Mower County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1911 (part 11 of 14)

Julius W. Johnson, the industrious and hard-working head miller for A. S. Campbell at the Peerless Roller ]\Iills, Austin, was born in Wate.rtown, Wis., February 28, 1858, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Johnson, both natives of Norway. The parents came to this country about 1847 or 1848, and located in Watertown, Wis., where Ole elohnson was a merchant and conducted a general store. The family came to Austin in the spring of 1870, and farmed for several years. Ole died in 1891, his wife having passed away many years previous at Watertown, AVis., when Julius was a small boy. Julius attended the coininoii schools, worked on a farm and clerked in a store. In the fall of 1880, he entered the employ of Mathew Gregson, the miller, and remained with him until 1886, when he entered the employ of the Engie Company. When the Campbell brothers purchased the mill in 1890 he continued to work there, and when that firm was divided he still remained with the mill, his excellent work having had much to do with its success. Mr. Johnson married Louise Scholl, and to this union has been born one son, Arthur P. Mrs. Scholl was born in Stratford, Ontario, September 10, 1868, being one of a family of eight daughters and one son born to Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Scholl, who for many years, until the former's death, in 1909, conducted the German Hotel in Austin. The place is now managed by Mrs. Scholl and her son.

John F. Krause, who has been assessor of the town of Grand Meadow for the past eight years, is one of the prosperous men of the community. He believes in modern farming methods and his interest in education has been shown by his service as treasurer of school district 21 for twelve years. The subject of this sketch was born in Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin, May 20, 1873, son of William and Amelia (Wagner) Krause, the former of whom was born in Germany and came to America when he was sixteen years of age. John F. came with his parents to Grand Meadow township when he was five years of age, and spent his early life on his father's farm in section 35, which he has since bought of his father, and where he still makes his home and successfully carries on general farming. He married Anna Grimm, daughter of August and Wilhelmina (Erdraann) Grimm, and they are the parents of three children: Alwin, Edna and Viola.

George B. Loucks, one of the supervisors of Frankford township, is one of the well-to-do and progressive men of the community. He is an independent voter, has served as treasurer of school district 17, and is vice-president in the Geyser Threshing & Shredding Company, No. 2, of Frankford township, as well as a stockholder in the Farmers' Store, at Spring Valley. Being of a fraternal nature, he has also allied himself with the ^lodern AVoodraen of America, at Spring Valley. George B. Loucks was born in Schoharie county, New York, March 18, 1848, son of Harmon and Eva (Bassler) Loucks. He received his education in his native state and was reared to agricultural inirsuits. In 1868, on his twentieth birthday, he left New York state, and located in Sparta, Wis., where he remained until fall. Then he located in Spring Valley, in Fillmore county, and reiiuiined until 1871. In that year he went to South Dakota and took up land, owning at one time as much as 1,100 acres of land, this being at the time of the grasshopper plague in 1875. After his father's death, that year, he came back to Minnesota. As he had not complied with all the legal formalities, his claim in South Dakota was jumped. Accordingly he made his home in Spring Valley. Shortly afterward he purchased 160 acres in section 26, Frankford township, and subsequently he became manager of the C. W. Taylor farm of 360 acres in Spring Valley township. In 1890 he moved onto his farm in Frankford townshiiD. At that time only twenty acres were broken. He broke and improved the land, erected suitable buildings, and now carries on general farming, making a specialty of Shropshire sheep and Black Poll-Angus cattle. He has set out many evergreen and other shade trees, and has five acres of apple orchard. The subject of this sketch was married December 5, 1875, to Delphine Bassler, born in Clinton, Wis., October 13, 1856, daughter of Benjamin and Eachel (Cornwall) Bassler. This union has been blessed with six children : Burdette Royal, Callie E., IMattie E., Benjamin E., George F. and Sadie L. Burdette Royal Avas born May 28, 1878, married Lottie Tart, lives in Bennington township and has two children, Mildred M. and Helen C. Callie E. was born April 7, 1880, married Henry Kasten, of Spring Valley, and they have one child, Delbert D. Mattie E. is the wife of Frank Clouse, of Bennington township. Benjamin E. was born August 31, 1882, and married Grace Dean. They have two children, Everett and Leon. George F. was born May 16, 1895. Sadie L. was born October 8, 1897. Harmon Loucks was born in New York state and there married Eva Bassler, a native of the same state. In 1869 they came to Minnesota and located in Spring Valley, Fillmore county, where they purchased land and engaged in farming until his death, June 27, 1875. His wife is still living. Harmon Loucks was born July 11, 1825, and his wife, September 20, 1827. They were the parents of twelve children: George B., of Frankford; David, of Hamilton; Maria, now Mrs. E. A. Hess, of Frankford; Andrew, dead; Jeremiah, of Frankford ; Alexander, of Oklahoma ; Anna, now Mrs. Thomas Fryer, of Spring Valley; Irving, of Spring Valley; Elmer, of Austin ; Margaret, wife of George Churchill, of Spring Valley; Hattie, dead, and Edmund, of Little Falls, this state.

Benjamin Bassler was born in New York state and married Rachel Cornwall. They located in Illinois in 1854, and the following year took up their residence in Clinton, Wis., where they engaged in the hotel business, Mr. Bassler also following his trade as a harness maker. Rachel Cornwall Bassler died in 1861. leaving five children: Althera, deceased; Eugene N., deceased; Carloss E., of California ; Judson S., of Darien, Wis. ; Delphine.

now Mrs. Gr. B. Loueks. Later in life Benjamin Bassler married Cornelia AVillis, who bore him three children : Katherine L., of Darin, Wis.; Benjamin AV., deceased; IMinnie E., Chicago, now Mrs. "William Leigh.

Andrew Lybeck, a substantial and prosperous farmer of Grand Meadow township, was born in Racine township, this county, March 22, 1861, son of Andrew Lybeck, the elder. The father was born in Norway, came to America, married and lived for a time in Racine township, this county. Then he moved to Pleasant Valley township with his family and there ended his daj's, his wife also passing away there. Andrew, the subject of this sketch, was reared on the home farm, and after his father's death continued for a while to manage the homestead. Later he purchased eighty acres in section 2, Grand Meadow, where he now resides. He has extensive interests throughout the county, and is well known as a successful farmer.

Martin Lokke, a progressive young farmer of Frankford township, was born in Green count.y, Wisconsin, j\Iarch 27, 1872, son of Thomas M. and Carolina E. Lokke. He was brought to Frankford township by his parents, and was here reared to manhood, attending school in district 97 and learning agricultural pursuits from his father. In 1909 he took charge of the home farm, and is conducting it in a modern and up-to-date manner. At one time he was town marshal for Grand Meadow, and he is now treasurer of school district 97. He married Annie 0. Hovda, daughter of E. 0. and Anna Hovda, and they have two bright children, Alyrtle A. and Truman E.

Arthur McNally, now deceased, was one of the early settlers of Grand Aleadow township, and became one of the prominent residents of the county. He was born in Ireland, and came to America in 1839, at the age of eighteen years. After several years in Canada he went to Rutland. Vt., and was there married, in 1842. In 1849 he came westward to Kenosha county, Wisconsin, lived there two years, and then settled in Lyons, Iowa, for four years. About 1856 he came to Grand Meadow, and here farmed until his death, in May, 1906. His wife died March 6, 1911. Both were most estimal)le people, and their influence in the community was ever toward respectability and decency. They were the parents of Daniel, John. Dennis, Mary (deceased), Thesa (deceased), Ellen (deceased), James, Charles, Ella and Agiu>s. Agnes married Homer Clemens and they have two bright boys, Duard and Jack. Mrs. Clemens and John jMcNally now operate the home farm and they are among the most successful and prosperous farmers in the township.

crowned with the fruits of success. He was born in a part of Schleswig, then Denmark, now Germany, July 29, 1850, son of Christian and Abalonia, both of Danish birth, who spent eight years in America, but ended their days in Schleswig. Henry received his education in his native land, and came to America in 1867, at seventeen years of age. For eleven years he was variously employed, part of the time in Rochester, Minn. In 1877 he came to Grand Meadow township, and purchased eighty acres of land, one mile south of the village. He added to this tract until he owned 240 acres of land, on which he lived and prospered, erecting a home and a fine set of buildings, and following general farming until 1904, when he purchased twelve acres and a residence in Grand Meadow village, and retired, making his home here until his death. Mr. Nissen was a Democrat in politics and was a member of the school board at the time of his death. He was also a stockholder in the First National Bank, of Grand Meadow. The subject of this sketch was married March 13, 1887, to Betsy Engebretson, born in Norway, January 28, 1855, daughter of Ingebret Arneson and Anne Sanderson, his wife, both of whom died in Norway. Mrs. Nissen came to America in 1873 and located at Rockdale, Olmsted county. She bore to Henry C. Nissen seven children : William, who lives in Aberdeen, S. D., is in the automobile and machinery business; Albert E. is on the home farm ; Peter is traveling ; Alma is the wife of Oscar Carlstrom, an attorney of Aledo, 111. ; Anna teaches at Groton, S. D. ; Mary is a student in the Grand Meadow high school, and Elmer, the youngest of the family, is still in the graded schools. It is worthy of note that in 1902 Mrs. Nissen took a trip to her old home in Norway and spent ten weeks with her parents. Since her husband's death she has looked after the home affairs, and is a capable housekeeper and wise mother.

Elling Haugen, now deceased, was one of the early residents of Racine township. He was born in Norway and married Mary Haugen. They came to America in 1850, located in Wisconsin, and there lived for a considerable period. It is worthy of note that they made the trip across the Atlantic in a sailing vessel and spent seven weeks on the water. In 1864 they came to Mower county, settled in Racine township, and there engaged in farming. In 1880 they went to the northwestern part of Minnesota and there Filing died. His wife is still living, at the good old age of eighty-three years.

