McLeod County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1917 (part 6 of 12)

Victor E. Forcier, now living retired in the village of Stewart, was born in Canada, September 30, 1856, son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Crate) Forcier. Victor E. Forcier when four years old left Canada with his parents, they first going to Vermont, from which state they came to Round Grove township, McLeod county, Minn., Dec. 28, 1869. He attended school only about six months, as he had to begin making himself useful on the homestead at an early age, when most boys of today are thinking only of tops and marbles. When older, instead of starting out for himself in a new place, he stuck to the old homestead, of which he in time became the owner. Tis father had begun with 80 acres, subsequently adding 40 acres more and a tree claim. To this Victor himself added 80 acres of state land. After the death of his father in 1887 he moved to Stewart and with his brother Anthony engaged in mercantile business, they being associated together for six months. Then Victor bought out his brother's interests and conducted the store alone for 13 years. At the end of that time he sold out and went to Ward county, Dakota, where he took a homestead. This he sold after proving it up. He had 120 acres in Grafton township, Sibley county, where he then located, also buying 240 acres more. This land he farmed until the fall of 1915, at which time he retired and took up his residence in Stewart, which has since been his home. While in Sibley county he served six years on the Grafton school board, and during his former residence in Stewart he was a member of the village council. He was a stockholder in the creamery and elevator and was a member of the building committee of the new Catholic church in Stewart and a member of its board of trustees for 10 years, Mr. Forcier married Mary Pleisance, daughter of Philip and Sophia (Corbin) Pleisance, of Rice county, Minn., to which locality her father came at the age of 19 years. He was born September 26, 1835, and died in Minheapolis Feb. 28, 1915. His wife, Sophia, who was born in 1838, is still living. Her family, the Corbins, settled in St, Paul when there were only a few houses there. Philip Pleisance has 600 acres in Collins township, which he obtained after he had farmed for some years in Wright county. In Rice county he was a very prominent citizen, being elected to both the House and Senate of Minnesota. His death took place in Min- Neapolis. Mr. and Mrs. Victor E. Forcier have been the par- - ents of six children: Edward, George, Alvira, Omar, Viola and

Manuel Forcier, a native of France who became a Canadian farmer, Thomas spent his youth in Canada, and there married Elizabeth Grate, who is now living at Stewart, Minn., at the advanced age of 96 years. She was born at St. Hyacinth, Canada, in 1821, daughter of Joseph and Margaretta (Plomdon) Crate, Joseph Crate, who was born on the Isle of Grate, France, from which the family took its name, was appointed by a king of France in the Seventeenth century as sheriff over a certain district in Canada, and came to America to take up his new duties. Margaretta (Plomondon) Crate was the daughter of Louis Plomondon, who came to Canada to take possession of a land grant. Thomas Forcier, after spending some time farming in Canada, came to the United States in 1862, homesteading land in Round Grove township, MeLeod county, Minn., which was his home until his death, Feb. 9, 1887. He and his wife, Elizabeth, reared a large family of children whose names respectively were: Frederick, Thomas, Joseph, Elias, Sophia, Lewis, Elizabeth, Victor B., Delia, Mary, John and Sorren, Frederick Forcier, better known as "Fred" Forcier, one of the prominent residents of Stewart, whose long and active career forms an integral part of the history of this village and the vicinity, was born at Saint Hyacinth, Can., Oct. 10, 1842, a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Crate) Forcier. He was the first member of the Forcier family to come to Minnesota, which he did with his wife and two children, Mary and Ida, in 1869. He had been married in the Catholic church at Ticonderoga, N. Y., October 12, 1864, to Ellen Jarvis, who was born in New York, September 15, 1842, a daughter of Moses and Mary (Jordan) Jarvis, her parents being natives of Canada who located in Essex county, N. ¥., as farmers. In the Jarvis family there were nine children, Moses, Louis, Ellen, Eveline, Joseph, Mary, Sarah and Alma. Mr. and Mrs. Forcier, after reaching Minnesota, stayed for a while in St. Paul, but after about two months they got located in Marysville township, Wright county, where Mrs. Forcier atayed while her husband pursued further investigations, looking for a good chance to homestead. This he found in section 14, Round Grove township, McLeod county, where he took up 80 acres of prairie land and that summer built a small frame shanty. In the fall he brought his wife from Marysville to the new home in an ox team, being a week on the trip, as he had to cut roads a part of the way. This ox team and a second-hand wagon was all that they had with which to commence improvements. The firat summer Mr. Forcier broke up ten acres and put in his first cropa. The nearest mill was at Hutchinson and they ground barley in a coffee mill as a substitute for coffee. Mrs. Forcier did her share of work on the homestead. She spun wool for mittens, caps and socks and used to braid straw hats to sell. When they started, in addition to the ox team and old wagon, they had tor provisions 20 pounds of flour and $1 in money. In course of time Mr. Forcier became the owner of a half section and established his children on farms, provided with good buildings. He has long been a leading member of the Catholic church, and he and his father got up the subscription for the first Catholie church in this section, which was located in Round Grove township, but is no longer standing. Mr, Forcier gave a cow and sold tickets for the church, his wife helping to the extent of her ability, and both setting an example for energy and devotion that might well be imitated. Others also worked in the cause and in a short time the church beeame a fact, Mr. Foreier and his family being among its first members. This church was later moved to a location farther north and was sold when the fine new church at Stewart was biult. Before its erection Mass was often held in the Forcier home, the pastor staying there over night. Mr. Forcier was one of the or ganizers of his township when enough settlers had arrievd in it, which was not until the second year after his arrival, and he served as township treasurer and school trustee for many years. He also took shares in the Farmers' Elevator when organized. He has set cout a fine 12-acre grove on the old homestead, which will do much to beautify the place. Mr. Forcier has been a man of action all his life and well endowed with the qualities for making his way in the world in spite of adverse Conditions. These conditions in his younger days he met and Conquered by sheer force of character his good wife helping im, and now in the sunset of life he can look around him and See the pleasing results of his labor, which his children will enjoy for years to come, It is such men as he who have built up the great Northwest. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Forcier are: Mary, Ida, Joseph, Josephine, Emily, Agnes, John, Peter, and Moses, all born in Round Grove township, except Mary and Ida, who were born in Vermont. Moses is now deceased.

Rev. Walter Baumhoefener, pastor of St. Peter's German Lutheran Church in Bergen township, was born at Grand Island, Neb., July 13, 1885, son of August and Laura (Meyer) Baumhoefener. The father, a native of Germany, came to America with his brother Charles, who was a minister, and Who took a charge at Homestead, Iowa. He lived with his broth- until he finished his education at Concordia Seminary, St.

®ing the German Lutheran church at Grand Island, Neb., of Which he remained pastor until 1892. Going then to Young America, Minn., he took charge of the German Lutheran church there and is still its pastor. The church has just completed a new $40,000 edifice all paid for and with a surplus of $3,000 in the treasury. By his wife Laura, who is still living, Rev. August Baumhoefener has had seven children: Laura, now Mrs. H. F. Lueders, of Norwood, Minn.; Frieda, wife of F. Kloth, of Norwood; Walter; Victor, residing in North Dakota; Olga, at home; Erna, a teacher, and Corda, a student in the University of Minnesota. Walter Baumhoefener acquired a liberal education, spending four years at Stevens Seminary, Glencoe, Minn.; two years at Concordia College, St. Paul, Minn. ; two years at Concordia College, Milwaukee, Wis., and three years at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo. His present call as minister was to his present church, in October, 1912, prior to this he having been assistant professor at Concordia College, St. Paul, for over two years. During a part of the years 1907 and 1908 he was instructor at Emmanuel College, Greensboro, N. C., and it was while there that he met Clara Jacobs, whom he married, July 18, 1911. She was born at Greensboro, N, C., January 12, 1887, daughter of Henry and Hannah (Maus) Jacobs, her father being a tailor, Her parents still reside in Greensboro. They have seven children: Blizabeth, now Mrs. M. Lochner, of Oak Park, IIl,; Clara (now Mrs. Baumhoefener), Bertha, Minnie, Mary, Henry and Hannah. Mr. and Mrs. Baumhoefener have three children: Walter, born October 5, 1912; Clarence, born April 1, 1914, and Victor, born September 4, 1915.

Robert S. Donaldson was born in Perry county, Ohio, Oct. 13, 1828. His parents, in 1826, came from Virginia to Ohio, where the father died in 1833, after which the family moved to Wood county in the same state, but two years later returned to the former homestead. In 1843, as a boy of 15, Robert 8S. Donaldson came to Indiana, where he had an older brother, a carpenter, who gave him employment. Here he remained until 1855, in which year he joined a party coming to Minnesota, and on arriving in this state settled four miles west of Farmington, where he engaged in farming. A few years later the Civil war broke out, and inspired with a strong spirit of patriotism, he raised a company, which became Company ©, of the Fourth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, of which he was commissioned captain. During the following winter the troops were stationed at Fort Ridgely, but in the spring of 1862 they were ordered south and Captain Donaldson marched with his company and regiment to take part in the defense of the Union. His services as captain lasted until July, 1863, during which time he took part in the battles of Iuka, Port Gibson, Raymond, Jackson, Champion Hill and the siege of Vicksburg. He was then promoted to lieutenant-colonel of the 50th Colored Infantry, and was in command until March,

Mrs. C. R. Donaldson

1865, when he was transferred to the 64th U. S. Colored Infantry, with the rank of colonel. In July following, Col. Donaldson was appointed assistant commissioner of the Freedmen's Bureau, and as such had control of the northern half of the State of Mississippi until April, 1876. Subsequently he served five years as regent of the Minnesota State Uni. versity. In 1877, with his wife and sons, Clarence and Charles, and daughter, Laura, he took up his residence on a farm in Sibley county, situated on the shore of Round Grove Lake, neor the McLeod county line. Here he remained for two or three years, and then, in 1879, engaged in the implement business in Stewart, of which place he was subsequently a resident until his death in September, 1900. His wife had passed away five years previously. Mr. Donaldson was married Sept. 29, 1849, in Preble county, Ohio, to Eliza Curry, who was born in that County, Sept. 1, 1828, daughter of James and Ella (Van Dorn) Curry, Mr. and Mrs, Donaldson had six children: Clavence F. (now deceased), Mary J., Horace, Cora E,, Charles R. and Laura.

