Otter Tail County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1916 (part 8 of 28)

August J. and Anna Sitz are the parents of three children: Arnold, a student of the Lutheran Seminary, of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin; Herbert, a student at Xew I'lin. Minnesota, and Krna. who lives at home.

August J. Sitz and his wife are active and esteemed members of the Lutheran church of Perham. In political affiliation. Mr. Sitz is a Republican.

L. H. D. Schmidt is a native of Germany and was born in that country on iVovember : 5. [86r. He is the son of Deidrich and Caroline (Tearman) Schmidt, also natives of Germany. Deidrich Schmidt was a blacksmith by trade and followed that vocation until his death. I.. H. D. Schmidt received his education in the schools of his native land and upon the completion of same engaged in the wagon-making business until his emigration to America in r8Sc>. Upon his arrival in the United States he at once located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he again took up his trade for more than three months, removing thence to Perham, (titer Tail count}-. Minnesota. Imbued with an independent spirit, he opened a wagon-making shop and has continue.! in that line until the present time. In [904 he erected the present simp, which is eighty by eighty feet and two stories in height at the front. His three sons, one other man and himself are constantly employed in the manufacture of wagons. and bob-sleighs, completing about fifty of the former and from two hundred to five hundred of the latter each year.

In [890 1-. II. D. Schmidt was united in marriage to Emma Bauck, and tn them have been born nine children, whose names follow: Dora, I. 'aus !]., Herman. Arthur, Martha. Luella. Theodore, Milton, Caroline. Louis, Herman and Arthur are connected with their father in the manufacturing business, lunma 1 Bauck) Schmidt is a native of Illinois and the daughter of John Bauck, a pioneer farmer of Otter Tail county. Minnesota, win 1 still lives i>ii the farm near Perham.

1.. H. 1). Schmidt and his wife are both members of the German Lutheran church, and active in church affairs. In politics. Mr. Schmidt is a Republican.

Henry Schmidt

Henry Schmidt is one of ten children born to the union of Deidrich Schmidt am! Caroline Tearman, both natives of Germany. Henry Schmidt was born mi June 27, [866, in Germany, and is indebted to the schools of his native land for the education which lie received. Deidrich Schmidt was a blacksmith and followed that vocation until his death, having lived and died m Germany. Caroline (Tearman) Schmidt is still living.

I lenry Schmidt was reared in the land of his nativity ami became a blacksmith, assisting his father in that business until his emigration to America, in [890. Upon his arrival in the United States, Henry Schmidt immediately proceeded to Perham, Otter Tail county, this state, and engaged in his former vocation, opening the blacksmith business which he has continued until the present time. In [906 the present building brick was erected..

In 1890 Henry Schmidt was united in marriage to Dora Brockman, and to them have been born eight children, whose names follow: Emma, Arnold. Robert, Richard, Edwin, Walter, Paul and Hilda. Dora (Brockman) Schmidt is a native of Germany. Both Henry Schmidt and his wife are members of the German Lutheran church and very active in its support, lie is a respected citizen of the town of Perham, having devoted energy and thought to the solution of the community problems.

Per Gustav Matson

Successful farmer and stock raiser, well-known citizen of Otter Tail county, and a man who has had an important part in the development of Pida township and its resources, Per Gustav Matson, because of his helpful and useful life to the community, has attained a notable place among those men, who from the ranks of common citizenship as well as in public office, have done no small part to make the locality an advanced and prosperous community.

Per Gustav Matson was born in Westerbotten, Sweden, on March. 14. 1867, the son of Mathias Olson and Maria Margareta (Nelson) Olson, both of whom spent their entire lives in Sweden, where Mathias Olson was a farmer and landowner. Mathias and Maria Olson were the parents of eighteen children, Maria Matilda, Bertha Louisa, Margareta Katherine, Elizabeth Sophia, Anna Christina, Charlotta Wilhelmina, Carl Magnus, Olaf, Eva Erika. Nils, Mathias. Johan, Clara Gustava, Erik, Anders Oscar, Per Gustav, and two other children who died in infancy.