Peter E. Peterson, now deceased, was for many years an honoi'cd farmer of Frankford township and later of Grand Meadow village. He was on the town board of Frankford for some time, served as clerk of his school district for several terms, and after coming to Grand Meadow served as mayor two years. Aside from 200 acres in Mower county, he owned 160 acres in Aitkin county, this state, and was also a shareholder in the First National Bank of Grand J\Ieadow. Peter E. Peterson was born in Norway, April 26, 1846, son of Tver and Helen Gertrude Peterson, also natives of Norway. The family came to America in 1850 and locateci in Green county, Wisconsin, where both parents died. Peter started in life for himself by purchasing eighty acres in Racine township, Mower county, where he went in 1869. Later he sold this tract, and removed to Frankford township, where he bought eighty acres in section 31. Later he added an eighty acres adjoining in section 32, and still later forty acres adjoining, but over the line in Bennington township. This tract of 200 acres he broke and developed, erected a fine home and suitable buildings, and carried on general farming until 1896. Then he rented his farm, and removed to Grand IMeadow village, where he purchased a lot and built a modern home, in which he lived the remainder of his days. His decease; October 5, 1908, was sincerely mourned by his many friends. The subject of this sketch was married October 13, 1870, to Caroline Haugen, born in Wisconsin, November 13, 1854, daughter of EUing and Mary Haugen, natives of Norway. Mr. and Mrs. Peterson have four children : Edward, of Grand Meadow ; Helen G., of Clayton township, wife of Edwin Julson ; Theodore, now living in Wasiiington state, and Marie, who lives at home. There is also an adopted son, George. The family worships at the United Norwegian Lutheran church.

William A. Nolan, of Grand Meadow village, has an enviable record of active work in public and business affairs. He was elected to the legislature in 1900 and served ten years, his successor taking office in 1911. He has been president of the school board of the village of Grand Meadow since its organization as a separate district, and has been at the head of the Grand Meadow Fire Department for over twenty years. He was a member of the village council for three years. He is a harness and leather dealer, an automobile agent, and is interested in the banking and telephone business. Withal, the social side of his nature has not l)een neglected and he is a popular member of the A. F. & A. M., the M. W. A., and the B. P. O. E. He attends the Congregational church, of which he is a trustee. It may be truly said that Mr. Nolan is a man of affairs, pushing, active, progressive and public spirited, interested in everything that is for the betterment and welfare of his village, his town, his county, his state and his nation. William A. Nolan was born in Yankton, S. D., October 4, 1862, son of Charles E. and Sarah A. (Gordy) Nolan, pioneers. He was educated in the schools of High Forest, ]Minn., and at tlie agi> of niiictecii l.-ai'ii''(l tlic harness-making trade from .loliii

Connor, at Grand Meadow. Eventually he purchased the business, and the establishment is now conducted on a large scale. Mr. Nolan married Laura Greening, daughter of John Greening, and their union has been blessed with four children : Mabel L, Bernice, Merrill C. and William R. The parents of William A. Nolan - Charles E. and Sarah A. Nolan - were natives of New York state, where a brother of Charles E. was for many years clerk of the supreme court. Charles E. was an early pioneer, came to High Forest, Olmsted county, in 1855, and was the first merchant to open a store in that town. He died in 1865.

George W. Reed, retired merchant and farmer, now living in Dexter, was born in Cook county, Illinois, September 26, 1853, son of Robert and Mary Reed. He was brought to Pleasant Valley township, this county, in 1856, and was here reared to manhood, receiving his boyhood education in the district schools. In 1882 he took charge of the home farm, and conducted this place in connection with a farm of 160 acres he had purchased in 1878, until 1892, when he became the Dexter representative of the McCormick Manufacturing Company. In the fall of 1904 he entered into partnership with Jesse C. Vermilyea, the firm name being Vermilyea & Reed. After five years Mr. Vermilyea sold his interest in the business to R. S. Noyes. A year later Mr. Reed bought out his partner's interest, and on Auguest 4, 1910, sold out to W. E. Daley. Mr. Reed served as treasurer of his school district twenty years, and was assessor several terms in Pleasant Valley township. He was married April 17, 1876, to Alice E. Erase, and to this union two children have been born, George H. and Florence E. The family faith is that of the Presbyterian church.

Robert Reed and Mary, his wife, were natives of New York state. They located in Cook county, Illinois, in 1851, and in 3856 came to Minnesota, and preempted 160 acres in section 7, Pleasant Valley. Robert died in February, 1885, and his wife passed away in 1880.

Frederick M. Peirson, a retired hotel proprietor and farmer now living in Grand IMeadow, was born April 4, 1834, at Chittenden, Chittenden county, Vermont, son of John and Nabby (Saxton) Pierson. At the age of three years he was brought by his parents to Ohio, in 1840 to Rockford, 111., in 1844 to Silver Creek, 111., and in 1846 to Winslow, 111. At the age of nineteen he located in Columbia county, Wisconsin, and in May, 1854, took up a claim in Minnesota. From that month until October he lived in La Crosse, and then located on his claim, which was in section 1, township 104, range 15, being included in the tier of sections which were set off from Mower county and are now a part of the township of High Forest, in Olmsted county. Mr. Peirson broke this land, worked it industriously, and made his residence for many years in a "grout" house, made of lime and sand. This building stood until 1909, when it was torn down to make way for a substantial modern farm building. During the Civil war this building was converted into a tavern. In 1874 Mr. Peirson moved to Rochester, Minn., and engaged in the hotel business there for three years. In 1877 he came to Grand Meadow and purchased a hotel, which he conducted until 1898, when he rented the hotel and retired. Aside from this hotel building, where he now makes his home, he owns a 200-acre farm in Olmsted county and a quarter section in Grand Meadow township. A part of this latter tract is noted for its sand for building purposes, the deposit covering over five acres to a depth of eighteen feet. Mr. Peirson is a man of strong character and has always been active in upholding those things which he believes to be right and good. He is a Republican in politics and served as a justice of the peace for two years. Mr. Peirson was married November 20, 1860, to Catherine Keyes, a native of Ireland, who has proved a most able helpmeet. A son. Dr. Homer F. Peirson, lives in Austin. John Peirson and Nabby Saxton, his wife, were natives of Vermont, both of English descent. While living in Vermont John Peirson was a lumberman in the Canadian woods. In 1837 he removed his family to Ohio, lived there three years, then in 1840 went to Rockford, 111., and in 1844 took up his residence in Silver Creek, two years later going to Winslow in the same state. In 1848 John Peirson started overland for California, and acquired considerable land along the Pacific coast. Later he went to the Sandwich Islands, where he died in 1852. His wife lived in Illinois until his death, after which she returned to her old home in Vermont, where she died. It is interesting to note that practically the first claim recorded for what is now Mower county was that of J. S. Peirson, in September, 1854. J. S. was a son of John and a brother of Frederich M.

Artemus W. Sanborn, a venerable and honored citizen of Racine township, was born in eastern Canada December 5, 1833, son of Stephen and Rhoda (Clement) Sanborn, the pioneers. Artemus received his education in the public schools of Dodge county, Wisconsin, where he was taken by his parents in 1843. There he grew to manhood, and in the year 1856 came to Mower county and preempted the northwest quarter of section 26, in Racine township. After proving up his claim, he went back to Wisconsin, and there remained until 1862, when he came to ]\Iower county again, and settled on his claim, living on it three years. In 1865 he sold out, and purchased his present place of eighty acres in section 35, wlicrc lie built his liome, developed the land, and made all improvements, following general farming until 1882, when he secured a position as railway mail clerk. This position he held until 1887, his run being between Winona and Chicago. During this period of five years he made his home in Rochester, that he might better educate his children and be nearer his Avork. At the close of this period he returned to his farm in Racine and carried on general farming until 1900, when he retired from active life. He and his good wife continue to live on the home farm, which has been in their possession for forty-six years. Mr. Sanborn is a Republican and has served as town clerk and as assessor and a member of the school board; he was census enumerator in 1880. He is a high degree Mason and a member of the Methodist church. Artemus W. Sanborn Avas married November 19, 1866, to Mrs. Harriett (Cochrane) Allen, who was boi'n in New York state, January 2, 1838, daughter of James and Fidelia (Aldrich) Cochrane. The Cochranes came west to Dodge county from New York state in 1848, and there James Cochrane died in 1852, his wife, Fidelia, expiring in Juneau county, Wisconsin, in 1890. Mr. and Mrs. Sanborn have two children, Clara B. and Charles W. Clara B. married Attorney Charles E. Callaghan, postmaster at Rochester, and they have four children, Howard, Lola, Helen and Gertrude. Mrs. Sanborn died February 27, 1911.

Charles W. Sanborn, son of Artemus and Harriett Sanborn, was born in Racine township, June 15, 1872. He received his education in the public schools of his neighborhood, attended the public schools of Rochester and finished with a course in the Darling Business College, at Rochester, from which institution he graduated, July 5, 1894. He then returned to Racine township, and engaged in farming. He now rents his father's farm of 100 acres, is successful in his operations and is well thought of in the community. He married Anna Eichhorn November 18, 1897. She was born in Racine, October 25, 1870, daughter of A. Eichhorn and Rosa Roth, his wife, retired farmers living in Racine village. Mr. Sanborn is a member of the M. W. A. and the I. 0. 0. F.