Charles R. Donaldson, proprietor of a prosperous grocery and hardware business in Stewart, Minn., and one of the lead- Ing citizens of McLeod county, which he has served in the State Senate, was born in Lakeville, Dakota county, Minr., June 10, 1861, son of Rob. S. and Eliza (Curry) Donaldson. He was reared on his parents' farm in Dakota county, and assisted his father on the family farm in Sibley county after the latter's return from the South. Subsequently he became his father's 4ssistant in the store in Stewart, remaining with his parents Until their death. He had already, however, in 1884, started

IS present hardware and grocery business, which he conucted, while at the same time helping his father in the latter's implement store. After the death of the elder Donald- Son he continued the implement business until 1906 and then Bave it up in order to devote his whole attention to his present Usiness, in which he has since continued. From an early age

Still a young man was called upon to serve in local offices, being oY some time a member and president. of the village council He 4 member of the school board. In 1906 he was elected to Fe senate on the Democratic ticket, and served two consecu- Ive terms of four years each, being elected the second time pthout opposition. For a number of years he has been agent or Dr. D. A. Stewart, proprietor of the town site of Stewart, and his heirs, and is still active in that capacity. Fraternally © 38 affiliated with Stewart Lodge, No. 229, A. F. & A. M.; ® Modern Woodmen of America, the Ancient Order of United orkmen and the Royal Neighbors. Charles R, Donaldson

Arne O. Anderson, a successful farmer of Bergen township, was born in Norway, December 15, 1855, son of Ole and Ingeborg (Olson) Anderson. The parents were married in Norway and came to America in 1861, locating in Dane county, Wis. They were accompanied by their two children, Arne and Carrie, the latter of whom subsequently became the wife of John Langlie, but is now deceased. In 1862 Ole Anderson, together with Ole Jacobson and several other men, with their families, moved from Prairie du Chien to St. Paul, Minn., the journey being made by steamboat, or rather by five steamboats, for thus the party were divided, From St. Paul they drove with ox team to Meeker county, Three weeks after arriving there the Indian outbreak occurred and Mr. Anderson, with his family, took refuge in Anoka, driving to that place with an ox team. There they remained two years and then, in 1864, came to Bergen township, McLeod county. Here Mr, Anderson secured 160 acres of land in section 35, on which he built a log cabin and began farming. In the spring of 1865 he died at the age of 34 years. His widow subsequently married Peter Swenson and resided on the same place for seven years, when all the family, with the exception of Arne O. and his sister, Carrie, moved to another farm in the western part of Bergen township. In 1886 Arne 0. Anderson moved to North Dakota, taking a homestead in Ramsey county, where he remained 16 years. He then returned to Bergen township and farmed a tract in sections 28 and 33, having now 187 acres of land. Here he has erected good, substantial buildings and raises good stock, keeping Shorthorn cattle. He is also a shareholder in the Metropolitan Milk Company, of Minneapolis. Mr. Andergon was married December 9, 1885, to Isabella Jacobsen, who was born in Dane county, Wis., February 23, 1864, daughter of Ole Jacobsen, Jr., and Thora (Anderson) Jacobsen. The Jacobsen family came to the United States in 1857 from Norway, making the voyage, which lasted seven weeks, in a sailing vessel. On their arrival they located in Dane county, Wis., later removing to Meeker county, Minn., At the time of the {Indian outbreak they moved back to Wisconsin. Returniny to Minnesota in 1864 they located in Bergen township, McLeod county, which was their home for the rest of their lives. Towards the close of the Civil war, February 15, 1865, Mr. Jacobsen enlisted in Company L, First Minnesota Heavy Artillery, and served until September 27, 1865, when he was mustered out. Eleven children were born to Mr, and Mrs. Jacobsen: Jacob, who died in infancy, Carrie, Mary, Isabelle, Andrew,

Mr. And Mrs. Andrew Burtman

Jorgine, John, Theoline, Otto, Betsey and Clara. Of these children, Andrew and Otto, in addition to Jacob, are deceased, The children of Mr. and Mrs. Anderson were Ida, Thea, Otto, Alfred, Joseph, Arthur and Cora. Ida is now Mrs. Martin Larson, of Bergen township and has two children, Sander and Joseph. Thea, who married Oliver Enerson, died May 28, 1912, leaving one child, Thea, who is being brought up by her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Anderson, The other children ot Mr, and Mrs. Anderson are all living. The family worship at the Norwegian Lutheran church, of which Mr. Anderson is one of the trustees.

Peter Olson, a prominent farmer of Bergen township, was born in Norway, January 18, 1847, son of Ole and Isabel (Peterson) Engebretson. In 1866 the family left their native land for the United States, but on the voyage Mrs. Engebret- Son died and was buried at sea. The bereaved husband, with his two children, Anna (born March 18, 1843), and Peter, landed at Quebee, from which port they journeyed on to Carver county, Minnesota, coming by way of Milwaukee, Wis. After a year they located in Bergen township, McLeod county, Where they bought a farm in section 27, where the subject of this sketch now lives. Mr. Engebretson subsequently married Mary Elofson. Peter Olson has resided on the same farm continuously since the family came to Bergen township and is now its owner. The farm now occupies parts of sections 27, 26 and 35, and consists of 120 acres. Mr. Olson has been successful and is not only one of the prominent men of his town- Ship, but is also well known all over the county, as he has Served as county commissioner for four years having pre- Viously rendered many years of public service in Bergen town- Ship, including 20 years as town clerk, 24 years as clerk of the School board and several terms as chairman of the board of Supervisors. Mr. Olson was first married to Rachel Anderson, who was born in Norway, August 9, 1844, and died June 25, 1885, The children of this marriage are: Ole Edward, born October 24, 1873, who married Lena Larson; George, born vember 7, 1876, who married Emme Enerson; Emelia, born August 11, 1878, who is the wife of William Burtman; Re- horn February 17, 1881, who married Martin Nelson;

"nnet, born September 30, 1883, who married Enga Hetland; and Martin, born June 4, 1885, who married Ida Langlie. On January 28, 1905, Mr. Olson married for his second wife, nna Sorlie, who was born in Norway, January 23, 1876. Of his Marriage there are two children: Annie, born October 10, 1905, ana Osear Palmer, born January 5, 1907,

1828. For a time he was manager of an estate in Sweden. Then he decided to seek his fortune in America and came by sailing vessel to Massachusetts. There he engaged in the shoe trade, in company with his brother John, starting a shoe store. After his marriage he came west to Minnesota in 1859 and bought a tract of land in sections 21 and 22, Bergen township, McLeod county. With crude home-made tools, he built a rude log house, 16 by 18, and a log barn with hewn-board floor. The first year he had no team but after a time he obtained a cow and a team of oxen. His drag was home-made, with wooden pins, and his first wagon had wooden wheels, cut from a tree. Like other pioneers, he had to undergo many hardships and privations, being obliged to walk to Carver for flour. Twice the family had to leave theix home on account of the Indians. But in time prosperity came. In the early sixties Mr. Burtman set out a grove of evergreens which are still standing. The log house was replaced by a frame building, the lumber for which was hauled from Minneapolis. He erected good substantial buildings as his means permitted, kept good stock, and was successful as a farmer. He was also one of the directors of the Bergen Creamery Co. For many years he served as township treasurer, and was a member of the school board of the district which he helped to organize. Mr. Burtman took great interest in his church, the Swedish Lutheran, and services were often held at his home in the early days. He served as a trustee of the church for many years, and was a leader in the Sunday school work, His death, which occurred April 11, 1906, deprived the community of a useful and respected citizen. Mr, Burtman married Johanna Swenson, who was born in Sweden, Oct. 29, 1830, and died Sept, 21, 1916, surviving her husband ten years. They had six children: Ellen, born April 11, 1863, who is the widow of N. E. Peterson, of Minneapolis; Jennie, born Sept. 25, 1865, who died July 3, 1901; Elsie, born July 6, 1868, who is keeping house for her brothers; Adolph, born June 15, 1871, who died March 12, 1895; Oscar, born Oct. 21, 1875, and Edor, born Sept. 21, 1877. The two latter, Oscar and Edor, attended the common school of their neighborhood and the Minneapolis Business College. Edor also attended the agricultural department of the State University. These brothers began farming as partners on the home place, known as the Burtman Bros. farm, in 1904. They raise Shorthorn cattle, Poland China swine, and a good grade of horses. Oscar is treasurer of the Farmers Elevator Co., of Lester Prairie, and has also been township treasurer for two years,

Thomas J. Trutna, physician and surgeon of Silver Lake, was born in Wahoo, Neb., Dec. 15, 1878, son of Thomas and Frances (Pospishil) Trutna. Thomas Trutna, the father, was born in 1841 in Moravia and came to America in 1875, locating at Wahoo, Neb., and farming near there until 1895, when he moved to Silver Lake, Minn. He bought a mill there and operated it until 1903, when he sold it to his son Frank who now operates it. He has now retired to Silver Lake, His wife was born in 1848 and died Dec. 7, 1915. Thomas J. Trutna graduated from the Hutchinson High School in 1900 and from the medical college of the State University in 1905. For one year he was interne at the Asbury Hospital at Minneapolis and began practicing in Silver Lake in June, 1906. He bought the drug store at the Same time, which he operates with the assistance of an attendant. Dr. Trutna is a member of the county and state Medical societies. He affiliates with the A. F. & A. M., of Hutchinson, and is vice-president of the Farmers & Meyrchants State Bank. He is a member of the Congregational church.

