Mower County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1911 (part 5 of 14)

Henry N. Peterson, now deceased, was a respected business man of Lyle village, and his death, January 21, 1900, was sincerely mourned by the people of the vicinity. He was born in Bergen, Norway, February 27, 1859, and was brought to America by his uncle at the age of nine years. He attended school in Adams township, and in Austin farmed for a period, and then went to Minneapolis, where he ^^orked faithfully in various lines for a number of years. In 1884, having by frugal effort saved enough money to embark in business for himself, he came to Lyle and opened a furniture store. After this he sold out, and engaged in the hardware business, but still later disposed of this, and with John Evenson opened a furniture establishment. He erected the Peterson block in the village of Lyle, and also dealt in real estate, selling building lots and purchasing large farm tracts, owning at one time 500 acres in the vicinity of Lyle. He voted the Democratic ticket.; was one of the first members of the Lyle village council and served twelve years; belonged to the Masons and attended the Methodist church. He was married November 12, 1885, to Sophia Olson, daughter of Lars and Ingar (Bjornson) Olson, natives of Norway, who came to America in 1868 and located in Chicago until 1873, in Avhich year they came to Lyle and engaged in the furniture businc^i, Lars Olson being dead, and his wife Ingar being a resident of Lyle at the good old age of eighty-nine years. Mrs. Peterson was born in Tragery, Norwaj--, March 24, 1859, and bore to her husband nine children: Cora. Nora, Conrad, Henrietta, Leonard, Phoebe, Vida, Victor and Eva. The three oldest are high school graduates, Cora and Nora being graduates also of Carleton College, at Northfield, Minn., while Conrad is studying dentistry at the University of Minnesota. Phoebe and Vida graduated from the Lyle high school in 1911. Nora is a graduate of the Valley City, N. D., normal school. Henrietta graduated from the normal school in Moorehead, Minn., in 1911.

Mr. And Mrs. H. N. Peterson

"Waseca county, this state, August 12, 1872, son ol Alinoii find llaunali (Coukrite) Pitcher, the former a native of Illinois and the hitter of Canada. Charles was reared on the parental farm, and at the age of seventeen started out in life for himself, holdi)ig various positions, including situations with the Arlington and Grand hotels, in Austin. He is now conducting a prosperous business of his own, in light draying, having for the past twelve years held the contract for carrj'ing the mail between the postoffice and all incoming and outgoing mails. Mr. Pitcher married Lulu, the daughter of Benjamin and Abigail (Detwiler) Hilker, and they now live in a comfortable residence at 105 South First street, in Austin. The subject of this sketch has one brother, Wallace J. Pitcher ; one sister, Hortense, now Mrs. Edd Englehart ; one half brother, Clark Bevins; and two half sisters, Mabel and Ftossy, both married.

W. H. Palmer, one of the oldest postmasters in the state, has ser\ ed the public of Brownsdale since 1897, wlien he tirst received his appointment. He was born in the town of Hector, Schuyler county. New York, January 15, 1833, son of Henry and Patience (Cornell) Palmer, the former a native of Columbia county, New York, and the mother of Taunton, Mass. W. H. Palmer was taken to Ohio by his parents at the age of thirteen, and at the age of eighteen came to Grant county, Wisconsin, where he was teaching school at the outbreak of the Civil war. He continued to teach during the stirring years of 1861-63, and then in 1864 enlisted in Co. B, 43rd Wis. Vol. Inf. When he returned from the army he resumed teaching, and continued that vocation some thirty years in Wisconsin, Iowa and Minnesota. For some years W. H. Palmer has been chaplain of the Henry Rogers Post, No. 11, G. A. R. By his first wife, Julia Manchester, he had three children: Clarissa, Clarence and Julian. After her death, in 1873, he married Letitia Requa, daughter of Alexander Requa, and they have four children: Fannie, Arthur, Dora and Edith. Fannie married Rev. I. B. AVood and f^dith married Frank Boston.

Homer F. Peirson, M. D., one of the physicians and surgeons of Austin, was born on the "Mile Strip," so called, in High Forest, Septend)er 11, 1867. He attended school at Grand Meadow, and later took a course in the University of ]\Iinnesota, graduating in 1891. Then he entered the Rush Medical College, lii Chicago, and after graduating from that institution received the necessary hospital practice as an interne in St. Clary's Hospital. Minneapolis. He commenced the practice of medicine in Aiistin in 1906 and has since been actively engaged in this city, building up a large practice. He belongs to the national, state and county medical associations, and is affiliated witli various Austin fraternities. Dr. Peirson was married in 1898 to

Jessie E. Alleu, daiightei- of G. H. Allen, who for a number of years was surveyor of Mower county. Dr. and Mrs. Peirson have two children: Helen and Marion. F. M. Peirson was born in Chittenden county, Vermont, in 1834. He moved to Illinois with his parents in 1841, and later moved to Cokunbus, Wis. In 1854 he came to High Forest, Minn., and followed farming till 1874. Since that date until his retirement in 1895 he Avas engaged in the hotel business for a period of three years in Rochester, Minn., and the remainder of the time in Grand Meadow, Minn. He Avas married in 1860 to Catherine Keyes. Two children were born to them : Alouzo, dying in infancy, and Dr. Homer F. Peirson.

Alfred C. Page, a progressive real estate and insurance man, of Austin, is well known throughout the county and state. During the Spanish-American war he served as first lieutenant in Co. G, 12th"Regt., ]\Iinn. Vol., and at the present time he is serviog as regimental adjutant of the Second Regiment, Minnesota National Guards. He has been grand master of Fidelity Lodge, No. 89, A. F. and A. M. ; has been eminent commander of St. Bernard Commandery, No. 13, Knights Templar, and has also been prominently identified with the B. P. 0. E. His interest in the commercial progress of Austin is shown by the fact that he has joined the Commercial Club, and the confidence of his fellow citizens is well exemplified by the fact that he is now the alderman at large in the city council of Austin. Alfred C. Page was born in AVhiteside county, Illinois, October 6, 1865, son of Thomas S. and Caroline W. (Abbott) Page, who betAveen then and 1888 lived in Mitchell county, Iowa, and in Howard county, in the same state, in both of Avhieh counties Alfred C. attended school, completing his scholastic days Avith a course in the Cedar Valley Seminary, in Osage, loAva, from AAdiich institution he graduated in 1886. After arriving in Austin he entered the office of Lyman D. Baird, Avith Avhom he has since been engaged. In 1890 he Avas admitted to the bar by examination, but he has never taken up the practice of this profession.

Peter Peterson, an extensive land owner of Marshall toAvnship, was born in 1841 in SAveden, his father bearing the same name as his own. The subject of this sketch Avas reared in the old country, and in 1870 came to the United States, locating in Kansas City, Mo., where he was employed at railroad work three years. Then he worked in the hmiber business in Marshfield, AYis., for something over three years. In 1876 he came to MoAver county and purchased eighty acres in IMarshall toAvnship, on Avhich Avith energy and pluck he started farming. That his efforts have been eroAvned with success is shoAvn by the fact that he noAV OAvns 400 acres of as good land as is found in the county. He has a fine farm, Avell furnished house, commodious, Avell equipped barns.

modern luaehinery and other aids to intelligent fanning. Peter Peterson married Louise Carlson, and they have six children: John, at home; Alma, now Mrs. Adolf Lyndell, of "VVindom; Albert; Louis; Alfred and Hilda, tlie latter four being also at home.

Martin Pederson, a ^larshall township dairyman and farmer, was boru in Iowa in 1872, son of Peter and Inga Pederson, natives of Norway, who came to America in the seventies and purchased eighty acres in Fayette county, Iowa. In 1891 Martin came to j\Iower county and purchased eighty acres of land in section 23, J\Iarshall township, later adding another eighty in the same section, in 1903. He has a fine farm, and keeps a herd of Shorthorn cattle. His farm is well equipped with modern machinery, and his operations have been most successful. Mr. Pederson is a Republican in politics and attends the Lutheran church. He married Julia Johnson, in Iowa, December 22, 1895.

George D. Pearce, an early merchant of Dexter, and a veteran of the Civil war, now retired, was born in Gloucestershire, England, June 24, 1844, son of Daniel G. and Ann (Smith) Pearce. "When he was nine years of age, he and his mother came to America, following his father who had come the year previous. They joined the father in Albany, N. Y., and there remained one year, after which they went to Chicago. After a year in Chicago, the family went to Windsor, Dane county, Wisconsin, and lived on a farm. There George D. remained until 1863, when he enlisted in the 35th Wis. Vol. Inf. and served in Co. H until mustered out at Brownsdale, Texas, in March, 1866. Mr. Pearce has many interesting stories to tell of his experiences in the Red River and Marmaduke campaigns in Arkansas, of raids up Chafilie river in Louisiana, of the capture of Mobile, Spanish Fort and Fort Blakely, of the trip up the Tombigbee river and the capture of a rebel fleet, on one of the boats of which, named the Jeff Davis, ilr. Pearce returned to Mobile, and of the enforced departure from the Rio Grande of a French fleet which was there for the purpose of operating against Mexico. After his honorable discharge, Mr. Pearce returned to his father's farm in Wisconsin, and in the fall of 1868 came to Austin. In time he purchased a farm near Otranto, Iowa, and there lived until 1876, when he came to Dexter, where his father had engaged in the mercantile business two years earlier. In 1877 he purchased two stores of his father. One of these stores, which was devoted to the sale of hardware, Mr. Pearce rented to David M. Vermilea as his father had done, and in the other store he carries on business liimself. selling drugs, dry goods and groceries. In May, 1897, the stores were wiped out by fire, and since then Mr. Pearce has led a retired life. lie is a member of \\\e G. A. R. and has belonged to botli Ihe

Grand Meadow and the-Brownsdale posts. The subject of this sketch married Henrietta Beach, in March, 1873, and to this union was born Charles D., June 13, 1874, and Iva Murtle, October 11, 1888. Mrs. Pearce was born in East Troy, Walworth county, Wisconsin.

