Otter Tail County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1916 (part 12 of 28)

Jn 1874 Mr. Freeman was united in marriage to Sarah E. Stone, a native of Olmstead count)', Minnesota, daughter of A. K. Stone. The children born to this union are seven in number, namely: Luther A., a jeweler of Cloquet, Minnesota; Harold \\ '., a real-estate dealer of Wadena, Minnesota; Dora, who died in infancy; Catharine Aletha, who married Clayton Church, and lives in Todd county; Jeannette, the wife of W. E. Watkins, and living at home; Jessie, who died in iqio, at the age of twenty; Marion C, who is employed by his brother in the real-estate business at Wadena.

Besides his occupational and agricultural interests, Mr. Freeman has taken an active part in a number of business enterprises. He has been the president of the Wrightstown Telephone' Company and has been vice-president and director of the Farmers Co-operative Creamery at Bertha, as well as the present vice-president of the Fanners State Bank at Bertha and one of its organizers. Mr. Freeman has served two terms as county commissioner from the fourth district and has been township clerk and school treasurer. He is a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge and the Modern Woodmen of America. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Their long residence in this county has given them a wide circle of friends, and their home has long been a center for interesting social gatherings. Mr. Freeman is a man of kindly disposition, charitable impulses, strict integrity and is public spirited to a marked degree.

Louis Vnderson

Prominent in the agricultural and commercial life of Otter Tail county, Minnesota. Louis \nderson deserves to rank as one of its leading citizens. Mr. Anderson was born in Denmark, October jo, [872.

Educated in the schools of his native land Mr. Anderson came to America in iScji. and settled on a farm in Dakota, where he was engaged in farming for twelve years. At tint time he rented some seven hundred acres of land In [Q03 he came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where he purchased a farm of ninety-six acres in Sverdrup township, and here he is engaged in general farming and stork raising. Mr. Anderson is a selfmade man. Ills farm is well improved and is highly productive. The buildings are all comfortable and are kepi in a very line state of repair. During the past ten vears Mr. Anderson has been connected with the Park

While living in Dakota, Louis Anderson was married to Christina Anderson, who is also a native of Denmark, and who came to Dakota in 1893 with n.cl" parents. Andrew and Mary Johansen. Mrs. Anderson's father died in Dakota in [913, while her mother is still living in that state. Louis Anderson and wife are the parents of seven children: Thea, Agnes. Ella, Francis, Lila, Alfreda and Levi.

Mr. Anderson has heen repeatedly honored by the people of his township with important local offices. He served altogether seven years as supervisor in his township, and has also served as a member of the school board for many vears. Nominally, Mr. Anderson is identified with the Republican party, and is prominent in the councils of his party in Sverdrup township, lie is a highly respected tanner, a good citizen and a good man. who has honored the community where he resides bv his many good works.

Hans P. Olson

Bom at Sellan, Denmark, September 3, 1849, Hans I'. Olson is a son of Ole and Listen 1 Ian-en. both of whom were natives of Denmark, and who grew to maturity in that country, and were there married. Ole Man sen died in his native land at the age of fifty-four years, and after his death his widow came to America in [871, and spent her last days in this country. After coming to the United States she was married to Nils Tygersen.

Ole Hansen and wife were the parents of seven children, of whom Hans P. Olson was the eldest. The other children were. Maria, Ingebor. Stena, Lars, Karen and Olena. Of these children Hans P. and Stena came to America together in [869. They settled first at Winona, Minnesota, and lived there for a couple of pears, alter which II I '. Olson returned to Denmark to bring back the remainder of the family. Upon their return to America they were accompanied by their mother and their two brothers and sisters. The family settled in Otter Tail county, where they purchased one hundred and sixty acres of school land in section r6, of rordenskjold township. They put up a rude log house, where the family lived for some een replaced with a frame house The) have also built a frame barn and made many other improvements on the place, and in the meantime Mr Olson ha- added fort) acres to tin- original farm. Me is a successful stock breeder ami has made a specialty of raising Holstein cattle.

died in 1892, and her husband has never remarried. Hans P. Olson and wife were the parents of nine children, as follow: Olaf, a farmer living in Canada; ( hris, also a fanner in Canada; Peter, who died at the age of twenty-two; Alice, who died in infancy; Theodore, a farmer living in North Dakota; Hans, who lives at home with his father, is the owner of a quarter section of land in North Dakota; Emil, living in Idaho; Sande, who died at the age oi eleven years; Sande, the second, is a farmer in Dane Prairie township.

Airs. 1 )lson, during her life, was a member of the Free Lutheran church, the church with which her husband is now- identified. Air. Olson has always been independent in politics.

Torger Tollefson

One of the well-known fanners of Folden township and of Otter Tail county is forger Tollefson, who in agricultural life and in business activity, has demonstrated Ins ability and a citizen who in those things which make up the desirable community resident, is not lacking.

'forger Tollefson was horn in Saetersdalen, Norway, on \pril 26, [860, the s, ,11 of Toilet" Tollefson and Borghild Torgenson, both of whom were horn in the same district, the father on February 17, 1N17. and the mother on .May 8, [824. Tollef Tollefson and Borghild Torgenson grew to maturity and were married in their native country, where Tollef Tollefson was engaged in general work, and then, 111 [872, with two children, he and his wife came to America and went to Fillmore county, Minnesota, where the) lived for three years and then in [875 they came to Otter Tail count) and settled in Eagle Lake township, where they lived for five years. In [880 Tollef Tollefson homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 30, of folden township, land which was as yet uncleared of the timber and brush. Tollef ["ollefson, with the aid of his son. 'forger, on taking possession of his homestead, proceeded to (dear the land and to build a '"cellar." a work which was no1 finished by the elder Tollefson, as he was overtaken by death, shorth foil. .win- the beginning of this task. Borghild (Torger von i Tollefson continued to live on the home place until -he died, at the age of eighty-four years, in 1908. To Tollef and Borghild (Torgenson) Tollefson were horn the following children: Tollef, who died in Norway, at the age of three years; Torger, the subjeel of this sketch; and Thora, who married Morten Peterson, and lives in folden township.

\fter his education in Norway, Torger Tollefson, at the age of twelve years, came with his parent- to \merica. and when twenty years of age was called on to till the pi; ce oi his father, wdio died at that lime on the home place, 111 Otter Tail county. I'orger Tollefson completed the unfinished work ol digging a 'cellar begun by his father, and cleared the land, erecting thereon such buildings as were necessary for comfort, and in 1886, he constructed a substantial log house, cue which is now 111 use as a farm outbuilding. His efforts have resulted in the clearing of eighty-live acres of land, en winch Mr. follefson is now engaged successfully as a general tanner. In [913 L'orger Tollefson replaced his early-built log house with a modern home, erected nearby, in which he now lives.

'forger Tollefson, in 1880, was married to Lisa Hanson, who was born in Norway, the daughter of Hans Larson and wife, who lived and died in their native land, the daughter having come to America when she was twenty-live years of age. 'forger and Lisa Tollefson are the parents of the ing children: Tom, who is a farm manager in Eagle Lake township; Mary, who is employed at an asylum of Fergus Falls; Helmer, who lives at home; Bernhard, ( onrad, Thca, Boletta, Otto and Oscar.

forger ["ollefson and his wife are leading members of the United Norwegian Lutheran church, where Mr. Tollefson is now one of the choir singers. In politics, forger Tollefson is an ardent Republican. Among the residents of Otter fail county, Torger follefson and his wife are highly respected and are held in high esteem as workers for those things having for their object the advancement of the community interests.

Alfred Eklund

<)i the well-known and successful farmers of Newton township and of < Itter fail county, the name of \lfred Eklund is one which stands for good citizenship and for a type of manhood which in the history of the locality, great things for the progress and advancement of the general interest. Industrious, thoughtful and with a resourcefulness characteristic of the people oi Sweden, his native country, he has been a fair example of the rewards of honest endeavor and of unselfish pursuits.

Alfred Eklund was born in Stockholm. Sweden, on January jj. [868, the son of Carl and Catherine (Anderson) Eklund, who were born in Sweden and then married, and where Carl Eklund and his wile now live, iii> former being ninetj years of age and the latter about ten years younger. and both active members of the Lutheran church. Carl and Catherine Eklund ire the parent; of the following children : Lena, who married John 1 arlson. and who dud at Illinois; Johanna, who was married to Edward

Larson, who died, tnd later she was married to John Anderson, and lives at St Louis. Missouri; \ugust Lena, who married John Olson, and lives ton, Hlinois; Job,,. a carpenter, of Humboldt Lark. Chicago, Illi- nois; Anna, who lives in Sweden; Alfred, the subject of this sketch; Xatalius, a farmer of the state of Illinois; Carl Andrew, who is a farmer in Sweden; Huldah (deceased); [da, who married John Selander, and lives in Newton township; Frank, a farmer, who lives near Buffalo, North Dakota, and two daughters, who died in infancy.

Alfred Eklund was educated in the public schools of Sweden, after which he worked on his father's farm until twenty years of age and then came to America and learned the carpenter trade, which he followed at the city of Chicago for sixteen years, and in [903 Alfred Eklund came to Otter Tail county ami bought eight)' acres of land in section 2, of Newton township, land which was cleared, but a place on which there were few improvements. Alfred Eklund, on taking possession of his farm, proceeded to improve the place with new buildings and other necessary equipment, until he now has one of the best and must convenient farms of the locality. On his land Mr. Eklund is now engaged in general farming, a line of work in which he has been peculiarly successful, producing excellent crops and feeding for market large numbers of live stock.

In political affiliation, Alfred Eklund is of the Independent party, and has served well his community in these things which have called for public support. Mr. Eklund and his wife are highly respected people of Newton township, in which locality they have a host of friends.