Joseph Mlinar, photographer and jeweler, located in Gilver Lake village, Hale township, was born in this township, F ebruary 2, 1891, a son of Paul and Anna (Jerabek) Mlinar, The father, Paul Mlinar, who was born in Bohemia, came to the United States in 1878, settling in McLeod county, Minn., Where he became a farmer. He died in 1907 at the age of 60 years. His wife now resides on a farm in Hale township.

hey had a family of nine children: Christina, who married John Kutchera, a farmer of Hennepin county; Adolph, also engaged in farming in that county; Anna, who married James Kovar, a farmer of Hale township; Frank, a farmer at. Excelsior, Hennepin county; Edward, who is farming in Hale °Wnship, this county; Emily, who married Joseph Yukel, a farmer of Hale township; Rose, residing at home; Joseph, sub- Ject of this sketch; and William, who resides at Little Falls,

Mn, Joseph Mlinar, after having learned the business of photography in Minneapolis in the spring of 1911, opened a studio at Jordan, Minn. After remaining there eight months, in the 'Pring of 1912, he sold out and bought the studio of J. H. Jeraek at Silver Lake, and has since remained here. In 1914 he added a jewelry department to his establishment, putting in a full 'nd complete stock and also making arrangements for doing all kinds of repairing. In his gallery he does both portrait and Commercial photography. His trade is steadily increasing and his reputation as an artist and business man Stands high throughout this part of the county. In 1918 Mr.

story, brick veneer structure, 29 x 31 feet in dimensions, with basement. It is furnished with hot water heat and electric lights. The offices on the second floor are occupied by a dentist. In making such progress since he first began business here, Mr. Mlinar has shown his enterprise and that he possesses good business qualities which will carry him far on the road to prosperity. He has many friends in this and neighboring townships who wish him success.

Frank J. Kolar, cashier of the Farmers and Merchants State Bank, of Silver Lake, was born in Waverly, Minn., March 19, 1884, He is the son of Frank and Anna (Becker) Kolar, Frank Kolar, Sr., is a native of Bohemia and came to America in 1865 locating at Waverly, In 1880 he moved to Biscay and engaged in the general merchandise business for twenty years. Nov. 1, 1913, he sold his business and now lives at Hopkins, Minn. Frank J. Kolar worked in his father's store until it was sold. He then found employment in the Bank of Hutchinson as assistant cashier, becoming cashier of the Farmers and Merchants State Bank, of Silver Lake, at the time of its organization, June 3, 1914. My. Kolar was married Dec. 7, 1908, to Louise Ewald, of Brownton, daughter of Martin and Anna Ewald, retired farmers, now of Spokane, Wash., who were early pioneers of MeLeod county. Mr. and Mrs. Kolar have one child, Inez, born Sept. 80, 1911.

Albert E. Hlavka, proprietor of the Silver Lake Livery, Bus and Dray Line, was born at Silver Lake, Aug. 16, 1895, son of Frank and Amnettie Hlavka. Frank Hlavka, a native of Bohemia, came to America in 1872 and homesteaded in Hale township, where he farmed until 1915, then retired to near Silver Lake. Albert E. attended the district school of his locality and at the age of 14 went to Hutchinson to attend high school and worked for his board and room during his spare time. Nov. 4, 1912, he graduated from the Globe Business College at St- Paul and accepted a position as bookkeeper and stenographer with the Citizens Bank of Hutchinson, where he remained one year. Then he clerked and acted as bookkeeper for A. L, Danek, a hardware and auto dealer of Silver Lake. After a year he entered the harness business with his brother, William W., at Silver Lake. The next year he sold his interest and bought the present livery business. He keeps four livery teams, three automobiles, and a large truck, a bus and four teams on drays. Mr. Hlavka is one of eight children. Mary is now Mrs. Joseph Navratil, wife of a farmer near Stewart, Minn., previously selling their farm at Stewart, and moving to near Silver Lake. Anna is the wife of Frank Sustacek, owner of Lake Side Dairy Farm at Bear Lake, Minn. Frank is 4 farmer and dairyman at Lamson, Minn. Emily and Agnes are at home. Joseph A. is the owner of Fair View farm in Hale township, Jersey cattle being his favorite among raising stock, William, who was in the harness business at Silver Lake, died Jan, 20, 1916, Albert, the subject of this sketch, is in the livery business at Silver Lake, Minn. In the year 1916, he has sold a half interest in the livery, bus and dray business to W. F, Micka, now his partner. He has devoted much of his spare time to selling insurance and has made a host of friends during his Short time here. He has made good in insurance work, repre- Senting many good companies and all branches. As to his religious duties he is a member of St. Joseph Catholie church, of Silver Lake, and a member of Knights of Columbus Lodge, of Hutchinson, Minn. He is also engaged in the real estate busihess and is a notary public.

Fred M. Andrews, manager of the Farmers' Co-operative Elevator Association, of South Silver Lake, McLeod county, was born in Hutchinson, Minn., October 17, 1867, a son of Charles A. and Martha (Coombs) Andrews, His paternal grandparents were Moses and Susan (Adams) Andrews, who resided at or near Essex, Mags., Moses being captain of a Sailing vessel. Their son, Charles, was born at Essex, Mass., about 1838 and in 1857 joined a party from that place, led by W. W. Pendergast, who came to McLeod county, Minn, After coming here he Went into the business of hauling freight between Minneapolis, Hutchinson and Carver, following this occupation until the advent of the railroad. He also carried the mail for 20 years from Hutchinson to Dassel and to Glencoe, after which he retired. His death occurred April 20, 1906, when he was 68 Years of age. His brother Lyman, who had accompanied him tom Massachusetts, took a farm in Hutchinson township, Where he died August 26, 1912. Charles A. Andrews was mar- "ed November 26, 1867, to Martha Coombs, who was born in New Brunswick, Ind., May 11, 1844. She was a daughter of Milton and Elizabeth (Crawford) Coombs, who were married Indiana and came with their family to McLeod county in the Spring of 1857. The family was large, numbering ten children. ee took a homestead near Cedar Mills, in Meeker township, bE nic Mr. Coombs followed the occupation of trapper and rn a living most of the time on a farm near the old homewith » With his son Vincent. He also spent five years in Idaho Ae his daughter, Mrs. T. C. Kennedy. His death took place bril 20, 1906, while he was residing with his daughter, Mrs. aniel Whitten, at Deerwood, Minn., he being then 83 years of age, The ten children of Milton and Elizabeth Coombs were: 1 wee a farmer in Meeker county, who died December 31, Ee - at the age of 74 years; Katherine, wife of T. ©. Kennedy, enesee, Ida.; Martha, who married Charles A, Andrews;

Mary, who married Isaac Atwater and died at the age of 30, about 1875; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Ludwig Blasing, of Seattle; Mildred, wife of Leonard Bacon, of Seattle; Lucena, who died at the time of the Indian outbreak in 1862; Alice, who married Daniel Whitten, of Deerwood, Minn., where she resides; Emily, wife of Reuben Ross, of Thompson's Falls, Mont.; and Flora, who became the wife of King Force, of Colesville, Montana. Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Andrews were the parents of four children: Fred M., born October 17, 1867, who is in the grain business. at Silver Lake, and who is married and has three children, Mary, Blanche and Martha; Susan M., born November 18, 1871, who married Oscar Selman, of Seattle, and has two children, Lewis and Lyle; Katherine E., born August 21, 1873, who is the wife of H, E, Thayer and resides with her mother, and whose children are Maud, Elmer and Fred; and Lewis, a resident of Hutchinson who is married and has three children, Dorothy, Ruth and Helen Elizabeth. Mr. Thayer, husband of Katherine had one child, Edna, by a former marriage, who resides in Minneapolis. Fred M. Andrews, after beginning industrial life, drove a team and worked out until 1903, at which time he took his present position. He continued, however, to reside in Hutchinson until 1907, making the trip by train every day, but since 1908 he has resided in Silver Lake. Mr. Andrews is a progressive business man who has prospered in his undertakings. He is a stockholder in the Farmers and Merchants State Bank, of Hutchinson, also in the Electric Short Line, Smith's Oil Company, Simms' Cereal Company and Silver Lake Creamery. The Farmers Co-operative Elevator Association at Silver Lake is a flourishing enterprise and was bought by the present firm in 1912. It occupies a frame building having a capacity of 15,000 bushels, the power being furnished by a gasoline enginé. In 1915 the association handled 140,000 bushels of grain, besides dealing in coal. Mr. Andrews was married, September 22, 1907, to Annie Sobeslavsky, whose father, John Sobeslavsky, is a farmer in Hutchinson township. He and his wife have three children, Mary, Blanche and Martha.

Frank A. Philipi, manager of the Silver Lake branch of the Stearns Lumber Company, was born in Austria, August 27, 1862, a son of Joseph and Frances (Lukas) Philipi. The father, who was a farmer in Bohemia, died in 1873; his wife Frances in 1908. Frank A, Philipi came to America in 1881, locating first in Racine, Wis., where he worked for one year in a trunk factory. He then came to Silver Lake, McLeod county and for 22 years was engaged here in carpenter work. In 1909 he accepted his present position and has held it continuously. A&# an active citizen interested in local progress, he served one year on the village council and the same length of time on the school board. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, also of the Modern Woodmen of America and the Z. C. B. J., a Bohemian society. Mr. Philipi was united in marriage, April 17, 1888, to Vinnie Kovar, of Minneapolis, who died March 30, 1916, at the age of 54 years. She had been the mother of four children: Sophia, wife of Anthony Kouba, a farmer of Hutchinson township, who has one son, Harry, aged two years; Anna and Mamie, residing at home with their father, and Rosie, who died in 1896 when only one day old.

Right Reverend Monsignor Francis Tichy, pastor of the Church of St. Joseph, Silver Lake, was born in 1847, in Policka, Bohemia, Austria, and received his preliminary education in his native city. Later he studied at Litomysl and at Prague, He came to America in 1873, finished his studies at St. Francis Seminary, near Milwaukee. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1874 by the Right Reverend C. Borgess, in Detroit, Michigan, and the same year became pastor of the Bohemian Catholic church in that city. In 1877 he took charge of a Polish and Bohemian church in St. Paul. J uly 20, 1880, he was appointed pastor at New Prague. After twenty-six years' service at New Prague he came to his present parish at Silver Lake. In 1913 he was appointed by the Pope as Domestic Prelate of the People of the Household, in recognition of his long service and Pious devotion.

