Freeborn County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1911 (part 3 of 11)

W. C. Gruetzmacher, who owns the hardware store at Geneva, was born in Mayville, Wis., in 1869. His parents, Hermann L. and Augusta (Wolff) Gruetzmacher, were Germans, who came to America in the early days, and located in Wisconsin. They later moved to Minnesota and settled near Owatonna, where they bought land and farmed, and here the father is living at the present, the wife and mother died October 21, 1909. W. C., their son, attended the public schools, and later went to Minne¬ apolis where he entered the Minneapolis Conservatory of Music, and here he studied for seven years and graduated. During this time he learned the tinners' trade at St. Anthony Park, St. Paul, which occupation he worked for seven years. In 1897 he came to Geneva and erected the building in which he carries on business at present. He carries a large stock of hardware and farming implements. Mr. Gruetzmacher, in 1897, married Emma ,R. Iwig, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Philip J. Iwig, and they are the parents of two children: Luella and Verna, both at home. Mr. Gruetzmacher is very much interested in music and has been leader of several bands for years. He is an independent political voter, though he has been a Republican. Flis prosperity is due to his own hard work and determination to succeed; he often relates the story of his start in business when the total amount of his capital was fifty cents.

N. P. Larsen has been a resident of this county for nearly thirty-six years. He was born in Denmark, March 30, 1855, son of Lars and Dorthea (Green) Christopherson. He emigrated from his native land to America in 1874, and when first arriving here he worked at whatever would yield him the greatest income. One year after his coming his parents crossed the ocean to this country, and came to Albert Lea township where, combining hard work with frugality they spent the greater part of their lives tilling the soil, which yielded abundantly, thus rewarding their untiring efforts. In 1899 the wife and mother passed away and the father's death occured six years later. The subject of this biography married Sophia Olsen in 1881, and they became the parents of five children : Hans, Laura, Dora, Karl and Marie. As the years passed this wife died, and later in life Mr. Larsen and Mary Larsen were united in matrimony, four children are the result of this union: Adler, Evangeline, Robert and Philip. Of the 130 acres owned by Mr. Larsen, nearly 100 are under cultivation, while twenty acres comprise a grove which borders on Pickerel lake. The remainder of his farm supports his fine dairy herd, and the milk from this herd is daily shipped to meet the increasing demands of the city consumers. Mr. Larson is .justly proud of his well improved and fertile farm, knowing that its present excellent condition is due to years of unceasing toil. Though he has never entered into politics to any degree he favors the principles of the Republicans. He regularly attends the Lutheran Church of which he is an esteemed member.

Oscar Rood is a prosperous farmer residing in Albert Lea township. Ilis parents, John C. and Mary Rood, came to this country from Norway, and settled first in Wisconsin, where the subject of this sketch was born, October 13, 1860. He is one of a family of eight children, six of whom are yet living. When he was fifteen years' old the family came to Albert Lea township and here engaged in farming, and it was here that the father and mother passed away. Mr. Rood received his education in the common schools, and after leaving his studies began farm¬ ing, an occupation at which he has been most successful. He owns 17 acres of land which borders on the lake front, and has about ninety acres under cultivation. His well improved and valuable farm has been made so by the hard work and careful management of himself and father. In political views Mr. Rood favors the Republican party, but his many duties on his farm have kept him from seeking any public office.

N. H. Hoyne is one of the leading and substantial residents of Freeman township. He has occupied many responsible offices in his community, having been elected as chairman of the town board for the past eight years, and clerk for four years, and at present he is school treasurer in district 66. He was born in Freeborn county, Minnesota, October 28, 1869, son of Hover Ingebretson and Dorthea (Lien) Hoyne, natives of Norway, who came to America in the early days, where they met and were married. They went to Yankton, North Dakota, and homesteaded a claim but left at the time of the Indian War, in 1863, and moved to Hayward. Here they acquired some land, but a year later went to Freeman and pre-empted a claim where they reared their family and made their home, and the father passed away here, in 1886; the mother is living with her son, N. FI., on the old home¬ stead, at the present time. Mr. Hoyne has a valuable farm of 310 acres including the eighty acres in the old homestead still owned by his mother, of which 150 acres are plowed and the remainder is in pasture, meadow and timber. Forty acres of land are situated in Nunda township, and these are mostly timber. He raises Shorthorn cattle and a cross breed of Poland China and

Mr. And Mrs. Ole Johnson

Duroc- Jersey hogs, and he is also interested in dairy farming, selling cream to Albert Lea creamery. In 1907, Clara M. Over¬ land became his wife, and to this marriage two children have been born : Herbert A. and Grant G. ' Mr. Hoyne attends the Lutheran Church and is a substantial contributor to its financial support. His political ideas coincide with those advanced by the Republican party.

Ole Johnson, who is a veteran of the Civil War, is a native of Norway, and was born October 28, 1842, son of John- and Anna Johnson, who came to America with son Ole in 1861, and located in Iowa. From here they moved to Freeman township, this county, in 1871, and here they lived with subject of this sketch until their death, the father dying in 1886 and the mother several years before. Ole Johnson received his education in Nor¬ way. When he came to Iowa with his parents in 1861 the recruits were being sent to the south for the defense of the Union. He en¬ listed in Company A, Eighteenth Regiment, Iowa Volunteer Infan¬ try, and for the whole of the war he suffered the privations and hardships incident to the life of those who saw the heat of the con¬ flict and took a part in the strife. Mr. Johnson is very modest in regard to his experiences in the war, but it is certain that he performed his duties honorably, as he was held in high regard by his comrades. On returning from the war he at once took up the pursuits of peace, in the form of agriculture on his farm in Iowa, and later in Freeman township, where he settled in 1871. To his original 160 acres he added, and now has over 400 acres. He has engaged in diversified farming, and has made a special effort to raise a good grade of Shorthorn stock and keep an up-to-date dairy farm. On his well equipped farm he has made all the improvements. In 1866 Mr. Johnson married Bertha Erickson, who died in 1873. To this union was born one child. Carl, of St. Louis county, Minnesota. In 1875 Mrs. Anna Groven (she had one daughter by her first marriage - Avena, now Mrs. T. Lundwal, of Roseau county) became his second wife, and to them were born six children: Reinert, at home; Hanna, now of Albert Lea; Andrew, of Washington, and Alexander, Harold and Agnes are at home. The subject of this biography is a member of the Lutheran Church. He is a Republican and has held offices of trust at various times, among which were several terms as member of the school board.

A. 0. Storvik, the well known farmer of Freeman, is a native of Norway, and was born February 16, 1847, the son of Ole and Bertha Storvik. His father farmed in Norway till his death, and his mother is still living in the old country, now ninety-five years of age. The subject of this biography attended school in Norway until fourteen years of age, and then joined a party of

Jiis countrymen and came to the I uited States, settling first in Winneshiek county, Iowa, where he worked out and later farmed thirteen years. He wished to go farther west, and in 1872 went to Nebraska where he took a claim which he farmed eight years. Not liking this state as well as he had hoped to, he sold out and returned to Iowa, and located in Buena \ ista county, where he rented land and each fall ran a threshing machine, for four years. At the end of this time he came to Freeborn county and bought 200 acres in Freeman township, where he lives today. Knowing that he was here to make his permanent home, he built substantial buildings and made all the many improvements which now make this one of the excellent farms of the county. He follows general and dairy farming and keeps a herd of high grade Shorthorn cattle, but is changing to the Holstein breed. He annually raises a large number of full blood Durock Jersey hogs, and in horses he keeps a good number of mixed breed for farm and driving purposes. In 1871 he married Christina T. Tangen, a native of Illinois, and this union has been blessed with ten children, eight of whom are still living: Ole. of Albert Lea, is state inspector of dairy foods; Tosten, a butter maker by trade, is farming in Freeman; Bertha, widow of Otto Knutson, lives at home; Edward, formerly a teacher, is now mail clerk in Albert Lea ; Andrana, Alert and Ella are at home ; Amanda is a graduate of Luther Academy and of the Sioux Falls Lutheran Normal. Mr. Storvik is an inde¬ pendent voter, and has served on the town board some years, and is at present director of the school board in liis home district. He is also president of Freeman creamery, a stock holder in the Freeman Telephone Company, was two years one of the trustees of Luther Academy, of Albert Lea, and is representative of the Manchester Insurance Company, as well as being interested in other organizations and business ventures. He is a member of the Lutheran Church, and director of the choir of the Round Prairie Church, also secretary of this congregation, and of the Fnited Congregation of London, Lyle and Glenville Lutheran ( 'hurches.

