Otter Tail County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1916 (part 5 of 28)

Gustaf A. Lindquist

Few men have been more prominent in the official life of Fergus Falls thaii Gustaf A. Lindquist, who has been a resident of Otter Tail county for many years and who during the eighties, after having been elected to the oi treasurer of < >tter Tail county, filled the office for eight years and ten months. Furthermore, he has held practically all of the municipal offices within the gift of the people of Fergus Falls and. as long ago as [869, as the first town clerk of Parker- Prairie immediately after its organization as a municipality. It would be expected, therefore, that .Mr. Lindquist 1- well know to the people of Fergus Falls and Otter Tail count}'. Not only is he well known, but in bis long and useful life be has commanded th< esteem and respect of his neighbors and fellow townsmen.

1 kistaf \. i .indquist was born on October 30, [837, in Smoland, situated in the southern part of Sweden, the son of Jonas and. Kale 4 Nelson) Lindquist. With bis brothers. Peter X. and Frank A., he came to America in August, 1X1.7. and after arriving in America lived for a time at Center City, ( hii tgo coi nty, .Minnesota, during his first winter in America, working in a store and attending school, with a view to improving his knowledge of English. Later he went to Osceola, where he worked in a hotel and continued bis English schooling. In April. r868, Mr. Lindquist returned to Sweden and brought hack with him to America his father, mother and sister, Christine, the latter of whom is now Mrs. Olson, of the state of California. Both of Mr. Lindquist's parents are now deceased.

Upon his return to America, Gustaf V Lindquist came West to the St. Croix valley, where he left his parents and. in company with John G. Nelson, engaged in prospecting land. He finall) settled at Parkers Prairie, 1 >tter Tail county, where he continued farming for fourteen years. In 1881 Mr. Lindquist was elected treasurer of the county and the next year moved to Fergus balls, filling the office alto-ether eighl years and ten months. This long tenure in itself is the best proof that can be cited of the efficiency with which he discharged the duties of this important office and of his popularity as a public servant. Upon tne expiration of bis term of office, Mr. Lindquisl purchased a dray line, which he St')] operates.

l'.\ his marriage to Mrs. Johanna (Nelson) I. elder, the daughter of Swan and Christine (Jenson) Nelson, who was born in Sweden and who came to America with her parents in 1853, and who has one son. Fred, by her previous marriage. Mr. T.indi|tiist has had eight children, namely: \lhert J., who man Hegna and is a merchant in Minneapolis;

Edith Atkinson, and has two children, Willard and Aileen; Einilie, who married John F. McGrath; Helma and Helda (twins), the former of whom is a teacher at Marshall, Minnesota, and the latter, at Fairbault, Minnesota, and Edward A., who is a resident of Fergus Falls. Mrs. Lindquist, after coming to America with her parents in 1853, accompanied them West to the St. Croix valley, where her father, Swan Nelson, enlisted as a soldier in the Union army during the great Civil War. During this war he contracted a fatal disease and did not return from the service.

Mr. and Airs. Lindquist have reared a large and industrious family, children who are doing well their respective parts in the various communities in which they live and who are performing admirably the duties of honorable and upright citizens.

The venerable Gustaf A. Lindquist retains a very vivid recollection of pioneer days in Otter Tail county and his fund of reminiscences relating to those days prove an inexhaustible source of entertainment for his friends. He helped to cut the first road from Parkers Prairie to Otter Tail city, the task requiring a full week, he and his companions being compelled to camp out in the snow during the time they were thus engaged, and he hauled the first load of lumber from Otter Tail city to Parkers Prairie, the trip, with ox teams, requiring three days. Mr. Lindquist acted as a guide to Charles Peake, the first mail carrier in Otter Tail county, whose route was from Osakis, on the eastern edge of Douglas county, through Parkers Prairie to Otter Tail city, then the county seat of this county. The pioneer mail carrier'reached Parkers Prairie on July 4, 1870, on his first trip, and on the next day, started at four o'clock in the morning. Mr. Lindquist started out tn guide him through the timber, on foot, to Otter Tail city, nearly thirty miles away, which place was reached shortly after three o'clock in the afternoon of July 5. There they found five hundred Chippewa Indians rounding out a two-days celebration of the Fourth of July, during which they had l>een having horse race-- and games in the day time and dancing and drinking at night.

The following bit of reminiscence from the pen of Mr. Lindquist, copied from the files of the Fergus Falls Journal of thirty vears ago, will prove of genera] interest to the readers of this history: "Together with three other residents of Parkers Prairie, I had the worst experience of my life, on the 8th and Qth of January, 1873, which was by far the mo and fatal in its effects of am storm of which there is any record in Minnesota It is doubtless desirable to place in print such experiences a- historical data.

John X. Nelson, Peter X. Lindquist and myself, each driving an ox team and sled loaded with wheat, started from Parkers Prairie for Otter Tail city, a distance of twenty-five miles, which will he conceded to he a big drive for oxen in one day. Not a single settler lived on the road. The weather was calm, cloudy and warm, so that a few rain drops fell about daylight. I'he snow being middling dee]) and the road hut little traveled, our progress was slow.

"Shortly before reaching Last Battle Lake two men on foot walked past lis - also bound for Otter Tail city and while we were feeding mir teams at the east end of Last Battle Lake. C. P. Smith, who was driving his ox team, hut without a load, also passed us and with him were John Knight, then a resident of Parkers Prairie and Otto Buse of Millerville.

"The wind had changed to the northwest and snow began to fall about ten o'clock and in the afternoon the wind as well as the snowfall, increased in severity so that by two o'clock it was impossible to see more than a few rods ahead at any time and it grew cold rapidly.

"When we came to the edge of the prairie in Girard we concluded it was suicidal to try to go farther and the oxen could not he forced 1m go against the wind. Resides we had to hunt for the road, as the track was becoming entirely obliterated. After a short consultation we turned back into a poplar thicket. we had just passed, behind a low ridge and immediately went to work preparing to camp out in what proved to he the worst blizzard before or since known. We first tied our oxen close together in the best sheltered place we could find and covered them with blankets; then emptying two sled boxes of their sacks, we raised them on edge in shape of an L. with the angle pointing toward the northwest to break off the wind as much as possible. Our next effort was to kindle a fire with dry poplar brush. \s the cold was rapidly becoming more intense, and the snow was beginning to fill the .air. we kept up a fire all night. We made coffee and ate our lunch. taking turns in cutting and dragging brush for tin- fire. The next morning we decided to try and get home that day if possible. We left our wheal covered up in the snow, hitched two yokes of oxen t> 1 empty sleds, and with our camping outfit started for home about nine o'clock in the morning. One man walked ahead all the time to look for the road and avoid drifts. Every half hour he would be relieved and would crawl into the sled and cover up with blankets. In this way each took his share of the hardships

".Meantime, Smith, Knight and Buse succeeded in reaching a grove on the 1 tanks of a creek near Gourd lake in Girard town where they passed a wretched night in camp and readied Otter Tail lake next day after receiving assistance from a couple of farmers living a mile or two south of Otter Tail. Smith and his oxen could go no further, and Knight and Buse reached the houses of these settlers, who at once went to Smith's relief.

"The five men who had passed us on the 8th reached Otter Tail, anil nothing was heard of us on the 9th or 10th. They supposed that our party had perished and we were counted among the great numher that were lost in that memorable storm, and such a statement was telegraphed to St. I 'auk Parties who traveled on foot from Otter Tail to Parkers Prairie two days after the storm was over, looked carefully by the way tor signs of us. and they expected to find four men and teams stiff and half covered with snow. They found our camping place where one or two acres was completely cleared of brush and poplar trees. All our tracks were completely covered by the hard packed snow. \t is needless to say that when they found us all at home and well, their gloomy forebodings were changed to rejoicing."

Ole T. Lystad

Ole J. Lystad, a native of Norway, having been born in that country 011 July 6, 1848. is the son of John and Alma (Torpit) Lystad, both of whom were natives of Norway. The grandfather of Ole J. Lystad, Ole Lystad, was a farmer in the native country, and here he lived and died. The parents of Ole J. never ventured to found a new home in America but lived their life in Norway, where the father died in 1864 and the mother in [873. The father was a fanner but had devoted a part of his life as a soldier in the wars of his country. They were the parents of three children Ole, Frederick, deceased, and Betsy, who still resides in Norway.

Ole J. Lystad received his education in the school of his native country and came to the United States as a young man and unmarried, in 187-'. He landed at New York City and traveled direct to Red Wing. Minnesota, where he remained six months, working on a farm. Locating in Fergus Falls, he purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land on which a part of the town of Carlisle is now situated. This land he sold after a short time ami in [883 bought one hundred and sixty acres in section 28, Oscar township, where lie now resides, and where be owns two hundred and fifty acres.

In [886 he built a new bouse, which he rebuilt and modernized in 1805. He built his large and well-arranged barn in [892. Mr. Lystad does general farming and raises much stock, although he is not interested in developing the registered animals his stock is all high grade. He is tin

In 1880 Ole J. Lystad was united in marriage to Mathea Amundsonberg, and to this union were born three children, Betsy, Julius and Henry. Bets\ and Julius are married and have established homes of their own. The family are members of the Lutheran church, in the work of which they take great interest.

Hans P. Sethre

Hans P. Sethre, a native of Norway, was born on October 30, 1848, the son of Peter and Gunhild ( Berger) Sethre. The grandfather. Hans Sethre, and the great-grandfather, Elias Sethre, as well as the great-greatgrandfather. Andres Sethre, were all tillers of the soil in their native country. The grandfather also owned and operated a freight boat on Lake Mjosen. The families were all active and devout members of the Lutheran church.

