rearing her children, giving devout attention to her religious duties, and making her house a true home in every sense of the word. Eleven children blessed the Wilson home. Julia C. married John Melby, of Canby, Minnesota. Amos Ole, Oliver, Torgon and Mary are deceased. Henry Theodore is a successt{ul farmer of Rushford. Helga Amelia is dead. Emonah and Bertha live in Rushford. Hanna M. married Stanton Peterson, of Brandt, South Dakota. Clara is now Mrs. Alfred Tew, of St. Paul.

George Spencer West was born in South Wilbraham, now Hampden, Massachusetts, January 23, 1822, son of Stephen and Lucinda (Hummiston) West, both natives of Massachusetts, the former being a harness maker and an extensive leather dealer. George 8S. received his education in the publie schools of South Wilbraham. After leaving school he remained with his father in the leather business, and then learned daguerreotyping, a profession which he followed at Brattleboro, Vt., for eight years. In 1855, desiring to benefit his health, he came to Fillmore county and located on a farm east of the city of Rushford. The next year he erected a home from the first timber sawed in the Root river valley, this being the first frame house erected within a radius of ten miles of Rushford. He also drove the first four-wheeled vehicle which passed over the territorial road surveyed between Chatfield and Rushford. Settling in a comparative wilderness, Mr. West succeeded by dint of hard work and untiring efforts and the West farm became known far and wide. In 1872, owing to ill health, he rented his farm, retired from active life, and built a home in South Rushford, where he ended his days, December 14, 1896. Mr. West was married July 3, 1860, at Rushford, by the Rev. W. W. Snell, to Mary Isabella Cameron, born in Glengarry county, Canada, January 19, 1845, daughter of John and Mary (Chisholm) Cameron, the former a native of Ontario, and the latter of Nova Scotia, who came to the United States in 1848 and located in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, coming to Rushford, Rushford township, in July, 1856. Mr. and Mrs. West were blessed with three children: Dr. Herbert C., Azalia Lucinda and Mabel Genevieve. Dr. Herbert 0. West attended the Rushford high school, and graduated from the Chicago Dental School, and is now practicing in Chicago. He married Myrtle Miller and they have three daughters, Lucille Myrtle, Janice and Mary Elizabeth. Azalia Lucinda married Harry J. Hirshheimer, vice president of the LaCrosse Plow Works, and they have four children: Harry W., Earl Spencer, Dora Janice and Albert. Mabel Genevieve graduated from the Milwaukee Dower Seminary, and is now a student in the Martha Washington Seminary, Washington, D. C. Mrs. West now makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. Harry J. Hirshheimer, of LaCrosse.

G. E. Dorival was born in Caledonia, Minnesota, March 27, 1878, was educated in the public schools at that place, and upon the completion of the studies there entered a newspaper office as an apprentice. He has devoted his time to that field of work since, having worked on nearly every paper in this vicinity, the greater part of his time having been spent with the Houston Signal. He came to Lanesboro from LaCrosse in November, 1909, and took charge of the Leader. [Tle was married to Alta West September 23, 1904.

A. M. Olstad was born on a farm near Isinours, this county, on September 10, 1887. Upon the death of his father in 1889 the family moved to Lanesboro, where he has since made his home. He was educated in the public schools of that village and in 1903 entered the employ of the Lanesboro Leader, with which paper he has since been connected. He was married on April 23, 1912, to May Wood.

Henry J. Eddy, a well-liked citizen of the town of Newberg, was born in section 1, Canton township, January 14, 1857, son of Ethan P. and Julia (Onstine) Eddy, the pioneers, the former being one of the early settlers in the county, and the latter being of the Onstine family, which came to Amherst at a very early day. Henry J. was reared on the farm and at the age of twentyone was married to Emma F., the daughter of Daniel and Mary (Young) Newell. After his marriage Mr. Eddy erected a house on section 1, Canton township. In 1884 he purchased the John Wilsie place in section 6, Newberg township, where he now lives, having a well cultivated farm and a fine complement of buildings. He belongs to Canton Lodge, No. 214, I. O. O. F., and has identified himself with the progress of the community in various ways. Mr. and Mrs. Eddy have nine children: Edgar, Jettie, Lulu, Ethel, Elmer, Grover D., Ruth M., Leland M. and Henry. Jettie is the wife of Olvan Hegland, Lulu is the wife of S. D. Knutson, of Crosly, N. D.; Ethel is the wife of Theodore Anderson. Edgar and Elmer are also married.

