Otter Tail County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1916 (part 18 of 28)

After receiving a meager education in the public schools of his native land. John Hanson, at the age of sixteen years, came to America with his parents. He settled with them in Meeker county. Minnesota, bul moved to a homestead in section (1, Leaf Lake township and lived there live years. This tract he sold later on. Mr. Hanson first purchased forty acres, in 1888. in section 2^. of Leaf Lake township, hut has added to the original farm until he now owns live hundred and fifty-one acres of land. In 1 1 > 1 _- his house burned and a little later in the same year the house was rebuilt. In [897 Mr. Hanson built a commodious barn. lie raises a great manv Durham cattle and red Duroc-Jersey hogs and keeps altogether aboul one hundred head. For twenty years, Mr. Hanson has been engaged in the live-stock shipping business. He has shipped to all of the nearby markets.

including St. Paul and Chicago. For twelve years Mr. Hanson was in the grain business at Henning and. during five years of the time, operated the

In July, 1882, John Hanson was married to Mattie Olson, who was born m Norway, and to them have been horn ten children: Helen, Minnie, Tena. Alice. Henry. William. John, Mable, Lillian and Orvy. Three of these children died young.

Although not a member of the Lutheran church, .Mr. Hanson has always been a warm and ardent supporter of this denomination and contributes liberally to its support locally. Before moving to Henning. Minnesota, he served as chairman of the township for two years and also served as supervisor of the township for three vears.

Thomas Strand

Thomas Strand, who is a prosperous farmer of Inman township, this county, is a native of Olmsted county, Minnesota, born there on August [865.

.Mr. Strand is the son id" Thomas O. and Betsey (Ashland) Strand, both of whom were natives of Norway. Mr. Strand's father was born in Xorwav in 1S24 and his mother in the same country in 1829. In i860 they immigrated to America and settled in the state of Illinois. Five years later they moved to Olmsted county, Minnesota, and, after living in Olmsted county for about three years, in 1868, moved to Freeborn county and purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land, where they lived until [882. The family then moved to South Dakota, where Mr. Strand's father died in [889. His mother is still living and resides at Howard, South Dakota, with a daughter, Mrs. Jens Jensen.

Mr. Strand's parents, Thomas 0. and Betsey (Ashland) Strand, had a family of eight children, two of whom died in infancy. The six living children are: < >le, who lives with Thomas, the subject of this sketch; John, who is an abstractor at Howard, South Dakota; Knute. who is an abstractor at ("lark. South Dakota: Thomas, who is the subject of this sketch: fngeborg, who is now Mrs. lens Jensen, of Howard: Anna, who is now Mrs George Jensen, of Howard. [ngeborg and Anna married brothers, who operate a general store at Howard. South Dakota, under the name of Jensen Brothers.

Thomas Strand was reared on a farm and was educated principally in I reeborn county, Minnesota, lb' also attended school for some time in South Dakota At one time lie owned land in South Dakota and. in partnership with bis brothers. ( )le and John, operated a general store at Carthage. South Dakota. His land holdings in South Dakota amounted, at one time.

to three hundred and twenty acres. In 10.11 Mr. Strand came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 27, of Innian township. He is a general farmer and stockman.

In 1902 Thomas Strand was married in South Dakota to Jennie Gutterson, who was born in Iowa and who is the daughter of Ole (Jutterson, a soldier in the Civil War, who now lives at Carthage, South Dakota. Mr. Gutterson came to the United States from Norway in 1857. He was horn in 1 84 1 and his wife. Betsey Gutterson, was horn in 1N44. Both are now living and have been married forty-nine years.

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Strand have three children, Thalma, Bernice and Edward, all of win mi are living at home with their parents on the Innian township farm.

Samuel N. Brooks

Samuel X. Brooks, well-known and successful salesman of Richville, this county, was horn at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. August 22, 1868, the son of Gilbert and Frances (. Visit) Brooks, both of whom were natives of New York state, the former horn on February 22. 1822, and the latter in the year 1821). About the year 1856, Gilbert Brooks and his family moved to Xeenah, Wisconsin, and later to Oshkosh, and then to the state of North Dakota, after which they made their home with their son, Andrew C. Frances, the wife of Gilbert Brooks, died in the year 1907. Gilbert Brooks for more than thirty years was a lumberman by occupation, a line of work which he followed until the time of bis retirement. Gilbert and Frances Brooks were the parents of eight children: William, Evelyn (deceased). Mattie, Nellie, Jennie, \ndrew (".. Samuel X. and Mary.

Samuel X Brooks was educated in the public schools of Oshkosh. Wisconsin, after which, in the year r886, he went to the state of North Dakota and six years later homesteaded one hundred and sixtv acres of land and also took up a "tree claim" of one hundred and sixty acres. Until the year 1004. Mr. Brooks lived on his land in North Dakota and then he came to Richville, where he engaged in the mercantile business, as a member of the firm of Prentice & Brooks, for about four years. Afterward. Samuel N. Brooks traded one hundred and sixty acres of his land in Rush Lake township for land in North Dakota, which land he rents, and now Mr. Brooks has a farm in North Dakota and a home in Richville. where he lives as the representative of the Rose Hill Nursery Company, of Minneapolis, Min-

F. and Sarah (Birch) Prentice-, both of whome were natives of Canada. Adam l\ Prentice died 111 the state id' North Dakota, where he went from Canada, hi- death occurring in the year 1005. His widow, Sarah, died on February 10. 1015 Samuel X. and Deborah Brooks are the parents of the following children: Maud, who was educated at Northwestern College, of Fergus Falls, and who is now the wife of FJmer ( 'hristensen, butter manufacturer of Stew art ville, Minnesota; Vernon, who was educated at Park Region Lutheran College, now assistant butter maker of Stewartville. Minnesota; Gilbert, educated at Perham high school, and who is now assistant cashier of the Farmers State Bank, of Richville, Minnesota.

Julius F. Schwantz

Julius E. Schwantz. a general farmer and stock raiser, came from Germany, having been born there on March 22, 1855, n's parents being ( harles and Caroline (Schwantz) Schwantz.

Mr. and Mrs. Schwantz were born, grew up and married in Germany. w here < harles was a successful farmer and landowner, until his emigration to America, in 1855 or 1856. lie came directly to Wisconsin, where he bought a farm near Portage City, the land having thirteen acres already cultivated, and on which was a log house. Both the land and the buildings were improved by Mr. Schwantz. who with his family lived there until iqoo. He then sold out and went to live near Barabee, Wisconsin, living a retired life at the home of his son. He died in 1912, at the age of eightytwo years and nine months, his wife having passed away two years previously, aged seventy-nine years. Both were members of the Lutheran church. Their four children are: Charles, a farmer of Effington township; Julius E., the subject of this sketch; Albert, who died in [895, and William, a resident of Sac county, Wisconsin.

Julius P. Schwantz attended school in a log school house, in what was known as Dog Hollow, near Portage City, Wisconsin. He was brought up on his father's farm, where he learned the secrets of agriculture. By the year t^To he had saved up sufficient means to buy eighty acres in this count}', the land being located in section 0. Woodside township; about twelve acres of this farm had been broken. The log buildings on the place were soon supplanted by modern buildings, and so successful was their owner, that by the year iqoo he added to his holdings by the purchase of one hundred and sixty acres, located across the road in the northwest quarter of section ro. This property had been improved by an old settler of Wisconsin. The new owner removed the log structures which he found and converted the entire land into a place for general fanning and stock

The ceremony which united in marriage Mr. Schwantz and Rose Jacobson, a native of Boskebel, Wisconsin, took place in 1SS1. A large and interesting family was horn to Mr. and Mrs. Schwantz, as follow: Nettie, a former school teacher, is living on a claim in Montana; Edward, a farmer, lives in Big Sandy, Montana; Ida is Mrs. Herbert South, a resident of North Dakota; Bert, when last heard from, was a resident of Detroit, Minnesota; Mabel is Mrs. Arthur Hendershot, of Woodside township: Charles resides at Beach. North Dakota: Carrie and Willie reside at home. The others are Roy and Frank.

Mr. Schwantz, besides his other activities, was secretary of the Wrightstown Telephone Company in 1914, and is now president of the company. For twenty-five years Mr. Schwantz has felt a keen personal interest 111 the education of the boys and girls of Parkers Prairie and, in fact, of the whole township. Much of the present high standing of the schools of this township is due to his foresight and conscientious effort. lie was for twenty-five years school director in Woodside township. Other public offices held by him were constable and assessor of Effington township, a position which he held for two years. Mr. Schwantz has made his life eminently useful, and has been of distinct service in his own corner of the earth. Tlis many friendships, as well as those of his capable wife, are evidence of his success in making his influence for good felt.

Olaf Ronningen

Olaf Ronningen was born on January 29, [873, in Michigan, and is the son of Ole S. and Margaret (Andrew) Ronningen. both natives of Norway. Ole S. Ronningen was a carpenter and mason by trade, and followed this vocation previous to his emigration to America. His marriage was solemnized while he was still a resident of Norway and he and his wife emigrated to the United States in 1875, making a temporary sojourn in Michigan, and thence removing to Eagle Lake township. Otter Tail county. Minnesota. Here they secured eighty acres of land, under the homestead law, on which they continued to reside for a period of twenty years. Disposing of this property, they purchased a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in St. Olaf township, this county, where Ole S. Ronningen engaged in general farming and also followed his trade as carpenter and mason. Margaret 1 \11drew 1 Ronningen died in [883, and. some time later, her husband married Saavc Langlee. Eight children were horn to the first union of Ole S. Ronningen. and their names are: Olaf. Mary, Ole. Gustav fdeceased). \ndrew, \nna. Olaiv ( deceased), and Gena (deceased). Ole

Olaf Ronningen received his education in the common schools of Olaf township, this county, and, as a young man, was employed as a farm hand near his home. For the past nine years he has cultivated the home place on an independent basis, and is engaged in general farming and stock raising. Ue has made many improvements and is interested in developing the farm to the fullest extent. Ue is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church, and is an independent voter. He resides on the home place, which 1- shared by his stepmother, Saave (Langlee) Ronningen.

