McLeod County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1917 (part 11 of 12)

Henry Jergens, proprietor of the Woodland View Stock Farm, in section 22, Hassan Valley township was born in this township, May 8, 1870. His father, Peter Jergens, was a native of Germany and came to America with his parents, who located in Illinois. In 1860 they came to MeLeod county, Minn., and bought land in Hassan Valley township, where Peter Jergens farmed until his death about, 1908, at the age of 73 years. Tis wife, Mary (Schultz) Jergens, now lives on the old farm with her son Ed. Henry Jergens, attended agricultural college in 1892. About 1895 he bought his present farm, on which he has a good modern residence, conveniently equipped with all necessaries, and modern in every way, which is an old dwelling rebuilt by himself. In 1902 he built a barn 58 by 80 by 16 with cement floor which holds 40 cattle, and in 1910 a silo, 14 by 39 feet with a capacity of 150 tons. Mr. Jergens raises Holstein cattle, having fifteen head registered, his herd numbering about 45 head. He raises about ten acres of alfalfa. He is a stockholder in the Biscay Creamery. His fraternal affiliations are with the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. Jer- Bens was married to Laura Braack, who was born in Hassan Valley twonship, daughter of Henry and Amelia (Schroeder) Braack. Henry Braack, who was a native of Germany, and farmed for 35 years in McLeod county, died in 1908 at the age of 71 years. His wife died in 1907. Mr. and Mrs. Jergens have two children, Arthur and Clarence. The family faith is that of the German Evangelical church.

Mathias Schmitz, proprietor of a modern blacksmith shop, and one of the leading citizens of Stewart, was born in the Province of the Rhine, Germany, October 27, 1850, son of Peter and Susan (Kiefer) Schmitz, who were both natives of that Province, the father being a farmer. Mathias was only a child and, having the misfortune to lose his mother when only a year and a half old, he was cared for up to the age of 12 years by his maternal grandmother, whose maiden name was Francisca Greitzer, she being the wife of Mathias Kiefer, a farmer and cooper. Here Mathias obtained his schooling. When he was six years old his grandfather died, but his grandmother Continued to eare for him. In the meanwhile his father Peter had come to America and settled on a farm in Hennepin county. He had also married again and now sent for his son Mathias to join him. Accordingly, in 1863, the latter left Germany for this country. He was accompanied, not by relations, but by three friends, who came with him as far as hicago, The journey across the Atlantie occupied 27 days. On reaching Chicago Mathias learned that his father had been drafted for service in the Civil war. His money was all gone, but knowing that his father had friends living on a farm in Indiana, about 35 miles south of Chicago, he went there and Stayed with them until December, 1863. At that time, a party from Germany who were on their way to St. Cloud, and who knew his father, passed through that locality and, finding him there, paid his way to St. Paul, where he had an uncle,

Nicholas Schmitz. This journey he made by train to La Crosse and by stage from there to St. Paul. Here he staid one week and then his uncle took him out to his father's farm, the father having now returned home from the war. After staying with him for a year and a half Mathias struck out for himself, going to Minneapolis, where he met a Mr. Robinson, who ran a mill, and who engaged him to work around his house doing odd jobs. Atter that he got a job in a bakery, where he worked two months. He then went down the river as far as Kentucky, working one summer on the farms and in the fall packing tobacco. Going to St. Louis, he there met a cousin and stayed about a year, but was taken sick with typhoid fever. In the meanwhile his father had been writing to him to come home and when he got. better he took a job on the steamboat "Hawkeye State," running between St. Louis and St, Paul, on which he made three trips, after which he went to visit his father. This visit lasted for a year, when Mathias again set out on his travels. For awhile he worked for neighbors in the vicinity of his father's farm and then went again to Minneapolis and obtained a job piling lumber. He continued at this work until he had saved about $85, and then joined a lumber camp and apent the winter cutting timber. In the spring he got a job in a saw mill, but had to work nights, which he did not like very well, go he goon went to St. Paul and, after a few days' rniscellaneous work there, a gentleman hired him to drive his carriage horse and take care of the garden. While thus employed he found opportunity to learn the blacksmith's trade, for which he had always had a predilection. He served as blacksmith's apprentice and workman for two and a half years and then got work at the St. Paul Harvester Works, where he stayed six months, subsequently working at his trade for a short time in St. Paul. He then started a shop of his own in that city, which he conducted for about a year and four months. He was now a member of the volunteer fire department, and the department 'eing put on the paid system, Mr. Schmitz took the job as driver of the hook and ladder team, and retained it for four years and four months. Then, getting tired of the confinement, and hearing of the railroad being built west from Glencoe to Stewart, he came to the latter place to start a blacksmith's shop. There were then but two buildings in the village, this being in 1878, but he then established himself at the location where he has ever since yemained, and where he now has a fine shop. He helped to organize and incorporate the village of Stewart and was one of its first officers, and he has since bee? president of the council and has held various village and school offices. He became a member of the Farmers' and Merchents' Bank when it was first started and has served in it as officer and director. As a member of the Catholic church, he held office on its board in earlier years, Mr. Schmitz was married Sept., 1874, to Hubertina Schwartz, who was born in Germany March 29, 1850, and who came to the United States with her father in 1864, he locating in LeSueur county, Mr, and Mrs. Schmitz have had eight children: Edward N., Alexander J. Prosper L,, George A., Lucier J » Clement J., Charles and Francis.

George Franklin McCarty. Among the well known farmers of Collins township whose industry, energy and good management have placed them in comfortable circumstanees and gained for them a reputable standing among their townsmen, is George Franklin McCarty, who is successfully pursuing his vocation in sections 16, 20 and 21. Mr. McCarty was born at Castle Rock, Dakota county, Minnesota, August 29, 1866, and is a son of James S. and Mary (Hatten) McCarty, natives respectively of West Virginia and Ohio, the former of Scotch and the latter of Irish ancestry. The parents of My. McCarty were married in Ohio, and about the year 1854 came to Minnesota and located at Castle Rock, Dakota county, where they engaged in farming for some years. Late in 1866 they home- Steaded a tract in section 30, Collins township, McLeod county, where they had eighty acres, and subsequently secured a like acreage in section 29. To this property they drove in with an ox-team owned by G. C. Canfield, November 1, 1866, bringing with them their three children: George F., Henry and Rachel. Soon after his arrival Mr. McCarty built a log cabin and here began life among the pioneers, his nearest milling point being Henderson. To that place he walked with hig grist and returned with merchandise purchased there and at other early points, continuing to make these journeys on foot until he Secured a wagon and sled, the latter hewn from the timber, and both vehicles made by Merritt Bancroft, an early jack-ofall -trades who was then living in Collins township. Mr. Mc- Carty made his own harrow and various other tools and appli- #nces, and a great deal of the family clothing was made by Mrs. McCarty, who spun from the sheep's wool, Mr, McCarty Was one of the early officers of Collings township, and not only assisted in the organization of the township, but of the school district as well. As an agriculturist, citizen and township official he gained and held the esteem and confidence of his fellow-citizens. His death occurred March 6, 1892, when he Was fifty-six years of age. Mr. McCarty's first wife had died February 14, 1868, and he was again married to Melissa Overly, of Ohio, who still survives. They had six children: Cora, Dora, Zoe, Ethel, Haywood and Chester, the last named of whom died 88 an infant. George F. McCarty received his education in the district schools of Collins township and the high schools of Hutchingon and Stewart, and when ready to enter upon his independent career started farming as a renter. In 1891 he secured 240 acres in section 28, Collins township, but after living there for ten years and putting his land under a good state of cultivation disposed of his property by sale and came to his present property, first buying land in section 16, Subsequently he added to his holdings by successive purchase in sections 20 and 21, and later purchased 320 acres of substantial property in section 7, Scranton township, Bowman county, North Dakota, in addition to which he holds his father's original tract. All this land has been accumulated through his own efforts and the mere fact of its possession stamps Mr. McCarty as a man of much more than ordinary business ability and acumen. The fine buildings and modern improvements now found on his farm have been gradually developed from a thatched-roof, log cabin which was on his original purchase in section 16 at the time of his arrival. From the time of his coming he has engaged in general operations, and his activities in the line of stock breeding have included the raising of Shorthorn thoroughbred cattle, Shropshire sheep, Poland-China hogs and Percheron horses. He is a member of the Collins Creamery Association and has various interests identified with agricultural affairs in his community. As a citizen he has held various offices of importance. In 1908 he was elected a memher of the board of county commissioners, a position he still retains being at this writing chairman of the board, for several years he has been a member of the county board of health, for nine years he has been a member of the township hoard of supervisors, and he has also been a member of and chairman 0 the school board for several years. In public life he has alway§ been true to his responsibilities and thus has aided in the growth and development of the best interests of Collins towne ship and McLeod county, Fraternally, he belongs to the Masons, of Stewart, the Woodmen and the Brotherhood of American Yeoman, and was a charter member of Stewart Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, which was later consolidated with Lake Addie Lodge No. 78, of Brownton. Among the interesting mementos of olden days possessed by Mr. McCarty is a quilt over 200 years old, which was spt and woven from sheep's wool, and which has been handed dow? from generation to weneration on the maternal side of Mr. MeCarty's family, In 1896 My. McCarty was married to Nina Snavely, who was born in McLean county, Illinois, a daughter of William and Lillian (Davidson) Snavely, anda grand-daughter of Sampel Snavely, one of the original settlers of the colony of Pennsylvania. The Davidsons were of English origin. Wil- liam Snavely came to St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1881, from Illinois, and then located hear Stewart, McLeod county, as a farmer. He died three years ago in Collins township, at the age of sixty-one years, while Mrs, Snavely passed away fifteen years ago when forty-eight years old. They were the parents of two children: Mrs. McCarty; and Hiram, who resides at Hopkins, Minnesota.