Daniel G. Pearce, first assessor and township clerk of Dexter township, and pioneer merchant of Dexter village, was a native of Gloucestershire, England, born December 30, 1814. In 1852 he came to America, engaged as cutter and salesman in a clothing store at Albany, N. Y., and remained two years, after which he went to Chicago, and was similarly employed eighteen months. He then went to Wisconsin, and bought wild land in the town of Windsor, Dane county. In 1869 he came to Mower county, and bought land in section 22, Dexter township. In 1874 he came to the village and engaged in the mercantile trade until 1876, when he Avent to Worth county, Iowa. In 1883 he returned and again engaged in trade. He married Ann Smith in 1841, and raised a family of seven children: Eliza, George, Mary, Edith, Charles, Frank and Sarah.

Charles S. Palmer, department store merchant of LeRoy, was born in the old town of LeRoy, October 10, 1868, son of Cady and Sarah (Cornwell) Palmer. The father, Cady Palmer, came from Chatham. N. Y., and with Uncle Judson was among the first settlers of the old town. Judson put in the first sawmill, and Cady Palmer built the bridge across the little Iowa river which to thij day is called the Cady bridge. Charles S. was raised on the farm and attended the local schools of the neighborhood. At the age of seventeen he started clerking for Porter & Young for $15 a month and boarded himself. In this position he remained six years, long enough for him to become thoroughly conversant with the business. Then he started in the general mercantile line for himself. His store, which is divided into departments, is one of the finest of its kind in southern ]\Iinnesota. A pleasant feature of the store is a "rest room" where the women of the county may rest, write letters or visit while their husbands are transacting business about town. Mr. Palmer is a IMason and a member of the INI. W. A. He married Martha D. Jones, and they are the parents of two children : Robert E. A. and Helen. Mr. Palmer is an able business man, and in building up his own store has contributed to the commercial prosperity of the county.

James M. Plum, yardmaster for the C, M. & St. P. at Austin, was born in loAva City, Johnson county, Iowa, July 1, 1865, son of Aaron and Harriette Plum. He received his education in the public schools, and remained on the home farm until 1882, when he became water boy on a construction train of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific road for two years. Then after another year in the service of the same road, this time as brakemau, lie returned home and worked on the farm a year, after which he entered the employ of the Iowa Central as brakeman, being promoted for merit to conductor. Afterward he became yardmaster for the Great Northern at AVihnar, IMinn., for eight years, and still subsequently worked a year at Marshalltown, Iowa. On August 26, 1895, he came to Austin in the employ of the C, M. & St. P. as a brakeman. In 1904 he was appointed yardmaster at Austin, which position he still faithfully tills. ]\Ir. Plum has associated himsell: with the B. R. T. and the A. 0. U. W. He was married January 3, 1886, to Ada Currier, of Milan, 111., born September 2, 1870. This union has been blessed with four children : Harry, Russell, Clara and Frank. Harry was born November 9, 1887, and was killed at LeRoy, February 23, 1906. He was working as a brakeman, and was knocked from a swiftly moving train by an elevator grain spout. Russell was born August 23, 1889, and was brakemau 'for the C, M. & St. P., making iiis headquarters at Austin, and was killed at Northfield, December 13, 1910. His foot was caught in a crossing plank while cutting off cars and he was run over. Clara, born April 12, 1894, is dead. Frank was born July 31, 1895, and is still at iiome, being a student in the Austin high school. The family faith is that of the Presbyterian church.

Aaron Plum was a native of Ohio and went to Iowa in the early days. He was a soldier in the Civil war, serving throughout that conflict in the 22nd Iowa Vol. Inf. After the war he returned home and continued farming until his death, in August, 1909. His wife died in IMarch, 1907.

Gideon S. Pitts, one of the younger bankers of Mower county, is cashier of the First State Bank of Taopi. He was born in Orange. City, Iowa, on July 14, 1883, where he lived until his liftii year, when his folks moved to Alton, three miles away. He graduated from the high school in Alton, Iowa, and spent the following J ear roiighing it on a farm in Norman county, Minnesota. A two years' course at the Iowa State College, Ames, Iowa, came next, after which he spent four years as bookkeeper in the Bank of Northwestern Iowa, at Alton, in Avhich his father is interested. Tiring of office work, the following fall and winter was spent in teaming for a sawmill and lumber yard in central Washington. April 1, 1910, found him in Taopi as assistant cashier of the bank. He and his father, who has considerable real estate adjoining Taopi, bought l\Ir. Bourquin's interest in the bank in October and G. S. Pitts then assumed his present i)Osition as cashier. Mr. Pitts is a Republican, a member of the Masonic and Eastern Star orders and an attendant of the Congregational church. He was married to Gladys ^I. Christensen at Spencer, Iowa, on September 1, 1910. G. AV. Pitts, bis father, a New

Yorker by birth, has been practicing law and has been actively interested in several of the banks of Sioux county, Iowa, for about thirty years. He married Eliza A. Sheldon, a native of Ohio, at Excelsior, Minn., in 1880.

John Peterson, for over four decades a blacksmith of Grand Meadow village, was born in Denmark, November 22, 1842, son of Peter and Annie M. (Hanson) Nelson. John remained home as a youth, and at the age of fifteen started to learn the blacksmith trade, serving as an apprentice four years. In 1866 he came with his parents to America, and upon their arrival went with them directly to Rochester, Minn., where he followed his trade four years. In 1870 he came to the village of Grand Meadow and erected a blacksmith shop. At the time of his arrival here there were but two stores, those of D. B. Coleman, and the population consisted of about fifty people, mostly railroad men, just completing what was then the Southern Minnesota. In 1872 Mr. Peterson opened a livery stable in connection with his shop. Three years later he built a large livery barn and did a flourishing business. Mr. Peterson married A. Christenson, a native of Denmark, and they have four children: Elizabeth, wife of John Sanders, of North Dakota; Clara, Alma and Albert T. Mr. Peterson is a substantial and sturdy citizen, highly respected in the vicinity where for so many years he has made his home. A Mel Vining and a Mr. Hicks started a store a few weeks after Mr. Coleman. M. H. Pjelstad and J. Skyberg came later on.

Leland L. Quimby, metropolitan newspaper correspondent of Brownsdale, was born in La Salle, 111., May 17, 1871, son of Enoch and Ellen A. (Lasher) Quimby. He came to Mendota, 111., with his parents, and there remained until 1881, when he located in New Richmond, Wis., remaining there until 1891, when he removed to Brownsdale, where he published the Brownsdale Leaflet. This paper was discontmued in 1907, and since then Mr. Quimby has corresponded for A\arious city papers. He is now interested also in the telephone business, being the owner and manager of the Brownsdale Telephone Exchange. He has associated himself with the M. W. A., in which he is a prominent member. Mr. Qu.imby married Emma Thompson, daughter of Luther and Adaliue (Simpson) Thompson, and they are the parents of Jasper, Phillip and Joy B.

Heman B. Roe, retired farmer, has held various public offices in Lansing township, having served as assessor, supervisor and member of the school board. He was born at Chester, Ohio, sou of Orson and Maria (Armstrong) Roe, pioneers. When Heman B. was biit twelve years of age the family moved to Illinois, and in 1868 they moved to ]\Iower county, and after living iive years in the township of AValtham took up their abode in Lansing village.

The subject of this sketch worked about on farms, and tlicu acquired one of his own. lie still owns a fine place in the township, but does not operate it himself. Heman B. Roe married Katherine Dickerson, daughter of Joseph and Mary Jane (Stockdale) Dickerson, and they have one son, Louis D., who lives at home.

Orson Roe, the pioneer, was born in Schoharie county. New York, and married jMaria Armstrong. In 1828 he moved to Ohio, and in 1853 to Illinois, dying there in 1861 ; after which his family moved to Mower county, Minnesota. In this family were four girls and three boys, four of these children being now alive. Philo lives in Woodstock, 111.; Elizabeth is the wife of Wesley Scrauton; Charlotte is now Mrs. John Thompson, and Heman B. lives in Lansing. Joseph and ]\Iary Jane (Stockdale) Dickerson, parents of Mrs. Heman B. Roe, were both born in Michigan. In the early days they moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and there Katherine, now Mrs. Heman Roe, was born. Later they came to Mower county. Mrs. Roe fir.st attended school in an old log schoolhouse in Freeborn county, and later in the schools of Cedar City and Lansing. Aside from Mrs. Roe, two of the family are living: Clarence, of Canada, and Mary Ann Hagadorn, of Bluffton, Iowa.

Thomas A. Revord, the efficient manager of the Austin Weed Exterminator ^Manufacturing Company, a rapidly growing concern with a promising future, was born in Austin, May 18, 1866, son of John B. and Mary N. (Bero) Revord, early pioneers. He grew to manhood in Austin and attended the Austin high school, afterward taking a course in the academy at Valparaiso, Ind. He then worked three years in the law office of Henry Johns, at St. Pavil, but in 1890 returned to Austin and engaged successfully in the hardware business for sixteen years. In the year 1906, after disposing of his retail interests, he became one of the organizers, stockholders and directors of the Austin Weed Exterminator ]\Ianufacturing Company. In November of that year he was appointed to his present position. While in the retail business Mr. Revord was an active worker in the Austin Merchants' Association, and served as president of that body one j'ear. He has also labored earnestly a"or the progress of the city in other ways, and for several years was secretary and vice president of the Interstate Telephone and Telegraph Company. He votes the Democratic ticket, and as.sociates fraternally with the K. of C, the C. 0. F., the A. O. U. ^Y., the U. C. T. and the Austin Commercial Club. Mr. Revord was married November 26, 1895, at Madison, Wis., to Julia Grimm, of that place, and to this union four children have been born: Naomi, born September 18, 1896; Helen, born August 14, 1899; Ruth, born :\Iay 29, 1901, and John,

John B. Revord and ]\Iary N. Bero, his wife, substantial old pioneers, came from their native home in Canada, in 1856, and home-steaded 160 acres in Lansing township. Mower county. Tliey built the usual buildings and wrought many improvements, but in addition to this Mr. Revord also owned a boot and shoe and grocery store, moving into the city of Austin in 1867 and continuing the business until 1877, Avhen he sold out and retired. He died March 30, 1896, and his wife passed away January 15, 1905.