John J. Ealstad is a progressive farmer of Freeman township, son of Johanas and Karen Kalstad, who came to the I nited States from Norway in 1861. and settled in Freeman, where they purchased eighty acres of land in section 23 and made their home. It was here that the subject of this sketch was born May 19, 1864, and here the parents died, the mother in 1889, and the father sixteen years later. John J.. their son, spent his boyhood attending the common schools and assisting his father on the farm, and 1886 he assumed entire charge of the place and has since added to it 480 acres, he here carries on general as well as dairy farm work. Among the many improvements which Mr. Kalstad has made on his property is a fine new house, this is modern in every respect and a home of which he is justly proud. In 1886 he married Amelia Anderson, daughter of Jens Ander¬ son, of Freeman, and eight children have been born to them : Julius, who lives at Albert Lea; Casper, now in Waterloo, Iowa;

. Adelia, married Albert Haugen, of Waterloo, Iowa; Cornelia, Milford, Beatrice, Carl and Augustus are all at home. The tenets of the Republican party are endorsed by Mr. Kalstad, and he is a staunch supporter of the Lutheran Church ; he has held various offices in his township, served on school and town board, and is a stockholder in the Glenville Citizens State Bank, and in the Glenville Creamery. He owned property in Albert Lea on Lake boulevard, where he resided for three years, after which he sold and returned to the home of his boyhood days, on the farm.

Torger Haraldson has been a resident of Freeman township for many years, devoting his energies to developing his land and making many improvements thereon. He was born in Nor¬ way, October 13, 1856, but came to this country with his parents when a small boy, in 1861. He assisted his father with the farm work, and attended school in Freeman, and after completing his education he followed general farming, receiving some land from his father to which he has added as his success permitted, until at the present time he owns 280 acres. About 130 acres of his farm he has under cultivation yielding abundant crops each year. He is also most successful with Shorthorn cattle, and keeps a good herd of them, and he raises many Durock- Jersey hogs to supply the needs of his family and for occasional market. Petra Stovern, daughter of A. 0. Stovern, of this county became his wife in 1890, and their home has been brightened by the arrival of five children : Armond, Harrv, Clarence, Parnell and Olga. Mr. Haraldson has ever been actively interested in the affairs of his township, serving on both town and school board for many years. He is a respected member of the Lutheran Church, and in politics he endorses the sentiments of the Repub¬ lican party. He has many other business interests, being a stock¬ holder in the Freeman Dairy Association and a telephone com¬ pany.

A. 0. Aanrud, a progressive farmer, whose home is in Freeman township, came to America with his parents when he was a boy ten years of age. Fie was born in Norway, February 14, 1856, son of Christian and Ingeborg Aanrud, who settled in Freeman in 1866, and bought a farm of 120 acres in section 29, where they followed farming until the time of their retirement from active emplovment thirtv vears later. Both are dead. In attending school and helping his father on the farm, were the boyhood days of the subject of this sketch spent, and when he attained his majority he left the old home and went to California, where he remained for two years. He then returned to Freeman and bought forty acres of land, to which he has added as circum¬ stances have permitted, and at the present time he has 220 acres, where he is conducting general and dairy farming most successfully. The excellent condition of his farm today, is the result of Mr. Aanrud 's own hard work, he has improved all the buildings and kept them in repair. He has about seventy-five acres of land under cultivation, and raises good crops each year, the reward for weeks and months of unceasing toil. Olava Gordhammer, of Iowa, married Mr. Aanrud on December 26, 1887, and they are the parents of eight children : Ida Hanson, living in Cottonwood county; Carl, Louisa, Sophia, Alma, Julia, Louis and Clarence, at home. Mr. Aanrud has taken an active part in the affairs of his township; serving as clerk of the school board, and town clerk for a period of two years. He is secretary of the Farmers' Telephone Company, and one of its stock holders, and owns stock in the lumber yards at Emmons. He is director, also member of the Round Prairie Farmers' Threshing Company, and these many interests have occupied so much of his time that he does not mingle in politics to any extent though he votes with the Republican party. He attends the Lutheran Church of which he is a prominent member.

W. G. Freeman, one of the prominent citizens of Freeman township, came to the locality in which he now lives, with his parents, Mark and Mary (Sevey) Freeman, being grandson of John Freeman, the pioneer. These estimable people were among the earliest settlers of that part of the county, and from them the township of Freeman derived its name. The hardships con¬ fronting them so discouraged them that after spending two years in this wild place they returned to their old home in Illinois. Here they could not content themselves, despite the fact that they were surrounded by friends and the comforts of civilization so they again came west, and settled near their former home, and it was here that they engaged in farming until the present time, having 240 acres of land under cultivation. When a boy the son, W. G., attended the schools near home, and helped his father in caring for and improving his property. By the time he had finished school he was well versed in the principles of general farming and was employed by his father. At the present time he owns eighty acres to which he has given careful attention resulting in a well improved and up-to-date farm. He was mar¬ ried in 1889 to Minnie Perkins, of Worth county, Iowa. Five children have blessed this union : Roy, Milon, Elsie, Perry and

Mr. And Mrs. Andrew Larson

Luella. Mr. Freeman is a Republican in politics, and he is a member of the Masonic Lodge of Albert Lea. He is serving as treasurer of the school board and has been road overseer for three years. He is one of the stockholders in the Freeman Creamery Association; also stockholder in the Freeman Thresh¬ ing Machine Company, and in every respect an energetic, public spirited man.

Andrew Larson, an extensive land owner and capable farmer residing in Freeman township, started out in life for himself in 1871. Leaving his old home in Sweden and coming to the United States, he purchased 160 acres of land in Freeman town¬ ship, which he has developed, improved and added to, until at the present date he owns 280 acres in all. Here Mr. Larson has carried on general also dairy farming most successfully, ana prefers the Shorthorn cattle for general dairy purposes. He raises many hogs for market, which has been a profitable occu¬ pation. His success in this country encouraged his parents, Lars and Ingra (Nelson) Olson, to follow his example, and they left Sweden and arrived in America in the late seventies. They located near their son in Freeman, and bought land there and farmed until their advanced years prevented such activities. The father died about ten years after coming to this country, and the mother some time later. Mr. Larson was married to Margreta Jorgenson, of Swedish origin, in 1878, and five children have been born to them : Andrew G., of Hayward, Minn. ; Oscar, Albin, Augusta, Esther, student at the Albert Lea Business Col¬ lege, and Olof, deceased. As one of the organizers of the Glenville Creamery, he has the respect of his fellowmen, which is also indicated by his long service as treasurer and clerk on the school board, being one of its directors at the present time. He owns a house and lot on Fifth street, in Albert Lea, which he rents; also has an acre of land just outside the city limits of Albert Lea - it being lot No. 3, in what is known as the Hewit block. He attends the Lutheran Church, and in politics votes the Republican ticket. Mrs. Larson was born February 3, 1851, in Sweden, daughter of Jorgen Nelson and Hannah Jenson, natives of Norway, where they lived and died. Mrs. Larson came to America in 1872, locating at Jamestown, N. Y. She came to Minnesota February 7, 1878.

James B. Hayes, the capable postmaster of Oakland, is the son of James B. and Jessie (Dearmin) Hayes, and was born in Moscow township, August 30, 1888. He was educated in the common schools of the county and when sixteen years of age he took charge of his father's farm, his father having died in 1904. He was here actively engaged for six years. In 1910 he moved to the village of Oakland and became postmaster, which position lie has filled to the present time. He was also manager of the Oakland store from October 4, 1910, until March 14, 1911. From that time until the present he has been agent for the C. M. & St. P. railway, at Oakland. On August 29, 1909. he mar¬ ried Alma M. Carlson, and to them has been born one child, Mau¬ rice. Mr. and Mrs. Haves are members of the Presbvterian Church. In politics lie is Republican.

Peter Hemmingsen, successful business man of Alden, is of Danish birth and parentage, and was born September 15, 1864, son of Laurits and Andrene, who both lived their lives in their native land. . Their son Peter attended the elementary schools of Denmark, later worked on the farm and did duty in the national navy. Having served his time in the navy he started to learn the bakery trade and business, but had the misfortune to have a long illness. After his recovery lie emigrated and came to the United States in April, 1887. He settled in Alden a d f oi i lie year worked on a farm, and followed this with two years of railroad work. He was later employed more than two years by a firm which sold implements and machinery. He was ambitious to get into business for himself, and went to Minne¬ apolis where he learned the barber trade, and on his return opened a barber business, which he conducted three years. This business he later disposed of, and engaged in other lines, and finally opened a business in drugs and furniture which he suc¬ cessfully conducted seven years. After the seven years of suc¬ cess in drugs an opportunity came to dispose of the drug business to advantage, and he sold this department, and now conducts his furniture business to which he has added undertaking. In 1894 lie married Marie Hanson, also a native of Denmark, and to them have been born six children: Irene, Irwin, Effie, Vivian, Sylvia and Peter. On December 2, 1906, Mr. Hemmingsen 's wife died. Mr. Hemmingsen is a member of the Lutheran Church. In politics he is Republican. He belongs to the Danish Brother¬ hood.