Among the medical and surgical specialists of the state of Minnesota, who rank high with the public and especially in the medical profession, is Dr. J. A. Freeborn, of Fergus Falls, who is well and favorably known throughout the Northwest as an eye and ear specialist.

J. A. Freeborn was horn in 1804 in Waterloo county, Canada. His father was of Scotch-Irish descent and the greater part of his life was devoted to farming. Doctor Freeborn's mother was also of Scotch descent, her name having been Mary Scott.

The fourth child of a large family, J. A. Freeborn was reared on the farm and educated in the country schools and at the Stratford high school, from which he was graduated in 1881. Afterwards he entered a drug store at Stratford as a clerk and later accepted a like position in London, Canada. In 1884 he removed to Big Stone City, South Dakota, where he opened a drug store on his own account anil where he continued in business for two years.

In the tall of [886 Doctor Freeborn entered the Rush Medical College, at ( Chicago, from which he was graduated in 1889. The same year he began the practice of medicine at Ortonville, Minnesota, where he practiced until the fall of 1891. He then entered Bellevue hospital and the Medical College of Xew York City and received his degree from that institution in [892. Upon his return to Ortonville, he practiced medicine until 1896. when he came to Fergus balls, where he has since practiced his profession with eminent success. While studying medicine in Chicago ami Xew York, Doctor Freeborn specialized in diseases of the eye. ear. nose and throat, and further specialized along this line as well as in X-Ray work while in Europe, during the winter of [9] i-u.

In 1 Si) 1 Doctor Freeborn was married to Lillian Anderson, a native of Rochester, Minnesota, and the daughter of Dr. O. W. Anderson, of that city. Mr-. Freeborn was a graduate of the Rochester high school and of the

Winona Normal School. She taught school in Ortonville before her marriage. Mrs. Freeborn died at her home in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, March 8, [915, leaving three daughters. Gertrude L., Francis M. and Constance M., who are at home with their father.

It may be said of Doctor Freeborn that not only does he rank high as a physician and specialist and not only does he command the unbounded esteem of his fellow practitioners in Fergus Falls, Otter Tail county, but he also stands high as a citizen and as a man of worth. He is interested in the progress and development of the city where he lives and with which he cast his lot many years ago. Doctor Freeborn's three daughters are popular in the social life of Fergus Falls.

Nfls Bengtson

One of the prosperous fanners and successful business men of Clitherall township, ( )tter Tail county, Minnesota, is Xels Bengtson, who deserves a high rank among the worthy citizen of his township and county.

Mr. Bengtson was born at Skane, Sweden, September 3, 1S65, and is a son of Bengt Nelson and Bengta Nelson, both of whom were natives of Sweden, where they grew up and were married. Mr. Bengtson's mother died at his birth, and his father later married Johanna Monsen, who, with one son, came to America in 1868. They settled in Sibley county, Minnesota, where the father still resides, at the age of eighty-five years. His second wife is also still living. He is a prosperous farmer and landowner, and both he and his wife are earnest and devoted members of the Augustana Synod of the Lutheran church. Mr. Bengtson was the only child of his father's first marriage, but to his second marriage there were born seven children, as follow : John, who died at the age of eighteen ; Matilda, unmarried, living at home with her parents; Emil, a farmer living in Sibley county. Minnesota: Martin, also a farmer in Sibley county; Annette, who died early in life; Esther and Mary, who live at home with their parents.

Xels Bengtson was reared by a relative in his native land, and educated in the public schools of Sweden. When he was old enough he engaged in farming, but in 1883. emigrated to America, and after landing in New York came to his father's home in Sibley county, Minnesota. He worked for a time in Nicollet county, this state, but in 1884, Mr. Bengtson moved to ( >tter Tail county, where, for a time, he worked on various farms. In [893 he purchased one hundred and fifty acres of land in sections 32 and 33, Clitherall township, where he lived until IQ04, when he purchase.] fifty acre^ of additional land on the north of the first farm. This farm had (41b) good buildings on it. so that -Mr. Bengtson immediately moved to the second farm, and here he has lived since. He raises a great deal of live stock, and is engaged in mixed farming. Shortly after purchasing this farm he set out a young orchard, and has improved the place in various ways. Formerly, Mr. Bengtson was a director in the Farmers Co-operative Elevator Company, but is not now serving in this capacity.

In [905 Xels Bengtson was married to Jennie Johnson, a native of Sweden, who is a daughter of Swell Johnson, who is still living in Sweden. Mr. and Mrs. Bengtson are the parents of seven children: One, who died in infancy, unnamed; Elmer, who died in infancy; Edith, also deceased; Herbert, Willie. Edith and John Edward.

Mr. and Mrs. Bengtson are members of the Swedish Lutheran church. in which they are actively interested. Air. Bengtson is independent in politics. He served for ten years as assessor of his home township, and was road supervisor for two years, discharging the duties of both positions in a most capable manner.

Kleber B. Wilkinson

Kleber 11. Wilkinson, a successful farmer of Leaf Lake township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is the son of Ralph and Elizabeth (Townsend) Wilkinson, the former of whom was born at Valparaiso, Indiana, and died in (liter Tail county, August 2. iqoo, and the latter born in Vermont and died here on June 30, T807. The late Ralph Wilkinson was a farmer b\ occupation in Leaf Lake township. Otter Tail county, but, late in life. moved to Oregon, where his wife died. He then returned to Otter Tail county and died here about sixteen years ago.

To Ralph and Elizabeth (Townsend) Wilkinson were born eleven children, all of whom are living: Kleber, Volney, Electa. Jennie. Archie. Robert, les^e, Irvin, Anna. Harley and Mabel.

K. I'.. Wilkinson lived at home on his father's farm until November 16, 1892, when he was married to Mrs. P. F. Dibb, the widow of P. F. Dibb, of Leaf Lake township. Mrs. Wilkinson's maiden name was Mary Taylor. After her marriage to the late P. F. Dibb, she lived in Sibley county for six years, where they rented land. Later they homesteaded one hundred and sixtv acres in section 26, Leaf Lake township. Otter Tail county, and it was here that Mr. Dibb died 011 September jo. [888. By this marriage there was born one child. Lura J., who married Oscar Petersun, of Hillsboro, North Dakota, lura J. taught schol for seven years in (liter Tail county. The late P. F. Dibb was constable of Leaf Lake township and was active in local affairs during his life.

three children to rear, Althena Hemby, Clarence Gribbon and Nordeen Nelson. All of these children live with Mr. and Mrs. Wilkinson at the present time.

Mrs. Wilkinson owns eighty acres of land and her daughter. Mrs Oscar Peterson, also owns eighty acres in this township. Their home was built in 1897 and the' barn at the same time.

Mr. Wilkinson is a farmer by occupation and a carpenter. For the past two years he has been foreman of the Monarch Elevator Company. He is a highly respected man and citizen and is popular in this community.

Henry Plowman

Henry Plowman, farmer, stock raiser, war veteran - and prominent not only in local official life, but in the affairs of the state as one serving in the Minnesota Legislature, where he made an honored record - was born in Canada, about sixty miles east of the city of Quebec, on July 15, 1836, a son of William and Margaret ( Manley) Plowman, natives of Ireland, the former born near Dublin, the latter in County Wexford. William Plowman, about the year 1828, came to America and located in Canada, where he lived until 1857 and then moved to LeSueur county, Minnesota, where he lived for the remainder of his days. William and Margaret Plowman were the parents of eleven children, three sons and eight daughters. Mr. and Mrs. Plowman were active members of the Episcopal church, in which they were devout worshippers.

Henry Plowman received his education in the common schools of Canada, after which he worked as a farmer for some time and then, in 1856, when twenty-one years of age, one year before his parents came to the United States and located in LeSueur county. Minnesota. There Henry Plowman bought one hundred and sixty acres of government land, paying for it the sum of one dollar and twenty-five cents per acre, and became a farmer, in which line of activity he was engaged for more than ten years.

About 1878 Mr. Plowman disposed of his land in LeSueur county, Minnesota, and came to Otter Tail county, locating in Hobart township. where he homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of unimproved land, and in order to reach the place he found it necessary to cut a road through the uncleared land. On his newly-acquired land Mr. Plowman built the necessary buildings, cleared the land by his own efforts and has since lived on this place as one of the community's most successful farmers and Mockraisers, he now owning two hundred and eighty acres of land, all of which is in a high state of cultivation.

Minnesota Cavalry, and for the following year was engaged in the Indian campaigns as a part of the command of General Sibley. After the lir-i Indian campaigns Henry Plowman re-enlisted with the Second Minnesota Cavalry, and with General Sulley was engaged in the battle of Big Hills, as well as having participated in various other engagements under the command of that officer. Mr. Plowman served as a soldier until December, 1865, when he was honorably discharged, after which he returned to the more peaceful pursuits of agriculture.

Henry Plowman was married in 1866 to Frances Smedley, a native of < )hio, and to this marriage were born two children, Alice and Herbert Henry. Mr. Plowman was married, secondly, in 1877, to Etta Seal, who was born in LeSueur county, Minnesota, and to this marriage have been born fi\e children: Grace, May, Frances, Margaret and John. Mr. Plowman is a member of the Episcopal church, and Mrs. Plowman is affiliated with the ( Christian church.

