Meeker County, Minnesota - Chapter 4: Teeritorial and State Officees, 1888 (part 3 of 11)

Meeker county and took u]) a homestead near the present site of Litclilield village, and after living there for six years traded the homestead for his jiresent farm on section 33. In 1870 his first wife died. In 1872 he was married to Siso Swanson, who born in Sweden November 29, 1831, and who came to the United States in 1S71. By this marriage they have had four children - Johanna, William, Mathilda (deceased), and Mathilda.

OHN E. DIME, fanner, of Swede Grove township, is a native of Sweden, born J^ovember 13, 1842, and a son of Carl and Catharina (Born Janson) Anderson. He came to the United States in 18C)8, and first stopped at Ishpeming, Marquette county, Mich., where he worked in the iron mines until the spring of 1884, when he came to Swede Grove township, Meeker county, Minn., and purchased 160 acres of land on section 32, where he has since lived.

Mr. Dime was married on November 15, 1873, to Miss Johanna Johnson, and the couple have been blessed with the followingnamed children - Erick Adolphus, who was born August 16, 1874; Samuel Edward, born October 17, 1876; Hannah Elizabeth, born July 31, 1880 ; Ernst W., born October 10, 1883 (died same day); and Oscar Emanuel, born Feljruary 18, 1886. Mr. Dime's sister is married to John J. Berg, a resident of Pope county, Minn. Mr. Dime has been very successful since coming to this country, as he was so poor when he left the old country that he was obliged to borrow money to pay his passage. He now has a good farm and a comfortable home, while in the way of stock he already has a good start.

While Mr. Dime was not here at tlie time of the Indian massacre, so as to have an experience in the war against them, nevertheless he has his adventures to relate from the mines wlien his life was endangered, and he had some narrow escapes. One instance, when a part of the Lake Shore Iron Mining Company's mine caved in, filling up Mr. Dime's woi'king place with 22.000 tons of rock, he had to run for his life, while the rocks rolled in after him. Another time he had a very narrow escape from a falling rock from the back of a tunnel where he kept his tools; he was engaged in looking over the tools, when a solid block, one and one-half tons in weight, fell down close to his side, touching his clothes, but not hurting him in the least. Another time his tender dropped the contents of a smoking pipe right in the hole on the naked powder, when he (Dime) was charging up for a blast, but God, the Almighty, led the fire so as not to come in contact with the powder, and no accident happened.

Still another time, God, who leads the fates of men, kept his hand between, when he went back after due time after blasting, to find out the cause of a missing hole. He stepped right up to the missed blast, touched the fuse with his hands, but suspecting something wrong went out of the pit, going well out of danger. The blast exploded, throwing the rocks after him, and he had great cause to thank God for his deliverance.

lATRICK F. ARMSTRONG, a wellp*-" known and substantial farmer and stockraiser, residing on section 28, Harvey township, is an old settler who has done his share toward the development of Meeker county's resources.

Mr. Armstrong is a native of Prince Edwards Island, Canada, and was born on the 16th of March, 1846. Before Patrick was a year old, his j)arents removed to the United States and settled in Will county, 111., where they remained for ten yeare, and then came to

Meeker county, Minn., and settled in Harvej'^ township, where our subject still resides. The parents, whose names were William and Teressa Armstrong, were both natives of Ireland. AVhen they came to Meeker county the family consisted of the father and motlier, four boys and two girls. The father and mother are now living in Mannanah township.

Patrick learned the cooper's trade and followed that for six years w^lien he was a young man ; he also followed railroad work for two years, but the balance of his life has been spent in tilling the soil. He was married December 2, 1879, to Miss Anna Corrigan, and they are the parents of four children, ^vhose names are as follows: Michael, Thomas, Arthur and Patrick. Mrs. Armstrong's parents are also natives of Ireland ; they are now living in Harvey township. Mr. and Mrs. Armstrong are devout members and active supporters of the Catholic church. His political principles are democratic.

Like all the old settlers, their farming operations were interrupted and abandoned at the time of the Indian outbreak. At the time of the massacre at Acton, in August, 1862, Patrick Armstrong was at Empire City, south of St. Paul. Hearing of the Indian depredations, he at once started for home to learn whether or not they had ail been killed. He found them at Forest City, all well, and on their way to Minneai)olis, so he went with them to that place. They lived in Minneapolis until 1866, when they returned to Harvey township, where Patrick F. Armstrong has since lived.

ij^HARLES H. STROBECK, the present '^^^ probate judge of Meeker county, is a native of West Parishville, St. Lawrence county, N. Y., born October 8, 1841, and is the son of Henry and Fannie M. (Willis)

Strobeck, natives of the Empire State and New Hampshire, respectively. The father was originally of Wurtemberg stock, and the mother's ancestors were among the Puritan pilgrims of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The fatiier died at Litchfield, Meeker county, December 17, 1887, having come to this place the summer previous. The mother is still living witli her son. The judge was reared and received his primary education in the county of his birth, assisting his father in the labors attendant upon farm life until he was some nineteen years of age. At that time he entered the St. Lawrence Academy, where he remained during the spring and fall terms from 1860 to 1863, teaching school during the winters. During the winter of 1863-4, he took the place of the professor in the mathematical department of the same academy, and filled the post creditably.

On leaving school, he entered the law office of Judge Henry L. Knowles, as a student and clerk, where he remained until October, 1865, when he was admitted to the bar in a class of fourteen, at a session of the Supreme Com-t of New York, at Canton, the county seat of St. Lawrence county. A bout the 1st of December, the same year, Mr. Strobeck came west to Chicago, and from there to Ked Wing, Minn., where he located, and commenced the practice of law. and wrote fire insurance until coming to Litch field. The latter branch of the business was carried on in partnership with W.C.Williston.

October 22, 1869, Mr. Strobeck came to Litchfield and made up his mind to locate in the place, then in embrj'o, as there was only a few buildings erected at that time. He put up an office, being the pioneer attorney of the city, and has remained in practice here ever since. The judge is a staunch republican but has had but little political aspirations. He has held several local offices in the government of the village and in educational matters, prominent among which was that of

On the 24th of February, 1873, Ciiarles H. Strobeck antl Miss Carrie E. Phelps were united in marriage. The lady is a native of Oaivland county, Mich., and daughter of William and Carrie (James) Phelps, the latter natives of the Empire State. B3' this union there have been two children - Alice J, and Henry.

eludge Strobeck is a man ol sterling integrity, and having a mind of his own, has strong feelinffs in regard to what he conceives to be ri^ht or wrone:, and what is more, dares to maintain them.

PETER K. BROWN, who is one of the leading and influential farmers of Acton township, has had an eventful and varied life. He was a son of Knute and Eliza Jirown and was born in Denmark on the 8th of October, 1834. When he had arrived at the age of twenty-four, thinking to benefit his financial condition he started for the gold fields of Australia, and after 101 days of sailing he landed at Melbourne, and was soon hard at work in the mines. He remained there for seven years, and endured much more hardship and suffering than falls to the lot of mankind generally. At one time he had neither money nor provisions, and after a siege of fasting, which nearly resulted in starvation, he was fortunate enough to find gold with which he purchased something to eat. He underwent many other experiences which were fully as trying, but still he pei-severed. At times, however, he would enjoy a run of luck, and at one time he had about $2,000 in his possession, but he managed to leave with about $500 in his pocket. He then returned to Denmark, stopping at London, England, for a few days while on the way home. He then remained in Denmark for about two years, and on the 17th of April, 1868, he started for the United States ami landed at New York, during the latter part of May. He proceeded at once to Kandiyohi county, Minn., where his brother, N. K. Brown was living. A year later he moved to the farm in Acton township on which he still lives, having purchased railroad land. As he had learned the carpenter's trade in the old countr\', he erected his own buildings, which are located on section 29. He has excellent improvements, and now owns 250 acres of land, a good share of which is under cultivation. Mr. Brown's mother is dead and his father lives with a brother, N. K. Brown, in Kandiyohi county. There are several other members of the family living in the United States, including R. K. Brown, of Acton ; John K. Brown, of Danielson ; and Karen, now Mi's. Paul Nelson, of Danielson; besides N. K. Brown, of Kandiyohi county.

Peter K. Brown has taken a prominent and active part in all public matters, and has held many offices of a local but at the same time important character, including those of town clerk two years, chairman of supervisors two years, assessor one 3'ear ; and was elected justice of the peace but did not qualify.

Mr. Brown was married, during the year 1870, to Bertha Margrethe Madson, and they have been blessed with the following children - Mads Peter, born March 21, 1871; Albert Knuteson, born July 21,1873; Johanes, born June 13, 1875; Elizze Marie, born April 30, 1877; and Nels Christian, born April 25, 1879.

