Houston County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1919 (part 17 of 21)

Alfred Albee, a well known farmer and respected citizen of Wilmington township, residing in section 25, was bom in this township, July 22, 1862, son of Charles F. and Sarah (Paine) Albee. His parents were among the best known pioneer settlers in this part of the county, having arrived here from Rhode Island in 1854, and he was reared to manhood on their farm, acquiring his elementary education in the district school, and later attending an academy in Minneapolis. Until the age of 27 years he remained with his parents on their farm in section 13, and was then married, Sept. 25, 1889, to Charlotte G., daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth (Gilchrist) Ratcliffe. He began domestic life on the parents' old farm in section 25, which he rented for two or three years. About 1886 he bought the Jerry Shumway farm of 80 acres in section 25, and nine miles south of Caledonia, where he is now living. On the place was a comfortable house but no bams. This defect he remedied by erecting a good frame bam, 32 by 70 by 16 feet, with an ell, 20 by 40 by 16, all on a full stone basement of eight feet. He also built a double com crib, 31 by 32, with a 15-foot drive, where he shelters his wagons ; and in 1911 he built a hollow-tile silo 14 by 37 feet in dimensions. Having added 40 acres to this farm, it now has an area of 120 acres, all good land and under the plow. Mr. Albee raises graded Shorthom cattle and Duroc swine, keeping pure-blooded sires, and his equipment is modem and of the best class. He is also a stockholder in the Wilmington Creamery Company and the People's Co-Operative Stock and Grain Co. of Caledonia. In addition to the farm already described^ Mr. Albee bought an improved farm of 100 acres, four miles southwest of Caledonia, on the Caledonia and Spring Grove road, which his son, Charles Benjamin, is now operating. Politically he gives his adherence to the Republican party. Mr. and Mrs. Albee have been the parents of six children, namely: Charles Benjamin, previously mentioned, who was born Jan. 28, 1891; Alfred Leonard, born Aug. 27, 1894, who with his brother, Edgar Jay, bom Sept. 22, 1898, served their country in the war with Germany, but are both now home; Ralph Halstead, bom Nov. 29, 1900; Mabel Carlotta, bom May 24, 1903, and Donald Ratcliffe, bom Nov. 4, 1906. The last three mentioned are residing on the home farm with their parents. The religious affiliations of the family are with the Portland Prairie M. E. church.

Dedrich Thiele, a well known and respected resident of Winnebago township, where for a number of years he has been engaged in agricultural pursuits, was born in Germany, and came to the United States alone at the age of 14 years, locating at Elmhurst, 111., whence two years later he removed to Allamakee county, Iowa. After working as a farm hand for some years, he was married about 1878 to Anna Lager, a native of this country, and with his wife and family he came to Winnebago township, Houston county, in 1895, and took a farm. There he and his wife are stiU residing, having 160 acres in section 30 and 40 acres in section 29, the two tracts being contiguous so as to form an undivided farm, which is provided with substantial buildings. Mr. and Mrs. Thiele are now practically retired, the farm being worked by their two sons, Edward and John. They have had in all nine children, namely: Theodore W., a prosperous farmer of Wilmington township ; Alfred, telegraph operator at Hazel Green, Wis. ; Louis, who is a farmer in Wilmington township; Walter of Winnebago township; Edward and John, above mentioned; Emma, now Mrs. Ferdinand Voigt, her husband being a farmer in Caledonia township ; Matilda, wife of Alfred Deters, a farmer of Winnebago township ; and Anna, wife of Alfred Meiners, a farmer of Allamakee county, Iowa.

Carl G. Morken

Theodore W. Thiele, who is successfully engaged in agriculture and stock raising in section 36, Wilmington township, was born in Union City township, Allamakee county, Iowa, May 2, 1880, son of Dedrich and Anna (Lager) Thiele. He was about 15 years old when he came with his parents to Winnebago township, Houston county, where he continued to attend school during the winters up to the age of 19 years. From the age of 18 he worked out as a farm hand for four years and then engaged in carpenter work, which he followed for about three years. In 1905 he returned to his father's farm in Winnebago township and remained on it for two years, and for three fall seasons was also engaged in threshing. In 1908 he bought his present farm in section 26, Wilmington township, containing 80 acres, all under the plow except one acre. He has a good frame house and frame bam, with a double corn crib, hog house, granary and workshop. In 1915 he rebuilt the house, which now contains ten rooms and is a comfortable two-story residence. A machine-shed and poultry house were also erected by him, and in addition to these improvements the farm is well fenced and under good cultivation. Mr. Thiele carries on diversified farming, keeping Shorthorn cattle and Poland-China hogs, including blooded sires. His teams, tools and equipment are also of the best quality. On June 17, 1909, Mr. Thiele was united in marriage with Louisa B., daughter of Leonard and Emma (Brinker) Rauzenberger of Waterloo township, Allamakee county, Iowa, and who was bom May «25, 1885. He and his wife have one child, Benjamin D., born Sept. 10, 1910. They are affiliated religiously with the Eitzen congregation of the German Evangelical church.

Carl G. Morken, who is the owner of one of the rich and productive farms of Wilmington township, containing 180 acres and situated in section 34, it being known as "Oakland Farm," was bom in Tronjen, Norway, Nov. 1, 1864, son of Gundar and Sara Morken. When he was two years old his parents brought him to the United States, settling in Iowa, not far from the Minnesota state line. Three years later his mother died and the father went back to Norway, Carl G. being adopted by a cousin of the father's who lived in the vicinity. Of his father he subsequently lost trace and does not know today wheher he is living or not. With his parents by adoption, Mr. and Mrs. Lars Morken, Carl G. continued to reside and was treated by them as though he were their own son. When he was 14 they settled in Wilmington township, Houston county, Minnesota, and here he attended the common school to the age of 16. For two years more he lived with Mr. and Mrs. Lars Morken, and then began working out as a farm hand in Wilmington township, being employed for two seasons by E. O. Steneroden, on a farm two miles north of our subject's present location. Altogether he worked out on farms in this vicinity for five years. At the age of 23 he went to Cumberland, Barron county, Wisconsin, where he was employed at lumbering for a year and a half. After that he worked the same length of time as clerk for Ole Ritan, who kept a general store in Cumberland. In the fall of 1890 Mr. Morken went to North Dakota, where he engaged in threshing, returning to Wilmington township early in the winter. For the next six years he hauled cream for the Wilmington Creamery. In 1896 he began farming on his own account, buying a farm containing 80 acres of improved land eight miles south of Caledonia, in Winnebago township. There he remained until 1904, when he purchased his present farm of 180 acres in section 34, Wilmington township, and moved on to it, at the same time selling his Winnebago farm. On his new property was a frame house and a bam 32 by 56 feet in dimensions, with a full stone basement of eight feet. This barn Mr. Morken rebuilt in 1910, and it now measures 32 by 76 feet on the same foundation. He has also erected a modem, two-story, eightroom frame house, with dormer chambers on the east and west sides. He has also a fine tile-block silo of 14 by 36 feet, together with a hog house, machine sheds, granary, com cribs and other buildings, all in good condition. The house is fitted with modem plumbing, hot and cold water and other conveniences, while the bam is equipped with a complete James system of stalls, stanchions and carriers. Both house and bam are lighted by electricity. It will thus be seen that Mr. Morken's farm is up to date in all its appointments. It lies just north of the Iowa state line, the surface being undulating, and the soil a black loam, with a clay and rock subsoil, and is one of the most beautiful farms in this section. All of the land is under cultivation except about 20 acres, which are in timber. While engaged in the active operation of the place Mr. Morken followed diversified farming, breeding grade Red Shorthom cattle and Poland-China swine, his herds having full-blooded sires, and he gained a high place among the successful and prominent men of his township and county. In 1914 he leased the farm to his son Oscar, and retired from active work, though he continues to reside on the place. A Republican in politics, he has for a number of years taken an active part in the affairs of local govemment. For some years he served efficiently as town treasurer and is now chairman of the town board. Mr. Morken was first married to a daughter of Ole Of stedahal of Wilmington township. She died Sept. 2, 1913, after having been the mother of two children, Oscar and Melvin, the latter of whom lived but one year. On Jan. 3, 1917, Mr. Morken married Lena Ofstedahal, a sister of his first wife. He and his family are religiously affiliated with the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church, being members of the Wilmington congregation, of which he is a liberal supporter. Aside from his interest in the farm, he is a stockholder in the Wilmington Creamery Company and the Spring Grove Hospital. Oscar Morken, who after attending the common school, was a pupil for one year in the Southem Minnesota Normal School at Austin, and also attended for a year the Minnesota Agricultural College, is now one of the prominent young farmers of Wibnington township. On Sept. 1, 1915, he was married to Stella Olsgard, daughter of Helger Olsgard of Spring Grove township, Houston county.