Stephen J. Sanborn has occupied a position of trust and honor in the community for many years, and his influence and integrity have had much to do with the shaping of the destinies of his vicinity. He was an efficient and courageous deputy sheriff under Sheriff Allan Mollison, was champion of the cause of the farmer in the legislature of 1877-78; was clerk of Racine township several terms, and has been director of the First State Bank, of Racine, for a considerable period. He is an honorable, upright man, well thought of in the community wherein he has made his home for many years, lie was born in Canada, February 12, 1837, son of Stephen and Rhoda (t'lemcnt) Hanl)orn, who brought him to the United States in 1844, locating in Dodge county, Wisconsin, where he attended school and grew to manhood. In 1859, during the Pike's Peak enthusiasm, he crossed the plains, making the journey partly on foot and partly on horseback, and spending the winter prospecting along the Sacramento river. The following two years he spent in a similar manner in Utah, and then mined in Montana until the fall of 1865, when he started for home. He went down the Missouri river in a tiatboat to Council Bluffs, thence by rail to Chicago, via St. Joe, and then made the trip from Chicago to Racine township, Slower county, where, during his absence, his parents had located. He purchased land and engaged in farming, tilling the soil and prospering withal, until he owned 240 acres, the village of Racine standing on what was originally a part of his farm. In 1890, Avhen the railroad passed through and the village was started, he built a stone building and for eight years engaged in the general merchandise business. Then he engaged in grain dealing, which he successfully followed until 1910, since which time he has lived in retirement, enjoying a well-earned rest. ]Mr. Sanboi'n still owns about 200 acres of good land, besides his home and the grain warehouse, the farm being conducted by his son Elias. The subject of this sketch is an independent voter, a member of the I. 0. 0. F. and a high degree Mason. He was married, November 18, 1869, to Theressa R. Stewart, who was born in Trenton, Wis., October 28, 1852, daughter of Deacon Jonathan and Laura (Martin) Stewart. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Sanborn has been blessed with four children, two living and two dead, Elias D., Pirna L., Lola and Sybil. Elias D., who conducts the home farm, married Nettie Schroeder and they have two sons, Royce E. and Stanley S. Pirna L. married R. W. Chadwick, cashier of the First State Bank of Racine, and they have one son. Yern R. Lola and Sybil died of diphtheria in the fall of 1880.

Deacon Jonathan Stewart, a pioneer, was a man universally respected and took a prominent part in advancing the cause of religion and good morals, whenever his influence could be felt. He was born in Oneida county, New York, September 9, 1816. His father, Jonathan Stewart, Sr., was a farmer, and to this vocation Jonathan, Jr., was bred. The subject of this sketcli was married, I\Iarch 16, 1840, to Laura IMartin, who was born in Oneida county. July 10. 1822. In 1854 he went to AYisconsin and purchas'-d 160 acres of government land, lived on it twelve years, tlien sold tlie place and came to Racine township, June 11. 1857, ai.d pre-empted land in section 27. Deacon StcAvart and his wife were the parents of seven children: Jonathan A., John Wesh-y,

Stephen Sanborn was born in Canada and married Rhoda Clement, of Vermont; both being descended from noble New England stock. They lived in Canada for a time and in 1843 came to the United States, locating in Dodge county, Wisconsin, where they engaged in farming until 1861, when they came to Mower county and settled in Racine township, where they purchased land in section 26 and lived until their death, the father passing away July 22, 1870, and the mother October 12, 1896. They were the parents of four children. A. W., Stephen J. and D. C. live in Racine, and Elias died in the United States service.

George J. Schottler, M. D., a successful practitioner of Dexter, v/as born in Germantown township, Washington county, Wisconsin, November 5, 1870, son of Nicholas and Anna (Regenfuss) Schottler, Wisconsin pioneers. He attended the district schools of Washington county, Wisconsin, and after due preparation entered the preparatory teachers' course at the Northern Indiana Normal School, at Valparaiso, Ind. Then he taught school in his home district a year and subsequently again returned to Valparaiso, finishing his courses there in 1892, receiving the degree of B. S. In the meantime he had also attended clinics in therapeutics and taken a preparatory medical course. He spent the fall and winter of 1892-93 at home in order that his brother might attend school, and in the fall of 1893 entered the Rush Medical College, at Chicago, graduating in 1896 with the degree of M. D. He at once took the state examination and was admitted to practice, taking up his life work at Dexter, June 6, 1896. He has built up a large practice in village and county, is faithful and skillfulia his services and is greatly beloved by those families to whom he administers in the hours of sorrow and distress. Dr. Schottler belongs to the American, the Minnesota State, the Southern Minnesota and the Mower County Medical societies, has been president of the latter and is now its treas- Tirer. Dr. Schottler is a stockholder in and vice-president of the First State Bank of Dexter. He was at one time elected president of the village council of Dexter, but refused to serve. Dr. Schottler owns a fine home in Dexter, which he built in 1898, and in addition to this a house and ten acres of land in the village limits, which he rents. On his land he has set out 500 apple trees, which are promising well. The subject of this sketch was married, September 12, 1900, at Dexter, to Kathleen, daughter of Abram Vermilyea. She was born December 13, 1876, and her union with Dr. Schottler has been blessed Avith four children: George Jesse, born August 26, 1901; Max E., born June 26, 1903, and Kenneth B. and Kathryn B., twins, born July 17,

1904. Nicholas Schottler, one of the successful farmers of Washington 'countj-, Wisconsin, and father of Dr. George J. Schottler, of Dexter, Mower county, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, January 16, 1843, and came to America with his parents in 1846, locating in Germantown township, Washington county, Wisconsin. He was there educated and on attaining manhood's state, took up farming and located on 120 acres of land in two tracts, part of which was the original homestead. This land he cut and burned over, grubbed, broke and improved, and has since carried on general farming. He was married on January 32. 1870, to Anna Regenfuss, born in Washington county, Wisconsin, June 17, 1849, of German ancestry. She died June ]3, 1908, leaving six children: George J., the Dexter physician ; John, a farmer of Windom township in this county ; Margaretha, now Mrs. Joseph Mueller, of Austin township ; Kunnie, who died before her mother ; Conrad, on the old farm in Wisconsin, and Cecilia and Mary, who are likewise at home with their father.

0. W. Shaw, president of the First National Bank of Austin, has continued in this position for over four decades and his cordiality and business acumen have raised what was at the start a small village bank, well to the foremost as one of the sound financial institutions of southern Minnesota. Though very successful in his enterprises, he is unassuming, democratic and easily approachable by any who need his assistance or advice, and his opinions on matters of business policy are often sought by the people who patronize his institution. Amid the cares and stress of a busy life, he has found time to become a deep student of early United States history, and his documents and first editions of rare historical works are of a value which only the careful collector and discriminating observer can realize. The subject of this sketch was born in Carroll county. New Hampshire, July 19, 3834, sou of Edward and Elizabeth (Lunt) Shaw. When yoiing he engaged in clerking. For three years he was at Great Falls, N. H., then for two years was in a wholesale dry goods house in Boston. Afterward he was for three years in trade in New Hampshire with Samuel IMerrill. Then, with ]Mr. Merrill he came to Iowa, where the latter afterward became one of the honored governors of that state. For some years the gentleraen mentioned conducted a general store at McGregor, Iowa, under the firm name of Merrill, Dearborn & Shaw. In 1867 Mr. Shaw went to Chicago, and for a short period engaged in the dry goods commission business with a partner, the firm name being Rollins & Shaw. In 1867 he came to Austin, formed a business alliance with Harlan W. Page, who had previously been conducting a private bank here, and organized the First

National Bank of Austin, of which Mr. Shaw became president and Mr. Page cashier. Aside from taking an active interest in the affairs of Aiastin, Mr. Shaw has served as president of the state board of control for the school for dependent children at Owatouria. He is a member of the Society of Colonial Wars, the American Historical Association, the American Academy of Political and Social Science, and the National Geographical Society. He was married in 1862 to Sarah J. Rollins, daughter of I). G. Rollins, of Great Falls, N. H.

C. M. Skyhawk, one of tlie prominent men of Racine township, was born in MoAver county, July 25, 1860, son of Lewis and Mary Skyhawk, who came to Minnesota from Indiana in 1856. They were typical pioneers, coming the whole distance in ox wagons and homesteading 160 acres in section 29, Racine township. LeAvis SkyhaAvk died in 1863 and his Avife in 1891. C. M. Avas educated in the schools of IMoAver county and Avas reared on a farm. At the age of nineteen he started Avorking out by the month and subsequently purchased eighty acres of the old homestead. On this place he has since resided, carrying on general farming and raising cattle for beef and dairy purposes. He sells cream to the Racine Farmers' Co-operative Creamery, in Avhich he is one of the stockholders. May 12, 1886, he married Emma B. Espensehied, daughter of John Espenschied, a farmer of Raciue toAvuship, uoav deceased. John Espenschied came to MoAver county before the Avar and after enlisting saw service on the frontier against the Indians. To Mr. and Mrs. SkyhaAA'k have been born four children: Mertie, Avho is one of the successful teachers o'f Mower county; Gladys E., AAdio is a telephone operator; Alta J., Avife of Charles A. Cady, of Racine, and Stanley M., Avho is at home. The subject of this sketch belongs to the M. W. A. and to the A. F. & A. M. He is a Republican in politics. Avas toAvn supervisor twelve years and director of school district- 33 for fifteen years.

Otto S. Stenseth, clerk of the toAvn of Frankford, is a na live of this county, born on the farm Avhere he still resides, November 16, 1880, son of Sever and Gjertrude Stenseth. He Avas reared on the home farm, received his early education in the district schools and continued farming Avith his father until 1902, Avhen he rented the home farm. Since that date he has successfully conducted general farming operations. He votes the Republican ticket, belongs to the M. W. A. and attends the Lutheran church.

Sever Stenseth Avas born in NorAvay and came to America iu 1866. After liAing in Racine a year, he purchased forty acres in section 16, Frankford toAvnship. To this he later added sixty acres in section 15, making 100 acres in all. On this farm he and his wife Gjertrude still live, although they rent the place to their son Otto S. Of their twelve children seven are living. They are: luger, wife of Sever Kval, of Frankford township; Sarah, wife of S. E. Wilsie, of Grand Meadow; Emma, wife of Peter AVeeks, of Racine village; Sever; Nels, of Grand IMeadow ; Otto S., of Frankford, and Sophia.

