Otter Tail County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1916 (part 10 of 28)

Educated in the public schools of Norway, which he attended until he was ten years of age, Mr. Berg came to Everts township, Otter Tail county. Minnesota, with his parents, and after coming t<. this countn was a student in the public schools of his home township for a time. He is a well-known fanner and stockman of this community, and with his brother, Martin, has an interest in two hundred and forty acres of land, and with his mother an interest in eighty acres mure in Everts township.

In 1008 Carl Berg was married to Lina Larson, who was born in Xorman county, Minnesota, in [884, and who is a daughter of Lars Larson, a successful fanner of Everts township. Mr. and Mrs. Berg have no children. The} arr earnest and devout members of the Lutheran church, and take an active and interested part in the work of the church, and are prominent in social and civic affairs in the community where they live.

Leonard Eriksson

Among the most successful lawyers of Fergus Falls, and especially among the younger lawyers who have attained a large measure of success, is Leonard Eriksson, a native of Yesterao, Sweden. He was born on November 11. 1870 son of August Herman and Anna Matilda (Person) Eriksson. Having attended school regularly in his native land, Leonard Eriksson was well advanced in his studies at the age of fourteen years when he came to America. After landing at Quebec, he came to the state of Minnesota and settled in Warren, Marshall count}', where he arrived in 1891. After having been employed for some time on a farm in Vega township. .Marshall county. Mr. Eriksson began clerking in a hardware store and in the meantime attended school. Subsequently he was graduated from the normal school at Moorhead and then obtained a government position as clerk in the census bureau at Washington. 1). C, being detailed to take statistics df factories, a position that lasted four and one-half years. During a pari of that period, while a resident of Washington, Mr. Eriksson was a student in Georgetown University, and was graduated from the law department of that- university with the class of 1964, most of his legal studies having been pursued at night. On August 22, 1005. Mr. Eriksson took up the practice of law in Fergus balls, this count}-, in partnership with two other lawyers, the firm name being Eriksson, Rice & Schweitzer, which arrangement continued until 11)07. ul which year Leonard Eriksson purchased the interests of his partners, lie lias since continued in business alone and has built up a large and lucrative practice in Fergus Falls and ( (tter Tail county, lie is a good lawyer and enjoys today not only a large practice, but one that i- rapidb growing, bis clientele comprising all clas-t-s of ] iei iple.

and is secretary of the local lodge and past grand master of the lodge in this district. He is also foreman of the Brotherhood of American Yeomen and a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, as well as a member of the influential Chippewa Club. In politics he has been active in municipal affairs and is now a member of the Fergus Falls city council. In 1912 he was a delegate to the national convention of the Brotherhood of American Yeomen. Mr. Eriksson is a member of the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran church of Fergus Falls and Mrs. Eriksson is a member of the federated church of Fergus Falls. They are regular attendants at church services and liberally support all of the church enterprises.

John Olson

Since the subject of this brief biographical record has become a representative among the fanners in this community, it may be assumed that he early made a plan for his life, and with undeviating determination carried out this plan from day to day, until the present time. He spent a long and arduous apprenticeship under the guidance and example of his father, who was also a farmer. Coming from Sweden, where he was born on May 23, [864, John Olson has become a full-fledged American citizen.

Mr. Olson's parents. Ole Anderson and Margaret Nelson, were born in Sweden, where the latter died, but the former came to America the year following his son's arrival here. He lived with his son, Bengt Olson, until his death at Minneapolis. In the old country he was a farmer. The children born to him and his wife were Margaret, Elna, Andrew, Bengt and John.

John, who is the subject of this sketch, arrived in America from Sweden in [887 and located in Minneapolis, where he worked in a flour-mill for seventeen years, being conversant with this trade from his experience as a miller in Sweden from the time he was fifteen years old. Leaving his mill work in Minneapolis, in 1903, he purchased a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Eastern township, this land consisting of uncultivated fields, barren <>f any profitable vegetation, and without buildings of any kind. He immediately set to work to clear this land and to erect necessary buildings, and since that time has become well known as a general fanner.

Mr. Olson was united in marriage to Matilda Nelson in Februarv, 1894. Mrs. Olson, who was born in Sweden in 1872. is a daughter of Christian and Elna Nelson, the latter being a daughter of Nels Pehrson. Both of Mrs. Olson's parents were horn in Sweden, where the father died. The mother of Mrs. Ols, >n came to America in 1888 and made their first home at Litchfield, Minnesota, later living in Minneapolis. Mrs. Olson's father was a miller by trade. (2&)

An interesting family of six children was born to Mr. and Mrs. Olson, these being Oscar A., Mabel Elizabeth, Ethel G, Florence Hilda. Mildred Joseph and George William. All of them have been brought up in the faith of the Swedish Lutheran church, of which the parents are members.

Because of his success in the material world and his worthy character as a man, the record of John Olson has a place among those of the prominent men of this locality. He is noted for his unflinching loyalty to duty, his rugged honesty and his steadfastness of purpose.

Dwite Royal Green1

Born in Erie county, New York, March 6, 1857, Dwite R. Green, a prosperous farmer of Girard township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is the son of Rev. Eli W. and Caroline (Colby) Green.

Mr. Green's father was born in Broome county, New York, April 7. 1835, and his mother in Sardinia, Erie county, New York, January 14. 1838. In 1863 they emigrated to Wisconsin, and, after a number of years, returned to Evans, Xew York, where Mr. Green's father died in 1900. His mother is now living at St. Paul. They were the parents of six children, of whom Cora, ( arrie and Clyde are deceased. The living children are Dwite R., Ralph H. and Itie.

Dwite R. Green was educated in the public schools of Wisconsin. When he was eighteen years old he moved to Fillmore county, Minnesota, and, three years later, was married in Limesprings, Howard county, Iowa, to Frances E. Conklin, who was born in Fillmore county, Minnesota. August 3-1, i860, and who is the daughter of Lewis and Lena (Haves) Conklin. Mrs. Green's father was born in Broome county. Xew York, about 1820. and her mother in Binghamton, Xew York, in 1823. They emigrated to Wisconsin in pioneer times and later to Fillmore county, in 1857. Mrs. Green's mother died about 1878 on the old homestead in Fillmore county, and in 1000 her father died in Iowa. They were the parents of nine children, Elizabeth, George, Kate, Emily, Robert, Thomas, Frances. Charles and Minerva.

Dwite R. Green engaged in farming in Fillmore county, Minnesota, but in 1880 moved to Compton township. Otter Tail county, and soon thereafter to Oak Valley township, where he took a claim. After two and one-half years he moved to the village of Deer ('reck and. two and one-half years later, in 1885. moved to Girard township and rented a farm. lie also bought one hundred and fifty-five acres, which lie sold and later purchased eighty acres in section 23, where be lives. Before he purchased the last eighty acres he bad purchased another forty acres Mr. Green has cleared and cultivated his land and erected all of the buildings which stand upon it.

Mr. and Mrs. Dwite R. Green are the parents of twelve children, all of whom are living, Mary, Ella, Merle, Cora, Beryl, Frank, Jesse, Muriel, Allie, Thelma, Fay and Dwite, Jr.

Mr. Green is a member of the Farmers Shipping Association of Henning, Minnesota. Fraternally, he is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. He is now clerk of the school board and has been a member of the board for sixteen years. He has also served as supervisor of the township. He is now a justice of the peace. Mr. Green's father was a wellknown pioneer Baptist minister.

Julius Jensen

A review of the life of the subject of this sketch must of necessity be curtailed, as specific mention is made within the pages of this volume of a number of the worthy residents of Otter Tail county, among whom Mr. Jensen has figured in the growth and development of Pelican township, aiding with his industry, wealth and public interest.

Julius Jensen, farmer, Pelican Rapids, Otter Tail county, was born on August 26, 1865, in Norway, and is a son of Jens and Beata Nelson. When about two years of age he came to America with his parents, who settled in Fillmore county, Minnesota. His education was obtained at the public schools of Pelican township, and as a young man he began farming for himself on the place which he now owns, and which he bought in 1895, consisting of one hundred and sixty acres. Mr. Jensen divides his time and attention belween general farming and stock raising. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church, in which he has held the office of trustee for many years.

Jens and Beata Nelson were both born in Norway, where Mr. Nelson learned and followed the carpenter's trade, coming to America about 1867, and settling, first, for about two and one-half years, in Fillmore county, Minnesota. In 1870 he came to Pelican township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where he took up a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres, and where he spent the remainder of His life, his death occurring in 1878. To Jens and Beata Nelson were born nine children: Nels, Agnette, Bernt (deceased), Dedrich, Julius, Ludwig, Anton, Julia (deceased in infancy), and Gina. Mr. Nelson was an earnest member of the Norwegian Lutheran church, of which he was one of the founders.

Dedrich Jensen, brother of the subject of this sketch, was born in [862, and received his education in the public schools of Pelican township \s a young man he clerked in a store at Pelican Rapids. Aboul [895 he opened a hardware store at Pelican Rapids, in partnership with J. E. Johnson, which business he discontinued at the end of five years and became a salesman until about 1915, when he took charge of the Farmers Co-operative Store at Norwegian Grove, which he managed for two years. He then went to North Dakota for four years, and is now living at Pelican Rapids. He was united in marriage with Mathia Afseth, by whom he has had seven children: Julia. Arthur, Nora, Betsey, Oliver, Morris and Grace. Mr. Jensen is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church, of which he has been trustee for three terms. He has also served as a member of the town council for a number of years.

Julius Jensen was united in marriage in 1898 with Nicoline Bentrud. by whom he has had six children: Nora, Borghild, who died in 1915; Bennie, Alida, Arnold and Elma.