Knute 0. Myhre, proprietor of one of the best farms in Wilmington township, consisting of 220 acres in section 27, and who is also the owner of other property, was bom July 4, 1849, his parents being among the earliest settlers here. On their arrival in the county they took the land where he now lives, or a part of it, and here he has always resided. His education was limited, as his parents were poor and he had to assist them at an early age, helping to grub and clear the farm. In 1870, on attaining his majority, he bought the property, the value of which he has since greatly increased. Among the buildings he has erected are two frame bams, one 32 by 66 by 18, and the other 26 by 50 by 16 feet ; a granary 18 by 24 by 9 ; machine shed, 18 by 36 by 9 ; hog house, 26 by 40 ; a double com crib, 22 by 32, with a ten-foot drive ; and a poultry house, 14 by 20 by 10. Mr. Myhre brought 150 acres of his land under the plow, with the farm well fenced, and with a good operating equipment. He bred Shorthom cattle and Duroc- Jersey hogs successfully and with profitable results, being thus actively engaged until 1915, when, having accumulated an ample competence, he leased the farm to his son, Ole K., and retired, still continuing, however, to reside on it. It is beautifully situated five miles southeast of Spring Grove village. In addition to this property he owns 60 acres in section 27, on the Iowa state line. He is interested in the educational and religious development of the community in which he lives, being a faithful member of the Wilmington congregation of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church, and was instrumental in building both the old and new church edifices. His business interests aside from those derived from his farm are those of a stockholder in the Spring Grove Stock and Grain Company, the Honey Creamery at Bee, and the Spring Grove Hospital. Mr. Myhre was married, June 17, 1875, to Ellen, daughter of Ole and Leif ToUef son of Pine Creek, Iowa. He and his wife are the parents of nine children: Sarah, now Mrs. Andrew Lerhol of North Dakota; Lizzie, Anna and Ole K., residing at home, the last mentioned being proprietor of the farm ; Olaf , of Wilmington township ; Sophia, who married Michael Hagen ; Emma, now Mrs. Abraham Wisland ; Carl, of Wilmington township ; and Albert, who died of influenza while serving his country in France.

Ole K. Myhre, a well known farmer and respected citizen of Wibnington township, residing in section 27, was bom on the farm on which he now lives, Sept. 27, 1880, son of Knute and Ellen (Tollefson) Myhre, the parents being of good Norwegian stock. He acquired his education in the district school, which he attended from the age of 12 to that of 18 years, the rest of the time being mainly occupied with work on the home farm. On April 3, 1910, he was married to Theoline, daughter of Ole and Guri Engene of Wilmington township, and immediately after his marriage bought a quarter section of unbroken land near Ray, Wilkins county. North Dakota, and with his wife took up his residence on it, building a frame house and granary and bam. There he resided until 1915, during which time he broke 100 acres of the land. He then retumed to Wilmington township, Houston county, making his home on his father's farm, which he has since rented, owning the stock, teams and tools. His farm is well stocked with Shorthom cattle and Duroc-Jersey hogs, and he keeps full-blooded sires to improve the herds. He has made good progress and is numbered among the successful young farmers of Wilmington township. He and his wife are the parents of four children : Ella Genora, bom Dec. 23, 1910 ; Olga Charlotte, Nov. 30, 1912 ; CUfford Arnold, Feb. 21, 1915 ; and Oscar Tilman, Jan. 12, 1917. The two eldest were bom on the Dakota farm. Mr. Myhre and his family are members of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Congregation at Wilmington. In politics he is a staunch Republican.

Die Engene, who half a century ago became a pioneer settler in Wilmington township, and who died in 1905 after a life of useful activity, a widely known and respected citizen, was a native of Halingdal, Norway, where he grew to manhood and was married to Guri Flaget. By trade he was a shoemaker, but seeing no prospects of acquiring a competence in his native land, in June, 1867, he and his wife, with their son Amund, then about a year old, took passage on a sailing vessel for America. After being five weeks on the ocean they were landed at Quebec, and came west by boat and cattle train to Lansing, Iowa, where they remained for a year, the father working at his trade of shoemaker; In 1868 they came to Wilmington township, Houston county, where Mr. Engene worked the first year for Asle Swenson at grubbing and similar work, he and his family living in a log cabin near fhe present home of his son Albert O. In 1869 he bought 120 acres of grub lahd, of which only six acres had been broken, and began to develop it. He and his family lived in the log house until it burned down in 1884, when Mr. Engene built another, which now forms a part of the house in which his son Albert lives. For a number of years he used oxen for his draught work, hauling his grain to Brownsville, Minn., and to Lansing, Iowa. He also bought and developed 40 acres more land, adjoining his original tract, and in the evenings and when stormy weather prevented outdoor work he mended shoes for his neighbors, both he and his wife working hard to advance their fortunes. In 1898 he bought another 120- acre tract on section 26, Wilmington township, near the original farm, and also 40 acres of woodland, for timber and pasture, in Iowa, which tract also was located near his home. In 1900 he sold his original farm of 120 acres to his son Albert 0., and moved to his farm in section 26, where he died Nov. 22, 1905. Since his death his widow, who lives on the farm with two daughters and a son, the son working the farm, has erected a number of buildings on it, which include a two-story frame house with upright and wing, a frame barn, 32 by 72 by 16 feet in size, and a machine shed. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Engene were as follows: Amund, bom Jan. 6, 1866, who was a successful farmer at Kindred, N. D., where he died Jan. 22, 1912 ; Barbara, born May 26, 1868, who is the wife of T. H. Benson, a farmer in the same locality; Caroline, born in August, 1871, now Mrs. 0. H. Benson of Margo, Saskatchewan, Canada ; Albert 0., bom April 2, 1873, a prosperous farmer on the old home farm in section 35, Wilmington township; Peter, a farmer in St. Louis county, Minn., who also owns a large farm in Kindred, N. D. ; Ole, bom in April, 1878, who is a farmer at Esmond, N. D. ; Anna, born July 11, 1880, wife of N. O. Monson of Rosljm, S. D., her husband being a general merchant ; Randina, bom Feb. 8, 1882, who is residing with her mother in section 26 ; Nicolai 0., bom in March, 1885, who is operating his mother's farm in section 26, Wilmington township ; Theoline, bom Sept. 27, 1887, now Mrs. Ole K. Myhre of this township ; and Elida, bora June 25, 1889, who resides with her mother.

Albert O. Engene, who has a good farm of 155 acres in section 35, Wilmington township, the property having formerly belonged to his parents, Ole and Guri (Flaget) Engene, was born in this township, April 2, 1873. As a boy he attended school in his home district, was later a pupil at

Albert 0. Engene And Family

Decorah Institute at Decorah, Iowa, and was subsequently graduated in the business course from the Concordia Lutheran College at Moorhead, Minn., the year of his graduation being 1894. Until 19 years of age he resided at home, then worked one year as a farm hand in the vicinity, and afterwards spent three years at Kindred, N. D., where he farmed during the summers and attended school one winter. On June 4, 1897, he was married to Sigrid, daughter of Ole O. and Margit (Engen) Myhre, of Wilmington township, and began housekeeping on his father's land in section 26. For five years after his marriage he hauled cream for the Honey Creamery at Bee. In 1900 he bought of his father the latter's farm of 120 acres in section 35, also 35 acres from his father's last farm, making a total area of 155 acres, and here he has since made his home. He has 100 acres of the land under the plow, the balance being in timber and pasture, and has greatly improved the place by the erection of new buildings. These include : a frame barn, 30 by 52 by 16 feet, with a stone basement of 9 feet, cement floor, and modern equipment on the James system ; a granary 14 by 30, with a basement and lean-to; a machine shed, 14 by 30; garage, 13 by 16; hog house, 8 by 50 ; with a cement floor and cement feeding floor ; a corn crib, 6 by 40; cattle shed, 16 by 46 by 8, and a tile-block silo 12 by 34. He has also remodeled the house, which is now a comfortable five-room dwelling. The land produces good crops, and Mr. Engene is also successfully raising grade Shorthorn cattle and Poland-China swine, keeping full-blooded sires. His ample equipment includes a five-passenger Chevrolet car. In addition to these interests, Mr. Engene is a stockholder in the Honey Creamery Association, the Spring Grove Hospital and the Spring Grove Stock and Grain Co., and is one of the prosperous and influential citizens of his township. A Republican in politics, he has for a number of years performed useful service as a public official, having been supervisor two terms, treasurer three years, and is now serving in his second year as assessor. Of the Honey Creamery he has been a director for 14 years. He and his wife are the parents of six children : Gena Matilda, born Feb. 28, 1898, who after graduating from the eighth grade of the common school, was a pupil for one year in the Minnesota Agriculutral College, and is now living at home; Manda Selma, born Oct. 19, 1899, who enjoyed the same educational advantages as her elder sister; Oliver Melvin, born Oct. 18, 1901, and Ole Knute, bom June 22, 1904, who are graduates of the common school ; Selmer Amund, born Aug. 1, 1906, and Alma Emelia, born June 22, 1909, both of whom are attending school. Mr. Engene and his family are members of the Wilmington congregation of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church in Wilmington township, Houston county.

