Otter Tail County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1916 (part 24 of 28)

Tohn Mauri

John Maurin, postmaster, Elizabeth, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born on January 4, 18S8, in Austria, anil is a son of John and Katherine (Schauer) Maurin. His early education was obtained at the public schools in Allen Markt, Austria, and later at the German schools at Cottschee for three Mars. At the age of fourteen years he came to America, landing at Xew York, ami coming directly to Elizabeth, Minnesota, where he entered the public schools for one year, and later attended St. John's University, in which he took a commercial course, graduating in 1905. After completing his education. Mr. .Maurin went to North Dakota, and was employed in the State Bank at Sykeston. From that place he went to Breekenridge. Minnesota, where he clerked in the store of Vertin Brothers for three years, and from that place returned to Elizabeth and worked for his uncle. Peter Maurin. for six years. In 1915 he was appointed postmaster, in connection with which office he conducts a confectionery store. He is special agent for the Pacific Mutual Life Insurance Company of California. Mr. Maurin is a

Democrat and has held some of the local offices, among them being that of assessor, which he held for two years. I [e is a devout member of the Catholic church, while fraternally he belongs to the Knights of Columbus. .Mr. Maurin's brother, Peter, is a sergeant in the Austrian army and served in 191 5 at the Russian front, and later at the Italian front. His brother-inlaw is also a soldier.

John Maurin, Sr., was born in Austria, as was also his wife, Katherine (Schauer) Maurin. He was well educated in Austria, where he attended the normal school, and later entered the military service, where he was appointed captain of the Seventeenth regiment in the War of 1878, at Bosnia, Herzegovina, during which service he contracted rheumatism. After the war Mr. Maurin conducted an inn at Unterwold, and was' also the owner of a farm consisting of one hundred and sixty acres. Religiously, he was a member of the Catholic church. His death occurred on August 17, 1905. To Mr. and Mrs. Maurin were born the following children : Catherine, John, Anna, Peter, Francis, and five others who are dead, John being the only one to come to America.

Marcus Maurin, the paternal grandfather, was a native of Austria, and was a soldier in the Napoleonic War, and was afterward engaged in business in Austria, from which he retired and spent his latter life in travel, visiting Switzerland, France and America, where he sold goods. His children were: Peter, Marcus, Martin, John and Mary, all of whom are dead, Peter and Marcus being the only children who came to America.

John Maurin was united in marriage in 1913 with Susie Hotchkiss, daughter of W. H. Hotchkiss, a farmer. To this union one child has been born, John Peter.

L. D. Barcalow, bank cashier, Elizabeth, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born on October 5, 1856, in New Jersey, and is a son of Farrington Barcalow, who moved to New York state with his family in 1876 and bought a farm. He received a good public school education at Jersey City, New Jersey, and followed farming on the home place until the death of his father. In 1893 he came west on account of having a brother in Minneapolis, and engaged his services with Maurin Brothers, of Elizabeth, where he kept books for eighteen years, after which he became cashier of the Elizabeth Bank, in which he now holds considerable stock. Politically, Mr Barcalow is a strong Republican and has held several local offices, among them being justice of the peace, which office he has held ever since coming to Elizabeth.

Farrington Barcalow was born in New Jersey and was educated at Princeton University, where he studied law, but never followed the profession, entering the lumber business at Somerville, Xew Jersey. His establishment was one of the largest and most successful of the kind in the country, lie was a prominent man in politics, and was a wide-awake citizen in every sense of the word, lie was united in marriage with Amanda Dunn, daughter of Lewis Dunn, of Newark, New Jersey. She was born in New Jersey, and became the mother of five children: Frank A., Ellis, Lewis, Rupert and Hubert. After his marriage, Mr. Barcalow engaged in the lumber business, which he followed until 187(1. then took up farming until his death, which occurred about [890. His wife died about 1885. In religion, Mr. Barcalow attended church but was not a member. Mrs. Barcalow was a member of the Baptist church.

William Barcalow. the paternal grandfather, was a native of Somerville, New Jersey. He was a soldier of the Continental army, and after the war etided he engaged as a hotel keeper.

Frederick Zillion

Frederick Zilliox was born on August 23, 1865, near Troutville, Clearheld county. Pennsylvania. His grandparents, Godfrey and Charlotte Zilliox. emigrated from Gersbach, a small settlement three miles from Pirmasens, Rheinish Bavaria, German)-, in 1837. and settled in Clearfield county. Pennsylvania. The grandparents on his mother's side were George H. and Elizabeth Yoas, and came from the same settlement in Germany. His father -was eighteen years old when he came with his parents to the United States.

When Frederick Zilliox was nearly six years old his parents moved to Missouri, locating on a farm near Moundville, Vernon count)-, where he was brought up on a farm until he was twenty-one years of age. He had long had a desire to go to some college to prepare himself either for office work or for teaching; and in January, [887, he went to the Gem City Business College, Quincy, Illinois, for a six-months' term, and then went with some of his schoolmates to Denver, Colorado, wher.e he worked at different places for about four months, but as the western civilization did not suit him, he returned home again, and in January, 1800, went back' to college to finish the course. While yet at college, Mr. Zilliox was offered and accepted a position as teacher of penmanship and commercial branches in the Braymer high school and business institute for the school year 1890-1891. In the fall of [891 he accepted a position as commercial teacher in the German-English College, now called the Charles City College. Charles City, Iowa. He remained with this school two years, and then resigned and visited the Col- uniliian Exposition at Chicago. From Chicago he took a trip to Pennsylvania with his fellow teacher and companion, P. P. Rodenberger, going by way of Niagara Falls, where the} spent a day. After spending a few weeks at the home of a friend at Limeport, Pennsylvania, .Mr. Zillinx went to visit his old home and relatives in Clearfield county. After spending some time among his relatives and roaming over the mountains, lie went down to see I 'hiladelphia.

In October, 1893, .Mr. Zilliox returned to Charles City. Iowa, and after a short stay there went to Missouri to visit his folks. In January, 1804. he went tn the Cedar Rapids Business College, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to take a special course in penmanship and drawing. This course he completed in June, and in the fall accepted a position with King's Business College, Dallas, Texas. This school proved unsatisfactory to him, and he resigned in the spring. In the fall of 1895 he secured, through the recommendation of Rev.

On his way north from Texas. Frederick Zilliox stopped at home and visited with his folks a short time, and then went to Charles City, Iowa, where he was married on September r_\ 1895, to Anna Louise Luckow, whose acquaintance he had formed while teaching at that place in 1891-93. The wedding took place in the Lutheran church. Shortly after the wedding they came to Fergus Falls, Minnesota, where they have lived ever since.

Cecil Beards

Cecil Beards, a prosperous young farmer of Inman township, Otter Tail county, .Minnesota, is a native of Buckingham, Kent county. England, where he was born mi August X, 1N85.

Mr. Beards is a son of John and Emma (Hicks) Beards, both of whom were natives of England. John Beards was born in the village of Tiptree. Essex county. August 1. 1849, and his wife was born on May 5, 1X40. They were married in their native land and in May, 1890, emigrated t<i Canada, and after remaining in Canada for six weeks they moved to St. Raul, Minnesota, where they have since resided. John Beards is a mechanic by trade. In 191] he purchased a farm in section 3. of Inman township, Otter Tail county, upon which his son, Cecil, now lives. John Beards and his wife are devout members of the Congregational church. They are the parents "I" five children, of whom \rchie and Emily (twins \ are deceased. The living children are Emma, Clara and Cecil.

sota. He is a mechanic by trade and worked at this trade until 1907, when he removed to Inman township. He later spent some time in North and South Dakota, working on various farms and at his trade. In 1910 he settled on the farm in Inman township, and has leased it from the time it was purchased by his father. Since removing to the farm Mr. Beards has been engaged in general farming and stock raising.

In ic)io Cecil 1 '.cards was married to Mary Klawitter, who was born in Douglass county. Minnesota, and who is a daughter of James Paulson, who is a native of Norway. The latter emigrated to America many years ago and settled in Minnesota. Cecil Beards and wife are the parents of one daughter, Bernardette Emeline, who was born on September 23, 191 1.

Philip Scott Ireland

Philip Scott Ireland was born on April 3, 1841. in Govan, Scotland, now a part of Glasgow. His father, James, also a native of Govan, Scotfand, was the son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Land) Ireland, the former of whom was born at Ardy, ten miles from Glasgow, and was a merchant, keeping the "Society Store" for twenty years. His wife was also a native of Govan. On the maternal side of the family, Philip and Jane (Weatherspoon) Scott were the grandparents, he being a native of Govan, and she of England. Of their seven children, six were daughters. Their only son, James, took part in the battle of Waterloo, and was there wounded in the head.

James Ireland, father of Philip S., was a merchant and railroadman, and his death occurred in Scotland when his son, Philip, was about eight years of age. His widow survived him many years, passing away in 1903. They were the parents of seven children, as follows: Margaret. Jeanette, Elizabeth, James, Philip and Andrew (both deceased), and Philip Scott, the subject of this review. All are now deceased except the last named.