Nels T. Redalen, deceased, was born in Pilot Mound township in 1876, son of Tollof and Marie (Solie) Redalen, natives respectively of Wisconsin and Norway. He was given a common school education, which he supplemented with a high school course at Chester, Iowa, after which he devoted his life to farming. On September 29, 1899, he married Hannah A. Carlson, daughter of Ole Carlson, and to this marriage were born three children: Mabel Theresa, Orvis Theodore and Neil Hiram. After marriage Mr. Redalen bought seventy acres in section 15 and there carried on general farming and stock raising, making a specialty of raising horses for farm purposes and sale. He was affiliated with the Republican party and served as constable for two terms, also as road overseer for a similar period of time. In all dealings Mr. Redalen was respected for his honesty and was ever ready to give assistance to all enterprises which tended toward the betterment of his township and county. His death occurred on December 10, 1911, and his widow now operates the home farm.

Ole Carlson was born in Norway in 1842, son of Carl Olson Ottness and Metta (Hanson) Ottness, his wife. The father came to America in 1867, lived a time in Pilot Mound township, went to Randville, Minnesota, where he spent many years, and then returning to Pilot Mound township, where he made his home with his son. Ole was reared in Norway, served three years in the standing army, and in time came to America. When opportunity afforded he purchased a farm in Pilot Mound, where for many years he carried on general farming. He has served in school and town office, and is highly regarded throughout the community. He was married in 1871 to Catherine, daughter of Ole Ellingson and Anna (Maland) Berg, who in 1865 came to America, located in Illinois, lived there five years, and in 1870 came to Arendahl township, this county. This union was blessed with seven chil- dren: Anna Maria, Oscar, Olan Tena, Joseph, Hannah Amelia, George (deceased) and George. Olan Tena married P, Hermanson. Hannah Amelia married Nels Redalen. Joseph married Anna Sorbo. Oscar, the distinguished superintendent of Fillmore county schools, married Della E. Luick.

Dryden Smith was born in Pike county, Illinois, March 10, 1826. His father, John M. Smith, was of Scotch-Irish blood, and a native of Pennsylvania, born in the Susquehanna valley, in 1782, son of a pioneer who in 1785 settled in Bourbon county, Kentucky, where the boy, John M., grew to manhood and obtained a good education for those early frontier times. With some other young Kentuckians in 1804, John M. accompanied Lewis and Clark from St. Louis to Council Bluffs in their expedition to Oregon. He was intended by his father for the legal profession but had military aspirations whieh the times and society in which he lived were well caleulated to keep alive. He raised a company of Tennessee Riflemen and stood at their head at the battle of New Orleans, and after the close of the war of 1812 was for five years a captain in the regular army, assisting in building Forts Rock Island and Peoria. In 1822, he settled gn a farm in the Mississippi bottom, in Pike county, Dlinois. Ile commenced business at Galena, Dinois, in the fall of 1827, and moved his family there in 1828. In the spring of 1830 he rode on horseback from Galena across the uninhabited prairies of Illinois to his brother's, twenty miles east of Vincennes, Indiana, where he was attacked with a fever and died on July 18, 1830. He was a kind husband, an affectionate father, a brave soldier, a lover of his country, a Democrat, and a hater of aristocracy. Frances Smith, the mother of Dryden Smith, was of Scotch ancestry, born in Saratoga county, New York, March 15, 1796, daughter of Abijah Smith and Susannah Wilkinson Smith. She left Albany in May, 1817, and arrived in Illinois, which was then a territory, in September of the same year. After her husband's death she returned with her children to the old farm in Pike county, Illinois, where she reared them to majority. She died January 2, 1877. Dryden Smith, the subject of this sketch, was the fifth child and fourth son of his mother's family. He spent the springs, sammers and autumns of his boyhood in cultivating the old farm, and the winters in studying at home or going to school, In 1842 he helped a neighbor, who had a contract to furnish the garrison at Forts Crawford and Snelling with beef, to drive a herd of cattle from near St. Louis to Prairie du Chien. During the trip he saw much of the then wild but beautiful country of northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. He began the study of law in 1848, and voted the Free Soil ticket for president. He married on September 29,