Peter Sethre received his education in his native country. He was a fanner and assisted his father in the operation of his freight boat on Lake Mjosen. In 1867, with his family, he came to America on a sailing vessel and after a voyage lasting from April 1 1 to May 2Q. they landed at Quebec. They moved at once to Fillmore county. Minnesota, making the long journey by railroad, steam boat and with horses. They remained there for two years, the father working on a farm as a farm hand, and as a day laborer. On May 2q, 1S69. they left their home of two years and made the journey of four hundred miles to Otter Tail county, arriving at their destination on Tune 22, of the same year. Here they homesteaded one hundred and sixtv acres of land in section 35, Oscar township. Here the father died in 1887, the mother having died in June. 1884. They were the parents of the following children : Hans ['.. Ole (deceased), Julia. Martina (deceased), Christian. Maren and Olef.

Hans P. Sethre received his education in the common schools of Norway and four months in Fillmore county. As a boy he worked on the farm and when he came to Minnesota he freighted west from Morris, going as far as Pembina on the north. lie came to America with his parents. Mr. and Mrs. Hans P. Sethre were the parents of the following children: Mary, Lora, Peter and Olga, all of whom are married. Hans 1'. Sethre homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 35, Oscar township, this county, and here he made his home until the spring of mi 5 when he to Norway to visit relatives and friends. Mr. Sethre had added to his homestead farm until he had four hundred acres. The greater pari of his land he has sold to his children, I'etcr owning the home place of two bun- dred and forty acres. The land was all developed and improved by Mr. Sethre, the house being built in 1882 and the barn, a structure fifty-two by seventy-six feet, was erected in 1903. He owns a fine home in Fergus Falls in which he now lives.

Mr. Sethre has had an active life full of successful efforts and good deeds. He has served as chairman and treasurer of the board of supervisors of his township, clerk of the school district for twenty years, secretary of the Lutheran church for years, and was Federal census enumerator for his district in two successive decades. He is a stockholder in the Scandia State Bank at Fergus Falls and in the bank at Carlisle also in the Otter Tail Power Company and the Woolen mills.

Lars L. Onsum

Living in retirement at Pelican Rapids, the gentleman whose successful history is here briefly presented is enjoying the result of his years of industry and eifort in the agricultural and commercial world. He has for years been greatly interested in the advancement of the community in which he has lived, and the enthusiasm aroused by his activities has continued as a factor in the prosperous town of Pelican Rapids.

Lars L. Onsum, retired farmer, Pelican Rapids, Otter Tail county, was born on June 26, 1847, m Norway, and is a son of Lars Targersen Onsum, and his wife, Kjerste (Aasen) Onsum. His education was received at the public schools of his native land, after which he remained under the parental roof until 1869, when he came to America, stopping about two and a half years in Fillmore county, Minnesota. In March, 1872, he came to Otter Tail county, locating in Pelican township, where he bought one hundred and sixty acres, two miles northwest of Pelican Rapids, on which he put all the improvements. After thoroughly establishing himself in his agricultural pursuits, Mr. Onsum opened a furniture store at Pelican Rapids, which he operated in connection with his farm, until 1895, when he left the farm and moved his family to Pelican Rapids, where he has since resided. About [898 he sold his furniture store and in 1899 started a drug store, which he conducted until 1903. when he sold out to his partner and retired from an active business life. Air. Onsum now owns two hundred acres of fine farm land in Pelican township. Politically, he has always given his support t<> the Republican party, in the local politics of which he has taken an active part, serving m the town council for two years, lie is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church, to which he contributes liberally.

Lars Targersen Onsum. father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Norway, as was also his wife, Kjerste (Aason) Onsum. Mr. Onsum died before Lars L. was born. This union was blest with seven children.

Lars L. Onsum was united in marriage, in 1887, with Karen Onsum, to which union four children have been born: Clara, Laura. Matilda and Leopold.

.Mr. Onsum is justly popular in bis home community, where he not only has the happy faculty of winning friends, but holding them by his sterling qualities.

Probably none of the leading citizens of the town of Dalton, in Otter Tail county, Minnesota, have taken a more honored or more conspicuous place in the public life and general affairs of the community, than has Jens \. Stortroen, who, as a prominent office holder, an enterprising merchant and a citizen who has had a part in the establishment and the incorporation of the town of Dalton, has won a place of permanence in the records and history of the community.

Jens A. Stortroen was born in Martill, Wisconsin, on July 8, [862, the son of Andres and Segre 1 Bjerken) Stortroen, both of whom were born m Norway, the lather coming to America alone, and the mother coming to this country with her parents. Andres Stortroen was the son of Jens ami Ingeborg Stortroen, who were natives of Norway and lived in that country, where Jens Stortroen was a farmer, during their entire lives. Segre Rjerken is the daughter of Paul and Segre Bjerken, who were born in Norway, came to America in the year 1856, and located in the state of Wisconsin, where Paul Bjerken was a farmer, and where they both spent their last days.

Andres Stortroen. father of the subject of this sketch., was educated in the public schools of Norway, afterward coming in the year 1850, to America, where he located in the state of Wisconsin ami bought eighty acres of land on which he lived until the year [883, when be moved to the state of Minnesota ami purchased two hundred acres of land in Aastad township, this county, where be lived until the year 10,00, at that time retiring ami living a quiet life, until his death during the year igo6. Segre. the widow of Andres Stortroen, is now a resident of Fergus Falls, where she lives with her children.

merchant for two years, after which time Jens A. Stortroen and John Rovang established a general merchandise store, a business in which Mr. Stortroen was engaged for some time and then he sold his interest to his associate. After this Jens A. Stortroen became a wheat buyer for some time and for the next ten years he was a lumber salesman, the last three of these ten years, this enterprising citizen also conducting a general merchandise store. During the year 1905, Jens A. Stortroen purchased the general store of John Rovang, and in 1913 Mr. Stortroen secured the store where he is now located and where he is prosperously engaged as a general merchant.

In the year r.Sor Jen- V Stortroen was married to Sirianna Hansel, who was horn in Tumuli township, this county, and to this marriage were born the following children: Andres. Albert, Regna, Selma, Eliza, Marville. Esther and Edwin, who is deceased.

Jens A. Stortroen has served his township in public office for many years, he having been the occupant of practically all the offices within the gift of the people. In the office as chairman of the township board Mr. Stortroen did many things for the progress and welfare of the community and its life, making an enviable record while serving in this capacity. One of the most notable of the public works of Jens A. Stortroen was Ins effort and his aid in the incorporation of the town of Dalton, Minnesota, during the year 11)07.

Jens A. Stortroen and his family are members of the Norwegian 1 utheran church, his work and his aid in support of the efforts and principles of this church being well known in the congregation.

Steffen A. Hauger

Steffeii A. Hauger was bom in Norway on July 8, 1858, the son of Andrew and Anna (Hanson) Steffenson, both of whom were natives of the country. The grandfather, Steffen Anderson, was a farmer and owned his own farm.

\ndrew Steffenson received his education in Norway and there grew to manhood, was married and lived the life of a farmer till he came with his family to the United States in iSNj. They landed at Xew York and came at once to Rothsay, where the father lives a retired life with his Son. S. A. Hanger, the mother having been killed on June 22, [887, by lightning that struck the In. use. They were the parents of the following children: Steffen A . Hilda and Hans, who was drowned in Norway.

Steffen \. Hanger was educated in the common schools "i hi- native country, where lie lived until he was twenty-four years of age, when he came tn America with his parents. He was married in 1887 to Martha

Henderson, who was also born in Norway. They are the parents of the following children: Andrew, Hannah, Marvin, Agnes, Dovre, Elmer. Mabel and Clifford. Hannah is the wife of Oswald Haugen and they livein Montana. Andrew and Marvin are homesteading in Canada.

In 1800 Mr. Hauger purchased the one hundred and sixty acre farm. where he now lives, in Oscar township. He also owns twenty acres in Elizabeth township. The splendid barn was built in 1006. the house having been erected some years before, but since rebuilt.

Mr. Hauger practices general farming and is a breeder of Shorthorn cattle and Poland China hogs. He owns stock in the Farmers Elevator Company at Rothsay. Resides his duties as a farmer and stock raiser. Mr. Hauger has been road overseer for the past fourteen years.

Andrew Swa'Nson

In the list of mason contractors, the name of Andrew Swanson occupies a place as one skilled in his vocation and in which he has become prominently successful. Air. Swanson has always possessed that inborn love of the rural district, and in connection with his trade, has acquired a splendid tract of land, consisting of one hundred and sixtv acres, and which was originally the old Swanson homestead.

Andrew Swanson. mason contractor, Alexandria. Minnesota, was born in October. 1863. in Sweden, and is the son of Carl and Christina (Anderson) Swanson. \t the age of three years he came to America with his parents, and his education was received at the public schools of Parkers Prairie township. As a young man he began farming on the old home place. In 19O] he became the one hundred and sixty acres. where he bought a house, folio gives his support to the Repn with the Owl lodge.

( 'arl and Christina 1 Midi, where they followed farming, once in Parkers Prairie towr they were the oldest of the pi< hundred and sixty acres, on wf Mr. Swanson retired ami move and Christina ( Anderson - Sw; Mary. Andrew. Emma, Mnaii. died in 1901.

opportunity for his individual pleasure. His support is given to every movement in the direction of material benefit to his community, where he is highly esteemed.

Gunder Reierson

Among- those men of the town of Dalton, Minnesota, who have made for themselves a position of prominence in the community, as a result of their success, not only in business, but in the public life of the office holder, men who have given of their time and their abilities for the general good of the locality and who as the result of long and good lives have secured the esteem and respect of their fellow citizens and associates, is Gunder Reierson, who was born in Norway, on November 9, 1854, the son of Reier and Ella (Brotten) Elingson. both of whom were natives of Norway, who lived in that country until the year 1861, when they came to America and settled in Spring Grove, Minnesota, where they lived the remainder of their lives, on a farm which they bought on reaching that locality. Reier and Ella Elingson were the parents of the following children: Eling, Bertha, Anna, Gunder and Clement.

