Houston County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1919 (part 1 of 21)

Biography

The intimate life of the community is best told in the personal stories of its citizens. Biographical facts not only provide permanent genealogical material for the families of which they treat and valuable information for the historical investigator, but also furnish inspiration for worthy emulation. In so new a county as Houston there are few men who have not started as poor boys and attained their success through their own efforts. The story of their equipment for the struggle by birth, training, environment and experience is of vital significance. So, too, is the story of the men of the younger generation, who with better preparation, and under more favorable circumstances, have taken up the work which their fathers have laid down.

Therefore in supplementing the general county history, the publishers of this volume and their staff have gathered biographical data from some eight hundred leading families of the county. The list is comprehensive and thoroughly representative. The research involved in collecting the material has extended over a period of two years, and during that time the opportunity has been opened to all of those who have desired that their family history be thus recorded and preserved.

It is manifestly impossible to include every family of the past and present; such a task would be beyond human ability. The criticism that in such a work, many worthy families are omitted, while to be regretted, is hardly a just one, as the scope of the work might be trebled, yet still omit many a family whom some would like to see thus honored. And while the story of some of those here included is no more worthy of preservation than the story of some of those who are omitted, those here printed are thoroughly typical and represent every phase of the county's citizenship.

These biographical and genealogical sketches have been gathered from personal interviews, from records and from newspapers. They have all been submitted to some member of the family most concerned. While it is believed that a high degree of accuracy has been maintained, the responsibility rests with the families themselves and not with the publishers. In a few cases, sketches submitted for correction have not been returned. In such instances the duplicate has been printed, containing the facts as originally gathered.

The difficulties of gathering such a vast amount of material are many. Even brothers and sisters often give widely varying accounts, not only of the facts and dates concerning their parents, but even of the rendering of their parents' names. In a few instances, where an agreement was impossible, both versions are given.

All personal estimates of life, character, accomplishments, worm, mfluence and ability have been added by the board of editors, constrained by a desire throughout to avoid extravagant laudations, though in many instances such laudations would be most thoroughly deserved.

Ara David Sprague, pioneer merchant of Caledonia, was for many years one of the most influential men in the whole county, and his life and work are an inseparable part of the business, financial, agriculutral, re- Ugious, educational, and social life of the community. The Sprague family in America was founded by three brothers, Ralph, Richard and William, of Scotch-Irish blood, who came to America in 1828. Descended from one of these brothers was Asa Sprague. David Sprague, the son of Asa Sprague, moved as a young man from Massachusetts to New York, and there married Anna Cunningham. Of this union was bom on January 29, 1824, at Richfield, Otsego county, Ara David Sprague, the subject of this sketch. When eleven years of age, he was taken to Exter, in the same county, and there he was reared to agricultural pursuits. He passed through the district school and was given the advantage of three terms in a select school. At the age of twenty he set out from the parental home with $25 which he had earned during his boyhood, resolved to carve his fortunes. Investing his money in patent medicines, he commenced life as an itinerant vender in western New York, Pennsylvania and several states to the westward. He continued in this business three years, meeting with considerable success. In 1850, he enlarged his business, added a wholesale line of notions, and provided himself with a large wagon and four horses. However, just as his business was being put on a substantial basis, he was taken with severe attacks of inflammatory rheumatism which rendered him practically helpless for two years, during which he expended his entire savings and some $600 in addition. Facing these distressing circumstances, he went to Chicago as soon as he was well, and again equipped himself as an itinerant merchant. In 1854, however, he determined to secure a permanent location. Accordingly he came to Minnesota, and secured four lots and a house at Caledonia, and started trading in a log cabin. In 1857 he built a frame store, enlarged his stock, and prepared for the rapidly increasing development of the county. With the years, his business continued to grow. In 1875 he disposed of his mercantile stock to his nephews, and turned his attention to the hardware business. That same year, with J. C. Easton, of Chatfield, he opened the first bank in the county. This institution is now known as the Sprague State Bank. A thorough believer in the future of this region, he was one of the organizers and enthusiastic supporters of the old narrow gage Chicago, Milwaukee & Western Railroad Company, now the Reno-Preston branch of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul. From the very beginning, he began to acquire land in this neighborhood, and he became in time the largest real estate owner in the county, as well as the owner of considerable tracts elsewhere. In this land he took a personal interest, and it was a familiar sight to see him in the fields laboring with the farm hands. Failing health caused him to gradually relinquish the management of his affairs to his sons, Robert D. and Ellsworth A. In establishing his own fortunes, Mr. Sprague was not unmindful of the needs of the community, and the greatest good for the viUage and county were ever in his mind, so that now some of the county's most substantial improvements stand as monuments to his memory. The Methodist Episcopal church of Caledonia, was one of the recipients of his bounty, and the erection of the present sightly church and parsonage were made possible by his generosity. He also gave substantial aid to other churches. After a long useful life, Mr. Sprague died Jan. 11, 1909, after an iUness bom with unfailing courage and cheerfulness through many years. Mr. Spague was married June 7, 1857, to Ella Williams, and to this union were bom four children: Anna C, wife of Chas. W. Latham; Arthur Dewitt, Ellsworth Ara and Robert David. Arthur D. lives at Devils Lake, North Dakota, the others are in Caledonia. Mrs. EUa Williams St)rague proved the able helpmeet of her husband in all his endeavors, a loving wife and an understanding mother. She was bom near Quincy, Illinois, March 26, 1838, came to Caledonia in 1855 or 1856 and continued to make her home here until her death, October 4, 1918. Mrs. Sprague was a modest, unassuming and Christian woman, greatly beloved by all who knew her, and her passing was a distinct loss to the community.

Robert D. Sprague, cashier of the Sprague State Bank, of Caledonia, and one of that village's most energetic and useful citizens, was born in Caledonia, April 29, 1872, son of Ara David and Ella (Williams) Sprague. He passed through the graded schools of Caledonia, afterward attending the State Normal Sdiool at Winona, and finishing at Carleton College, at Northfield, Minn. With this preparation he entered his father's bank as assistant cashier. In 1899 he was elected cashier. In 1903, he and his brother, Ellsworth A. took over the bank which they continued to conduct as a private institution until 1908, when it was incorporated as a state bank with its present name, with Ellsworth A. Sprague as president, Arthur D. Sprague as vice-president; and Robert D. Sprague as cashier. Like their father before them, the three men are extensively interested in farm lands throughout the county and elsewhere. Robert D. Sprague has served on the village council for seven years and has been its president for two years. He has been treasurer of the Caledonia Commercial Club since it was first organized. During the World Conflict he was very active in civilian war work, and has assisted materially in the various drives. He was married June 6, 1898, to Grace Farrington, daughter of Judge and Mrs. Eugene V. Farrington, of Preston, and this union has been blessed with two children: Robert E., bom Sept. 7, 1904; and A. Janet G., bom June 29, 1914.

Eugene V. Farrington was bora on a farm in Herkimer county, New York, Dec. 1, 1836, son of Cephas and Susan (Sabin) Farrington. The family came west in 1856, located in Baraboo, Wis., and there remained two years, after which they came to Minnesota and located in Jordan township, Fillmore county, taking up a claim on section 26, on which the parents spent the remainder of their days. Eugene V., who had received a good education at the White Plains Academy, N. Y., followed the fortunes of the family in New York and Wisconsin, and upon arriving in this county, took a farm near his father's, which he broke and improved, and where he carried on agricultural operations for some years. At once upon his arrival he began to take an interest in public affairs, and at various times was elected to offices of trust and honor. In 1875 and again in 1879 he sat in the lower house of the Minnesota legislature, and in this capacity advocated a number of wise and progressive laws. In 1881 he was elected to the office of judge of probate of Fillmore county. It was in this position that he indelibly impressed his personality upon the life and history of the community. Taking office Jan. 1, 1882, he served continuously until the spring of 1907, when, having been elected for another term the previous fall, he resigned on account of failing health. In the meanwhile he had allied himself with a number of societies. Having been an orderly sergeant in Company I, Eleventh Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, he early became identified with Underwood Post, No. 122, G. A. R., and served as its commander for 18 years. He also belonged to Preston lodge, No. 36, A. F. & A. M., and to Preston Camp, No. 276, M. W. A. Being of sincere and deep religious convictions, he joined the Methodist Episcopal church at an early age and became a staunch supporter of that body at Preston, being superintendent of the Sunday school for many years. In 1907 ill health caused his retirement from all active life, and the sad end came July 13 of that year. Mr. Farrington was married, Dec. 28, 1865, to Alice E. Sheldon, daughter of James and Sarah (Walradt) Sheldon. To this union were born four children: George Warren died at four years of age. Charles Herbert died at 18 months. Sabin E. lives at Louisville, Ky. Grace M. is the wife of Robert D. Sprague, cashier of the Sprague State Bank of Caledonia, Minn. Mrs. Eugene V. Farrington is now living in Preston in a beautiful home on the ridge, where she is spending her declining years, surrounded by the love and tenderness which her gracious character so amply merits.

