Freeborn County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1911 (part 7 of 11)

Henry Drommerhausen, of Pickerel Lake township, has been prominent in the public affairs of his part of the county. He was town treasurer for some years, later became chairman of the town board, and was serving his second term in that capacity when elected to the state legislature of 1897-99. He has also been an official of school district 57 for a number of years. Henry Drommerhausen was born in Weismar, Germany, July 2, 1847, son of George and Margaret (Ludwig) Drommerhausen, also natives of that country, who brought him to Pickerel Lake town¬ ship in the late fifties. Here he received his early education, and remained on the home farm until twenty-seven years of age, at which time he purchased eighty acres in the south half of the southeast quarter of section 27, Pickerel Lake township. This land he broke and cleared, erected a' good home and suitable barns, and prospered with the years until he now owns 418 acres in sections 27, 26, 35 and 34. In addition to his farm holdings, he is a stockholder in the Clover Valley Creamery. He was married February 23, 1871, to Carolina Weiser, a native of Germany. This union has been blessed with eight children, two of whom are living : Henry George, born March 26, 1872, now a farmer in section 34, Pickerel Lake township, and Albert, born February 23, 1890. The family religion is that of the Lutheran church.

D. R. Young was born in Connecticut, went to Ohio when six¬ teen years of age, and from there moved to Dodge county, Wis¬ consin. His wife, Elmira Marvin, was born in Vermont, and in early life moved to Wisconsin, where they were married. In 1856 they came to Freeborn county and settled in section 11, Shell Rock township, where they preempted 160 acres. The first sum¬ mer was spent in a hay shanty. In the fall they erected a log cabin covered with sod, and the following summer put on a shingle roof. Later a frame house was built, and this subse¬ quently was replaced with a modern dwelling erected in 1893. V ith the years they prospered, and acquired an extra 200 acres in addition to their original claim. In 1897 they moved to Northwood, Iowa, where Mrs. Young died in 1901 and Mr. Young in 1905.

C. T. Young, chairman of Shell Rock township, was born in the town in which he still resides, January 27, 1858, son of D. R. and Elmira (Marvin) Young. He received his education in the public schools of Glenville, taught school winters and farmed summers until twenty-three years of age, at which time he went to North Dakota, where he prospected for a year. Then he returned to Shell Rock, purchased eighty acres of railroad land, and started general farming. He now owns 181 acres in sections 3 and 10, Shell Rock township, and also a farm in Douglass county Wisconsin. Mr. Young's home is a model farmhouse in every respect. It is surrounded with trees and shrubs which he has planted himself, and the walks are of cement, giving the place an excellent appearance. The subject of this sketch was married in 1893 to Minnie Wilcox, of New York parentage, who was edu¬ cated in the Normal school at Albany, N. Y., and before her marriage taught school in Albert Lea and Glenville. This union has been blessed with two children: Helen and Clifford. Mr. Young is a Republican in politics and has served in many offices of public and private trust and honor, having been a member of the town board for the past eighteen years, and chairman of the town for the past nine years, as well as a member of the Re¬ publican town central committee. Fraternally he affiliates with the B. A. Y. and the A. F. & A. M. at Albert Lea. Mr. Young is a man of integrity and is held in high regard by the people of his community.

C. J. Dudley, who for the past three years has served the city of Albert Lea in the capacity of city clerk, was born in Albert Lea township, January 19, 1863, son of Joseph D. and Mary (Eggelston) Dudley, who came to Minnesota and homesteaded a claim near Albert Lea in 1856, the former dying in 1883 and the latter in 1911. C. J., after completing his education, followed teaching for many years. He also farmed and engaged in the grocery business. In 1907 he was elected to serve as city clerk and this office he holds at the present time. He was united in the bonds of matrimony with Julia H. Waters, a daughter of Lafayette and Elizabeth (Hunter) Waters, and six children bless this marriage.

A. P. Hanson was born in Norway, May 6, 1849, and lived there until 1861, when he came to the United States with his parents and settled in Bancroft township, this county, in July, 1861. His father took up a claim in Hayward township. The subject of this sketch attended the country schools of the home district until twenty years of age. When he was twenty-one he bought forty acres of land in Hayward and worked this land seven years. He later, in company with his brother, bought a store in Hayward which they conducted seven years. In 1887 he sold liis interest in the store and came to Albert Lea, where he has since resided. In 1894 he built a substantial building on Broad¬ way, which has since been known as The Hanson House. He now resides in his very attractive home on Lake Boulevard and has turned the management of the Hanson Flouse, which now consists of rooming business only, over to his son, while he, since 1902, has lived a somewhat retired life. In May, 1870, Mr. Hanson married Oliane Hanson and to them have been born seven children.

Loren Blackmer was born in Lorain county, Ohio, March 15, 1839, son of Franklin and Minerva (Wilkins) Blackmer, with whom he came to Minnesota. He enlisted in Company F, Fourth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and he saw active service. After the war Mr. Blackmer returned to Freeborn county and engaged in agricultural industries until 1904, when he moved into Albert Lea city. He has been prominently identified with the public offices of both town and township, having served as supervisor, town clerk and town treasurer. Mr. Blackmer married Sarah E. Hicks December 27, 1864. She was a native of New York, born June 10, 1840. To Mr. and Mrs. Blackmer four children have been born. Mrs. Blackmer died December 14, 1902.

Nels Ackland, an early settler of Manchester township, was born in Norway in 1829. In 1848 he came to America and secured employment as a sailor on Lake Erie. Three years later he came westward to Danville, where he worked as a painter for fifteen years. He came to Minnesota in 1862 and located in Manchester, where he engaged in farming until the time of his death, which occurred on November 1, 1903. His wife, Regina (Dayland) Nelson, who died June 10, 1902, was also a native of the same country and bore him seven children. Of these two, Mattie and Byron, are deceased. Addie married E. O. Fossum ; Charles and Louis still carry on farming operations in Manchester ; Andrew is a carpenter and tinner, residing in Albert Lea, and Nettie lives in Albert Lea.

Charles Ackland, a prosperous farmer of Manchester tOAvnsliip, was born on the farm where he still resides, December 12, 1868, son of Nels and Regina (Dayland) Ackland. He attended school in the district near his home and grew to manhood on the farm. He has devoted his entire life to agricultural pursuits. In the Avelfare of his community he has ever taken an active interest, is a stockholder in the local creamery and has served on the town board, also on the school board. The Lutheran Church counts him an active and valued member and he has served that body as trustee for many years. In politics he is a Republican. He was married to Augusta Thompson, of Hartland, March 4, 1899.

his district and helped his father on the farm. He now owns and cultivates 120 acres and has a comfortable home and well cared for surroundings. January 1, 1901, Clara Nelson, daughter of Emil Nelson, became his wife and two children have been born to them, one of whom, Reuben, is living. Orlan is deceased. In political views Mr. Ackland votes the Republican ticket. He is stockholder in the Manchester Creamery and has served on its board of directors.

Andrew Anderson and Georgiana Olson, his wife, the pioneers, were natives of Norway. In 1853 they left the land of their birth and settled in Milwaukee, Wis., where the father was employed in a sawmill four years. Coming to this county in 1857 they bought land in section 33, Hartland, and in section 4, Man¬ chester, and here followed agriculture till 1862. The call for men to go to the aid of the Union became urgent and he responded by enlisting in Company K, Tenth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. In this command he served through the war and was honorably discharged in 1865, at which time he returned home and once more took up farming. The severe life and many hardships endured while in the army had weakened him and on November 5, 1866, he died, leaving a family of four children, Ole, who 'died from injuries received in the war ; Hans now deceased ; Andrew, now deceased, and Bernhart N., present state senator. The wife and mother died January 24, 1905, at the age of eighty-six.

Bernhart N. Anderson, political leader, senator and agricul¬ turist, was born in Manchester township, this county, May 2, 1861, son of Andrew and Georgiana (Olson) Anderson. ' He received his education in the common schools and continued to work the home farm until 1898, when he was elected county treasurer and m which office he served eight years consecutively. In 1906 he returned to the farm and has since followed diversified farming. On June 28, 1885, he married Emma Stensrud, of Freeborn town¬ ship, and to them have been born twelve children, of whom eleven are living. . Andreas died in infancy ; Julia Amanda, Olive Maria, Cora Cecelia, Alfred B., Isabel Henrietta, Georgina, Beatrice Ingeborg, Inga Caroline, Alpha Turena, Georgia Charlotte and Hermena Andrea are all at home. Mr. Anderson is member and trustee of the Lutheran Church. In politics he is Republican and has been elected to many high offices in addition to that of county treasurer which has been mentioned, among which are school and town offices and state senator, in which latter office he has served since 1907. He was formerly secretary of the Manchester Insur¬ ance Company, and president of Farmers' Mutual Company, and has held many minor offices of trust and honor. Though the owner of 240 acres of land and an active business man of diverse interests he has not neglected the social opportunities, being a member of M. W. A., A. 0. U. W. and the Sons of Norway. Mr. Anderson's life, his responsible positions, repeated election, his fine home and the high esteem in which he is held by the best element of the community all speak for the success of a man who has taken advantage of the opportunities to make himself a power for good works both for himself and fr his state. He is a self-made man who has largely assisted in making a state.