Ole P. Wolden, one of the pioneers of Wilmington township, who died but a few years ago, was a native of Norway, where he grew to manhood and married Helene M. Lyshoung. In 1853 he came to America, locating first in Illinois, whence he came with his family to Houston county, Minnesota, about two years later, in 1856, and in company with John Bondely, bought eight "forties" of wild land in Wilmington township, five miles south of Spring Grove village. Here, building a log house, he began to clear and improve his land, and in time developed a farm which is now one of the best in the township. Mr. Wolden died in 1916 at the home of his daughter, Mrs. E. G. Myhra, on the outskirts of Spring Grove village. He came of a long-lived family, his father having died at the age of 69 years in Allamakee county, Iowa, soon after arriving from Norway in 1854. During most of his life he was an active and vigorous man. His wife died March 6, 1896, in Allamakee county at the age of 104 years. In addition to the daughter above mentioned, they were the parents of six sons: Osianus, who died soon after the close of the Civil War in 1865 ; Peter, who was a farmer in Walcott, N. D., where he died in 1888 ; Andrew, who also farmed in North Dakota, but who died on the home farm in 1880 ; Gulbrand, who died a number of years ago; Osianus (second), who died some years ago in Harvey, N. D. ; and Lauretz 0., now proprietor of the home farm.

Lauritz O. Wolden, who is engaged in operating the old Wolden farm in Wilmington township, residing in section 30, was born on this farm, Jan. 4, 1860, son of Ole P. and Helene M. (Lyshoung) Wolden. He acquired his education in the district school, which he attended up to the age of 17 years, and with the exception of a year and a half, which he spent in Spring Grove villege, he has always lived on the home farm, of which he is now the proprietor, his parents being deceased. Of its total area of 195 acres he has 100 under the plow, the balance being in timber and pasture. Mr. Wolden has a good set of modern buildings. His house is a two-story frame structure of eight rooms. In 1904 he built a horse bam, 30 by 32 by 22 feet in size, and in 1914 a stock and grain bam 30 by 56 by 16 feet, on a full stone basement of eight feet, with cement floors. The bams erected by Mr. Wolden's father were destroyed by fire in the spring of 1914. Mr. Wolden's farm equipment is all of the first class and the farm is well stocked with high grade cattle and hogs. Among his business interests aside from his farm are those of a stockholder in the Spring Grove Stock and Grain Co., the Spring Grove Hospital, the Bee Creamery Association, and the Busteed Land Company of Montana, owing a 4000-acre tract. In i>olitics Mr. Wolden has always been a Republican. He served his township a number of years as supervisor, being chairman of the board one term, and haa held various offices in his school district. No. 70, rendering efficient service in all public positions. He is a member of the Spring Grove congregation of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church, to which he gives liberal support, and of which he has been a trustee for a number of years. Mr. Wolden was married April 10, 1889, to Olene M. Grangaard, daughter of Michael T. and Carrie Grangaard. Of this union four children have been bora : Hilda K., Jan. 13, 1890, who is the wife of Prof. William W. Miners,, formerly of the Southern Minnesota Normal School, but now residing in St Paul ; Oscar M., born July 14, 1892, who enlisted in March, 1917, in the aviation service of the U. S. army and served 14 months, when he wa& honorably discharged; Leander O., born July 9, 1897, and Alma T., bom July 4, 1903, both of whom are living on the home farm.

Jurgen Meyer, now residing on the farm in section 36, Wilmington township, which he established nearly 45 years ago, was bom in Germany^ where he grew to manhood. In the province of Hanover he was married to Katrina Mowhinkel, and in 1866, several years after their marriage, with their son George C. H., who was their only child, they emigrated to the United States. Landing at New York, they continued their journey westward to Houston county, Minnesota, where they arrived in debt to the extent of $150 for their passage money. Locating first on Portland Prairie, Winnebago township, Mr. Meyer worked out as a farm hand by the day or month for some five years, during which time he did a large amount of grubbing. In 1871 he and his family removed to Wilmington township, for three years renting land in section 36 from Katrina Kessler. In 1874 Mr. Meyer bought 80 acres of partly improved land in the same section, the buildings consisting of a small log house and some straw sheds for cattle. This land, with the help of his wife and son, he grubbed and developed, and in course of time erected on it a six-room frame house and a log stable and sheds. It has remained the family homestead where he and his wife and son still reside. Though now advanced in years, Mr. Mayer being 85 and Mrs. Meyer 84, they are still enjoying reasonably good health, the result of plain and healthful living and a sound heredity on both sides.

George C. H. Meyer, proprietor of a good farm of 250 acres, lying partly in section 36, Wilmington township, Houston county, and partly in Allamakee county, Iowa, was born in Germany, April 24, 1864, son of Jurgen and Katrina (Mowhinkel) Meyer. In his boyhood he attended English school for 15 months, and a German school from the age of 14 to that of 19. As he was his parents' only child, he naturally became his father's assistant. He is now the owner of 250 acres of good land, 160 lying in Wilmington township, and 90 in Allamakee county, Iowa, the two tracts adjoining each other; and in addition he rents and works the old home farm. He also owns 150 acres in western Kansas, near Garden City, which tract he leases out. Mr. Meyer carries on general farming, and is a successful breeder of Shorthorn cattle and Duroc-Jersey hogs, of the latter raising from 75 to 100 head annually. His buildings are all frame and include two barns, he having a good frame house and barn on the Iowa side of the line. Mr. Meyer is also a stockholder in the Eitzen Creamery, the Eitzen Mercantile Co.'s store, the Farmers' Elevator Co. of Caledonia, of which he has been president for the last 13 years; in politics. he is a Republican. On Dec. 27, 1887, Mr. Meyer was married to Anna, daughter of Fred and Johanna (Smith) Meitrodt of Wilmington township, and who was born June 25, 1864. Eleven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Meyer : Julius, born Oct. 20, 1888, who died Aug. 4, 1899; Elsa, bom Feb. 22, 1890, who died Sept. 25, 1891; Emma E., born July 24, 1891, now Mrs. Otto Deters of Wilmington township ; Leo G., born May 2, 1893, who is living on the home farm; Huldah, bom March 26, 1895, who died Oct. 15, 1896; Ella B., bom June 23, 1896, now a clerk in the employ of the Eitzen Mercantile Co. ; Anna A., born Oct. 30, 1898, now living at home; Lilly, born Aug. 11, 1900, now a talented music teacher ; Lucy E., March 27, 1903; Herbert J., April 25, 1905 ; and Hannah Dorothy, April 3, 1907, all living on the home farm. Mr. Meyer and his family are members of the German Evangelical church at Eitzen.

Peder Anton Glasrud, who as a boy of six or seven years settled with his parents in Wilmington township, Houston county, was bora in Thoten,

Norway, Oct. 13, 1846, son of Christian J. and Bertha Maria Glasrud. Both parents were natives of Norway, the father born May 31, 1813, the mother Feb. 27, 1816. In 1853 they emigrated to the United States, accompanied by their children, then numbering five or six, and made a temporary settlement at Yorkville, Wisconsin. In the same spring they came on to Winneshiek county, Iowa, where they remained until 1856. Then removing to Houston county, Minnesota, they settled on land in section 16, Wilmington township. A few years later the Civil War broke out, in which the father. Christian J. Glasrud, served during almost its entire period. While he was away his two eldest sons, Johanes and Peder Anton had charge of and operated the farm. There were seven children in the family, namely: Helena Maria, born March 5, 1837; Johana Karina, born Aug. 13, 1839; Johanes, bom Aug. 18, 1843 ; Peder Anton, born Oct. 13, 1846 ; Joergina, born Aug. 13, 1849 ; Claus C, born May 5, 1853 ; and Gustav C, born May 5, 1857. After the father's return from the war matters resumed their normal course. Peder Anton worked on the home farm until his marriage on Nov. 7, 1872, to Sigrid Quale of Wilmington township. He then engaged in farming in Black Hammer township and was thus occupied until his death in 1892 at the age of about 46 years. He and his wife were the parents of ten children, namely: Christian Bernard, now a prominent business man of Spring Grove village ; Julia, deceased ; Thedore, residing in South Dakota ; Peter, an implement dealer in North Dakota ; Adolph, a traveling salesman, now living in Fargo, N. D. ; Edwin, a resident of Spring Grove township; Arthur, also in Spring Grove township; William, who lives on the home farm in Black Hammer township ; Matilda, now Mrs. Knute Lee of Spring Grove village ; and Gertrude, who is deceased.

