Fillmore County, Minnesota - The whole text, 1912 (part 8 of 20)

M, O. Blagsvedt is a native of Amherst township, where he still resides, born February 27, 1860, on section fifteen, son of Ole O. and Annie Blagsvedt, early settlers of Amherst, who are elsewhere appropriately mentioned in this work. M. O. received his schooling in the local school, distriet forty-three, and worked at home on the farm assisting his parents until 1890, when he purchased a farm in section twenty-two, where he still lives. He has 140 acres in this section and thirty acres in section twentyfour. His farm is considered one of the excellent ones in this locality, and the large and well kept buildings, which ean be seen for a great distance, make up one of the slow places of the township. In political inclinations Mr. Blagsvedt is a Republican, though he votes for the man rather than for the party. He has never actively sought public offices, but has felt in duty bound to accept certain local offices which his neighbors desire him to hold, and for over twenty years has been treasurer of the town. He is also treasurer of school district number forty-three. He was married March 6, 1890, to Carrie Knudson, a native of Amherst, daughter of Knud Knudson, and their wniion has been blessed with three children, Osear, Aleda and Luella. Mr. and Mrs. Blagsvedt are members of the Elstad Lutheran church, of which Mr. Blagsvedt is one of the trustees.

C. O, Blagsvedt was born in Amherst township, where he still resides, July 25, 1867, son of Ole O. and Annie Blagsvedt, natives of Aadalen, Norway. The father was born March 25, 1825, and as a young man caine to Rock county, Wisconsin, where in 1850, he was married, the lady of his choice having come to that county in 1840. The young couple lived in Wisconsin until 1854, when they sold their property there and came to this county, settling in the northern part of Amherst township. They soon moved to section fifteen, where they bought land and built a log house. Later the log house was replaced by a good frame dwelling. The father died in 1895, and the mother has reached the advanced age of eighty-five years, but is active and in comparatively good health. C. O. Blagsvedt attended the school in district forty-three. As he grew to manhood he worked on the home farm and now owns 200 acres, which comprise a very good farm under a high state of cultivation. He is of broad interests and publie spirit, has been supervisor of the town, is now clerk of school district forty-three, and has served in other loeal offices. He is treasurer of the Amherst creamery. He and his wife, who was Olga, danghter of Ole L. and Olava Ask, are members of the Elstad Lutheran chureh, which has recently erected a new $13,- 000 chureh, and Mr. Blagsvedt is treasurer of that body. Ole O. Blagsvedt, brother of C. O. Blagsvedt was one of the first white children born in the county.

William McArthur, a venerable and highly respected citizen of Amherst township, was born:in Schoharie county, New York, August 16, 1834, son of Robert and Sarah (Goodneough) MedArthur, the former of whom was a Scotchman and came to America with his parents in 1782, when seven years of age. The family located in Washington county, New York, where Robert grew to manhood and was educated, after which he went to Schoharie county. William, subject of this biography, stayed on the home farm with his father until he became sixteen years of age, then went to Delaware county, made his abiding place with a cousin, and at twenty-one years learned the carpenter's trade. In 1863 he beeame desirous of seeking his fortune in the West and accordingly left his home state and went to Wisconsin, there locating at Ripon, Fond du uae county, where he was employed, following his trade, and assisted in the completion of Ripon College, then in course of construction. Two years later, in 1865, he came to this county and located on section twenty-one, Carrolton township, there remaining for three years, after which he moved to the farm now oceupied by A. G. Austin, in Carrolton township, and on that property spent two years. In 1870, Mr. McArthur bought a farm on section five, on which stood a log house, which he moved to a more desirable location and in which he lives today. This log house has been enlarged and improved and now is a most comfortable home. Although seventy-cight years of age, the subject of this biography is in charge of his farm, having for many years been engaged in agricultural operations. He married Emeline Regna, daughter of Henry and Caroline (Johnson) Regna, their marriage being solemnized in 1865. To them have been born eight children. John:married Flora McKensie and has four children. Robert J. has been twiee mar- ried, his second wife being Annie (Moore) McArthur, who has borne him three sons. Lillie B. married W. H. Drinkall and has seven children. Thomas T. married Maggie Anderson and has three children. Walter married Stella Irwin and has two daughters. Clara is the wife of Charles Miller and has one son. Emeline is Mrs. Fred A. Mason and has two children. William H. lives in Lewiston, Mont. Mr. McArthur was school director thirty-three years. The family worship at the Methodist Episcopal church.

Asa R. Burleson, one of Spring Valley's well known and ablest lawyers, has been a resident of this city since 1873. He was born in the town of Freedom, Cattaraugus county, N. Y., son of Owens and Mary (Bedell) Burleson, who were married in 1824, the former, a carpenter and millwright, having been born in Vermont, June 8, 1878, and the latter being a native of New York. Asa R., the subject of this biography, completed the course outlined in the common schools of his home town, and then entered the Franklin Academy of Vermont, where he fitted himself for the work of an instructor, later teaching in the same academy. He subsequently taught in various institutions in Vermont and in 1858 was appointed department collector and inspector of customs in Burlington, Vt., being employed in the custom house for three and one-half years. During his unemployed hours he studied law, and was admitted to the bar in Vermont in 1859. When the Civil War broke out, he enlisted in one of the well disciplined companies, and was made state drill master from April until September, his duties in this position taking him from point to point. In September, 1861, he went to the front in the Fifth Vermont Volunteer Infantry as a drum major. In April, 1862, by general orders, all bands were mustered out at Yorktown. Mr. Burleson then returned to his old home in New York and recruited for the One IIundred and Thirtieth New York Volunteer Infantry, which later became the Nineteenth Cavalry, or the First New York Dragoons. He was appointed second lieutenant in Company H in September, 1862, and was jater promoied to first lieutenant, being acting adjutant until his discharge in 1864. During his services for his country, Mr. Burleson, in the Army of the Potomac, was in sixty-four battles, which are fully described in the work called ''The Three Hundred Fighting Regiments,'' and was honorably discharged heeause of injuries received while on scont duty, his last battle being at Cold Harbor. After his return to his home in New York he was employed teaching school and meanwhile continued his study of law. In 1872 he was admitted to the bar in Buffalo, - N. Y., and the following year was admitted to Minnesota bar; since which time has practiced his profession in Spring Valley. He has held the office of justice of the peace for a period of thirty-six years, and on March 12, 1912, was re-elected for a term of two years, which is evidence of the general satisfactiou he has given in this position. He was married June 2, 1862, to Anna Ellithorpe, was born in Wyoming county, New York, August 138, 1835, a daughter of Lyman and Fanny (Gregg) EIlithorpe. Her education was acquired in the Rushford Academy in New York. Shortly after her marriage to Mr. Burleson, he was called to the front, and soon news that he had been killed reached her. She then went to Gettysburg, at the battle of which her brother Philip was fatally wounded, offered her services as a nurse, and remained there for three months. This trip to Gettysburg was her first ride on the cars. Soon after her return to her home in New York she received news that her husband was not dead. Mrs. Burleson's father had been a soldier, and was in active service in 1837 and 1838. Mr. and Mrs. Burleson are the parents of Cora (deceased), DeWitt Clinton, Louise and Philip. Cora married J. M. Smith, of Austin, and bore him one daughter, Marian. In political convictions, Mr. Burleson is a broad minded Democrat, and has held many public offices in Spring Valley, including such positions as town clerk and village recorder. He organized Burdick Post, No. 3, G. A. R., and belongs to the Masonic lodge. It may truly be said that Squire Burleson has ever been a great worker for the improvement of the city, which he has called his home for nearly two score years.

0. W. Moore, of Spring Valley, horticulturist, manufacturer and veteran of the Civil War, is a native of the Empire state, having been born in Fort Plain, September 13, 1830, son of James L. and Elizabeth Moore, the former of whom came to the United States from Scotland, and the latter of whom was a native of New York. His father, who was a cooper by trade, met death by drowning in April, 1840, and the mother: passed away some years later. O. W., the subject of this sketch, attended school in New York, and after completing his education, was employed by his uncle until he became eighteen years old, at which time he secured work in a saw mill near his home in Oneida, continuing in this oceupation for four years. Desirous of learning a good trade, he then apprenticed himself to the Oneida Wagon & Carriage works and remained with this concern for two years. He subsequently came west and located at Sparta, Wis., where, for one year, he was engaged in carpentry work and where he was later employed in a sash, blind, and door shop. In 1856, Mr. Moore came to Minnesota and made his home at Rushford, where he opened a wagon and earriage shop, which he conducted for sixteen years. Tie moved to Spring Valley in 1871, and established a wagon manufacturing business, which proved a most successful undertaking, and he continued in this work until about six years ago, when he discontinued owing to the large factories securing a greater share of the business. Mary Airon became his wife in 1864, but passed away in 1868. To them were born Vernia, now Mrs. J. Hi. Tretheway, of Virginia, Minn., and one son, who died in infancy. June 21, 1869, Mr. Moore was united in wedlock with Mary Elithorpe, of New York, and they are the parents of: Burton W., who resides in Stewartville, Minn., and is a thirty-third degree Mason; and Frances N., who is at home. Mr. Moore enlisted April, 1861, in Company K, First Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and saw active service in the following battles: Bull Run, Leesburg, Yorktown, Fair Oaks, Peach Orchard, Savage Station, Malvern Hill, Chancellorsville, Antietem and Fredericksburg. Through all these terrible battles, in which so many brave men lost their lives, Mr. Moore fought for the preservation of the Union and came out with not a wound. April 25, 1864, having attained the rank of corporal, he was honorably discharged on account of poor health contracted while in service. Mr. Moore is now engaged in horticultural activities, devoting much time to public speaking and writing. He owns four aeres of land, on which are 100 apple trees. Mr. Moore was a Whig before he became a member of the Republican party, but he has never sought public office. Le is a member of the G. A. R., and highly respected by a large circle of acquaintances and the citizens of the city in which he has made his home for so many years.

