Freeborn County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1911 (part 9 of 11)

Sever L.. Davidson, a native of NorAvay, Avas born October 17, 1858, son of Lars and Guri Davidson, who brought their son to the United States, settling in IoAva. In 1866 they moved on their homestead of 160 acres in Mansfield township, this county, Avhich they had taken in 1865. The father died in 1897 and the mother in 1898. The subject of this sketch Avas educated in the common schools of Iowa and Minnesota and grew to manhood doing the work of the aA^erage 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 from them. He now owns 280 acres in section 35, toAvn of Mansfield, and also 60 acres in Nunda. He here does dairy and general farming and raises a number of horses. In 1889 he married Emma Thompson, Avho died in 1899, and to them Avere born five children. Lars died at eighteen years of age ; Martha, Gertie, Andrew and David live at home. On April 17 Mr. Davidson married Mary, a sister of his first wife, and to them have been born four children, Emma, Bernard, Sarah and Lilian. Mr. DaAudson 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 and supervisor three years. He OAvns stock in the Union Creamery at Emmons, and is a director in the First National Bank of Emmons, as well as in the Farmers' Lumber Companj^, of that village.

Gullick A. Hauge, a valiant soldier of the Civil War, and for some three decades a wagon-maker in the city of Albert Lea, was born in Norway, December 19, 1840, son of Andrew and Ingeborg (Quale) Hauge, who in 1850 brought their family to America and located in Wisconsin. There the father died, but the mother, with courage and fortitude, set about to make her way in the world for herself and her family. In 1851 she took her family to Winnishiek county, Iowa, and there Gulliek, when grown to sufficient stature and years, learned the blacksmith trade, work¬ ing for John Emmons at Decorah, in that state and county. Octo¬ ber 1 6, 1861, he enlisted at Decorah in Company G, 12tli Iowa Volunteer Infantry, being later promoted to corporal. At the expiration of his term of enlistment he re-enlisted as a veteran in the same company and regiment, subsequently serving until the close of the war and receiving his discharge at Memphis, Tenn., January 18, 1866. He served in many battles, skirmishes and campaigns, and at the battle of Pittsburg Landing was cap¬ tured by the Confederates, being held as a prisoner at Macon, Ga., for a period of two months. After his discharge and muster out he returned to Winnishiek county, and followed his trade there two years. Later he moved to Osage in the same state. In 1870 he came. to Freeborn county and located on a farm of 160 acres in Bancroft township, which lie had purchased in 1866. This land he developed in many ways, and lived thereon until 1875, when he moved to Albert Lea and purchased a blacksmith business. This and the wagon-making business he conducted purchased 280 acres of land, made the improvements, and then came back to Albert Lea, renting the Montana farm. He now lives in a pleasant home at 316 West College street, in the city of Albert Lea, and owns a quarter of a block of city property. He is a Republican in politics and belongs to the Norwegian Lutheran church. The subject of this sketch was married, December 30, 1868, to Xellie Langen, who was born in Norway, April 4, 1845, and died in Freeborn county in April, 1879, leaving two children, Ida and Trombert, both now residents of Glasgow, Mont., Ida being married to James Wedum and Trombert to Margaret* Hughes. December 20, 1880, Mr. Hauge married Olena Rood, who was boru in Lafayette county, Wisconsin, October 3, 1853. This union has been blessed with three children: Lillian, wife of Carl Ackerman ; John O. and Adolph G. Lillian and John O. live in Glasgow, Mont., the latter being married to Helen Adams.

H. G. Gay, the genial merchant at Geneva, is one of the popu¬ lar men in that village. He first saw the light of day in Chicago, 111., April 25. 1874, and was brought to Geneva by his parents, George and Louise (Morgan) Gay, when he was four years old. H e received his early education in the public school at Geneva and, after completing his schooling, was employed three years as an engineer. During these three years he spent his evenings and all spare time in studying, hoping to fit himself for the jewelry that he eventually gave up his position as engineer and bought a store and established a general merchandise business, making a specialty of his jewelry department. He married Rachel Iwing, daughter of Philip and Mary Iwing, in 1901, and one child, Eva A., has been born to them. Mr. Gay has been treasurer of Geneva, at intervals, for six years, in which office he has given great satisfaction. He is a prominent member of the Methodist church and also a liberal contributor to its support.

George Gay, retired farmer of Geneva village, was born in Bristol, England, December 5, 1848, son of Henry and Mary Ann (Tucker) Gay, who spent the span of their years in the old country. George received his education in his native city and then worked seven years at the building trades. In 1869 he came to the United States, and after living a year in Rochester, N. Y., came to Milwaukee. Later he returned to his native city and in 1872 married Louise Morgan. "With her he returned to the United States and located in Chicago, being employed in that city three years, and in the meantime purchasing a lot and erecting a house on LaSalLe street. Later he came to Geneva township and ac¬ quired land which he later traded for another tract, where he erected a home and other buildings and followed farming until about 1900, when he retired, purchased two lots in the village of Geneva, erected a house, and there makes his home. He is a Republican and has served in numerous offices. In his family are three children: Henry G. lives in Geneva village, Emily L. mar¬ ried Charles Farr, of Geneva township, and Ada L. lives at home.

J. P. Hoidal, a representative farmer of Bancroft township, was born in Norway, December 29, 1845. Lie received his educa¬ tion in the schools of his native country and came to America with his parents, P. J. and Carrie L. (Quam) Hoidal in 1867. After their arrival in this country the family came directly to Freeborn county and settled in Riceland township. Here the father acquired some land and carried on farming interests. They made their home in a dugout and underwent many priva¬ tions incident to pioneer life. The father passed away in 1900 and the mother some years prior to this time. They were the parents of nine children : J. P., Thomas, Carrie and Martha are living and John, Raagnald, Gertrude, Annie and Rogine are dead. J. P., the subject of this sketch, owns a fine farm of 160 acres, of which about 100 acres are under cultivation, the re¬ mainder is in pasture, meadow and timber. He is engaged in gen¬ eral and dairy farming and is an industrious and law abiding citizen. He and Emma D. Mikkelson were united in wedlock May 30, 1871, and to this marriage three children were born: Bennett is in Albert Lea, engaged in the farm implement busi¬ ness, Joseph C. is a real estate man in Minneapolis, Theodore, now deceased, was a manufacturer in Minneapolis, whose death occurred June 21, 1910. Mr. Hoidal is a stockholder in the Ban¬ croft Creamery and has been a director, manager and president, lie attends divine worship at the church of the Central Freeborn Congregation, and his political views are those advanced by the Republican party. His numerous duties on the farm have left no time for him to seek public office, and he owes to years of honest endeavor and tireless labor his present comfortable home and surroundings. He is a self-made man, who often relates the story of his early struggles, saying that at one time he drove an ox team breaking land, for which work he received five or six dollars per acre. Mrs. Hoidal, whose maiden name was Emma Mikkelson, was born September 19, 1854, daughter of Christopher and Johannah (Sanclsness) Mikkelson, the pioneers. They came to America in 1852, located in Dubuque, Iowa, and in October, 1855, came to Freeborn county and located on the land now owned by Mr. Hoidal. They cleared the land and continued to carry on general farming, the father dying December 6, 1885,

A. G. Hall, who is a native of the Empire state, was born August 16, 1824, son of Benjamin and Dollie (Currier) Hall, also natives of Clinton county, New York, where they ended their days. The family has always been in the front rank of progress and ready to give military service for what they believed to be right. The grandfather of A. G. was a member of the Continental army in the Revolutionary war, and his father assisted in making good the victory which the colonies gained Avhen opportunity offered in the Avar of 1812. He took part in the battle of Plattsburg. The subject of this biography recehed his education in NeAv York state, and after leaAring school Avorked on the farm and also learned the millwright and carpenter trades. These trades he folloAved until he came to Freeborn county in May, 1865. He here bought land in Alden tOAATnship, in section 1, and engaged in farming. He Avas one of the first home builders in the township, and in this as well as in assisting his neighbors, his trades learned and followed in the East serAred to give the pio¬ neers better houses than would otherwise have been possible. In 1870 he established the first general store in the ATillage of Alden, and this business has heen successful since, eAren to the present time. A bile in NeAv 5 ork state and at the age of 24 years he married Abigal Goodsell, who died February 27, 1900, tAvo years after Iheir golden wedding anniversary. To them Avere born seven children. Carrie E., Franklin, Monroe, William W. and an infant are dead. Mahala married William Welch, of SteAvart- ville, Minn. Benjamin F. married Minnie Emerson, and conducts the store started by his father. Since fifteen years of age Mr. Hall has been a consistent and faithful worker in the Free Baptist church, a member of the Winnebago congregation. He has been trustee in the Parker College of Winnebago over 25 years, and has missed but one meeting, that absence being caused by severe illness. He was a delegate at the Free Baptist con¬ vention at Harper's Ferry in 1901. In the days before the or¬ ganization of the Republican party the subject of this biography voted the Abolitionist ticket, but from the formation of the Re¬ publican party he has staunchly stood for its principles. By his party, with the help of personal admirers, he has been elected to every town office at least once, and to the school board and vil¬ lage council. He drew the petition which made possible the or¬ ganization of Alden township. He is a strong worker for the public schools and the present enviable place which the Alden schools occupy in the county and state was gained largely through the wise guidance and constant support which Mr. Hall lias given them. With his many religious, civic, political and business interests he has not allowed the social side of his charac¬ ter to be neglected but has demonstrated his belief in "Friend¬ ship, Love and Truth," by being an active member of the I. 0. 0. F. In a work of this character it is impossible to adequately tell of the long life of activity and good works which such a man as the subject of this sketch truly deserves. But suffice it to »ay that his many kind deeds are so written on the hearts of his friends that any attempt to put their thoughts in written lan¬ guage will appear poor and weak.