Fritz Mackenthun, a successful farmer and stock-raiser of Glencoe township, was born in a log cabin on his father's farm in section 39, this township, August 24, 1873. He was edu- ¢ated in the district school, which was also a log building and, in addition, attended the German parochial school connected with the Lutheran church. At an early age he acquired a knowledge of agriculture science while assisting his father in the varied work of the farm and he continued to act as his father's assistant until about 1897, at which time he began work for himself on a tract of 120 acres, which he has since increased to 160 acres. He has greatly improved the property, substituting for the small frame house and log barn which Stood on the land when he took it, a fine modern residence and ® Substantial barn 26 x 72 feet. Mr. Mackenthun is a member ot the Creamery at Glencoe and of the one at Elwater, He is also a consistent member of the Lutheran church and was one of those who helped to build the new church edifice. He first married Bertha Brinkmann, who was born in Helen township, a daughter of John Brinkmann, She died in 1896 at the age af 29 years, leaving four children, Ida, Otto, Irwin and Esther. the last mentioned of whom resides with her grandfather, John, in Glencoe. Mr, Mackenthun married for his second Wife Mary Stoekman, who was born in Germany, a daughter of Henry Stoekman, and came to this country with her parents, they settling on a farm west of Glencoe, this county. Of this Second union there have been three children born, Alfred, George and Etna. Mr. Mackenthun has made his own way in the world by industry and perseverence, backed by intelligence, and is now respected as a man of character and susbtance, His Success should prove an example to many other ambitious young men.

Joseph Zeleny, proprietor of "Zeleny's Cash Store," at Hutchinson, Minn., was born near New Prague, Bohemia, Austria, March 13, 1864. His father, Anton Zeleny, was 2 tailor, who came to America in 1869, settling in Racine, Wis., where he remained four years. He then came to Hutchinson, Minn., buying a farm in the southeast corner of Hutchinson township, Which he operated until 1887. In that year he moved to Minneapolis, where he engaged in his old business ag tailor, being broprietor of the University Tailor Shop, in 14th Avenue, S, EB.

After carrying on business here for 14 years, he died on August 17, 1909, at the age of 68 years, having been at that. location since 1901. He married Josephine Pitka, who died in 1905, after which he contracted a second marriage, with Mary Schenk, of St. Paul, she being now a resident of that city. Anton Zeleny's children were five in number, namely: Joseph, subject of this gketch; Anthony, instructor in the department of physics in the University of Minnesota; John, instructor in the department of physics at Yale University ; Frank, a mechanical engineer, in the employ of the Cc. B. & Q. railroad at Aurora Ill.; and Charles, who is instructor in botany at the University of Illinois. Joseph Zeleny acquired a practical business education and in 1889, at the age of 25 years, opened his present variety store in Hutchinson. He has since remodeled the building, which is a two-story frame, 24 x 101 feet, with solid brick front and a basement 24 x 24 feet. Here he handles china, tinware, books, stationery, toys, fancy goods, sheet music, etc. The concern is a flourishing one and Mr. Zeleny is regarded as one of the substantial business men of the city, which he is doing his share in helping to develop. In the Odd Fellow's order he has passed all the chairs, and he is also & member of the M. W. A. He was married March $1, 1891, to Augusta Chernansek, of Hutchinson, whose father, Paul Chernansek, was a lime and tile merchant, but is now deceased. Mrs, Zeleny's mother is living, making her home in Minneapolis.

Frank H. Hakel, a retired farmer residing in Silver Lake, and now serving in the office of county commissioner, was born in Hluboky, Bohemia, Dee. 5, 1863. He is a son ot Frank and Vincencia (Metela) Hakel. The father, also a native of Bohemia, came to Silver Lake in 1878 and bought 70 acres of land one mile north of the village, where he lived unti] 1912. He now resides with his son, Adolph, in Hale township. He has reached the age of 73 years, and his wife, who is still living, is 76, Frank H. Hakel resided on the parental homestead until the age of 24 years. He worked out on farms until 1897, in which year he was appointed postmaster at Silver Lake and served in that position till Feb. 22, 1915. He also wrote fire insurance, was 4 notary public and operated a 40-acre farm near the village, which he had purchased in 1901. He still continues his insurance business. In November, 1914, he was elected county cormmissioner, in which office he is still serving. He has served on the Silver Lake school board for a number of years, having been both clerk and treasurer, and was also active in the erection of the present school building. As secretary of the C. S. Vojta Implement Company, he is associated with one of the largest and most important business enterprises of the village. His religious affiliations are with the Presbyterian church, of which he is an elder, and fraternally he belongs to the Modern Woodmen of Ameriea. Mr. Hakel was married, Oct. 25, 1887, to Emily Clark, of Hale township, who was born in that township, Aug. 22, 1865, daughter of Lucius A. and Mary (Wosmek). Her father, a native of Vermont, was a pioneer of McLeod county, settling in Hale township in 1861. During the Indian massacre in the following year, he fled to Shakopee, where he remained until 1887, afterwards spending a year in travel. He died in Minneapolis April 15, 1885, at the age of 74 years. His wife now resides in Los Angeles with her eldest daughter, having attained the age of 73 years. Mr. and Mrs. Hakel have two children: Iva, wife of Frank J. Kassube, of Silver Lake, who has one child, Orilla M.; and Irene, who is attending the Silver Lake high school.

John R. Metelak. It has been the privilege of John R. Metelak to realize many of his worthy ambitions, and through exercise of industry, good judgment and business sagacity to wrest from his opportunities financial and general success, From small beginnings he has worked his way steadily forward, and at the present time is the owner of a well-cultivated property in Collins township, all of which has been accumulated through his own efforts. Mr. Metelak was born in Bohemia, December 26, 1875, one of the four children of James and Catherine (Paclik) Metelak. James Metelak was born in Bohemia, Where he was engaged in farming in a small way until 1890, When he emigrated with his wife and four children, Agnes, James, John R., and Adolph, to the United States. Some of his neighbors in the old country had preceded him to America, Settling in McLeod county, Minnesota, in the vicinity of Glencoe, and to this community he made his way, taking up his residence on a farm of eighty acres in section 26, Rich Valley township. Here he built a log house, 18 x 24 feet, and a straw barn, and commenced tilling his land with a yoke of oxen, the balance of his stock consisting of two cows. Thirty acres of his land had already been broken, and through his energy and perseverance he succeeded in breaking the remainder and putting it under cultivation. He rounded out his career on this property at the age of sixty-five years, after having accumulated 4 valuable acreage. Mr. Metelak was a Catholic in his religious faith and assisted in the building of the church of that denomination at Bear Creek. Mrs. Metelak still survives her husband, and has. reached the advanced age of seventyeight years. John R. Metelak was given his education in the public schools of Bohemia and was fifteen years of age when he accompanied the family to the United States, In his youth he had determined upon an agricultural career, and when but eighteen years of age began operations of his own on a part of his father's place, in section 26, Rich Valley township, a tract of eighty acres of which about twenty-five acres had been cleared. In 1903 he sold this property and bought 160 acres in section 27, Collins township, on which there stood a poor set of buildings. These he replaced with more modern structures, including a new barn and granary, and put the land under a high state of cultivation. In 1911 he bought eighty acres more, in the same section, on which he has built a number of outbuildings. Mr. Metelak carries on diversified farming and raises a good grade of stock, and is generally accounted an agriculturist who is capable of making his labors pay him in full measure, and who can be depended upon to maintain the high standard set by McLeod county farmers. He has not sought public office, but takes an interest in affairs as they affect his community and willingly supports beneficial movements. With his family, he belongs to the Catholic church at Stewart. Mr. Metelak was married May 17, 1898, to Miss Josie Paron, of Carver county, Minnesota, who was born August 24, 1880, in Moravia, a daughter of Ignatius and Frances (Brabas) Paron. Mr, and Mrs. Paron were Moravian farming people and the parents of four children: Joseph, Frances, Frank and Josie. The father and Frances were the first to come to the United States, being followed by the mother, Frank and Josie two years later, and by Joseph, who was a soldier in the old country, four years later, Locating in Carver county, the father was engaged for eighteen years in railroad work, but spent his last years on a small farm which he had purchased and died there at the age of seventy-one years, the mother being sixty-nine years old at the time of her death. The family always worshipped at the Catholic church. Myr. and Mrs. Metelak have been the parents of four children, namely: Martha; Frankie, who is deceased; Amy and John. Henry A. Child, son of, Lewis and Emily Child, of Hartford, Me., was born in Hartford, Maine, August 16, 1845. He enlisted in the Civil war in 1861 when only sixteen years old, and was a member of Company A, First Maine Cavalry, served in the Army of the Potomac until the close of the war. He went to Buffalo, N, Y., and took a business course, coming to Glencoe, Minn., in 1866, he taught a county school one year and in 1868 was principal of the Glencoe school. He attended Carlton College one year. In 1869 he was admitted to the bar, in 1870, was elected county attorney and served in the State Legislature in 1872-78. He died in 1877. Jan. 1, 1870, he was married to Martha Little, by which union four children were born: Lewis Henry, who died while a student at the University of Minnesota; Ida H., who married Dr. W. L. Tifft, June 16,

1897; Dana, who died March 27, 1891, and Alice M., who is a teacher in the high school of Milwaukee. Martha Little, wife of Henry Child, is the daughter of Henry and Catherine Little, who moved to Minnesota in the fall of 1856 from Somerset county, Pa., and bought a farm one and a half miles east of Glencoe in Helen township.

