Freeborn County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1911 (part 4 of 11)

0. E. Stadheim was born in Worth county, Iowa, April 17, 1 881, son of E. J. and Carrie (Folie) Stadheim. The father was a native of Norway who came to America in the pioneer days and settled in Iowa. After spending some time there he moved to Bfilli township where he was married and later he returned to southern Iowa and made his home there until 1893, when he again came to Minnesota settling this time in Bancroft on the farm now owned by Mrs. E. J. Stadheim. He died in 1905, and his widow still resides on the old home farm cared for by her devoted sons. They were the parents of ten children: John, a - farmer in Bancroft ; Lewis, in the Model Clothing Store at Albert Lea; Bert, Ole, Clara, Hanna and Edwin at home; Lewis, Ole and Lizzie deceased. The family farm comprises 220 acres of land situated in Bancroft township, of which about 100 acres are constantly under cultivation. Mr. Stadheim is occupied in general farming together with dairying, and prefers the Shorthorn cattle for dairy purpo es. He -Uses Poland China and Chester White hogs, which T eld him the best market prices. He disposes of his dairy products to the Ban weft Co-Operative Creamery of which he is a stockholder. He votes with the Repub¬ lican party, and attends the Lutheran Church at Bancroft. The home farm on which Mr. Stadheim now resides was formerly the County Poor Farm, and since it has been owned by the Stadheim family it has been made modern and well improved and one of the most productive farms in the community. Mr. Stadheim 's father was a public spirited man who made all he possessed by hard work and ceaseless toil, and when he arrived in America, he was in debt for the suit of clothes which he wore. His life was an example of what may be accomplished by industry com¬ bined with frugality.

0. E. Jensen was born in Denmark. December 4, 1858, son of Id. P. and Dortliea Jensen. He came to America with his parents in 1864, and later in the year they settled in Bancroft on what is known as the old Dunbar farm. The mother died in August, 1909, and the father still resides on the home place at the age of eighty-four years. They were the parents of five children: N. P., living in Bancroft ; C. P., residing in the city of Albert Lea, and engaged in the milk business; 0. E., prosperous farmer; Christena, now Mrs. Jensen, of Albert Lea; James, a farmer of Bancroft. 0. E., the subject of the biography, acquired a com¬ mon school education and has followed general farming since. He owns eighty acres of land and raises Shorthorn cattle and Poland China hogs. He is a member of the Prohibitionist party, and he also belongs to the Yeomen Lodge at Ellendale. He was united in marriage with Adaline Peterson, a daughter of P. H. and Anna (Rown) Peterson, in 1887, and they are the parents of seven children : Arthur, Adella, Sadie, Clarence, Elmer, Ernest and Adaline, all of whom are at home. He is a stockholder in the Clarks Grove Co-Operative Creamery, of which his father was one of the originators, having made a trip to Denmark to learn conditions necessary for the establishment of this institution.

Christ Andersen was born in Denmark, May 2, 1863, son of Andrew and Margaret (Nelson) Andersen. He grew to man¬ hood in his native land and received his education there, and came to the United States with his parents when he was twentyfour years of age. They settled in Minnesota, purchased some* land in the township of Bancroft, and there at the present time Christ, the subject of this sketch, is carrying on general farm¬ ing. He is one of a family of twelve children, three of whom are now deceased. lie married Mary Beck, who is of Danish parent¬ age, in 1893, and this marriage has resulted in the birth of ten children : Holger, Ella, Norwald, Myrtle, Harry, Lillian, Edna, Earl, Nina and Pearl. Mr. Andersen owns a well kept and productive farm, which comprises 160 acres, and he has about 100 acres under the plow, while the remainder is used for stock raising and dairy purposes. He prefers the Holstein cattle for general dairying, and sells their milk to the Bancroft Co-opera¬ tive Creamery. Together with his general farming and dairying interests he raises many Poland China hogs for which he re¬ ceives the best market prices. He has a comfortable house on his farm and has erected a fine substantial barn, well protected by lightning rods and in every manner suited to the needs of the farm stock and produce. He votes the Republican ticket, but has never sought public office. Flis years of patient industry have made him the prosperous farmer which he is today, and his endeavors to succeed have been amply rewarded.

Daniel Whelen, who served his town for six years in the office of constable, is one of the prominent men in that locality. He was born in Fond du Lac, Wis., in 1874, son of Daniel and Mary (Ryan) Whelen, natives of Ireland, wTho came to America in the pioneer days and settled in Wisconsin, later moving to Ban¬ croft, Minn., where they made their home until death summoned them. Daniel, their son, early began the work which he has followed until the present time. Having completed his educa¬ tion, he at once set to work assisting his father with the farm duties, and in 1886 purchased 100 acres of land, where he carries on general farming at the present time. He. devotes a great deal of his time to dairying, and keeps a good herd of cowts for this purpose, disposing of the cream to the local creamery, of which he has been a stockholder since its organization. Mr. Whelen has made many improvements on his property, among which are a newr barn and a comfortable house, remodeled by him, thus making it one of the good and substantial homes in that vicinity. He Avas married to Anna Campion in 1887, daughter of the late Cornelius Campion ; and this marriage has resulted in five children : Mabel, a Catholic sister ; Mary, Cornelius, Leonard and Joseph. Mr. Whelen is an independent voter, AAThose numerous interests occupy more of his time than he cares to devote to politics. He attends the Catholic Church at Albert Lea, and is a member of its order of Foresters. He has held various school offices at internals during his life and gh^en his best efforts to the advancement of educational ideas. The daughter Mabel is known in the Church as Sister Mary Edith.

of Irish extraction, and came to this county many years ago, settling in Bath, where Maurice J. was horn November 28, 1874. He is one of a family of ten children, of whom two are now deceased. As a boy he attended the district schools in Bath, and later in life spent two years in the High School in Albert Lea. For a time after finishing his education he remained at home and helped his father with the farm work, after which he went to North Dakota and for two years was employed as a cow boy. He returned to the old home in 1898, and two years later purchased the farm on which he now makes his abode. Here, he and his brother, Timothy are engaged in general farm¬ ing together with stock raising and dairying, being patrons of the Geneva Creamery. He has held many offices of trust in the township, among which are, the director of creamery board, an office which he has held for one year ; as assessor of Geneva, he has served four years to the entire 'satisfaction of its property hold¬ ers; and that he has been retained as the treasurer of school in district 97, is convincing proof of his ability as such. Catherine Cashman, daughter of John and Catherine (O'Hern) Cashman, married Mr. Harty in 1904, and their home has been gladdened by three children: Patrica, Clayton M., and Vernon J. In poli¬ tics, Mr. Harty votes independently and belongs to no orders. His fine farm home is one of the best equipped in that com¬ munity, having an acetylene gas plant which furnishes light and fuel for cooking purposes. His broad acres are under careful supervision which has resulted in a well improved and modern farm.

Alva Henion, a prominent citizen of Geneva township was born January 13, 1863, son of Charles and Clarissa Henion. He grew to manhood on his father's farm, and attended the district school near home. For several years after completing his studies, Mr. Henion worked with his father on the farm, and later pur¬ chased the property which he owns at the present time. This farm comprises 120 acres, located in sections 8 and 9, and it has been greatly improved and highly developed by its present owner. Mr. Henion has erected good buildings and devoted much time and attention to his farming interests. He raises Durham and Shorthorn cattle and also Norman horses and carries on general diversified farming. His present prosperous condi¬ tion is due to his own industry and energy. He is a member of the Republican party, and was elected to the state legislature in 1910. Fie has served in many of the responsible public offices of the township, having been supervisor and chairman for several years. Harriet Hynds, of Geneva, became his wife, October 19, 1884, and this marriage has been blessed with two children, Ray, who assists his father, and Adelie, who also is at home.

Charles H. Henion, one of Freeborn county's early settlers, was born in Albany county, New York, son of Henry and Eliza¬ beth Henion, natives of that state. He received his education in the schools of Albany, and worked for his father on the farm, preparing himself for the occupation of farming, when he should become of age. He left his old home in 1857 and came west, stopping first in Wisconsin, and later coming to Minnesota, where he bought land in Geneva township. This farm of 160 acres, Mr. Henion purchased of the government, and he at once set about improving and developing it. He drew logs from a distance, sawed them and erected a frame house, and in the fall of that same year, went back to New York and was married. He brought his wife to Minnesota, and they settled on the farm which he had purchased. Some years later, be built a new and larger house and erected the necessary outbuildings. He has followed general diversified farming and his ambition and energy have made him successful in his life's work. To himself and wife, five children were born : Ophelia, now Mrs. Montaney, of Geneva ; Alva, prosperous farmer of Geneva; Cora, who married Mr. Kuckenbacher, of Geneva; Lillie, deceased; Sabina, now Mrs. Morrison, of North Dakota. The wife and mother passed away in 1879, and Mr. Henion married Mrs. Amelia (Anderson) Cameron, widow of Albert Cameron, June 23, 1896. She was born in Kane county, Illinois, April 4, 1861, daughter of Segal and Emma (Madland) Anderson. Mr. Henion votes with the Republican party.