T. K. Langrud, a hardworking farmer of Manchester, is a na¬ tive of Norway, where he was born in Sigdahl, March 8, 1877, son of Knut and Goro (Thronson) Langrud. His father being a farmer and blacksmith, T. K. early in life secured a working knowledge of both these lines of work. He received his education in Norway, where he lived till nineteen years of age, came to the United States in 1896 and located in Manchester, this county, where he worked out four years. He was later employed as a store clerk for one year. Since that time he has followed farm¬ ing, on his well improved 100 acres, where he has a fine residence. In December, 1899, he married Albertina Nelson, of Manchester, and to them have been born two children, Stella Gustina and Carl Johan. Mr. Langrud is a member of the Lutheran church. He votes with the Republican party, but has never sought office in this or any other party organization.

Arthur E. Rodsater, a well known farmer residing in Man¬ chester, was born February 20, 1879, son of Iver and Ingeborg (Anderson) Rodsater. His boyhood days were spent in attending school and in doing the work which the average farm boy is required by his father to do, preparing him for the multitudinous duties of a farmer's life and thus laying the foundation for his future success. When he reached his majority he rented a farm and there put into practice the knowledge acquired in the years spent assisting his father. After living on this property for five years he bought it and has followed diversified farming here most successfully. May 2, 1900, he married Inga Stensrud. Four chil¬ dren brightened their home : Ivan, Ingeborg, Constance and Artice. Mr. Rodsater is one of the organizers of the local tele¬ phone company and held the position as its secretary for a period of five years. He also acted as township assessor for five years, an office which he most ably filled, and while his numerous interests prevent his taking an active part in politics, he votes with the Republican party and is a respected member of the Lutheran Synod church.

Rollof Thykeson, a well known resident of Manchester town¬ ship and a substantial representative of the financial integrity of that town, was born in Norway, February 27, 1837. He received his education in the schools of his native land and came to America with his two brothers in 1852. For a year and a half they were employed by farmers in Dane county, Wisconsin, after which they went to Winneshiek county, Iowa. Later they returned to Wis¬ consin and were employed in the woods near Menomonee. In 1856 Mr. Thykeson came to Manchester township and is the oldest living settler residing here. When the war between the North and South broke out, he enlisted in Company K, Fifteenth Wis. Yol. Inf., and was mustered in at Madison, Wis., February 11, 1862. He w*s in the battle of Island Number 10, Union bit y, Perryville, Lancaster and Murfreesboro, was taken sick in the fall of 1863 and was transfered to the Veteran's reserve. Fie received his honorable discharge in 1865, and then followed general and dairy forming on his farm of 300 acres until 1907, when he retired and now makes his home in the village of Manchester. Ina Ellingson became his wife in 1866 and this marriage has been blessed by the birth of fourteen children, of whom eleven are living : Jose¬ phine, the wife of Carl Gunderson, of Bancroft township ; William, engaged in the grocery business in -Albert Lea 5 John, a merchant m MancheMer; Sophia, now Mrs. Julius Mattson, of Freeborn township; llara, married to Ole Johnson, of Windom ; Edwin, hardware merchant in Hartland ; Manda, wife of Peter Jordahl, a buttermaker in Hartland; Oscar, a farmer in Manchester; Ruth and Lulu, at home. Mr. Thykeson is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church and a man to whom increasing years have brought increasing honors, as lias been proven by his being elected to the office of supervisor of the town for many years and his services as president of the Farmers' Mutual Insurance Company. He affiliates with the Republican party and is in every respect one of the leading citizens of Manchester.

G. Haakenson, a popular merchant of Manchester, is a native of Norway, born December 15, 1859, son of Haaken and Mary Torgerson. Haaken Torgerson was a farmer and came to America m 1884, located in Manchester, where he lived a retired life until his death m 1899, the mother having died in 1896. The subject of this biography attended school in Norway and after leaving school was employed in a nickel factory. In 1881 he came to America and located in this county in Manchester township, where he worked on a farm three years. He then entered a partnership with K. H. Slette in a grain and stock business, wkich they con¬ ducted for five years. This business he then sold and established a general store, under the firm name of Haakenson Brothers, in Manchester. This business he conducted five years, after which time the brother sold an interest in the business to L. 0. Hartz. The firm of Haakenson & Hartz continued in business five years. The Thykeson Brothers general store was then purchased. Later John A. Thykeson entered the firm, and these three, L. O. Hartz, ness in general merchandise under the firm name of G. Haakenson & Co., carrying a full line of the goods usually found in such an establishment. In 1887 G. Haakenson married Antonette Hartz, who is a native of Norway and a daughter of E. Hartz, of Man¬ chester. To this union have been born seven children: Cora Maria, married to Carl Aasen, of Manchester ; Hilda Emelia, married to Oscar Hallum, of Hartland; Maren, George, Luella, Valborg and Lionel are all at home. Mr. Haakens<*a is a member and strong worker for the Lutheran church. In politics he is a Republican, but has never aspired to public office.

Erik Aasen, a venerable and well known resident of Man¬ chester township, was born in Norway, in December, 1829. He was educated in the schools of his native land, and engaged in farming there until reaching the age of twenty-nine years. In 1856 he came to America and located in Clinton county, Iowa, where he spent one year, after which he came to Manchester township and purchased a farm on which he has since engaged in a general farming business. Many were the h^dships and privations endured by the early settlers in those days, but their struggles with adverse circumstances have long since been re¬ warded by prosperity and plenty. Mr. Aasen worked with un¬ tiring energy on his property and his efforts are responsible for the well-improved and comfortable home and farm which he now owns. Agatha Mork of Northwood, la., became his wife and to them have been born six children: Carl, a resident of Man¬ chester; John, who is married and now owns the home place; Helena, the wife of Theo. Opsahl, a clergyman; Severina and Ida, who are both married, and Olga. The Norwegian Lutheran church is attended by Mr. Aasen and he has long advocated the views of the Republican party.

Hans Christopherson is a native of Norway and it was there that he learned and later followed his trade of carpenter. .In 1850 he came to the United States together with a large party of his counrymen and first settled in Columbia county, Wisconsin. He made his home there for eight years, working his farm in the summer and each winter going to the lumber woods for winter work. In 1858 he came to this county and located in Manchester township, where he bought land. He has since resided on this land and from time to time has bought adjoining tracts until now he has 240 acres. His wife was formerly Mary Ammundson. To this union were born three children: Caroline, now deceased; Netta, who married Peter Marstad, a clothier of Sioux Falls, and Christ, is on the home farm. Christ, married Thorena Mattson, in October, 1892, and to them one child, Agnes, was born. In 1897 Thorena (Mattson) Christopherson died. The subject of this biog¬ raphy is a member of the Lutheran church and is at present treas-

Hans Christopherson

K. H. Slette, a prosperous grain dealer in Manchester, is the son of Halvor and Boel Slette, who came to America in 1852 from Norway. They located in Wisconsin and carried on farming there for some time, after which they moved to Manchester township. It was here that their son was born, Nov. 7, 1862. They acquired some land and engaged in general farming, which industry was continued by the mother after the death of the father, which occurred in 1867. Later in life she became the wife of Sever Thorson and still resides on the old home place at the age of seventyfour. Her son, K. H. Slette, followed farming the earlier part of his life, an occupation in which he is interested at the present time. He married Pernilla Sanderson, daughter of John Sander¬ son of Bancroft township, in 1884, and they are the parents of Mrs. Hartz of Manchester; Inga, stenographer at Albert Lea; Ester, a student at Luther Academy, and Agnes, at home. Mr. Slette has never aspired to the public offices in his community, as his many business interests occupy all his time. He is a stock¬ holder in the Manchester State Bank, also in the Citizens' Bank of Albert Lea, and in connection with the elevator business he buys and ships livestock. He affiliates with the Republican party, at¬ tends the Lutheran church and has the respect of his fellow-men.