Mr. Jensen is genial and unassuming in manner, and has made many warm friends throughout Pelican township, where he is well known and highly esteemed l>v all who know him.

Edward Klimp

Born in Sweden, May 17, 1876, Edward Klimp, a prosperous farmer of Henning township, is the son of Aaron and Matilda Klimp. Mr. Klimp's parents were both natives of Sweden, the former born in 1857 and the latter in 1849. They were the parents of six children, as follow: Anna, who died at the age of six; Edward. John, Ogvald. Hulda and Daniel, the last named being deceased. In 1885 Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Klimp came to America and settled in Leaf Mountain township, Otter Tail county. Minnesota, where they purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land. John Klimp added to this farm until they had one hundred and forty acres. They are now living retired on the old home farm, but the farm is owned by their son, John, who also owns one hundred and twenty acres adjoining the old farm. Mr. Klimp's parents are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church.

Edward Klimp attended the state school in Sweden and the public schools of Otter Tail county, Minnesota. He has always been engaged in farming. In 1X07 Mr. Klimp went to North Dakota and homesteaded a tract of land in < avalier county. After living in North Dakota for six and one-half years, he sold out and came back to Henning township, purchasing one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 33, of Henning township. \lnsi qf the improvements to he found upon this farm have been placed here by Mr. Klimp. He is a general farmer, but makes a specialty of raising stock.

In November, 10m. Edward Klimp was married to Anna Tellofson. a native of Pope county, Minnesota. Mrs. Klimp's parents were early settlers in ;Pope county. The mother is now deceased, but the father is living in

Yining, Minnesota. He owns a farm in Folden township. Mr. and Mrs. Edward Klimp have six children. Tillie, Arthur, Amy, Edna, Roy and Edwin.

Mr. and Mrs. Edward Klimp and all of the members of their family belong to the Norwegian Lutheran church at Vining. While a resident of North Dakota, Mr. Klimp served as a member of the school board. He is a prosperous farmer and a well-known citizen, and is highly popular in the community where he lives.

One of the active physicians who has lent honor to the medical profession in Minnesota is Dr. John Esser, whose technical knowledge and skill are such as to give him a place of confidence in the community where his greatest practice is carried on. He who is the subject of this sketch was born on the ioth of June, 1883, in St. Cloud, Wisconsin. His father, Theodore Esser, who was a native of Madison, Wisconsin, came to Minnesota in 1872, and located at Austin, where he was employed as an engineer on the railroad. The wife of Theodore Esser, who was Mary Stephany, of St. Cloud, Wisconsin, became the mother of the following children : John, who is the subject of this sketch; Benjamin: Margaret, who is deceased; Joseph and Malinda.

The early educational discipline of John Esser was secured in the public schools of Austin, and after completing a high school course he availed himself of the opportunities offered in the State University of Minnesota, where two years were spent in the course of liberal arts and four years in the medical school. Doctor Esser began his service as interne in the Bethesda Hospital, of St. Paul, where he remained on duty for a year. In 1900 he moved to Perham. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where he has built up an extensive practice in his chosen field of endeavor. Aside from the insistent demands of his profession, Doctor Esser has found time to mingle among those citizens who have the welfare of the community development at heart and has taken an active interest in political and educational affairs.

Doctor Esser votes an independent ticket. He holds membership in the American Medical Association, the Minnesota Medical Society and the Otter Tail County Medical Society, and in these organizations receives distinctive attention. He is also prominently affiliated with local fraternities, being a Knights of Columbus, a member of the Workmen's lodge and the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

Andrew Johnsen

As a result of domestic circumstances to be compelled, with little education or training, to seek employment as a means of support and to aid in the betterment of home conditions, and from this humble position to rise to a place of recognized success in the agricultural and business world, as well as to attain a place of prominence and influence in the public and official life of the township and community, is the record of Andrew Johnsen, well known and honored citizen of Eastern township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota. From days of hardship to those of comfort as a farmer and landowner, with limited schooling to become a man of knowledge and judgment in the conduct of public affairs, and as a result of his own efforts and resourceful ways to reach a place in the life of the community which has given him a place of honor and esteem, he is worthy of a notable position among the men of achievement and accomplishment in Otter Tail county, Minnesota.

Andrew Johnsen was torn in Smaland, Sweden, on March i, 1859, the son of Peter and Sarah (Person) Johnsen, both of whom were born in Smaland, Sweden, during the year 1836. Peter Johnsen was a fanner in his native land, where he lived until the year 1868, at that time coming, with his family, to America and stopping at the city of Chicago, Illinois, where, as a result of insufficient means, the elder Johnsen found it necessary to leave his family while he journeyed to Washington county, Minnesota, a) which place he secured funds with which to bring his wife and children to Washington county. Minnesota, a place where this hardy pioneer lived until the year 1871, when he moved to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, living for the first summer 111 a granary, after which Peter Johnsen homesteaded a farm which he improved from time to time, at the same time engaging in general agricultural pursuits, a line of endeavor in which he has prospered to the point of comfort and independence. Peter and Sarah Johnsen are the parents of the following children: Andrew, the subject of this sketch: ( msl : Swan J.; Ida ("., who is deceased; Emma F... who is deceased; Sophia, who lives at Webster, South Dakota; William A., who lives at Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Frank E., who lives at Fargo, North Dakota. Peter Johnsen and his family are well known and prominent members of the Swedish Lutheran church, the elder Johnsen being known especially for his great interest and efforts in the church of his choice.

sixteen years of age, after which he became a helper with a party of surevors who were planning the state road between the towns of Wadena and

Long Prairie, Minnesota. Air. Johnsen relates that while with this party at one time the food supply became exhausted and it was necessary to make a journey of thirty-six miles on foot before more food could be obtained. The early days of Andrew Johnsen from the days when he with his brothers were trappers seeking to aid in the support of the family, until at the time when he became twenty-one years of age and homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land in Eastern township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where he has since become an extensive and well-to-do farmer, are full of interest and are illustrative of the spirit and manner of this estimable citizen. Since acquiring the land of his homestead, Andrew Johnsen has added twenty adjoining acres to his farm, has cleared many acres of uncleared land and has improved and equipped his farm until it is among the most desirable of the county for the general agricultural life which Mr. Johnsen follows.

During the year 1885 Andrew Johnsen was married to Jennie Nuttson, who, in the year 1890, died, being the mother of three children: Rudolph, Amelia and Elsie. Mr. Johnsen married, secondly, Anna Sjodin, to whom were born the following children: Merton and Myrtle, twins; Anna and Vivian. Andrew Johnsen is a member of the Swedish Lutheran church, a congregation which he has served as trustee. In politics, Mr. Johnsen is a Democrat. Andrew Johnsen has been county commissioner since 1910 and at one time served a term of five years as township assessor; he also served on the township board from 1890 to 1910, and as treasurer of the school board for six years.

For nearly thirty years Mr. Johnsen has been the agent for die Farmers Mutual Insurance Company and he is now president of the Parkers Prairie Co-operative Creamery Company.

Tames H. Shea

To attain a position of trust in the financial world requires mental faculties of a superior order and great strength of character. These elements of high citizenship have been combined in such a way in the character of James H. Shea as to make him a constant recipient of public confidence. He whose name initiate- ibis sketch was horn in Otter Tail county, in Rush Lake township, on the 21st of May, 1876. He is the son of Martin Shea, whose life history is presented elsewhere in this volume.

James H. Shea began his educational training- in the common schools of Perham and completed his education in St. John's Univershy at Collegeville, Minnesota. Upon leaving school he became assistant postmaster at Perham from [893 until [897. The following year he became interested in the hardware business and was employed by \. Marckel. for whose hardware firm he worked until 1Q02. He gained a wide experience in this line of work from January, 1902, until February. 1904, when he traveled for the Marshall-Wells Hardware Company, through North Dakota. In 1904 Air. Shea entered in the employment of the bank at Perham and is now acting as cashier of the State Bank of Perham, where his ability has received marked recognition.

On the 12th of April, iqio, the marriage of James H. Shea and Anna L. Flynn was solemnized. Anna (Flynn) Shea is the daughter of Daniel and Mary ( Marmara) Flynn, who are well known in Meeker county. Mr. and Mrs. Shea are members of the St. Henry's Catholic church, where they attend regularly.

Mr. Shea is affiliated with the Knights of Columbus, and lives up to the highest ideals of the organization. In the social and business life of the community in which he lives, Mr. Shea is looked upon as a man of engaging personality, and he has a spirit of good fellowship which has won for him many friends. Mr. Shea is a member of the Democratic party, and is treasurer of the citv of Perham.

Hans N. Arvidson

Hans N. Arvidson, a prominent farmer of Parkers Prairie, should be included among the men who represent that industry in this part of the county. Born in Sweden on May 22, 1872, he is the son of Nels Olsen and Margaret Jenson. both of whom were born in Sweden and came to America in 1892, bringing with them all of their children excepting Christe, who is deceased. Nels Olsen, who was a forester in Sweden, settled with his family in Eastern township, near the present home of the subject of this sketch. He and his wife, both of whom are dead, were the parents of thirteen children, namely: Bengta, lng-ar, Ole, James (deceased), Botilda, Nils, Ellen, Andrew, Hans. Charles, Mary, Christe (deceased) and another child, who died in infancy. < If the living children only three are residents of localities other than Eastern township.

