Houston County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1919 (part 5 of 21)

Capt. Samuel Bates Mclntire, who had a distinguished career as a United States army ofiicer, and was later a prominent member of the Houston county bar, was born at Dedham, Mass., May 21, 1838, son of Edward P. and Sarah (Palfrey) Mclntire. The eldest of his parents' three children, he attended the common and high schools of Dedham and afterwards a school in Boston. In the fifties he accompanied his parents to the then territory of Minnesota, the father becoming a prosperous merchant in what is now Yucatan township, Houston county. From this, the First District, young Samuel Bates Mclntire was appointed, on the recommendation of Congressman J. M. Cavanaugh, as a cadet in the West Point Military Academy, being the first cadet appointed from Minnesota after its admission as a state in 1858. From that famous institution he was graduated in 1862, and entered the Civil War as an artillery lieutenant. He served until the close of the war, taking part in a number of important battles, and being brevetted captain for gallant conduct at the second battle of Manassas, which occurred Aug. 30, 1863. After the war he served in Alaska and California, traveling four times across the United States. Then leaving the service, he was married in Philadelphia to Helen Frances Weld, and soon afterwards brought his wife to his parents' home in Houston county, Minnesota. Here he helped his father to operate the farm, and also engaged in teaching. He also acquired land in Yucatan township. After a short time spent in these miscellaneous occupations, Capt. Mclntire took up the study of law at Rushf ord and, being admitted to' practice, sold his holdings in Yucatan township and bought an 80-acre farm in what is now the central part of Houston village. At the same time he began the practice of law, in which he continued actively engaged up to within a few days before his death on June 14, 1917. His professional career, to which he was well adapted by reason of a high degree of oratorical ability, was marked by a conscientious sense of duty, and he was held in great esteem both by his fellow members of the bar and by the citizens of the county generaUy. A Democrat in politics, he was elected to various offices, serving at various times as justice of the peace, president of the village board, supervisor, and president of the school board,* which last mentioned office he held for more than 40 years. He was also for some time postmaster of Houston. Other offices than those mentioned he declined. He was, however, vice president of the Telephone Company, and in all things showed himself a public spirited citizen, ever ready to lend his aid and influence to the promotion of a worthy cause. He was a member of the Masonic lodge at Houston, of which his father was a charter member, and also belonged to the Eastern Star lodge and to Grand Army of the Republic. By his first wife he had one child, that died in infancy. On Oct. 15, 1897, he was married secondly to Frances Gerard, who was born in Money Creek township, this county, daughter of John B. and Nancy (Todd) Gerard. She survives her husband and is now a resident of Houston.

John B. Gerard, one of the pioneers of Money Creek township, was bom in New York State, Nov. 25, 1831. He learned the blacksmith's trade, and coming west when a young man, was married in Wisconsin, in May, 1858, to Nancy Todd, who was bom in Pennsylvania, Oct. 20, 1841. Locating with his young wife in Houston county, Minn., he conducted a blacksmith's shop in Money Creek township until about 1877, when he moved to Houston, where he continued in the same occupation until his retirement about 1897. He died June 16, 1917, and was survived by his wife, who is still living in Houston. Mr. Gerard was a highly respected citizen, and was a veteran of the Civil War, having served three years as a private in Company I, First Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. He and his wife had six children, of whom three are now living: Emma, wife of Casper F. Schonlau, publisher of the Houston Signal; George, a resident of Houston; and Frances, who is the widow of Capt. S. B. Mclntire, late of Houston.

Gerard L. Schonlau, who is a partner with his father, Caspar F. Schonlau, in the firm of Schonlau & Son, editors and publishers of the Houston Signal, was born in Houston village, this county, Aug. 8, 1886. After completing his studies at the Houston high school, he entered the Wisconsin Business College at La Crosse, Wis., and there completed a business course. In March, 1910, he formed a partnership with his father in the firm above mentioned, and they have since been successfully engaged in the publication of the "Signal," of which they have made a bright and newsy paper, enjoying a good patronage. In politics Mr. Schonlau is independent with Republican tendencies. Aside from his journalistic interests he is a partner with S. Abraham in the newly remodeled S. & A. Theater, staging the latest and best moving-picture plays. In 1913 Mr. Schonlau was elected village recorder of Houston, in which position he served for five years. He is an active and useful member of the Houston Commercial Club, and is past master of Mystic Circle Lodge, No. 78, A. F. & A. M. On June 23, 1910, he was united in marriage with Cora Mae Anderson, who was born Oct. 8, 1887, daughter of C. W. and Bertha (Benson) Anderson. Her father is now deceased, but her mother is living, being a resident of Houston village.

Ole Hovde, an early settler in Yucatan township, where he developed a fine farm, was born June 21, 1838, in Telemarken, Norway, where he grew to manhood and was married to Aslang Olsdatter, a native of the same place, born Dec. 23, 1833. In 1863 they set out for the United States, coming directly to Houston county, Minnesota, and locating on wild land in section 28 north, Yucatan township, which he developed into the farm above mentioned - a farm now of 580 acres of valuable land, which is operated by his two sons, Andrew O. and John. Here he died November, 1914, at the age of 78 years, widely known and respected. He was survived by his wife, who is still living, having now attained the age of 85 years. They were the parents of eight children, Alice, Torbin, Ole, John, Andrew, Anton, Annie and Emma, of whom Ole and Annie are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Hovde with their family, were, as the surviving members now afe, faithful members of the Norwegian Lutheran church.

Andrew O. Hovde and John Hovde are engaged in operating a fine farm of 580 acres in Yucatan township, and are regarded as among the most successful and enterprising men of the community. They were bom on the farm where they now live, John on Feb. 26, 1867, and Andrew O. on Oct. 15, 1868, the sons of Ole and Aslaug (Olsdatter) Hovde. Both received a good boyhood education, and Andrew O. attended the Valder Business College at Decorah, Iowa. They were reared to farm pursuits by their father, and have since his death carried on general farming for themselves on an extensive scale, doing a thriving business in both stock and grain. They are interested in the Rushford Creamery, the Farmers' Elevator at Rushford, and the Farmers' Telephone Company. Both are Republicans. Their religion as that of their parents before them is that of the Norwegian Lutheran church. John Hovde married Christine Ensrud, who died May 12, 1906. Andrew 0. is now one of the members of the town board anU is clerk of his school district. He is a member of the Yeoman lodge at Rushford.

Jacob T. Halvorson, proprietor of a valuable farm of 330 acres in section 11, Yucatan township, was bom in Telemarken, Norway, April 14, 1860, son of Targe and Segrid Andreas Halvorson. In the year following that of his birth he came to Houston county, Minn., with his parents, who settled on a farm in the southern part of Yucatan township. As a boy he attended school in Black Hammer township, while his industrial education was not neglected, as he found plenty to do in assisting his father in the improvement of the homestead, on which he resided until his marriage. On asuming the responsibihties of domestic life he engaged in farming for himself, renting a farm in Sheldon township, which he operated for two years. At the end of that time he bought his present farm of 330 acres, all valuable land, and well provided with suitable buildings. He is giving his principal attention to the breeding of Shorthorn cattle and Poland-China hogs, superintending operations, the active work being performed by his sons, to whose judgment he leaves most of the details. He has built up a profitable business and is now numbered among the well to do men of his township. A Republican in politics, he has taken a more or less active part in public affairs, having rendered six years' service as one of the town's supervisors, and having also served some time as a member of the school board. He is a Lutheran in religion, being a member of the "Stone Church" in Houston. Mr. Halvorson was married December 21, 1885, to Caroline Erickson, who was bom in Yucatan township, July 23, 1869, daughter of George and Inger (Paulson) Erickson. He and his wife are the parents of ten children: Ida Serena, wife of Edward Shebstad, residing on Hauge Ridge, Sheldon township; Torwald and Carl John, residing on the home farm; Stena, wife of Solway Shebstad, a mechanic residing in Rushford; and Mabel, Clara Georgina, Bertha Ovidia, Emma Helena, Clarence Palmer and Minerva, all of whom are living with their parents. George Erickson, father of Mrs. Halvorson, was bom in Nonstad, Norway, Nov. 20, 1841. He came to this country in 1869, locating on a farm in Yucatan township, Houston county, and for the first few years worked out for others. Later he bought land and began farming on his own account, still being a resident of this township. His wife, who was bom in Nonstad, Norway, June 1, 1844, died Aug. 1, 1917. They had 14 children, of whom Caroline was fourth in order of birth.

Herman Larson, who was for many years a land owner and farmer in Yucatan township, was bom in Nonstad, Norway, July 15, 1853, and came to Houston county, Minnesota, when eight years old, or about the year 1861. Agriculture being the main occupation here in his youthful days, he naturally became a farmer, and was thus occupied until his death on the old homestead in 1906. He was married in this county to Anna Skare, who was bom in Wisconsin, Oct. 2, 1858, and who is still living on the farm where she and her husband passed so many happy years. Mr. Larson was a prominent citizen of Yucatan township in his day, at various times serving in town and school office. With his passing away the township lost another of its old and respected pioneer settlers who had done his part in contributing to its present state of prosperous development. He and his wife had eight children.

