Houston County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1919 (part 18 of 21)

Henry Luttchens, one of the early settlers in Jefferson township, who in early days endured many privations, but who is now living retired and in good health on the farm in section 23 which he established about 40 years ago, and of which his son Otto is the present proprietor, was born in Hanover, Germany, June 3, 1829, and is therefore now in his ninety-first year. He was the child of poor parents, and for the first 40 years of his life resided in his native land engaged in laborious occupations and receiving but small remuneration. Then, having no hope of ever acquiring a competence in Germany, he resolved to make a new start in life, and accordingly, in 1869, he came to the United States, proceedig west to Lansing, Iowa, which place he reached with twelve dollars in cash, the sum total of his pecuniary resources. From Lansing he came on to Dorchester, Allamakee county, Iowa, where he remained for three years working as a farm hand. In the fall of 1872 Mr. Luttchens crossed the state line into Houston county, Minnesota, and settled in Jefferson township, where for the two following winters he cut cordwood for Peter Hahn, on section 23, at 50 cents a cord. During the next three winters he worked in the pineries of northern Wisconsin. In 1877 Mr. Luttchens married Magdaline Schaffer of Dorchester, Iowa, and in the same year struck out for himself as an independent farmer, buying 160 acres of wild land adjoining Peter Hahn's place on the north. The tract cost him $1,200, which, as he had not the cash, he had to pay in installments, besides a high rate of interest. This burden proved a handicap to him for some years ; but it was not the only one. The only building on his land was an old log house which was scarcely habitable, at least in cold weather, and during the first winter, therefore, he and his wife lived in Mr. Hahn's woodshed. Their housekeeping conveniences were as scanty as it would be possible to conceive. In place of chairs they had two small boxes to sit on, while a larger one served them for a table. Their bedstead was made of poles cut from the woods, while a more or less ample supply of prairie hay took the place of a mattress. Under these inauspicious circumstances Mr. and Mrs. Luttchens began domestic life on their heavily mortgaged farm, and it was several years before conditions were much improved. Their land was very rough and covered with timber, only 59 acres being tillable after clearing. Mr. Luttchens, as he could hardly depend on crops for his living, began the raising of stock, but a Mississippi River flood swept away most of his hay, and in the winter he had to cut honeyweeds on the low land to keep his cattle from starving and to save the little hay he had left for March and April feeding. But instead of these hardships and misfortunes discouraging him, Mr. Luttchens only worked the harder and he and his wife endured their lot with unconquerable patience until fortune began to smile upon them. His cattle increased in number until he was raising from 50 to 75 head annuaUy, besides those which he bought and shipped to the Chicago market. He also raised 25 to 30 horses annually, receivingr better prices for his stock with advancing years. For a few years durinsr the early period he kept some sheep, and his wife washed and carded the wool, spun it into yarn, and sold it to help provide for home needs. After clearing as much of his land as was tillable, Mr. Luttchens purchased more, thus increasing the size of his farm, and he furthermore improved it by erecting a comfortable frame house, together with a commodious frame barn and other outbuildings. His wife, though never very strong, was a hard worker, and proved a loving and helpful companion to him until her death in 1898 after 19 years of married life. They had had three children, Henry, Lena and Otto, of whom the two first mentioned are now deceased. About 20 years ago, or about the time of his wife's death, Mr. Luttchens turned the farm over to his son Otto, with whom he now lives, and who is operating it on a profitable basis. He is one of Jefferson township's most respected citizens, as in his day he was one of its most active workers, having well earned the repose and leisure he now enjoys. Politically he has always been a Republican, and for many years has been a prominent member of the New Albin (la.) congregation of the German Evangelical Church, to which his son also belongs, and in the good work of which Mrs. Luttchens during her lifetime took a helpful and leading part.

Henry Vollenweider, who is engaged in the cultivation of apples and small fruits of the berry kind in section 3, La Crescent township, was bom in Wintertur, Canton Zurich, Switzerland, Feb. 17, 1878, son of John Heinrich and Liesabeth (Hatt) Vollenweider. The father, bom in the same canton, Jan. 3, 1839, was a machinist in a large manufactory having 4,000 employees. He was married in his native land to Liesabeth Hatt, who was born March 6, 1848. Henry was the third bom of their four children. The eldest son, Carl, having emigrated to the United States, the rest of the family followed him in June, 1893, locating temporarily in La Crosse, Wis., but soon afterwards moving to Shelby township. La Crosse county. After a brief location there, they moved across the river to La Crescent township, Houston county, where from February to November, 1895, they lived on a rented farm. They then took the farm of 55 acres which the son Henry is now operating as a fruit and berry farm, though with the intention of hereafter devoting his chief attention to apples. This farm for a number of years the family operated together, the business being transacted then as now under the name of Henry Vollenweider. In 1912 John Heinrich, the father, died, but his wife is still living, residing a part of the time with her son Henry, and at other times with her sister in Cincinnati. Henry Vollenweider is a member of the Woodmen's lodge at La Crescent, and in politics is independent. He is a member of the Salzer Memorial church at La Crosse. Mr. Vollenweider was married Aug. 31, 1904, to Henrietta Schwarz, daughter of Henry and Bertha (Kutzborski) Schwarz. He and his wife have six children: Wesley, bom June 17, 1905; Esther, born Dec. 17, 1906 ; Milton and Marguerite (twins) , born June 10, 1908 ; Henry, bora Sept. 16, 1^9, and Wilbert, born Aug. 7, 1911. Henry Schwarz, father of Mrs. Vollenweider, was bom in Austria, Feb. 13, 1859, of German-Bohemian parents, arifl was brought to America when five years old. By trade he was a wood carver and was with the firm of Segelke & Kolhaus, of La Crosse, for 35 years. His wife Bertha was bom in La Crosse, Wis., Aug. 23, 1861, and died in Denver, Colo., July 20, 1917, to which place they moved some eleven years ago, and where Mr. Schwarz is now residing.

John Holger, who is residing on a farm of 240 acres in sections 30 and 31 north, Yucatan township, which farm he developed from wild land, was bom in Estherdahl, Norway, Feb. 11, 1846, son of John and Carrie Johnson. The parents, natives of the same district, never came to America, both dying in Norway. John, who was the elder of their two children, attended school in his native land. Up to 1869 he resided with his father, who was a carpenter. Then he came directly to Fillmore county, Minnesota, locating in Norway township. At that time he was unable to speak English, but he found Norwegians in the vicinity and soon obtained work in the harvest fields binding wheat. For a year he worked on farms and then engaged in station work for the West Wisconsin Railway. From that road he went after a year to the Great Northern, for which he worked one year, and then spent two years in the employ of the Wisconsin Central. At the end of that time he married and purchased his present farm, which was unimproved, so that he had to grub out the site where his house now stands. In the period that has since elapsed he has made many notable improvements, having erected substantial and modern buildings and brought his tilled land into a high state of cultivation. The actual operation of the farm is now in the hands of his sons. Mr. Holger is a stockholder in the Rushford creamery and elevator and in the Farmers' Telephone Company. He is a member of the Lutheran church at Rushford, and in politics is independent. For a number of years he served on the school board. In September, 1874, Mr. Holger was united in marriage with Anna Hanson, who was born in Nonstadt, Norway, May 2, 1851, daughter of Hans and Gulbfor (Thompson) Hovelson, she being the fourth born of their five children. Of this union eight children have been born : Gena, wife of Halvor Anderson, of Rushford township, Fillmore county ; Hans J., who married Andrena Lunde and resides at Harmony, Minn.; Alaus M., who is operating the Rushford power plant, and who married Helga Sumby; Richard, who is a carpenter residing at home ; John Oscar, who is assisting to operate the home farm ; Joseph C, who is studying at the Agricultural Department of the State University with a view to teaching agriculure; and Selmer, who is helping his brother John O. to operate the home farm. Joseph C. gave twenty-one months of his life to the service of his country. He enlisted Sept. 7, 1917, in Company F, 351st Infantry, was made a corporal Sept. 17, 1917; was promoted to sergeant, June 1, 1918; spent ten months in France, and was discharged June 6, 1919.

Elisha Cook, a sturdy pioneer settler in Wilmington township, now deceased, was bora in Nova Scotia in 1815. Growing to manhood in that eastern province, he became, like many of his countrymen who lived on the coast, a fisherman and sailor, and during his career on the sea he visited many important ports in various parts of the world. He also married Maria Scott, who was born in Nova Scotia in 1825. At last tiring of the precarious life of a mariner, he resolved to seek his fortune on shore, and in 1854, with his wife and two children, Anna and Susan, he came west to Houston county, Minnesota, settling on a tract of wild land in section 16, Wilmington township. Here he began pioneer farming, building a log hut, which in after years was succeeded by a substantial frame house, and, clearing his land, in time established a comfortable home, with barns and outbuildings and all the appurtenances of a civilized homestead. His wife died in 1886, and he survived her many years, finally passing away in 1904, at the age of about 89 years, having never been sick until a short time before his death. In addition to the two daughters already mentioned, who are now deceased, Mr. and Mrs. Cook had seven children born in Wilmington township, namely: Henry (first), who died young; William Henry (second) ; and Maria, all of whom are now dead ; Charles and William J., farmers of May ville township ; and Warren, who is dead.