Frederick McCall, who has served the government as post¬ master at Twin Lakes since that office was established, is said to be the oldest postmaster of continuous service in Minnesota. He was appoined to this position June 15, 1865, the office then being known as Nunda, and though now at the advanced age of eightyfive, Mr. McCall still efficiently attends to the duties in this of¬ fice. He was born in Belfast, Ireland, Nov. 24, 1826, son of David and Sophia McCall, who were of Scotch Covenanter and English 1 writ an ancestry. When the subject of this sketch was five years of age, he with his parents embarked in the sailing vessel "Mar¬ garet Jane" for America. The voyage, which consumed eighteen weeks, was a most perilous one, there being mutiny on board, and the passengers were rescued by a British ship and eventually reached their destination, landing at Quebec, Canada. Mr. Mc¬ Call and his parents located in Montreal, and from there they went to Kingston and later to Moore, where they were engaged in general farming. Frederick made friends with the, Indians, hunted with them and learned their language and they in return for his kindness made a grant to his father of Stag Island, in the St. Clair river, where the family then made their home for two years, after which they moved to Port Sarnia. The father there opened a general store and tin shop and he later became justice of the peace, queen's commissioner and postmaster. Frederick, the subject of this biography, attended the common school and also took up the study of Latin, learned the tinner and coppersmith trade and later learned general surveying. He worked in the employ of a party of surveyors and assisted to make the first survey of St. Marie channel and also of the northeast shores of Lake Huron. In 1849 he engaged with a partner in the manufac¬ ture of gloves and whips in Port Sarnia, but on account of ill health he later disposed of his interests and started for Minnesota. He arrived at St. Ansgar, la., Sept. 10, 1856, and from there went to Shell Rock, where he stopped with George Gardner. He soon \VTent to inspect the country near Twin Lakes, where he finally lo¬ cated and erected a log cabin. Some time later Mr. McCall went to Canada and brought his family to Twin Lakes, arriving at this place June 11, 1857. For different periods of time he was em¬ ployed at various occupations, making axe helds, ox bows, work¬ ing in tin shops at Albert Lea, Austin and Preston. On Dec. 4, 1857, he was elected to the office of justice of the peace, which he lias served for a greater part of the time since. He has also been town clerk, chairman of the town board, first secretary of the county agricultural society, delegate for many successive years to the Republican county conventions, a successful opponent against Nunda voting railroad bonds, and against the drainage of Bear Lake. In 1880 he wrote and published a pamphlet entitled "Thoughts on Theological and Scientific Theories," and he has written many poems, which have been read at different public gatherings throughout the county. He was one of the organizers of the first Sunday school in Nunda, and has ever been an active member of the Methodist church. Mr. McCall married Ann "Wallis, May 6, 1849, and of the children who have been born to them the following are now living: Frederick A., a farmer of Spring Island; Margaret Ann, a merchant, of Twin Lakes; John David and Christopher Stuart, farmers of Twin Lakes, and George Ar¬ thur, engineer, of Albert Lea. Mr. McCall has an enviable record for being a public spirited, useful and model citizen, and he has ever had the respect and affection of those with whom he has been associated.

Ole Peterson (Slette) and Ingeborg Rugland, his wife, were born in Norway. They were married in Rock County, Wisconsin, the former coming to America in 1850, while the latter preceded him by a year. They came to Manchester township, Freeborn county, Minnesota, by ox team in 1856 and were one of the first six families who located there. They settled on the unbroken but fertile prairies and pursued farming as a life vocation. Ole Peterson (Slette), when the flames of Civil War broke out and threatened the life of the nation, enlisted in Company K, Fif¬ teenth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry as first lieutenant, and served one year, after which he was taken sick and received his honorable discharge from military duty. He died at his farm home in Manchester township in June, 1891. His wife had died the preceding November. In 1883 he served in the lower house of the Minnesota legislature. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Ole Peterson (Slette). They were: Mary (deceased), mar¬ ried to Isaac Hendrickson, of Bisbe, N. D. ; Peter 0., Gilbert, now a farmer at Park River, N. D. ; Helga (deceased), married to Adolph Mikkelson; Knut 0., banker at Culbertson, Mont., and Anna, married to Frank Sanborn, of Northfield. Ole Peterson (Slette) was, during his lifetime, a member of the Lutheran Church, a Republican politically, and the first president of the Manchester Insurance Company.

P. 0. Slette, one of the substantial farmers of Manchester township, Freeborn county, was born in Rock county, Wisconsin, November 4, 1855, son of Ole Peterson (Slette) and Ingeborg (Rugland) Slette, his wife, natives of Norway, who, in 1856, brought him to Freeborn county, where he received a district school education. Since his boyhood days he has followed farm¬ ing as a pursuit. He was married to Mariet Bakke and their union has been blessed with three children. They are Ingeborg Othelia, who is now engaged in teaching; Oscar and Henry, at home. Mr. Slette is a Lutheran in his religious affiliations, and m politics he is a Republican. He lives on the farm which his father preempted from the United States government in 1856. The 285 broad and beautiful acres are all under cultivation or in pasturage and a fine farm residence and spacious barns make

F. H. Pierce was born in Floyd county, Iowa, on November 1, 1869, son of C. W. and Susan Jane (Gordon) Pierce. His father was a native of New York state and his mother of Pennsylvania. C. W. Pierce was a blacksmith by trade and left New York to go to Indiana, where he followed his trade, later going to Illinois, and finally to Iowa, where he worked at his trade till the time of his death, in 1907. The mother died when the subject of this biography was but two years of age, and he was taken by W. H. H. Gordon, in whose home he grew up. After completing his school work he took up the trade of carpenter and wagonmaker, and some years later he learned the blacksmith trade. In 1890 he established a blacksmith and wagon shop at Gordonsville, and also about this time he established the general store of F. H. Pierce, which he conducted ten years in Gordonsville. He sold out his general store and has since given his attention to the manufacture of wagons, sleighs, and harrows, for which there has been a steady market. In 1893 he was married to Mary L.

Flatt, a daughter of J. R. Flatt, who is a native of England, but who came to Madison, AYis., and later to Shellrock township, this county, where he lived until his death. To Mr. and Mrs. Pierce two children have been born, Pearl Alice, who is fourteen years of age, and Charles H., aged ten. Mr: Pierce is a member of the M. E. Church. He is a Republican and has been a member of the school board for twelve years ; he is now treasurer, and has served on the town board also. In 1908 he built a fine residence just outside the village limits of Gordonsville. Given plenty of room on his fifty-acre plot of land this home, which is modern in every respect, becomes one of the pleasing landmarks of the locality. He is a stockholder and director in the Farmers' State Bank of Gordonsville, and stockholder in the Gordonsville Cream¬ ery, and secretary of the Gordonsville Building Association.

Andrew 0. Korstad, deceased, was born in Norway on March 20. 1832, where he grew to manhood, attended school and was married. In 1862, the subject of this sketch left the land of his birth and crossed the ocean to America. After his arrival in this country, he proceeded west to Minnesota, where he acquired land in Spring Grove, Houston county, where he resided and carried on farming for three years, after which he came to this county and settled in Freeman township, in section 8. Here he took a claim of 200 acres, which he developed by cultivation, and he erected a house and all the necessary buildings, and for the remainder of his life carried on general diversified farming. He won the respect of the residents of the township by his indus¬ trious habits and his common sense, and he served as a member of the school board for many years. He was a loyal supporter of the principles endorsed by the Democratic party, but was not a seeker of public office. Mr. Korstad was a stockholder in the Twin Lakes and Knatvold Creameries, and he owed his pros¬ perity to his own efforts. In 1861. Inger Ristey became his wife ; she was also a native of Norway, having been born there on August 16, 1839. To Mr. and Mrs. Korstad a family of ten chil¬ dren were born, of whom six grew to man and womanhood : Ole, of Freeman township ; Caroline, who resides on the old home farm; Sina, who married Nicholas P. Nelson, of Albert Lea; Julia, who died in 1902, the wife of Thomas Hoveson; Marie and Ida, who are dressmakers and live at home. The wife and mother passed away on February 10, 1890, and Mr. Korstad 's death occurred May 24, 1907. The family attend the Lutheran Church, having long been associated with this organization.

Louis Fogel, one of the prosperous farmers of Pickerel Lake township, is a native of Germany and was born in Waldeck, August 19, 1862. After getting his education and working a few years, he came to the United States when twenty years of age.

Me. And Mes. Andeew O. Koestad

He arrived in Freeborn county in March, 1882, and here worked out several years. During this time he, with native frugality, managed to keep most of the money he earned, and with this, in 1888, he purchased the land where he has since made his home. He here has erected a fine roomy and comfortable resi¬ dence which is well shaded by the trees planted by the owner. The many barns, sheds and out buildings give ample space for housing the crops and equipment of the farm. His 160-acre farm is one of the best cultivated farms in the locality. On April 8 1888, he married Fredericka Wittmer, also a native of Waldeck| Germany. Mr. Fogel is a member of the Lutheran Church. He votes with the Republican party, and is at present chairman of the board of supervisors, which position he has held eight consecu¬ tive years. He was assessor four years, town treasurer five years. 1 or eighteen years he was secretary of the Armstrong creamery. He is director of the State Bank in Albert Lea.

August Linaeman, who has passed his three score years and ten, was born in Germany, March 1, 1838, and in 1872 he came to the United States and settled in Illinois where he remained four years. He then came to Freeborn county and bought land in I lckerel Lake township where he lived twenty-five years. He is now living on a ninety-acre tract in section 18, Nunda, where he has lived for ten years, having started his children with a sub¬ stantial inheritance of land. On April 1, 1861, he married Tillia Schwemly and to them have been born seven children, Ernest I rank, Minnie, Willie, Eric, Bert and Mary. Mr. Lindeman is a Lutheran church member. In politics he is a Republican.