R. J. Parker, attorney at law, and one of the prominent citizens of Spring Valley, was born in the town of Frankfort, Mower county, Minn., on December 17, 1867, son of W. H. and Hannah (Wiseman) Parker, the former of whom was a native of New York, and the latter of England. The father died in 1888 and the mother now resides at Santa Ana, Cal., with her two daughters. R. J., the subject of this sketch, attended the schools in Spring Valley, when a boy, and later went to Minneapolis, where he entered the University of Minnesota, studied law and graduated in the class of 1890. After completing his education, Mr. Parker returned to Spring Valley and in 1892 began to practice his profession, which he has sinee continued. During his college life, he was a classmate of Judge H. H. Dickenson, now of Hennepin county, and also classmate of Judge Whiting, now on the Supreme bench of North Dakota. My. Parker is a staunch Republican and was elected county attorney in 1903, serving in this capacity until 1909, during which period he kept open his office in Spring Valley. He has also served as village attorney in Spring Valley for several terms. He is a divector of the First State Bank of Spring Valley, also of the First National Bank of that place. On January 1, 1902, Caroline Hendershott, daughter of D. C. Hendershott, an old settler of Spring Valley, now deceased, became the wife of Mr. Parker and they ure the parents of one daughter, Suzanne.

LL. H. Prosser, Civil War veteran, legislator and retired farmer, is one of Fillmore county's most respected and successful citizens. He was born in Spencer county, Indiana, April 18, 1836, son of Henry and Naney (Jones) Prosser. Ile began his education in the country schools and after reaching the age of nineteen, continued his studies in private. In 1849 Mr. Prosser went to Marion county, Illinois, with his parents, and in 1836, came to Minnesota and located in this county, where for a time he worked on his father's farm and later taught school until 1861. On August 2], of that year, he enlisted as a private in Company K, Thirty-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and was soon thereafter made commissary of the regiment. He saw service through the war and his command engaging in the battles of Fredericktown, Siege of Vicksburg, Jackson and Cotton Plant, Fort Esperanza (Texas), Spanish Fort, Blakely and other minor engagements, and spending one entire year at Brashear City, La. Remaining in the service during the pacification of the South, he was finally paid off at Camp Butler, Dlinois, on December 7, 1865, where he had enlisted. He served in this regiment four years, three months and sixteen days. Mr. Prosser then returned to this county and commenced farming in Fillmore township. His farm comprised 320 acres and he carried on agricultural industries until about fifteen years ago, then disposing of a part of his possessions. In 1887 he became a mewher of the board of managers of the State Agricultural Society, and for many years served his community as school clerk and in miuor offices. In 1886 he was elected to the state legislature, where he introduced and successfully championed the High License bill, whieh is the state law at the present time. Mr. Prosser has been a lifelong adherent to the Republican party and he has stood high in its councils, both locally and in the state. He is a member of the Methodist church in Spring Valley and also of the G. A. R. In 1898, he was elected clerk of the district court, after which he inoved to Preston, where he made his home until the close of his ofiicial term. After completing his four years as county officer, Mr. Prosser moved to Spring Valley, where he erected a fine home. Here he lives a retired life with his family, but by way of diversion, spends his winters in Florida. On November

15, 1868, the subject of this biography married Emeretta Case, who was born at Gimsbury, Conn., June 2, 1847, and they are the parents of five children. F. Dexter was born June 29, 1870, was married June 6, 1896, to May DeGroat, of Wykoff, and is at present on the old home farm. Rose, born April 18, 1872, was a very successful teacher, and died in 1904. Jesse H., born July 27, 1874, died when twenty-five years of age. Ernest B., born December 11, 1876, married Jennie Conkey, of Preston, and now resides in Miles City, Mont., where he is with the First National Bank. Myrtle M., who was born January 13, 1882, was for some time teacher and principal of the high schools of Olivia and Lake City, Minn., and for two and one-half years was in the high school in Miles City, Mont. She married Warren Heins and now resides in Olivia, Minn. Each of Mr. Prosser's children completed the high school course in Spring Valley and both daughters were alumnae of Ilamlin University.

John C. Keenan was born in Ohio, August 20, 1854, son of James and Mary (McTigue) Keenan, who located in that state in 1850 and came to Spring Valley in 1856, settling and staking a claim on section thirty-two. The mother died in 1884, and after her death James Keenan returned to Ireland where he died in 1894. John C. never had the advantages of a publie school edueation. He worked on his father's farm till twenty-five years of age, and then started oul in life for himself. Some years ago he moved to Spring Valley where he has since made his home. He is a Republican in polities and has been for four conseeutive terms elected mayor of Spring Valley. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus, and of the Elks of Rochester. On November 25, 1898, he married Margaret Duggan, of St. Paul, and they have a very pleasant home in the western part of the city.

Ole Aamot, a successful and popular clothier, whose store in Spring Valley is always well stocked with the latest styles in men's furnishings, was born in Grand Meadow on Christmas day, 1870, son of Aslak and Thora Aamot, who came to this country from Norway in 1853 and settled in Daue county, Wisconsin, where they made their home for three years, then coming to Grand Meadow, where they farmed until 1902, the father dying in 1903 and the mother still living in Grand Meadow. Ole, the subject of this sketch, attended the common school of his home town and after completing his studies there, went to Rochester and entered the Darling Business College, attending this school for three different years. In 1892 he came to Spring Valley and accepted a position as elerk for John Leuthold, in his clothing store. In 1903 he formed a partnership with

Mr. Leuthold. The Spring Valley store is one of ''The fifteen Store System,'' which is represented by three stores in Kasson, dry goods, men's furnishings and shoes; one store in each of the following towns: Kenyon, Waterville, Waseca, Owatonna, Sargent, in Minnesota; one in Chippewa Falls, Wis.; one in Redfield, 8. Dak.; one each in Osage, Nashua, Northwood and Green, in lowa. This system buys together for market advantages and the members meet four times each year, twice in Chicago and twice in St. Paul. Mr. Aamot conduets the store formerly oceupied by Mr. Leuthold, who is now in St. Paul. Politically, Mr. Aamot is an independent voter and he has not sought public office. On August 18, 1897, he married Tillie Hanson, of Spring Valley, a daughter of Ole Hanson, and their marviage has been blessed with a son, Arthur Loren.

Ralph Dwight was born in Wayne county, New York, August 20, 1832, son of Deloss and Phoebe Dwight. He lived in New York till 1840 when the family moved to Potter county, Vennsylvania, where he received his education and later was employed in lumbering until twenty-two years of age. In 1854 he drove from his former hoine in Pennsylvania to Spring Valley, and on August 4, took a claim of 160 acres, on section 30, Sumner township, which he broke and where he erected a log house in whieh he lived nine years. In 1863 he sold this land to his father and bought land near Cedar Falls, Iowa, and here made his home for many years. Later he gave up farming, sold his land and moved to Montevideo, Minn., where he constructed and operated an elevator, Disposing of this after two years he took a homestead in Day county, South Dakota, and lived on this nine years. He later left this farm to the management of his sons and he returned to his former home in Iowa. Then wishing a more western home he went to the extreme north-western portion of the United States and bought a fruit farm only ten miles from Puget Sound. He however was not content there and returned to Iowz for a time and some years ago came back to Spring Valley where he has since lived. He is a member of the Spring Valley Lodge, A. F. & A. M. On June 26, 1853, he married Naney Ham, a native of New York. To this union have been born six children. Ida married Michael MeMurray and lives in Iowa. Deloss is a farmer in Idaho. Rensaler is a farmer of Day eounty, South Dakota. Frank is a farmer in Washington. Alice married John Wilson and lives in Iowa. Thomas J. is at home. In polities Mr. Dwight is a Democrat. The Andover ''Gazette,''? Andover, Day county, South Dakota, on October 24, 1890, said: ''Ralph Dwight, of Homer township, left Monday evening to take up his residence near his former home in Jowa. No man will be missed from among the large list of his friends more than he. Mr. Dwight eame here in the fall of 1882 to look up a home and chose the spot where he has sinee lived. To say that he has since proved himself a worthy citizen, a valuable member of the community in every sense, and one of the best of neighbors, is stating the case mildly. He has been for six years chairman of the board of supervisors of Homer township, and during that time has not only done his full duty faithfully, but the affairs show the watchful care which has been exercised in keeping the township out of debt, and today no township in this county nor in the state is in better shape financially than Homer. The same watehful eare which has been exercised in every public matter which has been intrusted to him is found in the management of his private affairs. With one accord we all feel that in losing him we meet with a loss which we can ill afford. Wherever he goes he will carry with him the good wishes of the whole community."

M. O. Ladsten was born in Stavanger, Norway, June 27, 1847, son of Ole and Gunla Ladsten. He was educated in Norway, and came to America in 1892, making his way direetly to Fillmore county, and purchasing his present place of eighty acres in sections 19 and 20. He now successfully carries on general farming. He belongs to the United Norwegian chureh and votes the Republican ticket. He was married in Norway, in 1869, to Inga Olson, born in 1846, and they have five children: Ole, Nels, Gustav, Sievert and Engel.