Frank H. Sugden, whose death at his home in Stewart, Me- Leod county, April 5, 1909, cut short in middle life a useful and energetic career, was born at Sparta, Wis., July 5, 1862, son of Richard and Lucinda (LaMore) Sugden. On the father's side he was of English, and on the mother's of French- Canadian stock. When quite young he left home, going to Hastings, Minn., where he grew to manhood, attending the public schools. For some time he worked in the foundry at Glencoe. He then appeared in Stewart, McLeod county, finding work on the farm of Captain Mullen. After that he returned to Glencoe to work in the foundry, remaining three or four years, Taking up the grain business, he became buyer for the Empire Elevator Company, and this work he followed for some 20 years in Stewart, or up to the time of his death, He was also traveling auditor for the company. The year before his death Mr. Sugden bought the elevator now owned by E. M. Hanson and was its sole owner. He was also a stockholder in the Farmers' and Merchants' Elevator Company. As a citizen interested in the good of the community, he served on the village board and was mayor for several] years, from 1902 to 1904. He was affiliated by membership with the Odd Fellows and Modern Woodmen and was a member of the Consregational church, in which he held the office of clerk and treasurer for several years. July 5, 1886, Mr, Sugden was married at Delhi, Minn., to Edith E, Bush, who was born jin Dodge county, Wis., in 1863, daughter of Henry and Sarah (Ablard) Bush. The parents of Mrs. Sugden were natives of Lincolnshire, England, who were married in New York, sub- Sequently coming to Wisconsin, and 31 years ago settling on the present site of Stewart, there being no village there at that time. Later they moved to a farm in Renville county, where he died, his widow then taking up her present residence In Hutchinson, The children of Mr. and Mrs. Sugden were: Elmer B., of Toppenish, who was assistant editor of a newsbaper; Richard H., of Wolford, N. D., cashier of a bank; Luella, formerly a teacher, who married Herbert Chittick; Frances, Who was also a teacher, but is now the wife of Walter Chapel, 4 Western ranchman; and Mildred, who is attending high school. Mr. Sugden was a man of high character and especially interested in the cause of education, which he endeavored to promote as far as he could. He served as clerk of the school board 19 years and his work in this connection was of high value. In his death the community lost one of its most useful and esteemed citizens.

Louis Woodbury Lester, who died March 27, 1908, was born in the northern part of New York state February 9, 1840. When a boy he accompanied his parents to Chicago, and subsequently to Oshkosh, Wis. The family came to Minnesota in 1856, settling at Lester Prairie, McLeod county, which village was named in their honor, they being among its first settlers. The mother of the family, Mrs. John Lester, who died in May, 1907, was the first white woman to reside permanently in this locality, In 1871 L. W. Lester was elected register of deeds and removed to Glencoe, where he afterwards resided. He served in that office until January 1, 1880, then became county treasurer, having been elected in the previous fall, and held the office till 1884. In 1886 he was elected county auditor and served until 1892. He was married in 1880 to Mary A. Colby, who survived him, with one brother, Frank F. Lester, of Lester Prairie.

Frank J. Navara. That agriculture can be made one of the most avreeable and satisfying occupations of human life, that industry and good judgment and perseverance transform one's dreams into realities, and that honesty and fair-mindedness are among the most useful of human assets, are facts emphasized in the life of Frank J. Navara, whose career has been identified with McLeod county since 1887, and who, as farmer and citizen, has exerted a beneficial influence upon the institutions of his community. Mr. Navara, who is now a resident of Collins township, was born January 1, 1873, in Austria, and is a son of John and Mary (Riha) Navara. His father was born in that country, June 17, 1835, was there reared and educated and after his marriage settled down to the cultivation of a small farm. He was a hard and industrious worker, but the conditions in his native land were not such that he felt that the future held out anything for him there, and in 1887, with his family, he came to the United States and made his way to McLeod county, Minnesota, where some of his wife's relatives were living. He began farming on rented land in Rich Valley township, living in a logy shack and breaking and cultivating his land with ox-teams, and continued to be thus engaged until 1905, when he came to Collins township to make his home with his son. Here he died May 3, 1915, at the age of eighty years, while Mrs. Navara still survives and is seventy-six years old. They had four children, namely : Joseph, Frank, Mary and Josie. The father was a member of the Catholic church and assisted to build the church of that denomination at Silver Lake. Frank J. Navara received his education in the public schools of his native land, and was fourteen years of age when he accompanied the family to America. In school district No. 1, Rich Valley township, he Was given one month's instruction in English, and since that time his education has been gained in the school of experience, After attaining his majority, he took up farming on his own account, having previous to this time worked for his father, and for twelve years was a renter in Rich Valley township, During this time he carefully saved his earnings, and finally, with his brother, Joseph, was enabled to buy the old Charles Richards farm, in Collins township, a tract of 160 acres. When they started operations here the improvements included an old frame house, but this has been replaced by a modern eightroom. residence, with all conveniences, and in the spring of 1917 Mr. Navara will erect a new and commodioug barn, in addition to which he will have substantial outbuildings for the purpose of housing produce an dstock and fences which will insure him against invasions from outlaying districts, He is a thorough and practical husbandman, and in addition to engaging in general farming, is a successful breeder of high-grade stock, including Shorthorn cattle and Poland-China hogs. He is interested in publie affairs in his community, and at this time is serving capably in the capacity of chairman of the township board of Supervisors. His religious connection is with the Catholic church, which he attends at Stewart. Mr. Navara was married to Miss Emma Ruzicka, who was born at Hutchinson, Minnesota, a daughter of Joseph and Frances (Skolny) Ruzicka, natives of Austria, the former of whom died about 1898, when sixty-four years old, and the latter three years later when aged eighty-three, Mr. and Mrs, Ruzicka were the parents of five children: James, Louis, Mary, Joseph and Emma, By a former marriage Mr. Ruzicka had two children, Frank and Barbara, whose mother died in Austria, The parents of Mrs. Navara came to Minnesota at 4n early day and were living at St. Paul at the time of the Indian outbreak, Later they came to Hutchinson, where Mr. Ruzicka secured a tract of forty acres in what was then but 4 sparsely settled community. He built a log cabin, which is still standing, and began to cultivate his fields with a team of oxen, and in order to add to his small income worked for the early settlers as a blacksmith, a trade which he had learned in his native land. He built his own wagon from trees growing on his land, and in it sent his wheat to mill, but he generally made his trips for merchandise on foot. Mr. Ruzicka resided in the vicinity of Hutchinson throughout his life and came to be known #8 one of the substantial men of his community, the interests of which he has always had at heart. A faithful member of the Catholic church, he helped to build the structures at Bear Creek and Silver Lake, and died firm in the faith, Mr, and Mrs. Navara are the parents of two children: Mabel Emma, born October 19, 1901, and Frank Joseph, born June 23, 1912. Mr. Navara is appreciated for his many sterling traits of character, for his devotion to the interests of the community, and for the example offered of ability, perseverance and ultimate success.