T. C. Nelson, a progressive farmer of Albert Lea township, is one of the well known men in that locality. He owns 120 acres of land about three miles of the city of Albert Lea, and here carries on general farming together with dairying and raising hogs. He was born February 5, 1882, in Albert Lea, son of Danish parents, who came to America in the early days and established their home in this country. His early boyhood was spent in school and at work on the farm, and at the age of fourteen years he began earning his own living. For several years he was employed by different farmers in the township, and saved his hard earned money until he could begin making payments on a farm of his own. He first acquired the old home- stead, which consisted of eighty acres, and has since added to this forty acres more. In 1903 Caroline Thompson, daughter of Andrew and Olena Thompson, became his wife, and this union, has been blessed by the birth of two children; Mabel and Russell. Mr. Nelson favors the political theories advanced by the Repub¬ lican party, but has devoted his time to the upkeep of his home and farm and not sought public office. Mr. and Mrs. Nelson both are members of the Synod Norwegian Lutheran Church, of Albert Lea, and Mr. Nelson is a member of the Danish Brother¬ hood-Lodge, No. 75. Mrs. Nelson belongs to the Ladies Aid Society of the church.

S. J. Nelson is a native of Denmark, who emigrated from the land of his birth to this country in the pioneer days. He and his worthy wife settled in Albert Lea township, and here founded their home and reared their children of whom there were nine: Ole, Hanna, Minnie, Nels, Mary, James, T. C., Tillie and Nancy, all of whom are living. With the exception of four years Mr. Nelson has followed farming since coming to America, the four years being spent in working for a railroad company. He votes the Republican ticket.

Peter P. Bohl, one of the substantial farmers of Albert Lea township, was born in Denmark in 1858. He is the son of Hans P. and Botilla Bohl, both of whom died in that country. In 1881 the subject of this sketch came to America and for three years engaged in farming in Dekalb county, Illinois. Then he bought land in Franklin county, Iowa, and cultivated and im¬ proved it for five years. He then removed to Minnesota, farm¬ ing in Faribault county, and afterwards coming to Freeborn county where he rented land for some years in Albert Lea town¬ ship. He then bought his present farm home of 135 acres. One hundred acres of this is under cultivation, and the balance is timber and pasturage. He carries on general farming, but is much interested in his dairy. He has a herd of twenty-five Jersey cattle, and is a stockholder in the Albert Lea Creamery Association. In 1886 Mr. Bohl was married to Christina Sippel. There are eight children. They are: Thora, Meta, Elvina, George, Harold, Anna, Axel and Joseph. Politically, Mr. Bohl is a Republican. He has never held public office.N He is a member of the Danish Lutheran Church of Albert Lea. His beautiful farm home is situated about two miles from Albert Lea.

S. M. Beighley, the well liked merchant of Gordonsville, was born February 18, 1856, in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, son of Simon Peter and Louisa (Miller) Beighley. His father was a tanner by trade, who came to Minnesota in 1856, and home¬ steaded land in Shell Rock township, making his home here until 1907, at which time he retired from active life, and makes his home with his son James A. He served in the Indian outbreak at Fort Ridgley, Fort Snelling, Birch Cooley and New Ulm ; and also fought for the Union in Company C, Fifth Regiment, Minne¬ sota Infantry. S. M., the subject of this biography attended school in Gordonsville, and completing his education he went to work on the farm. Some time later he purchased a farm for himself, and here was engaged in general farming together with buying and selling stock and grain. In 1888 he erected the building in Gordonsville in which he is now carrying on business, and here keeps a fine line of confectionery. He is also interested in b living and selling stock. He is one of a family of nine children, having three brothers and five sisters. Mr. Beighley has served in many offices of trust in the township, and at present he is serving as a member of the school board. Together with his business interests in Gordonsville, he owns a fruit farm in Arkan¬ sas, and is one of the ambitious and energetic men in the township.

James Rassmusson, living in Dunbar, Faribault county, was born September 24. 1860, in Raymond township, Racine county, Wisconsin. He is the son of Jacom C. Rasmusson, who came to America in 1856, and located in V isconsin. At the breaking out of the Civil War he removed to Bath, Freeborn county, and in 1866 he purchased land in Dunbar, Faribault county, and hero made his home. Jacob C. Rassmusson experienced the hardships and privations of pioneer life, and hauled his grain by team to Hastings, on the Mississippi river. He died in 1882, and his wife in 1888.

James, the subject of this sketch, grew up on the farm and married Christina, daughter of Jens Hanson. They have four children, Jesse M., Mable J., Hartie P., and Ethel V. Mr. Rassmusson lived in section 30, Freeborn township, Freeborn county, remaining there two years. He had previously lived at Wells for three years, and is now living at the old homestead at Dunbar. Mr. Rassmusson has 160 acres in Faribault county, and 160 in Freeborn county. In 1884 he and his brother John bought the first steam thresher in this section of the country.

Peter Kvale, who is in charge of the Emmons Creamery, was born on his father's farm in Nunda, May 7, 1880, the son of Thoud and Ingra Kvale, who were among the early pioneers of Freeborn county. He attended the country schools, and always having a strong inclination to books and study, he did well in his school work. After he had completed the common school, he worked at home with his father till he was twenty-one years of age, and then went to the Minnesota University, where he took a full course in dairying. Having completed this course he was offered and accepted a position with the Clover Valley

Creamery of Pickerel Lake, where he remained in charge four years. The Emmons Creamery was formerly in charge of an especially good man who was ambitious, and with the enthusiastic support of the members of the board was enabled to step from there into a very lucrative position in government employe. At this time the board were on the lookout for another man equally good, and decided on the subject of this biography as the man. It was in 1907 that Mr. Kvale came to his present position, and long ago all concerned were of the opinion that he was the right man for the place. Mr. Kvale is a member of the Lutheran Church. He votes with the Republican party. On May 26, 1901, he married Jensena Lah, of Iowa, and to them have been born four children, Ingra, Joseph, Myrtle and Pearl.

Edward K. Hovland, who is a member of one of the old families of Nunda township was born August 18, 1879, the son of Knut 0. Hovland, who came to Freeborn county in 1861, and settled in Nunda, where he lived till his death in 1906. It was here that the subject of this biography was born and grew to manhood. After finishing his school years he worked on the home farm for some years, and then wrnnt to the Dakotas, where he worked out for farmers for three years. In 1907 the brothers and sisters, together with the subject of this sketch, acquired by inheritance, 160 acres of land in section 24, Mansfield. He has here made his home, his brother Louis and sister Annie living with him. He had found dairy farming profitable, and keeps a good herd of Guernsey cattle, some of which are regis¬ tered. His dairy product is sold to the Emmons Creamery, in which he is a stock holder. Mr. Hovland is a Lutheran Church member. Although Mr. Hovland is a strong Republican, he has never sought office, but is a worker for what he chooses to call clean politics, and does not spare time when necessary to work for this cause.

Ole Anderson Gudvangen, who after a five-year stay in the far west returned in 1911 to his farm in section 33, Mansfield, is a native of Norway, and was born May 18, 1852. He settled in Stoughton, Wis., when he first came to the United States, in 1870, where he worked for a time before coming to Freeborn county. He then located in Albert Lea, where he worked as a laborer for seven years. He did not like the town life and removed to the country, where he rented land two years, after which time he bought the farm where he now resides. He now owns 170 acres in Iowa and Minnesota. In 1906 he was one of many who went to the far west, where he bought thirty- five acres of fruit land in Washington. He here cultivated fruit, and followed dairy farming for five years which he found profit¬ able, but feeling that Minnesota was his real home he returned here, and as soon as he can dispose of his property in Washing¬ ton advantageously lie will make his permanent home here. He rents his land in Minnesota, and looks after it as best he may without actively engaging in farm work. On July 10, 1878, he married Betsy Johnson, of Freeborn county, and to this union has been born fifteen children, twelve of whom are living : Andrew, John, Alexander, Oscar, Edith, Olina, Alma, Gena, Sorena and one pair of twins, Nels and Erick, Enve, Karolina, Bertina and Anvina. Mr. Gudvangen is a member of the Lutheran church. In politics he votes the Republican ticket but is in the front of the progressive movement.

J. L. Sorenson, who for the past three years has been assist¬ ant cashier and manager of the Clarks Grove State Bank, is one of the progressive men in the township. He was born in Martin county, Minnesota, July 27, 1883. His parents are A. C. and Louise (Lawrenson) Sorenson, natives of Denmark, who came to the United States in the pioneer days and located in Minnesota. For many years the father carried on general farm¬ ing in Martin county, but finally moved to Albert Lea and is now engaged in buying and selling grain. To himself and wife eleven children were born, of whom ten are living. J. L., their son, received a practical business education, which began in the district school and on his father's farm. When he had grown to manhood he for a short time worked on a farm, after which he was employed by the C. M. & St. P. Ry. Co., as baggage¬ man in Albert Lea. He remained in this position for more than a year and then secured a position as yard clerk in the Union Station for the C. R. I. & P. Later he was brakeman for this railroad, serving as such for a period of four years. He then resigned and was elected to occupy the office in the bank in which he is employed at the present time. He married Anna Berglund, a daughter of Peter Berglund, July, 1904, and their home has been gladdened by the birth of a daughter, Ruth E. Mr. Sorenson has the respect of his fellow men and is worthy of the responsible position which they have elected him to occupy. Practically he upholds the tenets of the Republican party but his many business interests have prevented his taking active parts in the political affairs of the township.