George Robertson, auditor of Mower county, has achieved an enviable reputation as a man of public affairs, both in Austin, where he performs the duties of his county office, and in Lyle, where he was for many years prominent in municipal activities. IVIr. Robertson was born in Rock county, Wisconsin, and as a youth was brought to London township, Freeborn county, this state. After leaving school he Avorked summers and taught school winters, until 1892, when he located in Lyle, engaging in the drug business, remaining ten years. During this time, in 1896, he became principal of the Lyle schools. At Lyle he took an active interest in village affairs, being assessor of the township seven years, president of the village board two years, postmaster of the village six years and president of the school board two years. In the fall of 1902 he yielded to the solicitation of his friends and consented to become a candidate for the auditorship of the county. He was elected by a large majority and took office the following January. He has succeeded himself every term since then, and has served with ability and distinction. An active Republican in politics, he has served on the congressional and county committees. In 1907 he was elected president of the State Auditors' Association, and was re-elected the following year. ]\Ir. Robertson is also a member of the Royal Arcanum, the I. 0. 0. F., the K. of P., the Masonic order, the B. P. 0. E., the M. W. A. and the F. O. E. He -was married April 3, 1883, at Austin, to Sarah Marsh, of Waupun, "Wis., and this union has been blessed v.iti! five children: Burton J., postmaster and manager of the teleplione company at Lyle, IMinn. ; Etta L., in charge of the musical department of the Pikeville Institute, at Pikeville, Ky., and Ross, Ora and Ralph, who are at home. Tlie family faith is that of the Presbyterian cluirch and the residence is at 915 Lansing avenue.

John Robertson, retired farmer and veteran of the Civil war, now living in Austin, Avas born in Scotland and came to this country in early boyhood, settling in Rock county, W^isconsin, where he married Margaret Campbell, likewise of Scotch birth, who also came to this country when a child. They farmed in Wisconsin until June, 1866, when they came to Minnesota and located in London township, Freeborn county, where they remained until 1893, when they retired and came to Austin to hve. Mrs. Robertson died IMarch 17, 1908. Their son, George Robertson, is county auditor of Mower county.

T. N. Roble, of Austin, proprietor of the IMerle Cafe, was burn in Mankato, ]\Iinn., August 30, 1875, sou of Ignatius and Louisa (Warnemuuda) Eoble. He received his education in the publit; schools and then learned the printers' trade with the Austin Transcript. Subsequently he worked on the Journal, in St. Peter, ]\Iinn. ; and then upon his return to Austin he worked a sliort period on the Herald. In the spring of 1893 he went to the Columbian Exposition at Chicago, and remained through the summer, working with the Rogers-Pitkin-Hall Printing Company, on Dearborn street. In the fall of the same year, after a short interim spent at his trade in Nebraska, he again returned to Austin and worked on the Herald. In 1895 he Avent to Springfield, ^linn., and opened a lunch room. In 1897 he went to Devil's Lake, N. D., and conducted a pool room and restaurant for five years ; sold out and went to Granville, N. D., and engaged in the drug business ; then sold out and went to Glenburn, N. D., where he conducted a restaurant, afterwards being interested in a pool room at Noonaii, N. D. In 1908 he once more took up his residence in Austin, arid opened the Merle Cafe at 130 East j\Iill street, whore he has built up a large trade and a flourishing business, combining a first class lunch room Avith an up-to-date and pleasant pool and billiard hall. It is worthy of note that not one of the many interests in which Mr. Roble has engaged has proven anything but a financial success. Ignatius Roble came from Germany in 1859, located in Mankato and lived there for many years, engaging in the manufacture of matches. The factory was destroyed by fire, and Ignatius Roble moved to Austin, engaging in the milling business the remainder of his life, his death dating December 8, 1893. His wife is still living and conducts her son's home at 506 Oakland aveniie. Austin.

Burton J. Robertson, postmaster of Lyle and general manager of the Lyle Telephone Company, is one of those energetic young men whose presence in a village adds to its progress and development. With a young man's enthusiasm he has plunged into the l)usiness liL'e of the connnunity. and has made his work felt. He was born in Lyle township, May 3, 1882, son of County Auditor George Robertson. He received his early education in the district schools of his toAvnship, and graduated from the Austin high school in 1901. He clerked in a drug store for a while and tlien in 1902 received his appointment as postmaster, having in the meantime assumed his present position in the teleplione company. ^Ir. Robertson is a Republican in politics and for four years has served as a member of the school board. He is also a popular member of the Knights of Pythias. Mr. Eobertson was married November 11, 1903, to Bertha L. Anderson, and this union has resulted in one child, Merwyn A., born May 28, 1909.

Perry L. Reynolds, retired farmer and real estate man, now living at 601 AVest Oakland avenue, Austin, was born in Washington county, New York, February 28, 1847, son of Benjamin and Nancy (McDougal) Beynolds, who spent the span of their years in New York state, the father dying in 1872 and the mother in 1892. Perry L. received a good common school education, and in 1867 migrated to Branch county, Michigan, Avhere he remained two years. In 1869 he came to Minnesota, and from then until 1904 farmed and dealt in real estate, owning at one time nearly 2,000 acres in Nevada township, this county. In 1904 he retired and has since made his home in the city of Austin, still owning land in Austin and Sargeant townships. He is a Republican and a Mason, and a member of the Christian church. Mr. Reynolds was married May 23, 1883, to Mrs. Nancy A. (Slyke) Brown, and to this union have been born two children : Harland L., an east side merchant in Austin, and Mabel, now Mrs. Harry Herman, of Austin. Mrs. Reynolds is the daughter of David D. and Sarah (Moyer) Slyke, both natives of Montgomery county. New York, where the father died in 1890 and the mother in 1888. Mrs. Reynolds was born in Montgomery county. New York, Februarj^ 3, 1843, and was first married to Ozni C. Brown, who died in 1882, leaving seven children: Harry K, Millner, N. D. ; Colonel W., Austin ; Frank D., Nevada township ; Chester C, Austin ; George W., Pipestone, Minn. ; Grace, now Mrs. A. B. Lovell, Austin, and Alice, deceased.

John E. Robinson, an honored and respected pioneer of Mower county, Minnesota, Avas born in Monroe county. New York, September 24, 1837. While in his infancy, he came to Wayne county, New York, Avith his parents, receiving his early education in the public schools of NcAvark, AVayne county, and completing his studies at the Collegiate Institute of Rochester, Ncav York. He then read law with Attorneys L. M. Norton and S. K. Williams of Newark, being admitted to the bar at Auburn, N. Y., 1859, and immediately afterwards formed a co-partnership Avith his recent instructor, L. M. Norton, at NcAvark. In the fall of 1862 he came west, having dissolved his partnership Avith Mr. Norton, and located at Lansing, MoAver county, Minnesota, subsequently being admitted to the Minnesota bar, but did not engage in the practice of his profession, maintaining himself by school teaching for a year. The call to arms of 1861 Avas then sounded and he responded by enlisting in Company B, Second Minnesota Cavalry, serA'ing until his discharge at Fort Snelling, December 1, 1865. The most of his servit^e was ou tlu> frontier under General Sully, tiie hard, fast fighting showing the splendid metal of the Second Minnesota Cavalrj'. After his diseharge he returned to Lansing, continuing teaching, and tal<ing up farming in addition, having at one time over 400 acres of land in Lansing and Udolpho to^^-nships. In 1882 he removed to Austin and took charge of the Hotel 'NYindsor for five years, siibsequently purchasing another hotel, the Eobinson House, which he remodeled and conducted until 1892. AYhile a hotel proprietor he was five years agent for the Adams Express Company. He Avas appointed to fill out an unexpired term as justice of the peace of the First ward, in 1892, and was later fleeted for the twelve ensuing years. Since the expiration of this term of office he has lived retired at his beautiful home at 106 South Main street. In politics he is a temperance Republican, and has served several years as a member of the Austin board of education, in addition to his twelve years of service as justice of the peace. The Grand Army of the Republic and the Modern Woodmen of America count him a valued member. He is also a staunch iipholder of the Baptist church, having been a member since eleven years of age, and a deacon and trustee of the First Baptist church of Austin for many years. December 9, 1858, he was married to Elizabeth Hutehingson of Rochester, New York. Five children have blessed this marriage : "William H., born May 1, 1860, died April 17, 1879; Sarah Belle, born June 10, 1863, is now married to F. E. Gleason, a jeweler of Austin ; Otis H., born May 8, 1868, died November 17, 1907 ; Emma L., born January 14, 1870, is now living in Minneapolis ; and John F., born January 16, 1875, is president of the First National Bank of Steele, N. D., the bank of which his father is vice president. Robert and Sally (Hall) Robinson, parents of oiar subject, w^ere natives of the state of New York. In 1841 the father removed to AYayne county, New York, where he followed general farming until his death, December 24, 1884. His wife followed him to the Great Beyond, December 25, 1886.

Robert 0. Richards, a successful farmer of Lyle township, carries on agricultural operations in a scientific manner, and has been very successful, especially as a breeder of registered Poll Angus cattle and registered Poland-China hogs. He was born in Lewis county. New York state, April 17, 1870, son of Richard R. and ^Mary (Salisbury) Richards, natives of Wales. He received his primary education in the schools of his neighborhood, coming to Otranto, Iowa, with his parents in 1880. There he also attended the schools, and then remained on the Otrando Stock Farm, working for his father until the latter "s dciitli, wlieii he continued to conduct the same farm until 1901, when iif and liis motlier came to Mower county, where his motlicr jmrdiascd 120 acres of land in section 32, Lyle township. To this Mr. Richards has added a few acres of his own. They have erected some fine buildings, brought the land to a high state of cultivation, and now have a model place in every respect. Mr. Richards is single, a Republican, a Presbyterian, and a member of the Masonic order and the M. W. A.