Henry Prosser was born in Schoharie county, New York, on August 3, 1812. When five years of age, he went to Indiana with his parents and there was educated and grew to manhood, working with his father on the farm. In 1849 he moved to Marion county, Illinois, where he was also employed at farming and at carpentry and mastered the latter trade, beng known as an energetic and hardworking man. Not content with advantages offered in Illinois, he, in 1856, came to Minnesota and located in Fillmore county, where, making use of his trade, he erected a frame house. Mr. Prosser was married April 14, 1833, to Nancy Jones, a native of Indiana, who was born July 9, 1815. To them a family of ten children were born. America, born Mareh 7, 1834, became Mrs. J. W. Parrill, and died May 1, 1886; L. H. is a prominent citizen of Spring Valley; Harvey C. was born April 29, 1837, and died January 26, 1911; Louise, born April 5, 1839, is now Mrs. H. H. Wallace of Spring Valley; Charles W., born July 15, 1842, now resides in St. Louis; Harrison C. was born January 30, 1845, and lives in California; Emily, born November 9, 1847, is now Mrs. G. H. Little, of Spokane, Wash.; Lowry W., born March 7, 1850, is an extensive farmer and horticulturalist of LeRoy, Minn.; Annie, born July 3, 1852, became Mrs. A. L. Baldwin, of Lyons county, Minnesota, and [amilton R., born May 25, 1854, now lives in Minneapolis and formerly was a resident of Alaska. Being a man possessed of sterling qualities, Mr. Prosser's children have followed his example and all did him honor. He lived a long and useful life in this county and served his community as justice of the peace and in minor offices. The wife and devoted mother passed away June 7, 1885, and Mr. Prosser's death occurred February 9, 1903, he having lived ninety years, six months and six days.

Arlow L. Howe, whose death occurred January 12, 1902, was born at Preble, Cortland county, New York, on September 2, 1826. He grew to manhood in his native state. In young manhood he went west to Illinois and in 1855 he caine to Minnesota. He located first at Wykoff. December 20, 1864, he enlisted in Company C, Third Minnesota Volunteer Infantry and was discharged from the hospital, September 19, 1865. Being a man of strong character and high ideals he was much sought after and was very popular with his acquaintances. On September 25, 1892, he was united im marriage with Emma Rose Baker, a danghter of Thomas Sprague Baker, a veteran of the Civil] War, now deceased. For several years Mr. Howe lived a retired life. His death occurred January 12, 1902. His wife, who is a newspaper and magazine contributor, still resides in Spring Valley. Mr. Howe, was married, the first time, September 16, 1850, to Sarah MeGau, who died March 12, 1855, leaving one son, William. For his second wife he was married, February 25, 1857, to Ilannah Albro, who died December 14, 1884, leaving one daughter, Elsie, now Mrs. James Kinch. My. and Mrs. Kinch have one son, Arlow 8.

Thomas Sprague Baker was born in Oneida county, New York, February 1, 1827. He there received his education and later moved with parents to McHenry county, [llinois. The family in 1851 moved to Delhi-Delaware county, Iowa, and in 1855 to Fillmore county, Minnesota. February 26, 1864, he enlisted in Company ©, Third Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and served with some clistinetion. He died October 1, 1864, and is buried in an unknown grave at Pine Bluff, Ark. On January 1, 1850, he married Alsena Tubbs, of Otsego county, New York, and to them were born three children. Georgiana Luella married Mark Seeley, of San Jose, Cal. F, Adelbert married Isabelle Maude Mahurin, of Spring Valley. Emma Rose married Arlow L. Howe. The widow of Mr. Baker resides in Spring Valley with her daughter, Mrs. Howe.

Congressman Sydney Anderson was born in Zumbrota, Goodhue county, Minnesota, on September 17, 1882. Both his parents were of Seandinavian birth. His father, Charles B. Anderson, was a native of the neighborhood of Gothenburg, Sweden; his mother, Anna Knudsdatter Strand, came from the valley of Haliingdal in Norway. For several years his father held ihe position of postmaster at Zumbrota.

The career of Mr. Anderson, still a young man, is one of those enchanting romances which only are possible in the new world, and now only in the West. His father was one of those sensible men who believe that the best education for a boy is an early acquaintance with work. So at the age of twelve years young Anderson began spending his summer vacations from schoo] at work on different farms in the neighborhood of his home town. From that time on work and study were his constant companions, and he never slighted either. While attending the Zumbrota high school, the war with Spain broke out. For some time the young high school student had belonged to the local State Militia company. He was wild to go to the war, and suceceded at last in getting the consent of his parents to enlist. He beeame a non-commissioned officer in the Company D, Fourteenth Minnesota Infantry Regiment. But his regiment saw no actual warfare; the experience was lunited to fighting malaria and typhoid in the camp at Chickamauga.

After Mr. Anderson had been honorably discharged from the army, he again took up his studies at the Zumbrota high school, graduating from same in 1899. He then decided to study law, in spite of the fact that he was thrown entirely on his own resourees. By hoarding the money he earned as a farm worker during the summer months, he was enabled to spend the winters. of 1899 and 1900 attending the Highland Park College, a law school at Des Moines, Lowa.

Then entered love's young dream. June 16, 1901, he was: married, at St. Paul, to Florence Douglass, whose widowed mother resided at Little Falls, in northern Minnesota. Originally Mrs. Anderson's parents hailed from the state of Maine. Immediately after the wedding the groom took a job as a laborer im a saw mill at Little Falls. With the money earned that summer: and fall, Mr. Anderson returned to Minneapolis in December, 1901, to continue his law studies. He got a minor position with a Minneapolis law firm and began attending a night law school, the young couple meanwhile living in but one room.

It was a period of vicissitudes, but his stubborn courage, his unqualified belief in his own future, his unlimited ambition at last brought him to the goal. In June, 1903, he took the examinations and was admitted to the bar. For a few months longer he- remained in Minneapolis; but the same fal] he was offered a position with a law firm in Kansas City, Mo. He spent the following wmter there and found that the climate did not agree with him. So in the spring of 1904 he returned to his native state looking for a location to hang out his shingle as a lawyer.

Tle decided on Lanesboro. It was a hard place to work up a Jaw practice, but Mr. Anderson was not io he discouraged. He stuck it out, and soon the people began to realize his ability and his knowledge of the law. The Fillmore County Business Men's Association at this time elected him as their secretary, a position he filled until 1911. His winning personality made him many friends, and in 1908 he made a campaign for election as county attorney of Fillmore connty, but lost out in « three-cornered fight.

In 1910 political conditions in the First Minnesota district were in a State of great unrest. There was a wide-spread dissatisfaction with Hon. J. A. Tawney, who far eighteen years had represented the district in Congress. The progressive Republieans sought in vain for a standard bearer, hut all the old war horses lacked sufficient backbone to go up against a man who was supposed to be a giant in political strength. At last some of the leaders of the progressive movement bethought themselves of Mr. Anderson, and he was requested to make the run. After a short hesitaney he decided to stand as the candidate for Congress of the progressive Republicuns. And now began a political campaign which was watched with interest by the entire nation. As a campaigner and public speaker Mr. Anderson proved himself to be a regular cyclone. At the primary election in September, that year, Mr. Anderson was nominated as the Republican candidate for Congress with a majority of nearly 2,700 votes. At the general election in November, Mr. Anderson easily defeated his Democratic opponent with a majority of 3,500 votes less one.

Mr. Anderson took his seat in Congress in March, 1911. While as yet he has not served out his first term, he is already recognized as one of the very ablest new members of the Sixtysecond Congress, and there are over 100 new members of that body. One of his first acts was to introduce a bill for the construction of a National Railway in the territory of Alaska, a bill which has ¢reated nation-wide interest and is being endorsed by all who are interested in developing that immense and treasurefilled American territory.

Ola Martin Levang was born April 27, 1869, in Ranen, Nordland, Norway. While yet a babe his parents moved to Mosjéen in the neighboring valley of Vefsen, which little city he considers his home town. His father was a sea captain, who later settled down to the more peaceful life of a merchant; he died in 1892. The mother, still living in Norway, bore the maiden name of Christine Overland aud belongs to the well-known Drontheim family of that name.

As a boy Mr. Levang attended educational institutions in Drontheim and later in Kristiania, the capital of Norway. While studying at the university there his father met with financial reverses, and it was necessary for the young man to discontinue his studies. He decided to emigrate to the United States, and arrived penniless and friendless in Chicago in August, 1886, a little over seventeen years old. After the usual hardships endured by a newcomer, he at last succeeded in. getting a position as ''printer's devil'' in the offiee of a Danish newspaper at $2.50 per week. During his one year in that office he mastered the printing trade to the extent that he was offered and accepted a position as typesetter on a new Danish woman's magazine just then starting at Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He spent one year in the Towa town, then accepting a position as traveling representative for a Danish newspaper published in Minneapolis. While on the road the next two years he visited nearly all the Seandinavian settlements in the Northwest.

Having met his future wife and wishing to settle down, he bought in 1890 a half-interest in a Norwegian newspaper at Sioux City, Iowa, a few months later buying out his partner. On May 16, 1891, at St. Paul, Minn., he was married to Sophie Hansen. The bride was born on December 8, 1869, on the Danish island of Langeland, but came as a child of ten years with her parents to Lanesboro, Minn. Her father, Mr, A. Hansen, was the first photographer to locate in Lanesboro, where he resided for twelve years. Afterwards he moved to Tacoma, Wash., where he is still living. Mr. and Mrs. Levang have no children.

