Houston County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1919 (part 3 of 21)

Whatley Burfield, a former resident of Sheldon township, where for a long series of years until his death he was a well known and respected citizen, was a native of Pennsylvania. When a young man he learned the carpenter's trade, but, coming at an early date to Houston county, Minn., he soon found it more profitable to engage in farming, and accordingly took land in Sheldon township, which he improved and cultivated for many years. During the Civil War he served in a Minnesota regiment. His death occurred in May, 1907. Mr. Burfield married Isabelle Lee, a native of Norway, and they had a family of nine children. Mrs. Burfield, now seventy-nine years old, has until recently continued to reside on the old homestead, but is now making her home with her daughter in North Dakota.

Frank Edward Burfield, who for a number of years until his death on March 3, 1915, was proprietor of a farm of 120 acres in section 12, Sheldon township, was bom on his parents' farm in this township, July 24, 1867, son of Whatley and Isabelle (Lee) Burfield. He was the fourth born in a family of nine children and was educated in the district school in Crystal Valley, this township. Until the age of twenty-three he resided at home, assisting his father. He then bought a farm in Union township, and for two years was engaged in operating it. On his marriage in 1894 he removed to a farm on South Ridge, La Crescent township, where he followed agriculture for a while, subsequently spending a year in La Crosse. He then took the farm in section 12, Sheldon township, on which he resided until his death, engaged in its improvement and cultivation. It is a farm of 120 acres, weU provided with good buildings, and is now being operated by his widow with the aid of her son, Whatley W. Mr. Burfield was a man of sterling qualities, industrious, devoted to his home and family, and an agreeable and accommodating neighbor, and his death was felt as a distinct loss to the community. In politics he was a Republican.

Mr. Burfield was married, Nov. 19, 1894, to Sehna Miller, who was bom in Sheldon township, Houston county, daughter of John and Minnie (Simke) Miller. Three children were bom of this union : Whatley Washington, Feb. 22, 1898; Sidney Sylvester, June 27, 1903; and Paris French, Feb. 2, 1908.

John Miller, father of Mrs. Burfield, was a native of Germany, where he grew to manhood and was married to Minnie Simke. They came to Houston county, Minn., in 1865, locating on a farm on Union Ridge, Caledonia township, where Mrs. Miller died in 1891. Mr. Miller later retired and moved to La Crosse, where his death occurred in 1910. They had eight children, their daughter Selma being one of the younger members of the family. She was educated in Union township, attending district school.

Aaron Benson, who is engaged in operating a good farm of eighty acres in section 28, Houston township, was bom in Sheldon township, this county, May 8, 1874, son of C. A. and Anna B. (Benson) Benson. The parents, who were bom and married in Sweden, came direct to Sheldon township in 1860, the father being first employed in railroad work, but later settling on land in Sheldon township, where he died in December, 1880. His wife now resides in Houston village. Aaron, who was the fourth bora of their seven children, in his boyhood attended district school in Sheldon and Houston townships. When only eight years old he began working out as a herd boy, and later was employed for seven years in the Houston milL He then took charge of his mother's farm, which he operated until his marriage. After that he farmed for three years on Caledonia Ridge, and then bought his present farm, consisting of eighty acres of good land, with adequate buildings. As a general farmer he has made good progress and each year finds him in a more prosperous condition. In politics he is independent. Mr. Benson was married March 5, 1914, to Oleva Benson, who was born in Houston township, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John B. Benson.

Halvor O. Houge, one of the early settlers of Sheldon township whose name has been perpetuated in Houge Ridge, a prominent elevation of land in this township, was born in Telemarken, Norway, June 24, 1844. He was about seventeen years of age when he came to the United States, accompanied by his father and grandfather. Their first settlement was made in Wisconsin, where they resided for a few years. They theii came to Houston county, locating first in Badger Valley, Sheldon township, where they lived for a short time then moving to the ridge which is now known as Houge Ridge. That place became his permanent home as long as he remained actively engaged in agricultural pursuits, and he left it only on his retirement in 1913, when he took up his residence in Houston, where he is still living. During his active career he served at times in local ofiice, in particular as a member of the school board. Mr. Houge was married in this county to Julia Wisland, who, like himself, was bom in Telemarken, Norway, the date of her birth being Feb. 22, 1850. She died June 28, 1892. They were the parents of seven children.

Henry H. Houge, who is operating a farm of 122 acres in section 34, Sheldon township, and who is one of the public officials of the township, was born on a farm in Sheldon township, Dec. 18, 1873, son of Halvor 0. and Julia (Wisland) Houge. He was tKe second bom of his parents' seven children, and in his boyhood attended district school No. 98 in Sheldon township. Until arriving at the age of twenty-two years he remained on the home farm, which he assisted his father to develop. He then engaged in business as a carpenter and contractor, continuing in that line of occupation for about four years. At the end of that time he took his present farm of 122 acres, the land being fertile and iwroductive, and the buildings in good condition. Here he is carrying on general farming successfully, and each year operates a threshing outfity doing work for the neighboring farmers. He is a stockholder in the Farmers' Elevator at Caledonia and in the Rouge Ridge Telephone Co., of which latter institution he is secretary. In politics Mr. Hogue is an independent Republican, and is now serving as town clerk and school clerk. He is a member and trustee of the Norwegian "Stone Church" of Houston. Mr. Hogue was married Jan. 30, 1900, to Anna Moen, who was bom in Sheldon township, this county, daughter of Simon and Asloug (Vraa) Moen. He and his wife are the parents of seven children : Gearhardt, Abner, Helen, Stella, Myrtle, Arthur and Eugene Merle.

Simon Moen, one of the early settlers in Badger Valley, Sheldon township, was bom in Telemarken, Norway, in 1850, his wife, Asloug Vraa, being bom in the same district in September of the same year. After settling in Badger Valley, this county, Mr. Moen devoted himself to farming and improving his property and continued to be thus occupied up to the time of his death. His wife, who survives him, now resides in Houston. Their daughter Anna, now Mrs. Henry H. Houge, was educated in a district school in Yucatan township, this county.

John Lewis, an early settler of Houston county, now deceased, was bora in Furstdahl, Norway, and came to the United States with his parents when twelve years old. After several years' residence at Dodgeville, Iowa county, Wis., they moved to Houston county, Minn., locating on Oak Ridge, Yucatan township, where they engaged in farming. There John Lewis grew to maturity and acquired a knowledge of agriculture in its different branches. At the age of twenty-five years he married Signe Gedstead, a native of Norway, and afterward he took a homestead in section 10, Yucatan township, and began to clear and improve the land. In course of time he developed it into a fine farm of 320 acres, well provided with good buildings, and became one of the township's leading citizens, serving as a member of the school board and in town office, and showing efficiency and devotion to the public interests. Mr. Lewis resided on his farm until his death in November, 1914, his wife passing away in January, 1916. They were the parents of fourteen children, most of whom they reared, and who have since reflected credit on the family name.

Abraham Martin Lewis, proprietor of a fine modern stock farm of 280 acres in section 21, Sheldon township, was bom on Oak Ridge in Yucatan township, Houston county, Nov. 22, 1868, son of John and Signe (Gedstead) Lewis. He attended school in his native township and received a good agricultural training on the home farm, on which he resided until his marriage, when he located on the farm he now owns and operates, which was then an unimproved tract. He has erected all the present buildings on it, his residence, built in 1916, being one of the most modem in the township. The other buildings are also of modem type and well kept, the entire property giving plain indications of good management and prosperity. Mr. Lewis breeds Hereford cattle and Duroc-Jersey hogs, as well as some sheep. An active and enterprising citizen, he holds stock in the creamery company, the Farmers' Telephone Company, and the Farmers' Shipping Association. He is at the present time serving as town clerk. In politics he is independent. Mr. Lewis was married in March, 1888, to Frances Swan, who was born in Sheldon township, this county, daughter of Ben and Dorcas (Kragness) Swan, she being the seventh bom in a family of eight children. Her father was bom in England and her mother in Norway, the former being a farmer and miller by occupation. They were early settlers in Houston county, and Mr. Swan was a veteran of the Civil War. Both are now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis have nine children : John, residing on the home farm ; Delbert, who married Ellen Skree ; Tilda, who died April 1, 1917; Lars, who resides in Wisconsin; Alice, wife of Alfred Dahle and a resident of Mi^meapolis ; and Bennie, Teckla, Pearl and Nina, residing at home.

William Happel, a respcicted resident of Houston Village, where he is now living retired, is a native son of the county, and one whose life has been contemporaneous with its entire history, as he was bom June 17, 1858^ just a few years after the first white settlers had appeared within its limits. His boyhood was passed amid pioneer scenes, when the Indians were the most numerous inhabitants, and the development of a farm meant, in most cases, years of strenuous labor, with many natural obstacles to overcome and many privations to be suffered. When a young man he worked for a number of winters in the woods at lumbering, though farming finally became his sole occupation. The land he selec^ted for improvement was situated in Looney Valley, Houston township, and he resided on it until his retirement in 1910, when he came to his present home in the village of Houston. During his active career he served twelve years on the school board. He is still the owner of valuable property in Houston township, amounting to 270 acres of land. In 1884 Mr. Happel married Elizabeth Fitting, who, like himself, was bom in this county, the date of her birth being June 16, 1861. She died Aug. 10, 1908, having been the mother of five children: Milton, Phillip, Rudolph, Alfred, and Emanuel, of whom the last mentioned is now deceased. Of the others, Milton is a farmer in Winona county ; Phillip resides in Houston county ; Rudolph is a discharged soldier of the great war, and Alfred is living in Houston county. In 1917 Mr. Happel built a nice modern residence, which lies just on the outskirts of the village, close to the corporation line.

