Otter Tail County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1916 (part 11 of 28)

Robson (.'. Atkinson was reared on a farm and educated in the public schools. He accompanied his parents to Minnesota, and, when a young man, moved to Yellow Medicine county, Minnesota, and took a "tree claim" of one hundred and sixty acres, which he kept for about two years. Afterward Mr. Atkinson purchased sixty acres of land, which he owned for four years. \iter selling out, in 1877, he came to Otter Tail county and took a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres in section jo, of Denning township. Later he added eighty acres and had, at the time he sold the farm, two hundred and forty acres. Subsequently, he purchased two hundred and fort) acre- in section 5, and also forty acres in section 2, all of which was situated in Henning township. \fter selling this farm in October, 1903, \h Atkinson came to Newton township and purchased five hundred and fift) two acre- besides two hundred acres in Inman township, lie has sold his land until he now owns ninety-two acres in section 20, where he lives, and one hundred and twent) acres in section 22. Air, Atkinson is a general farmer and stockman and has been very successful, not only in farming, but hi buying and selling land.

1859, and whose father, Orris Oliver, was a pioneer of Wabasha county. Mr. and Mrs. Atkinson have been the parents of seven children, all of whom are living-, Willie, George Harley, Fred, Ida, Hattie, Ray and Delia.

Mr. Atkinson served as supervisor of Henning township for a number of years and was also clerk of the school board for some time. In Newton township, where he now lives, he is rated as one of the most successful farmers and business men. He is a popular citizen and has a host of friends in the community where he resides.

Charles S. Joslin

Born in a log cabin in Cattaraugus county, New York, August 9, 1853, Charles S. Joslin, a well-known farmer of Oak Valley township, Otter Tail county. Minnesota, is a son of Artemus and Charlotte (Grandy) Joslin. Mr. Joslin's father was a native of Pennsylvania, born on June 12, 1812. His mother, who was a native of Potsdam, St. Lawrence county, New York, was born in 18 17.

The Joslin family settled in Cattaraugus county, New York, in an early day, and lived there for some years, and in 1869 came to Rice county, Minnesota, and after living at Fairbau for one year, moved to LeSueur county, Minnesota, where they purchased a farm, and here Mr. Joslin's father died on August 7, 1881, at the age of sixty-nine years. His mother died in 1892, aged seventy-five years. They were the parents of eight children, of whom one, Adaline, is deceased. The living children are Sarah, Oscar, Edgar, Evaline, Charles S., Emma and Adelbert.

Reared on a farm in Cattaraugus county, New York, Charles S. Joslin received his education in the public schools of that county, and when seventeen years of age accompanied his parents to Rice county, Minnesota, and then to LeSueur county, and in 1882 emigrated to Otter Tail county, and took a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres in section 20, Oak Valley township. There he lived until 1896, when he sold out and purchased eighty acres in section 17, Oak Valley township, where he now resides. Mr. Joslin has erected good buildings on his farm, and has constructed a large silo for the storing of feed for his live stock, and has made many substantial improvements on the place. His farm is one of the most productive and fertile in the township, and here he carries on a general system of farming and stock raising, and for tin- past fourteen years has also been engaged in threshing; and in the operation of a saw-mill in connection with farming. IK- Was one of the organizer-- of the creamery at Lyman, and is its largest stockholder.

[852, and located in LeSueur county, Minnesota. Mrs. Joslin's father died in the latter county. His wife, before her marriage, was Harriet Barthoamne, who died in LeSueur county, Minnesota, June 7, 1886.

Charles S. Joslin and 'wife are the parents of three children, Clarence, whose wife was Grace Burnet before her marriage, has two children, Leo and Ralph; Georgia, the wife of Mont McKellep, has four children, Kenneth, Dorothy, Lola and Beulah ; Chlours, the wife of Henry Wallingford, of Hubbard county, Minnesota.

Mr. Joslin has been prominent in the political and civic life of his township for many years. He served a number of years on the township board as supervisor, and for some years was clerk of the school board. He is a highly-respected farmer and citizen of this part of the county, where he has made his home for so many years.

Ole M. Sommerness

Many of the men most influential in promoting the industrial affairs of < >tter Tail county, Minnesota, trace their success to the inheritance of the Norwegian traits of character. The attributes of thrift, integrity and perseverance which are inherent in the natures of the highest types of the citizens of Norway have found expression in the works of those men who came to the agricultural sections of Minnesota, when that state was in the earliest stage of her development. In the colony which settled in the county referred to above, probably no member has attained greater distinction than Ole M. Sommerness, whose business ability and firm convictions have won for him the respect of those with whom he has come in contact.

Ole M. Sommerness was born at Graso, Nordland, seventy-two miles north of Trondhjem, Norway, on the 9th of June, 1842, and is the son of Marcus Olson and Karen Jacobson. His father was a native of Denmarkarid his mother of Norway. Marcus Olson moved to Norway at the age of twelve years, and after reaching manhood followed the fisherman's occupation which was not an uncommon form of employment in that locality where he lived. He married in his native land and for a number of years made part of his living from a small piece of land which he had purchased and on which he kept a few cattle. After his death, which occurred when he was just forty-two years old, his wife married Carl Olson, and lived to the age of sixt) years. By her first marriage she became the mother of the following children: Marelius, who died in Norway; Gitlov. who became the wife of Syver Hammer, and who died in Otter Tail county; Ovidia, the wife of Lodvik Kran, who lives in Norway: Jacob, a resident of Norway, and Ole, who is referred to in this sketch. By her marriage to Mr. Olson. Mrs Olson became the mother of Martha, a daughter who died in Norway;

Ole Sommerness was educated in the public schools of his native land. As a young man he became interested in the fishing industry, one of the must important industries of the country in which he was reared and as a result he followed the fisherman's trade until 1869, when he left Norway for this country. He settled, after arriving in America, in Goodhue county, Minnesota, where he worked for two years on the farms in that locality. I lis initial entrance into Otter Tail county was made in 1871, when he came to this section and bought a farm of eighty acres located in section 16, in Trondhjem township. The land was devoid of improvements of any kind. The nature of the land was rolling prairie. One of the first difficult pieces of labor with which the subject of this sketch was obliged to deal was the building of a log cabin. The house is still standing, north of the present residence and is a landmark of the simple achievement of a pioneer. After he had broken up a large part of the wild land, Mr. Sommerness began to add to his farm possessions until now he owns a place of over four hundred and forty acres, most of which is located in sections 15 and 16. To the original farm he has added a number of valuable improvements. The management of the farm is devoted almost exclusively to general farming and stock raising. In 1905, Mr. Sommerness retired from active work on the farm and turned over its management to his son, Carl, who has rented the land for over ten years. Carl Sommerness has given evidence of his possession of the same sterling attributes of character which were so characteristic of the business life of his father. He has discharged the duties assumed by him on the farm in a manner deserving of the highest commendation and trust.

In his political interests, Ole Sommerness has always been an independent voter. He has taken an active part in those affairs for the welfare of the community and for a time served on the township school board. He attends the Lutheran church of which his wife is also a member.

The marriage of Ole Sommerness and Julia Anderstatter, a native of Tysmark. Sweden, was solemnized on December 18, 1873. She is tfie daughter of Andrew and Margaret Brynglson. and was married in this country, to which she came alone, in 1871. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Sommerness the following children have, been born: Martin, a resident of Columbus, North Dakota; Caroline, the wife of Ole Rvkkin, of Woburn. North Dakota; Antone, who is in business with his brother Martin, a dealer in hardware, furniture and farm implements; Mattie, who resides at home; Carl, who is manager of the home farm, and Albert, who lives in Glendive, Montana, where he is a druggist and a landowner. Mr. and Mrs. Sommer- ness have extended their filial devotion to two adopted children, Swen Hendrickson, a druggist of Annasa, North Dakota, whom they reared from the age of thirteen years and Clara Wick, who has made her home with them since childhood.

John C. Hauck

John C. Hauck, widely known and highly respected farmer of Otto township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Medina county, Ohio, on July 5, 1877, the son of Simon and Katherine (Schneider) Hauck, the former born at Toledo, Ohio, in the year 1844. ^n^ the latter bom in Germany, in 1850. Simon Hauck was the son of Alios and Arelia Hauck, both natives of Germany, who came to America and settled in Medina county, Ohio, where they lived for a time and then moved to Toledo, Ohio, after which they came, in the year 1880, to Otter Tail county, where Alios Hauck bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in Pine Lake township, a place to which he later added eighty acres and where he lived until his death in 1891. His widow died in 1899. Alios and Arelia Hauck were the parents of two children, Susie and Simon.

Gustaf S. Ingwald

Gustaf S. Ingwald, who was horn on November 6, 1863, in Sweden, owns ninety-four acres of land in Compton township, and in the community where he lives, is rated as a successful farmer.

Mr. Ingwald is a son of Swan Ingwald and Christine Anderson, both of whom were natives of Sweden, and who, after their marriage in their native land, came to America in r88i. Upon landing at New York city, the parents proceeded direct to Compton township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where they shortly obtained eighty acres of land in section 19. They lived on this farm the remainder of their lives, but the farm had in the meantime, been increased to one hundred and twenty' acres. They were the parents of two children. Gustaf and Julian. The family were all faithful and devout members of the Lutheran church, and the father had received military training in his native country, and had served in the Swedish army.

Gustaf S. Ingwald received a part of his educational training in the schools of his native land, and upon coming to America, was a student for some time in the public schools of Compton township. Mr. Ingwald is now the owner of ninety-four acres of land, on which he built a nice home.

On May 7, 1892, Mr. Ingwald was married to Hulda Loine, a native of Sweden, and to this union have been born two children, Arvid and Bernhard, both of whom are living at home with their parents.