Philip Ireland was educated in the schools of his native land, and in 1858 came to America alone, going directly to the family of his grandfather Scott, who lived in Canada. His aunt had sent him the money with which to pay for the journey. Eor two years he worked for his uncle for four dollars a month, and the third year worked at farm labor for other parties. After spending six years working in the pine woods of Canada, he obtained employment in a woolen mill at Axbridge, Massachusetts, which is located about sixteen miles from Wooster. Having learned the weaver's trade in Scotland, it was not difficult for him to take up the details of his new occupation, in 1871 he traveled wesl as far as Minnesota with two companions, their destination being this county. There was at thai time no survey, and as necessity is the mother of invention, they were about to pre-empt. They first marked off by guess the limits of three claims, which they numbered, putting the numbers on bits of paper. They then placed these in a hat and drew numbers. The present farm of Mr. Ireland is the one which fell to him in the drawing. When this party first arrived in Eastern township the only settlers there were found to be John Tanglen and Frank Saunders. Subsequently to this apportionment, .Mr. Ireland proved up on a quarter section of his land and later added to it forty acres of railroad land, all of which he has greatly improved.

Mr. Ireland's marriage to Margaret Crechton occurred in Massachusetts in 1867. she being a native of England, and a daughter of -Andrew and Mary (Smith) Crechton. Andrew Crechton was a designer by trade and was born in England and died in Glasgow, his death occurring during an epidemic of cholera which caused the death of many others at that time. Ill-, wife was born at Corders, Scotland, and came with her daughter, later Mrs. Ireland, and a son, to America, in 1866. They traveled first to Woonsocket, Rhode Island, in order to join a sister of Mrs. Ireland. Another son of Mrs. Crechton, named James, served in the Civil War. through which he passed uninjured.

Mr. and Mrs. Ireland are the parents of eight children, Mary, lames, Lillian, Jean, Elizabeth and Margaret, Andrew and Lillian Isabell, the latter two are dead. .Mr. Ireland has the honor of being the first chairman of Eastern township. He always prided himself upon being able to succeed by his own efforts. He has thus developed a spirit of independence which characterizes the best types of American citizenship.

Harrison Harris

A Canadian by birth, Harrison Harris, however, became so identified with this county that its local history could not be written without reference to his life and valued work. His wife was the first white woman to take up her residence in Pelican Rapids, lie was born in Ontario. Canada. 111 [825, and died in Pelican Rapids. June 23, 1882. His first marriage was m Canada, the bride being a Miss Dearborn. Me brought her to the United States 1,1 i860 and located in Wisconsin, where she afterward died, leaving three children, Frederick, Awlso and Minnie, the latter is deceased. While living in Wisconsin Mr. Harris was a successful farmer.

In [866 Harris, ,n Harris was married at Otsego, Wisconsin, his second wife being Helen Grace Councilman, who was born in Brown county, Xcw York, August 24, [847. Mrs. Harris is the daughter of Jacob and Sarah Councilman, natives of the countv in which their daughter was born

In 1854 the parents of Mrs. Harris began a two-years residence in Belvidere. Illinois. They left there for Wisconsin, where they lived at Turtle for thirteen years. The next ten years was spent in Columbus. -Mr. Councilman, who was a farmer, and his wife moved to Pelican Rapids about 1880, when the former retired from active life and where he and his wife lived until their death. Both are buried here.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Harris lived for two years at Otsego, and the following year they resided in Iowa. They then lived in Red Wing, Minnesota, until the autumn of 1869 Harrison Harris and Emerson Harris left their families in the fall of 1869 at Dayton Crossing and came to what is now Pelican Rapids, and took land and during the winter of 1869-70 built log shanties and in the spring of 1870 brought their families here. They traveled in a covered wagon, draw by an ox-team. Later, however, by a dishonest transaction. Mr. Harris was cheated out of the original claim and was forced to take up a homestead on an adjoining claim, hut both of these tracts of land are now incorporated in Pelican Rapids. Mr. Harris improved his second claim and w^as for some time a successful farmer. There he lived to the time of his death and this was the home of his wife until her death on June 10, 191 5. It was Mr. Harris who, together with George B. Wright and W. G. Tuttle, platted the town of Pelican Rapids. About this time Mr. Harris was manager of the store owned bv Mr. Tuttle and in this capacity carried on trade with the neighboring Indians. One of the offices which he held was that of township supervisor. Besides his homestead, Mr. Harris owned forty acres, three or four miles distant.

Some interesting pioneer history is connected with the early life of Mr. Harris. One incident was the journey to Xew London, which was made by means of an ox-team, and which required three weeks. At that time the land offices were situated at St. Cloud and supplies had to be obtained in Sauk Center, Alexandria and St. < 'loud. While the Indian-, were disposed to he friendly, there were several occasions on which they were the sources of annoyance and terror. They even came to Mr. Harris's home and remained there days at a time. The first house of Mr. and Mrs. Harris was a log cabin in which dirt was used for the floor. Crude as this dwelling was, however, it furnished welcome shelter for the villagers who frequently gathered there when the Indians became troublesome. Mr. Harris seemed to be looked upon as the leader of the defense. In the course of his life Mr. Harris built three log houses, and was constructing a large house which still stands at the corner or Broadway and North streets, when he was called away by death.

Wilson N., a daughter who died in infancy, and Ernest Edwin, also deceased. Wilson N. Harris was educated in the schools of Pelican Rapids and afterward worked on a farm. He now looks after the property left by his father. About twenty-five acres of the original quarter section homesteaded by Mr. Harris is now a part of the village. The tract composing the eighty acres on the west has been sold. About fifty-one acres of the homestead besides the town lots are still in the possession of the family. Wilson Harris has for the past ten years been engaged in the plumbing business. For five years he has been the village assessor. He is a member of the Rothsay Odd Fellows Lodge No. 36. His mother was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. A glance at the boyhood of Flarrison Harris will convince the reader that his was not the nature to play today and trust to luck for tomorrow's golden crop. The strong characteristics which he evinced in manhood were present in his youth, and these he made the basis of a successful career. Mr. Harris was the sort of man who could be depended upon in emergencies and during his lifetime was a leading citizen of his community.

Enterprise, energy, good judgment and knowledge of men are the factors that enter largely into the career of the successful business man. Strict adherence to business and a thorough knowledge of his vocation are important adjuncts to a successful career. Nowhere do we find greater need for strict adherence to duty than in the general mercantile business. It is no easy task to purchase and keep for sale the many and varied articles, the public expect to find in the general store of today. In H. A. Schultz we find the successful and enterprising business man who conducts an up-to-date general store at Otter Tail. Minnesota.

H. A. Schultz, a native of Goodhue county, Minnesota, was born on June 29, 1867, the son of Ferdinand and Justine (Fisher) Schultz, who were natives of Germany. The father being born on January n, 1824, and the mother on October 31. 1830. Ferdinand Schultz was educated in the common schools of Germany. After his marriage he and his wife came to America, landing in New York in 1855. They went at once to Wisconsin and lived for a time at Princeton, later purchasing eighty acres in Goodhue county, Minnesota, where Mr. Schultz made his home until the time of his death in March, 1894. Mrs. Schultz. after the death of her husband, moved to Otter Tail city where she still resides and is an active member in the German Lutheran church at that place. Mr. Schultz was also an active member of the church and a stanch Republican, but never had aspirations for public office.

county, where lie grew to manhood. On April 14. [891, he was united in marriage to Lenora Gray, of Wabasha county. Minnesota. Mrs. Schultz was born on April 19, 1877. They are the parents of the following children, Leona, Alice, Llvin and Albert. After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Schultz. they removed to Otter Tail county where they purchased a farm of one hundred and seventy-six acre.-.. In iy03 the farm was sold and the family moved to Ottertail, where Mr. Schultz engaged in the mercantile business, lie has been more than successful and the business has increased greatly. Mr. Schultz has been the postmaster at Ottertail since the fall of 1003 and has had charge of the switchboard for seven years for the Farmers Telephone Company at Ottertail. He has been president of the Farmers Creamery ( ompany for four years, also president of the Cornet band for nine years. Mr. and Mrs. Schultz are very active members of the Lutheran church of Ottertail and are prominent socially.

August Alberts

August Albert^, well-known farmer and prominent citizen of Otto township. Otter Tail county. Minnesota, was born in Germany, December 26, 1N70. the >"ii of Christian and Catherine (Horn) Alberts, both natives of Germany, the former born in the year 1823, and the latter in 1840. Christian Alberts and his family came to America in April, 1871, and located at Red Wing, Minnesota, where they lived for some time and then went to Goodhue county. After farming for some time on a farm of eighty acres in Goodhue county, Christian Alberts moved to Polk county, where he lived until 1878 and then came to ( Itter Tail county and bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 0, Otto township, a place which the elder Alberts improved and where he lived until his death in [890.

August Alberts, the only child of Christian and Catherine Alberts. came to America with his parents when four months of age and after his 3cl 1 days in the schools of the community, he became a farmer, acquiring land until now he cultivates two hundred and sixty acres, together with the raising of considerable live stock.

On February 11, 1896, August Alberts was married to Mela Mattfield, who was born in Germany, on September 1 2, [876, the daughter of Henry and Anna (Oelrich) Mattfield, natives of Germany, who came to America in [869, and located in Gorman township. Otter Tail county, where Henry Mattfield was a farmer until nji.V when he moved to Frazee, Minnesota, and now lives a retired life." \ugust and Meta Alberts are the parents of official circles of Otto township, he being a man who is found in the front ranks of all movements for general welfare and community interests, as well as being a citizen who has served well as clerk of the scb « for a period of ten years.

