Otter Tail County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1916 (part 21 of 28)

Andrew Hanson

Mulrew Hanson, farmer, Parkers Prairie township. Otter Tail county, was born on September 12, 184.), in Sweden, and is a son of Hans and Sisi (Johnson) Anderson. He attended the public schools of Sweden, and as a young man worked for his father on the farm. In 1868 he came to America and located in Parkers Prairie township, where he took up a homestead. Mis passage to ibis country was paid by Carl Swanson, for whom he worked the first few years after landing. He had no money when he came, and was obliged to work in the timber. His homestead consisted of one hundred and sixty acres, on which he put all the improvements. He afterward added eighty acres more to bis farm, and about 1878 he gave seventeen acres to his church. His special attention is now directed to general farming and stock raising, in which lines he has become financially successful. Politically, Mr. Hanson is a stanch Republican. He is a member of the Swedish Lutheran church.

at Parkers Prairie, Otter Tail county, .Minnesota, where they spent the remainder of their lives. They reared a family of eight children, all of whom came to America.

Andrew Hanson was united in marriage in 1875 with Christine Swansun, daughter of Carl Swanson, by win mi he has had hve children, Frank O., Henry, August, Edmund and Julia.

Mr. Hanson is a fine old gentleman, well known and well liked by the entire community in which he resides, and where his success has been achieved.

Alphus Stillman

Alphus Stillman was born in Indian Creek township, Mills county, Iowa, May 15. [852, the son of Clark Stillman. who was born in Avon, Xew York. August 17, 1S27, and of Amelia Ann (Sperry) Stillman, who was born in Monroe county, Xew York, February 7, 183 1. Clark Stillman was the son of Dexter Stillman, who was born in Colebrook, Connecticut, March 23, 1804, and of Barbara ( Red Held ) Stillman. who was burn in Lexington, Vermont, February 5, 1808, Dexter and Barbara Stillman being the parents of four children. Clark, father of the subject of this sketch, Franklin, Elizabeth and Mary. Dexter Stillman was a carpenter and farmer of Mills county, Iowa, a trade which be followed until his death. during the year 1852. Amelia Ann Sperry was the daughter of I harles Sperry and wife, Charles Sperry being a school teacher and later the iirst probate judge of Otter Tail count). Minnesota, dying in this county during the year 1870. Charles Sperry and his family were members of the Latter- Day Saints church, a congregation in which they were actively engaged in the work.

Clark Stillman. father of the subject of this sketch, following his education in the common schools of New York state, went to the state of Iowa with his parents, there becoming a farmer in Mills county, where he lived for some time and then moved to Fremont county, Iowa, later coming to ( )tter Tail county. Minnesota, in the year 1865, soon after which time he died as the result of disease contracted while serving as a soldier in the various campaigns of the Mexican War in the years 1846-47. Clark and Amelia Ann Stillman were the parents oi the following children: \lphiis. the subject of this, sketch; Harriett 1... who was born in Mills county, Iowa, February 1. 1854: Bainbridge, who was born in Fremont county, Iowa, February 20, 1^5(1; Barbara, who was born in Fremont county, Iowa, July -'(1. [857; Ann. who was born on May 16. 1850, in Fremont county, [owa; Charles 11.. who was born on June 11. 1861. in Fremont countv, Iowa;

Cynthia, who was born in Fremont county, Iowa. November -'3. 1863, and Albert, who was born in Otter Tail county, Minnesota, September 30, 1865. Mrs. Amelia Stillman died on September 16. 1890, in Deer Creek, Otter Tail count)-, being titty-nine years of age.

Alphus Stillman was educated in the public schools of Fremont county, Iowa, after which he came with his parents to Otter Tail county, during the year 1865, and homesteaded a farm in Deer Creek township, where he lived for some years. He then acquired eighty acres in section 14, same township, which he later sold and moved, in 1871, to his present farm of eighty acres, in section 26, adjoining his homestead in Deer Creek township. The present well improved and highly cultivated state of the farm of Alphus Stillman is due to the determination and perseverance of this hardy farmer, who on taking possession of his land found it to be uncleared of timber and of heavy brush, and who proceeded to care for his place in such a manner that it is now one of the desirable farms in the township. In addition to the raising of large quantities of potatoes, barley and corn, Mr. Stillman gives of his time to the dairy business, keeping for this purpose five cows.

Ole O. Houg

Ole O. Houg, a successful and prosperous citizen of Otter Tail county, was born in Norway on May 3, 1864, the son of Ole O. Houg and Conner Gresby. The senior Mr. Houg was a farmer in his native country. He and his family made the long ocean voyage in 1869 and traveled direct to La Crosse, Wisconsin, where they lived for one year, the father working on a farm. The next year the little family left La Crosse with an ox team on their long journey of some four hundred miles to Otter Tail county, where Mr. Houg homesteaded one hundred and fifty-four acres of land in sections 26 and 27, of Oscar township. By the united efforts and hard work of the family the farm was developed and improved, good and substantial buildings erected and here the father and mother lived until their death, some years ago.

Ole O. Houg was but five years of age when he came to the United States with his parents. He was reared on the home farm and received his education in the common schools of his home township. He has devoted his entire life to agricultural pursuits. He was married in 1885 to Anne A. Lerbakken and they are the parents of the following children: Alfred, Clara, Olga, Otto. Frances. Regina, Arnold, Arthur and Cochin. Alfred and Clara are married. The family are all active members of the Lutheran church.

which Mr. Houg purchased after the death of his father. The original farm consisted of but one hundred and fifty-four acres. Mr. Houg now owns three hundred and thirty-nine acres of well-improved land, with well-kept buildings, the frame barn having been built in 1914. He does general farming and is a breeder of Shorthorn and Durham cattle and Poland China hogs.

Mr. Houg is a stockholder in the Carlisle Bank and the Farmers Elevator Company. He is progressive and takes a keen interest in all public, educational and religious work, lie has been a school officer of his school district for the past ten years.

Francis R. Jacobs

Francis R. Jacobs, a native of Rice county, Minnesota, was born in Faribault, December i_>, 1868, the son of Royal W. and Catherine (Nichols) Jacobs, the former being a native of southern Ohio and the latter having been born near Elmira, Xew York.

The paternal grandfather of Mr. Jacobs was Milo Jacobs, who, though burn m Pennsylvania, spent all of his active life working as a millwright in Ohio. The parents of Francis R. Jacobs were married in South Bend, Indiana, and later the father served in the Civil War, enlisting in Company K, of the Twelfth Michigan Cavalry. His brother, Milo F. Jacobs, was in the Eighth Regiment, .Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. He moved to Faribault, Minnesota, in 1855, and now at the age of eighty years lives in Portland, Oregon.

Royal W. Jacobs was left an orphan at the age of five years and was brought up by an aunt living 111 Xew York state. He attended school until his twentieth year, including a course in law at the seminary in Elmira, Xew York, and later he became a sawyer. His ambition to become a lawyer was thwarted on account of the Civil War, and after its close, in 1867, he came to Minnesota. He previously had gone from New York to Michigan, then to Illinois and from there to Rice county, Minnesota. Here he engaged in running saws until 1N70, when lie moved to his present location in Pelican Rapids, lie followed the same occupation for three years, meantime building the first dam in this locality. He early became a homesteader, taking a claim of one hundred and twenty acres one-half mile west of Pelican Rapids, which is called to this day the "Jacobs Place." When he first came to this locality it was in company with his uncle, Asa II. Jacobs, who had made the trip previously and who was the first white man to set foot on the soil of 1'elican township. The claim which Royal Jacobs held for his uncle was part of the site Upon which the town is now situated. As the uncle had no legal right to a homestead, having obtained all that was due him, his young nephew held the claim for him. In 1870, Asa H. Jacobs sold his claim, and Royal Jacobs homesteaded a claim tor himself, one-half mile west of Pelican Rapids anil to this he brought his family in 1S71. Being an early settler, and capable, he held a number of the local offices. He died suddenly while engaged in harvesting grain, his death taking place on the farm now owned by Fred Damschen. To him and his wife were born three children. Mice, Catherine May and Francis. All were of the Protestant faith.

Francis R. Jacobs was educated in the village schools of Pelican township. From his eighteenth to twentieth year he taught school, and then became a contractor and builder, a line of work which he has followed ever since. With the exception of two years during which he lived in Brainerd. Minnesota, and two years when he lived in Clay county, Minnesota. Mr. Jacobs has lived his entire life in this township.

number of business interests. Me is interested in the First National Bank of Pelican Rapids and also in the telephone comif the Knights of Pythias and of the United Workrved his community by being for two years a memcation. A man of excellent character. Mr. Jacobs of the business world of Pelican Rapids and has 'd for his life of strenuous effort in which honor the guiding principle-.

William X1Mmlr

Descending from German lineage, the gentleman whose name heads the following brief biographical sketch hears out the reputation of his countrymen for thrift and keen foresight along agricultural lines. They seem to possess that inborn ability to successfully conduct their farming interests, which is no doubt due to the fact that their ancestors lor generations in the past have been skillfully trained to this life.

William Zimmer, farmer. Fergus halls. Carlisle township, Otter Tail county, was born on April 14. 1854. at Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, and i-. a son of Joseph Zimmer. His early education was secured at the district schools (if his native township and later he attended school at Menomonee Falls, and at Milwaukee, where he attended in company with the editor of the Milwaukee News. In r873, he left home and found employment in railroad construction work at Winona, Minnesota, for a short time, at the end of which he went to Minneapolis, and from there to Oceo, where he worked on a farm for one season, and in the winter of 1 cSr ? lie went to St.