Hans Arvidson was a school boy in Sweden up to his fifteenth year, when he came with one brother and three sisters to live in this township. Accustomed to hard work, he soon found employment as a farm laborer, and in 1898 purchased the farm of one hundred and sixty acres on which he now lives. ( >n tlii- he has placed modern improvements and has become successful as a raiser of Shorthorn cattle. In 1002 he added to his property by the purchase of eighty acres in section 2< ). also in Eastern township. After his arrival in this country he lived continuously in Otter Tail county with the exception of two seasons in North Dakota, during his nineteenth and twentieth years.

man and wife took place on September 18, 1898. Airs. Arvidson, who is a native of Sweden, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tuve Anderson, who lived thirty years in America and from whom Mr. Arvidson purchased the land which he added to his farm. Mr. Anderson later returned to Sweden, where he now lives.

A large and interesting family grew up about Mr. and Mrs. Arvidson. and the mother took pains to instruct them in the tenets of the Swedish Lutheran denomination, to which she and her husband belong. The children horn in this home are Clifford, Ruben, Gertrude, Henry, Rhinhart, Signa. Alvin and Edna.

.Mr. Arvidson is at present chairman of the supervisors of this township and has held this office for ten years. He is also a stockholder in the Joy Creamery Company. A man who can hold a public office acceptably to himself and to the community for ten years is a man worthy of respect and commendation. No public duty has ever been neglected by Mr. Arvidson, who has also led an exemplary life, as is attested by the respect in which he is held.

William F. Smith

One of the largest landowners of Inman township, Otter Tail county. Minnesota, is William F. Smith, who owns five hundred and twenty acres in Inman township, besides one hundred and twenty acres in Oak Valley township. Mr. Smith has been a resident of Otter Tail county, Minnesota, since [Q02, a period of fourteen years, and bis present large holdings of farm real estate are a splendid testimony, not only of his industry, but of bis knowledge of farming and his careful business management.

William F. Smith was born in Rock county, Wisconsin, July 22, 1862. His parents were William and Laura C. (Eulles) Smith, the former of whom was born in 1S1S, and the latter in 1S22, in Massachusetts. They came to Wisconsin about [845, and in 1873 moved to Buchanan, Iowa, where Mr. Smith's father engaged in farming and where he died in rqoi. (lis wife had died seven years prior to her husband's death, in 1894.

William F. Smith was reared in the village of Avon, Rock county. Wisconsin, until be was eleven years old, when the family moved to Iowa, where be lived on a farm until he was twenty-eight years old. At this time the family moved to Hazelton, Iowa, and Mr. Smith was engaged in the well business until 1902, when be moved to Otter Tail county, Minnesota. Here he purchased three hundred and twenty acres of land in sections 10 and 3. of Inman township. He has since added three hundred and twenty acres, and now owns altogether six hundred and forty acres, all of which, except one hundred and twenty acres, is situated in Inman township. The other is situated in Oak Valley township. Air. Smith is a general farmer and stockman and one of the most extensive farmers of this township.

In 1903 William F. Smith was married to Vmnie E. Tuffs, who was born near Mason City, Iowa, and to them have been born six children, Vera, William Glenn, Vernon Clifford, Lester Lowell, Inez and Theodore Marsdon.

It can hardly be expected that a man who has been so busily engaged as William F. Smith in farming, has had very much time for other things. Nevertheless, he has taken an interest in educational affairs and is at present a member of the local school board. His prominence in this community rests more on his success as a farmer than on anything else. He has a host of friends in lnman and Oak Valley townships, where he has come to be well known.

Gottlieb Menge

Gottlieb Menge, prominent farmer and stock raiser of Oak Valley township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Winona county, Minnesota, on April 3, 1877, tne son °* Fred and Fredericka (Lentzj Menge, natives of Germany. Fred Menge came to America when eighteen years of age and following his marriage in the state of Wisconsin, where he first located, he settled in Winona county, Minnesota, on eighty acres of land which he purchased in that county. In the year 1902, the elder Menge moved to Otter Tail county, where he bought two hundred and forty acres of land in section <S, Oak Valley township, and lived there until his death, in 1906. Fred and Fredericka Menge were the parents of the following children: Herman, John, Gottlieb. Amelia, Gusta, Minnie and Louise.

Gottlieb Menge was educated in the schools of his native county, after which he went to the state of North Dakota and homesteaded a farm of one hundred and sixty acres of land, where he lived for three years and then returned to Oak Valley township. In 11)03 Gottlieb Menge bought one hundred ami sixty acres of land in lnman and Oak Valley townships, where he lived for some time and then sold his land and bought the one-hundredand-sixty-acre farm of his father, a place which he greatly improved and to which he added eighty acres of land, making the farm, where he now engages in farming and stock raising, one of the best farms of the community.

In business and political circles Gottlieb Menge has taken an important part. Mr. Menge is a stockholder of the Oak Valley Co-operative Creamery Company, and in official life ha- served his community as treasurer of Oak Valley township and for six years served a- clerk of the school board. He

On November 24, 1904, Gottlieb Menge was married to Anna W'acholz, who was born in Germany, the daughter of John and Caroline (Wahrmaster) W'acholz. To the marriage of Gottlieb and Anna Menge have been born four children, Florence, Elsie (deceased), Arnold and Erwin.

John W'acholz was born in Germany, November S, 1846, and his wife, Caroline, was born in Germany, December 11, 1846. Following their marriage, in 1872, John and Caroline came to America and settled in Winona county, where they lived until 1905 and then moved to Otter Tail county. On coming to Oak Valley township, where Mr. Wacholz had secured a farm of eighty acres, at an earlier date, the family established a home on their farm and after many improvements had one of the best farms of the locality, where John Wacholz has since lived, his wife, Caroline, dying on July 7, 1915. John and Caroline Wacholz are the parents of six children.

Albert R. Knutson

Among the well-known fanners and prominent stock raisers of Erhards Grove township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is Albert R. Knutson, who was born on the old Knutson homestead in Erhards Grove township, on June 25, 1884, the son of August and Amanda (Anderson) Knutson, natives of Sweden, the former born on September 28, 1854, and the latter born on July 2, 1861.

August Knutson was the son of Knut and Botilda Nelson, who were born in Sweden, where they lived until coming to America and settling, as pioneers, in Erhards Grove township, where Knut Nelson homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land, which he cultivated for some time, selling the land later to his son-in-law, P>. A. Bengtson, but continued living on the farm until his death, on October 6. 1895. Botilda, the widow of Knut Nelson, died on October 5, 1900. Amanda Knutson was the daughter of Samuel and Lizzie (Swanson) \nderson, the former of whom lived and died in Sweden. His wife, Lizzie, after Mr. Anderson's death, emigrated, with the rest of her family, to the United States in the spring of 1876, coming to Otter Tail. She married Carl Fogelberg there and died in the year 1870. August Knutson came to ( »tter Tail county from Sweden in the fall of 1875 and homesteaded eighty acres of land in section 14. Erhards Grove township, where he lived as a farmer, adding- to his land until he was the owner of one hundred and twenty acres of land at the time of his death, in 1SS7. August and Amanda Knutson were the parents of three children, Jennie, Alma and \lbert, all of whom are living. Amanda Knut- son, after the death of her husband, August Knutson, was married to Noah [ohnson, a native of Sweden, who came to America and now cultivates eighty acres of land in sections to and 15, of Erhards Grove township.

Albert R. Knutson received his education in the common schools and in the high school of Pelican Rapids, Minnesota, after which he became a student at the University of Minnesota, graduating from the school of agriculture in 10 u. Air. Knutson was then appointed assistant agricultural agenl for the Great Northern agricultural extension division, an office which he occupied for .me year. Later, Mr. Knutson went to Polk county, Minnesota, where lie served as county agricultural agent for six months, after which he returned to the home farm, and. in partnership with his stepfather, he established a firm known as Johnson & Knutson. stock breeders and dealers. As a stock dealer and raiser Mr. Knutson has been thoroughly successful, the linn of which he is a member being the owners of some of the finest cattle to lie found in the state, the herd consisting of purebred Holsteins. as well as many high-grade animals of the same breed. Johnson & Knutson are also breeders of Duroc-Jersey hogs, they making a specialty of this stock, together with Holstein cattle.

Andrew T. Vigen

Andrew T. Vigen, farmer, prominent citizen, man of affairs and legislator, of Pelican Rapids, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Norway on March 2, 1854, the son of Thrond E. and Lizzie A. (Stadum). natives of Norway. Thrond E. Vigen came to America in 1S70. and located in Eillmore count}', where he lived for two years and then moved to Otter Tail county, where he homesteaded one hundred and twenty acres of land in section 18, Erhards Grove township, a place which he cultivated until his death, on June 7. 181 ,j. Lizzie A., the widow of Thrond E. Vigen, now lives' with Mrs. Strinden, in Pelican Rapids, at the age of ninety years. Thrond E. and Lizzie A. Vigen were the parents of the following children: Mareii. who married Isaac Strinden, of Pelican Rapids; Andrew T., the subject of this sketch, and Ingebret T.. a hardware and machinery dealer. Lake Park.

Andrew T. Vigen was educated in the public schools of his native country and in the common schools of Fillmore county, Minnesota, after which lie came to ( )tter Tail count) with bis parents and homesteaded eighty acres in section 18, Erhards Grove township, a place to which he later added one hundred and sixty acres, m Trondhjem township, and then bought forty acres in Erhards Grove township and ten acres of timber land in the same region. ( hi this land Andrew T. Vigen placed extensive improvements and has since- engaged in general fanning and stock raising.

On October 20, 1877, Andrew T. Vigen was married to Jorgina P. Mitbo, who was born in Norway, November 29, 1857, the daughter of Peter and Christina Mitbo, natives of Norway, who came to America and located in Fayette county, Iowa, where they lived for four years and then, in 1870, came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where Peter Mitbo homesteaded a farm of two hundred acres, on which he lived until his death, in 1904. To the marriage of Andrew T. and Jorgina P. Vigen have been born the following children : Theodore, Anton, Lizzie Christena, Hilda, Edward, Anna, Syvirin, Ottelia, Severine, James. Elmer and Wilhelm George. Mr. Vigen and his family are active members of the Norwegian Lutheran church.