Gunder Reierson was educated in the common schools and in the high school of Decorah, Iowa, after which he was a salesman in a store for three or four years. In the year 1877 he established a general store under the name and, partnership of Haugen & Reierson, where he remained for about four years and then sold out to his partner, and came to the town of Dalton, Minnesota, and purchased an interest in the store and firm known as Olson & Burg, Mr. Reierson acquiring the share of Mr. Burg, and the company assuming the firm name of Olson & Reierson. Although the interests in .this firm changed hands a number of times. Gunder Reierson remained in the business until he is now the oldest merchant, in point of service, in the community.

During the year 1875, Gunder Reierson was married to Lena Nelson, who was born in the state of Wisconsin and to this marriage were born five children, Ella and Benjamin and three children who are deceased.

Gunder Reierson, in public office, has served his township well as clerk of the school district, an office which he has occupied for more than twenty years, and as township clerk this worthy citizen made a good and satisfactory official. During the terms of office of Presidents Harrison and Cleveland, (hinder Reierson was the efficient and capable postmaster ol th< town <>f Dalton, Minnesota.

Gunder Reierson and his wife are faithful and devoted members of the Norwegian Lutheran church at Dalton, a congregation in which they arc highlv respected, as they are throughout the township and county.

Jacob O. Hatling

ami who have now retired to the more quiet walks of life, men who in the past have served notably in official life and who as the result of unselfish life and an interest in the welfare of the locality have won an honored place in the ranks of local citizenship, is Jacob O. Hatling, who was horn in Norway, on December 17. [851, the sun of Tarl and [nger ( Huse ) Olson, both of whom were born in Norway, where they lived until the year [865, and then came to America, locating about ten miles south of tin- town of Decorah, Iowa, where Tarl Olson worked as a farm helper, until the year 1867. when on July 31. with a number of families which made an ox wagon train of twenty wagons, they moved to the state of Minnesota and settled in St. Olaf township, of (titer Tail county. Here .Mr. Olson engaged in farming as ,1 squatter, until the land of this locality was surveyed by United States government officials, and then he homesteaded a farm of one hundred and sixty acres where he lived for some time and then -old his land and moved to the town of Dalton, Minnesota, there establishing, about the year [879, a general -tore in which business he continued until he retired from active life; the first six months of his business career he being in partnership with K. II. Brandvold, then a prominent business man of (titer Tail county. Tarl and Fnger Olson were the parents of three children, who grew to maturity. J. Q. Hatling, the subject of this -ketch. Ole Rambeck and Henry \nton. Tarl Olson was one of the well-known men of Dalton and the community, a man who took an interest in public affairs and one who. as a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church, was appreciated for his good life ami for hi- support of the efforts of this congregation.

Jacob 0. Hatling, the subject of this sketch, received his education in the schools of \orwa\ and for a short time attended classes in the public schools of this country, after which he was engaged as a farmer for some vears, in St. Olaf township, Otter Tail county, where he was the owner of a farm of one hundred and sixt) acres, which he cultivated until the year r886. when he disposed of his land and associated himself in business with his father as a general merchant. Later, with his father and Peter Stromstad, Jacob ( ). Hatling purchased a stock of hardware, and this linn continued in business for some time when Mr. Stromstad retired and his interest was acquired by J- ( *. Hatling and his father, the senior member of the company. After a period of enterprising business. Mr. Hatling and his father enlarged the scope of their business activity b} the erection of a new addition to their original store, a room in which they engaged as hardware dealers, for some years and then Tarl Olson retired from business, and a brother of Jacob O. Hatling entered the firm, the brother operating the general merchandise store and J. 0. continuing in the conduct of the hardware stock until the year [907, when lie sold bis share and retired to the town of Dalton, where he now lives.

On June 28, 1871. Jacob O. Hatling was married to Gusta Meldahl, who was born in Norway, later corning to America with her parents. To the marriage of Jacob and Gusta Hatling were born the following children: Ole, Lewis, Emma, George, Noble, Julia, May and Arthur.

Jacob O. Hatling has been a conspicuous figure in the public life of Dalton and of Tumuli township, he having served the community in nearly every township office, his first office being that of township clerk, to which he was elected when twenty-one years of age. In all matters for the promotion or advancement of conditions in Otter Tail county. J. O. Hatling is a leader, the results of whose efforts is a better and more prosperous locality.

Spencer Folkedal

few citizens of Dalton and of Otter Tail county have been more prominently connected, or have been honored by the people of the locality in more ways than lias Spencer Folkedal, the well-known and popular postmaster of Dalton. Minnesota. A man of thorough culture, a citizen of unusual intellectual attainments and achievements, and one who with broad and valued experience in life has proved to be a notable and appreciated addition to the life and activities in the business and public circles of Otter Fail county. Minnesota, no review of lite or events in the count) would lie complete without reference' 1" the works and accomplishments of this man.

Spencer Folkedal was born in Medo, Blue Earth county. Minnesota, on August jo. 1N75. die son of 1.. S. and Mattie (Munden) folkedal. both of whom were born in Norway, wdiere they lived until the year 1854. when L. S. Folkedal came to America and located in Combridge township, Dane county, Wisconsin where lie worked on a farm ami 111 a pinery. In 1859 1.. S. Folkedal Marled for the Pacific ("oast with a party of gold seekers, The) went as far as the Pike's Peak region, Colorado, and at thai time Denver was only a village. Not being pleased with the outlook for gold mining the prospectors returned to Wisconsin. Later Mr. Folkedal moved to Winneshiek county, Iowa, where lie remained for a short time, and in the year 1N7.1 he came t < > Minnesota, :n<t\ located mi Medo township, Blue Earth county, where he bought a farm of eighty acres of land on which he lived for twenty-four years, acquiring during that time two hundred acres, which he improved and cultivated.

After this time L. S. Folkedal moved to Otter Tail county, and bought one hundred acres of land in Tumuli township, where he lived for some years and then retired to the town of Dalton, where he now lives.

Spencer Folkedal was educated in the common schools of Blue Earth county and at 1 'ark Region College, after which he engaged for about five years in the profession of a newspaper man at Fergus Falls, later becoming a farmer on his father's place for about four years and then, in the year 1905, he moved to the town of Dalton, Minnesota, and established himself in business as a dealer in farm implements, which business he now follows. On .March 4, [914, Spencer Folkedal was honored by his appointment to the office of postmaster of Dalton, Minnesota, an office which he is now serving with dignity and with recognized ability. Tn public life Mr. Folkedal has been a prominent figure, he having been elected to the office of township clerk where he served two years and for three years he was school treasurer. In political affiliation Spencer Folkedal is of the Democratic party.

Knute Stenerson

An opportunity is here afforded for the perusal of the record of one of the prominent and influential business men of Pelican Rapids. Mr. Stenerson enjoys distinctive prestige as having achieved wealth, without even a dollar at the start as a working basis.

Knute Stenerson. lumberman, Pelican Rapids, Otter Tail county, was born cm February iq, 1862. in Norway. Tie was educated in the public schools of Norway, emigrating to Wisconsin in 1887, where he spent one year. In 1888 he came to Pelican Rapids. Otter Tail county, and for the first two years worked as a day laborer. Tn 1890 he engaged in the lumber business with his brothers, four of whom came to America. Tn [913, Guncler and Knute bought out the elder brother, and now handle all kinds of building supplies, under the firm name of Stenerson Brothers T.um1>er Company, the lm>ihcr- owning the controlling stock in the company, as well as four other yards. Politically, Mr. Stenerson is a stanch Republican, while religiously, he belongs to the Norwegian Lutheran church, and is an all around, wide-awake business man. lie owns considerable stock in the hirst National Bank of Pelican Rapids, and is vice-president and director in the \rhard State Bank.

Ingeinunt Stenerson. father of the subjeel of this sketch, was horn in Norwav, as was also his wife. Tie was a saving, industrious fanner, and

Knute Stenerson was united in marriage, in 1893, with Lina Stein. The}- have an adopted daughter, Mollie, who became the wife of Carl Clausen.

Mr. Stenerson has long enjoyed the undivided respect of a large circle of sincere friends and acquaintances in Otter Tail county, and as one of the prosperous and representative men of his town, merits representation in a history of the county.

Christian C. Knudson

One of the best-known farmers of Otter Tail county and of Aastad township, a man who has been peculiarly successful as a farmer, and one who as a citizen has so conducted himself as to win the respect and esteem of the community is Christian C. Knudson. Public spirited, far seeing, and of nature and training to soon become an important part of the locality of his residence, he has proved to be one of those men without whom the county and township would be less advanced and less progressive.

Christian C. Knudson was born in Norway, February 15. 1869, the son of Christian and Engebor (Ostrus) Knudson, who were born in Norway and lived in that country until the year 1872, when they came to America and located in Webster county, Iowa, where they rented a farm on which they lived for some time and then bought the place where they made their home for the next eighteen years. Later they moved to Palo Alto county, Iowa, where Christian Knudson, Sr., purchased three hundred and twenty acres of land which he now owns, though he and his wife live in retirement at the town of Emmittsburg, Palo Alto county, Iowa. To the marriage of Christian and Engebor Knudson were born the following children: Christian, the subject of this sketch: Anna, Carrie, Thomas, Carl, Herbert. Hannah, Oscar, Ida, Emma and F.lmer.