Paul, moving in 1874 to Iowa, where he followed farming for five years. In [881, Air. Zimmer bonght his present home place, consisting of one hundred and fifty-live acres, located in section 25, Carlisle township, Otter Tail county. He has put all the improvements on the place, including a commodious dwelling, which was erected in 1895, and a good, substantial barn, built in [914, his entire real-estate holdings consisting of about three hundred acres. Politically, Mr. Zimmer is a stanch Republican.

Joseph Zimmer. father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Germany, and came to New York City in 1X24 as a young man. employing the first eight years of his time in America, in a piano factory at that city, moving in 1832 to Wisconsin, where he lived On a farm the remainder of his life, his death occuring in 1SS0. He was united in marriage with Mary Haerter. by whom he had two children, William and Henry, who still reside on the old homestead in Wisconsin.

William Zimmer was united in marriage, in 1S81, with Louisa Klinger, daughter of Justin Klinger, which union has been blest with nine children. Justus, I.ydia. Dora. Jennie, Ida. Hattie, Henry, Agnes and Alice.

Mr. Zimmer is a gentleman of splendid qualities, and is one whose presence wields a beneficial influence in his community, where he has gained a large circle of sincere friends.

Andrew Lind

Judging from the condition-, which surround his attractive farm in Inman township, Andrew Lind is one of the most enterprising citizens of the township. Having started with nothing. Mr. Lind is now a prosperous and progressive farmer, and the owner of one hundred and Mxtv acres of splendid farming land.

Andrew Lind was born in Sweden, February 5. [869, a son of Peter and \11na Monson, the former of whom died in Sweden in 1871;, and the latter came to America and settled in Otter Tail county in [889. Mr Lind's mother died in [910, at the age of .about seventy years. Mr. and Mrs. Peter Monson were the parents of four children, of whom Andrew, the subject of this review, was the second in order of birth. Hannah, the eldest, is deceased. The other children are Ole and Ingre. After the death of her first husband. Mrs. Anna Monson married the second time, and by this marriage had one son. John.

Andrew Lind received bis education in the public schools of his native land. lie came to \merica in 1880. and in a short time thereafter settled in Battle Lake, Otter Tail count). Minnesota. For some time Mr. Lind worked by the month, and in fact, had worked to pay for his passage from Sweden to America. In [898 Mr. Kind was able to purchase eighty acres of land in section 12, of Ininan township, and to this tract he lias since added eighty acres, of which forty is situated in section 12, and forty in section 1, of Inman township. Mr. Lind is a general farmer and stockman. All of his land is under a high state of cultivation and he has erected good buildings on his farm. In 1915 he constructed one of the best barns in the county.

About five years after coming to the United States, in 1891, Andrew Lind was married to Anna Rap]), who was born in Sweden in i860 Mrs. Hind's parents died in Sweden. .Mr. and Mrs. Lind are the parents of six children : Gust, Ida. Esther, Agnes. ( )tto and Hilda, all of whom are living.

Mr. Lind and family are active and faithful members of the Swedish Lutheran church. Mr. Lind has served on the school board of his township, and also as supervisor. He is rated as a self-made man, a successful farmer and a congenial and popular citizen.

Jonas O. Hallan

One of the most prosperous fanners of Aurdal township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and one of its most intelligent and highly respected citizens, is Jonas O. Hallan, who was born on January 2j, 1876, on the farm on which he now lives, and which he owns, consisting of three hundred and forty acres.

Mr. Hallan is the son of Ole and Helena (Hanan) Hallan. both of whom were born in Norway. Mr. Hallan's father was born on July 16, 1837, and his mother on October 6, 1840. The former immigrated to Red Wing, Goodhue count}-. Minnesota, in 1865. and his wife to Houston county, in 1873. I" tne summer of 1869 Ole Hallan came to Otter Tail county and purchased eighty acre- of school land, the north half of the southwest quarter of section 36, in Aurdal township. Later he added another eighty acres and later another forty, and another quarter was added by his son, Jonas, in 1902, and now has diree hundred and sixty acres. This farm has been cleared and substantial improvements have been made upon it. Ole Hallan is now living retired on this farm.

Of the children born to Ole and Helena (Hanan) Hallan, Jonas O. and Christian are twins; Ole, Jr., died in i<)Oi at the age of twenty-one years; Lena, who died in March. [914, was the wife of Jacob Lyng and had three children. Ilarald. Helen and Jean. Christian, the twin brother of Jonas O., is married and resides in Minneapolis. He is a civil engineer by profession and is a graduate of the University of Minnesota.

1900 Mr. Hallan went to < )klahoma and took up a homestead fourteen miles west of Lawton, which he still owns. After living' in that state for two and one-half years, Mr. Hallan returned to his old home and has since had charge of the farm. He keeps Holstein cattle and Berkshire swine. Air. Hallan is a prominent member of the Lutheran church, holds many places of trust in local affairs, is a true booster of home development and is always willing to help a home enterprise. He likes to tell of Otter Tail county as the best place on earth to live to be happy, wealthy and wise.

Theodore Jacobson

Theodore Jacobson. farrner. Pelican Rapids. Norwegian Grove township, was born on October a, 1854, in Vernon county, Wisconsin, and is a son of Jacob and Karen (Olson) Torkelson. His opportunities for obtaining an education were extremely limited, and as a young man he began farming for himself on bis father'- farm. About 1883, he and his brother, George, became joint owners of the old home place, and, he now owns in his own name one hundred acres, farming, in all, about three hundred acres of land. Mr. Jacobson is an Independent voter and takes a deep interest in the public welfare of his township, being its present supervisor.

Jacob Torkelson, father of the subject of this sketch, was born on January 12, 1821, in Norway, and his wife, Karen (Olson) Torkelson, also a native of that country, was born on March 8. 1824. In his native land he followed the sea. which vocation he gave up in 1846 and came to America, settling at Chicago for a few years, where he was married. From that city he went to Vernon count). Wisconsin, and lived on a farm. In 1869 he came to Otter Tail county and located in Norwegian Grove township, buying at first a soldier's claim of one hundred and sixty acres, and later he took up a homestead of forty acres, on which he put all buildings and other improvements, and where he spent the remainder of his life. Jacob and Karen Torkelson were the parents of four children: Mena, deceased; Theodore, the subject of this sketch: George, deceased, and Caroline. Mr. and Mrs. Torkelson were members of the Norwegian Grove Lutheran church, of which he was one of the trustees and to which he contributed liberally.

Theodore Jacobson was united in marriage, in 1882, with Gena Johnson, by whom he has had the following children: Nathan, Clara, Alma, Inga. James. Clarence and Ella.

Mr. and Mrs. Jacobson are affable, genial people, holding the respect and friendship of the entire community in which they make their home, and where their success has been achieved.

Frank S. Putnam

Frank S. Putnam was born in Wright county, Minnesota, February 17, 1859, the son of Luinan and Levina (Van Dwark) Putnam, both of whom were born at Jamestown, New York; Luinan Putnam being the son of Orin Putnam and wife, Orin Putnam having been, for fifty years, a minister in the Free Will Baptist church of Xew York state. Levina Putnam was the daughter of John Van Dwark, a farmer living in the state of New York.

human Putnam was educated in the public schools of Jamestown. New York, after which he became a farmer pursuing a general agricultural life in New York state until the year 1857, when he moved to Wright county, Minnesota, being one of the pioneers of that county, and living there until forced to leave as a result of the Indian uprising of 1862, the elder Putnam escaping t<> Ft. Snelling, Minnesota, only as the result of warning that the Indians were on the warpath and moving in the direction of his farm. After some hardships, including a period of six weeks when the family was compelled to live entirely on fish, for which no salt could be obtained, human Putnam was able to make his farm a safe and productive place for farm life and pursuits, his land at a later time reaching a high value when it was sold by his widow some years after Ins death, human Putnam was a veteran of the Civil War, during the campaigns of which he contracted disease which resulted in his death, he being survived by his widow and six children: Mary, Celestia, Emily, Alvira. Frank S., the subject of this sketch, and .Martha, deceased.

Following the death of her husband. Levina Putnam, 111 the year 1872, with five iif her children, came to Utter Tail county. Minnesota, where the children homesteaded, on their father's right as a war veteran, one hundred and forty-three acres of land in section 4, of Pelican township, a place which was improved with a log cabin with a sod roof, as a home, and a farm which was cultivated and later more modernly improved, where Levina Putnam lived for some years and then purchased a farm of one hundred and sixtv acres m Scambler township, where she lived the remainder of her days.

Following his education in the schools of Otter Tail county. Minnesota, Frank S. Putnam became a farmer mi the old homestead in Otter lad county, having purchased the interest of the other heirs, and oil this farm he lived until the year 1903, having added to his holding until he now is the owner of two thousand five hundred acres of choice and desirable land 111 Otter 'fail county, land which be cultivated 'as a general farmer and stuck raiser until, desiring to retire, in the year i<)(>3, he purchased eighty-three acres of land about two miles northeast of the town of Pelican Rapids.

Minnesota, on the Pelican river, a place un which, after nearly three years devoted to extensive improvement, Frank S. Putnam has moved and now makes his home.

In the business life of the community as well as in agricultural life, Frank S. Putnam has been successful, having, for a number of years, been a director of the First National Bank of Pelican Rapids, an institution in which he is now a stockholder, although he is not actively engaged in the work of the company.

On .May 12, 1885. Frank S. Putnam was married to Hannah Robinson, of Scambler township. Otter Tail county, the daughter of John Robinson and wife, John Robinson being a well-known farmer of that locality. To the marriage of Frank and Hannah Putnam were born four children, Orin, Floyd, Worthy and Birdella.