Lucius Gibbs, a respected resident of Geneva township, was born in Pennsylvania February 17, 1831, son of Eli and Caroline (Atwood) Gibbs. His parents were native of New England. The father conducted a store at Bradford, Bradford county, Pennsylvania, and later engaged in the lumber business. Lucius, the subject of this biography, attended the public schools in that state and later finished his education in an academy in New York state. He then engaged in farming in Bradford county, Pennsylvania, until 1862, when he went to Chicago where he remained but a short time and then decided to come farther west. He went to Nebraska, where he met his brother and together they went to the Dakotas, returning shortly to Albert Lea, the former home of this brother. Here he purchased a farm, but owing to the hard times prevalent through the country he went back to Illinois and was in charge of a large herd of cattle. From Illinois he went to Montana and for about three years worked in the mines, after which he returned to his old home in Pennsylvania. Here he was married to Mary Maynard,

January 15, I860, and with his bride came to Minnesota, and settled on 160 acres of land which he had purchased in Geneva. Here he made many improvements, erected buildings and carries cn general farming. To Air. and Airs. Gibbs have been born five children: Lester, living in Austin; Carrie, now Airs. Allis, of Geneva: AYilliam, residing on the old homestead: Stephen and John IF. deceased. Air. Gibbs cleared and broke the land on his farm and has made all improvements on his place and keeps about 100 acres under cultivation. Forty acres of his farm are in H e village limits of Geneva, and the remainder borders on that village. For several years, Air. Gibbs was assessor of the township and also supervisor and in both offices won the esteem of his townsmen. He is a member of the Republican party, and a man loyal to his convictions, in whose veins flows the blood of the defenders of our country. That his grandfather fought in the Revolutionary AYar is a fact of which Air. Gibbs is justly proud. Airs. Gibbs, whose maiden name was Alary Maynard, was born April 25. 1837. daughter of AYilliam E. and Nancy Alaynard. natives respectively of AXrmont and Pennsylvania. She received an academy education and taught school fifteen terms before her marriage.

Amander H. Bartlett, pioneer of Shell Rock, now deceased, was born in New York. September 28, 1829. He attended school in Now York, and when but sixteen years of age began teaching. Later he entered the Arcade Academy, where he remained for two years. In 1852. he made an overland trip to California, which consumed a period of 117 days. He spent two years there, after which he returned to New York, but soon left his home state and came west to Iowa. In 1856, Air. Bartlett came to Alinncsota and loeated at Glenville and purchased land of J. AY. Smith. Some time later in company with Alessrs. Elswortli and Phillips, lie laid out and platted Shell Rock city, now Glenville. Having previously taken up the study of law, Air. Bartlett fol¬ lowed this profession for a short time in this county, after which he engaged in other occupations. He erected the first steam saw mill in the township, and operated it for two years, and he also dealt in real estate. During the Civil AA^ar. he was provost marshal, and after the close of the struggle, he went to Albert Lea and engaged in the farm implement business. In 1857, All*. Bartlett was delegate to the last Territorial Legislature, and also the first state Legislature, and he held the office of probate judge for several terms. He married Ann D. Peet. of New York, and to them were born four children of whom Samuel C. is at home with the mother; Ida married Aloses Lemons, of North Dakota ; Jay is a prosperous hardware merchant of Glenville. Eva is the wife of Charles R. Beattie, of Glenville. Air. Bart-

Jay Bartlett, the well known merchant of Glenville, was born July 20, 1861, in the town where he now resides. His parents were Amander and Ann D. (Peet) Bartlett, natives of Cat¬ taraugus county, New York. Mr. Barlett attended the public schools of his home town and there grew to manhood, working with his father and fitting himself for a useful and industrious life. In 1886 he entered the hardware and lumber business in partnership with his father, with whom he worked for four years, after which he purchased the father's interests and has since conducted the business on his own responsibility. In 1897 he erected the brick block in which his store is located at the present time, and the second story is finished as a modern flat or apartment in which Mr. Bartlet resides. He is a member of the Prohibitionist party, and has held many important offices in the town, among which services are in the postoffice for a period of several years, town clerk of Shell Rock for 20 years, president of the village board, treasurer of the school board and also treas¬ urer of the Glenville cemetery association. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge, A. F. & A. M., No. 26, of Albert Lea. Mr. Bart¬ lett married Viola N. Palmer, August 11, 1886. She was born at Glenville, August 11, 1865, daughter of Rev. Daniel H. Palmer. To Mr. and Mrs. Bartlett a son, Owen was born, April 23, 1899, and died March 2, 1911.

Roscoe E. Goward, a capable farmer of Freeborn, was born in Acton, Massachusetts, June 8, 1852. When he was six years of age he came to this country with his parents, Jason L. and Charlotte (Dean) Goward, and here grew to manhood. He at¬ tended school in Freeborn and Avorked as store clerk and assis¬ tant postmaster for a time. Later with his father as partner he opened a general store at Armstrong, and was subsequently made postmaster, being the first postmaster at that point. When the store at Armstrong was sold, the subject of this sketch went to St. Paul and was there employed for a time. In 1893 he came back to Freeborn, purchased a farm, and engaged in diversified farming, an occupation at which he has been very successful. His farm is situated in section 36, Freeborn township. In addi¬ tion to his agricultural interests he owns stock in the Freeborn

Jason L. Goward, now deceased, was one of the early settlers who came to Freeborn township in 1858. He acquired some land and the following year brought his family here making the trip by the means of an ox team and coming through McGregor, Iowa. For two years he farmed on 160 acres of land in section 36. Then he decided to establish a mercantile business in the village of Freeborn. That His venture in this new line of work was a success is shown by his continuing the business for twenty years. He then sold it to George Whitman and engaged in the real estate business and at one time was the owner of an entire section of land. Later in life he retired from active service and enjoyed the comforts which his years of hard work made possi¬ ble. His death occurred July 3, 1893, eleven years after his wife had passed away. He was postmaster several years in Freeborn village, was town clerk a time and served on the sehoolboard for many terms. Beiug a carpenter by trade he assisted in erecting many buildings, and at an early day he planned and built one of the first and long the best schoolhouse in Freeborn county. This house is still standing and is used by W. C. Jackman as an imple¬ ment sales house.

Robert P. Farr, a successful farmer of Geneva township was born in Kentucky March 7, 1832, son of George and Polly Farr. He came to Minnesota as a young man and has made his home here since that time. His farm of 880 acres is one of the well improved and valuable farms in Geneva, and the fine house in which he resides is the result of his years of hard work and privations. The trees which surround his home were planted by himself and father as were the twenty acres of timber which adorn his farm. Mr. Farr carries on general farming and makes i\ specialty of raising Duroc- Jersey hogs, the cement hog house which he has built being considered one of the best in the county. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party, but has never sought public offices. As one of the prosperous and industrious farmers in his locality, Mr. Farr has the respect of the com¬ munity in general. Mr. Farr is the father of nine children: Alice is Mrs. Morarity of Steele county; Robert W., Irving J., Charles, Amos and Harvey live on the old homestead ; Sarah and George S., 2nd, are deceased. Robert W. Farr, a son. was mar¬ ried August 26, 1896, to Florence Kinney, of Owatonna. She died May 7, leaving one son, George Sanford, now of Seattle, Wash. Robert W. is at present serving on the town board of supervisors. He has been clerk of the town and justice of the peace, and has served seven years as secretary of the Monarch Creamerv.

George S. Farr was born in Kentucky, and as a young man had an interesting career in various places, including several years spent in Lower California where he worked on the railroad which was being constructed across the isthmus. He was a black¬ smith and wheelright by trade. In the sixties he came to Minne¬ sota and settled in Geneva township. He had many interesting experiences as a pioneer, making a long overland trip by oxen, settling in a pioneer community, living for a time in a rude log

Mr. And Mrs. Guthorm Botolfson

0, G. Botolfson, one of the successful farmers of Bancroft township, was born February 28, 1859, on the farm where he still makes his home, son of Guthorm and Anna (Wange) Botolfson, who were among the earliest pioneers. He went to the district schools when a boy and worked with his father. He now owns a fine and valuable farm of 160 acres and is interested in general farming, stock raising and dairying. He also raises Poland China hogs and a good breed of draft horses. This farm is situated about three miles from the city of Albert Lea. Mr. Botolfson is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran Church, and votes the Prohibition ticket. He has been elected to serve in various offices in the school district 58 and is regarded as one of Bancroft's substantial citizens.

Guthorm Botolfson and Anna Wange his wife, were among the very earliest pioneers of Freeborn county, being natives of Norway, who emigrated from their fatherland and came to America in July, 1854, making their first home in this country at Caporn, Jll. One year later, in July, 1855, they moved west to Minnesota and settled in Bancroft. Their home here was in a dugout and like the other pioneers in this country, they faced many trials and endured great hardships, but their courage never failed them, and from year to year they toiled and saved and at length were able to erect a fine roomy house and make their broad acres yield most abundantly. The father died June 2, 1901, and his widow is yet living at the advanced age of 85 years. They had eleven children of whom four are living. Of those dead Lucy. Anna, Botolf and Peter all died the same week of the black measles. The children dead are : Lucy, born November 6, 1850, died February 11, 1869 ; Anna, born January 22, 1853, died February 18, 1869 ; Botolf, born February 14, 1855, died February 16, 1869; Peter, born January 2, 1857, died Februar}^ 14, 1869; Bertha, born June 28, 1964, died September 4, 1865; Lucy Annette, born August 15, 1873, died May 9, 1874; PerniRe, born October 17, 1860, died January 5, 1905. Four are living. O. G. was born February 28, 1859 ; Johanna, known by her friends as Hannah, was born October 18, 1862; Bertha Maria was born June 19, 1866, and Ingeborg, now Mrs. O. 0. Styve, of Albert Lea, was born May 30, 1848.