William J. Cook is one of the prosperous farmers of May^ille township, owning and operating with his brother Charles the 80-acre tract known as the Nick Engen farm, in sections 20 and 29. William J. Cook was born on the Cook homestead, in section 36, Wilmington township, Sept. 27, 1861, son of Elisha and Maria Cook, who settled here in 1854. He was reared on the home farm, attended the district schools, and was taught farming by his father. At the age of 19 he went to Nebraska, where for six years he was employed as a farm laborer. Then he returned to the home farm. In 1909 he went to California, and spent four years in operating a fruit farm. But home ties again called him back, and the year 1913 saw him again operating the home farm. In October, 1918, he sold the old homestead and purchased with his brother Charles his present place. Industrious and thrifty, he is doing a good business as a general farmer, having a good farm and equipment, and being also a stockholder in the Wilmington Creamery Company and the Caledonia Co-operative Grain & Stock Company. In politics he is a Republican, while, though not a member, he helps to support the Portland Prairie M. E. church, in the faith of which he was reared.

Anton Noel, one of the earliest settlers on the site of the village of Freeburg, in Crooked Creek township, was born in the Duchy of Luxemburg, and came to the United States. For some time he followed the occupation of a riverman, running one of the early steamboats on the Mississippi river, and making his home at Dubuque, Iowa, where he married Mary Hilkin, who, like himself, was a native of Luxemburg. Finally, about 1867, he came with his family to Crooked Creek township, Houston county, and located on the site of Freeburg, securing 130 acres of land, and purchasing his residence - an old log house - from Mr. Littlefoot. His only neighbors at the time were William Oxford and George Powlesland. Later Mr. Noel bought 80 acres more, included in the present village site, and engaged in farming, in time erecting good buildings. He was one of the early local officials, serving on the town board and frequently as a member of the school board. He and his family were Catholics, and before a church was built mass was often held in the Noel house. He was one of those who helped to build the church, and for a number of years served on its official board. His death took place at Freeburg when he was about 68 years old.

His wife, who survived him, died at about the age of 88 years. They had some twelve or fourteen children, of whom ten are now living. Their respective names, so far as they have been preserved, were: Kate, Anna, Paul, Lizzie, Francis, Matt, Mary, George, Nick, Andrew and Lena. Paul is now a resident of Freeburg, and Matt of Reno, this county, while George is proprietor of the old homestead and is engaged in farming.

George Noel, proprietor of the old Noel farm at Freeburg, Crooked Creek township, was born in a frame house on the farm he now owns, April 8, 1868, son of Anton and Mary (Hilkin) Noel. His education was acquired in a frame schoolhouse which stood on the site of the present school, while his industrial training was attended to by his father, whom he helped to cultivate the home farm. At the age of 21 he began an indpendent career, leaving home and working out for various farmers in different localities, being away for three years. After his return he operated the home farm for eighteen years, and at the end of that time engaged in the mercantile business, conducting a general store for five years. He then returned to the old home farm, which contained 205 acres, and increased its area by purchasing a tract of 118 acres more, this giving him a farm of 323 acres, which he has since operated with profitable results, making various improvements in the property. He is also a stockholder in the Freeburg State Bank. For several years he served as supervisor on the town board, and has also been a director on the school board. In October, 1918, he assisted in organizing the Equity Shipping Association, an organization which under his management is meeting with much success. Mr. Noel married Elizabeth Deufel, daughter of Lawrence Deufel, of Houston county. He and his wife are the parents of three children : Herbert, who served in the United States Army during the Great War, and Anton and Crescenta, who are living at home. The family are members of the Catholic church.

Frank Thery, a well known and prosperous citizen of Mayville township, operating a farm of 240 acres, his residence lying in section 32, was born in the village of Boegen, in the Duchy of Luxemburg, Nov. 16, 1866. His parents were Henry and Susan (Romnes) Thery, the father being a shepherd. Both died in their native land. They had five children : Frank, subject of this sketch ; Mary, Adelia and Barbara, who are still in Luxemburg; and Frank H., making the second Frank in the family. Frank, the first of the name, acquired a common school education in his native land, and also a knowledge of the French language, which he speaks fluently. At the age of 21 he came to the United States, leaving Luxemburg, Feb. 8, 1888, spending fourteen days on the ocean, and arriving in Caledonia, Houston county, Minn., March 4. After visiting friends previously settled in this region, he began work as a hired hand, and was thus occupied for six years, during which time he practiced economy and saved some money. At the end of that time he married and rented the Koehl farm in this vicinity, operating it for six years, and afterward another farm for five years. But after being three years on the latter he bought the farm on which he now lives, in section 32, renting it out for one year, and then working it for a year in connection with his other farm, after which he moved onto it.

At the time of his purchase it contained 160 acres, to which he has since added 80 acres more. Of the total area of 240 acres, 195 are cleared, the rest of the land being still timbered. An enterprising man, Mr. Thiery has greatly improved the estate by the erection of a bam, com crib and granary, besides other outbuildings. The barn is of modern constraction and rests on a stone foundation. He does mixed farming, giving particular attention to the raising of stock, and is also a shareholder in the co-operative creamery at Caledonia and the local telephone company. He is also interested in several agricultural and stock breeders' associations. Mr. Thery was married in Caledonia, Feb. 12, 1895, to Mary Esch, who was bom in Houston county, Minnesota, Feb. 22, 1867, daughter of Herbert and Margaret (Lesch) Esch. The Esch family came to this locality from Luxemburg and engaged in farming here. Herbert Esch was a private in the Civil War from 1864 to 1865 and was a hard working, substantial citizen. He and his wife are now dead. Their children were: Elizabeth, Kate, Pater, Katherine, Mary, Elizabeth (second), Joseph and John. Kate and Katherine are now deceased, but the others are living, John being a resident of St. Paul. To Mr. and Mrs. Thery eight children have been bom: Jennie, on Sept. 24, 1892; Margaret, Dec. 1, 1895; Elizabeth, April 13, 1897; Veronica, May 13, 1898; Susie, June 2, 1899; Philomenia, Aug. 22, 1903; Henry, Aug. 17, 1904; and Ignatius, Feb. 5, 1912. Of these children Jennie married William Wagner and resides in Caledonia township. Mr. Thery and his family attend St. Peter's Catholic church at Caledonia.

Edward Johnson, the founder and developer of a good farm of 120 acres in Paradise Valley, Money Creek township, was bom in Stavanger, Norway, March 4, 1836, son of Edward and Isabella (Germanson) Johnson. He was in his twenty-fifth year when he came to the United States and settled in La Crosse, Wis., where he resided for about three years. At the end of that time he took a homestead in Blue Earth county, but on account of the Indian uprising in the early sixties he returned to La Crosse. There he married Isabelle Germanson, who was bom in Telemarken, Norway, in October, 1842. At the time of his marriage he became an employe in the Pauley lumber mill and continued so for two or three years. Then he came to Money Creek township, Houston county, and took a tract of wild land in Paradise Valley, section 20, which he began to clear and develop. Here he has since remained, residing now with his son, George Otto. For sixteen years he served as trustee of the Norwegian Lutheran church of Houston. His wife died Dec. 3, 1914. Of their family of eleven children the son, George Otto, above mentioned, was the eighth in order of birth.

George Otto Johnson, who is operating a general stock farm of 120 acres in section 20, Money Creek township, which is the homestead established by his father many years ago, was bom in this township, Sept. 8, 1880, son of Edward and Isabelle (Germanson) Johnson. He acquired his education in the district school and until the age of 23 years was his father's assistant on the farm, at the end of that time becoming his partner. He is now operating the farm himself, giving his chief attention to stock raising, breeding up in Durham cattle and Poland-China hogs of the large type.

and keeping a number of sheep. He is a stockholder in the Farmers Exchange of Houston and the Farmers Telephone Company and a director and stockholder in the Money Creek Creamery. His religious affiliations are with the Norwegian Lutheran Church. Mr. Johnson was married Sept. 4, 1910, to Olena Moen, who was bom in Houston Township, daughter of Ole and Galena (Thompson) Moen. Her parents were both natives of this county, the father bom about 1862. His first wife Galena dying when their daughter Olena was 4 years old, he contracted a second marriage, and now lives in Laresboro, Minn., where he is engaged in farming. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have four children: Geneva Bessie, bom March 18, 1911; Eldis Otis, bom May 4, 1914; George Edward, bom June 10, 1916, and Edella, bora April 28, 1918.