Among those who stand first in the life of the locality in which they are residents, is Milton R. Greenwood, lumberman and fanner, also business man, of the town of Richville and of the surrounding county of Otter Tail, Minnesota. He was born on January 10, 1X70, in Wells county, Indiana, and is the son of Thomas and Sophrona (McGeath) Greenwood, both natives of Wells county. Indiana.

The maternal grandparents of Milton R. Greenwood were Thomas R. and Rebecca McGeath, both natives of New York Mate and among the first settlers of Wells county, Indiana. Thomas R. McGeath was an ordained minister of the Methodist Episcopal church and a pioneer in his vocation His professional services were in behalf of the residents of the localitj in which he lived ami hi- death was looked upon as a loss to the community.

estate and agricultural interests of the town and county and in 1882 remo\ed to Rice county, Minnesota, where he engaged in the lumber business until in.00. He then came to Otter Tail county, and became the purchaser and owner of seven hundred and fifteen acres of timber land, adding four hundred more in a few years later. This land was located in Rush Lake township, Otter Tail county, and after the timber had all been sold, the land was subdivided into smaller farms and sold. For eighteen months he resided in the town of I 'erhani. but following the incorporation of the town of K'ichville. he removed to that place for the purpose of being in closer touch with his realty interests. Subsequent to his arrival in Richville, Minnesota, forty aire-- of Tholke's addition was sub-divided into lots and he sold it in that way. The later years of his life were spent partly in Minnesota, but the winters being too severe, were spent in Locksley, Alabama, near Alobile. His death occurred in Richville on December 25, 1914. Sophrona (McGeath) Greenwood, his wife, is now living in Richville. Thomas Greenwood was a Republican and very active in the life of the town and was, at one time, a member of the town council of Foreston. He was also a soldier and served In- country during the Civil War, having enlisted in Company E, Seventyfifth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and engaged in the battles at Chattanooga and Chickamauga and was also with General Sherman on his march to the sea. His wife 1- a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. To them were bom -even children: John, William. Alonzo, Milton R., Oscar, Inez and .Minnie. John is an employee of the Standard Oil Company and resides in Mankato, Minnesota; William died while in Rice county, Minnesota; Alonzo also died in that county; Oscar is a farmer and lives in Richville; Inez became the wife of George Schroeder and they live in Locksley, Alabama, and Minnie died in infancy.

Ction with his father, now owning one hundred and seventy acres near Richville, and one hundred and sixt\ acres in Beltrami county, near Rernigi. His commercial interests have consisted in selling the timber from his land. of the land, and he has also operated a saw-mill in connection. Fraternally, he is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and of the Independent Order of < >dd fellows, in which lodges he is held in high esteem. Politically, he is a faithful follower of the Republican party.

to Catherine Shields, daughter of Patrick Shields, an old settler of Shieldsville, Minnesota, and her birth occurred in Wisconsin. Shieldsville, Minnesota, was named for the Shield's family, of whom there are a large number in and around that town. Patrick Shields now resides in St. Joe, Minnesota. Three children have been born of the union of Milton R. Greenwood and Catherine Shields, namely: Delbert. Joseph and Mamie. Mr. and Mrs. Greenwood and family are justly esteemed in the community in which they reside.

Amos Ii. Wetmur

Amos H. Wetmur, a farmer of Candor township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, has been one of the earnest workers for the development of all things educational and for the advancement of community interests. He has given time and service and in return has received the approbation of his fellow citizens. He is a native of Orange county, New York, and was born on May 5, 1852. He is one of ten children born to the union of Sylvanus and Sarah jane (McCarter) Wetmur, who were natives of Pennsylvania and Newark, New Jersey, respectively.

The paternal and maternal grandfathers of Amos H. Wetmur were both soldiers of the American Revolutionary War and were of English and Scottish descent. The father of Amos H. Wetmur was born in Pennsylvania on May 3, 1812, and died on November 6, 1899, aged eighty-six years, six months and three days. The mother of the subject of this sketch was born at Newark, New Jersey, January 4. [819, and died on June 6, 1893, being seventy-four years, five months and two days old. Both deaths occurred at Morgan Hill, California, and they are both buried at Gilroy, California.

Sylvanus Wetmur and Sarah Jane McCarter were married on November 30, 1 841. Sylvanus Wetmur's early life was spent in the woods during winter months, and in spring was engaged in driving logs down the Susquehanna river. In 1856 he removed to Wisconsin, taking his wife and six children with him. The family located mar Rippon, where they remained until i860. During their residence in that place, Sylvanus Wetmur was engaged a- .1 farm-band, which vocation be continued after bis removal to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, until [866. In that year he decided to make Minne -oia the home and the journey was made with two yoke of oxen and a covered wagon. This removal was the result of a visit made to the home in Wisconsin, by an uncle, George Wetmur. who persuaded Sylvanus Wetmur to make the change. After reaching Minnesota, they located at M Blue Earth county, where the father became employed as a farm hand for two years. He then moved to Steel county, Minnesota, and purchased eight) acres of land, near Havana and Owatonna, and lived there i years, moving, in 1890, t" * alifornia.

born <'ii Jul_\ 6, [843; died 111 early infancy. Esther Ann (deceased) was the wife of Daniel Willis and lived in Mapleton, Minnesota. Mary Delia become the wife of George Stephens, and her death occurred at Mapleton. Minnesota, October [6, (876. Phebe Ellen, horn on February 5. 1851. married William Marshall in [867; issue, one boy, William Mar-hall. Jr.; then divorced and became the wife <>!" Joseph Carpenter, and her death occurred on April 30. [914, in Seattle. Washington. Amos il. Wetmur was horn on -May 5, [852. ( hark) I.. Wetmur was horn on June jo. [853, is a well driller, thresher and farmer, and lives at Minot, North Dakota. Jane Elizabeth was born "ii April 21, [857, and became the second wife of George Stephens; they now reside in San Jose, California George M. Wetmur was born on March jo. [855, and was last heard of m Montana in [878. Willard S. Wetmur was horn on October 13. [860, and is working at the barber trade in Gilroy, (alifornia. Orin Eugean Wetmur was horn on October 13. [861, and died at Morgan Hill, December 4. 1003. and is buried with father, mother and sister 1 Ellen) at Gilroy, (alifornia.

George Wetmur. uncle of Amos 11. Wetmur. was a prominent man in Minnesota in the early days, and limit the first grist-mill at Chatfield, Minnesota, lie was also interested in the iron mine- of the State in it- earl) history.

Amos II. Wetmur received his education in the public schools of Blue Earth and Steele counties. Minnesota, and wa- reared on the home farm His first independent business venture wa- the purchase of fort) acre- of land, located near Rice Lake. Steele county, in 1875, '"r which he paid four hundred dollars and which he bought from the Lamberton Land Company, of Winona. .Minnesota. This farm was cleared and improved and soon after he removed t" Cass county, North Dakota, where he homesteaded one hundred and sixt) acre- \fier improving the one hundred and sixty acre- he added three hundred and twenty acre- inure, improved tins, and then -old

-hip; this wa- improved and a residence wa- effected on tin- land in the fall if iSSS In loop after making many improvements, the place wa- sold and Amos II. Wetmur moved to the town of Vergas, Minnesota, where he purchased fort) acres "i laud within the town corporation \t the time of purchase the land was uncleared ami unimproved, hut it wa- cleared and put

In [880 Amos H. Wetmur was united in marriage to Carrie May Hoyle, and tn them have been born eight children, whose names follow: Ervin was born on November 23, [881, is an engineer on the Great Northern railmad. and lives 111 Minot, North Dakota; Florence was born on February -'4. [883, and married Albert Abraham, and they live in Elkhart, Indiana: Bertha, born on June 10. [885, became the wife of William Long, and they live in Echo, Oregon. Minnie was born on May 6. 1887, is the wife of Glen Crawford, and their home is in Ontario, Canada. Myrtle was born on June 23. 1888, and is the wife of Charles Mauser, and their home is in Fargo, North Dakota. Ernest was born on June 25, 1890, and was married on January 4, [916, to Borga Burman, and is living at home. Ray was born on December i(>. [895, and i- living at home: Pearl was born on October _><), 1897, and is employed as an operator by the local telephone company.

Carrie May I Hoyle) Wetmur was born on March 13, [867, the daughter of Thadous Hoyle, a native of Logansport. Indiana. \mos II. Wetmur is affiliated with the Brotherhood of American Yeomen and is a Socialist in his political views, lie has served the public as a justice of the peace for many years, both in Candor and- Hobart townships. He has served as school clerk in Hobart for many years, also clerk in the village of Vergas for three years, and was one of the organizers of the village of Vergas.

Henry Hensch

Henry Hensch. who was born in Germany on January 4, 1874, the son of Nicholas and Alary (Beckmann) Hensch, both of whom are now residents of Germany, where Nicholas Hensch is a farmer.

Henry Hensch was educated in the schools of Germany, and for a short tune attended school in the slate of Iowa, where he went after reaching America, m the year [889. Following bis settlement in Lyons county. Iowa. I lenr\ Hensch was employed generally at farm work for eleven years and then he came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and bought a farm of one hundred and sixty acres of land in Western township, a place on which he put man\ improvements. \t a later date this enterprising farmer purchased one hundred and sixty acres, south of his original farm, all of which land is now well improved and in a g I state of cultivation.

During the year [900 Henry Hensch was married to Johanna Kohnke, win. was horn in Germany, the daughter of John and Kathcrine (Blohm) Kohnke. who are natives ,,f Germany, where they now live. To the mar-

Henry Hensch and his family attend the German Lutheran church, a congregation in which Mr. Hensch is one of the best known, and with his wife, is among the most highly respected communicants.

