Fillmore County, Minnesota - The whole text, 1912 (part 7 of 20)

George A. Broadwater, a common sense farmer of Bristol township, was born on section 9, in the township where he still resides, his parents being Darius and Mary J. (Drury) Broadwater. He was reared in the home of his parents, attended school in District 62, and assisted his father until he assumed the management of the part of the home farm lying in section 7, Bristol township. This tract comprises 120 acres, all of which is under cultivation. Mr. Broadwater has recently completed a new dwelling and outbuildings which are modern in every respect. He married Jen~ nie Sikkink.

John W. Broadwater, a well-to-do farmer of the town of Bristol, was born in Alleghany county, now Garrett county, Maryland, May 23, 1853, and was brought to this county by his parents, Robert and Rebecca (Ogg) Broadwater. In his youth he aitended school in Carimona and Bristol, and remained at home until after attaining the years of discretion, at which time he built his present home on his father's homestead. The place is now known by the name of ''Clover Nook Farm.'' It comprises 160 acres, practically all under cultivation. It would be hard to find a better farm or a pleasanter home than that of Mr. Broadwater's. The house is large, well lighted, heated with a furnace and fitted with modern conveniences. The farm build-. ings are large and commodious, and the house, barns and yard are lighted with thirty acetelyne gas lamps. An automobile. carries the family to and from town, and two telephones keep the family in touch with the outer world. The stock is especially well cared for, and Mr. Broadwater's especial pride is the own~ ership of two imported Belgian stallions, one of which weighs 2,900 pounds. In addition to the home farm, Mr. Broadwater owns 120 acres in section seven, on whieh lives his son, Ezra Floyd. Mr. Broadwater is a promiment man in his community, has held town offiees at various times, and has heen a member of' the school board for the past twenty-five years. He is also a prominent member and ardent supporter of the Church of the. Brethren. He was married January 14, 1879, to Elizabeth Drury, born June 19, 1859, daughter of George and Katherine.

(Pfremmer) Drury, the pioneers. Mrs. Broadwater is a woman of broad culture and wide capabilities, and is an ideal of all that a wife and mother should be. The Broadwater home has been blessed with the following children: Ella, deceased; Robert, who lives at home; Catherine, the wife of A, C, Wieand, who is president of the Bethany Bible school of Chicago; Ezra Floyd, who is married and lives in section seven; Sophia, a teacher in district 61; Ruth, Olive and Guela, who are at home, and Violet, who died in infancy.

Ezra Floyd Broadwater, a prosperous young farmer of Bristol township, was born on section four, in the township where he now resides, October 6, 1886, son of John W. and Elizabeth (Drury) Broadwater, whose sketch appears elsewhere. He was reared on the home farm, attended school at Crystal Spring district No. 61, and has devoted all his life to agricultural pursuits. He lives on his father's farm of 120 acres, all under cultivation. He married Laura Swanger, daughter of Robert and Carrie (Lovless) Swanger, of Fredricksburg, Iowa.

David B. Ogg, a highly esteemed citizen of Bristol township, was born on section six, in the township where he still resides, October 16, 1859, son of Joseph and Susan (Bueghley) Ogg, and has always lived on the home farm, with the exception of three years when he traveled for the Plana Harvester Company. His early schooling was obtained in district sixty-two. After attaining ihe years of manhood he married Ella M., daughter of Harry B. Ditch, born in Ogle county, Ulinois, August 2, 1868. They have two children: Harry J., born December 29, 1891, and Carl Virgil, born July 20, 1897. The farm, which has been registered as ''Maple Park,'' consists of 140 acres, eighty acres being in section six, and sixty acres being in section five, adjoining. The old homestead was a small frame dwelling, which was replaced by a larger dwelling in 1876. In 1911 Mr. Ogg remodeled and enlarged this house and practically made a new building of it. The outbuildings are large and commodious and the farm is equipped with everything that is needed in successful agricultural endeavor. <A feature of the farm which makes it especially attractive is the fact that it is beautified with 13,000 growing maples and cottonwoods, which were set out by Mr. Ogg and his father, giving the place the appearance of an old country estate.

Harry B, Ditch was born in Waynesboro, Franklin county, Pennsylvania, November 12, 1844, and was married February 19, 1867, to Sarah Huffman, born February 24, 1844, in Ringold, Washington county, Maryland. They moved to IJinois in 1868, and to Linn county, Iowa, in 1873, there engaging in farming and there becoming prominent citizens. Harry B. Ditch still lives in that county, his wife having died October 19, 1900. They had four children: Ella M., wife of David B. Ogg; Charles W., of Emmet eounty, Iowa; Frank W., of Chickasaw county, Iowa; and Carl L., of Linn county, Iowa, where he lives on the home farm.

Joseph Ogg, « venerable pioneer, and a bishop of the Brethren Church, was born in Maryland, and came to Carimona township, this county, in 1855, settling in Buffalo Grove. There he remained for the winter, and then homesteaded land in sections five and six, Bristol township, to which he moved at once. He followed farming all his life, but also preached at the same time, occupying a pulpit in the Brethren Church some thirty-five years. He died in 1895 and his wife in 1907. They were the parents of nine children: Martin, of Morrison county, Minn.; Sarah, wife of John Sadler, of this county ; Louisa, wife of Stephen Broadwater, of Bristol township; John J., M. D., of Minneapolis; David B., who lives on the old homestead; James, a dentist in Orange City, Towa; Samuel, a bookkeeper in Minneapolis; William, deceased; and Mahlon, a dentist of Wykoff. It is interesting to note that Bishop Ogg was one of a party of pioneers that left Garrett county, Maryland, to seek their homes on the virgin soil of the West. The trip was made in wagons of the old-fashioned Maryland stiff-longued and linch-pin style, most of the wagons being manufactured by John Ogg, another member of the party, and father of Joseph Ogg. The hubs of one of these wagons and many other interesting relics are still preserved by David B. Ogg. Of this party of noble pioneers, but one is still living, Mrs. Mary Zebaugh, wife of Peter Zebaugh, deceased, now making her home near Etna, in this county.

C. H. Brightman, a substantial land owner of the township of Bristol, was born in Chemung county, New York, July 2, 1843, son of Alson and Ruth (Swartout) Brightman.

Alson Brightman, in his life time, was one of the active goahead farmers of Bristol. He and his family came west to Masou county, linois, in 1854, remaining seven ycars. In June, 1861, they came to Bristol township and located in section twenty-two, where Alson farmed for twenty-five years. He then moved to the village of Granger, where he and his wife lived until toward the end of their lives, when they went to live with their son, C. H., ihe subject of this sketch. The father died January 28, 1891, and the wife and mother died January 20, 1898.

district sixty. In November, 1862, he enlisted in Company F, First Minnesota Cavalry, and saw active service. He was diseharged in 1863. Mr. Brightman married Sarah M., born November 17, 1847, at Conway, Franklin county, Massachusetts, daughter of Edward Burnham and Hulda Call, his wife, and they have had two children. Willie Nelson was born November 12, 1866, and died February 4, 1904. Nettie M., born May 1, 1877, married C. T. Jerviss, and they have five children: Luella M., Zetta U., Irma L., Charles E. and Ruby O. Mr. Brightman lives in sections fourteen and twenty-three, the buildings thereon having been built by his father-in-law. The subject of this sketeh is retired from active life and his son-in-law, C. T. Jerviss, looks after the home farm. Mr. Brightman has been constable and supervisor and was deputy sheriff four years under Henry Nupson. He is a member of Preston Lodge, No. 11, and also of Underwood Post, G. A. R.

A brief account of Edward Burnham, the Bristo} township pioneer and father of Mrs. C. H. Brightman, is here appropriate. He was born in Conway, Franklin county, Massachusetts, February 24, 1826, and at the age of twenty-one years married Tluldah M. Call on February 29, 1847. She was a native of Jay, Essex county, New York. They lived in Massachusetts until the spring of 1856 and then came west to Minnesota and took a claim in sections fourteen and twenty-three, Bristol township. They lived in a tent for a while, then bnilt a log house, and ten years later erected a frame dwelling. When the war broke out he went to fight the Indians, and with a volunteer company was at South Bend and Winnebago City, in this state. In his younger days he was engaged in making brick and laying stone, and his latter days were spent in farming. He was a very industrious man ajl his life, and an ardent advocate of temperance. Mr. Burnham died April 138, 1905, his wife having passed away February 1, 1899.

Michael O'Conner, an early and estimable pioneer of Bristol township, was borp at Abbey's Leaix, Queens connty, Ireland, August 10, 1831, and there spent his boyhood. Later he lived in Yorkshire, England, and eame to America in September, 1853. He landed in Boston and went to South Boston to live. There he learned the boilermaker's trade, and worked at this oceupation two years. In 1854 he married Bridget Mulhall, who was born in Queens county, Ireland, and came to America in 1851. In 1856 Michael O'Conner and his wife and one child eame west to Bristol, this county, traveling by rail, steamboat and team, and staking a claim in section three, where Mr. O'Conner set about to provide a shelter for his family. He dug a hole in the side of a hill and covered it over, thus proteeting them from the elements. Later a log cabin was erected and in this they lived for eight years. This was then replaced by a frame house, which was the first of the kind ecreeted in the town. It was here that Mr. and Mrs. O'Conner reared their family of thirteen children as well as nine adopted ones. Their first child, Andrew, was born December 25, 1854, and died in March, 1903. Cieily was born May 11, 1856, and married Dennis Galvin. Elizabeth was born September 15, 1858, and died May 19, 1877. Mary was born March 6, 1860, and married Patrick Noland. Sarah was-torn May 8, 1861, and is now Mrs. John MeNeff. John was born June 25, 1862, is married, has ten children and lives in Spink county, South Dakota. Hannah was born March 6, 1864, married William Galvin, and is now living in South Dakota. Anastasia was born August 6, 1865, and is now Mrs. Frank Twiss. Michael was born December 28, 1866, and lives in Fountain. Timothy was born August 18, 1868. Alice was born April 11, 1870, and is now Mrs. Dennis Connoly. Bridget F., born November 11, 1871, is now Mrs. John Triggs. Martha J. was born November 20, 1874, and is now Mrs. Larry Connely. Mr. O'Conner, coming here as he did before the admission of the state and the organization of the township, has seen great changes in Bristol and the surrounding country. He has been a hard working man and has broken and cultivated a great many acres in this section. He has owned large tracts of land, and at present his farm lands comprise 500 acres all under cultivation except eighty acres of timber land. Mr. O'Conner has held various offices in the town, such as supervisor and path master. He is still hale and hearty and vigorous at the good old age of eighty years, and his many friends trust that he will live to see many more years added to his four score.