A. L. Tracy, a retired farmer residing in the village of Free¬ born, was born in Onondaga county, New York, son of Eri Tracy, a carpenter by trade, who became a farmer in later years. Mr. Tracy first saw the light of day May 27, 1831, and he grew to manhood in New York and received his education in the country schools near his old home. He married Annie Stone, a resident of Cattaraugus county, and the family moved to Wisconsin in 1870. Three years later Mr. Tracy and his wife came to Free- born township and lived with Jerome Wilbur. One year later they purchased material and erected a house on this farm and eventually were able to buy eighty acres of said farm, located in Section 33. Here, Mr. Tracy conducted agricultural pursuits and by dint of hard work and good management made his prop¬ erty yield abundantly and become more valuable each year. To Mr. and Mrs. Tracy one daughter, Idella, was born, and she is now the wife of Freemont Snyder, and has five children, Elsie, married to 0. G. Christgan, a lawyer of Wheaton, Ill. ; Elma, the wife of Dr. J. P. McDowell of St. Paul; Yerian, now Mrs. F. M. Buchanan ; Lora, a school teacher, and George B. Mr. Tracy has given up his work on the farm and is enjoying the reward of his years of toil, which are a comfortable home and plenty with which to provide for the needs of himself and estimable wife.

Guy J. Chaffee, now employed by the Huntting Elevator Com¬ pany at Freeborn, was born in Wisconsin February 7, 1873. His parents, J. E. and Josephine (Bassett) Chaffee have charge of the hotel at Lansing, Minn., and it was here that they have made their home since coming to this state. Guy J., the subject of this sketch, received his schooling in Wisconsin and upon reach¬ ing Lansing he secured employment with 0. C. LaBar. He remained with him for four years learning the grain and elevator business, after which he came to Freeborn, in which town he has resided four years. His wife, Emma (Stimson), is the daughter of Bert Stimson, a retired farmer of Austin, who was one of the pioneer residents of Udolpho township. To Mr. and Mrs. Chaffee one child has been born, Miles. Mr. Chaffee is a mem¬ ber of the M. W. A. and also the B. A. Y. orders, and he is one of the active and enterprising men in the locality, whose natural business ability is sure to win him a place among the successful men in Freeborn.

H. G. Hunte is a progressive and well liked resident of the township of Freeborn. He was born in Will county, Illinois, September 1, 1865, son of Henry and Dorthea Hunte, the former of whom was a native of Hanover, Germany, and came to the United States and located in Illinois. H. G., the son, attended school near his father's farm and worked for his father when a boy. When he had grown to manhood he left the old home and came to Minnesota and secured employment of Mr. Theeds, for whom he worked two years. He went back to Illinois in 1890 and remained a year and then returned to Freeborn, where he again worked on a farm. Later he went to Fairbault county, where he rented land and was engaged in agricultural indus¬ tries for a period of five years, and during this time he pur¬ chased the farm which he now owns in section 28, Freeborn township. Alvena Rafoth became his wife and their home has been gladdened by the following: George IF, Ella E., and Her¬ man H. Hr. ITunte's well improved farm comprises 120 acres of land and he has a large and comfortable house and good out buildings. He has put in over 600 rods of tiling for drainage purposes and is constantly striving to better his property. He and his wife are members of the M. B. A. lodge, but he does not take any active part in the political affairs of the township.

Thomas J. Howser, the well known farmer of Freeborn town¬ ship, first saw the light of day in Ohio, April 8, 1855. His parents were David and Eliza (McCoy) Howser, the former of whom fought, in the Civil AYar, and there contracted an illness which eventually resulted in his death. Thomas J. came to Livingston county, Illinois, and was engaged in farming there for twenty-two years, later moving to western Kansas, where he remained five years; proving up on a homestead of 160 acres in Logan county, Kansas, he then went to Nebraska, but returned to Iowa shortly and made his home in that state for the following seven years. Coming to Freeborn township in 1907 he pur¬ chased a farm in section 33, comprising 156% acres, and two years later moved his family to this place. Here he has suc¬ cessfully demonstrated that Minnesota can grow as good corn as any of her sister states. At the Farmers' Short Course in Albert Lea, in 1909, Mr. Howser took the first prize for the best corn grown in the southern part of the state, the prize was a silo ; the following year he won the second prize of $25.00 for the best corn exhibited. He has shown that a small farm well cultivated and cared for yields greater profits than a large one partially worked. Ida Stilson, a daughter of George and Lura 'McDowell) Stilson. deceased, married Mr. Howser and this union has resulted in four children: George A., Louis G., Darv in A ., and Ruth G., all of whom are at home. He is a member of the M. AA . A. lodge, and a man whose genial manner has won for him a host of friends.

Peter Jacobsen, one of the thriving farmers of Freeborn township, is a native of the island of Moen, Denmark, where he first saw the light on January 23, 1852. He is the son of Jacob Larson. Peter came to America in 1872 and first worked in Alden upon his arrival in Alinnesota. In 1876 he purchased a farm in section 33, in Freeborn township, where he still resides. Air. Jacobsen married Cassia Christianson, and four children bless their home. They are: Alma Clara, died February 6, 1902; A\ illiam II., who married Abbie McClellan, and who has one child, Alma; Henry and Mary, both living at home. The farm on which Air. Jacobsen lives has steadily expanded with the passing years until it now comprises 200 acres. He makes a

Masse Petersen, a native of Germany, was born June 25, 1870. He is the son of Christian and Mary Petersen. His father came to America from Germany about 1879 or 1880 and first rented a farm in Freeborn township. Afterwards he bought eighty acres in Hartland township. The subject of this sketch is engaged in farming. He married Birdie G., the daughter of C. F. Leonard. They have one child, Leroy L. Mr. Petersen is a member of the M. W. A. and M. B. A.

Albert Hansen, one of the industrious younger farmers of Freeborn township, Freeborn county, Minnesota, was born in Indianapolis, Ind., April 30, 1881. He is the son of Nels Hansen, who was born in Denmark, January 11, 1845. When Nels was 22 years of age he served eighteen months in the standing army. In 1870 he came to America and located in Indianapolis, where he was employed in the blacksmith trade for ten years. In 1874 he married Christiana Hansen, who was also a native of Den¬ mark. The Hansen family came West and located in Freeborn village in the summer of 1881. They soon moved onto a farm of 160 acres, in section 26, Freeborn township, where they still reside. The subject of this sketch lives with his parents and his life is that of a busy farmer from day to day. Albert Hansen is a member of the M. W. A. and A. F. & A. M., has been constable for three terms and is at the present time a member of the board of supervisors.

William Guthier, who was formerly the genial hotel keeper and later druggist of Emmons, is a native of Blue Earth county, Minnesota, where he was born May 10, 1873, son of Philip and Helen (Ottmeyer) Guthier, both natives of Germany. They were among the early day immigrants wTho came to Wisconsin and settled in Fond du Lac county, wdiere they farmed, later coming to Minnesota. The father died in 1900, nine years after the mother. William was educated in the common schools of Blue Earth county, and later he completed the course in pharmacy in the Universitv of Minnesota. He then came to Emmons and for a time was associated with Dr. Freeman in the drug store here. Having had experience he went to Nobles county, where he bought and conducted a store two years. At the end of this time he returned to Emmons, having other interests in this local¬ ity which needed his attention. He here bought the drug store from Dr. Freeman and conducted it a while, but later sold out. While in Emmons he has been in many lines of business interests. He built and ran the hotel here four and one-half years, and though he was successful in the hotel work, he had to give it up because of his wife's health. He also built the telephone system at Emmons, later selling to the present owners. He converted his hotel building into a store building in which he conducted his drug business. In 1891 he married Teressa Schimmele, a daughter of Casper Schimmele, who is a veteran of the Civil War and one of the pioneers of Blue Earth county. To Mr. and Mrs. Guthier have been born two children, Clayton and Margaret. The subject of this biography is an independent voter but active in political affairs when he has the time from business to give to such activities. When in Nobles county he was elected mayor of Dundee and has been a member of the village council in Emmons three sueessive years. He is a member of the Masonic order, M. W. A., A. 0. U. W., and is as popular socially as he is in his business associations.

Hudson Pettit was born in Rosville, la., July 23, 1858, the son of Hiram M. and Elesif Pettit, who took a homestead in section 1, Mansfield, in 1864. Hiram M. was a native of Penn¬ sylvania and came west to Iowa and enlisted with Company I, 27th Volunteer Infantry, served through the war with this com¬ mand and returned with them. After his return from the war he farmed in Mansfield. He died January 30, 1908. Hudson grew to manhood here and when 20 years of age he began renting land for farming and now owns eighty acres in section 1. On December 12. 1878, he married Addie Walker, of Alden, and to them have been born six children, two of whom are living, Lilie and Lulu. Mr. Pettit is a Republican and has been a member of the school board district 74 about fifteen years.