W. Osear Merrill, editor and manager of the Silver Lake Leader, was born in Piatt county, Ill., Dec. 12, 1879, son of W. W. and Jennie (Malone) Merrill. His father was a glove Maker in Hutchinson and died Noy. 1, 1914, at the age of Sixty-two. His mother died in 1891 at the age of thirty- Seven. W. Oscar worked for the Hutchinson Leader from 1898 to 1901 when he started the Silver Lake Leader. Febtary, 1915, he was appointed postmaster of Silver Lake which office he still holds. He served as village trustee for three years and village recorder one year. He is a member of Tem- Ple Lodge, A, F. & A. M., Hassan Valley Lodge, I. 0. O. F., of Hutchinson, and A, O. U. W. lodge, of Silver Lake. Is secretary of Silver Lake Commercial Club and Fire Department. Mr. Merrill was married August 19, 1902, to Alice Danek, of Silver Lake, daughter of John J., a hardware dealer of Silver Lake, who died in 1908 and his wife Anna (Nuwash) Danek. Mr. "nd Mrs, Merrill have four children: Jennie, Delbert, Marian, 4nd Wilbert.

_ John Vojta, a pioneer backsmith and implement dealer of Silver Lake, was born in Stetece-Vodnana township, Pisek county, Bohemia, Austria, Nov. 21, 1858, son of John and Mary (Pelikan) Vojta. The parents were born, reared and died in

Bohemia. John Vojta was educated in his native land and grew to manhood under the parental roof. When quite young he was apprenticed to the blacksmith's trade, which he mastered in every detail, together with horse-shoeing. In 1876 he came to America, first locating in Winneshiek county, lowa, where he followed his trade until 1879. He then removed to Jordan in Seott county, in which place, however, he remained for a few months only, going from, there to Ottawa, LeSueur county, Minn., where he remained for two years. In 1881 Mr, Vojta came to Silver Lake and began working at his trade here, In 1883 he purchased land and built his own shop. He cut the logs, hauled them to the mill, had them sawed, and erected his own building. Besides doing all kinds of blacksmith work, he engaged in horse-shoeing, built wagons, buggies, sleighs and harrows, and was soon doing a flourishing business. In 1892 he started the first implement and machine business in Silver Lake, putting up a building next to his blacksmith shop for his machinery. He also bought a 40-acre farm near Swan Lake, which he conducted in addition to carrying on his other business, which he enlarged by laying in a stock of binders, mowers and hay-rakes. For a number of years he conducted all these various lines of business together, making him a very busy man. In 1904 Mh. Vojta sold his farm and purchased one of 80 acres in Rich Valley township, which he still owns and rents. For two years his son, C. S. Vojta, was his partner in the business, which was then conducted under the style of John Vojta & Son, and this partnership laid the foundation for what is now the C.S. Vojta Implement Company. John Vojta served many years on the village council of Silver Lake and was president of that body for six years. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and the Catholic Order of Workmen. January 10, 1882, Mr. Vojta was married, at Waconia, Minn., to Louisa Suchanek, who was born there in 1867. The children of this marriage are: Anna, who resides at home, taking care of the household; Conrad 8., who is president of the ©. S. Vojta Implement Company; Barbara, who resides at home, and Emily, who is now Mrs. John §S. Jerebek, of Silver Lake. For the past seven years the mother of this family, Mrs. Louisa Vojta, has been an invalid, confined to her bed, but bears her affliction with a cheerful mind and exemplary patience. She has been a good wife and mother and is tenderly cared for by her family. She, with her husband and children, are members of the Catholic church,

Conrad 8, Vojta, president of the C. 8. Vojta Implement Co., and one of the rising young business men of the county, was born in Silver Lake, Dec. 20, 1885, son of John and Louisa (Suchanek) Vojta, He received his early education in the schools of his neighborhood, and was graduated from the Caton Commercial College at Minneapolis in 1902, after which he was employed as a stenographer in the Twin Cities, In 1907 he returned to this county, to take charge of his father's blacksmith and implement business at Silver Lake. A year later he purchased the establishment, discontinued the black- Smith department, added an automobile department, and later had the concern incorporated as the C. S. Vojta Implement Co,, of which he is still the head, Mr. Vojta has done excellent service as a member of the village council and as village recorder, He was an active spirit in the move which resulted in the erecting of the new village hall in 1910 at a cost of $15,000. The Commercial club has found in him an active secretary. In the fire company he has taken especial bride, and has served as its chief and as its secretary. He was one of the organizers of the Farmers and Merchants State Bank, of which he is now a stockholder and director, and he was likewise one of the organizers of the Farmers Co-operative Plevator Co., of which he is still a stockholder. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers Co-operative Creamery Co. Hig fraternal relations are with the Knights of Columbus, in which he has been an officer, with the A. O. U. W., of which he has been Master Workman, and with the St, Joseph Society.

The C. S. Vojta Implement Co., with its principal offices at Silver Lake, is the largest implement concern in the county, It was organized in 1915, with a capital stock of $50,000, later increased to $75,000. The stockholders are the leading farmers of McLeod and adjoining counties, and the officers are: C. S. Vojta, president and treasurer; Otto Mortenson, vice-president; and F. H, Hakel, secretary. The company handles farm implements, farm machinery of the John Deere, International and Emerson lines, Buick automobiles, a full line of tires and tubes, and a complete equipment of accessories. Branches have been established at Glencoe and at Cosmos. The building at Silver Lake is a sightly structure of cement blocks, 60 by 100 feet, with full basement and equipped with steam heat and electric lights. The machine shop and repairing department is equipped with the latest machinery for all kinds of repair work. The fully equipped offices are a great credit to the Owners and to the village. The building at Glencoe is of brick, 50 by 100 feet, and is one of the largest and best equipped in the county and along the Yellowstone Trail. The Glencoe establishment is under the management of John Hayes. The branch at Cosmos is also well housed and well equipped, being Situated on the Luce Line.

Hynek and Josephine (Hager) Totushek. Hynek was a native of Bohemia and came to this country in 1865 locating in Racine, Wis., where he lived for two years, following the trade of a shoemaker. He has spent fifty years on the bench. Then he went to Minneapolis and lived there for twelve years. Next he lived in Hutchinson for twelve years and twenty-two years were spent in Silver Lake. He opened a shoe store and general merchandise store in Silver Lake in 1893. There were three children in the family: Edward H., proprietor of a general store in Mohall, North Dakota; Josie, wife of Otto Sobotka, attorney in Pine City; and Arthur J. Arthur J. attended the common school and was graduated from the Hutchinson High school in 1904. Then he became manager of his father's store in Silver Lake. In 1908 he bought half interest in same and in 1911 bought his father's interest. He now owns a two-story brick building, 50 by 50, and carries a good line of general merchandise. He is a director of the Farmers & Merchants State Bank of Silver Lake, He is affiliated with the M. W. A,, having been venerable consul for three years and is a member of the Presbyterian church.

Henry J. Nayratil, who is carrying on a prosperous blacksmith business at Silver Lake, Hale township, was born in this township, August 20, 1890, a son of Frank and Anna (Popelka) Navratil. The father was born in Caledonia, Wis., and come to MeLeod county with his parents in 1866, He died in February, 1916, at the ave of 68 years. His wife Anna is still residing in Hale township, being now 68 years old. They were the parents of eight children, who were born in the following order: Mary, wife of Rudolph Wacek, a farmer of Collins township; Anna, who is the widow of Joseph Picha; Rose. wife of Frank Hlavka, who is engaged in farming in Hutchinson township; Joseph, a farmer in Hale township; John E., a confectioner doing business at Silver Lake; Henry J., subject of this sketch; James, who is living in Biscay; and Charles, who is a farmer in Hale township. Henry J. Navratil remained with his father until 1909, He learned the blacksmith's trade under Ernest Dudek and worked at it until 1912 asa helper. He then built his present shop, and started in for himself, his brother John being associated with him for two and a half years. At the end of that time he purchased his brother's interest and has since conducted the business alone. He does general blacksmithing, including plow work, wagon work and horseshoeing. A mermber of the Catholic church, he belongs also to the Knights of Columbus and St. Joseph's Society. Mr. Navratil was married June 21, 1916, to Mabel Kasper, who was born Jan. 23, 1894, daughter of George and Anna Krejei Kasper. Mr, Navratil built an eight-room house in which he and his wife now reside.

John E. Navratil, proprietor of a confectionery and lunchroom at Silver Lake, was born in McLeod county, Minn., December 22, 1885, son of Frank and Anna (Popelka) N avratil, a brief record of whose career is elsewhere given in connection with that of his brother, Henry J. Navratil. The paternal grandparents of the two brothers were Frank and Magdalena (Rumpote) Navratil. John E. Navratil resided at home until 1905. He then went to Washington and engaged in wheat and dairy farming at Odessa, that state, remaining five and a half years. Then selling out, he returned to McLeod county and became 4ssociated with his brother Henry in the blacksmith business. After four years of this work he sold his interest to his brother and purchased his present store and business from Ed Totushek, He deals in all kinds of confectionery, tobacco and Cigars, has a soda fountain and puts up lunches on demand, doing a flourishing business. He has erected a new briek, one- Story building, 24 by 50 feet, with full basement, supplied with furnace heat and electric light. A member, like his brother, of the Catholic church, he also plays the pipe organ in it, being 4 Musician of ability. He belongs to the Knights of Columbus aay to St. Joseph's Society, He married Mary Schultz, June 7,

Vincent J. Halva, who is conducting a good business as a hardware merchant at Silver Lake, Hale township, was born in Bohemia, Europe, October 27, 1868, his parents being Vincent and Lena (Jilek) Halva. With them he came to America in 1878, the family locating immediately at Silver Lake, this county. After residing in the village a short time, the father bought an 80-aere farm south of town, which he operated for Several years. Subsequently, however, he returned to Silver Lake village, where he resided for two years. After the death of his wife he moved to Willow River, Minn. He died in 1910, at St. Luke's hospital in St. Paul. His wife passed away in 1901 at the age of 52 years. Their children were: Vincent J -} Joseph; Josie, now Mrs. Joseph Botchek, and Edward, who 18 engaged in the mercantile business at Willow River. Vincent J. Halva in his youth learned the trade of blacksmith, which he followed until 1910, He then engaged in the hardware bus- 'ness with Frank J. Mikesh and has since continued in it, now aving one of the leading stores in his line in this part of the County. He is also the present mayor of Silver Lake, having been elected to that office in March, 1916. In 1915 he was a