Edwin Evenson is son of Louis and Anna Evenson, who were among the early pioneers of this country, emigrating from Nor¬ way to America, where Edwin was born March 17, 1872, in Riceland township. His parents first settled in "Wisconsin, but later moved to Minnesota and purchased land in Riceland township, and here they carried on general farming, developing and im¬ proving their property. Their son was educated in the district schools, and early in life began assisting his father on the farm. As the father grew older, the son gradually assumed the burdens of the farm work, and in 1893 took entire charge of the old home¬ stead. llis father passed away in 1907, and his aged mother makes her home with her son, the subject of this sketch, on the old home place where they now reside. Mr. Evenson has built hogs for market and home purposes, and has an excellent dairy herd of Holstein cattle. He married Hanna Olson, of Norwegian parentage and birth, in 1895; and to them three children have been born : Marvel, Abbie and Eva. His wife having died in 1904, Mr. Evenson was married to Anna Mehus, of Iowa, in 1907. He has held many offices of trust in his township, and at present is treasurer of the school board, and previous to this time he served on the town board. Among the many business interests which occupy his time are : Stockholder in the Riceland Creamery and Telephone Company, also in the Farmers7 Mutual Live Stock Association. Business interests prevent his engaging actively in politics, but his views agree with those of the Repub¬ lican party. The teachings of the Lutheran Church are accepted by himself and family, and he is loyal to its precepts.

Ellef Anderson (deceased), formerly a resident of Hartland township, was one of the well-known and highly-respected men in the county. He was born in Norway on October 14, 1842, son of Andrew and Kari Anderson, grew to manhood in his native land and there received his education. In 1864 Mr. Anderson came to America and during the fall of that year to Freeborn county, locating in Manchester township. He was employed by various farmers for three years, after which he bought 160 acres in section 27 and went to work on his own responsibility, breaking and developing his land and erecting the necessary buildings. He later added to his farm until he owned 320 acres, and he carried on general diversified farm¬ ing. Mr. Anderson was elected to serve in many of the public offices in the township, being a member of the town board and clerk of the school board. Owing to careful and honorable business dealings and untiring industry, Mr. Anderson grew more prosperous each year. Landing in this country with but one silver dollar (the same dollar still being in possession of Mrs. Anderson), he set to work with great courage, and at the time of his death he owned real estate in Albert Lea, Minne¬ apolis and also in Superior, Wis., and bequeathed $500 to the Luther Academy at Albert Lea. Mr. Anderson died November 26, 1898, and he is survived by his widow and four children. He was united in marriage with Nellie Jordahl on October 1, 1865. She was born in Norway, September 17, 1845, daughter of John and Thora (Nels) Jordahl, who came to this country in 1857, locating in Manchester township, where they engaged in farming until their death. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson were the parents of ten children, of whom four are now living: Joseph, who lives on the home farm; Turena, the wife of Sivert P. Knutson, of Hartland, with whom the mother now makes her home ; Caroline, who married Sivert A. Ford, of Minneapolis, and Nellie, now Mrs. Albert M. Matson, of Hartland township. The family faith is that of the Lutheran Church.

where lie worked out on a farm and later went to Rochester and secured employment there, after which he went into a camp in the woods of Wisconsin bordering on the Black river. Here he was employed for some time, after which he returned to Minnesota and purchased a farm in Bancroft, on which he farmed for thirty-two years. He sold part of this 200-acre farm to the railroad and in 1906 moved to Bath, where he now resides and owns forty acres here which is nearly all under the plow, Mr. Anderson married Sina Jacobson in 1875, who is of Danish birth and parentage. To them six children have been born, three living: Thea, who married James Jensen, of Bath township; Mary, of St. Paul, who married M. A. Larsen, and Martha, at home. Anna died at twenty years ; Mary and Christina died in infancy. Mr. Anderson is a self-made man, owing his present comfortable circumstances to years of hard work. His home, situated three miles north from Clarks Grove, is one of the sub¬ stantial and well-built homes in that community.

Thor Anderson, now deceased, was a prominent figure in Manchester township for many years, and in dying left a heritage of honor to his successors. In township affairs he always took an active part, and occupied practically all the town offices within the gift of his fellow voters, doing especially good work as a fair and impartial town assessor. A devout believer in the Christian religion, he did the Freeborn Central Church invaluable service as treasurer for many years. Thor Anderson was born in Norway, May 17, 1823, and in 1852 came to America, locating in Rock county, Wisconsin. In 1856 he came to Freeborn county with the earliest settlers, and pre-empted a quarter section, which he broke and improved, erecting suitable buildings. His success was pronounced from the start, and in time he was the proud possessor of 1,200 acres of land. After a useful and happy life, he died April 15, 1909. YVhile a young man he mar¬ ried Kari Evenson, who died April 18, 1897. To this union was born one child, Ingeborg, November 21. 1848. She came to this country with her parents in 1852, located in Wisconsin, and in 1856 came with them to Freeborn county. She attended school, was reared on a farm and, October 27, 1867, was married to Iver A. Rodsater. They spent a happy life together, reared nine children, and attained an enviable position in the community. Mr. Rodsater died December 27, 1867.

Axel G. Brundin, a prominent citizen of Albert Lea, first saw the light of day July 24, 1859, in Sweden, and was brought to the United States at the age of seven by his parents, John G. and Augusta Katherine (Arnglund) Brundin, who spent two years in La Crosse, Wis., after which they moved to Minnesota, living first in Hokah and then in Wells, and in 1874 coming to

Me. And Mes. Thoe Andeeson

Albert Lea. Axel attended school in the different towns in which his parents lived and completed his education in Albert Lea, from 1873 to 1876 clerked in a general store at Alden, and then engaged in the meat business. In 1877 he went into part¬ nership with his brother Charles and established a market in Albert Lea. This partnership continued until January 1, 1909, when it was dissolved. Each of the brothers now conducts a market. The firm of Brundin Bros., packers, was continued until 1908, when it was incorporated as the Brundin Packing Company and later became the Albert Lea Packing Company, under which name it is known at the present time. Mr. Brundin is now a heavy stockholder in this concern, and was at one time its presi¬ dent. In 1885 Mr. Brundin married Ella M. Ruble, a daughter of John Ruble, of Pickerel Lake, and they are the parents of Stacia and Beth. Mr. Brundin is affiliated with the prominent social organizations of Albert Lea, being a member of the Ma¬ sonic Lodge, the Royal Arcanum, the Odd Fellows and the Elks. He has served as city treasurer for four terms and has also served in the council for three terms, and has been a member of the county board for the past ten years. These responsible posi¬ tions, which he has so satisfactorily occupied, prove his ability and trustworthiness, and he can be truly spoken of as one of Albert Lea's leading and public-spirited citizens.

Charles R. Brundin, who for thirty-three years has been en¬ gaged in carrying on a meat business in the city of Albert Lea, was born September 18, 1861, in Sweden, son of John G. and Augusta Brundin, and came to the United States with his parents in 1867. They located first in La Crosse, Wis., but later came to Hokah, thence to Wells, Minn., and in 1874 settled in Albert Lea, and there Charles attended school and grew to manhood. After completing his education, Mr. Brundin engaged in a meat market, and since 1877 he has been interested in this particular line of business. In partnership with his brother, A. G. Brundin, he established the market known as Brundin Bros., and in 1909 he bought out his brother's interest, having organized the pre¬ vious year the Brundin Packing Company, which is now known as the Albert Lea Packing Company. In 1884 Rose Geissler be¬ came his wife, and their marriage was blessed with the birth of four children: George H., Glenn C., John G. and Marvel. Mrs. Rose Geissler Brundin passed away in 1904 and some time later Mr. Brundin married Jenny Batty, widow of John Batty, a former resident of this county. In political convictions Mr. Brundin is a member of the Taft Republican party, and he be¬ longs to the many fraternal orders of Albert Lea, being a Mason, in which order he has advanced from the Blue Lodge to the Shrine. He is also a member of the Knights of Pythias and of the A. 0. U. AY. He has been of service to the city of which he lias for so many years been an esteemed resident by serving as alderman from the First ward for a period of two years, but his many business interests have prevented further seeking of public office. He owns a fine modern residence, situated at 701 Foun¬ tain street, and also owns the place of business at 239 Alain street, Albert Lea, together with farms and other real estate. His direct business methods, together with his fairness and honesty, have made him both popular and respected by all with whom he has had business dealings, and by all his fellow men.

John G. Brundin, a pioneer resident of Albert Lea and one of that city's highly respected men, was born in Sweden on October 28, 1830. He spent his boyhood in the land of his birth and there acquired his education. On June 19, 1855, Augusta C. Arnglaund became his wife, and to them have been born six children: John AY. (deceased) ; Axel G. ; Charles R. ; Emma, now Airs. AATilliam Flindt ; Abbie, the wife of H. F. Hovland; Char¬ lotte Augusta, at home with her father. In 1867 Air. Brundin decided to leave his old home in Sweden and seek his fortune in the Lmited States. His first home in this countrv was in La Crosse, AYis., where he was employed by the Davidson Steamboat Company for a period of two years, after which he came to Alinnesota and made his residence in Hokali, Houston county. Here he secured employment with the Southern Alinnesota, which had shops and terminals in that city. His work in this company's shops was making patterns, and to him should be given credit for the interior design of the first passenger coach, which was built and used on this road. AYhen these shops later moved to AA'ells Air. Brundin was still retained as one of their valued em¬ ployees, and he remained as such until 1874, when he resigned and moved to Albert Lea, where he established the first foundry and machine shop located in that city. This business was con¬ ducted under the name of Brundin & Paulson until 1880, when it was succeeded by J. G. Brundin, afterwards known as Brundin & Son. In 1895 John G. Brundin disposed of his interests and retired from active life. His faithful and devoted helpmeet passed away December 6, 1893. Air. Brundin resides at 919 Aladison street, his home being cared for by his daughter Gusta. He upholds the principles advanced by the Republican party and attends the Lutheran Church, of which he is an esteemed member. In the past he has served Albert Lea by acting as alderman from the Second ward, and he has ever been vitally interested in all movements which have tended toward the de¬ velopment and improvement of the town and county in which he resides.