Botolf Guthormson Tistel, a pioneer, was born March 7, 1794, and died February 13, 1866. His wife was born June 21, 1796, and died October 17, 1878. They left Norway, their native country, and came to America in July, 1854, with their son, Guthorm Botolfson, and three daughters, Mrs. J. Hermanson and the Misses Olena and Pernille. In the spring of 1856 they

George Hoffman, now deceased, was for many years a respected resident of Riceland township. He was born in Dn Bois county, Indiana, December 13, 1847, son of John and Bar¬ bara Hoffman, who came to the United State from Germany when this country Avas sparsely settled and made a home for themselves in Indiana AAdiere the father died Avhen the subject of this sketch Avas but six months old. George Hoffman received his education in the common schools of Indiana and later Avent to Louisville Avhere he Avas employed for a short time. Wishing to see more of the Avorld than the occupation of farming afforded, he joined a show troupe and traveled Avith them for five years. In 1874 he Avent to Colorado and later to Wyoming, and here lie Avas foreman of a large horse ranch. He came to Minnesota in 1886, located in Freeborn county and purchased a farm of 200 acres in section 23, Riceland township. On this farm he made many improA^ements and carried on general and dairy farming until his death, August 14, 1911. Mr. Hoffman Avas mar¬ ried July 21, 1884, to Rosie Fjeldbroten, born October 26, 1862, in Aadalen, NorAvay, daughter of Ole Fjeldbroten, who settled in Riceland toAvnship. To Mr. and Mrs. Hoffman four children Avere born. Willis Avas born in 1886, Charles in 1888, Ray in 1892 and Agnes in 1897. All are at home. Mr. Hoffman voted Avith the Republican party, but his many business interests pre¬ vented his taking an acti\re part in politics. He Avas a stock¬ holder in the Sumner Valley Creamery, also one of the stock¬ holders in the local telephone company and threshing company. He also serATed on the school board for five years thus proAung his efficiency in such serATice. The family attend the NorAvegian Lutheran Church. The farm is uoaat being conducted by Mrs. Hoffman and her sons.

Godfrey Hintz Avas born February 4, 1871, on his father's farm in Mansfield, the son of August and Louisa (Jost) Hintz. Godfrey attended school until scArenteen years of age, and after his father's death took full charge of the farm Avhich he has since conducted. He iioav oaviis the home farm, and in addition to regular farming he raises from fifty to seArentv-fiATe hogs an¬ nua Ty. keeps a drove of fifty sheep as Avell as a good dairy herd and horses which he raises for his OAvn use and for sale. On September 1, 1898, he married Emma Tessman and to them have been born five children, OrAulle, Emil, Gertrude, Margaret and Adclbert. Mr. Hintz is a member of the Mansfield Lutheran Church. Tn politics he supports the Republican party.

Geoizge Hoffman

county, for $200.00, and about two years later moved onto the fa i m. He had a blacksmith shop and did general smithing* in -connection with farming until his death in 1894, at which time he owned in all 280 acres in sections 2 and 11. He served in town

Dr. C. M. Simonson, son of Ole O. Simonson and Susan A. Gjcllum, his wife, was born in the city of Albert Lea, or rather village as it was known at that time, on April 26, 1871. 'When a year old, the family moved to their farm in Hartland township where they remained till January 1, 1878, when they again moved to Albert Lea, wdiere his father assumed his duties as register of deeds of Freeborn county, to which office he had been elected the previous fall. C. M. received his early education in the Albert Lea public schools and wdien about sixteen years of age entered the employ of "Decorah Posten," Decorah, Iowa, a newspaper which, boasted of having the largest circulation of any Scandinavian paper published at that time. During his four years' stay here he resided at the home of his brother-inlaw^ E. S. Gjellum, wdio was the Posten's editor for eighteen years. Mr. Simonson desired to study dentistry so returned to Albert Lea and entered the dental office of Brown & Parker, where he remained about a year as an apprentice. In the fall of 1892 he entered the Ohio College of Dental Surgery, at Cincin¬ nati, Ohio, from which institution he graduated in the spring of 1896, in the meanwhile conducting an office in New Prague, Minn., one year. After the completion of his course he located in his home town, Albert Lea, wdiere he has continued the prac¬ tice of his profession ever since with the exception of the year 1898 when there wras a call for volunteers for the Spanish- American War, and he enlisted in Company I, 12th Regiment Minnesota Volunteers - Company I having the distinction of being the first company to fill its quoto and report. Though a member of dental and local organizations Mr. Simonson never was a political aspirant, devoting his time exclusively to the practice of his profession and having a good following from both citv and country.

Daniel Hurd, who died in October 14, 1905, was one of the earliest pioneers of this county. He wras born in Rochester. New York, December 7, 1827, and at an early day located near Ripon, Wis. From there he wrent to Iowra, and afterward came to Albert Lea, March 16, 1856, taking up his claim north of what is now/ Fountain Lake. There he farmed until 1865. Then he sold out, and moved to section 29, Manchester township, where he farmed until the fall of 1892. In that year he retired and moved to Albert Lea wdiere he spent his declining years.

I j is wife, whose maiden name was Mary A. Colby, was one of the earliest pioneers of the county, having come to Albert Lea township September 16, 1855. She was born in Pennsylvania. July 13, 1888, and married Daniel Hurd, January 13, 1857. There were two sons in the family, George and Frank. In June, 1857, Daniel Hurd built the first frame house in Albert Lea, on East Clark street.

George Hurd, real estate dealer, was born in Freeborn county, December 25, 1859, son of Daniel and Mary (Colby) Hurd, his being one of the early births in the county. Fie received his education in the public schools and in such high school as the citv of Albert Lea then afforded. Afterward he taught school five winters, and then continued farming until 1888 when he moved to the city of Albert Lea and engaged in the mercantile business. In 1906 he sold out and engaged in his present busi¬ ness. He does a large business and makes a specialty of Free¬ born county and Dakota lands. Mr. Hurd is a Republican, and affiliates with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America. He lives with his mother at 244 West Clark street.

Louis Hass was born in Germany. He spent the earlier years of his life in that country, there acquired his education and grew to manhood. Later he brought his wife and family to America and settled in Freeborn township, on the farm which he sold some time ago to his son William H. with whom he now lives. He and his wife have six children. The son, William H., who now owns the home farm is married and has several chil¬ dren. Mr. Hass lias served in school office and his family is well regarded in the community.

W. D. Horning is one of the well thought of citizens of Albert Lea township. His parents, D. W. and Carrie (Powers) Horning came to Minnesota from New York and located in Albert Lea. Here they acquired land which was cleared by the father whose hard work and farsightedness have resulted in the comfortable home and a farm of 240 acres now owned by him. In a simple log cabin their son was born November 17, 1873, and he grew to manhood attending the school and working with his father on the farm learning each day much which would be of great value to him later in life. Evelyn Nelson became his wife on March 20, 1906. and this marriage has resulted in two children; Clarence, born November 4, 1907, and Edith, born January 22, 1910. Mr. Horning believes in modern education and has shown his interest bv serving as member of the school board. He carries on diversified farming and keeps a good herd of dairy cows, and disposes of their product at profitable prices. In his political opinions, lie endorses the sentiments of the Democratic party, and his common sense and good judgment are respected by all witli v horn he has business dealings. Mr. Horning owns 160 acres of land in Clay county, Minnesota, which he rents for farm purposes. He is a member of the Albert Lea Lodge, No. 61, Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mrs. Horning was born August 27, 1882, at Albert Lea, daughter of Andrew and Anna Elickson. Her father lives in Forest City, Iowa, and her mother is dead.

Ole M. Olson, for eleven years past the efficient chairman of the town of Manchester, was born in a dug-out in the township where he still resides, November 8, 1859, son of Mads and Martha (Hanson) Olson, the pioneers. He attended the district schools, farmed with his father, and grew to manhood on the home place. In 1887 he purchased 240 acres from his father, and started farming for himself. At this occupation he has prospered greatly, adding to his acreage until he now owns 400 acres, all in sections 1 and 2, Manchester, and section 36, Hartland. On this large tract he carries on general farming on an extensive scale. In 1902, he erected a beautiful new residence, replacing the pioneer log cabin in which the family had lived for so many years. Before assuming his present town' office, Mr. Olson was a member of the board of supervisors, and at one time served as assessor. He has also been treasurer of the school board of his district some twenty-two years. The subject of this sketch was married December 22, 1883, to Martha Peterson, and this union has been blessed with four children : Mabel M., the wife of Rudolph Furgersen; Hilda M., Esther J. and Ole Malankton, the latter three being at home. The family faith is that of the Lutheran Church.

Mads Olson, the pioneer, was born in Norway, and came to America in 1854, going at once to Illinois where he engaged in railroad work, and working the first winter in the pineries. In 1856 he came to Freeborn county, via Winnishiek county, Iowa. Later he went back to 'Winnishiek county, and in 1858 was there married to Martha Hanson who came to America in 1856. To¬ gether they came to Freeborn county, and located on land in sections 1 and 2, Manchester township, which Mads had acquired from the government by preemption at $1.25 an acre. They lived for a time in a dug-out, and there their first son was born. Later they erected a log cabin. Mads Olson became a prosperous farmer, and in time acquired 600 acres of land. He died August 15, 1896. and liis wife died Julv 30, 1875.