Christian Bernard Glasrud, one of the leading business men of Spring Grove village, dealing in agricultural implements and handling fire and tornado insurance, was born in Black Hammer township, Houston county, March 29, 1873, son of Peder Anton and Sigrid (Quale) Glasrud. After beginning his education he attended the common school in Black Hammer township until 13 years old, and during the winter of 1886-87 was -a pupil in the Caledonia village school. During the following summer he worked on the home farm, and in the fall of the same year entered Luther College at Decorah, Iowa, where he remained for a college year. In the summer of 1888 he was again on the farm, and there he remained until 1896. During that time, in 1892, his father died and for the four following years Christian, with his mother's assistance, managed the farm. In the fall of 1896 he rented what is now the Helmer Itle farm in Black Hammer township, which he operated for four years, or until the fall of 1900, when he rented and moved to the P. A. Lommen farm, two and a half miles northwest of Spring Grove village. While living on that farm, on April 7, 1901, he was married to Malinda Samueline, daughter of Peder and Carrie Seglem, of Choice, Fillmore county, Minn. In the latter part of April, 1902, Mr. Glasrud bought the Valten Valtensen farm in section 34, Black Hammer township, and on the second of May the same year moved onto it. This was an improved farm with 115 acres under the plow, and with a fairly good frame house. To improve the place still further, Mr. Glasrud proceeded to erect some needed buildings, putting up a frame barn, 24 by 60 by 18 feet in size, with a leanto on each side of 14 by 60 feet; a double corn crib, workshop and woodshed. There he remained until 1911, in which year he rented the place to a tenant, and removing, in February, to Spring Grove village, here engaged in the harness business, in which he continued for four years. In 1915 Mr. Glasrud traded his harness business for an 80-acre farm near Newhouse, Spring Grove township, but sold this farm within 30 days. Early in 1916, in company with a Mr. Vaaler, he engaged in the meat business in Spring Grove, under the firm name of Glasrud & Vaaler. At the end of the first year he sold his interest, and in January, 1917, bought the agriculutral implement business of G. C. Glasrud, which he is still conducting. He also handles automobiles, which he began to do as early as 1914, and sells fire and tornado insurance, in all of which lines he is building up a good business. As a dealer in agricultural implements he is the leading merchant in the community. In addition to this he is conducting an implement business in Lanesboro, Fillmore county, managing it from his home office. He owns and occupies a large, two-story house in the village of Spring Grove conveniently situated near the place of business, which is on Wilmington avenue. One of the potent factors in the business life of the community, Mr. Glasrud has taken an active part in advancing local interests, and in 1915 and 1916 was president of the Spring Grove Commercial Club. He is a stockholder in the Spring Grove Stock & Grain Company, the Spring Grove Co-operative Creamery, the Root River Electric Company, and the Spring Grove Hospital. Politically he has always been a Republican, and while living in Black Hammer township, was chairman of the town board for several years, and also served some years as school treasurer. His religious affiliations and those of his family are with the Spring Grove congregation of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church. For six or seven years formerly he served as trustee of the Black Hammer congregation. To Mr. and Mrs. Christian B. Glasrud eight children have been born, as follows. Sigrid Carlina, Nov. 12, 1901 ; Julia Odella, Nov. 1, 1903; Gina Maria, Jan. 5, 1905; Peter Anton, Dec. 14, 1907; Borghild Miranda, March 20, 1911; Olga Joergina, March 5, 1913; Helen Corine, Nov. 9, 1915 ; and George Raymond, born Oct. 22, 1917.

The Haugen Brothers, Christopher, Carl, Edwin and Ole, who are associated together in the operation of a farm of 178 acres in section 5, Wilmington township, are sons of Torger Haugen, one of the pioneer settlers of Houston county. Torger Haugen was bom in Norway, Feb. 10, 1831, and came to America at the age of 20 years, joining the Norwegian settlement at Rock Prairie, near Beloit, Wis. In 1853 he came from there to Spring Grove, Houston county, Minn., and for some years worked as a farm hand, earning very small wages. In 1862 he was married to Kjersti Helgeson EUingsbraten, who was born in Norway, Feb. 20, 1838, and who had emigrated with her parents to Spring Grove, Houston county, Minn., in 1859.' Having purchased a farm in Spring Grove township, he erected a log house, in which he and his wife took up their residence, and began making improvements. He had hardly made a fair start, however, when the Indian insurrection broke out, and the news of the attack on New Ulm,

Hutchinson, and other places caused the greatest excitement and apprehension throughout this and adjoining states, the more so as the Civil War was then in progress and many of the younger and more able-bodied men had enlisted or been called upon to serve against the Confederates and were already fighting on distant battlefields. Volunteers were called for to serve against the Sioux, and for the sake of the pay offered, for he was poor, and also perhaps from a sense of duty, Mr. Haugen enlisted and set out for the scene of conflict, leaving his wife on the farm. He remained a soldier until the close of the Civil War in 1865, and on his return home first made the acquaintance of his son Christopher, then about two years old, who had been born April 26, 1863. Instead of resuming work on his original place, Mr. Haugen bought a new farm in sections 5 and 8, Wilmington township, about two and a half miles east of what is now Spring Grove village, and to this place he moved with his wife and son. It was a wild tract of 160 acres, and before him lay many years of hard work necessary to develop it into a good farm, but he at once settled down to the task and kept up his work until it was accomplished, and so thoroughly that it was recognized as one of the best farms in the township, the land being highly productive and the buildings adequate and substantial. Naturally Mr. and Mrs. Haugen endured many privations in early days, having begun with practically nothing but their hands and an ox team. There were times when provisions were scarce, or hard to procure, and sometimes there was a crop failure, or their crops were ravaged by insect pests ; but in spite of these handicaps and misfortunes they persevered, and their patience and industry in time brought their due reward. In 1895 Christopher, the eldest son took over the operation of the farm and was its manager until 1905, in which year, on March 15 the father, Torger Haugen, passed away. The farm at that time had an area of 138 acres, and was provided with a good set of buildings. Around the parents had grown up a family of six children, five sons and one daughter, not counting two other children who had died in infancy. The birth of Christopher has been already mentioned. The other surviving children were : Carl, born Oct. 15, 1873 ; Edwin, born Sept. 5, 1875 ; Ole, born Aug. 18, 1877 ; Clara, who married Andrew Ness but is now deceased; and Helge, now a prosperous farmer in Spring Grove Township. After the father's death the three brothers,- Carl, Edwin and Ole, became associated with Christopher in the operation of the farm, and have since conducted it under the business name of Haugen Brothers, their mother having charge of the household until her death June 13, 1919. Today the farm contains 178 acres, 150 being under the plow. The fences and buildings are in good condition, the latter including a one and a half story frame house ; a frame bam, 34 by 70 by 18 feet in dimensions, on a full stone basement of nine feet; a granary, 20 by 28 by 14; machine shed, 20 by 32, with com cribs and other necessary structures. The brothers are profitably engaged in general farming and stockraising, having a fine herd of grade Hereford cattle, numbering some 40 to 50, a herd of 60 or 75 Poland-China hogs, and about 15 grade Belgian horses. They own two automobiles and have an excellent general equipment and, in addition to their direct farming interests, are stockholders in the Spring Grove Stock and Grain Co., the

Spring Grove Creamery and the Spring Grove Hospital. Trained in the faith of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church, they are influential members of the Spring Grove congregation.

Herman Seekamp, who is pursuing a prosperous career as a general stock farmer in section 1, Money Creek township, was born in Money Creek township, Houston county, Jan. 20, 1868, son of Henry and Matilda (Ellers) Seekamp. The father was a native of Germany who settled in New York City, but who at an early day came to Houston county, Minn., and located in the northwest part of Money Creek township, where he engaged in farming, and where he and his wife are now living retired. In former years he frequently held local office. He and his wife have been the parents of ten children, of whom Herman was the second in order of birth. The latter learned his letters and acquired the basis of a common school education in the McCloud school in Money Creek township. He resided on the home farm until his marriage, at which time he began farming for himself at the present location, having 343 acres of valuable land well provided with four sets of buildings and all necessary equipment. He has made a gratifying success as a stock raiser, and is also a shareholder in the Money Creek Creamery, the Houston Elevator, and the Independent Harvester Co. In politics he is a Republican, while his religious creed is that of the Lutheran church, of which he is a member. Mr. Seekamp was married Feb. 17, 1898, to Emma Neeb, who was born in Richfield, Wis., Oct. 21, 1875, daughter of Henry and Charlotta (Alenbacher) Neeb. Her parents were natives of Germany, who on coming to this country located near Rushf ord, Wisconsin, where their first home was a log house and their chairs blocks of wood. From those primitive conditions they afterwards made progress until they were in the enjoyment of comfortable circumstances. Mr. Nebb died about 1912, and his wife is now living in Winona county. The family circle of Mr. and Mrs. Seekamp has been enlarged by the birth of seven children, all of whom are residing at home, namely : Cora, Bertha, Frederick, Anna, George, Edward and Dorothy. Cora was bom, Aug. 3, 1898 ; Bertha was born Oct. 14, 1899; Frederick was bom March 2, 1901; Anna was bom Aug. 5, 1902; George was born Feb. 9, 1905; Edward was born July 1, 1907 ; and Dorothy was born July 9, 1911.

Rev. Paul Lorenz, pastor of Zion Lutheran church in the village of Eitzen, was born in Milton township, Buffalo county. Wis., April 4, 1880. Up to the age of 14 years he attended district school, and at that of 17 became a student in the Northwestern University at Watertown, Wis., where he remained six years. In the fall of 1903 he entered the Lutheran Seminary at Wauwatosa, Wis., where he completed his theological studies in 1906, in the latter year becoming pastor of St. Peter's Lutheran church at Prairie du Chien, Wis. From there in the fall of 1908 he came to Eitzen, Minn., to assume the duties of his present charge, which covers a wide field. Mr. Lorenz was married, July 2, 1907, to Ida L., daughter of Carl and Caroline (Gnerlich) Schuenke, of Juneau, Dodge county. Wis. Of this union four children have been born : Paul, August 1, 1909; Theopholis, March 4, 1911; Martin, July 19, 1915; and Malita, April 16, 1916.