Theodore H. Larson, a prosperous general farmer of section 6, Houston township, was bom in Yucatan township, Houston county, July 25, 1880, son of Herman and Anna (Skare) Larson, who were pioneer settlers here. There were eight children in his parents' family, of whom he was the second in order of birth. His education was acquired in the district school, while he learned agriculture and stock raising on his parents' farm, where he remained until 1910, or four years after his father's death. He then came to his present farm, where he has 175 acres of good land, with adequate buildings, and is carrying on general farming successfully. He is also a stockholder in the Houston Creamery Co. and the Telephone Company. At the present time he is serving as school clerk, in politics being a Republican. His religious affiliations are with the Norwegian Lutheran church. Mr. Larson was married Oct. 3, 1907, to Anna Hostvet, who was bom in Houston township, this county, daughter of Anfin J. and Ingeborg (Laugen) Hostvet, and who was educated in Yucatan township. Her father, a native of Norway, and an early settler in Houston township, died on the family homestead on Oak Ridge. Mr. and Mrs. Larson are the parents of four children : Harley, Irvin, Ruth E. and Helen.

Tolef Jordshaugen, who has been identified actively or passively with agricultural enterprises in Yucatan township for the last half century, was bom in Telemarken, Norway, in July, 1838, and was about thirty years old when he emigrated to Houston county, Minnesota, and settled on a farm in Yucatan township. He was married in this county to Hegge Medby, and after some years* residence of the first farm they moved about three miles distant to the farm on which they have since resided. They have been the parents of five children. Tolef Jordshaugen died July 10, 1918, and was buried in the Lutheran Stone church cemetery, July 12, 1918, at the age of 80 years.

Theodore Jordshaugen, who is engaged in operating a profitable farm of 160 acres in section 25, Yucatan township, was born in this township, June 21, 1886, son of Tolef and Hegge (Medby) Jordshaugen. He was the fourth bora of their five children, and was brought up on his parents' farm, attending school in District No. 20, Yucatan township. At the age of twenty years he rented his father's farm and operated it on his own account for ten years. He then bought the farm in section 25 on which he has since resided and which is a good piece of agricultural property, having a fertile soil and substantial buildings. Besides carrying on general farming successfully, Mr. Jordshaugen is a stockholder In the Houston Cooperative EHevator and the Twin Ridge Telephone Company. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church, and in politics a Republican. On Nov. 6, 1916, Mr. Jordshaugen was united in marriage with Olena Gausted, who was bom on an adjoining farm in this township, daughter of Ole and Betsy (Bratland) Gaustad. Both her parents were bom in Norway, the father in Trondhjem and the mother in Telemarken. The former came to this country with his parents when a lad of 13 and grew up and attended school in Yucatan township. He is now the owner of one of the best farms on the ridge. He and his wife have had nine children, their daughter Olena being the third bom.

Harvey Chapel, in early times a farmer of Money Creek township, and later a stock shipper and for over forty years a resident of Money Creek township, was bom in Tioga county. New York, March 1, 1838. When nine years old he accompanied his parents to Dodge county, Wisconsin, where he was reared to manhood. In 1854, at the age of 16, with a companion, he walked from his home in Dodge county to Money Creek township, Houston county, Minn., and two years later, in 1856, he came here and bought government land, remaining six weeks. In the following year he came again, retuming home after the harvest. The fall of the next year, 1858, saw him united in marriage with Julia Wydhoff , who was born near Berlin, Germany, in 1841. In 1859 he brought his wife to his farm in Money Creek township, and they took up their residence in a log house which he erected, and in which they made their home for three years. Mr. Chapel then moved with his family to Wisconsin, and was enrolled in the Second Wisconsin Cavalry, but before entering the service he was attacked by the measles which left his lungs in so weak a condition as to unfit him for army life, and he was accordingly discharged. After being away from Houston county for three years he returned and resumed his residence on his farm, where he remained until about 1870. He then took up his home in Money Creek village and there resided until 1903, in which year he moved to Houston village, where he continued to live until his death, March 2, 1912, aged 74 years and one day. At the time of his death he was the owner of 300 acres of land, in addition to town property. For a number of years during his active career he gave a portion of his time to public affairs, serving twelve years as constable, one term as a member of the board of county commissioners, and holding school office almost continuously. In early life he was a member of the Grange. Prior to the Civil War he became a charter member of the Masonic lodge at Houston, and he was one of those who organized the lodge of that order at Money Creek. His wife survived him three years, dying: Feb. 20, 1915.

Thomas Chapel, a well known stock dealer and land owner of Houston, who for many years has been one of the prominent citizens of the county, was bom near Beaver Dam, Dodge county, Wis., Dec. 24, 1863, son of Harvey and Julia (Wydhoff) Chapel. While he was still a babe he was brousht by his parents to Money Creek township, Houston county, Minn., where tiiey owned a farm, and there the early years of his boyhood were spent. In that vicinity he first attended school, his education being continued in Houston viUage, to which the family moved in 1870. The father bein^ engaged chiefly in stock dealing, young Thomas picked up some knowledge of business, and at the age of 17 he bought a colt and began a modest business of his own. He resided at home until he was 21 years old, by which time he had accumulated some capital. He then went to work in a cement factory at La Crescent, where he was employed for about two and one-half years. It was ten months after he entered the employ of the cement company, or on Sept. 7, 1886, that he was united in marriage with Mary Ella Lockwood, a native of Ridgeway, Winona county, Minn., and daughter of James and Mary Jane (Lee) Lockwood. Leaving La Crescent in 1888, Mr, Chapel rented a farm in Money Creek township, near his old home, and for four years subsequently was engaged in its cultivation. He then rented a farm in Pine Creek township, Winona county, for two years. At the end of that time he gave up farming for awhile and moving to Houston engaged in busings as a butcher, being thus occupied for about five years. Then trading the business for a farm in Pine Creek township, Winona county, he resumed the stock business, renting his farm. He is still thus engaged, having one farm, however, which he operates with hired help. Mr. Chapel now owns about one thousand acres of valuable farm land in Houston county, most of which is in Money Creek township. He is a stockholder in the Security State Bank of Houston, and in the Galoway Farm Implement plant at Waterloo, Iowa. In politics a Democrat, Mr. Chapel served for a number of years as justice of the peace at La Crescent, and was a member of the village board of Houston for nine years. He belongs to the Blue Lodge of Masons and to the Modem Woodmen of America at Houston, and attends the Presbyterian church. Both he and his wife are members of the Eastern Star Lodge. They are the parents of seven children : Gertrude Maude, wife of L. H. Briggs, cashier of the Security State Bank of Houston, who has one child, Lyle Ellsworth; Ella Pearl, wife of Wallace McMillan, bookkeeper in the Houston State Bank; Winnie May, wife of Orrin 0nsgard, proprietor of a "parage and dealer in Ford automobiles ; Hazel Josephine, wife of Clarence Wahl, for several years bookkeeper in the J. R. Watkins Medical Company of Winona, and who has one child, Darrel Chapel; Thomas Ray, who is a farmer assisting his father; Vera Mabel, wife of Robin Foss, who is in the employ of the Standard Oil Company at Houston; and Ilah Belle, telegraph operator at Houston, and wife of Ernest L. Rowlee. James Lockwood, father of Mrs. Thomas Chapel, was bom in New York State, and in 1853 came to Bangor, La Crosse county. Wis., where he engaged in farming. About two years later he removed to Winona county, where he also followed agriculture, residing on his farm there until he retired about 1907. His wife died Nov. 3, 1901, and he is now living with his children, with whom he finds a comfortable home. For a number of years during his active period he served as a constable. He and his wife had nine children, of whom Mary Ella, now Mrs. Chapel, was the fifth in order of birth. During her girlhood she attended school in Winona county.

Halvor H. Baker, for many years a prominent citizen of Rushford township, just over the line from Houston county, was bom in Norway, Feb. 26, 1840, and came to America as a boy of fourteen in 1854. For a few months he lived at Muskeegan, Wisconsin, and then spent several months in Illinois. In 1860 he set out for Minnesota, coming overland with a yoke of oxen. He settled in Fillmore county and there spent the remainder of his days. The tract upon which he settled was at that time nearly all wild. He set to work with a will, and in time developed an excellent farm, consisting of 40 acres in Money Creek township, forty acres in Yucatan township, and 100 acres in Rushford township, the home being near the line but in Rushford township. With the passing of the years, he achieved a good measure of prosperity and occupied an excellent position in the neighborhood. For thirty years he did good work on the school board, he was road overseer for a number of terms, and in other ways did his share as a public spirited citizen. He was a liberal supporter of the Norwegian church and one of its trustees. His business interests included stock in the Rushford Creamery. After a useful life filled with worthy labor and successful endeavor he died July 29, 1911, leaving to his family the heritage of an excellent record. Since his death his widow conducts the place with tlfe help of her son Henry and daughter Sarah. General farming is successfully conducted, a specialty being made of full blooded Swiss cattle. The home is known far and wide for its hospitality, and the family stands high throughout the county. Mr. Baker was married April 14, 1862, to Augusta Olsen. who died at the age of twenty-four. April 7, 1887, he was married at Winona to Alice Reese, who was bom in Norway, June 16, 1859, came to America in 1882, lived for a while in Illinois and then came to Rushford.

This union was blessed with five children: Henry, who is on the home farm; Eli, of Wilmar, Minn.; Julia, now Mrs. Torger Lewis, of Oak Ridge, Houston county ; Sarah, who is at home ; and Carl, who works for Torger Lewis.