James Hansen, one of the enterprising and prosperous farmers of Freeborn township was born in Denmark on the island of Fryen, January 7, 1837, son of Hans Hansen. In 1856, James migrated to America, first settling in Manitowoc, Wis., where lie obtained employment at whatever offered itself. For a time he worked in a shingle mill, later on a farm, then in the leather manufactory of J. T. Wright, at Janesville, Wis. In 1862 he enlisted in Company D, 8th United States Infantry, and served three years. After being mustered out of service he re¬ turned to Janesville and worked in the hardware business for a vear. In 1867 he came to Freeborn township and purchased a farm in section 27. While breaking the rude prairie and converting it into fertile acres he lived in a "dug-out" dug in the side of a hill. At the end of two years he went back to Janesville and married Augusta Dorn. With his wife he then returned to the farm in Freeborn county, where they have ever since lived. This fall they are leaving their farm and taking up their residence in their new home in the village of Freeborn, where they will spend their declining years in comfort, enjoying the fruits of a well-spent life. Eight children have been born to them: Joseph, Mary, Helen, Thomas, Louis and Henry (twins), Hannah and Nettie. Thomas died when an infant. Helen Soren¬ son died in 1904, leaving her husband and two sons. Mary is now Mrs. Louis Andersen. Mr. Andersen was killed by an elec¬ tric shock. Hannah is the wife of Alfred Parsons, and Nettie is Mrs. Harry Johnson.

Oluf Jorgenson, a progressive farmer of Riceland, was born in Bath township, this county, May 9, 1870. The father, George, a native of Denmark, came to the United States in 1856 and first located in Chicago for a time. He then came to Freeborn county and located on land in Bath township, again moving and going to New Richland, Minn., Avhere he remained until 1886. In that year lie came once more to this country and bought a farm in Riceland and followed general farming till his death in 1901. His wife, mother of Oluf, was a native of Norway and died in 1886. Oluf Jorgenson, the subject of this biography, attended school as a boy, and engaged in farming for some vears. He afterwards clerked in a hardware store in New Richland five years. Having thus gained exper¬ ience he purchased a store building at Lerdal and with his brother-in-law opened a general merchandise store, which they continued until 1908. His interest in the store he traded for 160 a^res in Riceland, and has since done general farming there. In June, 1893, he married Annie Haugen, of Waseca county, and to them have been born six children, Melvin, Agnes, George, Conrad, Floyd and Orville, all of whom are at home. Mr. Jor¬ genson is a member and a regular attendant of the Lutheran Church. Tn politics he supports the tenets of the Republican party and has held several offices including positions on the school board. For a number of years he was postmaster at

Mr. And Mrs. Samuel H. Kraushaar

S. H. Kraushaar is a modern and scientific farmer who owns 200 acres of valuable land in section 35 in the township of Alden. He was born in Iowa June 15, 1854, son of John and Sarah (Beck) Kraushaar. His father was a native of Germany who came to the United States in 1846, and was employed for a time in Illinois. He then went to Michigan where he was married. He brought his wife to Austin, Minn., and they made their home in that city for about four years, after which they moved to Mitchell county, Iowa, and remained there for eight years. Returning to Minnesota they settled in Mansfield township and here passed the remainder of their lives. Samuel H., the subject of this biography was educated in the common schools. When he was twenty-two years of age he purchased a farm in Alden, and has here since conducted diversified farming. He married Margaret, daughter of Hans Nelson, and their home has been brightened by the arrival of six children; Daisy, wife of Clark Hord, Joseph, George, Esther, Lee and Andrew, the latter being deceased. Mr. Kraushaar has served as a member of the school board and at present is road overseer in his district. He is a Republican in politics, and belongs to the Seventh Day Advent Church.

Christ. M. Larsen, a highly esteemed citizen of Albert Lea, was born in Denmark, September 9, 1852, son of Lars Borup and Helena (Mork) Borup. The subject of this biography was educated in the schools of his native land and there reached his majority. In 1873 he crossed the ocean and landed in America; coming west to Iowa where he located in Marshall county, pur¬ chased land, and carried on agricultural industries for a period of six years. He later sold this farm and moved to Hamilton county, in the same state, where he farmed until 1898, after which he disposed of the farm and moved into the city of Albert Lea, where he now lives in retirement. He purchased land, erected a home in this city and has taken an active interest in all charitable movements in the city, having been a liberal con¬ tributor to the hospital. Aside from his property in Albert Lea, Mr. Larsen has various real estate holdings, owning a quarter section in Alberta, Canada. Lie also owns a bottling plant in Albert Lea, and his present prosperity has been reached by years of earnest effort and close application to duty. Mr. Lar¬ sen is in every sense of the phrase, a self made man, and he often relates the story of his arrival in this country when he possessed but 10 cents. He affiliates with the Republican party, and attends the Quaker Church, contributing liberal^ to its

L. P. Lawson, a venerable and esteemed farmer residing in Geneva township was born in Denmark, October 16, 1844, and came to this country in 1852 with his parents, Hans and Mary C. Lawson. They first settled in Raymond, Racine county, Wis¬ consin, where the father secured employment, and there they remained for twelve years, after which they moved to Bath, Minn., and here the parents lived for the remainder of their lives. L. P. Lawson, the subject of this biography, is the eldest of three children, one of whom, Nels, is now deceased: the other, James, is living in North Dakota. Mr. Lawson was educated in ine schools of the county and later learned the carpenter's trade, an occupation which he followed for fifteen years after which he engaged in farming. At the present time he is able to do the necessary carpentry work required on his farm ; and all the improvements here, he, with the able assistance of his sons, has made. Mary K. Peterson became his wife in 1869. She died January 23, 1911. leaving four children: William, living at Owatonna ; Albert, Mary and Mark, at home. Mr. Lawson owns 400 acres of land which is worked by himself and sons, and they have improved this farm until now it is one of the valuable farms in the township. It is situated about one and one-half miles from the village of Geneva. Mr. Lawson has been a candi¬ date for the Legislature on the Prohibition ticket, and he favors the Prohibition views. He has been chairman of Geneva town¬ ship for several years, also clerk of school board in District 82 for twenty-six years, which proves the great regard in which he is held by his townsmen. In all cooperative enterprises which have for their object the betterment of the farmer and the improvement of farm conditions he has taken a prominent part. He has* been president of the Freeborn County Creamery and Ruttermakers' Association for several years and of the Farmers Live Stock Union of Freeborn county since its organization. He has served fifteen years as secretary of the Geneva Tillage Creamery and is also secretary of the Clarks Grove Lumber Stock & Fuel Co. He is a stockholder in the Clarks Grove Mer¬ cantile Co., the Clarks Grove Hardware & Implement Co., and the State Bank of Clarks Grove. He has taken a deep interest in the Danish Baptist Church of Clarks Grove and has the unus¬ ual distinction of having served as Sunday School superintend¬ ent in this congregation for a period of forty years.

Lars Lunde, one of the successful farmers of Hayward, was born in Norway in 1836, and came to America in 1865, being followed in 1869 by his parents, Nels and Ragnheld Lunde, who came from Norway, and died the year of their arrival. Lars.

upon ai living in this country, went first to AVisconsin where lie remained a short time in the pineries, after which he made a trip to Minnesota, where he had relatives. He next went to Michigan and secured employment in a lumber camp. He was three years in one employ as foreman, and did the scaling for the Pere Marquette Lumber Co. two years. He con¬ tinued lumbering until 1871. Then he located in Hayward town¬ ship, where he has since made his home. Mr. Lunde owns 160 acres of good farm land, and also has ten acres of timber. He engages in diversified farming, keeps a herd of some twentytwo cows and sells the products of his dairy to the Hayward Cooperative Creamery, of which he has been the treasurer since it was established. At intervals during his life he has held many town offices, but has now retired from public service and devotes his time and energies to conducting agricultural pur¬ suits. His well-improved farm and good substantial home are the results of years of industry. Mr. Lunde affiliates with the Democratic party, and attends the Norwegian Lutheran Church, to the support of which he liberally contributes. Mr. Lunde is justly proud of a rare book of family genealogy which he possesses. This book is well illustrated and traces the fortunes and genealogy of the family back to 1585, thus forming a most valuable possession. The subject of this sketch was mar¬ ried September 21, 1869, to Carrie Gulbrandson, daughter of Endre Gulbrandson, the pioneer. To this union eleven children have been born: Magdelena is the wife of J. J. Hove, banker at Hayward. Gulbrand is a farmer living in North Dakota. Pauline, Marion and Edwin are dead. Gertrude is the wife of E. C. Sebra. Martha is the wife of Gilbert Skow, a merchant of Hayward. Hilda is an expert stenographer for the law firm of Morgan & Meighen at Albert Lea. Barbara and Carl are at home. Lars recently graduated from the Albert Lea High School.

C. J. Larson, a popular resident of Clarks Grove was born in Denmark June 22, 1869. He came to America with his par¬ ents, J. C. and Julina (Berthelson) Larson, when he was four¬ teen years of age, and they settled in Geneva, where the father followed general farming until his death, in 1902. The mother makes her home with her son at the present time. C. J. Larson attended the schools of his native land and completed his studies in the public schools of this county. As a young man he farmed out, conducted agricultural operations for himself, carried the mail between Owatonna and Albert Lea, and engaged in team¬ ing in Geneva. In 1903 be came to Clarks Grove, and here, with his brother Bert as a partner under the firm name of Larson Brothers, he conducts a livery, engaging also in draying and house moving. In February, 1908, he married Carrie Paulson, daughter of Jens Paulson, of Bath township. They are the parents of one child, Ray W. Mr. Larson votes with the Repub¬ licans. but has never sought office in his township. He is an industrious, hard-working man, who has made all he possesses by careful management and farsightedness. Bert Larson, part¬ ner and brother of C. J. Larson, is a mail carrier on Route 1, out of the Clarks Grove postoffice. He married Hanna Olson.