William J. Pohlman, one of the leading citizens of Crooked Creek township, proprietor of a good farm of 232 acres, his residence being in section 26, was born in Jefferson township, Houston county, Minn., Jan 15, 1883, son of William and Elizabeth Pohlman. He was reared in his native township, in his boyhood attending district school No. 78, and remained at home until 22 years old. From 1905 to 1911 he worked out as a farm hand, saving a considerable part of his earnings, so that in the spring of the year last mentioned he was able to purchase his present farm, an improved property with a frame house, two barns and granary, all in good condition. He has still further improved the buildings and has erected others, including an ice and well house, a hog house and machine shed, and his operating equipment is also up to date, his tools and machinery being fully adequate and of modern type. Though his land is somewhat rough as to surface, it is productive, and Mr. Pohlman has 100 acres of it under the plow. He has increasing herds of cattle and hogs, with sufficient horses for draught purposes. The farm gives ample evidence of Mr. Pohlman's practical ability, and he takes high rank among the enterprising and successful men of his township. In politics a Republican, he has served as a member of the town board and is now holding the offices of assessor. He has for years taken an active interest in everything that concerns the welfare of the community in which he lives and has been liberal in the support of local enterprises. Mr. Pohlman was married April 26, 1911, to Dorothy, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Beneke, of Jefferson township, this county, and has one child, Sarah, who was born April 10, 1915. He and his family are affiliated religiously with the Eitzen congregation of the German Evangelical church, and attend the meetings of that denomination at Caledonia.

Fritz Almquist, who though not a resident of Houston county, was connected by marriage with a well known family of Money Creek township, was born in Munsen, Sweden, Oct. 4, 1853, son of August and Helena Almquist. His parents died in Sweden, and in that country he attended «chool, for a part of the time at Stockholm. At the age of 14 years he came to this country to join a brother in Clay county, Minnesota, and there his school education was completed. After living a year with his brother, he went to Rolag in the same county, where he was clerk for one year in a «tore. At the end of that time he went to Hawley, also in Clay county, where after a while he engaged in mercantile business. Later he sold his -tore and became manager for another firm, continuing in that position until his death on March 6, 1906. For some time he held the office of recorder at Hawley, and was one of that town's best known and most respected citizens. In politics he was a Democrat, and, religiously, a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Almquist was married June 4, 1890, to Ellen Olson, who was born at Money Creek, Houston county, Minn., daughter of Tosten and Margaret (Anfinson) Olson, of Money Creek township, this county, the former of whom died April 19, 1918, and the latter April 6, 1905. After her husband's death Mrs. Almquist returned to Houston county, taking up her residence in the village of Houston, where Bhe expects to make her home for the future. She has recently sold her property in Hawley, Minn., and has come into possession of the estate of her father. She and her husband were the parents of four children : Alvin Thomas, Lyla Margaret, Charlotte Helena and Leona, all of whom were graduated from the Houston high school and the Winona Normal School. Alvin, who also graduated from Upper Iowa University, and was for some time a teacher, is now in the United States service as a member of the Fifth Engineer Corps. The daughters are all teachers, Lyla M. at Bertha, Minn., Charlotte at Blue Earth, Minn., and Leona at Leroy, Minn. Mrs. Almquist belongs to the Rebeckah branch of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, to which her husband also belonged, he being a charter member of the I. O. 0. F. lodge at Hawley.

Charles A, Benson, one of the first settlers in Houston township, who * died a few years ago, was born in Sweden, April 19, 1840. With his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ole Benson, he came to Houston county, Minnesota, in 1853, they settling with other Swedes on the east bank of the south fork of Root River, in what is now section 3 south, Houston township. Here on their arrival they took up their residence in a tent, but soon had a more substantial abode. The father took land and developed it, and in due course of time died. Charles A. attended district school and was reared on the home farm. In the early sixties he went to the Pacific coast in search of gold, travelling through Colorado and California. After two years he returned and assisted his parents on the home place, in time developing a farm of 177 acres, besides acquiring an adjoining tract of 80 acres. A man of industry and enterprise, he was held in high regard by his fellow citizens, and at various times was called upon to serve in town office. He married Cornelia Anderson, who was born in Sweden, Dec. 24, 1849, and who is now residing in Houston with Mrs. C. W. Anderson. They were the parents of four children : Ida, Bertha, Amy and Elmore O. of whom Elmore 0. is now operating the old home farm. Mr. Benson's death occurred in April, 1915, and with him passed away another old settler whose life was practically contemporaneous with the history of Houston county.

Elmore O. Benson, one of the leading farmers of Houston township, proprietor of the old Benson homestead in section 3 south, was bom on the farm on which he now lives, on Nov. 15, 1876, son of Charles A. and Cor* neha (Anderson) Benson. He attended district school in his home neighborhood and also in Houston, and assisted his father until 21 years old, after which he had the practical management of the farm, which he is still operating to the extent of 177 acres, the balance of the estate being rented out. He does general farming, raising for the market both crops and stock, and is a member of the Houston Shipping Association, and a shareholder in the local creamery company and the Security State Bank of Houston. His farm is provided with all modem improvements, the buildings, fences and other appurtenances being in the best condition, and the estate forming a valuable piece of agricultural property. Mr. Benson is independent in politics. In the spring of 1919 he was elected township assessor, and he has previously served efficiently as a member of the school board of his district. Mr. Benson has taken considerable interest in the early history of the locality. One of his cherished possessions is an Indian hatchet, which he dug up on his farm, where it was reposing at a depth of three feet. It is supposed to have been buried there with its maker or owner, as three Indian graves have been found practically on the same spot. On April 16, 1903, Ehnore O. Benson was united in marriage with Effie Swenson, and they have two children, Charles Arvid, bom Oct. 12, 1906, and Samuel Rodney, bom April 2, 1909. Mrs. Benson was bom in Sweden, Aug. 4, 1875, daughter of Swen Larson Swenson, bom May 19, 1841, and his wife, Olena Carlson, bom June 25, 1841. This family settled in Swede Bottom, this county, in 1881, and now live in Houston. The children are : Charles J., Carrie, Effie, Ellen, Hannah and Alfred. Mrs. Benson is a lady of wide education, having received her training in the Houston High School 'and the Winona State Normal School, and was an efficient teacher for eight years.

Michael Houlihan, a thrifty and enterprising farmer of section 12, Wilmington township, was bom in County Kerry, Ireland, Sept. 16, 1853, son of Patrick and Katherine (Moore) Houlihan. He was but three years old when he accompanied his parents to America, and after a residence with them in Illinois, and later in Iowa, he found himself at the age of 12 years in Wilmington township, Houston county, Minn. Here his parents bought 80 acres of land in section 12 that forms a part of his present farm. Here he grew to manhood, and for a short time in his boyhood attended school. On June 22, 1886, Mr. Houlihan was married to Ellen Norton, daughter of Dennis and Mary Norton of Sheldon township, where she was bom Jan. 13, 1859. In the year of his marriage he bought his parents' farm, which he has since been engaged in operating on his own account. Having purchased an adjoining tract of 38 acres, he now has a farm of 118 acres, with 75 acres under the plow, the balance being in timber and pasture. His other improvements include the erection of a number of good buildings, including a comfortable, eight-room frame house ; a frame bam, 24 by 40 by 16 feet, with a lean-to 16 by 40 feet for cattle ; a second bam, 16 by 20, for cattle ; a granary 16 by 18, and a garage 9 by 14. The operating equipment is good and the farm is well stocked with grade Shorthom cattle and mixed Duroc and Poland-China swine. Mr. and Mrs. Houlihan have had eight children : James M., John T., Edward J., George P., Mary A., Paul V., Robert H., and Leo F. James M. was bom April 3, 1887. John T. was bom June 25, 1888, and died May 25, 1914. Edward J. was bom Oct. 2, 1889. George P. was born March 8, 1891. Mary A. was born March 27, 1893, and is now a trained nurse at St. Mary's Hospital, at Minneapolis, Minn.; Paul V. was bom March 3, 1895. Robert H. was bom Nov. 8, 1897. Leo F. was bom Nov. 18, 1900. The family enjoys a unique record for loyalty. It is the only family in the county that fumished four sons to the United States service during the Great War, and indeed one of the few of the whole country. James M. enlisted Aug. 26, 1918, in Detachment 28, Depot Brigade, and was discharged in Febmary, 1919. Edward J. enlisted in Co. G, 132nd Infantry, Feb. 24, 1918, and served one year in France, seeing active service in the Meuse-Argonne offensive. George P. enlisted May 27, 1918, and served nine months in Co. D, 127th Infantry. He saw active service in the Meuse-Argonne offensive. Paul V. enlisted May 27, 1918, and served a year in France, taking part in the Battle of St. Mihiel, and the Meuse-

Patrick Houlihan, who for 35 years was a well known and respected citizen of Wilmington township, where he developed a farm, was bom in Ireland, where he grew to manhood. There he was married to Katherine Moore and they resided in County Kerry until about 1856 when they emigrated to the United States. For awhile he and his family resided in Jo Daviess county, Illinois. About 1858 Mr. Houlihan became employed in railroad construction work on the railroad between McGregor, Iowa, and Austin, Minn. Later he located in Decorah, Iowa, and helped to build the line between that place and Calmar. In 1865 he came with his family to Houston county, Minn., and engaged in farming, buying 80 acres of land in section 12, Wilmington township, that is now included in the farm of his son Michael. Some of the land on the place had been cleared and there was a log house and some cattle sheds on it. There he resided, operating and improving the farm until 1886, when he sold it to his son Michael on the latter's marriage. He continued to reside on the place, however, until his death, which occurred on May 11, 1900. He had been a widower for some years, his wife having passed away in 1894. They were the parents of three sons, Thomas, Edward and Michael, all of whom were born in Ireland.