Tustee of the village and he has served as a member of the School board nine years. Religiously he is a member of the °ngregational church, his fraternal society affiliations being With the Modern Woodmen of America, Lodge 7966; the Z. C. » A, No. 119, and the Royal Neighbors lodge, all at Silver

Lake. My. Halva was married March 28, 1897, to Nettie Totushek, who was born in McLeod county, daughter of Frank and Anna Totushek, she being one of nine children of whom seyen are now living. Myr. and Mrs. Halva have three children: Rachel, born May 28, 1898; Lillie, born January 22, 1900, and Albin, born July 24, 1904,

William Schultz, a progressive farmer of Hassan Valley township, was born in Mecklenburg, Germany, Nov. 19, 1847, son of Fred and Caroline (Wildt) Schultz. Fred Schultz came to America in 1852 journeying to Chicago, and from there going to Lake county, Ill., where he farmed until 1860. Then he homesteaded in section 23, Hassan Valley township, Me- Leod county, Minn., where he farmed until his death in 1864 at the age of 44 years. His wife died in 1899 at the age of 72. During the Indian outbreak in 1862 the family lived at Glencoe Mr. Schultz enlisted Nov. 18, 1862, in Company F, First Minnesota Mounted Rangers and was honorably discharged in November, 1863. During his military service he was with Gen, Sibley in his raid on the Indians to the Missouri river, and was afterwards a member of the Harrington Post, G, A. R,, at Hutchinson. A pioneer settler in this region, he was instrumental in giving Hassan Valley township its name. After his father's death, William Schultz operated the home farm for his mother until 1868. He then pre-empted 160 acres of land in section 13, and 12, Hassan Valley township, where he is now. He owns 460 acres of land and carries on general farming and dairying, raising Holstein cattle, of which he has seven registered. He also keeps Black Berkshire swine, feeding one carload a year for the market. Since he began farming he has seen many changes for the better. His first house was of logs, 18 by 24 feet and he farmed with oxen. From 1899 to 1910 he made many improvements on the farm, erecting necessary buildings. For 12 years he was county commissioner on the building committee of the first court house and on the last one. In politics, a Democrat, Mr. Schultz is a member of the State Central Committee from McLeod county. He was chairman of the township board for 16 years, clerk of school district No. 17 for 20 years and helped to build the first schoolhouse in district No. 17 and also the first school house in district No. 56, He is a member of the A. F. & A. M. lodge at Hutchinson, and of the Camp at large of the Independent Order of Foresters. One of the organizers of the State Bank, of Biscay, he has served as president since 1911. He was chairman of the building committee of Biscay Creamery Association and helped to organize this creamery, which was the first co-operative institution of its kind in Minnesota. Mr. Schultz was married June 1, 1875, to Elizabeth Rodgers, of Hassan Valley township, daughter of George and Ernstina (Hauke) Rodgers. George Rodgers came from Germany to America in 1854 and located in McLeod county in 1865. He died in 1901 at the age of 84 years, His wife died in 1898 at the age of 70 years, Mr. and Mrs. Schultz have four children: Fred, Walter, Clara and Ella. Fred, who is the manager of his father's farm, married Emma Krueger, and they have one daughter, Marian Esther, born Aug. 12, 1916. Walter, a farmer in Hassan Valley township, married Dela Johnson, and they have one child, Wilma. Clara is the wife of Henry Dvorachek, instructor in the department of animal husbandry at the Arkansas State University. They Were married June 10, 1911, and have two children: William Henry and Harold Edwin. Ella is residing at home. Anthony C. Navratil, principal owner and general manager of the Silver Lake Elevator and Grain Company, was born in Rich Valley township, McLeod county, January 29, 1881. His father, Anthony Navratil, who was born in Austria, came to the United States with his parents in 1871, they settling in McLeod county. Here he died in 1881 at the early age of 33 years, He had married Anna Picha, of Silver Lake, who some time after his death contracted a second marriage, becoming the wife of Frank Sedy. Anthony C. Navratil, the direct subject of this sketch, resided at home until he had reached the age of 21 years, He then took charge of the home farm, which he bought and on which he lived until the fall of 1915. Janvary 12, 1916, he bought the feed mill from Joseph Trutna, and operated it until Oct. 15, 1916, In the fall of 1916 Mr. Navratil, together with Arthur B. Fruen, of Minneapolis, built the elevator of the Silver Lake Grain Company, in which Mr. Navratil wns a three-quarters' interest, besides having its entire Management, The company handle flour, bran, shorts, oata, Corn, oatmeal, and chicken feed. This is the largest elevator now being operated on the Luce Electric Short Line. It is equipped with all the latest machinery and is operated by electricity, Mr. Navratil also is the owner of Hillview farm of 25 acres in the township of Rich Valley. As an active business man of progressive tendencies, he is interested in whatever makes for the welfare and development of the community, and has an active interest in the Farmers Elevator at Silver Lake, being one of its stockholders. His religious opinions identify him with the Presbyterian church, of which he is a member, Mr, Navratil was united in marriage, November 7, 1903, to Mary Cermak, of Rich Valley township, who was born April 5, 1884, daughter of Frank and Mary (Spinar) Cermak. er father, a farmer, died in 1906 at the age of 72 years, Mr. and Mrs. Navratil have two children: Willard, born September 28, 1904, and Donald, born June 12, 1911.

Hans Brandser, proprietor of the "A. B. C, Store," of Winsted, dealer in clothing, men's furnishings and tailoring, was born in Gudbrandsdalen, Norway, August 17, 1873, His parents were Ole and Gura (Olson) Brandser. The father, a tailor by occupation, died in his native land in 1900, at the age of 58 years. His widow, now 69 years old, resides with her son, Louis, at Superior, Wis., having come to America in 1904, Hans Brandser learned the tailor's trade in Norway, under his father's instruction. Coming to the United States in the fall of 1891 he located at Waverly, Wright county, Minn., where he worked two years for his brother John, who was also a tailor, In September, 1893, he opened a tailor's shop in Winsted, Mc- Leod county, and conducted it until the fall of 1896, after which he traveled, working one year on the Pacific coast. The summer of 1896 he spent in Norway and the following winter at Delano, with his brother John, The summer of 1897 found him in Seattle. From there he subsequently returned to Winsted and opened a tailor shop, which he conducted until he opened his present store in 1898, with the exception of two years spent at Superior with his brother, John, from the tall of 1906 to August 1, 1908. His store, which he then established, is in every respect thoroughly up-to-date, and since starting in business he has made some important improvements, In the fall and winter of 1911 he erected his present building, having a grand opening Mareh 1, 1912. The building is a twostory brick, 30 x 60 feet, with full basement, installed with hot water heating apparatus and all modern conveniences. He occupies the entire building, employing one man as assistant in the store, which is well patronized by the people of Winsted and the surrounding country. Mr. Brandser has been president of the school board since 1912. He belongs to the Masonic order, being senior steward of his lodge, in which he has passed all the chairs and has also passed all the chairs in the Modern Woodmen of America. May 23, 1900, Mr. Brandser was united in marriage with Mary Borgersrode, of Winsted, who was born July 6, 1881, daughter of C. Otto and Anna (Marth) Borgersrode. Her parents are now residing in Winsted, the father, now retired, being 66 years of age, the mother 68 years. Mr, and Mrs. Brandser have two children: Clyde Orville, born July 24, 1903, and Thelma Evelin, born November 23, 1905.

J. M. Bell, proprietor of Bellmead Dairy Farm of 120 acres, in section 19, Hutchinson township, is one of the leading dairymen in this part of the county. He was born at Cedar Mills, Meeker county, Minn., January 22, 1868. His parents were Sheba and Mary (Gelky) Bell. The father was born in Ohio, about four miles from Cincinnati and learned the mason''s trade in that city. He later came to Minnesota, settling in Le

Sueur county, and from there removed to Cedar Mills, Meeker county. He also spent 10 years in Iowa and Missouri. Buying a farm near Bear Lake, Hutchinson township, he lived on it for 20 years and then went to Lamoni, Iowa, where the rest of his life was spent, his death taking place January 22, 1908, when he had attained the advanced age of 87 years. His wife, Mary, died March 5, 1913, at the age of 89. Their family consisted of nine children: Alonzo, an undertaker at Fall Brook, Cal., died July 2, 1915; E. Wallace, a farmer of Acoma town- Ship; Clara, wife of J, W. Pool, a farmer of Dakota county ; Edward, a farmer in the Ozark Mountains; Laura, residing in Lamoni, Iowa; Frank, a butcher at Fallbrook, Cal. ; Albert, who resides at Lamonia, Iowa; Mary, wife of Norman W. Smith, of Lamoni, Iowa, and J. M. J. M. Bell resided at home until he Was 25 years old. He then worked out for two years in Hut. chinson township and afterwards rented a farm for three years here. Subsequently he bought 80 acres in section 20, Hutchinson township, which farm he operated five years, afterwards buying his present place. This is one of the best appointed dairy farms in this township, it being thoroughly up-to-date in every respect. The house, a two-story, brick veneer building of nine rooms, was rebuilt in 1910, The barn, built in 1914, is a substantial brick and frame structure, 36x70x18 ft., with cement floors, steel stanchions and litter carrier. Connected With it is a brick and hollow block silo, In 1913 Mr. Bell built 4 hog-house, a frame building with cement floor, 22 x 36 feet, troughs and tanks, He has also a frame machine shed, built in 1912, 20x8x36 ft. Mr. Bell keeps 37 head of high grade Guernsey cattle, of which he milks 22, his milk testing the highest of any customer of the Model Creamery at Hutchinson, for anyone bringing in near the same amount of milk. The 18 COWs milked by him in 1915 averaged over $105 per cow for the year. In 1916 22 cows averaged $113.27 per cow. He was one of the organizers of the Farmers Co-operative Stock Shippers' Association, which is the largest organization of the kind in the State ; is a stockholder and member of the board of directors of the Farmers and Merchants State Bank, Inc., of Hutchinson, and # stockholder in the Farmers Elevator at Hutchinson. As & citizen interested in good government, he has served on the township board three years. Mrs. Bell served six years as clerk of school district No. 44. In addition to his farming and ay Ells, a daughter of Levi W. and Henrietta 8. (Loomer) "8. Her father was a native of Nova Scotia, who came to Me- Leod county in 1866, buying a farm in Lynn township, where he purchased the farm now belonging to his son-in-law, Mr. Bell, He moved to Hutchinson in 1902 and resided there until his death July 3, 1905. His wife, Henrietta, died November 8, 1909, Mr. and Mrs, Bell have five children: Elsie, born September 22, 1896; Bernice, born May 27, 1898; Roy, born March 31, 1900; Stella, born May 20, 1902 and Levi M., born February 2,1908. Mr, Bell belongs to the lodge and encampment of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and to the Modern Woodmen of America. He is enjoying a well deserved prosperity, the result of hard work and intelligent planning and is such a man as fortune loves to honor.