In the public life oi Otter Tail county and Western township, II.m. Hensch has taken no especial part, bul has preferred to serve as a private citizen and to do his duty to the community as it is presented.

Successful as a merchant in Fergus Falls and is and. successful furniture dealer and undertaker. Edward T. Barnard is a native of Minneapolis, this state, the ?on of Thomas G. and Eliza (Haves') Barnard.

Mr. Barnard's' father was born on Prince Edward Island and located in Boston, Massachusetts, about [848. It was in Boston that he worked in a cabinet -hup, as it was called in those days - what we now call a furniture -tore. \t that time in the cabinet -hop, or store, most all of the furniture was made, and the product was beautiful and substantial, the furniture made in those days, with it- antique design, now being bought and sold at almost fabulous prices. In [857 Thomas C Barnard came West and enj the manufacture oi furniture in a Minneapolis factory, which is -till in operation and which i- known as the Barnard-Cope Manufacturing Com pany. Mr. Barnard 1- now retired from active life and lives at Los \.ngeles, ( 'alifornia.

I d ' ird T. Barnard, who conducts the commodious furniture East Lincoln avenue, where he has a large and well-selected assortment of furniture and an admirably arranged stock, betrays, in every nook and corner of his -tore, his exquisite taste and his expert knowledge of the business.

Mr Barnard acquired his early education in Minneapolis and later in the printing business. On April 21, 1880, he went to Falls and. after arriving in that city, was employed by the Journal, where he worked for ars. \i the end of that period, he emb men of America. hew undertakers in the state are better known than he, a fact that was attested by his election in [914 to the important position of president of the Minnesota Funeral Directors Association.

Henry H. Berge

Among the fanners and stock raisers of St. Olaf township, Otter Tail county, .Minnesota, as well as among the general population of the community, Henry H. Berge is known as a man who has made a success of his life, not only in agricultural pursuits, but as a man, and as a forceful and useful citizen of the township. When a boy he was denied home influence and parental tare, and was therefore dependent largely upon his own resources and yet regardless of this handicap, by rising to a position of note and prominence in the community, he has proved to all his quality and his ability to surmount difficulty and to be of use in whatever situation or circumstance. It is these qualities in Henry H. Berge which have made him one of the men of leadership and influence in the township and county.'

Henry 11. Berge was born in St. Olaf township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, on March 29, [869, the son of Halvor Berge and Ragnel Hemes, both of whom were natives of Norway, in which country they lived, where Halvor Berge was a farmer until the year 1863, when they came to America and located in Dane county, Wisconsin, living there for two years, after which time they moved to Mower county, Minnesota, living there for about two years, and then came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where Halvor Berge homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land in St. Olaf township, a place where he, with his family, made his home and after some time having overcome many hardships and privations, due to the distance from the railway, he "proved up" his land and lived his last days in comparative comfort. Halvor Berge, well-known pioneer citizen of Otter Tail county, Minnesota, died in the year 1877, his wife having died in the year [873; on his death four young children, [ngeborg, Magne, Nellie and Henry, being left alone and in the care of an uncle. Ole Hemes.

Henry II. Berge, while living with his uncle, was educated in the public schools of Otter Tail county. Minnesota, after which, having reached the age of sixteen years, be worked as a farm helper for some time. In the year [896 be gained po^sessi,,n of the home farm, to which he added some land by purchase and has since engaged in general farming and stock raising.

During the year [900 Henry 11. Berge was married to Helga Knudson, who was born on December 30, 1878, in Norway, and to this marriage has been born two children. Harvey, who is fourteen years of aire, and Roy, who 1 28b ) is eight years of age. Henry 11. Berge and his family are loyal members of the Norwegian Lutheran church. In politics, Mr. Berge is an ardent Republican.

John William Swanson, prominent fanner, of Star Lake township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Sweden. December 15. 1876, the son of Sven M. and Sophia Johanson, both of whom were natives of

Sweden, where Sven M. is now living and where his wife, Sophia, died in [890. Sven M. and Sophia Johanson were the parents of seven children. John William, Emma, Carl, llnlda. Gustav, Clara and I Idor

John William Swanson received his education in the public -ehools of Sweden, alter which he came, in [898, to America and located in Clay county, Minnesota, where he lived with an uncle. John W. Nelson, for some time and then came to Star Lake township and bought, in partnership with an uncle, Frank Nelson, more than two hundred acres of land in section [3. Of this land Mr. Swanson now owns sixty-five acres. John William Swanson has greatly improved his farm with substantial buildings and has brought his land to a high state of cultivation, lie now , 1 ssfullj in general agricultural pursuits.

During the year 1906 John William Swanson was married to Esther \ ictoria Henstrand, who was horn in the state of South Dakota, in 1SS5, the daughter of Sven Henstrand and wife, natives of Sweden, who came to America and settled in Minnesota and later went to North Dakota, where they spenl the remainder of their days. To the marriage of John William and Esther Swanson have been born four children. Arvid. Edwin, Irving and Mice. Mr. Swanson and his family are members of the Swedish Lutheran chnrch.

Anion- the well-known and successful farmers of Star Lake township, (titer Tail count}-, Minnesota, is John W. Nelson, who was horn in Sweden. 1 1 |. [860, the son of Israel and Christine Nelson, both of whom Sweden, in which country they lived their entire life. Israel and Chris the parents of eight children: Peter, who cultivates the home farm, in Sweden; Lena. v! ed : Matilda, di

Frank.- who lives in Star Lake township; Sophia, who is deceased: Emma, a resilient | lm W.. the subject of this sketch, and Carl, who lives

John W. Nelson was educated in the public schools of Sweden. In June. 1880, he came to America and located in Polk county, Wisconsin, where he lived one year and then, after one summer at St. Paul, Minnesota, and one winter in the woods of Wisconsin, John W. Nelson came to Moorhead, C lay county, where he homesteaded, in 1882, one hundred and sixty acres of land, a place which Mr. Nelson improved extensively and a farm winch .Mr. Nelson now leases out. In June, 1901, John W. Nelson came to Star Lake township and bought one hundred and forty-five acres of land in section 22, where he now lives and engages in general agricultural pursuits.

During the year 1883 John W. Nelson was married, at Moorhead, Minnesota, to Elvina Bjordahl, who was born in Norway on April 14, 1865, the daughter of Ole and Elsie Bjordahl, natives of Norway, who moved to Huston county. Minnesota, where they lived until 1904, and then came to Star Lake township, this county, where Ole Bjordahl died in 1906, and where his widow, Elsie, now lives, at the age of eighty-eight years. To the marriage of John W. and Elvina Nelson have been born four children, William Eldor, Clara, George Arthur and Alma.

Benjamin G. Emery

Benjamin G. Emery, well-known farmer and prominent citizen of Maplewood township, Otter Tail count}', Minnesota, was born in Marion, Marion county, Ohio, on June 16, 1852, the son of Jonah C. and Lyda (Kelley) Emery, the former a native of Pennsylvania, where he was born in 1820, and the latter born in the same state. Jonah C. and Lyda Emery went to the state of Ohio in the early forties and located in Marion, where he followed his business as a contractor and builder, until his death in 1867. Jonah C. and Lyda Emery were the parents of five children, Ida, Benjamin G., lose and Ella (deceased), and Alice.

Benjamin G. Emery received his education in the public schools of Marion, Ohio, after which he went to Porter county, Indiana, where he married and then mined to Stcvensville. Michigan, and later to Oshkosh. Wisconsin, and then he went to the city of Minneapolis. Minnesota, for four years' residence, hi c88o Benjamin G. Emery came to Otter Tail county and homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land in Maplewood township, a place which he has improved with good buildings and a farm on which he engages in general agricultural pursuits.

On \.pril 23, [871, Benjamin G. Emery was married, in Porter county. Indiana, to Harriel McAninch, who was born in Indiana on November i. [854, the daughter of John McAninch and wife, who moved to Porter county from Wyandot county, Ohio, during the time of the Civil War. To the marriage of Benjamin G. and Harriet Emery have been born the following children: Hughie, Ella, Thomas, Archie A.. Alfred P. and Mae. who are living; and Mice ( '.. Frank E. and Edith M., who are deceased.

For twenty-two years Benjamin G. Emery lias served his community as township clerk and for eighteen years he has rilled the office as clerk of the school board. During a term of six years Mr. Emery occupied the office of 1 the peace and for practically all of his days in Maplewood township, he has been active in some manner which has resulted to the profit and advancement of the community life.

William O. Wold

William < >. Wold is a native of Clitherall township. Otter 'Pail county, Minnesota, and is the son of Christian ( ). Wold and Johanna (Paulson) Wold, both natives of Norway, who emigrated to America in the early days. Johanna ( Paulson) Wold was born on August 6. 184-'. and Christian (). Wold was born on January J.q, 1836. He was a blacksmith while a residenl of Norway, and followed that vocation for many years. After his arrival in the United States, in 1S66. he located in Chicago for a few years and then removed to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where he secured a homestead in Clitherall township in 1870. and remained there for the rest of his life. The farm consisted of one hundred and sixty acres of unimproved land and, as markets were a great distance from the source of production and the necessities of life were costly, the struggle for an honorable competency was hard and long but gradually the place was improved and put under cultivation and became a comfortable home. To the union of Christian <> Wold and his wife were boni the children whose names follow: Ole Marius, Kaja S. Charles V . Soren, Joseph, \\el. Minnie (deceased), William Tl. and Elvira. The father and mother of these children were both devout members of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Christian O. Wold was a Republican in his political faith He died on September 12. ion.