Mr. And Mrs. Bexxett Aslesox

Bennett Asleson, pioneer and successful man of affairs, was born in Norway, August 20, 1833, and came to America in 1854. After living three years in Wisconsin, he came to Freeborn county in 1857, located on section 22, Manchester township, entered 160 acres of land, broke and improved it, and in time increased his holdings until he owned 450 acres. It is interesting to note that he built his house from brick manufactured by himself. Mr. Asleson was the first assessor of Manchester township, has been on the school board some thirty years, and town treasurer a sim¬ ilar period. In 1881 he served in the state legislature. Aside from his farming interests he owns the Newton Hotel, at Albert Lea, and is also a stockholder in the First National Bank of Albert Lea, the Albert Lea State Bank, the Manchester State Bank and the Citizens' National Bank of Albert Lea, in which latter institution he is a director as well. The subject of this sketch was married June 24, 1865, at Albert Lea, by Augustus Armstrong, to Gunhild Petersen, who was born in Norway, May 28, 1841, came to America in 1849, lived two years in Wisconsin, then located in Minneshiek county, Iowa, and in 1865 came to Freeborn county. Mr. and Mrs. Asleson had five children. Ashley, Turena and Turena are dead. Augustus operates the home farm, and Tilda Amanda lives at home.

Albert J. Berglund was born in Albert Lea township, Decem¬ ber 25, 1869, son of Johan and Anna Maria Berglund. In the district school No. 54 the subject of this biography acquired his education and spent the early years of his life on the home farm. After completing his studies Mr. Berglund engaged in general diversified farming, working on the home farm with his father until he was 24 years of age, when he purchased a farm com¬ prising 140 acres, which were located in Albert Lea township, section 22. Here Mr. Berglund developed the land, erected a good house and the necessary outbuildings, and for several years carried on agricultural pursuits. In 1904 he rented his property and moved to the city of Albert Lea, where he had purchased an interest in the Peterson Hardware Company, and became secre¬ tary of the firm. He remained with this concern until September 22, 1908, when the company was reorganized as the Albert Lea Hardware Company, of which Mr. Berglund became vice-presi¬ dent. In January, 1911, Mr. Berglund disposed of his interests in this business, after which he accepted a position with the American Gas Machine Company, of Albert Lea, in the capacity of traveling salesman, remaining with this concern for three months, after which he secured his present position as salesman for the United Flour Mills Company. Politically, the subject of this biography is an independent voter, and while he has ever been actively interested in all movements which have tended toward the improvement and uplifting of conditions in his town and county, he has never sought public office. He is a respected member of the Baptist Church of Albert Lea, and fraternally he belongs to the Masonic Lodge, A. F. & A. M., the K. 0. T. M., A. 0. U. W., R. N. A. and the I. O. 0. F. Mr. Berglund was united in matrimony, May 10, 1894, with Mary E. Gustaveson, born in Sweden February 21, 1874, daughter of G. and Bengta (Larson) Gustaveson. Mr. and Mrs. Berglund are the parents of three children, of whom Gladys was born May 21, 1895; Wenona died when two years of age, and Bertha Wenona was born July 28, 1900.

Johan Berglund, or Johan Emerson as was his boyhood name, was born in Torp Socken, Medelpad, Sweden, November 29, 1834. Upon entering military service he took the name Johan Berglund. It seems that all who entered military service took a new name. Anna Marie Persdotter was born at the same place in Sweden, November 15, 1831. She .became the wife of Johan Berglund in 1855. Shortly after their marriage, through Bible study, they could no longer believe in the tenets of the State church. For this they were persecuted and life was made a hardship. Be¬ cause also of poverty in that cold northland both had seen days when they could not eat all they wanted, even of bread made from the bark of trees. Anxious for their growing family, they sought a country that promised more of freedom and of bread. In the year 1868, therefore, they set out for " Isanti postoffice, Isanti county, Minnesota, U. S. A., North America," for such was their baggage labeled. They arrived in August at their destination but seem to have been dissatisfied with the sandy soil of that county and only stayed seven weeks. Late in Sep¬ tember the same year they came to Freeborn county and located on the farm three miles southeast of Albert Lea, where he lived, raised his large family and died, and where Mrs. Berglund still lives with her youngest son. They came to Albert Lea one year before the railroad. The price of that first 160 was $1,100, but he had only $75; and a stove and cow were actual necessities and each cost $40. But a neighbor loaned him $100 to pay down on the farm, which had seven acres broken and a cellar in a side hill lined with rough untrimmed oak boards, covered with a shanty of boards, making an up and downstairs, and in this, with two families part of the time, they had their home for nearly three years. Mr. Berglund was handy with tools and the $100 borrowed was paid in building houses at 75 cents a day. He put up all his own buildings as fast as he could afford the lumber. His first two winters were spent in the pine woods of northern Minnesota. Coming from a forest country and with keen eye and strong arm, his own grove yielded sills and joists and rafters, so that his first frame house was all his own make, with rough lumber on the outside and indeed that was all there was, no paper, no siding, no plastering, the first year or two. He grubbed most all his land by his own hand and hired for the breaking. At times he would have to pay as high as 22 per cent on borrowed money. But he paid for that first 160 and bought another at double the price of the first, and bought another and another and more, until before letting it to his children he had owned some 800 acres. Almost every dollar was by hard work taken out of the soil to pay for his lands. His business was farming and he attended to his business and succeeded. He was a hard worker and his wife stood nobly by him. Nine children were born to them, five in Sweden and four on the old homestead. Peter, with his family, lives near the old homestead. Bertha E. is Mrs. James Olson, of the same township. Mary was the wife of Rev. Tver Larson and died three months before her father. Magnus and family live in Isanti county, this state. Erick and family live in Albert Lea township. Albert and family live in the city of Albert Lea. Alfred and family live on the old homestead. Emma died in infancy and another Emma is Mrs. Oscar Lundstrom, in Albert Lea city. Their children 's children number forty-eight and great¬ grandchildren three. Of these forty-four are living, so that their direct descendants today are fifty-one, and nearly all live in Free¬ born county. In politics he was an independent voter. He was road overseer, assessor and member of town boards at different times. In later years his conviction was strong against the liquor traffic and he cast his lot with Prohibition. Some years before leaving Sweden the Berglunds joined the Baptist faith. Not long after their arrival in Albert Lea religious services were started in their home. The first organized Scandinavian Baptist work in Albert Lea was a Sunday-school in their home. When the Danish Baptist Church was started they became members. With his own team, aided by a son, Johan, he hauled the first load of lumber for that Danish church. The tower of that same building rests on rocks from his farm. He gave of time, labor, money and was one of the most regular attendants, walking the three miles from his home. When, in 1883, the Albert Lea Swed¬ ish Baptist Church was started, they became its equally strong supporters, giving of time, labor and interest. Mr. Berglund was a member of this church when he died, his wife being there still. All of the children followed in their parents' footsteps and are members of the Baptist churches, nearly all in the First Baptist Church of Albert Lea. He gave two of his children to the gospel ministry. He was the means of starting the first Bible wagon among his own countrymen. In the early days people around him worked Sunday and weekday alike; soon, however, a neigh- bor told him that through his example they had decided that nothing was gained by breaking the laws of the universe. Johan Berglund died February 22, 1904. He left some land, some money and many children, but like that man on whose birthday he died, his greatest heritage was the example of his noble life. - Contributed by Rev. M. Berglund.