William E, Adams, now deceased, was born in Luzerne, Warren county, New York, December 15, 1819. THe attended school as a boy, and was reared on the farm, also working in his father's sawmill. When he was about fourteen years of age his father died, and three years later he came west to see the country, first visiting Buffalo, then Cleveland, then going to Portsmouth, Ohio, and from there down the Ohio river to Cairo, and then up the Mississippi to St. Louis. After visiting two weeks in Pike county, Illinois, he went baek to St. Louis, but after a short time again went to Pike county. There he assisted in building a sawmill, but after about a month an old neighbor, Harmon Wells, came along and induced him to go home. They went to Wheeling, Va., by steamboat, on the Illinois, Mississippi and Ohio rivers, then across the Alleghany mountains by stage to Baltimore, from there going to Philadelphia and the coast by rail, then by steamer to Albany and thence home. Highteen months later he again visited Pike county, Illinois, and subsequently again returned home. In 1840 he spent a year at Athol, N. Y., part of the time repairing a sawmill in company with his uncle. In 1844 he went to the polls in his native village and voted for William Henry Harrison, this being his first presidential ballot. November 7, of the same year, he was married at Brandon, Vt., to Cordelia A. Jones, and after a year spent in Warren county, New York state, the yonng couple took up their residence in Vermont, where Mr. Adams was engaged in farming and conducting a sawmill. In 1854 he came to Jackson county, Iowa, but after six months returned to Vermont. In the spring of 1856 he brought his family with him and located near the Minnesota state line, pre-empting land in section thirtyfive, Bristol township, Fillmore county, That fall he purchased six acres from L. G. St. John, on which was a log cabin into which the family moved. In 1866 he built a frame house, rented his farm, and moved to the village of Granger. Five years later he purchased a home in Florenceville, Iowa, where he spent the remainder of his days, dying in 1892. His wife passed away in February, 1890. In the family were four children: Asher R., Mary W., who married Dr. H. H. Haskins; Frankie, who died in 1856, and Nellie E.

Charles Achatz, who owns one of the most modern places in Bristol township, was born on the place where he still lives, October 5, 1860, son of Henry and Josephine (Fuhrman) Achatz. He received his education in school district sixty-five, and has devoted his life to improving and working the home place. He deals extensively in stock, and is successful both as a breeder and a dealer. His fine new barn, 112 by 64 feet, is said to be one of the finest in the county. It is built of galvanized iron and is supplied with all modern and scientific appliances for the comfort of his creatures, having accommodations for 100 cows and calves and twenty-four horses. Myr. Achatz married Frances E, Kirwin, daughter of James Kirwin and Ann Moran (Kirwin), of Bristol township. They have six bright children: Joseph C., Agatha J.. Lillie M., Francis A., Ruth J. and Lucille.

Henry Achatz, now deceased, was born in Prussia, Germany, near Cologne, in 1819. He served in the German army two years and as a youth learned to make tiles for roofing, a trade which he followed until coming to America in 1849. Three years later, in 1851, he married Josephine Fuhrman, who was born June 26, 1823, within two miles of her hnsband's home in the old country. Upon arriving in America Henry Achatz went directly to Pittsburg, Pa.,, and shortly afterward went to Illinois. There he was employed as a mason. May 1, 1856, he left Illinois and, upon reaching Fillmore connty, located on section twenty-four, township of Bristol. On this claim he erected a log eabin, in which he and his family lived nearly nineteen years, after which it was replaced with a frame house. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Achatz had six children: John J., of Doon, Iowa; Herman J., of Harmony; William F., with Charles; Henry J.; Charles L., of Bristol; and Frederick F., of Harmony. Mr. Achatz died February 15, 1908. His wife died March 25, 1900.

Asher R. Adams, a representative citizen who has retired from active life and now makes his home in Florenceville, Iowa, near the Fillmore county line, was born in Luzerne, Warren county, New York, August 28, 1845, son of Wiliam E. and Cordelia (Jones) Adams. He was brought to this vicinity by his father in 1856 and attended the district schools in district fifty-nine, Bristol township. He learned the carpenter business, which he followed at odd times, and for thirteen years he engaged in the drug business in the village of Canton. Then he returned to his father's home in Florenceville, Iowa, and took care of his parents. He married for his first wife, Phoebe Kreeb, and by her had one child, Edna B., now wife of Edward Pruett, to whom she had borne one daughter, Ivey. For his second wife Mr. Adams married Mary E. Noblet, of Walworth, Wis., daughter of Peter E. and Lydia (Baker) Noblet, the former of whom was born October 12, 1808, and died in November, 1895, and the latter of whom was born in Rutland, Vt., and will be ninety-one years of age November 3, 1912. She lives at Florenceville, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Adams are esteemed and honored by ell with whom they come in contact. Mrs. Adams' only brother died December 22, 1911, and "her only sister, Sarah, lives with her mother in Florenceville, Jowa.

David M. Hunt, the successful druggist of the village of Granger, in Bristol township, was born in Canada September 7, 1855, son of James and Margaret (Miller) Hunt.

The father, James, came to America and lived in New York state before going to Canada, where he ended his days. After his death his widow married John Finckh, who brought the family to the United States in 1864 and located in Granger, where he carried on blacksmithing for thirty years. He has now practically retired from active life, but still lives iu the village of Granger. The wife and mother died March 4, 1869.

David M. obtained his schooling in Granger and Preston, and worked out until 1883, when he engaged in his present business in Granger. During McKinley's administration he was appointed postmaster and stil) retains that office. Mr. Hunt married Eva J., the daughter of John G. Hall, a native of Maine, and this union has been blessed with four children: Evelyn B., Mimie B., David

Mr. And Mrs. A. R, Adams

E., and Desmond B. Evelyn B. is the wife of F. A. Crowell, and they have two children, Beatrice and Fay. Minnie B. is the wife of Edward Privat. David E. recently graduated from the Ann Arbor Law School and is now engaged in law and real estate at Lewiston, Mont. Mr. Hunt has held various offices in the town. He was town clerk a long period and has been on the school board for twenty years, serving most of the time as clerk. In addition to his business he owns 600 acres of land, including a fine farm near Granger, which he rents. Being of a fraternal nature he has allied himself with Cresco Lodge, No. 150, A. F. & A. M., Preston Lodge, No. 11, I. 0. O. F., Granger Lodge, No. 3066, M. W. A., and the B. A. Y.

B. W. Nagel is a native born son of this county, still living in the town of Bristol, where he was born, his parents being Aaron J. and Christina (Minen) Nagel, the pioneers. He was reared on the home farm in section seven, which he now owns and operates, being one of the successful farmers of the community. He married Katie Alink, daughter of Derick Alink, one of the early settlers of York. They have a daughter, Willma, and an adopted daughter, Ruth. The family worships at the Dnteh Reformed Church in Greenleafton.

Derick Alink was one of the earliest settlers of York. He came to America in 1850 and located in- Fond du Lae, Wis, remaining there seven years and then coming to York, Fillmore county, where he and his brother-in-law pre-empted a quarter section each. After a busy life filled with hard work he moved to Preston and died in 1891.

Aaron J. Nagel, the pioneer, was born in April, 1887, son of Barond and Gertrude (Deters) Nagel, and married Christina Minen. He came to America in 1854, and after staying a few months in Museatine, Iowa, went to Waupon, Wis., where he worked as a carpenter and at such other labor as he could find. Later he eame to Fillmore county and pre-empted 160 acres in section fifteen, York township, where he lived for several years. Then he rented his farm and returned to Wisconsin, where he stayed one and a half years. Upon again coming to Fillmore county, he lived for a time in York, and then sold his farm there and purchased a place in section seven, Bristol township. Here he built a log cabin and started working the land. In time he prospered and was enabled to build a frame house and some eomfortable barns. He and his wife now live on a part of the homestead, the place being operated by their son, -B. W. Nagel. Aaron J. Nagel and his wife were the parents of nine children, five of whom are living. They are Benjamin W. (deceased), THermina-Gerrit (deceased), Jane (deceased), Chris J., Hattie, B. W., Sena E. and Anna (deceased). Hermina is the wife of Gerrit Klompenhouwer, and they have one daughter, Gertrude. Chris J. lives in Bristol. Hattie married J. A. Ramaker, and they have four children. B. W. married Katie Alink, and they have a child, Willma, and an adopted child, Ruth. Sena E. is married and lives in Kandjohi county, Minnesota.

Moses A. Link, a capable farmer of Bristoltownship, was born near Freeport, Stephens county, Ill., September 4, 1863, son of John and Caroline (Walker) Link. At the age of two years he was brought to Bristol township and was reared on the home farm, attaining his education in the school of district 61. After marrying he purchased forty acres of the old home farm which he now cultivates. Jle married Jessie Thacher, daughter of William and Lucy (McLeaud) Thacher, and they have three children: George W., Edward O. and Harold A.