Torgus Kettleson (Eiken), a pioneer of Black Hammer Township, was born in Norway, and came to Houston County, Minn., when there were but a few settlers here, entering land, Aug. 25, 1855, in Black Hammer Township. He was accompanied by his wife and several children, and, like nearly all the early immigrants, had crossed the ocean in a sailing vessel, landing after a long and tedious voyage. The first home of himself and family here was a dugout, which he soon converted into a cellar, erecting thereon a log house, which for some years proved a fairly comfortable residence. He began his agricultural operations by clearing off a patch for corn, which, when ripened and gathered, was ground into meal in a coffee-mill - a common device with the pioneer settlers before a grist miU was established in the neighborhood. In time Mr. Kettleson developed his farm and raised various crops, establishing for himself and family a comfortable home.

Tollef Eiken, a well known and respected resident of Black Hammer Township, was born in this township, son of Torgus Kettleson (Eiken), his parents being among the earliest settlers here. Tollef 's early home was a log house which his father erected soon after his arrival in 1855. Like his father, he followed agriculture, the most certain way of getting a living in early days, and in time became a prosperous and esteemed citizen.

serving as chairman of the township board and in other offices. He is still a resident here and is one of the prominent members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church. He married Johanna Masvold, a native of Norway.

Martin Adolph Eiken, present assistant cashier of the Caledonia State Bank and for fourteen years register of deeds of Houston County, was bom in Fillmore county, Minn., May 4, 1882, son of ToUef and Johanna (Masvold) Eiken. He acquired his education in the district school and in the Breckinridge Institute at Decorah, Iowa. Subsequently he spent several years as a school teacher in Fillmore and Houston Counties. Having developed considerable proficiency in baseball, he became a member of the Northern League and for a year and a half was a professional player. At the end of that time, though only 22 years old, he came before the people as a candidate on the Republican ticket for the office of register of deeds, and was elected, taking office Jan. 1, 1905. For fourteen years he served faithfully and efficiently, winning an exceUent reputation for careful attention to the county's needs. Upon his retirement he assumed his present duties at the bank, of which he had for some years been a director. Mr. Eiken has been a leader in public and political affairs, has served on various committees and delegations, and has done good work as secretary of the Republican Central Committee. He has also labored in behalf of the cause of education as a member of the school board. For some years he has been a member of the Caledonia Fire Department. His fraternal society affiliations are with the Masonic order, in which he has advanced as far as the Chapter, and with the Modem Woodmen of America. Mr. Eiken married Ada Odelia Solberg, a native of Houston County, and he and his wife are the parents of two children, Muriel Evelyn and Malcolm Solberg.

Knud Anderson Dahle, one of the pioneer settlers of Wilmington Township, now deceased, was bom in Valders, Norway, in the year 1829. Emigrating when a young man to the United States, he was married at Detroit, Mich., in 1852, to Margit Roble, also a native of Norway. For one year he worked in the Detroit docks as a boat builder, eaming at first only 75 cents a day, though after his employer leamed that he was married he added 25 cents a day to his wages. After remaining in Detroit for the time above mentioned, they moved to Chicago, where they remained six months, Mr. Dahle following the same occupation there. In July, 1854, he made a more important move, he and his family leaving Chicago for the northwest. After a short stay at Rock Prairie, Wis., they came on in a covered wagon drawn by oxen to Houston County, Minn., finally reaching Wilmington Township. Before they arrived here, however, Mr. and Mrs. Dahle suffered the loss of their infant son, Wilhelm, who died enroute near Spring Grove, this county. The land which Mr. Dahle secured was in section 14, and was all wild. It had one advantage, however, as through the place ran the territorial road from Lansing, Iowa, to Caledonia, which gave them access to markets. His career was similar to that of most of the enterprising pioneers. There was plenty of hard work to do, and some privations to be suffered, but Mr. and Mrs. Dahle were hardy folks, unaccustomed to luxury, and both worked hard and made progress, in time becoming the proprietors of 360 acres of land, besides erecting substantial buildings. At last they found themselves in a position to retire and took up their residence at Spring Grove, where Mrs. Dahle died in the year 1897 at the age of 73 years. Her husband survived her three years, dying at the same age. They had eight children : Wilhelm, previously mentioned, who died in infancy; Mina, who died in the seventies; Andrew, now a farmer in this county ; Sophia, now Mrs. Andrew Myhre, occupying a part of the old homestead ; Knut, who was engaged in business at Minot, N. D., but who died there several years ago; Olaus K., practicing law at Caledonia, Minnesota ; Maria, now Mrs. Fresly, of Elroy, Wis. ; and Julia (Mrs. Dyer) , who died in the spring of 1917.

Olaus K. Dahle, a member of the bar of Houston County, and a man of sterling reputation in public and private life, was bom in Wilmington Township, this county, Jan. 9, 1865, son of Knud Anderson and Margit (Roble) Dahle. His early education was obtained in the district and Lutheran parochial schools, and was supplemented by school attendance in Caledonia and a course in the Winona Normal School. He resided on his parents' farm until he was 19 years old, and then became clerk in a store in Caledonia, being thus occupied for three years. In the year, 1888, though he had never attended a political caucus, and had voted but once, but was brought before the public as a candidate on the Republican ticket for the office of register of deeds, being nominated by acclamation, and he was also endorsed by the Democrats and his name printed on the Democratic ticket. His election followed as a matter of course, and he served in that office for four years. Ambitious of further success in life, he decided to study law, and accordingly entered the State University, being graduated from the law department in 1894. On his admission to the bar he was taken into partnership by Judge James O'Brien, the firm having offices in Caledonia. A year later, however, Mr. Dahle moved to Spring Grove and engaged in the newspaper business, becoming editor and proprietor of the Spring Grove Herald, the destinies of which paper he guided for four years and a half. In the meanwhile his ability and party services were recognized by his appointment in 1897, as second assistant to the chief clerk of the House of Representatives, and in 1899 he was made first assistant. In the year 1900 he was nominated on the Republican ticket for the office of county attorney and was elected without soliciting a vote. He continued in the office through successive re-elections, for a period of sixteen years, retiring in January, 1919. His public career, beginning at the early age of 23 years, has been a highly creditable one. In addition to the various activities above mentioned, Mr. Dahle is president of the Onsgaard State Bank of Spring Grove, and has served as a member of the local school board and president of the Commercial Club. He is a Scottish Rite Mason, belonging also to the Woodmen and Workmen lodges, while his religious affiliations are with the Norwegian Lutheran Church. Mr. Dahle married Oline Onsgaard, daughter of N. O. Onsgaard, who was the founder of Onsgaard State Bank at Spring Grove. He and his wife are the parents of seven children, Kenneth, Norris, Mervin, Obert, Oscar, Margit and Norman, all living except Mervin, bom March 25, 1902 and died Jan. 21, 1919, while a student at the State Agricultural College. Mr. and Mrs. Dahle have purchased a beautiful homestead in Wilmington to which they retired in March, 1919.

Walter Goergen, a former well known public official of Houston County, who resided for a number of years in Caledonia, but is now deceased, was born in the Duchy of Luxemburg, and came to the United States in 1864 with his uncle Tisen, they settling in Caledonia township, this county. Here he worked for others for awhile to earn money with which to make a start. After that he rented farms and engaged in agriculture, finally buying a farm of 260 acres in Wilmington Township, which he operated for a number of years, at the end of which time he sold it to hi? son-in-law. His public career had begun much before this however, as in 1878, before he had located on the last farm mentioned, he had been elected on the Democratic tieket to the office of sheriff, in which he served for three terms, or six years. He was then, in 1884, elected county auditor and held that office for two years, at the same time being a member of the village council and the bei^ of education. Then returning to his farm, he remained there for eight years, after which he took up his residence on a farm of 65 acres in Caledonia, where his widow now resides. At the time of the organization of 1^ Houston County State Bank he became its president and continued in that office after it became a national bank. After a long and useful career as farmer, banker and public official he passed from this Hfe Feb. % 1906, his loss being deeply regretted by a wide circle of friends and acquaintances, including his surviving relatives. Mr. Goergen was united in marriage May 25, 1873, to Isabella Hemri, who was bom in Norway, July 10, 1890. Her father, Ole, had died in Norway, and at the age of nine years she had come to this country with her mother, and the latter's five other children, the family setthng in Caledonia Township, this county, where th# smother spent the rest of her life, and before her death saw all her children well established in promising careers. Mr. and Mrs. Goergen had twelve children: Susan, now Mrs. Louis Enas, of Caledonia; Lizzie, now MMf.^ Wilberdine and a resident of Montana; Martha, wife of Wilbur Nelson, of Lansing, Iowa; Phillip, who lives in Minneapolis; Walter, Isabella and Lena, who are residing at home; and Anna, who is now Mrs. Lars Hl^nson, of Caledonia, and four who are dead. Mrs. Goergen, who survives her husband, has also six grandchildren, and the family is one well known and respected in this part of the county.

Elttiiff K. Roverud, for the past SO years editor and proprietor of the Caledonia Journal, and who has also at various times taken a prominent part in local and state politics, is a man who has achieved a high measure of success through innate force of character, and without any initial advanta^res other than good heredity, a sound constitution, and a high standard of personal morals. Like many of the successful men of the great northwest, Ifir. Roverud is of Scandlltal^ti origin, having been bom in Norway, Nov. 2, 1852, son of Knute H. and Guri (Stromsod) Roverud. The father was bom in 1821 and the mother in 1818. Married in Norway, they came to MimiMota in 1867> locating on tt^liom, and in the following year buying and industrious career which enabled him to gain a substantial degree of prosperity and to provide well for his family. Though a man of quiet disposition, he yielded influence in local affairs and was an active member of the Republican party in his county. Religiously he was a Lutheran. For some years before his death he had been a widower, his wife having passed away in 1885. They were the parents of ten children, of whom there are three now living: Martha Kinstad, of La Crosse, Wis.; EUing K. ; and John K., the one last mentioned residing in Calmar, Iowa.