Richard R. Richards was born at Bala, North Wales, January 1, 1833, son of Richard Richards and Susanah Richards, "Welsh farmers. He was married November 22, 1856, to Mary Salisbury. Mary Salisbury was born in North Wales, July 2, 1838, daughter of Ebenezer and jMargret Salisbury, Welsh farmers. Margret Salisbury died in 1840, and in 1842 Ebenezer Salisbury came to this country. In 1846 he married Elizabeth Jones, of Deerfield, N. Y. In 1849 he was ordained to the Methodist ministry and preached until his death in 1874. Mr. and Mrs. Richard R. Richards engaged in farming until coming westward in 1880, locating in Otranto, Mitchell county, Iowa, where Richard R. took up farming and stock raising on the Otranto Stock Farm, until his death in 1898. In 1901 Mrs. Richards came to Lyle and purchased land, as stated above.

Jay J. Rugg, of Austin, founder and part owner of the Austin Dairy Companiy, was born in Red Rock, Mower county, Minnesota, May 16, 1872, son of John D. and Barbara J. (Ticknor) Rugg. He attended the district schools of his neighborhood and the high school in Austin, remaining at home and working on the farm with his father until his marriage in 1896. He then rented a farm and worked on his own account for three years, later removing to the "Sargent Springs" place, so called, where he started the nucleus of what afterward developed into the Austin Dairy Company. Mr. Rugg improved the farm, constructed several buildings, and put the place in proper shape for an extensive dairy business. After a time he abandoned this place, and in company with F. W. Kimball and D. H. Stimson, formed the Austin Dairy Company. They commenced business on the corner of Chatham and Oakland avenue, but their business expanded and grew to such proportions that they were obliged to find more spacious quarters. Consequently they purchased their present plant on East Maple street. In addition to the usual dairy business of retailing milk and cream, they handle butter, poultry, eggs and ice cream. In 1909 they purchased the egg and cold storage plant known as the "Old Major" plant. Mr. Rugg is a popular young man, and- belongs to the Odd Fellows and the Woodmen. He married Tillie Dochterman, daughter of William Dochterman, and they have four children: Merville D., Raymond P., Barl)ara J. and Jay J., Jr.

to America at an early age. He located in Jamestown, N. Y., and married Jane Hill Locke, of Bristol, N. H., a teacher in the public schools of Fruesburg, N. Y. In the year 1855 he came to Minnesota and in March, 185G, came to Mower county, Lyle township. A year later Mrs. Roberts came west and was met at Caledonia by her husband with an ox team. Together they journeyed overland to the little home by the Cedar. Here he accpiired a farm of 900 acres and farmed it for many years. Seven children were born to them, five of whom are living : Annice, now Mrs. Edward McMahn; Eunice, widow of Charles M. Rice; Benjamin (deceased), Charles A., Adelbert, Henry, Eva (deceased), wife of C. E. Lashbrook. They moved to Austin about thirty years ago. Here Mrs. Roberts died in 1897 and he is still living in the city.

Charles M. Rice, now deceased, was born near Buffalo, N. Y., a son of Andrew B. Rice. For twelve years he conducted a general store in Austin and was well and favorably known here. His death in 1897 caused general regret. Mr. Rice married Eunice L. Roberts, daughter of Henry and Jane (Locke) Roberts. Mrs. Rice taught school before her marriage, and for the last eleven years she has taught geography in the Franklin school in Austin. In pursuing her geographical studies Mrs. Rice has traveled extensively in this country and abroad.

James Z. Rogers, whose parents were one of the territorial families of jMinuesota, was born in Faribault, Minn., August 5, 1873, son of Caleb E. and Mary J. (Shonts) Rogers. He received his earlier education in the public schools of Faribault and then attended the Faribault Business College, later clerking in the grocery store of A. J. Grant. Subsequently he worked a year for Grant, Linton & Co., general railroad constructors, as overseer of one of their contracts in Iowa. In January, 1900, he came to Austin and engaged in the carriage manufactory business with H. M. Hanson for one year. Then he purchased the business and operated it alone until 1906, Avhen he took William II. Teeter as partner. In 1909 he again l)ecame sole owner, and now docs a large business in making carriages and repairing automobiles. He has been chancellor and is now lecturer of the Knights of Columbus, and has also been banker of the M. W. A. He votes independently and is a member of the Catholic church. ^Ir. Rogers was married May 1, 1901, at Austin, to Mary C. Reilly, of this place, and to this union have been born three children : Milton F., born June 16, 1902, and I^Iadrienue ]M., twins, and Erving E.. born January 30, 1907. iNFr. Rogers is a lineal descendant of Joseph Rogers, who came to America in the ^Mayflower. One of Jiis ancestors also took part in the Revolutionary war.

Mai-y J. Shouts, who was born in Pennsylvania, and came west in 1856, locating on Cannon Lake, near Faribault. He later located in Faribault, and there followed his trade as a carpenter until 1889, when he went to Waterville, Wash., where he still resides. His wife, who has to travel for her health, is at present located in Los Angeles, Cal.

G. M. F. Eogers, M. D., one of the leading physicians of Austin, was born in Otsego, Otsego county. New York, November 19, 1874, son of "William 'M. and Helen ]\I. (Martin) Rogers, who in 1879 took him to South Dakota. He was reared in Doland in that state, and there received his earlier education, graduating from the Doland high school. In 1895 he entered Hamline University, and in j899 graduated from the medical department of that institution, which is conducted as a part of the University of Minnesota. He spent the folloAving year as an interne in the Llinneapolis City Hospital, and then practiced his profession at Rothsey, Minn., removing to Btiffalo, Minn., in 1902, and remaining there until 1905. His rapidly increasing practice, his long hours, and the many demands made on his time and health impaired his strength, and for the next four years he retired from practice, but devoted his time to attending special clinics in the eye, ear, nose and throat, in Philadelphia, Chicago and New York. In 1907 he came to Austin, where he has since enjoyed a full measure of success. Dr. Rogers is a high degree Mason, a member of the M. W. A. and of the Austin Commercial Club. He Avas married December 17, 1902, to Nellie R. Hassinger. The family faith is that of the Methodist church.

William M. Rogers Avas born in New York state and there married Helen M. Martin, a native of the same state. They came west in 1878 and located for a short period near Benson, in Swift county, Minnesota. Then they went to Gary, S. D., and after a short period there, went to Doland, in the same state. When a young man, AVilliam M. Avas a decorator for the D. & H. R. R., but Avas injured by an elevator accident, and being crippled, came west and took \np the mercantile business. He died at Doland, S. D., March 15, 1895, and his AvidoAV is still living.

Thomas Rochford Avas born in St. George, Canada, April 7, 1856. At the age of ten years he moved to this county Avith his parents, his education being acquired in the district schools of Austin township. Leaving school, he followed farming in Lyle township. Mower county, until 1881, when he came to Austin and engaged in the confectionery business two years, subsequently spending a summer in Valparaiso, Ind. Then returning to Minnesota, he located at Lyle village, receiving employment as clerk in the postoffice and general store, in addition conducting a boarding house. After remaining in Lyle three years, he removed to

Austin and established the pioneer express line of the city, addiag the first hack line three years later, operating these for a period of eleven years, then selling out and conducting a dray line for two years. This business and equipment he traded for western land, marking his entry into the real estate business, in which lie remained four years, as a co-partner in the Rochford Land Company of Austin. He traded his interest in the company for his property of seventy acres on South Kenwood avenue, it being valued at $300 per acre, containing immense quantities of gravel -md sand. Mr. Rochford is now engaged in the manufacture of all kinds of cement building material on this place. He has erected twenty-one houses in the city of Austin, five being constructed of cement blocks of his own manufacture. He has now disposed of all but four. An extensive real estate business claims much of his attention, and a large number of high-bred driving horses, of Avhieh he is a great fancier, pass through his hands. He owns one team that he values at $2,500. All his success he owes to his untiring efforts and the assistance of his loving wife. As to political convictions, he is a Republican, but his large business interests have prevented him from seeking office. His fraternal aflfiliations are with the Knights of Columbus, the Catholic Order of Foresters, the Modern Woodmen of America, the Equitable Fraternal Union, and the Order of Owls, in which he is past president. He has served as trustee in all his lodges. He is also serving as vice president of the Catholic Total Abstinence Society of Austin. November 26, 1882, he was married to Ella Davison of Valparaiso, Ind., daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. P. Davison. They have seven living children, two others being dead. Nina (deceased), Pearl, Leo, Isa, Ora (deceased), Meda, Harold, John, and IMabel. The family attend the Catholic church. James and Pauline (La Chance) Rochford, parents of our subject, emigrated from Canada in 1866, locating in Lyle township, Mower county, iMinnesota, where the father followed his trade as a carpenter until 1871. He then went to Crookston, Minn., leaving his family at Lyle township, and remained fourteen years, working at his trade. Returning to Lyle township, he liA^ed a retired life up to the time of his death. The mother is still living at Austin.

F. G. Ray, a veteran of the Indian campaign and of the Civil war, and for many years the honored postmaster of Rose Creek, was born in Vigo county, Indiana, September 10, 1841, son of Isaac M. and Mary A. (Gordon) Ray; went with them to IMoline, 111., in 1856; to Hastings, ]\Iinn., in the spring of 1857, and in that city finished his schooling. In 1862 he became a citizen soldier and served in the Indian outbreak. In 1863 he enlisted in Company F, Seventh ^Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and served in all the campaigns and battles of the Sixteenth Army Corps under

General Thomas, being discharged at Fort Snelling in August, 1865, at the close of hostilities. He then farmed at Empire City, Dakota county, ]\Iinnesota, until 1868, when he came to Rose Creek and purchased a half section of school land in section 36, Windom township, the land being at that time partly broken. Shortly afterward he returned to Minneapolis and worked for the Northern Pacific railroad two years. In 1870 he came back to Windom township and lived on the Marshall farm with his parents until 1875, when he moved to the village of Rose Creek, and conducted a hotel from 1876 until 1893. He was postmaster four years under Harrison, was out four years under the second Cleveland administration, and Avas again appointed under the first McKiuley administration, since which time he has served continuously, under McKinley, Roosevelt and Taft. Mr. Ray is a conservative Republican, has served as justice of the peace, was town clerk for ten years, assessor two years, and is now treasurer of the board of education of Rose Creek, as well as a notary public. He is engaged in the real estate and insurance business in addition to his duties as postmaster, and aside from his home in Rose Creek village he owns a farm of 160 acres in Windom township, which he purchased in 1887. He has been a member of the Rose Creek Congregational church since 1880, and is a deacon as well as superintendent of the Sunday school. He affiliates with the Masonic order, the G. A. R. and the Territorial Pioneer Association. The subject of this sketch was married October 31, 1893, to Elizabeth Southworth, of Michigan, who has proved an able and efficient helpmeet.