Reinhold Mann, proprietor of a good modern farm in section 28, Union township, was bom in the village of Hokah, Houston county, March 6, 1881, son of Ludwig and Emelia (Kriese) Mann. The parents were natives of Germany and the father was a soldier in the German army during the war with Austria. He came with his family to America in the seventies, locating in this county. For seven years he worked in the mill at Hokah, but the rest of his life here was spent in agriculture, at first on a rented farm, but later on the farm now owned by his son Reinhold, which he purchased. He and his wife had nine children : Emil, Adolph, Ida, Alvina, Louis, Reinhold, Emma, Minnie and Charles. Emil, Adolph and Louis are now deceased. Keinhold Mann in his boyhood attended the local schools, his time out of school hours being for the most part spent in helping his father on the home farm, on which he has since resided. On his marriage at the age of 29 he rented a part of the homestead and three years later purchased the farm from the heirs. The present house was then standing, but he has made some notable improvements, having erected a barn, 40 by 100 feet, with stone basement, partly cemented and provided with ventilators. It is modem in style and substantially built. He has also erected several outbuildings, including a machine-shed and a hog house, a granary with a basement adapted to the purposes of a garage and storeroom. Besides carrjdng on £:eneral farming very successfully, he is part owner of a threshing outfit and owns elevator and telephone stock. Mr. Mann was married May 29, 1910, to Hulda Krueger, who was born in Allamakee county, Iowa, Jan. 18, 1884, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Emil Krueger. The father engaged in farming in Houston' county, though at times working out. He and his wife had six children: Arthur, Frederick, Hulda, Emma, Albert and John. After his death his widow married Ferdinand Kliskie, by whom she had six children: Anna and Mary (twins), Elsie, Louis, Arthur and Ruth. Of the children in the two families, all are now living except Albert and Arthur. Mr. and Mrs. Mann are the parents of two children : Violet Ruth, who was bom Jan. 27, 1917, and Arlyn Reinhold, bom May 14, 1919.

William Orr, one of the pioneer settlers of Mound Prairie township, now.deceased, was bom in County Donegal, Ireland, and was a young man when, in 1845, he emigrated to America, settling in the state of New York. After remaining there for a time, he made a trip to the Northwest, finding employment at lumbering in the woods and in river work on the Mississippi. Retuming to New York, he was there married to Mary Crowe, and then brought his young wife to Houston county, Minnesota. At the first land sale in Brownsville he bought a tract of wild land in Mound Prairie township and he and his wife took up their residence there. After making some improvements on his original tract, he moved to another farm near by, where he made his permanent home, dying there about 1903, his wife having died a few years previously. During his active career he served in various town offices. He was survived by six children.

Joseph Orr, now deceased, for many years a prominent citizen not only of his own township of Yucatan, but also in the general affairs of the entire community, did the county good service as chairman of the county board, and left a splendid reputation for integrity and ability. He was a native of this county, born in Mound Prairie township, Oct. 29, 1855, second of the six children of William and Mary (Crowe) Orr, who were among the earliest settlers in that township. He was educated in the district school, and was reared to farm pursuits, remaining with his parents until thirty years of age. He then purchased a farm in Yucatan township, adjoining the one where his son now lives. There he resided for eleven years, improving and cultivating the place in many ways. Subsequently he returned to Mound Prairie township, and^*there farmed for awhile. Then he came to the present Orr farm in section 22, Yucatan township. To the cultivation of this farm he devoted the remainder of his life. This farm, consisting of 200 acres, is one of the best in the township. He carried on general farming, and made a specialty of stock raising, being numbered among the most enterprising and prosperous citizens of the county. Mr. Orr early became interested in public affairs and affiliated himself with the Republican party. After serving in minor offices he became chairman of Yucatan township, and in this office established such a good record that he was elected a member of the county board, of which in time he became chairman. He died April 8, 1919, and his death was sincerely mourned.

William Bernard Orr, farming the Orr place, section 22, Yucatan Township, represents the third generation of sturdy agriculturists in Houston county. He was born in this county, July 16, 1890, and after passing through the district schools, took a course at the Wisconsin Business University at La Crosse, Wis. He then farmed with his father until the latter's death, April 8, 1919, when he rented the place. He successfully carries on general farming and is regarded as one of the rising young men of the community. Mr. Orr married Gusta Dahl, bom May 25, 1889, daughter of Andrew and Martha Dahl, early settlers of this county. This union has been blessed with three children : Benora, bom July 22, 1914 ; Allan, bora

Mr. Orr was married, Sept. 7, 1888, to Harriet H. Comstock, who was bom in Yucatan township, daughter of Julius W. and Maria Comstock. Her parents, natives of Broome county, New York, were early settlers in Houston county, where both died, the father after holding various local and town offices. Mrs. Harriet H. Orr was born Sept. 30, 1868, and died May 11, 1906, after a happy married life of seventeen years. She was the mother of three children : William Bernard, Marian and Frank.

Alfred J. Anderson, who is assisting in the general improvement and development of Houston county as a raiser of stock, his farm of 180 acres lying in sections 11 and 12, Houston township, was born in Halland, Sweden, Sept. 22, 1867, son of John B. and Hannah Lena (Carlson) Anderson. The family came to Houston county, Minnesota, in 1873, settling on a farm in this township, where the father died in 1898. The mother is still residing on the homestead. They had eight children, of whom Alfred J. was the eldest. He was educated in the school of his district and began working out when 11 years old, being thus occupied for a number of years, or until his marriage. For three years he worked as a car conductor. Later he rented a farm in Houston township, operating it for ten years, at the end of which time he bought his present farm, a well improved piece of property, with good modern equipment, the improvements having been made largely by himself, on which he is breeding Shorthorn cattle and Poland- China hogs. He has met with a good measure of success and is now numbered among the well-to-do citizens of his township. He is also a stockholder in the Houston Creamery. He is the present treasurer of his school district, in politics being a Republican, and is a member of Camp No. 1962, M. W. A., at Houston. Mr. Anderson was married, June 24, 1893, to Bertha May Williams, who was born near Christiania, Norway, Dec. 4, 1874, daughter of Peter and Inga Williams. Seven children have arrived to brighten and enlarge their family circle: Charles Walter, Ethel Irene, Harold Clayton, Melvin Curtis, John Alton, Paul William and Roger Maynard. Charles Walter was born Dec. 24, 1893. He enlisted May 27, 1918, in Company F, 162d Infantry, and trained at Camp Lewis and Camp Kearney. He went to Europe in August, 1918. He was then transferred to Company L, in an infantry regiment of the 26th Division. He was discharged April 26, 1919, and is now at home. Ethel I. was bom Aug. 21, 1896, is the wife of Irwin Johnson, a farmer of Houston township, and has one daughter. Ruby Irene. Harold C. was born March 15, 1898. Melvin C. was bom May 31, 1901. John A. was born Nov. 28, 1902. Paul W. was bom March 24, 1906. Roger M. was bora March 9, 1911. The parents of Mrs. Anderson came to this country from Norway in 1882, and for seven years resided in Iowa, the father following the occupation of contractor and builder. Subsequently they removed to Minneapolis, and thence to a farm at Eagle Bend, Minn., where Mr. Williams died in the spring of 1913. His wife is still residing on the farm. Of their three children Bertha May was the second in order of birth.

Daniel Vance, who for a long period in former years was a well known and respected citizen of Money Creek township and village, was born in Caledonia county, Vermont, Aug. 31, 1818. He grew up in his native state and as a young man learned the carpenter's trade, becoming proprietor of a shop and conducting business on his own account. On one occasion his shop was destroyed by a cyclone. While still a resident of Vermont, Mr. Vance was married to Angelina P. Clark, also of good Vermont stock, bom April 2, 1822. Three children were born to them in their native state. In December, 1852, Mr. Vance joined in the rush of gold seekers to California, leaving his family behind in Vermont. While seeking his fortune in the far distant state, where he spent less than a year, his daughter Elizabeth died, and on learning of her death he at once returned home. In 1864 he and his wife lost their third child. For three years longer they remained in Vermont, and then in November, 1867, they came to Minnesota with their son, Charles H., locating in Money Creek village for the winter. In the following spring they settled on a farm in the township, which was the home of Mr. and Mrs. Vance for many subsequent years, or until their retirement from active work, when they settled in the village. There they spent the rest of their lives, Mr. Vance dying April 1, 1905, at the age of 76, and his wife on Feb. 24, 1907, when nearly 75. In addition to making a good record as a farmer, Mr. Vance took an active part in church and school work, serving for a number of years as treasurer of the school board. His knowledge of the carpenter's trade also proved useful, as he was employed to build the M. E. parsonage, which he did in a substantial and thorough manner. In his later years on the farm he worked in partnership with his son, Charles H., who finally became proprietor of the homestead.