Syver Munson Bjorge, who was for a number of years engaged in agricultural work in section 6, Yucatan township, but is now deceased, was bora in Veldre, Norway, Sept. 9, 1847, son of Muns and Martha Bjorge. The parents, who never left their native land, died over 30 years ago. Syver attended school in Lillehammer, Norway, and when a boy of 16 began teaching school. In 1876 he came to the United States, arriving in this country May 19, and proceeding directly to Preston, Filhnore county, Minn. He was then unable to speak English, but was engaged to teach the parochial school, and was thus occupied for several years. During that period he also found time to take a course at Monona Academy, Madison, Wis. After his marriage in 1882 he engaged in agricultural work, and in 1888 took the farm in section 6, Yucatan township, where the rest of his life was spent. The place was then but slightly improved, but in time he developed it into a good farm with substantial buildings, neat fences, and a full equipment of implements and machinery. On this place he died March 13 ,1903. During his active career as a citizen of the township he occupied a prominent place among his fellow townsmen, serving as town assessor for a number of terms, and as a member of church and school boards. He was a member of the Norwegian Lutheran Church at Rushford, and was independent in politics. Mr. Bjorge was married Feb. 9, 1882, at Lanesboro, Minn., to Bergette Bye, who was bom near Preston, Fillmore county, daughter of Ole and Randine (Sveum) Bye. She was the sixth bora of her parents' eight children and was educated in Fillmore county. To Mr. and Mrs. Bjorge nine children were bora, as follows : Marie C, now a teacher at Rushford, who has taught school for a number of years in both English and Norwegian in Houston and Fillmore counties; Rudolph L., who is farming near Mabel, Minn.; Martin A., a farmer residing near Harmony, Minn. ; Olov C, who is farming near Van Hook, N. D. ; Borghild S., a teacher in FiUmore county ; Anna P., who is teaching near Canton, FiUmore county ; Lawrence J., who is residing at home ; Clarence 0., who died at the age of 14 years in 1914, and Gynther Adolph, who is residing at home and attending school. The parents of Mrs. Bjorge, Ole and Randine (Sveum) Bye, were both bora in Ringsager, Norway, where they were married. They were among the early settlers in Preston township, Fillmore county, Minn., taking wild land which they developed into a farm. Later they removed to Koshoning, Wis., where they remained three years. They then returaed to Preston, where they spent the

Frederick Frey, one of the early farmers of Mound Prairie township, was bom in Germany, Oct. 5. 1821. He received his education in his native land, and when a young man came to Minnesota, settling in Mound Prairie township. In 1864 he married Caroline Redman, who was bom in Germany, March 29, 1842, and who had come to this country at the age of 21 years. A man of good qualities and sterling worth, and an energetic farmer, Mr. Frey f oUowed agricultural pursuits in Mound Prairie township until his death, which occurred Nov. 2, 1889. For several years subsequently his widow managed the farm, with the help of her sons. She is now living with her son George in La Crosse, Wis. Mr. and Mrs. Frey were the parents of eight children: Hannah, bom May 28, 1866; Ella, Oct. 3, 1868; George, Feb. 8, 1870; Augusta, July 24, 1872; Caroline, July 21, 1874; Theodore, June 7, 1876; Emil, March 29, 1878, and PhiUp, April 25, 1880.

Peter Fitting, who was for over half a century a weU-known farmer and respected citizen of Mound Prairie Township, was a native of Germany, bom in 1836. He was a child of six years when in 1842 he was brought by his parents to the United States. They located near Hartford, Wis., where he grew to manhood and was educated. After leaving school he learned the butcher's trade, which he followed in Chicago until 1863. Then coming to Houston county, Minnesota, he settled in Mound Prairie township, where he was engaged in farming. Industrious and thrifty, he became in time an extensive land owner, and helped to increase agricultural values in the community. In 1860 Mr. Fitting married Margaret Frey, who was bom in Germany in 1839, and who died Dec. 5, 1916. They were the parents of nine childden: Elizabeth, John, EUa, Margaret, Philip, Mary, Theodore, William and Laura, all of whom are living except Elizabeth.

Philip Fitting, who is now living practically retired in the village of La Crescent, after a life of agricultural activity, in addition to some years spent in the stock business, was bom in Mound Prairie township, Oct. 1, 1872, son of Peter and Margaret (Frey) Fitting, he being the sixth bom of their nine children. His education was acquired in the South Ridge School and at the Winona Business College. Reared to agricultural pursuits, at the age of 24 years he rented his father's farm on South Ridge, operating it for four years. He then bought a farm near Houston, but remained there only one year, at the end of that time buying a 240-acre farm on Pine Creek, which he operated until 1908. He then removed to La Crescent village, later selling his farm, and for six or seven years was engaged in stock shipping from the village, being also connected with the La Crescent Canning Company. Financially independent, he is now enjoying the fruits of his former industry. He is a stockholder in the La Crescent State Bank, the Sterling Machine Co. and the Pine Creek VaUey Creamery. For 17 years he has been a member of the order of Modem Woodmen. In politics he is an independent Republican. Mr. Fitting was married Jan. 1, 1896, to Augusta Frey, daughter of Frederick and Caroline (Redman) Frey, and they have one child, Phyllis Fem, bom Aug. 21, 1910.

Christopher Meyer, an early settler in Winnebago township, where he broke land and developed a farm, was bom in Germany, where he married Eatherine Rober. About 1868 or 1869 he emigrated with his family to the United States, settling in Allamakee county, Iowa, not far from the line of Winnebago township, Houston county, Minn. After a stay of two years in that locality he crossed the line into Winnebago township and took 160 acres of wild land in section 36, erecting some small buildings. During many years thereafter he was busily engaged in developing the place, breaking and clearing the land and erecting good frame buildings, and here he resided until his death, June 26, 1894. He was an industrious farmer and good neighbor and was highly respected. His wife, who was bom Oct. 12, 1838, is still living on the farm and is active today at the age of 81 years. Their children were Henry, John, Mary, who is now Mrs. William Wuennecke, of Crooked Creek township ; Otto, Magdalena, who is now Mrs. Herman Haar, of Union City township, AUamakee county, Iowa ; Dorathea, who is the widow of John Timmerman, and Anna, now Mrs. Fred Wuennecke, of Crooked Creek township.

Henry Meyer, one of the leading farmers of Winnebago township, residing in section 36, was born in Germany, Nov. 2, 1862, son of Christopher and Katherine (Rober) Meyer. He was 6 years old when he accompanied his parents to Allamakee county, Iowa, where he lived for two yars, at the end of which time the family removed to the farm in Winnebago township, Houston county, on which he is now living. Here he was reared, in his boyhood attending the district school, and as he grew older assisted his father on the farm, which he bought in 1896. Since then he has made many improvements on it, having erected a good set of frame buildings, including a one-and-a-half story, eleven-room house ; a barn, 34 by 60 by 18 feet; a second barn, 33 by 50 by 16 feet, on a full eight-foot stone basement, with a granary built in ; a machine shed, 22 by 40 by 10 ; a poultry house, 14 by 20 ; a corn crib, 6 by 24 ; a summer kitchen, 12 by 20 ; and a steel windmill. The farm is well fenced and is very productive, and is stocked with graded Shorthorn cattle and Poland-China hogs. Mr. Meyer's equipment also includes a good Overland automobile. He has been a member of the district school board for years, in politics being a Republican. In addition to his direct farming interests, he is a stockholder in the Eitzen Co-operative Creamery and the New Albin Stock & Grain Company. Mr. Meyer was married, Jan. 8, 1896, to Sophia, daughter of Gerhard and Kathrine Meiners, of Allamakee county, Iowa. He and his wife have four children : Edna, born Jan. 19, 1897 ; Clara, April 5, 1899 ; Frances, Aug. 3, 1903 ; and Paul, June 12, 1906. Edna, who is residing at home, was educated in the Eitzen school and in the Southern Minnesota Normal School at Austin, Minn., and has been a teacher for the last four years. Clara, also living at home, is a graduate of the Eitzen schools and completed her studies at the Southem Minnesota Normal School at Austin, Minn.

Henry Luehr, one of the leading representatives of the agricultural industry of Wilmington township, residing in section 34, his estate of 300 acres being known as Mt. Zion farm, was born in Hanover, Germany, April 4, 1851, son of Henry and Katherine (Harus) Luehr. He attended school in his native land, and when he was 16 years old his father, who was a soldier, advised him to go to America rather than enter the army. Accordingly, in 1867, he crossed the Atlantic, and proceeding west to Reedsburg, Wis., made his home there for one summer with relatives, subsequently removing to Dorchester, Allamakee county, Iowa. One year after his arrival in this country his parents, with two sons, John and Fred, came over and joined him, the parents buying a farm near Dorchester. The other members of the family - ^six children - died in Germany. Both parents died on their farm at the age of 67 years, the father Nov. 1, 1885, and the mother April 28, 1900. Henry remained with them until 1874. In that year, at the age of 23, he began independent farming, buying 120 acres in section 34, Wilmington township, Houston county, Minn. It was a partly improved farm, having a log house and a frame barn, and was previously the property of Amos Lapham. There Henry Luehr resided for four years, working both that farm and his father's, which was situated but three miles away. At the end of that time he married, his bride being Louisa, daughter of Henry and Mary Deters, who resided in Allamakee county, Iowa, near the village of Eitzen. Mr. Luehr then settled on his present farm, or rather on a part of it, as he has since built it up to its present area of 300 acres, of which 50 are in timber, the rest being improved. He has erected thereon an excellent set of buildings, beginning in 1879, when he built the large two-story frame house, consisting of upright and wing, with a detached summer kitchen; and since then he has put up bams, a granary, com cribs, tool house, garage, and other outbuildings, all being now in good condition, so that the farm is now one of the best in the township. It is also equally good in its equipment, Mr. Luehr using tractors as well as teams in its operation. He carries on diversified farming, including stock raising and dairying. His cattle are graded animals of the Shorthorn breed, while his swine are of the Poland-China variety. For years he has shipped a carload of cattle annually and from 100 to 150 hogs. In politics he is a Republican. In addition to his direct farming interests, Mr. Luehr owns stock in the Bee Creamery, the Spring Grove Stock & Grain Company, the Spring Grove Hospital and the First National Bank of Caledonia. He and his wife have had nine children: Otto, born Nov. 5, 1879, died in infancy; Emma, bora Jan. 28, 1882, who was married, Jan. 25, 1907, to Rev. Walter Bunge, of Rochester, Minn. ; Lillie M., born March 21, 1886, who was married Feb. 3, 1911, to Paul Bunge, a farmer of Wilmington township; Edwin F., bora Aug. 3, 1888, who is proprietor of a farm adjoining that of the subject of this sketch, and was married Aug. 28, 1913, to Selma Bunge, by whom he has one son; Henry W., born May 23, 1891, a farmer residing near Rochester, Minn., who was married Feb. 15, 1917, to Arvilla Lenz ; Huldah M., born Aug. 31, 1893, residing at home; Eleanora, born July 5, 1895, who died in infancy; Ella Louisa Matilda, born July 30, 1897, and Franklin, born March 11, 1899, both living on the home farm, the latter taking a prominent part in its management and cultivation. Mr. Luehr, with the resident members of his family, belongs religiously to the Eitzen congregation of the German Evangelical Lutheran church, of which he was a trustee for several years, contributing of his means to its advancement. He is one