Isaac M. Ray and his wife, Mary A. Gordon, were natives, respectively, of Ohio and Virginia, the former being of English and the latter of Scottish descent. They located in Indiana in 1818, and Isaac M. Ray was there admitted to the bar, serving as police judge of Terre Haute until 1856, when the family moved to Moline, 111., remaining until the spring of 1857, when they came to Minnesota and located in Hastings, Dakota county. He was admitted to the bar in Minnesota and was sheriff of Dakota county four years, as well as police justice at Hastings, Minn. There they remained until 1868, when they came to Rose Creek and then went on the Marshall farm for seven years. Then they moved to Rose Creek and here Isaac M. died April 14, 1876, and the mother December 9, 1899. Isaac M. Ray when about twenty years of age, was licensed to preach by the M. B. church in Vigo county, Indiana. He was also a member of the bar in Minnesota.

Orasmus D. Rhoades, an early settler of Udolpho township, who gave up his life for his country in a southern prison, was born in New York, October 27, 1817. He went as a young man to Chautauqua county, New York, and was there married to Maria

Hunter, October 6, 1844. She was born in New York city, October 19, 1825. In 1853 Orasmus D. Rhoades came west to Clinton county, Iowa, and in August, 1856, he came to Mower county and settled in section 22, township of Udolpho, where he entered land and built a house. In 1862 he enlisted in Company C, Ninth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and went south with his regiment. He was taken prisoner at the battle of Guntown, Tenn., and was first sent to Andersonville. Later he was incarcerated at Milan, and there died of starvation, December 24, 1864. His wife lived on the old homestead, assisted by her son, Oscar J. Rhoades, until her death in 1910. In the family were six children: Oscar J.; Mary C, wife of B. M. Carll; Malina, wife of Norman Carll; Amelia J., wife of C. King; Harriett 0., wife of Samuel Seavy, and Loretta E., wife of John Andrews.

Oscar J. Rhoades, a substantial farmer of Udolpho township, was born in Chautauqua covinty, New York, September 17, 1845, one of the six children of Orasmus D. and Maria (Hunter) Rhoades. He came to Mower county with his parents, here grew to manhood and received his education, and has since continued to reside on the home place. He is one of the few pioneers that are still living, and well remembers the time when there was only one house between his residence in Udolpho, and the present site of the packing house in Austin.

Reuben Rollings, now deceased, was born in Leicestershire, England, April 12, 1825, seventh of the eleven children of John and Lucy (Pick) Rollings, both natives of England, where John Rollings was engaged in the mercantile and commission business. Reuben received his education in the English schools, and when he grew to manhood married Jane Fisher, February 18, 1856. She was from his native place and was born IMay 20, 1830. Soon after their marriage they came to America and settled in Dane county, AVis., where Reuben Rollings engaged in farming until 1861, when he came to Fillmore county, ]\Iinnesota, and remained until the summer of 1867, when he moved to Waltham township, IMower county. In the fall of 1877 he came to Red Rock township, where his widow now resides, and died in September, 1906. Mr. Rollings in his life was a strong Republican and held many town offices at various times. To Mr. and I\Irs. Rollings were born six children: Joseph W., Alfred F., ]\Iary A., Amelia J., Henry J. and Emma L. Mary A. is the wife of D. A. Lamport, and they have two boys, Harold and Leonard. Amelia J. married Arthur Burnett, and they have three children : Ethel, Raymond and Marion. Henry J. lives in Fergus Falls; Emma L. is the wife of tlie Rev. 0. F. Jones, and they have one son.

New York state, who came west in 1857 and preempted land in section 34, Red Rock township, erecting first a shack, and then a small frame house which stood until the present family residence was erected in 1872. In this home "William A. was reared, receiving his education in the "Pioneer" school, district 41, and in the Franklin school at Austin. AVhen he attained his majority he engaged with his father in the coal and wood business for a time and then worked as fireman on the S. M. division of the C, M. & St. P. railroad for six months, subsequently taking up farming on the old homestead, where he is now located. He married Clara Mott, daughter of Lorenzo and Sarah (Brockway) Mott, and they are the parents of three boys, Albert W., aged nine; J. Donald, aged seven, and Everett M., aged five.

Knute Rudlong, avIio has farmed in Adams township since 1884, was born in Valdris, Norway, in 1864, son of Arlag and Marit Rudlong, his wife deceased. Knute came to America in 1884 and located in Adams township, where he worked by the month for four years. At the end of that time he bought 120 acres and started to improve the place. He now has an excellent farm, with comfortable house, well kept barns, a suitable amount of shade trees, a windmill and modern machinery. In previous years Mr. Rudlong made a specialty of grains. He is a Republican in politics and was road overseer in the township two years. The Lutheran church expresses his religious creed and he has been trustee of the church of that denomination in Adams for three years. The subject of this sketch was married in 1888 to Rachel Olson, and this union has been blessed with one daughter, Ida, who after completing the course in Adams schools creditably, is now helping her mother at home. December 3, 1905, Mr. Rudlong paid a visit to his old home, visiting his old father, three brothers and a sister, whom he had not seen for twenty-one years. He sailed on the steamship Baltic on the White Star line.

A. 0. Sundem, a venerable and honored resident of Nevada township, lives on eighty acres in section 26, and is now practically retired, having reached an age when active participation in the toil of life is not a necessity. He was born in Norway, March 28, 1825, and came to America in 1855. In Norway he Avas a fisherman and railroad worker. After landing in Quebec he went to Wisconsin and worked near Madison six years, mostly in the lead mines. Then he came to Mower county, purchased his present place, and until a short time ago successfully conducted farming operations thereon. He was married in 1860 and has four children: Edward, died at the age of thirty-seven years after a long illness; Anna is at home; Emelia is the wife of John Osteman of Lyle ; and Christian conducts a farm near Lyle.

George H. Sutton

George H. Sutton, now deceased, is one of those men wliose meniory will ever be held foremost in the loving regard of 1i:c people of Mower county. I lis life was an exemplification of personal virtues and civic righteousness, and liis death caused widefelt mourning, not only in this county hut throughout the state, the newspapers vieing with each other in their encomiums.

^Ir. Siitton was born at Plymouth, England, June 19, 1866, and died July 1, 1909. He grew to manhood amid the Howeriiig hedges and green lanes of Old England, and at the age of eighteen years came to America with his uncle, Thomas Drew, for wliom he kept books four years at Portage, Wis. He then entered the employ of the C, M. & St. P. Ry., for several years. During this period he married Margaret Gilvrey, who proved an able helpmeet in all his various lines of helpfulness. Together they moved to Chicago, and there resided until the C, M. & St. P. road disposed of its hotels and eating houses, at which time Mr. Sutton purchased the interests in the Depot hotel, at Austin, and removed here, making the hotel a favorite with the traveling public. From the first this couple made their impress on the life of tlie community. Their deeds of kindness and acts of charity became widely known. At once upon his arrival Mr. Sutton became interested in the municipal uplift of the city, and he believed in progress, but it was not until 1899 that he entered politics and became an alderman to fill the unexpired term of Alex Campbell, who had been elected mayor. The following year ^fr. Sutton was practically unanimously elected alderman from his ward. In 1906 he was elected mayor. The following two years of his administration were years which placed Austin on a high plane of law and order. Mayor Sutton personally investigated every violation of the city ordinances. He insisted that the law be obeyed, and the severest of punishment was meted out to those who ignored his warnings. After two years of sucli a splendid example of law enforcement, the people reelected ^layor Sutton for another term, and one-half of that term had expired when his health began to fail. He attempted much and his nervous system did not stand the strain. April 9, 1909, he left the city for Sioux City, Iowa, to go under the care of a physician, who later sent him to a specialist in Omaha. All these eiforts of love and skill were unavailing, however, and Mr. Sutton passed to the Great Beyond, July 1, 1909. The body was brought back from Omaha and rested in solemn state in the court house. The services were held from the Episcopal church and the procession of sorrowing friends and fraternal brothers which followed the remains to the grave was one of the largest in the history of Austin, in spite of the drizzling rain. Mv. Sutton was survived bv his widow, three children, George P., Albert E.