EWIS LARSON, of Litchfield, is a member of the firm of Nelson, Johnson & Larson, dealers in general merchandise. Mr. Larson was born in Sweden in 1842, and remained in tlie "Fatherland" until about twenty-seven years of age. His father died when Lewis was three and his mother when he was fifteen, so he was left to care for himself. He had up to that time attended school regularly and had attained a good education. "When about twenty years old he entered a civil office, corresponding with the office of sheriff in this country, and he remained in this for six years. After this he went to Gottenberg and for a short time was engaged in business at that place but he finally sold out and came to Ameiica, locating in Wisconsin. At that time he could speak and understand very little English, and for one year he lived with an American family for tiie jnirpose of acquiring it, finally becoming very proficient. On the 31st of Decern l^er, 1870, he arrived in Litchfield, and entered the store of Nelson Brothers as a clerk a short time later. In the summer of 1872 he went to Willmar and was there emj)loyed as a clerk in the store of Spicer & Larson for about three years and a half. Then, in company with W. Paulson, under the firm name of Paulson & Larson, they went into the gen eral merchandise trade at Willmar. In 1880 Mr. Larson sold his interest to his partner and removed to Litchfield, and the present mercantile firm of Nelson, Johnson & Larson was formed. Mr. Larson is a member of the Masonic fraternity, having joinetl Golden Fleece Lodge, No. 89, in 1888.

PROMINENT farmer and stock-raiser ']^S^ residing on section 11, Cedar Mills township, is R. A. AVheeler, a veteran of the late civil war, and one of the leading citizens in the southern part of the county.

Mr. Wheeler' is a native of Bangor, Me., born on the 25th of May, 184-1, and is a son of Isaac and Martha (Norcross) Wheeler. His parents were old settlers in Cedar Mills township, and their history will be found in another department of this work. Reuben A. Wheeler, the subject of this sketch, remained with his parents (coming with them meanwhile to Wright county, Minn.,) until October, 1861, when he enlisted in Company D, Fourth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. He remained in the service until July, 1865, and probaldy saw more actual active war service than any ex-soldier who to-day resides in Meeker county. He participated in the first and second battlesat Corinth. luka, Siege of Vicksburg, where he was wounded in the head by a piece of a shell, Altoona Pass. Savannah, Ga., and was with Sherman in his famous March to the Sea. He then, with Sherman's army, went to Washington and participated in the grand review. After receiving an honorable discharge from the service he came to Meeker county, Minn., arriving in July, 1865. He at once located on a soldier's homestead, which his father, Isaac Wheeler, had selected for him in 1863, which was located on section 11, Cedar Mills township, where he now lives. lie at once began improving his place, and erected a log-cabin, covering it with a hay roof. Mr. AVheeler remained on his place most of the time until 1867, when he went to Green Lake, Kandiyohi county. Three years later he went to Montana, but a short time later he returned to his homestead in Cedar Mills township, where he has since lived. He devotes his attention to general farming and stock-raising, and is one of the most prominent and best-known citizens of the township in which he lives. He is a prominent member of the Frank Daggett Post, No. 35, Grand Army of the Republic, of Litchfield.

Mr. W^heeler was married on the 11th of November, 1866, to Miss Malvina Nichols, who was born in Racine county, Wis. Their marriage has been blessed with six children, as follows - Martha M., George R., Frank E., Harlan M., Ray M., and Mary P. The family are members of the Presbyterian church.

Mi. WELL-KNOWN businessman of Litch- Jj^"^^ field is A. C. Johnson, a member of tliefirmof Nelson, Johnson & Larson, general merchants. He is a native of Sweden, and was born in 1S5L

"When eleven years of age, he started with his grandparents and his uncle, B. P. Kelson, for America, intending to come direct to Meeker county, Minn., where Andrew, a brother of Mr. Nelson, was then living. They crossed the ocean in a sailing vessel, being ten weeks on the way, arriving at Boston about August 20, 1862. There they learned of the terrible outbreak of the Indians in this country, but continued on their journey, coming as far as St. Paul, where they decided to remain for a time. Mr. Johnson remained there until 1871, when he removed to Litchfield and entered the store of Nelson Brothers as a clerk, and remained with them until they sold out to Alex. Cairncross. lie was then with the latter gentleman for about two years and a half. At the end of that time, he, in company with Stephen Cairncross, a brother clerk, bought out the establishment and went into business for themselves, under the firm name of Cairncross & Johnson. This firm continued in business for about two years and a half, when the stock was sold out. In 18S0, the present firm of Nelson, Johnson & Larson was formed. The other members of the firm are B. P. Nelson and Lewis Larson, and the business they do is probably the largest done in tiie village, in their line. They carry a full stock of dry goods, groceries, etc., and cater to the tastes of everybody. They are among the brightest business men of the village, and are in splendid financial condition.

JJEpROMINENT among the old settlers is _fj*~ is A. M. Caswell, who now resides in the village of Litch'ield. He was born in Melbourne, Canada, October 2, 1833. His father, Moody Caswell, was born in Vermont, and his mother, Hannah (Bishop) Caswell, in New Hampshire. They lived in Canada untd he was past seventeen and then moved to Vermont, and fi'om there to New Hampshire, and came to Minnesota in April, 1856. They came to Dunleath, 111., by rail and thence uj) the Mississippi on the old steamer "War Eagle." There were about 700 passengers on board, generally in high spirits about the prospects in the Territory of Minnesota, where the land was rich and money plenty. They landed at St. Paul and then took the stage to St. Anthonj\ There was only a few houses there then and one sawmill ; from there they came by steamboat up the river to Monticello, where they stopped until about the 1st of June, and then, hearing of the great chance for getting land on the big prairie in Meeker count}', and as there was a party of immigrants came along, A. M. Caswell followed, and camped the first night alone in tiie woods about midway between Monticello and Kingston. The next morning he came up with Patch's company, and camped on the bank of Crow river. The water was high, and as there was no bridge, they had to make a raft of logs. After crossing the river the company scattered, hunting claims. Our subject traveled to Forest City and took dinner with Thomas Skinner, a whole-souled and public-spirited gentleman, always courteous and obliging to everybody, in whose death Meeker lost one of her best men. From there he started with two others to look for claims, and traveled over the level prairie of Harvey, but found it generally marked, as a ])arty had been through there and marked claims for all their relatives, some which were yet in the old country', so he left that and went above the woods in the vicinity of Manannah, and there the claims were vacant, and he marked his claim - the first one marked in the townshiji - and then returned to Mon- ticello. He was boarding at a hotel, when a party came, who had been through to the big prairie, among tiie party being T. C. Jewett and Captain A. D. Pierce, an old sea captain from Cape Cod, Mass., who said he had been up above Forrest City and located a town site. He gave glowing accomits of the country and said there was only one claim marked there and that was just the one he wanted to build his town on, and he was going to have it. He also said that he camped on the liighest hill there was near there, (which must have been Tower Hill) and fought mosquitoes all night, and he foresaw the great events of the near future ; the network of railroads that would come to and through his town. He took out his book and read the name tiiat he found on his claim, as he called it, and it hap])ened to be Mr. Caswell's; he afterward tried to scare Mr. C. off, but failing to do it, he bought him off b}' paying fifty dollars and a watch. He afterward stated that the trade was like a horse-trade, and he was mighty sick of the horse. Mr. Caswell then made another claim where F. F. Phillips now lives, and his brother, Albert, came on and took one adjoining, and his father, mother and sisters came the next fall. His mother was afflicted with a rose cancer, and after having it cut out died within a year, being the first woman buried in Manannah grave-yard.

But the flush times of 1856 were followed by several years of dearth, or almost a famine. There was no money in the country and scarcely any provisions, and for two or three years a laboring man could get neither money, clothing nor provisions for his work. The only way to get money was to hunt or trap for fur, which was hard-earned money. So, getting tired out or starved out, at Manannah, his brother, Albert, and himself, and Ziba and Nathan Caswell started out for the gold mines at Pike's Peak, in Colorado, and were gone from the State most of the time until after the Indian war. Our subject was at work in the mines in Colorado, and his brother and Ziba Caswell were in Nevada in the Washoe silver mines. They heard of the Indian war and started for home, and although they were two thousand miles apart when they started and neither party knew when the other was going to start, they met in Minneapolis and came home on the stage together.

The next spring A. M. Caswell was married to Vesta J. Britt, of the town of Harvey. They kept a hotel at Coon Creek one year, then sold out and went to Anoka, where they remained about three years. They then sold out and moved to Harvey township, where they lived until removing to Litchfield in 1888. Mr. and Mrs. Caswell have two children - one a young man, twenty four years old, and a daughter about eight

In speaking of the "old times" Mr. Caswell says : " When I came to this county, there had never been a bushel of wheat, corn or potatoes raised here. Now nearly every acre of prairie and thousands of acres of brush and tiinbei' land are under cultivation, , and thousands of reaping and threshing machines are kept busy, instead of the old down reaper that took four horses, two men and a bov to operate, the grain having to be raked off by hand, and much of it left scattered on the ground. We have a machine that three horses and one man manage easily and which leaves the grain tied up in neat bundles, leaving- the field clean as if it hail l^een gleaned by the gleaners of old times. But the young men that were vigorous and strong and active are now becoming okl, bleached and gray ; but there is another generation coming on to fill our places. I have faith and believe there is a bright future for Meeker county, and that it is bound to be one of the richest and best stock-producing counties in the Northwest."

J^SAAC WHEELER, who was one of the a_ most prominent early settlers in Cedar Mills township, is a native of Maine, and was born on June 19, 1817. He remained in his native State until 1861, when he came to Minnesota and located on a farm in Wrif^ht county. In xA.pril, 1863, lie came to Meeker county, and selected 160 acres of land on section 9, Cedar ]\Iills, and the following year moved on to it with his family. The\' were tlie first settlers west of Cedar Mills after the Indian outbreak, and were there one season entirely without neighbors. At the time they came here the soldiers were stationed at Pipe Lake, and they helped Mr. Wiieeler cut the logs with -wliich he erected his cabin. IVIr. Wheeler remained on tiie farm until after his wife's death in 1876, when he sold his place to his sons, Frank and Newton Wheeler, and since that time has lived with his children, going back and forth between them.