Ame Engen, who developed a farm in section 14, Wilmington township, where he resided for twenty years, or until his death on Jan. 21, 1890, was bom in Norway, Jan. 1, 1847. As a young man he came to Houston county, Minnesota, and on his birthday, Jan. 1, 1870, was married to Sigri Halvorson, daughter of Knute and Guro Halvorson. Taking land in section 14, Wilmington township, he set to work to develop a farm, and had a good farm of 121 acres when death called him from his labors. His widow being left with a family of four children, the eldest of whom, a girl, was only 13, and the youngest, Peter, but two, was obliged to rent out the farm for awhile, but her son Knute, on coming of age, took charge of it. On his death in 1915 another son, Ole, rented the place. But he soon died, and another son, Peter A., took over the management, first buying Ole's interest in the stock and later his mother's, and continued to make a home for his mother. Aug. 28, 1919, he bought the place. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Ame Engen were as follows: Margit (first), born Nov. 15, 1871, who died July 21, 1882; Guro, born April 15, who died Aug. 1, 1882; Pauline, born Jan. 8, 1875, who died Aug. 2, 1882; Sarah, born Jan. 21, 1877, now Mrs. Charles Eden, of Caledonia; Ole (first), born Jan. 31, 1879, who died in March, 1882; Knute, born March 5, 1881, who died in 1915; Margit (second), bom Dec. 15, 1883, now Mrs. Peiper, of Palisade, Minn.; Ole (second), born Nov. 21, 1885, who died in 1915; and Peter A., born June 1, 1888, who is now the proprietor of the home farm. As will be seen from the above record, of the nine children five died young, the three first bom being carried off within ten days - ^a great domestic affliction - ^while Ole, the second of the name, passed away in his thirtieth year.

Peter A. Engen, a representative agriculturist of Wilmington township, who is operating a good farm of 121 acres in section 14, was born in this township, June 1, 1888, son of Arne and Sigri (Halvorson) Engen. He was quite a young child when his father died, and the oldest living child in the family being a girl of 13, the mother rented out the farm, and it was operated by others for some twelve years. In the meanwhile Peter A. was acquiring his education, attending first the district school and afterward for two winters the Valder Business College at Decorah, Iowa. During the winter of 1905-6 he was clerk in a department store at Duluth, Minn. In the spring of 1906, however, he resumed agriculture, going to Anamoose, N. D., where he worked on a farm and in the fall was engaged in threshing. He then retumed to Wilmington Township and for some time was employed in carpenter work. In the meanwhile in 1902 his brother Knute had come of age and taken charge of the home farm, where the family was now living. In 1915, however, Knute died, and Ole took up the management. But Ole's death soon followed that of Knute, occurring in the same year, and Peter A. then purchased his mother's and brother's interest in the stock and equipment and took over the management of the farm, which he has since operated and which he purchased Aug. 28, 1919. Of its total area of 121 acres, 105 are now under the plow, and the buildings are all in good condition. Mr. Engen has proved himself a good practical farmer, one of the leading branches of his work being the breeding of graded Shorthorn cattle and Poland-China swine. He is a Republican in politics, but has hitherto confined his political activities to casting his vote. In 1917 Mr. Engen was married to Cecelia Myhre, daughter of Andrew and Sophia Myhre, who were neighbors, residing less than a mile away, and the wedding trip was from her home to where they began domestic life together. Mrs. Engen was educated in the public schools and at the Winona State Normal School, and was a teacher for eight years before her marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Engen are the parents of two children : Sigrid M., born May 1, 1918 ; and Arleine S., bom June 28, 1919. The family worships at the Norwegian Lutheran Evangelical church in Wilmington.

John Dretvigy the founder of a good farm in sections 21 and 22, Spring Grove township, which is now owned and operated by his son Albert J., was born in Norway in 1835. As a young man he came to the United States on the same vessel with Ole Suldahl, another Norwegian emigrant. He was united in marriage in Winneshiek county, Iowa, to Olive Nytroen. There he and his wife resided for some years, but were unable to make much progress. About 1882 with their son Albert, then about 5 or 6 years old and who was their only child, they came to Houston county, Minnesota, and took a tract of land in section 19, Spring Grove township, where they endeavored to establish a home. Bad fortune, however, still pursued them, as a succession of crop failures forced Mr. Dretvig to give up that farm and remove to sections 21 and 22, where he bought 113 acres, with some small improvements, including a frame house. Here he met with greater success, clearing his land and in time erecting a good two-story frame house of nine rooms, consisting of an upright and wing. He also built a frame barn, granary, two machine sheds, poultry house, com crib, a woodshed and a milk and cream house. Subsequently Mr. Dretvig sold 21 acres of the farm, leaving it with its present area of 92 acres. Of this 70 are now under cultivation, the rest being in timber and pasture. In 1892 Mrs. Olive Dretvig passed away on the home farm. Mr. Dretvig survived her about fifteen years, dying in 1907. He had been retired from active work for about nine years, having rented the farm to his son in 1899, and shortly before his death he transferred the property to him.

Albert J. Rood» the present proprietor of a good farm in sections 21 and 22, Spring Grove township, which was established by his parents, was bom Oct. 5, 1876, son of John and Olive Dretvig Rood. He was educated in the district school, which he attended up to the age of 15 years, and remained at home with his parents, whose only child he was, assisting his father to develop the farm. Renting the farm from his father in 1899, he was married on June 29, the same year, to Helene Marie, daughter of Jacob and Ingaborg Rosten, of Winneshiek county, Iowa. In 1899, just previous to his father's death, he became the owner of the farm, which he is operating successfully, giving particular attention to the raising of Shorthorn cattle and Poland-China swine, having full-blooded sires for his herds. In addition to a good set of buildings, he has a full and adequate equipment of tools, teams and machinery, the farm being a well-improved piece of agricultural property. Mr. Rood is a shareholder in the Spring Grove Stock &

Grain Company, the Farmers' Co-operative Creamery, of the same place, and the Spring Grove Hospital, being also a member of the American Society of Equity. Previously a Republican, in 1916 he became a nonpartisan. He and his wife are the parents of one child, Olive I., who was born Oct. 3, 1904. Mr. Rood and his family are members of the Spring Grove congregation of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church.

Carl Wilhelm Gjerdingen, who for many years owned and operated a productive farm of 137 acres in section 19, Wilmington township, three miles southeast of Spring Grove village, was born in this township, in section 30, Jan. 16, 1878, son of Ole N. and Bolita Gjerdingen. The first 27 years of his life were spent on his parents' farm. He was then married, Sept. 24, 1905, to Henrietta Emelia, daughter of Nels and Ingre Hefty, of Wilmington township, and about the same time he bought and commenced operating a farm of his own. On this place 115 acres are under the plow. The buildings include a good two-story frame house of nine rooms, a frame granary, barn, tool shed, hog house, poultry house and com crib. A system of running water is provided for the buildings, and the farm is well fenced and provided with a full operating equipment of high quality. It is well stocked with grade Shorthorn cattle and Duroc swine, with full-blooded sires for the herds. In addition to his farming interests Mr. Gjerdingen has acquired stock in the Spring Grove Hospital. He has served for the last six years as treasurer of his school district, and in politics is a Republican. Energetic and enterprising, he has made good progress in business affairs and is numbered among the prosperous men of the community. He and his wife have one child, Ole Bemhard, who was bom April 12, 1906. The family are members of the Spring Grove congregation of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church. In March, 1919, Mr. Gjerdingen retired from active farming and removed to the village of Spring Grove, where he now resides.

Nels Hefty, one of the original pioneers of Houston county, for many years a resident of Wilmington township, was bom in Hallingdal, Norway, Oct. 1, 1833. He came to America at the age of 19, landing in this country with but $25 in cash. His first settlement was made in Illinois, but in 1854, having by that time saved $200, he came to Houston county, Minnesota, and bought 160 acres of wild land near the old Wilmington Church, where he built a small log house and bam. With this for a nucleus he proceeded to develop a farm, subsequently erecting frame buildings, including a house and two bams, besides others. He also increased the area of his farm by the purchase of 120 acres adjoining, making 280 in all. In early days he hauled his grain and other products to Brownsville, Minn., and Lansing and New Albin, Iowa, making use of ox teams. His labors were a factor in the development of the county, helping to change it from a wilderness inhabited only by savages into the flourishing and wealthy section of the state which it is today. Like nearly all of the original pioneers, Mr. Hefty has passed to his reward, dying at Spring Grove, March 27, 1908. He retired in 1902 and moved to Spring Grove village, where his final years were spent in the quiet enjoyment of a fair competence, won by long and unremitting industry and the exercise of a prudent frugality, though he was not back- ward when called upon to aid a worthy cause, giving both of his time and means. One of the founders of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church in Wilmington, he served as trustee for several years and took a prominent part in its good works. Mr. Hefty was married in 1859 to a Miss Sigerdson, who was bom in Telemarken, Norway, Feb. 25, 1840, and who when ten years old came to America with her parents and two brothers, one of whom, Reier, now lives in Waukon, Allamakee county, Iowa. The children bom to Mr. and Mrs. Hefty were as follows: Ole, bom Feb. 15, 1860, who died in infancy; Inger Olina, bora July 1, 1863, who died at the age of 6 years; Margit, born Dec. 31, 1865, who married Olaus Sannes of Wilmington township and died in 1892; Inger Oline (second), bom Sept. 27, now Mrs. Edward Evenson of Wilmington township ; Theodore Olaus, born Sept. 28, 1870, who resides at. Wolcott, N. D. ; Ingeborg Maria, born Jan. 13, 1873, now Mrs. Peter Dille of Mcintosh, Minn. ; Tilla Cecelia, bora April 13, 1876, who died unmarried in 1893; Henrietta Emelia, bora June 22, 1881, now Mrs. C. W. Gjerdingen of Wilmington township, and Nora Elida, bora Nov. 3, 1886, who is the wife of Aimer Frederickson of Mcintosh, Minn. The mother of these children, now 80 years old, is residing with her daughter, Mrs. Gjerdingen.

