Houston County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1919 (part 4 of 21)

Anton F. Magnussen, the thriving proprietor of a farm of 100 acres in section 5 south, Houston township, was bom in Smolan, Kalmerland, Sweden, Aug. 16, 1855, son of Magnus Anderson and wife. Both the parents died in their native land, never coming to this country. The father's occupation was chiefly that of a farm laborer. Anton F., who was the youngest of five children, attended school in Sweden, but was obliged to begin work when seven years old, on account of his father's illness. For thirty years thereafter he remained in Sweden, working for various farmers without making much headway on the road to prosperity, until discontent with his lack of opportunity impelled him to seek a more favorable field of effort, and in 1892 he set out for the United States, in due time arriving in Houston county, Minnesota. Here he worked for two seasons as a farm hand in Looney Valley, Houston township, and having by the end of that time accumulated a little money, he began his career as an independent farmer by renting a farm in this township. This he operated for eleven years, making gradual progress, until at the end of that period he was able to purchase his present farm adjoining the limits of Houston village, which affords him a convenient market. He has achieved good results as a general farmer, and is reaping the reward of industry and perseverance. He is a member of the Farmers' Shipping Association. Independent in politics, he has served twelve years as road supervisor in Houston township. The Lutheran church numbers him among its members, and he also belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. Magnussen was married in Sweden, Dec. 27, 1883, to Amanda Christine Carlson, a native of the same locality as himself. Of this union seven children have been bom: Aldor Frederick, who married Gena Peterson of Sheldon township, who operates a threshing outfit ; Delia Manda Sophia, who is a resident of Winona ; John Sanford, who married Anna Brennan, and is a carpenter and contractor at New Albin, Iowa ; Anna Amelia, wife of John Berg, a locomotive engineer on the C. M. & St. P. Railway, residing in Maiden, Wash. ; Amiel Wilfred, a carpenter, who has done his country good service as a soldier of the Great War, in France ; Alf reda, wife of Oscar Hanson, a farmer of Money Creek township ; and Bernice, who is attending school.

August Johnson, who is now living practically retired in section 4 south, Houston township, was bom in Smoland, Sweden, April 7, 1856, son of Carl and Christine (Janson) Johnson, who were natives of the same locality. When he was ten years old, his parents, in the hope of bettering their condition, emigrated to Houston county, Minnesota, settling on Swede Bottom. In the following year, however, they moved to a farm in Looney Valley, where they resided until the fathers' death in 1882. He was an industrious and worthy man, respected by his neighbors, and served on the school board for a number of years. After his death his widow made her home with her son August until 1913, when she, too, passed away. August Johnson, who was the second born of his parents' six children, attended school in Looney Valley, Houston township. He resided at home until 25 years old, when he married. He then rented a piece of land and farmed it for nine years, at the end of which time he bought 160 acres in Looney Valley, in close proximity to Winona county. There also he spent nine years engaged in agriculture. Then selling the place, he resided for two years on his mothers' farm, after which he bought a smaller farm west of Houston and operated it for two years. This also he sold to operate another farm for two years, at the end of which time he came to his present small farm in Swede Bottom. Here he resided three years, engaged in hauling cream and also in farming. Then selling his horses and other farm appurtenances, but retaining the ownership of the property, he took up his residence in Houston village, where he lived retired from active work for three years, subsequently moving back to his farm, where he still resides. Here he is living practically a retired life, as he has but two acres of land, sufficient to give him a little light employment. He is a member of the Free Evangelistic church at Houston, and in politics is independent. Mr. Johnson was married Oct. 27, 1881, to Sophia Johnson, who was bom in HaUand, Sweden, one of the younger of the seven children of Andrew and Anna Breta (Swenson) Johnson. She attended school in Sweden until 19 years old, at which time, her mother having died, she accompanied her father to Minnesota in 1880. After her marriage in the following year, he resided with her and his son-in-law, Mr. Johnson, until his death in 1911, when he had reached the advanced age of 93 years, 9 months and 9 days. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are the parents of seven children : Carl, who is now farming in Houston township; Gust, a farmer in Sheldon township; Effie, wife of Thor Kragness, a farmer of Houston township; Adolph, who is engaged in agriculture in Winona county; Helmer, deceased; Mary, wife of Magnus Strand, residing in Houston; and Christina, wife of Olaf Floyan, a railroad man living in Houston. This family was one of the many to be called upon to make the Great Sacrifice during the World War. The son, Helmer, entered the United States service, was sent to France, and there died, giving his life in the cause of Liberty and Democracy.

Isaac Thompson, one of the notable pioneers of Houston county, who resided on his farm in section 26, Houston township, which he took over sixty years ago, was bom in Rupert township, Bennington county, Vermont, Feb. 12, 1829, son of John and Electa (Draper) Thompson, the father being a native of Connecticut and the mother of Vermont. John Thompson died when his son Isaac was a babe of eleven months, and his wife subsequently removed to LoweD, Mass., from there to New York, and later to Houston county, Minn., dying at the home of her son, the subject of this sketch, about 1897 or 1898. There were three children in the family, of whom Isaac was the youngest ; and by a previous marriage of the father two other children were bom. Isaac Thompson acquired the elements of knowledge in a school in Vermont, and was subsequently a pupil for one year at Homer Academy, Homer, N. Y. From the age of three to that of 22 he resided with a family named Sheldon at Homer, and then, having resolved to seek his fortune in the Northwest, he set out for Milwaukee, Wis., where he arrived with 25 cents in cash, which he divided with two companions. It was thus nececssary for him to obtain immediate employment, and he gladly embraced an opportunity to teach school some two miles from the city. After five months' pedagogic experience in that locality, he made another westward drive reaching the vicinity of La Crosse, where he taught another school for four months. He then engaged in surveying, assisting to run the first levels from La Crosse to Sparta, finishing the work in December ; and in the following spring he worked for a short time as chainman on the Eastern Division of the Milwaukee Railway. While engaged in surveying in La Crosse county he formed a partnership with Mr. Hood and Mr. Smith in the land business and the firm lasted until 1857, when it was dissolved owing to the financial panic. In that year he took his present farm, which then consisted of wild land, though he continued to reside in La Crosse for three years subsequently, hiring men to break his land and get out rails for fencing. Game was then very plentiful and the Indians were almost as numerous as the wild animals, but were always friendly. After settling on his farm Mr. Thompson applied himself closely to the work of its improvement and cultivation, and in time built up a fine estate, becoming the owner of 800 acres, which for the most part he has since divided among his children. He identified himself closely with aU local movements for the betterment of the community, and assisted in organizing the creamery and telephone company. He became a Free Mason as early as 1856 and now belongs to the lodge and chapter. In politics a Democrat, he took an active part in public affairs, served many times in school office, was county surveyor a number of years, town supervisor for about thirty years, county commissioner two terms, and a member of the legislature for two terms, in 1868-1872. Thus he was during a long period one of the active in shaping the history of the county, and in particular of his own township, and in his public functions he always showed dilligence and efficiency, with fidelity to local interests, his record being one that was approved by the majority of his fellow citizens, and may be regarded with justifiable pride by himself and family. Mr. Thompson was first married in 1856 to Angelina Sperry, who was born, either in New York or Pennsylvania. By her he had two children : Carrie, now the widow of John Wilson, and a resident of Aberdeen, S. D.; and Evangeline, now deceased, who was the wife of Ward Noyes of Minneapolis. In 1861 Mr. Thompson married Mary Darling, who was born near Lake Champlain, New York. Of this union seven children were born, three of whom are now deceased. Those living are : Margaret Augusta, wife of H. G. Cooley, a real estate dealer of Miami, Florida; Florence, wife of John J. Sliter of Houston; Edith B. and Porteous Isaac, who are residing at home with their father. Mr. Thompson died May 14, 1918, and Mrs. Thompson, Aug. 21, 1915.

Carl John Anderson-Nyberg, who is the owner of a farm of 120 acres in section 25, Houston township, which he is operating along general lines, raising crops and stock, was born in the northern part of Halland, Sweden, Aug. 15, 1865, son of Andrew Anderson and his wife, Anna Lena Olson, both natives of the same locality. The parents, who were farming people, died in their native land. Their son, Carl John, after receiving an average schooling, began work on farms at the age of eleven years, and continued in that line of occupation in his home district until 1880, when he came to Houston county, Minn. He arrived here unable to speak the English language but was given employment by Mr. Forsythe as a farm hand and worked in that capacity on several farms for three years. Then for two years he was engaged in mill work and later for the same length of time in a livery barn. Then he returned to farming, working a while for others, but later renting a farm which for five years he operated on his own account. At the end of that time he bought his present farm, which was then unimproved, the improvements now standing having been made by himself. The land consists of good fertile soil and its cultivation has yielded profitable results. Owing to the numerous Andersons in this vicinity the subject of this sketch has adopted the surname of Nyberg to avoid confusion, and by that name he is generally known. He is a member of the Free church at Houston and in politics is independent. He was married Feb. 22, 1886, to Inga Sophia OLson, who was bom in Sweden, daughter of Ole and Inga Olson. Her parents died in Sweden and she came to America in 1885. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson-Nyberg have a family of nine children : Emma, residing at home ; Arthur, a resident of Houston ; Bertha, who is a teacher at Spring Grove ; Ellen, who was teaching in Storer Valley and is now Mrs. Otto Benson of Canada; Minnie who is teaching near Rushford, and Lillie, Victor, Myrtle and Paul; who are residing at home. Arthur is a veteran of the Great War, having seen active service in France with Co. L, of the 257th Infantry. He did valliant service at the battles of St. Mihiel, Sept. 15, 1918, and at the battle of the Meuse, in the Argonne, Oct. 28, 1918. He was discharged April 8, 1919.