Gust Leander Dean, who took an active and effective part in the work of agricultural development in Houston township, where he died Dec. 5, 1905, was bom in Halland, Sweden*, June 4, 1857. His parents both died in Sweden, the father being a sea captain by occupation. Gust L. Dean was a young man when he emigrated to the United States, locating first at Preston, Minn., where he found employment. From there he came to Houston, where for about five years he worked in the mill. For awhile also he taught school in this county, but finally settled down to agricultural work, securing land in section 36 in the southeastern part of the township, which he developed into a farm of 200 acres. Here his death occurred, as already narrated. Mr. Dean was an energetic and enterprising man, a good practical farmer and an agreeable neighbor, and his passing away was regarded as a distinct loss to the community. He was the first stockholder of the co-operative creamery company and was always ready to take a helping hand in promoting local interests. He was a member of the Swedish Baptist church. Mr. Dean was married February 8, 1889, to Augusta Olivia Sackerson, who was born in Halland, Sweden, Oct. 24, 1861, daughter of Andreas Martin Sackerson and his wife, whose maiden name was Josephine Matilda Benson. The father was formerly a tailor, but is now living retired in Sweden, being 88 years old and his wife 79. Neither ever visited America. Their daughter, Augusta Olivia, was the second born in a family of seven children, and was educated in her native land, coming to this country in 1886, four years before her marriage. Two children were bom to Mr. and Mrs. Dean: Olga Leoranga, bom Dec. 7, 1891, and Leo Walter, bom Oct. 22, 1894, both of whom were educated in Houston county and are residing at home with their mother, Leo operating the farm.

John H. Halvorson, proprietor of a feed mill in section 23, Yucatan township, who is also engaged successfully in tobacco culture, was bom in this township, March 27, 1879, son of H. T. and Guneild J. (Gunderson) Halvorson. He was reared on his parents' farm in this township and in his boyhood attended the district school on Oak Ridge. For a number of years he was engaged in assisting his father, residing on the home farm until his marriage. He then rented a farm in Yucatan township, and later one on Houge Ridge, in Sheldon township, where he remained two years. At the end of that time he bought his present mill, known as the old Howe mill, together with 61 acres of land. The mill, which he has since conducted, has a capacity of 15 sacks of feed an hour, and is provided with an equipment for sawing lumber. To this he is about to add a planing-machine. His land he devotes to the cultivation of tobacco and is having good success with this crop. His brother Theodore is a partner in the business, John H. being the active manager of the mill. Mr. Halvorson is the present school clerk of District No. 1, in politics being a Republican. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church at Houston. Mr. Halvorson was married Nov. 24, 1904, to Mary Schiebsted, who was born in Houston, this county, daughter of Sven and Solvo (Moen) Schiebsted. Her father, a native of Telemarken, Norway, settled at an early date in Houston, but now resides on Houge Ridge with his son. The mother of Mrs. Halvorson is now deceased. The family circle of Mr. and Mrs. Halvorson has been enlarged by the birth of five children, Cecelia Galena, Hazel Elvena, Gynther Melvin, Ernest Tenious and Melton John.

Aaron Vance, one of the earliest settlers in Money Creek township, was born in Gratton, Vt., Oct. 14, 1812. He grew up in his native state, where he learned the shoemaker's trade, and was married to Lucinda Tucker, who was born in Newbury, Vt., in 1818. In 1849 he moved with his family to South Ryegate in the same state, and resided there until Feb. 28, 1866, when he came to Houston county, Minnesota, arriving March 3, 1866, settling on a tract of wild land in Money Creek township. Two brothers and two sisters had preceded him here, but there were very few settlers in the township, and Money Creek village contained but one store and a grist mill. Mr. Vance spent 10 years in developing a farm, at the end of which time he moved to the village. Later he took up his residence in Winona, but the last four years of his life were spent with his son, William A., in Houston, his death occurring Jan. 4, 1905. During his active period he held various local and town offices. His wife died six years before him. They were the parents of eight children: (Jeorge L., David E., W. A., Albert N., Nancy Jane, Nicholas W., Abbie and Aaron W. George L. and David E. are deceased ; Nancy J. is now Mrs. D. C. Dyer, of Houston village ; Abbie is now Mrs. Calvin Vance of Houston village.

William A. Vance, a respected citizen of Houston, connected with one of the principal mercantile establishments of the village, was bom in Barnett, Vt., April 5, 1843, son of Aaron and Lucinda (Tucker) Vance, he being the third born of their eight children. As a young man, Dec. 25, 1866, he came to Houston county, whither his parents had preceded him, and he resided with them until reaching the age of 21. For ten years he lived on their farm in Money Creek township and then moved to Houston, where he worked six years for Mr. Dyer. At the end of that time he was appointed postmaster under President Harrison's administration and served in that office for four years. After that for two years he conducted a store in Sheldon township for Mr. Dyer. Then returning to Houston, he entered the employ of James P. Onstad, one of the leading merchants here, dealing in dry goods, groceries, hardware, shoes, and farm implements, and has been thus occupied for practically all of the time since. He owns a comfortable home in the village, where he and his wife are residing, spending the afternoon of life, surrounded by their children and acquaintances, having an adequate competence to maintain their declining years. A Republican in politics, Mr. Vance has for a number of years at various times taken an active part in local government affairs. He served some years as town assessor in Money Creek township, and also as a member of the school board. In Houston he has served as village trustee and also as president of the village council, and he has further rendered service as a member of the Republican County Central Committee, and as census taker in Houston and in Money Creek township. While a young man living in

Vermont he joined the Presbyterian church, but joined the Baptist church after coming to Money Creek township, this county. Mr. Vance was first married to Mary Gray, a native of St. John's, New Brunswick, who, however, died eleven months after her marriage. Two years later, Jan. 12, 1875, Mr. Vance married Abigail Simms, daughter of Robert and Jane (Hall) Simms. He and his wife have three children, Hattie Belle, Ethel May and Minnie Gray. Hattie Belle is the wife of Charles Metcalf, of Caledonia, the present clerk of court for Houston county, and they have one son, Charles Vance. Ethel May is the wife of Abraham Abrahamson, who is clerk in a mercantile establishment in Lanesboro, Minn. She has two children, Marian, a teacher, and Aldons, who is clerk in the James P. Onstad store in Houston. Minnie Gray is the wife of Elmer O. Abrahamson, who is employed in the same store. Mr. Vance is a member of the Masonic lodge in Houston and has passed through the chairs. Both he and his wife belong to the Eastern Star lodge, in which Mr. Vance has been Worthy Patron and Mrs. Vance Star Esther. They are people of means and of high standing in the community. Though often persuaded by his children to retire, Mr. Vance has hitherto preferred to lead an active life, of which he is still capable, in spite of his advanced years.

Ore T. Rakstad, who is successfully engaged in general and stock fanning in section 29, Yucatan township, was born in Nonstadt, Norway, June 22, 1867, son of Olavat and Marn (Bjarkanas) Rakstad, who were natives of the same place. Both the parents died in Norway. Ove T., who was the second bom of their four children, attended school in his native land, where he remained until he was 15 years old. He then came to the United States, locating in Lac qui Parle county, Minn., where he found employment working for others for about four years. When he arrived in this country he could speak no English but subsequently he picked up a knowledge of the language. At the age of 19 he came to Houston county, where in January, 1892, he was united in marriage with Susan Jacobson, a daughter of Ole and Bertha Jacobson, and who was bom on her parehts' farm in this township. The parents, who were natives of Norway and pioneers in this vicinity, are both now deceased. Renting his father-inlaw's farm, Mr. Rakstad operated it for four years, after which he bought his present farm of 217 acres of valuable land, on which he has since resided, carrying on general farming and stock raising with profitable results. He has made all the improvements now on the farm, including a new bam recently erected, 60 by 36 feet in ground dimensions. Through hard work and attention to business he has made steady progress until he is now numbered among the substantial citizens of his township, and is a man respected both for his achievements and for his personal character. He is a stockholder in the Rushford Creamery and the Rushford Elevator. His fraternal affiliations are with the Yeomen lodge at Rushford. Mr. and Mrs. Rakstad are the parents of three children, all sons: Ole, who has an excellent record in the United States military service, and Bennie and Selmar, who are residing on the home farm.

Mathias Gustavson, who is following general agriculture successfully on a farm of 150 acres in section 8, Yucatan township, was born in Tele- marken, Norway, in 1853, son of Gust and Anlog (Moe) Gustavson. The father, who was a Swedish Finn, was bookkeeper for a firm operating the richest copper mine in Norway, while the mother was bom in Satersdahl, Norway. Both are now deceased. Mathias, who was the second born in a family of four children, attended school in Satersdahl. His industrial life began at the early age of eight years and he worked out for others until he came to the United States in 1885, locating immediately in Houston county, Minnesota. Here also he worked out for awhile but finally bought his present farm, a good piece of agricultural property both as to the land and buildings, and where he is raising both crops and stock on a profitable basis, devotitig his whole time to the business. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church at Oak Ridge. Mr. Gustavson was married in November, 1885, to Christina Olson, who was bom in Norway, daughter of Ole Olson and wife. Both her parents died in their native land, and Mrs. Gustavson, herself, passed away Nov. 5, 1898. She left three children: Andrew and Ole, who are residing with their father; and Anna Berdina, who is the wife of Bennie Benson, a farmer residing at Leroy, Minn.