After a long and useful career of toil and industry, he is now spending the evening of his life in a quiet and peaceful way, having to the fullest degree the confidence and respect of all who know him.

NDREW J. NELSON, a well-to do and '^\^ highh'-respected farmer residing on section 22, Union Grove township, is a native of Sweden, where he was born on the 2d of December, 18.52. His parents' names were Nels and Kersten Anderson. The mother died when he was only sixteen weeks old, and his father died when he was seventeen years of age.

Andrew J. spent his younger days in the land of his birth, when he acquired the same habits of industry and frugality which are characteristic of the race of which he springs. In 1880 he sailed for the United States, and making his way directly to Meeker county,

Minn., he rented a farm in Swede Grove townsiii]). He remained there for three years and then io February, 1884, he removed to the farm on section 22, Union Grove township, where he still lives. He owns 130 acres of land, a good share of which is cleared and under cultivation. lie has considerable stock and comfortable buildings. When Mr. Nelson came to America his earthly possessionsconsisted of $1,000 in money, but he lost a good share of that in the first two years through the failure of crops, but by good management and hard work he has recovered and is now in comfortable circumstances. Mr. Nelson was married before leaving- Sweden, in 1878, to Miss Ingrid Larson, a daughter of Mr. anil Mrs. Lars Nelson, and their union has been blessed with three children, as follows - Hilda, born in Sweden, January 19, 1879 ; Ida, born in Swede Grove township, October 18, 1880 ; and Anton, born in Union Grove township, July 30, 1884. Mrs. Nelson's mother died in 1868, and her father is now living with them.

"OHN B. PENNOYER, a prominent resident of the village of Greenleaf, is a native of Sherbrook county. Lower Camula, born on the 12tli of February, 1832. His parents, Truman and Priscdia II. Pennoyer, were natives of Vermont, and both were born in the year 1804. The mother died in 1886, but the father is still living, a respected resident of Ellsworth township, Meeker county. Truman Pennoyer's father was a Frenchman, and sailed the seas as a privateer during the revolutionary war, subsequently settling in Vermont. Truman spent a few years in Canada and then returned to Vermont. P'rom the latter State he removed to St. Lawrence county, N. Y., taking the family by wagon through the timber over the Plattsburg and Ogdensburg ]iike, and

Truman Pennoyer and wife were the parents of seven sons and six daughters. The three oldest died in infancy, and were buried at Compton Center, C. E. Three others died in infancy, and two sisters died after they were grown. Five of their children are still living - J. B. Pennoyer, O. A. Pennoyer, H. H. Pennoyer, Mrs. J. M. Howard, of Meeker county, Minn., and Mrs. H. F. Powers, of Cincinnati, Oiiio.

John B. Pennoyer, the subject of this memoir, was reared on a farm, and upon reaching the age of twenty-four lie left home and started West, He traveled over various portions of the West, but lived the greater part of the time in Whiteside and Jersey counties, 111., until 1864, when he came to Meeker eounty, Minn., making the journey from Hastings on foot. He entered a homestead on section 35, in what is now Greenleaf township, and continued to reside thereuntil August, 1885, when he rented his farm and started out in search of a locality that would benefit his health. After spending the fall and winter in Macoupin and Jersey counties, 111., he went to Huntsvilie, Ala., and remained there until Septeml)er 27, 1886, when he back and took up his residence in the village of Greenleaf.

In tlie month of September following Mr. Pennoyer's first arrival in Meeker county, 1864. he went to Greene county, 111., and was married to Mary F. Bilbruck, a daughter of John and Charlotte Bilbruck, who was born in Nottinghamshire, England, on the 7th of December, 1842. Five ciiildren have been born to them - Alice Naomi, born July 25, 1867, died May 8, 1870 ; Charlotte Augusta, born December 5, 1870; Francis Irene, born October 26, 1875, died April 3, 1879; Harmon Lee, born September 4, 1880 ; and

Florence Emma, born June 5, 1884. Mr. Pennoyer has taken an active interest in all public matters and has held various local offices. In political matters he affiliates with the republican party.

Having been identified with the growth and development of Meeker county iluring a residence of nearly a quarter of a century, he is well-known to all pioneers, and none is held in higher esteem. Tiirough his untarnished and unblemished integrity his word is recognized as being as good as a bond, and he is held in the highest respect by all who know him. Hospitable, charitable, and enterprising, aiding whatever entei'prise is calculated to benefit either town or county in which he has lived so long, he has justly earned the high reputation which he bears, of being one of the most desirable citizens of which any locality can boast.

I^RANK E. WHEELER. The subject of JP' this sketch, a resident of section 9, is one of the leading citizens of Cedar Mills township, and is a son of Isaac Wheeler, who is mentioned above. He is a native of Garland, Maine, and was born on the 1st of January, 1851. His early life was spent in his native State, and in 1861 he came West with his father's family, and they settled in Wright county, Minnesota, as has been stated. In 1863 they settled in Meeker county, and Frank remained at home until the death of his mother in 1876, when the family was l)roken up and scattered. After this Frank taught school in this county and also in Wabash county, Indiana, following this profession for three years. In April, 1881, he settled upon the old homestead, and this has since been his home. He has a valuable farm of 180 acres, eighty of which are already under cultivation, and all of it is in tillable condition. He has made substantia! im])rovenients on the place and it is conveniently arranged. He devotes his time and energies to general farming and stock raising, and is I'ated as one of the nK)st successful and enteiprisiug agriculturists in the township. He has taken an active and prominent part in township and educational affairs of late years, and has held various local offices, including those of supervisor, school clerk and others. He has been a member of the Presbyterian Church for fifteen years.

Mr. Wheeler was married at Ellsworth, March 19, 1879, to Miss .Lucy Porter, of Ellsworth township, and they are the parents of four children, as follows: Mellen E., Ethel E., Ruth C. and Allen K. Mrs. Wheeler was born at Greenfield, Wis., July 9, 1856.

J^RANK T. PETERSON, of Swede Grove _lp2- township, is one of the most extensive stock raisers in Meeker county. lie is a son of Peter O. and Christine (Hawkinson) Peterson. The parents were natives of Sweden, who came to the United States in 1854, and settled in Chisago county, Minn. The following is a hst of their children - John W., born January 20, 1858 ; Frank T., born October 2, 1859 ; Mary C, born March 14, 1861 ; Christine E., born March 29, 1863 ; Oscar F., (deceased) born January 20, 1865 ; and Ida ]V[., born May 21, 1867. Mary C. married Charles M. Ahlstrom, a resident of Harvey township. John W., for the past three years, has been engaged in railroad contracting, in company with a cousin, John G. Lundquist, who has been in the business for the last thirteen years. They are now building a road near Chicago. Frank T., Christine and Ida M. still live at home, although the last named, at this writing, is in St. Peter, attending college. Frank T. & Co. carry on the extensive farming and stock raising business; they own 1,200 acres of land and have about the finest farm buildings in the western j)art of the county.

As has been stated, the father settled in Chisago county, Minn., in 1854. In 1868 the family removed to Swede Grove township, Meeker county, settling on section 36, where the father died on the 24th of November,

1886, and where the mother still lives. The farm is carried on jointly', being owned in thirds by Frank T. and John W. Peterson, and their cousin, John G. Lundquist, with Frank as manager. They devote sjiecial attention to raising blooded horses, cattle and hogs, and some of the finest stock in the State may be seen at their fai'm. They have on hand two stallions worthy of special notice : Sansonnet, imported by M. W. Dunham in 1887; French No. 8,811, American No. 6,991 ; also Simonneau, French No. 9,020, American No. 7,108. They have the following valuable inares, which were imported by M. W. Dunham : Poulotte, imported in 1886, French No. 6677, American No. 5614; Valentine, imported in 1884, French No. 2778, American No. 3663 ; Lilliane, imported in 1887, French No. 8554, American No. 7145 ; Bibi, imported in

1887, French No. 10248, American No. 7128. These magnificent animals were purchased at a cost of $11,750. In addition to these they have many others of high grade which are a credit to the county.

^^ B. BENSON, cashier of the Meeker ^^^ Bank of Litchfield, was born in St. Peter, Nicollet county, Minn., July 2, 1860, and is the son of Peter and Malena Benson, natives of Sweden, who were engaged in

The subject of this memoir was reared upon the paternal farm, receiving his education in the district schools and remained at home until the fall of 1880, when he attended a course at the business college at Minneapolis. The following spring he came to Litchfield and entered the Meeker County Bank as book-keeper, and remained in that capacity until July 7, 1884, when he was made assistant cashier, and in March, 1885, was jiromoted to the post of cashier in tiie same monetary institution. He is one of the solid young business men of whom Litchfield can justly boast, and has a bright and prosperous future before him.