EUing K. Roverud as a boy attended the common schools, his further education being made dependent upon his own efforts. His ambition and industry solved the problem, and in 1876 he was graduated from the Winona Normal School. After that he taught school for several terms. In 1878 he finished the normal course in the Lutheran college at Decorah, Iowa, and when his diploma was given him he was entirely without money and had hardly clothes enough to present a respectable appearance. For three years he taught school, and by the end of that time his personality had made so favorable an impression upon the citizens of his county that in 1880 he was elected to his first important public office, as county auditor. His four years' service in this office led to his appointment as clerk of court, which position he held for over a year, and then for two years was again county auditor. From 1883 to 1890 Mr. Roverud was in the hardware business at Caledonia. In 1890 he bought the Caledonia Journal, of which he has since been editor and proprietor. One of the flourishing newspapers of Houston County, it has a large circulation throughout this portion of the state. The plant is well equipped, and besides the publication of the Journal does a large amount of job printing. In 1894, four years after entering into the newspaper field, Mr. Roverud was elected a member of the state senate, and gave eight years of active service as one of the law makers at St. Paul. He has taken an active part in two national conventions of the Republican party, having been elected by the republicans of the First Congressional District as a delegate to the national convention in 1900 at Philadelphia, Penn., and by the republicans of the state of Minnesota as a delegate at large to the national convention in Chicago in 1912. On Nov. 12, 1879, Mr, Roverud was united in marriage with Martha K. Blexrud, a daughter of Knute Blexrud, who was one of the earliest settlers and farmers in Houston County. Of this marriage seven children have been born: Gena C, who for a number of years has been a teacher in the Stillwater public schools ; Hannah, who is residing at home ; Ella M., a teacher in the St. Paul schools ; Nora, now Mrs. C. E. Daniels, a graduate of the University of Minnesota, and now living at Lehigh, Iowa ; Katherine, a graduate of Stout Institute at Menominie, Wis. ; Adelia, who is a stenographer for the firm of Duxbury & Duxbury at Caledonia; and Elmore K., who is a high school graduate. A member, with his family, of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mr. Roverud has served as its secretary for over 25 years.

Elling H. Burtness, a pioneer settler of Wilmington Township now passed away, was bom at Ness HoUingdal, Norway, Sept. 29, 1837. In 1861, accompanied by his brother Swen, he came to the United States on a sailing vessel, landing in this country after a long voyage. Like most of his race, he sought the northwest, making his way to Wilmington Township, Houston County, Minn., and having on his arrival no other property than what he could conveniently carry around with him. Here he went to work by the month as a farmer, an occupation that he had followed in his native land. In 1863, though without money with which to make a first payment, he bought 120 acres of land on which was a log house, about 50 acres of the land being broken. For a few years he led a bachelor life, his father, Helge, who came from Norway and joined him in 1865, living with him. His farming operations, like those of the other pioneers, were carried on with the aid of oxen, horses being scarce or little used at the time. His personal qualifications, however, were such as to command success, and in time he found himself the owner of 440 acres of land, having by 1874 erected a large house and barn. A member of the Norwegian Lutheran Church, he helped to start the congregation of that faith in his locality, and served as trustee of the church, being also one of the school officials of his district. After a long and useful career, he passed away on the home farm on February 15, 1913. Mr. Burtness was married in Houston County, about 1866, to Christie Myhre, who was born in the same locality in Norway as himself, Dec. 27, 1845, and who had accompanied her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ole Myhre to this county in 1849. She died Aug. 13, 1913, having survived her husband but a few months. They were the parents of 14 children : Live, now Mrs. J. P. Kopang, of Spring Grove ; Sigri, who is living on the old homestead ; Margaret, who died at the age of eighteen months; Henry, who occupies a part of the old homestead; Olaus E., county treasurer of Houston County ; Peter, who is farming and is President of the Farmers & Merchants State Bank of Cook, Minn. ; Theodore, who died in infancy; Theodore (second), who is a farmer in St. Louis County, Minn.; Emma, who died at the age of ten years; Theoline and Elida, twins, the former of whom is living on the homestead, the latter having died in 1908, at the age of 28 years. Carl and Edwin, who now own the old homestead; and Emma, who is a professional nurse and has been in the United States service with the Red Cross.

Olaus E. Burtness, for eighteen years treasurer of Houston County, who has for a long period been one of the most promuinent citizens of Caledonia, was bom in a log house on his parents' farm in Wilmington Township, this county, April 28, 1872, son of Filing H. and Christie (Myhre) Burtness. His early education was obtained in this district school, and was later supplemented by a three years' term in Decorah Breckinridge College. He then worked for two years in a store at Wilmington> at the end of that time buying a half interest in the mercantile business conducted by J. E. Eide, the firm being known as Eide & Burtness. During this period he served four years as town clerk of Wilmington township. In 1900 Mr. Burtness was elected county treasurer on the Republican ticket and served in that office through successive re-elections until the fall of 1918, having a very creditable record as a competent and trustworthy official He is now assistant cashier and a director in the First National Bank of Caledonia, of which he was formerly president for a number of years. A member of the Norwegian Lutheran Church, he had served for six or seven years as one of its trustees. Mr. Burtness was married Oct. 26, 1899, to Clara Kinstad, then a teacher in Houston County, whose home was at La Crosse. He and his wife are the parents of two children : Charlotte, bom Aug. 3, 1903, and Martha, bom March 24, 1907.

Joseph Vossen, one of the best known and most popular citizens of Houston County, died at his home in Caledonia, Wednesday evening, June 18, 1913. He was bom in Cologne, Germany, June 23, 1840, and there attended school. In 1858 he came to America and at once to Houston County, locating in Caledonia Township. Two years later he moved to the village of Caledonia, where he ever afterwards lived, becoming a great factor in the building up of the village. At the time it was incorporated he was elected one of the village trustees and served either as president of the council or as a trustee almost continuously until a few years before his death, when he voluntarily retired. In 1865 he opened a grocery store which he conducted until 1873. He was town clerk in 1867 and 1868. In 1870 he was elected clerk of the district court, and being re-elected in 1874, served until 1878, and for many years after was deputy clerk of court. In 1880 he was elected village justice and in May the same year he took a trip to Europe to visit the scenes of his childhood, going by the way of Paris and other European cities. Being very familiar with probate law and practice, he had a great deal to do with the settlement of estates in court. He was a man among men, one who could be trusted. His kind and affable manners won for him the respect and esteem of the entire community. In his later years he devoted most of his time to his abstract office and his own private affairs. He was a man of means whose wealth had been faithfully and honorably gathered, and his name will live long in the annals of Houston county as that of a man of solid worth. No tribute is too costly to perpetuate the memory of his splendid career as a business man and citizen. Mr. Vossen was twice married. His first wife passed away many years ago, and on June 15, 1910, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Anna Hoffman, who survives him.

Giles A. Ransom, D. D. S., who is engaged in the successful practice of his profession in the village of Caledonia, was bom at New Albion, Allamakee County, Iowa, Aug. 6, 1885, son of Giles N. H. and Estella (Avery) Ransom, his father being a Methodist minister. Dr. Ransom acquired his elementary education in the schools of New Albion, but is to a large extent self educated. Ambitious to succeed in life, he selected the profession of dentistry, for which he qualified himself by taking the regular course in dental surgery at the Northwestern University, Chicago. Establishing an office at Eitzen, on the southem border of Houston County, in Winnebago Township, he began the practice of his profession there, driving to business each day from New Albion where for the time being he retained his residence, on account of social ties. Among the latter may be mentioned his connection with the choir of the Methodist church. In 1917 Dr. Ransom opened his office in Caledonia, where he has since practiced, having established a good clientele. He is a member of the Methodist church here and also of the Commercial Club. In 1910 he was

John B. Schiltz, founder of the Schiltz family in Caledonia township, was a native of Prussia, Germany, where he grew up and was married to Anna Marie TiUen. His occupation was that of a farmer. In time his family increased until he found himself the father of eight sons and two daughters. In 1865 one of the elder sons. Matt, came to the United States, locating in Dubuque, Iowa. In the same year the rest of the family set out to join him, taking passage in a sailing vessel which landed them on the shores of the New World 56 days later. They immediately came west and joined Matt, and in the foDowing year, 1866, all came to Houston County, Minn., renting a farm a mile and a half east of Caledonia village, in Caledonia township. Thus the family became established here, but Mr. Schiltz was not destined to long share its fortunes. He had walked all the way from Dubuque and exposure to inclement weather had brought on a cold which led to a more serious affection and resulted in his death June 22, 1866, about three months after their arrival, which was in April. He had reached the age of 56 years. His wife, thus bereaved, made the best of circumstances. She kept the family together, and with the help of a yoke of oxen was able to work and develop her farm. She survived her husband many years, dying on the old homestead about 1901 at the age of 85.