Andrew T. Vigen is one of the best-known and honored citizens of Otter Tail count}', he having taken a conspicuous part in the public life and official circles (if township, county and state. Mr. Vigen has served his township as supervisor, as clerk of the township, as clerk of the school board and for many years as a member of the school board. In 1S88 Andrew T. Vigen was appointed to fill a vacancy as county commissioner, he later, in IQ07. being elected to the office, which he occupied for eight years. In 1894 Andrew T. Vigen was elected to a seat in the state Legislature, taking office in [895 and serving two terms, being re-elected to that office in 1807. Mr. Vigen is a stanch Progressive.

As a business man, Andrew T. Vigen is prominently affiliated, he being a stockholder of the Farmers Elevator Company, a company which he was instrumental in organizing.

Olaf Isakson

Born in Sweden, March 8, 1876, Olaf Isakson, a successful farmer of Inman township. Otter Tail county. .Minnesota, is a son of Isaac and Betsey (Johnson) Isakson.

Mr. Isakson's parents were both natives of Sweden, who emigrated to America, settling at Henning, Otter Tail county, in 1802. Mr. Isakson's father died at Henning, in 1896, at the age of fifty-six years, and his mother died in kmi. at the age of seventy-eight. They were the parents of six children, as follow: John. Christine, who lives in Sweden; Ber^. Xels ( deceased I, Andrew and Olaf.

Olaf Isakson received his education in the public schools of his native land, and in [893 came to America, settling at Henning, Otter Tail county, Minnesota. Five years later he purchased eighty acres of land in section 12. of Inman township, and since that time has cleared the farm, drained the land and erected substantial and comfortable buildings on the place, all of which arc kept in a very fine state of repair. Mr. Isakson is a general

In 1 90 1 Olaf Isakson was married to Anna Silverberg, who was born on November 11, 1880, in Sweden, and who is a daughter of Nels and Anne Silverberg. Airs. Isakson' s father died in 1885, at the age of forty-three, and his widow is now living in Sweden, at the age of seventy-three years. Olaf Isakson and wife are the parents of four children: Lillie. aged twelve; Ned, deceased ; Lloyd, six years old, and Irwin, aged four.

Mr. Isakson is a member of the Deer Creek Shipping Association. He has served as overseer of the roads of Inman township for several years, and still holds this position. He and his wife are members of the Swedish Lutheran church, in which they are deeply interested, and to the support of which they are liberal contributors. In the community where he lives Mr. Isakson is rated as one of the substantial and successful farmers of the township, and is a most desirable and popular citizen.

Hans Christian Christensen

Otter 1 ail county has been favored with many desirable men from Scandinavian countries, men who, in the land of their adoption have taken an important part in its public life and who in private lines of endeavor have demonstrated their efficiency and their value as citizens of this countryr. ( )f this class and of this people is Hans Christian Christensen, who as a good man and as a true citizen has won a place of prominence among the masses of this county.

Hans Christian Christensen was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on October 27-, 1871, the son of Lars and Karen (Hansen) Christiansen, both of whom were natives of Denmark. Lars Christensen was born on Long Island, of the province of Fyn, an island only four miles in circumference, which was used as a game preserve for the royal family of Denmark and on which island Lars Christensen was employed as a fisherman for the Danish royalty, together with the privilege of farming on a few acres (Conder) of the place, as compensation for his services, a position which was held by his father. Christian Christensen, during his entire life, and who received his position from an aunt, who had preceded him in the work. After some years living on I ong Island. Lars Christensen, with two brothers, said good-by to seven married sisters who remained in Denmark, and came to America with the intention of joining a cousin at Cleveland, Ohio, an expectation which was not realized, as on reaching the cit) of Cleveland they found that the cousin had died. The three brothers then went to lrt. Wayne, Indiana, where one In-other followed his trade as a mason and where the other brother engaged in the trade of a cigar-maker, while Lars (Jhristensen learned the trade of a carpenter, after which they returned to Cleveland, Ohio, and lived for a time, when Jergen, the younger brother, went to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and took up a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres in Tordenskjold township, where he lived for the remainder of his life. Thos, the other brother, lived at the city of Cleveland until his death.

Lars Christensen, at this time, was married to Karen Hansen, who was born at Moen, Denmark, and while a young woman came to America on a sailboat, which as a result of cholera discovered on board, was held at quarantine in the port of New York for seven weeks (after several weeks in crossing the ocean), during which time the passengers were not permitted to land. On her release Karen Hansen went to Cleveland, Ohio, where, after three years, she was married and then three years later Lars and Karen Christensen went to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in sections 17 and 20, of Tordenskjold township, land which was unimproved, and as a carpenter Lars Christensen built a small house and a log barn, structures which, greatly enlarged and improved, are standing today. On October 27, 1881, Lars Christensen died, a victim of tuberculosis, and later his widow married Jergen Christensen, the younger brother of her deceased husband. Karen Christensen lived on the Christensen farm until May 14, rcjli, when she died, she having survived her husband, who was killed in a runaway, for twenty-one years. Lars Christensen was the father of seven children : Johanna, who married Jens Nelson, and who lives in Tordenskjold township; Hans Christian, the subject of this sketch: Jens Peter, who died when sixteen years of age; Carl E., who is a real-estate dealer of Underwood, Minnesota, and three children who died in infancy.

Hans Christian Christensen received his education in the public schools of his boyhood home, but as a result of the poor health of his father he had to stay at home most of the time to assist his father, as a result of which Hans C. Christensen is largely a self-educated man. As a young man Hans Christian Christensen learned the carpenter's trade but later engaged as a farmer and now cultivates about one-half of the original homestead in Tordenskjold township.

During the year [903 Hans Christian Christensen was married to Christina Robertson, who was born in Denmark, the daughter of DidlofT and Margaret (Larsen) Robertson, who were natives of Denmark, and many years ago came to America and settled in Clitherall township. Otter Tail county. .Minnesota. To Hans Christian and Christina Christensen were born the following children : Corn's, who died at the age of three months: Delora,

For the past twenty years Mr. Christensen, in addition to his farming pursuits has been engaged in the business of conducting a threshing machine and in more recent years has been running a portable saw-mill, which he has operated in many localities, until Hans C. Christensen is one of the bestknown men of agricultural activities in the county.

Hans Christian Christensen has not only been a busy and a successful farmer but he has found time t>> serve bis township in the office of town clerk for seven years, and in the office of clerk of the school district for fourteen years. Mr. Christensen in politics is a Socialist. In church affiliation. Hans Christian Christensen is active in the work of the Lutheran church.

William J. Leach

William J. Leach, the well-known superintendent of the Fergus Falls waterworks, is a native of Westport, province of < hitario. Canada, where he was born in 1856.

Mr. Leach is the son of Isaac J. and Minerva ( Robertson) Leach, the former of whom was born near Edinburgh, Scotland, where he was a painter by trade. He emigrated to Canada when he was about twenty-one year- old and there opened a shop where his business developed amazingly. He did contract work for a number of years, or until 1861. when the family moved to Rockford, Illinois, where they lived for some years. Afterward they moved to Excelsior, Hennepin county, this state, where the father still continued to work at his trade and where he spent the remainder of his life.

William J. Leach obtained his early education at Rockford, Illinois. He left home when he was twenty years old and moved to Minneapolis, where he worked at the Minneapolis reaper works for a time and was later employed at the Lillybridge cracker shops. On Easter Sunday, 1882. Mr. I. each arrived at Fergus Falls, this county, and his wife followed him two weeks later. For a few months, Mr. Leach turned his hand to anything that he could find to do. In 1883 he was employed with the pipe crew. laying waterpipes for the city, and since that time has been continuously employed in the city waterworks department, with the exception of five years which were spent at Wahpeton, North Dakota, where lie was employed in the construction of a waterworks plain. In [889 he returned to Fergus Falls and was employed by C. D. Wright, who had charge of the waterworks at that time. When the waterworks were turned over to the city, Mr. Leach continued in the employ of the corporation and is now the efficient superintendent of the plant.

William J I.L'Aci

Before going to Fergus Falls, Mr. Leach was married to Ida Raymond, who was born in Moline, Illinois, the daughter of Thomas and Hannah (Longdon) Raymond. The former was born in Rindge, New Hampshire, and is now living with Mr. and Mrs. Leach, being in his eighty-sixth year. His wife died in November, 1912. .Mr. and Mrs. Leach have two children, Irene, who married Arthur L. Brown, and Florence, who is the wife of Edwin Schow and has two children, Florence R. and Donald R.

In 1893 ^ir- Leach became a member of Corner Stone Lodge No. 99, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons. He joined the Independent Order of Odd Fellows in 1887 and is likewise a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

Wtllta H. Harris

Born in Stephenson county, Illinois, February 8, 1861, Willia H. Harris, a successful farmer of Oak Valley township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is the son of Christopher and Cyntha ( Hodgson) Harris. His father was horn in Pennsylvania on January 20, 1818, and his mother in Ohio, February 14. 1822. Christopher Harris emigrated from Luzern county, Pennsylvania, where he was born, to Ohio, when he was a young man. He settled in Delaware county in 1838 and, after his marriage in that county,* moved to Franklin county. Illinois, in 185 1. and then to St. Paul. Minnesota, in 1855. where he pre-empted a claim where the city of Rosemount is now located. Later he returned to Illinois, but came back to Minnesota and settled at Rosemount. where he lived for seven years. He then moved to Oak Valley township. Otter Tail county, in 1878, and took a homestead of eighty acres in section 24, of this township, which his son now owns. He improved this farm and lived upon it until his death, on August 11. 1802. His widow died on the old homestead farm on September 27. 1893. They had a family of eight children, as follow: Jane, born on November 26, [841; Harriet. February 14, 1844; Monroe, November 15. 1845: Marcella, (-ctclier [3, [849; Caroline, October 10, 1851; Martha, October io, [854; Willia H. the subject of this sketch, and Josephine, June 13, 1862.