Edward Flasch, a member of the firm of Gerber & Flasch, proprietors of an up-to-date garage at Winsted, was boyn in Winsted township, McLeod county, Minn., September 13, 1892, gon of Melchior and Anna (Janisch) Flasch, The father, a native of Germany, came to the United States in 1879 and engaged in farming in section 7, Winsted township, where he died March 1, 1914. His wife Anna, now 60 years old, is a resident of Winsted, They had eight children: Michael, a farmer ef Winsted township; John, who is engaged in farming in North Dakota; Mary, who married Martin M. Sherman; Frank, and Joseph, residing at home; Edward, subject of this sketch ; Anna, wife of John Baumgartner, a farmer of Winsted, and Agnes, living at home. Edward Flasch established the present garage, January 6, 1915, in company with his brother, Frank. In the following December Frank sold his interest to Herman Gerber, who is now Edward's partner. The present building, a substantial and convenient strueture, was erected in the spring of 1916, It measures 50 x 80 feet and is built of hollow tile, having a shop at the back, which is a frame building, 30 x 40 feet, with concrete floor, as the main building also has, The firm handle Dort, Interstate and Dodge cars and keep all kinds of supplies and accessories. The shop is furnished with lathe, drill, press, welding machine, etc. The firm employ one man as assistant. Mr. Flasch is a member of the Catholic church and St. Aloysius Society. He is unmarried.

Anton J. Domagalski, who with his father is carrying on a thriving business as general merchant at Silver Lake, Hale township, McLeod county, was born in this township, May 24, 1886, a son of Peter and Agnes (Nowicke) Damagalski. The father, a native of Poland, came to America in 1866 and for a number of years was engaged infarming. His wife Agnes died at the age of 64 years, April 5, 1912. September 1, 1900, the subject of this sketch, with his father, who was then 60 years old and retired from farming, purchased the store of Frank Kruzal, at Silver Lake and has since carried it on, dealing in clothing, dry goods, groceries, shoes, etc. In 1904 they en- larged the building, which is now a frame structure, 22 x 64 feet in ground dimensions. Attentive to the wants of their customers, and keeping a good stock, they have prospered and enjoy a large and steady trade, Anton J. Domagalski is a stockholder in the Farmers Bank at Silver Lake and also owns a farm in Mahnomen county. He is a member of the Polish Catholic church. He was married May 28, 1912, to Katherine C. Zimba, who was born at Silver Lake, August 29, 1890, her father, John B, Zimba, who was born in Poland, being now a retired farmer, 76 years old, residing at Silver Lake. Her mother, whose maiden name was Victoria Sopkowiak, is now aged 51, They had but two children, herself and a sister, Hattie, who is the wife of Louis DeMars, a carpenter. The parents of our subject had nine children, two of whom are now de- Ceased. The living are: Mary, wife of Frank Zajonezekowske, living in Chicago; Katherine, now Mrs. John Sopkowiak, of Silver Lake; Lawrence, who left home and has not been heard of for some time; Frank, a resident of St. Paul; Anton J., subhae of this sketch; Joseph and John, both residing at Silver ake,

Frank J. Dudek, a well known merchant tailor doing business at Silver Lake, was born in Bohemia, May 15, 1885, a son of Frank and Josephine (Schwab) Dudek. The father is a farmer; Still residing in his native land and now 65 years old. His wife, Who is also living, is aged 62. The subject of this sketch, with the laudable design of bettering his condition, came to this Country in 1905, first stopping in Chicago, where he worked four years. He then came to Minnesota, opening a shop at Silver Lake, MeLeod county, where he has since carried on business, doing tailoring, cleaning and pressing. He is a memher of the Catholic church and of St. Joseph's Society. Mr.

°seph H. Gebhard was born in Buffalo, N. Y., and came to Mankato in 1869, He died in 1909 at the age of 68 years. His Wife Mary now resides at Lamberton, Redwood county, Minn., and is 59 years old. They had nine children, of whom the Subject: of this sketch is the fourth in order of birth. Joseph ee Gebhard, after acquiring his literary education, being gradmend from Lamberton high school, entered the Minnesota nstitute of Pharmacy, at Minneapolis, from which he was graduated in 1904, He then went to Chokio, Minn., where he worked for three years. From there he went to Spokane, Wash., remaining two years and then returning to Minnesota and becoming a partner in the Malloy Drug Company there. After a year thus spent, on February 1, 1912, he opened a drug store in Winsted and conducted in until February 19, 1915, at which time he bought the drug store of M, P. Mahon in this village, and has since been its proprietor, it being the only drug store here. He occupies a brick store room, a part of the Moy block, 24 x 60 feet in dimensions and with basement. He keeps a good line of drugs and sundries, and soda fountain. He is regarded as a reliable business man and his patronage is steadily growing. Mr. Gebhard was married June 29, 1912, to Louisa Kappel, of Winsted, whose father, Andrew Kappel, a native of Austria, came here in 1867. He is now a retired farmer 85 years old. Mrs. Gebhard's mother, whose maiden name was Theresa Baumgartner, is still living at the age of 74. Mr. Gebhard is a member of the Catholic church and of the Knights of Columbus. He and his wife have no children.

Albert F. Hainlin, more familiarly known as "Bert Hainlin," of Winsted, Minn., was born at Watertown, Minn., September 16, 1872. He is a grandson of Edward F. Hainlin, who settled in Watertown about 1856. Ernst Hainlin, father of Albert F., was born in Germany April 26, 1843, and accompanied his father to Watertown, being then about 13 years of age. He became a lawyer, studying his profession under [. J. Peck. During the Civil war he enlisted in Company 1, First Minnesota. Infantry and later in the Ninth Minnesota regiment. Captured in battle at Guntown, Miss., he was sent to Anderson prison, where he remained until the end of the war. He was discharged with the rank of 2nd lieutenant, and returned home to resume his profession, in which he had the reputation of being an able man. His death occurred November 16, 1884, Ernst Hainlin married Mary Ann Lewis, who was born in Illinois, November 16,1845, She now resides at Buffalo, Minn., with her daughter, Mamie, the widow of Ed. Stark. Mr. and Mrs. Hainlin had four children: Charles, a hardware dealer at Edgarly, N. D.; Eleanor, who lives in Ogleby, where she is employed in the post office; Albert F., whose name appears at the head of this sketch, and Mamie, who has been already mentioned. Albert F. Hainlin was educated in the schools of Watertown, Howard Lake and Winsted. He began industrial life as a clerk in general merchandisé stores, working successively in Winsted, Long Lake and Wheaton, Minn,, from 1888 to May, 1893. The next two years he spent in studying law with Thomas E, Boylan, at Bird Island. He was in the drug business at Winsted two years and subsequently kept a barber shop in that place until January

Mr. And Mrs. Bernard Millerbernd

15, 1912. After that he was game warden at large till February 1,1915, He then entered the employ of the Interurban Development Company, of Minneapolis. Mr. Mainlin Was candidate for clerk of the district court of McLeod county in the fall of 1911, but was defeated. He served as president of the village council eight years and as village clerk three years and was also justice of the peace. In the Modern Woodmen of America he has passed all the chairs, He was married January 11, 1898, to Louisa K. Miller, of Winsted, who was born May 16, 1875, a daughter of Ernst and Mary A. (Elmer) Miller. Her father died in 1883, a pioneer of Winsted. Her mother, born May 4, 1846, is still living in Winsted. Mr. and Mrs. Hainlin have five children: Charlotte E., born Jan. 13, 1900; Ernst, born April 26, 1901; Francis, born October 24, 1904; Plorence, born May 30, 1907; Mary, born June 21, 1909; and Dorothy, born April 5, 1916.

Bernard Millerbernd, proprictor of a general merchandise Store in Winsted, Minn., and vice-president of Winsted State Bank, was born in Germany, in the province of Westphalia, April 1, 1865, son of Joseph and Mary (Agnesens) Millerbernd. Joseph Millerbernd was born May, 1834, and came to America in 1878 locating on a farm in Wright county where he now lives. His wife was born in 1836. Bernard Millerbernd helped his father on the farm until 1894 when he engaged in farming for himself in Wright county until 1900, Then he bought the Store of John Garske, a dealer in general merchandise, and re- Mained in the business alone for five years. In 1905 in part- Hership with Joseph Bickmann he engaged in the general merchandise business in Winsted and erected a brick building 48 by 98, two stories, with full basement. It is equipped with Steam heat, gas lights and a stock of clothing, dry goods, 8roceries and shoes is carried. January 1914 he bought his Partner's interest and is now sole owner and proprietor. He has built up a good business and is very successful. He has Served as township treasurer for six years. He is vice-president and one of the directors of the State Bank of Winsted.

beramergau, Mr, Millerbernd was married Oct. 16, 1894, to Annie Bickmann, daughter of Casper Hoekenkamp and Elizabeth (Danzenboerger) Hoekenkamp, and reared by Bernard Bickman, The family faith is that of the Catholic church.

natives of Bohemia, the father coming to this country at the age of 22 years, about 1844. He was a carpenter and followed his trade until 1893, at which time he came to Silver Lake and bought a farm. Shortly after, however, he moved into town and engaged in the saloon business, being thus occupied for five years. He then conducted a general store until his death in 1913, when he was 69 years old. His wife died in 1901 at the age of 54. They had four children: Frank J., Joseph, Charles and Rose, all living, Frank J. Mikesh, having finished his schooling at Racine, Wis., accompanied his parents to Silver Lake, Minn. His first business venture was as proprietor of a tin shop, which he condueted for five years, He then engaged in his present business as hardware dealer, with Vincent J. Halva, as partner, and has since continued in this occupation, having met with good success. He is a member of the Catholic church and in politics is independent. He was constable of Silver Lake for five years and assessor for ten years. His lodge connections are with the Ancient Order of United Workmen at Silver Lake, Lodge No. 229, and with the Bohemian Society of Z. C. B. J,, Lodge No. 119. Mr. Mikesh was married April 4, 1906, to Rellie Provoe, a native of McLeod county, and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Provoe. Her parents' children, seven in number, were: George, Jerry, Emma, Minnie, Dennie, John and Rellie. Mr. and Mrs. Mikesh are the parents of three children: Melvin, born April 18, 1908, and Avis, born October 10, 1910, and Lois, born May 23, 1916.