Christian Knudson, father of the subject of this sketch, is the son of Kiuult and Ann Moon, who wire natives of Norway, a country where Knudt Mm, hi -pent his entire life. After his death his wife, Ann, came to America with a si .11, some time after Christian Knudson. Sr.. had emigrated to this country. On reaching America Ann Moon, with her sun, loe.iti.-il in Webster county, Iowa, where she died some time later.

Engebor Knudson, mother of the subject of this sketch, is the daughter of Tolev and Christian < )strus, both of whom were born in Norway, in which country thej made their home until the year 1877, when the) came to America and settled in Webster county. Iowa, where Tolev Ostrus was engaged in general farming until his death. Christina Ostrus, following

Christian Knudson, father of the subject of this sketch, was married to Christina Ostrus, who was the mother of one son, Knud. who died at the age of twenty-four years, while a resident of the state of Michigan. Shortly following the birth of her son, Christina (Ostrus) Knudson died, and after some time Christian Knudson was married to a sister of his deceased wife.

Christian C. Knudson was educated in the public schools of Webster county, Iowa, after which he farmed for one year in that locality and then went tn Palo \ltn county, Iowa, where he rented a farm until the year [912, at which time he bought three hundred and twenty acres of land in Aastad township, a place where he has since lived.

< )ii April 22, [896, Christian C. Knudson was married to Jennie Jacobson, who was horn in Marshall county, Iowa, October 14, [879, the daughter of Serenius H. Tacobson and wife, who were natives of Norway. To the marriage of Christian and Jennie Knudson were horn the following children: Clarence. Silas, (lava, Cornelia, Charlotte. Alice, Kilridge, Thresa, ( Tester and Hjelrner.

Christian C. Knudson is a member of the Lutheran church, in which congregation he takes an active part in the work and where he is among the most .appreciated communicants.

In all works or movements for the general welfare of the tanner, or for the various walks of life in Otter Tail county. Christian C. Knudson is a force in the direction of progress and is one of the important elements of citizenship in the community.

One of the most successful farmers and a heavy landowner of Otter Tail county, a man who from a modest beginning has grown to be prominent m the ranks of agricultural life and a man who as a citizen has taken no small pari in the advancement of the community and the development of itresources, is Amund Johnson, the subject of this sketch, who was born 111 Norway, October 11. 1859, the son of John Gunderson and Ingeborg (Runigenj Ler, both of whom were natives of Norway.

Following his marriage in the land of his birth. John Gunderson with his wife, during the year [868, came to America, and located at Jefferson Prairie, Wisconsin, where he was engaged as a farmer for the remainder of his life. His wife. Ingeborg, survives her husband and now lives near the <it\ of Milwaukee. Wisconsin. To the marriage of John Gunderson and hi- wife [ngeborg, were born the following children: (hinder, who lives in the Mate of South Dakota: Amund. the subject of this sketch: Martin.

Amund Johnson was educated in the public schools of the state oi Wisconsin, after which he winked for some time at general farm work, and then he went to Pelican Lake. Grant county, .Minnesota, about the year [877, working on the farms of that region for the greater part of two years, and then he went to the state of South Dakota, and pre-empted land, which after two years he sold and moved to Ashby, Grant county. Minnesota, where he farmed for three years, and followed the butcher business at the town of Ashby for six years.

During the year 1892, Amund Johnson bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in Aastad township, a place which on taking possession he found uncleared and unbroken, but which this progressive farmer soon converted into a modern farm with good buildings, and which now is in a high state of cultivation. Mr. Johnson now owns four hundred acres of firstclass land in Otter Tail count), all of which is well cared for and improved with necessary buildings and equipment.

Amund Johnson, during the year 1882, was married to Lena Johnson who is the daughter of Lage Johnson and wife, natives of Norway. To the marriage of Amund and Lena Johnson have been born the following children : Lage, Gerhard, Nora and Myrtle.

Amund Johnson has been a good citizen of Otter Tail county, serving his township at one time on the township board and at all times being willing to aid in all moves for the advancement of local interests. In religious affiliation \mund Tohnson and his wife are members of the Lutheran church.

Andrew Peterson

It has been truly said that "It is not by sleeping, but by working, wakg and laboring continually, that proficiency is attained and reputation quired." Were this test to be applied to him whose life record is brief!) led here, lie might be considered an exemplification for the statement, for from hi- early manhood, ambition, industry and honesty have been marked characteristics. \ndrew Peterson, for thirty-three years, a rest dent of Pelican Rapids, is a native of Sweden, having been born there on September 22, [853. lie is the son of Peter and Christine (Haugland) Arinson, both of whom were born in Sweden, where they spent their entire lives, Mr. Peterson operated a foundry. Their children were ten in number, three of whom are dead, and one of these was named Sabina. The others are Orin, Eva, John. Aleas, Eric, Carl and Andrew.

followed his trade first in Ishpeming, Michigan. He later followed the same trade in Chicago, Wisconsin and Fergus Falls. From the latter place he removed to Pelican Rapids in [882. As the railroad was then in construction he rode only as far as its terminus and was compelled to walk the rest of the way, a distance of two miles. Here he was a carpenter for many years, in fact until he went into the furniture and undertaking business about the year [895. lie has succeded in this undertaking and today is well known in his present line of work.

Rockel Norhan became Mrs. Andrew Peterson in [888. Although a native of Norway, she was then living in Pelican Rapids with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ole Norhan, who afterward took up a homestead claim in North Dakota. The children horn of this union are five in number, namely: Inger Christinia, Oscar P., Alma Christinia. Carl Johan and Ruth Meria. Mr. and Mrs. Peterson are devoted members of the Lutheran church, to which they have been generous both with their time and means.

With faith in himself and in the universal good, Mr. Peterson has made his life one of influence and usefulness, and has had the reward of knowing that he has made many warm friends in this locality.

William Lincoln

The Lincoln family have been prominent in the official life of Otter Tail county for more than a quarter of a century. William Lincoln, the well-known auditor of Otter Tail county, who succeeded his father to this office, not only is well known in the political life of the county, but is a highly respected citizen in private circles.

William Lincoln is a native of Albert Lee, Minnesota, where he was born on May 23, 1 S77. a son of William C. and Elizabeth (Gates) Lincoln, the former of whom was engaged in the mercantile business for some time, and later in clerical work. He served seventeen years as a deputy in various county office-, and was nine years auditor of Otter Tail county.

In the spring of [882 the Lincoln I'aniiK removed to Fergus Fails, and it was there that William Lincoln received his early education. He was graduated from the Fergus Falls high school, after which he was employed on Wheelock's Weekly for three years. He then became a clerk in the office of the count) auditor, under his father, William C. Lincoln, and on February 29, [908, was appointed county auditor to fill out the unexpired term of his father, whose untimely death occurred in that month. In the fall of 1908, .Mr. Lincoln was triumphantly elected to the office which his lather had so capably filled, and to which he had succeeded after his father's death, lie was again elected in [910, and was re-elected in [912 and in mi l, Altogether lie has filled the office of count}' auditor a little more than

Wii.I.Iam C. Lincoln

In 1903 William Lincoln was married to Perle Czeskleba, and to this union have ben born four children, Mildred, William C, Helen Leone and Donald.

John Erikson

On that roll of honored citizens, the memory of whom the people of Otter Tail county delight in perpetuating, is the name of John Erikson, who as a good citizen in the community in the more commonplace life, as well as having been a valued citizen of the nation, who in the days of the great Rebellion served through the perils of the most severe days of the most extensive campaigns, has won for himself a place in the hearts of his countrymen that will not soon be effaced. Successful as a farmer, efficient in business, public spirited as a citizen and forceful of personality as a man, his death was a distinct loss to the county.

John Erikson was born in Norway. November 14, 1843, tne son °f Erik and Berit ("Johnson) Helgeson, who were natives of Norway, where they lived until the war 1852, when they came to America and located in Racine county, Wisconsin, where they lived for some time and then went to Goodhue count}-. Minnesota, where Erik Helgeson bought eighty acres of land, on which he put extensive improvements, and where he lived for the remainder of his life. Erik and Berit (Johnson) Helgeson were the parents of seven children.

John Erikson was educated in the public schools of the state of Wisconsin and Minnesota, after which he worked for some time at general farm employment. During the year 1865 John Erikson enlisted for service with Company E, Eleventh Regiment, Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, in thej ( 'nil War, serving until the close of the war, during which time he was a sufferer with typhoid fever contracted while on duty.

Some time after leaving the service of his country John Erikson came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where he homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land in Aastad township, establishing a home here, where he lived for the remainder of his life. After improving his original farm until it was in first-class condition, John Erikson, added by purchase forty acres adjoining and at another time bought thirty-eight acres of timber land, nn all of which that enterprising farmer placed a number of improvements.

( )n October 10, [868, John Erikson was married to Berit Boeye, who was a native of Norway, the daughter of Boeye Almunson and Berh < )stend- I r3b) son, who came to America in the year 1864, going to the state of Iowa, where they remained two weeks and then coming to the state of Minnesota, where they established a home in Goodhue county, where they lived for the remainder of their lives, lierit, the wife of John Erikson, is one of four children. To the marriage of John and Berit Erikson were horn the following children: Erik. Osten, Henry. Berit, John, Berner and Anna. Of these children, Henry lives on the home farm.

John Erikson was a faithful and devout memher of the Norwegian Lutheran church, giving freely of his time and his interests for the promotion of the welfare of that organization. John Erikson was a good man. a kind father and loving husband, and a man and citizen of whom, and of whose record, the people of Aastad township are justly appreciative.

John M. Johnson

John M. Johnson, as present mayor of Pelican Rapids, as well as the first settler of Pelican township, is deserving of more than casual mention in the present publication. A resident of this township for forty-six years, his life and character have had a strong influence upon the community in which he has been a leader. Mr. Johnson, who was born in Sweden on April 6. [843, came to this country when he was twenty-three years of age. He is the son of John and Johanna (Ness) Johnson, both of whom were horn in his native land.