Herman Larson, the founder of one of the best farms in Yucatan township, whose life's labors came to an end some twelve years ago, was born in Nonstadt, Norway, July 15, 1853, son of Nels and Mary Larson. He was a lad of eight years when he accompanied his parents to Fillmore county, Minn., whence the family after awhile moved to Houston county. Here the father died, and the mother subsequently married again and finally died in Eau Clarie. Young Herman acquired his education in the district schools and was brought up on the home farm, which he began to operate on his own account at the age of 25 years. After carrying on the enterprise for two years, he rented another farm, which he operated for about the same length of time. He then settled on a farm in Section 11, Yucatan township, which had some small improvements, but which he subsequently developed into a fine farm of 280 acres, with substantial buildings, residing thereon until his death on Aug. 3, 1906. His success was made as a general farmer, and by his industry, enterprise and high qualities as a man he had won high regard among his fellow townsmen. He was a member of the Lutheran church, and at time held various local offices, serving on the school board and as chairman of the town board. In politics he was Republican. Mr. Larson was married in March, 1876, to Anna Thompson, who was born near Stoughton, Wis., Oct. 6, 1857, daughter of Tollef and Helen (Skahre) Thompson. Her parents were both natives of Telemarken, Norway, who settled first in Wisconsin and later in Yucatan township, Houston county, Minn., where they engaged in farming until their death. Mrs. Larson has continued to reside on the farm established by her husband and has increased its size to 440 acres, the actual work being attended to by her sons. Of her marriage with Mr. Larson eight children were bom, one of whom died in infancy. The survivors are : Nicholas, a farmer living at Brail, near Rice Lake, Wis. ; Theodore, a resident of Yucatan township ; Tena, wife of Ole Lee, of this township ; Bertha, wife of Melvin Laumb, a farmer of Fillmore county; and Henry, Arthur and Inga, who are residing at home. Mrs. Larson is an active member of Ladies' Aid Society and takes an interest

David Murray, one of the pioneer settlers in Houston county, now deceased, was born in Amsterdam, N. Y., in March, 1841. His chief occupation through life was that of farming, but when he first settled in Houston county he drove the stage for awhile between Prairie du Chien and Winona. On giving up that occupation he settled at Ridgeway, Winona county, but later moved to Pleasant Hill township, Winona county, where he engaged in farming. On his retirement after a career of many years in agricultural activities, he tok up his residence at Ridgeway Corners, where he died a year later. He was a Civil War veteran, having served 18 months as private in a Minnesota regiment. Mr. Murray married Jane Lemon, who was born in Ireland in 1844, and who is now living in Winona. They were the parents of four children : Jenette, Lester, Royal, and Etta.

Lester A. Murray, a well known and prosperous farmer of Money Creek township, residing in section 20, was born at Pleasant Hill, Winona county, Minn., Feb. 16, 1880, son of David and Jane (Lemon) Murray. He was the third born in a family of four children, and in his boyhood attended school at Ridgeway, Winona county. At the age of 16, being then a resident of Pleasant Hill township, that county, to which location his parents had moved, he began working out, but resided at home during the winters until the age of 19. After his marriage in 1902 he worked for two years in a lumber yard in Winona, at the end of that time moving to the farm on which he is now residing, and which he is operating as a general dairy and stock farm. He has 160 acres of valuable land, with good buildings and fences, and his place presents evidence of careful and successful management. Among his other business interests are those of a stockholder in the Money Creek Creamery, the Houston Elevator, and the Paradise Telephone Company, of which last mentioned institution he is now serving as treasurer. He is a member of the Masonic order, being past secretary and present Steward of his lodge ; also of the Eastern Star. In politics he is an independent Republican. Mr. Murray married Mabel Chapel, who was bom in Money Creek, daughter of Harvey and Julia (Wydhoff ) Chapel. Mrs. Mabel Murray died in December, 1916, leaving three children : Harvey A., born June 18, 1902 ; Harry David, born April 15, 1909 ; and Mertie Belle, born Sept. 25, 1910, all of whom are residing home with their father.

Jokkum Larson, in former years a well known farmer and respected citizen of Money Creek township, was born in Christiania, Norway, Jan. 1, 1830. He grew to manhood in his native land and there married Anna Jenson, by whom he had twelve children. In or about the year 1869 his wife died, after which event he sought a new home in the United States, arriving in Chicago not long after the great fire of 1871, which destroyed a large portion of the city. There he remained for a number of years, being connected with the builder's trade, which was then flourishing and continued to be good until the city was reconstructed. Subsequently Mr. Larson went to Stevens Point, Wis., where he was engaged for a short time in railroad work. At the end of that period he came to Houston county, Minnesota, securing land in section 17, Money Creek township, which had some improvements on it. To these he added and as time went on developed a good farm, on which he died in December, 1905. When a young man he had served in the Norwegian army, and possessed a good physique, which enabled him to do the hard work incidental to the building up of his farm.

Hans J. Larson, proprietor of the old Larson homestead in section 17, Money Creek township, where he is carrying on a prosperous farming and stock raising business, was born in Christiania, Norway, March 22, 1865, son of Jokkum and Anna ( Jenson) Larson. The eleventh born in a family of twelve children, he was brought to this country by his father, then a widower, in the early seventies, accompanying him to Chicago, later to Stevens Point, and finally to Money Creek township, Houston county, Minn. Here he attended the school in district No. 96, and remained with his father until twelve years old, at which time he began working out for others. Later, when about 17, he went to the pine woods and worked as a lumberman, bringing home his money to help the family. For a few years before his marriage in 1903 he rented the home farm and after that event took up his permanent residence on it, subsequently, on his father's death, becoming its proprietor. Since then he has made all the important improvements now standing and in use, and has 280 acres of fertile land. He is engaged in general stock raising, making a specialty of Durham cattle and Poland-China swine, and is a stockholder and director in the Rushford Creamery. He has served on the local school board, in politics being an independent Republican, and is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church at Rushford, and of the Modern Woodmen of America at that place. Mr. Larson began domestic life when, on Jan. 22, 1903, he was united in marriage with Ida Omodt, who was born at Money Creek Station, this township, daughter of Louis and Julia (Hanson) Omodt. Both her perents were natives of Norway, the father of Stavenger and the mother of Telemarken. Mr. and Mrs. Larson have four children : Ralph Harold, Vernon Omodt, Irvin Harley and Harley Irvin.

Gust Nelson, a general farmer whose residence lies in the village of Money Creek, together with a part of his land, was born near Varmland, Sweden, Sept. 30, 1866, son of Nels Johnson and his wife Carrie Nelson, both of whom were natives of the same locality. After emigrating to near Christiania, Norway, where Nels Johnson was for awhile engaged in farming, he and his family, in June, 1885, came to Houston county, Minnesota, locating on a farm in Looney Valley, Houston township, where he resided until his death in 1903. His wife, who survives him, is now residing with her son Gust, who was the second born of their three children. The latter, who was about 19 years old when he came to America, acquired his school education in Norway, but could not speak English when he arrived in this country. Until 25 years old he assisted his father on the parental farm, and then bought a farm of his own in Storer Valley, which he operated for three or four years. Then he purchased land in Looney Valley which he and his brother worked together, a few years later dividing it. He continued his residence in that valley until the summer of 1917, when he sold his property there and bought his present farm, having 46 acres in connec- tion with his house in the village and 26 acres farther west, all of which he is operating as a general farmer. He is also a stockholder in the Houston Creamery. Mr. Nelson has made good progress in carving out his fortune and is now in prosperous circumstances. In politics he is a Republican. He was married April 11, 1911, to Julia Henderson, who was born in Storer Valley, Houston township, Sept. 10, 1875, daughter of Jule and Guri (Hegge) Henderson, who were early settlers in that locality, coming directly from Norway. Both parents are now deceased. Their daughter Julia (Mrs. Nelson) was the third born of their four children, and acquired her education in Houston county. As a farmer's daughter she is well adapted for a farmer's wife and presides over the household with an efficiency founded upon practical experience. The family faith is that of the Lutheran church.

Oliver Olson, who is now living practically retired on a farm in section 8, Money Creek township, was born near Money Creek, Houston county, Nov. 16, 1855. The greater part of his life has been spent in agricultural pursuits, though when a young man he worked for awhile at the carpenter's trade. After buying land in Houston township, he remained on his farm there until the spring of 1916, when he took up his residence on the farm where he is now living, which is owned and operated by his sons, Henry O. and Helmer B., and is a fine estate of 440 acres. Mr. Olson married Belle Larson, who was born in Norway, April 22, 1866, and who was brought to this country when five years old. They have been the parents of eleven children: Henry 0., Anna now Mrs. Oscar Sooum, Ida, Helmer, Lester, Helen, Ellen, Eva, Melvin, Martha and Martin. The family faith is that of the Lutheran church.