John Link was born in Baden-Baden, Germany, and came to America in 1846, when he was but eighteen years of age. He lived in Illinois a number of years, and in 1866, accompanied by his wife Caroline (Walker) Link, and his four children, came to Bristol township, and located in section nine. They moved into the log cabin that stood on the place, and lived there for some years, until a frame dwelling was erected. John Link died in 1893 and his wife is still living on the old homestead, while either her son Oscar or her son George cultivates the farm and takes eare of her, as they have not yet married.

Daniel R. Thacher, « venerable and highly esteemed citizen of Bristol township, was born in Susquehanna county, Pennsylvania, December 4, 1835, son of Orson and Annie (Glidden) Thacher. The subject of this biography grew up in his native state and there attended school. In 1856 he came to Minnesota with his parents and settled in the township where he now resides. The following year he pre-empted a claim of 160 acres in section thirty-five Carimona township and section 2, Bristol, disposing of the former land the next year. For several years, Mr. Thacher dealt in farm lands in and about Bristol, and at one time owned more than an entire section. In 1878 he built his present eomfortable frame house and made other needed improvements. He. has ever carried on his farming interests with good judgment and business management, which have been the foundation of his success. In the political offices of both town and county, he has ably served and his reeord is indeed a most honorable one

For more than twenty years he has been a member of the school board in his district. [le was the first tax collector for Bristol township and has also served as assessor and town constable, filling these offices with satisfactory and commendable ability. Mr. Thacher has been twice married, his first wife being Mehitable D. Page, born in Vermont, December 7, 1838. Their marriage took place on January 5, 1859, and as the years passed they were blessed with three children. Ada J., born January 7, 1862, is now Mrs. Arthur Haupin, of Chatfield; Sophia M., born February 19, 1867, is the wife of Harry Fishbacker, of Bristol township; Orson D., born January 1, 1872, now resides in Carimona. Mrs. Mehitable (Page) Thacher died October 13, 1872. On April 17, 1873, Mr. Thacher married Elizabeth Grooteboer, born in Wisconsin, September 4, 1852, and to this union have been born four children: John B., April 13, 1874; Ray, April 4, 1880; Edwin, October 2, 1887, and Frank A. (a twin of Edwin), who died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Thacher are now living a retired life, surrounded by the many comforts which their years of toil and industry have earned for them. They have the respect and esteem of their fellow men and their children are most devoted.

Orson Thacher, deceased, was a native of Vermont, born May 3, 1805. When about nine years of age, he was taken by his parents to Susquehanna county, Pennsylvania, where they settled onafarm. At this time the country was a partial wilderness, but these sturdy pioneers overcame difficulties, cleared their land and there spent the remainder of their lives. Orson grew to manhood in Pennsylvania and there was educated and fitted for the useful life of a farmer. He was united in marriage with Annie M. Glidden, a native of the Empire state, and to this union were born three children, Daniel R., December 4, 1835, now a resident of Bristol, Minn.; Jerusba W., born in September, 1837, now Mrs. Alfred Crosby, of Chatfield, this county; and Sophia, who died in infaney. In 1856 Mr. Thacher moved to Minnesota and settled on section two, Bristol township, Fillmore connty. Here, it is said, he ereeted the first frame building in the town and in this house resided until his death, which oceurred November 14, 1871. His widow entered into rest May 20, 1872.

David HE. Jones, now deceased, was for many years a well known resident of Bristol township. He was born in South Wales, May 4, 1862, and came to America with his parents in 1866. After stopping in Iowa, the family came to Bristol township, where the parents lived until 1901 when they moved to Lime Springs, Iowa, and there spent their declining years and died. David E., brought to this county as a small boy, was reared on the home farm, and received his education in the school of district 151. After attaining the years of discretion, he married Elizabeth A., daughter of H. Hi. and Mary (Jones) Morris. Mr. and Mrs. Jones took up housekeeping on the Morris place, which Mr. Jones continued to operate until the time of his death, November 1, 1907. Mrs. Jones, with the aid of her son, Ezra, is now carrying on the farm, which comprises eighty acres, all under cultivation. The new dwelling, completed in 1911, is a pretty home, modern in every respect. The family now consists of Mrs. Jones and her three children: Ezra, Mabel and David Earle.

Gerrit VanderBie, one of Bristol's progressive and successful farmers, is a native of Holland. He was born July 21, 1845, son of Bastian and Altje (Baay) VanderBie, who brought him to the United States in 1848. While on board the steamer, the father died and the mother, after reaching this country, came west to Wisconsiu with her children and loeated in Alto. By her union with Mr. VanderBie four children were born: Adriana, deceased; Gerrit of Bristol township, this county; Anthony and Bastian, both deceased. Some years later, she married Abrabam Looman, and bore him six children: Mina, deceased; Priscilla, now Mrs. Gerrit Landaal, of Baldwin, Wis.; John W., of Alto, Wis.; Anthony, also a resident of that town; Johnnie and Ella, both deceased. Mrs. Altje VanderBie Looman died in June, 1909. Gerrit, subject of this biography, was educated in the publie schools of Alto, Wis., and remained at home on the farm until seventeen years of age. At the eall for men to fight for the preservation of the Union, he responded and enlisted as a private in Company A, Thirty-second Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, being honorably discharged in June, 1865, with the rank of corporal. He was with Sherman on the famous march to the sea and participated in practically all the battles and skirmishes with his regiment. After being mustered out at Milwaukee, he returned to Alto and worked as carpenter and joiner for five years. In 1872 he decided to seek his fortune in Minnesota, and consequently located in Bristol township, where three years previous he had bought 120 acres in section five, and ten acres in section seventeen. On this property he made many improvements, erected a comfortable dwelling and good barns and earried on genera] farming. Some years after purchasing his farm, he sold 40 aeres of it and hought 40 acres whieh adjoined his original purchase. As he grew prosperous he addect to his holdings, bonght 10 acres of timber in Carimona, and also the Greenleafton Store property and grounds thereto belonging. Mr. VanderBie has ever been a hard-working and honorable man, and his farm and home bear witness to his thrift and good management; the well kept buildings, trim lawn and fine trees, all being marks of an enterprising owner. In politieal views he adheres to the Republican principles, and fraternally he is affiliated with the Underwood Post, G. A. R., 122 of Preston. On November 29, 1870 he married Jannetje Pool, born in Illinois, April 8, 1850, daughter of Klaas and Antje (Lek) Pool, now deceased. To this marriage have been born nine children, six of whom are now living: Alice, the wife of Henry Boland; Antje, now Mrs. William Elfrink, of Greenleafton; Charles, married to Laura Broadwater and living in Greenleafton; Franklin B., of Edmondton, Canada; Ruth, now Mrs. David Nagel, of Bristol; and Royal, a student in Southern Minnesota Normal College at Austin. Benjamin, Carl and Myrtle are deceased. The family are members of the Reform church and Mr. VanderLie has served as one of the elders in that body for several 'years.

H. H. Morris was born in Wales, and eame to America in 1844, locating in Racine, Wis. In 1867 he brought his wife to section seventeen, Bristol township, this county, where he and his wife lived until 1892, when they moved to Lime Springs, where they still reside.

Tosten O. Applen, a prosperous farmer of Bristol township, was born in Winneshiek county, Iowa, November 7, 1853, son of Ole T. and Emma (Furley) Applen.

The parents eame to America from Norway in 1851, and located in Muskego, Raeine county, Wisconsin. In 1852 they located in Locust Lane, Howard county, Iowa, and remained two years, after which they arrived in York township, this county. Three years Jater, they settled in Bristol Grove, Bristol township, and lived there eleven years, finally locating in section twelve, in the same township, where Ole T. died in 1885. His wife is still iving in the village of Harmony.

Tosten O. was reared on the home farm and attended the schools of District 131. He married Esther Felland, daughter of Torger Felland, and they have eleven children: Olena, Theadore, Ingamann, Albert, Arnold, Carl, Mabel, Ole, Alma C., Fremont R., and Tosten BE. Theadore and Ingamann are in the hardware business in Harmony. Olena is the wife of Halver Hagen and they have two children: Agnes L. and Thelma C. Ingamann married Nellie Peterson. Mr. Applen's farm coutains 240 aeres. Tlis present residence was built in 1878 and was remodeled in 1907. The sons, who now conduet the farm, make a specialty, as their father did, of breeding Short Horn eattle, the subject of this sketch having now retired from some of the more strenuous duties of farm life. Mr. Applen has served as a member of the tewn board in the capacity of supervisor and is now treasurer of school district 131.

The parents came to America from Norway in 1851, and located in Muskego, Racine county, Wisconsin. In 1852 they moved to Loeust Lane, Howard county, Iowa, and remained two years, after which they arrived in York township, this county. Three years later, they settled in Bristol Grove, Bristol township, and lived there eleven years, finally locating in section twelve, in the same township, where Ole T. died in 1885. His wife is still living in the village of Harmony.

The subject of this sketch, when a boy, attended the school In distriet 131, and after he grew to manhood acquired a farm of his own in section six, Harmony township, where he kept house for himself for two years. Then he sold this farm, and purchased a place in Bristol township, where he still resides. After keeping a house for himself for a while, he married Jane T. Felond, a native of Norway. Mr. and Mrs. Applen have seven children: Otto, Ella, William, Tuston, Clarence, Enis and Tillman. Otto married Agnes Suffland. Hilla married Joliannis Daley, and they have one child, Earl. Mr. Applen's farm comprises 160 aeres of land, practically all under cultivation. The home was built in 1900 and the barn was erected in 1898. The family worships at the Norwegian Lutheran Evangelical ehureh.