Per Gustav Matson was educated in the public schools of Sweden, after which he came, in the year 1802, to America and located near Bertrand, Nebraska, where he bought eighty acres of land which he farmed until the vear 1900, and then came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where he bought one hundred and thirty-one acres of land in Lida township, bordering the beautiful Lake Lida. a few years later adding forty more acres, a place which Mr. Matson has greatly improved and where he now lives, engaged in genera] agricultural pursuits.

During the year 1892, shortl) before leaving bis home in Sweden, Per GustaA Matson was married to Marie b'.llena Sundleng, who was born in Sweden, the daughter of Nils Frederick and Charlotta Johana (Johnson) Sundleng. Nils Sundleng being a farmer in Sweden, his wife. Charlotta, being deceased. To the marriage of Pel' Gustav and Marie F.llena Matson have been bum twelve children, Olga Maria. Mma Wilhelmina, Amy Augusta, Gustav Elmer (deceased), Edla Erika, Victor Carl Bernard, Verner Theodore, Gustav W. Mfml. Myrtle Lilian (deceased), Emil Wgoi Renhold, Ethel Lilian and Leonard Raymond. Per Gustav Matson and bis

Per Gustav Matson has proved to be one of the best and most desirable citizens of I. ida township, he being a man who has given much time and effort for the good of the community, not only during the time when he served his township most efficiently as a township supervisor, but in all matters having for their objeel the betterment of general conditions in the county and more especially i.ida township.

Anton Ij. Evavold is a native of Norway and was born on June 6, 1885. lie is die s, m m(" Glaus Evavold, who emigrated to America from Norway when Ant' in J.',. Evavold was a child of three years. Anton B. Evavold received his education in the schools of Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and has been reared mi the home place, having assisted with the cultivation of the same until the present time. He is the sole owner and manager of one hundred and forty acres of well-improved land, which he devotes to general farming and stuck raising, making a specialty of Shorthorn cattle.

In 1912 Anton E. Evavold was united in marriage to Minnie Lang, daughter of Xels A. Lang, and a native of Lund township. Douglas county. Minnesota. Anton B. Evavold and his wife are the parents of one child, Arnold Wilton McKay. They are active members in the Norwegian Lutheran Free church and lend their earnest support to this denomination. Anton I'.. Evavold was appointed to act as road supervisor and has served in that capacit) tor a period of two years, discharging the duties of that office with dispatch and efficiency.

M. J. Daly holds a place of sincere regard in the hearts of his fellow citizens, as is evidenced by the positions of trust to which he has been elected, lie is the son of M . F. and Mary ( Malarky ) Daly, both natives of Ireland, who emigrated to America in 1847. 'hey located in New York City until [856 and then removed to St. Paul, Minnesota, where M. F. Daly was employed as a bookkeeper Some years later they removed to Carver county. Minnesota, where ihe\ both died. They were the parents of eighl children.

\1. T. Daly was 1,,,,-n on March 13. [861, in St. Paul, Minnesota, and his education was received in the public schools of Minneapolis. He was graduated from the Iowa State University in 1886, having studied law in thai institution, and immediately began 10 practice law in Perham, Minne- sota. During the first seven years of his practice he was associated with a Mr. Baxter, but has since been independent in his vocation. He is connected with the First National Hank in the capacity of vice-president, and served as county attorney from 1891 until 1899. He also served as state 'senator from 1899 until 1903. His fraternal affiliations are with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Knights of Pythias. Religiously, he is a devout member of the Roman Catholic church and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

In 1893 M. I. Daly was united in marriage to Emma Mohr, and to them have been born two children, whose names follow: M. J., Jr., and Lenora. Emma (Mohr) Daly is a native of Perham, Minnesota, and is also a member of the Roman Catholic church. M. J. Daly is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, in which order he is held in high esteem.