Mr. Ingwald, who is an active member of the Lutheran church, has been a justice of the peace in Compton township for a number of years. He also served twelve years on the township board, but is not now a member of the board. Fraternally, Mr. Ingwald is a member of the Equitable Fraternal Union, in which he takes an active interest.

Andrew A. Petterson

\ successful merchant of Battle Lake, Minnesota, is Andrew A. Petterson, who was born in Fillmore county, Minnesota, July 17, 1863, and who is a son of Peter Anderson and wife, both natives of Norway, who came to the United States from their native land about 1862, settling in Fillmore county, Minnesota, where the former died in 1864. while his widow passed away in Otter Tail county, about 1880. Peter Anderson and wife were the parents of five children, of whom Andrew A. was the youngest born. The other children were Herman, Christian, Gusta and Dorothy.

Andrew A. Petterson received his education in the public schools of Otter Tail county, where the family came in 1870, and began on his own responsibility by renting a farm in Nidaros township. After following farming for some little time, he was employed as a clerk in a general store at

Clitherall, Minnesota, for one year. !n 1904 Mr. Petterson came to Battle Lake. Minnesota, and for the next five years was manager of the Larson & Hansen general store. In 1909 -Mr. Petterson purchased this store, which has since been operated under the firm name of A. A. Petterson & Company.

In [885 Andrew A. Petterson was married to Julia Holstemon, of Clayton county, Iowa, and to this union have been born four children: Gustav, a professor in charge of one of the departments of the Normal school at Mankato, Minnesota. He is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, and has also taken post-graduate work at the same institution. He was the first dean of Vaselen University at Mitchell, South Dakota. Adolph, the second sen of Mr. Petterson and wife, who was a graduate of the Fergus Falls high school, and who would have graduated from the dental department of the University of Minnesota, in IQJ> died in February, 1915. at the age of twenty-two years. His death was a severe shock to his parents and to his hosts of friends whose confidence he enjoyed in his home community and at school where he was very popular. Ella, who is a graduate of the State Normal School, at Moorhead, Minnesota, taught two years at Campbell, Wilkie county. Minnesota, and also taught in the schools of Appleton. Minnesota. Clarence, the youngest horn of Mr. Petterson's children, is a student in the high school at Battle Lake.

Mr Petterson and family are prominent members of the Lutheran church at Battle bake, and are prominent citizens of this community, and have worthily discharged all the duties of life, both public and private.

Augustus G. Burgess

Augustus (',. Burgess, prominent farmer of Dead Lake township, 1 ftter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Jefferson county, New York, on June 7. [860, the son of Nathaniel H. and Abigail Jane (Bossuet) Burgess, lada and Jefferson county. New York, respectively. Nathaniel II. Burgess went to Jefferson county, when a young man. where he married and then, in [86l, came to I.eSueur county, Minnesota, and bought one hundred and sixty acres of land, on which he lived for a time and then, selling his place, he bought another farm of eighty acres, which after a time he sold and then came to Otter Tail county, and located at Richville, where the elder Burgess lived until his death ill Hilt, and where his widow. Abigail Jane, now lives, aged eighty-one years. Nathaniel and Abigail lane Burgess were the parents of six children. William. Elizabeth, Augustus - J.. Nathaniel, I bury and Nettie.

county, in [91 J , where he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 13, a place which Mr. Burgess has greatly improved and where he now engages in genera] agricultural pursuits.

On February 7. 1884, Augustus G. Burgess was married to Ida II. Wynn, who was horn in LeSueur enmity, in [863, and to this marriage was horn one son, who now lives in Richville. Ida. the first wife of Augustus G. Burgess died on January 11. [S86. Augustus ('-. Burgess was married, secondly, on December 20. 18N7, to Eva Randall, who was born in Crafts bury, Vermont, in May. 1858, the daughter of Wilbur and Charlotte ( Drew 1 Randall, who came to LeSueur county, in [859, and settled near Ottawa on a farm of two hundred and twenty acres, land which Wilbur Randall later sold and then moved to Ottawa, where he died <>d March 13, 1911. Charlotte, the widow of Wilbur Randall is now living in Ottawa, .Minnesota. To the marriage of Augustus and Eva Burgess was horn one child, Lola. who is now tlie wife of |ohn M. Henderson, of Clitherall, Minnesota.

John A. Anderson, a prosperous fanner of Nidaros township. Otter Tail countw Minnesota, is a native of Eagle Lake township, < >tter Tail county, where he was born on November 0. if>" 1.

Mr. Anderson is the son of John G. and Johanna Sophia Anderson, both of whom were natives of Sweden. Mr. Anderson's father was horn in 1838 and his mother in [844. They were married in Sweden and. in 1870, came to America, settling at Red Wing, in Goodhue county, Minnesota. In the fall t'i J 870. they moved to Eagle Lake township, Otter Tail county, and took a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres in section 1. Here Mr. Anderson's father worked as a farmer, improving his land until his death on January 23, [913. Mr. Anderson's mother is still living on the old farm. They were the parents of a large family of children, Hilda, John, Frank, Godfred, Selma, Edward, Delia. William, Ilulda. deceased, and one who died in infancy.

John A. Anderson was reared on the old homestead farm and educated in the public schools of the township. lie attended the old district No. J> school and has always Lien engaged in farming. lie formerly owned a farm in Leaf Mountain township, hut sold it in 1014. in January, [908, he purchased one hundred and thirty-eight acres, to which in [913, he added ninety-one acres. Mr. Anderson now owns two hundred and twenty-nine acres in sections 7 and 18. of Nidaros township.

In [902 Mr. Anderson was married in the Eagle Lake church to Elizabeth Brown, who was horn in Sweden on July 15, 1S70. and is the daughter of Frederick Leonard and Mary Brown. Mrs. Anderson's parents came to America in [869, settling in Moline, Illinois, and three years later immigrated to Otter Tail county, settling on the farm which their son-in-law, John A. Anderson, now owns. Mrs. Anderson's father died in 1S77 and her mother married again, now being Airs. Magnus Strobeck, and living in Clitherall village. Mr. and Mrs. \nderson have three sons. Frederick, Richard and Lloyd.

Air. and Mrs. John A. Anderson are members of the Swedish Lutheran church of Eagle Lake. Mr. Anderson's parents were active in the church, his father having been one of the first members of the church in his township. The son has always been active in the church of Eagle Lake township, also. Mr. Anderson has always been active in politics. He served as supervisor of Leaf .Mountain township for seven years and six years as supervisor of Nidaros township. He has also served as a member of the school board in Nidaros township for six years.

Thomas Horan

A resident of Otter Tail county since 1880. Thomas Horan, an energetii and industrious farmer of the Battle Lake neighborhood, in Maine township, is wideh known throughout that part of the county and is highly respected for his many engaging traits of character. Upon coming to this county, he bought a farm in Alaine township, which he has cleared and converted into a very comfortable home place.

Thomas Horan was born in Jo Daviess county. Illinois, both April j_\ [854, son (,i Martin and Catherine (Dunleavy) Horan, both natives of Ireland. Martin lloran. who was born in Kings count)-, in the Emerald Isle, came to \merica in iN.^j and plunged into the then practical wilderness of Illinois, locating first at Chicago, which at that time was but a small cluster of log cabins around the old Indian fort. For some years he worked in the lead mines of [owa, Wisconsin and Illinois, and in 1N47. while living in tin- latter state, was married, after which he bought a quarter section of heavily timbered land in To Daviess county, that state, which he proceeded to clear and upon which he made his home during the rest of his life. He ami hi e die parents of eleven children, all of whom are living Elizabeth and Martha, the others being, in the order of their birth, Mary. Micha l" this sketch: Bernard, Marcus. Catherine. James. Margaret and Ann Martin Horan and his wile were devout memljers of the I atholic church and their children were reared in the faith of thi' mother church.

a tract of eighty acres of uncleared land in Maine township, which he proceeded to render habitable. He found it pretty "hard grubbing," but he persisted until he presently had a well-tilled place, every furrow of which he broke himself. On October 2, 1894, he was united in marriage to Mary McNulty, who was horn in Wisconsin, daughter of Michael and Angeline (McNulty) McNulty, and in 1897 ne further improved his place by the erection of a new and substantial house and barn. In 1906 he bought an adjoining tract of forty acres, all of which he also has cleared with the exception of about seven acres, which still require grubbing. The home farm is situated in section 25, and is well known in the neighborhood for its genial hospitality.

To Thomas and Mary (McNulty) Horan three children have been born, Hilda, Leo and Martin, all of whom are unmarried and at home with their parents. Mr. and Mr:.. Horan are devout Catholics and their children have been reared in that faith. They have many friends in that neighborhood and are held in high esteem by all who know them. Mr. Horan is a substantial citizen and a very worthy force for good in his neighborhood.

Adison Petrie

Successful farmer, extensive stock raiser, prominent citizen, and public man, Adison Petrie, the subject of this sketch, is a man whom the community values as a citizen, and one in whose record as an office holder and as a man of important affiliation, the township and locality find considerable satisfaction.

Adison Petrie was horn in New York state on September 5, 1865. the son of Thomas and Hannah (Nickerson) I'etrie. Thomas Petrie was a farmer of Albany county, New York, until his death, in the year 1871. Hannah, the wife of Thomas Petrie, was the mother of two children. Mrs. Peter Prate, of Wadena, and Adison, of this sketch, with whom she lived until her death, on January 29, 1007.