Knudt Overby, owner of a farm of forty acres on Oak Ridge, in section 16, Yucatan township, was bom in Tronfell, Norway, Sept. 13, 1842. He was married in his native land to Helen Larsdatter, who was bom in Norway, July 17, 1847. In 1882 Mr. Overby came to America, his wife joining him two years later. He located first in Fillmore county, Minn., where for a time he worked for others. Then coming to Houston county, he settled on his present farm on Oak Ridge, where he still resides, and which is now operated by his son, Otto F. During his active career he made good improvements on the place and was a successful farmer. He is still active in church and school work, and in other matters of a general nature, being always willing to make himself useful when his services are needed. He and his wife have been the parents of thirteen children.

Otto F. Overby, who is now engaged in operating his father's farm in Yucatan township, the property being located on Oak Ridge, in section 16, was bom in this ""ownship, April 17, 1890, son of Knudt and Helen

Overby. He was the youngest of his parents' thirteen children. In his boyhood he attended the district school on Oak Ridge, and at the age of fourteen began working for others, which he continued to do until 1914, when it became necessary for him to return to the home farm, which he has since operated successfully, raising both stock and grain. The farm has an area of forty acres, the land being fertile and the part devoted to crops well cultivated. Otto F. gives his whole time to it except at times when there is little to do, when he works out for the neighboring farmers. He is a practical agriculturist and has made the farm yield good returns. In politics he is independent.

Charles Smith, a pioneer settler in the northwestern part of Houston county, was bom in New York State in 1818, and was by occupation a farmer. In 1854 he came west to Houston county, Minn., taking land two miles west of Houston village, which was then known as Hamilton. In time he became an extensive land owner, and served as land agent and surveyor for nine years, locating land for new settlers. For nine years the Houston post office was located at his farm residence, he being the first postmaster. Then, as he did not wish to serve any longer, it was transferred to Houston. Mr. Smith died on his farm in 1879, his loss being regretted by a wide circle of friends. He married Sophia Galutia, like himself, a native of New York State, born in 1820. She survived him a few years, dying in 1886. They were the parents of four children: Riley, Elroy, Lucy and Herbert.

Herbert Smith, who is now living practically retired in the village of Houston, after many years spent in the cultivation of the soil, was born two miles west of Houston, on the farm of his parents, Charles and Sophia (Galutia) Smith, June 5, 1858, being the second white child bom in the county. As he grew up he attended the district school and assisted his father to develop the home farm, of which he took charge at the age of twenty-two years, remaining on it for fifteen years thereafter. He then sold it and bought another farm, operating it from Houston, in which Village he took up his residence. He has since continued to reside here and has recently sold his farm, being now practically retired. Mr. Smith joined the Masonic lodge in Houston a year after it was started and has passed through all the chairs. He is also a member of the Eastern Star lodge. In politics he is a Democrat and for eight years he served as boiler inspector. On March 15, 1881, Mr. Smith married Sarah Sample, who was born in the western part of New York State, Jan. 30, 1860, daughter of Gerome and Ellen (Porter) Sample. Her parents, also bom in western New York, came to this county at an early date, locating first on Highland Prairie. They later retired and moved to Houston village where both died. Their daughter Sarah was the fifth born of their six children. The others are: Madellia, Genge, Ida, Newland and Emma. Mrs. Smith is a charter member of Houston Eastern Star.

Gander Laugen, the founder of a farm in section 25 west, Houston township, but now deceased, was bom in Numadahl, Norway, in 1821. He grew to manhood in his native land and was there married to Christina Landsverk. In 1867 they came to the United States, settling first near

Rushford, Fillmore county, Minn., where they farmed for about two years, at the end of that time removing to the farm in Houston township, Houston county above mentioned. There were at the time no improvements on it, but he started them by erecting a small log house and from that time on spent his time in developing the place until advancing years made him entrust further improvements to the younger generation. He died on the farm April 3, 1903, his wife having died in 1885. They were the parents of three children : Ole G., now one of the prominent citizens of Houston township; Louis, who is deceased; and one who died at sea while on the way to this country.

Ole 6. Laugen, proprietor of a fine farm in Houston township, who has also rendered public service in high official position, as county treasurer, member of the State Board of Equalization, and State Senator, was born in Nonadahl, Norway, April 24, 1854, son of Gunder and Christine ( Lands verk) Laugen. He was thirteen years old when he accompanied his parents to Rushford, Fillmore county, Minn., and two years later he came with them to Houston county, the family locating on the farm in section 25 west, Houston township, which has ever since been his home, except for one or two periods of temporary absence. As a boy he attended the district school, and for a number of years was his father's assistant on the home farm, of which in the natural course of events he finally became manager and then owner. It is now a fine estate, weU improved with good buildings, and provided with the necessary equipment for modem scientific farming, which he carries on with profitable results. Mr. Laugen's public service began many years ago, when he became identified with the affairs of town government, serving at various times as t^lerk, assessor and supervisor. His efficiency in local office led to his nomination as county treasurer, and as such he served for eight years, during that time residing in Caledonia. Renominated in 1890, on the Populist ticket, he declined office, but in 1892 he was again nominated and elected on the Republican ticket, serving eight years. In 1901 Mr. Laugen was appointed by Governor Van Sant to membership on the State Board of Equalization from the Tenth Judicial District; and in 1902 he was nominated and elected State Senator from Houston county, in which office he served four years, taking a beneficial part in much important legislation. His record as a public servant is one to which his fellow citizens may point with pride as justifying their choice of a representative in the highest legislative body in the State, and was the culmination of a long career of usefulness and fidelity to public interests. Religiously Mr. Laugen is identified with the Lutheran church. He was married, Dec. 17, 1880, to Dinah Christianson, who was born in Money Creek township, Houston county, daughter of Martin and Randine (Gulbrandson) Christianson, who were natives of Christiana, Norway. Emigrating to Chicago, lU., in 1852, her parents, accompanied by Segrid Anderson, came in the following year to Houston county, Minn., and took a farm in Money Creek township, where they spent the rest of their lives, the mother dying in March, 1916, and the father some years previous. Mrs. Dinah Laugen survived her mother by only eight months, passing away Nov. 28, 1916. She and her husband were the parents of six children, whose record in brief is as follows : Emma, wife of John W, Potter, of Caledonia; Sophia, wife of Leslie Emery, of Caledonia ; Gteorge, a member of the firm of Potter & Laugen, of Houston, who married Velma Whitehouse; Martin, a traveling salesman living in St. Paul, who since a boy of eighteen was in the employ of Bishop & Babcock until 1918 and is now with a Chicago firm ; Louis, residing on the home farm ; and Josephine, who died in Caledonia. Martin and Louis both enlisted in the United States Navy for the Great War, and were in training when the Armistice was signed. Mr. Laugen is now devoting his time to the cultivation of his fine farm, being one of the leading representatives of the agricultural industry in his township. He is a member of the Shipping Association, and is fraternally connected with the Ancient Order of United Workmen.

Knud O. Sogla, proprietor of a good general and stock farm in section 17, Yucatan township, was bom in Hallindahl, Norway, Oct. 8, 1855, son of Ole Enutson and his wife, whose maiden name was Margaret Houjinson. The parents were natives of the same place as their son. In 1859 the family emigrated to the United States, and coming to Houston county, Minn., settled in Black Hammer township, where the father found emplojonent working for others for a year. He then moved over the county line into Fillmore county, where he first worked out and afterwards engaged in farming on his own account until his death. He served in the Civil War in a Minnesota regiment and returned home having escaped both death and wounds. Both he and his wife are now deceased. Knud 0. Sogla, who was the eldest of his parents' ten children, in his boyhood attended school in FiUmore county. He resided at home until twenty-two years of age, after which he worked out for others. In 1883 he married Petra Hanson, a native of Tronjen, Norway, whose parents, now deceased, never came to this country. A year after his marriage Mr. Sogla rented land in Fillmore county, which he farmed for about twelve years. At the. end of that time he took his present farm of eighty acres in section 17, Yucatan township, Houston county, where he has made practically all the improvements now standing and developed the land. He breeds Duroc- Jersey hogs and other good stock, and is also a shareholder in the Bratsberg Creamery Co. and the Farmers' Telephone Company. Since coming here he has made good progress and has become one of the prosperous citizens of his township. He and his wife have six children : Hans, who married Josie Munson, became a farmer at Big Timber, Mont., and is now deceased ; Mary, wife of Abraham Neland ; Julia, now Mrs. Ben Underwood of Langton, N^ D. ; Paul, who married Carrie Thompson, a farmer of Big Timber, Mont., now deceased; Elmer and Elizabeth, who reside at home with their father.