Edward Bethke, a well known stock buyer of Stewart, Minn., and the vicinity, was born in Posen, Germany, May, 1850, son of Fred and Rosa (Kreizer) Bethke. The parents were natives of Germany and in vocation were farmers. To them 'the following children were born: Augustave, Edward, Alvina, Bertha, Hulda and Charles. August, the eldest son, was the first one of the family to emigrate, settling in Chicago, where he toiled the remainder of his life. His sister Bertha was the next to come. She also settled in Chicago and became the wife of the late Ferdinand Kreuger, A few years later the sister Alvina came over and likewise settled in Chicago, She became the wife of August Peglaue, who was already a brother-in-law of Edward Bethke. Edward Bethke acquired his education in the land of his birth and there grew to manhood. He was also married there in 1874 to Minnie Peglaue, daughter of Frederick and Dorothy Peglaue, farmers of Germany, whose family consisted of Augustave, John, Charles, Fred, August and Minnie, the two last mentioned being the only ones who left their fatherland and came to America. Charles died in Germany, while John and Fred, who were soldiers of the standing army, were both in the War of 1870. The sister Augustave always remained in Germany to look after and care for her mother. To Mr. and Mrs. Edward Bethke were born in Germany 4 son, Gust, and two daughters, Emma and Ida. Emma died and is buried in Germany. In 1882 Edward, wife and family, accompanied by his brother and sister, Charles and Hulda, left the land of their nativity en route for the United States, locating in Chicago, where Mr. and Mrs. Bethke's brother and sisters had previously settled. There both Charles and Hulda remained and there married, while Edward and wife with their children came west and settled in McLeod county, Minn. He first was employed as a farm hand, later moving to the village of Stewart, where he became employed by a Mr. Boding, a stock buyer and farmer. Mr. Bethke worked hard early and late and mastered all the details of stock buying and selling, and in time he engaged in the same business on his own resources and has continued in it, having been very successful. He ships on an average of 75 car-loads a year, accompanied in buying by two sons, Gustave and Otto. To Mr. and Mrs. Bethke were born the following children: Gustave, Emma (deceased), Ida, (deceased), Albert, Hulda, Lena, Charles, Otto, Lydia, Martha, Clara, Edward E., Alma and Margaret. Mathias Balius. The only one of the older settlers left. on the west side of Collins township who has remained on his original holdings, Mathias Baltus has become one of the leading stock raisers of MeLeod county, and his property, known as Spring Park Stock Farm, has gained a reputation that extends throughout Minnesota and many other states, Steady application to an idea, persistent industry and close study of his vocation have been contributing factors to Mr. Baltus' success, but while he has been busily occupied in this way he has not been neglectful of the duties of citizenship. Mathias Baltus, or Matt Baltus, as he is better known, was born March 11, 1876, in the state of Luxemburg, and is a son of Charles and Catherine (Frish) Baltus, also of that State, the father born in the village of Collmerberg, county of Mersch, January 6, 1825, and the latter at Fischbach, county Mersch, in June, 1837. Charles Baltus ig a son of John and Catherine Baltus, who lived and died as farming people in Luxemburg, and the only one of their nine children to come to the United States. He grew up on his father's farm, was educated in his native land, engaged in farming on his own account, and was there married, In 1880 he left the old world for the hew, arriving in New York Harbor May 22, after spending 27 days on the ocean, during which time, for three days, the vessel was in grave danger on account of icebergs. He was accompanied by his wife and three children: Theodore, who now resides in Preston Lake township, Renville county; Elizabeth, who is now Mrs. Matt Endres, residing at New Rockford, N. D,; and Mathias. From New York Mr. Baltus came west to Minneapolis, Minn., arriving in that city with but $17 in cash, with a family to support and no place to live, He was, however, prepared to turn his hand to any honorable employment which presented itself, and from May until October he worked at various jobs and thus was not only able to support himself and family, but to lay enough by to travel to Glencoe, where he was given 4 position with his family as manager of a farm. For one year he worked in this capacity for Charles Smith, and with his meager earnings purchased a tract of 80 acres of land - a tree claim - in section 24, Preston Lake township, Renville county, which extended to the McLeod county line. On this land was a grove and a little two-room house, and on this Property Mr. Baltus began his real struggle to gain his fortune. He was possessed of a one-horse wagon, his team consisted of an old mare and a little pony, and his livestock was comprised of three cows, in addition to which he had a few chickens; aside from this his equipment amounted to practically nothing, but he possessed energy, willing hands, a strong heart and a firm determination, and with these he worked out his own salvation. The little two-room house served for a time, but when with the coming of prosperity he replaced it with a more comfortable residence; at first, his bart: had consisted of a straw pile, but he soon was able to erect a substantial structure for the housing of his stock and produce, and, when he left his farm, after eleven years, to make his home with his son, he had added 160 acres of valuable land to his original purchase which he deeded to his oldest gon, Theodore. A hard-working, industrious and persevering man, his success was all his own, and the comfort which he now enjoys is unquestionably his due, Mrs. Baltus died February 25, 1895, in the faith of the Catholic church. Mr. Baltus belongs to that denomination and was a generous contributor when the church at Stewart was built, Mathias Baltus was seven years of age when brought to this country, and his education was secured in the district schools of Renville county and the parochial school at Glencoe. He grew to manhood on his father's farm and always remained as his assistant until he secured from him a piece of land across the road from the home place, in McLeod county, a tree claim of 75 acres, which was already improved and known as the C. N. Perkins farm. As he started to work on his own account, Mr. Baltus became interested in the stock business, which he had favored from his youth, and in 1894 was able to purchase his first registered animal, a Chester White hog, a breed which he has made his favorite, and from year to year since, by personal travel in different states, he has per sonally selected his new blood lines. He has built up his operations in this direction to large proportions, having @ hog model breeding and sale barn, 30 x 100 feet, with cement floor, stall and gates, and at this time has thirty-two farrow~ ing sows. He uses the King ventilating system in his hog barn, and has an outside feeding platform 30 x 100 feet. In the line of cattle, Mr. Baltus raises full-blooded and high grade Holsteins. He began with his first registered bull in 1904, purchased of Theodore Filk of Biscay, and now has 45 to 60 head of graded and full-blooded animals, in addition to which he feeds eattle as a side line to his business, when occasions allow. A stock barn which he contemplates building, will be a model all the way through, 108 by 36 feet, with all the most modern and up-to-date features, including a silo. Spring Park Stock Farm is also the home of fullblooded Percheron horses, and Coach horses, which bring top-notch prices in the market. Other departments are not neglected, for Mr. Baltus conducts a dairy, of the most sanitary kind, and breeds chickens and bronze turkeys on a large scale, while every available bit of his farm is given over to diversified farming. In addition to his home place in Collins township, he has 60 acres in Lynn township, and, in all, is operating 460 acres, He is a member of the Chester White Breeders Association, of Rochester, Indiana, and is a close student of stock breeding subjects. He also holds annually pure blood stock sales on his farm, He is an unbeliever of the traveling showmen with pure blood stock, paying more attention personally to individuality rather than to prize-winning stock. As a citizen Mr. Baltus has cheerfully answered the call of his fellow-citizens when he hag been asked to assume official civic responsibilities, and has Served as supervisor and as chairman of the township board. His fraternal connections is with the Catholic Order of Foresters, Modern Woodmen of America and Knights of Columbus; his religious affiliations are with the Catholic church at Stewart, being one of the contributors towards its erection and also one of the contributors toward the Cathedral at St. Paul. Mr, Baltus was married June 20, 1900, to Miss Rosella Richards, of Hutchinson, who was born in Lynn township, McLeod county, Minn., Oct. 11, 1877, daughter of August and Catherine (Zeigenfus) Richards, pioneers of this county, who came overland in a covered wagon from Wisconsin. Four children have been born to Mr, and Mrs. Baltus: Lucille Caroline and Catherine Grace, who are at home; and twin sons who died in infancy. The Baltus home is a hospitable one, where the many friends of Mr. and Mrs, Baltus are always made welcome.

Robert Alexander. Although the agricultural activities of Robert Alexander belong to the past rather than the present of McLeod county, he is still remembered as a farmer who through more than 35 years was engaged in tilling the soil of Collins township and as a citizen who assisted his community in many ways in its growth and development. Mr, Alexander was born in Wisconsin, November 27, 1840, a son of John Alexander. He received his education in the public schools of his native state and was a young man when he came to McLeod county, Minn., where he engaged jn farming. In 1877 he was married to Miss Hattie F. Benjamin, who was born at Greenbush, Sheboygan county, Wis., August 7, 1850, a daughter of Daniel and Clarice C. (Burns) Benjamin, Daniel Benjamin was born at North Adams,

Massachusetts, and was married in the East, his wife being a native of Halifax, Vt. In the late forties they moved to Wisconsin, where Mr. Benjamin was engaged in farming until the outbreak of the Civil war, at which time he answer ed the call of his country for volunteers and left his little family on the farm to enlist in Company B, of the famous old "Eagle Regiment" of Wisconsin Volunteers, with which he fought during the period of the war. His eldest son, Herbert, also enlisted in the same regiment and met a soldier's death at Vicksburg, of fever, and his two other sons, William and Judson, died while he was wearing the uniform of his country. In the spring of 1866 Mr. Benjamin, with his wife and child, Hattie, Hannah (known as Rosalia), having come a year previously, to Minnesota and located in New Auburn township, Sibley county, where the father was for a time engaged in farming. Subsequently, the family moved to Glencoe, and later to Lake Crystal, where both parents died on the old White farm in Sumter township, on which, years before, Mr, White and his son were massacred by the Indians. The historic old White building still stands ag a relic of those perilous times and blood stains still remain on the floor. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Alexander located on a farm of 160 acres, in section 25, Collins township, to which Mr. Alexander later added until he had 820 acres. At the outset of his career he had both horse and ox-teams and was in a position to make a success of his undertakings, although his home was somewhat isolated, his nearest neighbors being Tipp Dunn and William Baker, and his nearest mill being at New Auburn. He brought his farm to a high state of development, erected good buildings, and was a contributing factor in the various movements which made this part of McLeod county one of the most fertile and prosperous sections of a prosperous community, For some years Mr, Alexander served as a member of the school board, and his interest in educational advancement was always keen. He was a consistent member of the Congregational church. In his declining years Mr. Alexander moved to the White place, a tract of 140 acres in Sumter township, and there his death occurred May 1, 1914, Always honorable and upright in his dealings with his fellow men, he won and retained their respect and confidence, and when he died left many warm friends behind to mour his loss. Mrs. Alex~ ander, who still survives, resides in the White homestead and is one of the highly respected ladies of her community. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Alexander: May» who is deceased; Fannie, a resident of Ord, Nebraska; Maynard and Raymond, twins; and Rexford. Maynard still lives on the old Collins township farm and is one of the enterprising and progressive agriculturists of his locality. Robert Alexander was a democrat, but never cared for public office, although he helped his party to the best of his ability and always gave his aid to its candidates,

John Lewin, a well known tailor of Stewart, (now deceased) was born in Posen, Germany, April 19, 1854, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lewin. Carl Lewin was a tailor by trade and died when seventy-five years of age. His wife died at the age of fifty. John Lewin was an only child. He attended school in Germany and Jearned the tailor's trade from his father. In 1875 he entered the army and served for two years. In the fall of 1877 he came to the United States with the intention of bettering his condition and located in Chicago, Ill., where he worked at his trade. After a time he visited an uncle, John Schultz, of Glencoe and was so pleased with conditions there that he was induced to engage in farming and hired out to August Sylvester of Dryden township, Sibley Co. for seven months. In 1881 he returned to his uncle and secured some railroad land which had been broke and engaged in farming for himself. He built a frame house and bought an ox team and wagon. During that winter he hauled wood and often the poorly defined trails would be drifted over by the severe snow storms and it would take a week or more to make a trip. He soon sold his property and went to Glencoe where he opened up a tailoring establishment which he operated for twenty-six years. In 1906 he located in Stewart and engaged in the general merchandise business with his two sons, John and Fred. In 1915 he sold this and again engaged in the tailoring work establishing a shop in Stewart. He held township office having been a member of the village council for three years, Mr. Lewin died April 11, 1916. Mr. Lewin married in the fall of 1879, Bertha Frank. This marriage resulted in the following children: Anna, Mrs. R, E. Bensler of Stewart ; Fred C., of Minneapolis; Hulda Ida, at home with mother; John Herman, a grocer at St. Paul. The family faith is that of the Lutheran church.