A Norwegian newspaper in Sioux City did not prove a suecessful financial venture, and in the fall of 1891 Mr, Levang sold the paper and moved to Tacoma, Wash., where his wife's family was then located. For the next four years he worked at his trade on different newspapers published in that Puget Sound city. In 1896 he began the publication of the first illustrated Norwegian magazine ever published in this country - Skirnir, the old Norse name for ''the messenger of the gods.'' It was a literary suceess, but not financially so, aud after two years he was obliged to discontinue publication. Durimg his six years on the coast

Tacoma as well as other Pacific Coast cities had been undergoing the most critical period in their history. Times were exceedingly hard, and Mr. Levang made up his mind to return east.

Coming back to Minnesota in 1898 he accepted a position as reporter on the Enterprise at Albert Lea. During a visit that spring to his wife's childhood home at Lanesboro, he was approached by business men of that village with a proposition to buy out the newspaper there. The publisher of the now defunct Lanesboro Journal refusing to sell, inducements were offered Mr. Levang to start a new paper, and he decided to do so. Accordingly the first issue of the Lanesboro Leader saw the light of day on October 1, 1898.

The new paper was very well received, and in a few months it had a circulation of over one thousand copies. Year after year the circulation kept on increasing, until at the time Mr. Levang retired as its editor and publisher in November, 1909, its circulation was over 2,500 copies, the largest circulation of any weekly newspaper in the southeastern part of the state at that time.

During the eleven years Mr. Levang published the paper it was regarded generally as one of the most ably edited newspapers in the First Congressional District. It had considerable political influence, strongly advocating the progressive principles within the Republican party. At the time of its sale it was transferred, to C. L. Foss, the publisher of the ''Star-Republican'' at Rushford. A year later it was leased by him to the present editors, G. E. Dorival and A. M. Olstad.

After selling his paper Mr. Levang opened a life and fire insurance office in Lanesboro. The following spring he became one of the leaders of the political movement which at the election of 1910 resulted in the selection of his townsman, Hon. Sydney Anderson, as the member of Congress from the district.

One of the main industrial concerns of Lanesboro - -the canning factory - owes its existence to Mr. Levang, who as its secretary - without a salary - has been a tireless worker in its behalf. During the first two years of the company's existence it met with heavy financial reverses, and the stockholders in their discouragement desired to drop the business. However, through Mr. Levang's agitation and hard work another start was made, and the factory is now on the high road to suecess. Due to the press of other duties he this spring resigned from the position as secretary to the company, having held same since 1904.

Rev. H. C. Schmidt, pastor of the Zion's church of the Evangelical Association at Preston, wags born in Plymouth county, Iowa, son of Adam and Caroline Schmidt, the father being the first white boy born in Sioux City, Iowa. The subject of this sketch attended school in his native county and graduated from the Northwestern college at Naperville, Ill. He then entered the ministry, and preached at several places before coming to Preston. He is married and has two children.

Henry Nupson, mayor of Preston, financier, capitalist, extensive real estate owner and man of affairs; ex-sheriff of Fillmore county; vice president and one of the organizers of the First National Bank of Preston; director and stockholder in the Harmony State Bank, of Harmony, and for many years one of the successful auctioneers of the Northwest, is one of the prominent and leading citizens, not only of Preston, where he makes his home, but also of the county in which he has lived for more than half a century. He was born in Norway March 9, 1852, and caine to the United States in 1857 with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Aslag Nupson, when he was a child of five years. He was reared on the homestead in Harmony, and being an industrious, energetic lad, he started assisting his father as soon as his age would permit, working on the farm in the summer time, and attending the district school in the winter. In 1884 he abandoned farm work, and entered the United States mail service, in which he continued two years. At the close of that period, in recognition of his ability and close application to duty, he was elected sheriff of Fillmore county, a position which he filled with courage, dliseretion and fidelity for ten years, from January 1, 1887. to January 1, 1897. As an auctioneer, Mr. Nupson has wou his widest recognition, havimg done service in this capacity in North Dakota and fowa, as well as in the various eounties of southeastern Minnesota. In this partieular line it is said that he has few equals. At different times, Mr. Nupson has served in various local offices, and being of a sociable nature he has allied himself with the Masonie body, being a member of Preston Lodge, No. 36, A. F. & A. M., in which he has passed through all the chairs, and also of Preston Chapter, No. 32, R. A. M. and Malta Commandery, No. 25, K. T. Mr. Nupson owns Considerable land in North Dakota, and some seven hundred aeres in Fillmore county. In addition to his pleasant home in Preston village, where he makes his headquarters and looks after his various interests, he has a model farm in sections thirty-three and thirty-four, Preston township. This farm is fitted with all the latest improvements, and is an example of what may be done to make rural life in southern Minnesota comfortable, attractive and profitable. He also owns the old homestead in section one, Harmony, on which his parents settled in 1857. Mr. Nupson is one of the substantial figures in the prosperity of Fillmore county. In spite of his suecess and high standing he is genial and approachable, being highly respected by a large cirele of friends and associates. The subject of this sketch was married February 26, 1896, 10 Marry F. Atchison, born in Chatfield, October 26, 1872, daughter of John and Sophia (Melven) Atehison, and this union has been blessed with three children: Henry N., Florence E. and Anna L. The parents of Mr. Nupson were natives respectively of Illinois and New Jersey and settled in Chatfield in 1885.

Aslag Nupson, a pioneer, was born in Norway, and came to America in 1857, taking a claim in section one, Harmony township, this county. He devoted his life to agricultural pursuits, and died in 1891 at the advanced age of four score years and nine. His wife preceded him to the grave in 1880. They were a hardworking, god-fearing couple, well thought of in the community in which they made their home.

K. K. Ness, who has resided in Amherst township sinee 187], was born in Hallingdall, Norway, on November 14, 1830. When fiften years of age he left home and went to Wig, near Bergen. Norway, there residing until the spring of 1853, when he embarked for America. On the voyage to this country, Mr. Ness met Gertrude Ramsey, a native of Sogn, Norway, who became his wife the following October. Upon arriving in America, the subject of this sketch located at Long Prairie, Ill., and worked in the lumber yards in Chicago. After his marriage he moved with his bride to Boone county, Illinois, locating where the city of Capron now stands. During the year of 1857 Mr. Ness and his family came further west and this time settled in Glenwood. Winneshiek county, Iowa, and later bought a farm near Decorah. Removing to Minnesota in 1871 he has since made his home here on section thirty-six, Amherst. His wife died Mareh 27, 1898, and he makes his home with Canute K., his son.

Canute K. Ness was born in Capron, Ill., September 23, 1854. He acquired his primary edueation in the common schools and supplemented their course with a year in Deeorah Institute. During 1875 and later in 1876 and 1877 he attended business college at LaCrosse, graduating from that institution in 1877. The following year he married Randy Blogsvedt and to them have been born four children, Clara M.; James C.; Amelia, the wife of Louis L. Nelson; and Emma C,, living at home. Mr. Ness owns and operates the home farm of 135 acres, which are well cultivated and most productive. He follows general and diversified farming, together with stockraising. Affiliated with the Republican party, Mr. Ness has been identified with many of the public offices in the township, occupying the office of assessor for six years and being clerk of his school district for some time.

C. A. Cady, now deceased, was born in Almond, Allegheny eounty, N. Y., April 17, 1828, and lived there until fifteen years of age when he went to Columbia county, Wisconsin, where he lived six years and then located in Kane county, Illinois. In 1851 he went to California with a party of friends, and for three years conducted a general merchandise business which proved a success from the first. He was one of the very early settlers of Spring Valley, having located here in 1855, and preempted 160 acres in section twenty-one, to which he added from time to time until he owned nearly an entire section. Mr. Cady was a public spirited man and one of strong convictions. Many of the early pioneer families received timely aid from him and this aid he gave as a privilege rather than as a duty. On February 2, 1862, he was united in marriage with Susan D. Farmer, of Spring Valley, a native of Vermont, born May 19, 1833, daughter of Hiram D. Farmer, who was the son of a soldier of the American Revolution. Mrs. Cady was one of the county's first teachers and conducted her first school in a room of the first hotel of Spring Valley. She also tanght in the first school house in Spring Valley. Mr. Cady died on April 7, 1906, shortly after his return from Florida where he and his wife spent many winters. Mrs. Cady now resides on the old home place with her son George.

George Farmer Cady, adopted son of C. A. and Susan D. (Farmer) Cady, was born in 1878. He received his early education in Spring Valley schools and at Shattuck School and later took a business course at the Des Moines Business College. He now follows general farming on section twenty-one, Spring Valley township, where he has about 200 acres under cultivation. Mr. Cady is a Republican in politics, and a member of the Methodist chureh. On October 17, 1906, he married Daisy G. Cronon, of LaCrosse, Wisconsin, and to this union have been born two children, Robert Edmund and Burton Charles.