Twger Torgerson-Sauro, a prominent farmer of Yucatan township, operating a farm of 320 acres in section 32 north, was born in Telemarken, Norway, March 29, 1852, son of Torger Olson and his wife Ragneild Johnson. His mother died when he was three years old, and he continued to reside in Norway until arriving at the age of eighteen, when he emigrated to the United States, locating in Rushford, Fillmore county, Minn., where he found employment during the summer working out for others. He was at first unable to speak the English language. In 1872 his father, then well along in years, also came to this country, locating in Rushford, where he met an accidental death in the following year, being killed by a train. After his first summer in Fillmore county the subject of this sketch went to Iowa, where he remained two years, during a part of which time he attended English school, thus supplementing the education he had received in his native land. After that he worked in the Wisconsin pineries for one winter and then returned to Rushford, where, and in the vicinity, he worked out for some years. He then rented a farm which he operated until 1877, in which year he came to his present location. On his farm of 320 acres he has made valuable improvements - ^practically all now in use - and as a general stock farmer has met with gratifying success. He also holds shares in the Rushford Creamery, Elevator and Telephone Co. Independent in politics, he has served at different times both on the school board of his district and as supervisor on the town board, in each case for a number of years. He is a member and trustee of the Norwegian Lutheran church at Rushford and also belongs to the camp of Modern Woodmen of America at that place. On June 12, 1878, Mr. Torgerson- Sauro was united in marriage with Gunild GuUickson, who was bom in Telemarken, Norway, daughter of Gulick Herbenson and Aaslak Olson, and who came with her parents to this country in 1869, residing first in Decorah, Iowa, whence, a year later, they came to Fillmore county, Minn. Both parents are now deceased. Six children have been bom to Mr. and Mrs. Torgerson : Henry, who died Aug. 17, 1918 ; John, who married Carrie Ekre and lives in South Rushford; Ole, on the home farm; MoUie, wife of Christ Grenmd, a tinner residing in North Dakota; Anna, at home, and Emma, who is the wife of Bemt Westby, a farmer on Oak Ridge, Yucatan township.

Oscar O. Laugen, proprietor of a fine farm of 320 acres in Houston township, residing in section 36 south, and who for many years has also been engaged in the sawmill industry, was bom in Rock county. Wis., near the city of Broadhead, April 18, 1869, son of Ole and Emily (Satrey) Laugen. He was a babe of two months when his parents moved to Houston county, Minn., taking the farm in Houston township on which he now lives. He was educated in the district school and also in a school at Harmony, which he attended for one term. Up to the age of twenty-two years he was his father's assistant, but at that time began operating the farm independently and, it having become his own property, he has continued its development and improvement, raising grain, hay and stock. For the last twenty years he has also operated a sawmill, and in company with Messrs. Hempstead and Smith operates a threshing outfit. He has made a specialty of stock raising, but all branches of his business are on a profitable basis, and he is numbered among the leading and most enterprising farmers of his township. He is also a shareholder in the local creamery and elevator companies. His fratemal affiliations are with the Yeomen's lodge at Houston. In politics a Republican, he served for about twenty years as town supervisor, and has also rendered efficient service on the school board, and in other capacities. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church at Houston. On Dec. 22, 1892, Mr. Laugen was united in marriage with Jane Lofthus, who was born in Freeborn county, Minn., daughter of Nels and Anna (Laugan) Lofthus. She died Nov. 16, 1910, leaving five children: Olaf Norris, now a member of an engineer corps in the United States military service still in France; and Alma Telleta, Edwin Conrad, Anna Isabelle and Clara Josephine, who are residing on the home farm with their father.

John J. Sliter, now serving in his third term as representative from the First District in the State Legislature, is a man whose record as a highly successful farmer, promoter of important business enterprises, and public spirited citizen is well known to practically all the inhabitants of Houston county, where he has spent the last twenty-two years of his life. He was born at Spring Green, Wis., Aug. 26, 1873, son of John S. and Mary E. (Jones) Sliter. The father, born in March, 1846, spent his active career as a farmer and is now living retired at Spring Green. The mother, a native of Wales, died in 1903. John J., who was the second bom of their four children, acquired his elementary education in the district school, afterwards attending the high school at Spring Green and the normal school at Valparaiso, Ind. He then took a stenographic course at Chicago, and subsequently studied law for one year at St. Paul. For a while he taught school in Wisconsin and Minnesota. After residing with his parents until he was twenty-two years old, he engaged in farming for himself near Spring Green. In the fall of 1896 he purchased land in Looney Valley, Houston county, taking up his residence on it in 1898. There he remained for eight years engaged in agriculture. Then disposing of that property, he located on a farm at the lower end of Looney Valley, which farm he still owns. After a residence there of eight years Mr. Sliter moved to Houston, where he has since made his home. During his career as an agriculturist, one of great activity and rapid progress, he gradually added to his landed possessions until he had become the owner of about 700 acres of valuable land, including farm buildings, which he now rents out to tenants. Since taking up his residence in the city he has shown equal activity and has identified himself closely with local interests. He is director and secretary of the Farmers' Elevator Company of Houston, which he organized, and is treasurer, secretary and general manager of the People's Shipping Association. In politics he is a Republican, but with the exception of service on the school board, has held no public offices except that of representative to the State Legislature, to which he was first elected in November, 1914, being re-elected in 1916, and again in 1918. In this important position he has made a good record and gained the confidence of his constituents. The greater part of his time, when not attending to his legislative duties, is devoted to his farm, which he has brought into a high state of improvement, and which he operates according to the most modem and scientific methods. He is a member of the Masonic order. Mr. Sliter was married Oct. 26, 1897, to Florence Thompson, who was bom in Looney Valley, Houston county, daughter of Isaac and Mary T. (Darling) Thompson, natives respectively of Vermont and Ohio. Mr.

Thompson came to Houston county as early as 1852 or 1853. He and his wife are both now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Sliter four children have been bom: Mary Jeanette, Margaret Elizabeth, Helen Lolah and Dorothy Edith.

Lauritz Ukkestad, an elderly resident of Yucatan township, where he has spent many years in agricultural pursuits, was bom in Nonstad, Norway. He came to the United Stataes in 1865, while still single, and located immediately in Houston county, Minn. Here he married Ingeborg ToUef son, a native of Telemarken, Norway. Mr. Ukkestad's first employment in this country was at railroad work, but he later rented land in Yucatan township and engaged in farming. He is still residing on a farm here and is a well known and respected citizen. He and his wife have been the parents of nine children.

Theodore Ukkestad, a well to do general farmer operating 160 acres of valuable land in section 32, Yucatan township, was bora in this township^ July 10, 1889, son of Lauritz and Ingeborg (Tollefson) Ukkestad. In his boyhood he attended shcool in district 17, and after he was confirmed began working out for others, though at intervals residing at home. In this way he spent the time until March 18, 1913, when he was united in marriage with Julia Olson, who was born in Fillmore county, Nov. 26, 1887, daughter of Iver and Julia (Tolrud) Olson. Her parents are now deceased. After his marriage Mr. Ukkestad bought his present farm on which he raises both crops and stock, in these strenuous times receiving good prices for all his farm products. He is a shareholder in the Rushford Creamery and in the Farmers' Telephone Company. He and his wife are parents of two children, Ruth Edna, bora April 4, 1914, and Thelma Judith, bom Oct. 10, 1915.

Andrew C. Johnson^ Sr^ proprietor of the Brantdale, a leading stock farmer of Houston township, who has also taken a prominent part in public affairs, was bom near Drammen, Norway, July 6, 1857, son of John and Mary (Stensrud) Johnson. He was his parents' only child, as his father died when Andrew was but a few weeks old. In 1861 Mrs. Mary Johnson came with her son to America, locating in Houston county, Minn., where she contracted a second marriage with Peter Wager of which eight children were bora. She died on a farm in Houston township in January, 1910. Andrew C. Johnson, who was a child of about four years when he arrived in Houston county, resided with his mother and in his boyhood attended the district school. He was brought up to farm work, and at the age of twenty-one, being then his own master, left home and went to Madison county, Neb., where he took a homestead, which he held while working for others. After improving it as he found opportunity, he sold it and engaged in the butcher's business at Newman Grove, a village situated on the line between Madison and Platte counties, Nebraska. There he remained for fifteen years. At the end of that time he disposed of his interests and returaed to Minnesota, buying his present farm of 460 acres in section 11, Houston township. His tillable land, which is rich and fertile, he rents out to others, giving his own attention to the stock business, especially to the breeding of Hereford cattle and Duroc-Jersey hogs. He has made substantial improvements on his farm, in 1914, erecting his present residence, which is one of the most modem in this locality and which, together with his bam, is illuminated by his own individual lighting system. On this handsome estate Mr. Johnson expects to make his permanent home. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church and of the Odd Fellows' lod'ge at Hokah. In politics a Republican, Mr. Johnson has for many years taken an active part in public affairs in the communities where he has resided. While in Nebraska he held school office for some years, was town assessor two years; county comissioner in Madison county, Neb., for nine years in succession; and since locating permanently in Houston county he has served twelve years on the school board of his district, is now serving as justice of the peace, and was representative from Houston county in the State Legislature during the session of 1913. He is also one of the trustees of his church and was delegate to the Lutheran IMftaual convention of 1918, held at Fargo, N. D. December 22, 1886, Andrew (S Johnson was united in marriage with Sarah Larson, who was bom near Skeon, Norway, daughter of Lars and Cecil Anderson. She was an only child and was educated in Dodge and Brown counties, Minn. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have been the parents of six children, John Magness, Mabel Josephine, Marie, Nellie Sophia, Andrew Christopher, Jr., and Florence Serene, of whom are residing at home except Nellie Sophia, who died Jan. 10, ltl4. John M. and Andrew C, Jr., both served their country during the great war, John being In training at Camp Grant and Fort Sheridan, and Andrew C, Jr., going to France with the 333rd heavy artillery. Lars and Cecil Anderson, the parents of Mrs. Johnson, were both born in Norway, in the same locality as their daughter. Soon after the latter's birth they emigrated to Wisconsin, and Mr. Anderson elisting for service in the Civil War, was killed at the battle of Corinth, Miss., Oct. 18, 1862. His widow subsequently married again, but died in Houston county when her daughter Sarah (Mrs. Johnson) was a child.