F, Dexter Prosser was born in Fillmore township, on the old family homestead, where he now resides, June 29, 1870, son of L. I]. and Emeretta (Case) Prosser. He attended the common schools near home, then went to Winona where he entered high school, and later completed his education in Spring Valley. After leaving his studies he returned to the farm and worked for two years near Spring Valley, after which he assumed eharge of the homestead. He now farms 200 acres, and until two years ago, farmed 400. He raises stock and keeps from fifty to seventy head of dairy cattle, disposing of milk and cream to the Spring Valley Creamery. In addition to his other farm interests, Mr. Prosser raises many Poland China hogs, whieh number 125 at times. He has also formerly kept many hundred sheep of the Shorpshire breed, but is disposing of them now. Mr. Prosser is a director in the First State Bank of Wykoff and is also one of the directors of the local telephone company. During the years of 1910 and 1911, he was bookkeeper in the First State Bank at

Wykoff, and is now secretary of the Wykoft Shipping Association. Politieally, he is an Independent Republican and has been elected to serve as chairman of the town board for eight years, also on the school board for six years, serving the same district in which he taught for three winter terms. On June 4, 1896, Mary DeGroat became his wife and their marriage has been blessed with one child, Avis Loraine, born June 6, 1906. Mr. Prosser is a member of the Methodist church of Spring Valley.

C, M, Allen, cashier in the First State Bank at Wykoff, was born at Cedar Falls, Iowa, in 1856, son of W. A. and Flora Allen, now living at Rochester. He was educated in the common schools of his home town and completed a high sehool course, after which he seenred a position in an abstract office in Roehester, where he was employed for three years. Desiring to master banking business, he went to work in a bank at Redwood Falls, Minn., and from there moved to Seaforth, where he became cashier in state bank for three years. When this institution changed hands, Mr. Allen returned to Redwood Falls and was erployed as teller in the First National Bank at that place for six years. In 1905 he came to Wykoff to accept the position which he occupies at present. Mr. Allen belongs to the blue todge, Chapter and Commandery: of the Masons and to the Knights of Pythias. In 1883 he married Rebeeca B. Cole and they have one son, Lyman Dona. The family faith is that of the Universalist church.

Marvin Eggieston, a valiant officer of the Civil War, a former law-maker of Minnesota, and for many years a prominent merchant in Wykoff, was born in Floyd, Oneida county, September 5, 1839, son of Nelson and Livonia (Jacohs) Eggleston, the former of whom died in 1852 and the latter in 1884. When quite young he was taken by his parents to Holland Patent, N. Y., and at the age of sixteen learned the trade of carriage and sign painter. Subsequently he entered the seminary at Whitestown, N. Y., and graduated in 1861, after which he devoted one year to clerking in a store. In the summer of 1862, the war having broken out, Mr. Eggleston, fired with the zeal of youth and an ardent patriotism, enlisted in Company D, One Hundred Fortysixth New York Volunteer Infantry. He showed his valor at the great battles of Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Mine Run and Petersburg, and in faet, saw active service in all the campaigns, skirmishes and engagements in which his regiment participated, until the end of the war. December 25, 1862, having already achieved the rank of first sergeant, he was promoted to second lieutenant. January 10, 1863, he was made first lieutenant. Still retaining that rank, he was made regimental quartermaster, October 27, 1863. Ee was brevetted captain, March 18, 1865, and on July 10, of that year, was discharged with the full rank of captain. After visiting a while with friends in New York state, he came west in the fall of 1865, and clerked two years in Chatfield. In 1867 he formed a co-partnership with his brother, D. J. Eggleston, and engaged in the general mereantile business in Fillmore village. In 1871 they purchased a corner Jot in the village of Wykoff, erected a building, and opened and condueted the first general store in tH® village. In 1875 the subject of this sketch moved his family to Wykoff and established lis abode there. In 1879 he purehased his brother's interest in the business, and has since condueted the business alone, being very suceessful in building up a large trade and in winning and retaining the esteem and respect of the community. In 1906 Mr. Egglestou sold his home at Wykoff and purchased a beautiful residence at Lake Harriet, near Minneapolis. He expects soon fo retire, and to take up his permanent residence with his family there. Aside from building up a successful business, Mr. Eggleston has taken an interest in public affairs, and has served his community in the legislature, being a member of the lower house in 1871. Ue married Hannah Jones, in June, 1869, and this union has been blessed with six ehildren: Willis J., Lillis §., Oliver J., Marvin J., Harriet L., and Paul. Ar. Eggieston has taken great pride in the education of his children. All are graduates of the Spring Valley high school. The sons are graduates of the Minnesota State University, one of the daughters of the Minnesota State Normal School at Winona, and one of the Carlton College, at Northfield. Willis J. lives in Helena, Mont. He is an attorney for the United States government in its reclaimation work. Lillis is the wife of Dr. John C. Farmer, of McKinley, Ann. Oliver J. is a mining engineer at Kennett, Cal., where he is resident engineer for the Mammoth Copper Mining Co. Marvin J., after being with the Security Bank of Minneapolis for four years, is now auditor for the Gold Medal Flour Co., of Minneapolis. Harriet is now Mrs. Frank P. Botsford, of Biwabik, Minn., her husband being a mining engineer and superintendent of the Bangor mine. Paul died in September, 1884, when but an infant.

D. J. Eggleston, now deceased, was born in Holland Patent, Oneida county, New York, in 1842. He attended the graded schools of his native place and completed his education at Hobart Hall, after which he engaged in clerking. In June, 1863, he came west to Minnesota, and elerked in the village of Chatfield for four years. In partnership with his brother they opened a general store in the village of Fillmore. Later they erected a store at Wykoii, where they did business together until their partnership was dissolved in 1879. After a few years he removed to Knoxville, Tenn., where he engaged in commercial pursuits in which he was successful, until his death in 1890. Te was married, in 1872, to Mary Steiner, who survives him and is now Matron of the Adams street Mission at Toledo, Ohio. Early in life he united with the Presbyterian church and was an earnest Christian worker until his death.

Daniel 8. Hoff, deceased, will be remembered as one of the genial hotel proprietors of the pioneer days in this county. He was a native of New York, and there married Ilannah Webster. In 1856 he brought his wife and family to Minnesota and located first in Fillmore township, and there pre-empted a claim in seetion twenty-six. Later, Mr. Hoff became proprietor of the '' Hoff House'' at Fillmore. This was during the time when M. O. Walker run a stage between St. Paul and Dubuque. In 1859, when this stage route was discontinued, Mr. Hoff moved to Winona, where he assumed charge of the "'T Tavern,'' which he operated for two years. In 1863 he returned to Fillmore and again became proprietor of the hotel in that place, which he conducted until his death, which occurred February 20, 1888. His wife died ten years previous to this time. They were the parents of seven children, a daughter, Mrs. Brush, resides in Hamilton, and a son, Abram N., is a citizen of Fillmore township.

Abram N, Hoff, veteran of the Civil War and retired farmer, was born in Montgomery county, New York, March 8, 1848, son of Daniel 8. and Hannah (Webster) Hoff, natives of New York. At the age of thirteen years, he came to Minnesota with his parents and the following year settled in Fillmore township, where they took land in section twenty-six. Abram, the son was educated in the district schools and when he was nineteen years of age, enlisted in Company F', Mounted Rangers, and went west on the Indian campaign. He served for a vear and received an honorable discharge in December, 1863. On March §, 1865, Mr. Iloff again enlisted to serve his country and this time became a member of Company C, of the now famous First Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. He went south, and served until the close of the war, being discharged as corporal on August 16, 1865. Afler his returu to Minnesota, he operated a thresher for several years and engaged in farming in section thirty, Fountain township, and later in section twenty-six, Fillmore township, where he made his home for some time. Desiring to see more. of the country, he seenred employment as a bridge carpenter and worked at his trade for a period of time in the West. In 1888 Mr. Hoff disposed of his farm and purchased sixty acres in Villmore township, where he resides at the present time. He engaged in general diversified farming together with stock raising and dairying and was energetic and industrious, improving his property each year until he decided to retire from active life. He affiliates with the Republican party, has served as justice of the peace for eight years, and notary publie for twenty-one years. He is a member of Centennial Lodge, No. 56, I. 0.0. F., of Spring Valley, also of Baker Post, No. 16, G. A. R., of whieh he is adjutant. In November, 1868, Mr. Hoff married Amanda Sharp and to them were born two sons, Frank D., of Fountain, and Edward &., of Minneapolis. Mrs. Amanda (Sharp) Hoff died in November, 1873. In 1892 Mr. Hoff was united in marriage with Margaret Houston, who eame to Minnesota from Ohio that year.

Joseph J, Walker was born in Dubuque, Ia., April 28, 1857, son of Samuel and Agnes MeCaldon. His father came to this county in 1862, and settled at Thompson's mill, known now as Meisnen mill, in Fillmore, where he went into the turning business, making furniture and woodenware. The family lived there about three years. They then moved to Spring Valley township and located at what was then De For's mill, now eommonly known as Weisbach's. In 1865 a home farm was purchased in section fifteen, Fillmore township. The father died July 26, 1898, and the mother December 14, 1880. The subject of this sketch was edueated in the common schools of Fillmore village and as soon as old enough went into farming as a business, gradually branching into stock breeding. He now raises a pure breed of Aberdcen Angus cattle and has from thirty to forty head. His fine drove of fifty to seventy-five Chester White hogs are likewise pure bred, and he has also raised a number of very fast horses. He has a large and comfortable home on his '' Maple Dale"' Stock Farm, just north of Wykoff, and is the owner of 310 acres in sections four, seven, eight, ten, fourteen and fifteen. In polities, Mr. Walker is independent and has never sought publie office, but has been treasurer of school district ninety-four for more than thirteen years, and chairman of the Fillmore town board for eight years.

Although his farming and stock raising activities are extensive and of a varied character, Mr. Walker has many other business interests. He is president of the First State Bank of Wykoff, president of the Farmers' Shipping Association of Wykoff, president of the Wykoff Co-operative Creamery, and president of the Wykoff Rural Telephone line which extends to Chatfield, as well as having many other commercial connections.