Hon. Erick Frankberg

The life of Judge Erick Frankberg, of Fergus Falls. Minnesota, is the story of an ambitious Swedish boy who by hard working and native intelligence has made for himself an honorable place in the hearts of the people with whom he has lived for thirty-five years.

fudge Erick Frankberg was born in Sweden, August 9, 1850. His parents, Andrew and Britta P>erg. were both natives of Sweden. The childhood days of Erick Frankberg were spent in school in his native land, he having attended the public schools until he was thirteen years of age and after that time having spent two years in higher schools and later having also attended a military school. He also, while in Sweden and while a young man. learned the carpenters' and builders' trade. Judge Frankberg came to the United States from Sweden in May, 1870, and arrived at Chicago, where on June 12, 1870, he turned his attention to the contracting and building trade, he being associated there with his brother. On October 9, 1871, came the terrible Chicago fire and Mr. Frankberg losl considerable in this fire. After the fire he worked at his trade and was successful. During the winter of 1872 Erick Frankberg went to a private school where he learned the English language and the business customs of this country and he then again returned to the trade of building and contracting until the year 1880, a part of the time in Chicago and a part of the time in Pierce county, Wisconsin. He also at odd times studied law.

On October 2, 1880. Mr. Frankberg arrived in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, where he immediately began to work at the contracting and building trade. He had charge of the erection of the school house in the city of Fergus Falls which was destroyed by fire in 1877. In 1884 he turned his attention to real estate and was engaged in this business for about a year, when he was appointed to till out an unexpired term as citv justice. Ikwas then elected to the same office and held it continuously for twelve years.

In November, [896, Mr. frankberg was elected probate judge of ( )tter Tail county, Minnesota. This was almost twenty years ago. It is fair proof of his learning, his impartiality and fair-mindedness as a judge that he has held the office of probate judge of this large county for now almost twent) years. The people of Otter Tail county have implicit confidence in both bis

Two years lie fore coming to 1 >tter Tail county, on November _'4. 187N, Erick Frankberg was married to Louise Johnson, of Pepin county, Wisconsin. Airs. Frankberg was also born in Sweden, October 22,, 1856. and came to .America when she was twelve years of age. Two sons were born to this union. Albert P. Frankberg. who was horn on February 4. [881, and who is now clerk of the probate court of Otter Tail county. He was married to Caroline Sjolie, of this county, and they have one child, Ethel Georgia. George W. Frankberg, who was born on December 20, 1882, and who is now a practising attorney in Fergus Falls. Minnesota. The sketch of his life will be found elsewhere in this volume. Mrs. Louise Frankberg died on September 30, 11)04, and Judge Frankberg was married, secondly, to Louise Sjoberg, on May 29, 1907, and to them has been born one son, Raymond C, who was born on September 23, iqo8.

Judge Frankberg is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, having joined this lodge nearly forty years ago, December 25, 1876. He is also a member of the Elks lodge of Fergus Falls and the Chippewa Club. He was a member of the school board of the city of Fergus Falls from 1903 to 191 5, when he voluntarily retired. He takes a deep interest in all public matters and can always be depended upon to do his share towards the upbuilding of his home city and his home county.

Jorgen Jensen

The late Jorgen Jensen, who was a prosperous farmer of Sverdrup township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was a native of Denmark, where his birth occurred on June 25. 1838. Mr. Jensen was a successful farmer and an enterprising citizen. He was a son of Jens Jorgen, who spent his entire life in Denmark, never coming to this country.

Jorgen Jensen was educated in the public schools of Denmark, and after coming to America, located on the farm where his widow now lives in 1882. Fie purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land and died on the farm which he had carved out of the wilderness in [899.

By his marriage to Marie Hansen two children were born to Jorgen Jensen - Soren and Marie. The mother of these children died in 1882. and the following year Mr. Jensen was married to Johanna Hansen, a sister of his first wife, and to this union two children were born, Jens. Jr., and Carrie. Of these children, Jens was born in 1884, and received his education in the public schools, and is now engaged in the real estate business at Pfenning, Minnesota. Carrie was born 111 Otter Tail county. Minnesota. nn February 1, 18X7. ami was educated in the public schools and also in the normal school at Moorhead. She taught in the public schools for some time, and on September 25, 1910, was married to Willie Jensen, of Tordenskjold township, and to this union have been born three children, Rudolph, Erwin and Evelyn.

The late Jorgen Jensen was never active in politics, but voted independently and supported measures and men rather than parties and party emblems. He was a faithful and earnest member of the Lutheran church and was a regular attendant of religious services. His widow and family are also members of the same denomination.

Berxhard Mattson

Bernhard Mattson, a well-known and popular young farmer of Dane Prairie township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is a native of the township where he lives and was born on January 5, 1874. Mr. Mattson is the son of Peter anil Anna (Arneson) Mattson, the former of whom was horn on November 3. 1820, in Sweden, and the latter was born on March 6, 1842, in Norway. They came to America before their marriage, the father in 1865 and the mother in 1867. They were married in Minneapolis, although the father, for a time, had lived in Milwaukee. Mrs. Peter Mattson had come directly to Minneapolis after her arrival in this country. In 1869 they moved to Otter Tail county and homesteaded one hundred and seventysix acres of land in Dane Prarie township, which was, at that time, a wilderness. Here he built a log house east of his present home and began clearing the home place.

In the summer of 1870, Peter Mattson returned to Minneapolis and worked in a saw-mill, hut in the fall came back again and that winter engaged in clearing his land. Later he sold forty-seven acres, but kept the remainder of the farm until his death in iqoo, when he was eighty years old. I le was an ardent Republican and a member of the Swan Lake Lutheran church, of which he was a founder. He is huried in the cemeterv near that church. His widow is still living and has been a devout church worker all of her life. They were the parents of seven children: Matilda, who is unmarried and lives at home; Amelia, who died in 1900; Bernhard, the subject of this sketch; Pauline, who is unmarried and lives at home; August, who was a farmer near Ryder, North Dakota, until 1915. is now employed in an elevator: Albert, who died in infancy in 1880, and Albert, who is a carpenter of Fergus Falls.

Bernhard Mattson was educated in the common schools of this county and at the Fergus Falls high school, as well as the Park Region Lutheran College and at the United Church Seminary. After completing his education. Mr. Mattson returned to the farm and assisted his father in its

Mr. Mattson 1- unmarried. He is a member of the Swan Lake Lutheran church and is independent in politics. He served one year as assessor and has served as clerk of Dane Prairie township since 1908. He has given to the people of this township a most creditable administration and today enjoys the confidence and esteem of a host of friends.

One of the most widely and favorably known citizens of Otter Tail county and of the town of Vining, is Anton Christianson, who as a man affiliated with some of the important business enterprises and as the occupant of various public offices, together with the fulfilling; of a prominent place in the ranks of common citizenship, has long 'been recognized as a conspicuous element in local circles.

Anton Christianson was born in Bendalen, Xordland, Norway, on March 5, 1863, the son of Christian Olson and Gunhild Anderson, both of whom were natives of Norway, the father being horn in Gudbransdalen, during the year 18-7, and the mother horn in Valders, during the year 1826. Christian and Gunhild Olson were married in the district of Bendalen and about the year 1870 they moved to Folden in the district of Namdalen, where they lived until the year 1883, on a farm owned by Christian Olson, after which Christian Olson provided for his wife in Norway, and came to America, settling in section 23, of Nidoras township. Otter Tail county. Minnesota, where he bought eighty acres of railroad land, which he improved and on which he built necessary buildings and then, in the year 1884, sent for his family, who were in their native land. On this farm Christian Olson lived until his death in the year [909, he being eighty-two years of age at that time. His wife. Gunhild Olson, preceded her husband in death about ten years. Christian Olson was one of Nidaros county's best citizens, a man who, though of a quiet and retiring disposition, none the less filled his place in life well and in such a manner that his memory is today revered as one of those men who did no small part in the development and promotion of the comity and its interests. Mr. Olson and his good wife were faithful members id' the West Nidaros Lutheran church. The remains .if Christian and Gunhild Olson wire laid to rest in the town cemetery of Vining. To the marriage of Christian Olson and Gunhild Anderson were born the following children: Iver, a sailor, who was drowned at sea when twenty-four years of age: Anton, the subjeel of this sketch, who has a half brother, Halvorson, who now lives two miles south-

\nton Christianson was educated in the public schools oi Norway, alter which lie worked on the home farm for a time and then became a sailor, cruising along the northern coast of Norway, on various fishing vessels, until the vear 0SN4, when being twenty-one years of age, he came to America and helped his father on the farm, which he had established in Nidaros township, Otter Tail county, and then, 111 the year 1887, Anton Christianson bought a farm of eighty'acres in section 5, Folden township, where he lived for ten years, during which tune he cleared his land and placed thereon many improvements, making the farm one of the modern and convenient places for the following of agricultural pursuits in the locality. Later Anton Christianson sold his farm to the firm of Nyhus & Lund, of Vining, and returned to the farm of his father where he farmed until the death of Christian Olson and then Anton Christianson purchased the interest of the heirs to his father's estate and secured the home farm, on which he lived until the year 1 < ) 1 4, having in the meantime added to the home place forty acres of land located nearby. During the year 11)14, Anton Christianson invested in seven acres of land, a part of which was within the town limits of Vining, and here erected a good house and barn, a place where he now lives.

On December 9, 1908, Anton Christianson was appointed United States rural mail carrier for route No. 2, now No. 1. which operates from the town of Vining, a position which he now occupies, giving to bis patrons prompt and efficient service at all times. While engaged in the mail service. Anton Christianson has found time to care for other business interests, among which is the office of a director with the Rural Telephone Company, a corporation in the conduct of whose affairs he has taken an important and valuable part.