Charles H. Steffens, a large stock raiser of Racine township, was born in Fillmore county, this state, December 24, 1861, son of Richard and Mercy (Hammond) Steffens, natives of Canada. The father Richard went to California in 1852 and engaged in the lumber business six years. Then he returned to Canada iuid was there married October 26, 1860. Subsequently he and Ills wil'e came to Fillmore county and purchased 160 acres of land. Richard Steffens died in 1883 and his wife Mercy at Spring Valley in 1907. Charles H. received his education in the district schools and taught school live years, this period including one year's service in the schools of Grand Meadow. In 1884 he finished a full course in the Normal School at Winona. Later lie settled on his present farm, where he has been very prosperous. He is one of the supervisors of the town, has been treasurer of school district 34 for twenty-three years and belongs to the Grange and the M. W. A. He is one of the extensive farmers of the coanty, cultivating 465 acres, a part of which he leases. The subject of this sketch was married, December 24, 1885, to Ella Felch, daughter of C. J. Felch, first probate judge of Mower county. This union has been blessed with eight children. Nellie M. is a student at Carlton College. Bonnie Richard graduated from the agricultural school of the University of Minnesota, and is now employed by the state drainage commission. Alice is at home. David B. is a. student in the Spring Valley High School. Joseph AVarren died October 20, 1895, aged one year and fourteen days. Charlotte and Raymond attend the Racine village school. The youngest of the family is Lincoln. The family faith is that of the ]\Iethodist Episcopal church.

Hon. Charles J. Felch, first judge of probate of Mower county, was born in Cattaraugus county, New York, January 1, 1818, son of Benjamin Felch, a native of New Hampshire. He was reared in his native state and in 1842 married Mercy G. Barrows, by whom he had four children. David F. M. enlisted in the Ninth Alinneapolis Volunteer Infantry and died in a war hospital. Benjamin F. died from injuries caused by being thrown from a horse. The two youngest died in infancy. ]Mercy Barrows Felch died in "Wisconsin in 1850, and Mr. Felch was married, January 1, 1852, to Hannah L. Sheldeii. a native of Steuben county. New Y'ork. Two cliildreii blessed this union, Charles II., deceased, and Ella II. Mr. Fcldi came to ^tlower county in 1855 and purchased two pre-emption claims, one from Joseph Kobb and the other from J. D. Gregory. These claims had been made in 1854. Mr. Felch was the first probate judge in this county, and in 1863 and 1867 sat in the senate of this state as representative from the district composed of Mower and Dodge counties. He was also elected county commissioner in 1870 and also for the succeeding term. He died November 1, 1893.

John Terlinden, a prosperous farmer of Frankford township, was born in Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin, February 6, 1858, son of Jacob and Katherine Terlinden, natives of the Ehine country in Germany. He received his education in the public schools of his native county, there grew to manhood and remained at home engaged in agriculturiil pursuits until 1884, when he came to Minnesota, located in Carver county, and purchased ninetysix acres of land in Young America township. There he followed farming until 1900, when he came to Mower county and purchased 160 acres in Frankford township, half in section 17 and half in section 20. He greatly improved the land and buildings and has successfully conducted farming operations. Mr. Terlinden is a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator Company at Grand Meadow and in the Geiser Threshing Company No. 1, of Frankford township. He is a Eepublican, attends the German Lutheran church and belongs to the M. W. A. The subject of this sketch was married, September 18, 1884, to Amelia Buss, of Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin, and they have seven children : Jacob, John, Minnie, Lizzie, Henry, William and Clarrissy. Jacob Terlinden was born in the Rhine country in Germany and with his wife Katherine came to America in 1843. After stopping a month in Milwa^^kee, they located in Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin, and there farmed the remainder of their days, Jacob dying in 1886 and Katherine in 1906. They were the parents of nine children: Peter lives on the old homestead in Fond du Lac county; Katherine is Mrs. Henry Schmidt, of Wayne, Wis. ; Sybila is Mrs. John Wagnor, of Grand Meadow ; Minnie died at the age of twenty-five; John lives in Frankford tOAvnship, this county ; Jacob lives in McLeod county, Minn. ; Jerry lives in Carver county, Minnesota ; Elizabeth is Mrs. William Cisco, of Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin; Annie is Mrs. Amos Cisco, of Thorpe, Wisconsin.

John Wagner, a retired farmer now living in Grand Meadow, was born in Germany, December 19, 1850, son of John and Amelia (Hodlemau) Wagner. He was brought to America by his parents in 1856. at the age of six years, and at the age of ten years was taken to Washington county, Wisconsin, where he attended school and grew to manhood. Then he went with his parents to Fond du Lac, Wis., and there worked with his father until twenty-four years of age. At that age he started out in life for himself as a carpenter, working four years for one man in Campbellsport, Wis. In 1878 he came to Mower county, and purchased 160 acres of land in Fraukford township, section 21. On this farm he labored faithfully, developing the land, erecting buildings, and adding various tracts from time to time until he owned 850 acres, all of which, with the exception of a 255- aere tract, which he sold. In 1906 he rented his farm and moved to the village, where he now occupies one of the finest homes in the village. He was married in October, 1878, to Amelia Dickman, who died in February, 1885, leaving four children : Herman, who is on the old homestead ; John F., who lives in Fillmore county; Emma, who married Ora Bennett, a contractor of Wheatland, Wyo., and Lydia, who died in 1895. Mr. Wagner was married the second time March 18, 1886, to Syvilla Terlinden, who was born in Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin, November 10, 1853. To this union have been born two children : Amanda, now Mrs. August Detloff, of Frankford township, and Helen, who lives at home. Mr. Wagner is a staunch Republican, a director of the school board of his district, and a member of the German Lutheran church.

John Wagner, Sr., and Amelia Hodleman, his wife, parents of John Wagner, Jr., were natives of Germany. They crossed the briny deep in 1856 and located in Milwaukee for a period of four years, during which period the senior Wagner followed his trade as a blacksmith. In 1860 this rugged blacksmith moved his family to Washington county in the same state, and after following his trade for a while purchased thirty acres of land, erected a shop and combined farming with blacksmithing for fifteen years. Then he went to Fond du Lac county, in the same state, and there farmed until 1892. Then he came to ]Mower county, purchased 160 acres, and was on the high road to success and prosperity, when, in October, 1895, while driving a horse rake, he was thrown from the vehicle by a runaway horse, and was killed. His wife died October 4, 1910. John Wagner, Sr., and his wife were the parents of eight children : John, who is a retired farmer of Grand Meadow; Amelia, now ]\Irs. AYilliam Krouse, of Grand Meadow township; William, of Walii)eton, X. D. ; Ida, who married Cliarles Fuchs, and died March, 1909; IIi«rman, of Arthur, N. D. ; Albert; Frank, of Grand Meadow, iiiul Anna, now ]\[rs. Haskell Yonsie.

Jacob Terlinder and Katlierine Engefels, his wife, parents of -Mrs. John Wagner, of Grand IMeadow, were natives of Germany and came to America at an early day, locating in Fond du Lac. Wis., where they farmed all their lives. They were the parents of nine children : Peter, who is on the old homestead in Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin; Katherine, who is now Mrs. Henry Schmidt, of Wayne, Wis. ; Syvilla, now Mrs. John Wagner,- of Grand Meadow ; John, of Frankford township ; Mina, now dead ; Jacob, of Glencoe, Minn. ; Elizabeth, now Mrs. AVilliam N. Cisco, of Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin; Gerhard, of Young America, Minn., and Anna, now Mrs. Amos Crico, of Thorpe, Wis.

D. C. Sanborn, of Racine township, a veteran of the Civil war, was born in Canada, January 20, 1844, sou of Stephen and Rhoda (Clement) Sanborn, who took him to Dodge county, Wisconsin, when he was in his first year. In 1861, D. C. aud his father came to Racine township and purchased land, but the subject of this sketch enlisted almost at once in the Civil war. After serving his term of three months in the Second Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, he enlisted in Company C, Twelfth United States Infantry, and remained in active service until the close of the war, seeing active service at Cedar Mountain, Antietam, the second battle of Bull Run, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville. Gettysburg, third Chancellorsville or Mine Run, the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor, Hatches' Run, Pebble's Farm, Bethel Church, the Weldon Railroad, and in many minor engagements and continuous skirmishing. He received his discharge at Elmira, N. Y., April 21, 1865, and then returned to Racine township, where he purchased eighty acres of land in section 26, and farmed until 1900, in the meantime, from 1872 to 1882, buying and shipping cattle to Milwaukee and Chicago markets. Mr. Sanborn is an independent Republican and was town supervisor for thirteen years, as well as assessor eleven years. He was treasurer of his school district twenty-one years. The subject of this sketch was married November 25, 1865, to Sarah Hall, who died March 5, 1910. An adopted son, William C, is now in North Dakota.

Munson 0. Wilsie, who has been manager at Grand Meadow for the C. L. Coleman Lumber Company since 1873, was born in Irondequoit, Monroe county, New York, April 20, 18-43, son of German T. and Hannah (Hance) Wilsie, both of New York colonial families. He was brought to Minnesota by his parents in 1856 and was reared to manhood in Olmsted county, receiving his education in that county and in the academy at Chatfield, in Fillmore county. After farming a few years he went to Rushford, in this state, and was employed in the grain business, having the distinction of shipping the first bushel of wheat over what was then the Southern Minnesota railroad. Later he assumed his present connection, and has since taken his part in the affairs of the village. The confidence in which he is held is shown by the fact that he was the first worshipful master of Grand Meadow

Lodge, No. 121, A. F. & A. M. The subject of this sketch married Mary Hall, daughter of Philander and Emilie (Riddle) Hall, and they have the following children : Orville, Willis A., Edah B., Emma L., Stephen E., Ethel H., Giles H., Ralph M. and F. Leigh. ]\lrs. Wilsie was born in Vermont, and her father was a native of New York state. German T. Wilsie and Hannah Hance, his wife, were both descended from the earlier colonists of New York state. They came west in 1844, and located near Lansing, Mich., they remained a year. In December, 1845, they settled in Southport, now Racine, Wis., and a year later went to Fond du Lac, in the same state, remaining ten years. In 1856 they located in Olmsted county, this state, and there German T. passed away, in 1902. His wife, aged ninety-one, makes her residence in Grand Meadow with her son. Edah B., daughter of Munson 0. Wilsie, married L. M. Hunt, and they have five children : Lloyd, Claude, Earl, Franklin and Esther H.