On the 24th of November, 1887, Mr. Benson ' led to the hymeneal altar Miss Pauline Fuller, one of Meeker county's fairest, brightest daughters. She was the child of George W. Fuller, the well known horticulturist and arboriculturist of Litchfield. The happiness of the young couple was, however, of but brief duration, the angel of death claiming the bride on the 9th of May, 1888, and after a brief honeymoon of about five months she passed to that land Elysian, whose portals we call death, leaving her husband's heart and home a desolate waste.

l&aTANS EVENSON, a successful farmer JL-^IL and stock raiser, residing on section 8, Green leaf township, and one of the most prominent old settlers in Meeker county, was born in Norway on September 6, 181.5. He remained in his native land until the spring of 1852, when he came to the United States and settled in Eock count\'. Wis. On July 12, 1854, he returned to his native land and remained until 1857, when he returned to the United States, setthng this time in

St. Paul, but three months later went to Scott county, Minn., where he spent the winter. His next move was to locate in Wright county, where he spent two years in the " Big Woods," and then, in the spring of 1860, he came to Meeker county, and took a claim on section 8, where he has since lived. Flis trip to this county was one of severe hardship, as he came on foot from Wright county, accompanied by his oldest son, Even. At that time there was only one house in sight - on Inger Hill, which was occupied by a man named Inger. They came in tlie winter or early spring, and bought a hand-sled, on which they drew their tools, etc., and went direct to the Ole Ness place, which was near Little Lake, in what is now Litchfield township. During that winter, he would start every morning for his place, and spent his time in getting out logs, so as to be ready to build in the spring ; also during that time, he dug a well fifty feet deep for Ole Ness, and stoned it up. He remained about a month at that time, and then borrowed a sled and yoke of oxen from Ness and started to Wright county for his family. At the time he started, the ground was covered with snow, but it thawed before he s:ot through, and he was compelled to construct a home-made wagon with which to get back, accomplishing it by hewing out four wheels and erecting a rude frame work. Upon his return, he staid two nights at the Ness place, and then left his family for several months at a bachelor's named Guner, while he was building a shanty on his place. About August he moved his family into the cabin. During that year he raised a few potatoes, but for the first five years following his set- . tlement, he lost most of his crops through the blackbirds.

Thus matters were moving peaceably until that fatal August, 1862, when the terrible Indian outbreak began, and as Mi'. Evenson was one of those who were here during the most trying times, we will briefly review his experience. On the ITtli of August, Even and one of his brothers were at Ness's and learned of the massacre at Acton. When they told their father, he could not realize that the matter was an aotual fact, and after remaining quietly at home over night, he started the next day (Monday, the 18th,) for Ness's to learn the pai-ticulars. On the way he met a neighbor, named Butler, who begged him to hitch u]) mhiI take his family to St. Paul, but Ml'. Evensou refused and went on to the farm of Ole Ness. Learning that the Indians were really on the warpath, he sent his wife and two little children to Forest City, and he and. the boys staid on the farm until the following Wednesday, putting up hay. On the day mentioned, his wife returned to the ])lace, and told him that he must pack up and get to some place of safety, as the news had come in daily of the terrible murders which the Indians had committed. He accordingly was reluctantly prevailed upon to go to Forest City, where heat once learned that there was good ground for the terror which had seized every one. The following morning he started with his family for Kingston, where he remained t\\ o weeks, and then, as Capt. Whitcomb's " Home Guards" had been organized, they returned to Forest Cit}\ They were there when the Indians made the attack on that place, and Mr. Evenson and son, Even, were doing guai'd duty that night. Even was the second one to return the fire of the Indians. At the time, the family were sleeping in Atkinson's store, and when the attack came, at about one o'clock in the morning, they hastened inside the fortification. When the father got a chance to look around, he found that one of his sons - Andrew - was missing, and at once started out to find him, but seeing nothing of him, he returned and found that Andrew had safely got inside. The bullets were then flying thick and fast.

After a time the excitement some\vhat subsiiled, but for two years they were always on the alert, not knowing what time the treacherous savages might renew their depredations. In the fall the family returned to the farm and during the \vinter they lived by trapping. Settlei's soon began returning to tlieir claims and his cabin was a I'egular tavern. Money was very scarce, and but few of the settlers had the pleasure of seeing any money that winter, to say nothing of owning any.

Now to return to Mr. Evenson's private history : Hans Evenson was married in the year 1842, to Christina F. Anderson, and they have been blessed with seven children, as follows - Bertha, born Sept. 22, 1842; Even, born Nov. 21, 1844, mentioned elsewhere at length ; Andrew, born Oct. 30, 1847; Helena M., born Oct. 3, 1852 ; John F., born Feb. 3, 1856, died May 30, 1857, on board shiji and was buried at sea in St. Lawrence Bay ; John F., born Jan. 22, 1859 ; and a child born in 1861, which died at the time of birth. Mrs. Evenson, the wife and mother, dieil on the 19th of January, 18S7. Mr. Evenson is a republican in politics as is the case with all his sons. He is a member of the Lutheran church. Mr. Evenson is now well along in years and is passing the evening of his life in a quiet way with his children. He has lived a life of usefulness and activity, a man of the strictest honor and integrit}'' and one for whom every one who knows him entertains the kindliest feelings and highest regard.

John F. Evenson, one of the sons who is mentioned above, with whom the father resides, was born in Wright county. He was married May 28, 1885, to Mary Johnson, and they have been blessed with two children - George H., born June 22, 1886 ; and Christina F., born Feb. 20, 1888. Mr. -Evenson carries on the farm and also devotes his attention extensi veh' to stock raising. He is one of the leading and most successful agriculturists in the township.

JAMES NELSON HANSON is one of the successful farmers of Acton township. He was born in Denmark on the 20th of March, 1837. When he left his native land, in 1859, he was called upon liy a government officer and told that he must return to Denmark a year later and serve his time in the army but after his arrival liere he decided that he was better suited to stay here and so he "forgot to return." Upon landing in the New World he stojiped for a short time at New Orleans and then went to Kaufman county, Tex., where he was employed at driving and marking cattle for an extensive stock-raiser until the fall of 1860. He then returned to New Orleans and worked for W. H. Wilier, at gardening for one month for §10; then he drove a mule team for the same party for $20 per month. His next move was to St. Louis, but not liking the place he boarded a steamboat for St. Paul and from there made his way to Empire City, Dakota county, Minn. There he remained for six years, working on a farm for Mr. J. Haislet, after which in 1872, he settled in Acton township, where he still lives.

Mr. Hanson was married in 1802, to Miss Marthe Christianson, who was born in Norway on the 17th of February, 1843. They have been blessed with the following named children - Josephine, born January 9, 1863, died April 5, 1860; Mary Julia, born December IS, 1861:; Josephine E., born August 24, 1866 ; Gemalinde Christine, born April 3, 1869; Hans Olaus, born September 25, 1870 ; Martin Julius, born August 16,

1872; Edwin Anton, born September 25, 1874^ Adolph Ottoer, born June 26, 1876, died June- 8, 1877; Adolph Ottoer, born April 8,1878; Nettie Amanda, born July 3, 1880, died February 16, 1884; Henry Elvin, born August 21, 1882; and Nettie Amanda, born October 6, 1885. Mr. Hanson has taken an active interest in all public affairs and has held various offices of trust and importance, including those of school director, and clerk, road ovei'seei-, pound master and others. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Mr. Hanson was a poor man when he came to this country but has been very successful and has a comfortable home and a valuable farm of 120 acres.

>^HARLES W. BUTTERFIELD, proprie- ^^^ tor of the hotel and the oldest resident now living in the village of Greenleaf, was born in Washington county. Me., on the 8th of May, 1835. His parents, Francis and Eliza Eutteriield,were of English descent, though natives of the "Pine Tree" State. The greater part of Charles' early life was spent on his father's farm and doing carpenter work, yet he was engaged at various times in the pineries. In 1854 he was married to Mary E. Beedy, who was born in Maine 1835. Three children were born to them - Wilmot B., who is mentioned elsewhere at length; Ida May, now Mrs. W. W. Johnson, of Litchfield; and Edwin B., a resident of Dickinson, Dakota. Mrs. Butterfield died in 1861, and in 1862 Mr. Butterfield was united in marriage with Mary A. Pineo, who was also a native of Maine.

In 1865 Charles W. Butterfield, our subject, came West and settled in the village of Greenleaf, Meeker county, Minn., where he still lives. He purchased farm property in Ellsworth township, but his residence and business interests were in the village. For one year he controlled the mail route from Minneapolis to (Treenleaf via Watertown, and he at ]ircsent has thei'oute from Litchfield to Hutchinson. Mr. Butterfleld is a Greenleaf man in the strongest sense of ihe term. He has staid by the village through all its vicissitudes, and to-day enjoys the distinction of being its oldest inhabitant in point of years of residence. He has held various township offices and is ever found identified Avith matters pertaining to the welfare of his adopted home. Mr. Buttertield's name appears frequentl}' in the pages of this volume, as he has been prominently connected with the history of the village in whicli he resides. He is a member of the Golden Fleece lodge, No. 89, A. F. & A. M., of Litchfield.