Frank W. Lovestrom was born in St. Ansgar. Ia., August 19, 1884, the son of Gustave and Charlotte Lovestrom. He was educated in the common schools of St. Ansgar and later in the Upper Iowa University at Fayette, la., where he took the normal and business courses. After completing his studies he was employed by the Winnebago State Bank of Forest City and by the St. Ansgar Bank for a period of one year. After this he went to Adams, N. D., where he went into the newspaper busi¬ ness with his brother John. He later bought a paper at Nekoma, N. D., which he subsequently sold and took the managership of the Park River (N. D.) "Republican." He later worked for the the Albert Lea "Standard" one year. It was while in Albert Lea that the business men of Emmons induced him to take the Emmons "Leader," which he is at present publishing, and also doing a good business in job work, having taken charge in Feb¬ ruary, 1911. On December 22. 1909, he married Minnie Gullickson, of Park River, N. D.

His mother was a member of the Emmons family, for whom the village is named, and the subject of this biography has been closely identified with the village from boyhood. His father - was one of the pioneers in this locality. 0. N., realizing the advantage of an education, went to Albert Lea schools, where he finished his education. Returning from Albert Lea and school he went into the lumber business in the village and carried on a constantly increasing business in this line for five years. He later engaged in a general merchandise business in the building now occupied by the postoffice. He sold this busiess and for a time worked in the local mill as helper. He liked this work and soon became manager, which position he occupied three years. Having been in business for himself he wished to be on his own responsibility once more and opened his present store after he had resigned as manager of the mill. He here carries a well selected stock of goods, usually to the amount of near $6,000, and his trade is steadily demanding greater variety and volume, which he meets, and thus holds an excellent trade among the best people of the locality. In 1895 Mr. Olson married Caroline Knutson, a daughter of Ole and (Ingeborg Verke) Knutson, natives of Norway, who came to America in recent years. Mr. Knutson died some years ago ; the mother still lives near Em¬ mons. To Mr. and Mrs. Olson have been born two children, Norris and Olendo. The subject of this sketch is an independent voter, believing that man seeking an office is more to be con¬ sidered than the party organization which has placed his name on the ticket. He has held several offices which he felt he could administrate without too great a loss of time from his business : among these are, director of village school board, nine years; town clerk assessor several terms, as well as minor offices. He worships at the Lutheran Church and is an active member of the Sons of Norway. Mr. Olson by his work as carpenter, miller, and merchant has done much to advance the prosperity of his village. He gives his effort to give the people at home advantage of the same markets they could have by going to other and larger towns and this is a convenience for the purchaser and is essential in building up local pride and a growing town.

Gunder Clemmetson, the popular merchant of Emmons, is a native of Norway, where he was born February 14, 1858, son of Cl emmet and Emma Torgerson. They came to America in 1856 and settled in Freeborn county, Nunda township, later moving across the state line into Iowa. Here they followed farming the remainder of their lives. The mother died in 1874; the father in 1906. Gunder is one of a family of ten children, namely, Ole, Christi, Tena, Henry, Simon, John, and Caroline and Sigri, only one of whom (Emma) is dead. The subject of this biography received his education in the common schools of the county and later worked on the home farm. He followed farming till 1000. at which time he came to Emmons and pur¬ chased from his brother the store which he had conducted some years. Since that time he has engaged in the mercantile busi¬ ness here. In 1880 he married Betsy Sorbo, daughter of Ole and Gunvur Sorbo, natives of Norway, who were pioneers in Worth countv. Iowa. To Mr. and Mrs. Clemmetson have been born three children : Emma, who is now Mrs. Adolph Leonhardi. and Grace, who is at home; Emma, the first child, is deceased. For¬ merly a Republican and now a progressive, Mr. Clemmetson endeavors to cast his ballot and use his influence for the best men. rather than for party organization. He is a member of the village council at present and has held town and other offices while living in Worth county, Iowa. He is a member and an active worker in the Lutheran Church and belongs to several fraternities, among which are M. B. A., A. O. U. W. and Sons of Nor wav.

Henry A. Ebert, the prosperous hardware merchant of Alden. was born in Jackson county. Minnesota, in 1871. His parents were Fred and Bertha iHolienstein) Ebert, natives of Germany, who came to the United States in 1864 and settled in Minnesota. He spent his boyhood attending the district school near his old home and working for his father on the farm, and when he had reached the age of 20 years, he secured a position as a clerk and was employed in this capacity for eight years. At the end of this period he was able to assume the responsibility of conduct¬ ing a business, so he and his father bought the store in Alden. and he bought his father's interest in the business in 1903 and has since conducted it. He carries a large stock of hardware and harness and his careful management and hard work have made him one of the successful merchants in the village. He married Ada Packard, daughter of A. M. Packard, and they have two children, Yeryl and Carrol. That Mr. Ebert has the confidence and esteem of the residents of Alden is shown by his serving as treasurer of the town for the past ten years. He is in every respect a public-spirited citizen.

James A. Finley, who for many years has held various offices of trust and responsibility in his township, is one of the promi¬ nent men in Alden. He was born in New Castle, Pa., March 19. 1868, and came to Minnesota with his parents, Alexander and Eliza (Johnston) Finley in 1882. He attended school in district 130. Alden township, and there acquired his early education. For five years after leaving school he worked as a carpenter in South Dakota, after which he returned to Minnesota and located in Mansfield, where he bought a farm on which he conducted diversified farming for a period of two years. He then sold this piece of property and purchased 160 acres of land in Alden, in section 34, and here has a well kept and valuable farm, which now comprises 340 acres. He has a large portion of this farm under careful cultivation and engages in general and dairy farm¬ ing. He married Alice, daughter of C. M. and Maletha (Metz) Oliver, and their home has been gladdened by the following children: Russell, Max, Claude, Carl, Faith, Merle and Grace.

Alexander Finley, a well known resident of Douglas county, was born in Ireland and came to America in 1846. He located first in Pennsylvania, where he was employed as a stone mason, and later he went to New Castle and secured employment in the iron works of that place. Wishing to see more of the country, and aiming to better his financial condition, he left Pennsylvania and spent one year in Illinois, after which he moved to Mans¬ field and became a farmer. Several years later he went to Alden and was here engaged in farming, an occupation which he conducted most successfully. He married Eliza Johnston of Pennsylvania, and they are the parents of James A. Finley, a progressive farmer of Alden.

Dr. J. H. Gleason, dentist and newspaper-man, was born in Goodhue county, Minnesota, March 28, 1877, son of John and Rebecca (White) Gleason. His parents were natives of New York state and came to Goodhue in 1851. The father for some years drove the stage from Red Wing to Clear Lake, la., and later took a homestead in Goodhue county. He died in 1902 ; the mother is living with her daughter in Alden. J. H. was educated in the common schools of Goodhue county, and followed this with a high school course. After completing the high school, in 1894, he attended the business college in Red Wing two terms. He later took the complete course in the Chicago College of Dental Surgery. From the dental college he graduated in 1901 and soon after located in Alden. where he soon gained a lucrative practice. In 1909 he bought the Alden "Advance" and has since been successful in the newspaper work without injury to his dental practice. In 1902 he married Grace Lockwood, of Ackley, la. Dr. Gleason is a leader in the Republican circles of his vicinity and has been mayor of Alden three terms. In the fall of 1910 he was a candidate for Legislature and received the Republican nomination at the primaries, but was defeated at the general election. For a young man and one who is in a sense a new comer in the locality, he has made a great number of friends, who believe in him and have confidence in his judgment and ability. Though he has had responsibility placed on him before, it does not need the gift of prophecy to see that he will in the coming years be called upon to assume greater responsi-

A. V. Garlock, M. D., is a rising young doctor who is rapidly establishing a large practice in the town and township of Hartland. He was horn in Carlston, September 22, 1884, son of John L. and Selina (Trigg) Garlock, the former of whom is a native of the Empire State and the latter of English birth. They came to Minnesota in 1866, where the father followed the occupation of farming until 1897, when they moved into the town of Wells and reside there at present. A. V., their son, went to the dis¬ trict school near Wells and later attended the high school in town. After finishing school he was employed for a year at teaching, after which he spent the succeeding five years in the drug business. In time he decided to practice medicine and went to Minneapolis and entered the Hamlin University for two years, and then the Northwestern College of Medicine, at Chicago, two years. He graduated from this institution in 1910, and came to Hartland in 1911, where he enjoys a large practice. He is a member of the M. B. A. lodge, M. AY. A. and Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

James Christianson, B. S. and M. D., was born in Denmark August 15, 1871, son of Christian and Lena (Hemmingsen) Soren¬ sen. He acquired his early education in his native land and came to the United States in 1892, where he was employed for some time as a farmer. He worked on a farm near Alden, Minn., and during the winter following attended school at Elkhorn, la.; later he attended the Normal Academy in AYaterloo. After com¬ pleting the course at this academy, he attended the State Normal School at Cedar Falls, la., and completed the course in Didactis and graduated from this institution in 1899. He then engaged in the study of medicine in the Iowa State University and grad¬ uated in 1905 with the degree of Bachelor of Science, besides his degree of Doctor of Aledicine. AA'hile in attendance at the State University he was an assistant instructor in pathology and bac¬ teriology. He came to Alden in 1905 and established his office and he has won the confidence of the residents of that commu¬ nity. He married Maude Brac-hney, daughter of J. AY. Brachney, of AYashta, la., in 1906. He at present is health officer of the city of Alden, county physician, and a member of the I. 0. 0. F., the M. B. A., AI. AY. A. and D. B. S. lodges, and he is also a member of the National Grange.