H. T. Halvorson, a well known and prosperous citizen of Yucatan township, proprietor of a farm of eighty acres, where he is engaged chiefly in raising cattle and cultivating tobacco, was born in Telemarken, Norway, April 9, 1851, son of Targe and Segrid (Lanvik) Halvorson. He acquired his first schooling in his native land, where he resided until he was about ten years old, accompanying his parents to Houston county in 1861. The farm or land on which they settled was in the southern part of Yucatan township, and his education was continued across the line in the township of Black Hammer. For thirteen years he lived with his parents on the farm, assisting his father in its development and cultivation, and then, on his marriage, he took his present farm, where he has since remained engaged in the occupation above mentioned. He has a well improved place and is in prosperous circumstances. For six years he served as treasurer and secretary of the Sheldon-Houston Telephone system, for fourteen years was assessor of Yucatan township, and for twenty-four years school clerk. In politics he is a Republican and in religion a Lutheran. Mr. Halvorson was married Jan. 1, 1878, to Guneild Germundson, who was born in Telemarken, Norway, Feb. 2, 1859, daughter of Jgermond Anundson and his wife Elsie Bjerguvson. Her parents came with their family to Houston county, Minn., in 1865, residing first in Caledonia and later in Yucatan township. Both are now deceased. Their daughter Guneild was the eldest of their three children. Mr. and Mrs. Halvorson have five children : John S., a farmer and miller in Yucatan township ; Theodore, a partner with his brother John; Edwin, a photographer residing at home; Sarah, wife of John C. Houser, a farmer of Sheldon township ; and Elsi^, wife of Ole Bjorgufson, also a farmer in this township.

Hans Hanson, for many years a substantial and respected farmer of this region, was bom in Norway and was there reared and married. In 1861 he set out with his family for the New World, and after landing at New York, made his way to La Salle county. 111., where he worked for a short time. From there he brought his family overland to Fillmore county, this State, where he labored as a farm hand. In 1863 he came to Houston county, and after being employed for a while by others, rented a farm in Mound Prairie township. He was thus successfully engaged for many years. Mr. Hanson died in 1891 and his wife in 1886, their latter years having been spent with their son, Henry, in Houston township. They were the parents of eight children, Ole, Hans, Anna, Helen, Julia, Henry, Halvor, and an unnamed child who died in infancy.

Henry Hanson is well known throughout the northern part of Houston county as a successful man of affairs. As a general farmer and stockbreeder he has won considerable success, as the owner of a flourishing mill he has contributed to the prosperity of his neighborhood, and as a prominent citizen he has done his share in town, school and church affairs, as well as in several farmers' organizations which have their center in Houston village. He was born in Tin, Norway, April 24, 1851, son of Hans and Margaret Hanson, who in 1861 brought him to La Salle county, 111., then to Fillmore county, this State, and then in 1863 to Houston county. After arriving here as a youth of twelve years he attended school in Money Creek township for a while, but in his spare time worked hard at farm work both for his parents and for others, and before long was forced to give up his schooling entirely. While working as a farm hand he carefully saved his money, and in 1873 was enabled to start his career on his own responsibility by purchasing 260 acres in Houston township, a wild tract of land which now constitutes a part of his well tilled farm of 608 acres. To the development of this farm Mr. Hanson has since devoted his attention. From time to time, as expediency has demanded and circumstances permitted, he has erected suitable farm buildings, the handsome residence which now adorns the place having been erected in 1913. The farm is valuable and is known as one of the best in the neighborhood. In addition to his other interests, Mr. Hanson owns a mill with a twenty-horsepower engine. The principal output of this mill is hardwood lumber for building purposes, though considerable grist is also ground as an accommodation to the people of the neighborhood in Houston and Winona counties. The Houston Creamery Co., the Home Telephone Co. and the Houston State Bank, all number him among their stockholders, and listen gladly to his advice. One of the school board, which he has faithfully served for fourteen years, his services have been of much value and have resulted in the district's making considerable progress along educational lines. All in all he is a useful citizen and is taking his part in every good move. Mr. Hanson married Gunda Olson, bom in Wisconsin, Sept. 19, 1863, daughter of Peter and Johanna Olson, and this union has been blessed with ten children, all of whom are living: Hannah lives at home ; Julia is the wife of Ludwig Sather of Winona county, Minn. ; Emma is the wife of Arthur Anderson a farmer of Houston county ; Edward assists his father ; Helen is the wife of Nels Johnson of Houston; Palma is the wife of James Hesselgrave of Dakota, Minn.; Alma is now Mrs. Andrew C. Johnson of Byron, Minn.; and Ella, Elvin and Arthur are at home. Peter Olson, a veteran of the Civil War, was born in Norway, married in Onalaska, La Crosse county, Wis. After coming to this country he lived for a while in Wisconsin and then settled on a farm near Hokah in this county. After his death, his widow came to live with Mr. and Mrs. Henry Hanson, where she still makes her home.

Thor O. Runingen, one of the prosperous farmers of Houston township, was born in Telemarken, Norway, the original home of many of the successful men of this region, on Jan. 20, 1860, son of Ole and Ingeborg Runingen. His parents were natives of the same district of Norway, the father born in 1830 and the mother in 1823. Coming to America with their family in 1865 they located in Crystal Valley, this county, but a year later homesteaded a farm in Houston township on which the father died in 1877 and the mother in 1899. Of their two children, Thor O. was the younger. In his boyhood he attended the school of his district and, after making himself useful on the home farm until the age of fifteen years, began working out, being thus occupied for seven or eight years. He then bought his present farm of eighty acres in section 1 south, Houston township, which he is conducting on a profitable basis, carrying on general farming. His place is well improved and he also owns a half interest in the old home farm. His nephew, Julius Runingen, resides with him and exercises supervision over the farm. Mr. Runingen is a member of the M. W. A. camp at Houston, also of the Lutheran church known locally as the "Stone church." In politics he is a Republican and for five years served efficiently on the board of education. He is a man who has earned the respect of his neighbors for his enterprising spirit and his good qualities as a citizen.

Aslak Olson, an early settler in Houston township who added to the agricultural wealth of the county by developing a good farm, was bom in Telemarken, Norway, Sept. 7, 1840, son of Ole and Guro (Thorson) Olson, who were natives of the same district. When he was a year old his father died, and at the age of ten death deprived him of his mother, and he with the four other children in the family came under the care of relatives. As they were not wealthy, his schooling was somewhat limited and he began to contribute to his own support soon after his mother's death, working wherever he could find employment. He continued as a wage earner in his native land until 1869, when realizing that his chances for selfadvancement in Norway were small, he followed the example of so many of his countrymen by seeking his fortune in the United States. Selecting Houston county, Minn., as the scene of his future exertions, he located in Crystal Valley, Houston township, but it was several years before he acquired land, and for about two years he was engaged in railroad work in the West. This enabled him to earn and lay by a little money, and in 1872 he bought land in section 36, Houston township, and began his career as an independent farmer. He cultivated 160 acres of land and was one of the first stockholders of the co-operative creamery company, becoming a prosperous and respected citizen of his township. In religion he was a Lutheran and took an active part in the work of his church. Politically he gave his allegiance to the Republican party. Mr. Olson was married July 14, 1872, to Anne Thorson, who was bom on a farm on Koshkonong Prairie, Dane county, Wis., daughter of John Thorson Lee and his wife Gro, whose family name was Ononsdater. Of their marriage ten children were bom, namely: Julia, wife of Edward Anderson of Houston; Gena, wife of William Peterson, a farmer residing in Looney Valley, and who has eight children ; Theodore, a farmer in Union township, who married Gena Jorgenson and has seven children; John, who resides on the home farm with his mother ; Marie, wife of Ole Peterson, a farmer at Bullock, S. D. ; Amanda, who is a first grade teacher in Houston township, now in her sixteenth term ; Emiel, a farmer of Mound Prairie township, who married Sophia Jorgenson and has one child ; Leander, who died in 1915 at the age of twenty-four years ; Nina and Clarence, who are residing at home. Mr. Olson died Aug. 27, 1915.

John Thorson Lee, one of the pioneer settlers in Crystal Valley, Houston township, now deceased, was born in Norway, where he grew to manhood and married Gro Ononsdater. Emigrating to the United States in 1848, they settled first in Dane county. Wis., whence in 1851 they came to Houston county, locating on a tract of wild land in Crystal Valley. There they founded a homestead, their first shelter being a wagon box in which they took up their quarters until Mr. Lee had time to erect a log house. The first crop they raised consisted of flint com and a few potatoes, and subsequently operations were conducted for a number of years with the aid of an ox team. Mr. Lee attained the great age of ninety-six years, dying in 1904. His wife passed away many years previously, in 1874. They were the parents of six children, of whom their daughter Anne, who married Aslak Olson, was the fifth in order of birth.