Frederick R. Rasmussen, proprietor of "Half Way Place" Stock farm, in Section 34, Lynn township, was born in Horsens, Denmark, June 6, 1875, a son of Nels and Karen (Olsen) Rasmussen. Nels Rasmussen, born in Denmark in June, 1838, came to the United States in 1883, buying a farm and home- Steading 80 acres where the subject of this sketch now re- Sides. After operating the place until 1901, he retired to Hutchinson, where he now lives. He married Karen Olsen, who was born April 19, 1840 and died October 25, 1909. Frederick R. Rasmussen was eight years old when he accompanied his parents to America, After attending the common schools, he entered the State Agricultural School, from which he was graduated in 1895. He then yemained at home, until his marriage working for his father. Then, in 1901 and 1902 he rented the home farm, subsequently removing to Spring Brook, Wis., where he stayed three years. He then bought the home farm of 240 acres, 80 acres of it being in Section 34, Lynn township and 160 acres in Section 3, Collins township. He also owns 480 acres of timber land in Gull Lake township, Washburn county, Wis. In 1913 he rebuilt his house. He has three barns for horses, each 32 x 82 feet, and two for cattle, one of which is 28 x 70 and the other 24 x 40; also two silos, 14 x 33 and 14 x 35, with one double wall and one triple wall. Mr. Rasmussen raises short-horn cattle, having a herd of 58 head, including five registered animals. He milks 16 cows out of his herd. He also raises Plymouth Rock and Black Minorea chickens. Seven acres of his land are devoted to the culture of alfalfa, He has been secretary of the County Union of the American Society of Equity since 1914; secretary of Heatwole Local Union of the same since 1912 and treasurer of School District No. 81 since 1906. He is a stockholder in Heatwole Creamery, also in the Farmers' Elevator at Hutchinson and in the Equity Co-operative Exchange, of St. Paul. His religious affiliations are with the Danish Lutheran church, at Hutchinson and his fraternal with the Modern Woodmen of that place. Mr. Rasmussen was married, February 1, 1901, to Sinnie Petersen, who was born March 25, 1876, in Denmark, a daughter of Soren and Maren (Andersen) Petersen. Her father was a native of Denmark who came to America in 1885, settling in Boon Lake township, Renville county. He died in Mercer, N. D., in the spring of 1907, aged 70 years. Her mother, who was born in 1847, is now living in Spokane, Wash. Mr. and Mrs. Rasmussen have five children: Sylvia, Evelyn, Raymond and Frederick (twins) and Karen.

Henry Proehl, for many years an active and prosperous farmer of Round Grove township, who is now living retired in Stewart, McLeod county, was born in Sibley county, Minn., August 10, 1859, son of Christof and Sophia (Beneke) Proehl. The father was a native of Hanover, Germany, who came fo America in 1856, with his wife and two children, the voyage, made by sailing vessel lasting 33 days. His parents had died in Germany before they left. He was born on his parent's farm January 11, 1820. His wife was nearly 11 years younger than himself, the date of her nativity having been December 18, 1830, On reaching the United States, they lovated first in Illinois, where they spent one summer. Then Christof Proehl, leaving his family there, came to Minnesota and located a claim in Washington Lake township, Sibley county. The land was covered with timber, but he found or made a small clearing and built a log house, also planting a piece of fround with potatoes. In the fall he returned for his family, bringing them to the nearest point by steamboat and then driving to his claim. He brought with him Some pine boards for a floor, as well as some provisions, and their cabin was also furnished with a small stove. In company with N. Beneke he owned a yoke of steers, but the first Winter had no cow. His first crop he put in with a hoe. There was a small water-mill at Faxon and after getting his grain ground he carried the flour 18 miles on his back. Corn they ground in their own handmill, When the Indian troubles began they took refuge in Carver, in which place Mr. Prehl lett his son Henry and sister and went back home, they remaining there until the scare was over. After making that place theiy home until 1879, they moved to Section 33, Round Grove township, McLeod county, leaving, however, their oldest boy, Fred, on the farm in Sibley county, which had been partly cleared. On the farm he bought in Round Grove township there was a small frame house, which they made their residence. He was now provided with a horse team and other conveniences and work on the new place progressed rapidly. It remained his home until the end of his life, or about seven years in all, his death occurring in 1886, Starting in with 160 acres, he had increased his holdings to 500 acres. Among his other activities he helped to build the Lutheran church at Hamburg, Carver county, and was also prominent in the erection of the church of that denomination in Round Grove township, of which he was one of the first members. In the former church he was a trustee. Henry Prochl attended school jn Carver county, which was a boy's school, located eloge to the County line. He also attended a church school at Hamburg, Growing to manhood on the farm, he acquired a knowledge of agriculture and assisted in operating the home Place. In Company with his brother William he carried on the farm in Round Grove township for three years. "The brother then sold out his interest to Mr. Kloempken, who thus became a partner in the enterprise, the farm at this time containing 350 acre. Here Mr. Proehl bred pedigreed shorthorn cattle and later sheep. With the latter industry he was somewhat familiar, as hisfather had kept a few sheep, our subject's mother in early days Spinning wool from which to make ¢aps and mittens for the family. Aside from his personal interests he was active in town affairs, holding the offices of assessor and supervisor for SIX or seven years and serving on the school board for 26 years 45 treasurer, He was a partner in the creamery and a member of its board of directors and helped to organize the Farmeys'

Elevator at Stewart. A member of the Round Grove Lutheran Church, he served on its board 27 years and was active in all its work. About a year ago he retired from the farm and took up his residence in Stewart, where he now lives. Henry Proehl was married, March 27, 1884, to Anna Henschen who was born in Carver county, Minn., March 27, 1866, daughter of Ernst and Henrietta (Fomberg) Henschen. Her parents were natives of Hanover, Germany, and came separately to the United States, the father coming first and located in Cleveland, Ohio, whence he came to Carver county, Minn., in 1859, founding a homestead in Benton township. Mr, and Mrs. Proehl have had ten children: Henry E., Sophia, John, Maria, Anna, Hilda, Selma, Freda, Martha and Ida, the two last mentioned being now deceased.

John Novotny, who belongs to the progressive and energetic agricultural element of McLeod county which has done so much to maintain high standards of farming and stock raising here, has been a resident of Collins township for more than fourteen years and in this period has developed a productive farm and placed himself in a well established position in the confidence of his fellow citizens, Mr. Novotny was born on a farm in Scott county, Minnesota, June 24, 1862, and is a son of John and Anna (Rybak) Novotny. The parents of Mr, Novotny were natives of Bohemia, in which country John Novotny was a laborer, and in 1862 came to the United States by sailing vessel, the young married couple locating in Scott county; Minnesota, There Mr. Novotny, who had a capital of only about $100, began working out among the farmers and thus accumulated enough means to purchase forty acres of land, on which there were no improvements. Later he added thirty acres and built a log house and log barn with straw root, and began cultivating the soil with an ox-team and a wooden pin drag which he had made himself. His wagon was also made by him and its wheels were cut out of logs, but in spite of the handicap of such primitive equipment he was started on the road to success when his sudden death occurred in 1868, when he was but thirty years of age. He was a member of the Catholic chureh, a man who lived his religion, and one who worked hard and faithfully and was honorable in his dealings with his fellow men. After his death his wife's parents, Albert and Anna Rybak, came to the United States, arriving after having spent nine weeks on the ocean in a sailing vessel. Mrs. Rybak died at the home of her daughter some years thereafter, while the father survived for a time and passed away in Lesueur county, The children of John and Anna Novotny were: John, Martin, Peter and. Mary, all of whom were born in the log cabin except John. Mrs, Novotny died at the home of her son John, in McLeod county, in 1913, aged seventy-two years. John Novotny received his education in the district log schoolhouse in the vicinity of the homestead in Scott county, grew to manhood on the home place, and at the age of twenty years struck out for himself, his first work being manner he acquired sufficient capital to buy a farm in Linsborg township, Lesueur county, an improved tract of 110 acres, with a log house, on which he resided for twenty years, steadily adding to his acreage and improvements and erecting new buildings as occasion demanded and his means allowed, In 1902 Mr. Novotny disposed of his Lesueur county farm and came to McLeod county, where he bought 240 acres of land in section 28, Collins township, on which there were small buildings. Since that time he has added eighty acres to his original purchase and has developed one of the really valuable farms of the township, which boasts of substantial modern buildings, up-to-date improvements, and machinery of the finest character, In addition to carrying on diversified farming, he is a raiser of high grade cattle, and in every department of his farm work has achieved satisfying success, To his superior agricultural qualifications, Mr. Novotny adds the advantages of keen intelligence, broad general information and a personality pleasing, adaptive and confidence inspiring, Hig religious connection is with the Catholie church. In township matters he has lent his support, both moral and material, to beneficial measures and has assisted other publie-spirited citizens in the promotion of enterprises which have been needful for the general welfare. While a resident of Lesueur county, Mr. Novotny wag married to Miss Teresa Kyer, who was born in that county in 1862, a daughter of Michael and Nettie Kyer, natives of Bohemia who came to the United States in 1858 and passed the rest of their lives on the farm. They were members of the Catholic church. Mr. and Mrs. Novotny are the parents of six children: Mary, Anna, who is now Mrs. Louis Zlanka: Rosa; Julia; John and Jeffrey,