William i). Wold was born on February 9, 1885, in Clitherall township, ''Iter Tail county, Minnesota, on his father's farm. T T is education eived in the schools of Clitherall township, following which he assisted his father with the work on the home place for several years, bul iftei his marri Foss, daughter of Tarkel and Kari (Tveton)

Foss, on June 9, [9 he removed to Timber Lake. South Dakota, and purine hundred and sixty acres of land, under the homestead law, and remained then- until 101 - He then returned to Otter Tail county, Minne sota, and purchased the place on which they now reside. This farm con-

To William O. Wold and his wife have been born the children whose names follow: Curtis T., born on May 19, 19105 Kenneth J., born on August 25, 1912, and Ethel 1., who was born on July 21, 1914. William O. Wold and his wife are active members of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Politically, William O. Wold is allied with the independent voters of the country. Christian O. Wold, father of William O. Wold, died in September, [911.

Gina Foss was born on December 2$, 1886, on the farm which is now owned by her and her husband, and which her father, Tarkel Foss, homesteaded in 1868. Tarkel Foss and his wife were both natives of Norway. He came to the United States when a young man, in 1867, and selected this farm as a permanent home and it was here that his death occurred. To Air. and Mrs. Tarkel Foss were born three children, whose names follow: Andrina, Ole and Gina. Tarkel Foss and his wife were members of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Kari (Tveton) Foss was married, secondly, to Michael Holoien, and her death occurred on October 26, 1914. Tarkel Foss made a trip to Norway in 1870 and returned in 1880. He died on December 18. 1887.

Christian Eggum

A citizen and farmer who is known throughout St. Olaf township and the vicinity, as a man who has been peculiarly successful in agricultural pursuits, as well as a man who in the public life and affairs of the community is prepared, as a result of broad training and natural ability, for the larger matters in connection with communal welfare, is Christian Eggum. Born of one of Otter Tail county's best families, a man who has had the advantage of special culture and instruction, and a citizen who in the conduct of his personal affairs, as in his efforts to aid his locality, has proved his value and worth, he is a man without a review of whose life this work would be incomplete.

Christian Eggum was bom on the Eggum homestead in St. Olaf township, Otter Tail county. Minnesota, May 12, 1882, the son of Ktfudt O. Eggum and Anne Ramsey, both of whom were natives of Norway, in which country Knudt O. Eggum was a laborer, a line of endeavor which he followed until the year 1863, when he came to America and located in the state of towa, where he worked as a farm helper for two years, then for two years rented a farm which he cultivated, afterwards moving to the state of Minnesota, there homesteading a farm of one hundred and sixtv acres in township, Knudt O. Eggum being one of the first men to settle in that township. \fter man) hardships and privations, due to his lack of well as his great distance from a railroad, this pioneer farmer was able to gain a clear title to his land, and later he was able to improve his farm extensively and to have a comfortable home and ample land for general farming and stock raising, which he followed until his death, in the year [898. Knull 0. Eggum and .Anne Ramsey were the parents of seven children, Martha. flails. Carrie, Ludia, Christina. Anna and Christian. In church affiliation, knult < ). Eggum was of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Politically, the elder Eggum was an ardent Republican.

Christian Eggum, the subject of this sketch, received his education in the common schools of St. Olaf township, this county, and folio1 death of his father Christian ime a farmer, cultivating I

On July 20, 1904, Christum Eggum was married to Lena Thorgerson, and to this marriage has been born two children. Milo T.yle and Beatrice Eveline. Christian Eggum and his family are faithful and devout members of the Norwegian Lutheran church at St. Olaf, Minnesota, a congregation in which Air. Eggum and his wife are actively engaged in the support of the works, efforts and worship.

Politically, Christian Eggum has taken no especial part, but it is only fair to this capable citizen to say that his efforts and works in general and public matters have done no little in making the locality known for its progress and advanced methods in the various lines of work.

Endowed with strong faculties and possessed o! business sagacity in the truest seii^e of the word is bred I.. Weber, who has reached a prominent place in the financial world of Otter Tail county. Minnesota. Success has come to him through individual effort and publii n of his powers

.is a man of understanding and sympathy and as a citizen with the welfare of the community at heart. Fred 1. Weber was born in Burlington, !

; of September, [859. lie i- the son of « harles S. and Margarel < Shimmer 1 Weber, both of whom were born in Germany. Charles Weber left his native land for \merica in [846, and upon arriving in this country took up his residence in the state of Iowa, where he became a drugg a physician. Mr. and Mr-. Weber reared a family of four children.

school course at St. Cloud. Wishing to develop his powers as a student he entered St. John's College and finally completed his educational training in the normal school at St. Cloud. Mr. Weber began his professional career in 1879 as a teacher in the schools of Otter Tail county, where he had charge of the Perham school. Later he became interested in the general store owned by M. Walz and served as a clerk in the establishment until 1887. In the year just mentioned, the subject of this sketch bought a half interest in the store, and the partnership thus contracted lasted for five years. At the end of that time, after selling the store, the men who had been partners in the business established the Perham Bank. This was in 1891. Mr. Weber assumed the position as cashier of the bank and remained in that capacity until 1900, when he became the sole owner of the bank. In 1908 the Perham Bank was organized into a state bank, and at that time the subject of this sketch took J. H. Shea as a partner, who now serves as cashier.

In 18S7 the marriage of Fred L. Weber to Mary A. Walz, the daughter of Michael Walz. and a native of Illinois, took place. To this union one child has been born, Norbert O., who died at the age of twelve years. Air. and Mrs. Weber attend St. Henry's Catholic church.

Mr. Weber has served the community in a number of offices, among which have been secretary of the school board, an office he has held for twenty-three years, and village treasurer, in which capacity he has served for twenty years. As a man possessing high attributes of character he is looked upon as a force for good in the business world, which has been the field of his endeavors.

Dr. Harry S. Prichett, who is one of the leading professional men engaged in the practice of dental surgery, and a citizen who is honored for his public-spirited interest in the various affairs of Perham, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on November [8, [869, a son of John anil Mary ( Pancoast) Prichett, natives of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

John Prichett. who was a member of the firm known as Prichett, Baugh & 1 ompany, link- and leather dealers <>t" Philadelphia, moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1880, where he established himself in business and where he lived for the remainder of his days, as a hide and leather dealer. John and Mary Prichett were the parents of three children: F.. K.. Tohn and Harry S.

Harry S. Prichett received his early education in a private school of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and after moving to Minneapolis, Minnesota.

completed his preparatorj education in the public schools of that city. In 1893 Harry S. Prichett became a student in the college of dentistry at the University oi Pennsylvania, at Philadelphia, three years later graduating with the degn ! Doctoi oi Dental Surgery. Following the completion of his professional education, Dr. H. S. Prichett began the practice of his 11 at Wilkesbarre, Pennsylvania, remaining there for about one and one-half years, after which he went to Alexandria, Minnesota, where he was engaged in his professional duties for a short time. During the year 1899, Doctor Prichett moved to Perham, Minnesota, where he has since lived, not only as one successfully engaged in the practice of his profession, but as a citizen who, though not aspiring to public office, has none the less been one of the most influential and beneficial elements in local citizenship. Politically, Doctor Prichett is a Republican.

Casper W. Lotterer

A man of exceptional business acumen and broad understanding of civic affairs is Casper Lotterer, whose -licet'-- in life has been won through individual effort and constant application to duty. The Lotterer name has been a familiar one in Otter Tail county for almost thirty years and has on the 1st of October. 1880, and is the sou of Casper Lotterer. a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, and of Elizabeth i Froelich) Lotterer. who was born in New Haven, Connecticut. The father of the subject of this sketch, who was a barber in New Haven, Connecticut, came to Perham, Otter Tail county, in the year 1887. In this locality he opened a barber -hop and remained in business until 1903, when his death occurred. He was survived by the following sons: Casper W. and Charles. His son, William, met death by accident in 1901.

Since early childhood Casper W. Lotterer has been a resident of Minnesota He was educated in the public school- of Perham, and upon finishing fields, and at the present time is occupied chiefly as deputy uil inspector 111 Otter Tail and Becker counties. Since tyit he has served as justice of the peace at Perham.

In the practical affairs of business life, Air. Lotterer has exemplified the highest attributes of character, and thus has won friends among all classes of people. As a citizen he is public spirited and takes an affirmative stand for every movement for the betterment of the industrial life in the community 111 which he lives.

On the 2nd of August, 1904, the marriage of Casper W. Lotterer and Delia E. Rasmusson, the daughter of S. Rasmusson, was solemnized. To this union the following children have been born: Yinette, whose birth occurred on the 17th of June, IQ05, and Arthur, who was born on the 23rd of September, 1907.

In his political relations, Mr. Lotterer is a member of the Democratic party, and he and his wife are both members of the German Lutheran church. He is active in fraternal organizations, being affiliated with the .Max uis and also with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. As president of the Advancement Club of Perham he has shown executive ability of marked character.

Math Ias Moxson

In dedicating the following sketch to the gentleman whose name is seen above, only a generalization is made of the principal events of his life, including his agricultural and financial accomplishments, and his publicspirited interest in Pelican township, Otter Tail county, where he has resided -nice 1894.

Mathias Monson, farmer. Pelican Rapids. Pelican township, was born on February 13. 1852, in Dane county. Wisconsin, and is a son of Ole and Rondena fSvenson) Monson. lie attended the public schools of Fillmore county, remaining on the home place until 1 S 7 5 . when he bought eighty acres of land in his native county, which he fanned for six years. In 1882 Air. Monson went to South Dakota, where he took up a homestead of four hundred and sixty acres, living there until 1804. when he rented out his land ami moved to Pelican township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where he rented land for one year, and in 1S0; he bought one hundred and sixtv acres and now has two hundred and four acres. He has put all the improvements on the place, and follows general fanning, combined with stock raising, making a specialty of purebred Durham cattle. Politically, he is an independent voter. Religiously, he belongs to the Norwegian Lutheran church, in the work of which he has officiated as trustee.