0. K. Bagaasen, an industrious farmer who for many years has resided m the township of Bancroft, is the son of K. 0. and lena (Larson) Bagaasen. The mother came to the United States from Norway in 1850 with her parents and they located in AV lsconsln> and the father left the land of his birth and emigrated to this country five years later. When the war between the North and South began, the father enlisted and served his adopted country until the end of the struggle; he was honorably dis¬ charged and returned to his home and later was married. To. tins marriage four children were born ; Martina, the wife of Ed Blagen, of Roseau county ; Bertha, now Mrs. Anton Ingbritsen - Dora, the wife of Mr. J ohnson, of the Albert Lea Creamery ; o'. K., the eldest, who is the subject of this biography and was born February 19, 1868. He owns 160 acres of land in Bancroft town¬ ship and carries on general farming, and he is also interested to some extent in dairying; he keeps about twentv-flve cows for this purpose and disposes of their milk to the Albert Lea Cream¬ ery. He lives in the comfortable house which his father erected, but he has built new and commodious barns and a silo, and in many respects made his farm one of the well improved and val¬ uable farms in the township. By his wife, Hanna, his home has been blessed by two children, Obie and Grant, the latter of whom is deceased. Mr. Bagaasen votes with the Republican party and has been elected to serve in various offices in his township, among which are his service as assessor for a term of four years, in which capacity he gave general satisfaction to the residents of the town. He is a member of the United Norwegian Lutheran church of Albert Lea, and a contributor to its support.

F. L. Reynolds, a progressive liveryman of Albert Lea, was born in Freeborn county in 1870 on the 25tli of April, the son of Rastus and Adelia (Button) Reynolds, natives of New York state. Upon coming to Freeborn county, they followed farming for a number of years and spent the balance of their lives in Alden, Freeborn county, living retired since 1898. They had a family of nine children, seven of whom are still living. The subject of this sketch spent his early life on the farm and was educated in the schools of the county. He came to Albert Lea in 1889 and found work running a dray for one year and then Avent to work for Hayden & Co., where he remained for eight years as clerk. For the next two years he conducted a grocery business of his own. At this time Mr. Reynolds went into the livery business on Washington Street, where he stayed for five years, and in 1905 removed to his present quarters. The firm is known as Reynolds & Luce and it carries on a general livery, hack and baggage line. In 1892, Mr. Reynolds was married to Florence Gripman, daughter of Christ Gripman, an old settler of the county, who is still living on Newton Street, Albert Lea, and is interested in the wood, fuel and ice business. Mr. Reynolds is a member of the Maccabeeand the I. 0. 0. F. lodges. He lives at 406 College Street. Mr. Reynolds is a very substantial and public spirited citizen of Albert Lea.

Joseph H. Barlow was born in Bancroft township June 14, 1859, son of Andrew and Annie Barlow, who came to this country from Germany. He grew to manhood on his father's farm and went to the district school near his home. He followed agricul¬ tural pursuits until 1900, at which time he went to Albert Lea and was employed by the J. I. Case Thresher Machine Company. For two years he traveled for this concern, after which he was assistant superintendent of the Albert Lea waterworks. He later resigned from this position and served on the police force in that city for more than two years. He returned to his old home on the farm after his resignation as a police officer and is now carry¬ ing on diversified farming. He owns eighty acres of land, having disposed of forty some time ago, and keeps his land under careful cultivation, and is interested in stock raising and dairying.

Mary A. Campin became his wife August 14, 1892, and to them four children have been born: Annie, Frank, Ethel and Mar¬ garet. Mr. Barlow's energy and marked ability have been recog¬ nized by his townsmen to the extent that they have elected him to serve as chairman of the town board of Bancroft for the past four years, also as town assessor, constable and road overseer. He has been clerk of school district 20 for nine years and also school treasurer. He is president of the Manchester Telephone Company and a director of the Farmers' Mutual Shipping Union. For twenty-two seasons, Mr. Barlow operated a threshing machine and he has ever been an energetic and hardworking man. He is a member of the Foresters lodge in Albert Lea, and he is the master of several languages, among which are Swedish, Nor¬ wegian, German and English. Mr. Barlow lost his devoted and estimable wife January 10, 1909, and his home is cared for by his daughters.

M. F . Horning was born in Pickerel Lake township June 21, 1868, and is one of the substantial and respected residents of Alden township. His parents were William J. and Esther (John¬ ston) Horning, the former of whom was a native of Herkimer county, New York, and came west with his people when he was twenty years old. The family located in Wisconsin, but later moved to Albert Lea, where the father is living now at four score and two years of age. M. F., the subject of this sketch, was educated in the common schools of Pickerel Lake and Albert Lea, and having acquired a good education, he taught school in the county for five years. He then decided to become a farmer and, securing some land in section 17, he engaged in this occupa¬ tion, of which he has made a success. Mary Belle Hall, daughter of George and Elizabeth (Stockwell) Hall, married Mr. Horning, and this union has been blessed by the birth of three children : Leah, who is now teaching school in district 40; Esther P. and Lyle M. Mr. Horning is the present clerk of Alden township, and has held this office for the past six years ; he has also been clerk of the school board for seven years and town assessor for years, thus proving the confidence and regard in which he is held by the residents of Alden.

Lenny Peterson, a successful farmer of Albert Lea township, was born August 20, 1875, son of Hans C. and Martha (Anstrum), who emigrated from Norway to America in the pioneer days and settled on a farm which adjoins the one now occupied by their son, the subject of this sketch, and here they spent the remainder of their lives; the husband died in 1894 and his widow four years later. In early boyhood, Mr. Peterson attended the district school and was busy during his vacation days helping his father with the farm work, which prepared him for the responsibilities of a farmer's life. He now has 175 acres of land, of which 125 are kept under cultivation, and he carries on a general and dairy farming business. In addition to his dairy herd of graded cattle, he raises many Poland-China hogs, for which he finds ready market. Gunda Moen, daughter of Gilbert Moen, an old settler of Freeman township, became the wife of Mr. Peterson in 1896. He has held various public offices in his township and served on the school board. In politics he is a Republican of the progressive type. His fine house and com¬ modious barns, also his well kept farm, are the reward of years of diligence and honest effort.

N. C. Nelson, who conducts a good painting business, was born in Albert Lea on May 9, 1875, son of S. J. and Mary, both natives of Denmark. They came to America in the year 1874, locating in Albert Lea, where he worked for three years, then bought a farm in Albert Lea township and did general farming Ymtil about 1906. At this time he sold his farm to his son and bought twenty acres one mile from Albert Lea, where he now makes his home. The mother died in 1889. The subject of this sketch attended the common schools of Albert Lea township and took one term at the Luther Academy of Albert Lea. Leaving school, he worked at the painter's trade in Albert Lea which work he followed for a number of years. In 1907, he entered partnership with J. J. Sullivan, where he continued one year. After selling out his interest he established a paint and wall paper business. He makes a specialty of automobile and carriage paint¬ ing, having bought out the two concerns who did this class of work. He also does sign painting. Mr. Nelson was married to Emma Peterson in 1897. She was the daughter of C. P. Peterson, formerly of Omaha, and now of Albert Lea. Mr. and Mrs. Nel¬ son's home has been blessed with three children, who are all at home - Lucille, Thelma and Hester. Mr. Nelson makes a specialty of raising fancy chickens - Partridge Wyandottes and Silver Lace A\ yandottes. Mr. Nelson, in politics, is a Democrat. He attends the Christian Science church and is a member of the Danish Brotherhood of Owls. He is a progressive citizen.

M. L. Olson, grocer of Albert Lea, was born in Faribault county on March 1, 1869, the son of Lars and Susan (Lagred), natives of Norway. They came to America in 1856 and located in A\ isconsin, where they farmed for three years, removing at the end of this time to Faribault county, Minnesota, where the father farmed until 1900. During this year he retired and moved to A\ ells, Minn., where he died in 1904. The mother still lives in W ells. rI he subject of this sketch gained his education in the district schools of Faribault county and in Wells, and upon leaving school worked in a grocery store for three and one-half years. He then came to Albert Lea, where he worked until 1890. At this time he went into the general store of Nelson Bros., where he stayed until 1900. Mr. Olson entered the grocery, bakery and crockery business with Emil Nelson during this year, where he continued for three years, at the end of which period of time he bought out Mr. Nelson and has continued this busi¬ ness up to the present time. He conducts a very up-to-date grocery at 324 South Broad street. He also conducts a restau¬ rant. Mr. Olson was married in 1895 to Eva Larson, daughter of John Larson, living south of Albert Lea. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Olson, Edlain and Marvel. The subject, in his political life, is a Republican, and in his church life attends the Swedish Baptist Church. He is a faithful member of the Maccabees Lodge. Mr. Olson never aspired to any public office. His pleasant home is situated at 509 Water street.

Gilbert Thompson was born in Norway November 18, 1844. He came to America with his parents in 1868 and located in New York, later moving to Chicago, where the subject of this biography was employed in a mill. From Chicago, Mr. Thompson went to Green Bay, Mis., and eventually came to Minnesota and settled in Grand Meadow. Here for several years he followed his trade as a shoemaker. Deciding to engage in farming, he moved to Newry township and rented a farm for one year, at the end of which time he purchased eighty acres in section 25. Gradually he has added to this farm until, at the present time, he owns 200 acres of well improved and fertile land. He has erected a large and comfortable house and follows general and dairy farming. He married Thora Lee on January 16, 1876, and they are the parents of six children: Sarah, the wife of A. Halgson; Thea, married William Cornelius ; Andrew, Anna, Ephriam and George are at home. Mr. Thompson votes with the Republican party and attends the Lutheran Church and contributes to its support. He is an industrious and progressive man, respected by the residents of the community in which he has lived for so many years.