John Alfred Doblar, who is engaged in operating a well improved farm of seventy-three acres in section 18, Money Creek township, was born on this farm March 3, 1880, son of Anton and Anna (Kahoun) Doblar. He represents the third generation to reside on this place, as the father, Anton Doblar, who was bom in Germany, of Swiss parents, in 1857, came here with his widowed mother w^hen a lad of ten years, the mother contracting a second marriage and spending the rest of her life here. Anton Doblar was killed in Winona Jan. 17, 1898. His wife Anna, who was born in Dubuque, Iowa, May 11, 1858, is still living on the farm with her son, John Alfred. The latter was the second born in a family of nine children. In his youth he attended school in Money Creek township and first engaged in agricultural work on the home farm. From the age of twelve to that of twenty-nine years he worked out, assisting his parents with his earnings. He then married and settled down on the homestead, where he has since been engaged in general f arm Y^ork. His land is highly improved and is well provided with good buildings and other equipment. Mr. Doblar is also a stockholder in the Money Creek Creamery, the Farmers' Exchange BliippiBlIP^^^ the Fanners Telephone Company, in which he is a director. In politics he is a Democrat with independent proclivities. On Jan. 11, 1911, Mr. Dobler was united in marriage with Gelena Jore, who was bom in Sheldon township, Houston county, daughter of Anon and Gura (Vathing) Jora, who were early settlers in that township, to which they came from their native land of Norway. Mr. and Mrs. Doblar are the parents of four children, Archie Joseph, Myrtle Genevieve, Hazel Anna and Ruby Tona.

Lars N. Larson, in whose death on Nov. 29, 1902, the village of Houston lost a useful and highly esteemed citizen, was bom at Nonstad, near Christiania, Norway, Jan. 29, 1857, son of Nels and Maria Larson. He was one of the older members in a family of seven children, some of the younger of whom were born in this country, to which his parents emigrated when he was five years old, settling on land in Yucatan township, Houston county, Minn. There he attended school, and as he grew older worked on the home farm. He was still a boy when his father died, and his duties then became more onerous, the farm in time coming under his management, and he operated it for thirteen years after his marriage. Then moving to Houston village, he engaged here in the wagon repairing business, in which line of work he was very expert, and in which he continued until his death, having a large trade from all the surrounding country. A man of high character, honest in his business dealings, and with an agreeable and attractive personality, he was popular among a wide acquaintance, and his demise was felt as a loss by the entire community. He was a faithful member of the Lutheran church, shaping his life in accordance with its doctrines. In politics a Republican, he served three terms as supervisor in his township and for a number of years was an efficient member of the school board. Mr. Larson was married April 13, 1883, to Liva Olson, who was born near the stone church in Yucatan township, this county, daughter of Tosten and Margaret (Anlinson) Olson, she being the eldest of their ten children. One child was bom to Mr. and Mrs. Larson, Henry Nicholai, who is now engaged in the lumber business at Altura, Minn. He married Edna Vomsal of Houston, and has one child, Leila. Toston Olson, Mrs. Larson's father, was bom in Norway, as was also his wife, Margaret. They were early settlers in Houston county, where they engaged in farming. Their second farm was in Money Creek township, where they resided until 1908, when Mr. Olson retired and came to Houston village, where he passed away April 19, 1918. His wife died April 6, 1905.

J. B. Johnson, who is taking part in the agricultural development of Houston township as proprietor of a farm of 200 acres in section 31, was born in Holan, Sweden, Aug. 15, 1859. His parents, John and Anna Johnson, who were natives of the same locality, came to the United States with their family in 1868, settling on a farm in Houston township, this county. John Johnson also worked at times for others, and continued to reside here until his death in 1902. His wife died in 1911. J. B. Johnson, who was the eldest of their three children, was about nine years old when he came to America, and after arriving in this country attended school in Houston. At the age of twenty years he began farming in Swede Bottom, east of Houston in Houston township, and was a resident there for a number of years. Afterwards he removed to a farm in Sheldon township, where he remained until his marriage in 1883, when he came to his present farm. This is a well improved piece of property, well adapted to general farming, in which Mr. Johnson has made a success. He is a stockholder in the Houston Creamery Company. His fraternal society affiliations are with the camp of Modem Woodmen of America at Houston, and in politics he is a Republican. In the month of April, 1883, Mr. Johnson was united in marriage with Jane Skree, who was bom in Houston county, daughter of Ole and Sigrid Skree, she being the fourth born of their five children. The parents were natives of Norway and were among the pioneer settlers of Sheldon township, where both died, the father during the Civil War period. To Mr. and Mrs. Johnson eight children have been bom : Oscar O., a farmer in Looney Valley, Houston township, who married Olga Osfit; Josephine, wife of John S. Johnson, residing in Sheldon township ; Tilla, wife of Phil Hoppel, a farmer of Looney Valley; Mattie and Verleda who are living on the home farm; and Clarence and Samuel, both of whom were in the United States service during the World War, Clarence being still in France, and Samuel having been in training at Camp Hancock.

Robert McCormick, one of the early settlers in Money Creek township who did good pioneer work in civilizing the wildemess, but who is now passed away, was bom in County Cork, Ireland, in 1830. He was a young man when he came to America and found employment at railroad work in New York State. In 1868 he heard the call of the West and came to Houston county, Minn., securing wild land in Money Creek township which he subsequently spent many years in developing, achieving valuable results. He continued thus actively engaged until within a few years before his death, when he retired and moved to Rushf ord in Fillmore county, where he passed away about the year 1910. Mr. McCormick married Mary Moran, who was bom in County Tipperary, Ireland, in 1830, and who is still residing in Rushf ord. They were the parents of three children: Mary, Daniel and Robert William.

Robert William McCormick, who is engaged in general farming on the homestead in section 10, Money Creek township, that was established many years ago by his father, was born in this township, Aug. 25, 1880, son of Robert and Mary (Moran) McCormick. His education was obtained in the district school and he assisted his father on the farm until arriving at the age of twenty-three years, at which time he rented the farm and has since operated it on his own account. It contains 200 acres and is provided with good buildings and modem improvements. Mr. McCormick is carrying on general farming and is raising good stock, both cattle and hogs. He is also a shareholder in the Rushford Farmers' Elevator and a member of the shipping associations at Houston and Rushford. He attends the Roman Catholic church at Rushford, and, in politics a Democrat, served three years as clerk of the school board of his district. Mr. McCormick was married Dec. 7, 1905, to Rose Waste, who was born in Houston, this county, daughter of George and Elizabeth (Wright) Waste. Her father was a carpenter and contractor by occupation and passed away March 13, 1919. Her mother, who was born in Black Hammer township, died March 3, 1910.

To Mr. and Mrs. McCormick have been born seven children, one of whom died in infancy. Those living are Paul Harold, Irene, Magdalyn Ahnyra, Elizabeth Mildred, Robert and Mary Rosalyn.

John E. Anderson, a general farmer owning 260 acres of land in Yucatan township, of which 220 acres are in section 12, where he resides, and 40 acres in section 2, was born at (Jetbur, in Halland, Sweden, June 2, 1866, son of Charles G. and Mollie Anderson. His mother dying when he was a boy, the father married for his second wife. Bertha Stena Johnson, and in 1880 emigrated with his family to Houston county, Minn., locating first in Looney Valley, Houston township, and two years later removing to Yucatan township, taking land on Oak Ridge, where he developed a farm. He died in 1913, but his wife Bertha is still living and is residing with her son Alec in Yucatan township. John E. Anderson first attended school in Sweden and after coming to Houston county, attended district school for two terms in Looney Valley. Until the age of 29 years he resided on the farm with his father and stepmother, and then married and engaged in farming for himself on Oak Ridge. For the first seven years he operated rented land and then bought 160 acres in section 2, Yucatan township, residing on that farm for six years. He then moved to his present location, where he is engaged in general farming on the two farms above mentioned, both of which are well improved. He is doing a successful business and is numbered among the prosperous citizens of his township. At the present time he is serving as treasurer of his school district. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church at Houston. Mr. Anderson was married April 12, 1897, to Martha EUef son, who was born in Skein, Norway, daughter of EUef and Martha Ellefson. Her mother dying in 1866, she accompanied her father to this country two years later, the surviving members of the family, which included seven children, settling first on Highland Prairie, this county, but soon after removing to Yucatan Valley. After working out for three years the father bought a farm on Oak Ridge, Yucatan township, where he resided until 1906, when he removed to the state of Washington. Two or three years later he took up his residence in Montana, where he died Feb. 12, 1911, after a year's residence there. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson are the parents of seven children, all residing at home, namely : Mollie, Carl, Stella, Elmer, Arthur, Henry and Gertie.