Peter Schiltz, head of the firm of Schiltz & Son, proprietors of a grain elevator at Caledonia, and one of the leading citizens of Caledonia Township, was born near Trear, in Prussia, Germany, May 7, 1857, son of John B. and Anna Marie (Tillen) Schiltz. He was nine years old when he arrived with his parents and the other members of the family in Caledonia Township, this county. He had but little chance to obtain an education, being obliged to help his mother as soon as he was old enough to be of any use. As, however, there were eight sons in the family, the work^ as they grew up was divided among them, and when Peter was a young man he found himself able to start in on his own account and for four years he rented a farm. At the end of that time he bought 140 acres of land in section 20, Caledonia Township, which was a neglected farm. This he improved into good condition and later bought 140 acres more, thus doubling the size of his place. Among his most important improvements was a good set of buildings. On this farm he made a specialty of raising good stock, keeping a large herd of cattle, and finding this a profitable part of his business. When the first elevator was started Mr. Schittz was placed in charge for one year. He then bought out Sprague Bros., the proprietors and for four years conducted the elevator alone, afterwards taking into partnership his son, Theodore J. It is now about ten years ago since he left his farm in charge of his son, John P., Jr., who has since conducted it, and took up his residence in the village. His business affairs have prospered and he has become a man of substance. For many years he served in public, not only on the school board of his district, but also as a member of the town board, of which he was chairman for some years, and as assessor, which office he held for four or five years. Mr. Schiltz was married April 27, 1880, to Susanna Schmitt, who was bom in Caledonia township in 1860, daughter of Frank Schmitt, a pioneer who came to the county among the very earliest settlers. Mrs. Schiltz died in February, 1916, at the age of 55 years, leaving seven children, Frank, Kate, John P., Jr., Cecelia, Peter, Theodore and Anna. The family are members of the Catholic church, Mr. Schiltz being one of the trustees of St. Peter's Church, and a member of St. Peter's Society.

Henry C. Seuflfert, proprietor of a general hardware, heating and plumbing business at Caledonia, who is also an expert tinsmith, was bom at Muensingen, Wuertemberg, Germany, Aug. 11, 1865, son of Christian and Rosalia (Gross) Seuffert. Both parents were natives of Wuertemberg, the father born at Ulm, Jan. 10, 1835, and the mother at Muensingen, Nov. 23, 1830. They were married May 13, 1863. The father, who was a cooper by trade, came first to the United States to establish a home. His wife, with their two children, subsequently joined him at Muscoda, Grant County, Wis. From there they later removed in succession to Madison, Wis., Sauk City, Eau Claire, Alma, which place they left in 1881, then Alexandria, Minn., and thence to Fergus Falls, Minn., subsequently retuming to Alexandria. After residing for a number of years at Alexandria, they came to Caledonia, Houston County, where both parents died. In addition to the two sons mentioned, who were Henry C. and Christian, of whom Christian died soon after coming to America, they had four other children: Eugene, born in Muscoda, Wis., Dec, 8, 1868; Adolph, bom in Sauk City, March 16, 1870; and Louise, born in Eau Claire, Dec. 5, 1871, and Christian born at Eau Claire, who died in infancy. Henry C. Seuffert acquired his early schooling in Eau Claire, and later attended the parochial and public schools in Alma. He subsequently learned the cooper's trade, and was also engaged in mill work in Buffalo County, Wis. On July 18, 1881, he entered the employ of Tester & Schilling, of Alma, who were engaged in the hardware business, and remained with them for 13 years, during which time he leamed the tinner's trade, becoming an expert workman. As an example of his skill it may be stated that while at Alma he made a tin model of the raft boat "Juniata," towing a raft of logs, which was exhibited by the Mississippi River Logging Co., at the World's Fair at Chicago in 1893, where it was awarded a Blue Ribbon in the Department of Transportation. In 1895 Mr. Seuffert engaged in business for himself, opening a shop in Alma, where he conducted a tinsmith's business and carried a line of hardware until 1900, when he came to Caledonia, Minn. Here he bought out A. J. Flynn, and, bringing his hardware stock from Alma, conducted a hardware and tinsmith's business, which he has since enlarged to a general hardware, heating and plumbing business, his store being known as the "Red Front Hardware Store." Energetic and industrious, he has been successful and is now numbered among the prosperous business men of Caledonia. He is a member of Lodge No. 20 A. F. & A. M., at Caledonia, and also of the order of Woodmen. Mr. Seuffert married Fredericka Achenbach, who was bom in Belvidere township, Buffalo County, Wis., daughter of William and Christina (Laudenbach) Achenbach. He and his wife have two children: Norman Eugene and

James Clifford, who is now living retired in the village of Caledonia, after a successful career as an agriculturist, is one of the prominent and respected citizens of the township and county. He was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, Sept. 1, 1848, son of William and Catherine (Brady) Clifford, farming people who lived and died in their native land. There were five children iii'^e family, John, James, Margaret, Catherine and Michael. In 1871 James came to the United States, arriving in Houston County, Minn., in June. His sister Catherine, who came over in 1873, married James Brown, of St. Paul. James, who had attended school in Ireland, and worked for farmers there, began in Houston county by renting and operating a place on shares. Later he bought a tract of 80 acres in Caledonia township, which he devolped into a good farm, making many improvements on it, and continuing to cultivate it with profitable results until his retirement a few years ago. He also made his energy felt in other directions, being identified with several important local enterprises, including the creamery, of which he is today vice president and a director; the Caledonia Stock & Grain Co., now known as the Elevator Company, of which also he was a director, and the Telephone Company, of which he is a member. He also devoted a part of his time to pubhc affairs, serving as supervisor for twelve years or more, as school clerk for 15 years, and as a member of the board of county commissioners for four years, during which time the county poor farm was moved to its present location and a substantial building erected, also the court house grounds improved by the planting of shade trees. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Clifford was married Nov. 4, 1874, to Bridget Dunn, who was bom in Ohio in 1853, daughter of Michael and Mary (Ryan) Dunn. Mr. and Mrs. Clifford have had ten children, of whom six are now living, namely : William, who is a farmer in Mayville township; Katherine, wife of John P. Schummers; Michael, who is a farmer; John, a salesman, James and Patrick, who is living at home. Of the four who died, Mary attained the age of 13 years. JameB and Patrick each did their share as loyal citizens in the service of their country during the great war, thus giving the family a record of which they may well be proud. James entered the aviation service and wa» stationed in England. Patrick saw active service with the heavy coast artillery in France, participating in the battle of the Meuse and the Battle of Ypres. Both were honorably discharged and returned home to again take up the civiliaa duties which the war had interrupted.

Michael Dunn, an early settler in Mayville township, where he built up a homestead, was a native of County Tipperary, Ireland, and came to the United States in 1848, making the voyage on a sailing vessel which reached port after a voyage of six weeks. In the same vessel as a passenger was Miss Mary Ryan, to whom Michael was married in this country. Locating in Louisville, Ky., they kept a boarding-house there for raihroad men, but subsequently moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. About 1859 or 1860 they laiided .at Brownsville from a steamboat and located on wild land in IHHHM a log house and commencing to clear his tract with a yoke of oxen. He had at first 80 acres, but subsequently increased the size of his farm to 240 acres, erecting good buildings. There he resided until 1877, when he moved to an 80-acre tract about two miles north and over the line in Caledonia township. He improved this latter place also and increased its size to 160 acres, making his home there until his death. His wife also died on the farm. They were faithful members of the Catholic church. They had two chlidren, Patrick and Bridget, the latter of whom married James Clifford.

John P. Schummers, deputy county auditor, living in Caledonia, of which village he is a prominent citizen and business man, was bom here Feb. 28, 1880, son of Nicholas and Theresa (Lehnen) Schummers. He received his early business training in Caledonia, and was in the mercantile business from 1902 to 1912, selling out to the Caledonia Co-operative Co. He is now serving efficiently as deputy county auditor. He is a director of the Caledonia State Bank, and a member of the Catholic church, in which he holds the office of trustee, and also of the Knights of Columbus. Mr. Schummers married Katherine Clifford, who was bom in Caledonia, daughter of James Clifford. He and his wife are the parents of four children, Margaret, Alois, Ambrose and Catherine.

Nicholas Schummers, an early settler in Caledonia, was born in the Grand Duchy of Luxemburg, where as he grew up he learned the trade of cabinet-making. There he married Theresa Lehnen, and in 1871 he and his wife, with one child, Katherine, now deceased, came to the United States. They located first in La Crosse, Wis., where Mr. Schummers worked as a carpenter and staircase builder, and being an expert in all such work he found no difficulty in obtaining employment. At the end of the time mentioned, however, he came to Caledonia, Houston county, where he engaged in the furniture and undertaking business, buying rough furniture and finishing it. His store was located on the present site of the post office, and there he conducted business for nineteen years, during which time he added general merchandise to his stock. He then erected the block that now bears his name, which was originally a one-story building 22 by 60 feet, but by subsequent improvements has been transformed into a twostory building 90 by 60 feet. He remained sole proprietor of the business, which he carried on to the end of his life, dying in 1908 at the age of seventy-two years. He was a member of the German Catholic church, and one of its trustees, and had served on the building committee at the time of its erection. For twenty-one years he rendered efficient service as a member of the school board of his district. His wife died at about the same age on Sept. 23, 1917. They had nine children, Katherine, Anna, Josephus, Nicholas, John, who died in infancy ; John P., Margaret, Alois and William. Margaret is now Mrs. N. F, Gaspard, Alois resides in Austin, Minn., and William in Olivia, Minn.