He is a member of the Spring Valley Lodge, No. 58, A. F. & A. M. On April 12, 1885, he married Lydia Todd and to them have been born eight children, one of whom, Samuel Isaac, died in infancy. Martha Agnes, IIugh William, Joseph Lynn, James, Holmes, Mary J., Robert Cleeland and Lydia Eleanor are all at home. The family worships at the Methodist Episcopal ehureh of Fillmore. Mrs. Walker was born in Villard township, Pope county, Minnesota, October 20, 1868, daughter of Isaac and Martha Todd. Her parents, who now reside in the place of her birth, lived in Fillmore county from 1876 to 1898, Mr. Todd being a manufacturer who made much of the brick used in constructing houses in Spring Valley and Wykoff.

John T, Dunn, M. D., of Wykoff, was born at Waseca, Minn., March 13, 1879, son of James M. and Matilda (Turnacliff) Dunn, the former a native of Seotland and the latter of Ohio. Dr. Dunn received his early education in the common schools in Waseca county, graduated from Waseea Jligh school, and later entered the University of Minnesota, where he took the medical course and graduated in the class of 1904. After receiving his diploma, the subject of this biography came to Wykoff, where he worked for a time in partnership with another physician, but having shortly afterward dissolved this partnership, has since practiced on his own responsibility. Dr. Dunn is regarded as a most skillful and scientific physician and surgeon, and enjoys a large practice. He upholds the principles endorsed by the Republican party, but his many professional duties have prevented his seeking public office. Dr. Dunn is affiliated with many of the prominent fraternal orders in the county and state, being a thirty-second degree Mason and Shriner, and a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, the Modern Woodmen and the Yoeman. Professionally he is president of the Houston-Fillmore County Medical Society, a member of the Minnesota State Medical Association, and of the American Medical Association. On October 20, 1902, Dr. Dunn married Lillian Sherman Shute, and they are the parents of Georgia June, born June 12, 1907.

Marcus Robbins, a pioneer of Fillmore county, was born at Wardsborough, Windham, county, Vt. When ahout nine years of age, he removed to St. Lawrence county, New York, and there married Fannie Hubbard, also a native of the sume state. Mr. Robbins was a merchant, and before coming west, engaged in the general mercantile business, also dealing in stocks and real estate. In 1853 he was appointed in New York as deputy collector of customs, in the district of Oswegatchie, for six years In 1859, he came west and located in Fillmore county, where after some years of farming, he again took up the real estate bnsiness, at one time owning 1,200 acres of choice land in Fillmore county. In 1870 he was county commissioner in Fillmore county, and for many terms was a justice of the peace and an assessor. He died in 1888 and his good wife passed to the great beyond one year later.

Hortense Robbins, the efficient teacher of history in the Franklin High sehool, Austin, was born ia Fillmore county, daughter of Calvin M. and Rosalie E. (Mosher) Robbins; and granddaughter of Mareus and Fannie (IIubbard) Robbins. After receiving her early education in the graded schools, she attended the Winona Normal school. She then entered the Albert Lea College and completed a course in that institution. She received her degree from Hamline University in 1899. Miss Robbins has taught school in Preston, Spring Valley and Austin, and has been very successful, having that happy faculty of joining a thorough knowledge of her subjects, with a knack for interesting her pupils and holding their respect and attention.

Rev, M. E. O'Connor was born in Willimantic, Conn., Jnly 31, 1873. He received his early education in the common schools, and the high school of his home town. He then entered the Allegany, N. Y., Saint Bonaventure's College and completed a course in classics and philosophy. Alter his college work he went to the Theological school of St. Mary's University of Baltimore. On Jnne 9, 1900, he was ordained in Buffalo, N. Y., by Archbishop Quigley, of Chicago. He was sent first to St. Thomas Cathedral in Winona, where he remained till 1901, when he went to Rushford, Minn., to take charge of the parish. He remained there two years and in 1903 came to St. Killian's church in Wykoff. He has recently been transferred to Mapleton.

Calvin H. Robbins, M. D., a gentle and courteous physician of the old school, now deceased, was born in St. Lawrence county, New York, December 20, 1840, son of Marcus and Fannie (Hnbbard) Robbins, with whom he caine to Fillmore eonnty in the late fifties. He attended the public schools, and later took a course in the medical department of ihe University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, completing with a course at Keokuk, Iowa. In 1866 he started practice in Fillmore, Fillmore county, and in 1875 went to Wykoff, where he continued practice, also entering the 'drug business. Thence he went to Spencer, Iowa, and became editor of the ''Spencer Reporter,'' until 1897, when he again took up the practice of medicine and continued to the time of his death, February 28, 1900. He was a Repnbliean in polities and served in the Minnesota state legislature of 1876. The subject of this sketch was a member of the Masonic order, and also affiliated with the I. O. O. F. and the B. P. O. E. He was married, November 11, 1866, in Fillmore county, to Rosalie IK. Mosher, born in Canton, N. Y., September 27, 1848, and to this happy union five children were born: Hortense R., Marcus P., Fannie E., wife of Dr. S. C. Schmitt, of Mankato; Gertrude, wife of Dr. W. G. Crandall, of Speneer, Iowa, and C. Eaton, a traveling salesman for the Stacy Fruit Co., of Albert Lea.

Henry Huxsahl, well known merchant of Fillmore, is a native of Germany, born November 29, 1864. He came with his parents to America in 1867, and settled in La Crosse, Wis. In 1884, after completing his education in La Crosse, he came to this county and learned the blacksmith trade in Wykoff, where he was employed for five years. In 1896 he deeided io start for himself and went to Fillmore and opened a shop, which he has since operated. He opened a general store in 1904 and carries a good stock of clothing, groceries and hardware. His success in business is due to his square dealings and the confidence with which he inspires all eustomers. Politically, he is independent and he is serving as member of the school board in Fillmore at present date. In 1904 Rose Weber became his wife and their marriage has been blessed with one child, Laurald. The wife attends the Methodist church and is an esteemed member of that organization.

'Edmund P. Johnson, journalist and writer, was born in Buffalo, N. Y., February 25, 1867, son of James K. and Hattie I. (Wall) Johnson, who came to Chatfield from Indiana and conducted a general store from 1870 to 1874. They then moved to Lanesboro, where the father was in general mercantile business for six years, subsequently going to North Dakota, where they teok up a claim and remained four years. In 1884 they moved to Minneapolis and the father entered the employ of the West Hotel of that city, where he was continuously employed for more than twenty-five years. He is at present living in Winona. Edmund P. received his education in the common and graded schools of this county. Me started in the printing business with the ''Mississippi Valley Lumberman Exchange,'' where he was employed two years. Later he was with the ''Religious Press'"' of Minneapolis two years. In 1897 he came to Lanesboro and had eharge of the ''Journal'' mechanical work till 1902. Ee then purchased that paper and conducted it four years. In 1906 he came to Wykoff and was with 8. J. Huntley on the ''Messenger.'? In 1907 this was sold to E. G. Klock. In 1908 Mr. Johnson bought out Mr. Klock and on- November 1 of that year he issued the

''Enterprise,'' which he has continued to publish to the present time. About ten years ago the subject of this sketch in his newspaper writings, populated Isinours, a station on the Southern Mimnesota, in this county, which has practically no population, and these fictitious characters furnish excellent reading matter in Mr. Johnson's papers for those who like literary matter with a note of the facetious. The idea is similar to Alfred Henry Lewis' populating Wolfville and Red Dog, in Arizona. On September 14, 1892, Mr. Johnson was united in marriage with Emma Yohe, of Lanesboro, and to this union has been born one son, Murray W., who lives at home and assists his father in the printing business.

Milo White, who is one of Minnesota's most highly respected and honored citizens, was born in Franklin county, Vermont, August 17, 1830, son of Josiah and Polly (Bailey) White, and of Mayflower ancestry. His parents never came west, the mother died in Vermont in 1847 and the father in 1880. The subject of this sketch was educated in the common schools and later at the Bakersfield Academy. Having completed his studies, he began clerking in a general store at Cambridge, Vt., for one year. Then he worked onc year in a store at Winooski Falls, Vt., which was only one mile from the grave of Ethen Allen. He afterwards went to Burlington, Vt., where he was also employed as clerk. Two years were spent there, after which he went to New York City and there followed his same employment two more years. Believing that the West held greater opportunities for him than the East, he came to Minnesota, arriving here in 1850, May 10, and settling at once in Chatfield. The following year he opened a general mercantile business, which he continued for more than fifty-two years. In his business he was very successful, his honesty and integrity having won for him many friendships, which endure to the present time. In 1858 he was elected chairman of the first board of supervisors of his township. Although he has often declined many public offices, he has been mayor of Chatfield several terms, member of the school board for some time and has held minor offices. In 1871 he was elected state senator and was, for four successive terms re-elected to that office. It was while in the state senate that he had the experience and formed the friendships which later, in a greater legislative body, served him well. In 1882 and again in 1884 he was elected to congress from the first district. Kuut Nelson, now senator, was then serving his first term in congress. The oleomargerine law, which has bcen so widely discussed, was brought to the attention of congress and energetically pushed by Mr. White, who at that time was on the committee on agri- eulture. Though he was a Republican in a Democratic house, he sueceeded in getting the oleamargarine bill made a law, which remains today practically as he sent it from the committee. To enumerate the offices which he has held locally would he to give a list of all offices, as he was always an ardent worker for all public enterprises. Ele was one of the original and very active members of the cemetery association, of which he served as president for fifty years. He has been director of the First National Bank from its organization. Though not a communicant, he has been a liberal supporter of the Methodist Episcopal church. In 1858 he married Hannah Ellis, a native of Vermont, and to them have been born three children. Charles TH. is now a merchant in Chatfield; Milo, Jr., is im the mercantile business at various points in the Middle West, and JC is vice-president of the First National Bank, of Mabel, Minn. Mrs. White was born at Fairfax, Vt., September 11, 1836, and died at Chatfield, Minn., March 2, 1912.