Henry O. Olson, who with his brother, Helmer B. Olson, owns and operates a fine farm of 440 acres in section 8, Money Creek township, where they are raising a fine grade of stock, was born in Rushford, Fillmore county, Minn., Dec. 16, 1884, son of Oliver and Belle (Larson) Olson. He was the eldest of his parents' eleven children and was educated in district schools in Houston township, also spending two winters in a Bible school in Chicago. From tibe Hge of 16 until that of 26 he worked out for others, but since 1911 has ii^ided with his parents, and for some time operated the farm for them. He and his brother are now partners in the business and are successfully breeding Roan Shorthorn cattle and Poland-China hogs. The farm is fully equipped with modern appliances and is well improved as to buildings, the two brothers exercising careful management over every detail. Henry O. Olson is also a stockholder in the Money Crme^^tirearnery, In politics he is a Republican with independent proclivities.

Abram Nelson, now living practically retired in section 12, Money Creek township, after an active career as a general farmer, was born in Norway, Feb. 2, 1837, son of Andrew and Josephine Nelson. The parents came to America in the year 1844, locating on Koshonong Prairie, Dane county. Wis., where thiey resided about two years. They then removed to Baraboo, Wis., where soon after the father died, his wife passing away about a year later. Abram was the youngest in a family of five children.

He attended school for a limited period in Baraboo, Wis., and North Freedom, Wis. At the age of eleven years he went to reside with a family with which he remained for a year, and after that he became self-supporting. In 1854 he came to Minnesota and took a land claim, but for several years he was employed in operating a breaking team and a threshing outfit. In 1857 he bought 160 acres of land in Wiscoy township, in the location known as Vinegar Hill - a tract that he sold a number of years ago. He has now 175 acres in Wiscoy township, Winona county, having retained but seven acres of land where he now lives, which he is cultivating as a garden. He is a member of the G. A. R., having served in the Civil War as a private in Co. A, First Minnesota Heavy Artillery. In politics he is a Republican with Prohibition proclivities, and has served as justice of the peace and a member of the school board. Mr. Nelson was first married in 1860 to Aldeline Amelia Clark, who was born in New York State. Of that union two children were born, of whom the only one now living is Dora, wife of E. J. Kingsley of Money Creek township, Houston county. In 1890 Mr. Nelson married Mrs. Brenerman, a widow residing in Sheldon township, of which union there were no children. Mr. Nelson subsequently married for his third wife Mrs. Anna Campbell of Money Creek. She died in 1911, leaving no children. In 1912 Mr. Nelson married Mrs. Catherine R. Griffin, a resident of the vicinity of Rushford. She is the mother of two son^, Alfred, of La Crescent ; and Samuel J., of Arizona.

' Hugh O'Doiuielly who aided in the development of Money Creek township by the establishment of a farm in section 17, was born in county Tipperary, Ireland, and was a young boy when he came to this country with his parents. Later he separated from the rest of the family in Albany, N. Y., and coming west, reached Winona, Minn., before there was any railroad built to that place. Soon after, however, he became engaged in railroad work and was thus occupied until about 1873, when he came to Money Creek township and bought the land in section 17 which he subsequently developed into the farm above mentioned. It was practically all wild land when he took it, but he had brought lumber with him, with which he built a small frame house, which was one of the first in this vicinity. To his original tract, which contained 40 acres, he subsequently added 100 more, and continued his improvements and the cultivation of his farm until his death about 1910. Mr. O'Donnell married Margaret Hennessy, who, like himself, was born in Tipperary, Ireland. She died before him - ^about the year 1901. They were the parents of six children.

John O'Doimell, a well to do general farmer operating 608 acres in Money Creek township, his residence lying in section 17, was born in Winona, Minn., Nov. 8, 1862, son of Hugh and Margaret (Hennessy) O'Donnell. He was the eldest of his parents' six children. His early education was obtained in Winona and he subsequently attended school for awhile in this township. Until he was 21 years old he acted as his father's assistant on the home farm, and after that worked out until his marriage. He then settled on a 40-acre farm close to his present location, operating it for two years, after which for five years he rented an adjoining farm. Then he went back to the 40-acre place, residing on it for a few years, and from there moving to the Layne farm, which he operated for eight years. From there he came to his present place which now contains 608 acres, which in part is the old homestead of his parents, and which he is operat- ?ng as a general farmer, though paying particular attention to the raising of Hereford cattle and Poland-China hogs. He has made good progress on the road to fortune, being a hard worker and a thoroughly practical man in his line of industry, and is a stockholder in the Rushford Creamery and Elevator. In politics a Democrat, he served a few years on the local school board. In religion he is a Catholic and attends the church at Rushford, which place is about four miles west of his farm. Fraternally he belongs to the order of Yeomen. Mr. O'Donnell was married April 21, 1888, to Susan Layne, daughter of John and Johanna (Shortall) Layne, her parents being early settlers in section 11, Money Creek township, and for a number of years prominent farming people here. Both are now deceased, Mr. Layne dying about 1891 and his wife about eight years previously. Mr. and Mrs. O'Donnell are the parents of nine children: Hannah, wife of Delbert Ives of Money Creek township ; John, residing at home ; Edward, who is farming in Canada ; and Mary, Joseph, Kathrine, Gertrude, (Jeorge and Lawrence, who are residing at home with their parents.

Albert John Ronnenberg, now living practically retired in Rushford, but who for a number of years was extensively engaged in agriculture improvements on a large farm in Money Creek township, Houston county, was bom in Hart township, Winona county, Minn., Dec. 6, 1860. He was brought up on his parents' farm, the management of which finally came into his hands, and he remained on it until his marriage at the age of 26 years. Then coming to Houston county, he took land in section 4, Money Creek township, and began the development of a farm, which in time attained the dimensions of 586 acres. On this large tract of land he made valuable improvements, converting it into an excellent modern farm, now known as Sunny Slope Stock Farm. Here for a number of years he made a specialty of breeding Red Pole cattle and Poland-China hogs, also being one of the stockholders in the Rushford creamery. In March, 1914, he took up his residence in Rushford, though he still gives his attention to his estate, a part of which is now operated by his son Arthur W. One of the leading citizens of his township, he served for some 18 years as a town official, being also a member of the school board of his district. Until 1917 he also served on the creamery board, but resigned in that year. Mr. Ronnenberg married Minnie Gielow, who was born in Holstein, Germany, March 19, 1869. They have three children: Albert H., who is operating an adjoining farm ; Hubert F., who is now in the United States military service ; and Arthur William, who is operating 260 acres of his father's farm.

Arthur William Ronnenberg, an enterprising young farmer of Money Creek township, who is engaged in operating 260 acres in section 4, was born in this township, Jan. 27, 1895, son of Albert John and Minnie (Gielow) Ronnenberg. He was a boy of eleven years when he accompanied his parents to Money Creek township, this county, and for awhile he attended school here, later being a pupil for two years in the Rushford high school. Up to the age of 21 years he was engaged in assisting his father, subse- quently farming a part of his father's land on his own account, during which time he kept bachelor's house for a year. On his marriage he moved to his present location on the parental homestead, where he is engaged largely in breeding Red Pole cattle and Poland-China swine, following the same general lines pursued by his father. He is meeting with good success and is already numbered among the prosperous citizens of the township. He is affiliated fraternally with the Masonic lodge at Money Creek. On Sept. 6, 1916, Mr. Ronnenberg was married to Genevieve Rank, daughter of Charles A. and Anna M. (Chapel) Rank, prominent farming people of Money Creek township. He and his wife have one child, Caryl Arthur, who was bom Sept. 26, 1917.

Joseph Addleman, an early settler in Looney Valley, Houston township, where in his day he was a prominent citizen, was born in Pennsylvania in the year 1800. When young he accompanied his parents to Indiana, then almost a frontier state, they locating in Wayne county. There or in that vicinity he remained until 1860, when he resolved to seek his fortune in the Northwest and accordingly came to Houston county, Minnesota. He had married Harriet Clark, a native of North Carolina, who accompanied him, with their children, and they settled in Looney Valley, where he took land and engaged in farming. The country was then very wild and they had pioneer hardships to undergo, which bore the more heavily upon them as Mr. Addleman was then already advanced in years. In 1870 he died and his wife then moved to Houston village, where she resided for many years, passing away in 1896. They were the parents of nine children: Sarah, Rebecca, William H., Margaret, Mahala, Mary, Louisa, Josephine, who died in infancy, and Benjamin K. During his active career in the township Mr. Addleman served a number of times in local office.