( He Monson was born in Norway, where he was united in marriage with Rondena Svenson, also a native of that country. Mr. Monson was a man of limited means in his home country, earning his living as a day laborer, lie came to America in 1850, settling for a few year.- in Dane county, Wisconsin, after which he moved 1 county, Minnesota, where he took me hundred and sixty acres, where he spent the remainder of his life. Mr. and Mrs. Monson reared a family of eight child of whom are living in K115.

Mathias Monson was united in marriage in [870 with Karen Onsum, of Ole Onsum, to which union eleven children have been born: o, Rudolph, Otthelia. Carl, Emma, Edwin, Albert. Martin. Laura and Lauritz. I. aura, died when eight months old.

Mr. Monson has won the reputation of being one of the must thrifty farmers of Pelican township, his neat and well-cared-for place being one of the most attractive in that community.

Martin She

Martin Shea, popularly known as "Colonel" Shea, is one of the prominent and progressive business men oi this locality, and has done much for the betterment of civic conditions. He is a native of Ireland and his birth occurred on October 12, [844. He 1- the son of James and Honora (Spaesy)

Martin Shea received hi- education in the common schools of Ireland and after completing same engaged in farming, lie emigrated t>> America in [865, arriving in the month of June, and located in Pennsylvania, where M in railroad work for three years. He then removed to Des [owa, where he was employed as a foreman for a railro 1 was instrumental in building the track from Des Moines, Iowa, to Fori Dodge, Iowa. In the spring of 1N71. lie accepted a position with the Northern Pai fie Railroad 1 ompany and traveled by stage from St. Cloud to I'.rainerd. Minnesota, arriving on April 10. [871. lie assisted in laying the lirst track from Brainerd t" Moorhead, Minnesota. In 1872 In- was put in charge of a construction train and continued to. operate same for three years. In the fall of [87 | he decided to quit the railroad work and pur- 1 farm in Rush lake township, Otter Tail county. Minnesota, consisting of one hundred and sixty acres, which he continued t" cultivate for three years In [878 he engaged in the hotel business in the town of Perham, Minnesota, building the presenl hostelry in [898, and is still operating

One June 13, 1875, Martin Shea was united in marriage to Maria Bridgemann, and to them have been born these children: James, George, \\ illiam, Edward, Isabell and Irene. Martin Shea and his wife are stanch members of St. Henry's Catholic church, and he is a member of the Knights of ( olumbus. Politically-, he is a Democrat and served as postmaster during Grover Cleveland's first administration.

Henry Wilshusi-X

Henry W'ilshusen, well-to-do farmer and one of the prominent men of public life, in Friberg township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Hanover, Germany, on September 5, 1S58, the son of John and Meta (Mink; Wilshusen, natives of Hanover, Germany. John YYilshusen was the son of John W'ilshusen. Sr., who spent his entire life as a farmer in Germany. John W'ilshusen came to America in 1884, and located in Friberg township, this county, where he lived with his son. Henry, until February, 1895, when the elder W'ilshusen died. Meta, the widow of John Wilshusen, survived her husband by only two months, she dying in April, 1895. John and Meta Wilshusen were the parents of the following children: John. ( 'harles, Henry, Fred, Carsten, Katherine and George.

Henry W'ilshusen received his education in the public schools of his native country, after which he became a school teacher in the schools of Germany, a work which he followed until 1880. when he came to America. After spending more than a year at the city of Brooklyn, New York, where he visited with a brother. Henry Wilshusen went to St. Louis, Missouri, and made his home in that city for six months, after which he came to Friberg township, this county, in July. 18S2, and worked as a farm helper for two years. In 1884, Henry W'ilshusen bought eighty acres of land in Friberg township, where he established a home, and after some time be bought eighty additional acres, making one hundred and sixty acres of wellimproved and highly-cultivated land which Mr. W'ilshusen now owns

During the year 1891, Henry Wilshusen was married to Adelheid Muller, and to this marriage have been born ten children, namely : John D.. Herman ( '., Henry G., Adcle M., Margaret E., May C, Frieda M. Walter F.. Regina W. and Reinhold T.

W a public man and office holder. Henry W'ilshusen is one of the besl and most favorably known citizens of Friberg township. Mr. Wilshusen has served his community for many years as road overseer, for two years he has served as township assessor, has been clerk of the school district nci [903 and holds that office today, for twelve years was school district treasurer and for some years he was constable. Mr. Wilshusen is now serving as justice of the peace, an office which he has occupied for some years. Henr) Wilshusen is one of the highly-respected and esteemed citizens of Friberg township. Otter Tail county.

Among the well-known farmers of Elizabeth township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is John Holt, who was born in Sweden, on June i<>. [850, the son of fohn and Christine (Jones) Hanson, natives of Sweden [ohn Hanson, with his family, came to America in 1871, and located at famestown, New York, near where he bought a farm of fifty-five acres, a place which the elder Hanson cultivated until his death, on ^.ugusl 31, [900. Christine, the widow of John Hanson, now lives with her son, August Hanson, at Gerry, New York. John and Christine Hanson were the parents of seven children: ("ohn, August, Anna. ( harles, Alfred, Mathilda and Lores.

fohn Holt received his education in the common schools of his native country, after which he came to America, in 1S71. and located at Jamestown, New York, where he lived for two years and then moved to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, during the year 1873, and homesteaded eighty acres of land in section 22, Elizabeth township, a place which Mr. Holl has improved and to winch he has added land, until now he is the owner of one hundred and seventy-five acres of desirable land in Elizabeth township.

On July -'. 1872. John Holl was married to Lena Peterson; to this marriage no children have been lx>rn. Lena, the wife of John Holt, died on April 8, [91 1 .

Louis Rud

Lotus Rud is a native of Norway and his birth occurred on June 13. [865. IK- is the son of Martin and Sigerid (Olson) Rud, both natives of Norway. The) were the parents of eleven children, seven of whom emigrajted to America. Martin Rud and his wife remained in their native land until their deaths.

Louis Rud received his education in the schools of Norwaj and immigrated to America in fune, [887, locating in Otter Tail comity. Minnesota, almost immediately During the first year of his residence in this locality, he was employed near Pelican Rapids, but the following spring he removed to the state of Washington where he remained for eleven years. While a resident of that state, he was employed in the timber and as a farm hand, lie also purchased eightv acres of land. He returned to Norway, where he remained for a period of eighteen months, and then returned to Pelican Rapids. Shortly after his return, he purchased one hundred and seventeen acres of unimproved land from Knute Stevenson, in Lida township, section 27, on which he has since remained and which he devotes to general farming. He has improved this place completely, with the exception of the house which was built previous to his tenancy of the farm.

In lyoo, Louis Rud was united in marriage to Laura Peterson and they are the parents of seven children whose names follow: Mary, Alga, Martin, Eleda, Fredrick, Lena and Melvin. Louis Rud and his wife are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Politically, Louis Rud is independent of party.

Hans Nelson, well-known retired farmer of Friberg township, this county, was born in Denmark, May 6, 1850, the son of Hans and Mary Nelson, both of whom were natives of Denmark. Hans Nelson, Sr., was a farmer of his native country, an occupation which he followed there for his entire life, with the exception of a few years as a soldier of Denmark. Mans and Alary Nelson were the parents of four children, Henry, Hans, Mary and Katherine. Nans Nelson and his family were devout members of the Danish Lutheran church.

Hans Nelson was educated in the public schools of his native land, after which he married and shortly afterward came to America, in [875, and went to Denison, Iowa, where he lived for ten years and then moved to the state of Nebraska, there becoming a farmer for about twenty years in 1899, Hans Nelson came to Otter Tail county, and located in Fergus Falls township, where he lived as a farmer until [905 and then came to Friberg township, where he bought one hundred and fifty-eight acres of land, which Mr. Nelson improved and to which he added, later, eighty acres. Hans Nelson, on his well-improved farm, now lives a retired life, the agricultural pursuits of his place being conducted by his children.

Hans Nelson has not only been successful as a farmer and of use to his community as one who has aided in the development of the township and its resources, but lie lias been of service to the country of bis adoption as a soldier, Mr. Nelson having for six years served in the United States army. lie was engaged in battle with the Sioux Indians in t888. Nans Nelson rose to the rank of a sergeant, and served as such for three years, receiving an honorable discharge on November 4. [893.

During the year [874 I bins Nelson was married to Minnie ' lever, of Denmark, in which country they were married, and to tliis marriage have ami active workers in the Danish I utheran church, of Fergus Falls. \- a fraternal man, Mr. Nelson is a member of the fCniehts of tin- Maccabees.

Peder \. Moe, prominenl farmer and citizen of Oscar township, ibis county, was born in Norway, November 26, [855, the son of Andes and Martha Amenson, both of whom were natives of Norway. ^ndes ^menson was a fanner of his native country, an occupation which lie followed the whole of his life.

Peder V Moe came to America in [886, and after his landing at Boston, Massachusetts, came to the state of Minnesota, and located at the town of Rothsay, in Oscar township. In his new location Peder V Moe, secured one hundred and. fifty aire- of land, a place which Mr. Moe improved with a new house, a good barn and other buildings, which together make the farm of Peder A. Moe, one of the desirable places for agricultural pursuits, i:i ( Iscar township.

During the year 1886, Peder A. Moe was married to Thea Otteson, and to this marriage have been horn four children. Alfred, Martha. Magnus and Oscar. Mr. Moe and his famib members of the Nor- , Lutheran church, of Rothsay.

Vs a business man Peder A. Moe takes rank among the more prominent of Oscar township, he being a stockholder of the Rothsay Elevator Company, of Rothsay, Minnesota. In politic-. Peder A. Moe has taken no especial part although he is known a- a man and citizen who is interested in general welfare and public improvement.