Knute O. Senness, a considerable land owner in Yucatan township, who is also connected with the Houston post office as rural route carrier on Route No. 3, was born in Telemarken, Norway, Nov. 12, 1856, son of Ole K. and Susie (Trontvet) Senness. The parents, also natives of Telemarken, emigrated to the United States with their family in 1860, and coming west to Houston county, Minn., located in Sheldon township. In 1862 they moved to Yucatan township, where they engaged in farming. The mother died a few years after arriving in this county, the father surviving her until 1894. Knute O. was the eldest in a family of seven children, of whom there is but one other now living. He attended school in Yucatan township and resided at home until attaining his majority. After that for three years he worked farms on shares. He then went to North Dakota, where he spent eighteen months, at the end of that time returning to Houston county and buying a farm in Yucatan township, which he operated until 1903. In that year he became rural mail carrier, which position he has since held, being now the oldest in point of service connected with the Houston office. In the same year that he began his postal service Mr. Senness rented land and began farming. Subsequently he made land purchases and now is the individual owner of 246 acres, besides being a partner with his son-inlaw of 377 acres, all in Yucatan township. His son-in-law operates a part of the land, the balance being rented out. In addition to this property Mr. Senness owns his home and three lots in Houston village. In politics a Republican, he served as school treasurer in Yucatan township, also as supervisor and chairman of the town board. He is a member of the Lutheran church. In December, 1878, Mr. Senness was united in marriage with Ragneheld Bugten, who was born in Telemarken, Norway, the second of the four children of Tarbean and Tarbjar (Midgard) Bugten, who were natives of the same part of Norway. Her parents with their family emigrated to FiDmore county, Minn., in 1860, crossing the line into Houston county in the following year. The father was drafted for military service in the Civil War and died in a war hospital in 1863. The mother reared her family and continued on the farm until 1903, when she came to Houston and took up her residence with her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Senness, at whose home she died Jan. 18, 1917. The latter are the parents of one child, Sophia, who married Severin Erickson, a farmer in section 22, Yucatan township, and who has two children, Melvin K. and Reuben E.

Targe Targerson, who at an early day established a farm in section 10, Houston township, but is now retired and residing in the village of Houston, was born in Norway and came to this country with his parents when thirteen years old. He was reared to manhood in Houston township and county, and developed the farm above mentioned, on which he resided until his retirement in 1909. He married Carrie Thompson, also a native of Norway, and they have been the parents of a family of eleven children, of whom their son Andrew is now operating the old home farm.

Andrew TargersoH, who is engaged in operating a good farm of 160 acres in sections 10 and 15, Houston township, was bom in this township, Oct. 16, 1883, son of Targe and Carrie (Thompson) Targerson. He was the fourth bom in a family of eleven children, and after leaming general farm work on his parents' homestead,. he worked out at intervals until his marriage. He then settled on the home farm, on which he has since continued to reside, having equipped it with modem buildings and made other improvements. He is carrying on general farming successfully, and in these days of increased demand for all agricultural products, finds a ready market and good prices for all he can raise, whether of grain, hay or stock. He is also a shareholder in the Houston Creamery and Telephone Company. He is independent in politics and is a member of the Lutheran church. Mr. Targerson was married December 16, 1908, to Martine Nelson, who was bom in Houston township June 24, 1888, daughter of Martin and Thea Nelson, and who was educated in this township. Her parents were both born in Norway, the father coming to Houston county, Minn., when a young man of twenty years, and locating on a farm west of Houston. Later he moved to Glenbum, N. D., where he is still leading an active life. He and his wife had a large family of children, of whom their daughter Martine was the third in order of birth.

Sven T. Halvorson, for many years one of the thriving farmers of Yucatan township, residing in section 12, 'was a man who has won success in spite of a severe physical handicap, and was an example of the value of self help and courageous determination. His memory will long be cherished by those who knew his sterling worth. Like many of the successful men throughout this region, he was born in Telemarken, Norway, the date of his birth being Feb. 29, 1854, and his parents Targe and Segrid Andreas Halvorson. It was with his parents that he came to the United States, a boy of seven years, in 1861, when this country was in all the turmoil and excitement of the Civil War, then recently begun. The Halvorson family, however, headed directly for Houston county, Minn., far away from the sound of the gruns, and into what was then a wilderness, settling on a tract of wild land in Yucatan township. Here young Sven grew up, ono of a family of five children, of whom he was the second in order of birth, fhe family homestead was in the southern part of the township and he attended school for a while in the adjacent township of Black Hammer. His industrial training was thorough, and until the age of twenty-one he was his father's assistant in the development of the home farm, the management of which subsequently came into his hands. When his father died he purchased the farm and has since remained on it, making improvements and carrying on general farming, in addition to which, during his last few years he engaged in the raising of tobacco. He had ninety-one acres of fertile land and his operations were conducted on a profitable basis. Mr. Halvorson made much progress in life in spite of a severe discouragement which came to him when he was about eighteen years of age. He was caught in a severe blizzard away from home, being out nearly all night, and had both hands so badly frozen that they had to be amputated above the knuckles. It is, therefore, the more to his credit that he achieved success and has held his own with men who suffered no such handicap. For a number of years he served as a member of the school board, in politics being a Republican. He was a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church. He died Dec. 9, 1918, and his loss is sincerely mourned.

C. J. Swenson, who is engaged in the mercantile business in the village of Houston, was bom in the province of Halland, Sweden, Nov. 12, 1869, son of S. A. and Olena (Larson) Swenson, and emigrated to America with his parents at the age of twelve. He acquired his preliminary education in the Houston school, after which he took a business course at Red Wing, Minn., later attending the Normal school at Winona. For a while he taught school in Houston county, beginning when eighteen years old and continuing in that occupation until he was twenty-two. He then entered the employ of Cass Gilbert, architect of the new State Capitol, and subsequently that of Griggs, Cooper & Co., wholesale grocers of St. Paul, Minn., as a stenographer. In 1897 he started in the mercantile business in Houston, which by honesty and square dealing he has built up from a small beginning to one of the leading mercantile establishments in the village. Three years ago he admitted two of his clerks into partnership with him, the style of the new firm being the C. J. Swenson Co. They carry a complete stock of goods, suitable to the requirements of their customers, and are doing a thriving business. Mr. Swenson has for many years been a member of the Board of Education of the Houston High School, is a director of the Houston County Agricultural Society, and vice president and a director in the Houston State Bank. During the late war he served the government as secretary of the local war finance committee, had charge of the Liberty Loan drives in his village, and was a member of the County Legal Advisory Board. Mr. Swenson married Minnie Anderson, who was bom in this county and educated in the local schools. Her parents, Andrew and Louisa Anderson, were farmers and among the first settlers of this section of the county experiencing all thp hardships and inconveniences of pioneer life. The father was a soldier in the Civil War. He died in the year 1881, aged forty-five years. The mother lived until the year 1918, attaining to the age of nearly eighty-two. Mr. and Mrs. Swenson have one child, Edla, who was graduated from the Houston High School, and the Northwestern Bible and Missionary Training School at Minneapolis.

S. A. Swenson, who is now living retired in the village of Houston, was bom in Halland, Sweden, May 19, 1841. There he grew up and was married to Ciena Carlson, a native of the same place and bom June 25th the same year. In 1881 they came to the United States, settling in Houston, this county, Mr. Swenson finding work on the railroad. Later he engaged in fanning, in which occupation he continued until his retirement. On October 27, 1917, he and his wife celebrated their golden wedding anniversary. In spite of their advanced years both are in the enjoyment of good health. They were parents of six children, Charles J., Carrie, Eflfie, Ellen, Hannah and Alfred.

John Traff, who is residing on a farm in Houston township, after a long career of agricultural activity, was bom in Sweden, May 5, 1837. He grew up in his native land and was there married to Inga Jacobson. In 1871 he came to Houston county, Minn., his wife and family joining him in the following year. After working out for a year or two he settled on a farm in Looney Valley, where he engaged in agriculture on his own account. Subsequently he removed to another farm, and later made another removal, to the farm on which he is now living, and which is now the property of his son, Oscar L. His wife, who was born in Sweden, Feb. 14, 1828, died in February, 1913. They were the parents of a family of five children: Alfred, Charles, Christine, Gideon and Oscar L.