Benjamin K. Addleman, a general farmer operating 83 acres of land in section 12, Money Creek township, where he is doing a thriving business, was born in Wayne county, Indiana, Sept. 13, 1855, son of Joseph and Harriet (Clark) Addleman. He was one of the younger members of his parents' family and was about five years old when he came to Houston county. His education was acquired in the district school in Houston township. He was about 16 years old when his father died and he then took the management of the home farm, assisting his mother for four years, at the end of which time his mother rented out the farm and he began working for others. Later he learned the cooper's trade, and worked at it for the Houston flour mill. In 1879 he went to California, and while on the Pacific coast he made the trip overland to Walla Walla, Washington. In 1881 he returned home and worked out until 1908, when he bought his present farm, on which he is raising both grain and stock with profitable results. At the time of his marriage and for about two years he was deputy sheriff and turnkey at Caledonia. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Addleman assumed the responsibilities of domestic life Feb. 18, 1906, his bride being Cora Elfleda Wilsey, who was bom in New York State Feb. 18, 1860, daughter of Charles and Harriet (Comstock) Wilsey. Her parents were both natives of New York State, the father bom in 1825 and the mother in 1830. They came to Houston county, Minnesota, in 1861, locating

Michael Ryan, who was for a number of years a highly esteemed citizen of Money Creek township, where he established a good farm, was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, Nov. 22, 1837, son of John and Katherine (Hennessy) Ryan. The parents were lifelong residents of their native land, but never lived to rear their son Michael, who was left an orphan at the age of 14 months. Brought up by others, who had less than a parent's interest in him, he obtained but little schooling, the lack of which, however, he later made up by a good natural inteUigence and quickness of perception. As he grew older he began to have an ambition to succeed in life, and as a young man took the first step in that direction when he emigrated to the United States, locating on Staten Island, New York, where he found employment for a year. At the end of that time he came west to Winona, Minn., and for several years worked out in that vicinity. From there he came to Houston county, and began improving a farm in Money Creek township, continuing his improvements for two years, or until his marriage. He then took a wild tract in section 16, Money Creek township, and began the development of a farm here. Starting with 40 acres, and with his first dwelling a log house, he toiled steadily, making gradual progress until he owned 120 acres and was provided with a good set of buildings. On this estate he died, Feb. 10, 1903, his wife coming into possession of the property. Mr. Ryan was a man of domestic tastes, devoted to his family, and unambitious of public distinction. A Democrat in politics, he contented himself with casting his vote, but aU his life he was a faithful member of the Roman Catholic church. He was married Nov. 7, 1870, to Johanna Barlow, who was bom in County Limerick, Ireland, the eldest of eleven children of Patrick and Johanna (Donahue) Barlow. To Mr. and Mrs. Ryan ten children were bom: Kathrine, Johanna, John, Patrick, George, Mary, Michael, Clara, Anna Stacia, and Helen. Kathrine, now deceased, was the' wife of Dennis Tracy. Johanna, who married John Tracy, is now a widow, and resides with her mother. She has three children, Gerald, Helen and Frances. John and Michael are also residing on the home farm with their mother. Patrick and George are farmers in Canada and are both married. Mary, now deceased, was the wife of John Maloney, who is a resident of Canada. Anna Stacia is the wife of John Burke, a farmer in Money Creek township. Helen married James McManimon and resides in Yucatan township. Clara died at the age of nine years. Since her husband's death Mrs. Ryan, with the aid of her sons, John and Michael, has continued to operate the farm, and has increased its area by the purchase of 80 additional acres of good land, thus possessing a farm of 200 acres. She has also erected a new residence and made other improvements, evincing capable management and resourcefulness. Patrick Barlow, father of Mrs. Ryan, was a native of Ireland, as was also his wife, Johanna Donahue. They came to the United States in 1853, settling first in New York State, where Mr. Barlow was engaged in railroad work. In 1864 he came west and, with his family, took up his residence in Winona, Minn., where until his death about 1888, he was employed in the shops of the Northwestern Railroad Company. His

Gale C. Rank, proprietor of a general stock and dairy farm of 195 acres in section 5, Money Creek township, was born in Houston township, near the village of Houston, this county, July 28, 1893, son of Charles A. and Anna M. (Chapel) Rank. He acquired his elementary education in District School No. 6, Money Creek township, afterwards attended the Houston high school for three years, and then took a two years' course at a business college in La Crosse. Until the age of 21 years he resided with his parents on their farm in section 8, Money Creek township, and his time was chiefly devoted to agricultural work. Then in the fall of 1914 he opened a garage in Houston, which he operated for a year. Having then had enough of the garage business, he sold out and bought his present farm, which he is operating with good financial results. He is a member of the M. E. church and the Yeomen's lodge at Money Creek, and in politics is a Republican. On March 10, 1915, Mr. Rank was united in marriage with Marie Wells, who was born in Dodge Center, Minn., daughter of Floyd and Minnie (Babcock) Wells. Her parents, natives of New York State, were early settlers at Dodge Center. The father is now a traveling salesman with the Avery Tractor Company, of New York State. The mother died when her daughter Marie was a mere child. There were but two children in the family, and Marie was educated at Dodge Center, her native place. Mr. and Mrs. Rank are the parents of two children, RoUand Charles and Ruth Marie. The family is one of high social standing in this part of Houston county.

Herman Ferdinand Unmasch, who owns and operates a farm of 114 acres in section 8, Money Creek township, of which township he is one of the progressive and thriving citizens, was born at New Hartford, Winona county, Minn., April 23, 1882, son of Fred and Henrietta (Bargard) Unmasch. The parents were natives of Pommem, Germany, the father bom in 1845 and the mother in 1849. Married in their native land, they emigrated directly to Winona county, Minnesota, where they bought land and engaged in farming. There they are still residing, Fred Unmasch being one of the most prominent men of his locality and active in all matters pertaining to local government. Herman F. Unmasch, the direct subject of this sketch, was the seventh bom in a family of eleven children. He attended school at New Hartford, and resided at home until arriving at the age of 18 years, after which he worked out until his marriage in 1908. For a year after that event he assisted his wife's father and then bought his present farm, which he is operating as a grain and stock farm to good advantage. He is also a stockholder in the Money Creek Creamery. He attends the M. E. church at Money Creek and in politics is a Republican. Mr. Unmasch was married May 6, 1908, to Mae Orr, who was born in Mound Prairie township, daughter of David and Hattie (McGappy) Orr. Their family circle has been enlarged by the birth of four children, Myron David, Merton Lynn, Hattie Mae, and Donald Herman.

John Carlson, who is now residing on a small tract of five and a half acres of land adjoining the village of Money Creek, after some years of more extensive farm work in the township, was bom in Sweden, Sept. 22, 1852, son of Carl and Anna Carlson. The parents passed their lives in Sweden, where both died, neither having visited this country. John Carlson, who was educated in his native land, resided there until nearly 36 years old, and was there married, on June 30, 1878, to Severina Christina Johnson, daughter of John and Gustava Caroline (Johnson) Johnson. In July, 1888, he came directly to Houston County, Minnesota, locating in Money Creek township, where he secured employment as a farm hand. He had left his wife and family in Sweden, but was joined by them in September of the following year. Some years later he bought a farm two miles east of the village of Money Creek, which he cultivated for some six or seven years, at the end of which time he sold it and moved to his present farm, which he is operating as a means of passing the time and to avoid being idle. He is in prosperous circumstances and is a stockholder in the Money Creek Creamery. He is a member of St. Peter^s Lutheran church, and in political matters is independent. He and his wife have had four children : Amanda, wife of Soren Sorenson, of Houston; John Algert (first), who died young; John Algert (second), who is residing on his parents' home farm; and Eda Gustava, who lives with her parents.

Fletcher A. Bidwell, one of the pioneers of Houston county, whose life was spent for the most part in Yucatan township, was born in Wisconsin about the middle of the fifth decade of the last century. He was brought up to farming and came to Houston county at an early age, securing land in Yucatan township, where he developed a farm. His death occurred in 1910. He married Sarah Francis Farley, who was born in Massachusetts in 1859, and by whom he had two children : Elmer E., who is now a farmer in section 11, Money Creek township; and Francis Roy, who is farming in the state of Iowa.

Elmer E. Bidwell, a prosperous farmer of Money Creek township, having a good farm of 180 acres in section 11, was born in Yucatan township, Houston county, March 9, 1877, son of Fletcher A. and Sarah Frances (Farley) Bid well. He was educated in the district schools of his native township and on his parents' farm acquired a good practical knowledge of agriculture in its various branches. At the age of twelve years he began working out and supporting himself, and he continued to work for others until his marriage. For ten years after that event he operated rented farms in Houston county, and at the end of that time bought his present farm of 180 acres of valuable land, where he is engaged in breeding Hereford cattle and Duroc-Jersey swine, besides raising the usual crops. His operations have resulted successfully and he is now numbered among the well to do and progressive farmers of his township. He is a stockholder in the Money Creek Creamery, the Rushford Creamery and the Farmers' Telephone Company. For the past nine years he has served as treasurer of school district No. 89, and in politics is an independent Republican. Religiously, he is a member of the Roman Catholic church. On Dec. 28, 1898, Mr. Bidwell was united in marriage with Johanna Martha Maloney, who was born in Yucatan township, daughter of Dennis and Kathrine (Nester) Maloney, she being the second born in a family of 13 children. She was educated in the public schools of Houston county and in a Sisters' school at Chippewa

Falls, Wis. After a happy married life of over 17 years she passed to the other world on May 8, 1916. She was the mother of seven children ; Everett Vincent, Sylvester Eugene, Stella Madonna, Rose Elmira, Arthur Joseph, Elmer James and Robert Francis, all of whom are residing at home with their father. Dennis Maloney, father of Mrs. Elmer E. Bidwell, was born near Montreal, Canada, and his wife, Kathrine, in Detroit, Mich. They were early settlers in Yucatan township where they resided for over forty years, Mr. Maloney being one of the pioneer homesteaders of the township. Besides being an energetic farmer, he assisted in the construction of the railroad here. About 1910 he and his wife moved to Saskatchewan, Canada, where they took a farm, on which Mrs. Kathrine Maloney died in 1916. While living in Yucatan township, Houston county, Mr. Maloney served on the town board, as a member of the school board, and in other local offices.