Edison Petrie received hi- education in the common schools and in tinhigh school of Wadena. Minnesota, after which he became a fanner on the Petrie homestead in Compton township, of Otter Tail count}', a place of one hundred and fort) seven .hits of land, which .Mr. Petrie received as an inheritance from his mother, who homesteaded the farm in the year 1876. On taking possession of hi- farm. Edison i'etrie proceeded to improve the place by erecting a g 1 barn, building a house, an.! later buying an additional fifty-seven acres, making him the owner of two hundred .mil four acres at the present time. He installed a gasoline engine for power, in connection with hi- agricultural pur-nits. Air. Petrie is now engaged as a general farmer, and raises a line grade of cattle, hogs and sheep.

On December 25, 1888, Edison Petrie was married to Erne Wheeler, who was horn in Marseilles, Illinois, on March 10. 1869, the daughter of Andrew and Sarah \tm (Coon) Wheeler, Andrew \Y. Wheeler having been a farmer, school teacher and merchant of Illinois. Hastings, Nebraska. Wadena, .Minnesota, later moving to Washington. He died in the year 1907. his wife surviving him ami now living at Wadena. Minnesota. Adison and Effie Petrie arc the parents of the following children: George, Ralph and Roy, who are attending their own school, the high school in Wadena, and the normal school of St. ('loud, Minnesota. Adison Petrie and his family arc respected and esteemed members of the community at Deer Creek.

In public and official life. Mr. Petrie has held an important position. having served his township for fifteen years on the township board, twelve years of that time as chairman of the hoard, and is still a member. Mr. Petrie is now clerk of the school district, an office he has occupied with efficiency and dignity for more than twenty years. He is a prominent member of the lodge of Modern Woodmen of America, at Deer Creek, Minnesota, and is prominent in all matters having to do with the progress and advancement of the community and its interests.

\mong the men who have distinguished themselves in an eminent degree in the industrial development of the community in which they live is II. .\. Bickford, the subject of this sketch. Invincible courage and determined will have given him a place of prominence in the agricultural life of Otter Tail county. II. A. Bickford is a native of Albany, Vermont, having been horn there on the 10th of February, 1845. He is the son of Paul Bickford, who was horn in Sheffield, Vermont, on June _-(>, [819, and Melh'sa E. Morris, die daughter of Rev. James Xorris, who also claimed \ ermont as her birthplace., where she was horn on September 15, 1819.

The first ancestor of II. A. Bickford. of whom definite facts can be given, is llexekiah Bickford, who was a farmer during his life in the state of Vermont, where he was horn, lie was a prominent member of the Baptist church ...| that locality. His son. Paul, who is the father of H. A. Bickford, was educated in the common schools of Vermont, and came to Otter Tail county in [870. In his native state of Vermont, Paul Bickford owned a farm of one hundred acres and upon arriving in this county took .1 homestead claim on one hundred and sixty acres of laud in section 22. Maine township, where he continued to reside until his death, in March. r894. !lis wife, who passed away on March 28, 1904, became the mother following children: James. Zobina, llarley A.. Wilbur. Rimer. Anne,

Alice, Kate, Frank and Albina. Of this family the first four members mentioned were soldiers in the Civil War, where the eldst son, James, was shot at the battle of Bull Run. and Zobina died of fever.

H. A. Bickford received his education in the common schools of Vermont. Desirous of obtaining better advantages he later entered the normal school at St. Cloud. Minnesota, from which he was graduated in the teacher's course. The year following his graduation he taught in the St. Cloud Xormal school, and after that went to Fergus Falls, where he followed his profession as principal in the schools of that city for a period of four years. For a term extending over four years, Mr. Bickford served as assistant county superintendent of schools, in which capacity bis ability as a school man was recognized and which probably led to his being elected countv superintendent in 1890, an office he held for two years. During the time he served as a county school official, Mr. Bickford resided in Fergus Falls. During the early part of his career as a teacher, Mr. Bickford taught in the schools of Vermont for a period of thirty terms.

\fter completing the term as county school superintendent, Air. Bickford returned to farm life. The farm on which he resides extends over one hundred and thirty acre- of land. It is a mark of distinction that he is known throughout the county in which he resides as the oldest homesteader now living in the township. He not only keeps well informed upon all advances made in modern methods of farming, but he enters heartily into every political movement. The citizens of the community in which he resides have honored him with a number of public offices. Aside from the township school offices he has held, he has also served as district treasurer for fifteen years and as township treasurer for thirteen years.

On November 24, 1870, Fl. A. Bickford was united in marriage to Etta V. Adley, the daughter of R. T. Alley. Mrs. I lick ford, who was born on March 16, 1850, became the mother of the following children: Dr. Harley, Adella, who is the wife of A. < >. Chapin; Howard, who is residing on the farm with his father; Albina, Seattle, and one foster-child, Gladyce.

Olof Tohxsox

Olof Johnson, who has been a resident of this country since 18X4, and who owns two hundred and forty acres of excellent farming land in Everts township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Sweden, August 23, 1864.

Mr. Johnson is the son of John and Kara Johnson, both of whom are natives of Sweden, and who, in 1885, came to this countrj and settled in this county. John Johnson was born in 1824 and bis wife in [826 Shi died in 1006. Mr. Johnson's father now lives with his son, Carl, in Amor

Olof Johnson was educated in the public schools of his native land. After coming to America and settling in Otter Tail county, he purchased one hundred and forty acres of land in Everts township and has since added one hundred acres, having in all, at the present time, two hundred and forty acres. His home is situated on Lost Lake, where he has lived since 1892. lie has erected all of the buildings which are now standing on the farm and has a well-improved body of land, which produces abundantly.

In 1896 Air. Johnson was married to Maggie Olson, who was born in Sweden on February 22, 1862. Mrs. Johnson's parents died in Sweden. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have no children, but they have adopted three children, Reuben, Walter and Ruth. Of these children, Ruth is deceased.

Herman G. Imdieke

Herman G. Imdieke, proprietor of two hundred and forty acres of land in sections 23 and 26, of Bluffton township, Otter Tail county, and secretary of the Farmers Co-operative Creamery Company at Bluffton, was born Imdieke, both of whom were born in Oldenburg, Germany, came, singly to tin- United States and settled in Stearns count)'. Minnesota. Meeting each other in Stearns county, they were united in marriage in that county and there continued to live. Herman J. Imdieke, being a farmer by occupation. came in possession of a tract of land in Stearns county and has followed his occupation in that county ever since. He has taken an active interest in the political and social conditions of his county and served as president 0! the village of Meier's Grove, as well as filling other local offices of trust and responsibility. He is identified with the Democratic party. Both Mr. and Mrs. Imdieke are devoted members of the Catholic church. Nine children have been born to them, as follow: Ben, a fanner of Padua, Minnesota; Joe, also a farmer of Padua; Dinah, who married Nick Brang, and who lived in Stearns county until her death; Eliza, who married Henry Griep, lives in Melrose, Minnesota: Herman G. is the subject of this sketch: farmer, who lives in Meier's Grove; Frank, also a farmer of Meier's Grove; Mow, a fanner of Bluffton. and John, who lives at home w ith his parents.

Herman G. Imdieke was reared on his father's farm and educated 111 the public schools ,,1' Meier'- Grove. At an early age he learned the brick- Made in his father's brick-vard, which trade he followed for main years. In 1909 Mr. Imdieke opened a saloon in Meier's Grove and continued in this business for a period of two years, after which time he purchased a threshing outfit and engaged in the threshing business, continuing in the business even after his removal to Otter Tail county. In April, 1913, Herman G. Imdieke removed to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and bought a farm of two hundred and forty acres in sections 23 and 26, of Bluff ton township. He has engaged in general farming and stock raising, being a breeder of Shorthorn cattle. He keeps from thirty to thirty-five head of cattle on his farm. He has also taken an active interest in the organization of the Farmers Co-operative Creamery Company at Bluff ton and is at present its secretary.

On November 26, 1907, Herman G. Imdieke was married to Gertrude Breitbach, a native of Lake George, Minnesota, and a daughter of Peter and Katriana (Gau) Breitbach. Peter Breitbach was born in Germain- and as a lad emigrated to the United States, settling at Spring Hill. Stearns county, Minnesota, the birthplace of his wife. He first engaged in farming in Stearns county, but later opened a saloon. He died in May, 1897. and his wife survived him seventeen years, passing away in March, 1914, at the age of fifty-three years. To Mr. and Mrs. Herman G. Imdieke have been born four children, Herman Peter, Mary, Wendelin and Marcella.

Herman G. Imdieke has been prominently identified with the Democratic part)', and for a period of three years served efficiently as village clerk of Meier's Grove.

Edward Sjogren

Edward Sjogren, who represents that element in the industrial lite of Minnesota which counts for high purpose and great achievement, was born in Lockport, Illinois, on the 25th of August, 1N77. and is the son of John and Margaret (Erickson) Sjogren. His father was born in 1839 and his mother in 1844, and both parents were natives of Westerbottom, Sweden. John Sjogren, who was a farmer and a landowner, left Sweden in [868 with bis wife and one daughter. During the journey, which lasted for three weeks, the daughter died at sea. The couple, upon arriving in this country, went to lockport, Illinois, where Mr. Sjogren was employed for eight years in the stone quarries of that locality. Two years he worked in the paper-mill of the same town. In 1N78 he came to Otter Tail count). Minnesota, where he began at once the task of homesteading one hundred, and sixty acres of land in section 30. The log bouse which he erected during these early days of community development is now- occupied by Otto Monson as a home. Before his death. Mi-. Sjogren sold one hundred and twenty acres of his original farm and lived on the remaining fort) acre- His last days were spent with his sons. He and his wife were members of the Swedish Lutheran church. They became the parents of the following children: The eldest child has been mentioned as dying at sea: Johan, who died in infancy; Ida Sophia, the wife of Nel Olson, who lives in Balfour, North Dakota; John William, who lives with his brother. Edward: Edward, the subject of this sketch: Tillie, now Mrs. B. L. Ophus, who resides in Pelican Rapids, and Alma Josephine, of Black Duck, Minnesota, who is the wife of Simon Thompson.