A. W. Massee was born in Oneida county, New York, May 5, 1845, the son of John Massee. He came to Minnesota in 1875, settled in Carlson township, bought a farm in section 24, and continued to follow general farming till 1893. Since that time he has rented 240 acres of his land and has lived a retired life in the vicinity of Albert Lea, having a very attractive home in Oakhurst Park. In February, 1887, he married Sarah Emergene Walker, daughter of Asa Walker, the pioneer. Mrs. Massee was one of the pioneer teachers of the county, her first school being in district 18, Manchester township, where she taught twenty-five terms, being the first teacher in that school. Mr. Massee has never given a large amount of time to politics. He lias been elected to some minor offices, but has refused to serve. He is a Prohibitionist of independent mind. The family church is the Methodist.

Asa Walker, now deceased, was for many years a prominent resident in the township of Carlston. He was one of the first members of the board of county supervisors, after the organiza¬ tion of this town, having come here in 1859. He was born in Vermont May 31, 1813, and grew to manhood in that state. In 1840 he married Mary Bruce and later they moved to Dane countv, Wisconsin. Thev came to Carlston in 1859. In 1862 and 1863 Mr. Walker was a member of the state legislature. He also held many local offices, and was enrolling officer during the war. To Mr. and Mrs. Walker two children were born: AY. H. and Sarah Emergene. The wife and mother entered into rest in January, 1880, and Air. AValker passed away in August, 1887. As Air. Walker was one of the early pioneers, he erected a log house, and in true pioneer style, roofed it with 44 shakes.' II is daughter, Sarah Emergene, now Airs. A. W. Alassee, well remembers the trip from AYisconsin to Minnesota and recalls that she lead the colt the whole distance. The first Thanks¬ giving dinner was held by several families together, and in the absence of the men of the families, the women each contributed what they could. The bill of fare contained only samp (cracked corn), milk, one sweet cake and rye coffee.

John W. Murtaugh And Family

Murtaugh, in 1840. They mad© their first home in this country on I orty-second street, New York city, and later moved to Pent Chester. In July 1856 the family came to Minnesota and settled in Albert Lea township, where he pre-empted a claim of 160 acres and followed farming. Many were the hard¬ ships endured by this family, and at times they subsisted entirely on bread made of corn meal, wheat being scarce and expensive. During hay-making season for three successive years they went without the midday meal, and in the fall of 1857 their princi¬ pal article of food was cottage cheese. These privations are but a few of those experienced by this sturdy family, who over¬ came their difficulties and established their home in the wilder¬ ness, which, though rude at first, was eventually one of com¬ fort and convenience. Mr. Murtaugh was summoned by death January 1, 1882, and his widow entered into rest May 28, 1891.

J. W. Murtaugh, a pioneer resident of Albert Lea township and veteran of the Civil War, was born in Port Chester, New York, October 3, 1842, son of John and Catherine Murtaugh, who came West when he was a boy and located in Albert Lea. He received his earlier education in New York and later attended school in Albert Lea. Subsequently he went to Wells, where he studied to fit himself for the work of a teacher, and passed the examination which entitled him to a teachers' certificate, but deciding that he preferred a farmer's life, he returned to his home and worked with his father until the latter's death in 1882. Mr. Murtaugh married Chloe Knapp, who was born in Medina, Medina county, Ohio, April 3, 1847, daughter of Charles T. and Mary (Hamilton) Knapp, the pioneers. The Knapps moved from Ohio to Medina in 1852, and came to Min¬ nesota in June, 1855, settling in section 36, Albert Lea township, continuing farming all their days. C. T. Knapp died in April, 1906, and his wife in 1872. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Mur¬ taugh has resulted in the birth of eleven children. The living are : William, at home : Edward, employed in the postoffice at Albert Lea; Thomas, working for the C. P. & R. I.; Leonard, a clerk in the postoffice at Albert Lea; Bernard, in the railway postal service; Hulda, holding a position in the Soldiers' Home at Marshalltown; Annie, the wife of George Carny, of Mar¬ shalltown, and Lucy, a stenographer in Mason City. Cora M., Mary and Margaret J.. are deceased. Mr. Murtaugh owns a well-kept farm of eighty acres and engages in general and dairy farming, disposing of his dairy products to the Glenville Coopera¬ tive Creamery. He lost his first house by fire and then built his present comfortable home, draAving the lumber for it from Owatonna. He has been school clerk for twenty years and also toAcn assessor for the same length of time. Fie is a member of the Ok! Settlers' Association, and one of the venerable and respected men of the township. He also belongs to the G. A. R. J.AV. Murtaugh enlisted in Company H, First Minnesota Mounted Rangers, and was mustered in October 31, 1862. He was honorrblv discharged November 24, 1863, having served in the battle of Big Mound July 24, 1863; the battle of Stormy Lake July 25; the battle of Dead Buffalo Lake July 26, and the battle at Camp Stanton, on the Missouri river, July 30.

W. H. Miller, proprietor of the ''Home Farms," and for nearly all his life a resident of Freeborn township, came here as a boy, during the closing years of the Civil War, and has watched the county grow from a pioneer community to its present thriving and prosperous condition. He was born in Columbia county, Wisconsin, September 19, 1857, son of John and Samantha (Woodward) Miller, who brought him to FYeeborn township when he was about seven years old, in 1864. He received his education in the district schools, and later taught in the district in which he had received his boyhood lessons. He has since devoted his life to farming. In 1874 he erected his first house, which was across the street from his boyhood home. In 1895 he erected his present modern and comfortable home, and three years later built a fine and commodious barn, fifty bv eightv feet. He owns 320 acres of land, and carries on general farming with great success. Being a thorough believer in the tiling system of farm drainage he has laid several thou¬ sand feet, and the result has more than justified his expectations. Mr. Miller is especially fond of his fine herd of ILolstein-Fresian cattle, being in this connection a member of the Freeborn County Breeders' Association and of the Holstein-Fresian Association of America. lie is a stockholder of the Freeborn Creamery and was one of the directors of that institution for several years. At the present time Mr. Miller is chairman of his township. He was assessor twenty-two years, and school treasurer for many terms. He is also vice-president of the First State Bank of Freeborn. Fraternallv he is a member of Western Star Lodge, No. 26, of the M. B. A., and the M. W. A., having been clerk of the latter for many vears. Mr. Miller married Amanda, the daughter of Carl and Mary (Wasmer) Leonard, born August 25, 1857, in Manchester township, this county. Seven children have blessed their home. They are: Henry D., Sidney R., Merry C., Elsie M., Anna R., Robert B. and Alice F. L. Merry C. mar¬ ried Earl Longshare, and they have one daughter, Beverly. Elsie M. is the wife of Charles C. Cornwell, of Arizona. Mr. Miller is highly esteemed and is one of Freeborn county's wide-awake and enthusiastic farmers, alwavs alert to whatever mav be

Me. And Mes. W. H. Millee

John Miller, who died in February, 1911, in his ninety-second year, was born in Sackett's Harbor, N. Y., and in 1848 came to Columbia county, Wisconsin, where he carried on farming for several years. He brought his family to Freeborn township in 1864, and securing land, continued his occupation of tilling the soil for forty years. His wife, Samantha Woodward-Miller, is yet living at the age of eighty-three years.

W. C. Mitchell, noted for many years as chief of the Albert Lea Fire Department, was born in Erie county, New York, on April 10, 1854, the son of Charles and Katherine (Murray) Mitchell, natives of England and Ireland respectively. Charles Mitchell came to America about 1850 and settled in Erie county, where he met Katherine Murray and was married. They came to Wisconsin at an early day. locating in Rock county, where they farmed. Then they moved to Jefferson county, where they also farmed. In 1868 thev removed to Martin county, Minnesota, where they farmed until 1890. Charles then retired and still lives at Fairmont, in Martin county, at the age of eightythree. His wife died in December, 1888. The subject of this sketch was educated in the common schools of Martin county, Minnesota. Leaving school, he farmed until 1877, then came to Albert Lea and established a mercantile business which he conducted for two and one-half years, after which he sold the business. In the spring of 1880 Mr. Mitchell was appointed chief of police, holding that office for four years. He was then appointed deputy sheriff for three years. The following twelve years Mr. Mitchell held the office of county sheriff. In January, 1901, he went with the Central Minnesota Land Company, and remained in their employ for two years. At the end of that time he joined the Jones Land Company, for which company he worked one year. Since that time he has handled real estate for himself. In the year 1880 Mr. Mitchell was married to Helen Rue, a native of Racine county, Wisconsin. Their home has been blessed with two children : Bernice, who died, and Beatrice C., who is at home. Mr. Mitchell is a Republican politically, and a member of the Christian Church. He affiliates with the Blue Lodge, Chapter and Commandery at Albert Lea and with Osman Temple of A. A. O. N. M. S., St. Paul. He is also a member of the A. O. U. W. Mr. Mitchell served as chief of the Albert Lea Volunteer Fire Department for twenty-eight vears, and has been a fireman for thirty-two years. He is a member of the Firemen^s Relief Association, and served as president of Minnesota Fire Department Association in 1887. Mr. Mitchell was a delegate from the state association to the national convention, held at Kansas City in 1905, and the fol¬ lowing year he represented the state association at Roanoke, ya. During the following years he was sent to represent them at the International Association of Chief Engineers at Wash¬ ington D. C. Mr. Mitchell owns his pleasant home at 221 South Pearl street. In 1911, Mr. Mitchell resigned his position as chief of the Albert Lea Fire Department, which he had held so long and so honorably, and on April 1, 1911, was appointed state factory inspector by Governor A. 0. Eberhardt. It is worthy of note that he is a life honorary member of the State Fire Department Association, and has served as high priest of Albert Lea Chapter, No. 30, R. A. M.