Asbjorn Aslaksen

Having lived in this vicinity for twenty-seven years, during which time Asbjorn Aslaksen has become a well-known farmer, he has come to be considered one of the substantial citizens of Pelican township. Although born in the southern part of Norway, he has thoroughly identified himself with the life of the community in which he has lived for many years. His birth took place on March 12, 1869, but two years later he was left an orphan by the deatli of his father. Aslak Asbjornson, whose wife. Ingeborg Eliason, came to America in [889, one year after the subject of this sketch settled in Pelican Rapids. Both of Mr. Aslaksen's parents were born in Norway.

The subject of this sketch was the only child burn to Mr. and Mrs. Aslaksen. The former, who served in the Norwegian army, became seriously ill during a military drill ami for the two years which preceded his death, was a helpless invalid.

Asbjorn Aslaksen's school days in Norway were followed by a period during which he worked '>n his father's farm, and in [888, influenced by the glowing reports of friends in Vmerica, he started out for die new country and arriving in Pelican Rapids, worked as a farm laborer for the following two years. In 1892 Ik- became the owner of one hundred and sj\t\ land !'n milrs north of Pelican Kapids and to this he added other land until he had acquired three hundred and seventy acres. This property became his home until the fall of 0110. when he traded it for eighty acres in Pelican Kapids. Flis present home is a well-buill modern dwelling Although living in town he still gives his attention to grain farming and stock raising. In

In iSijt) Asbjorn Aslaksen was married to Xettie Johnson, of Becker county. Minnesota. She came to this count}- with her parents, who entered a homestead claim near Cormorant about the year 1875. Her father was Xils Johnson, a native of Norway. The home life of Mr. and Mrs. Aslaksen was enhanced h\ the adoption of two children whom they took into their home and hearts as their very own. The children are Emma Engel and Arthur Nygaart.

Mr. and Mrs. Vslaksen are devoted members of the United Lutheran church, of which the former is secretary. He has held the office of secretary for fifteen war-, both of the church here and at Grove Lake. He has also been assessor of Scambler township and was for eight years the treasurer of school district No. 39. These honors have been assumed by Mr. Aslaksen without solicitation on his part, for he has never aspired to be an office holder. Gifted with the ability to engage in continuous toil, and to concentrate all of his energies upon the task in hand, Mr. Aslaksen has made a success of life. He occupies a prominent place in the business and religious life of the community, while both he and his capable wife have made many warm friendships here.

Albert Ellwanger

Albert Ellwanger is a native of Clitherall township. Otter Tail county, this state, and his birth occurred on February [3, 1874. He is a brother 1 if John and Mathias Ellwanger, who, tor many years, owned the old home place together. ["he first agricultural venture of \lbert Ellwanger was when the three boys, Albert, John and Mathias, purchased the home farm of their father and, together, cultivated it for many years, Albert finally selling his interest to John, and Mathias doing likewise. Albert Ellwanger then rented a farm in Eagle Lake township for a period of three years. In 1005 he purchased one hundred and thirty-eight acres of land in Eagle Lake township, Otter Tail county, and has continued to cultivate this place until the present time, lie has made all of the improvements and put it under a line state of cultivation, lie has also erected all of the present buildings.

[n 1901 Albert Ellwanger was united in marriage to Oliva Olson. daughter of Nels Olson, a native of Sweden and an early pioneer of Clitherall township, and the\ an- the parents of seven children: Floyd, Clarence, NTorris, Eveline, Vernie, Hazel and William. Oliva (Olson) Ellwanger is a sister of Ah in Olson, and has been a very material help to her husband in his effort to Lrain an honorable competency. They are devout members of the Norwegian Lutheran church of Ashby, Minnesota, and are active workers for the advancement of that denomination. Albert Ellwanger is a good citizen and fanner, and is much liked by tbe people of his community.