Oscar L. Traff, an enterprising farmer who now owns and operates the old Traff homestead in section 15, Houston township, was bom in Sweden, April 20, 1870, son of John and Inga (Jacobson) Traff. He was the youngest of their five children, and was but two years old when he came with his mother to Houston county, Minn., the father having arrived here the year before. He was educated in district schools in this township, and as a boy began to assist his father on the home farm, also occasionally working for other farmers. After reaching the age of nineteen years he worked out for others continuously for a while, then returned home and worked with his father again until he was twenty-two, and afterwards again for others for about two years. He then gave up agriculture for the time and for the next nine years was employed as a stone mason. On his marriage in 1903 he settled on the parental homestead, which he had purchased in the previous year and which he has since operated as a general farmer. It contains 120 acres and he has made extensive improvements which have converted the place into a fine modem farm.. He is a member of the Shipping Association. His reUgious aflSliations are with the Norwegian Lutheran church, of which he is a member and trustee, and in politics he is a Republican. Mr. Traff was married May 6, 1903, to Elizabeth Germanson, who was bom in Money Creek township, daughter of Ole and Anna (Benson) Germanson. The parents, natives of Norway, were married in Houston county, and began farming at an early date in Money Creek

Thomas Rowland, who was for a number of years one of the leading business men of Houston, the founder of a successful hardware, furniture and undertaking establishment, was bom in County Mayo, Ireland, in March, 1849. In 1872, at the age of twenty-three years, he came to the United States, locating immediately in Houston county, Minn. For a while he was engaged in railroad work, but later, about 1888, entered into the hardware and furniture business, to which he added undertaking, and was proprietor of the establishment above mentioned until his retirement in 1915. He was also at times interested in other enterprises, being always ready to lend a hand in any project for the benefit of the community in which he lived. Among his various activities he assisted in organizing the Houston State Bank, of which he was one of the first directors and later vice-president, and he is still a director in the bank, though at present residing at Long Beach, Cahfornia. While living in Houston he served for much of the time as a member of the village board. Mr. Rowland married Jennie McConville, who was bom at Cedarburg, Wis., Aug. 10, 1852. He and his wife had four children, Emmett, Arthur T., Sylvester and Rose May. Emmett is now deceased. Arthur A. and Sylvester are partners in carrying on the business established by their father. Rose May is the wife of Dr. J. A. Bergan, a practicing physician and surgeon of Long Beach, Calif., and has one child, Rachel May.

Arthur T. Rowland, who in partnership with his brother Sylvester is proprietor of an up-to-date hardware, fumiture and undertaking establishment in Houston, was bom in this village, March 4, 1880, son of Thomas and Jennie (McGonville) Rowland. After graduating from the Houston schools he attended business college for one year at La Crosse, and then going to Chicago, spent one winter at an embalming school, where he learned the scientific part of the undertaking business. Even when a young lad he had begun to make himself useful in his father's store, and finally, in April, 1915, when his father was ready to retire, he and his brother Sylvester took over the business, which they have since conducted along the same general lines, keeping a large and up-to-date stock in each department, and rendering a high grade of personal service. Arthur T. Rowland is also a director in the Security State Bank of Houston. He was married Nov. 25, 1915, to Sarah Blekum, who was born in Sheldon township, this county, daughter of Knudt and Tone Blekum. Her parents were natives of Norway, the father, a farmer by occupation, being an early settler in Houston county. Both are now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. T. Rowland have two children, Ruth and Robert, who are twins.

John Campbell, the first settler in Money Creek Valley, an early miller and farmer, was born in Scotland, Jan. 1, 1827, and settled in Houston county, Minn., in the fall of 1852, after a previous residence in West Salem, Wis. In the following year he built a feed and flouring mill, which he operated for nine years, or until 1862, when he sold the mill and business and engaged in farming. In the latter occupation he continued on the same farm for over forty-five years, in 1908 retiring from active work and taking up his residence in the village of Houston. He was formerly active in church and school work and at various times served in local office. Mr. Campbell married Elizabeth Hemstock, who was born in England, Aug. 12, 1829. They have been the parents of nine children, seven of whom were bom in Money Creek township, this county. The record in brief is as follows: One who died in infancy; Edward G., now living retired in Houston ; Hattie, deceased ; James, who is engaged in the machinery business in La Crosse; Belle, who is the widow of H. B. Keeler and resides in Montana ; William, engaged in the newspaper business in Milwaukee ; Benjamin, proprietor of a business college in Jackson, Mich.; and Lucy, who resides in Houston with her brother. All attended school in Houston county and Lucy was formerly a teacher.

Edward 6. Campbell^ an esteemed resident of Houston Village, to which place he came in June, 1909, after retiring from agricultural pur$5uits, was bom near Portage, Wis., Aug. 22, 1850, son of John and Elizabeth (Hemstock) Campbell. He was but two years old when his parents settled in Houston county, Minn., the father engaging in the milling business in Money Creek township. There he was reared to manhood and attended school At the age of ten years he began working on his parents' farm, his father having given up the mill, and he subsequently continued on the home farm engaged in agriculture until his retirement in 1909. He is now enjoying the fruits of his former industry, his sister, Lucy, residing with him. In 1908 he sold his real estate holdings. He has been a stockholder in the Security State Bank since its organization, and is a charter member of the Masonic lodge at Money Creek. In politics he is an independent Democrat.

Even Halvorson, who for some thirty-eight years was engaged in agricultural improvements in Houston township, was bom in Telemarken, Norway, where he grew to manhood and was married. In 1877, with his wife Anna and several children, he emigrated to Houston county, Minn., and securing land in Houston township, began his career as an independent farmer. His early operations were conducted under the difficulties incidental to almost pioneer conditions of life, but he persevered and made progress until he finally succeeded in developing a good farm, on which he died Nov. 11, 1915. His wife is still residing on the homestead. Besides the children who accompanied them from Norway, others were bom to them until they had in all a family of seven.

Halvor H. Egland, a respected citizen of Houston township, operating as a general farmer 180 acres of land in section 2, was born in Telemarken, Norway, April 15, 1876, son of Even and Anna Halvorson. He was the third bom of his parents' seven children and was but an infant of about one year when he arrived with the family in Houston county. As he grew older he attended district school in Houston township and gained his first industrial experience on the home farm. Later he learned the stone mason's trade, which, with other occupations, he followed until his marriage. He then took a small farm in Money Creek township which he operated for a while, subsequently residing for two years in Houston Village, where he was engaged in mason work. At the end of that period he es- tablished himself on his present farm of 180 acres in section 2, Houston township, where he is successfully carrying on general farming. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church, and in politics is a Republican. Mr. Egland was married May 23, 1906, to Inga Hegge, who was born in Storer Valley, Mound Prairie township, daughter of Henry and Marie (Hanson) Hegge, both natives of Norway, who were married in Houston county, Minn. They resided in Houston township west of Mr. Egland's farm for some years, but later settled in Storer Valley, where they are still living. Their daughter Inga (Mrs. Egland) was the third bom of their four children. Mr. and Mrs. Egland have five children : Renelia M., Avis F., Melda H., HoUis I., Lyle K.

Abraham Anderson, one of the pioneer settlers in Swede Bottom, Houston township, was bom in Sweden, Jan. 5, 1820. In the fall of 1853 he came to Houston county, Minn., settling on a farm in the above mentioned location, and spending his first winter in a tent. Two years later he bought the land which he afterwards developed into a farm, residing on it until his death on Dec. 10, 1893. He was twice married, having three children by his first wife. In Houston county he married his second wife, Catherine Anderson, who was bom in Sweden, May 21, 1821. By her he had four children. After his death she went to Iowa to make her home with a daughter, dying there in March, 1901. Her remains were brought back to Houston and buried beside those of her husband.

Frank O. Abrahamson, who is now living practically retired on a farm of sixty acres in section 4 south, Houston township, was bom in this township Oct. 17, 1860, son of Abraham Anderson and his wife Catherine Anderson, who were among the early Swedish settlers in the township. Here he attended district school and was brought up to farm occupations in which he gradually became expert. Until the age of twenty-five he resided at home and then bought land and engaged in farming on his own account, first locating in Sheldon township, just south of the "Stone Church," where he resided for five years. At the end of that time he bought the farm on which he now lives, and which originally contained 197 acres. It lies adjacent to the village limits of Houston and is well provided with modern buildings. Owing to his practical retirement from active work, Mr. Abrahamson has disposed of all but sixty acres of the land. He has had a successful career as an agriculturist, and for many years has been one of the leading citizens of Houston township, which he served formerly as supervisor, and also as assessor for six or seven terms, as well as being a member of the school board of his district. In politics he is a Prohibitionist. Mr. Abrahamson was married in October, 1885, to Sarah F. Johnson, who was bom in the village of Houston, this county, daughter of Christian and Louise (Redding) Johnson. She was the fifth bom in a family of seven children, and was educated and taught school for a number of years in Houston county. Mr. and Mrs. Abrahamson have had four children : Renald Kenneth, who died at the age of seven years ; Frances, wife of Emil Anderson, a farmer of Sheldon township; Louise Catherine, a graduate of the University of Minnesota in the class of 1913, who is now a teacher in the high school at Kenyon, Minn.; and Paul Kenneth, who is now in his fourth year as a law student in the University of Minnesota. Mrs. Abrahamson passed away Jan. 2, 1918, at a hospital in Rochester. Christian Johnson, father of Mrs. Abrahamson, and his wife, Louise (Redding) Johnson, were both born in Sweden and came to the United States in 1853 or 1854, residing for one year at La Crosse, Wis. They then came to Houston, Mr. Johnson becoming a land owner and farmer in this vicinity. He and his wife both died in the year 191i; Mr. Johnson in February, and his wife on Christmas Day. They were among the worthy pioneer settlers of this county, most of whom have now passed away.