The early education of Edward Sjogren was received in the public schools of Otter Tail county. From early childhood he was taught the simple duties of farm life, and it was only a natural result of his earl}- training that he should have followed farming as an occupation. In September. 1900, he began to work for K. L. Frazee, in "Pelican Rapids, and remained as his employee for seven years. At the present time he is managing an estate of one hundred and seventy acres, which he has bought out of the three hundred acres which he formerly rented for a period of seven years. He gives special attention to the breeding of Durham cattle and keeps sixty head on the farm as an average number. Mr. Sjogren has never permitted the interests of the farm to monopolize his entire attention. During his public career he has been active in Republican party politics and has served as school treasurer and road overseer. He attends the Zion Lutheran church, of which his wife is .also a member.

I >n the 24th of June. 1QOO, Edward Sjogren was married to Minnie Mattestad. a native of Trondhjem township, and the daughter of Ole Nattestad, an old settler of the same township, who died in Pelican Rapids. To tins union the children born are: Evelyn, Helen, Myrne, Lenore Victoria, Marvin Isadore. Tov Willis Oliver and Lillian Bernice.

Charles W. Kaddatz

The proprietor of the hotel which bears his name, Charles W. Kaddatz has enjoyed remarkable success since locating at Fergus Falls, this county, nearly thirty years ago.

Mr. Kaddatz was born near Stateen, Germany, in 1863, the son of Charles and Augusta (Volbrieht) Kaddatz. The Kaddatz family came to America 111 (869 and subsequently settled in St. Raul, Minnesota. Charles W. Kaddatz had few ol the opportunities of the average boy to obtain an education, his entire schooling having been limited to one year, and he performed his first work on a farm near St. Paul, where he worked for one ear. Rater lie work 1 for Smith, the confectioner, and two years finally engaged in the confectionery business on his own account in St. Paul. In this business he obtained a substantial start in life and in 1886 located at Fergus Falls, at that time having a little money that he had saved and some more money than he had borrowed, lie there and then engaged in the fruit and confectionery business and carried on that business until 1896, in which year he engaged in the bakery business, which he conducted with phenomenal success until 1914, at which time he decided to build a hotel in Fergus Falls.

Suffice it to say that the hotel was completed and opened in February, 1915. It is one of the finest hotels of the Northwest, modern in every respect and is located in the center of the business district of Fergus Falls. The hotel has been a success from the start. Mr. Kaddatz also has various other interests. He is a president of the Red River Milling Company, president of the Congress Candy Company, at Grand Forks, and a director in the First State Bank of Fergus Falls and in other ways has demonstrated his keen interest in the city's material welfare.

By his marriage to Ida Asslen, who was born at Parkers Prairie, this comity, Mr. Kaddatz has one daughter, Katherine. Mr. and Mrs. Kaddatz and daughter have one of the finest residences in the city of Fergus Falls, located at 226 Summit avenue, west, and take a prominent part in the city's social activities.

Christian Iohnson

Christian Johnson ranks with those citizens who have given untiring energy to the support and development of the agricultural sections of Minnesota. Devoted to the pursuit of agriculture as a business he has also found time to indulge in civic and industrial affairs in the community in which he lives and has been a valuable assistant to those interested in educational and political affairs. His work has been thorough and the results obtained by him in his chosen occupation have hcen lasting.

Christian Johnson is a descendant of an old and honored Norwegian Family, and is part of that element which has played so important a part in American industrial life, lie was horn in Modum. near Christiania, Norway, on the 27th of February, 1850. and is the son of Johan and Maren (Gorgersonl Pederson, both natives of that country. The parents of Christian Johnson were married in Norway and in that country spent the greater pari of their lives, where Johan Pederson was a miner for thirty-eight years. His death occurred in [891 and his wife passed away eleven years latei Both parents were devout members of the Lutheran church. The couple reared a familj of eight children, among whom are the following: Gunhild Maria, the wife oi \\cl Gulickson, who is living near New Auburn, Wisconsin; Peter, who is a farmer in Norway; Torger, who died on Sep- | 26b ) tember [8, 1906, in Nidaros township, Otter Tail county; Edward, who is a fanner in Girard township, Otter Tail county; Karen Maria, the wife of William Gulickson, who 'lied in Wisconsin; Christian, the subject of this sketch; Hans, a fanner, lives in Girard township with his brother, Edward; Thor, who is employed in a planing mill in Idaho.

When he was only twenty-one years old, Christian Johnson came to this country and settled in that section of the country which was given over for the most part to the pursuit of farming. For four years before his arrival in this country he worked as a miner in Norway, following the occupation of his father. In 1S80 he came to America, where he worked in the lumber woods of northern Wisconsin. In that locality he was employed for four years and during that time bought eighty acres of land in section 17. Nidaros township. Otter Tail county, hi the spring of [885 he took up his permanent residence on the farm. His initial appearance in Otter Tail count} was accompanied by the usual hardships incident to pioneer days, and from the difficulties encountered and conquered, Mr. Johnson showed such force of character as to deserve a place beside those who arconsidered the true foundations upon which the best agricultural life , of Minnesota rests. The land mi which he worked was raw prairie with no buildings, lie began his life on the farm by building a small house and entering at once upon the task of breaking up the soil. The present farm serves a- an example of what may lie done with uncultivated land when the tiller of the soil has force of will, integrity and firmness of purpose. Large, modern farm buildings now occupy a prominent place on the land, the farm i- well kept up and in an excellent state of cultivation. In 1893 ^'r- Johnson boughl eight) acres of land, which he added to his original purchase, ows the occupation of general farming.

Mr. Johnson takes an active interest in civic affairs, lie is a shareholder in the Farmers Co-operative Elevator Company, both of Clitherall and \ ining, and also of the Telephone Company. In politic-, he is an independent voter. He has served a- treasurer of the school district and chairman of the b iard of supervisors of Nidaros township.

os township, and Arthur, who lives at home with his parents. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are ardent members of the Lutheran church and contl nisly to its support and welfare.

William E. Westover

William E. Westover was born on October 19, 1891, and is the son of Albert M and Augusta (Wegner) Westover. His paternal grandparents were Isaac and Mary Ann (Witts') Westover, natives of Canada and England, respectively. Their marriage was solemnized in Canada, and some years afterward they moved to Kansas, later removing to Austin, Minnesota, where they remained for a short time, and in 1875 changed their location to Otter Tail county. Upon their arrival in this county, they settled on one hundred and sixty acres of homestead land, gradually adding to the original tract until their farm consisted of more than four hundred acres, all adjoining on the south shore of Dead lake. Here they spent the remainder of their lives and are now sleeping side by side in Mt. Faith cemetery, in Fergus Falls. They were the parents of five children : Augusta, Delia. Luella. Albert and Will.

The maternal grandparents of William F. Westover were Fred and Wilhelmina (Blank) Wegner, natives of Prussia, Germany, where they grew to maturity and remained for some years after their marriage. \fter their emigration to America they settled near Paynesville, Minnesota, where they purchased a farm on which they remained until their death. Fred Wegner died about 1909, and Wilhelmina (Blank) Wegner died about 1807. They were the parents of six children: August, Fred, Amelia. Augusta, Herman and Carl.

Augusta Wegner was born on October 15. 1866. in German}-. Albert M. Westover was born on Inly 12. 1856. They met and married in .Missoula, Montana, and shortly after removed to Tacoma, Washington, where Albert M. Westover was employed by a railroad company in that city. He served in this capacity until 1802. and then returned to Otter Tail county, where he purchased eighty acres of land on the south shore of Dead lake, adjoining his father's farm, and here remained until his death. This pro]>- erty was uncleared and uncultivated, but in a few years was under cultivation, and their improvements consisted of a modern house and other necessarv buildings. The original eighty acres was increased until his holdings amounted to two hundred acres. IIP death occurred on December 27; [912. Fraternally, be was identify I tnd with the Modern Woodmen 1 I Vmerica. Hi- marriage to Vugusta Wegner was solemnized in nd the) becan one child, William Wesl

William E. Westover received his education in tin- publii in the Park Region 1 utheran College, also in the Northwestern Coll latter two being located in Fergus Tails. \.fter completing his edw returned to the farm, assisting hi- father with the work until hi and since that time h ! 1" manage and (ailtiva.tr same. He is making a specialty of breeding and raising dairy cattle and keeps a herd of thirty-five head. He is a stockholder of the Richville Creamery Conipam and the Amor Telephone Company, and it is safe to assume that many good things await his efforts to grasp and hold them, and that each effort will be conducted with the love of humanity as a guide to the natural trait of innate nobleness and honesty. The just reward of sincere friendships and high esteem, extended by those with whom he has associated must, of necessity, result to his credit. His enthusiasm for all that is progressive and of betterment to the community will he unselfishly given without thought of recompense, other than the good will of his fellowmen.

Nels Nelson

A sketch of the life of Nels Nelson would he incomplete without reference to his father, John Nelson, whose rare qualities of prudence and industry have combined to make him one of the most esteemed citizens in the community in which he lives. John Nelson was born in the southern part of Norway, not far from Stavanger. in 1844. and is the son of Nels Salveson and Bertha Johnson, also natives of Norway. Nels Salveson. who was a farmer and a landowner, died in his native country in 1868 and his wife passed away in 1856. The couple reared a family of six children, as follow: Sarah (Mrs. Thomas Thompson), died in Norway; Kan also died in her native country, at the age of twenty years; Inga, the wife of Verman Sigredson, is buried in Norway, and Bertha, the wife of Lars Oftedal, resides in Norman county, Minnesota; Sam follows the occupation of farming near Like Ida, in Becker county. Minnesota, and John is referred to in the next paragraph.