Of the farmers and stock raisers throughout < >ite-r lad county, prob ably no one is more prominently connected or more widely known for his part in the life and activities of the community, than is George II. Miller. the subject of this -ketch. Extensively engaged in scientific fanning, a citizen who in the mattery of community life and as a holder of public office is a leader and '- record of achievi pent ami accomplishment no 1 i nl in this county would he complete without reference to the works and activities of this worthy citizen.

of John F. Miller, who was born in Hanover, Germany, on October 31, 1842, and Meta (Shumacher) Miller, who was born in Hanover, Germany, on January 20, 1838, both of whom came to America in the year [864, and landed in Xew York City, where they lived for nineteen years, the elder Miller being a storekeeper there. During the year 1883 John F. and Meta Miller, with their family, came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and settled in Leaf Lake township, where John F. Miller purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land, which he cleared and improved, later adding one hundred and sixty-eight acres of land, making a farm of two hundred and eighty-eight acres of well-improved and highly-cultivated farm land which he owned at his death on November i_\ 1911. Meta Miller, the widow of John F. Miller, now lives with her son. George, on the home place.

John F. Miller was one of the best-known and most highly-respected men of Otter Tail county, being a man known for his unselfish interest in the development of the community and for his support of church work and activities, more particularly the German Lutheran church, of which he was a prominent member. The elder Miller was one of the most progressive of the earlier farmers in this locality, finding great interest in the improvement and equipment of his farm with modern buildings and structures, together with the supplying 6f his place with the most approved implements and conveniences for the pursuit of general agricultural life.

1 i :orge II. Miller was educated in the public schools of Leaf Lake township, attending district school No. [85, near his home, after which he engaged in farming, having inherited a portion of his father's farm: and after having purchased the interests of the other heirs he established mi his place a stock farm, where he is now engaged in the breeding of fine quality Duroc-Jersey hogs, and in the breeding of Guernsey cattle. In addition to his general farm work. George IF Miller conducts a dairy, keeping for this purpose fifteen head of purebred and good grade cows.

George IF Miller is one of the best-known stockmen of the county, his counsel and judgment in matters affiliated with this pursuit being conceded t<> he of the best and id the greatest value for the development of this business, a testimony of which ;s his occupancy of the office as president of the Guernsey Breeders' Association of Otter Tail county.

( hi June 1, 1005. George II Miller was married to Mary Buerge, who was born in Fillmore county, Minnesota, March 30, 1879, and to this mar riage were bom two daughters, Luella and Viola. George IF Miller and his family arc members of the German Lutheran church, a congregation in which they are respected and esteemed communicants.

In public life George II. Miller has served long and with a clean and honorable record, a an official in the office; ol town clerk, which he served for eleven years; as a member of the school board, on which he held a seat for six years, and now as president of the Society of Equity, an office in which he serves the community in a business capacity. He is recognized as a man with no little ability and a- a citizen whose unselfish endeavor for the welfare of the localit) has done -real things for the advancement of li\ ing conditions.

George II Miller is connected with some of the large concerns and business interests of the county, being president of the Otter Tail Henning telephone Compan)', a stockholder in the Otter Tail Creamery Company, is the owner of considerable stock in the Security State Bank, and he also is a shareholder in the Farmer's Elevator ( ompany. of Henning and a shareholder in the Farmer's Store, at the town of Heinold, in Otter Tail county.

The life and activity of George II. Miller is one of the valuable assets of business and agricultural circles in this comity, and he, by his progressived his intelligent effort has won a place of permanent appreciation in the hearts of the people of his county.

Oliver Olson

Another prominent citizen in the commercial life of Fergus halls, this county, is Oliver Olson, who is engaged in the lire, life and accident-insurance business and who is secretary and manager of St. Luke's hospital; secretary and treasurer of the Fergus Falls Ugeblad Newspaper Publishing Company, and president of the company operating the Fergus Falls woolen mill-. TTc has served as secretary and manager of St. Luke's' hospital for the past ten years.

< lliver Olson was horn near the city of Roros, Norway, May i. [852, the -on of Esten and Ingerberg (Olson) Olson. The Olson family came to America in [869. by wa\ of Quebec, Canada, settling in Winnesheik county, Iowa, where they remained for about one year. During this time, the father made a trip to Tordenskji M township. Otter Tail county, where In- home steaded a quarter of a section of land. In the fall of 1870 the familj moved from Iowa to ( (tier Tail county, first living in a dug-out and later in a log house, part of which house later was used for a school house and is still standing The first teacher was Mice Fitch. Mr. Olson was (he firsl clerk 1 1| the district.

In 1883 Oliver Olson was married to Olin Story, and since his marriage has lived continuously in Fergus Falls. To this union there were born five children. Inga, Esther, Olive, Agnes and Oleen. Esther Olson married George Oberg. of Los Angeles, California, and has two children, Oliver and Georgia. Olive Olson married Alfred Aunan, of Fergus Falls, and has one child. Agnes. Mrs. Olin Olson died in 1895 and, five years later, Mr. Olson married, secondly, Mette Melby, a native of Norway.

Since coming to Otter Tail county. Mr. Olson has served as probate clerk of the county for fifteen years and also as judge of the probate for two years. He is the present city assessor of Fergus Falls and has held that office for the past ten years. Mr. Olson is also secretary of the Old Settlers' Association, a position which he has held for eleven years. This association was founded by the venerable George Cowing and Eli Dewey. Mr. and Mrs. Olson occupy a comfortable home in Fergus Falls, where they are well-known and highly-respected citizens.

John Haglund. a well-to-do farmer of Compton township, this county, who has a well-kept farm and a well-improved tract of land in section 30, comprising one hundred and sixty acres, was burn in Sweden.

Mr. Haglund is a son of a native of Sweden, a farmer by occupation, win 1 died in the old country. Mr. Haglund's parents were members of the Lutheran church and his father was trained in the military schools of Sweden. The fatlier died on November _>8, 1878, at the age of seventyeight years, and the mother in 1893. Of their seven children, two, Erick and Peter, the two eldest, are deceased. The living children are, John, Martha. Inger, < hristene and Maggie.

John Haglund came to America shortly after the death of his mother in [893. He had received a liberal education in the public schools of his native land and. after arriving at Quebec, Canada, proceeded almost immediately to \sblaii(l. Wisconsin, where he remained one month. Afterward, Mr. Haglund moved to Wadena county. Minnesota, where he lived for two months and then came on to Otter Tail county, purchasing the farm which he now owns, and upon which be now lives.

On September 3, [893, John V Haglund was married to Betty Swanson, a native of Sweden, and to them have been born four children, Erick, \manda. Albin and Herlof.

Since the purchase of Ins original farm of one hundred and sixty acres. Mr. Haglund has increased the acreage until he now owns altogether two hundred acres. In [913 be built a splendid barn, thirty-two by fifty feet.

Swan Johnson

One of the best-known farmers of Otter Tail county, Minnesota, a man who has been unusually successful in agricultural pursuits, as well as being a man who takes an important part in the business life of Compton township, is Swan Johnson. Public spirited, capable in those things to which he applies himself and a man whose value to the community has been demonstrated by his record in public life, he is a leading citizen of Otter Tail county.

Swan Johnson was horn in Carver county, Minnesota, February 15. [860, being one of twin sons horn to Peter and Johanna I Anderson 1 John son. Peter Johnson and his wife were natives of Sweden, who lived in that country until the year 1858, when they came to America and landed at Boston, Massachusetts, following a six-weeks voyage across the Atlantic ocean. Peter and Johanna Johnson went to Carver comity. Minnesota, where they lived for three years and then moved to Washington county. Minnesota, living there for four years, after which they went to Dakota comity. Minnesota, a place where they lived for eleven years and then came to Otter Tail comity. Minnesota, locating in section 20. of Compton township, where Peter Johnson took up a homestead of eighty acres ,,f land on which lie lived for the remainder of his days. Peter Johnson was one of the best-known and one of the most useful men of his community, taking an active interest in the development of the county and in the promotion of those things having for their objeel the bettermenl of living conditions. among which was his particular interest and effort in the building of the Swedish Lutheran church in Compton township. Peter Johnson finished his helpful and generous life during the year [899

Swan Johnson, the subjed of this sketch, following his education in the public schools of the state of Minnesota, became a farmer on a farm of eighty acres of land which he received from the estate of his father, laud which at that time being untilled, this sturdy farmer proceeded to cultivate, and in time he added to his holdings until he now owns two hundred and eighty acres of well-improved and highly-cultivated land in Compton and ( )ak Valley townships of ( Itter Tail county.

hundred and forty acres of land in Compton township, a place on which he lived for the remainder of his life. To the marriage of Swan and Beda Johnson were born the following children: Theodore S., Fannie M., Oscar F., Ellen A.. Fred W. and Emma E., the latter being a school teacher of Lancaster, Minnesota. Swan Johnson and his family are members of the Swedish Lutheran church in Wadena, and are respected and esteemed as workers and strong supporters of the denomination.

In business circles Swan Johnson is notably affiliated, being president of the Deer Creek Creamery Company for six years,- previously having been treasurer of the same company. The life of Swan Johnson has been of great value to the community, not only in business, agricultural, and church circles, but in all things for the promotion of the county and township and its various interests and enterprises.

Wilhelm Luhning

Wilhelm Luhning. progressive farmer and leader in agricultural circles of Otter Tail township, this county, was born in Hanover, German v, on May 26, 1879, the son of Henry and Doris (Crans) Luhning, natives of Germany. Henry Luhning, who was the son of Alor. Luhning, a fanner and shoemaker of Germany, received his education in the common schools of his native land, after which he came, in 1890, to America, and joined his son. Wilhelm, who had preceded him by about two years, and who was established as a farmer in Otter Tail township. On reaching Otter Tail county, Henry Luhning purchased three hundred and thirty acres of land in Otter Tail township, where he lived as a farmer, until his death in [914. Doris, the wife of Henry Luhning. is now living in Otter Tail township. Henry and Doris Luhning were the parents of the following children: Fredrick, Carl, August. Catherine. Henry. William and Diedrick. The elder Luhning was a prominent member of the German Lutheran church, a denomination which is actively supported by his family.