Ole K. Knutsen, a general farmer residing in section 24, Yucatan township, where he is successfully operating 216 acres of land, was born in Telemarken, Norway, Feb. 2, 1868, son of Kittel and Oshear (Olson) Knutsen. The family came to Houston county, Minnesota, in 1885, locating on this farm, where the father resided practically until his death in May, 1909. The mother is now residing on Bridge Creek, Yucatan township. Ole K. Knutsen, who was the fourth born of their seven children, acquired his education chiefly in Norway, though he attended school for about two weeks here. He was 17 years old when he came to this country and had already for four years earned his own living. Until he married he worked out for others, and then started farming for himself in Caledonia township, one mile south of the Sheldon township line. Later he bought a farm on Money Creek, which he operated for five years, at the end of which time he purchased his present farm of 216 acres, on which he raises both crops and stock, devoting his whole time to the business. He is enjoying a prosperous career and is one of the prominent citizens of his township. For two years he has served as a member of the school board. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Knutsen was married March 17, 1896, to Lizzie Moen, who was born in Sheldon township, daughter of Samen and Anna Moen, He and his wife are the parents of five children, all residing at home, namely: Katie, Sullivan, Anton, Amy and Knudt. The parents of Mrs. Knutsen, who were born and married in Norway, were early settlers in Sheldon township, this county, where the father died on his farm in 1889. His widow is now the wife of Halvor Hauge and resides in Houston. Before coming to the United States Mr. Moen served in the regular army of Norway. Of her parents' ten children Mrs. Knutsen was the fourth in order <d birth, and she was reared and educated in Sheldon township.

Ludwig H. Julsrud, one of the leading merchants of Houston, engaged in business as a jeweler and watchmaker, and dealing also in optical goods,

4bit glass ware and musical instrutneBts^ was born in Eidsvold, Norway, Oct. 29, 1871, son of Hans and Ingeborg (Hoken) Julsrud. The parents were natives of the same locality, the father being a farmer. Both died

4n th^ native land, where they spent their entire lives. Ludwig H., who was the seventh born in a family of nine children, attended public school in Norway, after which, at the age of 15 years, he became clerk in a store.

4tn 1896 he came to America, locating in Rushford, Fillmore county, Minn., where he had an uncle, Jens Julsrud, who kept a store. For this uncle he worked four years. Then going to Winona he began to learn the trade of

%atchmstker, subsequently perfecting his knowledge in the watchmaking school at Elgin, 111. In 1900, having mastered the trade, he started in his present business in Houston, which he has since built up into one of the

Solidly established concerns in the county, having gained a reputation as a fair and reliable dealer which has proved one of his most important assets. He is also a stockholder in the Houston State Bank, and in the Outlook

^our Mills, at Outlook, Saskatchewan, Canada, of which his brother is president. An Independent Republican in politics, he has served three terms as a member of the Houston village council. His fraternal society

'^lffiliations are with the Blue lodge of Masons, and the Yeomen, having formerly been clerk in the Yeomen lodge. Mr. Julsrud was married in June, 1899, to Amanda Omodt, who was born in Houston county, daughter

«f Knud and Ingeborg (Thorson) Omodt. Her parents, native of Norway, were pioneer settlers in Money Creek township, this county, but are now living retired in Houston. Mr. and Mrs. Julsrud have four children : Helen

^^^^olph J. Anderson, who is successfully engaged in operating a general ^HBelr^rm of 216 acres in section 81 west, Houston township, was bom on the old Anderson homestead in section 36 west, this township, Sept. 2, 1871, son of Sigurd and Jorane (Bgland) Anderson. His education was Acquired chieiy in the sdiool of his district, but he also attended a term at the Rushford High School, in Fillmore county. Until the age of 21 he acted as his father's assistant on the home farm, and then became its active manager, operating it for six years. At the end of that time, about 1899, he bought 216 acres of his present farm in section 31 west, to which he has since added until he now has a whole half section of valuable land, with good buildings. He i& carrying on a profitable business as a stock farmer, raising cattle, horses and swine, of the last mentioned stock usually keeping about fifty head. His greatest specialty is in raising choice potatoes, his product demanding the top prices in the best markets. In 1919 he had no less than twelve acres. In order to better accommodate the market and to sell at the best advantage, he has erected on his farm a good potato warehouse which is proving a great convenience. He is a member of the Shipping Association, has been a shareholder in the Houston Creamery since its organization, and also holds stock in the elevator company. In politics he is an independent Republican, while his religious affiliations are with the Lutheran church. Mr. Anderson was married, Oct. 13, 1897, to Anna Halvorson, who was bom in Norway, May 2, 1871, daughter of Even and Anna (Johnson) Halvorson, who were natives of Telemarken, Norway. The family came to the United States in 1878 when Anna was seven years old, locating immediately in Houston township, this county, where they engaged in farming, and where Mr. Halvorson died in November, 1915. Mrs. Johnson is still residing on the old homestead in Looney Valley, with her son Alfred. Her daughter Anna was the eldest of eight children and was educated in Houston township. Eight children have been bom to Mr. and Mrs. Anderson : Lawrence, who is residing with his parents; Stanley Edwin, who died in 1902 at the age of two years; Alice Jeanette, Martha EQenora, Stella Beraioe, Geneva Irene, Ruth E. and Reuben Elvin, twins, are residing on the home farm. The family have a high social standing, Mrs. Anderson having always taken an active part in church work and the Ladies' Aid Society.

Dr. K, T, Midboe, who is engaged in the practice of veterinary surgery in Houston, Minn., was bora in Telemarken, Norway, Sept. 2, 1878, son of Thomas and Signe (Midboe) Esping. The father, who was a farmer, died when the subject of this sketch was a baby, and the latter came to the United States with his mother in 1880, settling in Yucatan township, this county. The mother died in 1904 at the age of 63 years. K. T. Midboe attended the district school in Yucatan township, and began working out for farmers when 13 years old. He later engaged in farming for himself in Yucatan township. Subsequently he went to the Dakotas, where he drilled wells for three years and also farmed. Having then made up his mind to embrace a professional career, he went to Chicago, where he entered McKillopp's Veterinary College and was graduated in 1916, immediately afterwards establishing himself in Houston. Although located here but a comparatively short time, he has abeady built up a good reputation and a profitable practice, with excellent prospects for the future. He is the only veterinary in Houston. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church in this city. Dr. Midboe was married Sept. 19, 1917, to Emma Hostvedt, daughter of Anfin and Isabelle (Saugen) Hostvedt, her parents being farming people of this county. She received a good educa- tion, attending the Winona High School and later graduating from the Winona Normal School, after which she was a teacher for ten years before her marriage. Dr. and Mrs. Midboe are active participants in the social life of Houston, and are popular among their numerous acquaintances. They are the. parents of one child, Theron Allen.

Christ Brevig, an early settler in Yucatan township, was born in Telemarken, Norway, and was a young man when he emigrated from his native land to Houston county, Minnesota. Here he married Julia Trondvent, and they took land in Yucatan township and engaged in farming. After residing on their first farm for a number of years, they moved to 1kfei Wf¥^^Wt3ii&y in the same township, where they took another farm, on which Mr. Brevig died in the spring of 1914. His wife survived him until the fall of 1916, when she too passed away. They were the parents of three children^ Chartes, Susie and Osmond.

Osmond Brevig:, a general farmer on 240 acres of land in section 5, Yucatan township, was born in this township, Sept. 15, 1876, son of Christ and Julia (Trondvent)' Brevig. He was the youngest of his parents' three children and attended school on Oak Ridge, this township. When a lad of 16 years he began working out and was thus engaged for seven years, at the end of which time he bought his present farm, which is well improved. He is a stockholder in the Rushford Creamery and the Farmers' Telephone Company and has attained a well recognized place among the prosperous dtiasens of hfe township. Politically an independent, he is at present serving as school clerk, and is a member of the Lutheran church on Oak Ridge. Mr. Brevig was first married, in November, 1902, to Clara Bratland, who was bom in Tacatan township, Houston county, daughter of Ostim and Mary (Olson) Bratland, who are now retired farmers in Rushford. Mrs. Clara Brevig died Aug. 1, 1912, leaving two children, Melvin and Odine. On Oct. 2, 1914, Mr. Brevig married Anna Clave, also a native of Yucatan township, and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Targe Clave, who are A^frA- Of this marriage there has been one child bom, Bernice.