The public schools of Norway furnished the elementary educational advantages lor John Nelson, who worked on a farm after completing the school course. The voyage in America, which was made in 1N69, occupied one month on the ocean. For two years after his arrival in this country he resided in Vernon county, Wisconsin, the community to which he was first attracted. Tin- trip to Otter Tail county was made in a covered wagon, drawn by a team of oxen, and the time required to traverse the distance, which seems short in this day of rapid travel, was live weeks. In Scambler township, Mr. Nelson took a homestead claim on one hundred and sixtv acres of land, in section 4. His first years of labor in this community were eventful with all tin' incidents common in the life of a pioneer. He had to live through the disappointments of crop failures and the draw hacks of rough winter weather. Before retiring from active farm work. Mr. Nelson added -me hundred and sixty additional acres to his original homestead, lie has since divided part of the land among his children and at the presenl time makes his home with his daughter, Mrs. Simon Olson, who lives on the home place. John and Johanna Sophia Nelson were the parents of the following children: Nels, the subject of this review; Kari, who died at the age of twenty-three; Sarah, who died at the age of twenty, and Betsey (Mrs. Simon Olson), who, with her husband, lives in Scambler township, on the homestead belonging to her father.

The birthplace of Nels Nelson is in Vernon county, Wisconsin, where he was born on Tune 2, 1870. He was brought to Minnesota when only one year old, and after reaching the age of seven attended the public schools of Scambler township. He went to farming soon after he had finished school and in 1890 came into possession of eighty acres of land, to which tract he added eighty acres more. Upon this farm Mr. Nelson put many modern improvements and continues to live on the place at the present time. In iqoo he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 9, of Scambler township, and still continues to manage the addition. Mr. Nelson has never allowed himself to be wholly occupied to the point of narrowness with the duties of farm life. He has taken an active part in the industrial affairs around him and has, as a consequence, been honored with school offices. He has served as treasurer of the school district and as supervisor of the township in which he lives. He and his wife are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church.

To the marriage of Nels Nelson and Bertina Carlson, a native of Cormorant township, Becker county, the following children have been born: Selma Carlotte, Edwin, John, Neil, Tyler, Samuel, Julia, Walter and Birdie.

Dick Boi.Land

Enterprise, sound business judgment and well-directed energy are some of the factors necessary to the making of a home in a new country and assisting in the development and the improvement of a community. It is to men of force and energy that the present generation owes much for the conditions to be found in many well-developed and improved communities. In numerous instances these improved conditions are traceable to the nativeborn German, who has come to this country and has made a pleasant home for himself and family.

Dick Bolland, a German by birth, was born in Hanover, Germany, on November 1, i8^t. He was the son of J. D. Heinrich and Katherine (Clasen) Bolland, both of whom were natives of Hanover, Germany. John II. Bolland. grandfather of Dirk, was a native of Hanover, Germany, where he followed fanning, lie never left his native Hanover, where he was an active member of the German Lutheran church.

hood and married, hi [807 he, with his wife and family, left their native country to establish a new home in a new land. They landed in New York and at once came on to Leaf Lake township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where he purchased four hundred acres of laud, and some horses, stock and machinery for seven thousand six hundred and fifty dollars. He added to this farm until he had, before his retirement, some live hundred and ten acres, about half of which was tillable. The farm was greatly improved under his management. The house was built already when he purchased the farm, but the barn and other buildings were erected under his supervision. Mr. Bolland was very active in politics in his native country. He was the father of the following children: Doris, Henry, Mary, Herman, Dick, Elsie, Katherine, Fritz and John, all of whom but the last two are married.

Dick Bolland was educated in Germany, in the common schools, and was but lift ecu years of age when he arrived in America. Mr. Bolland was married on May 23, ion, to Bettie Ohlrogge. who was also a native of Germain-. Mr. and Mrs. Bolland are the parents of two children, Walter and Herbert.

Mr. Bolland purchased from his father two hundred and twenty-five acres of land and, with the aid of his brother, Fritz, they are farming this tract, as well as the balance of his father's original farm.

Mr. Holland and his family are members of the German Lutheran church, and Mr. Holland has held the responsible position of school clerk4 The family enjoy the advantages of the telephone and rural delivery of mails.

Burton H. M Vthews

Born in Blue Earth county, Minnesota, June 1. 1874, Burton H. Mathews, a prosperous farmer of Maine township, is the son of Washington and Ellen (Drake) Mathews, who were natives of Ohio and Wisconsin, tively. Mr. Mathews' father was born in Ohio, March 10, 1832. and his mother in \\ isconsin, February 4. 18J4. Washington Mathews was a farmer all of Ins life. lie farmed in Ohio and in Blue Earth county. Minnesota. Late in life be sold his farm and, for a time, operated a supply hi a small town. Washington Mathews came to Otter Tail county. Minnesota, in 1885. and purchased forty acres in Maine township, where he lived for ten years. This farm was located in section 33, the same section in which his sun's (Burton) farm is now situated. While visiting in Canada with his daughter, Mrs Bessie Bunse, Mr. Mathews died in September. [909. His wife had died more than two years previously, June 17, 1007. They were the parents of four children, of whom one, Leroy, is

Burton H. Mathews was educated in the graded schools of Maine township after coming to Otter Tail county. Eleven years ago he purchased a farm of eighty acres, where he now lives, but the place is rented to Charles Turman. Mr. Mathews purchased this farm for six dollars an acre and, at the time, it was all wild land. Forty acres of the farm, however, has been cleared. Shortly after purchasing the farm, Mr. Mathews built a new house. The buildings are all new and well painted and reveal the thrift of the owner. Mr. Mathews is unmarried. He is well known throughout this section of the countv and is well liked l>v all who know him.

Joseph Boehl

It is always a pleasure to note the successful career of the man who has won a definite goal in life, and especially is this true of one who has left his native home in the Old World and cast his lot in a new country and under vastly different conditions. Such men, for the most part, are men of sterling worth, filled with the desire to accomplish something for themselves and those dependent upon them. Such a man we find in the subject of i his sketch.

Joseph Boehl, the son of Frederick and Charlotte (Zelle) Boehl. was born near Pealeberg, West Prignitz, Brandenburg. Germany, on September 25, 1 84 1. His father, Frederick Boehl, was married to Charlotte Zelle, also a native of Germanv. To this union were born two children. Frederick and Joseph, the subject of this sketch. Frederick Boehl was a farmer and a carpenter, which vocation he followed during his entire life. He never left his native country. After the death of Frederick Boehl. his widow married again.

Joseph Boehl was educated in Germany and grew to manhood there, being twenty-seven years of age when he landed in New York City. In early manhood he labored on the farm and assisted his father at carpenter's work. After reaching New York he proceeded to Danville, Illinois, where lie remained for ten years farming and following the carpenter trade.

When Joseph Boehl came from Danville. Illinois, to Otter Tail countv, about thirty-six vears ago, lie came in a covered wagon or prairie schooner. It took him forty days to go the distance. When Mr. Boehl came to Otter rail county the country was bul sparsely settled and there were two large Indian villages, one on the south side and one on the north side of the lake, oci 1 ied by ' ihippewa Indians.

years. Mr. and Mrs. Boclil had no children of their own, but they adopted as their own, Henry Schauberger, who now goes by the name of Henry Boehl. The parents of Henry ("Schauberger) Boehl were born in Hessen, Germany, and lived in State Line, Indiana, after coming to this country. Mrs. Henry Boehl was born near Pavnesville, Stearns county, Minnesota. Her parents also came from Germany.

Henry (Schauberger) Boehl was married on March 26, 1806, to Emma Roehr, who was born on March 13, i860. To this union have been born two children, Ervin and Adella. Henry Boehl and wife l.ive on the farm of Joseph Boehl and look after the cultivation of the farm as well as the care of the home. Mixed farming, as well as the raising of much stock, is practiced here, and a success in both has resulted. The telephone and the rural delivery of mail are some of the conveniences these people enjoy. Henry Boehl has a Belle City threshing machine, operated by a gasoline engine, used principally for his own threshing. He is also the owner of a Regal automobile. The family are active members of the Evangelical church of Otter Tail.

Patrick Moore

The late Patrick Moore, who was one of the most successful farmers and one of the best and most favorably known men of Maine township. Otter Tail county. Minnesota, was born in Ireland on March 17, 1820, the -.hi of Daniel and Hannah Moore, natives of Ireland. After some years as a fanner in his native country. Daniel Moore came to America about [849, and located in the state of California, where he became a gold-miner. an occupation which he followed in that region for the remainder of his days.

Following his arrival in America. Patrick Moore went to California and worked in the gold-mines for main- years. While engaged in this workhe losl one of his eyes, a- the result of a premature explosion. After some years. Mr. Moore retired from his activity as a gold-miner, and moved to the -tale oi Wiscon in, where he engaged in general fanning on one hundred acre- of land which he purchased in that state. He made his home there for twenty-one years, and then, in 187(1. he came to Otter Tail county. Minnesota, and bought one hundred and >i\i\ acres of land in Maine town ship, and where he made his home until his death, on May 7. [901.

children: Bartholomew, Hannah, Nora, John, Alary, Catherine, James and Patrick, all of whom are living. Of the children of Patrick and Nora Moore two are married: Bartholomew, who married Mary Sullivan, and Hannah, who is the wife of Anton Britenbanch. Patrick Moore was a devout member of the Catholic church, both in his native country and while a citizen of America.