Obert A. Johnson, who for a number of years up to the time of his death on Jan. 12, 1913, was a prominent and well to do citizen of the village of Houston, was born in Houston, Sept. 29, 1876, son of Andrew P. and Olena Johnson, the father being a native of Sweden and the mother of Norway. Andrew P. Johnson and wife were among the earliest settlers of this county, Mr. Johnson at one time owning a large amount of property in Houston where he engaged in mercantile business. Both he and his wife are now deceased. Obert A., who was the third bom of their ten children, acquired his elementary education in Houston, and afterwards attended St. Olaf at Northfield, Minn. When sixteen years old he relinquished his studies to take charge of his father's store in Houston, and was thus engaged until his marriage at the age of twenty-one, when because of poor health he sold out the store and bought a farm in Sheldon township. He retained his residence in Houston, however, renting his land and engaging in stock buying and other light occupations. Later he purchased more land and at the time of his death owned two farms, one in Sheldon and one in Houston township. He was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran church, and of the Modem Woodmen of America, and in politics was a Republican. As a citizen he was prompt to fulfill his dilties, and was a man of progressive spirit interested in the development of the community in which his lot was cast, and of which he was a worthy and respected member. Mr. Johnson was married Feb. 16, 1900, to Nellie Benson, who was bom in Sweden, daughter of John and Johanna (Samuelson) Benson. Of this union five children were born : Henry Andrews, Georgia Alvena, AUie Percival, John Arnold, and one other who died in infancy. Since her husband's death Mrs. Johnson has sold the farm in Houston township, but retains the one in Sheldon township. She also owns three residence properties in Houston, which she rents to others, a part of her time Being devoted to caring for her real estate interests. She is a member of St. Peter's Ladies' Aid Society and is an active worker in every good cause.

John Behson, who is engaged in farming on Union Ridge, near Caledonia, was bom in Sweden, where he married Johanna Samuelson. They came to America in the month of June, in or about the year 1871 and settled on a farm in Swede Bottom, near Houston, this county, where they remained until 1901. They then moved to their present location on Union Ridge, where Mr. Benson has since continued in agricultural work. In the family are six children : Effie, who is keeping house for her father and brother on the farm ; Anna, wife of Hans Anderson, residing at Whalen,

Minn.; Nellie, the widow of Obert A. Johnson of Houston; Charles, who is residing at home and assisting his father ; William, who is married and farming on his own account on Caledonia Ridge ; and AUie, who died at the age of seventeen. Mrs. Benson died Feb. 26, 1918.

Julius N. Anderson, a prominent and well to do farmer of Houston township, residing in section 35, was born on the farm on which he now lives, March 7, 1875, son of Nels and Hannah (Anderson) Anderson. He was reared on his parents' farm, and acquired his education in the district school and the Houston high school, attending the latter for two terms. At the age of twenty-one years he took over the management of the home farm and has since operated it. He has made important improvements which have much increased the value of the property, which is now one of the best farms in the locality, having an area of 276 acres where he is extensively engaged in stock raising, making a specialty of cattle and swine for the market. He is a director and president of the local creamery company, holding stock both in that and in the elevator company. An independent Republican in politics, he served for a number of years as a member of the town board.

Nels Anderson, one of the pioneer settlers on Swede Bottom, Houston township, was born in Halland, Sweden, where he grew to manhood and was married to Hannah Anderson. About 1856, or possibly a year earlier, he emigrated to the United States, and on arriving in this country, settled first at Batavia, lU. There, however, he remained for but one year, at the end of that time coming to Houston county, Minn., and becoming one of the original settlers on Swede Bottom, where he secured land and in time developed a farm of 276 acres. He attained an advanced age, dying here on May 17, 1917. His wife is still living and resides on the old homestead with her son Julius N., who was the youngest of their three children, and the only son, the other two children being Anna and Hulda. Anna, who is unmarried, was formerly foreign buyer for Carson, Pirie, Scott & Ca^ one of the largest business houses in Chicago, and is now proprietress of a Ladies' tailoring establishment on Wabash avenue in that city doing a large business and giving employment to sixty people. Hulda is the wife of Eli Core, holding an excellent position as bookkeeper with one of the large firms at the Union Stock Yards, Chicago.

Patrick Burke, who half a century ago settled in section 18, Yucatan township, his land lying on the line between Houston and Fillmore counties, was bom in Ireland March 16, 1841. When a boy his parents, with their family, emigrated to Canada, where he was reared and resided until he was a young man. Then coming to the States, he worked as a lumberman in the woods of Michigan and Wisconsin, finally coming to Houston county, Minn., and settling on the farm above mentioned, which in course of time he developed and improved, residing on it until 1908, when he retired and took up his residence in Rushford, Fillmore county. Mr. Burke married Margaret Maloney, who was born in Peterboro, Ontario, Feb. 20, 1851, and by whom he has had eight children. He and his wife are members of the Catholic church.

William Burke, who is operating a good farm of 220 acres lying partly in section 18, Yucatan township, and partly in Fillmore county, was born on this farm, Feb. 28, 1882, son of Patrick and Margaret (Maloney) Burke. He was the fourth bom of his parents* eight children and in his boyhood attended school in district 18, Yucatan township. Brought up on the home farm, he acquired a practical knowledge of agriculture in its different branches, and on arriving at the age of eighteen years began working out on farms, being also occasionally employed in other occupations. After his marriage he worked four months in Iowa, and at the end of that time took up his present work on the old Burke homestead, where, besides raising the usual crops of this region, he is breeding up in Durham cattle and Duroc- Jersey hogs. His operations are being conducted on a profitable basis, and each year finds him in a more prosperous condition. He belongs to Camp No. 232, M. W. A., at Rushford, and is a member of the Catholic church at that place. In politics he is independent. On Jan. 15, 1915, Mr. Burke was united in marriage with Matilda Lee, who was bom in Norway, daughter of John and Carrie (Hermanson) Lee. Her parents, natives of Christiania, Norway, never came to this country and are both now deceased. She, herself, came to the United States in 1911 and at the time could speak no English, though now she has a fluent command of the language. Mr. and Mrs. Burke are the parents of two children, Vincent Joseph and Lucile Margaret.

James Kelly, one of the pioneer settlers of Yucatan township, now deceased, was a native of Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, and came to the United States in 1849, first settling in Boston, Mass., where he followed the carpenter's trade. There in 1852 he married Charlotte Carson, who was bom in the same Scotch county as himself, and two years after their marriage, in 1854, they came west to Houston county, Minn., taking 240 acres of land in Yucatan township, on which Mr. Kelly started improvements. It was, of course, at that date, in a wild condition, and after a short residence on it, Mr. Kelly, perhaps owing to lack of sufficient means^ left it for a while, and going to Chatfield followed his trade there for about three years. At the end of that time he retumed to the farm and resumed work on it, making steady improvements for a number of years until he had converted it into a good piece of agricultural property, with adequate buildings, fences and farm equipment, a considerable portion of the land being under cultivation. There he continued to reside until his death on March 28, 1890. He was for a number of years one of the leading citizens of the township, at various times holding town office, and for a while serving as county commissioner. His wife died but six days before him, on March 22nd the same year. They had one child, James C.

James C. Kelly, farmer and banker, and one of the leading citizens of Houston, is a man well known throughout the county for his large agricultural and financial interests, and also for his former services as representative from his district in both branches of the State Legislature. He was bora at Chatfield, Minn., Oct. 28, 1857, son of James and Charlotte (Carson) Kelly, who, not long after his birth, retumed to a farm on which they had previously settled in Yupatan township, and on which the greater part of his own life has been spent. After attending the district school he became a pupil at St. John's College, Stearns county, thus receiving a better education than fell to the lot of the average farmer's boy in early days. His industrial education was equally well taken care of, as, being his parents' only son and child, h^naturally became his father's most dependable assistant on the home farm, the management of which was turned over to him when he had reached the age of eighteen years. In time he became the owner of the property and developed it into a fine modern farm of 720 acres, operating it personally until 1915. In 1902 he entered a new field of business activity, becoming connected as a director with the institution then known as the Citizens' State Bank of Houston. This later became merged with the Farmer's & Merchant's Bank, and in 1909 the name was changed to the Houston State Bank, since which time Mr. Kelly has served in the office of president. In 1915 he took up his residence in the village of Houston, but still devotes much of his time to the superintendence of his farm and his landed interests. He is also secretary of the Mound Prairie Farmer's Mutual Insurance Company. In politics a Democrat, Mr. Kelly has on several occasions taken an active and prominent part in public affairs, being a member of the State Legislature in 1889, and of the Senate in 1891 and 1893- In religion he is a Catholic, his fraternal society affiliations being with the Knights of Columbus. On Jan. 12, 1886, James C. Kelly was united in marriage with Ellen J. Kelly, who was bom in Boston, Mass., daughter of John and Mary (Conley) Kelly. Her parents were natives of Ireland, the father being a farmer by occupation. They came to Minnesota in 1855, settling in Black Hammer township, this county, where they spent the rest of their lives. Their daughter, Ellen J., who was the eldest of their eight children, was educated in the district schools of this county. Mr. and Mrs. Kelly are the parents of five children: Francis M. Kelly, D.D., a priest now stationed in Winona, Minn. ; Arthur J., a dentist of Buffalo, Minn., who married Dianah M. Hill of Minneapolis; and Charlotte I., Joseph J. and Mary V., who are residing at home.