Herbert 6. Willson, proprietor of Burr Oak Farm, is one of the scientific farmers of Frankford township and carries on agricultural operations along the latest approved methods. His home is comfortable and well located, his outbuildings are in excellent condition and his laud is in a high stage of cultivation. The subject of this sketch was born in Ashtabula county. Ohio, April 9, 1853, son of Samuel and Charlotte (Taylor) Willson. He was brought by them to Frankford township at the age of nine years and here he w^as reared to manhood. After attending the schools of the neighborhood he entered the normal school at Winona and graduated in 1878. After teaching in the district schools of Frankford two years he rented' a farm and started in life for himself. In 1880 he purchased the old homestead from the other heirs and gave his father a life lease of same. From year to year he has made improvements and he now successfully conducts general farming, making a specialty of his grade Shorthorn cattle. Shropshire sheep and Poland- China hogs. Mr. Willson is an independent Republican, and has been clerk of the school board of his district for many years. He belongs to the A. F. & A. M., the M. W. A., the A. O. V. W. Mr. AYillson was married, December 1, 1881, at Spring Valley, to Abbie R. Rafferty, born in Frankford township, July 23, 1861, daughter of Francis and Helen (Weed) Rafferty, the former of whom was for many years a blacksmith in the old village of Frankford and died June 18, 1902. Mr. and IMrs. Willson have been blessed with two sons. Clark M. is a young man of nuich promise. He was born February 14, 1883, atteiuled the Spring Valley High School and then entered the Northwestern University at Chicago, from which he graduated in 1905 with a dental degree. He at once took up his profession in Spring Valley and had practiced for three months, when he was stricken with appendicitis. He underwent an operation and since then has not entirely recovered his health. Harold F. was born November 26, 1895, and attends the Spring Valley High School. Harold is a bright boy and has taken a deep interest in agricultural affairs, making a specialty of poultry. Since he was a very small boy he owned a flock of Barred Plymouth Rock fowls, and has won many prizes. He now conducts a nice business in this line himself. His birds command an excellent price in the markets and his printed matter descriptive of his pens is most excellent. His chickens are of the best in shape and color and of a laying strain that is unsurpassed. The stock showed their quality by winning in 1910 four firsts, two seconds and one third at Spring Valley and Austin.

Samuel Willson was born in St. Lawrence county, New York, and married Charlotte Taylor, also a native of the same county. They located in Ohio in 1853, and in 1858 came to Winona county in this state. In 1862 they came to Frankford township, this county, and located on section 36. At that time but fifteen acres had been broken and a log house had been built. The rest of the land he broke and developed, built a frame house and other buildings and followed general farming until his death February 12, 1908. His wife died on January 14, 1896. They were the parents of four children: Orson, of North Dakota; Helen, wife of Marcus M. Chatfield, of Minot, N. D. ; Herbert G., of Frankford township, and Cassius, of Hammond, Ore. Mrs. Willson is a member of the Eastern Star and of the Royal Neighbors. Clark M. is a Mason and Eastern Star.

Everard J. van Bronkhorst, successful dentist of Grand Meadow, was born in Austin, January 6, 1878, son of Anthony and Annetta (Riss) van Bronkhorst. He attended the graded schools of Austin and graduated from the Austin high school. Tn 1895 he entered the University of Minnesota and three years later graduated from the dental course in that institution. He first started practice at Lyle, in this county, and two years later entered into partnership with Alvin M. Lewis, of Austin. This partnership continued eight years and on Auugst 1, 1908, Dr. Van Bronkhorst came to Grand Meadow, where he has since practiced his profession with marked success. He has a well-equipped office and the beautiful home which he has just completed in the village speaks for itself as to his success, taste and popularity. He is a member of the Mower County Dental Association and of the M. W. A., his political beliefs being embodied in the platform of the Republican party. The subject of this sketch mnrried Louise Siebert, of Wells, Minn., and this union has been idessed Avith one son, Siebert A., born November 6, 1907. An- thony J. van Broiikhorst was born in Holland and after coming to America located in Forest Grove, Mich. Annetta Riss was also born in Holland, and came to Illinois when young. They first met in Austin and were here married. Anthony van Bronkhorst was a painter and paper hanger. He died June 21, 1909, and his wife passed away April 19, 1888, both being buried in Austin. They were the parents of four children : Everard J., Josie, Mattie and Henry F. Josie is the wife of Jesse Jones, of Austin; Mattie is the wife of Dr. A. E. Donker, of Forest Grove, Mich. ; Henry F. is cashier for the Chicago Great Western at Rochester. Minn.

Walter Watson, one of the foremost farmers of Grand Meadow township, has resided in this county nearly twenty-four years, and during all that time has maintained an enviable record for honesty and fair dealing. He has a comfortable house which he erected several years ago, spacious outbuildings and sleeklooking stock, as well as a full complement of tools and machinery suited to general farming. The subject of this sketch was born in Fountain, Fillmore county, September 2-4, 1864, son of James and Sarah (Means) Watson, the former of whom was a native of Mishawaka, Ind., and the latter of Indianapolis, in the same state. They settled in Fillmore county in 1852. Walter was reared on his father's farm, attended the district schools, and after his marriage took up farming for himself on a rented farm. In 1887 he came to Mower county and purchased his present place of 240 acres, partly in Grand Meadow township and partly in Dexter township. He married Kate Schmidt, daughter of Frederick and Elizabeth (Pider) Schmidt, and they have nine children: Zella, Eva, Nettie, Byron, Lloyd, Cora M. (deceased), Chester, Walter and Raehael. Zella is the wife of Stephen Brown and they have one daughter, Valora. Nettie is the wife of Elmer Young and they have one son, Harold.

Seymour Johnson, retired manufacturer and patentee of the well known Johnson harrows and breaking plows, has taken an active part in the upbuilding of the city. While he is a man of keen business intelligence, nevertheless a broad charity of thought and action has permeated his life, and often has he followed the line of upright and unselfish conduct when acts whicli the business Avorld does not look upon as entirely dishonest might have resulted in his financial profit. In business life and in politics his influence has been for good, and it may truly be said that his life has been of real benefit to the world. He was born in Ringerike, Norway, December 29, 1841, and was but a year old when his father, Hans Johanson, died. His mother, Ingeborg Ander-sen, a woman of courage and pluck, came to America with her fatherless boys in 1855 and located in AVaupun, AVis., living there until 1892, Avhen she came to Austin, lived with Seymour Johnson, and ended her days in December, 1893. The subject, of this sketch came to America with his mother in 1855. He received his early education in the public schools, and by self study and attentive reading acquired a good education both in English and Norwegian. He also worked in a newspaper office in Wisconsin for a time, and this assisted in his English education. At an early age he learned the blacksmith trade. In 1862 he enlisted in the Union army, serving in Company A, Thirtysecond AVisconsin Volunteer Infantry, until mustered out at tlie close of the war. May 10, 1865. He fought with Sherman in the Army of the Tennessee, and was with that army on its famous snarcli to the sea, participating in all the battles of the Atlanta campaign. After being discharged at Prairie du Chien, May 10, 1865, he remained in Wisconsin and followed his trade as a blacksmith for a time. He came to Austin March 27, 1867, and started in the manufacture of farm implements,, forming a copartnership v/ith R. 0. Hunt in the fall of 1867. In 1870 Mr. Hunt went to California and Mr. Johnson formed a copartnership with L. S. Mitchell for one year, after which he bought out Mr. JMitchell and formed a partnership with H. S. Smith. After Mr. Smith's death in 1893 the firm was continued under the name of Johnson & Smith and under the management of Mr. Johnson until November 1, 1900, when Mr. Johnson sold out to the heirs of H. S. Smith, and retired from business owing to ill health. Mr. Johnson served his city as recorder for one term, and as an alderman for several years, being elected on the Republican ticket, iu the principles of which party Mr. Johnson is a firm believer. He was also a member of the charter commission of Austin. He has been through the chairs of the I. 0. 0. P., of which he is now a past noble grand and he is also a charter member and past commander of the G. A. R. The subject of this sketch was married December 22, 1866, to Lena Johnson, of Waupun. This union has been blessed with two children: A. E. Johnson, Avho is cashier of the Farmers' and Merchants' State Bank, of Blooming Prairie, and Stella L., who is the wife of Dr. 0. H. Hegge, and a prominent club woman of Austin. The family faith is that of the United Norwegian Lutheran Church, of which Mr. Johnson is the only surviving charter member. The family residence is at 402 Mankato street and was erected in 1868, a large addition being constructed in 1880. Mr. Johnson has been a successful business man and owns considerable property in and around Austin. He was closely connected with the organization of the Citizens' National Bank, but sold out his interest in 1903. He is at present the president of the Austin Building and Loan Association and a director in the Farmers' and Merchants' State Bank, of Bloom- iug Prairie. The daughter, Stella L., now Mrs. 0. H. Hcgge, is greatly interested in music and at various times has sung in all the leading choirs of Austin, being at present leader of the Lutheran church choir. She was born in Austin, graduated from the Austin high school, and being of a musical turn of mind studied music at home. She has taken considerable interest in club work, and is ex-president of the Art and Travel Club. She is at present president of the Floral Club, the third oldest women 's club in the United States. Mrs. Hegge has taken great interest in church and benevolent work, and is president of the Lutheran Ladies' Aid Society, secretary of the Ladies' Auxiliary to St. Olav's Hospital, and one of the directors of the Austin Y. W. C. A.