During the year 1887, Anton Christianson was married to Mala II Spifen. who was horn in Norway, and who died in the year [896, being the mother of the following children, who with her husband, survived: Gina, who died at the age of two years; Herbert, of the home farm, who married Clara Sandal, and to whom were horn, .Myrtle, aged two years, and Ethel, aged sewn months; Conrad, who lives in the state of North Dakota; Mahle. who died at the age of six months, and Malfred.

(in October 21, 1897, \.nton Christianson. was married, secondly, to Caroline Rosenlund, who was horn in Denmark and when seven years of age came to America, with her parents. To the marriage of Anton ami Caroline Christianson were horn the following children: Jennie, Mabel, Melvin, Harrv, George. Annie. Clifford and Adeline.

Anton Christianson has been the occupant of several important offices in the township, among which was that of clerk of the school district, director of the affairs of the school district, and road overseer. Mr. Christianson has taken a leading part in the work and worship of the Norwegian Lutheran church, at Vining, giving of his time and interest to the teaching of a Sunday-school class and to the other activities of the congregation. Anton Christianson is affiliated with the society of the Sons of Norway and has been active in the conduct of the affairs of this organization.

Tacob Thompson

Although the immediate subject of this sketch has passed from the land of the living, he is still remembered by friends and neighbors near his home in Tordenskjold township, where his widow still resides. He was a man of kindly nature, who easily made friends, and was possessed of such integrity and industry as won for him the respect of all who knew him. By his labors he made for his family a comfortable home, practically hewing it out of the wilderne-v

Jacob Thompson was born in Larwick, Norway, and when a boy of sixteen years, ran away to sea. He was on the sea during the years of the - nil War of this country and was on a vessel captured by the Confederates and held a prisoner for some time. Upon his release, after the close of the war. he came to Minnesota and settled in ( )tter Tail county, homesteading a tract of one hundred and sixty acres in Tordenskjold township. He later purchased twelve additional acres and was possessed of one hundred and seventy-two acres at the time of his death, which occurred on June 3, 1S00. His land was all covered with forest when he obtained it and he cleared it all and made other great improvements, the house which he originally built still standing.

On August 6, 1871, Jacob Thompson was united in marriage with Martha Torstenson, who was born in Norway, June 24, [847, a daughter of Torsten and Mallena Torstenson. The family came to America in [869 and located in < )tter Tail county, where they lived for a great many years. To Jacob Thompson and wife were born five children. Thorn, the eldest, lives in Underwood, where he is a drayman; Matilda is the wife of William Mags of Sauk Center, this state; Annetta married Andrew Olson and lives in Fergus Falls; Theo is Mr>. John Lindeblo, of Raymon, Montana, and Julius, the youngest of the family, follows the trade of blacksmith and makes his home with his mother. Both Jacob Thompson and his wife were members of the Lutheran church and were active in the early year- of that faith in this vicinity, as she -till is. lie was an excellent man and left to his children that richest of all heritages- - a good name.

John G. Nelson

It may he truthfully said that I >tter Tail county has no citizen of whom she has more reason to he proud than John G. Nelson, who carries with him the distinction, now left to few men, of having served in the Federal army during the Civil War. The example furnished by his life is not only an enviable one. but of inspiring character. His influence during an eminently industrious life has made for the prosperity of the community whose business interests he has ever held close to his heart. John G. Nelson, who is known throughout the county in which he lives as Senator Nelson, was born on the 16th of March, 1844. in Fureby, Sweden, and is the sixth in order of birth of the children of N. D. Anderson and Martha Johnson, both of whom were horn in Sweden hetween the years 1807 and 1808. The father of the subject of this sketch, who followed the occupation of a farmer in his native land, came to this country in 1854, bringing with him his wife and their seven children, one of the sons having died in Sweden before the family set sail. Upon arriving in this country the family located in Chiscago county, Minnesota, where the father bought two hundred acres of land for farming purposes, and where he lived until his death, which occurred in Septemher, 1869. Two of the daughters, Helena and Charlotta, died in 1855, aged seventeen and nineteen years respectively. Two other daughters, Christina and Josephine, married and lived in Chiscago county. Christina died in [89.6. After the death of her husband, Mrs. Nelson, mother of John G. Nelson, the subject of this sketch, came to Otter Tail county and lived the remainder of her life with her three sons, Anders P., John G. and Peter ()., dying in 1889.

The early education received by John G. Nelson was obtained in the common schools of his native land and in the schools of Chiscago county, Minnesota. As a young man he worked on his father's farm and also at the lumber business whose interests carried him regularly on trips down the St. Croix river.

( )n August 15. 1862, tin- subject of this sketch unhesitatingly laid aside his business duties and offered his services to save the government, which at that time was in great danger. He enlisted in Company C. Seventh Regiment. Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and during the first four months of service was assigned to Ft. Ripley to guard against attacks by the Chippewa Indians at that point. The government man agreeable settlement at the Chippewa agency with the Indians and Hole-in-the-Day. their chief, after leaving Ft. Ripley, the regiment went to Ft. Snelling and then to Mankato. Minnesota, where the company guarded a number of Sioux Indian prisoners. During the months spent in this locality John (i. Nelson had some of the most thrilling experiences of the war. During Christinas dav and the day following the subject of this sketch was on duty for fortyeight hours, "ii account of trouble with thirty-eight of the Indian-, who were sentenced to be hanged on the 26th of December. The company had charge of building the scaffold where all of the thirty-eight Indians were put tn death at the same time on that date. After the hanging had taken place the regiment guarded the remaining Indians until May of the following year when they took the prisoners by boat from Mankato to Davenport, Iowa, where the_\ were stockaded in charge of Major Anderson. After the return of the company to Mankato they with the balance of the regiment started oil what is known in history as the Indian Expedition of [863, under General Sibley. They marched first to a point about forty miles southeast of Devils Lake. X. I)., where they camped. From this camp a detail of two companies of infantry, one company of cavalry, and two held pieces went to Devils lake, where they expected to meet in battle Indians who were reported to he there. In the meantime the main part of the regiment proceeded on to the Missouri river where they fought the battle of Big Mound on July _'4. Mr. Nelson was with the detail sent to Devils lake. On their arrival there, only the son of Little Crow was found, and the detail returned to the camp, where they were rejoined by the regiment, and camp was broken for the long march hack to Ft. Snelling.

They remained at the fort only a short time before leaving for St. Louis. Missouri, where they remained until spring. Upon leaving the West the regiment went to I'aducah. Kentucky, where they were in camp threeweeks and then attached to the Sixteenth Army Corps, at that time in command of Gen. A. J. Smith. The next march was to Memphis, Tennessee, and from there to Tupelo. Mississippi, where the regiment fought in the battle of Tupelo, in which General Forrest, the until-then unconquered Confederate general, was decisively defeated in a battle hard fought and lasting three days. They then returned to Memphis for a few days and took part in the Oxford raid. After the Oxford raid. Smith's army started on what is known as Trice's raid through Missouri and Arkansas. The army struck the Mississippi river at Cape Girardeau. From there transports were taken to St. Louis. This was in the latter part of November. From St Louis the army went to Nashville, Tennessee, arriving there on the 1st of December, and there joined General Thomas in the defense of Nashville against General Hood. On the 151I1 day of December, 1864. General Thomas made the attack which lasted two days, General Hood being defeated both days. The Southern army under Hood was completely defeated and the turning poinl in the Western campaign. \fter this battle they manhed to Last Port, Mississippi, where they camped for two months. At die end of that time they left for Vicksburg and from there bv boat to

New Orleans. Here on Andrew Jackson's old battle ground they camped for two weeks. They spent two weeks on Dauphine Island, to which place they had been transported, and at the end of that time went to Fish River, Alabama.

Mr. Nelson had part m the siege of Spanish Fort, Alabama, which lasted two weeks. After the siege the army marched to Blakely where they defeated a Confederate force in what was the last battle of the Civil War, being fought several days after the surrender of I.ee to Grant at Appomattox. From there they marched to Montgomery, Alabama, remaining there two weeks, and then to Selma where they stayed two months. While at Selma, the order was received by the Seventh Minnesota to return home. The return trip was by rail to Jackson. Mississippi, from where they marched tn Vicksburg, and from there to Ft. Snelling the transportation was by boat. During all these perilous engagements, John (i. Nelson escaped without injury, and remained with the regiment from the time they fired the first shot until he received his discharge in August, 1865. In the battle oi Spanish Fort, Mr. Nelson, who was with his company on the skirmish line when the fnrt opened fire, stepped behind a large tree from which place he began to return their shots. The fire of the fort so filled the air and swept the ground that when the company was relieved there was nothing lefl of the protecting tree but a ten foot snag. Mr. Nelson looks upon this incident as nne of the most dangerous in his career as a soldier.

\fter the war the subject of this sketch returned to Chisago county, Minnesota, where for a time he was interested in farming and in the lumber business. In the summer of [868, he came to Otter Tail county, and located mi the place where he now resides in Parkers Prairie township. The farm is located in section 17, and since the time of its purchase has been extended over an area of two hundred and fifteen acres. The place in its original state was a tract of wilderness, and the owner is the only pioneer of that section now living, who had part in the development of the community at that time.

On the 23rd nf August, 1862, John ( i. Nelson was united in marriage to ('aniline Lindquist, and to this union one son, Ernest P., was born 011 the 26th nf August. t863, who met his death on May 18, 1910, in an explosion from a gas engine in Carmangay, Alberta. Canada, where he had charge of a range of elevators. lie was survived by his wife, Stella (DeMars) Nelson, and two children. Elise and Ernestine, The second marriage of the subjeel of this sketch took place when he was united to \lma M Carlson, who became the mother of one son, Daniel E., who was burn on the 15th day of July, 1004. just forty years after his father tired the first shot at the battle of Tupelo.