Theodore Thorson, who owns and operates the old Thorson farm of 196 acres in section 12, Yucatan township, was born on this farm. May 17, 1887, son of Ole and Bertha (Hermanson) Thorson. He was the sixth member of a family of seven children, and his education was acquired partly in district school No. 103, on Oak Ridge, this township, and partly in a district school in Allamakee county, Iowa. He was nineteen years old when the management of the home farm came into his hands and he operated it under rental until 1916, when it became his through purchase. The 196 acres of good land which it contains are supplemented by adequate buildings, fences, and other equipment, making it a desirable piece of property. He is engaged largely in breeding Hereford cattle, Poland-China hogs, and a good grade of horses, and is meeting with much success in his operations, being one of the most energetic and prosperous young farmers in the township. He is a member of the Lutheran church and in politics is a Republican. Mr. Thorson was married Oct. 27, 1909, to Bertha Karlsbatten, who was bom in Black Hammer township, Houston county, daughter of Throls and Gunild Karlsbatten. Her parents, natives of Hollingdahl,

Norway, were early settlers in Houston county, and are still residing in Black Hammer township actively engaged in farm work. Their daughter Bertha was the fourth born of their seven children. Mr. and Mrs. Thorson have four children, Tenart Odine, Berdine Gerhardt, Ole Arnold and Gladys Benora.

Ole Thorson, the founder of a good farm in section 12, Yucatan township, which is now operated by his son Theodore, was bom in Telemarken, Norway, and was a young man when he emigrated to Houston county and settled on the land which now constitutes the farm above mentioned, but which was then wild. His subsequent career for a number of years, therefore, was that of a pioneer, and was marked by unremitting industry and hard labor until he had succeeeded in bringing his place into a civilized condition. For many years he continued his improvements, increasing gradually in prosperity until he found himself in comfortable circumstances. His death occurred in 1901. His wife, whose maiden name was Bertha Hermanson, and who was a native of Veck, Norway, is now residing with her children in Yucatan township, Houston county.

Carl Olson, who is now living retired in the village of Sheldon, after a life of agricultural activity, was born in Christiana, Norway, and came to the United States when a young man, locating in Minnesota. After the breaking out of the Civil War he enlisted in a Minnesota regiment and served one year and nine months without suffering any casualties, though he returned in ill health. Settling in Fillmore county, he was there married to Gertrude Stegensjord, a native of Telemarken, Norway, and they took a farm in Yucatan township, Houston county, where they resided for a number of years. Then moving to North Dakota, they were engaged in farming there for three years, at the end of which time they returned to Houston county. Here Mrs. Olson died in August, 1903. Mr. and Mrs. Olson were the parents of seven children.

Olaus C. Olson, a prosperous farmer residing in section 9, Yucatan township, was bom in this township, March 18, 1870, son of Carl and Gertrude (Stegensjord) Olson. He worked on his parents' farm until arriving at the age of twenty-four years, when he was united in marriage, on Dec. 13, 1893, with Julia Evenson, a daughter of Christof and Birget (Anderson) Evenson pioneers of Sheldon township, this county. At the time of his marriage his cash capital consisted of fifty cents, but his father gave him a cow, and he found work on a farm in Yucatan township, where he remained for a year. He then started in for himself, renting a farm in Black Hammer township, which he operated for a number of years. After that he farmed for five years in Sheldon township. Then removing to Fillmore county he operated a farm there for four years. During all this period he worked hard and made a steady advance in prosperity. From FiUmore county he returned to Yucatan township, Houston county, and purchased his present farm of 120 acres in section 9, where he is carrying on general farming with profitable results. He has made practically all the improvements on the farm, one of the most recent being his neat and comfortable residence, erected in 1916. Thus, through industry and perseverence he has risen in the last twenty-five years from the condition of an almost penniless youth to that of a man of substance and influence in his community - ^an example well worth emulating by the younger generation. He and his wife have a family of eleven children : Belle, wife of Andrew Rasmussen, a farmer of Fillmore county ; Georgia, wife of Helmer Ekern, a farmer in Yucatan township ; Clarence, Clarice, Bernice, Orvin, Minor, Gladys, Raymond, Norman and Ronald.

Aslak A. Myran, who is prominently identified with the agricultural interests of Yucatan township, as proprietor of a farm of 438 acres in section 34 north, was bom in Telemarken, Norway, Sept. 11, 1864, son of Aslak and Gunhild (Haarsom) Myran (Loudahl) . The parents, who were natives of the same part af Norway, the father being a farmer, are both now deceased. Aslak A«, who was the youngest of their seven children, attended school in his native land, and at the age of sixteen years began working out. He was twenty years old when he emigrated and settled in Houston county, Minn. For three years he lived in Badger Valley, Sheldon township, and worked for others. After that he spent a year at Moorhead, Minn. He then returned home and married and began farming on his own account in Badger Valley, Sheldon township, remaining there nine years. The next nine years of his life were spent in Crystal Valley, Houston township, after which he came to his present farm. Here he has made aU the improvements, which are modem and substantial, and, the land being rich and fertile, his estate is one of the most valuable for agricultural purposes in the township. He raises both crops and stock, giving particular attention to the breeding of Hereford cattle, and is also a shareholder in the telephone and creamery companies and other local enterprises. From the condition of a green Norwegian boy unable to speak English, he has risen in the last thirty-four years, through industry and ability, to that of a weU to do and respected citizen, with a fluent command of the language of his adopted country, and permeated with modem ideas of advancement. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church known as the "Stone Church," and in politics is a Republican. Mr. Myran was married in June, 1890, to Hattie Nearsen, who was bom near Madison, Wis., daughter of Ole and Anna Nearsen, who were early settlers in Badger Valley, Sheldon township. Of this union three children have been bom: Anna, wife of John Johnson, a farmer of Adams county, Minn., and Alfred and Gena, who are both residing on the home farm.

Die Kittelson, who was formerly for a number of years engaged in agriculture in Mound Prairie township, and later in Houston township, but is now deceased, was born in Norway, March 29, 1861, son of Kittel Ushard and his wife Jennie, whose family name was Boundl. The fourth bom in a family of five children, in 1869 he accompanied his parents to Houston county, Minn., they settling* in Union Valley, near Caledonia, where they made their permanent home. Both father and mother are now deceased. Young Ole was educated in the district school and resided at home until about twenty-two years of age, when he went to Granville, N. D., where he worked for others. He also worked out for a while at Moorehead, Minn. During this period, which lasted for some years, or until his marriage, it was his custom to return home to spend the winters. After his marriage he bought land at Mound Prairie, where he engaged in farming on his own account, later removing from that location to a farm west of Houston. In 1911 he retired and took up his residence in Houston, being then in poor health. The change gave him rest, but there was no permanent recovery, and he passed away Oct. 13, 1913. Previous to his death he had sold his farm lands, but left to his wife the comfortable residence in Houston which is her present home. Mr. Kittelson was a consistent member of the Lutheran church, and a man of sterling character. At various times he held town office and was independent in politics. On Dec. 23, 1890, Ole Kittelson was united in marriage with Olena Olson, who was bom in Sheldon township, Houston county, Minn., daughter of Ole and Guneil (Olson) Olson. Of this union four children were born: Jeanette, who graduated from a business college in La Crosse, and is now a bookkeeper in Dayton, Minn. ; Ida, who is a teacher at Brooten, Minn. ; Clara, a graduate of the Winona Normal School, and now teaching at Lake Crystal; and Gladys, who is attending schol in Houston. Ole Olson and his wife Guneil were both natives of Telemarken, Norway, Mrs. Olson being born June 16, 1835. They were of nearly the same age and came to this country and county about the year 1860, a relation of theirs, Knud Olson, being one of the first settlers on Mound Prairie. Ole Olson engaged in farming there, but later moved to near Bode, in Humboldt county, Iowa, where he became an extensive land owner and where he died Oct. 14, 1905. His wife, now eighty-four years old, resides with her daughter, Mrs. Kittelson, who was her only child.

W. Roy Anderson, a prosperous general farmer operating 235 acres of valuable land in section 4 south, Houston township, was bom in this township, Dec. 23, 1890, son of John F. and Ellen (Benson) Anderson. John F. Anderson, also a native of Houston county, still owns a farm of 280 acres in Houston township, but he and his wife now life in Houston Village. W. Roy Anderson was educated in the schools of Sheldon township and resided on his parents' farm until a short time after his marriage. He then moved to his present farm, where he is doing a successful business raising both crops and stock, his chief specialty being the breeding of Duroc-Jersey swine. Active and enterprising, he gives his whole attention to the farm, which is well improved and provided with substantial buildings. In politics he is a Prohibitionist. On Sept. 24, 1913, Mr. Anderson was united in marriage with Helen Abrahamson, who was bom on this farm, the youngest of the five children of Aaron and Hilda (Johnson) Abrahamson, and who was educated in Houston. Her father died when she was a year old and her mother is now the wife of Lawrence Weom, a farmer of Sheldon township. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have one child. Warren Ronald, bom July 31, 1914.