James Oleson, who for many years, was one of the best known and most respected residents of Lynn township, Me- Leod county, was born in Denmark, May 30, 1859. He was 4 son of Jorgen and Inga Marie (Christensen) Oleson, natives of Denmark, who came to America in 1871, settling with his family in Lynn township, this county. Jorgen's first farm con Sisted of 80 acres in Section 11. This he sold in 1873, buying 240 acres in section 34 of the same township, on which place he resided until his death, which took place J uly 25, 1898. He married Inga Marie Christensen, who died April 9, 1909, aved 82 years, James Oleson was but a boy of 11 years when his parents settled in Lynn township, He was brought up to farming and after his marriage in 1899, homesteaded Section 33, Lynn township, where he remained five years. He then rented the old home farm in Section 34 and conducted it until his death, which occurred Sepember 3, 1909, when he was put 50 years of age. He was married, April 4, 1890, to Sinnie Christensen, who was born in Lynn township, McLeod county, February 9, 1868, daughter of Soren and Marie (Oleson) Christensen. Her father, a native of Denmark, came to America in 1867, buying a farm in Section 2, Lynn township, this county, which he carried on until he was accidentally drowned, at the age of 42 years, in 1869. His wife survived him many years, dying February 18, 1912, at the age of 72. Mr. and Mrs. James Oleson had a family of six children: Everett, who was graduated from the Hutchinson high school in 1910, and who is now renting the home farm; Edna, a graduate of the Hutchinson high school in 1911, who later studied in St. Cloud Normal School and is now a teacher; Sidney, a student of 'pharmacy at the State University; and Harvey, Bernice and Margaret, residing at home. James Oleson was a fine type of the foreign born citizen, to whom the great Middle West and North West owe so much of their development and progress. Although a busy man on his farm he was ever interested in the public welfare and ready to sacrifice a part of his time to assist in local affairs. For ten years he was a member of the township board and served on the school board of District 81, being clerk of if six years. Prosperous in his farming operations, he was also a stockholder in the Farmers' Elevator at Hutchinson and in the Heatwole Creamery. He realized the value of education for his children, all of whom do eredit to their upbringing.

James Metelak. Of the citizens of Bohemian birth who have found McLeod county a pleasant and profitable community in which to center their activities, mention is due James Metelak, whose fertile and productive farm is located in Collins township. Mr. Metelak has made a success of both his farming and stock raising operations, and during the more than a quarter of a century in which he has lived in the county has shown his desire to discharge faithfully the duties of citizenship. He was born in Bohemia, April 1, 1868, and is a son of James and Catherine(Paclik) Metelak. James Metelak the elder was a farmer in his native land, but his opportunities for advancement were slight, and he finally decided to emigrate to the United States, whence some of his old neighbors had preceded him, Accordingly, in 1890, with his wife and four children, Agnes, James, John and Adolph, he came to Glencoe, McLeod county, Minnesota, and located in Rich Valley township, where he purchased a farm of eighty acres on section 26. About thirty acres of this land had heen broken, but there were no buildings, and Mr, Metelak's first task was the erection of a log house, 18 x 24 feet, and a straw barn, His stock consisted of a yoke of oxen and two cows, and his equipment was equally indifferent in other ways, but his perseverance and industry enabled him to develop a good property, erect substantial buildings and accumulate a large amount of live stock and, when he died, at the age of sixty-five years, he was in comfortable circumstances. He was a Catholic in his religious belief and assisted in the building of the church at Bear Creek. Mrs. Metelak is still living, at the advanced age of seventy-ceight years. James Metelak of this reveiw received his education in the public schools of his native land, and was there reared to manhood in a humble but honorable home. He early learned the value of honest toil, and when he started upon his own career, at the age of twenty-four years, was ready to meet and overcome any obstacles which might arise in his path. In order to get his start he worked out among the farmers and carefully saved his earnings, and his next forward step was the renting of a farm from Mr, Alexander, on which he conducted operations for about nine years. Mr. Metelak became a landholder when he bought a tract of eighty acres, in Section 26, Collins township, a property on which there were no improvements of any kind. This lack he soon remedied by the erection of buildings and the making of various improvements, and his crops and stock did so well that at the end of three years he was able to purchase 120 acres additional, on which there were several buildings. Four years later he had progressed sufficiently to add another eighty acres to his holdings, and all of this land is now under a high state of cultivation, Mr. Metelak has a good set of buildings on his home place, including a large stock and grain barn, 32 x 80 feet, of his own erection. He does diversified farming, and from the outset of his career his good judgment and industry have been evidenced in the success that has rewarded his efforts. When he started stock handling, Mr. Metelak placed his faith in Durham eattle and these he has continued to make his herd, although for a short period he experimented with Holsteins, Jersey Red hogs are his pride, and Percherons are his favorites in horses, Mr. Metelak is interested in the creamery at Sumter and is a stockholder in the First State Bank of Brownton. He is a broad-minded and progressive man, well posted on current ®vents and entertaining sensible opinions on questions of public interest. He has been a member of the hoard of school trustees of his locality. With his family he attends the Catholie chureh at Stewart, In 1891 Mr. Metelak was married to Miss Fannie

Cacaka, who was born in Bohemia and came to the United States in 1888. She was a daughter of John and Fannie Cacaka, farming people of Bohemia, whose other children were John, Josie, Anna and Kate, of whom Anna remained in Bohemia. Mr. and Mrs. Metelak have two children: Kate and James. Mrs. Metelak died Sept. 29, 1912.

Francis H. Hawlik, cashier of the State Bank of Silver Lake was born in Bohemia, July 26, 1868 son of Frank and Josephine (Zeleny) Hawlik. His father was born in Bohemia and came to America in 1869 locating in Racine, Wis., where he was a trunk maker and died in 1872 at the age of twenty-seven. His wife now lives in San Jose, Cal. Francis H. came to Silver Lake, McLeod county, Minn., with his mother in 1875 and lived on the farm with his mother and step father, Frank D,. Fimon, in Rich Valley township until 1881 when he began working out. He earneu nis own living from the time that he was thirteen years of age, and worked in Glencoe, Minneapolis, and Hutchinson, until March 1896. Then he became assistant cashier of the Citizens Bank of Hutchinson, where he remained until Oct. 1, 1901. The State Bank of Silver Lake was organized in May, 1902 and he became cashier. He served on the village council of Silver Lake for four years, being president of same for two years. For four years he was treasurer of the village council and recorder one year. He served on the schoo! board five years. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M. of Hutchinson Temple No. 59. Mr. Hawlik was married Sept. 8, 1896 to Mary J. Helcel of Crete, Neb., daughter of Charles and Antoinette (Krenek) Helcel, farmers of Nebraska. Mr, and Mrs, Hawlik have four children: Henry I. W., a graduate of the Silver Lake High school in 1914 and a student in the Civil Sngineering department of the State University; Hartley Hi. Evelyn E.; and Garfield F. The family are members of the Presbyterian church.

Garfield W. Brown, probate judge of McLeod county, was born in Pipestone, Minn, March 16, 1881, son of Warrington B. and Mary (Halliday) Brown. His father was born in Vermont and his mother in England, They now live at Pipestone, where the former is engaged in the farm implement business. Garfield Ww. Brown in his youth attended the public and high schools of Pipestone, being graduated from the latter in 1901. In the same year he entered the State University of Minnesota, taking the Academie course. He then entered the law department, from which he was graduated in 1906. On Feb. 12, 1907, Mr. Brown opened Jaw offices in Glencoe, in partnership with F. ©. Reed. Their association lasted two years, at the end of which time it was dissolved and Mr. Brown has since practiced alone. During this time he has built up a large elientele. In Novem- ber, 1910, he was elected to the lower house of the state legislature, taking office Jan. 1, 1911, and serving two years, including the special session in 1912, In November, 1913, he again came before the people and was re-elected as representative for another term of two years, In November, 1916, Mr, Brown was elected judge of the probate court of McLeod county, taking his seat Jan. 1, 1917, and succeeding the Hon. C. M. Tifft, who was elected to the office of district judge. He has served efficiently as a member of the board of education and for the past two years has been vice-president of the board. He is a member of Hope Lodge, No. 42, A, F. & A. M., and of the Commercial Club. Judge Brown was married Dec. 28, 1910, at Crookston, Minn., to Mayme Westerberg, and they are now the parents of three children: Janet Louise, Phillip Garfield and Robert Stannard. The family is affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal church.