The above is a brief sketch of the life and work of an excellent man : His character and influence are admirably summed up by the Austin Daily Herald, as follows: When want and distress came, there George Sutton was to be found with succor. When death darkened a home, it was George Sutton who was the first to offer his assistance, and when the last sad rites Avere performed. Mayor Sutton was always to be seen among those taking the dead to their last resting place. All who knew Mr. Sutton realized the ardor, the intensity and the enthusiasm of the man. What he did, he did with his Avhole soul. As mayor of the city, he was more than an official, the affairs became to him personal. As president of the Chautauqua Association, he bent every energy and gave of time and effort freely that it might be a success. As a worker for the county fair he was efficient and zealous. In the Sunshine Society and the Elks' Christmas festivities he worked for the joy of the working. To the Driving Association he gave enthusiasm and push. To the school board he would have given valued service had his health not failed him on the eve of election. The ambulance fund was pushed and seconded by his efforts. And so one might continue to specify w^ork for the public good to which he allied his name and gave of his time and money in its support. Generous almost to a fault, his own affairs and his own personal comfort were the last to receive attention. His philanthropy was a tonic to the whole city. Others refused to be mean or small when called to help out a cause led by this generous spirit. His sympatliies were not bounded by the walls of creed or caste. It was to help those who needed help when they needed it most. In this he had the quality that vitalizes all religion. His heart was one of kindly impulses. To a hungry, ill-clad child he Avas tender as a woman. To the fatherless and Avidow he was a fi-iend indeed. No matter what differences he had with men, Avhen sickness or sorrow touched their homes, George Sutton was the first to offer help and sympathy. A sick child, an accident, poverty and distress appealed to him as to but few men. To Austin his death means the close of a life which has left its impress upon the city, and for its great personal force has but few equals. Chosen as mayor in 1906, he began his administration with absolute fea;-- lessness and rare courage. Austin liked his Avay of doing things, and in 1908 all law-loving citizens clamored for his reelection. Two years of fearless administration had swept aAvay iiis detractors and political enemies. As mayor he adhered to his fixed policy of doing what he thought was right. He was a man of the people and his highest ambition was to serve the best inter- ests of all the people. Mr. Sutton had a great capacity for friendship. His friends, not passing friends, but close proven friends, were many. The same qualities wliich made him the true friend, made him a loving and devoted husband and father. Measuring the man from these many standpoints, he stood for square honesty, a manly man, a rugged, virile character, whose like we do not often look upon.

An editorial published in the Austin Daily Herald, October 28, 1910, spoke of Mr. Sutton as follows: "Austin will not raise a relief fund for some time to come, that the memory of George Sutton will not revive afresh. First in all good work, eager to lielj^ the needy, and relieve the suffering, counting neither time nor money against he call for aid, Austin came to depend upon him. A score of people spoke his name in reference to the tire sufferers' relief fund just raised. His influence is with us today, in the town that he loved and helped. He lives in the hearts that he enriched by his friendship, in the minds to which he taught generosity, as well as scorn for the miserable alms that ends with self. Every town needs such as he to leaven its lump of selfishness. What he did is a precedent which we shall remember in times of need."

Burt E. Stimson, a retired farmer and veteran of the Civil Avar, now living in Austin, was born in Damby, Vt., October 21, 1844, son of Charles N. and Harriett A. (Pratt) Stimson, who brouglit him to Udolpho township, this county, in 1856. Here he received his early education, and was reared on a farm. Joining the Union army in 1864 and serving in Company K, Fifth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, until the fall of 1865, when the regiment was mustered out at Demopolis, Ala., and discharged at Fort Snelling. He took part in the battles of Nashville, Spanish Forts and Fort Blakely, and was on the march to Montgomery when peace was declared. Returning to Mower county, he again took up farming on the home place, raising wheat at first and later changing into diversified farming, making a specialty of Norman horses and Poland-China hogs. At the time of his retirement in 1896 he owned 1,000 acres of rich land, all in this county. Mr. Stimson is a member of the I. 0. 0. F. and the G. A. R., attends the Congregational church, and votes the Republican ticket. He was married November 11, 1866, at the bride's home in "VYestfield, Dodge county, to Eliza Symes, and this union has resulted in nine children: Burt L., of Lansing, this county; Charles AY., of "Winnebago ; Alice 0., wife of IMiles AIcGowan ; Winfred, of Winnebago ; Emma, now jMrs. Guy Chaffee, of Freei)orn county; George, of Sargeant, Minn.; Henry S.. a Chicago dentist; Fred, of Winnebago; Lule, of Austin, .wife of Leo Dunfee, a cigar merchant.

Charles N. Stimson was born in Vermont and there married llari'iett A. Pratt, a native of the same state. They came -west in 1856, located in Udolpho, Mower county, and took a homestead of 160 acres in section 24, township 104, range 18. They erected buihlings, developed the laud and carried on general farming, Charles N. passing away in ]\larch, 1866, and his wife in August. 1864.

Herbert St. Ledger, manager of the Southern ^Minnesota Land Company, with headquarters at Austin, was born in Oakland township, Freeborn county, September 24, 1876, son of Daniel and Anna Jane (Christie) St. Ledger. He received his education in the public schools of Austin, and after school farmed with his father until 1900, Avhen he became salesman for a clotliing house in Austin. Two years later he entered into the real estate business as salesman, and in January, 1908, organized the company of which he is at present the manager. Mr. St. Ledger is a staunch Republican, and an earnest worker in the cause of that party, being a member of the Republican county committee. He helped to organize the Modern Samaritans in Austin, and is also a member of the C. T. A. U. Mr. St. Ledger is an attendant of the Catholic church.

Daniel St. Ledger was born in Vermont, and married Anna Jane Christie, a native of Illinois. He was engaged as a young man in managing a sawmill on a large southern plantation. Later he went to the gold fields and mined successfully in "Washington Gulch, Mont., for four years. Then he came to Freeborn county and took a claim of 160 acres in Oakland township. He built one of the first houses in that locality, hauling the lumber from Rochester. Later he added eighty acres to his land, and on his 240 acres followed farming until 1898, when he sold his farm and came to Austin, Avhere he took up his residence.

Henry Stillman, a pioneer, was born in New York state, and married Amelia Stebbins, also a native of that state. In 185:i they came west to AVisconsin, and settled in Marquette county. There Henry Stillman engaged at his trade as plasterer, mason and contractor, as well as at farming, until 1865, when he moved his family to Pepin county, in the same state, making the trip of 200 miles by ox team. In 1887 he came to Northtield, in this state, and died in 1889. His wife died in California, at the good old age of eighty-four.

Charles F. Stillman, an Austin contractor, was born in 'Sla.vquette county, Wisconsin, April 8, 1857, son of Henry and Amelia (Stebl)ins) Stillman. He moved with his parents to Pepin county in the same state. There he grew to manhood, and after finishing his schooling worked on a farm. Tlum he learned the carpen-_ ter's trade, and worked for a lime in Menominee, Wis., going ill 1880 to AVinona, workini;' ;it 1lic siimc trade. Sii1is(m(iicii1 ly lio worked at railroadinjj iwo years, then was employed a year in Minneapolis, and finally went to Noi-tliHeld, Minn., where lie started business as a builder and conti'aetor and remained seven years. In tiie fall of 1893 lie eame to Austin, and has since been eng-aged in contracting and building in tliis place, having a well equipped Avoodworking shop on Lansing avenue. Mr. Htillman is an independent voter, and in 1908 was elected alderman of Austin from the first ward. He has been through the chairs of the M. W. A. and the I. O. 0. F., and is also a member of the Commercial Club, of Austin. The subject of this sketch was married October 19, 1880, to Margaret Bergmaun, and to this union has been born one son, IMarcus H.

Marcus H. Stillman, son of Charles F. and Margaret (Bergmaun) 8tillman, was born in Northfield, Minn., September 10, 1887, and there received some of his early education, coming to Austin with his parents in 1893. Here he also attended school. He is now employed in the Government Bureau of Standards at AVashington, D. C.

Lucius F. Snyder, the efficient and accommodating mail carrier of rural route No. 1 out of Austin, was born in a pioneer log house in Red Rock township, this county. May 31, 1875, son of William J. and Hannah E. (Hurd) Snyder. He received his education in the district school of his neighborhood, Bridget P. Barrett being one of the teachers, and it is worthy of note that in after years, when Mr. Snyder had become a man of prominence in the community, and was elected clerk of this district. No. 68, he hired Nellie Barrett, a sister of one of his first teachers, to take charge of the school. At the age of seventeen he took up farming for himself and followed this occupation until 1902, when the old home farm was sold after his father's death, and then came to Austin, where for one year he conducted a livery stable, which occupation he decided he Avasn't cut out for. Then he took the civil service examination, and on September 22, 1903, was appointed a carrier on the route of which he was one of th.e petitioners to get started, and to his present position. ]\Ir. Snyder is a Republican in politics, is a member of the ^lethodist Episcopal church, and belongs to the C. of H. and the M. "W. A. Lodges. He has also served five years as a private in Company G, Second Regiment, jM. N. G. The subject of this sketch was married January 25, 1899, to Estella Parkins, and this union has been blessed with four children: Emma E., Burdette R., Fred A., Sterling E., all at home. On January 31 he resigned the position as rural mail carrier on Route No. 1, heretofore mentioned after .serving a little over seven years, and at all times on the best of terms with all the patrons. He then engaged in the real estate

William J. Snyder and Hannah E. Hurd, his wife, came to ]\[ower county in 1866, and took up a homestead of eighty acres in the Red Rock township, which they broke and improved, and followed farming until June 16, 1897, when William J. died. His moved to Austin and later to Albert Lea, where she still resides.

Elbert H. Smith, of Austin, president of the E. H. Smith Land and Loan Company, and secretary of the Austin Weed Exterminator Manufacturing Company, is a native of this city, born October 2, 1868, son of Julius and Ada (Robbins) Smith. He attended the public and high schools of Austin, and in 1885 went to Iowa, where he learned the jewelers' trade. In 1897 he came back to Austin, and became traveling salesman for the Arustine Bros, and Meier Co., wholesale jewelers, of Cleveland, Ohio, with which concern he remained for some years. Then he took up the real estate, loan and insurance business, making a specialty of farm lands, in Montana, the Dakotas and Minnesota, representing also the twelve leading fire and tornado insurance companies in America. Mr. Smith votes independently, is a master Mason, and belongs to the Knights of Pythias, the United Commercial Travelers, and the Austin Commercial Club. He has been secretary of the Mower County Agricultural Society for several years. He is one of the board of trustees of the Congregational church. The subject of this sketch was married April 6, 1893, at Austin, to Ida M. Barnes, daughter of Dr. R. A. Barnes, and to this union have been born three children: Verna M., born June 12, 1894; Marian A., born September 7, 1901: and Richard B.. boru November 4, 1904.

Jvdius A. Smith was born in New York state, and there married Ada Robbins. They came west in 1864 and purchased 160 acres of wild land in Austin township. Mower county. This land they broke, improved, and cultivated, erecting the necessary buiUlings, and bringing the place to a high state of development. In tlie early days they raised grain, biit later the farm was devoted largely to stock raising and dairying. Julius Smith died November 29, 1896, and his widow is still living.