The following letter from Knute Nelson, United States senator from Minnesota, written to Mr. White on the latter's eithticth birthday, shows something of the esteem in which this venerable geutleman is held, not only by Senator Neisou, but by all with whom he has come in contact. ''Alexandria, Minn, August 14, 1910. Hon. Milo White, Chatfield, Minn. Dear Friend: Upon looking through an old Congressional Directory, I find that within three days you will have reached your eighticth birthday, and therefore take this occasion to congratulate you on the event. You have had a long, prominent and noted career in our state. You came here among, and was one of, our early pioneers and state builders. Yon have seen Minnesota erow from a mere frontier settlement into a great state of two million presperous and happy people. And in this great work of building up our state, you have beeu one of the leaders, one of the great men to whom the state owes so much. I have served with you in our state senate and in congress, and in both places you took a prominent part, and was always faithful and loyal to the best interests of the people. Your manly, fearless and independent course was always approved by the mass of our best people. The state owes you much, and ow people will always hold you and your noble work in kind and lasting remembrance. Your most sineere friend and well wisher, Kuute Nelson.''

George H, Haven, substantial banker and prominent citizen af Chatfield, in which city he has resided since 1856, was born in Windsor county, Vermont, September 10, 1841, son of Angustus and Barbara B. (Hall) Haven. We went with his parents to Boston in 1848, and to Galena, IIl., in 1855, coming with them to

Chatfield one year later. He had received a good education before coming to Fillmore county, and after reaching here attended the Chatfield Academy one year. After completing his schooling, he started work as an assistant in his father's store, and in 1863, after his father's death, suceeeded him in the business. This store he conducted until 1888. During that year he sueeeeded J. C. Easton as owner of the Root River Bank. The bank at that time was a private institution. In 1905 it was incorporated as the First State Bank, of Chatfield, with Mr. Haven as president, a position he has since retaincd. Mr. Haven has been interested in public life and has taken an active interest in the progress of the city. From 1865 to 1904 he was secretary of the board of education, for a number of terms he was mayor of Chatfield, and at one time for three years he served as a member of the board of county commissioners. In polities he is a staunch Republican. In 1874 the subject of this sketch married Annah Gilbert Johnson, born in Lewis county, New York, November 1, 1846. This union has been blessed with two children, Ruth Annah and George Augustus.

Ruth A. attended the public and high school of Chatfield. After attending Abbott Academy, Andover, Mass., one year, she entered Carleton College at Northfield, Minn., and was graduated in 1899. Then she tanght in the high schools of Kasson and Chatfield for several years. Subsequently she attended the University of Minnesota, and then taught three years in the high school at Rochester, Minn. Later she took a trip abroad, and is now attending the Western Reserve University at Cleveland, Ohio, where she is taking a library course. George A. is cashier in the First State Bank, of Chatfield.

Augustus Haven, one of the earliest business men of Chatfield, was born in Vermont in 1808, and there grew to manhood and married Barbara B. Hall. In 1848 he moved to Boston and was engaged in business there, removing to Galena, IIl., in 1855. A yeur later he came to this county and opened a store in Chatfield, in which business he continued until his death, February 25, 1863. His wife died February 4, 1897.

George A. Haven, cashier of the First State Bank, of Chatfield, was born in the city where he still resides, son of George H. and Annah Gilbert (Johnson) Haven. Le received his education in the public schools of Chatfield, and was graduated from the Chatfield high school in 1901. After attending Carleton Col. lege at Northfield, Minn., for one year, he entered Yale University, at New Haven, Conn., where he was a member of the University Fraternity of Book and Bond. He was recommended for special honors in history and the social sciences, and was graduated in 1905. That same year he was elected to the banking position which he still retains. In 1907 he was elected secretary of the board of education and is still serving. IIe is president of the Alumni Association of the Chatfield High Sehool.

Peter Lieberg, of Chatfield township, was born in Norway on March 26, 1860, son of Hans and Caroline Lieberg, the former of whom was a dyer by trade. When Peter was but a year of age his parents brought him to this country and settled on a farm in Chatfield township, remaining there three years and then coming to sections thirty-four and thirty-five, Chatfield. For many years the senior Lieberg carried on general farming, and his death occurred in 1903; the wife and mother now resides with the subject of this sketch. Myr. Lieberg was educated in the common schools of Fillmore county, attending district 161 until fifteen years of age, when he completed his studies and devoted his attention to working on the home farm. We has since resided there and at present owns and farms 160 acres in Chatfield and eighty acres in Fountain township. He raises Shorthorn cattle for dairying, also inakes a specialty of hogs and sheep. On his farm he has made many improvements, building the substantial house in which he lives, some years ago, and erecting the barn in 1903. Fraternally, he is affiliated with the M. W. A. at Fountain. He is a Republican politically and has been a member of school board in district 161 for nine years. June 17, 1896, Mr. Lieberg was united in marriage with Beata Knutson, born February 21, 1868. Their children are: Harry, Mildred and Eveline; and Floyd, who is deceased. The family are members of the Lutheran ehurch of Fountain.

Martin Jacobson, a well known resident of Chatfield township, was born July 17, 1843, in Norway, son of Jacob and Abigal Olson, natives of that country. Af the age of eighteen years the subject of this sketch crossed the ocean to Anteri¢a, and upon his arrival in this country, proceeded direetly to Minnesota, where he located in Chatfield township on section twenty-six. For many years he carried on farming there and eventually moved to his present location on section twenty-two, where he has lived for the past forty-two years. This farm was mostly covered in timber at the time when Mr. Jacobson bought it, but he cleared and broke it and has now one of the well cultivated and productive farms in the township. In 1867 he bought a quarter section and now owns 160 acres and engages in gencral dairy farming, keeping about thirty head of Shorthorn cattle and disposing of his dairy products to the Chatfield creamery. Ile also raises many hogs, for which he realizes the best of market prices, and he owns six good farm horses. His present log granary was the original family home and was erected in 1868. My. Jacobson is a member of the Lutheran ehurch, and he votes the Republican ticket, but has never sought public office. On April 7, 1866, be married Aase Evenson, of Fountain township, and to them have been born: Annie Mary, born January 27, 1867, now the wife of Jean Merchant, of Chatfield township; Julia Gurenia, born January 18, 1868, married to George Benson, of Chatfield; Hilda Emelia, born February 14, 1869, wife of Martin Danielson; John August, born August 29, 1870, now at home; Emma Matilda, born March 18, 1874, now Mrs. Chris Ainundson, of Chatfield; Martin Osear, born May 22, 1875, and now at home; Nellie Sofia, born June 26, 1876, and married to Henry Pikop; Tina Caroline, born November 3, 1877, and married to Lewis Quale, of Chatfield; Carl August, born January 7, 1879, and now at home; Alta Otia, born January 27, 1880, also now at home; Nina Christina, born July 5, 1882, married to Oliver Rosendall, of Fountain; two children died in infaney. Mrs. Jacobson died March 26, 1912.

Lewis T. Soland, an extensive land owner, fruit grower and farmer, of Amherst township, was boru in Rushford township, this connty, September 10, 1860, son of Truls G. and Marit (Larson) Soland, natives of Norway, who came to the United States by way of Quebec in 1854, settled in Rushford township and engaged in diversified farming until the year 1872, when they purchased a half section of land in Amherst, where they have continued to live to the present time, They are the parents of nine children, two of whom are deceased and seven still living. Lewis T, Soland, the subject of this sketch, received his early edueation in the district school of his neighborhood, and grew to manhood on his father's place. In time he purchased a part of the old homestead, and engaged in farming on his own responsibility, and there, by dint of hard labor and his untiring efforts, the foundations of his success were laid. In 1895 he sold that farm and purchased a place of 208 acres in section twelve, Preston township. On this farm he erected a fine dwelling house of modern type, erecting and rebuilding snbstantial outbuildings for the housing and care of his stock, crops and machinery. In 1897, through keen observation, his attentions were turned toward making Fillmore county a fruit country. That year, 1897, he planted a model orchard and the following year, 1898, he planted another orchard of 600 apple trees, and in 1899 he planted 2,400 trees, which today are all in bearing condition. Mr, Soland was among the very first, if not the first, to strike ont in this branch of industry on an extensive scale in this county, which has now become one of the leading fruit counties of Minnesota. It is worthy of note here, that all the trees planted by Mr. Soland were grown at the Preston Nursery in this county. In 1912 he sold his farm and purchased 220 acres in Amherst township, where he now resides. Mr. Soland has always taken an active part in the welfare of his county, and the community in which he lives, having served on the town board of Preston two years, and having also given excellent service on the school board of his district. He is independent in his politieal views, always voting for the man and the principle, rather than for the party. The subject of this sketch was first married November 26, 1885, to Mary Peterson, who proved a most faithful wife and mother. She died June 4, 1907, leaving five children: Theodore L., Millie S., Guy T., Mabel S. and Lelia M. My. Soland was married the second time to Mrs. Anna Dyrson, and this marriage has resulted in the birth of one daughter, Ruth C. The present Mrs. Soland, by her first marriage to John Dyrson, is the mother of four children: Eli, of Canton township; Clarence, Gena, and James, who live at home. The family faith is that of the United Norwegian Lutheran church.