George P. Meadowcroft, who for the past eight years has been clerk of London township, and also taken an active interest in the educational advancement of the town by serving as a mem¬ ber of the school board for ten years, is one of the popular and progressive men in that community. He was born in AYisconsin in 1854 and his parents, James and Katherine Meadowcroft, moved to Minnesota and located in London in 1865, where the father, though a tailor by trade, engaged in general farming, which industry he conducted most sucessfully. He passed away in 1875 and is survived by his widow and sons, James, George and William, and a daughter, Ellen. The subject of this biography attended the county schools when a boy, and assisted his father with the farm work, and, when he was 17 years old, he began working for himself, and for four years was employed by differ¬ ent farmers in the locality. At the end of this period he pur¬ chased some land and has added to this as he has been able and now owns eighty acres in section 11, London township; also 320 acres located in North Dakota. He carries on general and dairy farming and by hard work and good management has made his ' land most productive. Mrs. Jennie Bonallie Sang became his wife in December, 1899, and to them one daughter, Ima, has been born. Mr. Meadowcroft is a Socialist in his political views and he is recognized as a thoughtful and serious minded citizen, whose opinions are respected by friend and neighbor.

Alba F. Bump is a native of this county, having been born in London township, October 19, 1880. His parents, Percy and Marietta Bump, came to Minnesota from New York. The father served three years in the Civil War and was lieutenant in the Twenty-second Wisconsin Volunteers. At the close of the war he returned to London and purchased 240 acres of land in sec¬ tions 22 and 27. He retired from active farming in 1894 and moved into the city of Austin, where he resides at present, and where he has taken an active part in the political affairs of the town. Alba F., the subject of this sketch, was educated in the schools in Austin and after finishing his education, he took up the work of the home farm, on which he resides now. He is interested in general and dairy farming and is vice-president of the Enterprise Creamery. On November 19, 1902, he was mar¬ ried to Ida Davison, and to them have been born three children : Thelma May, Edna Marietta, and Percy Fay. Mr. Bump is a staunch member of the Republican party and he belongs to the M. AY. A. Fie is interested in all movements which tend to the betterment of his township and county.

J. R. Lukes, the well known owner of the grain elevator at London, was born at Cleveland, Ohio, July 30, 1873. His parents, Anton and Mary (Vana) Lukes, were natives of Bohemia, who emigrated from that country to this in 1870 and located at Cleveland. Here the father worked at his trade as a wagon maker for many years, but eventually engaged in the grocery business until his retirement. J. R., his son and subject of this biography, was an ambitious and industrious boy, receiving his primary education in the graded schools of Cleveland, and later attending night school, working during the day as a carpenter. When he was 21 years of age he decided to come West and make his way in the world. He worked for a time at his trade as carpenter in Freeborn county and then taught school for four terms. In 1902 he accepted a position as the manager of the Central Lumber and Coal Company at London, and performed the duties of this office most ably for five years. He took charge of the grain elevator in 1907, which he had purchased four years previous to that time, and where he is engaged in business at present, buying and selling all grains grown in this fertile state. Annie Raymond, daughter of Joseph Raymond, one of the first settlers in Oakland township, was married to Mr. Lukes in 1898 and a daughter has come to brighten their home; Libby. Mr. Lukes has ever taken an active interest in the affairs of his community, was clerk of the school board three terms, is a stockholder in the creamery and also stockholder and director in the London State Bank. He is a member of the Masonic and Knights of Pythias lodges at Lyle, Minn., and of the Z. C. B. J. He favors the policies of the Socialists and votes with them.

Charles L. Butts, retired farmer and veteran of the Civil War, was born in La Grange county, Indiana, in 1844, the son of Jacob and Sarah Butts. In 1856 he came to Minnesota and made his first home in this state in Ramsey, where he secured employment until the war between the North and South broke out and then he enlisted in Company K, Fourth Minnesota Volunteers, and went to the front. He saw active service in the following bat¬ tles: ( hickamauga, Corinth, Iouka, Vicksburg and Nashville, as well as many other battles of less importance. In 1865 he was honorably discharged and came to Austin, where he was em¬ ployed at masonry work for several years. In 1887 he pur¬ chased eighty acres of land in section 24, London township, and followed general farming. He made many improvements on his property, including a large and very comfortable dwelling house, surrounded by a fine lawn and hedges, and he owns a valuable productive orchard. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party and lie is a member of the G. A. R. Adeline Markett, born in New Hampshire in 1854, became his wife Decem¬ ber 20, 1871, and their marriage has resulted in two children:

Joseph Chrs, an early settler in this county, was born in Bohemia, where he grew to manhood and was married. He came to America in 1867, and located first in Chicago, where he remained for three years, after which he came to Minnesota and located in Mower county. In 1873 he moved to this county and settled on section 36, Hayward township, where he carried on general farming for five years, after which he went to section 24, there following the same occupation. In 1905, he retired from active life and moved into the village of Glenville, where he resides at the present time. Mr. Chrs married Frances Benes, of Bohemia, and their son, Joseph, is a prosperous farmer of Shell Rock.

Joseph Chrs, Jr., an influential citizen of Shell Rock town¬ ship, was born in Bohemia, January 6, 1856, son of Joseph and Frances (Benes) Chrs. He acquired his education in the schools of his native land and came to America in 1867. For a period of four years after his arrival in this country Mr. Chrs was engaged in farming in Illinois, after which he went to Chicago, where he secured employment in a box factory, and he worked there for four years. In the fall of 1875, he came to Minnesota and located on section 35, Hayward township. He purchased eighty acres at first and added to this as prosperity afforded, until he now owns 400 acres. In 1901 he purchased the farm on which he resides at the present time, moving to this location in 1903. This valuable farm is situated in section 8, and has been well improved and made more productive each year under the care given by Mr. Chrs. He is a loyal Republican, and he has held various offices in the townships in which he has made his home, having served as supervisor, also member of the school board for many years. He is a stockholder in the Citizens State Bank, at Glenville, and also a stockholder in the Glenville Creamery. He owes his pres¬ ent prosperous condition to his own efforts, having been an indus¬ trious man whose good judgment and common sense have won the respect of his fellow citizens. He was married March 3, 1878, to Josephine Schradle, who is also of Bohemian birth, and to them have been born five children, of whom, Emma, is the wife of John Funfar, of Hayward; Anton works the old farm in Hayward; Josephine, married Thomas Pocosky, of Playward; Anna, lives at home ; Joseph Lewis, is at home. The family faith is that of the Catholic Church.

H. R. Buchanan, who is a progressive farmer residing in Shell Rock township, was born December 26, 1878, son of William Buchanan, of Canadian birth. He spent his boyhood days attend¬ ing school in district number 50 and helping his father on the farm. When he completed his primary course in the country school he went to the Nora Springs Seminary, pursuing his studies there for two years, after which he returned to his home and there assisted his father for a time. He was given eighty acres of land by his father and later he purchased thirty acres and he has nearly all of it under a high state of cultivation, and here he conducts general farming. Sena Borshem, of Worth county, Iowa, became his wife March 22, 1904, and three children have come to bless their home : Archie, Doris and Sidney. Mr. Buchanan is an independent voter, but has devoted most of his life to carrying on the work of his farm and has not mingled in politics.

S. R. Buchanan was born September 15, 1883, the son of William and Ruth (Beighley) Buchanan, who came to Freeborn county in the sixties and located in Shell Rock, where William Buchanan acquired 500 acres of land and carried on extensive farming operations until 1907. In 1907 he moved to Northwood. la., where he now resides and buys and ships stock. S. R. was educated in the common schools of the county, followed by a two years' course at Nora Springs Seminary, where he completed the business course in 1904. After finishing his studies he taught in the business department of his alma mater two years. He later returned to Shell Rock township and rented the old home farm of 280 acres and here carries on general farming and stock rais¬ ing. In 3907 he married Mabel Gullickson, of Northwood, la., and to them two children, Arcley Ann and Wilbur Ross, have been born. Mr. Buchanan is a member of the Methodist Epis¬ copal Church. He is a Republican and has served as member of the board of supervisors, and is now town clerk.

Anders Pedersen, a farmer citizen of Carlston township, was born in Torpe, Moen, Denmark, October 27, 1839. He migrated from his native land to America in 1869. After a short stay in Wisconsin he moved west to Minnesota, locating in Freeborn county. The first year he worked on farms in the neighborhood during harvest season and during the fall and winter was employed in a furniture store in Owatonna. Meantime he had purchased ninety acres of land in Carlston township. In the spring of 1869 he was married to Bodil Kirstine Jensen, and moved onto the farm he bought. To them were born two sons: Jens P., born April 27, 1870, and Harold, born October 31, 1871. Jens P. now owns the fine home farm, which has expanded to 210 acres, all under cultivation, and his father is living with him. Harold is living at Holyoke, Col. He is married and has two children, George and Helen. Anders Pedersen, the subject of this sketch, has been assessor and supervisor of Carlston town¬ ship and is one of the highly respected citizens of his community. Mrs. Pedersen died in 1897.