Frank S. Putnam, though a man of public spirited nature and interested in the public welfare, preferred not to serve in any official capacity in the township, hut it is only just to this valued citizen to say that his part in the development and progress of the community has been conspicuous and of a nature which has won for him respect and esteemed appreciation on the part of his fellow citizens and associates.

Ferdin And Wischnak

Ferdinand Wischnak is one of the many agriculturists of Candor township, Otter Tail county. Minnesota, who finds the soil of this locality particularly adapted to their vocation. He is a native of Germany and his birth occurred on December o, 1848. in West Prussia. His parents were Gottlieb and Caroline ( Engler ) Wischnak and they also were natives of Germany. Gottlieb Wischnak was employed as a day laborer until his death in 1852. Caroline (Engler) Wischnak was married, after the death of her first husband, to Christian Boehmke, and in 1881 they immigrated to America and located near Young America. Garver county. Minnesota. Their deaths occurred in that place. To the first union were horn two children: Ferdinand and Matilda. Matilda married William Hensel and died in Carver, Minnesota. The names of the children horn of the second union follow: Carl, who live-, in Dora township, mar Loon lake: Rudolph is a farmer living in Carver county, Minnesota; Augusta married Oscar Kraus and lives in Superior. Wisconsin; Theresa married Fred Schlichting and lives in St. Paul, Minnesota; Paulina married Charles Bohn and they live in Wadena, Minnesota.

Ferdinand Wischnak was educated in the public schools of his native land, following which he was taught the trade of blacksmith and immigrated to America in 1879. He located in Carver county, Minnesota, where he followed his trade for one year, removing in 1880 to Otter Tail county. He purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, under the homestead law, in section 20, in Candor township. This farm was on the shore of Hook lake and was entirely unimproved, hut a log house, sixteen by eighteen feet, was soon erected and the soil put under cultivation. During the first year, in connection with his farm work, he also assisted others in the harvesting of their crojjs. He now has nearly sixty acres under cultivation and carries on general farming ami stuck raising". He also owns fort)- acres near the place on winch lie lives. In [895 the present home was built and the barn was erected in 1900. Politically, Ferdinand Wischnak is a stanch Republican and served a- supervisor for nearly three years.

In [883 Ferdinand Wischnak was united in marriage to Bertha Zuehl, a native of Germany who came to America when a small girl, and to them have been born these children: Carl is a farmer in Candor township; Otto owns a farm in Candor, but is employed in other work; Annie married Henry Hannush and lives in Iowa; Fred is at home; Rudolph, Edward and Alma. Ferdinand Wischnak and his wife are devout members of the Lutheran church

Carl O. Schoening

Carl ( ). Schoening, farmer, Fergus Falls township, Otter Tail county. was born on March u, 1875, at Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and is a son of Christian and Elizabeth 1 Ulrich ) Schoening. He was educated at the public schools of Otter Tail count\", and as a young man started to farm for himself on his father's farm and is still living on the place, where he does general tanning and owns in his own name one hundred and sixty acres of well-improved farm land, which has been acquired through thrift and industry. Mr. Schoening has always been a strong believer in the principles of the Republican party, but has never sought public office. He is a member of the German Lutheran church.

Christian and Elizabeth (Ulrich) Schoening were both natives of Germany, and spent the last years of their lives in Otter Tail county, Minnesota. A more complete history of their lives will be found in the biographical sketch of William F. Schoening. presented elsewhere in this volume.

Carl < ). Schoening was united in marriage, November 4, 1897, with Sophia Meyer, daughter of William Meyer. The two children with which this union has been blest are Walter William F. and Clara.

Mr. Schoening possesses the highest qualities of integrity and human sympathy towards his fellow man, and has earned for himself a place of substantia] prominence in Fergus Falls township, where he is well known.

Peter M. Knoff

Peter M. Knoff was born near Bergen, Norway, October 27, 1868, the son of Peter C. and Lena ( Berge ) Knoff, the former qf whom was born in Norway on January 21, 1827, and the latter, born in Norway during the month of November, 1821. Peter C. Knoff was a carpenter in his native land, a trade which he followed in that country until the year 1870, when with his wife and six children, he came to America, settling in Trempealeau county, Wisconsin, where he worked in a saw-mill for some months. At a later time be moved to Martin county, Minnesota, there taking up a homestead nf eighty acres of unbroken prairie land, a place on which Peter C. Knoff built a sod house for a home and then proceeded to cultivate his land, later adding to his land until he owned two hundred acres of well tilled soil mi which from time to time he added improvements. At the time of his death, in 1901, Peter C. Knoff bad one of the most productive and best improved farms of that community.

hollowing the death of her husband Mrs. Lena Knoff moved to Fergus halls. .Minnesota, where she lived until her death in 1904. Peter C. and Lena Knoff were the parents of the following children: Herman, a furniture and fixture manufacturer of Mankato, Minnesota; Jacob, a harness maker of Fergus Falls, Minnesota; Gertie, who married C. J. Hanson, of Fergus Falls, Minnesota; Lizzie, who married Andrew Anderson and lives in Carlisle township, Otter Tail county; Christian, who is deceased; Peter M., the subject of this sketch, and one child who died in infancy. Peter C. Knoff and his wife were faithful and devout members of the Norwegian Lutheran church.

Peter M. Knoff, following his education in the common schools of Martin county, remained at home as an aid to his father until the year IQOI, when the father died, and then Peter M. Knoff purchased the interest of the other heirs in the home place, farming there for about one year. Then selling his land he moved to Fergus Falls, Minnesota, where he lived until the year 11)03, after which be came to Erhard, Minnesota, and erected a two story building, in size thirty-eight by sixty feet, in which he started a general store, one which has prospered until the stock carried now reaches the value of about ten thousand dollars. During the year 1913, Peter M. Knoff. with others, was instrumental in the establishment of the Erhard State Bank, an organization of which Mr. Knoff is a stockholder and also one of the directors, an office which lie has held since the organization of the institution.

Politically, Peter M. Knoff is a leader of the community, being prominent in the Republican party which be supports in state and national politics.

although locall) he is independent of party. In public office Mr. Knoff has a 1< >ng and efficient record, having served with notable ability and satisfaction as township clerk and as treasurer of the school board. Officially, Peter M. Knoti is probably best known as the competent and popular postmaster of the town of Erhard, .Minnesota, an office which he has filled most adequately since his appointment on April i, 1908.

I'eter M. Knott is connected with the Norwegian Lutheran church at Erhard, Minnesota, a denomination which he supports with his effort and means.

The gentleman whose history is here briefly presented is one of the selfmade men of Otter Tail county, having climbed slowly but surely to the top. taking his place among the leading agriculturists of Fergus Falls township. Otter Tail county.

William F. Schoening, farmer, Fergus Falls township. Otter Tail county, was born on May 9. 1864, in Germany, and is a son of Christian and Elizabeth ( Ulrich ) Schoening. His early education was obtained in Germany, where he attended school for several years, coming to America with his parents when nine years old. He attended the public schools in America for a period of seven years and came to Fergus Falls, where he was employed in a saw-mill, and helped to saw the last logs that were rafted down the river to this place. In the following fall he went to Main, Minnesota, and worked as a contract hand until his marriage, when he bought a farm of eighty acres and folowed agriculture. Mr. Schoening has been thrifty and industrious, and has continued to prosper until he now owns a fine tract of two hundred and twenty acres of good agricultural land, which he has improved with good substantial buildings, taking an inventory each year to see what is required for the upkeep of his place. He divides his time and attention between general farming and stock raising. Politically, Mr. Schoening is a stanch Republican, in the activities of which party he has taken a keen interest, having held the office of township assessor for the past twenty-three years. Religiously, he belongs to the German Lutheran church, lie holds the office of secretary in the Farmers Co-operative Elevator Company, and is director in the Fergus Falls Co-operative Creamery Association; is director and treasurer of the Farmers Co-operative Store at Fergus Falls, and is a director in the Rural Telephone Company.

Christian Schoening. father of the subject of this sketch, was born 011 August 7, [836, in Germany, and died on Max- 24, 1 01 )8. His wife. Elizabeth (Ulrich") Schoening. was born on December 9, 1835, in Germany. He came to America with his parents in r873, locating first at Cleveland, Ohio, where they remained a year and a half, and then moved to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, remaining there about four years. About 1877 Mr. Schoening brought his family to Fergus Falls and bought a farm, where he followed agriculture until the time of his death, and where his son, Carl, now lives. Christian and Elizabeth (Ulrich) Schoening were the parents of the following children: [-red. who lives in Wisconsin: William F., Herman, Charles and Carl. Mr. and .Mrs. Schoening united with the German Lutheran church at an early day.

William F. Schoening was united in marriage, November 4, 1890, with Emma Zahn, daughter of Gottlieb Zahn. This union has been blest with five children. Fred, Albert. Bernard. Arthur and Frieda. Mrs. Schoening died in iqod, and Mr. Schoening was married, secondly, on May 31, 1907, to Huldah Voecks, by whom he has had two children, Theodore and August.

.Mr. Schoening is a highly-esteemed citizen in the community in which he resides, and where he is rearing his children to be useful and honored residents.