Jacob Rose, a resident of Amherst township from 1860 until his death, was a native of Harrison county, Ohio; born August 10, 1826, son of Henry and Rebecca Rose, the former of whom was born in Bucks county, Pennsylvania, in 1796, and was one of the first settlers in Harrison county, Ohio. Jacob, subject of this sketch, learned the blacksmith's trade when a young man and followed that occupation until 1850, during which year he enlisted in the United States Marine service. He first served on board the ship Susquehanna, and later became a member of Commodore Perry's expedition to Japan and China. He visited the Rast Indies aud on the return trip stopped in San Francisco, and from there sailed around Cape Horn, stopping en route in South America and the West Indies. Upon his arrival in New York he was honorably discharged, after which he returned to Ohio and there began to farm. About 1860, Mr. Rose came to Minnesota and settled in Amherst township. In 1862 he enlisted in Company BE, Seventh Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and participated in the Indian troubles, after which he went sonth with his regiment and fonght for the preservation of the Union until the close of the war. Returning to his home in Minnesota he settled on his farm and there resided for the remainder of his life. About 1878 he was injured by a fall from a horse, which incapacited him for active labor. For more than twenty years he practiced veterinary surgery, together with his farming industries. Mr. Rose was prominent in political affairs in the township and occupied many public offices, being at one time notary public. On September 4, 1856, he married Christina I. Kanoth and to them were born two daughters and a son. In October, 1882, Mr. Rose passed away; Mrs. Rose entered into rest June 7, 1908.

Truls G. Soland, now living a retired life in Amherst township, is a native of Norway, born in Sedel, near Dramman, February 24, 1826. He there grew up and received his schooling and later was employed as a laborer. In 1854 he emigrated to America and located at first in Decorah, Iowa, where he lived one year. He then came to Rushford township, purchased a quarter section of land, built a log house and followed general farming and wheat raising for fourteen years. In the late sixties he had accumulated enough property and money to enable him to buy a half section of land in section eight, Amherst. This land had a log house on it and here he and his wife made their home. After some years a frame house was built, where the subject now lives with his daughter and son-in-law, Knut Simonson. Mr. Soland married Marit Larson, and to them were born: Gilbert, Lewis T., Albert, Betsey, Isabelle, Ole and Knudt; Truls and Gurena, deceased. Isabelle married Knut Simonson, who now owns the old Soland farm of 200 acres. Myr. and Mrs. Simonson have one son, Oscar T., who is a student at the St. Olaf College of Northfield, Minn.

Christ L. Nelson, a leading citizen of Amherst township, was born on section fifteen, Preston township, this county, March 26, 1868, son of Lars and Karen Nelson, natives of Norway, where they lived til] 1856, when they, in company with many of their countrymen, emigrated to the United States, coming directly to this county, and settled in Preston township, where Lars Nelson secured employment at various labor until he had saved an amount of money sufficient to purchase land he had selected in section fifteen. On this land, which he carefully cultivated from the date of his purchase, he built a stone house, which still stands and which was the birthplace of all his eight children. Nels is a farmer living in North Dakota. Betsey is now Mrs. Bernt Simonson. Frederick is on the old homestead, and Lewis also lives in Amherst. Otto lives in Bowman, N. D. Christ L. is the subject of this sketch. Lars Nelson, the father, died in 1910, the mother some years prior to that date. Christ L. was educated in the common schools and then worked at home until 1897, when he came to Amherst township and bought a farm in section nine. Here, in 1907, he built one of the fine residences of the county and here his farm of 200 acres is one of the attractive points of the township. His commodious dwelling, lighted with gas, and his excellent equipment of farm buildings are a eredit to the owner and an advantage to the community in which he resides. In 1897 he married Annie Olson, born December 8, 1871, daughter of Lars and Ingeborg (Lien) Olson, and to this union have been born five children, Lydia L., Esther C., Celius Alfred (deceased), Luella G. and Alice ©. Mr. Nelson is a stockholder in the Amberst creamery and in the Lanesboro canning factory. Ile is a member of the United Lutheran chureh. The parents of Mrs. Nelson were born in Norway and settled in Preston township, where the father died in 1888, the mother being still alive.

Henry C. Rose, progressive and ambitious citizen of Amherst township, was born in Coshocton county, Ohio, May 1, 1858, son of Jacob and Christina (Kanoth) Rose. In 1860 he came to Minnesota with his parents and settled in Amherst, being but an infant at the time. In a log house, which his father erected, he grew to boy and manhood. Ilis education was obtained in school distriet twenty-seven and he prepared himself for the useful life of a farmer early in life by working on the home farm with his father. He now owns 120 acres of the old homestead and here engages in diversified farming and stock raising. He has made many improvements and is now erecting a large and beautiful modern residence and good outbuildings. On September 9, 1889, he married Martha J., daughter of Amos and Ilarriet (Ruggles) Newell, and to them have been born six children, Ethel, Ruth, Millard, Alvin, Gorden and Mabel. Mrs. Rose was educated in Lanesboro and later taught school. Iler father was a stone mason by trade.

Martin A, Johnson, of Amherst township, was born in Norway, January 25, 1853, son of Andrew and Mary (Olson) Johnson, the former of whom was born October 24, 1818, and married Mary Olson in 1850. In 1861 these parents came to America, bringing with them Martin, the subject of this biography. For a year after their arrival in this country they lived with Nels Boxrud, in Canton township, after which they bought land on section thirty-one, Amherst township, and there put up a log house, where they lived until 1882, when the present frame dwelling was erected. The wife and mother died August 7, 1864, and Andrew, the husband and father, died in 1896. Martin A., the subject of this sketch, came to America with his parents in 1861, and locating with them on the farm, where he still resides. When he first came to this country he attended the Norwegian school and later the English school at Henrytown, where he acquired his edueation. He spent his boyhood years on the home farm with his father, and there grew to manhood, preparing himself for the responsibilities of life. On the home farm he is still living, surrounded by many comforts. He owns 200 acres of land, which is partly under cultivation and carries on general farming to some extent, renting « greater portion of his property becanse of poor health. He is a respected member of the Lutheran chureh at Denrytown, and was formerly a member of the Greenfield congregation at Harmony.

Andrew Gilbertson, who is living a practically retired life on his farm in Amherst township, well deserves his present comfortable surroundings and release from the arduous toil of the farm. He was born in Haland, Norway, about five miles from Christiana, on February 18, i844, son of Galbrand Andersen and Mary Anderson. In 186], with his parents, he crossed the ocean and landed at thuebee, where his father and mother remained for two years. Andrew came direetly to the States, and after reaching Winona, bought a team of oxen and continned the journey to this county, For some time after coming to Amherst he seenred employment of different farmers and being both indistrions and frugal, managed to accumulate some money, with which he bought eighty aeres in section twenty-two. On his farm he erected a log house and then sent for his parents, who made their home with him for the remainder of their lives, the father passing away in 1883, and the mother in 1878. For twenty years, Mr. Gilbertson owned and operated this farm, after which he disposed of it and bonglt 200 aéres in seetion three, where he built a frame dwelling and good substantial outbuildings, As the vears have come and gone and he has toiled on his farm, giving his best efforts lo improving his property and making it one of the attractive and valuable in the community. Ife has been successful and now owns, aside from the 200 acres in the home place. 160 acres on section ten, and five acres of timber in Preble township. Ingar Anderson became the wife of Mr, Gilbertson in January, 1874, and they are parents of nine children, Anton, Melvin, Julia, Henry, John, Carl, Martin, Albert and Ida. Julia is now Mrs. 1s. HW. Johuson. The sons now operate the home farm under Mr. Gilbertson's directions. Mr. Gilbertson served on the school board for eighteen years. The family faith is that of the Lutheran church.

Gilbert Gullickson was born in Amherst township, on Deceimher 1, 1854, son of John and Margaret (Kimdson) Gullickson, natives of Norway. During his boyhood years, the subject of this biography attended school in district twenty-eight, and early in life he fitted himself for the occupation of farming. }¥e now owns a farm of 240 acres, which is well eultivated and yields valuable crops each year. Together with general fariming, Mr. Gullickson makes a specialty of raising Shorthorn eattle, for both beef and dairy purposes. In public offices of the township, Mr. Guilickson has at various times been actively interested, having been elected to serve in many responsible positions. Ile has owned and operated a threshing machine for the past twenty years, and has found this branch of farming mosi profitable. Amelia, daughter of Panl Anderson, became his wife and they have one son, James P., a lad now sixteen years of age.

John Guillickson, deceased. was one of the early settlers in this county, whose memory will long be revered. He was horn in Valders, Norway, and there was educated and prepared to assume the responsibilities of life. Ile married Margaret Knudson, a native of Hallingdahl, Norway, in whieh place he and his wife spent some years and where their eldest child, John, Jr., was born. In the fall of 1851, Mr. Gullickson and his family came to America and located in Rock county, Wisconsin, where they resided three years, after which they set out for Minnesota. They traveled from Wisconsin to Amherst township, this county, in a covered wagon, drawn by a team of oxen and arrived at their destination on June 6, 1854, after a trip of three weeks. The father pre-empted a quarter section in Amherst on section nine, and bought another quarter. At the time of their locating on the claim there was no house there, so the family Jived in the wagon while Mr. Gullickson, who was a carpenter by trade, erected a house of logs, and made the floor of hewn timber. In this humble dwelling, Gilbert, who biography appears elsewhere in this work, was born. In 1865 a frame house was built. Mrs. Gullickson passed on to the great beyond in 1891 and Mr. Gullickson surviving her for three years, dying in 1894. They were parents of four children, John, deceased; Knudt, living in North Dakota; Gilbert, residing on the old homestead; and Annie, now the wife of Christ Dunham, of Amherst township. Mr. Gulliekson has a half-brother, Gutrom Olson, of North Dakota.