While the career of John G. Nelson as a soldier has been a notable one. it is probably as a politician and a member of the Republican party, that lie has received his greatest distinction. In 1872 he was elected senator, and is known throughout the state in which he lives as the "first senator (if Otter Tail county." He served in two sessions as senator, and in 1882 received additional honors by being chosen to serve as representative. He has held various offices of public trust in the township, and from 1871 to (872 served as county commissioner. Senator Nelson is a man who stands out as a member of the "old school" and in his various activities has left an indelible influence upon those whose lives have been touched by his.

Gunerius Larson

( iunerius Larson, who is a prosperous farmer of Sverdrup township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and who owns a farm, maintained in a very high state of repair and cultivation, was born on July 24. 1868, in Norway.

Gunerius Larson is a son of Lars Sogge and Karen (Lesseth) Larson, both of whom were also natives of Norway, the former born in 1830. and the latter on May 26, 1836. In 1881 Air. Larson's parents came to Fergus Falls, Minnesota, where the father worked at his trade as a carpenter. He owned some eighty acres of school land for a time, but lived in Fergus Falls for about two years, after which he located in Sverdrup township, and spent his last days at Red Lake halls. Minnesota. His death occurred in [897 at the latter place, while his wife passed away at Rainer. Oregon, in [911. They were the parents of seven children, as follow: Anna, Hans Theodore, (iunerius, Ludwig, Julia. Inga and Helmer, all of whom are living.

(iunerius Larson received a liberal education in the public schools of his native country, and in 1885, came to America, locating in < Itter Tail county, .Minnesota. In [892 he purchased the farm where he now lives. This farm is located in Sverdrup township, and here Mr. Larson carries on a general system of farming and stock raising with a very commendable degree of success.

( )n November 3. 181)2, Gunerius Larson was married to Hausine Johnson, who was born on July 9. 1 876, in Calumet, Michigan, and who i- a daughter of Hans and Gunhild (Svenson) Johnson, both of whom were born in Norway. Mr-. Larson's father was born on June 26, 1844. and her mother on January 13, 1852. Hans Johnson and wife came from their native land to the United States in the early seventies, settling at Calumet, where he died in the spring of 187(1, while his wife survived him several years, passing away in [881. Previous to this, in 1880, Mrs. Larson's mother had conic to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where her parent-.

Svend Jacobson and Anna (Peterson) Jacobson, both of whom were also natives of Norway, had located in an early day, and were pioneers of Tordenskjold township. Svend Jacobson died here in 1902. and his wife in [893. They were the parents of one child, who was Airs. Larson's mother. Mrs. Larson was one of three children horn to her parents, the others being Anna and Hannah, the latter of whom is deceased. Mrs. Larson's maternal grandparents came from Norway to Calumet county, Michigan, in 1865, and to Otter Tail county in 1871.

Gunerius Larson and wife are the parents of eight children, one of whom, Dagny, is deceased. The living children in the order of their birth are as follow: Gladys. Lillian, Stella, Roy. Mildred, Doris and Alpha.

Mr. and Mrs. Larson are faithful and earnest members of the Lutheran church, and take an active interest in religious work. They are highly respected citizens of Sverdrup township.

Hon. Orris Albertson

Among the oldest citizens of Battle Lake, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and among the most prominent citizens of the county, is the Hon. Orris Albertson, former sheriff of Otter Tail county, who has been engaged in many lines of endeavor and who. for many years, was engaged in the mercantile business at Battle Lake.

Orris Albertson was horn in Jefferson county, New York, near Theresa, January 5, 1850, and is the son of Josiah and Rhoda 1 Riggins) Albertson, both of whom were natives of Xew Jersey. Mr Albertson's father was born on March 29, [809, and his mother on May 6, [813. The former was a L;la - - blower, who moved to Jefferson county, Xew York, but who, before that. lived in Oneida county, at Sand Lake, where he followed his trade. From Oneida he moved to Redwood. Jefferson county, where he also followed his trade. Subsequently, however, he bought a farm near Theresa and later another farm near the first farm. Both he and his wife died in that county. ile was a Republican in politics and voted for Abraham Lincoln, lie and his wife were members of the Methodist church. They were the parents of nine children, of whom, Samuel. Josiah. Marx, William and Emma, are deceased. The living children are Margaret, Orris, Sarah and Lewis.

Orris Albertson was educated 111 the public schools of Redwood, Jefferson county, Xew York, and, until he was nineteen years old, worked on a farm. In [869 he immigrated to Battle Lake, having a sister at this place, who was Mrs. Benjamin Sherman. She took .me of the firsl boniest, .ids in Everts township. After coming to Everts township, Mr. Albertson attended school here. For a short time, he left the county, but returned 111 1 S 7 j and was employed as a clerk by Johnson & Jackson at Otter Tail city. \fter working for them a short time, Mr. Albertson was employed in a drug store, after which he made his home with his brother, Josiah 11. Albertson, in Everts township.

In the tall of 1873, Mr. Albertson was married to Mrs. Roseltha Corliss, whose maiden name was In mid. and who was born 111 Ctica. New York, the daughter of George and Eleanor Gould, who immigrated to Wisconsin, where they homesteaded a farm and later to the southern part id" Minnesota. In 1868 they came t<> Everts township and took a homestead, where both died. Mrs. Albertson also had a homestead and her husband, < Irris Albertson, also took a homestead adjoining that of his wife, lie now owns three hundred and twenty acres of land in Clitherall township on the site of the old Mormon settlement. Mr. and Mrs. Albertson lived on this farm for some years and finally established a store on the farm in 187'). Five years later, they moved the stock to Battle Lake and established it in a building which Mr. Albertson erected. He had the honor to purchase the first lot in Battle Lake and helped to make the survey of the village. Mr. Albertson was engaged in the mercantile business at Battle hake until [898, when he -old out and engaged in the manufacture of butter. He erected a building for that purpose and continued in the manufacture of butter for four year-. Later the building was converted into a summer hotel, which he recently sold. He then built a residence on the shores of Battle Lake, where he now lues.

Mrs. Albertson had one child by her first marriage. Minnie, who L now Mrs E. M Holms, of Santa Anna. California! They have a fruit ranch there. Mr. and Mrs. Albertson have been the parents of four children, ( >rris, Jr., Eleanor, Coral and Lark Orris, Jr., who died in rgn at the age of thirty years, married Lona Larson and had three children. Eleanor is the wife of William Neshiem, a druggist of Moorhead, Minnesota, and has two daughters. 1 'oral is the wife of Otis Hoyt, of Fergus Falls, who had a music store in that cit\ until [910, when he sold out and moved to Missoula. Montana, where he bad a large piano store. He recently sold out at Missoula. Mr. and Mrs. Hoyt have three children. Earl married Anna Davis, of Detroit. Minnesota, where he now lives. lie is a traveling sale-man and the lather of two children.

Mr. Mbertson has been a Republican all of his lite, lie served as township clerk for eight years during the early history of this township. He was also postmaster of Battle Lake and held the office for six years. Mr. Albertson served 011 the school board and as president id" the village. In [904 he elected sheriff of < itter Tail county and served for four years. Fraternally, Mr. Mbertson is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mrs. Albertson is a member of the Reorganized Church of Latter Day Saints.

Otter Tail Cih'Xtv. Minnesota

people of Otter Tail county a most efficient and effective administration as sheriff and that he has well discharged his duties as a public and private citizen. Few men living in Otter Tail county are so well known as he, and few have an equal number of friends throughout the county.

Carl J. Johnson, who owns eighty acres of land in section 9, of Everts township, is a native of Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he was born on August 27, 1875.

Mr. Johnson is the son of Ole and Kara Johnson, both of whom were natives of Norway. Air. Johnson's father was born in 1845 ancl ms mother in 1855. They came separately to America and settled in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where they married. They were the parents of six children, four of whom are living, Carl J., Anna, Tillie and Sophie. Mr. Johnson's parents came to Fergus Falls, Minnesota, in r88o and in 1881 moved to Everts township, where they took a homestead. Here Mr. Johnson's father died 111 1885. After his death, the mother and the remainder of the family returned to Fergus Falls, where the mother died on December 31, 1886.

Carl J. Johnson, after the death of his mother, lived with Even A. Glende and attended the public schools. For twelve years, he rented a farm of one hundred acres in section 8, of Everts township. Mr. Glende is now deceased, but his widow still lives on the farm. Mr. Johnson owns eighty acres in section 9, of Everts township, which lie purchased in 1910. He is unmarried. He is a member of the Lutheran church and popular as a farmer and citizen of this township.

Willtam Beckman

Born in Sweden, April 2, 1862, William Beckman, a well-known citizen of Sverdrup township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was educated in the schools of his native land, and came to America in 1883, settling finally in ( )tter Tail county, Minnesota. Shortly after coming to this county, Mr. Beckman was married, and for the next thirteen years he lived in Friberg township, but in 19 10, came back to the old homestead in Sverdrup township. He is a general farmer and stockman, and has been very successful in his chosen vocation.

On January 5, 1889, Mr. Heckman was married in Otter Tail county, Minnesota, to Nellie Pederson, who was born October 28, 1865, in Norway, and who is a daughter of Ole and Olena Pederson, both of whom were also natives of Norway, the former born in 1833, and the latter in 1838. Mrs.