Wilhelm Luhning. after his education, which he received in the schools of Germany, came to America, in 18(17, and located at Perham. Minnesota, near where he became a farm employee for two years, and then, his father having arrived, Wilhelm Luhning, together with his father, engaged in general agricultural pursuits, "ii three hundred and thirty-three acres of land which the elder Luhning acquired. On his farm in Otter Tail township Wilhelm Luhning is now successfully engaged in general farming and in stock raising I In- farm of Mr. Luhning is one of the besl improved and most thoroughly equipped of the community, this progressive farmer not only having the besl of buildings, but excellent equipment, among which is a complete threshing outfit, which he uses for his own "-rain.

During the year [906, Wilhelm Luhning was married to Gusta Ohlrogge, a native of Germany, and to this marriage have been horn five children: Louise, Arthur, Ernest, Emma and Henry. Mr. Luhning and his family arc members of the German Lutheran church.

William Luhning has been active in the public life of Otter Tail township, being prominent in all public movements. He has served his township as treasurer for ten years.

Mrs. Emilie Spies

Mrs.' Emilie Spies, of Elizabeth township. Otter Tail county, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, and is a daughter of George and Caroline ( Meyer 1 Koch. She came to America in 1867, with friends, and was united in marriage after her arrival. After the death of her husband, she took over the management of the home place, consisting of one hundred and sixty acres, and is still in charge.

George and Caroline (Meyer) Koch were both horn in Germany. They came to America in [853, locating at Georgetown, Virginia, where Mr Koch followed the brewery business. His wife died in [849, leaving surviving, her husband and three children. Mary, Emilie and (hark"- Mary Koch came to America in 1857. and Emilie came in [867

Emilie Koch was united in marriage on June to, 1N71. at Alexandria, Virginia, with Christian Spies, son of Henry and Anna (Dickupl Spies. Hi- was horn on November 20, 1832, at Dernbach, Germany, coming to America in [867, and landing at Mew York. From there he went to Wash ington, D. C, where he engaged in the brewery business For three years, at the end of which time he went to Duluth, Minnesota, following the same vocation. The next year he returned to Washington for a shorl time, and then came to Otter Tail county and bought the homestead where the subject of thi- sketch now resides, consisting of one hundred and sixty acre-. ["his place was originally entered In Jacob Frey, to whom Mr. Spies paid the purchase price of five hundred and fift\ dollars. IK- put valuable improvements 'in the place \t the time of his death, which occurred on May 2, [896, Mr. Spies owned two hundred acre- of tine agricultural land, lie was an earnesl member "i the Catholic church. A substantia] house was rebuilt in [897, a machine shop, and a granary, which was built three years later.

Mr. and Mrs. Christian Spies were the parents of -even children: ('aniline. Albert, Henry, Emily, Charles, Rose and Frank. Henry Spies was united in marriage with Clara Wedell. and resides in Elizabeth iliis county. The\ have one child, Cyril. Emily Spies became the wife of 1 harles F. fohnson, and is also a residenl of Elizabeth township They have tw'i children. Rose and Caroline. Charles Spies was united in mar- riage with Catherine Sha. and lives in Oscar township. No children have been limn to this marriage. The other children of Christian and Emilie ( Kcch ) Spies are living at home.

Henry Spies, father of Christian Spies, was a native of Germany, as was also his wife, Anna ( Dickup) Spies. He was engaged in the crockery business, and spent his entire life in his native country, with the exception of the last fifteen years, which were spent in Belgium, where he was engaged in the same business. He traveled all over Germany and Belgium in the sale of his wares. Both Mr. and Mrs. Henry Spies were members of the Catholic church. They were the parents of four children: Peter, Christian. Henry and John Adam. Peter, the eldest son, was horn in Holland; Christian and Henry were horn in Germany, and John Adams was a native of Belgium. Peter, Henry and John were the first to come-to America-; Henrv and Christian coming later, at different periods.

Mrs. Emilie Spies is a woman who is sympathetic and loving in her disposition, and is kind and considerate of those in distress. She has manv warm and admiring friends in Elizabeth township, where she is known and respected by all.

Richard Anderson

Born in Carver county. Minnesota, January 9, 1870, Richard Anderson, a well-known fanner of Compton township, this county, is the son of Olaus and Anna Anderson, both of whom were natives of Sweden. Olaus Anderson came to America in 1871, after his marriage, and upon landing in New York City, he moved to Carver county, Minnesota. Seven months later he was joined by his wife and children, and there rented land for seven years, when they came to Compton township. Otter Tail county. Here thev homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres in section 20, Compton township, and here Olaus Anderson lived until his death. He was a member of the Lutheran church and had been a fanner in his native country.

There were born to Olaus and Anna Anderson eight children: Mary, Alfred, Beda, Augusta. August, Ida. Richard and John. Of these children. Mary resides at Grantsburg, in Burnett county, Wisconsin. John lives at Wadena, Minnesota. August is deceased, The remainder of the children live m ( )tter Tail county.

When the family settled m Otter Tail county their homestead farm was all wild land, but il has been cleared of its timber The Anderson home farm included, al the time of Mr. Anderson's death, two hundred and forty aires, which had been very greatly improved.

in section ,}_'. of Compton township, and has owned this farm for the past thirteen years. There are, however, no buildings on the farm. With Mr. Anderson are his sister. Augusta, and his mother, and they all live togethei on the home place Mr. Anderson lias made a very great success in raising Polled Angus cattle The Anderson family are all members of the Lutheran church and take an active interest in religious matters in their home community.

Peter G. Laugen

Peter G. Laugen, farmer, Elizabeth township. Otter Tail county, was horn on October t8, 1852, in Wisconsin, and is a -on of Gullick Laugen Mi- early education was received at the public schools of Rushford, Fillmore county, Minnesota, after which he attended high school for tin' and then began the vocation of an agriculturist, in which he has continued to prosper from the start. In 1889. Mr. Laugen bought one hundred and fifty-three and one-half acres, to which he afterward added forty acres more This property is located three miles north of Elizabeth, where he follow- general farming. He has put all the improvements on the place. including a substantial house and barn. Politically, he has always given his support to the Republican party, in the politics of which he has taken an active local interest, having served as assessor for one term and township supervisor for sixteen years. He has been school clerk of the district since was originated in 1892. Religiously, Mr. Laugen belongs to the Lutheran church at Elizabeth, Minnesota.

Gullick Laugen, father of the subject of this sketch, was horn in Norway, and received his education there, but he acquired a thorough knowledge of the language and customs of this country. Politically, he was a stanch Republican, and was at one time representative for Fillmore county. Mis eyesight became impaired, and he was obliged to discontinue his political life. Religiously, hi- was a member of the Lutheran church. lie was united in marriage with Rachnild Hasbrud, also a native of Norway. They cam< to America in 1845. going directly to Rock county, Wisconsin, where they lived for alxml fourteen years, at the cud of which tunc they moved id Fillmore county, Minnesota, spending their last days al La Crosse, where VIr Laugen suddenlj dropped dead in February, 1878, at which time he was a mail agenl lie made several business changes during his life and had acquired two hundred acres of valuable land, which was located al Mew burg. His wife died in November, [894,

The paternal grandfather is supposed 1. 1 have been 1 He Laugen, a farmer in Norway, where he lived and died, and was a member -<( the Lutheran church. \fter hi- death, hi- widow came 1.1 America, bringing with her their sun, Ole. The children horn to this union were: Ole, Ole, Gunder, Anna, Gullick and Holver, all of whom, with the exception of Holvcr. came to America at a later date.

Pete C. Laugen was united in marriage on September I, 1883, with Kate Sletvold, who was hum in Norway. This marriage has been blest with ten children: Mary, John, Inga, Oscar, Peter, Anna, George. Alice. Clarence and Florence. Alary Laugen became the wife of Oscar Norgren, and lives in Elizabeth township.

Mr. Laugen is a modest, unassuming man. and holds a high place among the enterprising men of his county, where his honesty is above question, and where his genuine personal worth is thoroughly appreciated.

Oscar Tohnson

The subject of the following sketch has been a resident here for almost sixty years, his financial achievement being sufficient answer or explanation of his appreciation of his adopted home. His splendid tract of over two hundred acres is considered one of the most valuable farms in Otter Tail count}-. He has always been a thrifty, saving man, and can now reap the benefit of his agricultural efforts.

Oscar Johnson, farmer, Elizabeth township, Fergus Falls, Otter Tail county, was horn on December 1. 184J, in Sweden, and is a son of John Johnson and his wife. Marie M. Johnson. He was educated in his native country, and came to America in 1868, landing at New York City, from where he went direct to Michigan and was employed in an iron mine in Marquette county until 1870, and a few years later went to the gold fields of the West. In 1881, he came to Minnesota, settling in Otter Tail county, where he bought his present farm, consisting of two hundred and forty acres. Politically. Mr. Johnson has long been a stanch Republican, while in religion, both he and his wife are members of the Swedish Lutheran church, taking a great interest in the work.

John Johnson, father of the subject of this sketch, was horn in Sweden, as was also his wife. Marie M. (Johnson) Johnson, between whom there was no blood kinship. Mr. Johnson was a trained soldier in his native land, but never participated in battle. He was a great church man. and took an active interest in the work of the Lutheran church. His death occurred in [849. The children born to this union were: John. Peter. Oscar. Frank, Gusta, Elizabeth and Sara.