Gjert C. Skeim was horn on May 27, 1877, in Houston county, Minnesota, the son of John G. and Ingeborg (Otterness) Skeim, both of whom were natives of Norway. The father came to this country at the age of twenty and the mother came with her parents when she was an infant. In Houston county they grew up, met and were married and Mr. Skeim there became a fanner and landowner. In 1893 they moved to Norman county, Minnesota, where Mr. Skeim purchased land at Twin Valley, where he and his wife still live, enjoying the fruits of their labors. John G. Skeim has reached the age of seventy-four while his good wife is four years younger. Both are members of the Norwegian Synod. Of the twelve children born to them only four grew up about the parental hearthstone. These are the subject of the present sketch and his three sisters. Martha, Ida and Annie, all of whom are teachers and reside at home.

Being ambitious, Gjert C. Skeim acquired more than the average amount of education and after his studies in the Agricultural College of South Dakota and the Normal School of Moorhead, Minnesota, from the latter which he was graduated in 1907, he taught school for five years. In 1910, however, he began an entirely new line of work when he became assistant cashier of the State Bank of Audubon, Minnesota, a position which he held for four years. He was also at that time treasurer of the telephone company. In 1014. on the organization of the Almora State Bank, he was engaged as cashier, a position which he still retains. The officers of this (.(Shi well known business institution are as follow: President, A. O. Xetland; vice-president, S. A. Xetland; cashier, G. C. Skeim. There are now eighty depositors and a capital of ten thousand dollars and a surplus of two thousand dollars.

Gjert C. Skeim was married to Christine Thorpe, in September, 1909, she being a native of Grove City, Meeker county, Minnesota, and the daughter of an old settler named Jacob Thorpe. To them two sons and one daughter have been born: Jerome Ira Miles, horn on February 10, 1913; Gottfried Constantine, and Cordelia Judith Georgiana, August 1, 1915.

Mr. Skeim has taken some part in local politics as a member of the Republican party. He was for three years recorder of Audubon and for two years a member of its school board, and a number of times served as delegate to conventions. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias and both he and his wife belong to the Norwegian Synod. Mr. Skeim has been for the past twelve years deeply interested in the cause of local option and in co-operation with X. T. Moen framed one of the first resolutions for presentation to the state Legislature. With the zeal of a reformer he has worked for twelve years for local option, giving generously of his time and means to this cause so close to his heart. He has the absolute confidence of the community and the good will of all who admire strength of character and the desire to serve one's fellow men.

Joseph S. Haarstad

Joseph S. Haarstad was born in Trondhjem township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, on the farm where he now resides. His birth occurred 011 the _'_»nd of May, 1870. ami be is the son of Simon and Hermana Haarstad. Simon Haarstad was the son of Eric and Kari (Baatner) Haarstad. both of whom were born in Norway, where they lived until death. Eric Haarstad was a landowner in his native land, a title that gave him no small distinction among the people of that locality and period. He and his wife reared a family of eight children, four of whom came to America. Of those children who came to .America. Simon Haarstad was first, the other sons in this country were Gunelius, who lived and died in Trondhjem township; Gilbert, who took up his residence in South Dakota, and Andrew who went into the West to seek his fortune. The wife of Simon Haarstad, Hermana Baatner, was the < laughter of Ole Peterson and Guna ( Digness) Baatner, Mr. Baatner, who was a farmer in Norway, died in his native land. After his death, bis wife married Johannes Baatner, a brother of her first husband, with whom she came to America. She died in Trondhjem township, in 1800. while living with the parents of Joseph Haarstad

During- her residence in Norway Mrs. Baatner became the mother of the following children: Hermana, who married Simon Haarstad; Olia, who married Axel Jergenson and lived in Wisconsin where she died; Jennie, the wife of William Swan, resides in Wisconsin; Tena, who never married, also lives in Wisconsin, where she passed away; Guna is still living in Wisconsin, as is her sister Nellie, the wife- of Peter Skore.

Simon Haarstad was born in Solor, Brandvold, Norway, in 1840, and the woman whom he later married was born in the same community, on the 8th of October, 1837. As a young man Simon Haarstad followed the occupation of a farmer, which gave him a wide experience in various sections of the country in which he lived. His marriage took place when he was still a young farmer, and he worked at his chosen employment until 1865, when, accompanied by his wife and a daughter he sailed for America. The journey across the Atlantic covered a period of nine weeks and four days. Upon arriving in this country he settled in Winneshiek county, near Decorah, Towa, where he worked on a farm for two years. At the end of that time he bought a farm in that section, forty acres in extent, upon which he lived for three years.

In 1870, starting by ox-team in a covered wagon, Mr. Haarstad made the journey to Otter Tail county, a venture he never regretted since it 1 in night him valuable returns. Before departing for the county in which he spent the last days of his life, he sold the Iowa farm of forty acres. In Trondhjem township he pre-empted one hundred and sixty acres located in the eastern part of the township, which he later sold. He then set out upon the task of homesteading one hundred and sixty acres, to which he later added forty acres of "tree claim." The land upon which he settled was devoid of any sign of cultivation. He built a log cabin which is still standing on the present farm where it is used as a granary. Part of the land cleared by Air. Haarstad was used for the purpose of raising potatoes. During the early years of acquiring the homestead. Air. Haarstad was employed on a railroad near Duluth. Pater as he prospered he built a second log cabin, of larger proportions and solid foundation, to this house improvements have been added from time to time until it is very near a modern design. The house still stands as a model of what the early settlers were able to accomplish with small means and is used with all its modern conveniences for the present residence of the subject of this sketch. Mr. Haarstad, before his death, added to his possessions by purchasing one hundred and sixty acres of land in Oscar township, of which forty acres are used for hay and twenty acres are still in timber. Mr. Haarstad lived and died on the old homestead, his death occurring on the 29th of July, 1898. His wife is still living on the home place, and for many years has been a devout member of the Lutheran church. The couple reared the following children: Kari, who married Bernhard Anderson and later became the wife of Frank Wolfgran, resides in Montana; Emma, who lives in Oscar township, married Ole Skolrud; Hilda died at the age of twenty-live years; Olivia, the wife of Martin Velo, resides in Trondhjem township; Peter is a farmer in North Dakota; Gustav died at the age of twenty-five; Joseph is the subject of this sketch, and Ole, the youngest child, died at the age of four.

Joseph Haarstad is indebted to the schools of his native township for his elementary educational training, but his rearing on the farm probably gave him some of the most valuable lessons of his life. From early childhood he was taught to live by labor and his success later in life proved that he had accepted as his heritage a love for the dignity of labor and a respect for the lessons it taught. At the age of twenty-two, Joseph Haarstad left the home place and went to North Dakota, where he homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land in Ward county. He still owns this land although he has lived in Otter Tail county for a number of years. Upon his return to the old home place in Minnesota he took control of the estate and continues to manage it along the lines of general farming.

On the 30th of January, [Q12, Mr. Haarstad was united in marriage to Emma Gunderson, a native of Norway. She is the daughter of Gilbert Olson, who died in Norway, the country of his nativity. Mr. and Mrs. Haarstad became the parents of three children ; the eldest of whom died in infancy, the two younger children, Effie and Lillian, are at home with their parents. Mr. and Mrs. Haarstad are members of the Lutheran church. In his political interests, Mr. Haarstad is an independent voter.

Ole Rolandson

Ole Rolandson was a native of Wisconsin, having been born in Manitowoc, October 3, 1861. He was the son of Andrew and Annie (Lyken) Rolandson. natives of Norway, who came to this country in 1853. Upon arriving in America, Mr. Rolandson went to Manitowoc where he took up the occupation of farming. In the year 1879, he and his wife came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where they bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in Clitherall township. The land was not totally in a state of wilderness as most of the land at that time, but had been partially improved by Knut Bondy. Mr. Rolandson met the obstacles of early life on the farm with courage and firmness of purpose, and after a few years of labor had his land in a good state of cultivation. At the outbreak of the Civil War, however, he was called from his agricultural labors and served in Company D, Fifty-second Regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry.

Sarah is the wife of Joseph Simonson, and lives in Mcintosh, Minnesota; Julia, the wife of Thomas Agern, resides in Fergus Falls; Gertrude married Herman Simonson and resides on the Red Lake reservation near Thief River Falls; Anna married Albert Scribner and lives in Saskatchewan; Ole is the subject of this sketch; Andrew is a farmer in Plummer, Minnesota; John died in Minneapolis in 1913. and Emma, the wife of N. E. Nelson, resides at Fergus Falls.

The early education of Ole Rolandson was received in the public schools of Fergus Falls, Minnesota, and after completing the course in the common schools he began to work on the farm with his father. From early youth Ole Rolandson was drilled in the hard school of toil, a fact that made his mature life full of worthy accomplishments. After his marriage, Mr. Rolandson lived for ten years in Fergus Falls where he was employed in the Harris mill. In 1895 he bought the old Rolandson homestead, which at that time extended over a tract of one hundred and sixty acres, and made a number of improvements. His investment proved to be profitable, and in iqoo he bought the eighty acre farm adjoining his original purchase. On the land which brought him prosperity, Mr. Rolandson began to build a handsome residence, which was only partially completed at the time of his death, which occurred in 19 10.

Aside from his ability as a farmer. Mr. Rolandson was a man of unusual business qualities, which found vent in many lines of work. At the time of his death he was a director in the Farmers Co-operative Elevator Company, and was also a director in the Rattle Lake Creamery Company, which he was instrumental in organizing. As a member of the Republican party. Mr. Rolandson served the community in which he lived as a public official for a number of years. As a school director he made a large circle of friends. Both he and his wife were actively associated with the affairs of the Norwegian Lutheran church, of which they were devout members.