James Moore, who is a son of the late Patrick Moore, was horn in 1873, and after his school days he became a farmer, an occupation in which he ha- -nice been successfully engaged. James Moore, with his brother. John, is now the owner of four hundred and forty acres of valuable land in Maine township, a place which the Moore brothers have well improved, and where they engage in general farming and in stock raising, making a specialty of Jersey Shorthorn cattle and Duroc-Jersey hogs. In addition to their general farming pursuits, the Moore brothers are operators of a dairy business. They have one of the best farms of the community, their farm adjoining the home place, which is now the property of their, sister, Nora. The Moore brothers are unmarried, their sister being the housekeeper.

The memory of the late Patrick Moore is among the most honored ol the entire community, he having been a man and citizen who was of considerable value to the township and county, in the many nays which he chose to be of service and of benefit. The children of the late Patrick Moore are among the highly respected and esteemed residents of the township and vicinity.

Andrew N. Arytdson

\ndrew X. \rvid-on. for twenty-eight years a resident of this township, during which time he has lived an industrious, honest life, has sought always to exemplify the qualities of mind and heart which go to make up the all-round man and American citizen. Early privations taught him many valuable lessons, for lie was one of thirteen children. The self-reliance and industry learned in his childhood home became, however, the corner-stone of his character. The son of Nils Olson and Margaret (Jenson) Olson, of Sweden, he was born on May _'|. 1 S70. His parents, who are mentioned in another -ketch of this publication, are both dead.

.Mr. \rvidson is practically a self-made man. for he was -till a young man when he came to America and began working on a farm. This wain the year [887. In i8q6 he had accumulated enough mean- to purchase one hundred and sixty acre-, which constitute the farm where he now lives. He sel to work to cultivate the land, and to erect thereon the building- necessary for farm work, lb- ha- since added forty acre-.

of tin- township. Mrs. Arvidson had come with her parents from Sweden when a child eight years of age. The children born to Air. and Airs. Arvidson are seven in number, namely: Alton. Simon. Mabel, Agda, Esther, YValfred and l.nella.

.Mr. Arvidson has served as road overseer. lie and his wife are interested in the work of the Swedish Lutheran church, of which Mr. Vrvidson ha- been trustee for the past three year-, lie was one of the ! of tiie Rose Creamer) Company, ami is now one of its stockholder- At the time of it- organization he was one of the men who carefully canvassed the entire count}- to obtain the name- of men who desired to purchase stock. Mr. Arvidson is a man of sterling qualities and his insistence upon honesty in business matter- and consideration for others in all human relationships ha? won foi him main- stanch friend- and admirer-.

Theodore Vvalstead

Theodore Wnlstead is a well-known farmer in Otter Tail county. Mis farm is on the line of tin- two counties, Douglas and Otter Tail, Minnesota, the buildings hi a 1 ouglas county. Theodore Walstead i- one of four children born to the first union of Nels Walstead. being thi horn of Nels and Julia fTollefson") Walstead, both native- of The birth of Theodore Walstead occurred on May 21, 1876, in Douglas county. Minnesota, on the home place, which he now own-. Xel- Waligrated to America in [869, choosing Douglas county as the place best suited to hi- future plan-, and two years after his arrival purchased one hundred and sixt) acre- of homestead land, which he cultivated until hi- death. Julia Tollefson emigrated to \merica in [870. also locating in Douglas county, where her marriage was solemnized and where her death occurred. The names of the children horn to thi- union are: John. Theodore, Matilda, who died in infancy, and Alfred. John 1- a pa-tor of Haugus church. Morrisonville, Wisconsin; Mfred 1- a druggist in Larson, North Dakota, \fier the death of Julia (Tollefson) Walstead, Nels Walstead married I , and to them was born one child, who died in infancy, namely. Emma.

The maternal grandparent? nf Theodore Walstead emigrated from their native land to the United States and located near the ti ville, Minnesota, where the) entered an I eight) acre-, which i anced age. They spent the tei who lived in the vicinit; home place. The paternal gi ndparents of Theodore Walstead were Jens : and hi- win ' in Norway all of their live l

Theodore Walstead is indebted to the schools of his immediate vicinity for the education he received. He was reared on the home farm and has remained there during the forty years of his life. He has added to the original farm until he now owns three hundred and forty acres, all adjoining. He has improved the place by adding a new barn and making the old house nearly new. In 1903 Theodore Walstead was united in marriage to Matilda Erickson, daughter of Martin Erickson. Theodore Walstead has served as township assessor for two years, was town clerk for seven years, and was elected county commissioner of the first district in Douglas county in 1912. In all of these offices Mr. Walstead has given satisfaction and is worth)- of the high esteem in which he is held.

Amasa T. Pierce

Amasa J. Pierce was born near Wolcottville, Indiana, July 3. 1848, son of Stephen K. and Pamelia Burr (Oldo) Pierce, who were natives of New York state. In 1837 they moved to a farm near Wolcottville, Indiana. where they lived until the father's death, en \pril _\ 1880. Tin- mother later died in Kansas, where her eldest son was living. Sanford and Mary (King) Pierce, ancestors in line, were Yankees, and were descendants of John Pierce, who owned the "Mayflower." Stephen, father of Amasa J.. was a first ensign in the militia of New York, when a young man. His sword is now in the possession of Amasa J. Pierce. Sanford Pierce was .1 farmer, and died in Noble county, Indiana, and both he and wife were buried in the Pierce family graveyard on the farm of Stephen K. Pierce, who bought the farm of two hundred acres from the government, and still owned one hundred and twenty acres of it at the time of bis death.

Stephen K. Pierce was twice married, and by his first wife, Betsie Bellows, had one child. Ferndo Cortez; and by his second marriage the children were: Hewitt M., who enlisted in Company A. Twenty-first Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, at Lagrange, Indiana: Orrel M. ; Amos I. and Amasa J., who were twin-. Amos also was a soldier in the One Hundred and Thirty-second Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry.

Amasa |. Pierce attended the common school and spent one winter at the seminary at Wolcottville, Indiana, and then went to Missouri, where he stayed for three years, working a- a farm hand lie then came hack to the home farm and worked line, years In 1N70 he went to Chippewa township, Douglas county, Minnesota, and was there married in the following year, lulv 3. 1 S 7 7 . to Martha McKibben. She was horn in fllinois, daughter of Henry I. McKibben, first cousin of William Jennings Bryan. Mr. McKibben was an early homesteader in Minnesota,

Tail county, Minnesota, where he located on April 26, 1879. Others preempted before him, but only for speculative purposes. His homestead was one hundred and twenty aero in section 14, where he lived seven years. Then, for the ten years following, he was in North Dakota and western Minnesota, farming. He returned in June, [896, to Butler township, bought fcirty acres, and lived on it a few years; and then homesteaded forty acres more, where he now lives, in Butler township, and which he has improved, lie raises purebred Jersey cattle, Shropshire sheep, and is also a beekeeper, lie was the fir<t postmaster of Butler, and kept the office in his house in section 15; was also justice of the peace for main- wears: chairman of the township hoard, etc.

Mr and Mr-. Amasa J. Pierce are the parents of the following children: Evangeline J.. Leona .May. deceased: Parmelia I... Etna M., Archibald J., Elsie May. .Minnie V., Stella L. and Frank S. They are members iif the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Pierce was formerly a Republican in polities, hut is now a Prohibitionist. His first presidential vote was for Horace Greeley, and he made a trip from Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Lagrange, Indiana, to cast his vote.

It was in the sprint; of 1870 that Mr. Pierce came to Butler township, Otter Tail county, and he made the trip from Brandon. Minnesota, on foot. by way of Parkers Prairie and Bluffton, built a shack on his homestead, and in the autumn of the same year brought his family, they reaching the homestead mi October jo. i^J')- The place was near the corners called Butler.

John Schroeder

Practical industry is one of the most substantial foundations on which tn achieve success. It is generally agreed that there is nothing to equal continued industry and applied energy, and it is to these elements that John Schroeder, farmer, owes his financial prosperity.

John Schroeder, Elizabeth, Otter Tail count}-, was horn on September 30, [877, in Elizabeth township, in the county where he now resides, and is .1 son of Bernhard and Katherine (Diedrich) Schroeder, his wife. His education was obtained at the public schools of Elizabeth, and after his marriage he located on the farm which he now owns, and which at that time was the propert) of his father. He rebuilt the house and put other valuable improvements on the place. I lis special attention has been given to stock raising, to which he feeds all the grain planted on the place. Mr. Schroeder's religious belief is with the Catholic church of Elizabeth, Minnesota.

Bernhard Schroeder, father of the subject of this sketch, was born on April _', [838, in Germany. Mr. Schroeder attended the public schools of his native country, and came to America in 1868, landing in New York, and going' direct to Chicago, where he was employed in a lumber yard for one year, coming to Elizabeth in 1869 and acquired one hundred and sixty acres in section 21, Otter Tail county, which he sold in 1889, buying another farm in Elizabeth township, section 33, and consisting of one hundred and sixty acres. At the expiration of six years he again sold out and bought two hundred acres in sections 32 and 33, which he still owns, and rents to his sons, since he has retired from an active agricultural life, and resides in the town of Elizabeth, having moved there in [912. He owns two pieces of property at Elizabeth, on one of which he built a house, and on the other he follows gardening. Mr. Schroeder was united in marriage, October 30. 1876, with Katherine Diedrich, daughter of John and Eva Diedrich. She was born in Germany, and came with her parents to America. This union was blest with seven children, John. Joseph, George, Katherine, Anna. Matilda and Lizzie, all of whom are married and living in Otter Tail county and all members of the Catholic church. Mr. Schroeder is a member of St. Joseph's Society.

Anton Schroeder. the paternal grandfather, was a native of Germany, as was also his wife. Eva Renter. They lived and died in their native country, where Mr. Schroeder was a day laborer. In religion, they were members of the Catholic church. By his first wife, he had but one child, Bernhard, father of John, and by bis second wife. Mary, he had four children, Christopher. Mariana. Katherine and John.