1849, Elizabeth A. Hines. His health failed on account of too close confinement to books during the winter of 1848 and 1849. To restore it he discontinued study and in 1850 and 1851 engaged in farming. In 1852 he visited St. Paul and traveled over the then sparsely settled counties of northeast Iowa, and in July of the same year examined the part of Fillmore county which now constitutes the towns of Newburg, Canton and Bristol. Mr. Smith settled in Decorah, Iowa, in the fall of 1853, was admitted to the bar as attorney and counselor at law in the spring of 1854, and commenced the practice of that profession in connection with a land dealing business, though spending much of his time as an active assistant of the great statesman, Senator Grimes, in his fight with the then pro-slavery Democracy of Iowa. Mr. Smith in 1860 settled in Spring Valley, a place he had visited in 1853 and to which he had directed many of its first settlers. He was judge of probate of Fillmore county from 1863 to 1870. Judge Smith died February 22, 1899, at the home in Spring Valley where he had lived continuously since 1860, leaving surviving him his widow and the following children: Hamilton H. Smith, Mary E. (Smith) Meighen, Virgil D. Smith, Fannie C. (Smith) Kelly, Edward E. Smith, Florence (Smith) Nash, Milton Smith, Josic (Smith) Granahan, and Ada Smith.

Erick I. Torgerson, a highly respected resident of Arendahl township, is a modern farmer in every sense of the word, and has one of the best places in his neighborhood. His comfortable residenee, his commodious barns, his farm equipment, his sleek stock, and his well kept acres, all speak of his thrift, shrewdness and energy. Mr. Torgerson was born March 8, 1861, son of Over and Britta (Roseter) Torgerson, natives of Sogn, Norway, who came to America in 1856, first locating in Dane County, Wisconsin, and one year later coming to Minncsota. The father drove cattle owned by Erick Roise from Dane county to Arendahl township, and as payment for this work was loaned two oxen with which to transport his family here. Coming to this country practically penniless, he gradually, by dint of hard work and excellent management, became prosperous and eventually owned 700 acres of land in sections, sixteen, seventeen, twenty-one and twenty-three. Erick, the son, was educated in the common schools of this county, and when a boy was employed by his father working on the home farm. He now owns 320 acres in sections eight and sixteen, and in connection with his general farming industries, raises pure-bred Shorthorn cattle, owning ''Star of Lunde."' He also owns the pure-bred Belgian horse, 'Sans None Denock,"' and raises many Poland China hogs and White Leghorn chickens. Mr. Torgerson annually disposes of about twenty head of eat- tle and seventy-five hogs. He raises from thirty to forty bushels of barley to the acre and seventy-five bushels of corn, this remarkable yield being the result of scientifie cultivation and abundant fertilization. Formerly the land produced nothing but wild oats, but its present valuable condition is due to efforts of Mr. Torgerson. Having long been a stanch adherent to the Republican party, he has been elected to serve in his community as town supervisor, assessor, road overseer and constable. He ig clerk of district 36. In a business way he is a director in the Arendahl ercamery and a revisor in the Farmers' elcvator at Peterson. The subject of this biography married Mary Wraalstad and tbey are the parents of Bertha J. (deceased), Henry J. (deceased), Henry C., Ida J., a graduate of Jewel College of Music, now attending music school in Minneapolis; Irving E., a graduate of the Lanesboro high school, now studying in State University to become a civil engineer; Ida M., Flla (deceased), Ella (deceased), Neil T., Earl M. (deceased), and Harvey B. The family are members of the Hague Norwegian Lutheran Church of Arendahl, of which Mr. Torgerson is treasurer. The subject of this sketch is vitally interested in school work, putting forth every effort for the benefit of children in the neighborhood, that they may have the best of school advantages,

Ole J. Oian was born on the old homestead adjoining the farm where he now resides in Rushford, December 24, 1863, son of Ole O. and Gunhild Oian. The parents came to America in 1857, lived two years in Muskegon, Wis., and then came to Rushford township, and purchased land on section thirty-four, where they spent the rest of their lives. Ole J. was educated in the common schools of the county till about fourteen years of age, when he took up the work of a grown man on his father's farm, continuing to assist at home till he was twenty-nine years of age. He then rented land for the following nine years, and by hard work and economy was then able to buy 160 acres in sections twenty-seven and twenty-eight, Rushford, where he has since lived. He now owns 240 acres in Rushford township and forty acres in Norway township. He keeps from twenty to twenty-five head of cattle and some sheep; raises from twenty to twenty-five hogs annually, and keeps five head of horses for farm work. In polities, Mr. Oian is a Republican, but has been too busy with his farm and family to give much time to publie affairs aside from those pertaining to his immediate loeality. He is a member of the Rushford Lutheran church. On March 18, 1893, he married Gunhild Grinlid, a native of Norway. This union has been blessed with six children: Tina, Gerhard, Ella, Orle, Alice and Emil.