Severt Solberg, who was for over thirty years engaged in the meat business in Caledonia, of which place he was a well to do and influential citizen, was bom in Norway about 1859. His father, John Solberg, was a carpenter who brought the family to the United States when the subject of this sketch was about sixteen years old. Settling first in Illinois, they came later to La Crosse, Wis., where John Solberg finally died. Severt, who had received some slight schooling in Norway, learned the carpenter's trade from his father and followed it in La Crosse, and also for a while in Chicago, to which city he, with his father and a brother, went after the great fire of 1871 when builders and carpenters were in demand. Subsequently he returned to Minnesota, and resided for a while in Lanesboro and Peterson, Fillmore county, opening a meat market in Peterson. In 1879 he came to Caledonia and bought out the market of Mr. Weida, which he operated for four years, at the same time being engaged in buying stock. He then rented a place on the site of the present property, finally buying it from Dan Haines, and, in 1905, he erected a handsome block which now bears his name and that of his partner, Mr. Schansberg, who resided in Lanesboro. This partnership was dissolved in 1910, Mr. Solberg retiring and the business passing into the hands of his son, Helmer J. Severt Solberg died in 1913 at the age of fifty-four years. He was well known throughout the county, where for so many years he had been engaged in the stock business. Fraternally he belonged to the Woodmen's and Workmen's lodges, and was a prominent member of the Norwegian Lutheran church, and was its representative in the Old Synod at its meeting in Chicago. Mr. Solberg married Jeanette Schansberg, who was, like himself, a native of Norway, coming to America with her parents when four years old. She died in 1900 at the age of forty-two. They had ten children: James Olaf and Vina G., who died young; Laura, now Mrs. B. E. Tweten of Solway, Minn. ; Inga, wife of J. B. Bjorstad of Glasgow, Mont. ; Helmer J., now of the firm of Solberg Bros., of Caledonia, Minn. ; Selma, wife of Frank Hundt, of Bucjrrus, N. D. ; Ada, wife of Adolph Eiken, of Caledonia, Minn. ; Edna, who married H. S. McKay of Cloquet, Minn. ; William A., a partner of Helmer J. in the meat business ; and Vina M., now Mrs. S. C. Stenehjem of Caledonia.

Helmer Julius Solberg, a member of the well known firm of Solberg Bros., meat dealers of Caledonia, was bom in this village, Sept. 8, 1882, son of Severt and Jeanette (Schansberg) Solberg. He was educated in the graded school of Caledonia and a business college in La Crosse, and subsequently became associated with his father who was engaged in the meat and livestock business in Caledonia, in partnership with Mr. Schansberg. On the dissolution of the above mentioned firm in 1910, and the father's retirement, the business came into the hands of Helmer J., and was operated by him alone until 1914, when his brother, William A., became his partner, the firm having since been known as Solberg Bros. Founded by the father, Severt Solberg, in the early eighties, it has long been solidly established and has been conducted successfully by both father and sons. Helmer J. Solberg is now serving in his second term as a member of the city council. He is also secretary of the Houston County Poultry Association, and a member of the Commercial Club. His religious affiliations are with the Norwegian Lutheran church. He married Clara M. Stevens, daughter of Edmund and Josephine Clara (Jones) Stevens, who were pioneer settlers in Houston county. Mr. and Mrs. Solberg have had four children: Cleo

Martin J. Walhus, D.D.Sm who is successfully engaged in dental practice in the village of Caledonia, was bom in Spring Grove, this county, Jan. 12, 1889, son of John Walhus. After completing a course in the Spring Grove high school, he entered the dental department of the State University of Minnesota, where he was graduated in 1911. He then came to Caledonia and opened an office and has since been engaged here in the practice of his profession, his patrons, of whom he has a goodly list, being drawn both from the village and the surrounding country. He is a member of the Masonic lodge and Woodmen's camp in Caledonia, and of the Masonic chapter at Winona. Besides building up a good business he has taken an active interest in local movements for the betterment of the village and county and is recognized as an enterprising and useful citizen. Dr. Walhus married Ruth E. Hellickson, daughter of E. C. Hellickson of Caledonia and a native of Houston county. He and his wife have one child, Donald.

John Schmitt, one of the hardy pioneers of Caledonia township, was bom in Prussia, Germany, and grew up in his native country. In 1849 he made a trip to America, retuming again to Germany. What he had seen of the country made him resolve to make it his future home and it was not long before he again set foot on Amreican shores. On each occasion his voyage was made in a saiUng vessel, the first trip across occupying sixtytwo days and the second ninety days. Making his way west to Chicago, he there obtained work at brickmaking, though by trade he was a weaver. In Chicago, where he remained for several years, he was married to Mary Demmer, and three children were bom to them there, Theodore, Hubert and Emma. Realizing, however, that the city was no place in which to make any great success and provide for the needs of a growing family, Mr. Schmitt resolved to get onto the land and become a farmer. To do that he needed to go where land was both good and cheap. Good land could be found in many places, but in the older settled states it cost more than he could afford, and his thoughts accordingly tumed to the northwest where conditions were more favorable for him. At last, determined to try his luck as a pioneer, he set out with his family in a wagon drawn by oxen, taking an almost straight westerly line for Dubuque county, Iowa, and then tuming north, continuing his joumey until he reached Caledonia township, Houston county, Minn. On several different occasions while on the way, as the country became wilder, and the distance seemed long and interminable, he was on the point of turning back, but, nevertheless, kept plodding along. On his arrival here he located on 160 acres of mostly wild land, there being only three acres broken. There were no buildings and he had to build a log shanty. He had brought with him some stock, for which also he had to build a shelter, and then he found himself fairly started on his new career. There were then but three houses in Caledonia village and the township was very thinly settled. Of roads, there were none anywhere near his farm. To eam a little money he split shingles from logs, a common resource of the pioners, but these had to be carried to market and brought but a small price when there. It proved sufficient, however, as he was soon raising most of his food supply on his farm. In time he acquired eighty acres more and made good progress in developing the place, putting up more buildings, among them a substantial hewed-log house, which has since been remodeled by his son Phillip and is now in use. At last, after a career of useful industry resulting in well deserved prosperity, Mr. Schmitt passed from this life at the age of eighty years, honored and respected by his many friends and acquaintances, and mourned by his surviving relatives. He had been for many years a widower, as his wife had died at the age of thirty-seven. He had served as a member of the town board, and, as a faithful Catholic, has helped the churches of his religion which were established in his neighborhood. In addition to his three children already mentioned, he and his wife had three others, who were bom in Caledonia township : Phillip H., owner of the old home farm, now living in Caledonia village; and Lizzie and Ann, twins, the latter of whom died in infancy. Lizzie is now the wife of Leo Schaffer of Zumbrota, Minn.

Phillip H. Schmitty who is now living in Caledonia village, after a residence of sixty years on the old John Schmitt homestead in Caledonia township, which he still owns, was born in a log house on the above mentioned farm, March 16, 1855, son of John and Mary (Demmer) Schmitt. He was educated in the district school and under his father's mentorship acquired a good -knowledge of agriculture, as above intimated, remaining on the home farm, which in time came into his possession and on which he raised Herford cattle, a good grade of horses and other stock. This farm is now being operated by his two sons, John and Frank. Mr. Schmitt was chairman of the township for ten years, and served for a number of years as an official of the Catholic church. He has had a successful career and is now a man of substance and high standing In the community. He married Barbara Link of Dubuque county, daughter of John Link, a pioneer, and he and his wife have had eight children: Anna, now Mrs, Layton of Caledonia township ; John, now helping to operate the home farm ; Theodore, a resident of St. Paul, Minn.; Leo, now deceased; Phillip, of St. PauU Martha, residing at home; Joe, deceased; and Frank, on the home farm.

Jacob Bouquet, a pioneer merchant of Caledonia township, and now living retired in the village of Caledonia, was born in Belgium, July 20, 1834, son of Michael Bouquet, his mother's family name being Pohl. He was the first member of the family to come to the United States, being then a young man, and making the voyage on a sailing vessel which took about thirty days to make port. After reaching this country he went first to Ohio, where he remained for about two years. After that he visited a number of places, working at his trade of mechanic, and gradually moving westward until he arrived at Chicago. From that place he continued further west to Galena, 111., where he stayed two years, and there cast his first vote, which was for President Lincoln. Not having as yet found a place in which he cared to make a permanent settlement, he crossed over the river into Iowa, remained there two years, then spent another two years or so in La Crosse, Wis., and finally came up the river to Houston county, Minn., locating in Caledonia township. Here he made the acquaintance of Thomas Abbot and was associated with him for a number of years in making wagons, ploughs, drags, sleighs, and other useful articles for the early settlers. Mr. Bouquet then changed his occupation, entering into a general mercantile business in partnership with J. C. Kiem, now of Winona. They also bought and operated a store in Brownsville, their connection lasting six or seven years when it was dissolved. After that Mr. Boquet remained inactive for about two years, but at the end of that time he opened a store in Caledonia, of which he was sole proprietor for thirty-three years, also owning the building, which he had erected, thus increasing the property value of the village. As a merchant he had a successful career and formed many warm friendships, establishing a wide reputation for enterprise and integrity, and it was a notable event in the history of the village when he finally announced his retirement. He was one of the first citizens in the township to take shares in the railroad when it was put through, and he also became a stockholder in the Farmers' elevator. A member of St. Peters Catholic church, he served forty-five years as its treasurer. He is now in the enjoyment of a fair competence, the result of his many years of successful industry. Mr. Bouquet married Josephine Wagner, a native of the Duchy of Luxemburg, who died at the age of seventy-three years. Six children were born to them: John P., Herman, Josephine, Mary, Susie and Cecelia.