Michael J. Malak, a prosperous merchant engaged in the confectionery and general merchandise business at Silver Lake, Hale township, was born in Poland in October, 1865. His father, Andrew Malak, also a native of Poland, came to the United States in 1870, first residing three years in Chicago. He then came to McLeod county, purchasing a farm in Hale township, which he conducted until his death, February 18, 1898, at the age of 72 years. He married Marcejanna Sajdac, who died November 12, 1909, at the age of 71 years. Michael J. Malak resided at home until he was 17 years old. He then entered the employ of the Minneapolis & St. Louis railroad serving as clerk in the office of the company at Minneapolis for twelve and one-half years. For two years subsequently he was engaged in business in Minneapolis. Then, in 1902, he came to Silver Lake, McLeod county, where he has since remained, In 1913 Mr. Malak bought his present building and opened up business as a confectioner and general merchant. His efforts have been rewarded with success and he is doing a thriving business and is highly respected in this community: He owns two hundred and fifty acres of land in Morrison county. His religious affiliations are with the Polish Catholic church.

February 11, 1892, Mr. Malak was united in marriage with Frances Sworski, who was born at Silver Lake, this county, daughter of Martin and Mihalina (Jaskowiak) Sworski, her father being a retired farmer residing at Silver Lake. Mr. and Mrs, Malak have been the parents of 12 children, namely : Frank, Anna, May, Edward, David, Magdaline, Martha, Barney, deceased, who was a twin with Martha, Lottie, Agnes and Victoria (twins) and Gertrude, all residing at home. All the living members of this large and interesting family give promise of useful manhood and womanhood and will doubtless in time contribute their share to the development of this county or Whatever community they may settle in.

William Malchow, proprietor of the Evergreen Stock farm in Section 11, Hassan Valley township, was born in Macklenburg, Germany, Dec. 18, 1845, son of Fritz Malchow. who died in 1856 at the age of forty-five years and his wife Anna Malchow, Who died in 1872. William came to America in 1872 locating in MeLeod county where he bought eighty acres in section 11, Hassan Valley township. He owns 160 acres, and has made Many improvements on his farm. He is a stockholder in the Biseay Creamery and was school clerk for seven years. In Politics he is a Republican. Mr. Malchow was married Jan, 17, 1879, to Caroline Marie Bautling, born in Germany Jan, 5, 1857, daughter of Charles and Frederika (Holtz) Bautling, Charles Bautling came to America in 1858 and lived in Chicago for four years. Then he moved to McLeod county, Minn., Where he homesteaded land in section 15, Hassan Valley town- Ship, and farmed there until his death in 1881 at the age of fifty-six years. His wife died in 1893 at the age of sixty-six years, Mr. and Mrs, Malchow had six children: Rudolph, a farmer of Saskatchewan, Canada; Otto, a farmer of Swift Current Saskatchewan, Canada; Arnold, on the home farm, a Stockholder in the bank of Hutchinson; Hattie, wife of Robert Johnston, a farmer of Saskatchewan, Canada; and Elmer, a alley township, was born on this farm, September 11, 1869, 4 Son of Frederick and Hannah (Luebs) Malchow. Frederick Malchow, the father, was born in Germany and came to the United States in 1865. After living in St. Paul for about a Year, he bought this farm now owned by his son, William, and operated it until his death at the age of 56 years in the spring of 1893, His wife, Hannah, whom he married in Germany, died in the fall of 1909 at the age 73. They had four children, ®f Whom William W. was the third in order of birth, and who is now the only survivor. William W. Malchow acquired his education in the country schools. He began running the home farm in 1892 and purchased it in 1910, since which time he has been engaged in its operation. He carries on both agriculture and dairying, milking 15 cows. His residence is a good eightroom house. In 1910 he rebuilt the barn, which is a substantial structure, 56 x 36 feet, with basement. Aside from his immediate farming interests, Mr. Malchow is a director in the Farmers and Merchants State Bank, Inc., of Hutchinson; a stockholder in the Farmers and Merchants State Bank of Silver Lake and a stockholder in the Biscay Creamery and Farmers Elevator of Hutchinson. Mr. Malchow was married, March 22, 1893, to Mollie Schoeppler, of Young America, Carver county, Minn., a daughter of Fred and Josephine (Schmeidel) Schoeppler. Her father, who was a farmer in Carver county, was born in Saxony, Germany, and was a pioneer settler in Carver county. He died in 1905. His wife died in 1875. Mr. and Mrs. Molchow have had three children: Myrtle, born August 30, 1894, who is a teacher in the MeLeod county schools; Bessie, born August 27, 1895, who died at the age of one month, and Hazel, born March 29, 1906. The parents are members of the German Evangelical church. Mr. Malchow has been clerk of school district No, 56 for eight years.

John N. Peterson, buttermaker of Silver Lake Co-operative Creamery Company, was born in Oxford, New Jersey, July 3, 1886, son of Christ and Mette (Jensen) Peterson. Christ Peterson is a native of Denmark and came to America in 1882. He was married, in Denmark, just before coming to this country. He farmed in Collins township, McLeod county, from 1891 to 1906. He then moved to Hutchinson and two years later moved to Silver Lake. John N. began work for the Hutchinson Produce Co. in the vreamery at Hutchinson in 1905 and learned the trade of buttermaker. April, 1915, he took charge of the Silver Lake Creamery where he is now. He is a member of the I, O. Q. F. Mr. Peterson was married August 5, 1915, to Agnes Thompson, born Feb. 22, 1892, daughter of Andrew P. Thompson, a mail earrier of Hutchingon, The family faith is that of the Danish Lutheran church.

Mathias C. Hanson, proprietor of Fairview Stock and Dairy farm, consisting of 240 acres in section 14, Lynn township, McLeod county, was born in Denmark and came to the United States in 1871 with his parents. They located first in Chicago, where they were living at the time of the great fire in October of the following year, Which destroyed a large part of the city. The parents were Jacob and Mattie (Enevoldson) Hanson, both natives of Denmark. After leaving Chicago, they went to Waukegan, where Jacob Hanson worked at his trade of car- penter for five years. He then brought his family to Minnesota, purchasing 80 acres of land in section 14, Lynn township, Me- Leod county, and of this he made a good homestead, residing on it until his death in 1897 at the age of 72 years. He had Survived his wife some eight years, she having been killed in 4 runaway accident at the age of 61. Mathias C. Hanson lived on the home farm, assisting his father, until his marriage in 1886. He then obtained a part of the father's farm and, building on it, has since made this place his home. He raises Guern. Sey cattle, keeping a herd of 40, of which he milks 20. Twenty of his animals are registered. In his agricultural operations he uses the five-year rotation plan. He sows 20 acres of clover # year and has two acres of fruit. In addition to his eattle he raises Poland China hogs. Mr. Hanson was one of the organizers of the Farmers' Co-operative Creamery at Hutchinson and as been very active in it since 1890, having served as vice- President, treasurer and manager, and being now its president. He was also an organizer and is now a director of the Farmers' Co-operative Elevator Company at Hutchinson, and is a director in the Farmers' and Merchants' State Bank of Hutchinson. In these various positions he has shown himself to be a man of good business ability and his advice and assistance have proved potent factors in the success of these different enterprises. Mr. Hanson was married July 14, 1886, to Maria Birkebek, of Hutchinsen township, a daughter of Christian J. and Margaret (Lund) Birkebek, well known farming People. Her father, who is a farmer, is now 77 years old, her Mother being 71. On December 9, 1915, they celebrated their folden wedding. Mr. and Mrs. Hanson are the parents of Seven children: Clarence J., residing at home; Henry V., a Physician practicing at New London, Minn.; Harlow J., who Was graduated from the Minnesota State Agricultural College N 1914, and is now studying medicine at the Ulinois State Niversity ; Chester C., residing at home; Margaret, a gradlate of the Hutchinson high school, class of 1916: Walter and Mattie, the last three mentioned also residing at home. Mr. lanson jg a trustee of the Methodist Episcopal church at utchingon, he and his family being members of it. He is Also a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America at Hutchinson, The Stocking Brothers, Charles A., William D, and Fred O., Proprietors of "Willow Grove Stock Farm," located in section 4, Lynn township, are sons of Eli and Mary Jane (Hartt) tocking. The three brothers conducted the farm for their father until 1891, since which time it has been operated in their wn name. They now own 275 acres, their house heing 4 frame building of nine rooms. Their barn is 47 x 84 x 16 feet in dimensions, with an ell, 20 x 25 x 18 feet. Four acres of their farm is planted with fruit trees, while they also raise red clover to a large extent. Their stock consists of Clydesdale horses, registered ; Hereford cattle, also registered; and they feed 20 head of baby beef per year. They also keep Doroc- Jersey hogs, of which they feed one car load per year. Fred Stocking is a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator Company at }Lutchinson.