Beckman's parents were married in Norway, and in 1870 came to America and settled in La Crosse county, Wisconsin, in 1871. They afterwards came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where they homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land in Sverdrup township, and it is upon this farm that Mr. and Mrs. Beckman now live. Mrs. Beckman's father died on December 31, 1914, and her mother passed away on November 9, 1909. Mrs. Beckman is the only child born to her parents.

Mr. and Mrs. William Beckman are the parents of six children, Oscar, Olga, Selvin, Ludwig, Hulda and Willard. Of these children Ludwig is deceased. Olga, the second child, is the wife of Christian Onstad, and they have one daughter, Marie Geneva.

In the neighborhood where they reside, Air. and Mrs. Beckman and family are highly respected and esteemed. They have a host of friends and acquaintances throughout the township ami community.

Haxs S. Nelsen

Hans S. Nelsen, who is a member of the firm of O. C. Nelsen & Company, general merchants of Battle Lake. Minnesota, is a native of Norway, where he was born June 30, 186-', and the brother of O. C. Xelsen, senior member of the firm in which lie is interested.

Mr. Xelsen is a son of Xels and Helena (Johnston) Xelsen. both of whom were natives of Norway, who were born there in 1827 and 1825. respectively. Mr. Nelsen' s father was engaged in farming until his death in 18Q9, after which, on September 15, 1901, his widow emigrated to America and settled iii Battle Lake. Minnesota, where her death occurred October 15, 1901. They were the parents of rive children, of whom the fourth and fifth born are deceased. The living children are Ole Christian, Josephine and Hans S.

Educated in the public schools of his native land. Hans S. Xelsen arrived in America on October 16. 1 SSo. and settled at Chicago, from which place he emigrated to Stillwater, Minnesota, in 1882, and after living two years in the latter place, he removed to Battle Lake, working for the next few years at both Stillwater and Battle Lake. In [889 he accepted employment with his brother. Ole C. Xelsen. in the hitter's store, and was employed by him until [907, when he became a member of the linn of O. C. Xelsen & Company. Mr. Xelsen also owns a farm of one hundred and fifty-seven acres in Everts township, ami is a shareholder in the Farmers Elevator Company, of Battle Lake, Minnesota. He also owns stock in the Battle Lake creamery.

In 1002 Mans S. Xelsen was married to Johanna Christine Scott, the sister of Mrs. H. O. Larson, and to this union have been born live children:

Mr. and Airs. Hans Xelsen and family are prominent members of the United Lutheran church. Mr. Nelsen has never been active in politics, and has never aspired to office. Nevertheless he is known as a good man and a good citizen.

Ole M. Hagen

Among the most successful stockmen and business men of Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is Ole M. Hagen, of Sverdrup township, who was born in Norway, July 31, 1866.

.Mr. Hagen is the son of Mikkel and Gurina ( Hallan ) Hagen, who died in Norway. They were the parents of nine children, Ole M., Martha, Gertie, Johannes, Mette, Elseus, Elof, Margaret, who died in infancy, and Inger.

Mr. Hagen was educated in the public schools of Norway and. in 1888, came to America and immediately thereafter settled in Otter Tail county, Minnesota, purchasing a farm of one hundred and forty acres in Sverdrup township, which he now owns. When Mr. Hagen purchased the farm in 1896, there were only five acres of land in cultivation, but now the whole farm is under cultivation and it is a very productive tract of land. Mr. Hagen has magnificent buildings on the farm.

In 1894 Ole M. Hagen was married to Julian Nelson, who was born in Aurdal township, Otter Tail county, in 1877, and who is the daughter of Haldor E. and Alette Nelson, both of win mi were natives of Norway and early settlers in Aurdal township. Mrs. Hagen's father died in 1880, but her mother is still living. Mr. and Mrs. Hagen have been the parents of twelve children. Mabel. Helmer, Alvena, Laura, Jonas, deceased, Ernest, llilm.i. Julia. Olene, Henry, Marie and Ellen.

Mrs. Ole M. Hagen was the youngest of four children, the others being, Gertie, who lives in the state of Washington; Josie, deceased; and Hannah, also deceased. After the death of Mrs. Hagen's father, her mother was married again in 1882, to Nels E. Nelson, a brother of her first husband. To them were born four children, Haldor, deceased, Anna, Xels. Jr., and I [enry.

( He M. Hagen is a stockholder in the Underwood Co-operative Creamery and in the Co-operative Mercantile Store at Underwood. IK- is also manager for the stock shipping association and has been engaged in the stock business as a dealer for the past ten years.

One of Mr. Hagen's brothers, who own an adjoining farm. Elof Hagen, was lmrn in Norway, November 15. 1881, and was educated in the public schools of his native land. He came to Sverdrup township, I >tter Tail county, in 1S99 and, for some time, worked in Fergus Falls and in Dakota. Elof Hagen was married on June 15, 1909, to Alvena Jensen, who was burn on the farm where she and her husband now live, August 5, 1878. Mrs. Hagen is the daughter of Jens and Karen Christina (Neilson) Jensen, who were born in Denmark, the former on March 9, 1842. and the latter on January 6, 1847. They came to"< )tter Tail county in 1872 and homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land. They also bought twelve acres of land, upon which they erected good buildings. Mrs. Elof Hagen's father died in 1910 and her mother three years previously in [907. They were members of the Unitarian church and had a family of nine children, Alma. Caroline Marie, deceased; Anna, deceased; Alvena, Hannah, who died in infancy: Xels Peter, Hannah, deceased; George, deceased, and Alfreda.

It is doubtful if there are now living in Sverdrup township, any family which surpasses the Hagen brothers in general intelligence, popularity and all-around success in business. The Hagen brothers are well known in this part of Otter Tail county and enjoy the confidence and esteem of a bos) ,f friends.

Otto Nilsby

Born in Norway on February 18, 1861, Otto Nilsby, a successful farmer of Sverdrup township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is the son of John O. and Karn Mathea (Larsen) Nilsby, both of whom were burn in Norway, the former in 1824 and the latter in [822.

In 1870 the Nilsby family came to America and settled in Houston county, Minnesota, and, with an ox team, moved to Otter Tail county two years later, homesteading one hundred and sixty acres of land. John O. Nilsby cleared a great deal of land during his life and made extensive improvements upon his homestead farm. He died on this farm in 1909 and his wife one year later. They were members of the Lutheran church and prominent in the community where they lived. They had only one child. Otto, the subject of this sketch. Mr. Nilsby's father was a tailor by trade, but never followed his trade after coming to this state. He lived on his homestead farm and his life was devoted to agriculture.

Otto Nilsby was educated in the public schools of Norway and in this country. He was nine year old when he accompanied his parents to America. After settling in Minnesota, he attended the public schools of this county and state and, when eighteen years old, entered the Augsberg Seminary at Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he was a student for three years.

farm which his father acquired upon his removal to this country. Air. Nilsby is a general farmer and stockman and is prominent in the agricultural life of this township.

In 1884 Otto Nilsby was married to Emma Erickson, who was born on December 15, 1863, in Sweden, and who is the daughter of Erick and Mary (Larsen) Erickson, both of whom died in Sweden. Air. and Airs. Otto Nilsby have been the parents of ten children, Olga Julia, Lydia .Matilda, Alma Theresa, Hulda Malvina, deceased, Clara Eledia, Hulda Clarissa, Ida Melvina, Alvin Victor, Wilhelm Ludwig and Hjalmar Rudolph. Of these children, Olga Julia married Haldor G. Moen and has three children, Edna, Borgel and Hilma, Lydia married Hans Hegen and has one child, Lila. Alma is the wife of Andrus Graurud and has one child, Byron. Clara is the wife of .Martin Gilbertson and has one child, Floris.

Politically, Air. Nilsby is identified with the Socialist party. For the past twenty-seven years, he has been assessor of Sverdrup township and for the past twenty-six years, he has been a member of the local school board. Air. and Airs. Nilsby and family are members of the Unitarian church. They are active in religious matters and contribute liberally to the support of the church of which thev are members.

Mart Ix Knutson

Martin Knutson, a prosperous farmer of Everts township, is a native of the Hawkeye state, where he was born on May 21, 1865. He is the son of Albert and Alary Knutson, both of whom were born in Norway, the former in 1812 and the latter in 1824.

The Knutsons, after their arrival in America in 1845, settled in Iowa and were there married. In 1868 they immigrated to Clitherall township and homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land. Air. Knutson's father lived at Battle Lake during the seven years prior to his death, which occured in 1886. His wife died eight years later in 1894. They were members of the Lutheran church and had a family of five children, ATartha, Jennie, deceased; Charles, Martin and Anne, deceased.

Educated in Clitherall township, Otter Tail county. Minnesota. Mr. Knutson engaged in the meat business at Battle Lake for eight years and is now engaged in farming. He owns one hundred and seventeen acres in Girard township, Otter Tail county, which he purchased in 1901. He now lives on a farm of one hundred acres in section 25, of Everts township, which formerly belonged to C. E. Berg, his brother-in-law, who now lives at Vinning. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and is unmarried. Air. Knutson is a general farmer and stockman.

1867 in Norway and who is the daughter of Olaus and Rebecca Berg, who came to Everts township 111 1889. Airs. Knutson's parents are now both deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Knutson have one son. Orris Knutson, who was born on July 30, 1907.