Frank A. Blackmer, M. D., now deceased, exerted an influence on the community which will never be forgotten. He was ener¬ getic, kindly, ambitious and generous, and one of those men who may truly be said to have been a friend of everyone. He was a devoted husband and father and a loyal comrade. He was a friend of all young men, and no deserving case of any sort was ever refused his sympathy and aid. All in all his was a useful life, and the city of Albert Lea is the better for his having lived in it day by day during his active career. His death, July 11, 1900, was the cause of universal mourning, and during his funeral every business house in the city was closed as a tribute of what he had meant to the people of this county. Frank A. Blackmer was a native of Ohio, born at Amherst, Loraine county, January 16, 1847, son of Franklin and Minerva (AYilkins) Blackmer, the pioneers. Frank A. Blackmer attended public school in Ohio and afterwards in Albert Lea. He was but ten years old when his parents removed here, and he aided his father in driving the ox team from McGregor, then the west¬ ern end of the railroad, across the prairie to the new home. Two years later, at the age of twelve, while working in the field one dav, he came to the conclusion that lie would strike out for himself, and hanging his scythe in a tree he came to town to get work. From that time forward he depended entirely on his own efforts, both for a livelihood and for his education, which he was deter¬ mined to have. He did odd jobs and soon accepted a position with the local newspaper, the "Southern Minnesota Star," edited by Swinford and Grey, where he soon learned to set type. Shortly after Dr. Burnham needed someone to publish his paper at the rival town of Itasca, two miles distant, and Isaac Botsford and Frank Blackmer were employed. Itasca, however, lost the county seat, and hauling the Itasca printing office and old hand press, which they had taken for wages, across the prairie by ox team to Blue Earth City, founded the "Blue Earth Post, *' which is still one of the largest and most influential journals in the state. It was about this time - 1862 - that an Indian outbreak was threatened, and Botsford and Blackmer took an active part in the raising of a company of volunteers. Frank Blackmer, at the age of fifteen, became orderly sergeant of Company C, Fifth Minnesota volunteer infantry, February 14, 1862. The company was first stationed at Ripley Fort, Minnesota, near Brainerd, but during the summer it was ordered to Yellow Medicine, where it was present at the payment of the Indians. August 22 it partici¬ pated in a battle of Fort Ridgley, near New Elm, where Sergeant Blackmer received a severe gunshot wound in the face, jaw and tongue. In consequence of thus being disabled he received a dis¬ charge from the service in October of the same year. The ball was removed from his face by Dr. A. A. Ames, of Minneapolis, then assistant surgeon of the Seventh regiment, and for some time he remained in the hospitals suffering from the wound and the fever. The long scar resulting from the wound in the tongue was the cause of much trouble to him during all his after life, as at times he suffered much pain and discomfort before his death. After being discharged he went to Chicago and worked on the morning papers during the winter as compositor. In 1863, at the age of sixteen, he entered the academic department of Oberlin College, Oberlin, Ohio, sawing wood, setting type and doing other work to pay tuition and board. He had already decided to study medicine, and while at Oberlin spent some time in the office of Dr. Bruce. After a short course at Oberlin he became a student at the medical school at Cleveland, Ohio, noiv known as the Cleveland Medical College. He graduated from this institution in February, 1868, and after receiving the neces¬ sary hospital practice returned to Albert Lea, entered into part¬ nership with Dr. Wedge and commenced at once upon a profes¬ sional career, which lasted thirty-two years. October 15, 1872, Dr. Blackmer was united in marriage to Franc E. Wedge, of Fond du Lac, Wis. The following spring they removed to Jackson, Minn., where the doctor had purchased considerable farm land. But the grasshoppers came, and at the end of the first year they returned to Albert Lea, where they continued to reside. Dr. Blackmer was survived by a wife, a son, Ray C. Blackmer, and a daughter, Mrs. Anna Gillrup, a sister, Mrs. A. C. Wedge, and four brothers, Loren and Heman living and Henry and Brad¬ ford deceased.

S. A. Beach, a prosperous and well-known farmer residing in Manchester township, was born in Ashford, Cattaraugus county, New York, November 18, 1857. His parents were Horace M. and Sarah (Hyde) Beach, both of New York. The father came to Minnesota and brought his family in 1858, settling in Manchester township, on section 18. Here he was occupied in farming inter¬ ests until the Civil War broke out, when he enlisted in Company C, Fifth Minnesota volunteer infantry. He was shot and mortally wounded in the battle of Nashville and later died at New Albany Hospital, Indiana. After his death the family returned to New York, where they remained until 1880 and then came back to

Minnesota. S. A. purchased the old homestead, buying out the heirs, and now owns a farm of 194 acres in section 18, where he carries on diversified farming, and where he has erected some fine buildings. He married Mary C. Sclioen, and to them seven children have been born: John A., Amy, Myrtle, Horace, Lee R. and Albert D. Mary E. has passed away. Mr. Beach is an inde¬ pendent voter, has held the office of town constable for several years, and has also been a member of the school board for twenty years. He is in every respect a public-spirited citizen. Mr. Beach is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America of Alden and a stockholder in the Freeborn creamery.

Adelbert H. Bender, cashier of the First State Bank at Glenville, Minn., is one of the prominent business men in that locality. He was born in Alpha, Fayette county, Iowa, August 27, 1872, son of Henry A. and Juliette (Stone) Bender. Beginning his education in the district school near his old home and later attending Decorah Institute, he was prepared to enter business college and subsequently completed a course in the Valder Busi¬ ness College at Decorah. His first position after leaving school was as bookkeeper in the bank at Waucoma, in which capacity he was employed for five years. At the end of this period he resigned from his position in the bank and was a solicitor for a fire insurance company, and he represented this firm for four years. In 1899 he came to Glenville and organized the bank there, which later was made the State Bank. He was married in 1895 to Viola B. Clark, whose parents, Andrew and Jane (Orr) Clark, were natives of Scotland, and after coming to America first made their home in Canada and later in Iowa, where the father died in 1909 and the mother a year later. To Mr. and Mrs. Bender a daughter has been born - Gladys. Mr. Bender is a Republican of the progressive type, -and his religious faith is that of the Methodist Church, of which he is a member and to the support of which he is a liberal contributor. His good educa¬ tion, together with his years of business experience, have well fitted him for the position of trust and responsibility which he now occupies, and his business methods have won the admiration and respect of the people in the community and county. David Bender, grandfather of Adelbert H. Bender, was a native of Indiana, who came to Minnesota and located near Spring Valley, where he remained for about three years, after which he went to Nebraska and later to the state of Washington, where he passed the remainder of his days. Henry A., the son, moved to Iowa and married Juliette Stone, who came west from New York. When President Lincoln issued the call for men to defend the Union, Mr. Bender enlisted in the Twenty-seventh Iowa volunteer infantry and went to the front. He was wounded during one of the battles and honorably discharged. He returned to his home in Iowa and for many years was engaged in farming. About 1903, he moved into the town of Fayette, Iowa, where he and his wife are living at the present time.

Horatio D. Brown, now deceased, was well known in Albert Lea and Freeborn county, and he had a large acquaintance throughout Minnesota and the Northwest. He came to Freeborn county as a young man of twenty-one and kept abreast and in the lead of its progress during all the years of growth and -de¬ velopment. For a generation he was a most important factor in the commercial affairs in both city and county, and one of the most prominent leaders in the political, social, educational and religious life of the community. As a youthful pioneer he was industrious and progressive, with faith in the future. As a soldier he was brave and courageous and a prudent and kind officer. As a public official he was upright and competent and a wise legislator. As a banker he was the safe custodian of the property of others. As a church member and college trustee he was an earnest Christian and a friend and patron of higher edu¬ cation. As a citizen he was patriotic, loyal and public-spirited, always ready to aid in any project to advance the interests of the community of which he was a member. Mr. Brown possessed a kindly, sympathetic disposition. He was careful in business but humane, gar^e liberally to charity and donated much time and money to the advancement of the cause of education and religion. All who knew him esteemed him. His death removed one of the few remaining men to whose courage and industry was due the transformation of the wilderness of a generation ago into the garden spot of today. Horatio D. Brown was born in the town of Fabius, Onondaga county, New York, April 15, 1835. He was a son of Abner Brown, a native of Hartford, Conn., whose father immigrated to New York and settled in Onondaga county in the latter part of the eighteenth century, when the country was a great wilderness. He served in the War of 1812 against the mother country, and some of his ancestors were soldiers in the war of the Revolution. The mother of Horatio was Lovina Cadwell and was also of old New England stock. Abner Brown, his father, was a farmer and reared a large family of children. Horatio D. Brown was raised on the home farm, attended the common school and later prepared for college at the DeRuyter and Cazenovia seminaries, and in 1852 entered Union College at Schenectady, N. Y., from which he graduated in 1856. He came west the same year and spent about one year teaching in Illinois and Iowa. In 1856, at the age of twenty-one, he removed to born county, six miles southeast of Albert Lea. There were but Minnesota and located a claim in the town of Hayward, Free- few families living in the county at that time. He had brought with him a compass and was soon engaged in surveying. In 1857 lie was elected the first surveyor of Freeborn county and moved to Albert Lea. He was soon after appointed deputy clerk of the district court, and in 1861, he was elected to that office and held it for ten years. He was married, December 19, 1861, to Mary L. Peck, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harris Peck, of Albert Lea. Mr. Brown enlisted March 9, 1862, in Company C, Fifth Minnesota volunteer infantry. He Avas mustered in as second lieutenant, August 31. 1862. His company Avas ordered south the December following and joined the regiment at La Grange, Tenn. He Avas engaged with his regiment, under the command of General Grant, in the action at Jackson, Miss., May 14, 1863; at Vicksburg, May 22 ; at Mechanicsburg, Miss., June 3 ; at Rich¬ mond, La., June 15, and participated in the siege at Vicksburg from May 19 until July 4, 1863, when the rebel forces capitu¬ lated. His regiment Avas included in the contingent sent from General Grant's command to the assistance of General Banks in his Red River expedition, and Avas in the engagement at De Russv, La., March 4, 1864; at Henderson, April 9; at Couleryille, La., April 23; at Bayou Roberts, May 8; Mensura, May 15 jY^Hoav Bayou, May 18, 1864. Iu August, 1864, Mr. BroAvn Avas trans¬ ferred to the EleArenth Minnesota volunteer infantry as adjutant, and Avas with the regiment during the service in and around Nashville, Tenn. He Avas mustered out of service at St. Paul in July, 1865, after three years of actHe service, and resumed his duties as clerk of the district court. In 1871 Mr. Brown resigned the office of clerk of court and organized the private bank of H. D. BroAvn. and later, with R. R. P. Hibbs, the banking house of H. D. BroAvn & Co. This firm continued in business until March, 1892, when the Albert Lea National Bank Avas incor¬ porated and Mr. Brown Avas elected president. This position he occupied up to Avithin a month of his death. In 1871 Mr. BroAvn Avas elected to the state senate and serA^ed one term. He Avas always a Republican in politics. He also serATed the city of Albert Lea as mayor and Avas active and prominent in all matters per¬ taining to the Avelfare and building up of Albert Lea and Free¬ born county. He Avas president of the Minnesota Bankers' Asso¬ ciation in 1899. For years, and up to the time of his death, he Avas a member and trustee of the Presbyterian church of Albert Lea and a trustee and treasurer of Albert Lea College, earnestly serving both by personal effort, influence and liberal contribu¬ tions in a material Avay. lie died August 3, 1901. Mrs. Brown Avas Mary L. Peck, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harris Peck, of Albert Lea. Mr. and Mrs. Peck were both born near Rochester, N. Y., but came in early life to Ohio, AAdiere Mr. Peck helped to build two of the pioneer railroads of the state. With his wife and daughter he came to Freeborn county in 1858, thus suffering with others the privations and hardships of pioneer life. They cheerfully gave of their substance to those who had come in be¬ fore them and had been overtaken by misfortune. Mrs. Peck died in 1889 at the age of eiglity-one years. Mr. Peck lived to be eighty-six years old, dying in 1892.