John and Eva Diedrich, the maternal grandparents, were natives of Germany, and emigrated to America, locating first at (old Springs, Minnesota, and a few years later moved to Otter Tail county and bought the farm now owned by our subject, consisting of one hundred and sixt\ acres Mr. and Mrs. Diedrich were members of the Catholic church.

John Schroeder was united in marriage. June 27, mod, with Mary Wedell, daughter of George and Theresa 1 bill ) W'edell. She was born. July 1, 1877. in Fergus Falls township. This union has been blest with three children: Theresa, born on October -7. 1007; Bernhard, September 26, [909, and Lawrence, Whilst to, [912. Like her husband, Mrs. Schroeder is also a member of the Catholic church. Their children all attend the public school at Elizabeth, Minnesota.

George Wedell, father of Mrs. John Schroeder. was burn on the Atlantic, while his parents were en route from Germany to America, lb- was educated at Cold Springs, Minnesota, and was married there, Both Mr. and Mrs. Wedell attended the Catholic church. During the Black Hills War. Mr. W'edell hauled provisions for the soldiers. The children bom to this union were eleven in number, Matilda. Bernhard, Mrs, VTary Schroe-

Mr. Schroeder is well and prominently known in the community in which he resides, and when- he has long been a resident, and both Mr. and Mrs. Shroeder have a wide circle of sincere friends.

William I. Oman

William I. Oman, well-known farmer, stockman and dairyman of Otto township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was burn in Calumet, Michigan, on April 2. 1882, the son of fsaac and Mary ( Burkman) Oman, natives of Finland and Sweden, respectively. Isaac Oman was married in Norway and in the \ ear [865, with his family, he came to America and continued his business as a copper miner, in the mines of Calumet, Michigan. In 1887, Isaac Oman moved to Otter Tail count). Minnesota, and bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in Otto township, a place to which he added eight} acre- at a later time, and where he now lives a retired life, with his -on, William, who has acquired the land. Isaac and Mary Oman are the parent- of the following children: \nnie. Mary, William (deceased), Petra (deceased), John (deceased), Peter, Henry, Hilda. William I., of ti li. and Jacob 1 deceased I. William I. Oman was educated in the public schols of Otter Tail comity, after which he became a salesman, employed for some years in the -tore- of John Hanning, J. G. Mattala and J. H. Muckla, at New York Mills. Later he was engaged in the mercantile business with a cousin, at ota, for some time. Following his business career, William I Oman became a fanner on the home farm in Otto township, section 13. where lie now lives and cultivates one hundred acres of land, together with dealings in live stock and also engaging in the dairy business, keeping twenty good grade cows for this purpose.

William 1. Oman ha: been on, ,,t the leader- in the political and official ' to township, taking an active part in all movements for the betterment of the community, for six years having served his township as assessor. 13, William 1. Oman was married to Mary Jacobson, the d land in section 30, Leaf Lake township. In 1896, Jacob W. Jacobson disposed of bis place in Leaf Lake township and went to Newton township, where he bought one hundred and forty-six acres of land in sections 15 and 19, and now lives there engaged in general farming and stock raising.

In 1880. Jacob W. Jacobson was married to Katie Kabgole. a native of Finland, and to this marriage were born the following children, Alfred (deceased), .Mary, Walter, Marium, Janie, Richard. Anna (deceased), Arthur, Valmar, Phillip, Ernest (deceased) and Arnold (deceased).

Jacob \V. Jacobson has taken an important part in the public life of his community, having served as a member of the school board for nine years, as assessor for twelve years and also as supervisor and township treasurer for some vears.

Among the few native-born American citizens of the older generation now living in Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is John K. Wyatt, of Inman township, who was born near Waldo. Marion county, Ohio, July 7, 1852.

Mr. Wyatt is the son of Cyrus and Catherine ( Bowers) Wyatt, who were natives of Marion county, < >hio, and Pennsylvania, respectively. Mr. Wyatt's parents came west to Iowa in 1856 and settled in Hardin county, at Iowa Falls. Later, they moved to Wright county, Iowa, and it was there that Cyrus Watt enlisted in Company H, Thirty-second Regiment, Iowa Volunteer Infantry. Cyrus Wyatt served about three years under General Thomas. After his discbarge he returned to his home and died on July 2, [865. His wife survived him many years, passing away in Iowa, January 30, 1905, at the age of eighty-two years.

John K. Wyatt was reared on a farm and educated in the public schools. When he was old enough, lie took up farming in the Hawkeye state. Having purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land in Iowa, Mr. Wyatt improved the land and lived upon it until 1894, when he moved to Webster City. In 1901 he moved to Fergus Falls, Minnesota, where he lived for seven years. In [905 Mi V1 yatl purchased three hundred and twenty acres of land in sectidns 29 and 51 I township, and in [908, tl!: later, moved to the farm. Mr. Wyatt has made many improvements upon ibis farm, especially iii fencing He i a well-known and successful breeder l- the daughter of Samuel and Ellen (Van Lew) McGill. Mrs. Wyatt's father and mother were both natives of Pennsylvania, the latter being bom on June 20, 1833, in Northumberland county. They moved to Iowa in 1855, but returned to Pennsylvania. .Mrs. Wyatt's father served in the seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry during the Civil War. He enlisted in September, (864, am! mi his way home was taken ill and died on July 1. 1S65. at Jeffersonville, Indiana, where he was buried. Vfter his death, the mother and the remainder of the family moved to Jasper county, Iowa. The mother January 30, [903.

Mr. and .Mr- Wyatt have been the parents of four children: Cyrus S., who is a graduate of the Webster City high school, was a soldier in the Spanish-American War; Percival is deceased; Ruth Eva was graduated i"i' 'in the Fergus Falls high school with the class of rgoi, and Fern Ellen, who was graduated from the Fergus Falls high school in 1910.

Mr. Wyatt is identified with the Republican party and has always been active in party p< litics and is influential in the councils of his party in this county. Mr. and Mrs. Wyatt and family are members of the Presbyterian church of Fergus Falls.

Charles D. Baker

The progressive, wide-awake man of affairs determines the progress and prosperity of a community whether the boundaries of the community or small. His influence as a potential factor in the life of a county is difficult to estimate. Xo man living in Otter Tail county has done more for the agricultural development of the county than Charles D. Baker, a dealer in real estate, insurance and mortgage loans at Fergus Falls. From hi- lather, who was a public-spirited citizen and business man. the son no doubt inherited or the infinite details of business, hut Mr. Baker's ion In- inheritance has been enlarged by careful and painstaking personal application, lie had hardly finished his education in the East before he turned hi- eyes Westward and. heeding the word- of Horace Greeley, 1 in this great state. Intimately identified with the industrial, commercial and agricultui of < »tter Tail county for nearly a half century, he i- (.ne ..I the besl known men in the county and, as a simple statement of tact, it may he -aid that he is one of the most favorably known 1 esidents of the county.

third year. His wife had preceded him in death many years, her death having been caused 1>\ consumption. There were six children born to Mr., and Mrs. Joseph D. Baker, of whom two, Alonzo and Edward, died while serving their country in the Union army during the Civil War; Charles D., the subject of this sketch; Jefferson, who is a tailor at Bangor, Maine; Arthur. who is a banker at Deer Creek, and Helen, who died of consumption in 1885. Until he was seventeen years old, Charles D. Baker lived at home with his parents and attended school. Tn 1868 lie was graduated from the Bucksport Seminary and immediately thereafter came West on account of his health. He found employment as a bookkeeper in Moulton's nursery, where he worked for five years and then entered the government employ as a detective and as deputy United States marshall for the state of Minnesota, continuing in the latter form of service lor seven years, at the end of which time he moved to Alexandria, where he remained for a short time. In 1881 he came tn this county, locating at Bluffton, where he opened a general store. Two years later he moved to Peer (reek and engaged in the mercantile business. In 1885 he moved to Fergus Falls and, until [898, was engaged in the loan business. Seventeen years ago he established a realestate office in Fergus Falls and since that time has confined his attentions entirely to Otter Tail county real estate. Mr. Baker's office is one of the most complete real-estate offices in western Minnesota, being equipped with rdl the latest ideas in descriptive maps and photographs.

Mr. Baker has devoted considerable money, time and study to determine the possibilities of the soil of Otter Tail county. He has made diligent investigation and study of the produce for which this soil is best adapted and has furnished the farmers of Otter Tail county high grades of clover seed, alfalfa and corn, which in turn have brought forth abundant crops. Thousands of dollars have been expended by Mr. Baker in gathering statistics throughout Otter Tail county, and these facts, printed in pamphlet form, have been distributed among the farmers for their guidance. In other words, he has been a pioneer in determining the direction of agricultural development and productions in the county, and. as a pilot, is accorded today ,1 foremosl rank among the county's leading citizens. On his own initiative and as a private enterprise, lie has done for Otter Tail count) what the United States governmenl i^ now doing in a larger way for the various states of the Union and fur the countn a- 1 whole. The fundamental fact in Mr. Bal er's propoganda is that lie recognized early in his career a- a real dealer that agriculture is an exact si ience and that success in this vocation is determined by the possession of accurate, scientific and complete know! edge of -. dK and productions. In the strictest sense of the word, lie is a :7bl

Mr. Baker was married to Almeda Coulter, and to them have been born two children, Roy A. and Addie C. Roy A. Baker is his father's righthand man in business; is a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and is keenly interested in the civic, industrial and commercial progress of Fergus Falls, lie married Lillian Morrell. Addie C. Baker married A. P. Stowell and lives in Huron. South Dakota.