\< one taking a leading place in the public and official life of his township, county and of the state of Minnesota, Mr. Plowman has a most honorable and able record for efficiency and for his unselfish devotion to the interests of his constituents. While a citizen of LeSueur county Mr. Plowman served as county commissioner and was active in the official life of his township. The official career of Henry Plowman in LeSueur and Otter Tail counties has included all of the township offices, all of which he has occupied with honor to himself and to his community. Mr. Plowman is probably best known for his record and his service as a member of the Minnesota state Legislature, in which this worthy citizen occupied a seat in the House of Representatives for six years, and served one year as sergeant-at-arms. As a member of the state Legislature Henry Plowman was returned on two occasions, in all serving three terms as a member of the Populist party. Mr. Plowman is now independent of political party.

Sheldon M. Rector

Of those citizens who have done, and are doing, great things in the interest of Otter Tail county, and more especially for the benefit of Deer Creek, Minnesota, few are doing more than Sheldon M. Rector, who as the editor and publisher of the Deer Creek Mirror, is not only influencing public opinion, as directed by the most approved and enlightened thought, but is engaged in the pursuit of business enterprise, in order that the town and community may be even more thriving and that the community may find a convenient and suitable market for its produce.

22, 1870, the son of William B. Rector, who was born in New York state, on October 2, 1S44, and of Mary (Miles) Rector, who was born on March 5, [845, in New York state. William B. Rector was the son of Charles Rector, who was directly descended from the original Mohawk Valley Dutch, and who was a grandson of a soldier of the American Revolutionary War. Charles Rector was a farmer in New York state, where he lived until the year 1850. and then went to the state of Wisconsin, where he bought a farm in Dodge county. Here he spent the remainder of his days, and here William Rector, father of the subject of this sketch, lived until the outbreak of the Civil War, when he enlisted in the Twenty-ninth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, serving with that regiment for alxxit eight months, and then was discharged as a result of inability, caused by sickness acquired while on duty. Following his service in the Civil War, William Rector returned to the state of Wisconsin, where he lived until the year 1876. at that time coming to the state of Minnesota, locating about six miles west of LeSeuer. In 1881 he moved to Leaf Lake township, where he bought eighty acres of land from C. J. Wright. On this place William Rector and his wife lived, until retired from the farm, when they moved to the town of Henning, Minnesota, where they now live. William and Mary Rector are the parents of seven children, Sheldon M., Maud, Minnie, who died at the age of eighteen years; Arictor C, Fred C, Mattie and Marie. In politics, Mr. Rector is a Democrat.

Sheldon M. Rector, the subject of this sketch, received his education in the common schools of Otter Tail county, after which he taught school for ten years. During two years of his time as a school teacher, he was principal of the school at Deer Creek: one year a teacher in the schools of Parkers Prairie, and .the remainder of his teaching period was spent in the country schools of the county. Tn iqo8 Mr. Rector came to Deer Creek, after some years as a grain buyer at Bluff ton, Minnesota, for the Andrews Grain Company, and on August 14, of that year, he purchased the Deer Creek Mirror, a local paper which at the time that he took possession, he found to be in a poor condition. With some effort, Mr. Rector was able to revive the paper, until be now has one of the best edited and best managed of the smaller papers in the state. In addition to his duties as a publisher, Mr. Rector engages in the buying of grain for bis brother. F. C. Rector, who is the proprietor of an elevator located at Deer Creek

On November 20. 1890, Sheldon M. Rector was married to Mary Kruger, who was horn in Reaver Dam. Wisconsin, and to this marriage have been born the following children: Morna. who was born on "September r6, [Q03; Marsderi, Tub- 4. too;: and TTna. February \^, [910 Mr,

In public and political circles, S. M. Rector has taken a prominent place, both as an occupant of public office and as a citizen, supporting all movements for general welfare and public good. Mr. Rector is now president of the school board, an office which he has occupied for two years, and in the past he served his community as president of the village council and also as justice of the peace. The efforts and achievements of Mr. Rector are important factors in the life of Deer Creek and the community, and, with his family, Mr. Rector will long be recognized as among those people without whom the county and township would be less advanced and less progressive.

John B. Hompe

Few men of Otter Tail county, Minnesota, have reached such heights in various lines of endeavor and in public life as has John B. Hompe, who is an extensive landowner, enterprising merchant, honored representative of the people in high office, and a veteran of the Civil War.

John B. Hompe was born in Amsterdam, Holland, on February 4. 1X40. the son of Anthony P. and Alida (Wyrnan) Hompe. Mis father was horn on March u, 1823, and his mother on August 29, iS_'J, both being natives of Holland, in which country Anthony Hompe followed his trade as a cabinet-maker until the year 184a. when, with his family, he came to America and after landing at New York City, he went to the town of Auburn, New York, where he followed his trade for seven years and then moved to Oswego county. New York, where he bought a farm, on which place he lived until the year [911, when he died. Anthony and Alida Hompe were the parents of five children. John B., Alida, Mary. Anna and William; the latter died when he was twenty-two years of age.

John B. Hompe received his education in the common schools of New York state and in the Falley Seminary, New York, after which he enlisted as a volunteer for service with the One Hundred and Forty-seventh New York Infantry, with which lie served for three years and during which time he was slightly wounded a number of times. Following his discharge from service in the Civil War, John P.. Hompe returned to Xew York state. where he lived for some time. In 1S75 he went to Ionia. Michigan, teaching in the schools of that town for one year, after which he came, in the spring of 1876, to the state of Minnesota, and homesteaded a farm of one hundred and sixty acres of land in Newton township. Otter Tad county, living on this place for some time. lie then sold out and came to Deer

Creek township, Minnesota, purchased a farm and followed general agricultural pursuits for the next sixteen years. After this time Mr. Hompe moved to the town of Deer Creek and established a general mercantile busi ness, in which he lias been successfully engaged for more than twenty-three years. In addition to this business, Mr. Hompe also is the owner of a farm of one hundred and twenty acres of land in Deer Creek township, Minnesota, together with a fine brick building in which he conducts his business. and a number of lots in the town of Deer Creek.

On April i, 1879, John B. Hompe was married to Ella E. Nottingham, and to this marriage have been born five children, Howard, Bernard, Byron, Herrold and Edward.

.Mr. Hompe is a member of the Masonic blue lodge, the Modern Woodnun of America, and the Knights of the Maccabees. He is probably best known in Otter Tail county for his service and record as a representative of the people in the state Legislature, he having served his county as a representative in the sessions of the year [889 and of the year 1914. He was also elected to a seat in the state Senate for the session of the years 1891-3, and in these offices made a good and honorable record. During his legislative career, Mr. Hompe was probably best known for his activity in connection with the Stillwater prison twine plant bill.

The life of John B. Hompe has been of much value to his county and to his community, being a citizen who at all times has served unselfishly and with a view to promoting the welfare of the great majority, as well as seeking the advancement of the general interests of the locality.

Ferdinand Peters

Ferdinand Peters, prosperous farmer, extensive landowner, and prominent citizen of Friberg township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born m W'aren, .Mecklenburg, Schwerin, Germany, on- February 17, 1851, the -<>n of Christian and Sophia (Lauw) Peters, natives of Germany. Christian Peters was a farmer in his native country, an occupation which he followed during his entire life. Christian and Sophia Peters were the parents of the following children: Charles, Mary and Ferdinand. Sophia, the wife of Christian Peters, died in the year [887; Christian Peters died in

Ferdinand Peters, with bis mother and sister. Mary, came to America in May. [868, and located in Goodyear county, Minnesota, where they lived for two years and then, in April. [870, Ferdinand Peters, with his household, moved to Fergus Falls township, where he joined his brother. Charles, with whom he lived for a time. In 1872 Mr. Peters pre-empted one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 32, Friberg township, he being the first settler to receive land after this plan, in Friberg township. Otter Tail county. Vs a tanner, Ferdinand Peters prospered and added modern improvements to his place. He also added land, in Friberg township and elsewhere, until Mr. Peters is now the owner of three hundred acres of land in Friberg township, < Itter Tail county, as well as three hundred and twenty acres of land in Canada, fie now engages in general agricultural pursuits on his farm in Friberg township.

In 1875 Ferdinand Peters was married to Alary Yollmers, a native of Stode, Germany, and to this marriage have been horn the following children: William, August, Henry and Wilhelm, who are deceased; Bertha, who married Theodore Westerhaug, and to whom have been born three children, Mable, Elsie and l.illie; and Minnie, who married Henry Beneman, and to whom has been born one child. Arthur. Mr. Peters and family are members of the German Lutheran church, an organization which Mr. Peters was instrumental in establishing in Friberg township in 1873. Ferdinand Peters has taken an important part in the history and public life of Friberg township, (Itter Tail county. He aided in the organization of the township and gave much of his time and ability as the occupant of various local offices. Mr. Peters helped to establish rural route No. 5, free mail road delivery, in 1903. He also assisted in the organization of the Friberg Telephone Company, in which he is a stockholder.

Arthur D. Baker

Having been dependent upon his own resource and compelled to accept the more humble lines of work, then rising to the position of cashier of a prosperous bank and becoming a leading business man, prominent in the public affairs of the community, is a record which gives to Arthur D. Baker, the subject of this sketch, a place among the most appreciated and honored citizens of Otter Tail county, Minnesota.

Arthur 1). Baker was born in South Orington, Maine, on February 4. 1858, the son of Joseph D. and Belinda Raker, the father being a native of the state of Maine, where, after his education in the common schools of that state, he engaged in general farming. He later established a grocery and provision store, which he conducted for fifteen years and then, shortly after disposing of his stock in order to retire, he died, survived by his second wife. 1 'aulena (Billington") Raker, his firsl wife. Belinda, having died main- years previous. Joseph and Belinda Raker were the parents of live children, Lonzo, Edward, Charles D., Jefferson S. and Arthur David. Lonzo and Edward served in the Civil War, the latter being killed in action.