Mrs. Johnson died when the subjeel of this sketch was a lad of five years and her husband came to America in [869 and made his home with bis son. John, until he was over ninety years of age. In Sweden he was engaged in the farming industry and served in the Swedish army. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are John M. whose life history is here presented; Alese, who died in this country, and [nger, a resident of Detroit, Michigan.

After receiving his education in his native country, John Johnson farmed there and in Norway, to which country he went in [863. Three years later he came to the Tinted States and located in White Water. Wisconsin, but the same year he became a citizen of Winship county, Iowa. Returning to Wisconsin, he worked in the pineries for Knapp, Stout & Company, one of the largest lumber companies in the state. In the spring of [869 he braved the wilderness of the north and became the first settler of what is now known as Pelican township. As ,1 "squatter" he pre-empted the land and later homesteaded and has now made this tract one of the mosl productive farms in the county. It is three hundred and sixty acres in extent and to this estate may be added three hundred and twenty acres which he owns in Canada. On this homestead, where besides farming heraised Guernsey cattle, he lived until 1910 when he built a home in Pelican Rapids.

While Mr. Johnson was the first pioneer to brave life in Pelican township, three other families came to this county at the same time and located in Norwegian Grove township. Mr. Johnson was at this time unmarried. With the four families that traveled together he camped the first night (Thursday) on the west bank of Prairie lake. Their peaceful slumbers were disturbed by the stealthy tread of eight Indian braves. Fortunately, Mr. Johnson had learned to talk Chippewa during his service as cook in the northern pineries, and also when he took part in government surveys at J.e\ ern, Minnesota, and along the South Dakota line and when he worked along Red river. So he acted as spokesman for the little group of frightened pioneers, and a council was held at which it was agreed that the whites should farm and the Indians should be allowed to hunt and that they would he friendly in their relations.

On Saturday night of the same week, while Mr. Johnson was away, the women of the camping party were terrorized by seeing ten Indians scantily clad approaching the camp The women fled panic-stricken to the woods, but the Indians made no further attempt to enter the camp. The fright of this event, however, caused the four families to pack up their few household goods and to move westward within the present boundaries of Norwegian Grove township. Some time after ihis episode Mr. Johnson inquired of the Indians why they had molested the camp after their agreement to be peaceful. The red men were surprised at the question and said that they wanted only to trade some game for cornmeal. Mr. Johnson then explained to them that in their almost undressed condition, they had frightened the settlers away. There was no further interruption to the peace of the campers though they still insisted upon moving away.

Myra Berg became the wife of Mr. Johnson in 1873. She was born in Norway ami is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hans Berg. Her father came to America and made his home with Air. and Mrs. Johnson until his death at the age of ninety-four. The children boru in this household arc H. M., a physician of Dawson, Minnesota; Matilda, the deceased wife of Otto Crookstad; Caroline, who is Mrs. Adolph Arneson, of Pelican town ship ; Alga, who lives at home; Emma, who is Mrs. Oscar Sillerod. of Pelican township; Carl ML., a physician living at Montevideo. Minnesota. The Johnson family are members of the United Lutheran church. Mrs. Johnson died on June 15. I Q I 3 .

First National Bank. For fifteen years, he was on the board of township trustees and was chairman most of the time, and has held other offices. In the spring of 1915 he was elected mayor of the village. John M. Johnson is a progressive farmer, a loyal citizen, a true friend, a devoted husband and father, and a man of generous impulses and unimpeachable character.

Louis Arnold

Louis Arnold, a successful farmer of Aurdal township, is a native of Sweden, where he was burn on January 12, 1858. Air. Arnold is the son of John and Maja (Olson) Larson, both of whom were born in Sweden and who spent their entire lives in their native country.

Louis Arnold was educated in his native land, and in 1878 came to America and settled at St. Peter, Minnesota. Four years later he emigrated to Otter Tail county and purchased eighty acres of land from his father-in-law, < >sul Halverson. When Mr. Arnold obtained possession of this farm there were only ten acres cleared. He has been compelled to clear the land and to fence it.

On September 24, 1882, Louis Arnold was married to Osena Halverson, who was born in Norway on November 4. i860. Mr. and Mrs. Arnold have no children. Mrs. Arnold's father, Osul Halverson, was born in Norway in 1827. His wife, who before her marriage was Anne Torgusdaughter, was born in Norway in 1832 and moved to Rice county, Minnesota, in 1862. Two of Mrs. Arnold's maternal uncles, Ashley and Torgus Torgenson, served in the Civil War. In 1870 Mrs. Arnold's father and mother came to Aurdal township, Otter Tail count}', Minnesota, and homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land where Air. and Airs. Arnold now live. Later they purchased one hundred and ten acres east of the first tract. They were the parents of eight children: Helena and Hans died in infancy; Torena and Torgus died in this country. The living children are ( >sena, who is now Airs. Arnold: Jacob. TIalver and Mary.

Mrs. Arnold's mother was the daughter of Torgus and Ose Olson, who wen- born in Norway and who, in 1856, emigrated to Rice county, Minnesota, an<I purchased fortj acres of school land. They spent their last days in Rice county. They had a family of six children, of whom (Me. Bertha, Gunder and Anne are deceased. Ashley is now living in Aurdal township, Otter Tail county. He was born in Norway on July 29, [837, and moved to Rice county, Minnesota, with his parents, lie attended a writing school at Faribault, Minnesota, and. in 1869, homesteaded one hundred and sixty of land iii this county. Later he purchased one hundred and sixty acres where he now lives. He has held most of the township offices and served as a soldier in the Civil War. By his marriage to Anne Johnson, who was born in Norway in 1852 and who is the daughter of Andrew and Sarena Anderson, pioneer settlers of Rice county, there were born four children, Marie, Thomas, Sarah and Arthur. Mrs. Ashley Torgerson died in 1892. Torgus, the sixth child, is a farmer in Aurdal township and was a soldier in the Civil War.

One of the most prominent men in Otter Tail county, not only in his professional capacity as a physician, but as a man of high intellectual attainments and strong personality, is Dr. John Lyng. He has always exemplified the highest ethical code of his chosen profession and his technical knowledge and skill are such as to give him a place among the representatives of his vocation in the state. Not content with merely doing his duty in the community where he lived he gave his services in the Spanish- American War with a glad heart, and the story of self-sacrifice during this part of his life is but a shadow of what his later life has been.

Doctor Lyng is one of those men who believe that years of thoughtful preparation are essential to success in professional life, and his preparation for the practice of medicine has taken him to the best schools in Europe as well as in America. The success of Doctor Lyng as a physician in the community in which he lives has not been a mere accident but is the natural result of a noble inheritance. He is a descendant of a high and honored family of Norway and has retained those traits of character which make the Norwegians among the most industrious in the world.

The birthplace of Doctor Lyng was in Namsos, Norway, where he was born on the 25th of December, 1865. He is the son of Martin and (Johanna) Lyng. both natives of Norway. His father followed the occupation of a merchant, and died in 1873.

The first trip of Doctor Lyng to America was made when he w as nineteen years old, and since that time has been abroad six times. After his arrival in this country he began the study of medicine, which took him to the University of Minnesota, where he was graduated from the medical department in 1890. Two years later he went abroad in the interest of his profession and visited the greatest hospitals and medical schools in Edinburg, Copenhagen, Berlin and Paris. He returned to America in 1897 an(l became surgeon for the Soo Line, in which capacity he gained a wide acquaintance among railroad men. After a period of practice as a surgeon he returned to Germany for a further study of medicine. Upon his return to America he found the country in a state of excitement over the Spanish-

American War, and as a consequence, gave his services to medical work in the war zone, where he gained a wide experience not only with members of his chosen profession but with humanity as a whole.

In 1890 Doctor Lyng returned to Minnesota, where he again entered the medical world as physician in Alexandria. In 1904 he moved to Minneapolis, where he practiced medicine for four years. At the end of that time Doctor Lyng sailed again for Vienna and Paris to study surgery, and returned in 1911. Me took up his residence in Fergus Falls, where the members of the community still claim his services as a physician.

In 1900, Dr. John Lyng was united in marriage to Clara B. Chilson, a native of South Dakota, daughter of O. A. and Marie Chilson, of Webster, South Dakota. To this union was born one son, John, who is now attending school at Minneapolis. Mrs. Lyng died on February 8. 1014.

Doctor Lyng holds membership in the American Medical Association, the Minnesota State Medical Society, and the Park Region Medical Society. He is also a member of the Thulanian Society at the University of Minnesota; a reserve member of the medical department. Seventh Army Corps, United States Regulars; a member of the Nordmands Farbundet. and Lodge No. 10, Free and Accepted Masons. Minneapolis. Minnesota.

Eben E. Corliss

Pioneer citizens of Otter Tail county who are now living remember very well Eben.E. Corliss, who is also a pioneer of this section, now living in St. Paul, where he has been custodian of the capitol building since 191 1.

Eben E. Corliss was horn on September 1, 1841, and is a native of Washington county, Vermont. He is the son of Timothy E. and Elvira (Hutchins) Corliss, both of whom were natives of New Hampshire. The father was a fanner and a lumberman and moved to Winona county. Minnesota, in 1856, settling in Saratoga township, where he pre-empted one hundred and sixty acres of land. Me improved his farm and remained there until after the close of the ('nil War. Timothy F. and Elvira Corliss were the parents of eight children. The mother died in Saratoga township, Winona county, December <>. 1S60.