>ETER BERGGREN, a respected and 1^ intelligent farmer residing on section 85, Union Grove townshij), is a son of Nels O. and Meta Berggren, and was born in Sweden on the 27th of July, 1860. His parents brought the family to the United States in 1868 and made their way directly to Meeker county, Minn. They first stopped at Grove City, and the father took a homestead near there, upon which they lived for five years, proving up on the place, but afterward lost it on a mortgage, having had bad luck with their crops. They then settled on another farm where they lived three years, but the grasshoppers came and destroyed their grain and they lost that farm. In March, 1879, they came to Union Grove township and the father purchased 200 acres of land on sections 35 and 36, -where the family still reside. The fatlier died tliere on the 4th of Septeml)er, 1879, and the mother on the 2d of Februarv, 1888. They were both honest and industrious peo])ie and were held in high respect by all who knew them. They had a family of eleven children, six of whom are dead and five living. The living children are as follows : Petei-, born July 27, 1860 ; Ole, born September 5, 1862 ; Andrew, born July 17, 1869 ; William, born February 8,1871; and John, born July 16, 1875.

Peter has cliarge of the farm and is a successful and industrious young man, who is certain to succeed in liis farming opei'ations. The farm is well stocked, and is one of the most valuable in the township.

TOHN FLYNN, the father of Michael J. W and Daniel Flynn, was one of the pioneers of Meeker county, arriving here on the 8th of July, 1856, and took Government land on sections 22 and 23, in Forest City township. He was accompanied at that time by John Whalen and family, and several others. His family at that time consisted of himself and wife; Mary (now Mrs. Daniel Dougherty, of Harvey township); Michael J. and Daniel, now of Litchfield; and Elizabeth, now wife of Hon. W. M. Campbell, United States Marshal for Minnesota. Besides these, there were two hired men and a nephew of Mr. Flynn. The Flynn family started from Crown Point, Lake county. Ind., about the 12th of May, 1856, with the idea of finding a home in Iowa or Minnesota. Their outfit consisted of two covered Avagons, with two yoke of oxen hitched to each ; and they also had twenty-five head of cows, besides quite a lot young stock. Wlien they reached Dubuque and learned of the magnificent country in this part of ]\Iinnesota, tlie father decided to investigate, and, in company with John "Whalen, he started on a Mississip])i river boat for St. Anthony, with the understanding that the family should meet him upon his I'eturn, at Rochester. The family accordingly 2>i"oceeded with the teams and stock, arriving at the appointed place four or five days before tlie return of the father. At that time there was only one house at Eochester - a little 14x20 feet log cabin, which served tiie purpose of store, hotel, saloon, etc. When the father returned he told them that he had looked over Meeker county and had decided to locate here. They then started north, crossing the river at Monticello on the 4th of July, having to swim the stock, finally arriving and taking up land in this county, as above stated. Mr. Flynn at once began improvements and remained upon the farm until the time of his death, in June, 1859. The family remained there until the time of the Indian outbreak, at wiiich time the women folks went to Clearwater, where they remained a month or so. The bo^'s remained here or returned immediately to get in their crop (for it was harvest time), and participate in the action against the Indians. Their house was not molested by the redskins, but served as a headquarters for all of the friends and neighbors south and west of them.

John Flynn was a native of County Waterford, Ireland, born in 1805, and was a gardener Ijy profession in the old country. About the year 1836 he emigrated to America ami lived for some time at Buffalo, N. Y., whence he removed to Chicago. In the latter city lie married Miss Ann Lynch. From there he moved to Elgin. 111., where he settled on a farm. He afterward made several removals previous to coming here, and was at one time engaged in contracting on the Lake iShore & Michigan Soutliern railroad, in Indiana, just before starting for this locality.

MELS ELOFSON is one of the pioneers of Swede Grove township. He is a son of Elofson and Bertha Anderson, and was born in Sweden on the 14th of June,

1834. He came to the United States with his mother in 1857, coming to Meeker county, Minn., direct, and filed a claim on land on section 33. He later sold that place and now owns 240 acres on sections 26 and 27, where he now lives. On tlie 31st of August, 1861, he was married to Miss Ellen Eckbom, a daughter of Andrew and Anna Eckbom, who was born in Sweden August 20, 184L Their union has been blessed with the following children - Edward N., born October 9,1862; Andrew N., born March 21, 1864; William, born April 11, 1866 ; Betsy, born May 16, 1868 ; Anna, born December 26, 1869; Alice Bertha, born January 18, 1876, and Fred, born November 18, 1880. Edward is in business at Grove City ; Andrew N. is foreman in a store at Paynesville ; and Betsy is a dressmaker at Litchfield. The other children are at home. Mr. Elofson learned the carpenter's trade before he left his native land. The fii-st work he did in tlie United States was in that line, finishing a house for a Mr. Yates in the fall of 1857. Being unable to speak English, Mr. Elofson was made to understand what was wanted by signs, and when the job was finished he received his pay in flour, and was perfectly satisfied.

Tlie following spring he had hard work to find employment, but finally about six miles below St. Paul, he got a job of digging a cellar, laying the wall and foundation - his first mason work - and buikling the house. After finishing this he went to Carver and took charge of a widow's farm for about a year and a half, when he again returned to his claim, but soon went back to Carver and for a few months was engaged in a furniture shop. After his marriage he returned to his claim and his mother, his brother, Peter, and sistei", Betsy, lived with him.

1862, a meeting of some of the settlers was held at Mr. Elofson's house for the purpose of raising three men to fill a draft, which had been made on the town of Swede Grove. At about ten o'clock in the morning his neighbor Monson's children came and informed them that the Indians were about and they were afraid to stay there. Upon learning this Mr. Monson and Swan Nelson went over to see what was the trouble and met the Indians, who were mounted, on tiie way. One of the red skins reached down and caught Nelson by the whiskers and pointed to the east, but he did not understand what tiiey meant. They soon arrived at Elofson's and the latter found that he was acquainted with several of the party. The Indians would not talk English but stated that they were on their way to the " Big Woods '' for the purpose of killing some Chippewas, that had been killing the whites. They then rode off and soon met an aunt of Mr. Elofson's and frightened her by brandishing their knives, but offered no violence. After the murder of the Jones and Baker families the news of the outbreak spread very rapidly, and in the evening Mr. Elofson and Nels Hanson went to the scene of tlie murder where others had gathered before tlieir arrival. There they learned the details of the affair and were told to come back the next morning and help bury the dead, which they did. While they were there nine Indians came in sight and several shots were exchanged, but no one was hurt. Mr. Elofson then returned to his home and helped to start his own and all neighboring families for Lake Ripley (now Litchfield); while he with acouple of others awaited developments. On the 22d they saw Indians at a distance in pursuit of whites and decided that it was time for them to go to some place of safety. Mr. Elofson learned that his family had gone from Lake Ripley to Forest City, then Clearwater, and then St. Paul, and knowing they were safe he returned to

Forest City and participated in the organization of the " Home Guards." Mr. Elofson was also at Forest City at the time it was attacked by the Indians, and took an active part in the defense. Mr. Elofson remained at Forest City until October, when, lie in company with others, started out in seai'cli of stock and found considerable of it. All of the houses in Grove City had been burned except two. Not iiaving heard from his wife and child since the beginning of the outbreak, and not knowing where they were, he went to St. Paul to look them up. There he met a friend who informed him that they had gone to his wife's parents at Carver, whither he went, and remained until the following spring. lie then worked at carpenter woi'k until August, when he removed to Anoka. In February, 1864, he rented the farm where Litchfield is now located, and remained there until fall, when he Ijought a house at Forest City, and lived there until the following s])ring, then returned to his farm, and has since made this his home. In January, 1870, he went to Sweden, and returned the following June, bringing 300 emigrants with him ; he was the first postmaster in Swede Grove township and held the office for seven years. From 1872 to 1876 he was in the agricultural implement business. He also spent about five months in the employ of the map publishing house of Warner ife Foote. Mr. Elofson is a democrat in political matters, and has taken an active interest in all matters of a public nature. He has held various offices, including those of coroner, chairman of supervisors,, school clerk, etc.

^Ifi^'iMOTHY DUNN, one of the earhest ._Jj settlers of Meeker count}', made a preemption claim on a part of sections, Darwin township, in July, 1856, atid upon that same piece of land makes his home at the present.

He was a native of Count}- Tipperary, Ireland, who had come to the free shores of America in 1847, landing at New York. After a few daj'^s spent in the metropolis of the western world, he went up the Iludsoii river to Rondout, New York, but a few weeks later came westward and settled at Milwaukee, Wis., where he labored for five years. About that time the gold excitement in California was at its height, and Mr. Dunn, then a young and vigorous man, started for that land of the sunset and passed three years of his life in that part of our country.

Returning to the " States," as it was termed in tiiose days, Mi-. Dunn then came to Meeker county, as stated above. He was one of the first settlers of Darwin township, and, it is believed, plowed the first furrow in that part of the county. His boy, Edmund, who died in 1862, was the first death in the township. The first season that Mr. Dunn was here he planted some potatoes, but says that the grasshoppers took them about as fast as they showed above the ground.