Willia H. Harris was reared on his father's farm and educated in the schools of Rosentont, Minnesota, and the public schools of Stephenson county. Illinois. lie was seventeen years old when the family moved to (liter Tail county, Minnesota, lie agisted his father on the old home farm and later purchased eighty acres in Todd county, Minnesota, In 1911 Mr. Harris purchased eighty acres adjoining his original farm, and in 1913 built a good barn and a splendid residence. In 1914 he built a large granary. (24b) and in mi 5 he built another large barn, thirty- four by seventy feet. The buildings are all painted and his farm is kept in a good state of repair.

On October 26, 1884, Willia H. Harris was married to Lillie Flora Marshall, who was bom in Wright county, Iowa. January 21, [868, and who is the daughter of Rasmus and Elizabeth (Caldwell) Marshall. Mrs. Harris' father was born in Denmark on September 26, 1833. and her mother mi June 22, [845. They were married in Iowa. Her mother died in Iowa, September 10, 1N71. There were two children horn to this marriage, Lillie Flora and Lydia Ann, born on February 4, [870. Mrs. Harris's father moved to Todd county, Minnesota, in 1875 and took a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres. He has served three years in the Civil War and owned property in Wadena, where he lived for three years. He died, however, on the old homestead on September 11, ton. By his second marriage, to Laura Nelson, there were horn four children, Anna, Minnie. William and Frank.

Mr. and Mrs. Willia H. Harris have been the parents of nine children: Frank Monroe, born on October 12, 1885; Charles Eugene, July 29, 1S87; Crace Luella, July 25, [889; Roy Wilbur, March [2, 1892; Earl Clifford, November 25, [894; Hazel Blanche, July 26, [897, died in infancy: Harold William, October 5. [899; Floyd Ralph, September 4. 1902; and Miriam Lee, April 24, [906.

Mr. Harris has never aspired to office and has never been especially active in politics. He has devoted his life and his energy to farming and his ability to apply himself to his chosen vocation, no doubt, is responsible for a large measure of his success. Mr. and Mrs. Harris and family attend the Cnited Brethren church.

Adolph Schmttz

Proprietor of one hundred and sixty acres of land in Bluffton township, Otter Tad county, and a man prominent in the political circles of Bluffton township, having served three terms as supervisor, two years as clerk and at the present time as justice of the peace of that township - portrays in a very brief maner the life accomplishments of the person whose name forms the caption of this biographical sketch, as well as being an index of the esteem and respect which be has commanded for himself in his community.

\dolpli Schmitz was born mi September 27. 1856, in Dane county, Wisconsin, the sun of Joseph and Annie (Buyschal) Schmitz, both natives of the province of Prussia. Germany, the former born on December 24. 1808. and the latter on \pril 28, iS_-N. Each came to \111erica unmarried and settled in Jefferson county, Wisconsin, where it chanced they became acquainted and, the acquaintanceship developing in love, were married. Soon thereafter they removed to Dane county, Wisconsin, where, after purchasing one hundred and sixty acres of unimproved land, they set about to clear and improve the land and to engage in husbandry. For the remainder of their lives, Joseph and Annie (Bnyschal) Schmitz lived lived on this farm and reared their children. He passed away in 1888, at a mature age, and she. surviving her husband many years, passed away on February 14. 1914. at the ripe old age of eighty-six years. To this devoted couple there were born twelve children, namely: Celia, the widow of Henry Ganser, who lives at Sauk City, Wisconsin; Nicholas, a laborer, who died in Wisconsin at the age of thirty-five years; Margaret, the wife of Anton Kirschner, who died on the home farm; Joseph, a farmer of Sparta, Wisconsin; Adolph, the subject of this sketch; Alary, the wife of a Mr. Foose, who lives in Madison, Wisconsin; Annie, the wife of Hubert Lombardy, who lives at Lodi, Wisconsin; Theresa, the wife of Charles Strangt, who lives at Charles City, Iowa; Barbara, who married a Mr. Kelly, and also lives at Charles City, Iowa; John, who lives on the homestead farm in Dane county; Mat, a carpenter, of Waunakee, Wisconsin, and Frank, a carpenter of Sauk City, Wisconsin. Both Joseph and Annie ( Buyschal) Schmitz were devoted members of the Catholic church.

Reared on his father's farm and receiving a good education in German and English public schools, Adolph Schmitz, upon attaining his majority, learned the mason's trade, which trade he has followed intermittently up to the present time. In 1879 he came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of unimproved and heavily timbered land. After erecting a log house upon the same site where the present farm dwellings are situated, he began to clear his land and to break the soil. Continuing the process of clearing, Mr. Schmitz now possesses seventv acres of cleared land besides the remainder of the one hundred and sixty acre tract which is in meadow and timber land. In 1909 the present farm home was erected. Being interested in live stock, Mr. Schmitz has made a Specialty of breeding Shorthorn cattle and keeps from fifteen to twenty head of cattle on his farm.

On April 20, r88o, Adolph Schmitz was united in marriage to Mary Welsch, a native of Dane county, Wisconsin, and the daughter of John and Flizabeth ( Mertans ) Welsch, the former of whom died in 1890, as a result of severe injuries received from a bull, and the latter of whom is still living in Sauk county. Wisconsin, at the age of eighty-nine years. To Mr. and Mrs. Schmitz have been born twelve children, as follow: Annie, the wife of Bert Lamb, who lives in the state of Washington; Mary, the wife of Christ Thompson, who lives in Staples, Minnesota; Theresa, the wife of Kinif James, who resides in Bluffton township; Mat, who lives at home with his parents; Lena, the wife of John Hanson, who resides at Nashwauk, Minnesota; Julia, the wife of Joseph Ertz, who resides in Bluffton township; Joe, a carpenter, living at home with his parents; Susanna, the wife of Watson Overstreet, who lives at Nashwauk, Minnesota; Lizzie, John, Katie and Henry, who live at home with their parents.

A successful farmer, devoted husband and parent who has reared his large family of children to lives of usefulness. Adolph Schmitz has done more than attend to his agricultural and family interests, having ever been solicitous of the social conditions of his community. As a Republican he has served Bluffton township creditably and well as supervisor for three terms, township clerk for two years and now is justice of the peace. He and his beloved wife have also been influential in religious affairs and have been devoted members of the Catholic church.

George W. Stokes

Born in England, February 21, 1862, George W. Stokes, a successful farmer of Oak Valley township, is the son of George and Anna H. (Mudg) Stokes. Mr. Stokes's parents were both natives of England. His father was born in 1830 and his mother in 1828. They were married in England and in 1864 the father came to New York. He was followed by the family in 1867, and in 1880 the)' emigrated to Minnesota and. on February 21. 1880, settled at Wadena. Later on in the year they came to Oak Valley township, Otter Tail county, and homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres, one hundred and twenty acres of which was in section 6, of Woodside township and forty acres in section 32, of Oak Valley township. Here the father lived until his death. The mother died on May 31, [9x2. They had a family of six children: Grace, who married Benjamin Costen, of Hewitt, Minnesota; Elizabeth, who married John Biggs, of Wadena; George \\'.. who is the subject of this sketch; Jane, who is the wife of Barney Sanders. of Park Rapids, Minnesota: Katie, who was the wife of Mike Snodgrass, both now deceased, and Edward, who lives in Canada.

George W. Stokes was reared on a farm until he was nine years old and was educated in the public schools of New York state. He accompanied his parent^ to Wadena county and a little later to Oak Willey township. Otter Tail county. Mr. Stoke- purchased forty acres of land where he now lives and which is situated in section 32. He later added eighty acres to his original farm and has erected substantial buildings on the farm. In 1915 he built a Hue barn, thirty-two bv fifty feet. Mr. Stokes is a general fanner and stockman, and has been prominent in the agricultural life of Oak Valley township for many years. He is a stockholder in the Oak Valley Creamery Company and in the Farmers Co-operative Creamery Company of Hewitt.

In 1 886 George W. Stokes was married to Eliza Irons, who was born in 1869, in England, and who was the daughter of William and Anna Irons. Mrs. Stokes's parents came from England to America in 1886 and located eventually in Oak Valley township, in section 32. They purchased forty acres of land and here they lived for a number of years. Mrs. Stokes's father is deceased, but her mother is still living. At the time of her death, in 1902, Mrs. Stokes left six children, Albert, Ernest, Joseph, Roy, Rose and Ralph. One child. Leo, had previously died. In 1903 Mr. Stokes was married, secondly, to May Hubbard, who was born in Otter Tail county. Minnesota, and who was the daughter of Frank and Anna Hubbard, now of Oak Valley township. By this second marriage there was born one son, Fred, who died in infancy, September 27, 1004. Mrs. May Stokes died in September, tqo6.

George W. Stokes has served as a member of the school board, but is not now a member. He has never aspired to office. Nevertheless, Mr. Stokes enjoys the confidence and esteem of his neighbors and the respect and admiration of those who know him for his worth as a man and citizen.

John C. Johnson

A prosperous and well-known farmer of Bluffton township, the proprietor of a farm comprising three hundred and twenty acres of contiguous land equipped with a beautiful house and barn, director of both the telephone company and creamery at Wadena, chairman of the board of supervisors of Bluffton township for the last fifteen years and a man who has served as school director - stand as evidence of the energy and thrift, of the eminent success and of the high regard and esteem with which the people of Bluffton township and Otter Tail county regard the man whose name heads this biographical review.