John L. Munson, city weighmaster for Albert Lea, was born in Sweden on December 20, 1856, the son of Lars and Engar. They were natives of Sweden, coming to America in 1876 and locating in Forest City, Iowa, where the father followed his trade as con¬ tractor until his death, in 1886. The mother died in 1885. The subject of this sketch attended the schools of Forest City for three months, and this period covered all the schooling he ever received. After leaving school, he followed railroading as section boss for a while, and for ten years was bridge constructor for the Milwaukee road. He came to Albert Lea in 1871, remaining for one year. At this time Mr. Munson went to Granite Fall for two years, and then went back to Forest City, where he remained until 1880. Coming back to Albert Lea, he followed carpentry until 1902, when he became city weighmaster, which position he has filled for the past eight years. Fie conducts a machine ship in connection with his other work. Mr. Munson was married in 1882 to Emma Axen, a native of Sweden, and to them have been born four children : Axel, killed in Milwaukee yards in Albert Lea in 1902; Steve, a mail clerk on the Great Northern, living in Duluth ; Edith and Edna, both at home. Mr. Munson is an independent voter, and attends the Swedish Baptist Church. He is a member of the Scandinavian Relief of Red Wing - Equit¬ able Fraternal Union of Neenah, Wis., and secretary of same - and also a member of the Woodmen of the World. Mr. Munson owns his splendid home at 514 Fourth street.

Sever L. Davidson, who is a native of Norway, was born Octo¬ ber 17, 1858, and is the son of Lars and Guri, who brought their son to the United States, settling in Iowa in 1864, where they homesteaded 160 acres, and where they lived many years. The father died in 1897 and the mother in 1898. The subject of this sketch was educated in the common schools of Iowa and Min¬ nesota and grew to manhood, doing the work of the average farm boy of this locality in those years. As his parents grew older he took charge of the home place, and at last bought it of them, lie now owns 160 acres in section 35, town of Mansfield, and also owns sixty acres in Nunda. He here does dairy and general farming and raises a number of horses. In 1889 he married Emma Thompson, who died in 1899, and to them were born five children, four of whom are living and are at home. Lars died in infancy; Martha, Gertie, Andrew, and David. He married Mary, a sister of his first wife, and to them have been born four children : Emma, Bernard, Sarah and Lilian. Mr. Davidson is a Lutheran Church member. He votes with the Republican party, and has been school clerk in district 86 for eighteen years, assessor three years, supervisor three years, town treasurer three years and he is at present director in Emmons National Bank and also in the Farmers' Lumber Company of Emmons.

J. E. Snyder, the genial traveling salesman for Farwell, Ozmun, Kirk & Co., hardware firm of St. Paul, was born at LaPort, Ind., March 10, 1865, the son of Michael Snyder. Michael Snyder was a native of New York state, and in young manhood, went to Indiana, and in 1873 came west to Worthington, Nobles county, Minnesota. John E., the subject of this sketch received his education in the Nobles county common schools, and later in the higli school of Fulda. Having completed his school education he entered the insurance business. After some years he left the insurance business and was employed by the Peavey Grain Com¬ pany, at Avoca, in which line he continued for seven years. Since that time he lias been with his present company in the hardware business, and with them, covers the territory of southern Minne¬ sota and northern Iowa. In January, 1906, he married Mabel Scott, of Madison, S. D. He is a member of the U. T. C., and being socially inclined, is a member of the K. of P. Lodge. Mr. Snyder is a progressive in politics, but has never taken an active part in political affairs.

Thomas B. English, a prosperous and highly respected farmer of Bancroft township, was born in Rock county, Wisconsin, March 23, 1856, son of William and Frances M. (Boulden) English. In 1858 he was brought to Minnesota by his parents, who settled in Bancroft township. Here the subject of this sketch grew to manhood and acquired his education and worked at farming with his father. Three years previous to the death of his father, Mr. English bought 160 acres of the home farm, and assumed the responsibility of its management. He cultivated the land and made many improvements on the place, erecting new and com¬ modious barns and outbuildings, and building a silo. Since pur¬ chasing this property he has also bought 116% acres located in sections 15 and 22. He farms all his land believing in modern methods, and he makes a specialty of raising pure bred Durham and Shorthorn cattle, Poland-China hogs, and good horses for both work and driving purposes. Mr. English has been elected to serve his town as supervisor of the town board, school director of district 23, and for twenty years he has been a member of the Bancroft Creamery board, and also a director in this organiza¬ tion. He is a stockholder in the Clarks Grove Hardware, Stove and Implement Company, and in every respect he is a self-made man who has the esteem of his fellow citizens. He married Lottie Ostrander, who was born in Nebraska,, their marriage being solemnized December 24, 1887. To them five children have been born : Ash B., Wallace L., Mabel R., Nora M., and an infant who died before being named. Mr. English belongs to the Republican party, whose principles he heartily endorses. The family attend the Presbyterian Church, of which they are members in good standing.

William English was born in England and he crossed the ocean and landed in Canada when but a small boy. There he grewT to manhood and was educated, and later married Frances M. Boulden, who was also of English birth and parentage. They came to the States at an early day and settled in New York, where Mr. Fnglish worked in a rolling mill as an iron smelter for eight years, then followed his trade as stone mason until 1858, when he, with his wife and family, came west and located in Minnesota. They came to Freeborn county from Wisconsin by means of an ox team, and they settled on a claim of 160 acres in sections

15 and 22, Bancroft township. Mr. English did not prove up on this land, but purchased 160 acres from William Clark in section 14. He broke this land and cultivated it and erected the neces¬ sary buildings, and for many years engaged in general farming. He passed away on May 28, 1896, and his widow still resides on the old homestead with her son, Thomas. To Mr. and Mrs. English seven children were born, of whom, William Henry, is deceased; Mary is the widow of Henry Thompson, of Albert Lea; Thomas B., is a prosperous farmer of Bancroft; Robert died when but thirteen months of age ; Robert the second resides in Polk county, Minnesota ; Leighty lives in Glenville, and Annie is the wife of J. E. Jenson, of Bancroft.

Walter C. Jackman, who for several years has served the vil¬ lage of Freeborn as director of the school board, wTas born in the township of Carlston August 27, 1865, son of Nathan and Sarah W. (Bumpus) Jackman, natives of New Hampshire. His boyhood years were spent as are the early years of the average farm boy, by attending the district school near his home and working for his father on the farm. When he had reached man¬ hood he learned to drill wells, and for twenty years was engaged in this occupation. He then moved into the village of Freeborn and now conducts a farm implement business, in which he is making a success. He married Florence E. Ingalls, daughter of John and Sarah (Emerson) Ingalls, and one child, Beryl, has blessed their home. Mr. Jackman is a progressive and industrious man, who is well thought of in the community in which he makes him home.

Nathan Jackman, deceased, was among the pioneer residents of Carlston, coming to this township in 1859. He was born in New Flampshire in 1829, and when he was fifteen years of age he went out to work by the month. For ten years he was employed as a carpenter and also farmer. Later he left his native state and came west. He located first in Wisconsin remain¬ ing there a number of years, after which he came to Carlston, making the trip with a team of horses and bringing with him two yoke of oxen. He erected a plank shanty on the claim which he had preempted, and here, with his family, he lived for thir¬ teen years. As he toiled and prospered he was able to build a good comfortable house and barns, but these were destroyed by fire in 1874. Mr. Jackman married Sarah Bumpus in 1854, and to them were born four children : Roxanna, Josephine, Ella and Walter. In 1898 he retired from the arduous toil of the farm and moved into Freeborn village, and here he was summoned by the Grim Reaper January 16, 1910.

to America when he was twenty-four years old. He landed at Boston, and from there came west to Racine, Wis., and here secured employment for several years. He then went to Indiana, where he engaged in farming for about two years, after which he returned to the land of his birth, remained there several months and again sailed for America, bringing with him his mother. They settled in Carlston, where he rented a farm in section 13, on which they lived for five years. Mr. Jacobson then homesteaded the farm on which is his home at the present time, and has here resided for the past twenty years. His aged mother entered into rest in 1902, and is survived by Hans C., Hans G., living in Indianapolis, and Mrs. Lizzie Jacobsen, residing in Freeborn township.

George E. Jones, an estimable and well-known farmer of Free¬ born township, was born in Carlston, Minn., June 7, 1864, son of Josiah and Mary (Williams) Jones, early settlers in the county. They were natives of New York state, who came to Wisconsin in 1855 where they remained for one year, after which they moved to Carlston and engaged in general farming. In 1903 the father moved into Alden, where he makes his home at the present time, at the advanced age of 82 years. George E., the subject of this biography, spent his boyhood as the ordinary farmer boy spends his early years, in going to school and assisting his father with the farm work. After leaving school he began farming on his own responsibility and has been most successful in this undertaking, and now owns the farm on which he resides. He married May Banker, daughter of S. M. and Nettie Banker, and to this mar¬ riage have been born five children: George W., Burr M., Jennie M., Lloyd E., and Marion A. Mr. Jones's abilities have been recognized by his fellow citizens to the extent that he has been elected chairman of the board of supervisors of his town, an office which he held many years, and has been retained as a mem¬ ber of the school board for a period of time.