In August, 1862, Mr. Dunn was assisting in stacking grain at the Widow Powers' place, Avhen he heard of the cowardly murders at Acton and the first news of the Indian outbreak. Leaving at once, he found, on reaching his own place, that a notice was fastened upon the door of his cabin, warning him of his danger, and that the Indians were up for mischief. He accordingly went to Forest City, antl from there to Kingston, where lie remained some three weeks. Going on, finally, to Minneapolis, he there remained until October following, when he returned to his farm. He found everything destroyeil here, and had to commence forthwitii to rebuild his place as from the very beainnino-.

dead but two. Tlie family are devotedly attached to the Roman Catholic Church, and fulfill their proper duties. In politics Mr. Dunn is a steady, warm-hearted democrat,

^^OPHIA C. PRATT is' postmistress at "^^^ Greenleaf village, and also cari-ies an extensive stock of general merchandise. She' is a native of Otsego county, N. Y. After receiving a thorough education, attending school in New York and Canada, she began teaching school and followed that profession for some time in Canada. On the 17th of September, 1859, she came to Meeker county, Minn., with her sister, Eliza, the father having arrived here on the 6th of June, 1859, they Ijeing among the early settlers, and she resumed her vocation as a teacher in her new home. She was one of the first teachers in the county, having held one term at the house of Mr. Ci'oss, at Cedar Mills, as early as 1860. She was paid by subscription and " boarded round." When the Indian outljreak occurred siie was teaching school at Greenleaf village. At an early day Miss Pratt clerked for W. H. Greenleaf. On November 30, 1SS6, Miss Pratt was appointed postmistress at Greenleaf village, the office having become vacant through the resignation of her brother Ira, and since that time she has retained the position to the entire satisfaction of all the patrons of the office. Miss Pratt's connection with the business interests of Greenleaf has been an active one, and she is prominently identified with the history of the southern part of the county.

BANIEL FLYNN, of Litchfield, is a son of John Flynn, who has ah'eady been mentioned in this department. Daniel is a native of Elgin, 111., born May 18, 1843, and came to Meeker county, witli his parents, in 1856, when still a boy. lie remained principally with the family until 1873. During the Indian troubles the family was taken to Clearwater, l)ut Daniel, with others, remained to fight the redskins. In 1S73, he rented out the old homestead and came to Litchlieltl. Tiie following year, in company with his brother, Michael J., he engaged in the lumber trade and in the winter of 1875-0, they took up agricultural implements. Later they sold out their lumber business to W. H. Greenleaf. In 1879 the firm purchased the Butler elevator, and since that time have carried on a very extensive business in 'grain and farm machinery. During the season of 1887 they handled over 175,000 bushels of wheat alone. In 1884 Mr. Flinn was elected sheriff of Meeker county, and held the office for three years. He has filled various other offices and was for several years one of the village aldermen, and has always taken an active interest in all matters affecting the welfare of his town or county.

Mr. Flynn was united in marriage, December 25, 187-1, with Miss Mary A. McNamara, a native of Jefferson City, Mo. By this union there have been born a family of eight children, whose names are respectively - John Arthur, Daniel, Thomas, Michael, Francis, Louise, Mary and Elizabeth.

county, who is now a resident of section 29, Litchfield township, is a native of Norway, born April 9, 1823, and a son of Amund and Bertha Christophdatter Olson, both of whom are dead. Ole came to America in 1855, and after living for two years in Eock county. Wis., came to Meeker count}^ Minn., arriving here in July, 1857. He first selected a timber claim on section 25, Acton township, and he and Kels Danielson and Amos Nelson Fosen ])roved u]i on tlieir land together and then divided it. he retaining one forty -acre tract in tlie timber, and three forties on section 29, in what is now Litchfield township. After the close of tiie war he took an eighty-acre liomestead, and five years latei' built the house on section 29, where he now lives.

On the lotli of October, 1860, he was married to Oline Marie Sy vertsdatter, who was born in Norway on the 5th of February, 1832, and who died on the 27th of August, 1883. She bore him seven children - Albert, born July 30, 1861 ; Betse, born January 4, 1863; Syvert, born October 20, 1864, died October 6, 1865; Syvert, born March 21, 1866; Johanne Marie, born August 9, 1869 ; Carl, born September 3, 1871 ; and Olaven, born October 3, 1873.

At the time of the Indian outbreak Mr. Amundson was living on his original claim. He received the news of the beginning of the massacre from Mrs. Baker, widow of one of the murdered men, and another woman, who came to his house on Sunday, August 17, 1802. After assisting in the burial of the victims, he removed his family to Forest City, and assisted in Iniilding the stockade, living in the meanwhile in a house just outside of it. W.'ien the town was so suddenly attacked by the Indians, he lost no time in gettmg his family into the fort for refuge. When the danger seemed to have passed, he and several others went to Ever Jackson's place to cradle wheat, taking with them Mrs. Ever Jackson and IMrs. Helena Danielson, to keep house for them. They cradled wheat on one Saturday, and on Sunday went out and found the cattle, which had strayed off, and drove them into tlie yards. That night they noticed that the dogs were in a state of alarm all night, and it became evident that Indians were prowling around. The next morning Andrew

Olson and Nels Danielson -vvent over to the corrals to salt the cattle, while Mr. Amundson and Burger Anderson were ens'affed in grinding their cradles. Presently they heard five shots fired, and taking the two women with them, started to run for their hves. Finding that the women could not hold out, they secreted them in a thicket and then went on to Forest City. The next morning they returned with a squad of men and found the women still safeh^ hid, but Olson had been killed and scalped. They buried him on the spot, but his remains were subsequently interred in the Ness cemetery. In the spring, after the outbreak, Mr. Amundson moved his family back to his farm. He has met with three disasters since, having his crops destroyed once by a hailstorm, and twice by the grasshoppers ; but his untiring energy has enabled him to overcome all, and he now has a splendid farm of over 200 acres. His family are members of the Ness Norwesfian Lutheran church, and he is sexton of the cemetery. It may be of interest to state in this connection, that the State monument over the first five massacre victims is located in this burial ground.

lRIN B. VOSE, the present township clerk of Union Grove township, is an enterprising and respected farmer residing on section 22. Mr. Vose was born in Waldo county, Maine, on January 28, 1840, and is a son of Edwin and Nancy J. (Custis) Vose. His mother ,died when he was eight years old, and for two years he lived with Daniel Heriman, near Frankfort, Maine. He then went to Montville and lived with Samuel Dodge for four years, after which for eighteen months he worked for Ames Sprawl. He then went to Boston, Mass., where he was apprenticed to George Kobinson, to learn the carpenter's trade, remaining with him three years. He then worked at his trade for two years, when he had a serious fall while working on an ice house at Linfield, Mass., which laid him up for six months. When he had recovered sufficiently from his injuries he found employment driving the horse cars between Chelsea and Boston, which he followed for a year and a half. He then enlisted in Company H, Fiftieth Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, for nine months' service, and was mustered in on the 29th of September, 1862. After the expiration of his term of service he was mustered out on the 24:th of August, 1863. He then went back to the horse cars, and served as conductor on the line between Eoxbury and Boston for two years and a half. At the end of that time he came to Minnesota, and for one summer stopped at St. Joseph, Stearns county. In the fall of 1866 he came to Meeker county, and took a homestead on section 22, Union Grove township, and soon afterward spent two and a half months in the pineries. He then settled on his homestead, building a log cabin, but two months later took his family to St. Joseph, Stearns county, and remained there four months. He then settled again upon his homestead and has since lived here, Avith the exception of one year spent in California.

Mr. Vose was married on the 11th of September, 1861:, to Miss Sarah F. Merrill, a daughter of John and Mary (Wilson) Merrill, who was born April 2, 184:8. Their marriage has been blessed with one child - Bessie Lynn Vose, who was born September 17, 1881. Mrs. Vose lost one brother, Charles F., in the first battle of Bull Hun. She has three sisters living in Minnesota, and one in Maine, besides one brother in Maine and one in Ohio. Mr Vose lost one brother, Edwin, in the battle at Petersburg.

with official business of tlie township. He has held various offices, including the following: supervisor, one year; constable, eight years; school clerk ten years, and town clerk since 18S4.

JAMES PETER BERG, of Acton townshiji, is a native of Denmark, and was born on the 29th of December, 1S44. His parents were Hans Peter and Mary Berg ; the father died in Denmark in 1870 and the mother is still living in his native land. James Peter came to the United States in 1865, and first stopped at Chicago, where he was employed in a lumber yard for several weeks. He then went to Dakota county, Minn, where he remained until the spring of 1867, and then settled in Acton township. Meeker county, having previous to this time taken a homestead on section 3-4, in that township, where he still lives. He was a poor man when he came to America, in fact was almost penniless, but by thrift and economy he has accumulated a line property. He now has 172 acres of land and a great deal of it is under a high state of cultivation. He has excellent farm buildings, an abundance of farm maciiinery, and has considerable valuable stock gathered aljout him.

Mr. Berg was married on the 23d of October, 1869, to Miss Helena Sophia Mari,a Thompson, a native of Denmark, born April 10, 1850. She came to Meeker county, in 1869, with Nels K. Brown and worl;ed for different parties until her marriage. Her parents came to tlie United States in 1877 and are now living in Big Stone county, JMiiin. Tlie niarriaije of Wv. and Mrs. Berohas been Ijlessed with the following named children: Hansina Maria, born October 12, 1870; Thomas, born March 27, 1873; Karoline, born June 13, 1875 ; Jennie Sophia, born February 13", 1878 ; Hans Peter, born

June 15, 1880; Dagmar Anneta, born February 13, 1883; and Rose Marinda, born August 15, 1885. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church. In ])oliticul matters, Mr. Berg acts independent of party lines or party ties.