Sigurd Anderson, one of the few original pioneers of Houston county who are yet living, and who in his day has been an active factor in the growth and development of the county, was bom near Christiania, Norway, Oct. 15, 1833, son of Andrew Skar and his wife, Serena Swenson. The parents were farmers who died in their native land, the father being a man of some importance in the township or village of Marydahlen, where for many years he served frequently in public office. Sigurd, who was the second bora in a family of six children, attended school both in Marydahlen and Christiania. In 1853, a young man of 20 years, he resolved to seek his fortune in the United States, and even at that early day, reaUzing that the West or Northwest presented the best fields of opportunity for those who sought to gain a living from the soil, he made his way directly to Chicago, where he stopped for a while to seek work and earn a little money. For a few months he worked for the city tending the Lake street bridge. He was the better able to find employment as he had some knowledge of English, which he had acquired in Norway. In 1854 he joined two other men who were bound as homeseekers to the Northwest. Heading straight for Dubuque, they reached that place after a journey accomplished partly by stage and partly on foot. Then they took boat to La Crosse, and after reaching that village crossed over the Mississippi river in a canoe and, as night came on, found shelter in the attic of a log Jiouse. It was cold weather in early March and in the morning they found themselves covered with snow which had sifted through the chinks. Thence they walked to Houston, the walking being bad, as the ground was covered with snow and water. On his arrival at Houston Mr. Anderson claimed 160 acres of land in section 36 west, which was the nucleus of his present farm. To secure the land he had to borrow money at forty per cent interest, and also had to sign a petition circulated by the settlers, promising to aid in throwing into the river any speculators who tried to outbid them for their lands, which were sold by auction. When the auction started a speculator began bidding, but was promptly seized and dragged to the river, when he agreed to bid no more, and soon after a boat pulled out with all the speculators on board. On reaching his land Mr. Anderson found it occupied by a camp of 300 Indians, who, however, gave him no trouble, as both then and subsequently they proved peaceable. The woods abounded with various sorts of game, including deer, partridges and turkeys, with wild geese near the river and sloughs. For eight or ten years he resided in a log house, after which he built a frame structure. For a number of years he worked hard in breaking and developing his land, adding to its original amount until he owned 425 acres; and besides this he developed a considerable amount of land for other settlers, operating a breaking team. He also for a while in those early days conducted a general store and trading post and was a well known and popular character in the northern part of the county. In later years he became one of the first stockholders of the local creamery. He is still engaged in the management of his farm in section 36 west, it now containing 240 acres, and is also the owner of a resort at Long Lake, Wis., where he spends his summers. For over forty years he took an active part in the management of town affairs, first becoming a town official at the age of 21, soon after his arrival in the township. At the time the court house was built he was a county commissioner, serving one term. He is a member of the Lutheran church and, politically, of the Republican party. Mr. Anderson was first married in 1856 to Christina Hendrickson, who bore him five children : Eliza (deceased) ; Henry, now residing in Canada ; Mary (deceased) ; Barnhard, now living in Alaska ; and Martha (deceased) . Mrs. Christina (Hendrickson) Anderson died in 1868. In 1869, Mr. Anderson married Jorene Egland, and this union resulted in eight children : Serena, at home; Adolph, a farmer of Houston township; Clare, wife of Prof. Theodore Running, of Ann Arbor, Mich.; Dr. William, of Grand Forks; Bertha (deceased), and Evelyn, now Mrs. Ole Tonning, of Moorhead, Minn. Mrs. Jorene (Egland) Anderson died Sept. 13, 1914.

Hans Forsyth, who settled in Houston in 1868 and later became a land owner and farmer, was bom in Gubrensdahl, Norway, Sept. 8, 1826. He grew to manhood in his native land and was there married to Eli Swenson, who was bom May 25, 1834. It was in August, 1868, that they emigrated to the United States, coming directly to Houston county. That fall and winter Mr. Forsyth worked in a warehouse at Houston, and in the following year engaged in farming, becoming owner of the homestead in section 30, Money Creek township, that is now in possession of his son Anthon. There he continued to reside, developing and improving the place until his death in 1900. His wife passed awSiy eight years later in 1908. They were the parents of a family of ten children : Nels, Mattie, Ole, John (deceased) , Carrie A., Anna, who died in infancy ; Herman, Emma, Anthon and Tena.

Anthon Forsyth, one of the leading stock farmers of Money Creek township, proprietor of a fine farm of 410 acres, was born in Houston township, this county, Jan. 14, 1875, son of Hans and Eli (Swenson) Forsyth. He was the ninth born in a family of ten children and was educated in District School No. 9, Money Creek township. Brought up on his parents' farm, he early learned the science of agriculture in its practical bearings and for a number of years was his father's assistant. Some years before his father's death he took over the management of the farm, becoming its owner in the year 1900. He had built it up to its present area of 410 acres, well supplied with good buildings, and is operating it as a general stock farm with profitable results. Aside from this he has additional business interests, being president of the Farmers' Elevator Company and a stockholder in the Creamery and the Houston State Bank. A Republican in politics, he has served as a member of the board of supervisors for the last 15 years, being now its chairman. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church at Houston and also of the Modem Woodmen of America. A man of enterprise and activity, he has made good progress on the road to fortune and is today numbered among the most prosperous citizens of his township. Mr. Forsyth was married Nov. 21, 1906, to Emma Peterson, a daughter of Swan and Caroline (Swenson) Peterson, her parents being natives of Norway, who were married in Houston county, and are now living retired in Houston, being well advanced in years. To Mr. and Mrs. Forsyth five children have been born : Harley Sylvester, Carl Edward, Eva Karen, Allan Peterson and Herman Martin.

David J. Halliday, who owns and operates an excellent farm of 160 acres in section 5, Money Creek township, and is numbered among the prosperous and respected citizens of this township, was born near Portage, Wis., May 7, 1869, son of John and Margaret (Wright) Halliday. The father was bom in New York state, March 13, 1879, and was always a fanner by occupation. With his wife Margaret, who was a native of Ireland, and their family, he moved in 1872 from Wisconsin to Minnesota, locating near Nodine, Winona county. There his wife died in 1873, and a year later he settled on land in Looney Valley, Houston county. His residence here, however, lasted but three years, as at the end of that time he returned to his farm at Nodine. Not long afterwards he retired and for the rest of his life he resided with his children. During his active career he served at times in local office. By his wife Margaret he had three children, she having five others by a previous marriage. David J. Halliday, who was the second bom child of his father's marriage, attended district school for a somewhat limited period in Winona and Houston counties.

When a lad of 13 or 14 he began working out at intervals, and was thus entirely occupied after reaching the age of 18. When he married in 1895 he took up his residence in Money Creek village, but two years later moved to his present farm, on which he has made valuable improvements, his place being now well equipped for general farming. He raises both stock and grain for the market, and is a stockholder in the Money Creek Creamery and the Farmers' Exchange in Houston. On December 31, 1895, Mr. Halliday married Anna Tenberg, who was bom in Money Creek township, June 6, 1873, daughter of Garrett and Antonia Tenberg. She was the fourth bom in a family of eight children, and after attending the district school, pursued more advanced studies in the Rushford High School and the Winona Normal School. For some years thereafter she followed the profession of a teacher, both in Houston county and in North Dakota. Mr. and Mrs. Halliday are the parents of one child, Morris Donald, bom April 25, 1906. Mr. Halliday is independent in politics, with a leaning toward the Prohibition party. He is a past forester in the camp of Modem Woodmen of America at Houston, his wife belonging to the Royal Neighbors. Their religious affiliations are with the Baptist church. The parents of Mrs. Halliday, Garret and Antonia Tenberg, were natives of Holland, and early settlers in Houston county, Mr. Tenberg becoming a land owner and farmer in Money Creek township. They subsequently moved to a farm in Fillmore county, on which they resided for the remainder of their lives, both being now deceased.

C. A. Anderson, a general farmer operating 160 acres in section 25, Houston township, was bom in the northem part of Sweden, Feb. 4, 1853, son of Andrew Johnson and his wife, Anna Leise Peterson. He was educated in his native land, where he lived at home until he was 16 years old, at which time he began working out. In 1873 he came directly to Houston county, Minnesota, and began working out on farms. He had at that time no knowledge of English, but gradually acquired it through contact with English speaking people. After a number of years he rented a tract of land east of Houston, on which he farmed for two years, at the end of that time renting his present farm. Three years later he bought it and has since been sole proprietor. The land is rich and fertile and the buildings substantial. As a general farmer he has made a success and is now one of the thriving and well to do citizens of his township. His parents, who came to America in 1881, resided with him until they died, the father March 15, 1891, and the mother, Feb. 24, 1900. They had three children, of whom he was the second bom, and Mr. Johnson had another child by a former marriage. Mr. Anderson's sister, Augusta, who is unmarried, resides with him, and takes care of the household. In politics Mr. Anderson is a Republican with Prohibition tendencies.

Ole Eliasen, a retired farmer now residing in Houston village, was born in Telemarken, Norway, Dec. 22, 1842. When a young man he emigrated to Houston county, Minnesota, and taking land in Yucatan township, there engaged in farming, which was his occupation until 1903, when he retired. He was first married to Heggie Muhle, who, like himself, was a native of Telemarken, Norway, though somewhat younger. She became the mother of two children, Helen and Ole Theodore, but died when the younger, Ole Theodore, was a babe in arms. By his second wife, Inga Denstad, he has had three children : Martha, Eli (deceased) and Petra.