The marriage of Ole Rolandson and Bertha Agern took place on the 29th of May, 1885. She is a native of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, having been born there on the 24th of November, 1857. She is the daughter of Knut and Berit (Oualy) Agern, natives of Norway, who immigrated to Wisconsin during the pioneer days, where they lived until the time of their death. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Rolandson the following children have been born: Clarence A., who is manager of the Fergus Falls Woolen Mills, at Fergus Falls. Minnesota, and a partner in the Bergland & Rolandson shoe store. He is the husband of Amanda Larson. Roy B. is owner of eighty acres of land on the home place where he lives. He married Selma Vennerstrom. Erwin. who lives at Reserve, Montana, where he has a general store, married Sarah Bass. Ernest G. is at home, where he manages the farm.

John H. Seeba

John H. Seeba, prominent farmer and pioneer citizen of Friberg township, this county, was born at Hanover, Germany, May 19, 1850, the son of John and Gacica (Koch) Seeba, both of whom were born in Germany. John Seeba, Sr., was a farmer of his native country, an occupation which he followed his entire life, with the exception of three years as a soldier in the German army. John and Gacica Seeba were the parents of one son, John H., the subject of this sketch.

John H. Seeba was educated in the common schools of Germany, and when eighteen years of age, in 1868, he came to America, and after a short time in New York City, went to Red Wing, Minnesota, near where he worked on a farm for three years. In the spring of 1871 John H. Seeba was married to Metta Brewer, the daughter of N. Brewer, a teacher in Hanover, Germany. Leaving Red Wing in July, 1871, Mr. Seeba came to Otter Tail county to look for a homestead. Here he found land to his liking but there were no roads nor railways here then. He returned to Red Wing and in the spring of 1872 bought an ox-team and wagon on which he loaded his family and belongings, and accompanied by a neighbor set out on his journey to this county. It was a long and toilsome trip, as they sometimes had to clear away the trees and brush to get the wagon through. Mr. Seeba selected a homestead in section 34, Friberg township, and was the first settler in this township. He immediately cleared a small place for a garden and after it was planted set to work to build a house. As there were no saw-mills nor lumber yards within seventy-five miles, Mr. Seeba was forced to construct a house of logs, which were plentiful in the woods nearby, and on which he placed a sod roof, making it cool in summer and warm in winter.

In 1S74 there were enough settlers to organize a township and it was called Friberg. John H. Seeba was elected road supervisor to lay out the roads and build bridges across Red river. As the township at that time had no funds the settlers had to furnish most of the materials and labor for the necessary improvements. Mr. Seeba had had some experience with a piledriver, so he was given charge of constructing the bridges, and built, in all. five bridges across the Red river. He also laid out and established nearly all the roads in Friberg township during the thirty years that he was supervisor.

Mrs. Metta (Brewer) Seeba died in 1876, and in 1870 John H. Seeba was married, secondly, to Albertina Eichstadt. a daughter of Fred Eichstadt, a farmer of Friberg township, and to this union five children were born, three sons and two daughters, namely: Frederick, who lives on a farm in Maine township, this county; Herman lives at home and manages the farm;

John died in infancy; Mary and Amelia live on farms in Montana. In July. i8qo, Mrs. Albertina Seeba died from the effects of a sunstroke, leaving- the five small children, the youngest of whom was fifteen months old.

In 1 89 1, John H. Seeba was married to Emma Wenstrom, daughter of John Wenstrom, a farmer of Friberg township, and to this union was born one child, Alice, who lives with her parents on the farm.

Mr. Seeba assisted in organizing a German Lutheran church in Friberg township in 1875, and served as trustee of that church for ten years. In 1879 he was elected as township school trustee and has served continuously since that time. Mr. Seeba was appointed postmaster of Friberg in 1881, and was postmaster for ten years, when he resigned. Mr. Seeba and his family are held in high esteem in this community, in the development of which he has had such a large part.

Andrew O. Solum

Andrew O. Solum was born near Christiania, Norway, April 27, 1866, the son of Ole H. Solum and Kari Stadum, both of whom were born in Norway, the father in the year 1836, and the mother in the year 1840. Ole H. Solum was a farmer in his native land, a vocation which he pursued there until the year 1868, when with his wife and two children he came to America. After a voyage of six weeks on a sailing vessel they landed at New York City, from there going to Fillmore county, Minnesota, in which county Ole H. Solum and his family lived for four years. In 1872 they moved to Clay county, Minnesota, where the elder Solum homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land, which being uncultivated prairie land he proceeded to break and after building a log house for a home this pioneer prepared his land for cultivation, later adding to his holdings until he was the owner of three hundred and forty acres of well improved and highly cultivated land, where he now makes his home. Ole H. Solum and Kari Stadum are the parents of the following children : Hans, who operates the home farm; Andrew, the subject of this sketch; Syvert, who is cashier of the First National Bank of Barnesville, Minnesota; Martin, who purchased one hundred and sixty acres of the home place, where he now lives engaged in general agricultural pursuits; Peter, who is a merchant of Barnesville, Minnesota: and four children who are deceased, Louis dying when he was eleven years of age, Christine dying when she was fourteen years of age, and Emil and Ole who died at the age of one year. Ole H. Solum is one of the best-known men of Tansem township, Clay county, having served the township in various offices and having taken an active interest in the affairs of the community. Ole H. Solum and his family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church.

Andrew O. Solum, the subject of this sketch, was educated in the common schools of Clay county, Minnesota, after which he worked on the farm of his father for some years and then became a wheat buyer at Barnesville, Minnesota, for the Minnesota and Dakota Elevator Company, a business which he followed for one year and then went to Sabin, Minnesota, where he bought wheat, after which he engaged in the livery business at the town of Barnesville, Minnesota, continuing in that business for about eight years. He then established a general mercantile business at the town of Baker, Minnesota, conducting that work for about four years, after which in the year 1903. he came to Erhard, Minnesota, where he purchased the general mercantile business of Goodsell & Company, which he has since operated, being successfully engaged in this line with a stock valued at ten thousand dollars.

On June 13, 1888, Andrew O. Solum was married to Marie Gustafson, who was born in Norway, the daughter of Gustav Christianson and wife, who came to America and settled in Clay county. Minnesota, where they spent the remainder of their days. To the marriage of Andrew and Marie Solum have been born the following children : Alma, who is a saleslady in the store of her father; Olga. who died at the age of sixteen years; Helen and Albert, who live at home, and one child who died in infancy.

Andrew O. Solum is one of the prominent men in the public and official life of Erhards Grove township. He is now serving as township treasurer and also as treasurer of the school district. Mr. Solum is one of the most highly respected and esteemed citizens of the township and county, not only because of his success in his chosen field of endeavor, but on account of his public spirited nature and his efforts for the welfare of the community.

Colbert G. Hayhurst

Colbert G. Hayhurst, postmaster of Richville. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is one of the prominent citizens of that town who owe their influence to the sterling qualities of character which have distinguished them and placed them in positions of trust. He has the distinction of having been an expert gunner in the service of the United States navy, and during that time saw much of the world while helping to man a battleship on a long cruise. Among the many interesting places which he visited were the cities of Gibraltar, Lisbon, Trieste, Eiume, Pirseuse and Athens. They then visited Corfu and the Straits of Messina and returned home. They were also taken on a Carribean cruise, and during this time Colbert G. Hayhurst served as first class gun pointer. On May 22, 191 1, he was discharged from service on account of disability, whereupon he located in Richville, Minnesota, where he has since remained.

Colbert G. Hayhurst was horn on October 22, 1880, in Spottsville, Henderson county, Kentucky, and is the son of Louis Clark and Rachel (Griffin) Hayhurst. His paternal grandparents were James and Ella 1 Burbank ) Hayhurst. both natives of Ohio, but later of Vanderburg county, Indiana, where they resided until their deaths. James Hayhurst followed the vocation of cooper. The maternal grandparents of Colbert G. Hayhurst were George Griffin and his wife. George Griffin was bom near Youngstown, Pennsylvania, and removed when a young man to Indiana, where he settled near McCutchanville, where he followed the vocation of farmer until his death.

Rachel (Griffin) Hayhurst, mother of Colbert G. Hayhurst, was born on November 15, [844, in Indiana. Clark Hayhurst was also born in Indiana, January ii, 1845. Their marriage was solemnized in Indiana, where they grew to maturity and shortly after, in 1878. they removed to Henderson count), Kentucky. A farm was purchased with the intention of making tins their permanent home, hut owing to the floods of the Green river the place was sold and another farm purchased near Souffletown, Henderson count)-. Kentucky, on the Ohio river: They remained there until 1005, at which time he retired to Reed, Kentucky, where he resides with a daughter. Rachel (Griffin) Hayhurst passed away on March 22, 1892, and some time later, Louis (lark Hayhurst married a Mrs. Calloway. To his first union were horn seven children: Lottie, who died at the age of four years; James Frank, who is employed in the shops of the Louisville & Nashville railroad at Evansville, Indiana; George I'"., who lives in Richville, Minnesota, and is employed in a saw-mill during the winter months and operates a threshing machine during the summer; John Raleigh, who is a carpenter in the shops of the Louisville & Nashville railroad, at Evansville, Indiana; Nellie, who became the wife of Lee Robbins, and was married, secondly, to Matthew Brooks, and now resides in Reeds, Kentucky; Colhert G., and Ilallie Louise, who became the wife of George Gregory and now. resides at Casper, Wyoming. To the second union of Louis Clark Hayhurst one son was horn. Louis Clark Hayhurst has always been very active in politics, though non-partisan in belief and has always been a member of the Missionary I'.aptist church, in which denomination he has served in various capacities.