EUBEN S. HERSHEY, proprietor of [['c^, the " Fairview Stock and Dairy Farm," in Greenleaf township, is a lineal descendant of the Swiss Mennonites of that name who first settled in Lancaster county. Pa., in 1719. Reuben Hershey was born in Lancaster county, and was reared on the farm with his parents, Martin and Elizabeth Hershey. After reaching manhood he \vas engaged for a time in the forwarding and commission business, and in 1872 he came to Meeker county, Minn., and bought his l)resent farm ])roperty in Greenleaf townshij). In 1873 he purchased the James H. Morris interest in the Litchfield flouring mills, retaining the interest about three years, remodeling the mill and giving it a reputation second to none in this part of the State. After his retirement from the milling business, he began devoting all his time, energy and talents to the stock and dairy business and the improvement of his beautiful farm home. The farm consists of about 1,000 acres, but a goodly portion is tenanted, Mr. Ilershey's attention being for the most jjart given to his stock and dairy interests. He operates a dairy on the place, the butter of which always commands an advance in price over the best creamery butter generally on the market. Mr. Hershey has in the ])ast suffered some heavy losses through grasslH)j)per ravages and hailstorms, yet he has taken but few backward steps, antl to-day " Fairview " is justly regarded as one of the most beautiful and most valuable farms in this portion of Minnesota.

JOHN ESBJORNSSON is one of the most prominent lumber merchants, and is also one of the first settlers of Litchfield. He arrived at Litchfield on the 28th of June, 1869, coming as far as Smith Lake, then the end of the railroad, on a train, anil walking from there to Litchfield. At tiiat time the site of the village only contained one blacksmith shop, and the site of the present depot was covered with a wheatfield.

In August, 1869, in company with C. Peterson, he engaged in the lumber trade, starting the first lumber yard in the village. The following winter the firm was dissolved, and Mr. Esbjornsson engaged in the wheat trade. This he followed until the fall of 1887. In 1876 he bought out S. "W. Leavitt's lumber yard, and has since continued m that business, handling sash, doors, blinds and everything pertaining to that line of trade. Mr. Esbjornsson has' taken an active interest in public matters, has been elected alderman a number of times, and at present is the mayor of the village, having been elected to that position in the spring of 1888.

Mr. Esbjornsson is a native of Sweden, where he was born January 30, 1845. His younger days were spent upon a farm, and his earlier education was that afforded by common schools, but when he was twentytwo he took a course in an agricultural college. Shortly after this he decided to come to America, and from that time until his emigration, in 1869, he devoted his time to educating himself in the English language. He was married in 1879 to Miss Eureca A. Ilosenquist, of Meeker county.

OHN A. QUICK, one of the energetic citizens of Collinwood township, is engaged in carrying on farming operations on lot 5, section 20. He is the son of Elijah and Phoebe (Clark) Quick, and was l)orn in Grayson county, Ky., August 21, 1838, but when he was about a year old his parents emigrated to Perry county, Ind., where they died. Our subject worked at home on his father's farm, and his educational facilities were extremely limited. He obtained but five months' attendance upon a subscription school, but diligent study and an extended course of reading have given him an excellent education, which is altogether self-acquired. On attaining his majority he went back to Kentucky', and for several years was employed in various laborious businesses. He finally returned to Indiana and rented a piece of land and put in a crop. "While here, June 29, 1862, he was wedded to Miss Margaret Waggoner, who was born in Frankfort. Germany, February 27, 1841, and daughter of AVilliam and Elizabeth (Haydener) Waggoner. He then purchased the homestead of his mother, and carried on farming until December, 1863, when he enlisted in Company L, Thii'teenth Indiana Cavalry, and partici])ated in the engagements at Huntsville, Murfreesboro, Franklin, Nashville and Moljile, and in many of the raids, skirmishes and expeditions. For over thirty -seven days they were in the saddle constantly on one raid, and they had several of thein. He was mustered out of service, as blacksniitii, in December, 1865, and for a sliort time after followed that trade in Indiana. He then sold out and came to Minnesota, settling in McLeod county in 1866, wiiere he lived two years and then came to Meeker county. He has held various townslii]) offices, and also that of notary public and county coroner. He taught school somewhat after coming here, and holds two teacher's certificates now. He is a zealous Methodist in religion, a licensed exhorter and has held the office of church steward and class-leader for several years. He is the parent of the following children - Lucy Jane, who was born October 2, 1863, but died Jul}' 4, 186i; Mary Magdalene, born September 25, 1867, now Mrs. Ilerljert Quick, of Fort Ilipley, Morrison county, this State, her marriage having taken ])lace November 18, 1880, and she is the mother of one child, Ernest Clyde, born March 18, 1888; Andi'ew Jackson, born March 31, 18fi9, died January 4, 1873; Rebecca Jane, liorn August 14, 1871, died the following October 20; Sarah Elizabeth, born February 24, 187G ; riia'be Catherine, born August 5, 1878 ; and Effie Josephine, born July 16, 1881. jNfr. Quick has the reputation of making the best syrup manufactured in Meeker and McLeod counties. He began the manufacture of cane syrup in 1884 and 'has continued it ever since. He has one of Cook's improved evaporators and other necessary machinery, and with his skill and management his products in this line are second to none manufactured in the State. In the fall of 1884 he made over 600 gallons, 12 {wuncls to the gallon ; in the fall of 1885, 1,600 gallons, weighing from 12 to 13 pounds to the gallon ; and in the fall of 1886 about 1,200 gallons of the same weight. In the fall of 1887 he only manufactured about 600 gallons, as his work was delayed on account of sickness.

lig>>ATRICK CASEY. Prominent among W~ the old pioneers of Meeker county that still remain here is the gentleman whose name heads this personal memoir. He is a native of County Tipperary, Ireland, and was born in March, 1816, being baptized on the 12th of that month. He was reared in the Emerald Isle and there made his home until tlie sad and eventful year of 1848, when, with a laudable desire to better his condition, he came to this country, landing at the port of New York on the 22d of January, 1849. After a short stay in the metropolis he removed to Allegheny county, Pa., where he remained some six years, and where he was married July 8, 1851, to Miss Hannorali McRaith. Leaving the "Keystone State" in the spring of 1S56, he came west to IManitowoc. Wis., and from there by way of Chicago, to Dubuque, Iowa, and fi'om there by steamboat to St. Paul. There he met Captain Hayden, with his corps of surveyors, William and Michael O'Brien and Patrick Condon, and the whole party, in the month of May started in a bee line for Meeker county. With them was one ox team, the wagon being loaded with four barrels of flour belonging to Hayden. On the 1st of June, the little pai'ty struck the Big Woods and for sixteen days they struggled through the thirty-five miles that lay between them and their destination, reaching Kingston on the 16th of June, 1856. Two days later Mr. Casey took his claim on section 33, Darwin township, where he now lives, and which has been his home ever since, except during the Indian troubles.

Putting up a cabin for himself and assisting the others to do the same, he paid Captain Hayden thirty-five to dollars plow up an acre of ground for him, so that he could hold the claim. He then returned to Pennsylvania, where he had left his family, but hearing that his claim had been "jumped," he returned to his land and found that Captain Hayden's brother in-law had laid claim to the land, but no one was occupying it at the time. He took up his residence in his humble cabin to guard the place, but found no trouble. He and Patrick Condon " batched "' in Condon's shanty, where they had plenty of provisions, and spent that winter. In the spring IMr. Casey sent for his family, and waited in St. Paul for them. On their arrival he brought his wife and three children to this county, they arriving here May 9, 1857. That year he raised but a few potatoes, and in 1858 he bought a few bushels of wheat, which he sowed and had to

On the evenino- of the 18th of Aug-ust, 1862, our subject heard of the Indian outbreak that had commenced that day, and immediately took his family to Forest City, and two days later to Clearwater, stopping several times on his way, and from the last place sent the family on to Minnea})olis, and returned to look after the stock. lie found all in good sha])e but one steer, and gathering them together, drove off some twenty seven head, leaving six cows with John'Peiffer to keep for him. Going to Minneapolis, he did not return here until the spring of 1865, when he again took up his abode on his farm. He got about $300 from the State to indemnify him for his losses, which helped give him a new start.

The family are devout members of the Roman Catholic church. Mr. Casey is in politics a democrat, and has held the offices of chairman of the town board and town treasurer.

^TlLS DANIELSON, deceased, was a _yfj| respected citizen and an old settler in the western part of the county. The township of Danielson was so named in honor of him. He came to this country with his parents in 1855, and first settled in Rock county, Wis. They moved from there to Meeker county, Minn., in 1857, in company with Kittel Haraldson, Ole Amundson and Gilbert Zackson. They first settled in the town of Acton and in 1863, Nils Danielson took his homestead on section 2, town of Danielson, and was the first settler in the township and the town was afterward named in honor of him. Nils Danielson died in 1869. The widow and six children survive him, all living in this county. There are four boys and two girls: the eldest, Helen, is married to E. Evenson, of the town of Greenleaf; the next oldest, Mary, is married to Ole K. Nilson, of the town of Danielson. Then comes D. N. Danielson, who is mentioned elsewhere. The next oldest is Henry, who is married and lives in the town of Cedar Mills. The next is Hans, who is a single man and lives with Daniel. The youngest, Anthony, also single and lives on the old homestead with his mother.