Wallace H. Lee, a prominent real estate dealer of Spring Valley, was born at Watson Creck, this county, December 10, 1877, son of James and Sarah (Preston) Lee. He received the rudiments of his education in the district schools of Fountain township and completed his public school course in the high school of Spring Valley with the elass of 1897. After attending the State Normal school at Winona he taught for seven years in various places, among which were Curry, Carimona, Wilton, North Dakota, where he was principal for two years, and Berthold, North Dakota. He was also county superintendent of schools at Burleigh county, North Dakota. Some time after this he came to Spring Valley and cngaved in the real estate business with Thomas Frankson, with whom he remained for one year, after which he entered the business on his own responsibility. Mr. Lee deals mostly in loeal farm lands and looks after the business of non-residents. He has ever taken an active interest ia polities and is a stanch Republican, which party has elected him to the position of town clerk and to minor positions. Mr. Lee ig in every respect a man of progressive ideas, and a believer in the development of natural resources, having given much time and attention to promoting water power sites, abandoned as well as new ones. On April 2, 1902, Mr. Lee married Rose Marie Pulford, a daughter of Thomas Pulford, who has been a resident of Wykoff for fifty years. To Mr. and Mrs. Lee three children have been born to bless their home, Thomas, Wallace H. and Harold Albert.

Clarence H. Farrington, who owns the Model Variety store at Spring Valley, was born in Jackson township March 2, 1873, son of Grove and Hannah (Tyson) Farrington. The subject of this sketch grew up on the home farm, attended the district school, and later attended Chatfield graded school. In 1903 he went in partnership with his brother, B. D. Farrington, at Fillmore, and Jater sold out to his brother and went in business in Spring Valley. Ile has here a store filled with a good stock and is making a strong bid for a large share of the trade of Spring Valley and vicinity. In October, 1897, he married Elizabeth Etta Williams, of Jordan, and to them three children were born: Esther Farrington, May 29, 1899; Alice Farrington, September 12, 1901; Etta Farrington, May 8, 1906. Mrs. Etta Farrington died May 8, 1906, and on August 14, 1907, Mr. Farrington married Mille Catlean, of Osage, Iowa, and there has been born to them one son, Marion George, September 22, 1910. Mr. Farrington is a believer in principles of the Prohibition party. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and, being socially inclined, has joined the Modern Woodmen and the Beavers.

Sidney J. Huntley, one of Fillmore county's most energetic business men, is hard working, capable, enthusiastic, public spirited and progressive, and although comparatively a new- comer he has already established for himself a lasting place in the community. He was born in Iowa, November 30, 1868, sou of Levi O. and Nellie (Joslin) Huntley, natives respectively of New York and Ohio. In 1883 the family removed to this state and loeated in Sauk Centre, later going to Duluth where his mother still makes her home, the father having died in 1905. Sidney J. was educated in the common and high schools of Iowa and Minnesota and on leaving school took up work with the "Sauk Centre Herald'? where he remained five years, his preceptor being C. F. Hendrick, who, being a competent journalist himself, and a son of the founder of the ''Minneapolis Tribune,'' was entirely competent to give the young man a most excellent insight into the newspaper business. Subsequently Mr. Huntley was connected with the '' Minneapolis Tribune" and '' Minneapolis Journal'' for two years. He soon after bought the ''Melrose Beacon,'' of Melrose, Minnesota, and later the ''Dassel Anchor.'' Disposing of the latter he purchased the ''Wykoff Messenger'' and eame to this county. In 1906 he purehased the ''Spring Valley Sun'' and eame to Spring Valley to make his home. From bis previons acquaintance here he was enabled to issue a newsy and influential paper from the start. Wherever Mr. Huntley is known he is recognized as a ''booster'' and his ability in this line soon manifested itself here. The baseball organization, the street fair and the band have been made possible largely through his interest and application of time and work. Being on the side of civic improvement and city progress he soon came to be prominently connected with the Commercial Club and has for some time been seeretary of that organization. The street fair, now an annual event, which is a commercial advantage to the city and an agricultural advantage to the farmers of this locality, was outlined and final plans approved by the Commercial Club largely through Mr. Huntley's intluence. Having a spirit for leadership it was natural that he should hold offices, and as success attended his official conduct of affairs it was a certainty that his public duties should become inereasingly responsible. Jn 1909 he became postmaster in the lower house of the Minnesota legislature, in which body he had been elerk of the tax committee two years previous. . Having widened his acquaintance among men of highest standing in state and federal affairs he was more free to follow his own beliefs than a man could be who jooked altogether to local polities and politicians to gain a position sufficiently strong to accomplish results of merit. In his newspaper and in his personal influence he supported those men and those movements which he felt were for the best interests of his county, rather than eatering to the passmg fancy of the throng. In 1911 he was appointed postmaster at Spring Valley, not at the suggestion of local political aspirants, but because he had displayed that rare quality of standing by those principles and their representatives which he believed to be right. With his characteristic attention to details he found it impossible to give the duties of his office the time and care necessary and at the same time to give his newspaper the time and care which he believed the public deserved. Ile therefore has recently sold his paper and printing establishment, which is one of the very best outside the great cities, and devotes himself entirely to his official work.

George H. Churchill was born at Fond du Lae, Wis., May 7, 1860, son of Judson and Celestia (Pasko) Churchill, natives respectively of Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, who came to Minnesota in 1866, bought a quarter section in section nineteen, Spring Valley township, here raised their family of eight children and lived the remainder of their lives, the father dying in 1904 and the mother in 1888. George H. was reared in this township, attended school here and later studied at the Chatfield high school for two years. He then taught school some time in this eounty. The following winter, in 1882, he took up a homestead in South Dakota, where he lived eight years. In 1890 he sold his farm there, returned to Spriug Valley, purchased 135 acres in section nineteen, and has since followed general farming and stock breeding. He raises from 175 to 200 Red Duroe Jersey swine annually, and keeps cattle, shcep and horses in uuinbers sufficient for his domestic needs. In polities he is independent, and is now town supervisor, as he has been for the past eight years. Mr. Churchill married Maggie Loucks on March 19, 1884, and to them have been born seven children. Hattie married Martin Jensen, of St. Paul. Irene married Harrison Slack, of Stratford, S. D. Jay is teaching in Mower county, Minnesota. Charles is in school at Spring Valley. Glen, Dorris and Francis are at home. The family worships at the United Brethven ehurch at Frankford.

Edward L, Babcock, retired farmer, now living in Spring Valley township. was born at Ashtabula, Ohio, October 6, 1828, son of Henry and Lovisa (Landon) Babeoek, who took him to Licking eounty. Ohio, and from there to Winnebago county, Tllinois, when he was 10 years of age. In that county he grew to manhood and went to school, spending his vacations working on the home farm. When he became 25 years of age he went to Iowa and located in Clayton county, where he farmed for six years, then coming to Minnesota and settling in Carimona township, where he also engaged in farming. On October 10, 1863, he enlisted in Company C, First Minnesota Heavy Artillery, and went to the front. He was detailed at garrison work at Chattanooga, Tenn., and honorably discharged at the close of the war. He then returned to his farm in Carimona and remained there for six years, after which he moved to Spring Valley and purchased a farm about three miles north of the town, there living for thirty years. Feeling that his life of hard and useful work deserved a rest, Mr. Babeock disposed of his farm and bought a home on the corner of Warner avenue and Griswold street, in Spring Valley, where he lived until November 15, 1911, when he moved back to the farm, where he now lives in retirement. He is a Prohibitionist and has been elected to serve as member of the school board and as road overseer. He has been an ardent and enthusiastic Baptist communicant for over sixty years and has been deacon in three churches of that denomination, serving in that capacity in Spring Valley for thirty years and now being honorary deacon. He married Mary Ann Chipman on Mareh 14, 1850. Their daughter Luella married Anthony Du Mez, a stock dealer and farmer, and they reside on the old Babeoek homestead. Mrs. Mary Ann (Chipman) Babeoek was born in Vermont, September 19, 1831, daughter of John and Harriet (Hoadley) Chipman, and with them she moved to IHinois in 1842. Her mother died on January 17, 1880, and her father passed away on his eighty-fourth birthday in 1889.

George W. Farmer, one of the county's most venerable citi zens, was born in Caledonia county, Vermont, August 16, 1829, son of Hiram and Selina (Snow) Farmer, natives of Vermont and New Hampshire, respectively. In 1833 the family moved to Ohio, where he grew to manhood and received his schooling. When about twenty-one years of age he took up the manufacture and sale of seales through the state of Ohio and continued in this business for more than three years. He then returned home and assisted his father till 1857, when the family came to Minnesota and settled in Spring Valley. His father bought at $15 per acre the land in section twenty-seven where G. W. now resides, while G. W. took up a claim in Bennington, where he lived three years. This elaim he later sold and in 1868 he went east for two: years. In 1870 he returned to Spring Valley and began a lumber business, and about this time he was one of the builders of the cheese factory here. In 1873 he sold ont his lumber business and went to his farm in section twenty-seven, where he has since resided. On April 10, 1859, he was united in marriage with Lydia Conklin. The Farmer family being one of men strong in: body and in character, has had a great influence on the early history of this county. James D. was a prominent lawyer and John Q. a prominent judge. B. F. was an active business man

Willis H. Farmer is a native of Ohio, born February 16, 1851, son of Hiram and Selina (Snow) Farmer. Ile came to Spring Valley in early childhood and has since made his home here. After attending the local schools he continued on the home farm until 1893, when he opened an office and has since been in a general collecting business. He was married in 1882 to Louise M. Crowther, who died in 1893. To this union was born one daughter, Vira, a high school teacher. On December 16, 1896, Mr. Farmer married Julia Smyth, a native of Lake City, Minn. Mr. Farmer is a Republican in polities and has been active in political work, but never sought public office, though he has been constable many years.