John M. WyckofF was born in the town of Chester, Morris county, New Jersey, October 7, 1827, the oldest of six children, and descended from one of the early colonial settlers of New Jersey. He was reared on the farm of his father, Henry H. and then started farming for himself in Somerset county, New Jersey. In November, 1851, he married Henrietta Honeyman, daughter of James Honeyman. Mr. and Mrs. Wyckoff came to LeRoy toAvnship in April, 1856, and on the second of the following month Mr. Wyckoff laid claim to the northeast quarter of section 30, entering this land at the United States land office Avhich at that time was located at Chatfield, Minn. In 1859 he bought the southwest quarter of the northwest quarter of section 29, in the same town, from George Peck. In 1861 he sold to Milton Sadler, and settled in the old village of LeRoy. In 186-4 he bought out the Rev. T. P. Ropes, on section 28, adjoining the old village of LeRoy. In 1868 he settled in LeRoy station, where he still resides. In March, 1868, at the earnest solicitation of F. M. Goodykoontz, the first lawyer to settle in LeRoy, he engaged with him in the law and real estate business, under the firm name of Goodykoontz & AYyckoflf. In 1869 he purchased his partner's interest and continued the business alone, being admitted to the bar at Austin, Minn., September 21, 1870, before Hon. N. M. Donaldson, district judge. He was elected town clerk seven and justice of the peace five consecutive years in the early days of the township. He was chosen to the legislature of 1862 and later was elected county auditor, his term beginning March 1, 1879.

Rev. David Svennungsen, pastor of the United Norwegian Lutheran Congregation at LeRoy and of several other congregations in the neighborhood, was born in Winona, Minn., iNIarch 26, 1876, son of Stener and Divert (Frieh) Svennungsen. The Rev. Stener Svennungsen camfe from Norway with his parents in 1848, when five years of age, and located at Muskeego, AYis. In 1856 Ihey removed to Chickasaw county, Iowa, being among the early settlers there. He attended the Upper Iowa University, th(^ Luther College, of Deeorah, Iowa, and the Concordia Seminary, of St. Louis. He was then ordained in the Norwegian Lutheran Synod, and has since filled various pastorates, being now located at Sherwood, N. D. David received his education in the public schools, at the Deeorah Institute in Iowa, St. Olaf's College at Northfield and the United Church Seminary of St. Anthony Park, St. Paul, graduating from the theological course in the latter institution in 1904. He was ordained to the ministry of the United Church at Albert Lea June 12 of the same year. His first pastorate was at Rugby, N. D. While there he also labored in the interests of the Good Samaritan Hospital, acting as financial secretary from the time it was founded. This is a very substantial structure, aggregating a cost of $60,000, and is operated and owned by the Sheyenne Kreds Hospital Association of the United Chureh. In 1911 he received a call to the pastorate of the United Lutheran Church at LeRoy, and was installed February 26, his field including also Saterdal's congregation in Fillmore county and congregations at Cresco and Ridgeway in Iowa. Rev. Svennungsen was married October 26, 1904, to Carrie Groethe, daughter of 0. M. and Guro (Tonjum) Groethe, who located in Mower county in 1865 and remained until 1902, when they moved to Elk Point, S. D. Rev. and Mrs. Svennungsen have three children: Rolf G., born August 1, 1905; Steinar D., born September 18, 1907, and David K., born January 3, 1910.

Nathan F. Banfleld, vice-president and cashier of the First National Bank, of Austin, was born in West Roxbury, ]\Iass., November 15, 1860. He is one of a family of six children. His parents, Everett C. and Anne S. (Fiske) Banfield, both descended from early New England families. He received^ his early education in the schools of his native place, in Adelphia Academy, Brooklyn, N. Y., in a private school in Washington, D. C, in Bates school, San Francisco and in Wolfeboro Academy, at Wolfeboro, N. II. Later he attended Phillips Academy, at Andover, Mass., and was a member of the class of 1879. He came to Austin to enter the employ of the First National Bank in IMarch, 1879. at the age of eighteen years. To him promotions came with the passing years: In 1882 he became assistant cashier, a director in January, 1884, in 1885 cashier and in 1903 was elected vice-president. He served for some years as treasurer of the city of Austin and as a member of the board of education. He was married July 5, 1882, to Nellie Sterling, daughter of James M. Sterling, one of the early settlers of Austin. To them were born seven children: Nathan F., Jr., Helen S., Annie F., Everett C, Richard S., Gertrude S. and Ai'thur F. Nathan F., Jr., received his education at tlic Austin liigh school and the TTniversity of Minnesota. He ciitpi'pd the employ of the First National Bank of Austin in August, 1904, and became a director of that bank in January, 1900. Helen S. was graduated from Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, N. Y., in the class of 1908. Annie F. died in January, 1891, at the age of three years. Everett C. is at Amherst College, Aniherst, Mass., a member of the class of 1912. Tlie three younger children are in the Austin schools, Richard graduating in the class of 1911.

A. J. Hayes, cashier of the First State Bank, of LeRoy, was born in the village where he now resides June 18, 1873, son of the pioneers, Wentworth and Eliza A. (Bishop) Hayes. He received his early schooling in the village schools of LeRoy and then attended the Pillsbnry Academy, at Owatonna. After completing his coiu-se at that institution he entered the employ of his father's store, remaining six years. In 1901 he became assistant cashier of tlie First State Bank, and his merit soon secured his promotion to his present position. He is a popular member of the I. 0. 0. F. and of the M. W. A. Mr. Hayes married Tennie Griffith, and this union has been blessed with three children, Bruce, Loueta and Wentworth.

Wentworth Hayes, a retired business man of LeRoy, has taken an active interest in the affairs of the community, and his sterling integrity and uprightness have won for him an enviable place in the esteem of his fellow citizens. Of him it has often been said that his life has been an exemplification of the theory that absolute honesty in business brings the highest meed of success, even in these days when dishonesty seems so rampant in public and private life. "Wentworth Hayes was born in Alton, Belknap county, New Hampshire, May 23, 1831, son of Joseph and Betsy (Brewster) Hayes, natives of New Y''ork, and prominent farmers in that state. The subject of this sketch received his early education in the district schools of Alton, and then entered the Wolfsborough Academy, at AVolfsborough, N. H. After graduation from this academy he entered the employ of a shoe factory, and became so expert a cutter that he saved his employer from one to one and a half cents on every pair of shoos made. Mr. Hayes continued in this line until 1854, when he came to LeRoy and located in the old village. He preempted 160 acres of timber land and later purcliased two otlier quarter sections, making at that time 480 acres. In 1862 he entered into contract with the United States government for carrying mail, and for nearly four years conducted the stage routes from Decorah to O.sage and from Decorah to Preston and Chatfield. Eleven months before his four years' contract had expired, he sold out. making $1,000 bonus on the contract aside from clearing thirty-five per cent on his equipment. It is worthy of note that wliilc in this business he had a stage coach imported from Concord, N. H., at a cost of $1,000. After selling his stage route he opened a store in the old village of LeRoy, and Avhen LeRoy station was opened he moved his place of business to the new location. On January 19 a year and a half later his store was burned, entailing a loss of $13,000, with only $2,000 insurance. This caused him to sell some of his land for the purpose of rebuilding at once. He successfully continued in this business until 1898, when he retired from active life. He has since spent his time in retirement, making his home in a beautiful residence in LeRoy which he erected. Aside from his mercantile business he dealt largely in farms and real estate, and also did a large stock and grain business. He was instrumental in the organization of the First State Bank, of LeRoy, and later became its president, holding that position until failing health caused his retirement from same. The subject of this sketch was married August 18, 1858, to Eliza A. Bishop, who Avas born May 16, 1839, at Conneaut, Ashtabula county, Ohio, daughter of AVilliam and Lucy Bishop, natives of Vermont. Mr. and Mrs. Hayes have seven children: Carrie M. is now Mrs. Charles AVebber, of Austin ; Hattie E. is now Mrs. Horace Dubendortf , of California ; Lillie B. is wife of John Stephan, merchant and postmaster at Waltham ; Alice A. is now Mrs. Fred Hall, of Parsons, Kan. ; Albert J. is cashier of the First State Bank, of LeRoy ; Iva A. is now Mrs. Prank Thornhill, of Spring Valley; Bessie is now Mrs. Robert Woodburn, of Hampton, Iowa. The merabers of the family are highly thought of in the respective communities wherein they have made their homes.

Hoyt A. Avery, a leading dentist of Austin, was born in Ripon, Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin, August 20, 1856, son of Alonzo and Elizabeth (Gleason) Avery. He was brought by his parents to Mower county in 1859, and went with them to Rochester, in Olmsted county, in 1863. There he spent his boyhood and attended the public schools. In 1876 and 1877 he attended the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, taking a dental course. Afterward he came to Austin, where he had previously worked a few months, and purchased the dental office appliances and business of Dr. John Rabe. Since then he has successfully practiced his profession here, winning wide favor by his skill and geniality. Dr. Avery has served as alderman of the city of Austin from the second ward two difPerent terms, and has just started on his fifth term as a member of the Austin board of education, of which body he has been president for several years. The subject of this sketch was married December 29, 1881, to Florence N. Judson, and this union has been blessed with four children: Everett J. lives in Chicago. Margaret R. lives at home and teaches art in the Auslin schools. She graduated from the Austin high school.

studied under a pi'ivate tutor two years, and then attended the KSehool of Applied Art for Women at New York city. JZlizabeth S. lives at home, and Kenneth R. lives in Argentine Republic. South America. The family faith is that of the Congregational church. Dr. Avery owns a stock farm of 480 acres in Oakland and London townships, which he personally supervises, altliough he has a local manager. On this place he makes a specialty of raising thoroughbred registered Percheron horses for the market.