John A. Severson, a prosperous farmer of Manchester, is one of the influential men in that community. He has occupied many public offices in the township, greatly to his own credit and the satisfaction of his felloAV citizens, having been school director for fifteen years, supervisor of the town for three years, assessor for two years and treasurer for five years. He still occupies the latter office, and his services are very satisfactory. Mr. Severson was born in Sogn, Norway, September 5, 1852, and came to the United States in 1854 with his parents. Andrew and Johanna Severson. He acquired his education in the com¬ mon schools of Manchester township, and has since engaged in agricultural pursuits. He owns 2431/*? acres of land, and together with general farming he is interested in dairying, for which purpose he keeps a good herd of Shorthorn cattle. He pur¬ chased his well-improved farm in 1882, and its present prosper¬ ous condition is due to his untiring efforts to make it one of the valuable farms in the county. He married Cary Olson, daughter of Ole Olson, a resident of South Dakota, June 27, 1883, and this marriage has resulted in six children: Alfred, married Minna Gunderson, and lives in Burley county, North Dakota : Hannah is the wife of Berger Seberson, of Cresbard, S. D. ; Toby is engaged in the banking business of Lake Mills, Iowa; Edwin and Mathilda are at home; Julia died when six¬ teen years of age. Mr. Severson upholds the tenets of the Republican party, and is a respected member of the Synod Lutheran Church. He is actively interested in the local creamery, of which he is now the treasurer, having been elected to this office for the past seven years. For five years he has been the director of this same institution. In both business and social interests, Mr. Severson has the esteem of the citizens of the township and is indeed one of the leading men of the county. He is a stockholder in the Citizen's National Bank of Albert Lea and also in the Manchester State Bank.

John A. Sevekson And Family

Andrew Severson came from Norway to America in 1854 and located in Boone county, Illinois, where he followed general farming for three years, after which he moved to Manchester township, this county, July 16, 1857, coming by ox team from Boone county, Illinois. Here he acquired land and engaged in farming, making his home in this place until his death, which occurred June 7, 1909. To himself and wife, Johanna Severson, were born eight children, of whom three, Susan, Sever and Britta, are deceased; Betsie married A. J. Stodheim and lives in Bath, Minn. ; John A. is a resident of Manchester, Minn. ; Mary is the wife of E. J. Hallum ; Severina is now Mrs. Charles Stout, of Minneapolis, and Julia married John Kabrud, of McPherson county, South Dakota ; Susan married John Ellingson, and they had eight children. In 1880 Mr. and Mrs. Ellingson moved to Polk county, Minnesota, and there Susan died. After her death Mr. Ellingson moved to Canada, and there he died.

Andrew Stoddart, now deceased, was one of the well-known farmers in Carlston. He was born in Scotland and came to America when a young man and settled in Wisconsin. He married Louisa Holland, .daughter of George and Mary (Hampson) Holland, and for two years after their marriage they made their home in Wisconsin, where they were engaged in general farming. In 1881 they came to Carlston township and located in section 8 on a farm which comprises 120 acres. Here they established their permanent home and reared their family, and it was here that Mr. Stoddart passed away in 1905. Mrs. Stod¬ dart, with the help of her sons, has continued to run the farm since her husband's death. To Mr. and Mrs. Stoddart were born the following children: George, John, Andrew, Mary, wife of Herbert Scoville ; Morris, Olive, Meda, Martha, David, Jennie and William. Jennie died December 11, 1904. Mr. Stod¬ dart was an active worker for the interests of the township of Carlston, and for many years was a member of the school board, and he belonged to the M. W. A. Mrs. Stoddart was a loving and sympathetic companion in all his endeavors, and proved a devoted wife, a faithful and loving mother and a staunch friend.

N. C. Sorenson, a busy contractor of Albert Lea, is a native of Denmark, having been "born there on January 9, 1866, the son of Christian and Anna (Christianson) Sorenson. The father was a farmer in Denmark. The subject of this sketch attended the schools of Denmark. Upon leaving school, he learned the carpenter trade. In the year 1882 he came to America, locating at Evansville, Minn., where he followed his trade for a short time, after which he removed to Breton, S. D., where he did carpenter work for about seven years. From there Mr. Soren- son went to the city of Duluth, where he remained for a short time. Leaving Duluth, he came to Albert Lea, in 1890, followed his trade for three years, and then established a contracting business, in which he is very successful, having built his share of the best buildings of Albert Lea, among which may be men¬ tioned: The Auditorium, the Wedge-Jones building, the Third Ward school building, the Gulbrandson building, the A. P. Han¬ son business house, the Naeve & Soth building, Albert Lea Gas Light Co. building and numerous structures out of the city. In^l897 Mr. Sorenson was united in marriage to Matilda Han¬ son, daughter of Lars Hanson, of Albert Lea. Their union has been blessed by two children, Phoebe and Russell, both at home. In politics Mr. Sorenson is a Republican. He attends the English Lutheran Church. Mr. Sorenson is an officer of all the Masonic orders in Albert Lea, and belongs also to Zurah Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S., Minneapolis, the K. of P., the Royal Arcanum, M. Y . A. and I. 0. 0. F. He is now serving in the city council as aiderman from the First ward and is vice-president of the People's Building & Loan Association. His home is situated at 124 St. Mary street. Mr. Sorenson is always interested in Albert Lea s advancement and is one of it's substantial citizens. His office is located in the Wedge-Jones building. In addition to the lodges named he is a member of the Business Men s League and of the Albert Lea Automobile Association.

George Seath, a sturdy early settler of Freeborn township, was born in Scotland, October It), 1833, and wras brought to America by his parents vdien but five weeks old. He lived with his parents in New York city a year, and then was taken b\ them to Delaware county, in the same state, wffiere he spent his boyhood. At the age of about eighteen years, he came to Wisconsin and located in Fond du Lac county. February 9. 1858, he married Phoebe Larrabee, of Wisconsin. In 1861 they came to Minnesota and located in section 27, freeborn town¬ ship, wffiere they reared their family and farmed for many v eais. George Seath now lives in Lyman county, South Dakota.

Ira Herbert Seath is an extensive landowner and prosperous farmer of Freeborn township. He is a progressive citizen, and his influence in the community has ever been toward true devel¬ opment and improvement. He w^as born in Alto township, Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin, June 21, 1860, son of George and Phoebe (Larrabee) Seath. He came with them to Freeborn county in 1861, and here attended the public schools. He assisted his father on the farm as a boy and thus learned the lessons of industry and energy which have proven so valuable to him in after years. He nowr owns a fine farm of 240 acres which he cultivates, and also a tract of eighty acres not adjoining the home place. Mr. Seath votes as he deems best, and has never sought political preferment. lie married Lucy Challis, daughter of Seth Challis, a native of Vermont, and their union has been blessed with nine children : Bercy E., Lura E., Sidney H., Ira C., Ada L., Clarence E., Manferd W., Dwight M. and Fern, the latter of whom is dead. The family are members of the Congre¬ gational Church at Freeborn village. Mr. Seath affiliates with the Modern Woodmen of America.

George A. Seath is a prosperous and substantial farmer in Freeborn township, where he has ever labored for the best inter¬ ests of the community. He is a believer in progress in agricul¬ tural endeavor, and pursues this vocation along the latest approved lines. George A. Seath is a native of Freeborn county, born in Freeborn township February 4, 1867, son of George and Phoebe (Larrabee) Seath. He attended the district schools and received a good education which he has supplemented with wide reading. He started farming as a boy and has since continued this occupation, having a fine tract of 240 acres in section 21, Freeborn township. He has a comfortable home, and his barns and outbuildings are models of comfort and convenience. The subject of this sketch was married November 28, 1895, to Reeca Peterson, who has proven a most able and intelligent helpmate in all his undertakings. Three children, Leslie A., Myron G. and Russell W. have blessed their home. Mr. Seath is greatly interested in education and is doing good service as treasurer of School District No. 101.

Rev. Paul G. Ostby, venerable pastor and teacher, is a native of Norway, born August 12, 1836, son of Gjermund and Inger (Johnson) Ostby. His father died while Paul G. was an infant and his mother died in 1893 at the advanced age of ninety-three years. Paul G. came to the United States in 1868, after receiv¬ ing an education equal to the full course of our normal schools of today. On arrival he at once entered the Theological Sem¬ inar}^ at Paxton, Ill., which, during his time as a student there, was moved to Marshall, Wis., and it was there that he completed the course in that institution. On January 6, 1871, he was ordained, and for one vear was assistant to Rev. C. L. Clausen, of St. Ansgar, Iowa, who had more than he could attend to in church work. Rev. Ostby took up the work of the then small parishes of Austin, Red Oak Grove, Blooming Prairie and Little Cedar at Adams. This work he performed with such excellent results that he was given this district as his own work and had full charge till 1877, when he was called to the work of southern Freeborn county and northern Iowa, where he is still serving a very large and appreciative congregation. When he first took up this work he had congregations at Lake Mills and Lime

Creek. Not satisfied with only continuing the work already begun he assembled and successfully ministered to congrega¬ tions at Emmons and Bethel, as well as other points, which have grown to substantial churches. He now conducts the congre¬ gations at Emmons, Bethel and his largest one at Lime Creek, lie was for seventeen years "visatator" or presiding elder in the Northern Iowa district, visiting sixty congregations and twenty-four ministers in performing the duties of that posi¬ tion. Aside from his work as a minister he is a man of business and affairs. He has a farm of 160 acres in section 35, Mansfield, where he follows general and dairy farming. On December 1, 1871. he married Goro Thornby, who died January 10, 1908. To this union were born nine children. Six are living: George, of Forest City, Iowa; Bernhard, of Minneapolis; Paul, at home; Selmer. of St. Paul; James, of Seattle; Otto, of Minneapolis. On July 34, 1909. the subject of this biography married Ranvei Morkve, of Mansfield. Rev. Ostbv is held in the highest respect by his congregations and all others of his community, and is loved not more as a minister than as a friend and neighbor.