Andrew Britson, one of the pioneer settlers in Looney Valley, Houston Township, was born in Ringsager, near Christiania, Norway. He was twenty-two years old when he came to America and located in La Crosse Valley, La Crosse county. Wis. After a residence there of a year or two he removed to Looney Valley, Houston township, this county, where he settled on a farm, and continued in agricultural pursuits until his death in

1907. Mr. Britson married Bessie Johnson, a native of Telemarken, Norway, their marriage taking place in Houston county. She died some years before her husband. They were the parents of four children, Liena, Albert T, Gustaf and Carolina.

Albert T. Britson, a well to do farmer, operating 200 acres of land in section 3, Houston township, was born in Houston county, Nov. 25, 1858, son of Andrew and Bessie (Johnson) Britson. He attended school in Houston township and until the age of 23 years resided on the parental homestead. He then engaged in farming on his own account, also operating a threshing machine - ^a branch of farm industry in which he has now been engaged for forty years. On his marriage in 1886 he settled on his present farm of 200 acres, a well improved piece of property, on which he is raising both stock and grain with good financial results, and continues in the business of threshing at the appropriate season. He is a member of the Lutheran church and in politics is a Republican. Mr. Britson was married in May, 1886, to Christina Traff, daughter of John and Inga (Jacobson) Traff, who settled in Looney Valley, Houston township in the early seventies. Eleven children have been born to them, namely : Nettie, now deceased; Elmer, who is a contractor for concrete work, residing at Warwick, N. D. ; Arthur and Ida, residing at home ; Cora, wife of Jacob Palmer of Foreston, Minn.; Elvena, Emma, Delia, Melvin and Leonard, who are residing at home; and Nettie (second), the fourth born child, who died at the age of two and a half years.

Knute Onsgard, for many years a prominent farmer and highly esteemed citizen of Spring Grove township, was bom in Norway and came to Minnesota in 1861, locating in Spring Grove, where for a number of years he led the life of a pioneer farmer, working hard and having few comforts. His condition bettered, however, with the development of his farm, and he finally became prosperous. He rendered useful service on the school board of his district and helped to build the Lutheran church in his vicinity, of which he and his family were members. He died in 1902 at the age of seventy-four years. His wife, whose maiden name was Birget Larson, survived him some eight years, passing away in 1916 at the age of eighty-seven.

Louis K. Onsgard, M.D., who for the last twenty-seven years has been successfully engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery in Houston, was bom in Spring Grove, Houston county, Minn., Jan. 1, 1866, son of Knut and Birget (Larson) Onsgard. He was reared on his parents' farm and educated in the district school. Having made up his mind to enter the medical profession, he pursued his studies at the Eclectic Medical College, at Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was graduated in 1887. Beginning practice at Harmony, Fillmore county, Minn., he remained there five years, coming to Houston in May, 1892. Here, being thoroughly qualified both as a physician and surgeon, his practice has steadily increased and he has won an enviable reputation in his profession. In addition to his general practice, he is local physician for the C. M. & St. P. Railway. He is a member of the Houston-Filhnore Medical Society, which he has served as treasurer since its organization; also of the Minnesota State Medical Society, the

American Medical Association, and the American Association of Railway Surgeons. His fraternal society affiliations, aside from the above, are with the Beaver, United Workmen and Yeomen lodges at Houston, while religiously he is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church of this city. Dr. Onsgard married Anna Langen, who was bom at Rockford, 111., daughter of Ole and Emily (Satrey) Langen, and who came to Houston county, Minn., when three years old with her parents, who were farmers. Dr. and Mrs. Onsgard are the parents of five children : Orrin, who married Winifred Chapel and is now operating a garage in Houston, handling the Ford automobiles ; Agnes, a music teacher in Houston ; Laura, who was graduated from St. Olof CoUege at Northfield, Minn., and is now a teacher in Wabasha ; Ruth, a student in the Winona State Normal School at Winona ; and Kenneth, a student in the Houston High School, who resides at home with his parents. Dr. Onsgard is a man who has identified himself closely with the best interests of the community in which he has made his home, being always ready to promote a worthy enterprise, and he and his family have a high social standing in this part of the county.

Knudt G. Knutson, owner of considerable landed property in Houston county, and for a number of years a resident of Yucatan township, was born in this county in 1865. He was brought up to farm work and made agriculture his chief occupation, from time to time making purchases of land, much of which he has improved. He is now practically retired, having for some time past been in poor health, which has recently necessitated his removal to the hospital at La Crosse. He is a stockholder in the Yucatan Creamery, the Houston State Bank, and other important business enterprises, and is a man of considerable means. Mr. Knutson married Emma Galena Foss, who was born in Yucatan township, Houston county, in 1865, and they have been the parents of a family of seven children.

Gilbert Knutscm, a well known and respected citizen of Yucatan township, where he is successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits, was born in this township, April 4, 1895, son of Knudt G. and Emma Galena (Foss) Knutson. Of his parents' seven children he was the sixth in order of birth. His education was obtained in District School No. 21, this township, and he resided at home until 1914. He then rented a part of his father's land, farming it until March 1, 1917, when he bought his present farm of 59 acres in section 14, which he is operating as a general stock farm. The land is valuable and is provided with good buildings. Mr. Knutson also operates 20 acres belonging to his father, and is a stockholder in the Yucatan Creamery. He is an active and enterprising man and has made material progress since starting in for himself. Politically he is a Republican, while his religious affiliations are with the Lutheran church at Houston.

Ole Omodt, one of the pioneers of Money Creek township, who passed away a quarter of a century ago, was born in Hetherland, Norway in 1808, and was a farmer by occupation. He married Martha Berkland, born in Berkram, Norway, in 1816, and in 1854 they set out for the United States, arriving in Chicago, July 3. There a friend of Mr. Omodt's informed him that an acquaintance of his was going to Minnesota on the following day, and advised him to go along in company. He and his wife decided to do so, and accordingly on July fourth they started. The Rock Island Railroad from Chicago to the Mississippi river had lately been constructed and was then in its first week of operation. The party took it to Rock Island, the passengers when they arrived at the end of the line, being unloaded on a sandbar. They found but one building there, which contained a hall upstairs and a saloon below, and there they passed the night with poor accommodations, having to wait until next day for the boat. On July 18 they disembarked from the steamer at La Crosse. There Mr. Omodt left his family and joined a party coming to Houston county to locate land and look over the ground. Satisfied with what he saw, Mr. Omodt and his family came on a flatboat owned by a man named Knutson, who had arrived in the previous year. His son Knud, the second born child, went to work for Mr. Knutson for four dollars a month and board, while Mr. Omodt himself, with the rest of the family went on to Money Creek township where he bought a land claim, there being a small log house on the tract. There the family made their home, Mr. Omodt being actively engaged in improving the property until the failure of his health obliged him to rest from his labors. After a residence on the farm of nearly 39 years he died May 21, 1893. His wife survived him, passing away in 1912, at the venerable age of 96 years. They were pioneers of the best type, law abiding and industrious, and worthily did their part in the development of the county. Their family numbered ten children.

Knudt Omodty who is now residing in the village of Houston after a successful career in agriculture, was born in Hetherland, Norway, March 15, 1839, son of Ole and Martha (Berkland) Omodt. He was a lad of 15 when he accompanied his parents to America and to this county, where they settled in the summer of 1854. While the parents located on a tract of land in Money Creek township, Knud, who was their second born child, went to work for a settler named Knutson who owned a flatboat, and made his home at Houston. He had attended school in Norway, but had to pick up a knowledge of the English tongue, which, as he mingled with English-speaking people, he acquired long before the other members of his family. From Mr. Knuton he received four dollars a month and his board, but four dollars in those days would buy three or four times as much as such a sum would now. Later he worked for others, and until he was 21 turned his earnings over to his father. After awhile he entered the employ of a Mr. Smith, for whom he cut logs, at $1.25 per thousand feet. He had, however, to take his pay in a pair of steer calves. These he exchanged in a trade for a pair of horses, trading the later for land in Money Creek township. Thus he got started as a land owner and farmer, residing at times, however, on the home farm, which for a couple of years he rented. He finally took up his residence on his own property in Money Creek township, and was there engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1908, when he rented his farm and took up his residence in Houston village. He is now the owner of two farms, and is a stockholder in the Houston State Bank, and in other enterprises. Formerly he served in various local offices, being for a number of years a member of the school board of his district. In politics he is independent and in religion a Lutheran. In June, 1874, Knud Omodt was united in marriage with Ingeborg Thorson, who was born in Norway in 1845, daughter of Peter Thorson, her father being an officer in the Norwefirian army. Neither of her parents ever came to America, she, herself, about four years before her marriage, accompanying to this country an emigration party from her home neighborhood. Mr. and Mrs. Omodt are the parents of three children : Ferdinand, who is engaged in the jewelry business at Caladonia; Amanda, wife of Ludwig H. Julsrud, a jeweler and merchant of Houston ; and Arnold P., who is in the Houston State Bank.