(diaries D. Baker is a member of the Masonic fraternity. When still a young man. m [869, he became a member of Cataract Lodge Xo. 2, at St. \nthony and. after moving to Fergus Falls, demitted to Corner Stone Lodge Xo. 99, and has been a member id* the commander) there for the past twenty years, lie is also a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Independent Order of n<],\ Fellows and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

Otto Christian Foss

Owing to the conditions surrounding his early life. Otto Christian Foss, while still a youth, became versed in the secrets of agriculture, and to this day has given his entire attention to this field of activity. Mr. Foss. who was a native of Christiania, Norway, was born on October 4. [861. His parents. Ole Anderson and Ellen Mathia Jorgenson, both of whom were born in Norway, came to America in 1872, and on June 32, of that year, arrived in Pelican township, this county. Here the father took up a homestead claim three-fourths of a mile west of the present home of his son, Otto. This tract of land consisted of one hundred acres, was improved by the owner and is now operated by his son, Anton J. Ole Anderson lived there until his death. The children burn to Mr. and Mrs. Anderson were six in number, namely: Anton J., Milla Oliva Olson, Marie Emile Fisher. Anna Margarel Larson, Otto C. boss, the subject of this sketch; fohanna Elisa Thorson.

The educational advantages of ( )tt( his schooling consisting of six wars in after he reached America. He was comp and by hard work has acquired two hun However, he ami his famih together o\\ The farm upon which his home is loca el) improved. He is known as cattle.

country with her parents when she was only two years old. They located in Wisconsin, but her father, Elevson, died in the Civil War. Mr. and Mrs. Foss are the parents of two children, Clara Emilia and Oscar Edward-. They are members of the Grove Lake church.

The character of the gentleman whose life is here briefly presented is one which challenges admiration. Noted for his rugged honesty and fearless independence in matter of principle, the life of Otto C. Foss has been a well-rounded career.

John Adolph Peterson

( )t those men who have overcome obstacle and hindrance and, surviving discouragement and set-back, have risen to places of note in the locality and who have proved to be a success in their chosen line of work, the name of John Adolph Peterson, of this sketch, stands out conspicuously. Thrown upon his own resources at an early age and without substantial aid or encouragement, he has become one of the leading men and merchants of Otter Tail count)- and of the town of Dopelius, and has been given a place of note in the larger business affairs of the community, and a rank of honor in the public circles of his town and his township.

John Adolph Peterson was born in Black Hills, South Dakota, on November 16, 1885, the son of Isaac and Mary (Pary) Peterson. Isaac Peterson was born in Norway and Mary Peterson, his wife, was born in Finland, and each having come to America and settled with their parents in the same locality, they became acquainted, were married and then went to Hancock, Michigan, where Isaac Peterson worked in a mine for some time and then later moved to Black Hills, South Dakota, where the father lived until his death, in the year 1 So 1 . The mother, with the children, who were living in Otter Tail county, where- they owned a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Newton township, later was married to John P. Majava, she now living at Xew York Mills. To the marriage of Isaac and Marv Peterson were born the following children: \nna, who married Matthew Find, and who died in the state of Michigan: William, who died at Xew York Mills: Ida. who married Emil Anderson and lives at Markham. St. Louis count}-; Arthur, who is a cattle buyer of Xew York Mills; John Adolph, the subject of this sketch; George, who is a railway hrakeman of British Columbia; Lena, who married James ("urrie and lives ,-,t Minneapolis, and Matilda, who lives at home with her mother.

John \dolph Peterson was educated in a state school at Owatona, Minnesota, and from thai institution was adopted b) a family with whom he lived until the age of eighteen years, when he came to Xew York Mills and secured employment with the Fiske I'.rothers Company livery, where he worked for three or four years and then went to the town of Dopelius, in < (tter Tail county, Minnesota, where he was engaged as a hotter-maker for the Dopelius Creamery Association, a position which he now holds. John Adolph Peterson has extended his business interests since coming to Dopelius until now he is the manager of a mercantile business, and in addition to this is one of the directors of the Dopelius Creamery Association, with which he has been connected for so many years.

On July t8, mho, John Adolph Peterson was married to Anna Muckala, who was horn in the state of Michigan, the daughter of John Henry Muckala and wife. To the marriage of John A. and Anna Peterson has been born a daughter, Erna Arbutus, whose birth occurred on June 8. 1913.

John \diil|ih Peterson and. his wife are active members of the Lutheran church, a congregation in which they take an interested part. In politics, Mr. Peterson is an ardent Republican.

Edward Tohnson

Edward Johnson, a prosperous farmer of Girard township, Otter Tail countv, Minnesota, is a native of Norway, born there on November 12. t853.'

Edward Johnson received his education in the public schools of his native land. In 1879 he came to America and settled at Baldwin. Wisconsin, near which place he worked on a farm fur a time, afterward obtaining work on the railroad. Kt>r some years he spent the winters in the lumber cami^. Ik was also one of the first men employed in the iron mines rking in the mines for five month-, he came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, in [882, and purchased land from Charles J Wright, the tract a eight) acres. Me -old this farm in 1892 and then purchased one hundred and sixty acres in Oak Valley township. ed of this fane in [896, and thereafter made a trip to Norway, remaining four month-. \tter his return from his trip to Norway in June. F896, he 1 of tin- < litherall elevator, and remained with this firm ther Mr. Johnson lived in ('litherall -'or thirteei tirrn ed rather extensively in

Hans, who came from Norway to America in 1910, operates the farm, while the latter is living retired. Mr. Johnson's farm is well improved and highly productive.

Formerly Mr. Johnson was a member of the council at Clitherall. and was also supervisor of Nidaros township for a number of years. During a part of the time he was chairman of the township board. Mr. Johnson is a member of the Lutheran church, and is unmarried.

Andrew Anderson

Among those men of Swedish birth residing in Buse township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota. Andrew Anderson, the subject of this sketch, is well known. Mr. Anderson was born in the southern portion of that country on June 11. 1871, son of John and Hannah (Isaacson) Anderson. Both parents were horn in the same locality, where they were engaged in farming until the father came to America in 1891. This was two years after his son, Andrew, had crossed the water. John Anderson located in Illinois, and three years after he had emigrated, his family joined him and all lived there until 1904, when they came to Otter Tail county and rented a farm' in Western township. There they lived until the death of the father, on July 13, 191 1. at the age of sixty-six years. The mother died in the spring of 1014. at the age of sixty-seven years. Both were reared in the Lutheran faith and lived honest and useful lives.

\ndrew Anderson is the eldest of a family of nine children, all (if whom are now citizens of the United States. Hannah is the wife of Carl Olson and lives in Millelacs county, this state. Carl lives in Montana, where he is engaged in farming. Emma is the wife of John Larson, of Vikind. this state, and Louisa, who is Airs. Louie Hanson, resides in Martin county. John is a ranchman and farmer in Montana, and both August and Edward are farmers in Western township, of this county. Clara, the youngest of the family and the wife of Charles Hanson, also lives in the same township. Andrew was educated in the public schools of his native land and in [889 came to \merica and settled in Illinois, where be remained until 1804. when he came to this slate aid located in Martin county. He purchased a farm of eighty an-, and mad : I his home until [902, when he became a citizen of this county. Me purchased one hundred and si\t\ acres in Westem township, where he lived until the spring of [915, when he sold out and boughl a tract of like size in Ruse township, intending to make that his permanent home.

land. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson arc the parents of four children, namely: Allien, Oscar, Arthur and Hilda, and both are members of the Swedish Lutheran church, to the support of which they give generously of their mean.-.. Mr. Anderson votes independently in politics, and inasmuch as he is interested in all that makes for the welfare of the community, he bids fair to become one of the highly esteemed citizens of his township.

George F. Freeman

\- the reader peruses a work like the present volume, one of the effects of which he becomes conscious is the inspirational value of certain types of biography. For this reason the man whose life forms the subject matter of this sketch is well worthy of consideration. George F. Freeman is a native of Clayton county, Iowa, having been born there on December 17. 1853. his parents being Ruben and Lydia (Denton) Freeman. Mr. Freeman has been a resident of this county for twenty-three years.

The parents of Mr. Freeman were born in Cayuga count}-. New York, where they grew up and were married. After their marriage they first moved to Ohio, later to Iowa, and in [855 to Goodhue county. .Minnesota, where they purchased land in 1853. In 1864 Mr. Freeman lost his wife 1 afterwards moved to Hastings, and thence to Minneapolis, where he became a bath-house keeper, a business which he continued until his death, which took place in 1885. At one time he served as justice of the peace, lie and his wife wen- members of the Baptist church. The family of children that came to bless the home of Mr. ami Mrs. Freeman was twelve in number, being: John I)., Willie T., Mary A., Juliet. Hattie, Charlotte. George I-'., the subject of this biography: Ruben F.. Alfred, and Charles, who died 111 infancy; Lyda and another infant, named Charles, who passed away.

George F. attended the district school of Roscoe, Minnesota, and later the high school at Pine Island. He early learned the cooper's trade, which he follow* or eight years, hi ( .11111011 Falls be then became proficienl in the occupation of mill-wrighl and carpenter and worked in Cannon Falls. Hearing of the good farm lands in Dakota, he pre-empted a quarter tree claim, but left there in [890 to again engage in his trade at Fergus Falls, lb- later added to his income by "breaking in .'it named Jack Billings. Two wars later he began the career .1 a farmer bj purchasing eighty acres in section 1. west half of the southwest quarter of Woodside township. \t the time of the purchase only eleven acres had been broken, and on these a log cabin had been built. As Mr Freeman was still engaged in carpenter work, he was obliged to hire men to clear his new-made purchase. He built a house, barn, granary, machine shed and chicken house. With this equipment he has since engaged in farming and has been for some years a breeder of Shropshire sheep and of standard-breed horses, as well as of full-blooded Jersey cattle.