Colbert G. Hayhurst received his education in the public schools of Spottsville and Souffletown, Henderson county. Kentucky, and was reared on his father's farm until the age of twenty-three, at which time he enlisted in the United States navy. After joining his brother in Richville, Minnesota, he engaged in the operation of a saw-mill and continued in this line of endeavor until his appointment as postmaster on October 22, 1912. His service in this capacity has been dispatched with conscientious interest and hearty good will. Fraternally, he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

On November 22, 1907, Colbert G. Hayhurst was united in marriage to Charlotte Nancy Donaldson, daughter of Reuben Donaldson, an old settler of Richville, Minnesota. They are the parents of two children, Del Griffin and Charlotte Kathryn.

Torger Johnson

Torger Johnson was born in Norway on the 19th of Alarch, 1851. His parents were John and Maren Johnson, both of whom were born in Norway. His father was a fanner and followed that occupation until his death. Of the eight children born to Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, six came to America in the following order: Edward, wdio settled in Girard township, where he took up farming; Christian, who is a farmer in Nidaros township; Carrie, deceased, who was the wife of William Gulickson, of Wisconsin; Gunhild Maria, who lives in Wisconsin, and is the wife of Axel Gulickson; Thomas, who lives in Sand 1'oint. Idaho, and Torger.

The early education of Torger Johnson was received in the public schools of Norway, and after completing his education he came to this country, where he took up the occupation of fanning. Before coming to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, he worked for three years in St. Croix county, Wisconsin. Upon his arrival in Otter Tail county he bought two hundred acres of land in Nidaros township and made bis home in that section of the county until his death, which occurred on the 18th of September, [906. The land on which he settled was prairie without trees or buildings. It ma) be truthfully stated at this time that the presence of his wife and her untiring efforts to improve their mode of living added much to the success achieved by Mr. Johnson in his life on the farm. lie engaged at first in the work of breaking up the soil and after a short time erected a dwelling which was destroyed by fire. Mr. Johnson was obliged, with scarcely any assistance, to build a second home, which is still used as a residence by his wife. During his life. Mr. Johnson was engaged in both political and educational affairs, where he gained popularity as a man of high principles and worthy accomplishments. He was a devout member of the Free Lutheran church and gave liberally to its support. Mrs. Johnson continues to work for the welfare of the church.

The marriage of Torger Johnson to Julia Swenby took place in 1881. Julia Swenby is the daughter of Ole and Ingeborg Swenby, natives of Norway, who emigrated to Marquette county. Wisconsin, in the early forties.

Mr. Swenby was a farmer and landowner and after twelve years' residence in the county where he first settled he moved to St. Croix county, where he lived until 1876, when he passed away. Mrs. Swenby died two years later, after a life of usefulness and service.

Mr. and Mrs. Johnson became the parents of the following children: Oscar is a farmer in Nidaros township. Inga married A. W. Pearson and lives in South Dakota. She received her education in the Northwestern College at Fergus Falls and later attended the State Normal School at St. Cloud. She was graduated from the school at Moorhead in 1906 and for the two years following taught school. Thora died at the age of three years and Julia died at the age of one year. Thea married O. E. Herbranson and lives in Nidaros township. She received her education in the State Normal School, at Moorehead, and following her graduation taught school for two years. Mina died when just a year old. Minnie J. is a teacher, and while not engaged in that work makes her home with her mother.

Mrs. Julia Johnson continues to reside on the home farm and enjoys a popularity among the residents of this community and on account of her strong personality, her usefulness and the great assistance she renders her acquaintances in times of need, she belongs to that type of women whose influence is felt for good.

Anton Jorgen Olson

Anton Jorgen Olson, a well-known retired farmer of Pelican Rapids, is an expert in his line of work. The quality of the yield of his acres has always been a matter of pride with him, and he has not only produced good crops, but has known how to dispose of them profitably. Mr. Olson was born in Norway on November 24, 1840, and is the son of Ole Anderson, whose life history is given in the sketch of Otto C. Foss, the brother of Anton Olson, presented on another page of this work.

The subject of this sketch as a boy attended school in his native country and in 1869 came to America and first stopped in Baltimore. Later he went to Iowa, where he lived the first three years of his residence in this country. He then came to Otter Tail county and took up a homestead claim of eighty acres in Pelican township, where he has lived ever since. Ik- improved this place by erecting the necessary buildings and later added one hundred and twenty acres adjoining his homestead.

Anton Jorgen Olson was married to Christina Haugrud, who was born in Norway. They were married in Pelican township. The children born of this union are Hannah A. Olson, who lives at home; Otto C, a resident of Dakota, and Carl L., who also lives at home. The family belong to the Lutheran church.

Mr. Olson is a man whose industry and strength of character have commended him to all who know him. He is a man of integrity and of unfailing consideration for the rights of others. In the labor and hardship incident to rural life, Mr. Olson has had the willing assistance of his faithful and devoted wife.

Ole Larson

Ole Larson is a pioneer of Dane 1'rairie township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and put under cultivation and harvested the first crop in the township. That he is one of the most respected citizens in his community is evidenced by the fact that he has held nearly every township office, and has discharged the duties connected with the same efficiently and conscientiously. < >le Larson is a native of Norway and his birth occurred on February 8, 1842. He is the son of E. and Inger (Olson) Larson, who emigrated to America in 1852 and located in Racine county, Wisconsin, for five years. E, Larson removed to Houston county, Minnesota, and remained there six months, removing to Fillmore county, Minnesota, where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land and continued to cultivate the same until 1861. He then removed to Jackson county, Minnesota, where he entered one hundred and sixty acres of land under the homestead rights, and the following year was driven away by the Indians. He returned to Fillmore county, remaining there until the Civil War ended and then removed to Otter Tail county, where he resided with his son, Ole, until his death, in 1N70. After the death of E. Larson his wife, Inger (Olson) Larson, entered and proved on a land claim and shortly after passed to her eternal rest. E. and Inger Larson were the parents of these children: Eston, Maret, ( He, < hesten and Segri.

Ole Larson received his education in the schools of America and after the completion of his student days, engaged in agricultural pursuits until the beginning of the Civil War, at which time he enlisted and served his adopted country with bravery and courage equal to any of her native sons. In 1861 he enlisted in Company I, of the Fifth Iowa Volunteer Cavalry. Some time later he re-enlisted in Company B, of Bracketts Battalion. He received his honorable discharge from the same on June 1, 1866, and at once returned to his home in Fillmore county. In 1869 he removed to Dane Prairie township, this county, where lie entered the homestead on which he still resides. It was virgin soil when he first came into the possession of it, and it is now well improved and has been increased until the farm now embraces five hundred and thirty-five acres.

this union twelve children have been horn: Inger, horn on November 24, 1869; Gunhild, July 9, [871, and died on the same day; Gunhild Christine, August 30. 1872; O. Louis, September 27. 1874; Tilla, September 27, 1876, and died on January 18, 1877; Ole O., October 24, 1877; Thomas O., November 11, 1870; Tilla, December 9, 1881, and died November 23, 1910, in Kankakee, Illinois: Edward O., December 9, 1883, and died on February 25, [891 : Anna Serina O., January 23, 1886; Martin O., April 3, 1888, and Emma ()., February i, 1892. Ole Larson and his wife are firm believers in pure Christianity. Thora (Olson) Larson is a native of Norway and emigrated to America with her parents about the same time as Ole Larson came to this country. She is the daughter of Ole and Gunhild Olson, both natives of Norway, who emigrated to America in 1852 and located in Fillmore county, Minnesota. Ole Olson purchased a large farm of the government, on which the family resided until his death, the mother then removed to South Dakota, where she resided with a son until her death. Ole Larson has been of great service to his adopted country as well as to his family and the community in which he lives. And as a citizen and a gentleman he is much respected.

Andrew P. Johnson

Andrew P. Johnson was born in Carver county, Minnesota, February 15, i860, one of twin sons born to Peter and Johanna (Anderson) Johnson. Peter Johnson and his wife were natives of Sweden, in which country they lived until the year 1858, when they came to America, landing at Boston, Massachusetts, after a voyage of six weeks on the Atlantic ocean. On reaching America, Peter and Johanna Johnson went to Carver county, Minnesota, where they lived for three years and then went to Washington county, Minnesota, living there for four years, after which time they moved to Dakota county, Minnesota, living there for eleven years, and then Peter Johnson and his wife and family came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, locating in section 20, of Compton township, where Peter Johnson homesteaded a farm of eighty acres, on which he lived for the remainder of his days, dying in the year [899; his wife dying in the year 1907.

Peter and Johanna Johnson were the parents of nine children : John G., Andrew P., Swan, Betsey. Emma, Ida, William, Freddie and Eddie. Peter Johnson was an active and helpful man to his community, taking a great interest in all matters for the promotion of life and conditions during the early days of settlement in Compton township. In church circles, Peter Johnson was especially notable, being instrumental in the organization and in the erection of the Swedish Lutheran church in Compton township inson was educated in the public schools of Dakota where he attended classes for a short time and then eighty acres of land which he received from his father, ild and untilled, Andrew P. Johnson cleared and made , adding from time to time to his land until he had two icres of land, which is now well improved and highly

/eden, in which country they spent their entire lives. Johnson are the parents of four children: Arthur, Mable, Laura and William. Andrew P. Johnson and his family are well kimw 11 and esteemed members of the Swedish Lutheran church in Compton township.

!n business and financial circles, Andrew P. Johnson is connected with some of the largest companies and interests of the county, being the vicepresident of the First National Bank of Deer Creek, Minnesota, an office which he has occupied for ten years, and the owner of considerable stock in the Deer Creek Creamery Company. Politically, Andrew P. Johnson has served his township as chairman of the township board for several terms, and for a period of thirty-two years has occupied a seat on the school board oi I Minpton township.