Charles Chapel, one of the leading stock farmers of Money Creek township, where he is operating 265 acres of land, was born on the farm on which he is now living, Oct. 4, 1884, son of William H. and Mary C. (Layne) Chapel. He attended school in Money Creek township and resided at home until reaching the age of 20 years. He then entered a store in Houston as clerk and assistant, and in that and other occupations he was engaged for about two and a half years. He then began farming on his own account in Money Creek township, remaining two years on his first farm, and for the next five years operating the farm of his father-in-law, Kenneth McLeod. He then came to his parents' old homestead in Section 12, where he is now residing, having 185 acres in the homestead farm and 80 acres adjoining it, all of which he is operating as a general stock and dairy farm. The property is well improved, the buildings and equipment being thoroughly modern, and Mr. Chapel is conducting a profitable business, being also a stockholder in the Money Creek creamery. His political principles are those of the Democratic party.

Mr. Chapel was married, May 30, 1911, to Mabel McLeod, who was born in Money Creek township, near the Fillmore county line, daughter of Kenneth and Elizabeth (Brunner) McLeod. He and his wife have one child, Kenneth Allan. Kenneth McLeod, the father of Mrs. Chapel, was born in Nova Scotia, of Scotch ancestry and settled in Houston county, Minnesota, at an early date. He has devoted his active career to farming and owns and has developed 280 acres of land in this county, also being the owner of land in Canada. He and his wife are now living in Rushf ord, retired. He is a stockholder in the Rushford creamery and elevator, and in other local enterprises, being one of the leading citizens of the community. He and his wife have had eight children.

James Chapel, a well known representative of the agricultural interests of Money Creek township, proprietor of a farm of 120 acres in section 20, was born in the village of Money Creek, Jan. 1, 1878, son of Harvey and Julia (.Wydhoff ) Chapel. Until his marriage he resided with his parents and then rented and operated the home farm for four years, making a specialty of full blooded shorthorn stock. After that he was engaged in farming in Harden county. South Dakota, for two years. Then, return- ing to Houston county, he resided for two years in the village of Money Creek, operating the old home farm for a while, and then, in the fall of 1917, purchased his present farm of 120 acres in section 20, where he is profitably raising grain and stock for the market and doing considerable dairying. He is a stockholder in the Money Creek creamery.

Mr. Chapel was married in 1905 to Lylia Jergenson, who was born In Winona county, Minnesota, daughter of John and Emma (Heghlen) Jergenson, the former a native of Denmark and a pioneer of Wiscoy township, Winona county, and the latter a native of Norway. After long and useful effort they are now retired and reside in Money Creek, Houston county. Their daughter Lylia was the elder of their two children. Mr. and Mrs. Chapel have two children, Lula and Maurice. In politics Mr. Chapel is a Democrat with independent proclivities. He attends the Methodist Episcopal church, of which Mrs. Chapel is a communicant.

John Fitting, one of the leading farmers and stock raisers of Money Creek township, residing in section 18, was born in Mound Prairie township, this county, March 3, 1866, son of Peter and Margaret (Frey) Fitting. Of his parents' nine children he was the second in order of birth. His education was acquired in District No. 94, Mound Prairie township, and until the age of 24 years he was engaged in assisting his father on the home farm. He then bought land and farmed for himself in Mound Prairie township until 1902, at which time he sold out there and bought his present farm, having an area of 300 acres. The land is highly valuable and Mr. Fitting's improvements have made of it a model farm, with fine buildings and complete equipment. He is giving particular attention to the breeding of Shorthorn cattle, Poland-China hogs and Plymouth Rock chickens, and has been highly successful in his operations. His other business interests include those of a stockholder in the Money Creek creamery, the Houston Farmers' Exchange and the Houston State Bank. A Republican politically, he served in Mound Prairie township as supervisor and clerk of School District 94, and has been chairman one year of District 7, Money Creek township. He attends the M. E. church at Money Creek and belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. Fitting was married, December 10, 1890, to Laura Emmons, who was born at Pleasant Hill, Winona county, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Sandress) Emmons. He and his wife have six children, Nina Elizabeth, George B., John P., Jr., Floyd William^ Otto Theodore and Lillian Augusta. Mrs. Fitting's parents were born in Cambridgeshire, England, where they were married. Emigrating to thia country on a sailing vessel, they landed after a voyage of nearly three months, and making their way westward settled in Houston county, Minnesota, subsequently removing to Winona county, where the father died on a farm, Dec. 25, 1890. The mother died in 1915 when 93 years of age. They were prominent people in their locality, Mr. Emmons serving at times in school and other local offices. They had a family of 13 children, of whom six are now living, Neonia, Alice, David, George, Laura and Mary A.

Charles E. Benson, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits in Money Creek township, having a farm of 140 acres in section 5, which he devotes largely to stock raising, was born in this county, three miles south of

Houston, Sept. 2, 1885, son of Benjamin and Christine (Nelson) Bensor. His parents were both bom in Halland, Sweden, the father coming tc Houston county when a lad of eight years, the family settling in Swede Bottom, Houston township. There Benjamin Benson grew to manhood. He enlisted in the army in 1862, when a youth of 17, served against the Indians and later against the Confederates, and after the war settled on land in Sheldon township, where he is now living on a farm in section 10. Charles E. Benson, who was one of a family of nine children, all of whom are now living, in his boyhood attended District School No. 100 in Sheldon township, and later for one year the school at Houston. He resided on his parents' farm until about 17 years of age, and then went to Canada, homesteading land 80 miles north of Regina, where he resided for five years. From there he went to the state of Washington, spending one season in the mountains as horse breaker, and also working in the woods, for some three years. At last, owing to an injury received in the woods, he returned home and was laid up during the winter. After that, until his marriage, he worked on the home farm, buying his present farm when he began domestic life for himself. The property is well improved and he is doing a good business in breeding Durham cattle and Duroc-Jersey swine. He is a shareholder in the Money Creek creamery, the Farmers' Telephone Company and other local enterprises, and is now a man of means and a respected citizen of his township. In politics he is independent, while his religious affiliations are with the Swedish Baptist church. He belongs to the Sons of Veterans at Money Creek. Mr. Benson was married Aug. 22, 1916, to Ella V. Benson, who was born in Houston, April 6, 1897, daughter of Bernt and Johanna Katherina (Benson) Benson. Her parents were natives of Halland, Sweden, and for a number of years were actively engaged in farming in Houston township, where they now live, the father being president of the Houston Mercantile Co. Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Benson are the parents of two children, Goldie Isabelle and Lila Irene.

Orrin R. Kingsley, one of the settlers in Money Creek township in the days previous to the Cival War, but who is now deceased, was born in the sfate of Pennsylvania, May 31, 1824. He became a farmer by occupation and continued as such after taking land in Houston county. Though over forty years old when the war broke out, he enlisted in the First Minnesota Battery, with which he served for three years, or until the close of the war. Then returning to his farm in Houston county, he took up the burden of its improvement and was an active farmer here for a number of years. Subsequently he removed to Pickwick, Winona county, Minnesota, where he continued in agricultural work until two years before his death, which occurred in 1894. Mr. Kingsley married Catherine Nelson, a native of Norway and about two years younger than himself. She died many years before him, in 1869. They were the parents of eight children : Almeda (deceased); Albin W. ; Alfred J. (deceased); Mary A.; Ebz. J.; Clarissa M.; Edwin A.; Ida J. (deceased).

Ebenezer Jackson Kingsley, one of the leading citizens of Money Creek township, vice president of the Houston State Bank, and a stockholder in various local and other enterprises, was bom on the old Emery farm in this township, Sept. 14, 1857, son of Orrin R. and Catherine (Nelson) Kingsley. He was the fifth born in his parents' family of eight children, and was educated in the district schools in Money Creek township, and in Wiscoy township, Winona county. He was reared on his parents' farm, but at an early age began working out, and when 18 years old began farming on his own account, soon afterwards becoming a land owner in Winona county. After being engaged in agricultural pursuits there for eleven years, he returned to Houston county and took a farm in section 12, Money Creek township, containing 160 acres, which he operated for 17 years, making hogs and corn his special products, though during the latter years he also engaged in dairying. At the end of the period mentioned he sold the farm, all but seven acres and the house he is now living in, and has since lived practically retired, using his land for pasture and garden purposes. He is a stockholder in the Money Creek creamery, of which he is now president; and also holds stock in the Farmers' Elevator at Houston and the Northwestern Security Co., of Minneapolis. In politics a Republican, Mr. Kingsley has at various times taken an active part in local government affairs, serving in town and other offices. He was chairman of the town board for twelve years and for the same length of time a member of the school board. His fraternal affiliations are with the Yeomen and Sons of Veterans. Mr. Kingsley was married Jan. 24, 1889, to Dora Nelson, who was born in Faribault county, Minnesota, May 18, 1873, daughter of Abraham and Adeline (Clark) Nelson. To Mr. and Mrs. Kingsley eight children have been born: Ina, wife of Clarence Smith, a farmer living near Stockton, Winona county; Abraham G., who is farming in the same vicinity; Warren J., who died in infancy; Erwin Jackson, who enlisted in the United States military service and died at Camp Cody, Feb. 9, 1918; Orrin Francis, a veteran of the United States military service; Thomas Howard, residing at home; Violet Catherine, who died at the age of five years, and Kenneth Nelson, who is residing at home. This family, like so many other old American families of Civil War traditions, made its sacrifice in the World War. The son, Orrin Francis, filled with the same principles that animated both his soldier grandfathers, went into service in France, was wounded during the Argonne campaign, and lost the sight of one eye. After being cared for in France he returned to this country and received treatment at a hospital in Baltimore.