Ole Theodore Eliasen, a well known general farmer residing in section 13, Yucatan township, was bom in this township, near the Sheldon township line, March 16, 1892, son of Ole and Heggie (Muhle) Eliasen. He was educated in the school of his district and in the Houston high school and acquired a knowledge of agriculture on his parents' farm. When about 15 years old he began working out and so continued until 1912, when he engaged in farming on his own account. Three years later, however, he again began working for others, but returned to independent farming in 1916. He is now operating a farm of 80 acres, raising both crops and stock with profitable results. He is a member of St. Peters church at Houston, and in politics is independent. Mr. Eliasen was married Feb. 6, 1918, to Lena Scattum, who was bom in Money Creek township, Houston county, aaughter of Andrew Scattum. Her mother died when she was a child, ana her father is now residing with his son near Rushford, Minn. Though among the younger members of the farming community Mr. and Mrs. Eliasen have already made a good start on the road to prosperity, and with youth and health and the favorable conditions which now prevail in the demand for all farm products, their continued success seems well assured. They have one child, Odin Elmer, born Dec. 29, 1918.

Christof Evanson, one of the pioneer settlers of Sheldon township, where he made extensive farm improvements, and became a prominent citizen, was bora in Norway, which country he left in 1851 for the United States. Locating first in Koshonog, Wis., he later went to Goodhue county, Minn., where he took a claim which he subsequently relinquished. Then coming to Houston county, he took some unimproved land in Sheldon township on which he commenced improvements by building a small log house. This, however, he resided in for but a short time, as he soon put up better buildings, and as time went on he made more extensive improvements until he was the owner of a fine estate. He was a man of much force of character, and also possessed some legal knowledge, which led to his becoming the general advisor of the community, and the manager of estates other than his own. For 22 years he took an active part in local affairs, serving as assessor and in all the other town offices successively, and in 1878 he was a member of the legislature. His death occurred Jan. 30, 1914, when he had attained the venerable age of 91 years. His wife, who survives him, now resides with her daughter, Mrs. Ole Nelson, in Houston. Mr. and Mrs. Evanson were the parents of seven children: Edwin, Andrew, Gilbert, Tilda, Julia, Christopher and Anna.

Andrew C. Evanson, who is now living retired in Houston, after a successful career in the drug business, was bom in Sheldon township, this county, Jan. 31, 1864, son of Christof and Birget (Anderson) Evanson. His education was acquired in the common schools of Sheldon township, which he attended until about 15 years old, at which time he sought and found employment in Houston. Here he learned the drug business, working twenty years for others, after which, in 1899, he engaged in the business for himself and so continued until his retirement in the fall of 1916. He has since remained practically unoccupied except for the performance of his duties as vice president of the Security Bank of Houston, in which institution he is a stockholder. His home is one of the most modem residences in the village. During his active career Mr. Evanson rendered efficient public service, serving nine years on the board of education, as mayor of Houston for a number of years, and also as village clerk. Prominent in the affairs of the Republican party in this region, he was chairman for some years of the Republican State Central Committee and for eight years was a member of the Republican Congressional Committee. His record as a business man and public spirited citizen stands high in the county. He has been for many years a member of the Masonic lodge in Houston and was the first member of Scandinavian birth to belong to it. He also belongs to the order of Yeomen and was the first foreman of the order here. Mr. Evanson was married November 26, 1888, to Clara Abrahamson, who was born in Houston, Minn., daughter of Isaac and Isabel (Anderson) Abrahamson. He and his wife have two children: Georgia Evangeline and Horton Kjerulf, both residing at home. Isaac Abrahamson, father of Mrs. Evanson, was born in Norway, as was also his wife, Isabel Anderson. He came to this county at an early date and was practically the first merchant in Houston, and served efficiently as a member of the village council. He is now living retired in Houston at the age of 86 years. Mrs. Abrahamson died in November, 1893.

Otto Wager, a general farmer operating 420 acres of land in section 11, Houston township, was bom in Looney Valley, this township, Dec. 17, 1862, son of Peter and Mary (Stensrud) Wager. The parents were both bom in Norway, the mother being first married there to John Johnson, who died after they had had one child, Andrew C. With this child she came to Houston county, Minnesota, in 1861, and here married Peter Wager, who had arrived here from Norway as a young man and engaged in farming, in which occupation he still continues. Mr. and Mrs. Peter Wager had eight children, of whom the subject of this sketch was the first bom. The mother died in January, 1910. Otto Wager was brought up in Houston township and here attended school. He remained at home until he was 21 years of age and then went to Nebraska, where he spent 13 years of his life, chiefly working farms. From there he went to Missouri, where he remained two years, at the end of that time returning to Houston county. Here he worked two years for others and then engaged in farming on his own account. In 1913 he settled on his present farm of 420 acres, which has a productive soil and is well provided with substantial buildings. As a general farmer he is meeting with good success and increasing steadily in prosperity. He is a member of the Lutheran church and in politics is a RepubUcan. Mr. Wager was married in March, 1883, to Christina Jacobson, who was born in this township and valley, daughter of Hans and Caroline (Stensrud) Jacobson. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Wager, namely: Louis, who is a farmer in Houston township, and who married Selma Mark ; and Myrtle, Ella, Marvin, Pearl and Irwin, who are residing at home. The parents of Mrs. Wager, who were both bora in

Norway, came to the United States a year or two later than the Wagers, locating on a farm in Looney Valley, Houston township, where the father died some years later. The mother subsequently went to Nebraska, where she spent a number of years, but finally returned to Houston county and spent the rest of her life with her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Otto Wager, the latter of whom was the fifjth born in her family of eight children.

Targe Findreng, one of the early farmers in Sheldon township, was born in Norge Vaardal, Norway, where he grew up and was married, by that union, which was his first, having nine children. He was later married in Norway to his second wife, whose maiden name was Thone Eragnes, and who was a native of the same place as himself. In 1852 they emigrated to the United States, settling in Dane county, Wisconsin, where they remained two years. At the end of that time, in 1854, they came to Houston county, Minn., overland by ox team, and took land in Sheldon township, where Mr. Findreng was engaged in farming until his death in 1873. His wife survived him for many years, dying Sept. 3, 1909. They had seven children: Ole T., Anne, first (deceased), Anne, second (deceased), Tolley (deceased), Anne, third (deceased), Andrew, a farmer of Badger Creek ; and Dagne, who lives with Ole T.

Ole T. Findreng, a well known and esteemed resident of the village of Houston, where he has made his home for the last 16 years, was bom in Norge Vaardal, Norway, Aug. 13, 1845, son of Targe and Thone (Kragnes) Findreng. He was a child when his parents emigrated to America, and, after two years' residence in Dane County, Wis., when he was nine years old, settled on land in Sheldon township, Houston county, Minnesota, driving an ox team all the way from Dane county. Here he attended district school and early began to make himself useful on his parents' farm. His agricultural training stood him in good stead, for, on account of his father's failing health, he had to take charge of the farm while still a lad.' Subsequently he became the owner of it and increased its size to 174 acres, also making other improvements, and cultivating it profitably until 1902, when he rented it and moved to Houston village. In 1908 he sold the property to his brother, Andrew T. Findreng. At Houston he engaged in selling monuments for the Jones Granite Works of St. Cloud, Minn., and acting as president of the Mound Prairie Insurance Company. He is also a stockholder in the Houston State Bank. He is a member of the Lutheran church and in politics an independent Republican. While residing in Sheldon township he served as a member of the town board and at various times in all the other town offices, and for one term was a member of the board of county commissioners. Mr. Findreng was married March 14, 1869, to Thone Morken, who was born in Forstal, Norway, daughter of Ole and Groe (Nelson) Morken, who were natives of the same locality. The Morken family located in Sheldon township in 1865, the parents residing there until the father died in 1889 and the mother in 1890. Their daughter Thone was the eldest of their five children. Mr. and Mrs. Findreng have no children of their own, but have an adopted son, Bemhard, who married Bertha Jensen and resides in Houston, his occupation being that of a

Martin Westby, a settler in Yucatan township, who contributed to the agricultural resources of the county by developing a good farm from wild land, but who is now deceased, was born in Telemarken, Norway, Feb, 2, 1859, son of Evan and Marit Westby, who were natives of that locality. Coming to the United States in 1874, the parents settled in Norway, Fillmore county, Minn., where they spent the rest of their lives. Martin, the subject of this sketch, attended school in his native land, and at the age of 14 years began working out for others. In 1872, a lad of 13, he came to America, being at that time unable to speak English. Joining his parents in Fillmore county, he resided there for some years, working out as he had done in Norway and acquiring a practical knowledge of agriculture and American farm methods. At last, when able to begin an independent career, he came to Yucatan township, Houston county, and purchased land in section 15, where he developed what is now the family homestead, containing 340 acres of land with good buildings. Here he died Jan. 29, 1910. He was a stockholder in the Rushford elevator and in the Houston Creamery Company. Since his death the farm has been operated by his widow with the assistance of her children. Mr. and Mrs. Westby had 13 children: Mary, wife of Halvor Jore, a farmer on South Ridge, Yucatan township; Josie, wife of Alfred Martinson, a railroad man, and residing at Grand Meadow, Minn.; Stena, wife of Hans Fellows, a farmer of Looney Valley; Caroline, wife of Ray Nesbitt, residing near Ridgeway, Winona county; Edwin, a farmer of Yucatan township; Oscar, a farmer of Sheldon township ; Ole, who resides on the old homestead ; Bennie and Gjmther, who with Christ are operating the home farm; and Nettie, who is housekeeper at home ; Christian, who married Sarah Houge and is also helping to operate the Westby farm ; and Inga and Delia, residing at home.