Eben E. Corliss remained at home in his native state, receiving his education in the common schools. His early training was received while still living with his parents upon the old home farm. At the breaking out of the Civil War. he enlisted in Company EC, Firsl Regiment. Minnesota \ ohm teer Infantry, and. after a period, enlisted in Company A. Second Regiment. Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, serving for three years. Mr. Corliss passed through a very trying period of service, lie was wounded in the battle of Chickamauga, being struck by a bullet in the hack of the head and. for two months, was confined in the hospital, known as No. 5, at Nashville, Tennessee. On May 26, 1864, he was discharged from the service and in April, 1865, enlisted in Company A, Ninth Regiment, United States Veteran Volunteers, serving as sergeant until the close of the war. Mr. Corliss was in a great many severe engagements. Among them may lie named the following: Mill Springs, Kentucky; Pittsburg Landing, Siege of Corinth, Perryville, Chickamauga, and others of lesser importance. He was, for a time, with Sherman before Atlanta and, for forty days, was engaged in weary marching toward that city, being under fire the greater part of the time. After returning from the war. he settled in Saratoga township, Winona county, Minnesota, where he remained on the farm for one year. From Saratoga township, he moved to Chatfield, Fillmore county, Minnesota, where he studied law with Judge Ripley. In 1870 he was admitted to the bar.

\ftcr coming to Otter Tail county Eben E. Corliss settled at Battle Lake, Minnesota, where he built the first frame house in the county. Its dimensions were sixteen by twenty feet, with twelve foot posts. He settled on three hundred and twenty acres of land, one-half of which was preempted and the other half homesteaded. He continued on the farm, improving it until 1874, at which time he moved to Fergus Falls and opened a law office, engaging actively in the practice of his profession. Mr. Corliss's property interests in the city of Fergus Falls consist of several houses, much business property, besides his fine residence with all modern improvements, situated on Lincoln avenue. He also has a summer residence at Clitherall lake.

Mr. Corliss has held many offices of trust and responsibility within the gift of the people of Otter Tail county. He was elected county attorney in 1870 and held that office during the greater part of the time until 1884, serving ten years in all. For one year he served as a member of the lower house "!' the state Legislature in 1872. He was a member of the state capit < « 1 commission. He has also served as deputy register of deeds, as deputy treasure of Otter Tail county and as superintendent of the county schools, tilling out the unexpired term occasioned by his brother's death. The brother, William M. Corliss, was the first superintendent of schools in Otter Tail county.

In 1864 Eben !-'. Corliss was married to Elizabeth Tucker, the daughter of John Tucker, of Saratoga township. Winona county. Minnesota. Six children were born to them, as^ follow: Charles W.. who is an attorney-atlaw, who was married in 1NK7 to Alice Stanton, of Fergus Falls; John H., a graduate of Rush Medical College and now a resident id' Sumner. Washington: Florence, lennie, Marv and Roy J.

In politics, Mr. Corliss defends the principles propounded by the Republican partv. He lias attained considerable prominence in the council- of the Republican party and is one of the leaders of the party in Otter Tail county. He was one of the organizers of tin ('itizens Bank. Fraternally, he is a member of the Masonic lodge, the Grand Army of the Republic, and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

Amund Nelson Haugen

Well known in the business and commercial life of Fergus Falls. .Minnesota, is Amund Nelson Haugen, who was for many years a prominent business man of Otter Tail county.

Mr. Nelson was born on March i. 1846, in Ilollindahl, Norway, lieis the son of Nells E. and Carrie ( Nelson) Haugen. The entire Haugen family crossed the Atlantic ocean in 1S46 and was sixteen weeks on the voyage. They emigrated to Quebec, Canada, and from Quebec to the United States, settling at Rock Prairie, Rock county, Wisconsin, where the father purchased land and built a stone house. Amund Nelson remained on the old homestead until 1862. When the Civil War broke out he enlisted in the Thirty-third Regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and served three years in Company F. Altogether he was engaged in seventeen 1 unties, lie received an honorable discharge in Madison. Wisconsin, in [865, and after his return home, in Rock county, he remained a year and then moved to Highland Prairie, Fillmore county, Minnesota, where he established a general store, which he operated for one year.

After one year at Highland Prairie, Mr. Nelson removed to Spring Grove, in Houston county, where he opened a store, which he sold at the end of one year. In 1808 Mr. Nelson came by team all the way to St. Olaf, Otter Tail county, but he remained only long enough to purchase eight hundred acres of land in Fergus Falls township.

Amund N. Haugen returned to Fillmore county and in 1876 married Christina Halverson. They have a family of seven children, as follow: Henry, who resides at Rugby, North Dakota; Clara; Albert, of Duluth; Nellie, who teaches in Minot, North Dakota: Charles. Emma and Hannah, who live at home with their parents.

Mr. Nelson returned to Otter Tail county and located in Elizabeth. He engaged in the farm implement business, which he followed for twentyone years. In 1897, with his family, he removed to Fergus Falls and after that time was practically retired from active life.

Mr. Nelson occupies himself by loaning money and by occasionally buying and selling real estate, lie is the former president of the First State Bank, of Fergus Falls. He has a beautiful and spacious residence on North

Union street. Mr. Nelson is a familiar figure on the street- of Fergus Falls and is popular among all classes of people. Fraternally, he is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic.

Onon Torgerson

liurn on the farm which he now owns in Aurdal township, Otter Tail county, .Minnesota. May 2. 1878, Onon Torgerson is the son of Gunder and Christina Torgerson, who were natives of Norway and Sweden, respectively.

Air. Torgerson's father was born on .March 13, [830, and his mother was horn in Sweden in 1X41 >. The former moved to Faribault, Rice county, Minnesota, in 1867, and three years later to Otter Tail county, where he took a homestead of one hundred and fort) acres. lie added to this farm until he had one hundred and sixty-nine acres, where his son, Onon, now lives, lie cleared most of the land, lie died in iNoj and his wife in [894. They had a family of seven children, Emma, Christian (deceased), Onon, Augusta, ( >scar, Esther and Anton. They were members of the Swedish Baptist church. Gunder Torgerson served as township treasurer for a number of years, in all about twelve.

Onon Torgerson was reared on a farm and educated in the public schools. He has always been engaged in farming and, at the present time owns ninety-one acres of the old homestead. Mr. Torgerson has erected a magnificent new barn and a. very hue residence. These buildings were constructed in [915.

On May _'S, [901, Onon Torgerson was married to Ella Wessberg, who was born in Sweden in [883. Her father was born 111 Sweden and is n..w deceased. Her mother lives in Warren, North Dakota. Mr. and Mrs. Torgerson have five children. Lorimer, Ruth, Chester, Eunice and Thelma.

Mr. Torgerson's paternal grandparents were Torgus and Ose Olson, both of whom were natives of Norwa) and who came to Rice county. .Minnesota, in [856. They purchased forty acres of land 111 Rice count) and spent their last days there. They were the parents of six children, id" whom Ole, Bertha, (hinder and Anne are deceased. The living children are Ashlex and Torgus. Ashley is a farmer in Aurdal township and a veteran ol the ( nil War. Torgus is also a farmer in \urdal township and a veteran of the Civil War.

There is no family in Aurdal township which is more favorably known than the Torgersons. They have worthily discharged every duty of life, both public and private, and today Onon Torgerson, a representative of the present generation of the family, enjoys the confidence and esteem of all of the people of this township.

Even Mathiason

"The good citizen is a person who habitually conducts himself with proper regard for the welfare of the community of which lie is a meml>er, and is active and intelligent in his co-operation with his fellow members to that end." Even Mathiason, who was born in Norway, September 3, 1855. was twenty-seven years old when he came to this country. His parents, O. and Bertha (Erikson) Mathiason, lived and died in his native land.

Even Mathiason received his education in Norway and located in Pelican Rapids in 1X82 immediately after arriving in the United States. It was necessary to travel from Roxie, Minnesota, to this township in a wagon drawn by oxen. After working on a farm for nine years he returned to Norway and brought hack his bride whom he married in St. Paul in 1891.

Mrs. Mathiason was Olena, daughter of Ole Mathiason. and was born in Norway. Her father died in that country. After his marriage. Mr. Mathiason located in the present building and operated a hotel for the following six years. 1 le then laid in a stock of groceries and has been a grocery merchant ever since The children born to Mi. and Mrs. Mathiason are Ole: Elmer, aged twenty-two years: Beney Louis, aged eighteen years: Ethel Meria, aged twelve years, and Lawrence William, aged seven years. Mr. and Mrs. Mathiason are members of the Synodical church.

Mr. Mathiason was for some time a member of the local school board and to its work gave his best thought and attention. A residence of thirtythree years in one town, during which time Mr. Mathiason has built up a reputation tor honor in business and loyalty and uprightness in private life, make him one of the esteemed citizens of this township.

Nels Gerh Vrdson

One of the successful farmer- of Aurdal township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, who i- a native of Xorwav. is WE Gerhardson, who was born in Norway, April 8, [861.

Mr. Gerhardson is the son of Andrew and Kare 1 WE 1 Gerhardson, both of whom were born 111 Xorwav. the former in [823 and the latter in [830. \ftcr their marriage, in their native kind, they started for America on \pnl 11. [86l, and. upon arrival in the United States, settled in the -late of Iowa. Later, however, the) emigrated to Freeborn county, Minnesota, and. subsequently, to (titer Tail county, before the city of Fergus Falls was thought of ami at a time when there was only one grocer) Store on the present site of Fergus Falls. About three months later. Mr. Gerhardson's grandfather came to America and took a homestead in Aurdal township, comprising one hundred and sixty acres. Mr. Gerhardson's father inherited this farm and died upon it in 1907. His wife died about four years previously, in 1903. Mr. Gerhardson's parents had ten children, of whom one. Lena, died early in life. The others were Gulena, Nels, Christine, Gilbert, Karl, Anne, Ole, Otto and Tilla. Mr. Gerhardson's parents were members of the Lutheran church.