School The Old Scotl

Lars Knudson, who resides in section thirteen, Arendahl township, was born near Stavanger, Norway, in 1844, son of Knud and Brita Torbjornson Jorvig, who, with their children, emigrated to America in 1866, when Lars, the subject of this biography, had grown to manhood and was twenty-two years of age. They all settled in Arendahl township and Lars Knudson has made his residence here ever since. In 1869 Lars Knudson married Mrs. Betsie Johnson, and the united efforts on their part succeeded in creating a happy home and a promising future. This union was blessed with three children: Sarah, Karime and Christian. In 1889 Mrs. Knudson died. Lars remained a widower, his children staying with him, except Karine, who married L. B. Johnson and resides at Tacoma, Wash. Through untiring energy and hard work, Mr. Knudson has made his home and farm of 420 acres one of the well improved places in the community. He carries on general farming, raising horses, cattle and hogs for market. Politically he has long been a member of the Republican party, but never aspired or ran for office. He has served as road overseer for some time. The family are respected members of the Norwegian Lutheran church.

L. H. Larson Hesby was born on the farm which he now oceupies May 20, 1877, son of Jacob C. and Annia Maria Larson Hesby, the former born near Christiana and the latter in Stavanger. The father enlisted in the army in 1861 and went west and fought in the Indian War. He returned in 1862 and then fought in the Civil War until its end, then returned home and was married in 1866. Then they settled where they now reside and engaged in farming. To them were born six children. L. H. Larson, the oldest, John L. Hesby, now residing in Buffalo 8. D., farming; Edward L. Hesby, at the carpenter trade; Hannah L. Hesby, working at home; Otto L. Hesby, now in Canada, farming; Enos James L. Hesby, working at home. The old homestead comprises 160 acres on section 25. Eighty acres are on section 30 in Houston county. Among many business interests which Mr. Larson Hesby is identified is the Spring Grove Grain and Stock Company. The family is affiliated with the United Lutheran Church. Mr. H. Larson Hesby is a member of its board of directors. He belongs to the Republican party, and is clerk of the school board in his district.

Physicians And Surgeons

In an age when, in the combat of man against man, heroes are worshipped according to the number they siay in battle, it is inspiring and elevating to be permitted to pay tribute to the men who won glory fighting disease and through whose devotion and skill thousands of useful lives have been saved and been made happy.

For every man slain by Caesar, Napoleon and Grant in all their bloody campaigns, Jenners, Pasteur and Lister have saved allve a thousand. The first anaesthetic has done more for the real happiness of mankind than all the philosophers from Socrates to Mills. Society laurels the soldier and the philosopher but practically Ignores the physician. Few remember his labors, for what Sir Thomas Browne said three hundred years ago is surely true: "The iniquity of oblivion biindly seattereth her poppy and deals with the memory of men without distinction to merit to perpetuity."

Medicine ig the most cosmopolitan of the three Breat "learned" professions. Medicine never built a prison or Ht a fagot. never inclted men to battle or crucified any one. Saint and sinner, white and biack, rich and poor, are equal allke when they cross the sacred portals of the temple ef Aesculapius. No other secular profession has ever reached such a consclousness of duties which it corporately owes to the rest of the world. What are the principles which a profession, more Profuse in its disinterested charities than any other profession in the world, has established for its guldance?

It was about 2.300 years that the the practicers of the art of healing began to take an oath emphasizing the responsibilllies which the nobility and hol!ness of the art imposed upon them. Hippocrates. forever to be revered, gave the oath his name.