John C. Johnson was born in Skane, Sweden, on January 28, 1859. the son of John and Annie (Nelson) Johnson, both of whom were bom and reared in Skane, the former both on June 21, 1821. and the latter on October 12, 1824. The parents were married, lived and reared their children to manhood and womanhood in their native village, the father being a laborer by occupation. In 1883. however, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson left their native land and emigrated' to the United States to the United States in order t<i spend their declining; years with their son, John O, who two years previously left the parental roof and came to America. Annie 1 Nelson) Johnson died two years after her arrival in the United States, in 1885. at Rock- ford, Illinois, where her remains were buried. John Nelson survived his wife many years, passing away in 191 2, in Bluft'tun township, his remains being buried at Wadena, Minnesota. To Mr. and Mrs. John Johnson were horn four children, as follow: Emma, who married Andrew Hanson, lives in Bluffton township; Betsey, the wife of Nils Nelson, lives in Sweden; John C. is the subject of this sketch, and Andrew died cpiite young in Sweden.

John C. Johnson was educated in the public schools of his native land and at an early age learned farming. In 1881 he emigrated to America and settled near Rockford, Illinois, where he at first worked on neighboring farms but later became a renter. He remained in Illinois during the next fourteen years, or until 1895, when he came to Otter Tail county. Minnesota, and bought one hundred and twenty acres of wild, unbroken land in section 21, of Bluffton township. Like many another farmer now living in this section of Minnesota, he began to clear his land of brush and timber. to break the soil, and to build a log cabin and barn to serve as the pioneer home. Later he added two hundred acres until he now owns a farm of three hundred and twenty acres, all lying in a contiguous body and highly improved. Mr. Johnson continued the process of improvement and in 1915 erected a magnificent barn and other buildings, the barn being one hundred and twenty feet long and thirty feet wide and equipped with every modern convenience, hay sling and fork and large enough to shelter sixty head of cattle, sixteen head of horses and one hundred and twenty tons of hay. Both the house and barn are equipped with electric lights generated by an electric light plant located on the farm. He also has a waterworks which makes possible the furnishing of the house with modern plumbing fixtures. The water is compressed in a tank located in the cellar. Mr. Johnson also owns an automobile which insures rapid transit and conserves a great deal of time. All in all. Mr. Johnson enjoys all the conveniences of modern life and is reaping the fruits of his labor. Mr. Johnson is deeply interested in high grade stock and, though formerly a breeder of Durham cattle, now keeps a fine herd of Holstein cattle as well as Duroc-Jersey hogs.

In 1882 John C. Johnson was married to Christena Tornstrand. a native of Sweden. To this happy union there have been bom nine children, as follow: Oscar is at home with his parents; Edna married Allen Kellerman and lives in Bluffton township; Edwin died at the age of fourteen: Ella married Victor Marine and lives in Minneapolis: Emma married Albert Schwartz and lives at Wadena; Julius. Ester, John and Edith live at home w itb their parents.

lohn C. Johnson has always taken an active part in the civic and social lifi of lii- community. More or less independent in politics, he has served as school director and as chairman of the board of supervisors of Bluft'ton township, serving both positions to the utmost satisfaction of his constituency. He plays no small part in the commercial circles of Bluff ton township, being both director of the telephone company and of the creamery of Wadena. Raised as a supporter of the Lutheran faith, he still supports this denomination and takes an active part in church affairs.

The life of Airs. .Martha Larson has exerted an influence which has been uplifting as well as sympathetic upon those with whom she came in contact. As a valuable companion of her husband, during the days of his early struggles in the uncultivated sections of Minnesota, she proved to he a woman of rare wisdom, firm convictions and true sympathy. The success attained by her husband was attributed by him to the efforts of his wife, whose presence and advice lent inspiration to his business endeavors. Those who had the good fortune to know Airs. Larson, speak of her as a woman whose life was full to the brim. Her usefulness has extended along various lines until she can truthfully be classed with those women whose descendants "rise up and call them blessed."

The birthplace of Martha Hilden was at Holland, Norway, where she was born on the Qth of February, 1X47. She was the daughter of Johannes Hilden, a resident of Norway, who spent the greater part of his life as a farmer in that country, where he is now buried. The aim Martha Hilden had in coming to this country was to join her brother. Peter, who was located in Goodhue county, .Minnesota She arrived in that section of the country on the 4th of July. 1868, where she lived with her brother until the 7th of November, 1N70, when her marriage to Ole Swensen, also a native of Norway, took place.

Shortlv after their marriage. Mr, and Mrs. Swenson came to Otter Tail count)', Minnesota, where they homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land in Clitherall township, located in section 18. The land was a wilderness covered with timber and underbrush and the task of removing the growth of vegetation was both difficult and dangerous. The toilers were left upon their own resources, and as the community was only scantily inhabited, assistance could be obtained only after delayed communication. It was in the capacity as a farmer's wife that Mrs. Swensen proved her greatest worth. She and her husband were obliged to live in a dugout for two years, until they were able to erect a log house, which, in part, is still standing on the farm, a landmark of the early privations endured by the pioneers. After their struggles had terminated in enjoyment and prosperity, Airs. Swenson losl her husband on the jrd of .May. [886, His death occurred shortly after he had reached his thirty-eighth year. He and his wife were devout members of the Norwegian Synod church, and among its first members.

To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Swenson, the following children were born: Mary, who died at the age of eleven years; John, who passed away at the age of twenty-five years; Helma, who married Harold Halvorson. and who resides at Henning, Minnesota; Alfred, who died in infancy; Mary i Airs. Carl Gilbertson), who resides near Battle Lake; Jtdia, who makes her home with her mother, and Lottie, who is also at home.

On the 17th of November, [889, Mrs. Swenson became the wife of Andrew Larson, a native of Eidswold, Norway, who came to America about 1868, where he lived for a time in Goodhue county. Minnesota. Upon his arrival in Otter Tail county he took a homestead claim on one hundred and sixty acres in sections 21 and 28. in Qitherall township. At the time of his meeting with A.Irs. Swenson, Mr. Larson had five children, who were born to his marriage to Mrs. Martha Paulson, a widow, who passed away in 1888. The children who survived Mrs. Martha Larson are: Mary (Mrs. Albert Beardslev). a resident of Fergus Falls, Minnesota; Clara, the wife of Francis Vennerstrom, who lives in White Fish, Montana; Alfred, of New Eflington, South Dakota; Amanda, who married Clarence Rolandson, of Fergus Falls, and Martha who makes her home with an aunt in Dakota. One child Louis, died in infancy.

After his marriage to Mrs. Swenson, Mr. Larson took full charge of the homestead at Battle Lake, where he proved his ability to meet the problems of agricultural life with courage and strength of will. He worked unceasingly upon improvements on the land. He built a large barn, cleared large tracts of land surrounding the place and before his death bought one hundred and thirty-three acres joining the original farm, located in section 7. Mr. Larson was a man of progressive spirit, high ideals and force of character. At the time of his death he was interested in many lines of farm work and enjoyed a wide and popular acquaintance among the citizens of the community in which he lived. In his political interests he was a Republican. He was a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church, in whose welfare he took a keen interest. Mr. Larson passed away on the 3rd of January, 1907, and after that his wife continued to live a retired life on the farm, to the excellent state of cultivation of which she so generously contributed in former years. Her life was, on account of its usefulness, singularly happy and beautiful and the memory of her good works will be cherished by those children for whom she sacrificed many pleasures.

By her union with Mr. Larson, the subject of this sketch became the mother of tin- two children. Louis, who lives on the home place, which be manages most successfully, is interested in the breeding of Holstein cattle and Poland China hogs. His brother, Clarence, assists him in the farm work.

One of the venerable citizens and successful farmers of Clitherall township. Otter Tail county. Minnesota, is Jens Nelson, who was born at Skane, Sweden July 21, 1831. He is the son of Nels and Elsie Okeson. who spent their entire lives in Sweden. The father was a farmer and landowner, and was born in 1804. his death occurring in 1851. His wife was born in 1808 and died in 1869. They were earnest and devoted members of the Lutheran church and were the parents of a family of eight children.

Of the children born to Xels and Elsie Okeson. Oke was born in 1826 r Nels in 1827; John, who was born in 1830. is a farmer of Clitherall township; Peter born in 1833, was also a farmer in Clitherall township until his death in 10,13; Burnet was born in 1830; Anna, who was born in [839, married Nels Matheson, and died in Denmark: Louis, horn in 1842, died at the age of seventeen years; Frank, the youngest, was born in 1845.

Jens Nelson was educated in the public schools of his native country, and after his marriage and the birth of four children, and the death of one, emigrated to America in 1870, making the voyage on a steamship. Upon the arrival of the Nelson family in the United States, they settled at Litchfield, Minnesota, where they lived for one year, when they moved to Otter- Tail county, where they homesteaded one hundred and siNty acres of land in Clitherall township The land was largely covered with timber. Mr. Nelson started life in the new country by constructing a dugout, but in 1878' built a log house, which- is still standing, and which is still used as a residence.