Gerhard A. Roverud, one of the proprietors of the Spring Grove Lumber Company, and a leading citizen of the village, was bora in Spring Grove township, two miles north of the village, Feb. 2, 1889, son of Andrew K. and Elida M. Roverud. From the age of seven years to that of 15 he attended the district and village schools, finally graduating from the eighth grade on a state examination. While going to the village school he resided on his parents' farm, walking back and forth most of the time, and doing the farm chores at night and early in the moraing, his time being thus fully occupied. His summer vacations he spent working full time on the farm. After his graduation in June, 1904, he remained with his parents until the fall of 1905, when he went to work as a farm hand in Black Hammer township, and was thus occupied for a year. Then in the fall of 1906 he rented a farm in that township, which he operated until Christmas, 1908. That winter he entered the Lutheran Academy at Albert Lea, Minn., taking the business course, from which he was graduated in June, 1909. A month after his graduation he took a position with H. J. Blexrud, a general merchant of Caledonia village, with whom he remained until Jan. 1, 1910. He then entered the employ of N. T. Newhouse, a general merchant of Spring Grove, as clerk, and continued with Mr. Newhouse until May 15, 1911. In September of the year last mentioned Mr. Roverud bought an interest in the Spring Grove Lumber Co. with N. O. Onsgard and M. K. Storlie, and has since been connected with this concern, which is one of the most prominent of its kind in southera Minnesota. He is also a shareholder in the Spring Grove Stock and Grain Co., the Root River Electric Co. and the Minneapolis Realty Co. As one of the leading business men of the village, he has taken an active part in promoting its general interests, and is a useful member of the Commercial Club. He has also served two terms as a member of the village council, and in politics is a Republican. He owns and occupies a substantial and comfortable residence. Mr. Ro- verud was married Dec. 26, 1912, to Celia Madeline Newhouse, daughter of N. T. Newhouse, his former employer. They have one child living, Norvin Arthur, who was born June 1, 1914. Mr. Roverud and his family are members of the Spring Grove congregation of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church, which he has served as trustee and auditor, holding the latter position at the present time. A man of good business ability, he has done his share towards making Spring Grove what it is today, one of the most flourishing villages of its size in this corner of the state.

Knute Wilhelmson, one of the hardy Norwegian settlers in Spring Grove township in the latter sixties, was born in Norway, June 29, 1836. He grew to manhood in his native land and there learned the trades of stone mason and plasterer. In 1866 he came to the United States, and in the following year was married in Spring Grove township, Houston county, Minn. With his wife Ingebor he took a rented farm adjoining Spring Grove village on the south and established his home in a small log house, beginning the cultivation of the land. After remaining at that location for a few years, he bought a farm of 78 acres in section 23, Spring Grove township, two miles south of the village, the property being partly improved, as 25 acres of the land had been broken, and there was a log house and a log stable on it, both having straw roofs. This place he made his permanent home, increasing the cultivated area of his land, and in time erecting some good buildings, including a frame bam, 30 by 50 by 14 feet, with a full stone basement of eight feet, and a granary, 16 by 22 by 12 feet, besides log and straw sheds. When not busy with his farm work he took contracts for masonry and built many stone basements for farmhouses, besides erecting some of the brick store buildings now standing in Spring Grove village. After having enjoyed a fairly prosperous career, Mr. Wilhelmson died on his farm Oct. 7, 1893, at the age of 57 years. His wife, who was bom in Norway May 5, 1838, survived hinl a little more than seven years, passing away Jan. 1, 1901. They were the parents of five children: Anna, now Mrs. George Melbostad, of Winneshiek county, Iowa ; Julius Wilhelm, the present proprietor of the old homestead, which he has enlarged and improved ; Bemt, a railway employee residing at Staples, Minn. ; Bolitta, now Mrs. Albert Smerud, of Perley, Minn., and Christina, wife of Hans Bjertness, of North Dakota.

Julius Wilhelm Wilhelmson, a thriving farmer of section 23, Spring Grove township, proprietor of the fann established by his parents some 45 years ago or more, was born in a log cabin on a farm previously occupied by the parents, in the immediate vicinity of Spring Grove village, Jan. 11, 1871, son of Knute and Ingebor Wilhelmson. Not long after his birth the family moved to the farm on which the subject of this sketch is now living, in section 23, and in this vicinity he was educated, attending the district school until reaching the age of 17 years. Before he was that old, however, he had begun to assist his father in the development of the home farm, on which he gained a practical knowledge of agriculture in its different branches. In 1898, some five years after his father's death, and two or three years before that of his mother, he bought the farm, of which he still remains sole proprietor. When it became his property it contained

78 acres, to which he has added by purchase a tract of 32 acres adjoining, thus making its present area 110 acres, of which 70 are under cultivation, the remainder consisting of timber and pasture land. The soil is fertile and produces good crops. Of an enterprising and progressive spirit, Mr. Wilhelmson has added to the number of buildings on the place, in 1911 erecting a modern, two-story frame house, consisting of an upright wing and containing seven rooms. In 1912 he continued his building operations, putting up a stave silo, 12 by 24 by 6 feet in size, and following it with two poultry houses, 10 by 12 and 12 by 16 ; a machine shed, 22 by 36 ; a shop, 12 by 16 ; pump house, 10 by 10 ; buggy shed, 12 by 16 ; hog house, 10 by 36, and a garage, 12 by 16, in which he houses his fine automobile. Some good buildings had been put up on the original farm by his father, and on the 32- acre tract which Mr. Wilhelmson himself purchased there is a good frame house, a frame bam, well house and granary, so that his place is now well provided with buildings. He has also a good working equipment, and in addition to raising various crops, is doing a successful business as a breeder of registered Shorthorn cattle, having a registered bull ; graded Shorthorns, of which he has now a herd of 25 or 30, with full-blooded sires ; a good grade of swine, and full-blooded White Wyandotte fowls, of which he keeps from 150 to 200. A part of his business consists of dairying, for which he uses from 10 to 15 milch cows. In addition to these self-operated interests, Mr. Wilhelmson is a stockholder in the Spring Grove Stock and Grain Company, the Bee Co-operative Creamery, the Spring Grove Hospital, and the Spring Grove Belgian Horsebreeders' Association. A Republican in politics, he has been supervisor on the town board two terms, being chairman of the board for one term. Mr. Wilhelmson was married, Nov. 16, 1899, to Gena, daughter of Christian and Ingebord (Ellingson) Sundet, of Wilmington township, Houston county, and who was bom March 23, 1874. Mr. and Mrs. Wilhelmson have three children: William, bom March 11, 1901; Ingeman, bora Jan. 8, 1904, and Inga, bom Jan. 12, 1908. The prosperous circumstances in which Mr. Wilhelmson now finds himself, though due largely to his own exertions, illustrates the manner in which most of the flourishing communities in the Northwest have been built up - by the strenuous labor and patient endurance of privation by the native or foreign bom pioneer settlers who have developed the land from the primeval wilderness, raising crops and erecting bams and farm buildings, and at their death passing the work on to their children, who have continued it with splendid results. Mr. Wilhelmson's own parents started in debt, even for their passage money across the ocean, and it was many years before they found themselves in comfortable circumstances, and he, himself, in his youth, shared in their labors and privations. He is now reaping the fruits of their toil and his own and is numbered among the most prosperous and influential citizens of his township. He and his family are members of the Spring Grove congregation of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church, in which he has served almost constantly as an oflicial.