H. M. Wultf, the agreeable and genial postmaster of Hartland village, is a native of Norway, having been born in that country on the second day of June, 1847. His education was acquired in the schools of his native land and he there learned the carpenter's trade. W hen he was 19 years old, he sailed from the shores of the homeland and came to America, landing at* Quebec. Later that same year he came west, first stopping in Detroit, Mich., and later making Chicago his headquarters. He remained in Chicago for ten years, working at carpentry and eventually was employed on the police force. In 1877, he came to Minnesota and settled in Hartland, where he followed his trade for two years and was appointed constable and marshal of the village, and later, deputy sheriff of the county. Mr. Wulff served in this capacity for five years and then engaged in farming. His farm was situated in sections 18 and 19, and the following nine years after he purchased this farm he tilled the soil and made many improvements on his land. In 1903 he moved into the village of Hartland and received the appointment of postmaster. Mr. Wulff married Belle Brictson, who is of Norwegian birth and parentage, and to this marriage ten children have been born : Harry, Agnes, Bella, Dora, Helma, Oscar, Hjalmar and Jacob; Dansforth and another Jacob are deceased. Agnes is the wife of E. R. Hopperstad, and they have one son, Ronald; Dora married Earl Cram and they are the parents of Ennis. The many respon¬ sible offices in the township which Mr. Wulff has occupied prove him to be a man who has the entire confidence and esteem of the residents of the community in which he resides.

J. D. Bighley, a respected citizen of Gordonsville, was born in Clarion county, Pennsylvan , August 14, 1866. His parents were W. IT. and Sarah Bighley, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Minnesota in 1868 and located on section 21, Shell Rock town¬ ship. Here they followed general farming until the Grim Reaper summoned them. Their son, the subject of this sketch, worked with his father on the farm and attended the school near his father's residence. When he completed his education, he learned telegraphy, an occupation which he followed for two years. He then went to Wisconsin, and became a carpenter, working at this trade for two years, after which he returned to Shell Rock and was employed by the Eckert and Williams Lumber Company four years ago and made its manager. Shortly after this, the business was sold to a new company and Mr. Bighley returned to his former occupation, at which he continued until 1907, when he secured the position of manager of the lumber yards at Gor¬ donsville, owned by the F. L. Crane Lumber Company of Austin, and here he is employed at the present time. Emma Piper, of Reeseville, Wis., became his wife in 1891, and their home has been brightened by the arrival of two children : Myrtle and Mabel. In political views, Mr. Bighley favors the Prohibition party and he is a member of the American Yoemen.

Lightly, were natives of New York State ancl they came to Wis¬ consin about 1846, where they remained for a period of ten years, after which they came to Oakland township and home¬ steaded land and engaged in general farming. It was here that the subject of this sketch was born March 4, 1866. His boyhood was spent helping his father on the home farm and acquiring his early education in the school near his home. In 1900 he assumed entire charge of the farm and his father retired from active life and moved into the village of Oakland, where his death occurred eight years later. From the farm Mr. Lightly went into the village of Oakland and in 1905 established a wagon and repair shop, where he conducts a profitable business now. He is the eldest of a family of nine children: Ed, H. B., C. H., Walter, Lou, Nellie, Rose and one who died in infancy. Mr. Lightly has been tendered several public offices which he never accepted. He attends the Baptist Church and votes with the Republican party. His mother died July 3, 1911.

Hans N. Bergerson was born on the farm where he now resides, on June 17, 1864. His parents, Nels and Helen Bergerson, were of the sturdy Norse stock which has done so much to make southern Minnesota the land of comfort which it is today. The mother died January 25, 1885, but the father lived to a ripe old age. He died in 1898, having rounded out a life of many years which were filled with good works, not alone for his family, to which he was devoted, but also to the community in which he lived. Hans N. was educated in the country schools, but when 21 he left school and began farming, and also took up the work of threshing grain for the farmers of his neighborhood, which work he followed eighteen falls. When his father retired from active farming he took up the work of the home place and has since conducted it and there is every evidence that he has done so successfully. He keeps about 35 head of Hereford cattle, raises 50 hogs annually, and keeps 11 head of horses and mules for farm and driving. He is a strong advocate of the dairy farm and is a stockholder in the Emmons Creamery. His farm is one of 130 acres, in section 29, Nunda. On October 4, 1896, he married Emma Iverson, of Silver Lake, Worth county, Iowa, and this union has been blessed with four children, the oldest of whom was Grace Helen, and the first great sadness was brought into the home by her death when but 6 years old. Nora Irene and Henry Earl attend school and with Grace Helen, the baby, make up the family. Mr. Ber¬ gerson is a member of the Lutheran Church. He votes with the Republican party and has been school clerk in district 44 for the past eight years, and has also held various offices in the creamery and church organizations, as well as being town supervisor one term.

Knute J. Solland was born in Wisconsin November 20, 1866, son of John and Ingabra Solland, both natives of Norway. Be¬ fore he was one year old the family came to Freeborn county and to Nunda, where they homesteaded on section 27. The sub¬ ject of this sketch was educated in the country schools and worked on his father's farm. The school house where he attended was built of logs and the first dwelling erected for the family was of the same material. After the death of his parents he worked the home place and now has a well improved farm of 240 acres, where he follows dairy and general farming. He has about forty milch cows and assisted in the formation of the Emmons Creamery. Mr. Solland is a Republican and a member of the Lutheran Church. In 1893 he married Gurine Loken, of Nunda, and to them have been born nine children: John, Ida, Jens, Ole, Lewis, Clara and Gena (twins), Bent and Elmer.

Peter Peterson is the son of Peter and Randi Peterson, natives of Norway, who were born in 1808 and 1818 respectively, the subject of this sketch was born in Norway, July 2, 1852. In 1861 the family came to the United States and settled in Winne¬ shiek county, Iowa, where they lived nine years, and where the son Peter got most of his education. At the end of this time they moved to Freeborn county and settled on section 35, Nunda, where the father died in 1882, and the mother four years earlier. The subject of this biography worked the home farm till 1902, when he sold the land and now does not engage in active farm work. He lives at the home of Theodore Grefsheim. He is a member of the Lutheran Church and is a Republican in politics.

Theodore 0. Grefsheim, a native of Norway, was born August 22, 1854, the son of Ole and Ellen Grefsheim. When 13 years of age he came to Freeborn county with his parents, who bought forty acres of land. When 15 he began working out and con¬ tinued to work for farmers of the locality in which he lived for more than ten years, at the end of this time he had saved enough money to enable him to buy 120 acres of land. This first pur¬ chase he sold in 1893 and bought 140 acres in section 36, Nunda, where he now resides. He has erected a comfortable dwelling and made many improvements on his farm. He now has an orchard of 100 trees, all in good bearing condition. He keeps a herd of milch cows and sells cream to the Emmons Creamery, which he assisted in organizing. In 1901 he married Barbro Olson and they have one son, Ole, 9 years old, who is in school in home district. The subject of this sketch is a member of the Lutheran Church. He votes the Republican ticket.

Henry Madson, a native of Norway, is the son of Mads and Stefene Madson, who came to the United States in 1878. The subject of this sketch was born May 7, 1858. On arriving in

Iowa when 20 years of age he at once went to work for farmers and lie worked out in Iowa and Minnesota for seven vears, and all this time was learning the best methods of carrying on a farm for himself. Having had sufficient experience in this line he bought grain two years, lie then went into the stock business and bought cattle and hogs in the country for fifteen years; during this time he became well acquainted in the locality and was ever known as being reliable in all his dealings. In October, 1889, he married Christina Ansen, of Winnebago county, Iowa, and to this union has been born three children: Martin, Selmer and Clarence; all at home. In 1895 he returned to Norway for a visit among his boyhood friends and remained there six months. On his return he bought 220 acres of land in sections 31 and 32, Nunda, where he still resides. His dwelling house and large barn are among the best farm buildings of the township and the con¬ stant care and hard work of the family have made this one of the excellent farms of this locality. Mr. Madson is a member of the Lime Creek Lutheran Church. Politically Mr. Madson is a Republican.

Lewis H. Larson now resides on the farm in section 36, town¬ ship of Nunda, where his parents, Helge and Barben Larson, settled when they came here from Norway in 1859. and where the subject of this biography was born on December 26, 1862. He here grew to manhood, attended the country school and did a boy's work on the home farm. When he grew to man's estate he purchased his father's farm and is still continuing improve¬ ment of it. He follows general dairy farming. He keeps ten well bred Percheron horses for farming and driving. Mr. Larson is a member of the Lutheran Church. He is a Republican and has been clerk of the school district in which he resides for many years; also a director for the the Union Creamery Company for many years. In 1895 he married Bertha Troe, who died in 1904, leaving four children: Harry, George, Luella and Elmer. Re¬ cently Mr. Larson married Lena Benson, of Worth county, Iowa.