Isaac Lincoln Freeman was born in Mower county, this state, August 5, 1864, son of Isaac and Cornelia (Hartshorn) Freeman. THe was educated in the common schools and then worked with his father. When a very small child his parents moved to Spring Valley township and bought a farm on section 23, where Isaac L. lived until 1904. In 1905 he moved onto his present farm, which he had previous purchased. He farms 180 acres which is all under a high state of cultivation, has a fine herd of Short-horn cattle, which he favors as a general purpose animal, and also raises a good breed of Norman horses, Shropshire sheep and Red Poll hogs. For the past few years Mr. Freeman's many interests have made it imperative that he give over much of the management of the farm to his son. This has been done with apparent good results, leaving him free to attend to his other business enterprises. He is the general agent for the Albert Lea Light and Gas Machine Company, of Albert Lea, Minn., and for this company has charge of the territory in southern Minnesota, Wisconsin, and northern Iowa. He has operated a thrashing machine twenty-four years and his work for the gas machine company comes naturally to him, he being largely of a mechanical turn of mind. On December 29, 1891, he married Mary Graskamp and to them have been born seven children, Harold, Myrtle, Mildred, Lynn, Wayne, Wayland and Ross, all of whom are at home. Mr. Freeman served for several years on the town board and in school office. He is a stockholder in the Spring Valley Creamery Company.

Isaac Freeman, deceased, was a native of Vermont, born September 12, 1832, there attending the common schools and later learning the blacksmith trade, at which he did not, however, long continue. When seventeen years of age he went to Massachusetts, where he was employed as a ship carpenter until 1856, when he came to Minnesota. He loeated at first in Bennington township, Mower county, but in 1867 eame to this county and bought a farm in Spring Valley township. [fe was married in 1860 to Cornelia Hartshorn, who died in 1867, and to thein was born one child, Isaac Lineoln. Mr. Freeman was married December 235, 1874, to Olive Blaekinan and one danghter was born to them. The daughter, Katie, now Mrs. August Miller, lives with her husband on the old Isaac Freeman homestead in Spring Valley township. Mr. Freeman's death oceurred in 1905.

Thomas Frankson, prominent in Spring Valley as a promoter of civic Luprovement, was born in York, this county, September 16, 1869, and early in life began his education by attending school in what is known as ''The Red School House,'' which was situated near his father's farm. He was later a student in the Lime Springs high school, after which he spent two terms in Breekenridge Institute, and laier completed a business course at Valder College, Decorah, Iowa. He subsequently entered the law department of the University of Minnesota and was graduated in 1900. After being admitted to the bar he practiced the profession for which he had so carefully prepared himself for a period of two years, and then went into the real estate business. In this he is engaged at the present time, dealing in North and South Dakota, Minnesota, Texas and Missouri lands. [lis office, situated on the main business street of the city, contains a large . and valuable collection of relics and eurios which he has gathered at different periods during his extensive travels; this collection, including a most interesting instructive array of relies of which their owner and the city itself is justly proud. In 1895, Hanna Inglebret, a daughter of John and Julia Inglebret, uesidents of Carimona, became the wife of Mr. frankson, and this union has been blessed with three children, Frances, John and Sarah. The fainily faith is that of the Lutheran church, which they regularly attend, In political views, Mr. Frankson favors those advanced by the progressive members of the Republican party, and he has held many of the responsible public offices in the county, serving as town treasurer for York township for several years, and being elected from the first district to the State legislature in 1910. His beautiful home, whieh is loeated well out of the city, was built in 1906, and is connected with the city by means of a broad cement walk which extends the entire distance, and was laid in aecordanée with his ideas and wishes. His property is given an added attraction by the ''zoo,'' which he began in 1903, when he purchased buffalo and brought them here from lowa. With these as a start, he brought deer from Minnehaha Park in Minneapolis, and other animals from other places, making his collection a ost notable one. There were elk in his ''zoo'' at one time, but they have now disposed of. Mr. Frankson has an enviable record for public spirit and progressive ideas, which combined with resolute industry and energy, have been of great value to the city in which he makes bis home. Frank and Sarah (Benson) Olson, parents of Thomas Frankson, eame to the United States from Norway, the foriner in 1852 and the latter in 1861. For three years after his arrival in this country, the father was engaged in general farming in Dane county, Wisconsin, after which he came to York township, where he and his wife reared their family of children. He passed away February 23, 1909, and his widow died May 1 of the sane year.

Henry Graskamp was born in Gerinauy, October 7, 1848, and remained in the land of his birth until he was twenty-six years of age. He then came to the United States and settled first in Wiseonsin, working for farmers near West Salem, in La Crosse county. Then he was employed on the railroad for some time. In 1874 he bought forty acres in La Crosse county and began farming for himself. With his native German thrift he was enabled to buy land from time to time until he owned more than 160 acres. This land he farmed with good suecess until 1900, when he sold out and came to Spring Valley. He now owns a pleasant home here, does some market gardening and lives a retired life. In polities he is a Demoerat, but has never sought public office. He is a member of the Lutheran chureh. On March 10, 1871, he married Nellie Pellup and to them were born five children, three of whom died in infaney. Mary, the oldest daughter, married Isaac Lincoln Freeman, of Spring Valjey township, and they have fowr ehildren: Verna, Raymond, Charlotte and Ruth. Lily married Edward Zimmer, of Fillmore township, and they have seven children: Harold, Merle, Mildred, Lynn, Wayne and Wayland, twins, and Ross.

Karl Hermes, a respeeted citizen of Spring Valley, was born in Germany, February 14. 1834, son of Frederick and Charlotte Hermes. He was edueated in the Fatherland and served for three years in the army. In 1870 be crossed the Atlantic and vame to the United States and after his arrival here spent several years in New Jersey. Hearing of the greater opportunities offered in the West, he came to Minnesota and settled in Spring Valley, where he opened a shoe shop near where the hotel now stands. He also purchased five and one-half acres south of the village and there made his home. For ten years' he eonducted his shoe shop, after which he went to Bennington township, in

Mower county, and there farmed four years. In 1905 Mr. Hermes went to the western part of the state and purchased 160 acres in Grant county, where he spent three years and followed general farming. In 1908, he returned to this section of the state and operated a farm near Le Roy for a period of two years, after which he returned to his home in Spring Valley and for some time did a market gardening business. Ilis shoe shop was destroyed by fire and he now lives a retired life. He is a Demoerat in his political opinions, but has not been an office seeker. He attends the Lutheran church and is a member of that organization. In May, 1864, Charlotte Liveland beeame his wife and they are the parents of ten children. Henry is a horse buyer in Spring Valley; Minnie is now Mrs. Brooks, of Minneapolis; Annie is the wife of Martin Garrett, of Canada; Louise is now Mrs. Dave McCall, of Minneapolis; Laura ig married and resides in Minneipolis; Maggie is the wife of a farmer in North Dakota; Lena married an Idaho fruit farmer; Fritz lives on a farm near Minneapolis; Hattie is married and lives in Seattle; Louis is in the wholesale meat business in Michigan.

Dunbar M. Leach, deceased, was born in Kirby, Vt., February 11, 1837, son of Arunah and Electa (Mason) Leach. In 1866 he eame to I3loomfield township and lived on the farm till 1897, at which time he moved to the village of Spring Valley. After moving to Spring Valley in 1897 a very attractive home was bought in the northeastern part of the city, which has since been the family home. In politics he was a Republican and though he never was anxious for public office he was for eight years town clerk in Bloomfield township and also served in the state legislature. He was married,-March 14, 1862, to Sarah A. Roberts, of Ohio, daughter of Edward Roberts, one of the carly settlers of Wisconsin. To this union have been born six children,

John N, Graling, one of Spring Valley's most highly esteemed citizen and an honored veteran of the Civil War, was born in Germany, November 16, 1836, and came to the United States when he was 10 years of age with his parents, Conrad and Gertrude Graling. The family located in New York, where they remained for eight years, after which they came to Minnesota and settled in lorestville township, where they were engaged in general farming. John N. acquired his education in New York and for five years taught school in Wisconsin and Minnesota, doing farm work during vacation periods. Some time later he rented his father's farm, which he had charge of until 1874, when he came to Spring Valley and engaged in the grain and elevator business. He was united in marriage in 1862 with Lydia Henderson, who died four years later, leaving Terrence, now living in North Dakota, and Ernest, now deceased. In 1868 Mr. Graling married Josephine Henderson, and they are the parents of Milo J., who is associated with his father in business at Spring Valley; Lydia G., now Mrs. Scofield, living at home, and Verney, a successful electrician at Niagara Falls, N. Y. In February, 1865, Mr. Graling enlisted in Company K, First Minnesota Heavy Artillery, receiving an honorable discharge July 3 because of illness contracted while in service. He was a staunch member of the Republican party until 1872, when he became independent in his political views. He was eleeted to serve asa member of the legislature three times, dating first in 1874, next in 1879 and then in 1881. For seven years he has heen « member of the village council and for nine years has served on the school board. His public spirit is further evidenced in his active work in assisting to establish a library, on the executive board of which he has served for five years. These responsible offices which he has so satisfactorily occupied prove his fitness and ability, and the regard in which he is held by his town and county. He is an active member in the I. O. O. F. and the G. A. R.