W. E. Thomas

W. E. Thomas, one of the prominent business men of Otter Tail comity. was born in Bloomington, Wisconsin, January 3. 1856, and is tbe son of Anson H. and .Martha (Cooley) Thomas, natives of New York. His -rand father. John 11. Thomas, was a native of Xew York, where he lived until he moved to Illinois in the early forties and engaged in farming. He later removed to Grant county, Wisconsin, where he purchased a farm near the village of Bloomington, and where he died in 1885. Anson H. Thomas was educated in the common schools after which he spent three years in the mining districts of California, having made the trip overland to that state with an ox-team train ol gold seekers in 1849. Me was moderately successful in his mining ventures, and on returning to Wisconsin he purchased an improved farm of one hundred and sixty acres, and also eighty acres of timber land. He came to Fergus Falls, Minnesota, in 1898, and died there in 1901, the wife and mother having died in 1869. They were the parents of seven children: Lucy E., W. E., Frank V, Jesse E., bora E., Linda E. and Mabel M. all of whom, at this writing, are living.

W. E. Thomas was educated in the common schools of Grant county, Wisconsin, and in Pittsfield, Illinois. During bis early life he was engaged in farming, having been reared on the farm; agriculture has always appealed to him. Me came to Otter Tail county on October 20, 1878 bringing with him two hundred dollars in cash which he had earned working out In the month on a farm in Illinois. He located at Fergus Falls, and for a few years worked out by tbe month, then engaged in the flour and ict.-d business in Fergus balls, and continued in that business until 1NN7. when he sold out the business and came to Maine township, and built a water power dam across tbe Red river, where the little burg of ['helps has since been built. He then took in a partner, E. 1'. Adams, and together they built the Maine roller mills, known far and wide as tbe ".Maine Mills." They started tbe mill in December. 1889, and milled under the firm name of Thomas Adams until June. 1894, when Mr. Thomas bought out Mr. Adams' interest in the property and has since carried on the business alone. He has built to and increased the capacity of the mill. Me has enjoyed a good trade and has been most successful in the business.

On September 7. 1885, W. E. Thomas was married to Liona Phelps. She was a native of New York, having been born in that state on February 2*, [860, being the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. O. C. Phelps. Her father is still living in Otter Tail count)-. Her mother passed away in December, 1913. Mrs. Thomas died on October 5, 1006. She was a good and true helpmate and helped him to bear the many burdens and hardships which he encountered during the stringenl times while he was building, starting in as he did with but little cash or capital to work on. Mr. Thomas attributebis success to the help and encouragement she gave him during those trying tunes and which she continued to give throughout the rest of her life.

In the summer of [908 Mr. Thomas tore out the old dam. which had begun to leak and cause some trouble, and built in its place a stone and concrete dam, and lie now has , me of the best water powers on the river. Aside from the water power and mill property Mr. Thomas has four good houses in Phelps which he has built and he owns one hundred and sixty acres of kind near Phelps.

Mr. Thomas is ;i member of Maine Camp No. 41 16, Modern Woodmen of America, and has been venerable consul of that camp ever since its organization in 1896. He is also a member of the Royal Neighbors of America and of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

Anton Thompson

Anton Thompson, a prosperous attorney and the present county attorney of Otter Tail county, is a native of this county, where he was born on February 8, 1870, son of Bernt and Enga (Goldseath) Thompson, natives of Norway and farmer- in Dane Prairie township, this county. Anton Thompson was reared on a farm in Dane Prairie township, and obtained bis elementary education in the district schools of the township.

When Mr. Thompson was fifteen years old, he entered the seminary at Wilmar, Minnesota, and was later graduated from that institution. After teaching school for five years successfully in Otter Tail county. Mr. Thompson entered the University of Minnesota at Minneapolis, in [896, and three years later was graduated from the law department with the degree of Bachelor of Laws. The year following his graduation, he engaged in the practice of his profession at Henning. Mr. Thompson still retains his office at Henning, although in [908 he formed a partnership with Clifford L. Hilton, under the firm name of Hilton & Thompson, and lias since been in the practice of law at Fergus Falls.

Having been elected as county attorney of Otter Tail county in 1908, Mr. Thompson has held the office continuously for the past seven years. He has proved to be a very capable and trustworthy counselor of the law

In 1897 Anton Thompson was married to Ragnhild Vinje, daughter of Olof O. Vinje, of the town of St. Olaf, this county, and to this union seven children have been born, Marion B., Harriet G., Frances V., Innis M., Owen V., Anton R. and Helen M.