August Bauck

August Bauck, farmer and well-known citizen of Pine Lake township. C )tter Tail county. Minnesota, was born in Gorman township, this county, March 22. 1870. the son of John and Dorothea Bauck, both of whom were natives of Germany. John Bauck was one of the early settlers in Gorman township, Otter Tail county, having reached that community at an early date, and after homesteading a farm engaged in general agricultural pursuits John and Dorothea Bauck were the parents of nine children: John, Emma, Fred, August, Mary, lluldah, Martha. Theodore and Ludwig.

August Bauck was educated in the public schools of Gorman township, after which lie learned the blacksmith's trade and worked at it for about ten years; after that he became a fanner and following some time as a farm worker in his native community, Mr. Bauck, in 1903, came to Pine Lake township, and bought two hundred acres of land, which he has improved with one of tlie best houses of the locality, as well as having built convenient and suitable buildings for the conduct of his general farm work. Mr. Bauck is now among the recognized leaders of farm activity in Pine Lake township.

During the year 1906 August Bauck was married to Lydia Liermann, and to this marriage have been born three children, Erna, Erhardt and Alma. .Mr. Bauck and his family are members of the German Lutheran church.

Henry Miller

Otter Tail county, Minnesota, owes much of its success and rapid development to men and women who have come to the county from other parts of the United States and from the countries of Europe. Many of these men have been of important service in the agricultural and business interests of the county. In Otter Tail county we find many native-born Germans, or citizens who are direct descendants of the German people. Their force of character, energy and business instinct have had much to do with the successful development of the county, making it today one of the most desirable districts of our country.

Henry Miller was born on November 2. 1868, in the state of New York, and is the son of J. F. and Meta (Shoemaker) Miller, both of whom were natives of Hanover, Germany. J. F. Miller was born on October 31, 1842, and his wife was horn on January 20, 1838. Mrs. Miller was the daughter of George Shoemaker, who never came to America. Herman .Miller, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was a fanner in Germany and was an active member of the German Lutheran church. He always remained a subject of the German empire and never came to America.

J. E Miller, with his wife, came to America in 1864, landing in New- York City, where he remained until the year 1883, devoting his time to the mercantile business, clerking for a time and later entering into business for himself in the central part of the city, on east side, where he conducted a grocery. On leaving New York, he and his family came to Leaf Lake township. Otter Tail county, where they purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land. The first purchase was added to until at the time of the death of Mr. Miller he was possessed of three hundred acres. Mr. Miller's death occurred on November 12, 1911, and his widow died on January 4. 1916. Mr. Miller was, during his life, township and school clerk. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Miller: Anice. Henry, Anna, Frederick, George, Minnie and Andrew, four of whom are deceased; the living children being Henry. Minnie and George. The family were active members of the German Lutheran church.

Henry Miller received his education in the common schools of New York City. He was married to Minnie Buerge. who was the daughter of Carle and Johanna (Jacobi) Buerge. Mrs. Miller was born on September

30, 1872, in Fillmore county. Minnesota. Air. and Airs. Aliller are the parents of the following children: Nathalie. Walter, Esther, Henry, Jr., Edgar and Seymour.

After marriage. Air. Aliller located in Leaf Lake township. Otter Tail county, where he purchased two hundred acres of land, which he sold in [906. In 1904 he moved to Otter Tail, where he established himself in the purchase of grain, with the North Land Elevator Company, with which institution he is still associated. In [905 he engaged in the banking business and in 190S was one of the incorporators of the Security State Bank, of which institution he is the present cashier. Air. Aliller is also village and school clerk, and an active member of the German Lutheran church.

Jacob L. Bprthold. M. D.

Significant not only for its public service but also in its individual usefulness has been the career of Dr. Jacob L. Berthold, who is one of the most prominent and honored representatives of the medical profession in Otter Tail county. Jacob L. Berthold was born in York. Pennsylvania, on the _'oth of November, 1859, and is the son of John \\'., and Elizabeth ( Richard I Berthold, both of whom were natives of Germany. His father was born in 1832, and spent his boyhood in West Prussia, his native home. Before reaching the age of manhood he came to America with an uncle and settled in York county, Pennsylvania, where he worked all his life at the occupation of farming. Air. and Airs. John W. Berthold reared a family of four girls and four boys.

Jacob L. Berthold was anxious to secure a liberal education and after attending the common schools of York county he was enabled to enter the Normal School at Alillersville, Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. Having determined to prepare himself for the medical profession he entered the University of Maryland, from which institution, after four years of study, he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine, in 1886. The year of his graduation he started to practice medicine in Altoona. Pennsylvania, where he remained just three months. In July, 1886, he arrived in Otter Tail county, Alinnesota, where he has continued in active general practice ever since. In this community he has brought to bear an untiring devotion to his calling and his personality and gentleness have made him a welcome figure in every home in which he has ministered. He has kept in close touch with the advances made in medicine during recent years and assumes the responsibility thrust upon him with great assurance and faith.

this union, one child was born, Beatrice, who is a teacher of physical culture in Richmond. Virginia. The second marriage of Dr. Berthold occurred on the 17th of November, 1906, when he was united to Joanna A. Stick, a native of York county, Pennsylvania. One child, Miriam, has been born to this union.

Doctor Berthold has been called upon to serve in public offices from time to time, where his ability has won for him additional praise and public confidence. He has been a member of the town council and of the school board and is now engaged in discharging the duties as manager of the Perham Telephone Company, of which organization he has also served as treasurer. He is also interested in the agricultural affairs on the farm of three hundred and twenty acres in Gorman township, which belongs to Mrs. Berthold. As local surgeon for the Northern Pacific Railroad Company he has made a large acquaintanceship among men in every walk of life. Doctor Berthold is a member of the State Medical Association, of the County Medical Association and is affiliated in lodge affairs with the Masonic fraternity. In his political interests he has always been a firm supporter of the principles of the Republican party. Mr. and Mrs. Berthold are members of the German Reformed church.

Frank Grouws

Frank Grouws, garage owner and farmer, Elizabeth, Otter Tail county, was born on May 1, 1861, in Carver county, Minnesota, and is a son of John Crouws. His education was received at the public schools of Elizabeth .Mr. Grouws has been very successful in business, and is now the owner of five hundred acres of good farm land, as well as valuable property in the town of Elizabeth. Politically, he is a stanch Republican, and has been active in local politics, having held the offices of councilman and village treasurer.

John Grouws. father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Saxony, Germany, and was united in marriage with Mena Hammond, who was born in Germany. Air. Grouws came to America, and was one of the first settlers in Carver county. Minnesota. After his return from the Civil War he moved to Forest City, Minnesota, and in 1871 came to Elizabeth, where he followed farming and became wealthy, owning one hundred and sixty-seven acres, which he later sold, moving to Milton county, Minnesota, but spent the last years of his life at Elizabeth, where he had retired from an active life.

Frank Grouws was united in marriage, December 15, rSS8. with Louise Burau, daughter of Edward Burau. a farmer of this community. She was (49b) born in Minnesota. .Mr. and Mrs. Grouws have had three children: Lawrence, who was married to Clara Sletto, of Fergus Falls, Minnesota, and makes his home at Elizabeth, where he helps manage the automobile business: Walter, who was married to Anna Westmoreland, of Dallas, Texas, and makes his home at Dallas, where he is Studying dentistry, and Marry, who is employed by the Peter Maurin Company, of Elizabeth.

Darius 'Nelson Shaw

Many parts of our Western states are settled directly by people from the Eastern .states. Many of the residents of Xew England states have left their native clime and founded new homes in the great Northwest. Endowed with the thrift of their ancestors, they bring to the new and western country that force of character which is a factor in their success.

Darius Nelson Shaw, son of David and Johanna Shaw, was born on November 7, 18^2, in St. Lawrence county. New York. His father was a native of Vermont and came to Xew York in early life. David Shawreceived his education in tlie common schools of the state. He was twice married, his first wife being named Rebecca. His second wife was Johanna, who was the widow of John Allen. To her union with John Allen the following children were horn: Lucy, Minerva and John. The children of David and Rebecca Shaw are Stephen. Axie and Henry. To David and (ohanna Shaw the following children were horn: Mary, Lucius, David and Darius X.

Darius Nelson Shaw received his education in the common schools of his native state, in St. Lawrence county. He first learned to read from an old almanac and soon acquired the habit of extensive reading. Mr. Shawwas married twice, his first wife being Sylvia Wood, the daughter of John Wood, who was a native of England, and who came to America. The children by tliis marriage are A. L. and W. 1). Mr. Shaw was married, after the death of his first wife, to Luella Hemstreet on August 4, 1891. She was born on September 10. 1855, in Jefferson county. Xew York. She was the daughter of Paris and Fannie (Watkins) Hemstreet. This was Mrs. Shaw's second marriage. Her first husband was M. W. Taylor, ami to that union the following children were horn: Elmer P., Lula and Charles. During the time of her first marriage she lived near Menominee. Wisconsin. Darius \Telson and Mrs. Shaw have 110 children.

Mr. Shaw came to Minnesota in 1852, settling in Moore county, where he purchased one hundred ami sixty acres of land. Two years later he sold this farm and purchased one hundred and two acres in Otter Tail township, Otter Tail county, in section 24. He later traded this for "Sand}- Beach"

Mr. Shaw and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and are active in the workings of the church. Mr. Shaw was at one time supervisor of his township and was a member of the school board. He served in the Civil War with a Minnesota regiment. He was one of the early settlers of this section and assisted in the organization of school district No." 163.