J. A. Stevens, well known photographer in Spring Valley, first saw the light of day at Perry, Lake county, Ohio, November 7, 1849, son of Otho and Charlotte (Simon) Stevens, who came to Minnesota in 1857, locating in Spring Valley, where the father conducted a mill until the time of his death, which occurred in June, 1905. The wife and mother still resides in Spring Valley. J. A., the subject of this sketch, was educated in the sehools of Spring Valley and when thirteen years of age left his books and went te work in his father's mill, where he remained for eleven years. In 1873 he accepted a position as engineer in a sash, blind and door factory of Whitman & Brown in Spring Valley and worked for this concern for four years, after which he took up photography. After learning the photographie business Mr. Stevens opened a studio for himself in 1879, and for over thirtythree years has been in the same business on Broadway, in Spring Valley. Politically he endorses the tenets of the Republican party, but has not been a public office seeker. He attends the Methodist church and is a member of the Blue Lodge of Spring Valley, also a Royal Arch Mason. Mr. Stevens married Georgia Gleason in July, 1874, and they are the parents of a daughter, Eva, who is now the wife of C. H. Vanderhoof, of Baraboo, Wis.

Stephen M. Wilder, now deceased, was one of those useful citizens whom every community needs, and yet which so few possess. Born in St. Paul, July 6, 1858, he came to Spring Valley with his parents when seven years of age, and attended the schools here. With ripened manhood many honors and responsibilities were thrust upon him. For a period of twenty years he was the moving factor of the Spring Valley fire department, serving at different times as its chief and as its treasurer. Hight years he was deputy in the postoffice and had charge of the office four years, bringing the service to a high degree of efficiency. Six years he was state deputy oil inspector. For fifteen years he served on the council. For a long time he was president of the Cemetery Association. More recently he was a member of the library board and an active worker in the eause of establishing the Putnum agricultural school at Spring Valley. These positions, however, represent but few of the activities in which he was interested, and his death, June 30, 1911, left a vacancy in the community which will not soon be filled. Im addition to his eivie and political activities he was an ardent temperance and chureh worker, being a trustee in the local Methodist Episcopal church. His wife, whom he married January 30, 1901, was Estelle Learned.

8. Crippen Lobdill is the only pioneer merchant who is today in business in Spring Valley. Born in Ohio, he enlisted at the outbreak of the war in the Twenty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and in this command saw aetive and honorable service. After his diseharge he returned to Ohio. In 1864 he went to Wabasha and took up work in a tin and coppersmith shop and hardware store and from that time to the present he has been either directly or indirectly connected with business in that line. In 1868 he came to Spring Valley and opened a hardware store on the site since oceupied by him. After one vear he formed a partnership, which was continued for threé years, at the end of which time it was dissolved and Mr. Lobdill continued as the sole proprietor of the business. In 1898 other business responsibilities became so pressing it was found necessary for him to withdraw from the active management of the store, leaving the business in the expable hands of his son, L. T. In 1898 S. C. Lobdill was appointed by the president as collector of internal revenue, which work takes nearly all his time. In September, 1865, the subject of this sketch married Josephine Farnam, of Wabasha, and to them have been born seven children.

William L. Kellogg, one of Spring Valley's venerable and most highly esteemed residents. was born May 1, 1837, at East Springfield, Erie county, Pa., son of Ruben and Eleanor (Crawford) Kellogg, the former of whom died when William L. was but six years of age. The subject of this biography grew to manhood in Pennsylvania and was edueated in the common schools.

and at a private seminary. When nineteen years of age he, with his mother, two brothers and a sister, came to Spring Valley, arriving here May 2, 1856, and taking a elaim in Bloomfield township, but making their home in the village of Spring Valley. In 1856 and 1857 Mr. Kellogg taught sehool in a building in which Frank Wankoski now lives on section twenty-seven, this being the first school held within the present limits of the village. He also taught in the Bateman district, Forestville township, during the winter months of these same years. Later he was employed in a store in Spring Valley for a period of six months and in 1858 was elected to the office of town clerk, a position he held continuously from 1862 until 1899, with the exception of three years, during which time he was out of the county, thus making a total of thirty-four years in that office, a record of which one should he justly proud. From the year 1873 until 1894 Mr. Kellogg was annually elected village recorder, with the exception of one year. Since 1894 he has annually been elected village treasurer. He was also a member of the school board for two years, being clerk of that body in 1886. During President Harrison's administration he was appointed postmaster, holding that office from 1889 until 1893. From 1868 until 1872 he was justice of the peace and he has also served as county commissioner for one year. In 1886 Mr. Kellogg went to Duluth and there became clerk for the Railway and Warehouse Commmission, where he remained until 1888, then returning to his home in Spring Valley, where for more than twenty years he has dealt in real estate and fire insurance. He is elerk of the Congregational church. having held that position for forty-seven consecutive years. He has also been senior deacon in this chureli for thirty-four years. Politically Mr. Kelloge has ever been a supporter of the principles endorsed by the Republican party. On May 9, 1872, Alzina C. Cummings became his wife and their marriage was blessed with four children: Roy L., who died in infancy; Milo L., who married Helma Hammer; Clara E.; and Menton M., who married Fannie C. Stetzel and has one daughter, Bernice 8. They all live in Spring Valley. Of the family who came here in 1856, the subject of this sketch and one brother, Samuel Crawford Kellogg, are the only survivors. Mrs. Alzina (Cummings) Kellogg entered into rest on March 11, 1899.

Lyle Hamlin, the efficient. cashier of the First National Bank in Spring Valley, was born in Forestville township, this county, June 18, 1882, son of L. D. and Josephine (Gates) Hamlin. He received his elementary education in the common schools of For estville, and later graduated from the high school in-Spring Valley with the class of 1903. He then entered the law department.

of Minnesota University where he began the study of law and remained one year. Being offered a position in the First National Bank as book-keeper he accepted and served the institution in that capacity for a time with such ability that he was made assistant cashier. In January, 1910 he was made cashier, a position he still occupies. Te was married July 25, 1906, to Ona Russell, 2 native of Houston county, born November 7, 1886. To them have been born two children, Harlan Russell, born April 19, 1907, and Dorothy Alice, born January 7, 1910. These children are the fourth generation of the Hamlin family living in Fillmore county, their great grandfather, Alonzo Hamlin, who is still living, having come here in the earliest days. The family worships at the Congregational church. The subject of this sketch has done exeellent work as a member of the Spring Valley library board, and has done other public service. He is a member of the Commercial club, and affiliates with Spring Valley lodge, No. 58, A..F. & A.M. Mr. Hamlin is a gentleman of unusual energy and business ability and occupies a position such as many a man has been content to spend a large portion of his business life working toward. He is of the type of young business man of wide experience and sound judgment and assured position in whose hands must be left the affairs of the future.

Everett Jones, banker, business mau and real estate dealer, was born in Krie county, N. Y., October 4, 1851, and was brought to Chatfield, in this county, in 1857, by his parents, Chauney and Melissa Jones. After attending such schools as the public edueational system of Chatfield afforded, he subsequently pursued higher courses in the state university, at Minneapolis. Thus equipped for life, he taught school for two years, and then engaged in agricultural pursuits seven miles northwest of Chatfield, in Olmsted county. This voeation he was successfully following in 1876, when the accidental explosion of a steam threshing boiler seriously injured him, and incapacitated him from further manual labor. A few years later he sold his farm, moved to Chatfield, and engaged in the private banking business for five years with A. L. Ober and A. F. Lombard. At the end of this period he sold out to his partners and removed to Spring Valley where he purchased a small private bank which had been established some six months previous by A. L. Ober and T. A. Sorenson. After a period of ten years during which time Mr. Jones was sole proprietor, this imstitution was merged in the First National Bank, of Spring Valley, which was organized at that time, and of which Mr. Jones was elected cashier and managing officer. Six years later, owing to advancing age, and failing health, he sold his interest in the institution and retired from its management. Since then he has been engaged in the buying and selling of improved farms in Fillmore and Olmsted counties. The subject of this sketch was married in 1876 to Mary S. Blake.

Alonzo Hamlin, a representative farmer of Bloomfield township, was born in Vermont in February, 1830, son of Simeon Hanlin. He was educated in his native state, and when 20 years eof age went to Erie county, New York, where he spent seven years. In 1857 he came west and located on section nine, York township, this county, where he took a claim and built a log house, in which he lived for a year, after which he moved to another part of the township and there resided for four years. In 1862 he left York and went to Forestville, where he settled in section twenty-nine and carried on general farming for thirty years. In 189] he moved to his present home near the village of Spring Valley, where he owns twenty acres and is living a practically retired life. At one time Mr. Hamlin owned a whole section in Forestville, which he later disposed of. During his resi: dence in that township he served his community as assessor for two terms. He affiliates with the Prohibitionist party and is a member of the Baptist church. On February 2, 1851, he married Naomi Carpenter, who passed away in September, 1869. In 1870, he married Esther Ann Woodin, daughter of Russell Woodin, a farmer of Etna, formerly of New York. To Myr. and Mrs. Hamlin six children have been born, Charles Edward, of California; Samuel L., of Forestville; Frank, at home with father; L. D., of Spring Valley; Candace, now Mrs. J. L. Colby and John G., of Forestville.