W. H. Hall, proprietor of the Ideal Restaurant in Albert Lea, was born at St. Clair, Minn., on January 31, 1880, the son of Thomas and May Hall, natives of Michigan and St. Clair respect¬ ively. The father was a dealer in real estate. He came to Minnesota in 1878 and located in St. Clair, where he resided for seventeen years. At the end of this period, he removed to Alexandria, Minn., remaining there several years. For four years following his residence in Alexandria, he lived in Salem, Ore., and in the fall of 1910, returned to Albert Lea, where he lives in retirement. The subject of this sketch attended the graded schools of St. Clair and High School of Mankato. When he left school he worked on the railroad until 1906, and then farmed for two years. The two following years Mr. Hall spent in Montana, Washington and

Oregon. In January, 1910, he came to Albert Lea and established the Ideal Restaurant, located on West Main Street. Mr. Hall continued at this place until his business grew to such an extent that larger quarters were necessary. He then moved to 325 South Broadway, where he now conducts a first class short order res¬ taurant and lunch counter cafe. In 1908, Stella Rasdall, of St. Clair, became the wife of Mr. Hall. Their one child, Leah May, died. Mr. Hall is a Republican in politics and a member of the K. of P. and Owls.

Samuel Landis, deceased, was for many years one of the prom¬ inent citizens of Hayward township. He was born in Medina county, Ohio, on May 4, 1838, son of Jacob and Susan Landis, natives of Pennsylvania, with whom he went to Williams county, where he attended school and grew to manhood. In 1857, the subject of this biography came to Minnesota and settled in Fari¬ bault county, where he remained until the Indian outbreak in 1862, then returning to his old home in Ohio. He there enlisted in Company K, 109 Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry in which he fought in many battles and skirmishes, and served until the close of the Civil War, after which he was honorably discharged and returned to Ohio. In 1867, Mr. Landis came again to Minne¬ sota and this time he located in Freeborn county, purchased a farm of 160 acres in Hayward township and began farming. He made many improvements on his property, erected a comfortable house, good barns and outbuildings, and carried on general diver¬ sified farming until 1898. At this time, Mr. Landis sold his farm and moved to Albert Lea, where he purchased a home at 311 East Third Street, and lived in retirement for the remainder of his life, his death occurring May 15, 1906. Mr. Landis was a staunch Republican and held many public offices, among which were treasurer of the school board, also clerk and director of school in Hayward. He was a member of the G. A. R., Robson Post No. 5, of Albert Lea, and vitally interested in all movements toward the betterment of his town and county. On December 21, 1865, he was united in marriage with Eva Smith, who was a daughter of Valentine M. and Fannie (Phillips) Smith, natives of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Landis was born at New Philadelphia on November 19, 1842, where she was educated and made her home until her marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Landis were the parents of three children, of whom Nancy M. is the wife of Edwin Brown, of Montana, and they have four children, Hazel, Mary, Eva and Edwin; Eva married Eugene Noyes, of Michigan; to them have been born three children, Bernice, Grace and Gladys ; Nettie married A\ illiam McLellan and lives in Montana. The family were brought up as members of the United Brethren church, of which Mr. Landis was a liberal supporter.

Peter Hansen, manager of the Coleman Lumber Co., of Albert Lea, was born in Denmark February 27, 1848, son of H. J. and Kiistine (Jacobson) Johansen. He was educated in the schools of his native land and came to America in 1869, locating in this county. For several years after his arrival here Mr. Hansen worked at farming, after which he was employed by a railroad. In 1873 he went to Blue Earth county, where he worked in a sawmill for two years, after which he was employed by . Hyde Cargill Co., in an elevator in Alden, where he remained for six years. In 1879, Mr. Hansen went to Carlston township, where he purchased a farm of eighty acres, which he has cultivated and made more valuable each year. He erected necessary buildings, de\ eloped his land and added to it from time to time until at present the farm comprises 200 acres. In 1885 he accepted a posi¬ tion with C. L. Coleman in the lumber business, and after the death of the latter, Mr. Hansen remained with the firm in Alden until 1909, when they moved him to Albert Lea to take charge of their business there, where he is still retained in the capacity of manager. Mr. Hansen votes with the Republican party, and he has held many responsible offices in the township where he has lived, serving in Alden as village recorder for thirteen years, and also as member of the school board for a period of six years. December 16, 1879, Mr. Hansen married Ida M. Nelson, and to them have been born six children, of whom, Alma teaches music m the Pacific Luther College at Parkland, Washington ; Tillie is the wife of J. A. Jensen, of Minneapolis; Mabel teaches school in Washington; Victor is cashier at Mankato, Minn., for the C., M. & St. P. R. R., and Edward is cashier for the C. M. & St. P. R. R. m Washington state; Theodore is a student at the University of Minnesota. The family is affiliated with the Lutheran church.

H. J. Johansen, deceased, was born in Denmark. In 1881 he came to America with his wife and family, and upon their arrival in this country they proceeded west to Carlston township, Minne¬ sota, Here, for many years, they made their home with their son, Peter. The mother, Kristine Jacobson Johansen, passed away in 1894, and in 1906 Mr. Johansen went to Chicago and resided with his daughter, Mrs. Peter Matsen, until the time of his death, which occurred in 1910.

Alfred Berglund was born December 17, 1871, on the old homestead where he resides at the present time, son of John Berglund. When a boy, the subject of this biography attended the country school near his home and after completing his studies he took up farming with his father. In 1899, he purchased the old homestead, which comprised 160 acres, located in section 27, and to this he later added thirty-five acres, in section 21 and also eighty acres, in section 28, thus making a total of 275 acres. He carries on general diversified farming and dairying, and makes a specialty of raising pure bred Holstein cattle. He is one of the scientific and successful farmers in the township of Albert Lea. Politically, Mr. Berglund affiliates with those who advance independent views, and he has never sought public office. On June 14, 1898, Sadie C. Olund became his wife. She is a daughter of John and Gertie E. (Nelson) Olund, who reside at Cambridge, Isanti county, Minnesota, and she was born in Sweden on July 6, 1873, and came to America in 1880. To Mr. and Mrs. Berglund five children have been born, John R., who died in infancy; Olive E., born March 4, 1902; Pearl M., born November 9, 1904; Mary D., born January 1, 1907, and Mildred S., who was born March 25, 1911. The family attend the Baptist church and are liberal con¬ tributors to its support.

Ralph 0. Olson, the popular banker of Alden, is a son of M. and Anna Olson, early settlers of Faribault county. His father is still engaged in a stock and grain business at Wells, Minn., and having lived here forty-five years, he has many interesting stories which he relates of the early days when he came to Minne¬ sota, and white settlers were so few. Ralph, his son, was born in 1873, and early showed his preference for the banking business, and while attending school he worked at intervals in the bank of his home town. He graduated from high school in 1892 and then gave his entire attention to banking, working hard to perfect himself in its numerous duties. Two years later he came to Alden where he bought out the interest in a private bank and organized a State Bank in its place. This continued as a State Bank until 1903, when it was reorganized as the First National Bank of Alden, which has a capital of $30,000 and a surplus of $15,000. Genevieve Larson became his wife in 1895, and two children bless their home; Ralph, Jr., and Barbara. Aside from the posi¬ tion of cashier, which he occupies in the Alden bank, he has inter¬ ests in the following banks : State Bank of Kiester, State Bank of Walters, also State Bank of Conger.

Mr. Olson is a conscientious and hardworking man, who makes every moment count in advancing, not alone his own interests, but the interests of those with whom he has business dealings and the many who come to him for advice and counsel. He is a member of the M. W. A. and M. B. A.

F. W. Rafoth is one of the few people who were born on Feb¬ ruary 29, 1880. Ilis parents, Herman and Frederika, came from Germany to America in 1870, and settled in Dubuque, Iowa, where they lived three or four years, then came to Freeborn township, this county. The elder Rafoth here rented and later bought land and followed farming the remainder of his life. After his death in 1899, the mother continued to live on the home place. Fred W. was born on the home farm in 1880, and here grew to manhood, attending the local school and assisting his father on the farm. After his father's death he took charge of the farm and has since conducted it successfully. He married Matie Hansen, and to them has been born one son, Dewzel G., who attends school. !\Ir. Rafoth has a well kept farm of 160 acres and a comfortable dwelling as well as barns, sheds, and other out¬ buildings, which are necessary to the best methods of handling stock and farm products. He has given much attention to breed¬ ing Shorthorn cattle, but of late has given attention to the Hol¬ stein breed, which he at present favors.

M. T. Russ, who cultivates fertile acres in Freeborn township, was born in Franklin county, New York, August 8, 1861. He is the son of Thomas and Melissa (Miller) Russ. His father was born in Vermont. The subject of this sketch came west and first located in Faribault county, Minnesota, in 1878. He worked there a year, then went to Alden township, Freeborn county, where he was in the employ of M. J. Howe for over ten years. In July, 1895, Mr. Russ located on 160 acres of land in Freeborn township, which he had previously purchased, and this has ever since been his home. He married Bertha Rucker, a native of Ger¬ many. They have three children, Belva M., Mary J., and Sid¬ ney T.