John August Anderson, who was engaged for a number of years in developing a farm in section 21, Houston township, was bom in Sweden in August, 1862. With his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Anderson, he came at an early date to Houston county, Minnesota, the family settling on the farm above mentioned. Here the parents died, the father in 1900 and the mother a number of years previously. John August, who as a^ young man had spent much of his time in working out for other farmers, subsequently became associated with his father in the management of the homestead, and was thus engaged until his death on March 19, 1899. He was a steady industrious man who gave close attention to his business and was respected by his neighbors for the worth of his character. He was identified politically with the Republican party. Mr. Anderson was married, Feb. 22, 1888, to Julia Hanson Hove, who was born in Norway, daughter of Ole Hanson and Ingeborg (Hanson) Hove, who settled on a farm in Storer Valley, Mound Prairie township in 1875, where the father is now living at the age of 88 years, being still manager of the farm. Mrs. Anderson's mother died in 1887. Mrs. Anderson, who was the second born in a family of four children, was educated in the school of her district in Mound Prairie township. Since her husband's death she has remained on the farm, which her son is assisting her to operate. She has two children. Ida is the wife of Carl J. Johnson and resides in Houston township where he owns a farm ; Arthur J., resides on the home farm. He married Myrtle Olson.

Bemjt Benson, who was formerly engaged in agricultural work in Houston township, was a native of Halden, Sweden, where he grew to manhood and married Anna Breta Peterson. In 1870 they emigrated to the United States, locating first at Batavia, 111., where they remained two years, Mr. Benson working for others at miscellaneous occupations. At the end of that time they came to Houston county, where for the rest of his life Mr. Benson was engaged in farm work, assisting his son, Bernt Peter Benson, who is now a farmer in this township. He died in 1881 and his wife in October, 1902. They had a family of eleven children of whom Bernt Peter is the oldest.

Bernt Peter Benson, president of the Houston Mercantile Company, who resides on a farm of 146 acres in section 34, Houston township, that is now being operated by his son, was born in Halden, Sweden, Feb. 1, 1845, son of Bernt and Anna Breta (Peterson) Benson. He began work in his native land at the age of 16 years, and continued until he was 22, being employed mostly at the carpenter's trade. He then came to the United States with his parents, who settled at Batavia, 111., where he worked two years in a quarry. The family then moving to Houston county, Minn., he was engaged for three winters in cutting wood, and in farm work in the summers. At the end of that time he began operating a farm on shares and continued to be thus employed until 1874. He then bought land in Houston township, which he farmed for nine years. Subsequently selling that place, he moved to the farm on which he now lives, where, until 1913, when he turned its operation over to his son, he was engaged in general farming. He owns 240 acres of land in Yucatan township, and is a stockholder in and president of the Houston Mercantile Company, a stockholder in the Telephone Company, and other business enterprises. In politics Mr. Benson is a Prohibitionist. He served as clerk and treasurer of school district No. 83, for a number of years. Mr. Benson was first married, June 24, 1870, to Anna Breta Anderson, who was born in Haland, Sweden, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andreas Bengson. She came to the United States with her parents about 1872, but soon after came to Houston township, Houston county, Minn. Later her parents moved to Swea, Iowa, where the father died, and the mother died subsequently in Sweden, to which country she returned. Mrs. Anna Breta Benson died in 1872, leaving one child now deceased. On Dec. 8, 1874, Mr. Benson married Johanna Katherina Benson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Evenson, and a native, like the first Mrs. Benson, of Haland, Sweden. Her parents, who were farmers in Swede Bottom, Houston township, came to this country in different years, the mother in 1872 and the father in 1874. The latter died first, in 1883, his wife surviving him until 1891. Mr. and Mrs. Bernt P. Benson are the parents of eleven children, all living, as follows : Anna, wife of Alex Abrahamson, for many years a farmer of Taylor, N. D., but now a fanner of Cannon Falls, Minn., Edward A., who married Ellen Abrahamson, and is now living retired in Houston ; Alfred, a farmer at Chippewa Falls, Wis., a farmer who married Amanda Anderson ; Leve, wife of the Rev. Carl O. Dalhed, of Marinette, Wis. ; John, who is a carpenter, and lives at home ; Emma, wife of Fred Lind, a farmer in Swede Bottom, Houston county ; Arthur, on the home farm ; Cora, wife of Earl Harris, a barber of HoUiday, N. D. ; Clarence on the home farm ; Charles who has a record as a veteran of the Great War having been engaged for fourteen months in France hauling supplies to the front lines; and Ella, wife of Charles Benson, a farmer of Money Creek township.

Louis Schonlau, M. a prominent physician and surgeon, now deceased, had an interesting career of usefulness to his fellow men in the alleviation of illness, suffering and distress. He was born in the Kingdom of Westphalia, Germany, and after duly passing through the lower schools and the Gymnasium, entered the medical department of the famous University of Bonn, where he received his degree. Thus equipped, he became a member of the Medical Corps of the German Army. His service there completed, he came to America in 1886, and opened an office at Freeport, Illinois. Four years later in 1870, he moved to West Point, Nebraska, where he practiced for some fifteen years. From there he went to Columbus, in that state, where he followed his profession until his lamented death, Aug, 13, 1900. Dr. Schonlau was married in Germany to Hermina Koechling, who died in 1865, leaving three children, Casper F., Clementine and

Catherine. In 1870, these children were brought to America by Lena Schmidt, whom Dr. Schonlau soon afterward married. By this union eight children were born of whom there are living seven, Carrie, Nellie, Freda, Louis, Winnie, Thea, and Leo. Alma, the twin sister of Freda, is dead. Mrs. Lena Schonlau is now living in Omaha, Nebraska.

Caspar F. Schonlau, head of the firm of Schonlau & Son, publishers of the Houston Signal, an up-to-date weekly journal, and who is also engaged in the insurance business at Houston, was born in Westphalia, Germany, Sept. 15, 1861, son of Dr. Louis and Hermina (Koechling) Schonlau, who were natives of the same province. Caspar F. Schonlau attended school in Germany until reaching the age of nine years, when he came to the United States. Without having attended an English school, he was bound out at the age of 12 to a German printer. At the age of 16 he left home and the next five years of his life were spent in traveling from place to place as a journeyman printer, during which time he worked in over 200 printing offices. Equipped with this experience he came to Houston - which place he had visited in August, 1882 - ^and purchased a half interest in the Houston Signal. Six months later he bought out his partner's interest and subsequently conducted the paper alone until 1910, when he took his son, Gerard L., as a partner, since which time the Signal has been published by the firm of Schonlau & Son. Under President McKinley's administration Mr. Schonlau was appointed postmaster of Houston, serving during the two terms of that President, and continuing in the office until a year after the close of President Taft's administration - a period of 17 years in all, lacking one month. In addition to the publication of his newspaper, Mr. Schonlau conducts a well equipped job printing-office, and is also engaged in the fire insurance business. He is a stockholder in the Houston State Bank and has been a stockholder and director in the Security Bank of Houston since its organization. He is also secretary of the People's Telephone Exchange. A member of the Masonic order, he has served as secretary of the Blue lodge at Houston for the last 22 years ; and is also clerk of the Modern Woodmen of America and recorder in the lodge of Ancient Order of United Workmen, besides being a member of the Yeomen. On Nov. 25, 1884, Caspar F. Schonlau was united in marriage with Emma Gerard, who was bom in Lewiston, Minn., daughter of John B. and Nancy (Todd) Gerard. Her father, who was born in New York in 1831, and who was a blacksmith by occupation, died in June, 1917, having been retired for 20 years previous to his death. Her mother, a native of Pennsylvania, is now living in Houston. Mr. and Mrs. Schonlau have two children. Gerard L., previously mentioned, married Cora Anderson. Clement graduated from the dental department of the University of Minnesota in the Class of 1913, and practiced his profession in Houston until Dec. 30, 1918, when he became a victim of the Spanish influenza. He married Mabel Hanson of La Cross, Wis., formerly a teacher, and left one child, Dorothy. The office of the Houston Signal is an interesting example of what may be done with a village newspaper office in the way of sightliness, comfort, convenience and adaptability to its purpose. The building was erected in 1918, by Schonlau & Son, under the personal supervision of

Casper F. Schonlau, the senior partner and editor. The building is 24 by 44 feet, with full basement, and concrete floors. The front is of solid rough brick, while the side and back waUs are of hollow tile, stuccoed with white sand and pebble dash. The location is admirable and the whole appearance is attractive and picturesque, an ornament to the village and a credit to its owner. The conveniences are many, including a hot air furnace, electric lights, and running water from a well 295 feet deep. Work is made more comfortable and efficient by the built-in stock cupboards and the arrangement of the ample windows. In presses and type the establishment is well equipped, and not only turns out a creditable newspaper but also considerable quantities of commercial work.

Edward P. Mclntire, a pioneer settler of Yucatan township, was bom in New England, or in one of the Eastern states, and was of Scotch ancestry. He married Sarah Palfrey, also a native of an Eastern state, but whose ancestors were Irish. In the fifth decade of the nineteenth century they came to Minnesota, while it was yet a territory, and located in what is now Yucatan township, Houston county, where Edward P. Mclntire engaged in mercantile business, in which he continued for many years, also serving as postmaster. Later he was engaged in milling for a time, and then moved into lower Houston, where he operated a farm and also kept a hotel, though at that time there was nothing on the present site of Houston village. He finally retired from active work and spent the rest of his life at, or in the vicinity of, Houston, where he was a charter member of the Masonic lodge. He and his wife were the parents of three children, one of whom, Samuel B., became a noted citizen of this county.