B. E. Bottolfson has a well cared for farm about four miles from the city of Albert Lea. This farm comprises eighty acres of land and it is the old Bottolfson homestead, where for many long and eventful years Andrew and Irene (Berg) Bottolfson lived and reared their family of five children: Bottol, now deceased; Iver A., B. E., Caroline and Andrew. These parents came to America from Norway and settled in Bancroft township in 1855, where the father died in 1884. B. E., the subject of this sketch, was born November 7, 1864, and spent the early years of his boy¬ hood in attending the district school and doing such general farm work as is required of the farmers7 sons. After leaving school he devoted all his time and attention to agricultural pur¬ suits, as his well-improved home and farm bear witness. He keeps a herd of dairy cattle and sells cream to the Albert Lea Creamery. Fie also raises graded hogs and stock for market pur¬ poses. As treasurer of the school district No. 58 and treasurer of the Manchester Farmers' Mutual Insurance Company, which office he has held for ten years, Mr. Bottolfson has demonstrated be¬ yond a doubt that he is well fitted to occupy any office of trust and responsibility to which he may be elected. Emma Narveson became his wife in 1895 and their home has been brightened by the birth of four children : Elder, Irving, Ella and Lumen. Po¬ litically, Mr. Bottolfson affiliates with the Republican party, and his genial manner and sound judgment have placed him in the high regard of the residents of Bancroft township.

C. U. Christenson was born in Denmark, January 15, 1852, son of C. U. and Johanna Christenson. His father was a mason by trade, but also carried on the work of a small farm which he owned. He died in Denmark in 1868 and the mother died in 1902. The subject of this biography received his education in Denmark, where he did service in the army and later worked on farms until he was twenty-four years of age. In 1876 he came to the United States and located in Geneva township, Freeborn county, where he worked out several years and saved his earnings. With his savings he purchased 132 acres in section 10, Riceland township, to which original purchase he has added until he now owns 446 acres. He follows general and dairy farming, keeps a herd of grade short-horn cattle and raises Poland-China hogs, as well as poultry for occasional market. In 1882 he married Carry M.

Christenson, a native of Denmark, daughter of John Christenson, one of the early settlers of Freeborn county. This union has been blessed with twelve children, ten of whom are living: John is a farmer in Riceland, Laura lives in California, Tina lives in Wash¬ ington, Julius, Johanna, Elmer, Rosa, Pearl and Clarence are at home. Mr. Christenson is a respected member of the Lutheran Church. In politics he is a Republican and has held many offices, among which are supervisor of the town, chairman of the town fifteen years, member of the school board twenty-two years, vicepresident of Riceland creamery, director of the Farmers' Union and many minor offices. He is a member of the Danish Brother¬ hood and owns stock in the elevator at Hayward. Mr. Christen¬ son is a self-made man and from his hard work and ability to make friends he has made himself successful and has done this with no injury to those with whom he has had dealings.

L. 0. Braaten, a leading farmer who has been a resident of this county for many years, was born in Norway^ July 13, 1845, son of Lars and Guro (Larson) Braaten, the former of whom died before the subject of this sketch came to the United States. At the age of ten years he and his widowed mother came to America and located at St. Ansgar, Iowa. Here they resided until 1865 and at that time learning of the opportunities offered in Minne¬ sota, they moved to Hayward township and bought eighty acres of railroad land and here established their home. As the years passed they toiled and prospered, and to this farm added until he has 175 acres, which are now under a high state of cultivation. The trees which surround Mr. Braaten 's home today were planted by him and the large and attractive house was built by him as an evidence of his success and prosperity. For many years he followed diversified farming, keeping a fine herd of short-horn cattle for general dairy purposes and also raising many hogs to meet the increasing demand of the markets, pre¬ ferring Poland-China and Duroc- Jerseys. Eliza Nelson, born in Norway, became the wife of Mr. Braaten in January, 1868, and to them were born three children: Elsie, Lauritz and Thorvold. The two latter are deceased. In 1872 Eliza (Nelson) Braaten died and later in life Bertha Marie Bjornrud was married to Mr. Braaten, in January, 1874, and this union has resulted in six children: Emma M., Hannah G., Lizzie M., Lydia, Ludwig and Wilhelm. Emma is now Mrs. Louis Narverud, of Albert Lea, and Elsie is now Mrs. Gust Gilbert, of Rio, Wis. Mr. Braaten has the confidence of his townsmen and he has served in the township's interests in many ways, having acted as town treas¬ urer, director of the school board and in minor offices a number of years. He is a director of the Manchester Insurance Company and an originator of the local creamery. As the vice-president of the Farmers' State Bank, of Hayward, and one of its directors, his good judgment and common sense are valued highly by those associated with him. He contributes to the support of the Lutheran Church, of which he is a member, and in politics his ideas are Republican. Mr. Braaten has just purchased one of the finest residences in Hayward village, where he and his good wife and family are living and enjoying a well-deserved and hardearned rest.

W. H. Coon, who for the past thirty-five years has been a resident of Carlston township, was born in Trempeleau county, Illinois, January 27, 1842. When he was but seven months old his father passed away and his mother took him and his elder brother back to New York, where they remained a year and then returned to Illinois. Later the family moved to Washington county, Wisconsin, and when the call came for brave men to defend the Union, William, the subject of this biography, enlisted in Company I, Twenty-ninth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. He saw active service in many of the bloody battles of that war and was honorably discharged in 1865. He then returned to Wis¬ consin and married Sarah Jane Bogue, and they went to Nebraska, where he was engaged in farming and where they made their home for five years. In 1871 they moved back to Wisconsin, and after remaining there for a few years came to Minnesota in 1878 and settled in Carlston township. Mr. Coon owns a fine farm, consisting of 160 acres of fertile land, and he has built a com¬ fortable house and good barns, and believes in modern farming methods. He carries on general farming, together with dairying, and is also interested in stock raising. His wife entered into rest September 13, 1908, and is survived by her husband and four children: Willard, of North Dakota, Edna J., Milo and Frederich. Mr. Coon is an industrious and energetic man, who is interested in any enterprise which tends toward the betterment of his town¬ ship and the county in which he resides. He is a Republican in politics and served on the town and school boards many years. He is a member of the Universalist Church.

Harold Dahlen, the county superintendent of schools in Free¬ born county, is a native of Norway, born in that country April 8, 1871, son of Torger and Martha (Grinager) Dahlen, who came to the United States in 1872, locating in Freeborn county. The father farmed for a time, dying soon after he came here. The mother later married Henry King and lives in Albert Lea town¬ ship. The subject of this sketch gained his education in the com¬ mon schools of this county. Upon leaving school he taught for two years, and then took an advance course at the Mankato Normal School. Completing this course he taught in the rural schools and in Freeborn village for several years. In 1908 he was elected county superintendent of schools and lias served the county in this capacity ever since. Mr. Dahlen is a Republican and attends the English Lutheran Church. He makes his home in Albert Lea. Under his supervision are 133 schools, of which forty are special state aid schools, and three graded schools. He also has five semi-graded schools. Mr. Dahlen is a man eminently fitted for his position. Of a genial disposition, which wins the friendship of scholars, parents and teachers, he is nevertheless firm when necessary, and his tact and good judgment are impor¬ tant factors in the high standard maintained by Freeborn county schools. He is also a deep student, well versed in all the latest developments in pedagogical science.

R. E. Dewey, the genial postmaster of Hayward, is the son of J. Harriet (Eddy) Dewey, natives of Illinois. J. Dewey was a blacksmith by trade, which work he followed in Creston, Ill., until 1895. He then came to Hayward village, where he engaged in business for two years, and later returned to Illinois, locating in De Kalb, where he still resides. Mrs. Dewey died in 1878. R. E. Dewey was born September 6, 1877, in Malta, Ill. LYhen six months old his mother died and he went to the home of his grandparents at Creston, Ill. LYhen seven years old he went to Carleton, Neb., with his grandmother and graduated from the Carleton high school in 1896. One year after graduating he came to Hayward, where he taught school seven years. He later was employed in a general store in this village and still holds this position. In 1904 he was appointed postmaster and continues to serve the community in this capacity. Mr. Dewey is a Republican and that he is an active one is evidenced by his appointment to his present high office. He has served as constable the past four years. Mr. Dewey s enthusiasm and agreeable manner make him a good officer in the postmaster's position.