Swen Aslesen, who died at his home in section 27, Wilmington township, Dec. 6, 1906, was one of the leading representatives of the agriculutral interests of this township, and for many years one of its most prominent and popular citizens. He was born in Norway in 1849, and was a child when he same to America with his parents, and a brother, Ole, who is also now deceased. The first settlement of the family in this country was made at Pine Creek, in Allamakee county, Iowa, where, however, they remained but a few years, crossing the state line into Wilmington township, Houston county, Minnesota. Here, in section 27, the father homesteaded 160 acres of wild land on which were no buildings, and, being very poor, he split rails many winter days for fifty cents a day. At other times he cleared his land, and in time built a small frame house and a frame bam. Here young Swen grew to manhood, with little opportunity for attending school, but learing much about agriculutre and the care of stock. No notable event interrupted the regular current of his life until his marriage, Dec. 4, 1870, to Kari Garness, daughter of Bjom and Cecelia Gamess, and who came to this country with her parents when five years old, growing up in Fillmore county, Minn. For the first two years after his marriage Mr. Aslesen rented the home farm from his father, but in 1873 he bought it. It had been then increased to 180 acres, and had the house and bam already mentioned. Besides improving the house, Mr. Aslesen erected other buildings and further developed the place into one of the best farms in the township. Besides raising the usual crops, he was a successful breeder of Black Angus Poll cattle, Clydesdale horses, Shropshire sheep and Poland-China hogs. In addition to his Wilmington township farm, Mr. Aslesen bought 160 acres of wild land at New Ulm, Minn., and had it cleared and developed, this land still belonging in the estate. He also bought 160 acres near Aberdeen, S. D., and 160 acres near Brotton, S. D. That near Aberdeen, however, he sold before his death, at which time he was the owner of 620 acres. His widow, though suffering much from rheumatism, with the aid of her three sons, John, Anton and Martin, operated the farm until the fall of 1917, when she left it to take up her residence in Spring Grove village. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Aslesen are: John O., bom Feb. 7, 1880, who has always remained at home except for six years, which he spent on the South Dakota farm and is now a carrier on Route No. 4 out of Spring Grove ; Anton, bom Feb. 24, 1885, who has remained on the home farm where he is now living; Theo, bom in January, 1890, who married Morris Meyers, and died May 6, 1918, at her home in Lewistown, Montana; Clara, bom July 1, 1892, now residing in Montana; Martin, bom Jan. 15, 1894, who remained at home until the farm was rented out in 1917 and is now engaged in prospecting at Fertile, Minn. Mr. Aslesen was a member and liberal supporter of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church, to which his family also belong. He was a progressive citizen, interested in everything concerning the good of the community in which he lived, and his loss was greatly regretted throughout Wilmington township and the vicinity.

Ole P. Lansverk, who became a resident of Wilmington township in 1857 at the age of seven years, and for a number of years was one of its prominent and useful citizens, was bom in Muskego, Wis., June 8, 1850, son of Peder N. and Kari Lansverk. The parents were natives of Norway, the father bom Oct. 2, 1820, and the mother April 27, 1824. They were married in their native land and came to the United States in 1845, settling: in Muskego, Wis. In 1857 they came to Houston county, Minnesota, settling in section 30, Wilmington township. Thus their son Ole P. found himself in the locality in which he spent the rest of his life. Here he grew to manhood, and was married, July 5, 1873, to Karan Gjerdingen, who was bom in Norway, Oct. 26, 1847, and who come from that country alone at the age of 18 years to Spring Grove, Houston county, Minn. A strong and vigorous girl, she had worked the first summer in the harvest field for Ole Svartebraaten, west of the village, earning $2.00 a day. Mr. Lansverk himself was never strong, but in spite of this handicap he made a success of his life. On his marriage he purchased 140 acres adjoining the Gjerdingen farm and began domestic life in a log house. This he subsequently rebuilt and improved, and in time he developed his farm, among his other activities setting out an orchard. He was also one of the organizers of the Farmers' Fire Insurance Company, and performed useful service in raising funds for the Lutheran College at Decorah, Iowa, a work facilitated by his personal popularity. At the time of his death, which occurred May 23, 1899, he was not quite 49 years old. He and his wife were the parents of seven children : Peter, bom March 22, 1869, now a prosperous farmer of Cheyenne, N. D. ; Clara Wilsine, bom May 22, 1876, who died in infancy ; William Cornelius, bom Sept. 26, 1878 ; Kari Ovidia, born Oct. 27, 1880, now Mrs. Teddy Olson of Kilboum, Wis. ; Ida Natalia, bom Jan. 25, 1883, now Mrs. Martin Ike of Black Hammer township ; Carl Nelius, bom June 27, 1885, who is a farmer in Spring Grove; and Nils Oscar, bom Jan. 9, 1888, who is engaged in operating the home farm. Mrs. Lansverk, who resides on the farm with her son Oscar, is still strong and in the enjoyment of good health. She kept her children together after her husband's death and has had the satisfaction of seeing them aU but Clara W. grow to useful manhood or womanhood.

Arthur J. Flynn, in former years a well-known merchant and leading citizen of Caledonia, who for nine years served as judge of probate for Houston county, was bom in Waterford county, Ireland, July 27, 1843, son of Arthur and Anastasia (White) Fljmn. The father, who was a cooper by trade, died before Arthur J. was born, and when the latter was 2 years old death also deprived him of his mother. He and the only other child of his parents, a twin-brother named John, were taken care of by their grandparents, John and Catherine White, who about five years later brought them to the United States, the family landing at New York, May 1, 1850. On the subsequent death of John White, in Chicago, his widow, Catherine, went to live with her daughter, Johanna, who was the wife of John Hurley, and it was Mr. Hurley, with Thomas White, an uncle of Arthur, who brought the family to Houston county, Minnesota. The journey was a long one, being made in a wagon drawn by oxen, but Union township, this county, was finally reached, a piece of wild land selected, and a log house built. Here the grandmother, Mrs. Catherine White, lived out the rest of her life. The Hurley family in later years moved to the village of Caledonia. Arthur J. Flynn attended district school, and as he grew older worked on farms. That he made progress in his studies may be inferred from the fact that during the winter of 1861-62 he taught school in his district. It was an unsettled time, however, with the Civil War in progress, and on Sept. 27, 1862, young Flynn showed his loyalty to the country which had adopted him by enlisting in Company A, First Minnesota Mounted Rangers, commanded by Capt. E. M. Wilson, in which he served until Oct. 20, 1863. In March, 1864, he went to Chicago, where he learned the tinner's trade, which he followed until December, 1868. On the 26th of that month he was married in the Cathohc church at Caledonia to Mary Theresa Murphy, who was born in Waterford county, Ireland, March 19, 1850, daughter of Pierce and Margaret (Phalen) Murphy. With his newly wedded wife Mr. Flynn then settled in Lanesboro, Filbnore county, Minn., where he engaged in the mercantile business in partnership with Ed Kevin. There he remained until 1874, in which year he sold his interest in the business to his partner, and returning to Houston county, opened a hardware store in Caledonia, of which he was the proprietor for a number of years, until he finally sold out. A staunch Democrat in politics, Mr. Flynn had begun to take part in public affairs while still a resident of Lanesboro, becoming the first recorder of that village on its incorporation, to which office he was twice re-elected. In October, 1871, he was nominated for county coroner of Fillmore county, but was defeated. In 1877, some three years after settling in Caledonia, he was elected village trustee, and in the following April became village clerk, serving as such for many years by successive re-elections. By 1879 he had become so well and favorably known throughout the county that in the fall of that year he was elected judge of probate, in which office he served for nine years, or until 1888. He also rendered good service on the school board of Caledonia, and as a member of the State Democratic Central Committee. A Roman Catholic in religion, he was a faithful member of his church, belonging also to the Catholic society of the Knights of Columbus. He was also a member of "Billy" Mattison Post, G. A. R., which he served as commander. Mr. Flynn was a man of cheerful disposition and courteous manners, and his death, which occurred in May, 1916, was an event deeply regretted in the community of which he had been for many years one of the most popular citizens. His widow is still a resident of Caledonia. Mr. and Mrs. Flynn were the parents of five sons and three daughters, a brief record of the children being as follows: Arthur Pierce, who graduated in law, died at the early age of 29 years; Margaret is the wife of Charles Leighton, of Austin, Minn. ; George F. is a traveling man residing in La Crosse ; Anastasia is engaged in the millinery business; Pierce, who was a railroad conductor, died at the age of 37 years ; Robert, a physician of La Crosse, served in the U. S. Army during the great war as a lieutenant in the Medical Corps; William E. is an attorney of Caledonia.

Pierce Murphy, a pioneer of Sheldon township, was a native of Waterford county, Ireland, in which country he grew to manhood. There he married Margaret Phalen and they resided in County Waterford until 1850, when, seeking to better their condition, they emigrated to the United States. They were accompanied by their family of three sons and four daughters - ^Michael, William, Nicholas, Margaret, Ellen, Alice and Mary T., the last mentioned, who later became the wife of Arthur J. Fljmn, heing then 3 months old. After a voyage of seven weeks they landed in this country and proceeding west, settled in Chicago. Later they removed to Beloit, Wis., and from that place came in 1858 to Sheldon township^ Houston county, where they located on a tract of wild land, built a log house, and with the help of oxen started to develop a farm. This task was in time accomplished and Mr. Murphy became a prosperous and respected citizen of the county. The last nine years of his life were spent in Caledonia, where he died at the age of 76. His wife died at the age of 86. Their two youngest children, Edward and John, were bom in this country. The family were members of the Roman Catholic church.

William Edward Flynn, county attorney of Houston county, who is engaged in the practice of law in the village of Caledonia, was bom in this village March 6, 1889, son of Arthur J. and Mary (Murphy) Fljmn. His elementary education was obtained in the graded and high schools, and he was graduated from the law department of the Minnesota State university in the class of 1911. Locating in Minneapolis, he became connected with the law firm of F. H. Ayers, working for one year as an assistant, after which he was taken into partnership. Mr. Ayers dying in March, 1913, Mr. Flynn subsequently practiced alone in Minneapolis until October, 1916, when he came to Caledonia and opened an office here, where he has since successfully practiced his profession. He was elected to his present position as county attomey in the fall of 1918, and for some time he has served as village attomey. He is the present Grand Knight of the Caledonia Lodge of the Knights of Columbus, and is a member of Minneapolis Lodge, No. 44, B. P. O. E. His civic affiliation is with the Caledonia Commercial Club. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic church.