Tohn P. Greenagel

Although a native of Minnesota, Mr. Greenagel has tried his fortune in various other states, but returned to his own, and is now filling a place as one of the successful business men at Elizabeth, Otter Tail county, where he is the proprietor of a modern, up-to-date hotel.

John P. Greenagel. hotel proprietor, Elizabeth, Otter Tail county, was born on November 11, 1864, at Wabasha, Minnesota. He was educated at the public schools of Fergus Falls. Minnesota, where they gave but an incomplete high school course at that time. He later took a course in bookkeeping at the above place, and also learned the tinsmith trade, which he followed for fifteen years at St. Paul and Minneapolis. He subsequently went to Milwaukee, where he also followed his trade, and later went to Fergus Falls, where he managed the Hans Nelson hardware store and tinshop, during which time he took care of his parents, his father being an invalid for fifteen years. In 1894 Mr. Greenagel came to Elizabeth, where he took out a saloon license, and followed that business until 191 1, when the town went dry. He then went into the hotel business, with a livery and feed bam in connection, giving his entire attention to that up to the present time. Politically, he is a Democrat, while his religious sympathies are with the Lutheran church at Fergus Falls. He has always been a public-spirited man, and has held local offices, among which are those of village councilman and clerk of the school board. He is a stockholder in the telephone company at Oscar township and was a man of considerable prominence at Fergus Falls.

John Greenagel, father of John P.. was born on April 22, 1818, at Schwabsburg, Germany. He was united in marriage to Barbara Frank, who was born on June 28. 182X. and who was also a native of Schwabsburg. Her parents were Philip and Eliza Frank. Air. Greenagel was educated in Germany, and came to America in 1855, his marriage having taken place in 1854. On arrival here he settled at Dubuque. Iowa, moving in a shun time to Wabasha, Minnesota, where he remained for fourteen years, having taken a claim out on the Zumbro river, where he lived until he moved to Fergus

Jj2 Otter Tail County, Minnesota

Falls, October 29, 1869, pre-empting one hundred and sixty acres, which is now in the fourth ward at Fergus Falls, and for which he paid one dollar and twenty-five cents an acre. He lived here the remainder of his life, following farming for a time, and later sold forty acres to George B. Wright, which was later used for lots, at three hundred dollars each. He was in the Revolution of 1848 and 1849 in Germany, where he substituted for a rich man. and with the money thus earned he came to America. He was drafted for the Civil War. but was found to be over age, and was permitted to return home. Religiously, Mr. Greenagel belonged to the Lutheran church, of which he was a deacon for twenty- four years at Fergus Falls. He was interested in politics, and was interested in all movements along the line of public improvement, being one of the leaders in building the first bridge across the Red river at Fergus Falls, and was one of the few men to own an ox team, with which to carry on the work. The children born to John and Barbara (Frank) Greenagel were as follow: Jacob. Eliza, deceased; ^Catherine, Mary, Barbara, Pauline and John P. Jacob and Eliza were born in Germany, the others being natives of America. Jacob was drowned in the Zumbro river, breaking through the ice when six years old. His body was never found. His sister, Eliza, was with him at the time, but could render no assistance. She came home barefooted, having lost her shoes in an effort to save her brother. She became the wife of Earnest Buse, and lived at Minneapolis at the time of her death. The remains were brought to Fergus Falls for burial, to rest beside those of her two children, being the first-born children in Fergus Falls. Katherine was married to Fred Rudsinski, and lives at Fergus Falls; Mary was united in marriage with Joseph Hamel. and made her home at Grafton, North Dakota; Barbara was married to George W. Niebergall, and lived in Perham, Otter Tail county: Pauline became the wife of Frank Erhardt, now deceased, and lived at Minneapolis.

, John Greenagel, the paternal grandfather, was a native of Germany, and participated in the war with Xapoleon. He lost one of his legs by the explosion of a shell, en route to Russia. He owned a large vineyard, and was considered quite wealthy. His religious sympathies were with the Lutheran church, in the work of which he took an active part. His death occurred at the age of eighty-eight years. His children were as follow: Jacob, Michael, John, Marie, all of whom are deceased: John, the father of Tohn P., being the only one to come to America.

John P. Greenagel was united in marriage. May 23, 1887. to Anna Winter, daughter of Fred William Winter. She was born at Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This union has been blest with nine children. Alice. Johanna. Tohn, Barbara, Tacob. Lizzie, deceased: Gertrude, deceased; Frederick and

Frank. Alice Greenagel was united in marriage to George Stockburger, and lives at Fergus Falls. They have two children. George and Margaret; Johanna became the wife of August Trenne, and resides at Carlisle, Minnesota; John is married and lives at home. His wife was Caroline Wick. They have one child. Harriet. Jacob holds the position of express clerk for the Great Northern Railroad Company at Thief River Falls, Minnesota.

Fred William Winter, father of Mrs. John P. Greenagel, is a shoemaker by trade, and has served for twenty-one years as mail carrier in the city of Milwaukee for the Daily Herald, being at the head of the carrier force.

Mr. Greenagel believes in treating his fellow man with the same degree of honest dealing that he himself requires, and bears a reputation of the highest standard in the community where he resides.

William H. Kempf

William H. Kempf, born in Green Lake county. Wisconsin, on April 8, 1862. is the son of C. W. and Carrie ( Fisher) Kempf. l>oth natives of Germany. C. W. Kempf was born on November 2. 1832. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Kempf came to America and landed in New York in the year 1851. They moved to Wisconsin, where they rented land for a time and in 1862 established their home in Goodhue county, Minnesota, where they purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land. Later they moved to Red Wing. Minnesota, where they retired from active work. Mr. and .Mrs. Kempf were active meml)ers of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mrs. Kempf died some twenty-two years ago.

William 11. Kempf was educated in the public schools of Goodhue county, Minnesota, and there he grew to manhood. He was married to Martha Truhm on July 15, 1884. Mrs. Kempf was a native of Germany and came to this country in early life. Mr. and Mrs. Kempf are the parents of the following children : Walter. Elmer. William, Orvil, Rov, Pearl. Hartley, Myrtle, Bernice. Fern and Violet. Elmer and Orvil are married and have homes of their own.

After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Kempf thev lived in Otter Tail village for twenty-four years when they moved to Goodhue county, where he farmed for seven years, hi 1914 the family came hack to Otter Tail, where Mr. Kempf established a hardware store and an up-to-date garage. In these enterprises he has been most successful and has a large and growing business. Mr. Kempf also owns forty-four acres of land in Otto township. He was at one time chairman of the board of supervisors of his township and was treasurer of the township. He is an active meml>er of the Yeomen of America. Mr. Kempf at one time owned two hundred and fiftv- two acres of land near Rush lake, which he purchased for seven dollars and fifty cents to twelve dollars per acre and then sold for thirty dollars per acre. This farm was all wild land when Mr. Kempf came here, and deer and hear were plentiful in the neighorhood. Air. Kempf has seen the wilderness of Ins younger days develop into one of the most productive farming communities in the Northwest.

Lysander W. Bell

The gentleman whose name introduces the following sketch is one oi the few men who have entered various enterprises, changing from one to another, and achieved success in each venture. Air. Bell has shown remarkaMe qualifications in his journey through the business world, and he always possessed that confidence which, combined with close attention and industry, accomplishes much towards a successful end.

Lysander W. Bell, confectioner, Elizabeth, Otter Tail county, was born on April 23, 1X47. in the state of New York, and is a son of William and I'.etsv (Seeber) Bell. His education was obtained at the public schools of New York state, and later entered the high school at Brownville for two years, after which he spent three years in a woolen factory in Connecticut, at the end of which time he returned to New York, where he was employed by a lumber company for nine years, under the firm name of the New York Improvement Company. In 1884 he came to Fergus Falls, his brother, Hamilton, having settled there at an earlier date. They had a section of land in partnership and lived near Fergus Falls, coming to Elizabeth in 18N7. Mr. Bell has always given his support to the Republican party. In local politics he has taken no active interest, having served as postmaster of Elizabeth for seventeen years, and town marshal for ten years; president of the town council for two years, and also served as village recorder for two years. He was insurance agent for the St. Paul Fire and Marine, and German-American, of New York, for eighteen years. Fraternally, he belongs to the Masonic blue lodge. -

William Bell, father of Lysander W., was born in May. 1820. and died in January, 1897. He was united in marriage to Betsey Seeber, daughter of Henrv W. and Susan ( Overocker ) Seeber. She was born in New Yorkstate. William Bell was educated at the public schools, and followed farming all his life, dying in New York state. The children born to this union wne: Hamilton. Eliza, Susan, Mary, Emma and Alice. Mr. Bell did nol take much interest in politics, but was an earnest churchman, officiating as an elder for about forty years.

The paternal grandfather was George Bell, whose wife was Margaret Buchanan, a first cousin of James Buchanan, the fifteenth President of the

United State-. George Bell was a native of Ireland, and came to the United States in 1812, locating in New York state, where he followed farming, and was a neighbor of Grandfather Seeber. He came to America in a sailing vessel that was captured by the British, and was put in a fort on the defense for three years, being located at Nova Scotia, where he contracted a fever sore, which later resulted in his death. The children torn to George and Alar-. net (Buchanan) Bell were as follow: James A., William, Robert, George, John and Mary. Robert Bell went to the Civil-War in Company I, Tenth New York Artillery, of which he was lieutenant. James Bell was a Republican, and became state senator for two terms, and was also state auditor for a period.