Nels Gerhardson was a mere lad when his parents settled in Aurdal township. He was educated in the public schools of the township, reared mi the farm and has always been engaged in farming. In partnership with his sons, Mr. Gerhardson owns two hundred and ten acres of land three miles out of Fergus Falls, where he is engaged in fanning and stock raising. Since he acquired this farm. Air. Gerhardson has made many improvements. He has erected substantial buildings, fenced the land and installed adequate drainage, all of which has contributed to make the farm a most desirable tract and most productive.

In 1887 Nels Gerhardson was married to Mattie Vegin, who is a native of Minnesota, born in 1866. Mrs. Gerhardson's father was Knnt Vegin, who was an early settler in Grant county. Minnesota, where he spent his last days. Mr. and Airs. Nels Gerhardson have been the parents of five children: Eva, who is deceased; Eva, who married Guilder Mjesth and has two children. Jenette and Norman: Anton, who lives at home: Eddie, who also lives at home, and Martha, who is deceased. The mother of these children died on March 12. 1896. Nels Gerhardson is a highly-respected citizen in the township and county where he has lived for several years and where he is well known.

Louis Halyorson

Louis Halvorson, a native of Fergus Falls township. Otter Tail county, Minesota, was horn a mile and a half from Elizabeth, November 13. [881, is one of the successful young farmers of Aurdal township. Mr. Halvorson is the son of Mathias and Mare (Holte) Halvorson. the former of whom was horn in Norway in [839 and the latter horn in that country in 1851. Mathias Halvorson moved to southern Minnesota, and later to Otter Tail county, settling on a homestead one ami one-half miles south of Elizabeth, where he lived until [CjOI. lie now lives retired in Fergus falls. Mrs. Mathias Halvorson, who was married to Mathias Halvorson in Otter Tail county, is the daughter of Johannes and Bertha (Holler) Holte, who wire early >ettler^ 111 Otter Tail county, but who are now both deceased. Air. Halvorson's parents were members of the Lutheran church. They had altogether a familv of fourteen children, seven of whom are as follow ; Henry, Louis, Mollie. Hannah, Emma, Eddie and Alfred: the others are deceased

Halvorson was educated in the public schools and as soon as he was old enough took up fanning as a life vocation. In 1910 Air. Halvorson moved to the farm of one hundred and twenty acres, which he now owns, in Aurdal township. Ik- is engaged in fanning and stuck raising and has made a success of his chosen vocation.

In [906 Louis Halvorson was married to Emma Brekke, the daughter of Halvor < .. Brekke, who is mentioned elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Halvorson have five children, Eleanor, .Morris, Bertha, Harry and Ida.

Mr. Halvorson has been more or less active in local politics and is now serving as clerk of Aurdal township, lie and his wife and family are members of the Lutheran church.

Jacob Clarence Eveland

Among the well-known fanners of Aurdal township is Jacob Clarence Eveland, who owns two hundred and forty acres of magnificent farming land, three and one-half miles northeast of Fergus halls, Minnesota, and who was horn in Bremer county, Iowa, September 7. [873.

Mr. Eveland is the sou of Jacob M. and Angeline (Stuffleben) Eyeland. the former of whom was horn in Fulton count), Illinois, in [843, and the latter born in the same county. Jacob M. Eveland was the son of Henry and Irene (Miller) Eveland, the former of whom was horn in Indiana, and the latter a native of Pennsylvania. Henry Eveland and wife emigrated to Fulton county, Illinois, and. after living there for twenty years, emigrated to Bremer county, Iowa. It was Henry Eveland's brother. Mason Eveland, who was the first settler in Lafayette township, Bremer county, Iowa. Henry Eveland himself was the second settler in that town ship. Mr. Eveland's paternal grandfather died in Bremer count)-, Iowa, in [879. I lis wife had died many years before.

Mr. Eveland's maternal grandparents were Joshua and Polly (Alsbury) Stuffleben. both of whom were natives of the Keystone state and who. after their marriage in Pennsylvania, emigrated to Fulton count)-, Illinois, and later to Bremer county, Iowa, settling in Lafayette township. Loth died in Bremer county, the former in [913, at the age of eighty-nine, and the latter in [885, ai the aye of sixty-three years.

Mr. Eveland's Father, the venerable Jacob M. Eveland, is now living in Lafayette town-hip, Bremer county, lie owns two hundred and sevent) one acres of the old homestead, at one time owned a number of farms. Hi' also owns land in Mississippi. I'.v his marriage to Angeline Stuffleben then were horn nine children, live of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. Nellie, |acob Clarence, Bertha, Glenn and \lvin.

Bremer county, Iowa, and educated in the public schools. Mr. Eveland has always been engaged in fanning. In 1904 he emigrated to South Dakota and purchased three hundred and twenty acres of land in that state, which, however, he sold in October, 1909, when he came to Aurdal township and purchased two hundred and forty acres, three and one-half miles northeast of Fergus Palls, Minnesota.

In i8i»J Jacob < '.. Eveland was married to Fannie Chestnut, a native of Fulton count}-. Illinois, who was born on April 27, 1874. Mrs. Eveland's father and mother were John and Emma ( Stuffleben) Chestnut, both of whom were natives of Fulton county, Illinois. Mrs. Eveland's mother died in [885, and her father died on September 10, 1915, at Manito, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Eveland have six children. Tina, Melvin, Everett, Bessie, Ada and Merrill, all of whom are living.

Mr. and Airs. Eveland and family are members of the Methodist episcopal church. Nominally, Mr. Eveland is identified with the Democratic party, but he has never been especially interested in politics and has newer aspired to office. lie is known in the community where he lives as a successful farmer, a good man and a valuable citizen.

Halvor G. Brekke, a prosperous farmer of Aurdal township. Otter Tail county. Minnesota, is a native of Norway, where he was born on June 15. 1845. Mr. Brekke is the sun of Guilder Olson and Sigred (Aslakson) Brekke, both of whom were natives of Norway. Mr. Brekke's father was born in March. [808, and his mother in February, 1808.

The Brekkes emigrated to Dane county. Wisconsin, in 1861, and to Aurdal township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, in T870. They took up a homestead in section 9, and here both lived until their deaths. Mr. Brekke's father died in April, [896, and his mother in September, 1901. They were the parents of twelve children, of whom Ole, Julia. Aasne, Aasne and Margaret are deceased. The living children are Aslak. Sandow, Torger, Halvor G, Julia, Ole and Margaret.

Halvor G. Brekke was educated in the public schools of Norway and. in 1865. four years after his parents had come to Wisconsin, the son also came to Dane county, Wisconsin, and settled in Deerfield township, where he worked on a farm. He accompanied his parents to Otter Tail county in [870 and took a homestead farm of our hundred and forty-seven acres. where he now lives. This splendid farm is situated in section 9, of Aurdal township. Mr. Brekke cleared the land, which he had acquired b stead right, and in [889 built a good residence. During the same year he also built a very commodious barn, which was destroyed by lightning and which was replaced in 1912 by a magnificent new barn, forty-eight by sixty-six by fourteen feet. Mr. Brekke is a general fanner and stockman and has been successful in his chosen vocation.

In [877 Halvor (I. Brekke was married to Betsey Evenson, who was born on August 25, 1845, ni Norway and who is the daughter of Evan and Gunhildl Knutson) Evenson. In [861 Mrs. Brekke' s parents came to Dane county, Wisconsin, and there both died. Mr. and Mrs. Halvor G. Brekke have been the parents of four children, GustaA Severin, Emma, Emma and Henry Benjamin. Gustav Severin. who was born on the farm where he now lives on April 28, 1S7S. married Huldah Johnson, who was born in Friberg township, ( )tter Tail count). Minnesota. December 7, 1889. They have ni> children, lie is employed on the old homestead. Emma, the second child, is deceased. Emma, the third child, married Louis Halvorson and has five children, Eleanor, Morris, Bertha, Harry and Ida. Henry Benjamin lives at Dilworth, Minnesota.

Halvor G. Brekke has served as a member of the school board in Aurdal township and has also served as trustee of the township and as supervisor for fourteen years. He was assessor of the township for sixteen years. Mr. and Mrs. Brekke and family are active members of the Lutheran church.

Arne Engebretson, a well-known farmer of Aurdal township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was horn on November 4. 1850, in Norway, and is the son of Engebret Gunderson and Raghnild (Olson) Engebretson, who spent their entire lives in Norway. Arne Engebretson was their only child.

A short time after coming to this country he moved to Aurdal township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and purchased eighty acres of land, where he now lives. This land has been subsequently increased to about one hundred and twelve acres and is located in sections 15. to and 0, Aurdal township. Mr. Engebretson is a farmer and stockman. His land is highly productive and he raises all crops common to this latitude.

In [879 Arne Engebretson was married in Norway to Mary Olson, a native of Norway, horn in [851. She is the daughter of Ole Severson and [ennie Severson, who. in [882, came to America and settled in Otter Tail county. Mrs. Engebretson's father died in 1014. and her mother died in the same year, both being eighty-eighl years old at the time of their deaths. Mr. and Mrs. Engebretson have seven children. Ole, Engebret, Richard. \ntoii. ( histav, I 'scar and 1 lannah.

Arne Engebretson is independent in politics. He and his family are members of the Lutheran church. Mr. Engebretson has served as supervisor of Aurdal township and has also served as a member of the school hoard. Likewise, he has been assessor of Aurdal township for seven years. It may be said of \rnc Engebretson that he has worthily discharged all of the duties of life, both public and private, and that he has a host of friends in the township and county where' he lives.