Gideon Tralf, a prominent farmer residing in sections 9 and 16, Houston township, where he is operating a farm of 220 acres, was bom in Sweden, May 1, 1866, son of John and Inga (Jacobson) Tralf. Accompanying his parents in 1872 to Looney Valley, Houston township, this county, he attended school there, and also for some time in Storer Valley. When 18 years old he began working out on farms, but later took up the stone mason's trade, which he followed for about twelve years. He then engaged in farming on his own account, for five years renting land in Money Creek township. At the end of that time he bought his present farm of 220 acres, on which he raises both stock and grain, doing a general farming business. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers' Telephone Company. His political principles are those of the Republican party and he is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Mr. Tralf was married Oct. 17, 1897, to Anna Halvorson, who was bom in Houston county, Nov. 2, 1887, daughter of John and Tilda (Carlson) Halvorson. Mr. and Mrs. Traff have three children: Edna Josephine, Tena Genevieve, and Adolph Goodwin. Edna Josephine is the wife of Harry R. Hastings, of Wakonda^ South Dakota, and has one child, Ruth Laveme. Tena Genevieve and Adolph Goodwin are at home.

Christian J. Erickson, who holds a prominent place among the successful general farmers of Yucatan township, residing in section 20, was born in this township, Dec. 25, 1873, son of George and Inga (Paulson) Erickson. His parents were natives of Norway, the father coming to this county in 1869 and settling on a farm in Yucatan township, where he is still living. The mother died in 1917. Christian J. attended school in this township and was reared on his parents' farm, assisting his father until he was 15 years old. He then began working out and from that time on earned his owit living. On his marriage in 1901 he engaged in farming for himself, renting land for a number of years, and was thus occupied until he bought his present farm, onto which he moved Feb. 20, 1915. He has 243 acres of valuable land, provided with good buildings and is profitably raising both stock and grain. He also holds shares in the Farmers' Telephone Company. In politics an independent Republican, he is serving as a director on the school board, and he is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church at Houston. On Jan. 2, 1901, Mr. Erickson was united in marriage with Betsy Kittelson, who was born in Telemarken, Norway, daughter of Kittel and Arshar Kittelson. Her parents after coming to Houston county were engaged for a number of years in farming in Yucatan township. The father died in 1909, and the mother is now residing with her daughter and sonin-law, Mr. and Mrs. Erickson. To the latter seven children have been bom, all of whom are residing at home, namely: Albin Ingvald, Edna, Clara Jugina, Clarence Bertram, Gena Alma, Kindahl Knudt and Berdine.

O. H. Forsyth, now living retired in Houston, of which place he is a well known and respected citizen, was bom in Scotland of Norwegian parents, and came to this country with his parents when a young man. They settled on land in Money Creek township, Houston county, where they engaged in the work of agricultural development. The subject of this sketch, who was a young man on his arrival in the county, assisted his father in the cultivation of the home farm, and remained at home until 1881, when he went to the Red River district in North Dakota, where for a number of years he was foreman on the Grandon farm. Subsequently retuming to* Houston county, he resumed agricultural work here, and so continued until he finally retired and took up his residence in Houston village. Mr. Forsyth married Hilda Sorenson, a native of Norway, and they have been the parents of four children. Their religious affiliations are with the Lutheran church.

Edwin G. Forsyth, who is carrying on a successful business in Houston as a plumbing and heating contractor, was bom in Houston, this county, Nov. 4, 1892, son of O. H. and Hilda (Sorenson) Forsyth. The years of his boyhood and early youth were spent in this vicinity, but at the age of 19 he left home and went to Alberta, Canada, where for four years he was in the employ of an uncle who was engaged in the machinery business. Then retuming to Houston, he worked here for a short time, but soon went to Rushford, where for one year he was engaged in the plumbing business. At the end of that time he returned again to Houston and established his present business, for which he has a complete equipment, and is conducting along modem lines, with satisfactory results. He is also the owner of real estate in Canada. His fraternal affiliations are with Mystic Circle Lodge, No. 78, A. F. & A. M. Mr. Forsyth was married Nov. 14, 1916, to Erma Onstine, who was born in Yucatan township, this county, daughter of G. H. and Julia (Seweitz) Onstine. He and his wife have one child, Russell Leland. G. H. Onstine, father of Mrs. Forsyth, was bom in Fillmore county, this state, and for some years was proprietor of a hotel at Rushford. Later he took a farm in Yucatan township, Houston county, which he operated for a number of years until he retired. He is now residing in Houston. During his active career he held various local offices. His wife, Mrs. Julia Onstine, was bom in this county.

Knud Sorum, the founder of a flourishing farm, most of which lies in sections 1 and 2, Houston township, was one of the hardy pioneers of this township who helped to change the barren wilderness into cultivated and productive fields. He was born in Valders, Norway, and was a boy when he came to Minnesota. After settling in Houston county he enlisted for service in the Civil War and became so efficient a soldier that he was promoted to the rank of second lieutenant, but was obliged to leave the army on account of heart weakness. He then retumed to his farm in Houston township, this county, and devoted his energies to its improvement, residing on it until his death in 1905 at the age of 80 years lacking two months. Mr. Sorum married Gro Midgaarden, who was born in Telemarken, Norway, and who is now living with her sons, Henry O. and E. M. Sorum, on the old homestead. They had a family of four children: Henry O., E. M., Tilda Marie, now Mrs. H. Magnuson, of Hassinger, N. D., and Aletta Josephine, who died at the age of six years.

Henry O. and E. M. Sorum are operating a good farm of 200 acres, of which 160 acres lies in sections 1 and 2, Houston township, and 40 acres over the line in Winona county. They are good farmers and substantial citizens and are taking their due share in the progress of the community. Both were bom on the farm where they now reside, Henry O. on -April 19, 1881, and E. M. on July 4, 1882. They attended the district schools, and were reared to farm pursuits by their father. Since his death they have taken over the farm, and are making a success of general farming and stock raising. They are holders of stock in the Houston Co-Operative Creamery and in the Farmers' Telephone Company. They are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church and in politics are independent. Henry O. Sorum was married Oct. 11, 1905, to Anna Olson, who was born in Houston county, Minn., daughter of Oliver and Belle (Larson) Olson, who were prominent farmers of Houston township, but who are now retired and residing on a farm in Money Creek township. Mr. and Mrs. Henry 0. Sorum have four children : Clara Gladys, Oliver Ingvald, Henry Leonard, and Ruby Marietta.

Jens Ekre, who, though not a pioneer, was numbered among the early settlers of Yucatan township, was bom in Nonstad, Norway, where he spent the early part of his life and was married. In 1867, with his wife Mary, and their family, he emigrated to the United States, settling near Rushford, Fillmore county, Minnesota. After a short residence there.

however, he moved to Yucatan township, Houston county, taking land not far from the present farm" of his son, Christof J. Ekre, in section 33 north, where he engaged in farming, and was thus occupied for a number of years. Both he and his wife are now deceased. Mr. Ekre was an industrious and worthy citizen and his work along the lines of agricultural development was a factor in the improvement and civilization of the township.

Christof J. Ekre, proprietor of a fine farm of 477 acres in section 33 north, Yucatan township, of which township he is one of the leading citizens, was bom in Nonstad, Norway, April 27, 1853, son of Jens and Mary Ekre. In the spring of 1870, a youth of 17 years, he came to America, joining his i)arents at Rushford, in Fillmore county, Minnesota, where they had settled several years previously. He was unable at that time to speak English, but had begun industrial life at the age of twelve years in his native land, and, being strong and energetic, soon obtained employment. For about eight or ten years he worked out for others, wisely saving as much as he could of his earnings with an eye to the future, and at last he found himself in a position to make an independent start in life. Not being able to purchase an improved farm, he bought a tract of wild land in Houston county and set to work to make the improvements himself. After being four years on that place, he sold out at a profit and took another farm, on which he resided for twenty years, during which period be brought it into good condition. Then, in 1900, he came to his present farm of 477 acres on Root River, which he is operating as a general stock farm. The land is rich and fertile, and here, too, he has made extensive improvements, erecting substantial buildings putting up fences, and making use of the most modern machinery and farm appliances, with the result that he now occupies a place among the thriving and well to do citizens of the township. He is also a stockholder in the Rushford Creamery and the Farmers' Telephone Company. In politics a Republican, he has devoted a part of his time to the public service, having formerly held the position of school treasurer for twenty years and town supervisor for four years. Mr. Ekre was married in 1882 to Tilda Olson, who was bom in Houston county, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Evenson. Her parents were natives of Norway and were farmers. The father is now deceased, but the mother resides in Yucatan toMmship with her son, Christ. Mr. and Mrs. Ekre are the parents of six children : Mena, who is a teacher in Clearwater county, Minn. ; Elmer, residing on the home farm which he is helping to operate ; Clara, wife of John Targerson of Rushford ; Amelia and Cora, residing at home ; and Nels, who with his brother Elmer is also engaged in operating the farm, Mr. Ekre being now practically retired from active work.