John 8. Jerabek, who has achieved a reputation in Silver Lake as an energetic business man, and whose activities as a merchant and bee-keeper brought him a full measure of suecess, was born in Jimramov, Moravia, Austria, July 29, 1865, son of John and Elenore (Straka) Jerabek. He came to America with other members of his family in 1874, and was reared in Hale township, this county. In 1889, with John Totusek and Anthony Dloahy as partners, he built a roller mill at Silver Lake, with a capacity of 50 barrels. In 1891 he went to Oberlin College, at Oberlin, Ohio, to prepare for missionary work; but in less than two years, was called home on account of his parents' sickness. Upon his return he took over the management. of his father's store and saw mill. He bought the saw mill in 1901, and in 1909 sold a half interest to Frank Bren, who rebuilt and remodelled it, and is now conducting it under his own name. Two years later, Mr. Jerabek moved to Hutchinson, and divided his time between the Bren saw mill at Silver Lake and the brick tile plant at Hutchinson. June 16, 1916, he became proprietor of the store at Silver Lake that his father had established at Silver Lake in 1887. Mr. Jarabek has made a hobby of keeping bees, and markets considerable honey. He married, June 4, 1893, Julia Bren, who was born in Bohemia Feb. 16, 1874, a daughter of Albin and Marie (Dymacek) Bren. Mr. and Mrs. Jerabek have been blessed with nine children: Martha, born Dec. 23, 1895; Esther, born Oct. 15, 1897; Henry, born Feb. 3, 1900; Daniel, born Sept. 10, 1902; Theophil, March 7, 1905; Mildred, born Oct. 6, 1907; Paul, born Sept. 7, 1909; Harold, born April 5, 1912; and Juliet, born Feb. 11, 1916. The family faith is that of the Congregational church. Albin Bren and his wife came to America in 1886, and now live near Silver Lake. He is a carpenter by trade and operates a small farm near the village. Five children of the Bren family are now living. They are: Julia, wife of John S. Jerabek; Nettie, wife of Vincent Uncovsky, of Silver Lake; Frank, a carpenter, contractor and proprietor of a sawmill at Silver Lake; Dmily, a stenographer employed in the American National Bank, of St. Paul; and Albina, now living in Minneapolis.

Henry L. Klaus

site of Silver Lake village, was born in Dalecin, Moravia, Austria, Dec. 14, 1840, and came to America with his family in 1874, reaching Glencoe, this county, May 22. For eight years he conducted a farm in Hale township, In 1881, John J. Jarabek, John Mimms and J. S. Totusek, purchased from Theodore Mimms, at Silver Lake township, a store, sawmill and nineteen acres of land, On this land, they platted the original townsite of Silver Lake. After three years, Jerabek and Totusek bought out Mimms, and another three years later, the partnership was dissolved, each taking a part of the land, and Jerabek taking the sawmill while Totusek took the store and goods, Mr. Jerabek at once built a store which he conducted until the spring of 1891, when he turned it over to his son, John S. He was ably assisted by his sister, Anna, who was an important factor in its success, conducting it until 1901. Then Anna took full charge of the business for more than two years. From 1908 to 1916 it was conducted by a brother, Emil H. John J. Jarabek died Jan. 5, 1916. John 8. Jarabek, who was named in the will as administrator, bought out the other heirs and now conducts the store. John J. Jerabek was a man of sterling qualities. Honest and upright in all his dealings with his fellow men, he always took an interest in his home village and county. He was a thorough believer in the Bible and a faithful and untiring worker in the interests of the Bohemian Evangelical church. Before a regular pastor had been engaged, he acted as reader, and also conducted many funeral services. His name will long be honored in the annals of McLeod county history, Mr, Jerabek was married in Moravia, Nov. 27, 1863, to Elenore Straka, who was born July 4, 1845, in Moravia, and died Jan. 14, 1892, in Silver Lake. There are six living children: John §., 4 Silver Lake merchant; Elenore, residing at Silver Lake, the widow of John Totusek; Anna, the wife of Rev. Adolph Yukl, of Pittsburg, Penn.; Henry, a mail carrier living in Silver Lake p "mil H., and Rose, wife of Anthony Trutna, a merchant of Mohall, N. D. _ Henry L, Klaus, a well known citizen of Winsted, where he 1S Interested in several business ventures, was born in this town April 19, 1878, son of Bernard and Annie (Westrup) Klaus. : he father, a native of Germany, died in 1881; the mother died in May, 1912, at the age of 72 years. Henry L. Klaus, after his ather's death, remained on the farm with his mother until 1903, taking care of the property and performing the farm duties. From that year until 1910 he worked in Winsted and Was interested in various enterprises. On March 10 he bought the saloon of Bugene Volkert in that village. Mr. Klaus is still Proprietor of this place, and also of another in Winsted, which bought of Martin Schlagel, January 13, 1915. His standing in the community is shown by the fact that he is vice-president of the Booster Club. He is a stockholder in the Luce Line railroad. He belongs to the Catholic church and to the Catholic Order of Foresters, in which he holds the office of vice chief ranger. Mr. Klaus was married October 25, 1911, to Mary McKay, of Maple Lake, Minn., daughter of Charles and Ellen McKay, her father being a farmer near Maple Lake. Mr. and Mrs. Klaus have had three children: Albert C., born October 1, 1912; James B., born July 17, 1915, who died March 6, 1916; and Rose Mary, born Jan. 13, 1917.

John P. Thompson, for some thirteen years postmaster at Winsted, is one of the leading citizens of the county, and his personality has been an important factor in the upbuilding of his community. He was born in Tipperary, Ireland, March 29, 1848, son of John and Grace Thompson. The father, John Thompson, was born in County Tipperary, in 1803, and brought his family to America in 1860, reaching Webster, Mass., Aug. 1, and there making his home until his death Aug. 6, 1863. Of the seven children in the family, there are now living two, James, a Minneapolis hotel man, and John P. John P. Thompson attended the public schools, and as a youth was employed in the shoe factories and woolen mills of Webster. For a while he was a grocery clerk in Hartford, Conn. In 1870, he came to Minnesota and became a shoe clerk. Over forty years ago, in 1874, he came to Winsted and purchased the property where the postoffice now stands. On this property, July 12, 1876, he opened a hotel. His influence and popularity grew, and in 1889 he received the appointment as postmaster, a position he retained until 1893. Then, after a short interval, he wag again appointed, Oct. 24, 1906, and continued until May 20, 1916, to give most efficient service, giving general satisfaction to the patrons of his office. Mr. Thompson was married in 1874, to Annie Mulvaney, who was born at Boltonville, Wis., June 4, 1844, daughter of John and Margaret (Lynch) Mulvaney, To this union there have been born three children: John died in infancy; James died at the age of eleven years; Mark J. graduated from the Agricultural department of the University of Minnesota, and is now in charge of a State Experiment Station near Duluth. The family faith is that of the Catholic church,

Joseph Bickmann, merchant, leading citizen and man of affairs, Who is now carrying on a flourishing business as a hardware dealer in Winsted, was born in Graven, Germany, March 12, 1875. His parents were Bernard and Elizabeth Bickmann, natives of Germany, who came to the United States in 1884, settling in Victor township, Wright county, this state, where they were engaged in farming until 1908, when they retired and moved to Winsted, where they now live at the age of 80 years. Joseph Bickmann came to America with his parents at the age of nine years, was reared in Wright county, and attended the parochial schools of Winsted. He worked for his father until 1904 and thus acquired a thorough knowledge of agriculture. In that year, starting out for himself, he purchased a half interest in the general store of B. Millerbernd, at Winsted, and was connected with the store until February, 1915, when he sold his interest and bought the hardware store of John Salmon, which he has since conducted. He carries a good general line of hardware, and a full line of implements, and is agent for the Oakland automobiles. Prominent among the business men of the community, he is also a man of publie Spirit, and has served on the village council two years. His financial holdings include stock in the Twin City Fire Insurance Co., and in the Luce Electric Short Line Co. His fraternal relations are with the Knights of Columbus, the German Catholic Beneficiary Society and the St. Aloysius Society. Mr. Bickmann was married June 20, 1911, to Genevieve Webber, a milliner of Murdock, Minn., whose parents, John and Mary (Schaff) Webber, live on a farm in Swift county, this state. Mr, and Mrs. Bickmann have one son, Joseph A., born Sept. 19, 1913.

Fred Lhotka, a well known photographer, priprietor of the Lhotka studio at Winsted, Minn., was born in Rich Valley township, this county, May 28, 1881, son of Albert and Petronila (Mushil) Lhotka. The father, born in Bohemia in 1835, came to America in 1871, at first settling in Chicago, where he lived one year. Then, coming to Minnesota, he settled in Rich Valley township and engaged in farming. He died June 11, 1892, and his widow resides on the old homestead having now attained the age of 74 years. They had six children, of whom the subject of this sketch was the youngest. Fred Lhotka was graduated from the Northwestern College of Photography in 1902 and opened a studio in Winsted July 7 of the same year, Doing artistic and satisfactory work, his patronage gradually increased, as did his prosperity, so that m May, 1911 he was able to erect a modern, two-story brick building, with basement, 3214x45 feet, with a two-story addition at the back of 11x12 feet. The second floor of the main building he uses for his Studio, while the lower floor is occupied in part as a residence by himself and family and in part by the Farmers' State Bank, Mr. Lhotka does all regular photographic work, including enlarging and framing. Fraternally he is a member of the odern Woodmen of America. He was married, Jane 18, 1907, to Caroline Anita Borgersrode, born in Philadelphia, Penn., April 14, 1874, daughter of Charles Otto and Anna M. (Marth)

Borgersrode. Her father, Charles O. Borgersrode, who was born at St. Joseph, Mo., in 1851, came to McLeod county with his father, Col. Rudolph Von Borgersrode. Her mother was a native of Bavaria, Germany, born in 1849 and came to America in 1871, her family settling in Philadelphia, where she was married in October, 1873. Mr. and Mrs. Lhotka have had two children: Ray, born March 11, 1908, who died on the day of his birth, and Ruby Averill, born August 11, 1910, The family faith is that of the Presbyterian church.