Fred Crisman, who for many years has occupied prominent offices in the township in which he makes his home, came to London from Indiana in 1881. He was born in Ohio, October 12, 1849, son of Benjamin and Elizabeth (Baughman) Crisman. In 18«)0 his father moved the family to Indiana, where he farmed for thirty-one years. Fred lived at home until twenty years of age after which he worked out for three years. He then rented some land and began farming and later purchased a farm in Pleasant township, Porter county, Indiana, which he sold in 1881 and came to Minnesota, locating in London township, this county, lie bought 120 acres in section 11 and eighty acres in section 10. When Mr. ( risman purchased this land it was a barren waste, covered with stubble. Lie broke and improved the land, set out the shade and ornamental trees which so beautify the place, and also planted a fine orchard of sixty-five trees, which now bear abundant crops of winter apples, this orchard being the pride of Mr. Crisman and his family. He followed general farming until ten years ago, when he rented most of his land and engaged in stock raising. He raises pure-bred Poland-China hogs and Nor¬ man horses and keeps for his own use only driving horses. On December 5, 1872, Loretta Davison, a daughter of R. P. Davison, became his wife and their marriage has resulted in the following children : Ida, who married H. S. Chandler ; Elizabeth, the wife of AY. J. Dunn, and Cecil, who is at home with her parents. Mr. Crisman votes with the Republican party and has been supervisor of London for a period of ten years. He has also been on the school board for a similar length of time and at present he is the president of the London State Bank and president of the Enterprise Co-operative Creamery of London, serving with effi¬ ciency in all offices to which he has been elected.

Charles H. Derby, a venerable resident of Freeborn village was born in the state of New York, October 7, 1832, son of John F. and Sarah A. (Haight) Derby. In 1854 he came west, remaining for a short time in La Crosse county, AVisconsin, and then return¬ ing east, where he spent the following three years in Virginia. He again came west in 1857 and was employed in St. Paul for a year, after which he went to AVisconsin, and in 1864 he came to the township of Freeborn. Here he purchased a farm in section 23 and engaged in diversified farming. He was married on March 24, 1854, to Harriet E. St. John, daughter of M. B. and Permelia St. John, and this union was blessed by the birth of three children : Clara, the wife of Charles Leonard ; Frank, who married Emma Kruger, and Margery, at home.' In 1901 Mr. Derby gave up his active work on the farm and moved into the village of Freeborn, employing help to care for his valuable farm of 240 acres. His years of hard work and self-denial have enabled him to enjoy many of the comforts and luxuries of life and his good sense and keen judgment have won him the esteem of his fellow' townsmen, who have elected him to various town offices.

E. E. Dunn, the genial cashier of the Myrtle Farmers' First State Bank, Avas born in Shell Rock township, April 29, 1882, son of Frank and Sarah (Eckert) Dunn. Frank Dunn is a native of Iowa and his wife a native of Minnesota. About 1873 they located on land which they bought in Shell Rock and there fol¬ lowed general farming. The mother died in 1897. The father continues with his farming, but has many other business interests. E. E. Dunn was educated in the country schools of Shell Rock and later attended the school at Nora Springs, Iowa. After com¬ pleting his studies he entered the employ of the First National Bank at Thompson, Iowa, as stenographer and bookkeeper. He remained there two years and then remained at home one year, after which he went to North Dakota, where he managed a lumber yard and subsequently became assistant cashier of the First State Bank of Eekman, in that state. He occupied this position one year and then went to Drake, N. D., as assistant cashier in the Farmers' & Merchants' State Bank, but wishing to have greater opportunities for his ability in banking he came to Myrtle and organized the bank of which he is now cashier. On December 2, 1908, lie married Florence M. Lang, a stepdaughter of G. P. Meadowcroft, of London township. In politics he is a Republican and has had several offices of local importance, among which are treasurer of Myrtle Creamery and town treasurer, as well as minor offices. He is a member of the Masonic order and also of the I. 0. 0. F. Mr. Dunn is building up an excellent sentiment toward the institution which he is directing. The electric burglar alarm, which has lately been installed, is one evidence of the desire of those who manage the affairs of the bank to meet the needs of the people, and it appears that this method is appealing to the public and increasing the business of the local bank.

Franz L. Davis, one of the many prosperous farmers who reside in London township, has one of the finest and most pro¬ ductive farms of the county, on which he has erected a substantial and commodious dwelling house, good barns and outbuildings, which are supplied with all the equipment of a model and modern farm home. He was born in Ohio, September 28, 1861, the son of Emery and Mary Ann Davis, who went to Iowa in 1862, where they remained about six months, after which, in the spring of 1863, in the month of March, they homesteaded 160 acres of land in section 30, township of London, Minnesota. They purchased a house in Iowa, which they moved eight miles to their homestead by means of twenty-one yoke of oxen and a span of horses. Franz L., the son, lived in this house until four years ago, when he erected his present house from lumber sawed from trees which his father had planted when he first took the farm. Mr. Davis owns 560 acres of land and carries on general farming, together with stock raising, making a specialty of Red Poll cattle and pure-bred Percheron horses. He also has sixty Poland-China hogs. Mr. Davis was married, June 15, 1888, to Esther E. Shaw, who was born at Worth, Iowa, and their home has been gladdened by the following children: Clyde, Loren Lee, Jason, Roland, who died at fourteen years of age, Leroy, Mabel Ann, Alice and Berton Franz, the baby, all living at home. Mr. Davis is a man of sterling character, faithful in all that he undertakes and highly esteemed throughout the community. He is a member of the Republican party, lias held the offices of school treasurer for many years, and served as town treasurer for about ten years. He is vice-presi-

Peter Clausen, successful florist of Albert Lea, has done much toward the beautification of this vicinity, and his plant occupies a conspicuous position on the beautiful shores of Fountain lake. He was born in Denmark, on the Island of Langeland, April 5, 1850, and was there reared, coming to America in 1869. After following farming a while in Rochester, this state, he went to Grand Meadow, and worked as a carpenter and cabinetmaker three years. In the winter of 1873 he followed a similar line of work in Austin, but in the following spring he returned to Grand Meadow and with a partner engaged in the furniture business a short time. Afterward he again took up his trade, but in the year 1876 started in the furniture business in Grand Meadow for himself. In the fall of 1878 he came to Albert Lea and embarked in the furniture business, following this in connection with the undertaking and funeral embalming profession until 1884. In that year he established his present business on a small scale. In 1897 his son, G. A. Clausen, was admitted as a partner. In addi¬ tion to conducting his extensive plant, Mr. Clausen has laid out Clausen's first and second additions to the city of Albert Lea, on the north shore of Fountain lake, both additions being excellent situations for residences, and already well built up. Mr. Clausen is a member of the Albert Lea Building & Loan Association. He is also a member of the city park board of Albert Lea. As a church worker he has attained considerable prominence. He has lectured, traveled and preached in the interests of the Danish Lutheran Church body, and has been a member of the board of trustees. He is also a deacon and president of the board of trustees of Trinity Danish Lutheran Church, Albert Lea. The subject of this sketch was married in April, 1873, at Grand Meadow, to Mary Christensen, who died in December, 1895, leav¬ ing three children. : G. A. is his father's partner, Emma is the wife of Walter Heegerd, of Albert Lea, and Clara is a public school teacher. In August, 1897, Mr. Clausen married Mary Jorgensen, and this union has resulted in seven children: Agnes, Gerhard, Arthur, Richard, Margaret, Harold and Esther.

G. Alfred Clausen, who is associated with his father, Peter Clausen, in the business of floriculture on the north shore of Fountain lake, is a typical son of Minnesota, possessing keen business judgment, combined with energy and industry. He was born in Grand Meadow, this state, February 22, 1874, son of Peter and Mary (Christiansen) Clausen, and with them came to Albert Lea in 1878. He has always been associated with his father and in 1897 was taken into the concern as a partner. Mr. Clausen has not cared to mingle in politics, but at the election of 1911 he consented to run for the office of alderman from the Third ward and was elected by a good majority. Being of a sociable nature he has allied himself with the Danish Brotherhood, the Knights of Pythias, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the United Commercial Travelers. The subject of this sketch was married, August 12, 1896, to Minnie D. Olson, who was born August 24, 1874. To this union have been born six children : Alice, Walter, Verna, Clayton, Harriet and Helen. Mr. Clausen is a great believer in outdoor life for himself and family, and has become a popular member of the Albert Lea Automobile Club and the Albert Lea Gun Club.