Frank Lorenz, a prominent farmer and one of the leading citizens of Hokah township, residing in section 31, was bom in this township, April 2, 1880, son of Anton and Elizabeth (Brokes) Lorenz. The parents were born in Bohemia, the father July 13, 1847. He came to Hokah, Minn., in 1866 at the age of 19 years, and subsequently settled on a farm here, which he cultivated until his death. His widow still resides at the old home. Frank was the second bora in a family of eight children. He was educated in the Hokah convent, where he was employed for two years from the time he was 18 years old. For four years thereafter he worked out, but resided on the home farm. On his marriage he rented a farm in La Crescent township, which he operated for two years, at the end of which time he bought his present farm of 147 acres in section 31, Hokah township. Here he has erected a good modem bam, with other buildings, and is engaged in general farming with profitable results. In 1915 and 1917 he won the title of Com King by his exhibits at the County Com Show held in Houston. He is a shareholder in the Hokah Grain & Stock Company and in the Hokah Farmers' State Bank. As a public spirited citizen Mr. Lorenz has interested himself to a large extent in affairs of his township and has served as supervisor since 1910. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church, and in politics is independent. He was married in Febmary, 1904, at the Hokah convent, to Caroline Vogel, daughter of Frank and Frances (Dibbel) VogeL

Mb. And Mbs. Anton Andebson

He and his wife have three children: Joseph, bom Nov. 19, 1904; Alice, Aug. 9, 1908 ; and Angeline, May 10, 1915. The son, Joseph, was bom in La Crescent, and the two daughters in Hokah. The parents of Mrs. Lorenz were bom in Germany, Frank Vogel coming to Hokah, Minn., when a boy. He is still living and is engaged in agriculture in this vicinity. His wife, Frances, came to America at the age of 20 years. They have had nine children, of whom their daughter Caroline was the sixth in order of birth.

James Dean, a well-known and respected citizen of Money Creek Township, was bom in County Tipperary, Ireland, Aug. 22, 1858, son of James and Katherine (Hennessy) Dean, who were natives of the same Irish county. The family emigrated to the United States in 1872 or 1873, coming directly to Houston county, and locating on the farm in section 11, Money Creek township, which the subject of this sketch now owns. Here the father died a widower in 1880, his wife having passed away a few years previously. James, Jr., who was one of the younger members of a family of five children, acquired his education in District School No. 89, Money Creek township. He began working out at the age of 17 years, and so continued until his marriage in March, 1885, to Anna Layne, who was bom at Galena, 111., daughter of John and Hannah (Shortell) La3me. He then bought 40 acres of land adjoining the old Layne homestead, to which he added from time to time until he had brought the farm up to its present dimensions of 200 acres. The death of his wife, which occurred Oct. 12, 1909, was a heavy bereavement, and two years later he tumed the management of the farm over to his son, though still residing on it, and became deputy for the Brotherhood of American Yeomen. He is a stockholder in the Rushf ord Creamery. He has five children : Josephine, Katherine, John, Margaret and James. Josephine, wife of Robert Randall, a farmer in Money Creek township, has two children, Helen and Lucile. Katherine, the wife of Orlando St. John, resides near Money Creek village. John, who is living on the home farm, married Hannah O'Brien and has two children, Meriland and Bernard. Margaret is the wife of F. P. Burk, a veterinary surgeon of Madelia, Minn., and has one child, Frances Margaret. Her brother James resides with her. Mr. Dean is a Catholic in religion and in politics is independent. He is affiliated fraternally with the I. 0. O. F., Canton and Rebekah Lodge at Hokah, the Modem Woodmen of America at Houston and the Brotherhood of American Yeomen at Money Creek.

Antcm Anderson, a resident of Mayville township since 1896, where he has developed a good farm of 55 acres from wild land, was bom in Norway, Jan. 26, 1856, son of Andreas and Olena Olson. His education was acquired in his native land, where he grew to manhood and learned and followed the carpenter's trade. Coming to Houston county, Minnesota, in 1892, he first located in Caledonia, where he was engaged in carpenter work for about four years, or until 1896, when he bought his present farm in section 8, Majrville township. The land being then wild, he had to break it and do much hard work in grubbing and clearing, but this work shows results in a fine and profitable farm, well provided with good buildings. It is now managed by his sons, Mr. Anderson himself being practically retired. Mr.

Anderson was married in Norway, in 1880, to Mary Peterson, who was bom in that country July 12, 1858. Of this marriage seven children have been bom, all of whom are now living, namely: Nettie, born July 6, 1881, now Mrs. Johnson and residing in California; Carl O., bora Sept. 7, 1883; John, bora March 4, 1890; Christ, Feb. 12, 1892; Olga, Jan. 7, 1896; Amelia, Sept. 27, 1898 ; and Helmar, Aug. 21, 1901. All but Nettie are living on the home farm. Christ served nearly two years in the United States Army in the world war. Mr. Anderson and his family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church and among the most respected residents of this part of Houston county.

Louis Helm, Sr., a well-to-do resident of Hokah, of which village he is one of the leading citizens, was bora in Germany, September 8, 1851, son of Fritz and Dorothy Helm. The father having died in Germany in 1860, Louis, with his mother, and sister Freda, emigrated to Canada, and for four years resided in Toronto. It was during the time of the American Civil War, but in 1865 the war came to an end, and in the following year, 1866, the family came to Minnesota, settling on a farm in Mayville Township, Houston County, where the subject of this sketch acquired a practical knowledge of agriculture, a business that he followed for over 30 years, for 27 years of that time being foreman and general manager of the A. D. Sprague farms, including Mr. Sprague's large farm in Mound Prairie Township. Subsequently he bought a farm for himself in Union Township, where he resided, becoming prosperous and influential, and serving six years as chairman of the town board. In 1898 he made his residence in Hokah village, but about the same time he bought 400 acres in Hokah Township, sections 27 and 28, 100 acres of the tract being improved land. He has continued the improvements on an extensive scale, having built a fine residence and other buildings, all being in excellent condition. His home in the village is also a desirable piece of property. On the farm his sons conduct an extensive stock raising business, keeping full-blooded Hereford cattle. Mr. Helm is a stockholder and director in the Hokah State Bank and the Hokah Stock & Grain Co. For 18 months he was the local representative of the Sears-Roebuck Company of Chicago. In politics a Republican, he served as chairman of Hokah Township for one year and was also one year supervisor, and for 23 years he served as deputy sheriff. Since 1894 he has been a member of Morning Star Lodge No. 29, A. F. & A. M. Mr. Helm was married February 2, 1871, to Caroline Schutz, who was bora in Germany, December 15, 1849, daughter of Jacob and Minnie Schutz. She emigrated to Canada with her parents in 1854, and ten years later came to Houston County, Minnesota. Mr. and Mrs. Louis Helm, Sr., are the parents of seven children : Anna, who married Andrew Senness of Union Township, and has five children ; Alice, Roy, Eva, Arthur and Florence ; Louis, Jr., a prominent farmer of Hokah, who married TiUie Boldnan and has two children, Clarence and Erma; Lydia, now Mrs. John Minzer of Hokah, who has one child, Beulah ; Libbie, who is the wife of Gust Leitzau, of Union Township, and the mother of four children, Ralph, George, Dorothy and Grace; Fred, who is a farmer ; Nels, who is a bridge foreman on the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway west of Mobridge, S. D. ; and John, who is a farmer.

Ludwig Mann, who came to Houston County in the seventies and achieved an enviable reputation as an extensive landowner, successful fanner and useful citizen, was born in Germany, and as a young man was married to Emelia Kriese, likewise a native of that county. His education was obtained in the schools of his native village, and his military reputation was achieved as a soldier in the German army, when, in 1866, Prussia and her allies under Wilhelm I. were engaged in war with Austria and her allies. A few years after this war he brought his family to America and found his way to Houston County, where he worked for some seven years in a flour mill at Hokah. After this he turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, first renting land for a while, and then purchasing land in Union Township. By hard work and frugality and ably assisted by his family, he gradually improved his farm, and added to his property, until at the time of his death he owned a fine place, now divided into two farms, one of 204 acres being owned by his son Charles, and one of 316 acres owned by his son, Reinhold. Mr. Mann was a substantial man of solid worth, and his death, in 1910, was sincerely mourned. He and his wife were the parents of nine children, Emil, Adolph, Ida, Alvina, Louis, Reinhold, Emma, Minnie and Charles A., of whom Emil, Adolph and Louis are now deceased. His wife died May 2, 1915.

Charles A. Mann, one of the more progressive and influential farmers of Houston County, owns a highly improved farm of 204 acres in section 28, Union Township, and is doing more than his share toward developing the county into one of the foremost agricultural regions of the state. He was bom in Hokah, this county, Sept. 2, 1887, received a thorough education in the public schools, and was reared to agricultural pursuits on his father's farm, in Union Township. After his father's death he rented 204 acres of the home place, and four years later, in 1914, purchased it, being now the sole owner and proprietor. Being a man of ability and good judgment, coupled with modern ideas and a willingness to work hard, he has made many improvements on the place, and today is numbered among the leading and up-to-date farmers of the present generation. He has thoroughly fenced the entire farm, remodelled the residence, and erected a suitable set of outbuildings, including a smoke house, a power house, a garage and a hen house, as well as other suitable structures. He has just completed a new modem barn, 36 by 102 feet, with full double basement wall of cement blocks lined with tile, which gives it strength, warmth and dryness. The roof is decorated with three large revolving cupolas which are connected with an enclosed or boxed in ventilating system reaching from the cupolas to the basement. This system provides for entire sanitation, furnishing clean, fresh air to the stock at all times, and carrying off the foul air. The bam is equipped with all the latest modern equipment, including the James patent stanchions. The water system is furnished from his deep well, having a natural flow to the bam. This bam, with its roomy spaces and modem separator room, is one of the most modem, best equipped and up-to-date bams in the county, bespeaking as does everything else about the place, the thrift and good judgment of its owner. Mr. Mann follows general diversified farming, and breeds the stock that he deems the best of their kind for dairy and market purposes. Busy as he is with his farm, he has not forgotten his public duties, and is serving efficiently as treasurer of school district 108. His business interests include stock in the Farmers Elevator at Caledonia. Mr. Mann was married Oct. 27, 1914, to Anna Gurina Jordie, who was born in Union Township, this county, Aug. 16, 1894, daughter of John and Julia (Holte) Jordie, and this union has been blessed with one son, Burdette Charles, bom July 27, 1915.