Anion- the prosperous farmers and successful stock raisers of Oscar township. Otter Tail county. Minnesota, are August and William Trenne. the former horn on August 25, [883, the latter on January 15, 1880, in Oscar township, Otter Tail count)", suns of Fritz and Charlotte (Druskey) Trenne, natives of Germany. Fritz Trenne was educated in the common schools of Germany,, he later becoming a soldier of the German army and taking part in the war with Austria, in [866, and in the Franco-Prussian War. during the years 1870-71. During the last year of his militarv career, Fritz Trenne served as an officer in the army of his native country. Shortly following his marriage, the elder Trenne, in 1872, came to America and located in Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in Oscar township, a place which Fritz Trenne cultivated until 1007, when he retired and moved to Fergus Falls, where he lived until his death, on ( )ctober 12, 1912. Charlotte, the widow of Fritz Trenne. now lives at Fergus Falls. Fritz Trenne was not only a successful farmer, as one who acquired six hundred and fifty-three acres of land, hut he was a man prominent in the affairs of his community, having been the occupant of several township school offices Fritz and Charlotte Trenne were the parents of eleven children, Paul, Lena. William. Elizabeth, Tillie, August, Emily, Martin. Frencie, Minnie and Malvine.

William Trenne was educated in the schools of district No. Ill, Oscar township, Otter Fail county, after which he engaged in general farming and stock raising, an occupation which Mr. Trenne is now following on his wellimproved farm of two hundred acres in Oscar township. In addition to his farm activity, William Trenne is prominently connected m business life, he being one of the organizers and a stockholder of the Elizabeth Creamen Company, as well as being an officer of the Cream of Barley Company, of Minneapolis.

On November .^. 1904, William Trenne was married 10 Ida Krause. a native of the -talc of Nebraska, and to this marriage have been born four children, Walter. Francis, Wired and Tin's.

charge of the old Trenne homestead, which Mr. Trenne has greatly improved and a farm of two hundred and forty acres which August Trenne has brought to a high state of cultivation. Mr. Trenne now gives his time to general farming and the raising of large numbers of good grade live stock. On June 24, 1915, August Trenne was married to Johannah Greenogle, the daughter of John Greenogle and wife, prominent people of their community. The Trenne family are all prominent members of the Norwegian ! utheran church, of < Iscar township, they giving of their efforts and means for the support of the work of this congregation.

One of the active and progressive citizens of Fergus Falls, lawyer and writer and a good talker, gifted particularly with line powers of description, i- Nels T. Moen, editor and manager of the Ugeblad Publishing Company and municipal judge of Fergus Falls.

Nels T. Moen was horn in Freeborn county, Minnesota, May 26, [866, the son of [ollef and Man (Nelson) Moen. When -Tollef Nelson was twenty-two years old, in [856, he and his brother landed in Quebec, Canafter a fourteen week- voyage on the ocean from Norway. Upon arriving in Quebec, the two brothers borrowed enough money to reach their destination, traveling b\ land and by canal boat until they reached Michigan. From .Michigan they walked several hundred miles, finally reaching their uncle's home at Big Canoe, Iowa.

ed to Waseca county, Minnesota, where they worked at fanning on shares. Later the} moved to the next county, Freeborn, and there worked in the same way. In 1868, they purchased a yoke of oxen and a wagon and moved to Otter Tail county, settling in Tumuli township. They each took a homestead near Dalton and there Tollef Nelson spent the rest of his life, hi- death occurring in October. 1895.

Tollef Kelson and his wife, who before her marriage was Alary Larson, were the parent- of twelve children, four of whom died in infancy, those who survived being as follow: Carrie, who is the wife of T. O. Udbye and lives in Fergus Falls: Xels T., the subject of this -ketch: Inger. who i- now Mrs. 1'. C. Svensrud and li\i- on the old homestead; Lars, who also lives on part of the old homestead; .Martin, who i- a resident of Fergus ball-; \utou. who i- a resident of Canada; Thore, who lives in Fergus ball-, and b.hnc, who married b'uiil Brusven and lives at Rothsay, Minnesota.

Nels T. Moen received hi- elementary education in the public schools of Tumuli township, tin- county. Me first attended school in a dug-out. later in a log; house and still later in a frame building. lie remained on a farm with his parents until [893 and, after graduating from the Red Wing Seminary, attended the University of Minnesota and was graduated from the law department of that institution. After finishing his legal education, Mr. Moen moved to Ada. m Norman county, but, subsequently, was offered the position of principal of the school at tialstead, which he accepted. In addition to his duties as principal of the school, he practiced law in the evening. In 1897 -Mr. .Moen returned to Ada, where he remained for ten years, having in the meantime been elected judge of the probate of Norman county, in which capacity he served for two terms. He also served as county attorney for one term.

In 1907. .Mr. Moen, who is a vigorous and capable opponent of the liquor traffic, accepted the position of state attorney for the anti-saloon league of Minnesota, and served in that capacity for two years, or until 1909, in which year he moved to Fergus Falls. As a platform orator in behalf of temperance. Mr. Moen has few superiors in this state and to the cause of temperance he has given service equal to that of any man who has labored in this great cause.

After Mr. Moen's removal to Fergus Falls, he engaged in the practice of law. During the legislative session of i<)ji. he served as chief clerk to the re-apportionment committee and in the same year was appointed municipal judge of Fergus Falls by Governor Fl>erhart. In 1912 he was elected to the same office. One year previously, Mr. Moen became editor and manager of the Ugeblad Publishing Company, the publishers of the Fergus Falls ! rgeblad, the oldest Scandinavian paper west of the "twin cities."

In [893 Mr. Moen was married to Betsy Johnson, who died in 1008, leaving four sons, Thomas O., Milford A.. Neal B. and Caroll. On December 26, 1911, Mr. Moen married, secondly. Ingeborg- Stortroen.

During the summer of 1014. Mr. Moen traveled in Norway and visited his ancestral home in that picturesque country. The Moen family are all members of the Lutheran church.

Anders A. Bergrud

Anders A. Bergrud, who has made a success of farming in \unlal township, Otter Tail count), Minnesota, is a native of Norway, horn there on July 23, [851, the son of \ndiew V and Sigrid (Hengsley) Bergrud, both of whom were horn in Norway.

Mr. Bergrud's parents came to America and to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, in [883. His father died in this county in r N< >(>. Mi- mothei is now living in Sverdrup, and is eighty-four years old.

county. Two years later he homesteader! eighty acres of land in the county and, shortly thereafter, erected good buildings on the farm. He now has one hundred and sixty acres of land in his home farm, and has added fort) acres in section 21, eighty acres in section 21 and forty acres in another tract, also in section 21, all bought after the first one hundred and sixty.

On November 23, 1879, Mr. Bergrud was married to Sigrid Boen, who was born in Norway on November 7. 1856. and who is the daughter of Erick Trond Boen, mentioned elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Bergrud have been the parents of five children. Celia Ida, Alfred, "Theodore N., Inga and Henry. Celia Ida, horn in [880, is the wife of Olaf Haave and has four children, Selma, Alvin. Benne and Margaret. Alfred. born on November 25, 1881, was educated in the public schools and lives at home with his parents. lie has charge of the farm and is engaged in general farming and stock raising. He also owns forty acres of land in Aurdal township. Theodore N., horn in t88}. died in IQ07. Inga, horn in 1886, is the wife of Peter YVeggeland. Henry was born on May 27, t8q6.

Mr. and Mrs. Bergrud and family occupy a comfortable and commodious home in Aurdal township and are among the most highly respected citizens living in this township.

\ successful farmer of Aurdal township. Otter Tail county. Minnesota, is Andrew Braaten. who was born in Moore count}'. Minnesota, Sep tember 4, 1869.

Mr. Braaten is the son of Eric and Gtinel Braaten, both of whom were born in Norway, the father on September 27, 1827, and the mother on December 3, 1836. After their marriage in Norway, they came to America, in i860, and settled in Mower county, Minnesota. Three years later the) settled in Aurdal township, Otter Tail county. Minnesota, homesteading one hundred and twenty acres of land, where their son. Andrew, now lives, and where he was reared. Eric Braaten was able to clear some of this land before his death in [902. He also made many improvements upon the farm. His widow is still living. They had a family of five children, of whom Andrew was the fourth. The other children were Hannah Karine. Ragnhild and Nellie. Of these children, Hannah is deceased.

Andrew Braaten was reared principally on the farm which he now owns. He was educated in the public schools of \urdal township and. as soon as lie was old enough, took up farming with his father. Mr. Braaten owns two hundred and eighty acres of land and occupies a fine residence.

early settlers in Aurdal township, Otter Tail county. Both of Mrs. Braaten's parents are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Braaten have four children, Grace, Geneva, Erick and Amy.

Mr. and Airs. Braaten are members of and take an active part in the Lutheran church of Aurdal township. The members of the Braaten family are also identified with this church. Not only is Mr. Braaten a most successful fanner, but he is a highly intelligent and valuable citizen in the comnnmitv where he has lived for so many years.

John O. Svien, well-known farmer and citizen, who by the conduct of his life in the community, has won a prominent place in the ranks of citizenship, and who, as the result of an unselfish life in the interests of the township and county, has a host of friends and appreciative fellow citizens, was horn in Goodhue county, Minnesota, on April 25, 1872, the son of Ove J. and Ingred (Boe) Svien, Ove J. Svien being the son of Johannes and Anna ( Lunde ) Svien, who were horn in Norway and came to America in the year 1856, locating in the state of Wisconsin, later going to the state of Iowa, where they lived for some time and then came to Minnesota, settling in Goodhue county, where they spent their last days. Ingred Boe is the daughter of Aslak and Bertha Boe, who were farmers in their native land of Norway, where they lived their entire lives.