Walter West

Among the well-known farmers of Otto township, Otter Tad county, Minnesota, is Walter West, who was born in Otto township, on August 10, 1884, the son of Isaac and Bertha (Tapo) West, both of whom are natives of Finland, the former born in that country in 1842, and the latter born in the same country in 1846. Isaac West, shortly after his marriage to Louisa Lonto, his tirst wife, came to America and located in the state of Michigan, where he lived for some time and then his wife died, leaving two sons, Charles and Arthur, with whom the elder West moved to Otter Tail county, Minnesota. In Otto township, Isaac West bought eighty acres of land, to which he added until he now is the owner of three hundred and sixty acres of land on which he lives as a general farmer. Isaac West was married, secondly, to Bertha Tapo and to this marriage were born the following children : Ida, Levi, Walter and Phillip, the latter of whom is deceased.

Walter West was educated in the public schools of Otter Tail county, after wdiich he was a salesman for some time and then he became a locomotive fireman, a line of work which he followed for a time and then took charge of his father's farm, where he now engages in general agricultural pursuits and stock raising.

John P. Nelson, well-known implement dealer of . Minora. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is a native of Sweden, born on March 20, 1868. the son of Nels and Pdlen Person, both of whom were natives of Sweden, and who came to Henning township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, in 1888. Upon coming to this county, Mr. Nelson's parents purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land in Henning township and here Mr. Nelson's mother died in ion. at the age of sixty-three years. Mr. Nelson's father is now living on the old farm and is sixty-eight years old. He sold the farm, however, to his son, Peter P. Nelson. There were seven children in the Nelson family. Ellen, who is the wife of John Brogart, who is mentioned elsewhere in this

John P. Nelson was educated in the public schools of Sweden and in 1887 came to America and settled in Henning township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where for some time he worked by the day and by the month on farms in Henning township. After a time, he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 31, of Amor township. In 1912 Mr. Nelson sold this farm and the same year moved to Almora and engaged in the implement business. He also purchased a blacksmith shop, to which he built an addition for his implement business. Since [912, Air. Xelson has been engaged in the implement business and is also manager of the blacksmithing business. He is a stockholder in the Minora Co-operative Creamery Company. Mr. Nelson owns a residence'in Almora and it is here that the family lives.

John P. Nelson was married to Jennie Axlena Osterberg, who was born in New Jersey. She is a daughter of Alfred and Ellen Osterberg. They immigrated from New Jersey to Douglas count}*, Minnesota, and it was there that Mrs. Nelson's mother died. Her father is still living and is a farmer by occupation. Mr. and Mrs. John P. Nelson have six children, Joseph. Millie, Leonard, Reuben, Violet and Vernon.

Mr. and Mrs. John P. Nelson are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Mr. Nelson has served as treasurer of the school board and has been more or less active in politics ever since coming to Otter Tail county. He is a well known and popular citizen in Almora and vicinity.

John Sem

Among the successful young farmers of Sverdrup township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is John Sem, who was born in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, September 28, 1883, and who is the son of Hans and Mary Ann Sem, both of whom were natives of Norway, who came to America about 1880, settling in southern Minnesota. One year later they emigrated to Otter Tail county. where they purchased one hundred and sixty acres of school land, and lived on this land from 1895 unt'' I9I3> "hen they moved to Oregon, where they now live. During the years from 1881 to 1895 the family lived in Fergus Falls, where Hans Sem worked at the carpenter's trade. Both he and his wife are earnest and faithful members of the Lutheran church. They art- tinparents of four children, of whom John is the second in order of birth. The eldest child, Anna, is deceased. The other two children art- Hilma and Olga.

John Sem was reared in Fergus Falls and received his education in the schools of that city. Mr. Sem is now the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land in Sverdrup township, which he has acquired from his father.

In 191 3 John Sent was married to Nellie Quam, who was born in Sverdrup township, December 18, 1883, and who is a daughter of Ole and Injebor Quam, both of whom were natives of Norway, and who were early settlers in Sverdrup township, Otter Tail county. The}- homesteaded eighty acres of land, to which they afterwards added forty acres, but they subse quently sold the last forty to their son, Olaf. Mr. and Mrs. John Sem have one child, Homer, who was born on March 12, 1914.

Dana L. Burton

Dana L. Burton, who is the proprietor of a highly productive farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Oak Valley township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is a native of Whiteside county, Illinois, where he was born on November 27, 1869.

Mr. Burton is the son of Benjamin B. and Emerett ( Martin ) Burton, the former of whom was born in Chautauqua county, New York, October 12, 1835, and the latter born in Oswega county, Xew York, September 29, 1 84 1. Mr. Burton's father immigrated to Illinois when eighteen years old and his mother accompanied her parents, Edward and Chloe ( Hopson ) Martin, to the state of Illinois. Mr. Burton's father died in Illinois, but his mother died in Otter Tail county in 1884.

The paternal grandparents of Dana L. Burton were William and Mary (Pierson) Burton, the former of whom died in Xew York soon after his son, Benjamin B., was born. His wife later moved to Illinois and died there in 1876.

Benjamin B. and Emerett 1 Martin ) Burton were married in Illinois. April 11, 1858. and. in 1X78, moved to Otter Tail county. Minnesota, locating in Compton township on a homestead of eighty acres. Later Mr. Burton purchased eighty acres adjoining his original farm and here he lived for fifteen years. In the meantime, he purchased and sold eighty acres in section 2, of Oak Valley township. He lived on this other farm until the death of his wife on April 10, 1004, and since that time has lived with his son. Dana 1... in ( >ak Valley township, lie served as justice of the peace for about eighteen years and is a prominent member of the Evangelical association. There were six children born to Benjamin I'.. Burton and wife. William. Helen. Walter. Jennie, Dana I., and Rose, who is deceased.

Dana I.. Burton, who was reared on a farm in the state of Illinois, where he lived until nine years old, came to Otter Tail county with his parents. lie attended the public schools of this county and has always been engaged in farming. Twenty years ago, Mr. Burton purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 25, of Oak Valley township. In 1898 he sold this farm and purchased eighty acres in section 24, of the same township. He later sold this second farm and in [912 purchased one hundred and twenty acres in section 15. of Oak Valley township. It is upon this farm that Mr. Burton now resides.

Dana L. Burton was married on November 1. [899, to Minerva Rode, who was horn in the state of Illinois. June 24. 1880. and who is the daughter of Christian Rode, who is mentioned elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Dana L. Burton have one son, Wallace, who was hum on July jj, [900.

Mr. Burton has long been identified with the Republican party and lias been prominent in its councils in Oak Valley township. He is now serving his second year as chairman of the board of supervisors of Oak Valley township.

John L. Olson

Born in Norway in November, 1864, John L. Olson, of Inman township, who is well known as a farmer and citizen, was educated in the public schools of his native land and came to Fillmore county, Minnesota, in 1884.

Mr. Olson is the son of Ole and Mary Olson, both of whom were born in Norway and both of whom died in that country. Mr. Olson's father died in 1871 and his mother several years afterward. The)- were members of the Lutheran church and had a family of several children, some of whom died in infancy. Those who grew to maturity were, .Anna, Olaf, Mary, and John L., the subject of this sketch.

After coming to Fillmore county, Minnesota, in 1884, John L. Olson immigrated to South Dakota, and homesteaded land, where he lived until [890. He then came hack to Minnesota and settled in Otter Tail county. purchasing one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 25. Later he sold this farm and purchased eighty acres in section 27, to which he moved in 1912. Mr. Olson has erected good buildings on the farm, lie raises good crops which are current in this section of the state and not only has been successful in this respect, but has enjoyed a large success as a stockman. He is a stockholder in the Henning Shipping Association.

Several years ago, Mr. Olson was married in Otter Tail county, to Martha Seversen, who was born southwest of Minneapolis, Minnesota, in [861. Mr. and Mrs. Olson have been the parents of two children. Lewis. born on April 30, [901, and Myrtle, wlm died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. ( llson enjoy the confidence of all of their neighbors and are popular in limi.m township.

Gilbert Ec Pederson

Gilbert K. Pederson, who is one of the most extensive farmers in Sverdrup township, where he owns two hundred and sixty-seven acres of splendid farming land, is a native of the township where he lives, and was born on February _, iSjU. Gilbert K. Pederson is a son of lvnut and Mary Pederson, who are mentioned elsewhere in this volume.

Horn and reared on a farm and educated in the public schools, Mr. Pederson grew up on his father's old homestead, and has been an active farmer all his life. He has made a specialty of raising stock, and has been very successful in this line of agriculture. In fact, he is known as one of the most successful stockmen in the township.

( )n June 2, 1903. Gilbert K. Pederson was married to Ragna Stomforo, who was born in 1885 in Sverdrup township, and who is a daughter of the late Fred Stomforo, of this township. Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert EC Pederson are the parents of six children, all of whom are living, as follow: Fred, Marion, Elmer, Grace, Ella, Clifford.

Mrs. Pederson's father and mother were both natives of Norway, and educated in the schools of that country. They came to America about 1872, and settled in Otter Tail county, where they hortiesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land. It was here that Fred Stomforo spent his last days. Mrs. Pederson's mother is now living in her home.

When the history of this township and section is written it must accord to Gilbert K. Pederson high rank as a farmer, citizen and business man. He has worthily discharged all the duties of life, both private and public.

Frederick Prextice

Frederick Prentice, prominent farmer of Rush Lake township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on June 10, 1873, the son of Adam F. and Sarah (Birch) Prentice, both of whom were natives of Canada. Adam F. Prentice, after leaving his native country, went to Boston, Massachusetts, where he remained for some time and then moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he engaged in the oil business ami then. in the year 1879, the elder Prentice homesteaded a farm in the state of North Dakota, where he spent his last days, dying in the year 1005. His widow. Sarah, survived her husband until the year 11)15, dying on February 10 of that vear. Adam F. and Sarah Prentice were the parents of the following children, Wesley. Deborah. Frederick, Florence, William and Edith.