Alonzo Avery, a pioneer, was born in New York state July 14, 1830. He married Elizabeth Gleasou, a native of the same state, and together they came to Wisconsin, locating first in Green Lake county. Later they went to Ripon, in Fond du Lac county, in the same state, and in 1859 came to Mower county. Here they homesteaded land in Grand Meadow township, and remained there till 1862. In 1862 Alonzo Avery joined the Union army and served in Company C, Ninth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. He was orderly sergeant, and received his discharge in 1865. He then returned to Rochester, in Olmsted county, and there farmed iintil 1899. when he removed to Humbolt, Iowa. After his wife's death, in December, 1901, the sul)ject of this sketch moved to Fremont, Mich., where he purchased city property and Avliere he now resides at the good old age of eighty years.

Jesse M. Larrabee was born in Ypsilanti, Mich., April 7, 1840. The first twelve years of his life were spent in his Michigan home, at the end of which time he moved with his parents to Winnebago county, Illinois, where he received his early education in the district schools. He further advanced his studies by four terms in the Durand Seminary, after which he entered the Bryant & Stratton Business College, graduating in 186-3. After leaving Chicago IMr. Larrabee moved to Dubuqne, Iowa, and engaged in bookkeeping nntil 1865, subsequently moving to Ossian, Iowa, and engaging in the grain business. In May the following year he moved to Conover, Iowa, where he continued in the grain business until 1867. In August of that year he came to LeRoy, of which village he was designed to become so prominent a citizen. Here he built the first grain warehouse in the new village, buying the first load of grain that came into LeRoy. In 1874 he engaged in the drug business on the corner of Main and Broadway, which business he conducted with success, in connection Avith his grain business, until the time of his death, February 21, 1907. In 1886, in connection with his other interests, he engaged in the lumber business, which he successfully continued for a period of three years, after which he sold to D. C. Corbitt. I^fr. Larrabee was a member of tlie ^lasons and of other fraternal organizations.

Boyd, a native of the same country. They came to America at an early day and located in Wisconsin, from which state Andrew enlisted in the Civil war, serving three years and three montas in Company D, Third Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. Durmg this period he was wounded in the eye by the explosion of a shell at the battle of Beverly Ford. After being treated in a hospital for a time he was discharged and returned to Wisconsin. In 1865 he came to Mower county atid purchased eighty acres of land in section 8, LeRoy township, to which he afterward added other property in sections 7 and 8. This land he broke, grubbed and cultivated, and laid the first stone wall in LeRoy. He followed farming until his death, October 1, 1902, and since that date his widov/ has taken up her home in LeRoy village.

Gilbert Mahoney was born in LeRoy township November 12, 1869, and received his early education in the schools of district 59. After attaining the years of manhood, he spent one winter in Mississippi, and upon his return purcliased eighty acres in section 17, LeRoy township, later purchasing eighty acres adjoining, making a quarter section in all. On this he has carried on general farming, and has erected some excellent buildings. He has a modern place, and prides himself on liis beautiful lawns and clean roadways. At the present time he is erecting a large upright barn, 36 by 48 feet. In addition to farming, Mr. Mahoney has interested himself in cement work, and is a great believer in that substance as a future substitute for wood and stone. He manufactures cement fence posts, and it is worthy of note that his invention of a cement culvert has been so highly satisfactory that over seventy-five have been placed in LeRoy township, and other towns are adopting the same method. Mr. Mahoney is a Republican in politics, and has served in several public offices, including the positions of supervisor three years and toAvn chairman five years. He was married March 8, 1894, to Anna Thompson, and this union has resulted in seven children, Nellie, Esther, Emily, Harland J., Eva, Raymond A. and Nina. The family faith is that of the Presbyterian church.

F. L. Hill, now deceased, was a substantial farmer of Red Rock township, and his death was a distinct loss to the community. He came to Mower county in the middle eighties, and farmed until his death. May 29, 1909, at the age of forty-nine years. He was married in 1883 to Julia Bain, born in Marquette county, Wisconsin, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Saflford) Bain. Five children were born to this marriage, Elizabeth, Ida, Maude, Howard and Lester B. Elizabeth is the wife of George Retting and Ida is the wife of James Leslie. Mr. Hill was a member of the A. 0. U. W. at Austin.

operator of Racine townsliip, was born in Norway, June 1."), hslin, son of Hans and Osabel Anderson, who brought liiiu to Anicriiu in 1867. The family landed at Quebec and then caine to AVisconsin, where they remained two years. Later tlicy caiue to Adams township, in this county, and here Hans worked on the railroad four years. Then Hans purchased a farm in Marshall township and there farmed until his death, in 1910, his widow, the mother of Arne, still making her home in that township. Arne was educated in tlie country schools, and assisted his father on a farm until twenty-three years of age, at which time he started in life for himself by working out three years. Later he rented land eight years. Then he bought land in ]\Larshall township where he lived. Subsequently he bought and sold land in Jlarshall, Clayton, Racine and Sargeant townships. He nov\' owns 326 acres in sections 5 and 6, Racine township, 120 acres in Pleasant Valley. He has followed general farming and stock raising and has made a specialty of threshing, having owned in turn five ditferent steam outfits. Mr. Anderson keeps fifty head of Shorthorn cattle for dairy purposes and sells cream to the Grand JMeadow creamery in which he is one of the stockholders. He also has a fine drove of swine, and keeps a dozen horses for farm work and driving. He has been manager of the Farmers' Threshing Company for six years. The subject of this sketch is an independent voter, was supervisor of the town of Clayton two years and a member of the school board of his dis-. trict for six years. He was treasurer of the Bear Creek church four years. Arne Anderson was married in 1894 to Milia Bohn, of Grand IMeadow, and they have six children : Harry, Theodore, Arthur, Melvin, "William and Myrtle.

Jens P. Anderson, a well known farmer of LeRoy, was born in Denmark, ^lay 1, 1852, son of Andrew Christiansen and Anna E. Jenson, both natives of Denmark, the former dying in 1867 ivnd the latter in 1878. Jens received a good public school education in Denmark, and there grew to manhood. At the age of twentyseven he crossed the briny deep, and landed in New York July 26, 1879, coming directly to Clayton township, IMower county. Avhero lie worked out for a year and a half. Then he rented a quarter section in Clayton township, and in 1886 purchased it. Here he continued to carry on general farming many years, repairing all the old buildings and erecting new ones, adding 1o Iiis land from lime to time until he owned 440 acres ail in one farm. In 1898 he sold a part of this land, and exchanged tlie remainder for his present farm of 120 acres in sections 34 and 35, LeRoy township. Aside from this he also owns a fifty-acre farm in section 29, which he rents. "While in Clayton township Mr. Anderson served as road overseer and on the school board, of which he was treasurer. He has been twice married. His tirst wife, Mary Larson, whom he married February 20, 1875, passed to the great beyond December 14, 1893, leaving five children: Annie, now Mrs. Iver Uglum, of Clayton township; Ella, now Mrs. Peter Hanson, of Marshall township ; Elizabeth, now J\Irs. Simon Boe, of Clayton township; Etta, who lives at home, a graduate of LeEoy high school, and iMary, of Clayton township. May 5, 1897, Mr. Anderson was married to Mrs. Sarah (Bowden) Hague. She was the daughter of Ernest and Betty (Hague) Bowden, natives of Derbyshire, England, who came to America in 1857 and located in Lowell, Mass., the father dying January 10, 1879, and the mother February 14, 1907. John Hague, first husband of Mrs. Sarah Bowden Anderson, died December 30, 1893, leaving one son, Roy W., who now lives with his mother and stepfather. Jens P. and Sarah Bowden Anderson have been blessed with two bright children, Florence and Alice, both of whom are at home and attending school.

William E. Daily, merchant of Dexter, of which village he is at the present time serving as mayor, was born in this county, having first seen the light of day November 13, 1868, son of Ziba and Jane C. (Vargeson) Daily. William E. attended the district school, and remained on the home farm until seventeen years of age, at which time he entered the employ of C. Smith & Son, to learn the trade of tinner. Two years later he entered the employ ^of E. S. Fonda, hardware dealer at Staceyville, Iowa. After three years at this work he went to Sutton, and purchased grain and managed a creamery in connection with conducting a general store ten years. In 1900 he came to Dexter and purchased the S. A. Sorenson stock of hardware. In the fall of 1910 he bought ;Out Reed & Noyes, and combined it with liis former line. His business now consists of hardware, farm implements, furniture and harnesses, all under one roof, his establishment being the most extensive of its kind in Mower county. Mr. Daily served as treasurer of his school district seven years before assuming his present position. He is past master of Dexter Lodge, No. 253, A. F. & A. M., and is a past worthy patron of Dexter Chapter, No. 175, 0. E. S. The subject of this sketch married Mattie Penney, daughter of "William and Hannah (Halsey) Penney, and to this union have been born four children: Marguerite, Alice, Florence and William E., Jr. Mrs. Daily was born in Mitchell county, Iowa, August 24, 1866. Mr. Daily is a stockholder in the First State Bank, of Dexter; manager and stockholder of the Dexter Telephone Company, of Dexter; president of the Dexter Commercial Club, and is also interested in other enterprises. His home in the village, which he purchased from Peter Vandenover, is a model of comfort and convenience, and in addition to this

George I. Daily, chairman of LeRoy township, was born on the farm where he now lives July 18, 1858, son of Ziba B. and Jane C. (Vargeson) Daily, the pioneers. As a baby he spent a year in Boone county, Indiana, but was brought back to this county and here spent his boyhood, attending the public schools and receiving instruction in farming from his fatlier. After attaining the years of manhood, he spent three years away from home, first as surveyor along the Northern Pacific line and then as a clerk in the First National Bank, of Livingston, Mont. Subsequently he spent a season on the home farm, and then Avent to Clark county. South Dakota, where he preempted a quarter section and remained two years. After this he again returned to Minnesota, and purchased 200 acres in Oakdale township, Howard county, Iowa. To this he later added eighty acres, and on this tract of 280 acres he farmed some twelve years. After selling this farm he came to Mower county and bought 160 acres in Adams township. A year later he purchased a similar tract in Howard county, Iowa, and there remained a year and a half. Tlieu he purchased 130 acres of the old farm in LeRoy township, and has since carried on general farming here. Mr. Daily is a Republican in politics, and is now serving his third year in his present office. Before this, he w^as supervisor for two years, and he has been a member of the school board many terms. He belongs to the A. F. & A. M. and to the M. W. A. George I. Daily was married April 16, 1888, to Adella McCulloch, born at Decorah, Iowa, April 17, 1865, daughter of John and Jenette (Garfield) McCulloch, early settlers of Winneshiek county, Iowa, the former of whom died December 5, 1906, and the latter November 5, 1901. Mr. and Mrs. Daily have six children, Leonard D., Melviu Z., Ethel, George B., Ruth E. and David I.,^ all of whom, except the two oldest, are at home. Leonard D. is assistant cashier in the First National Bank, of Milford, Iowa, and Melvin Z. is bookkeeper of the First National Bank, at iNIontevideo, i\Iinn.