John W. Potter, proprietor of a flourishing furniture, undertaking and musical instrument business in Caledonia, was bom in Winona, Minn., July 4, 1882, son of Joseph W. and Minnie (Stott) Potter. Completing his literary education at the Caledonia high school, his parents having moved to this village, he became connected in business with his father and at the early age of eighteen obtained a State license as undertaker, being then the youngest licensee in the State. At the age of twenty-one he became a partner in the business, five years later beconflng sole proprietor, which he has since remained. Here he handles the better grade of furniture, keeps an unusually good stock of musical instruments, and is conducting a reliable and well equipped undertaking business. He is a Free Mason, belonging to both the Blue Lodge and Chapter, and is also a member of Lake Como Lodge, I. O. O. F., at Hokah, Minn. Mr. Potter married Emma C. Laugen, who was bom three miles west of Houston, daughter of O. G. and Ninah (Christianson) Laugen, her parents having been early settlers in that locality. Mr. and Mrs. Potter have had two children: Norma and Milton, the latter of whom died at the age of four years.

Ole Olson, one of the pioneer settlers of Wilmington township in 1854, was bora in Norway, where he grew up and married. In 1853 he and his wife, with their one child, a daughter, Guri, took passage for America on a sailing vessel, and after a long voyage, arrived safely in this country. Their first settlement was made in Illinois, but from that State they came in the following year to Houston county, Minn., taking forty acres of land in Wilmington township. The expense Mr. Olson had incurred for passage money and otherwise had left him without resources, and he was unable to buy even a few simple tools with which to begin the development of his land. By Mr. Sprague, however, who recognized his type of manhood, he was f uraished with a grub hoe and an axe on credit, and with these he set to work. His progress, at first slow, was accelerated with the lapse of years, and to his first forty-acre tract he added another and still others until he was the owner of five "forties," making a farm of 200 acres. A few years after he arrived in the county he suffered a loss in the death of his wife who had accompanied him from Norway. Some time after that event he married Sigra Engen, who proved a good helpmate to him, often carrying eggs and other produce to market at Dorchester, while he, himself, made long walks with heavy loads on his back. In time he erected good farm buildings and became one of the prosperous citizens of his township. He was a member of the first Norwegian Lutheran congregation organized in the township and also of the committee which erected the first church edifice in Wilmington, and he subsequently held official position in the congregation. His son Ole later served on the building committee of the new church. Mr. Olson's death occurred when he was sixty-five years old, his wife dying at sixty-eight. Their children were: Ole N., now known as Ole N. 0. Hefte, and proprietor of the old homestead ; Inger, wife of Nels Bye of Soulby, Minn. ; Olaus, now living in Canada ; Ingebord, who is married and lives in North Dakota; Nels, now of Tracy, Minn.; and Sarah, who died at the age of eighteen years. Mr. Olson's daughter Guri, the child of his first wife, grew up and married, but is now deceased.

Ole N. O. Hefte, proprietor of the old Ole Olson farm in Wilmington township, but now residing in the village of Caledonia, of which he is a prominent citizen, interested in several business enterprises, was born on the farm above mentioned, Feb. 19, 1861, the house in which he first saw the light being a pioneer log structure. His education was obtained in the little log schoolhouse of the district and in the parochial school attached to the Norwegian Lutheran church of Wilmington. His first industrial experience was on the home farm, on which he grew to manhood, and where he has spent the greater part of his life, except for a period of seven years in North Dakota and his residence in Caledonia village, to which place he came in 1910. Here he became buyer for the Caledonia elevator, of which he is now manager, being also a director in the company. He is also a shareholder in the Spring Grove elevator and the Caledonia creamery, as well as in a clothing store and a general store in Caledonia, and in the Caledonia State Bank, of which he is a director. For some years Mr. Hefte served as town chairman, and for ten years as assessor, and while residing in Wilmington township he was a member of the school board. Mr. Hefte married Ingwald Doley, daughter of Ingwald Doley, a pioneer of Wilmington township. This union has been blessed with six children : Setmine, wife of J. E. Stenehjem, Caledonia clothing merchant; Oliver, who for a time was in the mercantile trade in Caledonia, but who now owns and operated forty acres of the old homestead; Inoh P., who is in partnership with J. E. Stenehjem ; Hilda, wife of Odin Blexrud ; Olga D., wife of Dr. J. B. Scott ; and Stella, who resides at home.

Asbom Stenehjem, founder of the well known Stenehjem family in Houston county, and one of the pioneer settlers of this county, was bom in Norway, where he grew to manhood and was married. With his wife, Kari, and one child, Ole, he came to the United States in 1850, landing at New York after a voyage of ten weeks in a sailing vessel. Proceeding west.

he settled in Illinois, in which State he was engaged in farming until 1854. He then came to Houston county, Minn., driving with an ox team into Wilmington township. There he secured 160 acres of land and built a log house, which was the first dwelling of the family in the county. His first agricultural work was done with the aid of his oxen, which he used for a number of years. His first horse, then a young colt, was received as a present from A. Hanson of Waterloo Ridge, and he carried it home on his back, a distance of six miles. It became a family pet, and was known as "Wesle Fan," or "Little Fan," wesle in Norwegian meaning small. Mr. Stenehjem often walked to Brownsville and Lansing, carrying home groceries on his back, which in pioneer days was often the only means of transportation ; and to add to the difficulties the only road was a rude trail which often had to be cleared from brush. Indeed, Mr. Stenehjem had to cut a way into his land when he took possession of it. In time he increased the size of his farm to 220 acres and built a good house and bam, together with the necessary outbuildings, and cleared and broke a good portion of his land. A member of the Norwegian Lutheran church, he gave the site for the first church of that denomination in Wilmington township, and in many ways proved himself to be a useful and public spirited citizen. Both he and his wife are now deceased. They had seven children: Ole, already mentioned, who became a farmer in Black Hammer township and is now dead ; Andrew A., who remained on the old home farm, where he died at the age of fifty-nine years; Martha, who married Hans Bjerke and went to North Dakota, where she is now living; Peter, who went west and finally settled in North Dakota ; Johanna and Louritz, deceased ; and Johann.

Andrew A. Stenehjem, for many years a well known farmer and stock dealer in Wilmington township, was bom on his parents' farm in that township, son of Asborn and Kari Stenehjem, who were pioneer farmers there. His education opportunities were confined to the usual course of study pursued in the little log schoolhouse of his district, while his industrial training was more thorough and was received under his father's direction on the home farm, where he always made his home, and to the ownership of which he succeeded. As a farmer he was successful, and in addition to cultivating the soil, he both raised and bought stock, which he shipped to market, following this latter occupation for some thirty years. He was also prominent as a citizen and served for a number of years as a member of the town board, and of the school board of his district, in addition to being a consistent and useful member of the Norwegian Lutheran church. His death at the rate of fifty-nine years was deeply regretted throughout the township and vicinity. Mr. Stenehjem married Gunvor Trehus, who was bora near Rockland, 111., in 1853. She is still living and is now a resident of Spring Grove, this county. They were the parents of thirteen children: Ella M., Dora, Albert, Thomas, Peter, J. Edwin, Gerhard, Martin, Arthur, Odin, Styrk, Theodora and an unnamed infant. Ella M. is the wife of Christ Knottrud, of Lanesboro, Minn.; Dora is a teacher and has specialized in music in Minneapolis ; J. Edwin and Styrk are business men of Caledonia ; Theodora and the unnamed infant are dead. The rest of the sons are at Williston and Amegard, N. D. The brothers are all expert baseball players and have organized a team of their own at Amegard, N. D., which town has thus the unique distinction of possessing a ball team composed practically of the members of one family.

John Edwin Stenehjem, a prominent business man of Caledonia, a member of the Stenehjem-Hefte Co., dealers in clothing, was born in Wilmington township, Houston county, Minn., Jan. 15, 1881, son of Andrew A. and Gunvor (Trehus) Stenehjem. He was reared on his parents' farm, acquiring his education in the district school, and later pursuing more advanced studies at the Luther College at Decorah, Iowa. Thus prepared, he entered the employ of P. M. Fuss, clothing dealer of Caledonia, for whom he worked for a year and a half, at the end of that time bujring a half interest in the business. That arrangement was continued for eight years, when O. N. 0. Hefte became Mr. Stenehjem's partner, Mr. Hefte's son, Inoh P., buying an interest in the business three years later, since which time no further changes have been made. The firm is doing a prosperous business and has an extensive patronage throughout this part of the county. Mr. Stenehjem is a thirty-second degree Mason, belonging also to the Mystic Shrine at St. Paul. He is personally popular and his energy and business ability have advanced him far on the road to prosperity. Mr. Stenehjem was married Jan. 17, 1901, to Setmine Hefte, daughter of O. N. O. Hefte, of Wilmington township. They have three children : Marie, Arnold and Genevieve.