To the marriage of Joseph and Paulena Baker one son. Frank, was born. Joseph D. Baker, during his life, was one of the best known and one of the most prominent men of his community, having served for two terms as a representative in the state Legislature of Maine. In the more local life he took an active and appreciated part in the affairs of the community. Mr. Baker was a leading member of the Methodist church, and for many years was superintendent of the Sunday school.

Arthur I). Baker, the subject of this sketch, was educated in the common schools of the state of Maine, after which he came to Minnesota, and located, in [876, at Alexandria, where he secured employment in a livery stable, receiving one hundred dollars per year for his services. He afterwards worked as a stationary steam engineer in a flour-mill ; he followed that work for some time and then came to Bluffton, Minnesota, where he w. irked with his brother, C. D. Baker, in a general store. Tn 1882 \rthur D. Baker came to Deer Creek, where lie established a general store, which he conducted for sixteen years. In [895 he lost his store and stock as a resull of a tornado, after which he became a private banker as the head of the firm known as A. D. Baker & Company, an institution 'which, later. Mr. Baker reorganized and which is now known as the First National Bank of Deer Creek. Minnesota, and in which he is now cashier. In addition to his interest in the hank at Deer Creek. Mr. Baker is the owner of farm lands in the vicinity, as well as being the proprietor of considerable property in Deer Creek. Minnesota.

Tn 1870 Arthur D. Baker was married at Alexandria, Minnesota, to Elizabeth Farquhar, who was a native of the state of Minnesota, and in which state she died on April 6. 1889, being the mother of two children. Herbert J., who married Winona Card, and to whom were born two children. Hazel and Elizabeth; and Harold, who married Marie M. Imsande. to whom was born one child, Louise. I )n September 12. 18(14. Arthur D. Baker was married, secondly, to Etta Woodruff; to this marriage no children were born.

Mr. Baker has been prominent in the public and political life of Deer (reek. Minnesota, having served for sixteen years as town clerk before the town was incorporated, after which he served as president of the town board, as well as serving as school treasurer, an office which he has occupied for more than a quarter of a century. Mr. Baker is a Knight Templar Mas. hi and a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, at Deer Creek. The part taken by Arthur D. Baker and his esteemed family, in the town of Deer ('reek and in Otter Tail county, is well known for its helpfulness and unselfish interest in the welfare of the community.

Axel S. Paulsen

The career of Axel S. Paulsen, the pioneer merchant of Henning, Otter Tail county, is one of individual and unaided effort. Air. Paulsen is a member of an honored pioneer family, his father setting for his children the example of bravery and loyalty, and his mother exemplifying the devotion and self-forgetfulness of which a good mother is capable. Mr. Paulsen was born near Ivongsvinger, Norway, on July _»_\ 1854. In Norway, also, his parents. Sorer) and Karen Paulsen, were born, grew up and were married. The father, who was a farmer, lived and died in Norway, his death taking place about the year 1900. His wife passed away two years later. Both were members of the Lutheran church. They were the parents of nine children, five of whom grew to maturity. These are: Annie, a widow, living on the parental farm in Norway; Hermani, who married Tosten Gunderson, also lives in Norway; Johanna, the widow of Christian Olson Void, lives in South Dakota; lxari. the widow of Emil Huseby, living in 1 lenning, and Axel S.

Coming to this locality when what is now a town consisted of two or three houses. Axel S. Paulsen started a general store and became the first merchant of the settlement. He was prominent in various enterprises, ending in the position of hank" cashier, which he has honored with good service. lie attended school in Norway and worked on the farm until his seventeenth year, when he came to America and was first employed as a clerk in Chicago for a short time. He learned the upholstering trade, at which heworked for eight years in this city, and in [880 came to the settlement, which later became Henning. On Piece Prairie, where the cemetery now stands, he bought stock and started a small store, this being his first business venture. At this time there were only a few homesteaders 111 this vicinity and no one was living on the spot where I lenning is located. !i was when the railroads went through that land that Henning received its start, and Mr. Paulsen then moved his store to town, a distance of one-half mile. lie built a store, eighteen by thirty feet, and some time after its occupancy, increased its size threefold. Mr. Paulsen succeeded, and a little later went into partnership with G. A. Satre, under the firm name of Paulsen & Satre. This partnership lasted for five or six years, when Mr. Paulsen bought out the II. T. Smith store, which he occupied, and Mr. Satre retained the old stand. In [911 Mr. Paulsen disposed of hi- business in order to become the cashier of the Farmers State Bank, a position winch he has held to the presenl time. The business of this bank has gradually increased and it now has nearly four hundred depositors. The officers are: President, <.. \. Satre: vice-president, Uford Knutson ; cashier, \xel S. Paulsen.

Christian Larson, a native of ( hicago, became the wife of Mr. Paulsen in 18S1, and five children have blessed their home. These are: Junius, who died when two years of age; Willard Junius, who died at five; Raymond, a merchant living in Henning, whose wife was Hilma Collins, of Fergus Falls, and the mother of two children. Raymond and Howard; Alice, who married R. T. Nelson, of Mankato; and Lillian, who lives at home.

Since their residence here. Mr. and Mrs. Paulsen have come to occupy a prominent place in church and social circles, and the former is a wellknown leader in the commercial world. Having the advantage of long residence here, it is not surprising that they have many warm friends. Both Mr. and Mrs. Paulsen stand high in the estimation of this community.

Ole Torkelson

Among the business men and citizens of Henning, a thriving town of Otter Tail county, .Minnesota, is Ole Torkelson, the proprietor of a feed store in this town.

Ole Torkelson was born in Norway on February 18, 1846, and is a son of Torkel Olson and Martha ( Anderson) Torkelson. both of whom lived and died in Norway, the hitter's death occurring in 1850; the former died several years later, at the age of about sixty-five years. They were the parents of two children: Ole, the subject of this review, and Gunda, who is now living in Henning.

Ole Torkelson received his education in the public schools of his native land and. in 1870. emigrated to America and settled in Houston county. Minnesota. The next year he moved to Tordenskjold township, Otter Tail county, taking a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres in that township. After living upon this farm for twelve years and improving it in main- ways, Mr* Torkelson disposed of the farm and moved to Henning township, where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, in section 34. In [914 he sold his farm in Henmng township and, having moved to Henning in 1895, nas a's0 hot'n engaged in business here for many years. For some time he was the proprietor of a hotel, and later he was engaged in the shoe business For a number of years, however, he has been engaged in the feed business in Henmng.

In 1875 Mr. Torkelson was married to Inger Wolmer, a native of Norway, born there in 1840. Mrs. Torkelson's father died in Norway and after his death, the mother came to Otter Tail county and died a fewyears ago.

Ole Torkelson and wife are the parents of eight children, all of whom are living, Clara. Melvin, Bergel, Dora, Anne. Alexander. Eddie and losei i ; OTTER TAIL O lUNTY, MINNESOTA.

lived for so many rears before her death. Mr. Torkelson is an upright man and is rearing his family to honorable and useful lives in this community.

Herman J. Cordes, Henning's present mayor, is the son of German parents, who braved the dangers and privations of pioneer life, in order to give their children a better, freer existence than they had been able to have in the old country. Mr. Cordes is. however, a self-made man, for, although his early opportunities were meager, he created for himself the conditions of prosperity he desired. He is a successful blacksmith and implement dealer. .Mr. Cordes was born in Hanover, Germany, on November 14, [879, where his parents, Herman and Charlotte (Winter) Cordes, were born, grew up and married.

Herman Cordes, Sr., gave up his farming in the old country to emigrate to America in March. 1885. He was one of the early homesteaders of Leaf Lake township, Otter Tail county, beginning by buying out the improvements of a pioneer. Some years later he sold out to his eldest son and now lives a quiet, retired life with his son. John F., near Henning. His wife passed away on July r8, 1909. They were both members of the Leaf Lake Lutheran church, which they helped to establish. They were the parents of ten children, namely: Henry, a farmer, living on the home- Mead; bred, a farmer in Illinois; Mary, who is single and lives with her brother. William, in Wisconsin: Sophia, who married Henry Bolland. a well-to-do farmer, living near Kingsville, Texas: Herman J., the subject of this sketch; Doris, the wife of John II. Schmidt, who lives in Vining; f ' Mm 1 -'.. a farmer of Henning township; Dietrich H., who is in the auto business, in partnership with Herman J.; William, a farmer, of Comstock. Wisconsin; Krnest, who owns eighty acres of land near Henning, but lives with bis eldest brother.

Herman J. was onh six years of age when his parents came to this country, and he began his school days in Leaf Lake township. He lived on bis father's fann until his nineteenth year, when he left home and went to Perham to learn the blacksmith's trade. Here he worked with Henry Schmidt for three years He came to Henning in [898 and was employed at In- trade by John Post For about a year and a half, when he purchased the blacksmith shop of (Carles Walters and employed bis brother, Dietrich, as bis assistant until the year mio. On January 1. of thai year, these brothers became partners in business under the firm name of Cordes Brothers.

They first erected a garage, with forty-eight feet front and fifty-six feet depth, built of concrete, two stories high and equipped with modern machinery for the repairs of autos. This structure is also provided with space for the storage of many cars. About 1907 Mr. Herman started to deal m farm implements, a business in which he has continued to the present time. The plant occupies two buildings, separated by a lot. all of which is owned by the Cordes Brothers. They are agents for the Studebaker, Oakland and Maxwell cars.