Oscar Johnson was united in marriage on November 26, [882, with Carrie Jenson, daughter of Amen Jenson, of Norway. The children born to this union are as follow: Charles, William, Clara, Ella, Susan, Edwin, Clarence and [nga; only two of whom are married. William, who was mar- ried to Laura Gabriel, and lives in Otter Tail county, and Clara, who became the wife of John Jacobson, and is also a resident of this county.

Mr. Johnson lives quietlj on his home place near Fergus Falls, where he lias done his pari as one of the substantial men, and where he has added his pro rata amount of wealth to the community.

Jens Torgerson, a prosperous farmer and well-known citizen of Tordenskjold township. ( Hter Tail county. Minnesota, was horn at Sopnes, near Talvake. Norway, July iN. 1S57, and is the son of Michael and Kari (Thompson) Torgerson.

Michael Torgerson was horn at Raroaas, Norway, and his wife at Taplnl'l. near Talvake, Norway, the former in 1815 and the latter aboul [825. They were married in Norway and lived near Sopnes, where, for twentyfive years. Michael Torgerson taught school. After the death of hi-- wife, m April. r866, Michael Torgerson came to America with his family. The voyage to America was made on a steamship and. on their arrival in America. the family spent one winter in Winneshiek comity. Iowa. \fter moving to St. Paul, Minnesota. Michael Torgerson left three daughters in that city. and, with three sons and two daughters, came to Otter Tail county. The journey from St. Paul to St. (loud was made by rail and from St. ("loud to Otter Tail county by wagon. Upon arriving in Otter Tail county. Mr. Torgerson homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land in Tordenskjold township on the west shores of Stalker lake. \ cabin built on the shore of the lake was destroyed by lire in [870. For some tune Mr. Torgerson had no horses and only two cows. Subsequently, he built another log house on a hill just north of the first and there lived until late :n life, when Inbuilt a little house near the home of hi- son. Jens. He died there in iSoN.

\fter coming to (titer Tail county, Michael Torgerson was married, secondly, to Ellen Eialdorson. lie taught school lure for some years and. for some time, -ant: in the choir of bis church, lie was a prominenl member of the Synod Lutheran church. Of his twelve children, four died earl) in life in Norway; Sabine married Robert ECarsman and. having returned to Sweden, live- in Stockholm: Magdalena married Thomas Dwyer and live- in Minneapolis; John S is a well-known farmer of Tordenskjold town ship; I. en. 1 married \ndrew Burg and lives in Grand Island, \> Dora is thi oi Knut Foss and lives in Butte, Montana; Jen- is the subject of tin- sketch; fieri lives at Temple. North Dakota, where he is a farmer: Bolletta married Samuel llu-chv and live- in Fergus Falls.

to this country at the age of ten or twelve years. He attended the common schools of towa and Minnesota and assisted his father on the farm until 1883, when he went to Thirteen Towns and homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land in Polk county, .Minnesota. After two years he moved to Grant county and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of "tree claim"' land, which his father had taken as a "tree claim" for his son, before he had reached his majority. After owning that farm for some years and living there during the summers, Mr. Torgerson sold out and settled permanently on the old homestead in Tordenskjold township, which he has now owned for some years. He has a thoroughly modern house which is well furnished, a magnificent barn and a large silo made of cement blocks. Mr. Torgerson is an extensive breeder of Percheron horses and owns a third interest in two very fine stallions. He is also a breeder of Shorthorn cattle and Chester White hogs. At the present time, he keeps about twenty or thirty head of cattle and some fifty or sixty head of hogs.

On November 17, [890, Jens Torgerson was married to Josephine Johnson, who is a native of St. Olaf township, where she was born 011 November 3, 1871. She is the daughter of Knut and Anna (Olson) Johnson, who immigrated from Norway to America, prior to the Civil War. Mr. and Mis. Torgerson have been the parents of nine children, namely: Clifford, who lives at home, was educated in the agricultural department of the University of Minnesota; Ada. who died at the age of nineteen months; Ada, who is a graduate of the State Normal School at Moorhead and has been a teacher for three years; Leonora, who was educated in the Park Region Lutheran College and in the agricultural department of the University of Minnesota; May, Raymond, Webster, who live at home; the eighth child died unnamed, and William Cordon, who died in infancy.

Mrs. Josephine (Johnson) Torgerson is a sister of Edward K. Johnson, a successful farmer and business man of Tordenskjold township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota. Mr. Johnson was born on February 3. 1877. The paternal grandparents of Mrs. Torgerson and Kdward EC Johnson were John and Walburg Evenson, who lived at Stavanger, Norway, before the} immigrated to America. After coming to this country, they settled in Fillmore county, where the grandfather engaged in farming. Later he moved td St. Olaf township. Otter Tail county, during the early seventies ami took up a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres. He died about 1 878 and his wife survived him several years, passing away about [886. They were the parents of nine children, two of whom are now living in Otter Tail county. Mrs. Torgerson's father is one of the living children in this county and \ndrew, a resident of Fergus Falls, is the other. The maternal grand parents of Mrs. Torgerson and Mr. Johnson were ( )le and Martha | ('hinder- son) Torson, who spent their entire lives on a farm near Stavanger, Norway. They were the parents of nine children. Sigrid, who married ( He Vidvay and died in Norway; Joran, who married and dfed in Norway; Anna, who is the mother of Mrs Torgerson and Mr. Johnson; Hilga, who married Paul Knutson and died in Iowa; Thore, who is a fanner in Norway; Martha, who married Bjelst Rowalson and lives 111 Iowa; Annie, who died unmarried in Norway; Olena, who married Joseph Kjordal and lives in Norway; Guilder, who is a farmer and lives in Norway.

3, 1846, and the mother, Annie Oleson, October 5. (836. She came to America alone about [866 and lived in Fillmore county, Minnesota. Knut Johnson was broughl to America in 1860 and settled in Fillmore county, Minnesota, where he was married. \.bou1 [869 he ami hi- wife moved to Otter Tail county and settled in St. Olaf township, where the) took up a homestead and lived until 1893. At that time they moved to (irant county, where they lived until [909. At this time they moved to < Itter Tail county and have since lived retired in rordenskjold township. The father has been active in local politics and is identified with the Prohibition party. In 1864 Knut Ibhnson enlisted in Company B, First Regiment, Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the Civil War.

To the marriage of Knut Johnson and Annie Oleson there were born five children, of whom John died at the age of fourteen; Qlena married |olm Holt and lives in ("irant county. Minnesota: Josephine married Jens Torgerson, the subject of this sketch: Cena, who died at the age of seven; and Edward K.

Edward K. Johnson was educated in the public schools of St. olaf township and reared on a farm. Me began farming for himself in Grant county. Later he purchased two hundred and eighty acres and lived there until the fall of i'i<«j. when he sold out and moved to Otter fail county. Here Mr. Johnson purchased one hundred and sixty acres in Tordenskjold township, lie has since remodeled his house, erected .1 modern barn and buill a silo, lie b a general farmer and stockman. Mr. Johnson 1- .1 stockholder in the .Mutual Telephone Company and in the Mutual Insurance < '1 impany.

In [903 Edward K. Johnson was married to Gena Hoff, a native of (»Uer Tail county, Minnesota, the daughter of John I'. Hoff, an old settler of tin- county. The) have been the parents of four children. Margaret. Kenneth. Elmer and I [albert.

Mr. Johnson i- independent in politic-; and ha- filled various school Bi th I- 11 d In- wife and family are members of the free Lutheran church.

Dominic J. Esterman

Dominic J. Esterman, a native of Switzerland, was born in the canton of Freyburg, September 6. 1S7.1. and is the son of Eberhard and Veronica ( Hochstetter ) Esterman.

Eberhard Esterman was born in the Canton of Lucerne, and his wife, who was of French descent, was born near the boundary line. There they were married and he pursued the occupation of farming', being a landowner. He died in 1876, and his widow afterward married a Mr. Webber and lived until 1912. when she passed away while living in Switzerland. Her father had served the customary time in the army of his country. Both Mr and Mrs. Esterman were members of the Roman Catholic church. Three children were horn to them, the first horn being Eberhard, who after coming to America, returned to his native country and farms there today. Alois, the second child, grew up and became a farmer in Switzerland and is deceased. Dominie, the subject of this article, is the youngest born of this union. After her marriage to Mr Webber, their mother had three sons who have remained in Switzerland.

Mr. Esterman had more than the average education for after his public school course he attended the high school for one term. He followed the example of his father in regard to occupation and in 1892. when eighteen years of age, started out alone for the shores of America. Having friends in Martin county, Minnesota, he moved directly to that locality and began working on a farm In kjoo, he bought a farm in Kennebec county, but never lived there. Making his home in Martin county until 1008, in that vear he began a residence in Todd county which lasted for two years. He then became interested in land across the line in Otter Tail county and here he moved on one hundred and twenty acres, in sections t and 12. in Woodside township, which he purchased. As this land was unimproved, he immediately began to clear and cultivate it and to build the necessary structures for farm work. Here he has lived ever1 since and besides general fanning has been a successful breeder of full-blooded Duroc-Jersev hogs.

In 11103 D. J. Esterman and Mary Sahli were married, she being a native of Todd county, and daughter of Samuel Sahli. one of the old settlers. >.\ho is still living in that county. The children born to them are, Florence, Emma, Elsie and Maurice.

Mr. Esterman has long had the confidence of the community in which lie lives as evidenced by the fact 1 ll.it he has served ill the capacity of school clerk, lie is an independent voter. In the struggles and privations of the earl) vears, Mrs. Esterman has ably and unselfishly co-operated with her husband in his work and ambitions. She is active in her church membership and both she and her husband belong to the United Brethren church.