Frederick Prentice received his education in the schools of Pittsburgh. Pennsylvania, and in the schools of North Dakota, to which state he went with his parents, in the year [870, after which be came to the state of Min- nesota and became a student at the University of Minnesota, from the dairy department of which he graduated in 1890. Following his graduation from college, he came to Deer Creek, where he had charge of a creamery from 1890 until 1893, aiJd then Air. Prentice engaged in the hardware business for about two years. In 1905, Frederick Prentice came to the town of Richville and became a member of the firm known as Prentice & Brooks, general merchants, continuing in this line of business until September, igio, when he bought a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Rush Lake township, where he now engages in general farming and in stock raising. Mr. Prentice is also the owner of a first-class residence in the town of Richville,

In 1902, Frederick Prentice was married to Mary Hackett, who was born in Wisconsin, in 1877, the daughter of Frank and Ann Hackett, and to this marriage have been born six children, Erma, Clifford ;iml Clifton, twins: Merle, Dorothy and Ramona.

Frederick Prentice has taken a prominent place in the business life of the community, he with Charles F. Franz and 0. A. Zimmer, well-known citizens of Rush Lake township, having been the organizers of the Rushville Telephone Company, a corporation of which Mr. Prentice is the chief stockholder.

John Wallace

Among the progressive and energetic farmers and business men of Otter Tail county, is John Wallace, a native of Michigan, having been born in Ann Arbor on September 25, 1869. He is the son of John and Mary Ann ( Ferguson) Wallace, both of whom were born in Scotland, the father being born in 1829 and the mother in 1827. In 1855 Mr. Wallace left his native country and came to Canada, where he remained until the next year, on the arrival of Mary Ferguson, whom he married and they took up their residence in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

The family remained in Ann Arbor until [879, when they came to Candor township, where the father entered one hundred and twenty acres of land in section 4. Substantial buildings were erected and the land improved. and here the father and mother made their home until their death, the former on March 31, 1915, and the latter on April 26. 1903. They were the parents of the following children: Margaret, Hannah and John. Jr.

John Wallace received his education in the town of his birth and in the public schools of Cander township. Coming to the new home when but a lad of ten years, he experienced the difficulties of getting an education in the rural schools of that time, as well as the trials of the boy on an undeveloped and unimproved farm. Most of the farm was cleared and improved by the

John Wallace today owns and operates the old home place, where he carries on general farming and stock raising. The farm is an index of the progressive and industrious farmer of today, being well cared for and the stock among the best. Mr. Wallace is also a stockholder in the Equity Warehouse at Vergas.

On January 11. 1005. John Wallace was married to Ella Nicholson, who was born on January 15, 1883. in Norway, having come to the United States in early life.

Mr. and Mrs. Wallace are the parents of the following children: Robert Marlin, born on October 12, 1905; Bessie Margaret, October 23, 1907: John William, April 9, [910; Mary Elizabeth, May jo, 1912, and Harold Waller, November 13, 1014.

Fred C. Brandt

Among the well-known farmers of Maplewood township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is Fred C. Brandt, who was born in Germany, on April 14, 1846, the son of Henry and Sophia Brandt, both of whom were natives of Germany, in which country they lived their entire life.

Fred C. Brandt came to America in September. 1864, and located at VVaverly, limner county. Iowa, where he lived until 1882, and then moved to Fergus Falls, Minnesota, working near that city for H. E. Page, a wellknown farmer of the community, after which Mr. Brandt came to Maplewood township and bought a small farm, which he has extensively improved and supplied with good equipment and where he now engages in general agricultural pursuits.

In 1869. Fred C. Brandt was married to Sophia Fischer, who was born in Cook county, Illinois, in 185-', the daughter of Henry and Sophia Fischer, who were among the early settlers of Cook county, where the elder Fischer lived for some time and then moved to the state of [owa, where he farmed for some time and then moved to Wall Lake township. Otter Tail county. Minnesota, where he spent the remainder of his days. To the marriage of Fred C. and Sophia Brandt have been born the following children: Emma, now deceased, who married William Haverty; Herman, who after service in the Spanish-American War, where he became incapacitated as the result of typhoid fever, returned to Minnesota and was appointed to a position at the state hospital, at Fergus balls, where he has been engaged for sixteen years; Mary, who is the wife of Frank Bone, formerly of Maplewood township, now of Kidder county, North Dakota; Henry, who after two year- as an employee of the state hospital at Fergus Falls ami after some time as a mail carrier became a student of, and graduated from, a college of pharmacy, after which he became a pharmacist of Omaha, Nebraska; and Clara, who is an employee of the state hospital, at Salem, Oregon.

Fred C. Brandt has served on the school board of Maplewood township for fourteen years and is a citizen who has taken an active part in the advancement and development of the community and its interests.

David Tullis

David Tullis, a native of Canada and a retired citizen of New York Mills, Newton township, Otter Tail county. Minnesota, is the son of David and Matilda Tullis. who were also natives of Canada.

In 1883 the Tullis family came to ( )tter Tail county. Minnesota, and homesteaded one hundred and thirty-six acres of land 111 Newton township about two miles from New York Mills. David Tullis, Sr., died on this homestead farm after he had succeeded in clearing much of the land, in tyo8. His wife died many years previously in 1895. They were the parents of five children, of whom three, Arthur, the eldest, Margaret ami Mary the two youngest, are deceased. The two living children are, Thomas and David, the subject of this sketch.

David Tullis was reared and educated in Canada. He came to Newton township, Otter Tail county, with his parents and has done most of the work on the old homestead farm. Some years ago, however, Mr. Tullis, purchased the homestead of one hundred and thirty-six acres in section 18, of Newton township. Mr. Tullis is unmarried. He has never aspired to office and lives a. quiet life. He now lives on his farm and enjoys life. He has a good farm and produces abundant crops and keeps his farm in an up-to-date manner. In fast, it is doubtful whether there is a farm of the same size in Newton township which produces more abundantly than the farm owned by David Tullis.

Mr. Tullis is popular in the neighborhood where he lives and, although a man of modest and unassuming manners and of quiet demeanor, he is admired and respected in this community.

Tohn Sayer

One of the best known and successful farmers of Otter Tail county, is John Saver, a German by birth, having been 1x)rn in that country on July 18, i860. He is the son of Joseph and Walberga ( Schneider haun) Saver. both of whom were natives of Germany, where they died, the father in iqoo and the mother in 1864.

Mary and Magdaline, all of whom are alive excepting Mary. John Sayer received his education in his native country, where he grewr to manhood. On coming to the United States he settled in Scott county. Minnesota, where he worked as a farm hand for some time, after which he located in McCloud county, where he purchased eighty acres of land. After selling this land some time later, he came to Otter Tail county, in 1887, and bought one hundred and sixty acres in section 4. Candor township. Later, he purchased forty acres in Hobert township.

Mr. Saver has always lived an active and industrious life and by constant application to his work, he has succeeded in clearing his farm, on which are to be seen substantial and well-kept buildings. He has a barn thirty-four by fifty- four feet, which is one of the best in the township. The farm is well tilled and always in a high state of cultivation. Mr. Saver practices general farming and is an extensive stock raiser, in both of which he is most successful. He is a stockholder in the creamery at Yergas and is active in its management. For the past six years he has been treasurer of the school board and takes an active interest in all educational work.

In [889 Mr. Saver was married, at Frazee, Becker county, to Margaret Shear, who was a native of Canada and the daughter of Ignatius and Malissa Shear. The father died in Canada, the mother and family came to Otter Tail county, where she died in 1914, while making her home with Mr. and Mrs. Sayer.

Mr. and Mrs. Saver are the parents of the following children, all of whom are ali\e : Louis, Clements, Henry. Katrine, Theresa. Francesca and George.

Perry Reynolds

Perry Reynolds, a well-to-do farmer of Scambler township, was horn on October 4. 1859, in Branch county. Michigan. He was the son of Ambrose and Margaret (Delori) Reynolds, both of whom were born in New York, the father on October 31, [827, and the mother in 1826. They both settled in Branch county in early life and were married there, having lived in Ligonier, Indiana, for a time. The family owned a farm in Michigan, which was sold, and then they came to Olmsted county, Minnesota, in 1887, where the father died in 1807 and the mother in 1901. They were the parents of three children: Harrison, who is dead, Clarissa and Perry.

Perry Reynolds received his education in Branch comity. Michigan. where he grew to manhood. In 1882 he left the state of his nativity and located in Olmsted county, Minnesota, after which he removed to Dodge county, where he purchased land and remained until [899, when he came to Otter Tail county and bought one hundred and sixty acres in section 26.

Scambler township. Here lie has made his home and the farm has been much improved, the care of the buildings receiving his careful attention and the entire place being an index of the careful, prudent farmer. In the past, Mr. Reynolds has been a member of the school board and for the past two years has been supervisor of his township, lie is a man held in high esteem by those who know him and has been successful in his life work.

Mr. Reynolds was married in April, [892, to Ann Caldwell, who was horn on May i<), iS-j, in Dodge county, and who was the daughter of Thomas and Lany (Billings) Caldwell. The father was horn in Wisconsin in 1845 and the mother in Indiana in 1847. Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell came to Dodge county from Wisconsin in 1870 and here made their home, where the mother died in February, 1915. They were the parents of five children: Ellen, Anna, William, Thomas and Roy Mr. Caldwell served in the army during the entire Civil War, having enlisted in the Eighth Wisconsin Infantry in 1 861.