Ole I. Opdahl, the most extensive landowner in Freeborn county, was born in Norway on January 5, 1852, son of Iver and Ingeborg (Goden) Opdahl, who came to America in 1864, bring¬ ing with them their son, Ole. They located first in "W isconsin, where they remained for only six weeks, after which they came to Minnesota and settled in Nunda township, where they home¬ steaded land in sections 19 and 30 and engaged in agricultural pursuits for the remainder of their lives, the wife and mother passing away on October 30, 3890, and the father on June 15, 3897. Ole, the subject of this biography, was twelve years of age when he came to this country, and he remained at home with his father on the farm in Nunda until he became twentytwo years old, at which time he purchased 160 acres in section 33, Mansfield township. Here he made many improvements, erected good buildings, carefully cultivated the soil, planted crops and carried on general farming. As he grew more pros¬ perous, he bought more land and at the present time, he owns 1,540 acres in this county, all of which are in one farm, with the exception of 160 acres. Mr. Opdahl also owns 960 acres in Polk county, this state, which is well improved and which he rents. Mr. Opdahl has ever been a staunch Republican and he has been elected to serve in some of the responsible public offices in the countv and state. From 1903 until 1905 he served in the lower house of the Minnesota legislature, and he has been elected from the Fifth district to serve as county commis¬ sioner for eight years. Among other public offices which he has held are supervisor, treasurer and chairman of the town, and for thirty-two years he has been school treasurer. He is a stockholder and director of Citizens National Bank of Albert Lea, and president of and owner of one-third interest in the Walker Milling and Electric Light Co. of Alden. On September 22, 1874 Mr. Opdalil married Betsy Davidson. She was horn in Norway on February 14, 1853, daughter of Lars and Guri (Tveit) Davidson, who came to America in 1862 and were among the early settlers in this county. Mr. and Mrs. Opdahl became the parents of thirteen children: Lewis 0. resides in Mansfield township ; Ingeborg is the wife of Albert Monson, a contractor of Chicago; Guri is the wife of Sever Bidne, of Mansfield; Iver and. David are at home ; Anna married Anstein Laugen, of Mans¬ field; Martha is at home; Nora married Selmar Bye, of Winne¬ bago county, Iowa; Olena is the wife of Gilbert Olson, of Polk county, Minn.; Oscar, Henry, Brita and Albert are at home. The wife and devoted mother died on April 13, 1900. The family faith is that of the Lutheran Church.

Louis 0. Opdahl, native of Freeborn county, was born Sep¬ tember 21, 1874, the son of Ole I. Opdahl. Louis O. attended the country schools and later Luther Academy in Albert Lea. In 1899 he went to Polk county, where he rented land and farmed for four years. On returning from Polk county he began work¬ ing his 178-acre farm in section 14, where he still resides. He now rents 220 acres of land in addition to his own farm and carries on general farming and stock raising. On September 30, 1899, he married Mary Vinge, and to them have been born seven children, two of whom died in infancy. The living are Britha, Alvin, Walter, Henry and Harry. Britha and Alvin attend school and are doing well with their studies. Mr. Opdahl is a member of the Lutheran Church. In politics he is a

Iver Sorlie, respected and substantial citizen of Hartland, and a veteran of the Civil War, was born in Norway July 25, 1835, son of Jacob and Kari (Crippen) Sorlie. He received his educa¬ tion in Norway and came to America in 1853, locating m Wis¬ consin for a short time. In 1859 he came to Minnesota and located in Hartland township, where he bought 160 acres m section 25 This land he broke and developed, building first a log house, and later replacing this with a comfortable frame house, and the necessary farm buildings. With the years he prospered and added 160 acres in section 18, Bath township, making in all a fine farm of 320 acres, on which he still con¬ ducts general farming and where he has raised his splendid family °of children. Mr. Sorlie has spent his life on a farm with the exception of the years of the Civil War. January 1, 1862, he enlisted in Company K, Fifteenth Wisconsin Volunteer Infan- try as a private. He was wounded in the left limb at the battle of Murfreesboro and was captured after lying three days on the battlefield, unable to move. He was first sent to the hos¬ pital at Nashville, and then transferred to the hospital at New Albany, Ind., being three months in each hospital. He was dis¬ charged for disability at Louisville, Kv., and then returned to Hartland, where he has since lived. Mr. Sorlie is a Republican in politics, and served as town supervisor several years, being also school director for a long term. He was married September 26, 1859, to Mary Olson, born in Norway February 4, 1841, daughter of Ole Christiansen and Gunliild Peterson. This union has been blessed with thirteen children. Each member of this family living is respected and honored, and many of the chil¬ dren have attained more than usual prominence in the com¬ munities where they have made their homes. Ingar lives in Churches Ferry, N. D. ; Oscar lives in Buckston, N. D. ; Volborg married Andrew Lergerg and lives at Ellendale, Minn. ; Arthur lives in Grand Forks, N. D. ; Victor resides in Hartland town¬ ship; Carl lives in Grand Forks, N. D. ; Wilhelm is at home; Jacob is a merchant in Hartland village; Esther is the wife of Selmer Anderson, who is a merchant in Hartland village with Jacob Sorlie; Josephine, Oscar, Caroline and Louisa are dead. The parents of Iver Sorlie came to America from Norway in 1868 and spent the remainder of their lives farming in Iowa. I he parents of Mrs. Sorlie came to America from Norwav with iheir family in 1854 and lived a time at Decorah, Iowa. Two years later the mother died and the father went to Pike's Peak, Col., where he died.

L. H. Rasmusson, who came to this country from Norway vith his parents when but two years of age, was born August 21, 1867, son of Ellen and Henry Rasmusson, who settled in V innebago county, Iowa, where they both passed away. Here their son, L. II., grew to manhood and received his education in the common schools. When sixteen year of age he began working out, and in 1893 he bought 280 acres of land in section

>6, in Mans 6 ('Id township. He has here followed general farm¬ ing and has a fine comfortable home. In May, 1893, he married -Julia Kuntson, of Mansfield township, and to them have been born seven children: ITelmer, Eddie, Carl, Theodore, Oscar, Antone and Louis. Mr. Rasmusson is a member of the Lime ('reek Lutheran Church. He votes with the Republican party and has been a member of the school board in District 86 for hiit( (ii \i ais. Mr. Rasmusson has tiled and otherwise improved lus land, bringing nearly every fertile acre under cultivation, and now is enjoying the fruits of his labor and farsightedness. He is a stockholder in the Union Creamery of Emmons. Mr.

Jorgen P. Skov And Family

Rasmusson has five brothers and two sisters: Rasmus, of North Dakota: Henry, of Lake Milis, Iowa; Nick, of Winnebago county, Iowa ; John, who lives with L. H. in Mansfield township ; Andrew, of Lake Mills, Iowa; Mary, wife of J. Thompson, of Searville, Iowa, and Anne, the wife of Axle Jenson, of La Sueur, Minn.

Hellick Knutson (Hello) and his wife, Christie, came to America from Norway in 1855, and in 1858 came to Freeborn countv and settled in section 36, Mansfield, on the farm where their son-in-law, L. H. Rasmusson, now lives. They secured 240 acres of land which they broke and developed and brought to a good stage of cultivation. There lie carried on general farm¬ ing until his death, Oct. 27, 1884. His wife is still living at the age of eightv-six years, making her home on the old place with L. H. Rasmusson. They had eight children. Three are living: Emma, wife of John Berg, of Winnebago county, Iowa ; Julia, now Mrs. L. II. Rasmusson, of Mansfield township, and Rachael, now Mrs. N. Rasmusson, of Winnebago county, Iowa. The deceased are Knute, Thor, Ole, Anna and Maria.

J. P. Skov is one of the estimable citizens of Carlston town¬ ship, and has assisted in its growth and progress. He is an active church member, possessing intelligence and good sense to an unusual degree, thus making his opinions on all questions hitrhlv Amlued bv those who seek his advice. He was born m Denmark Julv 22, 1855, and in 1882 he came to America with his parents, locating one summer at Alden. The next year he and his brother purchased a farm in section 17, Carlston town¬ ship, and lived on it about thirteen years. Then they disposed of it, and J. P. secured land in sections 23 and 24 in the same township. Mr. Skov has one of the finest farms in Freeborn county. Its 280 acres, of which 174 are under cultivation, with its comfortable and pleasant home and spacious barns and sheds for the cattle and grain are an index both of his prosperity and progress, and of his hard work and scientific methods. Mr. Skov has seen much public life. He has been supervisor of his town and is now clerk of the school board of his district. He has been president, secretary and clerk of the Carlston Danish Evangelical Lutheran Church, and has done much to promote the growth of that congregation. He is also a stockholder in the Alden Creamery. By his first wife, Margaret Olson, he has one son, Laurits Walter, who was born March 9, 1885, and lives in Chicago. After the death of his first wife he married Anna Barner, who was born in Denmark April 4, 1888. This union has been blessed with nine children: Axel T., born February 7, 1889; Clara, born September 5, 1890; Emma, born April 26, 1892; Jorgen P., born September 20, 1894; Anna, born April 19, 1896; Sophie, born May 17, 1898; Sigurd, born November

A. T. Schoen, an extensive land owner and farmer in Free¬ born township, is a native of Prescott, Pierce county, Wiscon¬ sin. having been born there June 17, 1863, son of John and Caroline (Herald) Schoen, whose sketch appears elsewhere. A. T. Schoen was reared on his father's farm in this county and went to school in the district near his old home. He married Lynda Scott, a daughter of L. T. and Marion (Purdie) Scott, and their marriage was blessed with four children: Lawrence T., Royal L., Marian D., and Clare S. Mr. Schoen has lived on his present farm for the past seventeen years, and it is one of the landmarks in that locality. The farm comprises 320 acres in sections 33 and 34 and is well kept and yields great and valuable crops under the careful cultivation given it. Mr. Schoen is a member of the M. W. A., and also the R. N. A., and he is one of the prominent and foremost citizens in the town¬ ship. He has served as treasurer of his school district and is a stockholder in the Freeborn creamery and in the First State Bank of Freeborn. Within the past year Mr. Schoen has pur¬ chased a residence at Wells, in Faribault county, and moved his family there, to better educate his children. He still con¬ ducts his farm, going to and from Wells every week.