Thomas Severson, who lives on section 31, Nunda township, was born there February 13, 1866, the son of Sever and Martha Anderson. His parents were among the early settlers of Freeborn county and were natives of Norway, and by hard work, made themselves and their son a good home, which he today is proud to remember was the homestead originally acquired. The sub¬ ject of this biography received his education in the common schools of the locality, and when sixteen years of age he left school and worked on the home place with his father. When twenty-one years of age he bought 180 acres of land in northern Iowa which adjoins the old homestead, and on these two farms he has fol¬ lowed general farming, together with dairy farming. He built a comfortable dwelling, and in 1911 built a large barn to meet the need of his herd of dairy cows, as well as giving him room for properly housing his other stock and his increasing products of the farm. On February 14, 1910 he married Annie Tisdel, of Brookings, S. D. Mr. Severson is a Lutheran Church

N. C. Siverling was born in Wisconsin December 28, 1872, son of Nick and Mary Siverling. His father was a native of Germany, who came to the United States with his parents in the early days, and the family settled in Wisconsin. Here he was married and made his home for several years, after which, in 1877, he went to Iowa, and in 1898 moved to North Dakota, and is living there at present. The subject of this sketch attended the public schools of Iowa and completed his education in the graded school at Northwood. After leaving school he decided to learn to be an expert butter maker, and accordingly prepared himself to fill this position. For the past six years he has been employed as the head butter maker in the Glenville Creamery. In 1894 he was married to Jennie Trow, and their home has been bright¬ ened by the arrival of two children, Milo T. and Lilia M. Mr. Siverling is a prominent man in the township and is at the present time chief of the fire department. He has served as presi¬ dent of the school board and also president of the city council. He is a member of the M. AY. A. and votes the Republican ticket.

Oscar Asleson is a prosperous farmer residing in Freeman township. He was born in Manchester January 29, 1869, son of John and Ingerborg Asleson, natives of Norway, who came to this township in the early days and were industrious farmers. The father died in 1909. The subject of this sketch assisted his father with the farm work when a boy, and attended school near his home. When he was twenty-three years of age he purchased 160 acres in section 26, Freeman township. Here Mr. Asleson has a well-kept farm and he raises Poland-China hogs, owns a fine dairy herd of short horn cattle and keeps well-bred Percheron horses. About seventy acres of his land is cultivated and his farm is one of the best cared for farms in his community. He is affiliated with the Republican party, and he attends the Lutheran Church. Tilda Opdahl, daughter of Ole Ophahl, mar¬ ried Mr. Asleson in 1893, and six children have been born to them to brighten their home: Joseph, Olaf, Elmer, William, Rachel and Luella. These children are all at home and of great assist¬ ance to their parents.

Barney Cookpeter, who is of German ancestry, was born in Iowa February 20, 1856, son of Christian and Elizabeth Cook¬ peter. His parents immigrated to the United States in 1853, locating first at West Point, Iowa, where his father worked at his trade of carpentry one year. They later rented a farm until 18^0, at which time they came to Winona county, Minnesota, where they farmed eight years, and later moved to Freeborn county. They bought 160 acres of land in Freeman township, and later added another quarter section to their farm, where they fol¬ lowed general farming until the death of the father, in 1884. After finishing school Barney worked with his father on the home farm, until the father's failing health made it necessary for him to assume full charge. Since the father's death the subject of this biography, together with his brothers, Henry and

Christian, and sister, Margaret, have lived on the family farm and followed general farming. The Cookpeter brothers are inde¬ pendent voters. The subject of this sketch has been town super¬ visor five successive years. He is a member and active worker in the Catholic Church.

James S. Brewer was born in Buchanan county, Iowa, March 30, 1875, son of James S. and Eliza J. (Carpenter) Brewer. He passed the days of his youth working with his father on the old home farm, going to school in the district in which he lived. Reaching manhood, he left the old home and began farming for himself. This occupation he followed for several years, after which he secured a position on a railroad. Desiring a more lucrative position than the railroad offered, he resigned and pro¬ ceeded to fit himself for a first-class butter maker. He has since been employed in this capacity in the Twin Lakes, Clover and Walters creameries. He moved to Alden township in 1906 and has here been engaged in general farming, an occupation which he has found most profitable. His wife, Martha, is the daughter of August Wichman, one of the earliest settlers in this county, and to Mr. and Mrs. Brewer three children have been born : Ida, Marie and Theodore. Mr. Brewer is a hard working and pro¬ gressive man who has devoted more time to the betterment of his home and farm than to seeking public offices.

John C. Miller was born in Freeborn township January 30, 1881, son of G. M. and Abby (Scoville) Miller. He spent his boy¬ hood in Freeborn and was educated in the common schools of that township. After leaving school he started to earn his own living and for a time was employed in a creamery. He left the creamery and secured a position as clerk in a store. For several years he was engaged in various occupations, and in 1905 he came back to the old home farm, which he and his brother, Ralph, rented of their father, and he has since resided here. He carries on general and dairy farming and keeps the land under careful cultivation. His wife was Margaret Downs, a daughter of E. B. Downs, and they are the parents of one child, Clifford B.

George M. Miller was a native of Wisconsin, who came to Minnesota in the pioneer days and settled in Steele county, near Beaver Lake, where he conducted a store, and later had charge of a cheese factory. Disposing of these interests, he came to Carlson township and rented a farm in section 5, and followed general farming. His hard work and frugality enabled him to purchase this farm in 1900, and he has since made many improve¬ ments on his property and erected a comfortable dwelling and substantial out buildings. For many years Mr. Miller was one of the prominent farmers in the township and his farm was one of the well cared for and productive pieces of property in the community. He married Abby (Scoville) Miller and their sons, John C. and Ralph, now have charge of the farm. Mr. Miller is at present residing in Fairmount.

Hans P. Birch, a progressive farmer, residing in the township of Carlston, was born in Denmark in September, 1852. He left his native land and crossed the ocean to America in 1880 and settled first in Wisconsin. Here he was employed in the pine woods, and also worked in a sawmill for four years, after which he came to Minnesota and located in Carlston township, bought a farm of eighty-five acres, which he now has under good culti¬ vation. He has erected a comfortable house, good barns, and other necessary buildings on his farm, and carries on diversified farming, together with stock raising and dairying. He is an industrious man who has given his time and energy to the better¬ ment of his farm and home surroundings and he has never aspired to public office. His wife, Dorothea, has proven an es¬ timable helpmeet.

John W. McDonald is an extensive land owner in Geneva town¬ ship, where he was born March 6, 1869, His parents were Patrick and Bridget (Ryan) McDonald, early settlers in this cotmtry. John W. began his education in the common schools of that locality, and having completed their course of study, he attended the Pillsbury Academy in Owatonna, and later the Business Col¬ lege at Decorah, Iowa. After leaving school he secured a posi¬ tion as clerk in the Gage, Hayden & Company's store, where he was employed for a time, after which he worked for the Knatvold hardware firm in Albert Lea. Realizing that the life of a farmer appealed most strongly to him, he returned to his old home and purchased some land, and has since added to this until he has 480 acres in all, part of which he rents. Mr. McDonald does general farming and raises Shropshire sheep and Poland-China hogs. He also lias a good dairy herd of shorthorn cows. He was married February 14, 1897, to Catherine Quinn, daughter of Michael and Margaret (Shay) Quinn, natives of Ireland and early settlers in this country, both of whom are now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. McDonald five children have been born : Raymond, Leo, Paul, Mark and Harold. In politics he votes independently. He has served on the school board for many terms, in which capacity he has given general satisfaction. He is a member of the Catholic Church at Geneva and a member of the Hibernians and Catholic Order of Foresters, also a K. 0. T. M. In every respect Mr. McDonald is a self-made man and he can relate many incidents of greatest interest of the early days in this locality when the prosperity which now abounds was then unknown. As a popular citizen, he has many friends, while integrity and com-

Patrick McDonald and his worthy helpmate, Bridget (Ryan) McDonald, came to this country from Ireland in the pioneer days and first located in Minneapolis, where the husband was employed as a teamster for some time. He came to Geneva township in 1857, where he settled and acquired land in section 22, on which he followed farming until his death which occurred in 1901. To himself and wife were born two children, John W. and Mary Alice, now deceased. Mrs. McDonald passed away in 1897. The memory of these estimable people is revered by all who knew them. Having risen above obstacles and succeeded in establish¬ ing a home where they could give to their children advantages which were impossible in their younger days.

Nels Vollum, whose estimable parents were natives of Norway und came to this country about 1865, was born in Riceland town¬ ship April 20, 1882. His father and mother, after reaching this country, lived in several places, finally locating in Riceland town¬ ship, Freeborn county, where they bought land and founded their home. Until the time of his death, which occurred in March, 1910, the father did general farming. The wife and mother still lives on the old home farm, and with her are her aged father and mother. The subject of this sketch was educated in the district schools of Riceland and worked on the farm with his father. In 1900 he rented 160 acres of land in section 20, which he continued to rent and work until 1907, when he pur¬ chased it. He has since made many improvements on his prop¬ erty and built two barns. He does a general dairy farming. In 1903 he was married to Betina Prestegard, daughter of Ole J. Prestegard, of Hayward township ; to this union have been born three children, Pearl, Telmer, and Norman. Mr. Yollum votes with the Republican party, but he does not give much time to politics, as he has many business interests, being manager of, as well as stockholder in, the Riceland Creamery. He is also a stockholder in the local telephone company. He is a staunch member of the Lutheran Church, and held in high esteem by those with whom he has business dealings.