Abraham Nelson, father of Mrs. E. J. Kingsley, was born in Norway, Feb. 29, 1837. He was always a farmer by occupation and was seven years old when he came to this country, growing to manhood in Wisconsin. At the age of 18 he came to Minnesota, locating in Winona county, near what is now known as Wytoka, where he resided until his marriage to Adeline Clark, who was born in Fond du Lac county in 1840. He then removed to Money Creek township, Houston county, but later went to Faribault county, Minnesota, where he and his wife spent a number of years. He then returned to Winona county, continued in active life here for a number of years, and is now living retired in this county. His wife died about 1891. He is a Civil War veteran, having served the last six months of the war in a Minnesota regiment.

Edwin A. Kingsley, who is engaged in farming forty acres in section 11, Money Creek township, raising stock, poultry and grain, was bom in Wiscoy township, Winona county, Dec. 20, 1860, son of Orrin R. and Catherine (Nelson) Kingsley. His parents were early settlers in this township, the father enlisting from this county for service in the Civil War. Both are now deceased, Orrin R. passing away in 1894 and his wife in 1869. Edwin A. Kingsley attended school in District 51, Wiscoy township, and also for one year at the Winona Normal school. From the age of 14 until his marriage he worked out for others, and then settled on the old Kingsley farm in this township, where he and his wife lived for one yeaf. From there he moved to a farm on South Ridge, where he spent several years, at the end of that time coming to his present location in the northwest corner of section 11. Here he has made good progress with his improvements and is doing a successful business in his line of industry. Inae- I endent in politics, he served as a member of the local school board for a number of years. He belongs to the Sons of Veterans at Money Creek, to which he was admitted by virtue of his father's military record. Mr. Kingsley was married, Sept. 12, 1891, to Bertha L. Sandrock, who was born in Olmsted county, Minnesota, daughter of William and Emma (Hawkins) Sandrock. To Mr. and Mrs. Kingsley six children have been born, William Edwin, Roy Ray, Emma Aura, Marion Catherine, Louis Albin and Violet Susan. William Edwin, who was the first to enlist in the U. S. navy from Money Creek township for service in the present war, died at Charleston. S. C, Jan. 28, 1918. Roy Ray, who is a farmer at Wiscoy, Winona county, married Clara Hennessy, and has 2 children, Robert Roy and one deceased. The other children are residing at home. This was one of the families that made the great sacrifice during the World War. The son, William Edwin, was one of the favorite young men in the township. The stories of his grandfather's part in the Civil War were a part of his boyhood traditions, and when the Great War broke out, he planned also to do his share. Volunteering himself on his country's altar, he went into service, and there met his untimely end. His example will be an inspiration to all the younger element in the township.

John Layne, proprietor of the old Layne farm of 281 acres in section 11, Money Creek township, where he is doing a profitable business as a general farmer and stock raiser, was born near Galena, 111., in 1864, son of John and Johanna (Shortall) Layne. The father was a native of Missouri and the mother of Ireland. John Layne, Sr., removed from his native state to a farm about six miles from Galena, 111., where he resided for about 25 years, during a part of the time, however, being engaged in mining. He then came with his family to Houston county, Minnesota, taking land on Vinegar Hill, Money Creek township, which in time he developed into a good farm, which is the same on which his son and namesake now lives. His wife died in 1874, his own death occurring in December, 1886. They were the parents of seven children. John Layne, the present bearer of the name, acquired his education partly in Illinois and partly in Houston county, Minnesota. He assisted his father on the home farm up to the time of the latter's death, and has since continued to reside on the homestead, of which he is now the owner. While engaged in general farming, he gives special attention to the raising of Hereford cattle and Poland- China swine, a branch of his business in which he has been very successful. For a number of years he served as clerk of the district school board, being independent in politics. In religion a Roman Catholic, he attends the church of that faith at Rushford. His fraternal affiliations are^with the Yeomen's lodge at Money Creek. Mr. Layne was married about 1890 to Margaret O'Donnell, who was born in Winona, Minn., daughter of Hugh and Margaret (Hennessy) O'Donnell. Her parents, both natives of Ireland, were early settlers in Winona county, this state, coming to Money Creek township, Houston county, about 1873. Here they took land in section 17 and developed a farm, on which they finally passed away, Mr. O'DonneU about 1910 and his wife about 1901. They were the parents of six children. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. John Layne, namely: Margaret, wife of Joseph Hennessy, a farmer reaiding near Lanesboro, Minn.; John, Jr., who is assisting his father on the home farm; Hannah, Mary and Mabel, residing at home; Alice, who is preparing for her life work as a nurse at St. Francis Hospital, La Crosse; William, who is deceased, and Genevieve, living at home with her parents.

Walter J. Frosch, who owns and operates a good dairy and stock farm of 160 acres in section 1, Money Creek township, and is a prominent and well-to-do citizen, was born in La Crosse, Wis., Aug. 22, 1879, son of Joseph and Katherine Frosch. The parents were natives of the Duchy of Luxemberg, where they were married, coming to the United States and directly to La Crosse, Wis., in the early seventies. The father, who was a mechanic, worked 24 years for the Piatt & Medary Co., and died while in their service in 1890. The mother died in La Crosse in 1885. They were the parents of eight children, of whom Walter J. was the fourth in order of birth. He acquired his education in the schools of La Crosse and resided with his parents until the age of 14 years, when he left home and found employment for six dollars a month, working the first year in Nodine. He continued working for others, with increased pay, for some four or five years, or until his marriage, at which time he rented land in the vicinity of Nodine and for nine years was engaged in farming there. He then purchased his present farm, on which he is making a specialty of breeding Poland-China thoroughbred hogs and other good stock, being also a shareholder in the Money Creek creamery, the Houston elevator and the Independent Harvester Co. of Piano, 111., and is a director in the Farmers' Cooperative Telephone Co. He attends the Baptist church, is a member of the Masonic order and in politics is a Republican. Mr. Frosch was united in marriage, Dec. 17, 1900, with Rose Lee, who was born in Winona county, Minnesota, daughter of W. F. and Katherine Lee, she being the second born in a family of six children. He and his wife have one child. Perry Franklin, bom Jan. 21, 1902. The parents of Mrs. Frosch were botn born in Montreal, Canada, and were very early settlers in Winona county, Minnesota, where W. F. Lee, the father, became a land owner and also practiced veterinary medicine and surgery for 25 years, and is still an active citizen.

Clarence E. Hawkins, proprietor of the farm known as Hickory Hill Ranch, in section 20, Money Creek township, where he is carrying on general farming with profitable results, was born in Olmsted county, Minnesota. Feb. 22, 1882, son of Royal Henry and Jane (Pervis) Hawkins. Of his parents' ten children he was the ninth in order of birth. The family moving to Money Creek Township, Houston county, in 1889, he attended District School No. 9 in this township and acquired a practical knowledge of agriculture on the parental farm on which he worked as his father's assistant until his marriage in 1901. He then rented the farm for two years, and afterwards a neighboring farm for five years, purchasing it at .the end of that time. There he resided until his father's death, in November, 1912, at which time he moved back to the home farm, purchasing the rights of the other heirs, and has since been engaged in the cultivation and improvement of the property, carrying on general farming. He has 280 acres of fertile land, with good buildings, and on the farm is a valuable spring which furnishes excellent water. In addition to the business interests above described, he is a stockholder in the Money Creek Creamery. He belongs to the order of Yeomen at Houston and to the Sons of Veterans at Money Creek. He attends the Methodist Episcopal church and in politics is independent. Mr. Hawkins assumed the responsibilities of domestic life on September 18, 1901, when he was united in marriage with Tressie Lord, who was born in the village of Sheldon, Houston county, Sept. 15, 1886, daughter of David and Carrie (Walters) Lord. Her father, who was a native of one of the eastern states, was a farmer and veterinary surgeon, and also operated a threshing machine. He died in Houston in 1911. His wife, who was born in Wisconsin, is now residing in Looney Valley, Money Creek township. Of seven children, their daughter Tressie was the fourth in order of birth. The family circle of Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins has been enlarged by the birth of five children, Margaret Jane, Royal Dwight, Clarence Eusebius, George Henry and Daisy Marie.

John Hennessy, formerly a farmer and esteemed citizen of Money Creek township, who established the farm on Vinegar Hill, in section 15. that is now operated by his son, Patrick, was born in County Tipperary, Ireland. He was a young man when he came to the United States, locating at Galena, 111., where he found employment in the lead mines. His residence there lasted for a number of years, and there he married Sarah Highland, a native of Queenstown, Ireland. About 1853 he moved with his family to Winona, Minn., and for some years thereafter was enged in river work. At last, desiring to establish a permanent home, he came to Houston county, and securing 120 acres of wild land on Vinegar Hill, Money Creek township, began to improve and cultivate it, his first residence on his property being a pioneer log house. For a number of years thereafter he devoted himself to his task, working patiently and industriously and making steady progress, so that at the time of his death, about 1898, he was the owner of a fairly good farm. He was survived by his wife, who passed