Air. Thompson is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, of the Hlks and of the Sons of Norway. He and his family are members of the Lutheran church.

Amos Marckel

Amos Marckel is a representative citizen in the commercial and civic circles of his community and has always been interested in the progress of the town and county. He is the son of John L. and Maria Marckel, and his birth occurred on June 11, 1862, in Columbiana, Ohio. John L. Marckel was a farmer, and both he and his wife died when Amos Marckel was a very young child.

After completing his education, which was received in the common schools of Columbiana, Ohio, he entered the services of a hardware concern, as a clerk, and remained in their employ for a period of five years. In 1886 he removed to the town of Perham, Minnesota, and engaged in the hardware and implement business independently. The first store was located just three doors west of his present location and the business was purchased from A. E. Luedke. In 1895 he purchased the present site, containing an excellent brick structure. He has engaged in the lumber and automobile business in connection with his hardware and implement business, all of which he operated individually until 1914, when he incorporated the entire enterprise as The Marckel Company. His employees became the stockholders and he was elected as president. In 1906 a partnership was formed with A. II. llaut. and a business opened in Gackle, North Dakota. known as Haut & Marckel. They operate a store, similar to The Marckel Company, lie also is the owner of a farm near Dead Lake, Minnesota, on which he breeds purebred Guernsey cattle. In 1913 he assisted in the organization of the Hall Hardware Company, of Minneapolis. Minnesota, and is vice-president and director of same. This company is engaged in the wholesale hardware business.

Reformed church. The lodge affiliations of Amos Marckel are with the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and his membership consists of relations with the blue lodge of Perham, the chapter in Detroit, the commandcry in Wadena, and the Shrine in St. Paul, Minnesota. He has served his community as mayor and village recorder.

The memory of the late < )scar Young long will be cherished in Amor township, this county, where for years he labored for the advancement of material conditions thereabout. Arriving in Otter Tail county in 1870, as the live-year-old son of a homesteader, Oscar Young became one of the most forceful citizens of Amor township, and at the time of his death, on February 14, 1906. he was the owner of a fine farm of four hundred acres, which he bad helped to claim from the forest wilderness.

Oscar Young was born in Sweden on November 15, 1865, son of John N. Young, a Swedisli farmer and carpenter, who came to America during the early childhood of Oscar, and after working on the railroad at that time being constructed in this region, entered a homestead claim in Amor township, this county, and there made bis home. That was in the year 1870, Oscar Young being at that time but five years of age, and be retained a distinct menmn of being carried a long distance on his father's back during the wearisome trip to this county from the nearest railroad point. John N. Young and Solomon Larson were homesteaders together, and during the time they were "prooving up" they lived in the same humble dwelling.

Reared on the homestead farm. Oscar Young grew up amid all the hardships attendant upon pioneer living, receiving such meager education as was afforded in the primitive schools of that day. his schooling having been obtained in district No. 69, and here be was a farmer all his life. \ fter his marriage, in 1890, lie moved to the farm in Amor township, where the rest of his life was spent, and which he greatly improved during his occupancy. In 1X07 he built a commodious harn and in 1 Sou erected the comfortable dwelling in which his widow and children are now living. As he prospered in bis agricultural ventures he added to his farm by additional purchase from time to time, until be became the owner of a farm of four hundred acres. In addition to his extensive farming interests. Mr. Young found time to engage actively in civic affairs and for a time was a member of the town hoard, being regarded as one of the influential men in that section of the county.

On May 24, [890, Oscar Young was united in marriage to Mary Bjorgaard, who was born in Norway on May 10. 1866, daughter of John and Sophia ( Erickson) Bjorgaard, and to this union six children were horn,

Mabel, John. Leonard, Donald, Alphild and Edna, all of whom are living at home, aiding their widowed mother in the management of the farm and are making a fine success of their labors. Mrs. Young came to America alone in 1882, proceeding at once to Otter Tail county, where she joined her brothers, Christian and Oliver, who had come here some years before. In 1883 Mrs. Young's parents came to this county from Norway, bringing with them the other children of the family, John, Oscar and Emelie. The Bjorgaards, as were the Youngs, were members of the Swedish Lutheran church and all these children, as were the children of Mr. and Mrs. Young, were reared in the faith of that church.