George H. Emmons, postmaster, merchant and leading citizen of Emmons, is a native of Wisconsin, born March 28, 1855, son of Henry G. and Christina (Larson) Emmons, the pioneers. As a boy he attended the public schools, and later received a commer¬ cial education. At the age of twenty-five he and a brother em¬ barked in the mercantile business, opening a store on section 32, Nunda township, in September, 1880. At that time there was considerable doubt as to whether the trading center of that locality was to be at the present site of Emmons or at Norman, Iowa. For a time the circumstances seemed to favor Norman, the railroad having located the station at that point, and Decem¬ ber 6, 1881, the store in section 32 was discontinued, the Emmons brothers; George H. and Lewis H., opening a similar establish¬ ment at Norman, Iowa. Later it appeared that the principal village was to be at the present site of Emmons, and consequently the business was moved back to the present village site about 1886. Later the partnership was dissolved. In 1898 George H. Emmons erected the large building which houses the mercantile establishment, the post office being in a connecting building, which he purchased later. The store which is now owned by the Em¬ mons Mercantile Company, of which George H. is one of the prin¬ cipal officers, is a modern one in every way, carries a large stock of goods and does a constantly increasing business, its success being due to the shrewd buying and honest selling for which Mr. Emmons is noted. In 1890 Mr. Emmons succeeded in having a postoffice established, the old state line postoffice, which formerly served this part of the county, having been moved to Norman, Iowa, in November, 1879. Since 1890, with the exception of a very few years, Mr. Emmons has served as postmaster. A Re¬ publican in politics, he has been honored with many offices, in¬ cluding those of president of the village and member of the village council. He is also a popular member of the Sons of Norway. The subject of this sketch is one of the men who have made the village of Emmons possible, and his hard work, coupled with his loyal support of home enterprises, has done much toward its growth. He has always encouraged the location of new busi¬ ness houses in Emmons, and is an earnest worker for the better¬ ment of the public schools, laboring in all ways to perfect the standing and advance the prosperity of the community. G-eorge H. Emmons was married in 1878 to Esther Robinson, and this union has been blessed with nine children: Henrietta, Evelena, Alma, Grace, Carl, Arthur, Victoria, Myrtle and Clara. The family faith is that of the Norwegian Lutheran Church.

David Colvin, a territorial pioneer,, was born in Hamlin, Oswego county, New York, April 29, 1831. His parents were Heman and Mary (Tiff) Colvin, natives of Rutland, Vt., who had come to New York state in the early days and moved to Ohio in 1835. Here they made their home until 1847, when they de¬ cided to go to Chicago, where they later passed away, the wife and mother dying in 1854 and the father the following year. David, the subject of this biography, acquired his education in the public schools of Ohio and Illinois, and after leaving his studies his first position in the business world was with a cream¬ ery company, where he was employed for two years. He then worked as a jockey for a short time, after which he learned the meat cutters' trade, which he followed for some time. In 1858, in company with his wife, Mr. Colvin came to Minnesota and set¬ tled in Pickerel Lake township, where from the month of July until November he lived in the body of a wagon. He then pur¬ chased a corn crib, which he fitted up as well as he could to serve as a house, and in this he lived for nearly a year, after which he moved to Carlston, where he bought a farm, comprising 160 acres of land. On his farm Mr. Colvin erected a house of logs, in which he resided until the fall of 1862. When the call for men to fight for the preservation of the Union came Mr. Colvin responded and enlisted in December, 1862, in Company H, First Minnesota Mounted Rangers, and served until the following December, 1863. He was then discharged at Fort Snelling on account of an injury received from a horse, and was sent to St. Louis to act as shipping clerk for the Government. Here for fifteen months he was em¬ ployed, after which he returned to his home in Carlston township and again resumed his occupation of farming. He soon disposed of 160 acres of his land and purchased 120 acres of school land in the same township? This land he broke and cultivated and later added to it another 120 acres. He built a frame house and the necessary outbuildings and for many years carried on his general farming, aided by his estimable wife. In 1885 they sold the home farm and moved into the city of Albert Lea, where they purchased their present home, which is located at 340 West Williams street, and here they are enjoying a well-earned retired life amid many comforts which their years of toil and industry have made possible. For a period of time after coming to Albert Lea Mr. Colvin dealt in horses and kept a boarding and feed stable, which he eventually disposed of. He is a staunch sup¬ porter of the principles advanced by the Republican party and he attends divine worship at the Methodist church. He is a member of the Robson Post, No. 5, G. A. R., and charter member of the AY. R. C., No. 93, in which organization his wife is color bearer. Mr. Colvin was married March 7, 1853, at Willow Springs, Ill., to Hulda S. Russell, who was born at Albany, N. H., August 16, 1835. Her parents were Ira and Betsy B. (Dearing) Russell, natives of New Hampshire, who moved to Chicago in 1852, where her mother passed away October 1 of that same year. Her father died at T\ alnut Hill, Minn., October 22, 1889. It is interesting to note among the many privations and hardships which this worthy couple endured in their pioneer days in this state that at one time they subsisted for three weeks and four days on coarse bran, which was prepared by Mrs. Colvin in as palatable a manner as possible, and which left a lifelong flavor with Mr. Colvin.

Elmore E. Eggleston, a respected citizen of Geneva township, was born in Ohio, May 2, 1835, son of Eliab and Esther (Chap¬ man) Eggleston. The subject of this sketch acquired his educa¬ tion in the public schools of Galena, Ill., and came to Minnesota with his parents in 1856. He located in the township where he resides at the present time and purchased Government land, which he broke, developed and made productive. For several years, with his father, he carried on general farming, and later he bought 160 acres in section 8. He has always followed general and diversified farming and his life has been one of industry and endurance. He affiliates with the Republican party and has held various offices in the township, having served as constable and in other offices. He is one of the stockholders in the Geneva Cream¬ ery. October 22, 1861, Mr. Eggelston married Catherine Gross, who was born in New York, February 20, 1839, and came to Minnesota in 1858. To them have been born two children: Bur¬ dette A., of GeneA^a, and Eliab J., of Elmhurst, Cal. The family attend the Methodist church, and contribute to its support.

Eliab Eggelston was one of the first settlers in this county, having come here in August, 1856, and locating in Geneva town¬ ship. He was born in Connecticut and married Esther Chapman, of New York. Some time later they moved to Ohio and from there to Evansville, Ind., where they remained for some time, after which they went to Galena, Ill., where Mr. Eggelston was employed for fourteen years in the lead mines. In 1856 Mr. Eggelston brought his family to Minnesota, where they endured all the privations incident to the life of the early settlers in this

Alfred Emery

Alfred Emery was born in Vermont, May 11, 1849 the son of Daniel and. Snsan Emery, both now deceased. AVhen a very young boy he came to Minnesota with his widowed mother and settled in section 21, town of Nnnda. Here the family lived five years, until the Indian outrages in the North and West, when they returned to Wisconsin in company with many of their Minnesota neighbors. For four years they lived in Waukesha and Dane counties, V isconsin, but in 1866 they once more came to their old home in Nunda township. Here the subject of this sketch grew to manhood, attending the schools of the locality and living the life of the pioneer boy. He later took care of his grandmother and farmed the eighty-acre homestead. He here made many improvements, cleared land, built dwellings, barns, sheds and began what is now one of the excellent farms of the locality. On December 31, 1878, he married Edith Wilcox, and to them v ere born six children, four of whom are now deceased, as follows : Susan Hattie, born October 1, 1879 ; Bertha, January 14, 1882; Edrick A., February 17, 1885; Alfred Leroy, July 7, 1886. Daniel Oliver and Henry Alfred are still living in Nunda. Mrs. Emery died December 16, 1895. In the early part of 1911 Mr. Emery gave up active work on his farm and has now taken up his residence in Emmons, where he owns property. Mr. Emery is a Republican in politics and has been town chairman eight years, clerk of school district 43 over thirty years and assessor many years. He was president of the Union creamery several years, and is now one of the directors of the Emmons lumber yards and vice-president of the Emmons National Bank. The subject of this sketch is highly respected in his community as a man who, in spite of innumerable difficulties, has made him¬ self felt as a friend and neighbor as well as a conservative official in political and business circles.

Henry Eberhardt, a preacher of the German Methodist Epis¬ copal faith, was born in Germany and came to America with his parents at the age of ten years. At the age of nineteen he entered the ministry and preached three years in a German Methodist church in V isconsin. He then married Barbara Kopp, who, like her husband, was brought to Washington county, Wisconsin, as a child. The young couple moved to Des Moines county, Iowa, where Rev. Eberhardt preached for five years. In 1865 he re¬ turned to Wisconsin, but in 1867, his health having failed him, he came to Minnesota and settled in section 23, Pickerel Lake township. After a time his health improved, and he was called to the pastorate at Hokah, Minn., where he ministered to the German Methodists three years. His health again failing, he returned to Freeborn county, and died August 27, 1875, at the age of thirtyseven, leaving five children: Katie is the wife of John W. Kaemmer, of Todd county, Minnesota; Edward H. lives in Pickerel Lake township; Elizabeth married George Scott, of Albert Lea; Amelia S. is the wife of Henry J. Hoffert, of St: Paul Park, presi¬ dent of the St. Paul Park College; and Alfred V., who died at eleven years.

William Siebel was a native of Germany and there married Julia Meyer. They came to America and lived six years, then went back to the old country. In 1874 they again came to America and engaged in farming in Faribault county. William Siebel now lives in Wells, this state, and his wife died September 30, 1901. In their family were nine children: Henry, deceased; Mary, wife of Fred Miller, of Wells; Martha, wife of Henry Peters, of Mansfield; Augusta, wife of Charles Lischefski, of FarL bault county; Selma, wife of Charles Schneider; Lydia, wife of Edward H. Eberhardt; William, deceased; Ellen and Albert.