Julius Gran, a prosperous merchant of Caledonia village, was born in Jefferson township, this county, son of Peter Gran, a farmer. He was educated in the district school, which he left at the age of fourteen years to work on his father's farm, also at times working out for others. In that way he spent about four years, and then, going to St. Paul, entered the employ of the Pullman Car Company, for whom he worked in that t^ity for two years, and was then sent by them to Butte, Mont., where he remained for a year. At the end of that time he came home, and his next two years were spent on the farm. Then returning to St. Paul, he entered the diningcar department of the Great Northern Railway as assistant store keeper, which position he held for six years, serving for four years subsequently as head store keeper. Then returning to Houston county, he entered into his present partnership with Helmer J. Solberg, in the commission business, in which he has now been engaged for about five years. The firm is doing a good business and is well known throughout this section as a reliable concern. Mr. Gran is a member of the Yeomen's Lodge at St. Paul. He married Josephine Stentos, daughter of Edward Stenens, a pioneer of Houston county, and he and his wife have one child, Achsa Mae.

Richard Klug, an early settler in Caledonia township, was bom in Bavaria, Germany, and there grew to manhood. After coming to the United States in early manhood, he was married in Wisconsin to Mary Klos, a native of Belgium, and they settled in Houston county, Minn., driv* ing with an ox team to a point five miles west of Caledonia, where he rented a farm. Subsequently he and his family moved to a farm three and a half miles west of Caledonia, which he bought. It contained eighty acres and was provided with a log house 14 by 16 feet in size, in which the family took up their residence. Making use of his oxen, he broke the land, and in time erected good buildings and increased the size of his farm. His wife also raised some apple trees from seed, some of which are now standing on the place and are as sturdy as oak trees. In eariy days she used to walk to Caledonia village, carrying butter and eggs to dispose of. She is still living and now resides with her son Nicholas R. on his farm in this township. A Catholic in religion, as were all his family, Richard Klug helped to support St. Peter's church in Caledonia, and also served for some time as a member of the school board of his district. He was a worthy citizen who did his part in helping to advance the interests of the community in which he had made his home. There were eight children in the family, five of whom are now living.

Nicholas R. Klug, who is prosperously engaged in farming and stock raising in Caledonia township, was born in Houston county, on a farm five miles west of Caledonia village, Jan. 24, 1877, son of Richard and Mary (Klos) Klug. His parents later moved to a farm three and a half miles west of the village, and on these two farms he was reared to manhood, being occupied with agricultural work until reaching the age of sixteen or seventeen. He then worked for two years at \he carpenter's trade. Since then he has been engaged chiefly in agriculture in its various branches of crop raising, dairying and stock raising. In 1904 he came to his present farm, which then contained forty acres, but which he has increased to an area of 120 acres. Here he is raising graded and registered Holstein cattle and other good stock. He has built a new barn and outbuildings, using for a residence the house which stood on the place when he took possession of it. He was one of the founders of the local creamery, serving on the building committee, and has since been a shareholder in it. He also holds shares in the stock and grain company. A member of the Catholic church, he served on the building committee of the school.

Theodore Schmitt, for many years an enterprising and successful farmer of Caledonia township, now living in Caledonia village, was bom in Dubuque, Iowa. April 10, 1852. He was only an infant when his parents came with their family to Houston county. Those were pioneer days and they had privations to endure, but game was plentiful, and it was but a short time after their arrival here when the father, in going after the cows on Badger Creek, found a deer which had fallen into a hole and was unable to get out. The next day he yoked up his cattle and, taking his rifle and a stout rope, went to the spot. There he shot the deer, hauled it out of the hole, which was twenty-five feet deep, with the rope and carried it home. Young Theodore, who now remembers but few of those early events, as he grew up attended school in Badger Valley and assisted his parents, upon him, as he was the eldest child, falling the larger share of responsibility. At the age of thirty years he started in for himself, locating on a farm of 120 acres, forty acres of which were then mostly wild land, and there were neither buildings, fences nor shade trees. His early operations were conducted in a primitive manner but were none the less effective. He grubbed the land and cultivated it with the aid of oxen, built the frame house which is still standing, and planted Norway spruce and other trees in his yard as a wind shield and for shade purposes. He also erected good barns and other outbuildings, until he had a well developed farm with modem equipment. He kept a good grade of stock, and became a shareholder in the creamery and the Farmers' elevator. As one of the substantial citizens of his township, Mr. Schmitt was called upon to take part in the affairs of local government and has held office as town treasurer and assessor, also as a member of the school board. He and his family are members of St. Peter's Catholic church. Mr. Schmitt married Louisa Wagner, who was bom near New Hampton, in Chickasaw county, Iowa, daughter of Nicholas Wagner, now deceased, whose last days were spent at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Schmitt. The latter have had nine children, one of whom, Elizabeth, is now deceased. Those living are : Mary and Louisa, teachers in the parochial school ; Barbara, wife of John King, of Caledonia ; Anna; wife of Frank Clark of Galesburg, 111. ; Adela, Bemice, Edward and Paul. In the spring of 1919 Mr. Schmitt sold his farm which he had built up by so many years of hard work, and this fall has moved to the village of Caledonia, where he will make his future home.

John P. Ellenz, a prosperous farmer and stock raiser of Caledonia township, was born April 19, 1888, in this township, on the farm of his father, Phillip Ellenz. On account of poor health when a t^oy, he attended school only six months, but later, through his own exertions, picked up an average amount of knowledge. Residing with his parents and accompanying them when they moved to Caledonia some twelve or thirteen years ago. After that he worked out on farms for seven years, at the end of which time he bought the home farm which he has since operated. He has built a basement bam, 32 by 68 feet, and also a machine shed, and is successfully raising Hereford cattle. Black Poland China hogs of the large breed, a good grade of horses, and Buff Orpington poultry. He served as president of the telephone company, and is a man who takes an interest in enterprises having for their object the benefit of the community in which he lives. Mr. Ellenz married Catherine Davy, who was bom in Houston, a daughter of John Davy. He and his wife are members of St. John's Catholic church.

Patrick Dunn, who was for a number of years proprietor of a farm of IBO acres in Caledonia township, was bom in Kentucky about 1860, son of Michael and Mary (Ryan) Dunn. He accompanied his parents to Brownsville, Houston county, Minn., and later to their farm in Caledonia township, which he helped his father to develop, and of which he finally became the proprietor. It contains 160 acres, which he farmed successfully until his death in 1905, at the age of about forty-five years. Identified with fhe county from his early years, having been educated in its district schools, he always took a warm interest in its progress and development, being ever ready to perform the duties of a good citizen. He was a stockholder in the Farmers' Elevator, and provided well for his family. Like his father, he was a member of the Catholic church. Mr. Dunn was married March 1, 1880, to Margaret McKenna, who was born in Union township, Houston county, daughter of Timothy and Mary (Murphy) Dunn. Of this union seven children were bom: Mary, wife of James Driscoll; Michael and Frank, residing jDn the home farm; Anna, who is a nurse; Patrick, who is a dentist now in the United States service, with the rank of first lieutenant ; Stella, who is a normal school student ; and Paul, who is attending parochial school.

Michael Dunn, a former resident of Caledonia township, was bom in Tipperary county, Ireland, and married Mary Ryan, a native of the same county. Emigrating to the United States, they settled first in Kentucky, whence at an early date they removed to Houston county, Minn., locating near Brownsville. Subsequently they took a tract of prairie land in Caledonia township, where they engaged in farming, Mr. Dunn, with the help of his son Patrick, erecting a house and barns. There he and his wife subsequently died. They were members of the Catholic church, and for some time he served as an officer on the school board of his district.

Timothy McKenna, a pioneer of Union township, resided in that township for a number of years, developing a farm from wild land with the help of his oxen. He later moved to Caledonia township, where he spent the rest of his life, and was a well known and respected citizen. He was a member of the Catholic church, and served on the school board of his district. He married Mary Murphy, a native of the same county in Ireland as himself.

Patrick Driscoll, who was for many years a well known farmer and esteemed citizen of Caledonia township, was born in County Cork, Ireland, in 1848, son of Patrick DriscoU. Coming to America when young, he grew to manhood in Houston county, and was married in Caledonia, Oct. 10, 1882» to Catherine O'Leary, who was born in this township, Dec. 15, 1859, daughter of Michael and Margaret (Murry) O'Leary. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. DriscoU located on a rented farm two miles east of the present homestead, and on the township line. From there they moved to a farm of eighty acres, which they purchased in section 1, on which they erected buildings. In 1916 they moved to the present homestead in section 1, bat had been here only a few days when Mr. DriscoU died, on Oct. 21, 1916. He had been an active, industrious man, and had attained a fair measure of success, being a shareholder in the creamery and in the Caledonia Grain & Stock Company. He and his wife were the parents of nine children. Michael, now a resident of Gt. FaUs, Mont. ; WiUiam, on the home place ; Edward, who served in the United States army in France; John, nesiding in Montana; Annabel, who is at home; Catherine, a nurse; Robert, who attended school at La Crosse is now a telegraph operator at Fargo, N. D. ; and Archer, of Caledonia. The family are members of St. John's CathoUc: church.