On June 26, 1007, Herman J. Cordes was married to Margaret Brockhoff, a native of Germany, who came with her parents to this country when a child. Her father was Louis Brockhoff. To them have been born three children, RoselJa, Raymond and Russell. Mr. and Mrs. Cordes are members of the German Lutheran church, of which Mr. Cordes is trustee.

Mr. Cordes has been interested in the general welfare of this community and, while an independent voter, has been a benefactor to his town. He served one term on the village council and in IQ13 was elected mayor of Henning. He has twice been re-elected to this office. In the life of Mr. Cordes are to be found undaunted courage, indomitable will and an energy that considered no obstacle too great to overcome. Mr. Cordes has the confidence and esteem of the people whom he has served so well.

Andrew Anderson, who is well known in the vicinity of Henning, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, as a grain buyer, was born near Battle Lake, in Clitherall township, March 31. 1874. and is the son of Nels and Frederika Anderson.

Mr. Anderson's father was born in Sweden and in 1868 came to Litchfield, Minnesota. In 1870 he emigrated to Clitherall township and homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land. Both he and his wife are still living and reside on the old homestead farm in Clitherall township. They had a family of fourteen children, of whom Ida, Gustav, Amanda, John and two unnamed infants are deceased. The living children are Elof, Andrew, Martin, Oscar, Alfred, Selma, Ida and Augusta.

Andrew Anderson was reared on his father's farm and educated in the public schools and at Park Region College. After finishing his education, he clerked in a store for A. S. Paulsen at Henning for a number of years. During the past fourteen years, Mr. Anderson has been engaged in the grain business at Henning and has been very successful in business

In 1901 Andrew Anderson was married to Alice Mollerstrom, the daughter of Lars Mollerstrom. of Henning, Minnesota. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have two children. Arvie Willard and Kenneth Wendall.

Mr. Anderson has served as a member of the Henning village council and also as a member of the school hoard. He was formerly clerk of the village and is at present one of the trustees. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson and family are members <>!" the Swedish Lutheran church.

George A. Poulson

One of the most prominent business men of Henning, located in Henning township, Otter Tail county. Minnesota, is George A. Poulson, proprietor of a large hardware business in this town.

Mr. Poulson is ;i native of Denmark, where he was born on February ii. 1858. He is the son of Julius and Mete Lene (Quitsouw) Poulson, both of whom were natives of Denmark. Mr. Poulson's father and mother came to America in [866 and lived for a year at Grand Rapids. Michigan. In [867 they came west to St. Cloud, Minnesota, where Mr. Poulson's father spent one summer vvorking in a blacksmith shop. Later the family moved to ('row Lake township, Stearns county, Minnesota, and lived there for ten years, during which lime the father took a homestead of one hundred and sixtv acres. He also had a blacksmith shop on his farm. On July 3, [877, the family came to Otter Tail county. Mr. Poulson's father purchased a farm of two hundred and forty acres, three and one-half miles northeast of Henning, 111 Henning township. In 1NS1 he engaged in the general mercantile business at Henning, and was in business until his death, in r88<), when he was fifty-three years old. His wife survived him many years, passing away at her home in 1913, at the age of seventy-seven. They were the parents of three children, George A., the subject of this sketch; Jens, who died at the age of six years in Denmark, and Mete Katrina. who is now Mrs. Morris Petersen.

George A. Poulson began his education in Denmark, but. when he was eight years old his parents came to America and he accompanied them. He attended school in Grand Rapids, Michigan, during the year his parents lived in that city and later attended school at St. Cloud for one summer, practically completing his education when he was nine years old. For a short time, however, he was a student in the parochial schools.

In 1S70 Mr. Poulson took a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres in Inman township. Otter Tail county, and later purchased forty acres The homestead farm was situated in section 6, of Inman township, and the forty acres, which Mr. Poulson purchased, in section 2, of the same township. Until February 11, [886, Mi'. Poulson was engaged in farming and. at that time, moved to I lenning and engaged in the hardware business. I le has the largest business of any individual in the town and is one of the bestknown citizens of this part of Otter Tail county. Mr. Poulson is a stockholder in the farmers' elevator and is treasurer of the organization. Some years ago he sold his farms and now confines himself to the hardware business.

In 1880 George A. Poulson was married to Anna Johanna Knudson. who was horn in Denmark on February 24, 1863, and who is the daughter of Jens and [nger Christine (Peterson") Knudson. They came to Crow Lake township, Stearns county. .Minnesota, in [871, and there took a homestead adjoining Mr. Poulson's father's farm. Later they moved to Fisher, in I 'oik count}'. Minnesota, where Mrs. Poulson's father died in 1889. Her mother died in the fall of 1889 at Henning, Minnesota. They were the parents of nine children: Anna Johanna. Karen Marie. Knud, Peter, Anton, Mats, John. Jens and Nina.

Mr. and Mrs. George A. 1'oulson have been the parents of four children: Lena, who died at the age of eleven months: Jens, born in October. [883, who is in the hardware business at Jamestown, North Dakota, married Emma Harrison and has one child. Jewel Aleda : Julius, born in September, 1880. who assists his father in the store at Henning. married Tina Hansen, and has one child, Lillian Josephine; and John .Arthur, born on March 23, [889, who also assists his father in the store, married Christine l.oden. and has one daughter, Ruth Margaret.

Mr. and Mrs. Poulson and family are members of the Lutheran Free church. Mr. Poulson has served as mayor of Henning and has been a member of the council for several years. He has worthily discharged all of his duties as a citizen and business man and is one of the most popular men in Henning township.

David Nelson

One of the most prosperous farmers and landowners of Otter Tail county, Minnesota, a man who has made a notable success of agricultural pursuits, is David Kelson, the subject of this sketch. Progressive and modern in his methods, as a result of which he has become a man of considerable means, he has proved himself to be of value to his community.

David Nelson was born in Sweden on March 6, 1853, the son of Nels and Lllen Erickson. His father was a general worker, who lived in Sweden during his entire life. He and his wife. Ellen, were the parents of ten children, of whom David came to America.

David Nelson was educated in the public schools of his native country, after which, in the year 1887. he came to Mnerica and located in Eastern township. Otter Tail count), where he purchased forty acres of land, later purchasing one hundred and twenty acres mure, which he cultivated, prospering to the point that a short time later he was able to buy two hundred acres of land in another part of Eastern township, all of which he cares for and cultivates to a high state of production. Mr. Nelson, with a true progressive spirit, has placed extensive improvements on his farms, and takes pride in his efforts to make his farms second to none in the community.

In 1880 David Nelson was married to Betsey Nelson, and to this marriage have been born the following children : Kate, Ellen, who died at the age of seven years; Anna, who died at the age of two years; Ellen, Anna, Xels, Matilda, Arthur, Hilding and Dortha. Mr. Nelson and his family are well-known members of the Swedish Lutheran church.

William Fabian

Of those citizens who have gone to their reward, and who in other days were a force and influence for the progress and advancement of the interests of Otter Tail county, men who have succeeded materially in their own interests and who have been a success as an example of unselfishness in promotion of general welfare, as well as in the development of the county's resources, the late William Fabian was one who did much and one without whom the community might be less advanced and less prosperous.

William Fabian was born in Gross Gauth, West Prussia. Germany, on March 30. 1840, the son of Frederick Wilhelm and Anna Maria (Santofski) Fabian, both of whom were natives of Germany, in which country Frederick Wilhelm Fabian lived until his death at Riesenburg, in 1869, and after which Ins widow. Anna Maria Fabian, remarried and came to America, with her family and located in the state of South Carolina, later moving to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, where the husband was employed in a match factory for some time, after which they came to Otter Tail count)', Minnesota, and settled in Western township, where they spent the remainder of their days.

William Fabian, the subject of this sketch, came to America with his mother and step-father, and located with them in the state of South Carolina, later going with them to the state of Wisconsin, first to the city of Oshkosh and then to Green Bay, Wisconsin, where he was employed in a saw-mill for some time and then came to Otter Tail county and settled in Western township, where he acquired a homestead, in the year 1872, a place on which he made a dug-out for a home, after having made the journey from the state of Wisconsin in a covered wagon, a trip which required four weeks to complete. ( hi reaching Western township, in Otter Tail county, Minnesota, William Fabian was compelled to endure many privations and hardships, as a result of stormy and severely cold weather, which made it difficult to secure food and necessities of life. It is related that during the first winter in their new location, while William Fabian was engaged at his duties in the forest, some distance away, that a severe snowstorm came up, making it impossible for this pioneer to find shelter for four days, and during which time his wife was imprisoned in their dug-out home. As time went on William Fabian experienced better days and placed many improvements on his farm, together with acquiring additional acreage, until he was the owner of two thousand acres of well-improved and well-cultivated land, on which he engaged in general farming and stock raising.

On April 15, 1872, William Fabian was married to Augusta Caroline Roloff. who was horn in Mollstow, Pommern, Germany, on August 28, 1854, tne daughter of Carl and Augusta (Dummer) Roloft, both of whom were horn in Germany and lived in their native country until the year 1871, when they came to America and located in Winnebago county, Wisconsin, and later moved to Otter Tail county, where Carl Roloft was engaged as a farmer, until his death on March 26, 1889. To the marriage of William and Augusta Fabian were horn the following children: Herman, Rosa, Lena. Anna. Carl, Martha, William, Bertha, John, Arthur and Walter.

William Fabian was one of the best known and most interested and devout members of the Emmanuel church, of the Evangelical Association in Western township, he being largely responsible for the organization of the church in which he took, an important part in the arrangement for and the construction of the church building. In political life Mr. Fabian was influential and was always ready to support all movements for the good or advancement of county interests. William Fabian for a number of years served his township in the office of township treasurer.