John O. Jordie, now living retired in Houston City, after an active and successful career as a farmer in this county, was bom in Norway, Oct. 14, 1860. He was about six years old when in 1866 he came to the United States with his parents, who settled at Stoughton, Wis., where he attended school. Coming to Houston County in 1887, he located first on Caledonia Ridge, in Sheldon Township, buying a farm there. Two years later he sold that farm and bought one of 160 acres in Union Township, a place on which he remained for 16 years and brought into fine condition. He then sold it and bought one of 260 acres on Caledonia Ridge, Sheldon Township, which he also thoroughly developed, and on which he resided until 1915. Then retiring from active work, he built a fine cottage in Houston, where he now resides with his wife, the farm being operated by his sons Helmar and Michael. Mr. Jordie was married Jan. 29, 1887, to Julia Knutson Holte, who was born in Norway, April 3, 1867, and came to America with her parents at the age of one year, they settling in this county. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Jordie are as follows : Helmar, bom March 30, 1890, who is married, and by his wife Lydia has one child, Hilton J.; Alma, bom Oct. 17, 1891, who married Martin Runnegen, and has one child, Maynard A. ; Michael, bom April 29, 1893 ; Anna, bom August 16, 1894, who is the wife of Charles Mann, and has one child, Burdette ; Josephine, bom July 24, 1897, who married Carl Runnegen, and has one child, Regnald C. ; and Ella, born Feb. 8, 1899, who married Olof Gresby. Mr. Jordie is a stockholder in the Caledonia creamery. He and his family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church, attending what is known as "the Stone Church" in this vicinity. They are people of standing and influence in their community, each individual member of the family having an honorable record.

N. E. Dorival, for many years a prominent citizen of Houston County, was bom in New York State in 1835, the son of John Dorival, who was bom on the Island of San Domingo, was brought to the United States as an infant, and spent his life in New York State. N. E. Dorival was reared in his native state, and came to Houston County in 1860, settling on a farm. He had a long and active career in public affairs. The first winter he spent in Minnesota he spent as an assistant clerk in the house of representatives. In 1866 he was elected county auditor, serving two terms, after that was register of deeds, and for a number of years was a justice of the peace. During the latter years of his life he was engaged in the machinery and insurance business. He and his wife were members of the Episcopal Church. He was affiliated with the lodge and chapter of Masonry, serving as secretary of his lodge for a number of years, while in politics he was one of the best known Democrats in Houston County, and was held in high esteem by all classes of citizens. He died in 1900. Mr. Dorival was married in Houston County to Ellen Eaton, who was bom in New York State in 1846, daughter of Eber Eaton. This union was blessed with six children : Mary, Edward, John, Gurth, Charles A. and Grace. The Eaton family has been in America for many generations, having originaUy come from England. Several members of the family participated in the Revolutionary War on the side of the colonists. Eber Eaton was born in New York State, and was a pioneer settler in Houston County, Minnesota, in 1854. He followed farming and died in Houston County. In the early days he had gone out to California as a gold seeker.

Charles A. Dorival, judge of probate of Houston Township for the past ten years, is one of the leading citizens of the county, and comes of a family that has taken a prominent part in its affairs. He is a man of broad sympathies and understanding, with a wide experience in human nature both as a barrister and jurist, and his activities along various lines have had their share in shaping the county's destinies. He was born in Caledonia, Feb. 18, 1880, the son of N. E. and Ellen (Eaton) Dorival. He was reared in Caledonia, and after passing through the common schools, was graduated from the Caledonia High School in 1898. Then he studied law with Capt. W. H. Harries, and was admitted to the bar in 1903. In this profession he met with marked success. In 1909, Gov. John A. Johnson appointed him judge of probate, and to that office he has since been successively elected. In this capacity he has proved his merit and won the regard of his fellow citizens, as proof of which, in the old days of partisan politics in county affairs, he was elected as a Democrat, although the county is strongly Republican. For several years he served as secretary and treasurer of the County Democratic Central Committee. One of his most notable achievements is his work during the Great War. In August, 1917, he was appointed secretary of the local exemption board, and served faithfully and efficiently in this capacity throughout the conflict. His standing in his profession is shown by his membership in the American and Minnesota State Bar Associations. He is also a prominent Mason, being past master and present secretary of Caledonia Lodge No. 20, A. F. & A. M., and high priest of the Caledonia Chapter, Royal Arch Masons. His other fraternal relations are with the Odd Fellows and the Modem Woodmen.

Herbert E. Wheaton, journalist and educator, editor and proprietor of the Houston County Chief, published at Hokah, and former principal of the Hokah school, was bom in Janesville, Waseca County, Minnesota, April 1, 1871, son of Hudson and Fanny F. (Boehm) Wheaton, both born in New York State, the former Feb. 16, 1840, and the mother, June 23, 1847. The father, who was a substantial, respected citizen, came to Houston County in 1859, at the age of nineteen, and worked for many years as a car painter in Caledonia. In the late sixties, he moved to Janesville, this state, but in 1872 retumed to Caledonia, and here lived until his death, April 9, 1896. Herbert E. was brought to Caledonia by his parents, and was there reared, receiving his elementary education in the public schools. From early boyhood he was interested in educational and literary work, and to better pre- pare himself for work along these lines he entered the Wisconsin State Normal School at La Crosse, where he was graduated. He then entered the educational field, and after teaching for several years, became principal of the Hokah School in 1910. Two years later he resigned. During these years he had never quite forgotten his taste for newspaper work acquired during his boyhood work with the printing shops and newspapers of Caledonia, and on June 15, 1913, he re-entered this field by purchasing the Houston County Chief. His editorial work and business management has made this paper one of the leading in the county, and his fearless policy has had a strong influence on public affairs throughout the vicinity.

Mr. Wheaton was married Jan. 18, 1898, to Louise E. Wiegand, and this union has been blessed with four children : Herbert Hudson, now principal of the high school at KendaU, Wis., and an officer of the Home Guards there ; Gladys Fanny, a normal school pupil, and Mary Louise and Dorothy, residing at home. The parents of Mrs. Wheaton, Ernest and Mary (Doering) Wiegand, were bom in Germany, and came to the United States as children. After their marriage they settled on a farm near Caledonia. There, Mr. Wiegand died in 1876, and his widow subsequently married.

Robert Lewis, whose name is inseparably connected with the early history of Houston County, was one of the pioneers of Caledonia Township, and did much to impress upon the life of his community the stamp of his own solid worth and character. He was bom in Hertfordshire, England, of substantial people, the son of Samuel and Sarah (Carter) Lewis, who in 1847 brought him to a farm near Wheaton, Illinois, where they spent the remainder of their lives. There Robert Lewis grew to manhood and married. In 1855 he packed his household goods, and with an ox team and two cows set out for the Mississippi Valley country. The river was crossed at Galena, and in time they came in sight of their new home in section 27, Caledonia Township. At that time there were but few settlers in the county, and the surroundings were very wild, still inhabited by roving Indians. A small log cabin had been built on the place, with a sod roof and dirt floor. For a time the family Hved in their covered wagon, while Mr. Lewis got out shingles for the roof, and planks for the floor. The family lived a true pioneer life, enduring all the hardships and privations incident to life in a new country. Mr. Lewis cleared the land, and then gradually broke it, erecting new buildings from time to time until he had an excellent place. Only two years after he arrived here, he became interested in the possibilities of fruit growing. Accordingly he decided to secure some apple trees. With this purpose in mind, he walked to Brownsville, took a boat to Galena, and from there went by rail to Chicago, where he secured twentyfour young apple trees about six feet high. These he had shipped to Brownsville, from which place he carted them to his farm with his ox teams. These were the first cultivated apple trees in Houston County, and from them he raised the first cultivated apples in Houston County, selling them to his grateful neighbors for $2.00 a bushel. One of these original trees is still standing. But it was not only in building up his own farm that he was interested. He earnestly desired for his community good educational and religious facilities. He helped organize the Methodist Episcopal Church, sang in its choir, was prominent in its Sunday school, and for many years was a member of its official board. He organized the first school in the district, and gave for the schoolhouse site the land upon which the present schoolhouse, one of the best brick buildings of the kind in the county, still stands. Of this district Mr. Lewis was an official almost all the remainder of his life. Mr. Lewis died Aug. 29, 1910, and his death was sincerely mourned by the entire community. His good wife passed away Aug. 30, 1903. Mr. Lewis was married April 26, 1855, at Wheaton, 111., to Mary A. Carter, daughter of Morris and Susan Carter, both of whom were natives of Hertfordshire, England. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis had two children. Albert M. lives on the home place. He married Zena Paddock, of Caledonia. Lucie married Jay E. RatclifFe, of Wheeling, West Virginia, who died Oct. 11, 1915.