Robert Louis Stevenson, seelng the life of the medical man oly from without. was not far wrong when he spoke of the modern sclentific medical man as probably the noblest figure of the age. The noble and exalted character of the ancient profession of medicine Js surpassed by no sister sclence In the magnificence of its gift. Reflecting upon its purity, beneficence and grandeur lt must be accorded to be the noblest of professions. Though the noblest of professions !t is the newest of trades. Unless the physician wil Nive a life of purity, of virtue, of honor and of honesty, he should seek a livelihood elsewhere, and 'Insult not the gods by striving through base methods and igno)ble ambitions in resembling them." in his heart and the glory of God in his soul, his aim will be; to be accurate in diagnosis and painstaking In prescribing, to allow no prejudice nor theory to interfere with the relief of hunian suffering and the saving of human life; to 1ay under contribution every source of Information, be it humble or exalted, that can be made useful in the cure of disease; to be kind to the poor, sympathetic with the Sick, ethical toward medical coaljeagues and courteous toward ajl men; to regard his cajling as that uf one anointed to holy office, firmly convinced that no nobler work can be given to man and to go forth to his labor with love for humanity, inspired with a reverent assurance that for this cause he came into the world.

The reward of such a nian, says Prof. T. Gaillard Thomas, ''comes from the hand of no emperor; his glory from the appreciation of no applauding multitude; his renown from the pen of no fulsome historian. For him the victor's crown comes from the hand of the immortal God. He tnat has done the greatest good for his fellow man, has, in the doing of it, won the greatest reward In earth's posséssion, even though no mortal man know of the deed but him!"

The true physician is he who has a proper conception and estimation of the rea} character of his profession; whose Intellectual and mora) fitness give weight, standing and character in the consideration and estimation of society and the public at large. His privileges and powers for good or for evil are great; in fact no other profession, cailing or vocation in this life occupies such a delicate relation to the human family.

There is a tremendous developing and educating power in medical work. The medical man is almost the only meniber of the community who does not make money out of his important discoveries. It is a point of honor with him to allow the whole world to profit by hls researches when he finds @ new remedy for disease. The greatest and best medica! and surgical discoverles and inventions tiave been free gifts to suffering humanity the moment thelr value was demonstrated. The reward of the physician igs in the benefit which the sick and helpless receive, and in the gratitute, which should not be stinted, of the community at large. Medical men are not angels: they are In fact very human creatures with hard work to do, and often many mouths to feed; but there is a straln of benevolence in all their work. From the beginning they are taught a doctrine of helpfulness to others, and are made to think that their life work should not be one in which every service must receive its pecuniary reward, The physician is a host in himself, a nat- ural leader among his fellow-men, a eenter of influenee for the most practical good, an efficient hetper in times of direst need, a trusted and honest citizen. What more can any prophet ask than honor in his own country and a datiy welcome among his own friends!

It does not take long for the waves of oblivion to close over those who have taken a most prominent and active part in the affairs of the day. The life of the pioneer doctor is no exception to this law, for as Dr. John Browne telis us, "It is the lot of the successful medical practitioner to be invaluabie when alive, and to be forgotten soon after he is dead, and this fig not altogether or chiefly from any special ingratitude or injustice on the part of mankind, but from the very nature of the case." However, the pioneer physician still lives in the memory of many of us, though he Is now more rare as an |ndividual than in the years gone by, and !s gradually passing out of existence. The history, written and unwritten, of the pioneer physician of Fillmore county, as elsewhere, presents him to view as working out the destiny of the wilderness, hand in hand with the other forces of civilization for the common good. He was an integrai Part of the primitive social fabric. As such he shared the manners, the customs, the aims, and the ambitions of his companions, and he, with them, was controlied by the forces which determine the common state and the common destiny. The chiet concern of himself and_companions were materially engaged with the serious problem of existence. The struggle to survive was, at its best, @ competition with nature. Hard winters ard poor roads were the chief impediments. Only rough outlines remain of the heroic and adventurous side of the pioneer physician's jong, active and honored life. The imagination cannot, unalded by the facts, picture the primitive conditlons with which he had te contend. Long and dreary rides, by day and night, in summer's heat and winter's cold, through snow, and mud, and rain, was his common lot. He _ trusted himself to the mercy of the elements, crossed unbridged streams, made his way through uncut forests. and_traveled the roadless wilderness. He spent one-fifth of his life in his conveyance, and in some cases traveled as many as two hundred thousand miles in the same.