Julius T. Holen

A representative farmer of this township is Julius I. Holen, who has become one of the leading agriculturists of this section of the state. He was horn on the farm on which he still resides on November 7, 1870. He is the son of John Holen and Anna Ellefsdatter, both of whom were horn in Norway. They were unmarried when they came to this country many years ago and, subsequently, were married in Wisconsin. From there they came to Pelican township and homesteaded the farm on which their son, Julius, now lives. John Holen homesteaded a claim of one and a quarter sections, increasing this until he owned three hundred and sixty acres. The majority of the buildings now on this farm were erected by him. Mr. Holen was prominent in the community and was for several years a memi 42b 1 ber of the township board of trustees. He was a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church. He passed away on the farm on which he had lived since early manhood. Mr. and Mrs. Holen were the parents of five children: Julius Ingvald and Edward Christian, both of whom are deceased; Caren Christina, Julius ftigvald and Edward Christian.

Julius 1. Holen was educated in this county and trained in farm work. At the death of his father, in 1805, he operated the farm of two hundred and eighty acres, on which he has become a general fanner. Here he has lived since that time.

In 10.05 Mr. Holen was united in marriage to Gina Afseth, a native of Pelican township and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mons Afseth, of the same township. The children horn to this union are Alice Agnora, Minnie, Jeannette, Mildred, Adelaide, Norval Julin and Norman Grover, twins; Irvin Clifford and Bernice Eleanor.

For a number of years Mr. Holen was the assessor of Pelican township and for the past six years has been township clerk. Mr. Holen's life is an example of the rewards of unremitting labor. He is optimistic in his views, and his personality is truly inspiring.

Ole L. Solum

Ole L. Solum, a well-known farmer and auctioneer of St. Olaf township, this county, is a native of Norway, having been born in Sigdal, Norway, February 8, 1850, son of Lars Olson and Gonora (Gundbjornsdatter) Solum, both natives of Norway, the former of whom was born on May 31, 1823, and who became pioneers of Minnesota, their last days being spent in) a homestead farm in Douglas county, this state.

Lars Olson Solum received an excellent education in the schools of his native land and became a school teacher, remaining thus engaged until he and his family came to the United States in [866. Upon their arrival in this country the Solums proceeded to Iowa, arriving at Decorah, that state. on July _'. r866, remaining there about a year, at the end of which time they came to Minnesota and settled in Alexandria township, Douglas count v. where Mr. Solum homesteaded a quarter of a section of land. He established his home there in 1868, and there he spent the remainder of his life, long being regarded as one of the must substantial and influential residents of that community. He and his wife were the parents of eight children, ami until their homestead had been brought under cultivation and proper conditions of living established in the neighborhood in which they settled, they were compelled to endure the inevitable hardships of the pioneers' Int. The Indians still were numerous thereabout in those days, besides which there were bears, deer and plenty of mosquitoes - in fact, all kinds of wild game. St. Cloud was the nearest railroad point and the nearest mill was forty-five miles distant, but in spite of these handicaps- Mr. Solum stuck to the homestead and at the time of his death, on March 23, 1904, he had the place entirely cleared and under cultivation. His widow, ever a valuable and competent helpmeet, survived him less than four months, her death occurring on July 12, of that same year. They were prominent members of the Norwegian Lutheran church and for many years Mr. Solum served the congregation of that church as choirmaster. In the early days he also served as lay minister and as teacher in the Norwegian school in the neighborhood of his home.

The names of the eight children of Tars Olson Solum and wife follow : < hristina, Leffie, Lizzie, Carrie, Ole L., Anton L., Julius and Elnora. Christina married Chet VanDyke, and has seven sons and one daughter; Leffie married F. Englund, and has five children ; Lizzie married John Scott, and has seven children, four sons and three daughters; Carrie married Olaf Solum, and has five children ; Anton L. Solum, who is unmarried, remains on his father's homestead, where he is conducting an up-to-date dairy farm and is engaged in breeding full-blooded Guernsey cattle, also serving as director of the Nelson cornet band; Julius L., for the past twenty years a traveling salesman, at present representing Hudson, Thurber & Company, hardware and supplies, of Minneapolis, making his headquarters at Osakis, this state, married Lottie Johnson, and has four children; Eleanor, deceased, married Nels Sather and had four children.

Ole L. Solum was about seven years old when he came to this country with his parents in 1866 and his youth was spent on the homestead farm in Douglas county. In his early boyhood he assisted his father in the labors of developing the home place, and at the age of seventeen came to Otter Tail county, where for several years he was employed as a farm hand in the neighborhood of Fergus Falls, remaining thus engaged until the fall of 1885, at which time he bought a quarter of a section of land in St. Olaf township, this county, where he since has made his home. To this original tract he later added an adjoining '-forty," and now has a well-improved and profitably-cultivated farm of two hundred acres. Ms. Solum also is engaged in general auctioneering, crying sales throughout this and adjoining counties.

In f88l Ole L. Solum was united in marriage to Anna lohnson, who was born in Norway on July 24, [861, daughter of Nels and Genetta (Estendatter) Johnson, both natives of Norway, the former of whom was born on September 3, [833, and the latter, November 1, 1838, who came to the United States in [866 and located in St. Olaf township, this county being thus among the very earliest settlers of that part of the county. Upon locating there, Mr. Johnson bought a quarter of a section of -'government land" at one dollar and a quarter the acre and has added to the same until he now is the. owner of a fine farm of two hundred and forty acres. To Mr. and Mrs. Solum one child has been born, a daughter, Gurena, born on April 7. [882, who married Gustav Hoff, now living in Sheridan county, Montana, and has two children, Orvilla Lawrence and Gladys Cornelia.

Andrew A. Belmont

One of the prosperous merchants of Henning, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is Andrew A. Belmont, who is now the proprietor of a general mercantile store at Henning.

Mr. Belmont was born in Sweden in 1844, and is a son of Andros Erickson and Anna (Stena) Belmont, both of whom were natives of Sweden, and who died in that country.

In 1869 Andrew A. Belmont emigrated to America and settled at St. Paul, Minnesota, when it was still a small city. After having been employed fur about four months with the Valley railroad he removed to Rochester, Minnesota, and during the harvest time worked in the wheat fields. After living in and around Rochester for some time, Mr. Belmont returned to St. Paul, where he entered the employ of the Northern Pacific Railway Company. In 1871 he came to Otter Tail county, where he homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres in section 6, Leaf Mountain township. He also pre-empted eighty acres of land. Having sold his farm lands in i8oS. Mr. Belmont moved to Hennin,g and engaged in the lumber business. He disposed of his lumber interests in 1904. and thereafter engaged in the mercantile business. The building in which his store is housed is a two-story structure, fifty by fifty feet. At one time Mr. Belmont was engaged in the furniture business, and his son, Anton, is now conducting a furniture business.

In 1872 Andrew A. Belmont was married to Annastena Swanson, a native of Sweden, where her birth occurred in 1847. Mrs. Belmont's father died in Sweden, and after his death her mother came to Otter Tail county, where her death occurred several years later, at the home of her son, John, in Leaf Mountain township.

To Mr. and Mrs. Andrew A. Belmont have been born six children, all of whom are living, as follow: Anton, Selma, Mary, Ida, Carl and Hulda. Mr. Belmont and his family are members' of the Swedish Lutheran church, in which they take an active interest. Mr. Belmont has been verv successful in both his farming and business operations, and today is rated as one of tin- self-made, substantial citizens of his communitv.

Ole O. Stubskind

Otter Tail county, with its large element of population from Norway, has no better type of the man following agricultural pursuits successfully, than in the person of Ole O. Stubskind, of Nidaros township.

Ole O. Stubskind was born in Vardalen, near Trondhjem, Norway, on July 21, J 859, the son of Ole and Annie Marsta (Skafhaug) Stubskind, who were born in the same city, the father in 1820 and the mother in 1830. Ole and Annie Stubskind were married in the town of their birth and shortly afterward engaged in the pursuit of farming, until 1873, when Ole Stubskind, after providing for his family in Norway, came to America and joined a brother-in-law, in Ashby, Minnesota, later coming to Nidaros township, where he took up a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 10, a place which he found to be covered with timber. Ole Stubskind proceeded to clear his newly-acquired land and he built a cabin near the place where his present home is located. Here this pioneer citizen lived for seven years, and then sent for his wife and son, who were in Norway. Before their arrival he had provided a convenient and substantial log and wooden house for their comfort. At this place Ole Stubskind lived until his death in the year 1889, his wife Annie, at his death, continuing to live on the home place until 1913, when she died. Ole Stubskind was one of the more prominent of the early citizens of Nidaros township, where he served for man)- years as township treasurer and township supervisor, as well as being the occupant of other local offices. He and his wife were members of the Lutheran church. To Ole and Annie Stubskind was born one child, a son, Ole O., the subject of this sketch.

Ole O. Stubskind was educated in the public schools of Norway, and following his school-days he worked on a farm, and later, on coming to America he succeeded his lather on the home place in Nidaros township. Otter Tail county, where he now lives. Ole O. Stubskind has erected on his farm a new house and barn and has generally improved his place, together with adding to it. about the year 1882, forty acres of land adjoining. Mr. Stubskind is now engaged as a q-erieral farmer and raiser of stock, as well as keeping twenty cows for dairy purposes.