Charles H. Vance, a prominent citizen of Money Creek township, was born in Caledonia county, Vermont, Oct. 15, 1855, son of Daniel and Angelina P. (Clark) Vance. He was educated partly in his native state and partly in Minnesota, coming to Houston county with his parents when about 12 years old. Besides attending the district school in Money Creek township, he was a pupil for a short time in the Winona High School. From the time he was 14 years old he was his father's assistant on the home farm, finally becoming a partner with him, and later the property passed into his hands. In May, 1907, on account of impaired health he disposed of his holdings here and moved to Colorado, where he resided for about six years, being in the employ of the Great Western Sugar Company. He then returned to Money Creek township, this county, to take care of an aunt. While on the old homestead he was largely engaged in raising fullblooded stock, being one of the first farmers in the valley to enter that line of business. He was the first vice-president of the Creamery Association, and served as school treasurer for a number of years, besides occaionally holding other local offices. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and has been a Prohibitionist in politics since the time of Governor St. John, of Kansas, who was a presidential candidate in 1884. At an early date he joined the order of Good Templars. Mr. Vance was married, Oct 18, 1877, to Josephine B. Crosby, who was bom in Money Creek village, Houston county, Minn., daughter of Joseph Emerson and Jane (Vance)

Crosby, Her father was born in Rumney, N. H., Nov. 17, 1813, and her mother in Vermont, Aug. 12, 1820. They were married in the East and resided in Vermont for a number of years subsequently. In 1854 Mr. Crosby came to Minnesota to preempt land, and after finding a satisfactory location in Money Creek, Houston county, returned to Vermont for his family, whom he brought with him to the new home. Their first dwelling here was the log house in which Mrs. Vance was born, and of which they tooV possession in 1855. Mr. Crosby continued farming here for practically the rest of his life. He and his wife have both passed away.

Felix Hafner, proprietor of a farm of 220 acres in section 13 La Crescent township, was bom in this township Jan. 13, 1862, son of Lorenz and Mary Meier Hafner. The eldest in a family of eight children, he was educated in the convent school at Hokah, this county, and resided on his parents' farm for the most part until his marriage. He then rented the home farm from his father for one year, at the end of which time he bought his present farm of 220 acres, which is well improved, and where he is carrying on general farming, chiefly raising grain. He is enjoying a prosperous career and is a stockholder in the Hokah State Bank and the La Crescent State Bank, and a director and stockholder in the Hokah Farmers State Bank. He has been one of the town supervisors during most of the time for the last 16 years, and is now serving in that oflice, and for the last nine years has served as school treasurer. He is a member of the Catholic church and in politics is independent. Mr. Hafner was married April 14, 1891, to Katie Reinart, daughter of John and Lena (Friedman) Reinart, her father being a native of Austria and her mother of the state of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Hafner are the parents of nine children: John, Lawrence, Sophia, Margaret, Elizabeth, William, Lena, Francis and Albert. John married Anna Reinhart, and they live in Hokah and have one child, Euthalia. Lawrence saw service in the Great War with the Engineer Corps in France. Sophia married Joseph Wermerskirchen, lives in Montana, and has one child, Vernon.

Lorenz Hafner, a former resident of Houston county, was bom in Wittenberg, Germany, Aug. 10, 1829. In 1855 he came to this country locating at Peoria, 111., where he worked in the coal mines during the winter. In the spring he bought 40 acres of land near Milwaukee, Wis., but later came to Houston county, Minn., buying a farm in Mound Prairie township, where he remained for a year or two. He then sold it and bought a farm in Pf eiffer Valley. In 1862 he sold that place and went to Mexico, but after a short Etay there he returned and purchased a farm on South Ridge, which he operated until his retirement, when he removed to La Crosse, which place was his home subsequently until his death. He married Mary Meier, a native of the Duchy of Luxembourg, and they had a family of eight children.

Peter Newhouse, president of the Newhouse Lumber Company, of Spring Grove, Minn., was bom in Wilmington township, Houston county, Minn., in 1853, his parents being natives of Norway who settled here at an early day. After growing to manhood he became connected with the lumber industry, in which he has been engaged for many years, formerly being traveling salesman for southern and western lumber concerns. In the spring of 1916 the Newhouse Lumber Company of Spring Grove was organized, with Peter Newhouse as president, the other two incorporators being John Gorder, of Hohnan, Wis., and Ole Horsted, of Dakota, Minn. The company, having erected buildings and stocked their yard, began active operations in the fall, with Tilford N. Newhouse, son of the president, as superintendent and manager. In addition to lumber they carry a large stock of all kinds of building material. The concern, though young, is flourishing and has excellent future prospects. Peter Newhouse married Carrie Onsgard, a native of Spring Grove, this county, and they have been the parents of six children, namely: Tilford N., now deceased; Burwell; Lysander, who is deceased ; Geneva, now Mrs. John Dahlgren, of Missoula, Mont^; Lillian, deceased, and Persis, who is residing at home with her parents.

Tilford N. Newhouse, now deceased, former superintendent and manager of the Newhouse Lumber Company of Spring Grove, was bom at Newhouse, Fillmore county, Minn., May 29, 1888, son of Peter and Carrie (Onsgard) Newhouse. He acquired his primary education in the schools of Mabel and Spring Grove, and in 1904 entered college at Valparaiso, Ind., where he pursued his studies for a year. In 1906 he was graduated from the Wisconsin Business College of La Crosse. In the meanwhile, when not actually engaged in study, he had become associated with his father in the lumber industry at Spring Grove and Lanesboro, Minn., thus acquiring his first knowledge of the business. In 1906, after graduating from the business college, he became bookkeeper in the Onsgard State Bank at Spring Grove, and in 1908 took a bank position at Roseau, Minn. In the following year he went to Sultan, Wash., where he worked in a lumber mill, but in the winter of 1909-10 he returned to Spring Grove, retaining, however, his connection with the same line of business, traveling as a salesman and working for a while in the lumber yard of Knute Olsen of Mabel. In the spring of 1916, on the formation of the Newhouse Lumber Company, he became its superintendent and manager, his father being president. As a capable business man he made his mark, and was also popular in the social circles of the village. On June 9, 1912, Mr. Newhouse was united in marriage with Leona, daughter of Harvey and Minnie Franklin, of Kalispell, Mont., and they began domestic life at Mabel, Minn. Their only child is Peter, who was bom in Camas, Mont., Jan. 15, 1914. Mr. Newhouse died March 30, 1919, and his death was sincerely mourned.

William H. Eberhard, one of the leading citizens of Mound Prairie township, a well-to-do farmer now serving as county commissioner, was bom in this township, Sept. 30, 1873, son of Henry Philip and Maria Louisa (Corlett) Eberhard. He was educated in the school of his district and at Winona Business College, and resided with and assisted his parents until 21 years old, after which he engaged in various occupations, operating* threshing machines and doing sawmill work until his marriage. On beginning domestic life he settled on his present farm - ^the old homestead of his parents - containing 40 acres, and also owns 30 acres more, all of which he is operating as a general stock and grain farmer. In the spring of 1918 he also planted an orchard of twelve acres, mostly with wealthy apples, of which he intends to make a specialty. His place is well improved with good buildings and a complete equipment of modern tools and machinery* and he is today numbered among the most prosperous citizens of his township. He is a stockholder in the Security State Bank of Houston and in the Houston elevator, and a director and treasurer of the Mound Prairie Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Co. A Republican in politics, he has devoted some portion of his time to the public interests and is now serving as county commissioner from the First District, having previously served 20 years as town clerk. He is also a member of the school board. Mr. Eberhard was married Sept. 26, 1904, to Sarah Hegland, who was born in Mound Prairie township, Dec. 17, 1876, daughter of Knudt Henry and Carrie (Sanden) Hegland. He and his wife have three children, Philip Henry, Clara Louise and Evelyn Carrie. Mrs. Eberhard's parents were bom in Norway and came to Houston county, Minn., a few years later than the Eberhard family, settling in Crystal Valley, Mound Prairie township, where the father, Knudt H. Hegland, died in May, 1915. The mother now resides in Houston. During his active career Mr. Hegland was one of the prominent men of this township, serving for some time as a member of the town board, and also on his district school board. He and his wife had eight children, of whom Sarah (Mrs. Eberhard) was the third in order of birth.

Andrew K. Dahle, proprietor of a good 80-acre farm in section 2, Wilmington township, was bom in this township, Dec. 16, 1857, son of Knute and Margit Dahle. The parents, who were natives of Norway, were among the first settlers in this section. They came here poor, but secured land and began farming, and after many years' hard labor were finally successful, their farm in section 23, this township, being developed into a fine piece of agricultural property. It was on that farm that the subject of this sketch was reared and grew to manhood. His youthful days were mostly spent in work, as he had little chance to attend school. On Dec. 22, 1878, he married Bergit, daughter of Ole and Senal Sannes, of Spring Grove township, and he and his wife began housekeeping on the home farm near Wilmington village, where they remained for twenty-five years. In the spring of 1903 Mr. Dahle bought 80 acres of improved land in section 2, Wilmington township, and he and his family took up their residence on it. The improvements included a substantial set of farm buildings, and he now has 60 acres of the land under the plow. He is engaged in general farming, and has good herds of Red Poll Angus cattle and Poland-China hogs ; also a good operating equipment, which includes an automobile. The farm is productive and profitable, and Mr. Dahle has also financial interests as a stockholder in the Wilmington Creamery Association, For two years he has served as town treasurer, in politics being a Republican. He and his wife have been the parents of eight children : Marie, born Feb. 14, 1883, who died unmarried in January, 1916 ; Oscar, who is a carpenter residing in Spring Grove village ; Clara, now the wife of Mat Steigen, a farmer of Sheldon township ; Alfred, who entered the army to serve his country in the war with Germany; Selma, now Mrs. William Unger, of Minneapolis; Bertha, residing in Minneapolis; William, who is a farm hand in the employ of E. 0. Steneroden; and Neuman, who is a farm, hand residing at home. Mr.