Jens Nelson was married in his native land to Elna Anderson and to this union have been born, ten children: Nels, who died at the age of three in Sweden; Andrew, who died at Moorhead, Minnesota, at the age of sixteen; Johanna, the wife of Charles Larson, lives at Liberty, Canada; Emma, the wife of William Curinger, lives at Cass Lake. Minnesota; John, who died at the age of eleven ; Frank \.. who is referred to later on in this sketch, lives at home and operates the home farm; Ella, who died at the age of nineteen; August, a resident of Lunds Valley, is a wheat buyer; Ida, the wife of William McCormick, lives at Minot, North Dakota; \manda. the wife of \11toi1 Morrau. lives at Delaware, North Dakota.

lives, and which he now operates, was educated in the public schools of his home township, and reared to the life of a fanner. Since he was old enough he has been engaged in agricultural pursuits, and during the past eight or ten years, has rented the farm of his father. He is a Democrat in polities, and is a constable in Clitherall township.

Jens Nelson was i nc of the founders of the Swedish Lutheran church 111 Clitherall township, of which his family are devoted and earnest members.

Fritz Lueders

It means much for the young man to sever the ties of home, to leave his native land for the uncertainties of a new world, here to establish a new home and meet the requirements of a new condition. To make a, success of his work, means much hard work and good judgment. Many of the Old World boys and young men have succeeded in America, but only by strict application and hard work. The German coming to this country, comes with the desire and determination to meet with success and make a home worthy of his efforts.

Fritz Lueders, sun of John and Margretta (Thalman) Lueders, was horn in Germany on June 24, 1N50. John and Margretta Lueders were life-long residents of Hanover. Germany. The family were members of the German Lutheran church. John and Margretta Lueders were the parents of the following children: Herman. Mary. Dora and Fritz. Herman. Mary and Fritz came to this country, while Dora remained in the homeland.

Fritz Lueders was educated in the schools of Germany. As a young man he came to America <>n March _>_>. 1881. and landed in Xew York, but M« in resumed his journey to Brown county. Minnesota. Here he worked for others fur a year and. later, he worked in Sibley county, Minnesota, for seven months. After this, he visited the home in his native land, bir two months. On returning to America he located in Otter Tail county, purchasing three hundred and eighty acres of land one-half mile northwest of Otter Tail.

Fritz Lueders was muted in marriage to Dura Hunkers, the daughter -of Henry Hunkers, and to this union has been born the following children. Henry. Fred, Ella, Herman, George, Olga and Martha. Henry, Fred and Ella are married and have homes of their own.

Mr. Lueders lias reclaimed his farm from a wild state to a beautiful country home. He has a large and modern house, two large barns, silo, and other buildings and sheds necessan to a well-kept farm estate. Mr. Lueders has held the important office of school treasurer L>r twentj years, and treas urer <ii tin- township for ten years. He and his family arc active members oi the 1 lerman Lutheran church ai < Itter Tail.

Ole O. Hovland

For over a half century, Minnesota and her agricultural opportunities have been extolled in other lands, and to her farms have come people of every country. The industrious, thrifty Norwegian has been among the settlers, and in almost every instance he has come fully prepared for selfsupport and for assuming the responsibilities of citizenship. One who represents most broadly this strong element in American citizenship, is Ole O. Hovland, who after many years of a busy life is able to look back upon his accomplishments with satisfaction. He was born in Hadeland, Norway, on December 17. 1837. and is the son of Ole Hanson and Joran Olesdatter.

The parents of Ole Hovland were born in Norway and spent most of their married life in the country of their nativity. Their last days, however, were spent in America, on the farm owned by their son, Nels Hovland. in Trondhjem township, where the father died in 1888, and the mother passed away in 1893. They reared a large family, of whom the following information is given: Gilbert, a farmer, is now residing in Wert county. Iowa; Hans, who died in Iowa, was also a' farmer; Ole is the subject of tlii- sketch; Syver lives in Trondhjem township, where he has a farm; Nels lives near Lawndale, in Wilkin county, and Otto is a farmer in Trondhjem township.

The educational advantages received by Ole Hovland were, according to the customs of that locality and period, extremely meager. The principal lessons of his life were gained in the early years during his boyhood on the farm in Norway. The remarkable fact of his career is that with so small a fund of educational resources, he was able to cope with the problems of an independent life in this country and win success. In 1867 he came to America, a journey that covered a period of over seven weeks. He settled in Winisheik county. Iowa, where he lived for four years, working as a farmer. In 1871 he came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, in a covered wagon drawn by a team of oxen. In this county, he began the task of homesteading one hundred and twenty acres of land located in section 26 of Trondhjem township. The land was wild prairie and the task of breaking ii] j the soil and cutting the timber was the first to he considered. A log house was built by Mr. Hovland during his first months of residence on the place and there he lived until [883, when he purchased two hundred acrein section 25 of the same township. lie moved upon this land where he now resides. The farm represents a large investment of modern improvements and is devoted exclusively to general farming. Mr. Hovland sold the homestead a few years ago to his son Olans, and after his retirement in 1007. rented pari of the land to his son, Lewis.

Mr. Hovland has not been content to work in just one field of enterprise, but has reached out into broader interests where his influence has been lasting for the welfare of the community. For a number of years he acted as school treasurer and was active as road supervisor for some time. He has always been an ardent member of the Synod Lutheran church, in which congregation his wife is also a valuable assistant.

On November 14. 1863, the marriage of Ole Hovland to Anna Teslo, a native of Norway, took place. She is a daughter of Arne and Annie (Wika) Teslo. Norwegians by birth, who died in their native land. Mrs. Hovland was born on September 14, 1840, in the same community where her husband spent his childhood. In 1913, fifty years after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Holland celebrated their golden wedding anniversary, amid much rejoicing and among a group of old and intimate acquaintances. The celebration was a fitting climax to fifty years of patient toil, devotion to duty and true home building. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hovland: Julia married O. J. Aamodt and later died in Barnesville. Minnesota; Mary, who lives near Barnesville, became the wife of A. P. Stadum. and after his death married Ole Stone; Olans lives on his father's homestead: Anton, a farmer, resides in North Dakota: Thea, the wife of O. S. Osten, lives in Norwegian Grove township; Lewis manages part of his father's estate and has never married: Sophia, the widow of A. 11. Kittelson, lives in Norwegian Grove township: John, who follows fanning resides near Stampede, North Dakota; Minnie, the wife of O. B. Ulsrud, lives in Columbus, North Dakota; C. Edwin, a banker, lives in Cotone. North Dakota; Ida I Mrs. A. O. Sommerness), is residing in Columbus. North Dakota; tda Caroline died at the age of four years, and Oliver died at the age of seven.

Hans Larson

Hans Larson, well-known farmer and highly-respected citizen of Amor township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was bom in Sweden, on August 10. 1X64. the son of bar-, and Hannah (Olson) Hanson, both of whom were born in Sweden. Lars Hanson came to America in 1889, and located in Otter Tail county, where he joined his son, Hans, who had preceded him a short time. Lars Hanson now lives at Battle Lake, having retired from more active life, bars and Hannah Hanson were the parents of four children, Lewis, Xels. Olef and Hans. Hannah, the wife of Lars Hanson died on September 7. 1014. Hans Hanson is one of the well and favorably known citizens of his community, taking an active interest in all useful matters for the promotion of the life and interests of his locality. The

Hans Larson was educated in the common schools of Sweden, after which he came to America, in 1888. and located in Otter Tail county, following a short time in St. Paul. Minnesota. In the year 1891, Mr. Larson bought a farm in Amor township, a place to which he later added forty acres of land, and a farm on which he now lives as a general farmer.

On July 12, 1893, Hans Larson was married to Emily Lundstrom, who was born in Otter Tail county, on August 8, 1874, the daughter of A. O. Lundstrom and wife, natives of Sweden, who came to America and homesteaded a farm in Clitherall township, Otter Tail county, where they now live. To the marriage of Hans and Emily Larson have been born three children, Amy, Lawrence and Edith, the former of whom is married to Rex H. Sanders, of Bismarck, North Dakota. Hans Larson and his family are members of the Swedish Lutheran church, in which he is a prominent member, he for many years having been teacher of the Sunday school of this church.

Tohn T. Tomhave

John J. Tomhave is one of the representative agriculturists of Carlisle township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and his life is typical of the progressive spirit of the community. He is a native of Germany, where his birth occurred on July 27, 1858. He is the son of John Tomhave and a brother of George E. Tomhave. of Fergus Ealls township, Otter Tail county. John J. Tomhave received his education in the schools of Germanv, Fontenac. Wisconsin and in Fergus Falls. As a young man his time was devoted to the vocation of masonry, which trade was also followed by his father.

In 1884 Mr. Tomhave became interested in agriculture and purchased a farm in Carlisle township on which he has since remained. With the exception of one winter, he has lived his entire life in this locality since his arrival in America. I lis first farm consisted of one hundred and sixty acres. located in section 27, ( Carlisle township, hut he has increased his holdings until he now owns three hundred and twenty acres, all in this township. IK also owns eighty acres in section 30, Fergus Falls township, about twenty-one acres in the city of Fergus halls, locate. I in the third ward and twelve and one-half acres of timber land in section 28, Elizabeth township. Otter Tail county, llis agricultural operations consists in general farming and the place is well improved.

John J. Tomhave was united in marriage to Carlena Schmidt, daughter of Ludwig Schmidt, and they are the parents of seven children whose names follow: Louis A.. Mary, Emelia, Clara, lohn, Bertha and Albert, fohn

I. Tomhave and his wife are members of the German Evangelical church, of which denomination lie is the treasurer. Politically, he is affiliated with the Republican party and has served as clerk of the school board. He is also a member of the Sons of Herman and is at present supervisor of Carlisle township, Otter Tail county.