As will be seen the family were hei'e at the time of the Indian outbreak. The father took an active part in the whole of it; was one of the band who went on the night of the 17th of August to Acton, where Jones, Baker and the others were murdered. Nils Danielson started out in company with Andrew Olson, to their respective farms, on the morning when Olson was shot by the Indians, and the two were only about fifty rods apart when Olson fell.

fETER JOHNSON. Among the citizens of Meeker county who owe their present adequate fortunes entirely to their own ability and labor there is probably none more widely or more favorably known than the gentleman whose name heads this sketch. He is a resident of the village of Dassel, where he has large interests, prominent among which are his loan and real estate business, the lumber yarcl, liis connection with the woolen mill, and greatest of all, the Tile Stove J\Ianufactory, the product of which is destined to supersede, to some extent in this country, the old, unsightly iron stoves of the present.

Mr. Johnson is a native of Sweden, born December 13, 1S40, and the son of Maria and John Olson, of CoUingwood township. When a young man he learned the tailor's trade and followed that avocation in his native land until 1861. Perceiving the impossibihty of acquiring any start in life in that counti'v he determined to seek in the New World the fortune denied him at home, and accordingly crossed the stormy Atlantic, and coming directly west worked at his trade in Chicago, 111., Mem])his, Tenn., and St. Paul, Minn., remaining in the latter city until 1867. Leaving there, that year, he traveled on foot to see the country, and on his arrival in CoUingwood township, this county, took up a homestead on section 12, and commenced its improvement. He lived upon this place, engaged in the avocation of a farmer until 1878, when he sold out and removed to Dassel, and opened his loan and real estate office. From this time on he has been identified with the growth and development of the town and county, and hasgrown in wealth and influence with them and to-day is one of the leading spirits in all enterprises that advance the interests or propei-ty of Dassel.

Mr. Johnson, while a resident of St. Paul, was united in marriage with Miss Johanna Swanson, a native of Sweden. The ceremony which united them took place May 28, 1868, in the German Lutheran church, tiien on Ninth street.

Xo one citizen has been more prominently identified with the growth and development of the eastern jiart of Meeker county than has Mr. Johnson, and every enterprise calculated to benefit either town or county has always received his hearty aid and encouragement, lie is a man of the strictest honor and integrity, and justly merits the high esteem in which he is held. He takes an active interest in political matters, being a staunch republican, and is one of the leaders of that party in the locality in which he lives, and as such is well known thi'oughuut this part of the State. Mr. Johnson was one of the delegates from this congressional district in J1888 to the national convention at Chicago. A portrait of him will be found elsewhere in this Album.

/^^, ROVE CITY can boast of as fine a ^^pT class of business men as any town of its size in Minnesota, and prominent among them is C. C. Reitan, the subject of this sketch. He, like many of the citizens of the State, is a native of Norway, born March 21, 18-19, and the son of Clement and Anna Reitan. Reared in his native land, he there received the elements of his education, and remained there until 1870, when, at the age of twenty-one, he crossed the ocean to the New AVorld to hew out his own fortune, bringing with him the honesty of purpose, the perseverance and the thrift so common to his countrymen. He came direct to Minnesota on his arrival on Columbia's shore, and locating in Rice county, near Northfield, worked for a farmer there for some four years. He then went to Minnea])o]is, and for nearly as long a period was employed as a clerk in the grocery store of A. C. Haugen. A triji to his native land at the close of that eno-asement followed ; and while there he was united in marriage Julv 10, 1877, with Miss Karen Kinseth. the sister of Mrs. A. C. Haugen, the cashier of the Scandia bank of Minneapolis. She was born September 19, 1852. He, with his young wife, returned to this country, arriving in Minneapolis on the 13th of August, 1879. Resuming his old place with Mr.

Haugen, he remained until November following, when he came to Grove City and opened a general merchandise store in connection with Mr. Haugen. This partnership lasted three years, and then he purchased the interest of his partner. Two years later John Christensen became a member of the firm, and the business is still carried on by them. Their building is a very line one and well filled with a well assorted stock of goods. The firm Iniilt an elevator of 50,000 bushels capacity, which tliey also operated for two years, after which they sold it to the Northwestern Elevator Co. In 1885 Mr. Reitan made another trip to Europe for his health, durine which he visited Enjrland, France, Belgium, Germany, Norway and Sweden. His parents came to the United States in 1887, and now make their home with him.

Mr. and Mrs. Reitan are the parents of five children, of whom the following is the record - Conrad Ulfred C, born June 17, 1879; Louis, born April 17, 1881; Gustaf Arthur, born July 19, 1883 ; Ludwig Christian, born June 30, 1885 ; and Beatha Susanna, born October 20, 1886.

lp)ETER KEILTY, a highly respected 1^ farmer and stock- raiser, residing on section 28, Forest Prairie township, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on the 20th of September, 1847, and is the son of William and Bridget Keilty, who were natives of Ireland. The family were among the earliest settlers in the township, the father having cut his own road to his homestead on section 34, which he took in 1864. The parents lived here for many years, then went to Kansas, but returned, and are now living in the township. Peter Keilty spent his school days, receiving a good education, in Kentucky and Illinois, his parents having removed to the latter

State in 1863. They remained there for several years, one of which was spent in the city of Chicago, and they then went to Berrien county, Mich., where they remained until coming to Meeker county, Minn., in 1866. The most of the life of our subject has been devoted to farming, althougii there have been some excejjtions. For two years he was on the Northern Pacific Railroad as a cook, and he also spent some time in lumbering. He also for some time was in Colorado.

Mr. Keilty was married at Forest City on the 7th of January, 1SS3, to Miss Gertrude Thissen, a native of Minnesota and a daughter of Peter Thissen, a farmer of Forest Prairie township. Their marriage has been blessed with two children, named Josie and Bernard.

In political matters Mr. Keilty affiliates with the republican party. The family are members of the Catholic Church. lie has a comfortable home and good farm, and devotes his time and attention to stock-raising and to diversified farming'.

EANDER L. WAKEFIELD. One of the first pioneeis of Meeker county, and one who has always been identified with its interests, is the gentleman named above, who first made his appearance here in November, 1856, and settled upon section 18, Forest City township. He is now a resident of the village of Forest City, the old county seat, whose glory has departed since the inception of Litchfield.

He received his education, and was reared in the " Old Pine Tree State," and as he grew to manhood engaged in lumbering in that locality, and followed that business until some twentj'-three years of age, when he came to Minnesota, and Meeker county.

He iulopted farniing on coining here, which has been liis chief occupation ever since, lie has filled several of tiie town offices, the chief ones being those of supervisoi' and constal)le. lie is always interested in educational matters, being for several yeai's a member of tlie school board.

Our subject lias been twice married, the first time to ]\[iss Lois Sturtevant, also a native of Maine, who died Aunust 2r., 1876, leaving seven children - AVilliam Edwin, wlio married Miss Addie Peters, and is living in Forest City ; Theron A., who married Miss Flora Taylor, and lives in Litchfield ; Sarah H., Mrs. Seth Burdick, living in Forest City ; Mary E., John R., Luella L., and Leander L. April 15, 1878, Mr. Wakefield contracted a second matrimonial alliance, with Mrs. Ruth E. Smith, a native of the State of Maine.

During the Indian outbreak Mr. Wakefield had quite an experience. He and William Mai'ble had engaged to take a quantity of flour from Forest City to the Yellow Medicine Agency, and when within half a mile of tlie Minnesota river and eight miles below the agency, camped for the night, sleeping under their wagons.

About two o'clock in the morning they were awakened by two Frenchmen who had fortunately escaped the mui-derous Sioux at the agency and on account of the dense fog had lost theii' way. From the Frenchman's limited knowledge of the English language they \vere unable to learn the particulars, and determined to investigate the matter. They yoked tlie oxen, intending to proceed to the ferry, then in charge of a Mr. Brown. When on their way to the ferry their attention was attracted by two horsemen, riding at a rapid rate. On noticing the teams the horsemen turned out of their course, accosted Mr. AVakefield and Mr. Marble, saying, " Turn back, if you want to save your scalps ; the Indians arekilling the whites at sight, at the agenc}'." After giving this information they continued their flight to the lower agency. Witliinan h<iurtliey werecaj)tured by the Indians.

Providentially, one of the men, Mr. Blair, escaped thi-ough the mei'cy of some friendly Indians. The fate of the other was unknown. Obeying the order given, Mr. Wakefield and Mr. Marble turned back, down to a ravine, unloaded their flour and started toward Forest City, traveling the distance of seventy miles in twenty-four hours. Finding his house deserted, his family having gone away for safety, he j)roceeded to the village. After caring for his family, he rolled himself in his blanket and slept for nearly fortyeight hours. He then was emjiloyed by Judson A. Stanton to take the merchandise out of his store to Minneajtolis, and then joined his family.

^IT ELSON J. MARCH is a native of Ackworth, Sullivan county, N. II., and was born in 1828. He is a son of Geoi'ge and Hannah (Nelson) March, the former of whom was born in Londonderry, N. H., and the latter in Georgetown, Mass. They were married in 1808 and a j'ear later settled in Ackworth, where they spent the balance of their days, Mr. March dying about the first of the year 1832, and his widow in 1850.