Knudt A. Overland, who has lived in Freeborn county since 1866, is a native of Norway, and was born September 29, 1865. His parents took a homestead in Albert Lea township, where their son Knudt grew up. He received his education in the country schools and later worked on his father's farm, remaining at home till 1890. He then took up the work of well digging and running threshing machines in the fall of the year. In 1900 he rented and later bought 145 acres in section 1, Nunda toAvnship, where he now resides. This he has recorded as " Overland Grain and Stock Farm." Aside from the regular work of his farm he rep¬ resents the Aeromotor Company and for them handles wind mills, as well as all kinds of gas engines. On July 2, 1890. he married

Gunheld Gunderson, of Freeman, and to them have been born ten children: Alvin, Joseph, Arthur, Selma, Alma, Gilbert, Law¬ rence, Elmer, Luman and Melfa. Mr. Overland is a member of the Lutheran Church. In politics he is independent and has held many offices of trust. He was assessor for two years, jus¬ tice of peace four years, clerk of school district 76 fifteen years, treasurer of Twin Lakes Creamery twelve years, as well as having various smaller public and church offices.

Levi H. Petersen, a progressive farmer, who resides in Bath township, was born October 14, 1878. His parents were H. P. and Annie (Ravn) Petersen, natives of Denmark, and early set¬ tlers in Minesota. The father came to America and located first in Racine, Wis., where he was in busineess for a short time, after which he went to Cambridge, and from there made the trip to Minnesota in a prairie schooner. Fie bought a farm in Bath and here he and his wife reared their family of six children, enduring the privations which all the pioneers had to undergo. As the years passed they prospered and made many improvements on their property and provided comforts for their declining years. L. H., their son, spent his youth attending school and learning agricultural pursuits from his father and, when he had grown to manhood he began farming on his own responsibility, and now owns 120 acres of good land. He cultivates about one-lialf of this property and the remainder is in meadow and pasture land. He carries on general farming, together with stock raising and dairying, for which purpose he raises shorthorn cattle. Fie married Clara Petersen, daughter of J. W. and Stena (Jensen) Petersen, in 1906, and one child is the result of this marriage: Ruby. Politically, Mr. Petersen favors the Prohibition party. In June, 1908, he sustained a severe loss when his buildings, which had been put in good condition by him and were in fine repair, were blown down by a tornado which swept the county in various localities.

Paul Hanson, a prosperous farmer of Clarks Grove, Avas born in Denmark. February 17, 1852, son of Hans and Maren (Peter¬ son) Paulson. In 1873 he came to America with his parents and located in Bath township. Here they cleared the land and made many improvements, and it was here that the parents died. Paul, the son, was early in life trained for a farmer and he began farming for himself with forty acres of land. He has added to this until he now is the owner of 200 acres, which is kept in a fine state of cultivation. He plows about 160 acres and the remainder is used for pasture and meadow. He carries on gen¬ eral and dairy farming and raises many Poland China hogs. He prefers the shorthorn breed of cattle for general dairy purposes and ships his dairy products to the Clarks Grove Co-operative

Creamery, of which he lias been the treasurer for fifteen years. December 9, 1874, Hanna Hansen, daughter of Paul Hansen, a native of Denmark, who was one of the pioneer settlers in Bath, became the wife of Mr. Hanson, and this marriage has resulted in the following children : Andrew ; Edward, at home ; Mark, in Spokane, Wash.; Harry, working at home; Mary, the wife of Arthur Paulson. Mr. Hanson is regarded as one of the reliable citizens of the town and lias for many years held various offices of trust and responsibility, among which are, director of the Co¬ operative Mercantile Company, director of the State Bank of Clarks Grove and director of the Clarks Grove Lumber and Fuel Company. He is a member of the Baptist Church and one of its substantial financial supporters. He owes his present prosperous condition to his own untiring efforts and hard work and he is a worthy example of a self-made man.

George Peterson, an enterprising farmer of Clarks Grove, was born November 15, 1860, in Raymond, Wis., son of Peter and Mary Peterson. lie was brought to Bancroft township by his parents in 1862, and the following year the father homesteaded a portion of the farm now owned by the subject of this sketch. Mr. Peterson grew to manhood on his father's farm and spent his boyhood days attending the district school in the locality and assisting his father on the farm; he also learned carpenter work. For some years after leaving school he was employed as a car¬ penter throughout the township, but decided to devote his ener¬ gies to farming, in which occupation he has since engaged. He owns a farm of 105 acres and rents 160 acres more and here carries on general and dairy farming. He prefers Holstein cattle for dairying purposes and disposes of his dairy products to the local creamery; and he raises a good grade of hogs for which he finds ready market. Mr. Peterson has made many improvements on his farm and its prosperous condition is the result of his hard work and good management. He married Martha S. Lunn, of Danish parentage, and their home has been blessed by the birth of seven children : Ralph, Roy, Lula, Carey, Lovine, Floyd and Glenn, who are all at home. Mr. Peterson has never aspired to public office, but his interest in educational facilities was proven by his circulating the petition among the residents of Clarks Grove for the establishment of a public school in the town. Politically, he is an independent voter, and, financially, one of the substantial residents of the township.

Peter and Mary Peterson were early settlers in Ravmond, Racine county, Wisconsin, who moved from there to Bancroft township in 1862, where they remained for a year on rented property. Mr. Peterson then homesteaded a farm in Bath town¬ ship and made his home here with his wife and family, for the remainder of his days. He was a farmer and many were the hardships which were endured by himself and family during the early portion of their life on their claim, but Mr. Peterson was well fitted to master the privations of those days, having been brought up in a humble log cabin, whose sod roof proved an ineffectual shelter from the rains. To Mr. and Mrs. Peterson were born ten children, of whom four are living. Christiana, Lena, J. AY. and George. Peter and Stena died recently.

Andrew Hansen, a genial merchant in the village of Clarks Grove, was born in Bath township August 2, 1877. His parents, Paul and Hanna Hansen, were natives of Denmark who emigrated from the land of their birth and came to America to seek their fortune in 1872. They settled first in Bath township and here acquired some land and began farming. They were frugal and industrious people, who made improvements on their property as rapidly as circumstances enabled them and they now are the owners of a valuable, well tilled farm which comprises 200 acres. Andrew, the son, grew up on his father's farm and like most boys who are sons of farmers, he attended the district school near his home and was kept busy during vacation periods, assisting his father. He later attended the Pillsbury Academy and in 1902 he secured a position as clerk in the Clarks Grove Co-opera¬ tive Mercantile Company's store. He has served in this institu¬ tion as secretary for several years and is also one of the stock¬ holders. He votes with the Prohibition party and is a public spirited citizen. He has been elected to serve as justice of the peace in Clarks Grove and has represented the wishes of tha people in this capacity.

Iver Bottolsen, son of Andrew and Irene (Everson) Bottolsen, is a native of Bancroft township and was born August 27, 1862. His parents are natives of Norway and came to the United States in 1853, locating in Bancroft, where they purchased land at $1.25 per acre. They here lived in a cellar or dug-out for three years. In 1858 they built a large log house. Here Andrew Bottolsen carried on general farming for the remainder of his life, improved his land and held many public offices for the town. He died June 12, 1884. Iver Bottolsen was educated in the common schools and worked on the home place, which his whole life has been his home. He now follows general farming and is also interested in the dairy business. He keeps a fine herd of Holstein cattle. He has for many falls operated a threshing machine. The subject of this sketch was married to Caroline Bagaasen and to them was born one child, Cora. Several years after the death of his first wife he married Constance Olson, a native of Norway. In politics he is a Republican and has served on the town board of supervisors and has been clerk of school

H. P. Hanson isr/me of the swell known and prosperous farmers who reside in the township iT Bancroft. Born in Denmark, August 12, 1868,., he was brougnt to the United States by his parents, Hans and Stena (Abrahamsen), when he was only 1 year old. His father and mother came to Minnesota and bought land in Riceland, where they were engaged in agricultural pur¬ suits and established their home. They are the parents of five children: Mary, Sophia, H. P., Andrew and Anna, of whom Sophia is now the wife of G. M. Jensen, and resides on the old home farm with her parents. H. P., the subject of this biography, was employed when a boy helping his father with the farm work and going to school. He has spent his entire life up to the pres¬ ent time in this county, with the exception of a year, and has carried on diversified farming. He married Hannah Hanson, whose parents, Christian and Mary Hanson, were pioneer resi¬ dents of Riceland. and to their marriage nine children have been born : Edwin, Hilda, Alma, Andrew, Arthur, Alton, Helen, Ethel and Lucile, who are all at home. Mr. Hanson owns 120 acres of land which borders on Albert Lea township, and he has about sixty acres plowed. He has made many improvements on his farm and has remodeled the buildings, making them both com¬ fortable and commodious. He carries on general farming and dairying and makes a specialty of raising seed corn and seed grains. He keeps a good herd of Guernsey cows and sells cream to the Albert Lea Creamery, of which he is a stockholder and director. Mr. Hanson has been supervisor, in Riceland for three years and he has the honor of being vice-president of the Minne¬ sota Field and Crop Association and treasurer of the Minnesota ( orn Growers Association. He attends the Danish Lutheran Church and politically is. an independent voter.