Ziba B. Daily, Jiow deceased, was for many years one of tiie substantial residents of LeRoy township. He was a native of Pi'nnsylvania, and was born in the town of North Morland, in is now "Wyoming county. His grandparents were natives of Rhode Island, and his grandfather, who was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, received a land grant in Pennsylvania for valuable services rendered his country. "When the subject (tf tliis sketch was seventeen years of age he engaged with a tanner to learn the trade, engaging in that occupation until 1852, when he moved to Boone county, Indiana. In 1855 he continued his migra- tion, going by rail to Galena, thence by boat to Lansing, Iowa, and then overland to Waukon in the same state. In the summer of that year he started for Minnesota, in order to find a suitable place to locate. He came by stage as far as Caremona, Fillmore county, thence on foot to Chatfield, then via stage to AYinona. From there he w^alked to Brownsville, and subsequently returned to Waukon. In September of that year he came to Mower county and entered a claim in section 34, in what is now known as LeEoy townsliip. The ground was mosth^ covered with brush. The first winter he spent with a Mr. Armstrong who lived near. The following spring he built a log house on his claim, and lived therein until 1860. With the failure of crops he became discouraged and decided to return to Indiana, so with a sturdy pair of oxen and a wagon the family made the trip to Boone county, and there remained a year. In 1861 they came back to the claim in Mower county, and built a large log house which served as the family home until 1883. In that year he built a comfortable home which is still standing. Mr. Daily Avas married August 1, 1855, to Jane C. Vargeson, who was born in Sharon, Mich. Nine children blessed this union : Daniel Z., who died in 1888 ; George I., who is on the old homestead ; John F., who died in 1899 ; Lewis M., a grocer at LeEoy; Charles M., who farms in the old town of LeEoy ; William E., of Dexter ; ^Milton, who is a physician in Sioux City, Iowa ; Otis H., who is in the hardware business in LeEoy, and Mertello D., of the old town of LeEoy. Mr. Daily was chairman of the board of supervisors for many years, and also served in other positions of public and private trust and honor. He was a man of even temperament, and his extensive reading gave him wide information as to the progress of the Avorld, both ancient and modern.

Hans M. Chrest, a highly respected citizen of Bennington township, was born at Tromso, Norway, December 26, 1850, son of Christian Hanson and Anna C. Nicholason. He received his early education in Norway, and there remained until fifteen years of age, when he came to America and located in Kendall county, Illinois, where he worked out for four years. Then he rented farms until 1872, and subsequently came to this county and purchased 160 acres in the southwest quarter of section 26. This land he broke and improved, erected a fine home and suitable outbuildings, and planted a beautiful grove of trees, consisting of evergreens, poplar and maple. On this place he now conducts general farming, making a specialty of Durham cattle and Norman horses. In 1909 he erected a new barn, 56x44. Mr. Chrest is a stockholder in the Farmers' Co-operative Creamery and the Farmers' Co-operative Elevator, both at Ostrander. At one time he was secretary of the Lutheran church in his neighborhood,

C. Nieholason, the widow of Christian Hanson. They came to America in 1875, located in Bennington township seven years, then went to Marshall county, this state, and took a homestead of 160 acres. Mr. Ericksen died in July, 1907, and his wife is still living at the age of eighty-eight years. Christian Hanson and Anna C. Nieholason have three ehildren : Hans M. Chrest ; Severt, deceased, and Christ A., who died in infancy. Jacob Ericksen and Anna C. Nieholason had four children : Hannah M., Jacob A., both deceased, and Christ E. and Donald N., twins, now of ]\Iarshall county.

Gilbert J. Gilbertson is one of the foremost men of Grand JMeadow township, where he has resided since 1872. He is a pleasing gentleman to meet, a ready conversationalist and a man of considerable importance in the community. He was born in Norway, December 3, 1852, and came to America with his parents in 1853, settling near Madison, "Wis. Two years later they moved to Bostwick Valley, La Crosse county, and there lived several years. In 1862 John Gilbertson, the father, enlisted in Company E, Sixteenth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the war, seeing much active service and receiving wounds which impaired his health for many years. In 1872 the family came to Grand Meadow tow^nship and settled in section 11, erecting a log cabin, in which they lived for a time. Gilbert's early life Avas spent on the farm of his father, which in 1881 he purchased from his father, and where he now resides. He is now serving his fifth term as town supervisor, and has been school treasurer for many terms. He married Betsy Lewison, and they have seven children: Mabel, Clara, Arthur, Nora, Nettie, jNIuril and Elmer. Clara is the w^ife of Rudolf Mehl.

Stephen Harrison, a veteran of the Civil war and retired farmer, has lived in the village of LeRoy since 1894, and has identified himself with its official life. He was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, November 16, 1839, son of Samuel and Catherine (Fellows) Harrison, also natives of Pennsylvania. The family moved to Wisconsin in 1855, and there located on a farm, the father dying in 1873 and the mother in 1891. Stephen received his education in the public schools, and then followed farming with his father until 1862, when he enli.sted in Company

D, Thirty-fourth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, in which he saw service ten months, being dismissed at the end of that time by reason of illness. He then returned home, and in the fall of 1864 went to Kenosha county, Wisconsin. In 1871 he came to Howard county, Iowa, purchased 160 acres of wild land in Oakdale town- ship, broke and developed the land, erected a pleasant home and suitable outbuildings, and followed farming until 1894, when he rented his farm and came to LeRoy, where the year previous he had built the first house in what is known as Sweet's addition; then returned to his farm and remained one year, after which he sold it and returned to his home in LeRoy, where he has since resided. He has been assessor of LeRoy tow"nship three years and has also served as clerk one and one-half years. In Oakdale township lie served on the township board nine years and on the school board many terms. Aside from his real estate holdings, he owns stock in the LeRoy Telephone Company. The subject of this sketch was married August 21, 1864, at Lynn, Walworth county, "Wisconsin, to Caroline E. Rowe, who was born in Onondaga county. New York, February 6, 1839, daughter of Lucien and Lucy (Stillwell) Rowe, natives of New York state, who were early settlers in Michigan. Lucien Rowe died in 1849, and his wife passed away in 1882. Mr. and Mrs. Harrison have three children : Harvey W. has a small fruit farm just oiitside the city limits of LeRoy, and is the father of four children: Earl R., Harold O., Lloyd E. and Ethel A. Maurice A. farms in Chester township, Howard county, Iowa, and has one child, Geneva I. Florence L. is the wife of J. P. Jensen, and they have five children : Harry W., Arnold E., Benjamin A., Merrill F. and Florence Lauretta.

Edward W. Dorr, postmaster and druggist at Dexter, was born in Austin, Minn., May 17, 1877, youngest son of E. C. Dorr. He received his education in the public schools and in the Austin high school, afterward entering the Minnesota Institute of Pharmacy at Minneapolis, graduating in 1893. He was then matriculated in the Northwestern University, of Chicago, and graduated in 1896 with the degree of P. H. Gr. Thus equipped, he clerked in Minneapolis about three years, and in 1900 came to Dexter and started in the drug business for himself. A year later he was appointed postmaster and has since continued in this position, being ably assisted by his father. He is a Republican in politics, and has served as village recorder of Dexter, being at the present time the secretary of the Dexter Commercial Club. He is Avorshipful master of Dexter Lodge, A. F. & A. M., and also affiliates with the B. P. 0. E., the M. W. A., the B. A. Y., the Eastern Star and the Pilgrim Knights. The subject of this sketch was married November 29, 1899, to Lulu Erase, of Dexter, and two children have blessed this union: Edward M. and Velva C. The family faith is that of the Methodist church.

E. C. Dorr, for six years mayor of the city of Austin, now living in retirement Avith his son in the Adllage of Dexter, Minn., was born in Columbia county, Ncav York, November 4, 1835, and received an academy education. At the age of twenty-two years, in 1857, he came west to Minnesota, and was located in Olmsted county at the outbreak of the Civil war, during which conflict he served two and one-half years in the medical department of the provost marshal of the first district of Minnesota. In 1866 he came to Austin, and engaged in the drug business until 1898, when he sold out his interests to K. 0. Wold, who had been his partner for many years. He still calls Austin his home, however, and owns two residences and a store building in the city. After selling out his store he served two years as deputy revenue collector and three years as internal revenue agent. While at Austin he served on the board of education eight years. He is a Mason and a member of the G. A. R. The subject of this sketch Avas married to Emma L. Smith, who died December 12, 1907. They were the parents of three children : Marie E., now deceased ; Marjorie E., now Mrs. Hans E. Enes, of Henderson, Minn., and Edward W., druggist and postmaster of Dexter.