Patrick DriscoU, an early settler of Caledonia township, now deceased was a native of Ireland, and in early manhood was a sailor in the coastwise i trade. He was married in his native land to Anastasia CoUins and con. tinued to reside there for some years after his marriage. In 1847 he came to the United States alone, leaving behind his wife and five children. It was on August 15 that he took passage and it was not until Christmas that he arrived at New Orleans, to which place the vessel was bound. In th\i spring of 1848 he went to Louisville, Ky., where he worked at whatever bi could find to do, chiefly at railroad and pubUc construction work. Still seeking to better his condition, he edged farther north, reaching Cincinnati, where he was joined in 1851 by his wife and three children, a daughter. Julia, having died in Ireland, and one of the sons, John, coming with his uncle, Florence DriscoU. Those who came with Mrs. Driscoll were Florence (a son) , Patrick and Mary. The sailing vessel in which they took passage had made a quick voyage of little over three weeks. After being joined by his family Patrick Driscoll removed with them to Kentucky, where a son, Michael, was bom. Thence they removed to Missouri, and later to Dubuque, Iowa, where they lived for six years, or until 1860. In June of that year he set out with his family in a covered wagon, drawn by oxen, for Houston county, Minn., arriving in Sheldon township after a five days' trip. Here he bought 120 acres of land in section 14, and forty acres in section 22, and built a log house 18 by 24 feet in size, also a log stable, the family making their own furniture. There they resided for six years, grubbing the land and carrying eggs to market. At the end of that time Mr. Driscoll sold a part of the land and bought half a section in sections 1 and 2, and the family nnade another removal, their new house, a frame building, being located on the town line. This proved to be the last earthly home of Patrick Driscoll, as, after building up the place, he died there in July, 1879, at the age of sixty-five years. He was followed by his wife, who passed away in 1890. They were worthy industrious people, and faithful members of the Catholic church.

John Driscoll, now deceased for many years, a prosperous farmer and stock raiser, residing in section 1, Caledonia township, was born in County Cork, Ireland, Jan. 10, 1839, son of Patrick and Anastasia (Collins) Driscoll. He came to America in 1851, with his uncle, Florence Driscoll, his mother, with sevg:'al other children, coming in the same year and joining the father, who had preceded them in 1847, at Cincinnati. After their reunion they moved to Kentucky, where they spent a year, and then went to Missouri, where the uncle, Florence, died. After that the subject of this sketch accompanied his parents and the other members of the family to Dubuque, Iowa, where they resided for six years, moving at the end of that time in a covered wagon drawn by oxen, to Sheldon township, Houston county, Minn., and taking land in sections 14 and 22. From there they removed six years later to section 1, where they built up a farm on which the parents subsequently died, as elsewhere narrated. During there several removals John proved of active assistance to his father and helped to improve both homesteads. He resided at home until 1872, when, on October 29, he was united in marriage, at St. John's church in Caledonia, to Bridget Cahill, who was bom in Cork, Ireland, Feb. 1, 1844, daughter of James and Margaret (Borry) Cahill. He and his wife then located on their present farm in section 1, Caledonia township, taking up their residence in a frame house which stood on the place. There was also a Jog bam and straw shed. By hard work they much improved the place, erected a fine farm house, with other good buildings, acquired in all 320 acres of land and did a profitable business, keeping a go<^ grade of Durham cattle, and Mr. Driscoll being a stockholder in the local creamery and co-operative elevator. Mr. Driscoll died June 26, 1918, aind his death was sincerely mourned by a large circle of friends. He and his wife were the parents of five children: Florence, Anastasia, Michael J,. James C. and Margaret. The parents of Mrs. DriscoU, James and Margaret Cahill, never came to this country, dying in Ireland, their native land. They had seven children, however, all of whom came here, namely: Anna, Bridget, Honora, Ellen, May, John and Michael. Bridget, who came with relatives by steamer in May, 1861, resided for ten years in Hartford, Conn., and then came to Houston county, Minn., with a sister.

Guttorm Guttormson, one of the earliest settlers in Sheldon township, now deceased, was bom in Hollingdahl, Norway, and came to the United States in 1849, first settling on a farm in Wisconsin. Three years later, in 1852, he arrived in Houston county, Minn., and took land in section 7, Sheldon township. His tract, of course, was wild, and there was a band of 300 Indians camped on it or in the immediate vicinity. Under such conditions he began the life of a pioneer farmer and in course of time improved his land and made of it a cultivated farm. With the advent of white settlers the community grew and Mr. Guttormson, as one of the first settlers, became a man of some importance, taking an active part in church and school work» He attained an advanced age, dying April 9, 1904. He was married in Houston county to Belle A. Lee, who died in 1913. They were the parenta of six children, of whom their son Ole is now proprietor of the homestead. Mr. Guttormson had been twice married previous to his union with Miss Lee and by his second marriage had other children.

Ole Guttormson, who operates the home farm of 174 acres of good land in section 7, Sheldon township, which farm was established by his father in 1852, was born in this township June 9, 1871, son of Guttorm and Belle A. (Lee) Guttormson. He attended district school in both Sheldon and Yucatan townships and when only eight years old began to make himself useful on his parents' farm. Later, when his father became an invalid, more work devolved upon him, and the management of the place finally came into his hands. He continued in agriculture here until 1913, at which time he rented the farm and moved to Houston village, where he resided for four years working for others. In 1917 he returned to his farm, which he is now operating as a general stock farm, raising cattle, horses and swine. His sisters, Libbe, Anna and Gelena live on the farm and keep house for him. He is a member of the Lutheran church and in politics is independent.

George O. Alstad, who for thirty years was a well known farmer of Caledonia township, was born in Norway and came to America in 1873. He had married in Norway Ellen Anna Logtu, who followed him with the children in 1877. Settling in Iowa, Mr. Alstad worked out there for several years, and then formed a partnership in the purchase of a farm. Later he sold his share and rented a farm, subsequently buying one. This he afterwards sold and moved to another seven miles away. After some time spent on the last mentioned property, he moved with his family to Mabel, in Fillmore county, Minn., where he resided for some years, renting in succession several farms. He next moved to a farm in Black Hammer township, Houston county, which he sold about 1887, moving to a farm in section 18, Caledonia township, which was his final home, as he died there Jan. 16, 1916. Mr. and Mrs. George O. Alstad had five children, two of whom died in infancy. The other three were Ole, who is now living; Karen, who died Aug. 6, 1912, and Jonas G., who died Jan. 16, 1919.

Jonas G. Alstad, for many years prosperously engaged in mixed farming and stock raising in section 18, Caledonia township, was bom in Norway, July 20, 1869, son of George O. and Ellen Anna (Logtu) Alstad. In 1877 he accompanied his mother to the United States, and the rest of his boyhood was spent on his parents' farms in Iowa and Minnesota. During this time he attended district school in various locations, and when old enough assisted his father on the farm. He was about eighteen years old when they settled on a farm in Caledonia township. On March 13, 1902, when in his twenty-third year, he was united in marriage with Anna Johnson, who was bom July 1, 1882, daughter of Soren Johnson. She was one of eight children - Ben, Carl, Anna, Christ, Simon, Eline and Olive - her parents being natives of Norway. At the time of his marriage Mr. Alstad purchased the home farm, which he continued to cultivate, doing mixed farming, including the raising of cattle and swine. The farm contains 154 acres, about half its area being cleared and the rest being in timber. Mr. Alstad rebuilt the house and erected all the other buildings now in use, including the barn, granary and chicken coop. The barn measures 38 by 38 feet, having an addition 17 by 22 feet. Mr. Alstad was also a shareholder in the Beaver Ridge Telephone Company, in which he held the office of treasurer ; also a shareholder in the Peoples Co-operative Elevator in Caledonia, and the Co-operative Creamery in Spring Grove. He attends the Black Hammer Norwegian Lutheran church, of which he was trustee for three years. His public service included twelve years as school clerk and some time as road commissioner. The children bom to Mr. and Mrs. Alstad are: Gerhard Sigurd, Feb. 8, 1905; Alma Regina, Dec. 8, 1906; Clara Mathilde, Sept. 16, 1908, and Mabel Belinde, April 30, 1912, the three eldest of whom are attending school, Mr. Alstad was an experienced farmer and for many years pursued a prosperous career. He was, moreover, a man taking an active interest in whatever concems the good of the community in which he resided. Since his death, January 16, 1919, Mrs. Alstad still carries on the farm.

Johanes Johnson Klongerbo, who was formerly engaged in farming in Caledonia township, was born in Norway, wher ehe married Bergete Dahl. In 1870 he came to the United States alone, being followed in the next year by the rest of the family, who left Norway May 9, and arrived in Caledonia township, Houston county, Minn., July 15, the voyage across the ocean having been made in a sailing vessel. Three years after his arrival here the subject of this sketch bought a farm, which he operated until 1879, his further career being cut short by an accident from the effects of which he died. He and his wife had five children : Christina, now living in Hillsboro, N. D.; Soren, residing in Caledonia township, this county; Hans, who lives in Clearwater county, Minn. ; John, a resident of Hillsboro, N. D. ; and Nels J., the present owner of the old homestead.