Anders Pedersen, an esteemed farmer residing in Carlson township, was born in Denmark October 27, 1839, son of Peder Andersen and Anna Bentsen, his wife, who passed their years in their native land. Anders, the subject of this sketch, acquired his education in the Denmark schools, and in that country he spent his boyhood. In 1869 he left his old home and came to America. Upon his arrival in the United States, he proceeded west to Minnesota, where he purchased 80 acres in section 1, Carlston township. Mr. Pedersen here erected a shanty twelve by sixteen feet, broke the land, planted crops and engaged in agricultural pursuits. As he toiled and grew more prosperous he added to his possessions until he became the owner of 210 acres, all in Carlston. Mr. Pedersen carried on general farm¬ ing for many years, and in 1896 gave his farm to his son, and now lives a retired life on the old home place. Politically he votes independently, and that he has the confidence of the residents of the community has been proven by the various responsible public offices which they have elected him to occupy, among which are assessor, member of the town board, also road overseer for many years. He is a stockholder in the Hartland State Bank. In 1869 Mr. Pedersen married Bodie K. Jensen, who was born in Denmark on May 22, 1841. To Mr. and Mrs. Pedersen two children were born: Jens now conducts the home farm : Harold married Louise Hunte and resides in Colorado, having two children, George and Helen A. Mrs. Pedersen, the estimable wife and devoted mother, entered into rest on Novem¬ ber 30, 1897. The familv faith is that of the Danish Lutheran church, of which organization Mr. Pedersen has long been a respected member.

William Pilgrim, a retired farmer residing in the village of Oakland, was born in England May 9, 1833, and came to America with his parents in 1837, landing at Quebec. They located in Montreal, where the father for many years worked at his trade as a stone mason. When William was thirteen years old he was "bound out" for five years to learn the stone mason's trade. He completed his apprenticeship and secured some land and engaged in farming, together with his work as a mason. In 1863 he enlisted in Company H, Twenty-ninth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and went south to Louisiana, where he joined his regiment. June 20, 1865, he was transferred to Company C, Fourteenth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. For some time he was in the barracks in New Orleans, and later was in the following battles: Sabine Crossing, Pleasant Hill, Cane River, Yellow Bayou, Morganza Bend, and later at the fall of Mobile. He was honorably discharged at Madison, AVis., and mustered out of service October 2, 1865. Then he returned to AVisconsin, where he remained a short time, and. in 1865, came to Minne¬ sota and located in the township of Oakland. He purchased 160 acres of land in Oakland township, section 16, and for some time carried on agricultural pursuits. He some years later sold this property and purchased forty acres in Moscow township. Some years ago he sold this land and purchased his present home in Oakland village. On April 8, 1860, at Beaver Dam, AVis., he married Mary Jane Lightly and this marriage was blessed by the birth of six children: Mary E., Fred E., Louis N., Laura, Minnie, and an unnamed infant. Of the two living Laura mar¬ ried George Torrence, of Oakland, and Minnie married J. T. Bennett, of Moscow. Air. Pilgrim is a Republican and is proud of the fact that he voted for John C. Fremont. He is a member of the G. A. R., and has been justice of the peace sixteen years and constable in Oakland township twenty years.

O. R. Petersen is one of the foremost residents of Carlston township. He was born, in Denmark July 14, 1857, and came to America with his parents eleven years later. These worthy people located in Carlston, where the father bought a farm and established a home for himself and family. O. R., the son, grew to manhood here, received his schooling in district 15 and helped his father with the farm work. AVhen he reached his majority he left the old home and went to South Dakota, where he secured employment and remained for nine years. He then returned to Carlston and bought a farm of eighty acres in section 4, built a comfortable home, planted trees and made many other improve¬ ments, and here he successfully engages in farming at the present. Mr. Petersen has held many of the prominent offices in the township, among which are supervisor of the township and member of the school board many years. He has also given excellent service in minor offices in the township. He married Mathea Gulbrandson, and this marriage has resulted in four children: Julia, Walter, Emma and Ida. Mr. Petersen is a Republican in politics, and worships at the Norwegian Lutheran Church. He belongs to the Danish Brotherhood at Alden and the M. W. A. at Freeborn and is a stockholder in the Freeborn creamerv. Mrs. Petersen was born in Norway November 23,

1860, daughter of Gulbrand and Martha (Erickson) Gulbrand¬ son, early settlers of Carlston township, where the former still lives, the latter being dead.

Henry Stiehl, one of the prosperous farmers of Pickerel Lake township, was born in Germany October 29, 1850. When he was seventeen years of age he came to the United States with his sister, now Mrs. Mary Rasmussen. They proceeded west to Minnesota and were for a short time located in Albert Lea, after which they went to Pickerel Lake and secured employ¬ ment with different residents of that township. Three years after his arrival in this country Mr. Stiehl sent back to Ger¬ many for his brothers, Louis and Christ. In 1872 his parents, Christ and Mary (Scheaffer) Stiehl, born January 18, 1823, and February, 1826, respectively, came to America with the rest of the family and rented the Morin farm for two years. Here they engaged in general farming. Later they moved to the Anthony Huvck farm and subsequently the family moved to the farm which the son, Henry, purchased, and on which is his home at the present time. The father entered into rest April 28, 1901, and the mother eight years later, May 7, 1909. Mr. Stiehl owns 200 acres of land and engages in diversified farming. He has made many improvements on his land and erected the - substantial buildings which are not only commodious but pleas¬ ing in appearance. He married Caroline Schneider and they are the parents of the following: Edward is a farmer of Pick¬ erel Lake township; Louisa is the wife of George Schmidt, of Mansfield; Ella married Martin Springer, a merchant of Con¬ ger; Carrie married Fred Pestorious, a blacksmith; Anna, Henry F. and Esther are living at home. Mr. Stiehl has been elected to serve in various offices of trust in his township and his actions as treasurer of the school district and as member of the board of supervisors of the town have shown him to be the possessor of sound sense and keen judgment. He is a member of the Ger¬ man Lutheran Church of Pickerel Lake, to the support of which he has ever contributed generously.

Mr. Stiehl is a staunch Republican in politics. He is a stock¬ holder and director in the First National Bank of Alden and in the Farmers Mutual Insurance Company of Manchester. He is also a stockholder in the Conger Creamery and has been a director for several years. The Conger Creamery building at present is the third one erected, and Mr. Stiehl has been instrumental -in building all three. Mrs. Stiehl, whose maiden name was Caro¬ line Schneider, was born November 21, 1857, in Wyoming county, New York, daughter of Charles and Jennie (Koesting) Schneider, natives of Germany. Her parents came to America in 1854 and located in Wyoming county, New York. In 1863 they came to Freeborn county and lived on Bear Lake in Nunda township one year. Then they purchased land in Pickerel Lake township and engaged in farming the remainder of their days. The father was born November 23, 1823, and died February 17, 1899. The mother was born March 3, 1821, and died May 8, 1886.

R. C. Paulson is the well-known banker of Manchester. His father and mother, Martin and Dora (Green) Paulson, were merchants in Sweden, and learning of the great opportunities offered in America to all who were ambitious, they came to this eountrv in 1880. They located first at Wells, Minn., and later moved to Albert Lea, where Martin Paulson is engaged in a mer¬ cantile business at the present time. It was here that their son, R. C., was born November 9, 1886. This son, the eldest of three children, paved the way for his future success in life by acquir¬ ing a good education. He attended the graded and high schools of Albert Lea, and after completing their courses, secured employment in the Citizens National Bank of Albert Lea. After three years' experience in this bank he left Albert Lea and accepted a position as manager and assistant cashier of the Manchester State Bank, in which capacity he has the esteem and confidence of its depositors. He served as justice of the peace of Manchester for some time, and is in every way a sub¬ stantial, estimable and useful citizen.

John E. Ransom was born in Albert Lea June 3, 1883. His parents were C. W. Ransom and Mary L. W alsh, natives of Wisconsin. His early education was obtained in Albert Lea, where he graduated in 1901. Following this he spent six years in the University of Minnesota, three years in the academic course and three in the law school, being admitted to the bar in 1907. He then returned to Albert Lea and entered the employ of the Consolidated Fire & Marine Insurance Company, estab¬ lished by his father. Later C. W. Ransom sold a large portion of the stock and the headquarters of the company were moved to Minneapolis. John E. Ransom remained in charge of the Consolidated local office and is engaged in a general insurance and real estate business with offices at 217 South Broadway. In 1908 he was married to Mary E. Richards, of Duluth. Mr. Ransom is an active factor in the social and political life of the city. He is deeply interested in economic and political subjects, and is an enthusiastic supporter of everything which lie believes to he for the welfare of the community which has always been his home.