Frank G. Sasse, of the firm of French & Sasse, leading attorneys of Austin, was born in Utica, Winona county, Minnesota, July 1, 1871, son of John F. and Anna IM. Sasse, natives of Germany. Frank G. received his early education in the schools of Winona county and graduated from the St. Charles high school in 1890. Then he taught school for two years, and with the money thus secured entered the University of i\Iinnesota in the fall of 1902. Two years later he again started teaching, and after three years had secured sufficient funds to complete liis cou*'si». Ill 1899 he graduated from the academic department of tlie University of Minnesota, Avith the degree of B. A. A year later he grarluated froni the law department of the same university, and was at once admitted to the bar. After practicing in St. Charles two years he went to Fairmont, ]\Iartin county, and there becauK^ a junior partner in the firm of Mathwig & Sasse. Mr. Sasse was ele-.^ted coiuity attorney of Martin county and served as city attorney of Fairmont. He rosigued, however, to come to Austin in the tall of 1909. Here he became a partner of LaFayette French, the firm taking the name of French & Sasse. Since coming here Mr. Sasse has allied himself -with the Austin Commercial Club. While at college he was admitted to Phi Beta Kappa, an honorary fraternity. He is a Democrat in politics, and has affiliated himself with the INIasonic order, the K. of P., the M. W. A. and the Modern Samaritans. The subject of this sketch was married July 1-4, 1904, at Vernon Center, Blue Earth county, Minnesota, to Elrose Howard, of that place. This union has been blessed with one child. Lucille M., born May 26, 1905.

John F. Sasse and Anna M. Sasse, his wife, were natives of Germany. They came to America in 1849, located in New York state, and in the early sixties removed to Wisconsin. A few years later they located at Winona county, Minnesota, and there ended their days, the father October 4, 1908, and the mother April 15, 1908.

John Slupe, who conducts the R. F. Shepherd farm of 450 well-tilled acres in Austin township, was born in Switzerland in February, 1849, son of Stephen Slupe. John came to America in 1868, located in New York state and engaged in teaming. In 1872 he came to MeHenry county, Illinois, and farmed there tv.o years. Then he lived in Indiana for about a year and a half, and in 1876 came to Minnesota for a short period, going then to Iowa and farming until 1886, when he again came to Mower county. In 1902 he assumed his present responsibilities on the Shepherd farm. He was married January 16, 1878, to Emeline Shores, and they have two children : Albert and J. C.

Ulysses L. Stillwell, an energetic real estate dealer and insurance agent of LeRoy, was born in St. Joseph county, ^Michigan, March 17, 1865, son of Thomas V. and Jane A. (Benedict) Stillwell. He received his education in Osage, Iowa, and then took up farming, an occupation he continued until twenty-five years of age, when he engaged in the insurance and real estate business. He came to LeRoy in 1894 and two years later opened a fire insurance and real estate, handling considerable land, and acting as representative of eight different insurance companies. In addition to this he has written considerable life insurance for the

Jlutual Life Assurance Company, of New York. Mr. Stilhvell is an independent voter, and affiliates with the I. C. M. A. and the I. 0. O. F. The subject of this sketch was married June 26, 1895, Jit LeRoy, to Myrtie AVright, and to this union six ehikiren have been born : Vier B., May 28, 1896 ; Inez A., October 3, 1900 ; Elmo L., February 17, 1904; Pearl L. and Ruby J., twins, February 3, 1906 ; and Carroll M.. March 25, 1910.

Thomas V. Stillwell was born in New York state, November 3, 1824, and came to Ohio when very young, later going to Michigan, where he married Jane A. Benedict, and engaged in farming. He purchased timber land, which he cleared and cultivated until 1867, when he moA'ed to Mitchell county, Iowa, and remained there until the fall of 1880, when he moved to Howard county, in the same state, and stayed until 1905, Avhen he came to LeRoy and lived until his death, Noveml)er 13, 190.8. The widow is still living in LeRoy.

Mathias Schmit, manager of the Rose Creek Lumber Company, was l)orn in Luxemburg, Germany, February 24, 1874, son of J. P. and Margaret (Bartholmy) Schmit, natives of the same kingdom. The father was a shoemaker by trade, which profession he followed until his death, in 1888, in Germany. His good wife preceded him to the grave about two years. Mathias received his education in Luxemburg, where he grew to manhood, after which in 1891, he crossed the briny deep and came to America, locating at once in Rose Creek. Here he engaged in farm work until 1902, when he accepted a position in the hunber yard of A. Vaux. Two years later, in 1904, jMr. Vaux sold to Mr. Crane of Austin, the concern taking the name of Rose Creek Lumber Company. At this time Mr. Schmit was made manager, Avliich position he has since efficiently occupied. The subject of this sketch was married November 22, 1904, to Mary Schumaher, and this union has been blessed with two children : Mary and John P. Mr. Schmit voted independently and is serving his fourth year as assessor of Rose Creek. He belongs to the C. 0. F. and the D. R. K. U. G. V. M. The family occupies a pleasant residence in the village, owned by ]\Ir. Schmit. The family religion is that of the Catholic church.

Carlos 0. Sleeper was born in Fairfax, Vt., June 18, 1852, son of A. L. and Elbertine (Church) Sleeper. Like his brothers and sister, he came to a farm near Brownsdale in 1864, his father having located on the place two years earlier. He entered his father's store at a suitable age, and was later received into partnership. He now manages the establishment in partnership with his son. Jay M. The subject of this sketch married Ilattie AVarrcn, l)orn in Dodge county, Wisconsin, August 1, 1856, daughter of Jolm and Helen K. Warren. Tliey are the parents of four children: Mabel H. ; Kutli, Avife of R. B. Bailey; Claire M.: and elay ]M. Mr. Sleeper has been engaged continuously in tlie niereantile business since twenty-four years of age. lie has held a number of local offices of the Baptist church.

William B. Sleeper was born in Fairfax, Vt., June 16, 1856, son of A. L. and Elbertine (Church) Sleeper, and came with his parents to a farm near Brownsdale in 1864, his father having arrived two years earlier. He attended school in Brownsdale, entered his fatlier's store and at the age of twenty-one was made a partner Avith his father and brothers. Since 1903 he has devoted his time entirely to the laud business, having done a large and lucrative business. He owns and rents farms in various parts of the township of Red Rock, and has other business holdings. Mr. Sleeper married for his first wife, Edna Gillett, daughter of L. C. and Amelia (Duulap) Gillett. She died January 18, 1881. October 16, 188-i, ]Mr. Sleeper married Emma Rummings, daughter of John and Mary A. Rummings. The subject of this sketch is at present worthy master of Lafayette Lodge, No. 116, A. F. & A. M., is also mayor of the village of Brownsdale and president of the Red Rock Creamery Association.

C. B. Sayles, chairman of Austin township, and an extensive landowner of ]Mower county, was born in LeRoy, ilower county, April 3, 1870, son of James K. and Lucinda B (Brown) Sayles. He was brought to Austin township as an infant, attended the schools of Austin township and the Austin high school, and then at the age of sixteen years took charge of the home farm, becoming one of the leading farmers of the township. He has added to the homestead from time to time until he now has 300 acres in the home place, and 200 acres in "Windora. He has made many improvements, brought the place to a high degree of cultivation, purchased ncAV machinery and oquipment, and in every way has farmed along the latest approved lines. Of late years he has turned his attention to stock raising and grain cultivation exclusively, and breeds some excellent specimens of Hereford cattle. He has occupied his present township office two years, and previous to that was a member of the board for many years. He has also given good service as a school officer. Mr. Sayles was married April 17, 1893, to Clara B. Ames, of Owatonna, and this union has resulted in eight children, seven of Avhom are living, and one of whom is dead. They are: Claude H., AValter A., Sarah E. (deceased), Loren L., David J., Carlton K., Leonard H., and Herbert A. The family faith is that of the Universalist church.

James K. Sayles was born in Pennsylvania and married Lucinda B. l^rown. a native of New York state. In 1868 they came to LeRoy, in this county, and one year later to Austin township, where James K. purchased 160 acres and combined black-

C. L. Schroeder, retired farmer and former county commissioner, now living in Grand ]Meadow village, was horn in Germany, Nov. 21, 1844, son of Carl and Jeanett (Schafter) Schroeder, who brought him to America in 1849. After a short stay in Milwaukee they went to West Bend, "Wis., where they located and went to farming. There Charles L. was reared. In 1864 he went to Missouri and remained a year, coming a year later to Minnesota. In 1867 he came from Winona to Racine and bought a farm. Here he carried on general farming until 1900, when he moved to the village of Grand Meadow. While in Racine, Mr. Schroeder was township treasurer and supervisor and school clerk and treasurer for several years. In 1880 he Avas appointed county commissioner to fill a vacancy, and was then elected to a full term, thus serving until 1885. He was married in 1874 to Lizzie Christgau, daughter of IMathias Christgau, and this union has been blessed with six children: Clara and Albert died in infancy ; Alma, Cora, Enna N. and Erwin C. Alma is the wife of C. J. Donaldson, of Seattle, Wash. Mrs. Schroeder died April 8, 1898.

George M. Shortt, cashier of the State Bank of Brownsdale, was born in Winona county in 1862, son of Martin and Matilda (Norman) Shortt. He attended the district schools, and the State Normal at AVinona, learned telegraphy and entered the railroad service, being agent and operator for the C, M. & St. P. twenty years. Was elected cashier of the Bank of Brownsdale, then a private bank, in 1905. When the State Bank of Brownsdale was organized in 1908 he retained that position, and his integrity and honor, as well as courtesy have been an important factor in the success of the institution. Mr. Shortt has allied himself with the Masons and the A. 0. U. W. He married Etta J. Sanborn, daughter of John and Mary (Cheesebro) Sanborn. They have two children, Marie M., aged twelve years, and Dorris :\I., aged four years.