Simson R, Bipes, proprietor of a farm of 138 acres in Section 17, Sumter township, was born on his parents' homestead in Section 28, this township, in May, 1875, son of Charles J. and Elizabeth (Sauter) Bipes. The father was a son of Charles Bipes, a native of Germany who came to the United States, locating near Fountain City, Wis., from which locality he and his family afterwards removed to Carver county, Minn.,homesteading land there on which he passed the rest of his life. He had six children: Edward, John, Charles Je; Catherine, Elizabeth and Austin. Charles J, Bipes was born near Fountain City, Wis,, July 19, 1850 and died in Sumter township, March 13, 1913. He grew to manhood in Carver county and early acquired a knowledge of agriculture and stock raising, When 23 years old he was married, July 2, 1873, to Elizabeth Sauter, who was born at Chaska, Carver county, Minn., in October, 1855. Her parents were John and Catherine Sauter, natives of Pennsylvania but of German ancestry. After their marriage the young couple located in Section 28, Sumter township, on a tract of 160 acres, to which they later added 40 acres more. Their house was built with mud bricks and had frame siding, but he had a horse team with which to begin his farming operations. In 1874 he removed to a new location on wild prairie land, Glencoe being the nearest village, and this place was his home until his death. He was a member of the Methodist church, which he served as trustee for many years and he took a leading part in erecting the church of that denomination in his township and at Brownton, He and his wife had seven children: Valeria, Simson, Adolph, Henry, Lydia, Levi and Edward. Simson R. Bipes was brought up on his parents' homestead in Sumter township. His educational opportunities were limited but he had an excellent chance to learn fayin- ing, which naturally became his occupation. He first rented a farm in Penn township, which he ran for three years, at the end of which time he moved onto the old homestead, remaining there five years. He then purchased his present farm in Section 17, which he has since cultivated with profitable results, raising a good grade of stock and also some excellent fruit. A member of the Methodist Episcopal church at brownton, he is now serving as its secretary. Mr. Bipes was married, November 12, 1902, to Emma Popp, who was born July 1, 1876, daughter of Frederick and Wilhelmina (Froemming) Popp. Her father was born in Schlenwitz, Germany, and came about 1863 to Acoma township, McLeod County, he and his wife being married January 12, 1871. For a number of years he farmed on a homestead in Lynn township, finally retiring to Hutchinson in 1901. As a farmer he had the usual pioneer experiences, starting with ox team and having to build a log house for himself and wife. He was a leading man in his township, serving the school district as treasurer and the township in other offices from time to time. He was a member of the Evangelical church at Acoma. His death occurred December 3, 1913, when he was 69 years old, he having been born February 15, 1844. His wife, Wilhelmina Froemming, was a daughter of Carl and Hannah Froemming, who came to Acoma township, McLeod county, from Germany. They started with an ox team and log house, carrying their grain to the mill at Henderson. Mrs. Froemming spun wool for the family use. They were members of the Evangelical church and services were often held in their house. Mr. and Mrs. Bipes have five children: Wilbur, Luellin, Benjamin, Irene and Mildred.

Willis D. Moore. A companion of the wilderness of Collins township and a sharer in the prosperity unfolded by the zeal and understanding of its tireless workers, the late Willis D. Moore spent his days in the pursuits of agriculture and at the time of his death in 1915 owned an excellent farm of 310 acres. He had been the builder of his own fortune, and in his career had maintained through all vicissitudes an unblemished character, faithfully meeting the obligations incident to his lot and discharging with manly fidelity the duties incumbent upon him in all the relations of life. Mr. Moore was born at Hastings, Minn., Nov. 8, 1857, a son of Alexander H. and Sarah A. (Howell) Moore, Alexander H, Moore was born at Bloomington, Ill, July 25, 1887, a son of Benjamin and Hannah (VanWinkle) Moore, natives of Ohio and early settlers of MeLean county, Illinois. A short time after the birth of their son, Benjamin Moore and wife moved to Rock county, Wiseconsin, and in that community the grandfather died in 1844 and the grandmother about four years later. At the age of 17 years, Alexander H. Moore removed to Hastings, Dakota county, Minn., and about one year later he engaged in farming there, which he continued until the Civil war come to interrupt his activities. On August 13, 1862, he enlisted in Company F, Kighth Regiment, Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and, the Indian massacre occurring soon thereafter, was stationed at New Ulm, and subsequently at Fort Snelling and Fort Ridgely. In 1864 Mr. Moore participated in the expedition under General Sully, following which his regiment was sent to the South, Where it took part in the engagement at Cedars, near Murfreesboro, and Mr. Moore was then given charge of a ward in the general hospital at Nashville, where he remained until receiving his honorable discharge iy May, 1865. After his return from the war this gallant soldier resumed farming in Dakota county where he remained until 1867 and then moved to Rice county, where he was also engaged in farming. In 1872 he took up his residence in Renville county and bought a farm, but after two years purchased a property of 80 acres in section 35, Lynn township, McLeod county, and there resided until 1899, He then retired to Hutchinson where he died March 19, 1911.

Spirited citizen, and had the respect and esteem of his fellow citizens in each locality in which his activities were prosecuted On Feb. 4, 1857, at Prescott, Wis., Mr, Moore married Sarah A. Howell, who was born in Jackson county, Ohio, Feb, 18 1840, daughter of Simeon and Nancy (Roath) ; the y (F Howell, and they became the parents of four children, namely: Willis D., Sain E., Gilbert E. and Minnie PF. Mrs. Alexander Moore died Dee.

= eld and Hutchinson, after leaving which he was en- Saget for four years in mill work, However, he had been reared as a farmer, and when the eal team, During the early part of his life as a farmer, he lost an arm M operating a corn husker, and this necessitated his retirement for two years, during which time he lived at Hutchinson, However, he did not allow this to discourage him in his farm work, for at the end ot the period mentioned he returned to active agricultural work and succeeded in accumulating 310 acres, all of which he put under cultivation. Among the numerous buildings which he erected Was a commodious modern barn 36 x 60 feet, with cement flooring, and his other buildings Were proportionate in size and equipment. Mr. Moore was one of the pioneers in the breeding of Red Polled cattle and full-blooded Poland-China hogs, while he also did a large business in a good grade of horses. He was a member of the official board of the Collins Creamery and had an interest in the Co-operative Elevator at Hutchinson. While not one to seek preferment in public life, he was ever ready to serve his community in any way that lay within his power, and for several years was a member of the school board of his township. His fraternal connection was with the Woodmen and the Odd Fellows, at Hutchinson. In the death of Mr. Moore, which occurred December 9, 1915, his community sustained a distinct loss. All his undertakings had been attended by deserved success, and he was ranked as one of the leading farmers of his township. This prominence in agricultural pursuits was wholly due to the energy, perseverance, wise management and honorable dealing which were the distinguishing features of his life. Aside from his record as a farmer, he always maintained an excellent standing as a citizen and was considered one of the most worthy and useful members of his community. July 27, 1882 Mr. Moore was married to Miss Carrie M. Olson, who was born Jan. 1, 1861, in Denmark, daughter of Jergen and Inga Marie (Christenson) Olson, both of whom were from Denmark, Jergen Olson's birth taking place in November, 1830, and that of his wife Inga Marie, May 4, 1827. They came to the United States in 1871, with five children: Mary, James, Carrie, Margaret and Ole, Christian being born in Lynn township, this county, two miles west of Hutchinson, where they first: settled. Two years later they removed to a farm six miles southeast of Hutchinson in the same township, where the father died at the age of 62 years, July 25, 1893, and the mother at the age of 82 years, April 9, 1909. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Moore: Chester A., December 7, 1884; James Clifford, July 27, 1886, and Fred F., June 20, 1888. Chester A., who resides on the home farm and conducts its operations, is one of the progressive and enterprising young farmers of Collins township, and is a graduate of the agricultural school. James Clifford, who graduated from the Hutchinson high school and took a commercial course in the business college at Hutchinson, is now assistant cashier of the State National Bank at Miles City, Montana. He married Helen Weston and they have two children: James Weston, born March 5, 1914, and Robert Willis, born Sept. 3, 1915. Fred F., graduated from the agricultural department of the State University in the class of 1914 and is now engaged in teaching agriculture.