Edward H. Eberhardt, a successful farmer of Pickerel Lake township, was born in Alamakee county, Iowa, July 7, 1864, son of Rev. Henry and Barbara (Kopp) Eberhardt. He received his education in the public schools and engaged in farming with his mother. In 1887 he purchased 120 acres of the home farm and engaged in farming for himself. He now owns 240 acres of good land, which he has improved and developed. One of the marks of progress on the place is the fine modern home erected in 1907. Mr. Eberhardt is an independent voter and has served for some time as clerk of school district No. 102. He is an active worker in the German Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Eberhardt was married November 27, 1888, to Lydia Siebel, born in Germany, October 17, 1865, daughter of William and Julia (Meyer) Siebel. Five children have blessed this union, the three living being: Alfred, William and Mildred.

William Freeman, a highly esteemed resident of Glenville, was born in Sutton, Northamptonshire, England, August 1, 1832, son of John Freeman, the pioneer. In 1853 the subject of this sketch came to America and settled in Rutland county, Vermont, where he remained until March, 1856, at which time he went to Illinois. For one month he worked at farming in Illinois, after which he drove an ox team to Iowa and from there he came to Minnesota. He arrived in this county May 15, 1856, and two days later located in Freeman township, where he pre-empted 160 acres in section 15. He broke the land and prepared it for crops, but that same summer returned to Illinois, where he remained until the following year, and in September, 1857, again returned to Freeborn county and settled on his farm. He added 160 acres to his possessions, making 320 acres, all in the township of Free- man. He erected a log house, in which for many years he resided, and in this house Freeman township was organized and Mr. Free¬ man elected as the first town clerk. The house is yet standing. In 1908 Mr. Freeman moved into the village of Glenville, where he lives a retired life. He was one of the first settlers in Free¬ man township and for his family it was named. When a hoy hut thirteen years of age he was cast on his own resources, and for some time was employed by Henry Follett, a brother of Sir John Follett. Mr. Freeman belongs to all the Masonic bodies repre¬ sented in Albert Lea, and also to the Osman Temple, Mystic Shriners, at St. Paul. Being seventy-eight years old at the time of taking the thirty-second degree, he is the oldest man in the Northwest to be thus distinguished. In June, 1910, he received the thirty-third degree.

Henry G. Emmons, now deceased, was one of the earliest pio¬ neers, and his name will ever be held in honored remembrance. He was born in Norway, October 16, 1828, and came to America in 1850, locating in Rock county, Wisconsin. There he engaged in farming and railroading. In 1854 he married Christina Larson and two years later they came to Minnesota, driving the distance with a yoke of oxen. Arriving in Nunda township they took up a claim in section 32, afterward proving up and acquiring the homestead at the government price of $1.25 an acre. For the first two months they lived in their wagon. Then a cabin was completed, which did service until 1861, when a better structure was built. On this original homestead the village of Emmons was platted, that hamlet being started and fostered largely through the efforts of the Emmons family. Mr. Emmons prospered with the years and acquired vast land holdings. He held various school and township offices, was justice of peace for fourteen years, post¬ master of the old State Line postoffice for fifteen years, member of the board of county commissioners for six years, chairman of that body four years and an influential member of the lower house of the Minnesota legislature in 1877-1878. In the Emmons family were eight children. Henry G. Emmons passed away October 2, 1909, and his wife in February, 1910.

Jens Erickson, a successful farmer of Riceland township, owns 360 acres in sections 5, 6, 7, and 8 and here conducts diversified farming on a portion of his property, leasing the greater part of it. He is the son of Eric and Ingerborg (Jenson) Anderson, who were born and reared in Norway, where the subject of this sketch was born, January 10, 1839. As a boy he attended the schools of his native land and later in life learned the moulder's trade, at which he worked until 1862. He then came to America, first locating in Dane county, where he lived for seventeen years, and was married to Carrie Sallasan in 1882. To them one child has been born, Emma Elsena. Mr. Erickson has the confidence and respect of his townspeople and has served on the town board for some time, also held the offices of president and vice-president of the Riceland creamery, of which he is a stockholder and one of the organizers. He worships at the Lutheran church, favors the views of the Democratic party, and is a fine example of a selfmade man and substantial citizen.

John Frydenlund, a successful and well liked farmer residing in Hayward township, was born in Norway March 20, 1860. A\ hen he was eighteen years old he came to America with his mother, who was then a widow, and they settled in Hayward where John, the son, worked out on a farm for sixteen years. In 1900 he moved to the farm which he now owns and was married to Nora Aim, daughter of Mat and Julia Aim, natives of Norway. To Mr. and Mrs. Frydenlund have been born seven children: Marion, Alice, Frank, Vernon, May, Clara and Bertha, who are all at home. Mr. Frydenlund has 160 acres of land in his farm and engages in general and dairy farming. He keeps a dairy herd of good graded stock and disposes of the milk and cream to the Hayward creamery of which he is a stockholder. He raises hogs for market and realizes a good profit from this occupation. All the improvements on his farm were made by him and he has ever been a hard working and energetic man, who has made his success by constant application to his work. When he landed in America he was in debt for his passage to the amount of $60.00, and now he is one of the prosperous farmers in the township. He has been supervisor of the town in the past and is an independent voter.

A. Frydenlund, an energetic and progressive farmer of Hay¬ ward township, came to this country from Norway in 1867 and settled in Dane county, "Wisconsin, where he was engaged in farming for several years. He received his early education in Norway and worked for his parents, Andrew and Martha (Quand) Frydenlund, before seeking his fortune in this country. In 1870 he pushed farther west to Freeborn county and bought 160 acres of good farm land in section 17 Hayward township. Here he has a well cared for farm, on which he has erected some fine build¬ ings and made extensive improvements. He follows diversified farming, and prefers the Shorthorn cattle for his dairy business. Mr. Frydenlund was married to Cecelia Peterson, of Norwegian paientage in 1869, and to this union six children have been bom: Albert, Oscar, John, Martha, Petia and Annie Sophia. In tlm affairs of his community, Mr. Frydenlund has always taken a pi eminent part. He has served as treasurer of town board for the past sixteen years and has been member of the school board foi many years. As one of the directors on the creamery board he has proven his efficiency and at the present time he is presi¬ dent of the Hayward Creamery Association. As a stockholder in the Farmers' State Bank of Hayward, also of the Citizens' Bank of Albert Lea, combined with his numerous other business inter¬ ests he has but little time to devote to politics, but has held many offices in the Lutheran church, of which he is a member. The prosperity which he now enjoys is the result of his own untiring efforts, and he prides himself on the fact that he is "self made."

Robert Freeman, retired farmer now living in Glenville, was born in Northampton, England, March 18, 1840, son of John Freeman, the pioneer, from whose family the township of Free¬ man is named. Robert attended the English public schools and at fourteen years of age came to America and located near Castleton, Rutland county, Vermont. Three years later, in 1857, he moved to Illinois, and lived a year in Kaneville, Kane county. In 1858 he came to Minnesota and settled in Freeman township, where he pre-empted his present farm in sections 11 and 14. In 1862 he returned to Illinois, and worked hard until he saved $500.00. He was injured, however, while setting fence posts, by getting a splinter in his eye. For this affliction he was under the care of J. P. "Walker in Chicago, for four months, using up all the $500.00 which he had saved. In 1874 he married Louisa Nelson, who was born in Sweden, Nov. 16, 1847, and came to America with her parents at six years of age. This union was blessed with three children : Dr. J. P. Freeman, Glenville ; Mrs. Edna B. Mariner, of Glenville, and Mrs. Alice D. Flaskrud, of Armstrong, Minn. In 1875, Mr. and Mrs. Freeman returned from Illinois, and located on the farm Mr. Freeman had previously pre-empted in Freeman township, this county. On this farm they toiled and labored together, breaking and improving the land, erecting good buildings, and increasing their holdings until they owned 240 acres of excellent land. In 1907 they retired from farming life, and moved to Glenville, where they purchased a home, in which they are now spending their retiring days in peace and rest. On Aug. 2, 1899, the large and commodious barn on the Freeman farm, was struck by lightning, and destroyed, the loss being $1,500, in addition to 150 tons of hay and eleven head of cattle. Mr. Freeman is a Democrat in politics, and has served on the town and school boards. He also helped to organize the Freeman creamery, of which he was president for several years and in which he still holds stock.

James A, Robson, now deceased, was a prominent figure in the early life of Freeborn county, and his untimely decease is still mourned by the early settlers. He was born in New York state, May 23, 1826, son of English parents. In 1857, with J. F. Jones, he came to Freeborn county and laid out the townsite of Geneva.

In 1860 he was elected second sheriff of the county, and served until 1862. The trial and execution of Henry Kreigler took place during his term of office, and Kreigler was for a time confined in the Webber House, in Albert Lea, of which Mr. Robson became owner in 1860. In 1862, Mr. Robson raised Co. E, 10th Minn. Yol. Inf. and Sept. 8, 1862, was mustered in as captain of that company. In November of that year he was killed by an acci¬ dental discharge of a gun, this being Freeborn county's first sacrifice to the Civil War. In honor of his life and character, the old soldiers have named their G. A. R. post at Albert Lea the James A. Robson Post. Mr. Robson was married in early life to Martha Partridge, daughter of Harvey and Laura (Maxson) Partridge. To this union four children were born: Elsie M., John T., James Harvey and George, the latter of whom died when a small boy.

Harvey Partridge was born in Connecticut, and lived suc¬ cessively in New lrork state and Wisconsin, before coming to Geneva village in 1864. His wife, whose maiden name was Laura Maxson died at Geneva, after which Mr. Partridge went to live with his son in Albert Lea where he died.