Martin Shortt was born in Montreal, Canada, of French extraction, and married Matilda Norman, a native of Boston. After their marriage they lived in Bakersfield, Vt., and later came to Winona county, Minnesota. Martin enlisted in tjie Ninth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, did valiant service, and died in Andersonville prison, September 15, 1864. They were the parents of four children, three of whom are living: Eunice, Elizabeth, and George M. Eunice is the wife of Albro Danforth, and Eli.'.abeth married Charles Johnson.

Mr. And Mrs. C. L. Schroedeb

Tressa (^leyor) .Smith, lie i-aino to Auu'rica in 18r)4 witli liis father and brothers, Tlionias and Charles, first locating in Poughkeepsie, N. Y. After a few months, Nicholas came to Lee county, Illinois, accompanied by his father. His father later went back to Poughkeepsie, stayed a year, and subsequently rejoined Nicholas in Lee county, where he purchased forty acres and farmed live years. Xavier the father and Nicholas the son then came to ^Mitchell county, Iowa, being followed the following year by the mother and other chikiren, and here Xavier purchased a quarter section. There they farmed until the mother, wife of Xavier, died, and then the farm was sold. Nicholas at this time received from his father an eighty-acre farm in Adams township. After working the farm for two years ho sold it and purchased a farm in ^Mitchell county, Iowa, where he carried on farming until 1892, when he came to the village of Adams and retired. In addition to liis present office, Mr. Smith has done public service as a township supervisor while in Mitchell county. He married Elizabeth Blake, daughter of John A. Blake, and this imion has been blessed with five children : Alice, the wife of John H. Krebsbach ; Annie, the wife of Michael Krebsliach ; "William and Fred (Twins) ; Mary, the wife of Michael Nockels.

Stanley W. Stephenson, of Dexter, manager of one of the eighteen elevators of the LaCrosse Grain Company, of which his father, ]\lartin Stephenson, is president and manager, was born in Brownsdale, this state, September 14, 1887. He attended the Brownsdale schools, and when sixteen years of age entered the grain business under the tutelage of his father. Mr. Stephenson belongs to the A. F. & A. M. and to the Austin Royal Arch Chapter.

Albert Swift, a prominent veteran of the Civil Avar, now living in Brownsdale, was postmaster of the village from 1891 to 1898. He was president of the village council two terms, recorder at various times for twelve years, and has been very active in G. A. R. affairs. He was instrumental in organizing the Henry Rogers Post, of Brownsdale, and mustered in the posts at Austin, Kasson and Grand ^Meadow. In 1882 he became the first commander of the Rogers post, and since then has taken a deep interest in its affairs, doing much Avork sucli as making out reports to headquarters and other details, performing the duties of adjutant. Albert SAvift Avas born in Chautauqua county, Ncav York, February 20, 1830, son of Samuel and Anna (McArthur) SAvift. He learned the carpenter's trade, and in August. 1862. enlisted in the Civil Avar, serving in the P^rst Ncav York Dragoons until July 11. 1865, Avhen he received his lionorable discharge at Clouds Mills, Va. At the close of the Avar in 1865 he located in ^Missouri, and in 1874 came to Brownsdale, Avhere he has since resided. lie married Aun J., daughter of William and Elizabetli (Bennett) Ray, and to this union have been born five children: Lillie, deceased; Ida L., deceased; Frank E., Edwin ]\I. and Nina R., the latter a teacher in Gas City, Ind. Frank E. has for many year been in the employ of the Minneapolis & Sault Ste. JMarie road. He lives at Sault Ste. ]Marie and runs a passenger train between that place and Escanaba, ]Mich. Edwin 'SI. lives at Seattle, "Wash., and is in the employ of the Seattle and Everett Traction Company. "William Ray and his wife were natives of Dutchess county, New York, of English descent. Mr. Ray was treasurer and bookkeeper for one of the large foundries at Poughkeepsie, N. Y''., and retained that position for many years. He died in 1841. His wife died in 1853. Samuel Swift died in 1859 and his wife in 1853.

Suwarrow A. Smith, treasurer of ^Nlower county, was born in Spring Valley, Fillmore county, this state. ]\Iarch 28, 1859, son of John M. and Ann J. (Kingsley) Smith. He attended the district schools and graduated from the Spring Valley high school, after Avhieh from 1881 to 1902 he was engaged as a grain buyer in Austin. In the latter year he was elected to the county position which he has since occupied. Mr. Smith is a Republican in politics, and belongs to the I. 0. 0. F., the B. P. 0. E., the M. W. A. and the A. 0. U. AV. For four years he served as assessor of Austin. The subject of this sketch was married October 24, 1883, to Cora G. Burleson, who died May 12, 1897, leaving four children: Marion, Clinton, Louise and Philip W. The family faith is that of the Congregational church.

John M. Smith Avas born in New York state, and married Ann J. Kingsley, a native of the same state. They came west in 1856 and took a homestead in Fillmore county, where they resided until 1897, when they came to Austin, John M. dying in September, 1907, and liis wife in September, 1905.

William W. Svi^eet, mayor of LeRoy, and for whoni the Sweet Hotel in that village is named, has been a prominent man in the county. He has been deputy sherift', has served as assessor eleven years, was county commissioner ten years and chairman of that board one year. Has been president of the village council of LeRoy a number of terms. He was born in Binghamton, N. Y., May 23, 1844, son of Rowland and Patience IM. (Cole) Sweet, v^'ho took him from his native place to Milwaukee in 1849. From there the family went to Aztland, Wis., where they reniained one year, after which they removed to Union, where Rowland Sweet engaged in his trade as a sliocniaker. In their declining years Rowland and Patience Sweel caiuc to LeRoy and took up their vesidcucc with their son, Williain. William AV. Sweet received a good common school education, and has spent his life in vaimus {>ursuits, having engaged extensively in building and in tlic i-ca! estate business. He owns the imposing brick hotel that bears his name, and lias other business interests. Mayor Sweet is a veteran of .the Civil "War, serving three years in the First United States Beti' tJavisi , Sharp Shooters. In 1864, after having participated in Iwenty-seven important battles, engagements and sieges, he wa>! given an honorable discharge, and came home from the hospital, where he had been recuperating from his wounds. Mayor Swtet married Araminta Bevier, daughter of Franklin and Sarah (Cole) Bevier, the pioneers. To this union has been born one son, Frank W. Franklin Bevier, whose father was a Hollander, was born in Binghamton, N. Y., December 15, 1805, and came to Mower county with the earliest pioneers in 1856. Sarah Cole was born in Coventry, N. Y., April 6, 1820.

Andrew S. Slindee, wlio farms successfully on 120 acres in section 26, Marshall township, is a native born son of this county, having first seen the light of day in 1884 in the home of his father, Ole 0. Slindee, who Avas born in Norway, and came to Mower county about thirty years ago. Andrew S. was educated in the county schools, and began work for himself at the age of sixteen. In 1910 he purchased his present place, where he carries on general farming, turning his attention largely to cattle, hogs and poultry. He is an independent Republican and a member of tlie Lutheran church. The subject of this sketch was married in 1907 to Sophia Huseby, daughter of A. A. Iluseby, of Marshall township, and to this union has been born a daughter, Sylvia Angeline. and a son, Orville Sylvester, who died in infancy.

Orson R. Steffens, the efficient and genial local agent at Kacine for the James A. Smith Lumber Company, of Osage, Iowa, wliicli controls some fifty lumber yards throughout the country, and which has maintained a branch at Racine for nineteen years, was born in Sumner township, Fillmore county, Minnesota, ]\Iarclt 26, 1875, sou of Richard and Mercy M. J. (Hammond) Stetiens. He attended the public schools and also taught in the county schools of both Fillmore and IMower counties, and worked on the farm of his parents until 1907 (this farm he now owns), Avheu he assumed his present position. Mr. Steffens is a member of th(; JM. AV. A. He married Sadie E. Eppard, daughter of Pliilip M. and Lueinda (^McQuillan) Eppard, and they have two children, IMerwin and Alice E. Rieliard Stelfens was born in the province of Ontario, Canada, and in 18:^8 located in Illinois. In 1858 he took up his residence in Sumner, Fillmore county, where he followed farming until his death in 1883.

dealers of Sargeant village, was born in Pittsfield, Mass., sou of Casper and Margaret (Geitz) Siegel, and was by them brought to i\Iower county in 1877. He grew to manhood on section 24, AValtliara township, received a good education in the schools of his neighborhood, and later took a three years' course in .Minneapolis. As a young man he entered the law offices of Empty & Empty, but after eighteen months, deciding that the vocation of a lawyer was not one well suited to his temperament, he returned home and assisted on the home farm for a while. Something over three years ago George T. and his brother Frank formed their present partnership and embarked in business. Their trade has grown rapidly, the brothers being known for their honest dealings and business sagacity. Mr. Siegel is a member of the Modern Woodmen.

Casper Siegel was born in Germany and married Margaret Geitz, a native of the same country. He came to America in the forties, landed in New York, remained there for a time and then went to Pittsfield, Mass., Avhere he was foreman in a large mill. In 1864 he came to Mower county, looked over the farm land, then went back to Pittsfield, but in 1877 came again to Mower county, bringing his family with him and establishing his home on section 24, AValtham township, where he carried on farming and reared his family.

Samuel Swenson, merchant and postmaster of Elkton. and treasurer of the village, was born in Blooming Prairie in 1877, son of IMaguus Swenson, a native of Norway. Samuel was educated in the schools of his neighborhood, and at the age of twentyfive started in the mercantile business as a clerk in a hardware store in Gibbon, ]\Iinn., remaining in this employ three years. Then he came to Elkton and had charge of a lumber yard two years, after which he purchased a hardware store. In 1910 he purchased the general store from C. C. Hogen, and is at present conducting a successful business, carrying a large stock of firstclass goods and enjoying the confidence of the people for miles around. Mr. Swenson is a Republican and a member of the Modern Woodmen. He married Laura Hagen, daughter of D. Ha gen, and tliey have one daughter, Mildred Pearl.