Harvey Chapel, in early times a farmer of Money Creek township, and later a stock buyer and shipper, and for over forty years a resident of Money Creek, was born in Tioga county. New York, March 1, 1838. When 9 years old he accompanied his parents to Dodge county, Wisconsin, where he was reared to manhood. In 1854, at the age of 16, with a companion, he walked from his home in Dodge county to Money Creek township, Houston county, Minnesota, and two years later, in 1856, he came here and bought government land, remaining six weeks. In the following year he came again, returning home after the harvest. The fall of the next year, 1858, saw him united in marriage with Julia WydholF, who was bom near Berlin, Germany, in 1840. In 1859 he brought his wife to his farm in Money Creek township, and they took up their residence in a log house which he erected and in which they made their home for three years. Mr. Chapel then moved with his family to Wisconsin, and was enrolled in the Second Wisconsin Cavalry, but before entering the service he was attacked by typhoid fever, which left his lungs in so weak a condition as to unfit him for army life, and he was accordingly discharged. After being away from Houston county for three years he returned and resumed residence on his farm, where he remained until about 1870. From that time until 1903 his home was in Money Creek village. In the year last mentioned he moved to Houston village, where he subsequently resided until his death on March 2, 1912, at the age of 74 years and 1 day. At the time of his demise he was the owner of 300 acres of land, in addition to town property. For a number of years during his active career he gave a portion of his time to public affairs, serving twelve years as constable, one term as a member of the board of county commissioners, and holding school office almost continuously. In early life he was a member of the Grange. Prior to the Civil War he became a charter member of the Masonic Lodge at Houston, and he was one of those who organized the lodge of that order at Money Creek. His wife survived him two years, dying Feb. 20, 1914.

Royal Henry Hawkins, in former years proprietor of the farm known as Hickory Hill Ranch, in section 20, Money Creek township, but now deceased, was born in the state of New York. He was a boy of 7 or 8 years when he accompanied his parents to Wycena, Columbia county, Wis., where he grew to maturity. From there, while the Civil War was in progress, he enlisted as a private in the 10th Wisconsin Regiment, in which he served over three years, being mustered out just before the close of the war. Being captured in battle, he spent several months in Libby prison. On his return home he married and for the next six years continued to reside in Columbia county, Wisconsin. He then located on a farm near Viola, in Olmsted county, Minnesota, where he resided for seventeen years, moving to Houston county in 1889. Here he settled on the farm above mentioned, in section 20, Money Creek township, which was his subsequent home until his death on Thanksgiving Day, 1912. It was he who gave to the place its name of Hickory Hill Ranch. During his active career he served in various local offices, both in Wisconsin and in Houston county, Minnesota. By his wife.

Jane Purves, who, like himself, was born in New York State, he was the father of ten children: An unnamed infant (deceased), Charles A., Medea E., Mary A., Rebecca J., Royal Henry, Emma L., Eva, Clarence E. and William.

John A. Carlson, Jr^ who is engaged in operating the old Carlson farm in section 17, Money Creek township, was born in Sweden, June 30, 1881, son of John and Severina Christina Carlson. He was a young child when his parents settled in Money Creek township, this county, and his education was acquired in District School No. 9. His first industrial experience was gained on the home farm, on which he worked until reaching the age of 17 years. After that he worked for others at intervals until he was 21, after which he worked out continuously until his marriage. He then bought his father's farm, of which he has since been sole proprietor. It id a well improved piece of property, and under his competent management is yielding good financial returns. Mr. Carlson is a good example of the self-made man, having carved out his own fortune through enterprise and unremitting industry, and without extraneous assistance. He is a stockholder in the Houston Elevator, the Money Creek Creamery and the Farmers' Telephone Company, of which last mentioned institution he was one of the original directors and president for three years. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church, and in politics is a Republican.

Mr. Carlson was married on Thanksgiving Day, 1911, to Eva Hawkins, who was born at Viola, in Olmsted county, Minn., Oct. 17, 1879, daughter of Royal H. and Jane (Purves) Hawkins, who settled in Money Creek township, Houston county, in 1889. Mrs. Carlson received her early education in the district schools and in the Houston High School. For twelve years she was a most efficient teacher, and the pupils of those years still hold her in loving and grateful regard. Mr. and Mrs. Carlson have three children : Ralph Arthur, born Feb. 10, 1913; Idella Christian, born Aug. 22, 1915; and an infant.

Paul G. Bunge, who owns and operates a fine farm of 240 acres in Wilmington township, was born in Winnebago township, Houston county, Minnesota, April 3, 1887, son of Henry and Minnie (Speckhahn) Bunge, the parents being natives of Germany. His early education was acquired in the district school, after which, from the age of 16 to that of 17, he attended Elmhurst Seminary, at Elmhurst, 111. When 20 years old he went to Des Moines, Iowa, and became a student at Highland Park College, taking an engineering, traction and blacksmith course. At the end of that time he went to Alberta, Canada, where he bought 320 acres of land, but subsequently sold it and returned home. With his brother, Ed H., he operated the father's farm in Winnebago township for a year. On Feb. 2, 1910, he married Lillie, daughter of Henry and Louisa Luehr, of Wilmington township, and in the same year rented his father-in-law's farm, known as Oak Park farm, which he bought in 1913 and on which he is now residing. It was an improved place of 240 acres, with an eleven-room frame house, a frame barn, 32 by 70 by 16 feet, and other buildings. Since buying the property he has enlarged the house and modernized the interior, and built an addition to the barn, 38 by 70 by 16 feet, the structure being now

T-shaped and resting on a full nine-foot basement. His other buildings include a granary, a double com crib with a nine-foot drive, a combined machine shed, workshop and garage, a laundry, ice house, hog house with cement feeding floor, and a creosoted stave silo. His equipment is of the best and includes a five-passenger Overland auto. Two hundred acres of his land are under cultivation, the soil being very fertile, and the farm is well fenced with hog-tight wire fencing. Mr. Bunge carries on general farming, breeding Hereford cattle and Duroc swine, having full-blooded sires for his herds. He is doing an excellent business and is numbered among the most enterprising and successful young farmers of his township. For some years he was a shareholder in the Bee Mercantile Company. He is now a member of the Equity Shipping Association, and politically belongs to the Non-partisan League. His religious affiliations are with the Eitzen congregation of the German Evangelical church, of which he and his family are members. Mr. and Mrs. Bunge are the parents of three children: Esther, born Sept. 13, 1912; Selma, July 30, 1915; and Paula, March 31, 1918.

Otto M. Luttchens, one of the leading stock farmers of Houston county, residing in section 23, Jefferson township, was born on his present farm Nov. 10, 1880, son of Henry and Magdaline Luttchens. As a boy up to the age of 15 years he attended the Jefferson village school. He has always remained on the home farm, and from his early years was accustomed to herd cattle, growing up, as it were, in the saddle. Since 1898 he has practically operated the farm and has continued in the cattle business started by his father. He is a breeder of pure Aberdeen-Angus cattle, also highgrade cattle of other breeds, and also buys and feeds them for the market, shipping at least three carloads annually, besides one carload of hogs. In this business he has been eminently successful and has found it profitable. On his farm is an artesian well, 480 feet deep, with a four-inch pipe, and every building is provided with running water and is lighted by electricity. He now has under construction a new modem eight-room residence, 32 by 40 feet, with full basement under the. entire house. It is fitted with all the comforts and conveniences of modern life, with toilets, running water, a vapor heating system, and many other appliances. As his farm is but three miles north of New Albin, Iowa, Mr. Luttchens has naturally become interested in several of the business enterprises of the latter place, and is a stockholder and director in the Farmers' Stock and Grain Company, and a stockholder in the New Albin Savings Bank, the Farmers' Co-operative Mercantile Company and the Co-operative Creamery Association. For the last fifteen years Mr. Luttchens has served as clerk of his school district. In politics he has been a Republican since he cast his first vote. His religious affiliations are with the New Albin congregation of the German Evangelical church, of which he has been president for a number of years. Above all, he is a loyal American, true to the country of which he is a native, though of foreign ancestry, and a believer in its institutions and high destiny as one of the great world forces in the elevation of mankind. Mr. Luttchens was married, Dec. 18, 1901, to Matilda, born March 8, 1880, daughter of William and Elizabeth Pohlmann, of Jefferson township. To him and his wife, who has been his faithful companion and helpmate for seventeen years, the following children have been born: Ervin, Nov. 2, 1902; Esther, Dec. 5, 1904; Armin, May 13, 1907; Clarence, Dec. 7, 1910; Otto, Jr., Aug. 13, 1912; and Lester, July 15, 1915. All are living except Esther, who died in her ninth year, Oct. 4, 1913, and Clarence, who died Sept. 17, 1916.