In February, 1891, Ole O. Stubskind was married to Gette Haswosg, who wras born in Norway, the daughter of Gabriel and Kjestine Haswosg. To this union were born the following children: Ole, who is. employed on a dairy farm at Minneapolis; Gunda, wdio is emploved on a farm in North Dakota: Magda, Melvin. Oletta, Gertie and Selwin. Two children. Sigvard and Olga, died in infancy.

the public life of Ins township and county. He has been a director of the Farmers Elevator Company, at Vining; he has served as township treasurer and for twelve years was treasurer of the school district. Mr. Stubskind has been the occupant of all the township offices, except that of township clerk. In politics, Ole O. Stubskind is a Republican, but in local affairs votes independently. Mr. Stubskind and his wife are members of the Lutheran church at Vining, a congregation in which they are leading communicants.

John Wutamaki

Another of the sterling fanners and pioneers of Otter Tail county, ami 'if Newton township, is John Wutamaki, a man who has done his duty to his community, and whether in business or private life, has so conducted himself, that he has gained the respect and esteem of his fellow-men.

John Wutamaki was born in Finland on December 19, 1869, the son of Mat and Dena Wutamaki, who were born in the same country and lived there, where Mat Wutamaki was a farmer and landowner, until his death. His wife, Dena Wutamaki, now lives on the home place. Mat and Dena Wutamaki were devout members of the Lutheran church, being workers of note and prominence in the congregation, which they served in a most unselfish manner. To the marriage of Mat and Dena Wutamaki were horn ten children, of whom three came to America, namely. Mat. who lives in Deer Creek township, Otter Tail county : Fina. who married John Kovonimi and lives at Eveleth, Minnesota; and John, who is the subject of this sketch.

John Wutamaki was educated in the confirmation schools of the Lutheran church in Finland, afterwards working on a farm for seme time. In r888, he came to America and worked in a mine at Eveleth, Minnesota, after which he came to Otter Tail county, and bought a farm of eighty acres of land about three miles north of the village of Bluffton, Minnesota, land that at that time was uncleared and without improvement. On securing possession of his farm, John Wutamaki proceeded to remove the brush and to cut the timber on his land and to build a frame house, in which he lived for five years and then he sold his place and came to Otter Tail county. where he purchased a farm of one hundred and sixtv acres of land in section 36, Newton township, a place where be has since lived. On this farm Mr. Wutamaki has placed a number of improvements, among which are a new and modernly constructed house, a large barn, thirty-four by sixtv feet, equipped with a hay-fork and provided with the most approved form of stanchions. John Wutamaki, in addition to his general farming, conducts a dairy which is supplied with a herd of about thirty-five cows In the larger business interests of the town of Dopelius, John Wutamaki takes a leading and important part, being a stockholder in the Dopelius Creamery Company. His counsel in matters of business in connection with the dairy and creamery industry, is rated as most valuable.

In 1895 John Wutamaki was married to Amalia Heino, who is a native of Finland. To this marriage have been born the following children : William, who is a jeweler and watchmaker of Eveleth, Minnesota; Ida, John, Alexander. Arthur, Herman, Victor, Saima, Elina and Esther, who live at Ik iinc.

In political affiliation, John Wutamaki is a member of the Republican party. Air. and Mrs. Wutamaki are members of the Lutheran church at New York Mills, a congregation in which they are highly respected workers and communicants.

A well-known citizen and a pioneer merchant of the town of Bluffton, Minnesota, a town in which he is recognized as one of the leading men, both in business activity and in public life, M. B. Klein, who because of his industrious ways and his resourcefulness has risen from the ranks of more common industry to that of a prosperous and enterprising merchant in a thriving community, is one of those men whose record deserves recognition in this volume.

M. B. Klein was born in Morrison county, Minnesota, the son of Nicholas and Mary (Schmidt) Klein, both of whom were born in Germany, where they lived before coming to America and settled in Morrison county, Minnesota, where Nicholas Klein homesteaded eighty acres of land on which he and his family lived for many years. They subsequently moved to Benton county, Minnesota, where the elder Klein bought two hundred acres of land, a place on which he spent his last days. His wife, Mary, is also deceased. Nicholas Klein and his family were members of the Catholic church. To the marriage of Nicholas and Mary Klein were born the following children : Mary, Nicholas, Erank. Katherine, Peter, M. I!.. John, Lucy and Jacob.

M. B. Klein was educated in the common schools of Minnesota, after which lie became a farmer on eighty acres of land which lie boughl in Benton county, Minnesota, later selling this land and buying one hundred and sixty acres of land which he farmed and later sold. For a considerable period he worked in Rice, Benton county, at blacksmithing. Subsequently, Mr. Klein came to Bluffton. Otter Tail county and established a general store, where he is now engaged as a leading merchant. With time, Mr.

Klein has grown in the business world and now in addition to his large stock as a merchant, he is one of the shareholders in the elevator at Bluffton.

M. B. Klein was married to Bertha Rajkosky, a native of Germany, and to this marriage have l>een horn five children. Theckla, Raymond, Clarence, Alphonse and Alice.

M. B. Klein has found time during his busy life to serve his community as a public man and as an office holder, having served for two years as a member of the village council and at one time he was the able and efficient treasurer of the village.

Charles A. Matala

One of the most prosperous, as well as most generally known merchants of the town of Xew York Mills, is Charles A. Matala. who has by intelligent management and by devotion to purpose, become one of the most extensive general dealers of the county. A good citizen, serving his community well and unselfishly in public office, he is among those people whom the community delights to recognize as a representative citizen.

Charles A. Matala was horn in Finland on February 14, 1880, the son of Olaf and Mary Matala, who were natives of Finland, and who. in 1881, came to America and located at New York Mills. Minnesota, where Olaf .Matala secured employment in a saw-mill, where he has worked since that time. The wife of Olaf Matala died in 1886. To the marriage of Olaf and Mary Matala were born the following children: John, who died when twenty-one years of age: Evert, a cattle dealer and real-estate man of Virginia, Minnesota: Kate, who married C. A. Tervo and lives at Victoria, British Columbia; Charles A., the subject of this sketch, and Olaf. who is a dealer in real estate, of Seattle. Washington.

Charles A. Matala was educated in the public schools of New York Mills. Later, he was employed as a salesman for the firm of Matala and Tervo during about four months, after which he went to the state of Wyoming, where he was employed for two years in the commissary department of the Yellowstone Park Association. He then returned to New York Mills, -and accepted a position with the Farmers Mercantile Association, working fur twelve vears as a salesman and for two years as manager of the business.

Tn tqoS Charles A. Matala established himself in a small store, on what was known as the R. \. Williams property. After two years of suc- <vss as a merchant he found it necessary to erect new buildings for his stock, and now conducts his business in a large store building thirty-seven by eighty-four feet, with two stories and a basement, together with eight other small buildings which are used in the conduct of the business. Mr. Matala now carries a general stuck, employs aboul fifteen people and does about one hundred thousand dollars worth of business annually. In addition to his regular business. Mr. Matala is a stockholder in the New York Mills I 'reamery Association, a company for which he served as manager for seven years, and he is a stockholder in the Xew York Mills Farmers Elevator Company.

On June 10. i<uo, Charles A. Matala was married to Anna Koste, who was born in Finland. To this marriage were born two children. Mildred and Curtis Melvin.

Charles A. Matala has been prominent in the civic life of the town of Xew York Mills, having served for eleven years as town recorder. Mr. Matala is a .Mason and is a leading member of the local Finnish organization. Mr. and Mrs. Matala are members of the Congregational church, in which they are leading members and active workers.

A well-known farmer and prominent citizen of Gorman township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is < 'hristian Damlo, who was born in Gorman township, nil August 6, 1880, the son of Fredrick and Lena (Rischo) Damlo. both of whom are natives of Germany. Fredrick Damlo is the son of Jacob and Sophia (Schultz) Damlo, the former of whom was a general worker in Germany, where he lived his entire life. Jacob and Sophia Damlo were the parents of seven children, Joseph, John. Dortha. Mary, Christ, Dorater, and Fredrick, father of the the subject of this sketch, and the only 1 me vvhi i came to America.

Fredrick Damlo. who was born on February 8. 1841, received his education in the schools of his native land, and in 1869, he came to America and located at Danville, Illinois, where he was a railroad worker for three years. In 1880. be moved to Otter Tail county, and bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in Gorman township, a farm to which he added eighty acres at a later time, and a place which Mr. Damlo, some years later, sold to his children and then retired from active life and now lives at Perham, Minnesota. Fredrick Damlo was married in 1867 to Lena Rischo and to this marriage were born seven children. Charles, Mary, John, "William. Christian, Martha and Martin. Fredrick Damlo fought in the War of 1S66.

Christian Damlo was educated, in the common schools of Gorman township, Otter Tail count)-, after which he became a farmer, working for some time with his father on the home place. At the time of his father's retirement from farm life, ('hristian' Damlo acquired a pari of the home farm. where he now lives and engages in general agricultural pursuits.

Buchaus, and to this marriage have been born five children. Fredrick. Adelbert, Herbert, Lambert and Blundine. -Mr. and Mrs. Damlo are rearing an adopted child. Fritz Poliske. Mr. Damlo and his family are active members of the German Lutheran church, a congregation in which they are prominent workers and appreciated communicants.

Vs a business man. Christian Damlo has been notably successful. He is a stockholder in a creamery company, as well as a member of the Farmers Shipping Association, of Gorman township. Mr. Damlo has served his township as a supervisor and as a member of the town board. He proved to be a good and satisfactory official while filling these positions.

John Lauritzen

A contractor and builder of Fergus Falls, Otter Tail county. Minnesota, is |ohn Lauritzen, whose career has been confined principally to the erection of public buildings, and there are standing today not only in (liter Tail countv, but throughout this and adjoining states, many buildings of his making.

Mr. Lauritzen is a native of Denmark, having been born there in [863. He is the son of Anders and Johanne (Johansen) Lauritzen. both of whom are deceased.