Emil A. Leistico, a well known and popular resident of the village of Stewart, who is a grain buyer for the Monarch Eleva~ tor Company, was born on a farm in Nobles county, Minn.,

April 19, 1882, a son of Carl and Augusta (Maschkie) Leistico. Both parents were natives of Germany and came to this country before their marriage, which took place in Hutchinson, Minn, This place was their first home, and they began farming four miles east of the village, Carl Leistico starting with nothing but his hands to aid him. It was not until his second year on the place that he succeeded in getting an ox team. He, however, put up a log building for shelter and after getting their ox team they also managed to procure five head of stock, five sheep and seven hogs. His wife spun the wool for the family. The nearest mill was at Carver, to which Mr. Leistico was obliged to walk in order to get flour. He would also walk to St. Paul for groceries, being over a week on the road. Later he drove to both places with the ox team. When the Indian outbreak occurred they fled to Hutchinson, but though they thus saved their lives, their house was burned and their stock killed. Although they went back to their place they did not stay there but moved to the vicinity of Young America, in Carver township. Before starting over again, however, Mr. Leistico stayed awhile at the Fort in Hutchinson to help protect the settlers there, In making a fresh start Mr. Leistico got an ox team from some of his neighbors, for which he had to pay in work. This new farm consisted of 160 acres, all timber land and he stayed on it 18 years, during which time he cleared 100 acres, also erecting a log building for a residence, He was a member of the Lutheran church and for some time services were held in his house. Later he took a prominent part in helping to builda church at Young America. In 1881 Mr, Leistico sold his farm and settled in Nobles county, buying a seetion of prairie land. Here he built a good frame residence, which was his home and that of his family for 22 years. Then he moved to Lake Preston, Renville county, buying 285 acres there. After retaining this property awhile he sold it and, retiring from active work, took up his residence in Worthington, Nobles county, where he subsequently died. He and his wife had ten children: Herman, born at Hutchinson, Albert, Fred, Gertha, Minnie, Tillie, Henry, Otto, Emil A. and Edward. Emil and Edward were born in Nobles county, the others with the exception of Herman, in Carver county. Emil A. Leistico when a boy attended school in Nobles. county. When old enough he engaged in farming for himself in Preston Lake township, Renville county und was there for five years. He then worked one year at Hector for the Hutchinson Produce Company, farmed for a year and a half and then engaged in mercantile business in Stewart with his brother Otto, being thus occupied four years. He then sold out and took up caypenter work, contracting in this section for about a year and a half. At the end of that time he became connected with the elevator business as a buyer for the Monarch Elevator Company and has filled that position for the past three years, While residing in Preston Lake township, Renville county, Mr, Leistico served as school treasurer. He is a member of the Lutheran church. He married Martha Schulte, a native of Meeker county and daughter of Henry Schulte. We and his wite have one child, Oliver.

Fred F. Baliman, a successful farmer of Round Grove township, was born in Wabash, Minn., March 29, 1876, son of Edward and Mary (Graner) Baliman. He received his education in the district school of Round Grove township and Stewart high school. He remained at home with his father on the farm in Round Grove township and then went to McHenry county, N. Dak., and took a homestead. Subsequently selling this, he returned to the 200 acre tract of his father in Round Grove township. To this he has since added eighty acres. He raises good stock and carries on general farming. He has served on the school board since he was 21 years of age. Mr. Baliman was married in October, 1914, to Emma Piehl, a native of Round Grove township, and daughter of William Piehl.

Charles Reiner. The successful management of 400 acres of land in a community where competition is keen and high standards prevail presupposes the possession of a thorough knowledge of agricultural science, as well as of shrewd business ability. When these requisites are met in the head of a farming enterprise and to them is added the progressive and enquiring tendencies of the younger generation, a harmony should result as gratifying generally as it is financially. Such a combination of interests is found on the farm of Charles Reiner, known as Twin Pines Farm, in Collins township, MeLeod county, where Mr. Reiner, with his sons, is working out a satisfying rural success. Mr. Reiner was born in Baden, Germany, November 5, 1862, and is a son of Magnus and Mary Reiner, who passed their lives in the old country, the father being a small farmer and clock maker. There were fifteen children in the family, all of whom grew to manhood or womanhood: Roman, Ethelbert, Joseph, Fredling, Edward, Waybert, Gottlieb, Charles, Ignatius, Otto, Artilhite, Josephine, Amanda, Julian and Francis. Of these, Joseph, Ethelbert, Waybert and Otto went to Russia following the Franco-Prussian war; Edward to Hungary; and Ignatius came to the United States and located at Hutchinson, Minnesota. Charles Reiner was the first of his family to come to America. He had received ordinary educational advantages in his native land, and as a youth had applied himself to farming, both with his father and others, and following the German custom, was called upon to serve his time in the regular army of his country. This did not coincide with his plans, however, and in 1881, a young man of nineteen years, he emigrated to the United States and found employment among the farmers of McLeod county, Minnesota. His first work in his adopted land was done in stacking straw on the present site of Stern's lumber yard, but after about three months among the country residents he decided upon a business career and accepted work with a butcher at Hutchin- Son, and followed that trade for two years. With his capital thus earned, he established himself in business as the proprietor of a liquor store, and conducted this enterprise until the spring of 1888, when he returned to the meat business, this time as the owner of an establishment of his own. Six months later he sold out to again engage in the liquor business, and followed this until the fall of 1889, when he engaged in farming for his father-in-law. In 1890 Mr. Reiner took up a homestead in Lynn township, securing a tract of 80 acres in section 32, on which he built a frame house. This 80-acre property formed the nucleus for his present magnificent homestead, consisting of 400 acres, all of which has been accumulated through Mr. Reiner's own efforts and those of his ener. getic sons. Each year has seen new buildings erected and new improvements installed. A number of the buildings were first erected on the original property, but since then have been moved to the present home place, in section 5, Collins township, where, in addition to a modern residence, there are to be found 4 new barn, 56 x 80 feet, and absolutely complete in all ity equipment, and a silo with 100 tons capacity. The Twin Pines Farm is famous as a producer of grain, and Mr. Reiner and his sons have also gained more than a local reputation in the direc. tion of stockraising, their specialties being Holstein cattle, Poland-China hogs and full-blooded Percheron horses, While his farm has been responding with increasing bountifulness to his untiring efforts, Mr. Reiner has not been idle mm other directions, for Several business enterprises have had the benefit of his Sagacity and judgment, Among these igs the Collins reamery, of which he was one of the organizers in 1904, and of Which he was President from the time of its ineeption until 1914, then for two years was vice-president and is now again president. He has also been active in community affairs, and

48 served for g number of years ag a member of the local School board, A Catholic in his religious views, Mr. Reiner assisted generously in the building of the churches of this denomination at Stewart and Hutchinson, An interesting relic in Mr, Reiner's possession, indicative of the race that once made up the population of this now Presperous and Civilized community, is an Indian pipe, which he plowed up on the shores of Lake Eagle, which adjoins his farm. Mr. Reiner was married June 4, 1888, to Caroline Richards, who was born in Lynn township, this county, daughter of August and Catherine (Zeigenfus) Richards, natives of Germany and pioneers of this county, who came overland in a covered wagon from Wisconsin. They settled in Lynn township and engaged in agriculture operations. The father is now deceased and the mother is living with her son Charles Richards at Hutchinson. Mr. and Mrs. Reiner are the parents of six children: Charles H., born Feb. 16, 1889, who was married, March 2, 1916, to Gertrude Mead and has one child, Sylvester; Frank A., born Nov. 8, 1891, who married Agnes Schilling ; Joseph L., born March 2, 1895; Edward J., born Dec. 9, 1896; Viola R., born Jan. 30, 1907, and Leo born July 4, 1912, Charles, Joseph and Edward are associated in farming with their father all three being young and skilled farmers of Collins township. Frank A., resides at Northfield and is connected with the well known Schilling Dairy Farm. Viola and Leo reside at home,

Nels P. Nelsen, who is engaged in operating Plain View Farm in Section 18, Sumter township, was born in Denmark, December 1, 1866, son of Peter Nelsen and Ama Marie Peterson, who lived on a farm in that county. The father still resides there, being now aged 73 years. The mother died in 1915 at the age of 70. They had eleven children: Nels P., Hans W., Karen Marie, Gertrude Marie, Anna M., Henry U., Antoin, Martin and three who died young. Hans was the first of the family to come to America, arriving in Hutchinson, a single man, in 1891, having come to join a friend who had settled here before him. He now lives in Sumter township. Nels P. Nelsen while still residing in Denmark was ambitious to get along in the world and assist his parents and his thoughts often turned to America, which he knew was a land of better opportunities. In 1892, while a single man, he put his intentions into execution, said good bye to the old folks and sailed for the land of promise. He had received a partial educain Denmark, but after coming here attended school two winters in Brownton. He had about $90 when he arrived here and so was better off than many newcomers, but he wasted no time, going to work for Fred Schmitz in Penn township, and he kept up his industrious habits until within five years he had saved $1000, He then went home to Denmark for a four months' visit and on his return brought with him his future wife, to whom he was married in 1899. Her name was Elizabeth Anderson, and she was born October 22, 1871, a daughter of Jens and Anna (Rasmussen) Anderson, who were farming people in Denmark. Her father died at the age of 71 years, but her mother is now living at that age. Their eight children were: Rasmus, Carl (deceased) Christina, Elizabeth, Andrew, Henrica, Sena and Marie. Of these children Rasmus and Andrew had preceded Elizabeth to America, locating in Dakota. In 1900 Mr. Nelsen and his wife bought a tract of 60 acres in section 18, Sumter township, the same on which they now live. There was a small one-room house on the place and a barn, 24 x 28 feet. To his original farm Mr, Nelsen has added 40 additional acres. He has a small but good orchard, having set out fruit trees for his own use. In his general farming he follows the rotation system. Among the improvements he has made he has cut in a large amount of tiling. His stock consists of Holstein cattle and Chester White hogs. Four acres of his land is sown with alfalfa, which he regards as the best crop for feeding. He is a member of the Shipping Association. He attends the Danish Lutheran church of Heatwole and also the chureh of that denomination at Hutchinson both of which he helps to support. He and his wife have two child. ren, Frances and Ancher. Another child, the first born, Dagney by name, died at the age of 14 years.