Louis Kroessin, who conducts a harness business in Albert Lea, is a native of Germany, having been born there October 28, 1860. His father and mother, August and Hanna Kroessin, lived in Germany until they died. Louis attended school in his native land, and upon leaving his studies followed the saddlery business until he came to America, with the exception of three years when he was in the German army. Coming to America in 1882, he located in Winona, Minn., where he followed his trade for a short time. Mr. Kroessin then removed to St. Charles, Minn., staving there two years. At the end of this time he went to Sauk Center, establishing himself in the harness business, which he followed until 1905. During this year, he came to Albert Lea, again starting in the harness trade, and he has conducted the same business ever since. In the year 1885, Mr. Kroessin was united in marriage to Mary Wagman, of St. Charles. To them have been born three children, Louis, Jr., Walter, and Rose. In his political life he is a Republican. He attends the Presbyterian Church, and is a member of the M. W. A. Lodge. Mr. Kroessin has served faithfully on the city health board. He owns a most beautiful home at Edgewater, where he makes a specialty of raising fine poultry - the China Ring Neck Pheasants, and the Golden Pheasants, which are valued for their plumage. Mr. Kroessin ships them all over the country.

Ole J. Dammen was born in Norway February 27, 1857, son of John and Mary. When he was thirteen years old his parents decided to leave the land of their birth and seek their fortune in a new country, accordingly they embarked for America, and upon arriving in the LMited States, they proceeded west and made their first home in Minnesota, locating in Houston county. Three years later they moved to Hayward township, where they reside now at the advanced age of four score and eight years. Ole, their son, received his education partially in the schools of his fatherland and later in the Minnesota schools. Josie Rood, a daughter of Oscar Rood, became Mrs. Dammen in 1879, and this union resulted in the following children: Julius, deceased, was in the army and went to the Philippines, where he contracted an illness which resulted in his death ; Oscar makes his home in Albert Lea and is employed by the Rock Island railroad ; Edgar is a success¬ ful druggist in Portland, Ore. ; Mabel G. married Martin Flaskerud and lives in Albert Lea township. In 1896 Mr. Dammen married Julia Yestland, and they are the parents of five children: Olaf, Mainard, Edna, Millie and Henry. Mr. Dammen owns 120 acres of land and successfully engages in diversified farming. He sells his dairy products to the Glenville Cooperative Creamery, of which he is a stockholder. He raises shorthorn cattle and Poland China hogs and has about 100 acres of his farm under cultivation. He adheres to the tenets of the Republican party and attends divine worship at the Lutheran Church in Albert Lea. He has reached his present prosperity by years of hard work and frugality, rely¬ ing entirely on his own efforts to succeed, toiling and saving day by day. He now reaps the harvest of comfort and plenty.

James Olson, a progressive farmer residing in Albert Lea township, was born in Denmark, March 29, 1855, son of Ole and Anna (Nelson). He came to America with his parents and settled in La ( rosse, A\ is., where his parents remained until their death. Having finished his schooling in his native country, he learned stonecutting in La Crosse and worked at this trade for fifteen years. He then went to Minneapolis, where he followed this same occupation for a period of years. In 1894, he left Minne¬ apolis and came to Albert Lea and rented some land, engaged in farming, and ten years later he purchased 120 acres two miles from Albert Lea, on which he now resides. This farm Mr. Olson has under careful cultivation, carrying on diversified farming. His good herd of dairy cattle yield him a steady income. Bertha Berglund became his wife in 1881, and they are the parents of eight children: John R., Elmore, Leonard, Adelia, Adabella, Eunice, Agnes and Raymond. In politics, Mr. Olson holds inde¬ pendent views. He is a member of M. W. A. Lodge, No. 835. His well improved farm today is the result of his own efforts, having devoted much attention toward making his home comfortable and attractive.

Theodore J. Burton has for many years been a resident of the village of Alden. He was born in Vermont, in the city of St. Albans, July 16, 1855, son of Carlas C. and Lemira S. (Blinn) Burton. He acquired his education in the schools of Vermont, and when he was twenty-one years of age, came west in 1876, with his father and located in Alden. Some time later he went to Wells, Faribault county, where he engaged in the grocery busi¬ ness for three years, after which he directed his time and attentention to farming. A few years later he returned to the old home in Vermont and followed agricultural pursuits, but at the end of three years he decided that there were greater opportunities for a young man in the west than were offered in the east. He then went to California and was employed as foreman on a sheep ranch for a year, after which he again came to Alden and has resided here since. For many years he conducted a mercantile business. In 1906 he sold out his interest in the business and now is temporarily employed in a grocery store. To Mr. Burton and his wife, Susie (Babcock) Burton, have been born four chil¬ dren : Harriet, wife of Ed Ashley, of Thief River Falls ; Lois, a teacher in that city ; Sidney and Cedric, who make their home in Alden. Mr. Burton has held the office of town assessor for many years and has also been appointed as census enumerator. He is a member of the M. W. A. and a man respected by his fellow citizens.

Arthur E. Rodsater, a well known farmer residing in Man¬ chester township, was born February 20, 1879, son of Iver and Ingeborg (Anderson) Rodsater. His boyhood days were spent in attending school and in doing the work which the average farm boy is required by his father to do, preparing him for the multitudinous duties of a farmer's life and thus laying the foun- dation for his future success. When he reached his majority he rented a farm and there put into practice the knowledge acquired in the years spent assisting his father. After living on this prop¬ erty for five years he bought it and has followed diversified farm¬ ing here most successfully. May 2, 1900, he married Inga Stensrud, a daughter of Hans Stensrud, a farmer of Freeborn town¬ ship, and three children brightened their home : Ivan, Ingeborg and Constance. Mr. Rodsater is one of the organizers of the local telephone company and held the position as its secretary for a period of five years. He has also acted as township assessor for five years, an office which he most ably filled, and while his numerous interests prevent his taking an active part in politic^, he votes with the Republican party, and is a respected member of the Lutheran church.

Carlton Babbitt, an extensive land owner of Freeborn county, was born in Columbia county, Wisconsin, March 17, 1860, son of Harvey and Maria (Griswold) Babbitt, who brought him to Free¬ born county in 1865. He received his early education in a little sod sclioolhouse in Alden township, and later attended other rural schools of Freeborn county, remaining on the home farm with his father until 1885, when he moved to the city of Albert Lea, and for thirteen years conducted a wood, coal and ice busi¬ ness. The following years he spent in various activities in the county, and in 1904 located on a farm of 160 acres, in section 26, Alden township, where he still resides. He has erected a fine modern home, and some excellent barns and outbuildings. Mr. Babbitt owns more than a thousand acres of good land in Free¬ born county, and at this writing is working 740 acres himself, thus establishing a record hard to beat in Southern Minnesota. He is interested in every enterprise that tends toward the develop¬ ment of the community, and has served several years as a school board member. In addition to his land interests, Mr. Babbitt holds stock in the Creamery at Conger. He belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America at Albert Lea. The subject of this sketch was married November 8, 1883, to Lydia Gustaveson, who was born in Sweden, March 29, 1864, and came to America with her brother, Samuel S., in 1878. Mr. and Mrs. Babbitt are the par¬ ents of four children: Harry LeRoy, of Judas Basin, Montana; Lee, Orie and Russell are at home. The family faith is that of the Baptist church. Mr. Babbitt fells an interesting story of the bliz¬ zard of 1873. On January 3, 1873, just as school closed, the storm started, and in less time than it takes to tell it the scholars could not sec across the road. The storm raged so fiercely that of the scholars the subject of this sketch, then thirteen years old, was the only one to get home. The rest of the scholars and the teacher were obliged to stay for three days. They had no food nor fuel, and were obliged to cut the rafters from the inside of the roof to furnish fire to keep themselves warm. The schoolhouse was of sod, and the rafters had been put in to support the sod roof.

Harvey Babbitt, who was born in Jersey City, N. J., and Maria Griswold, his wife, who was born in New York state, parents of Carlton Babbit, after spending some years in Indiana, Ohio and Michigan, settled in Columbia county, Wisconsin, and lived there until 1865, when they came by team to Freeborn county, and located in Mansfield township. The following year they took a claim in section 25, Alden township, where they erected a log cabin, broke and developed the land, and prospered with the years, building in time a frame house, and there spending the remainder of their days, devoting their life to general farming. Harvey Babbitt died February 19, 1896, and his wife followed him to the grave April 6, 1909. They were the parents of nine chil¬ dren: Mary is the widow of William Squier, of Montgomery, Minn., Frances is now Mrs. Edward Ells, of Goodhue county, Minnesota; George lives in Forest City, Iowa; Emma, deceased, was the wife of S. Nichols. Fred lives in Minneapolis. Albert lives in Skyburg, Goodhue county, this state. Helen and Eva are deceased. Carlton lives in Alden township.

Gustaf Gustaveson and Banta, his wife, parents of Mrs. Carl¬ ton Babbitt, natives of Sweden, came to America in 1880, and located in Freeborn county, wdiere they engaged in farming in Alden township for a number of years, after which they retired and moved to the city of Albert Lea, where Gustaf died in May, 1907, his widow still surviving, and making her home in that city.