EB. L. Babcock, prominent citizen, nan of affairs and keeper of a general store in Amherst township, was born at Scott, Cortland county, N. Y., September 11, 1855, son of Hiram and Tacy (Frink) Babcock, the former of whom was a blacksmith by trade. E. L., subject of this sketch, attended the district schools in his neighborhood and then entered the Homer Academy, of Homer, N. Y., and there fitted himself for teaching, which. he started at twenty years of age. When he attained his majority he left his old home and came west to Minnesota... Ie arrived in Preston on October 4, 1876, and in November began teaching, whieh he followed here for four and one-half years: Being of an economical nature and possessed with good sense and business management, Mr. Babeoek acquired a small hoard of savings, with whieh he invested in a stock of goods and opened a general store in Amherst, where he has since met the demands of an ever increasing trade. For thirty-two years, Mr. Babcock has been in the mercantile business and in 1880 he was appointed postmaster, which offiee he oceupied for sixteen years. IIe was county commissioner from January 1, 1901, to January 1, 1905, and has held other offices, having been town clerk for sixteen years as well as notary publie for a time. He is now serving his twenty-fifth consecutive term as treasurer of school district thirty. Mr. Babeock has taken a deep interest in the development of the dairy and creamery industry, and is now secretary of the Amherst creamery. He is also a member of the M. W. A. at Canton.

On May 2, 1880, Mr. Babcock married Julia A., daughter of Orrin Dibble, a native of Essex county, New York, and to this union have been born two children, Effie E., now the wife of Osear Stenvick, has one child, Roland O., and lives at Bagley, Minn., where Mr. Stenvick occupies the office of county attorney. Clayton E. married Della Turner, daughter of the late John Turner.

Christian Peterson, one of the best known men in Amherst township, was born in Eidsvold, Norway, December 2, 1839, and in 1854 came to America with his parents and two brothers. The family stopped first in Stoughton, Wis., for about a month and then came west to Canton, this county, where the father purchased the James Kelley farm on section three. The parents lived here the remainder of their lives. Christian worked on the home farm and when convenient attended the log school house at Lenora, remaining at home until the time of his marriage, when he went to Ilolt township, where he had bought a farm. The first winter he lived there he drew logs for the Ellstad church, which was then being constructed in Amherst. He later left the farm and went into the farm machinery business, living in Winona one year and in Rushford for a time. He finally located in Preston, where he lived for more than a quarter of a century. In 1872 he became sheriff of the county, a position which he held for six years. He was later postmaster in Preston during the Harrison administration. In 1895 he bought a farm of 160 acres im Bristol, to whieh he moved and where he farmed for seven years. He then bought his present farm in Amherst township, formerly owned by his brother, now deceased. Besides the larger positions, he has many times held the town and minor offices mm the localities where he has resided. Mr. Peterson's first wife was Ingeborg Knudson, and to them were born nine children, only four of whom are now living. Two of these children, Nettie, who was a school principal in Fargo, N. D., and Clara, who was Mrs. Maloney, were among the number who lost their lives in the ill-fated Iroquois Theater which burned in Chicago.

The first wife died in November, 1881. March 5, 1885, he married Gena Olson Skaraasen, who was born in Rinsiker, Norway, December 24, 1859, and came to America in 1882. To them have been born five children: George William married Lena Breno, and manages the homestead. Henry and Ienrietta are twins. Alma is a student at Harmony. Dorthea is at home. Henrietta married Andrew Elstad.

Carl G, Knudson, a successful farmer residing in Amherst township, was born at Rock Prairie, Rock county, Wis., November 19, 1851, son of Knud and Gunild Knudson, the former of whom was born and grew to manhood in Norway, from which country he came to America about 1846. After reaching America, the father proceeded west to Wisconsin, there locating on a farm and marrying. During 1854 he and his family moved to Minnesota and settled in Amherst, where they pre-empted a claim on section twenty-seven, built a log house and spent the remainder of their lives, the father dyimg in 1882 and the mother two years previous. Carl G., the son, spent the early years of his life in going to Norwegian school during the winter months and working for his father summers. He early in life prepared himself for the useful occupation of farming, and now owns 167 acres which are well eared for and cultivated. He engaged in general diversified farming together with some stock raising and dairying, and is both industrious and progressive. Mr. Knudson mazried Christina, daughter of Ole Blagsvedt, a pioneer of this county, and to this union seven children have been born: Gusta, Agnes, Clarence, Joseph, Oscar, Benjamin and James. Gusta is now the wife of Thomas Reese and has one child, Orville. They reside in Chatfield. Agnes married Elmer Eddy.

John Turner, deceased, was born in Lower Canada, May 1, 1847. When he was seven years of age, he, with his parents, left the old home farm near Chatham, Ontario, and came to the United States, crossing the great lakes and locating near Rockford, I. Later they removed to Wisconsin and there stayed but ' a short time, after which they went to Bremer county, Iowa, and located near Waverly. At that time the country was sparsely settled and many Indians were in evidence, and these parents with other of the white settlers endured great hardships. In

1858 they came to Minnesota and spent a few years in Amherst township, this county, then moved to Preble, where they erected a dwelling and farmed for many years. Here, John, subject of this biography, worked for his father and grew to manhood. When he was twenty-two years of age, his father gave him a team of horses and he then started for himself, working for various farmers for several years aud then buying property. He became one of the most highly esteemed and successful men in the vicinity, and at different periods occupied prominent public offices in his township. For many years he was a member of the Henrytown Presbyterian church, but later joined the Scot- Jand echureh of that order and held the office of elder at the time of his death. He was one of the founders of the Harmony Mutual Fire Insurance Co., being one of its board of directors during his last years. He was president of the Canton Elevator Co. for several years, and in all offices which he occupied he gave his best efforts and conscientious endeavors. Fraternally he was affiliated with the Odd Fellows Lodge at Lanesboro. On October 17, 1875, he was united in marriage with Julia A. Vought, daughter of Jacob and Margaret Vought, and went to housekeeping in Mr. Onstine's house, the following June removing to section thirty-two, where they passed the rest of their lives. Mrs. Turner died January 23, 1888, and Mr. Turner was summoned by death April 1, 1909. Mr. and Mrs. Turner were parents of seven children, of whom Arthur Leslie was born January 14, 1878; Albert Gordon, December 14, 1879; John Clair, September 1, 1881; George Chester, January 23, 1883; Claud Henry, November 18, 1885; Della Mertilla, June 18, 1886, and Jnlia Annetta, January 21, 1888. Arthur L. married Flora, daughter of Alexander: and Ada (Elder) McKay, and has one child, John, now a year of age; Albert G. married Almeda Hegland and has two children, Lucille and Earl; George C. married Ethel Holton; Cland H. married Olive Milne; Della married C. E. Babeock, of Amherst; Julia married Charles Chalsma and has two children, Helen and one not named; Arthur L. and John C. are living on and operating the home farm; Albert G. and Claud H. are working the farm on section twenty-one, and George C. is a dentist, practicing in Clarkfield, Minn.

Ole M. Blagsvedt, one of the progressive men of Amherst township, was born in Roek county, Wisconsin, January 1, 1855.,. son of Mons QO. and Kari (Olson) Blagsvedt, natives of Norway. The father was born on June 8, 18238, and received his schooling in Norway, where, till nearly thirty years of age, he worked at farming and lumbering in his native land. A month after his. marriage he brought his wife to America and located in Rock.

county, Wisconsin, where they lived until] 1855, when they came to Minnesota and bought land in section fourteen, Amherst township, this county, where they made their home the remainder of their lives. Qle M. Blagsvedt, the subjeet of this biography. came to Amherst wheu six months of age, and since that time this has been his home. [le received his schooling in the common schools of his neighborhood, attended the Rushford high school two years, and then took a course in the La Crosse Business College. He then assisted on the home farm until the time of his marriage, when he purchased a farm on section fourteen, near his father's farm. On December 11, 1879, he married Lena Hansen, a native of Holt township, and to them have been born six children. Minnie is now Mrs. Gunder Kittleson, and is the mother of two children, Earl and Wallace. James M., Emma, Alma, Mattie and Wilhelm O. are all living at home. Mr. Blagsvedt's home farm is one very well kept and comprises 190 acres. The Blagsvedts have always been active chureh workers, ready to toil and to sacrifice for the progress of the Lutheran faith. Mons OQ. Blagsvedt and his wife helped to organize the first Norwegian Lutheran ehwreh in their community, and opened their cottage for the meetings for some time. They also helped to build the first echureh in 1866. Ole M. Blagsvedt assisted in building the new brick church on the same site in 1910-1911.

John McCallum, a highly esteemed resident of the township of Amherst, is of Scottish birth and ancestry, having first seen the light of day on June 24, 1852, at Perthshire, Scotland, son of Robert and Janet (MceNee) McCallum. When but four years of age, the subject of this biography immigrated to America with his parents, who stopped im Rock county Wisconsin, where they remained over winter, after which they removed to Minnesota by ox team and covered wagon, coming to Preston township and locating on section 22, where the father passed away in June, 1873. John, the son, acquired his schooling in the Henderson log school house and during the summer months was employed on the home farm, where he became familiar with general farming operations, thus fitting himself for that occupation later in life. He remained at home until 1882, during which year he bought property in Amherst township on section twenty-one, which is his present home. He owns 200 acres in the home farm and 144 acres on sections seventeen and twenty. In 1910 he erected one of the finest dwellings in the vicinity, and his large barns and other outbuildings are evidence of his thrift, and his progressive ideas. In the publie affairs of the town and county he has ever taken an active part and has at various intervals been identified with many of the most responsible public offices, such as those of justice, constable and supervisor. Since twenty-one years of age, he has been a member of the school board. January 19, 1881, Mr. McCallum married Barbara MecConochie, daughter of Dunean and Jennie (Ferguson) MeConoehie, and they have become parents of Robert, Geannie, wife of Orie Capron, of Lanesboro; Mary, wife of Arthur Ward, of Lanesboro, and Katherine. With Mr. MeCallum and his family resides his aged nother, who though advanced in years, still retains her active interest in affairs of the day and possesses a remarkable memory. Her anecdotes of pioneer days in this county are most interesting. She is now cighty-eight years old, having been born in October, 1823. Mr. McCallum is a member of the Scotland ehurch.