Mr. Lauritzen was twenty years old when he came to America 111 [883 lie had learned the bricklayer's trade in his native country and. after coming to America, located at Mankato. Minnesota, where he pursued his trade for four years. In [887 he moved to St. Paul, where he remained for one year, but in the fall of 1888 came to Fergus Falls and worked at his trade until 1890, when he had charge of the construction work at the -tate hospital at Fergus Falls. In [892 he was made superintendent of the construction work.

The next year Mr. Lauritzen took his first contract on his own account from the board of trustees of the state hospital for the insane. lie was engaged in work there until [897 and since that period has finished several important jobs, all awarded by the same institution. Mr. I.auritzen's work has been devoted chiefly to public buildings throughout the states of Minnesota, Iowa and the Dakotas. lie constructed the postofnce at Waterloo, Iowa, also the postoffice at Bismarck, North Dakota, and at Minot. Likewise, he built the dam for the (titer Tail Lower Company and the Hoot Lake power works in Otter Tail county The postoffice ai Fergus Falls, the inebriate asylum at VVilmar, tin- industrial school for girls at Sauk Center and the Kaddatz hotel at Fergus Falls, were constructed by him.

Lauritzen is president of the Fergus Manufacturing Company, vice-president of the Northwestern Building Association, of Fergus Falls, and trustee of the Wright hospital. He is a trustee of the Congregational church. Mr. Lauritzen is a director of the Minnesota Employers Association and a director of the Minnesota Employers Mutual Liability Insurance Company. Mr. Lauritzen was married on May 30. 1NN7. to Anne C. Bohlke, who was born in Schleswig, which province since 1864 has been under the German government. To this union were born rive children : Lucia, Marie. Anders and Thomas are still living. Eleanore died in [913, at the age of twenty.

Jacob Rusch

Jacob Rusch, one of the best-known and most substantial retired farmers of the Dent neighborhood, in this county, was born in Germany in 1850, son of Arnold and .Anna (Schmitz) Rusch. farming people, whose lives were spent in Germany, the land of their birth. Arnold Rusch served his Fatherland as a soldier during the War of 1849. He and his wife were the parents of thirteen children, five of whom are still living.

At the age of twenty-eight, in 1878, Jacob Rusch was united in marriage to Sophia Serpenberg, also a native of Germany, daughter of Henry and Louisa (Von Dusen) Serpenberg, and eleven years later, in 1889, came to America, proceeding immediately to Minnesota. For the first year of their residence in this state they lived in Carver county and then came to Otter Tail county, locating in Edna township, on section 10, where they bought forty-five acres. Upon this small farm Jacob Rusch pursued his agricultural labors with such diligence that he presently was enabled to enlarge his holdings by the purchase of adjoining tracts, until he became the owner of four hundred acres of fine land, all of which has been well improved and is being profitably tilled lie gave one hundred and eightv acres of the home farm to his sons, retaining the rest for his own use and on this be erected a fine brick house and other good buildings. There he lived until the fall of 1014. at which tune he and his wife retired from the farm and moved into the village of Dent, where they purchased a tract of two acres on the edge of tin- village and erected on it a comfortable home in which they are now b\ing. enjoying the rewards of their active lives of earnest endeavor.

Mr. and Mr-. Rusch are the parents of seven children, all of whom are living, as follow: Henry, \rnold, Louisa. Anna, podfrey, Jacob and Sophia, who as well as their parents, are members of the Evangelical church and active in good works. The Rusch family is one of the most substantial in the Dent neighborhood and all are held in high regard b) their many friends thereabout

Frederick Vogel

The late Frederick Vogel, who for years was one of the best-known residents of Star Lake township, this county, came here in 1878, taking a soldier's claim of government land, he having been a veteran of the Civil War. and there he proceeded to make a home in the forest wilderness, soon becoming one of the most influential men in that part of the county.

Frederick Vogel was a German by birth, horn in Germany, on April i_. [828, son of Philip and Catherine (German) Vogel, he a native of Germany and his wife of French origin. Philip Vogel had been for more than forty years a school teacher. He and his wife were the parents of twelve or fifteen children, one of their sons, Frank, a soldier in the German army, having seen active service in the African campaign. Frank Vogel was reported slain in Africa, and was mourned as dead by his family. This w.i- a false report, however, and upon his return home he was greeted as one from the grave. One of his sisters was in a tree, picking fruit, and the appearance of what she thought was an apparition so startled her that she fell from the tree and broke her arm.

After receiving an excellent education in the schools of his home town, Frederick Vogel supplemented his schooling by a course in the Paris schools and became a highly cultivated French scholar. In Paris he learned the trade of gilder, which he followed in that city for three years, after which lie started out as a journeyman gilder, traveling over Europe for several years. \t the age of twenty-eight he came to America and located at Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, where he remained for twenty years, working at the rolls in a rolling-mill. He was living there when the Civil War broke out. and in 1804 he enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and Ninetysecond Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, with which he served until the close of the war.

Xot long after his arrival in 1 Iollidaysburg, Frederick Vogel was united in marriage to Susan Smith, who was born in Germany, daughter of Martin and Mary (Miller) Smith, both natives of Germany, who came to America in [841, settling in Hollidayshurg, where the rest of their lives were spent. Martin Smith was a master mason and worked at his trade as a stone-cutter in Hollidaysburg. lie and his wife were the parents of six children, Barbara, Martin. George, Sn-;m. Anna Mary and Magdaline. They were ardent 1 atholics and their children were reared in the faith of the mother church. I 'pon die death of Susan 1 Smith | Vogel, Frederick Vogel married, secondly. \1111a Mary Smith, who was born in Germany on February 7. 1840. To the first union two children wire horn. Philip and Martin (twins). To the second union ten children were horn. George, Frederick'. Kate. Joseph, Anna,

Frank, John, Adam, William and Susan, all of whom were born in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, save the latter two, who were horn on the Vogel homestead in Otter Tail county.

In 1878 Frederick Vogel decided to test his fortune in the great Northwest, of which region such glowing reports then were being heard in the Fast, and he and his wife and their ten children started for "Minnesota. They were able to come by rail as far as Perham. They located in Star Fake township, where Mr. Vogel entered a soldier's claim to a quarter of a section of land and there he spent the rest of his life, his death occurring on Fine 22, 1898. When he entered his homestead the tract was heavily timbered, but he cleared the forest and made a comfortable home, presently having one of the best-tilled farms in that section of the county. Mr. Vogel took a prominent part in the development of that region and was active in all movements having- to do with the betterment of conditions thereabout, lie was a Democrat and for several terms served the public as township treasurer. Mr. Vogel was an affable, genial man, an accomplished singer, and he and his family early became recognized as among the leaders in the social life of the community.

Frederick Vogel's widow still owns the home place and continued to make her home there until 1904, in which year she moved to Perham and since then has lived about with her children. She is a devout Catholic and all her children likewise are adherents to that faith, the family being held in high regard bv their manv friends in this count-,'.

Henry Tenter

Henry Tenter, well-known farmer and stockman of Edna township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Germain' on January 1 X, 1857, the son of Henry and Katherine (Rademaker) Tenter, both natives of Germany, the former a member of a family of prosperous landowners and the latter a daughter of Arnold and Margaret (Bishopf) Rademaker. Arnold Rademaker was a cattle dealer and spent his entire life in Germany.

Henry Tenter was educated in Germany, after which he worked as a coal-miner for some time and as an employee of a rolling-mill, of which his father was foreman, for five years. In [889 he came to America and settled in Edna township, ('tier Tail county. Mr. Tenter homesteaded twenty-eight acres of land in Edna township, a place to which he added and now has three hundred acres in his original farm and -me hundred and sixty acres in Battle Lake township. Mr. Tenter has greatly improved his farm and now engages in farming and in the raising of cattle, making a specialty of Red-Polled cattle.

Iii iNSj, Henry Tenter was married to Gertrude Ichoff, a native of Germany, and to this marriage have heen born the following children: ferry, Henry. Arnold, Katherine, \nna, William (deceased). Maggie. William (deceased), Dedrick, Lizzie, Emma and Lawrence Mr. Tenter and his family are members of the German Evangelical church.

George W. Robinson

George W. Robinson, retired farmer and prominent citizen of Richville, Otter Tail enmity. Minnesota, was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on March 2j, 1839, the son of David and Mindwell (Hodgman) Robinson, the former horn mi March 12, 1815, in Xew York state, and the latter born in the year [823, in Ohio. In the year 1857, David Robinson moved to Michigan, where be lived until bis death, at Sturgis, in 1899. Mindwell Robinson died mar Cleveland, Ohio, in 1855. David and Mindwell Robinson were the parents of six children, George W., and David Newton, who are living, and Lucinda, Mary Jane. Sarah and Emily, who are deceased.

George W. Robinson was educated in the township schools of Sherman township, St. Joe county, Michigan, after which he established the first saw-mill and grist-mill, of St. Joe county, locating the mill about four miles northwest of Sturgis. In December, 1862, George W. Robinson enlisted for service in the Civil War with Independent Company A. Volunteer Infantry, with which command he served until the end of the war. Later, Mr. Robinson went to Three Rivers. St. Joe county, where he lived until 187J. Afterwards, he moved to Osage. Iowa, lived there until 1879. and then went to Wilkens county, Minnesota, where he homesteaded a farm in Roberts township, and lived there for some time, after which he moved to Richville, and now lives a retired life. As a farmer for twenty-two years Mr. Robinson was thoroughly successful and be is now one of the well-to-do men of the community, being not only the owner of farm land, but also owns property in Kent, Minnesota, as well as the desirable property in which be lives.