William N. Kendrick, M. D., now recognized as one of the leading physicians of Fillmore county, was born at Athens, Leeds county, Ontario, Canada, June 15, 1872, son of Samuel and Amelia Kendrick, the former of whom died in June, 1903, and the latter in February, 1908. Woalliam N., subject of this biography, reecived the rudimeuts of his edueation in the common schools of his home town, and later attended Almonte Collegiate Institute, after which he entered the McGill Medical College at Montreal, from which institution he was graduated in June, 1896, as president of his class. During his four years' course he stood at the head of his class, and had the honor and distinction of winning several rewards such as ''Primary prize,'' ''Prize for general profielency,'' and the ''Gold medal for proficiency in Chemistry.'? In June, 1896, he came to Spring Valley and engaged in practice with Dr. J. R. Johnson, until November, 1898, when he removed to Austin, Mim., and formed a copartnership with Dr. C. H. Johnson, where he remained until the death of Dr. J. R. Johnson, when he returned and took up his practice at Spring Valley, where he has stnee continued to reside and where he has a large and ever inerensing clientele. While at Austin he took courses at the Post-Graduate Medical College, at Chicago, during three different years, to better prepare himself for the practice of his profession. Thus equipped he has demonstrated his qualifications. He is a man of gzood common sense and sound judgment and his straightforwardneéss and honest dealings have won for him the confidence and esteem of the people in the community in which he is associated both in a business and social way. His political inclinations are toward the Republican party and he is now serving as president of the board of health of Spring Valley. Fraternally he affiliates with the A. F. & A. M., the A. O. U. W,, the B. P. 0. E., the M. W. A., and the M, B. A., and is a member of the Spring Valley Commercial club, and of the Automobile club. Mr. Kendriek was married November 14, 1896, to Maud M. Lloyd, a daughter of LeRoy M. Lloyd, and this union has been blessed with two bright children, Dorothy, born December 8, 1899 and William Lioyd, born March 16, 1908. The family faith is that of the Kpiseopal church.

J. O. Pierce, a respected citizen of Spring Valley, was bern at Charleston, Mass, September 2, 1848, son of George and Naney Pierce, the former of whom died in July, 1904, and the latter September 7, 1911. The father was a veteran of the First Masseehusetta and the Second Minnesota Regiment in the Civil War. During the period that his father was in the army, the subject of this sketch located in LeRoy, where he attended the village schoal wntil fifteen years old, after which he worked on a farm until 1880. He then seoured a position as buttermaker, in which occopation he continued for many years, coming, in 1875, to Spring Valley, where he operated the creamery for a period of ten years. Owing to poor health and the destruction of the ereamery by fire, My. Pieree gave up this work and accepted a position im the elevator at Dexter. In 1900, he beoame manager of the elevater at Thornton, Towa, where he remained for six years, and then resigned to take charge of the elevator in Spring Valley, im the aapacity of manager for the LaCrosse Grain Ca. Mr. Pierce is am independent Republican, but has never sought public offices, although he served as mayor of Thornton two years. He has affiliated himeelf with the Spring Valley Lodge 58, AF. & A. Mi. On June 30, 1876, he was waited in marriage with Rosabell Mason, a daughter of Traman Mason of Spring Valley. Mr. and Mire. Pierce are the parents of one aon, Roy, who is engaged im the Jewelry business in Odebolt, Jows. The family faith i that of the Baptist church, of which they have ever heen leyal sembors.

William H. Strong was one of Fillmore county's most prominent citizens and in his death the community suffered a great loss. He was born in Bradford county, Pa., February 23, 1827, the son of John and Ann Strong, and was reared on a farm. When he was sixteen years of age he went at work at the cabinet makers' trade, which he followed four years. Later he went to Mainesburg, Pa., and conducted a hotel three years. In 1854, he came to Minnesota and settled in Carimona. He here built the first house and the first store Carimona had. In 1855 he built and later conducted the ''Carimona House'' which was the hotel for many years. Carimona was at that time on the main stage line between Dubuque and St. Paul. The hotel and his mercantile business proved very successful and in 1868 he opened a store in Lanesboro. In 1872 he opened a store at Florenceville, lows, He was also interested in the development of the country and bought land and rented and sold his holdings. In 1876 he moved to Williamsport, Pa., that his daughter, who is at present Mrs. Charles Smith, might receive the advantages of the college at that place and at the same time live at home. His daughter's college course completed, the family returned to Fillmore county in 1880. Prior to this he had bought out J. C. Easton's interest in the bank subsequently known as the Strong, Farmer & Edwards Bank. This institution continued under this name till 1899, when it was changed to the State Bank of Spring Valley. Mr. Strong organized the first creamery in Spring Valley. In polities he was a Democrat and served the county in many ways as officer, being sheriff in 1855 and 1856. He was a liberal contributor to the Methodist Episcopal church and a trustee many years. He waa married September 4, 1851, to Phoebe M. Jaquish whe died February 17, 1896, in California, where Mr. and Mrs. Strong spent many winters. W. H. Strong died September 1, 1909.

Z. W. Warner, proprietor of the North Side Dairy, was born im Spring Valley township, on December 12, 1867, son of G. B, and Ellen Warner. He was educated in the Spring Valley achoola and at the age of eighteen years began working for hia father on the farm. In 1884, he went to Faulk county, Seuth Dakota, where he was employed at general farming for seven years, after Which he returned to Spring Valley, and farmed for about two yeara la Bicomfield township, He then assumed charge of the home plage and entered the dairy business. He owns ahout forty head of eattle, which ure mostly Jerseys, und ships the dairy predusta east to Rushford and west to LeRoy and Brownsdale, aside from supplying the local trade, Mr. Warner owna 87% acres of land ou which he has ereeted a fine stone sile and made many ether itaprovements, making his home in a fine briel house whieh his father built in 1881. He votes with the Republican party and has been elected to serve as town clerk for four years. He is a member of Spring Valley Lodge, No. 58, A. F. & A. M., also of the M. W. A. On January 1, 1880, he was united in marriage with Nellie Hill, daughter of H. G. Hill of Spring Valley. They have an adopted son, larl.

G. B. Warner, deceased, was for many years an esteemed citizen of Spring Valley. He was of Canadian birth and came to the United States as a boy, locating in Michigan, where he was edueated and grew to manhood. In 1854 he eame to Minnesota and settled on section twenty-eight, Spring Valley township, where he acquired 160 acres of land, which he broke, cultivated and made productive, and where for many years he earried on general farming. In 1862, when the frontier dijticulties arose, Mr. Warner enlisted in Bracketts battalion, served out his enlistment and was honorably discharged. He was united in marriage with Ellen Cowles of Wisconsin, in July, 1863, and they became the parents of several children: Amy married Charles Byers, of Spring Valley; George H. is a farmer in the same township; Z. W., is proprietor of the North Side Dairy of Spring Valley; and Nelson is engaged in the real estate business at California. The wife and mother entered into rest on November 28, 1882, and Mr. Warner's death occurred September 27, 1905. He was one of the pioneers of Fillinore county, who accomplished much toward its growth and development. In all dealings, either of a social or business nature, he wen the respect aud esteem of those with whom he associated.

Rev. Horace H. Wallace, esteemed resident of Spring Valley, was boru in New Hampshire on May 10, 1840, son of Orphus and Fanny (Bradty) Wallace, natives of New Hampshire, who came to this state in 1856 and pre-empted land near Wykoif, where they resided for twenty-four years, after which they moved into Spring Valley and here spent the remainder of their lives, the father dying in 1886, aged eighty-five years and seventeen days, and the mother on June 20, 1891, aged eighty-eight years and eight months. Horace H., the son, was educated in THlinois and Beloit, Wisconsin. After completing his studies, he went to work for his father on the farm and continued in this occupation until 1881. On October 11, 1861 he enlisted in Co. C, Third Minnesota Vohinteer Infantry and went south. The following year he came north to assist in quelling the Indians and served in this campaign for three months, after which he again went south and saw service in muny engagements, among which were the siege of Vicksburg, the battle of Little Rock, and the battle of Fitz Hugh's

Woods, where April 1, 1864, he was wounded in the shoulder, causing him to spend seven months in the hospital at Little Rock and Pine Bluffs, Arkansas. On November 14, 1864, he was discharged, after which he resumed his former occupation of farming. He moved to Spring Valley some years later and here began to study for the ministry under the direction of the Conference of the United Brethren. He went to Winona county in 1884 and there preached for two years, after which he was called to Otter Tail county, where he remained three years and then went to Cottonwood county, remaining there for three years. His health being impaired, he then came back to Spring Valley and has sinee resided in that city. He is Chaplain of the Burdick Post No. 3, G. A. R., elder in the Methodist church and a member of that organization, though ordained in the chureh of United Brethren. He votes the Republiean ticket and takes an active interest in affairs of today. On January 1, 1866, he married Lonise Prosser, bora April 5, 1839, at Spencer connty, Indiana, and to them have been born: Bert A., now teaching in the Valley City state normal school in North Dakota; Frances E., a teacher in Spokane, Wash. ; and one son, Herbert, who died in infaney.

George G. Lyman was born in Northfield, Massachusetts, January 24,1819. He was educated in the common schools and took up work in the woolen mills of his native state where he soon became foreman. After holding this position for over twenty years he came west and located in Hartland, Wis. He had a mind for mechanical affairs and invented his share of important machines. About the time the hay mower of today came out he had a similar idea patented but was unable to push its manufacture for want of financial means. During his residence in Galena, Ti, where he moved from Wisconsin, he was acquainted with U.S. Grant. In 1871 he came to this county and located in Sumner township, where he farmed several years. He married Ann Eliza Ladd, who died February 8, 1900.