Nels M. Nelson

To record the personal career of men who have raised themselves from humble circumstances to positions of responsibility and trust in a community, is no ordinary pleasure. Self-made men, men who have achieved success by reason of their personal qualities and who have impressed their individuality upon the business development and agricultural life of their community, have an important influence upon such institutions as have come within the sphere of their usefulness. Of such, we have the unquestionable right to say is Xels M. Nelson, a prosperous farmer of Aurdal township

Mr. Nelson was hum mi April 4, 1885, in Aurdal township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, on his father's old homestead farm. He is the son of Xels E. and Methe (1 lallan i Nelson, who came to America from Norway. Mr. Nelson's father was horn in Norway on December \~. 1844, and his mother in the same country on January 6, 1850. Nels E. Nelson, who passed away in this township and count), in [909, was the son of Ingebret and \aste Nelson, both of whom were natives of Norway, who settled in Aurdal township, Otter Tail county, in 1868. They took a homestead farm of one hundred and sixty acres in this township and here spent the balance of their lives. Before coming to Otter Tail county. Mr. Nelson's father had lived for a time in Goodhue county. He was a typical pioneer of this section, who took a great interest in public improvements. He had one of the best farms in this part of Otter Tail county. Manx years before his death, he erected a magnificent brick house, made of bricks burned on the farm. His wife, now a widow, is still living on the old farm. Mr. and Mrs. Nels E. Nelson were the parents of three children. \nna, Nels and Henry 1'. Hie Nelsons have always been identified with the Lutheran church and have always keen prominent in religious affairs.

Nels M. Nelson, who was reared on his father's old home farm, was educated in the public schools of his home community and. during his boyhood and youth, performed the tasks which generally fall to the lot of the average country boy. In 1 < > 1 j . Mr. Nelson bought the Martin Halverson farm, comprising one hundred and sixty acres of splendid land. He is a general farmer and stock man and has been very successful, although he is a young man and has many years before him in which to work out his life's success.

On October 25, [909, Nels M. Nelson was married to Anna Golberg, who was born in Olmstead county, Minnesota, in 1889, and who is the daughter of Endrew O. and Mary Golberg. \fter living for many years in Olmstead county, Minnesota, they came to Otter Tail county, about 1900 and are now residents of Sverdrup township. Mr and Mrs. Xels M. Nelson have two children. Norris and, Kenneth.

Mr. Nelson has always been independent in politics. He cares more for measures and men than he does for parties and party emblems. Bellas served in many positions of trust and responsibility, especially positions of local trust. For a number of year-, he was a supervisor of Aurdal township and, for three years, was chairman of the hoard. He has also served as a memher of the school hoard and as clerk of the hoard. Mr. and Mr-. Nels M Nelson are members of the Lutheran church.

Gf.Orgk R. Kapler

George R. Kapler is one of the well-known and representative citizens of Perham. Otter Tail cottnty, Minnesota, ami his influence has heen a dominant factor in the development of the locality.' He is one of ten children horn to the union of 0. and Barbara (Bachel) Kapler, natives of Wittenburg, Germany, and Iowa, respectively.

< ). Kapler was horn in 1 84 1 and immigrated to America 111 1S52. He immediately located on a farm in Winneshiek county. Iowa, and at the age of twenty years enlisted in Company C, Twenty-first Iowa Regular Infantry, and served throughout the Civil War. lie became commissary sergeant and was in the battle of Vicksburg and Gettysburg, as well as in many other-. receiving many wounds, one of which caused his death in after years. At the close of the war he returned to Iowa and shortly afterward married Barbara Bachel, who is still living. To them were bom the following children. George, Caroline, Rose. Anna. Louise, Regena, Frank. Gertrude, and two other- who died in infancy. From the time of his marriage, 0. Kapler resided in Snillville, Winneshiek county, Iowa, until his death on September 1, 1912. Most of the lime he practiced law. hut operated a hotel a- well. Religiously, he was a memher of the Catholic church.

George R. Kapler was horn on November 7. [866, in Spillville, Winneshiek county. Iowa, and received hi- education in the schools of that town. In the fall of 1SS5 he removed to North Dakota, where he was engaged in the capacity of dry-goods clerk until [896, at which time he transferred his services to the firm of Wyman Partridge & Co., whole-ale dry-goods merchants, as their traveling representative and ha- -nice remained in their employ. In April. [896, he removed to Wadena, Minnesota, hut in [903 his location was changed to Perham, Minnesota, where he remained for two years, removing to Big Pine Lake, Minnesota, in 1905, and establishing a summer resort known as Grand View Heights. This resort is one of the finest in the state. In June, 1915, this place was sold and he has since devoted his time to the management of the Perham Land and Investment Company, which he organized in 1912. He is the president of this company. Politically, he is a stanch Republican and fraternally, he is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons and Zuhrah Temple, Ancient Arabic Order of Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, Minneapolis. On October 29, 1890. Mr. Kapler was united in marriage to Frances E. Bell, who was born on Angus! 20, [866, and reared in Mansfield, Ohio.

Edward I. Rudh

Edward J. Rudh, a former teacher, merchant and salesman, who has been assistant cashier of the First National Hank of Battle Lake, this county, Minnesota, since its organization, is a native of Norway, born at Smaalene, near Christiana, April 6, 1869, the son of Jens A. and Maria (Kasa) Rudh, farmers and landowners in their native land, who. in the latter part of that same month, sailed for America with their baby, spending six weeks on the voyage. Upon tbeir arrival in America, they settled in Rice county. Minnesota, where, for two years, Mr. Rudh worked on neighboring farms.

In 1 87 1 the family moved to Otter Tail county and purchased three hundred and twenty acre- of wild prairie land in Dane 1'rairie township. There Mr. Rudh built a small log cabin, which has long since disappeared, and there be lived, improving his farm and adding to his possessions until his death, March 28, 1900. His widow afterward moved to Battle Lake and died at the home of her sun, John, December 1 1, 1014. >be then being eighty-six years old. Both were members of the Hauge Lutheran church.

To Jens A. and Maria 1 Kasa ) Rudh were born eight children, namely: Ole, wliM 1- a veterinary surgeon of Portal, North Dakota; John, win. is die tanners elevator at Battle Lake: Andrew, who is a farmer 11: Dane Prairie township; Christine, who married Palmer Awenby and lives in Fergus Falls: Edward J., the subject of ibis sketch: Thea, who married Charles Lacer and lives in Crookstown, Minnesota; Sophia, who married August Matson and lives at Rose Glen, North Dakota, and Helmer, who died at the age Hi' thirteen years,

Edward J. Rudh received a liberal education in the common schools of Dane Prairie township, the seminary at \\l'<\ Wing and in the high school at Fergus Falls, later becoming a studenl in the business college at Moorhead, Minnesota, now known as Concordia College.

treasurer of Otter Tail county. In 1895, ne located at Battle Lake where he was engaged in the mercantile business until 1906. During 1906 and 1907, he was a traveling salesman. Upon the organization of the First National Bank, he was made assistant cashier, a position which he still holds.

In 1898 Edward J. Rudh was married to Dinah Peterson, who was burn at Underwood, Minnesota, daughter of Knut Peterson, a biographical sketch of whom is presented elsewhere in this volume. Mrs. Rudh died on April 5, 1905. and the next year, Mr. Rudh married, secondly, Eliza Mickelson, who was born in Otter Tail county, the daughter of Ole M. Mickelson, an old settler of Everts township, who is also mentioned elsewhere in this volume. By the first marriage. Mr. Rudh had three children, Evelyn, Maurine and Byron. There are no children by the second marriage.

Edward J. Rudh is well known in Otter Tail county for his cordial disposition and for his friendly relations with the public. He is a Republican and gives a good citizen's attention to the county's political affairs, having served as village recorder for twelve years. He and his wife are members of the United church. Fraternally. Mr. Rudh is a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and of the Modern Woodmen of America.

Ole W. Berg

( )le \Y. Berg, who is the owner of a fertile farm of eighty acres in Everts township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and an interest in the old homestead farm of his parents, is a native of Norway, where his birth occurred on April 30, 1874.

Mr. Berg is a son of Anton C. and Anne (Glende) Berg, both of whom were natives of Norway. Mr. Berg's father was born in 1839 and his mother in 1845. They were married in Norway, and in the spring of 1880, came with their family to America, settling in Otter Tail county, where they purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, and also homesteaded seventy-three acres. From the time of his coming to Otter Tail county, until his death in 1807, Anton C. Berg made many and substantial improvements upon the homestead farm, and his widow is now living on this farm. She is an earnest and faithful member of the Lutheran church, as were all the family. Anton Berg and wife were the parents of ten children, all of whom are living' with the exception of Annette, the eldest. The living children are as follow: Carl, Martin, Ole W., Anna, Inga, Emma, Sophia, Alfred and Karen.

Of these children. Ole \Y., the fourth in order of birth, was reared on the farm in Everts township, receiving his education in the public schools (25b) of the township. Mr. Berg has always been engaged in farming. He is a general farmer and stockman and has been very successful in his chosen calling. Like the other members of the family, he is a member of the Lutheran church. He has been a member of the township school board for the past three years, and has always been more or less prominent in local politics.

Robson C. Atkinson

Robson C. Atkinson, a well-to-do farmer of Newton township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in the state of Illinois, August 2, 1852. Mr. Atkinson's boyhood home was near Joliet, Illinois. He is the son of John and Sarah ( Robson) Atkinson, both of whom were natives of England and who were married in their native land.

After coming to this country from England, Mr. and Mrs. John Atkinson settled in the state of Illinois, where they rented laud for some year--. Subsequently, they moved to Minnesota, and there homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land. Upon selling their farm, the family moved to Wabasha county, Minnesota, and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land. Mr. Atkinson's father died in Rochester, Minnesota, in 1Q13. and his mother in Wabasha county, Minnesota, in 1X77. They were the parents of eleven children. Alary Ann, Robson C, Sarah, Oliver, Fannie, Charlotte, Grace, Frank, Daisy. Hattie and Dorcas.