The late Oscar Young was devoted to his family, and his death, in 1906, was a great loss to his loving wife and family of young children, as well as to the whole community, for he was a man who was doing well his part in the community in which he had established so excellent a home and he will not soon be forgotten there.

Andrew G. Murk

When Andrew- G. Murk, now one of the most substantial farmers, as well as one of the best-known citizens of Amor township, this county, arrived in Otter Tail county, he bought a quarter of a section of land, paying for the same five dollars an acre. He proceeded to improve the same and cultivated it with such profit that he presently was able to enlarge his holdings, until now he is the owner of five hundred and eighty acres of fine land, the most of which is under excellent cultivation.

Andrew G. Murk was born in the kingdom of Sweden, July 13, 1856, youngest son of Gabriel and Magdalena (Carlson) Murk, who were the parents of six children, those besides the subject of this sketch being Albertina, Matilda. Oscar. Frank and John. Albertina and John are deceased. Gabriel Murk was born on January 20, 1813. For twenty-nine years he served his king as a soldier and was a participant in the arduous campaign which marked the war between Germany and Denmark years ago, and in [879 came to America. his last days being spent in the home of his son. Andrew, in this county.

In October, 18S7. Andrew C. Murk was united in marriage to Clara Josephine Gustafson, who also was born in Sweden, and to this union fourteen children have been born. Oscar, Anna, Ida, Hanna, Beda, Amanda, Hulda, Gilbert, Emily, Arvid. Harold, Rolla. Carl and Clara. Oscar and Hanna are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Murk are members of the Swedish Lutheran church and their children have been raised in the faith of that church, the family being held in high esteem throughout the entire neighbor- hood. Mr. Murk for years has taken an active part in public affairs in Amor township and for fifteen years was treasurer of the school board.

As noted above. Andrew G. Murk's start as a farmer in this county was on a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, for which he paid five dollars an acre. Since then he lias increased his farm holdings until now he owns nearly six hundred acres of fine land, most of the improvements on which he has made himself, lie having built the house and barn and numerous other substantial improvements. In addition to his general farming. .Mr. .Murk gives considerable attention to the raising of live stock, his Shorthorn cattle and Shropshire sheep showing an excellent strain. He is a good citizen and has many friends in Otter Tail county, all of whom hold him in the highest regard.

Herman Grefe

Herman Grefe, born near Hanover, Germany, January 4. 1866, is one of the successful farmers of Otter Tail county. Minnesota. Herman Grefe, the father of the subject of tlii-. -ketch, was born in Hanover, Germany, May [7, 183 1. Herman Grefe, Sr., was married to Mary Clasen, who was born near Hanover, February 24, [836, and died in August, [889. The senior Herman Grefe received his education in the common schools of his native land. He never came to America and on the completion of his school work engaged in farming on the farm that bis father had owned. The farm had been in the possession of the Grefe family for over two hundred years. Herman Grefe, Sr.. was the father of the following children: Loise, Herman, Henry, Hick and William. Louise and William remained in Germany; Henry, deceased, came to America in [882; Dick came to America in i88(), direct to Otter Tail county, and Herman came to America in the year 1887. William is an officer in the German army at the present time. He has seen active service, and has been returned home for surgical treatment.

John Henry Grefe, the father of Herman Grefe, Sr., was born in [802 and died in 1877. He was an extensive landowner and a prosperous farmer in the community in which he lived. John Henry Grefe was an active and respected member of the German Lutheran church.

Herman Grefe, on bis arrival in America in 1NN7. first worked in Kansas and later, in 1805 came to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, where he has since resided, with the exception of a short visit to bis native land. On his return to the United Slates he came direct to Otter Tail county, where be bought a farm of two hundred acres in Otter Tail township, sections 10 and 11. lie has added to Ins first purchase until be now lias a well-improved farm of three hundred acres.

niaii\-, in May, [896. Mrs. I irefe was bom in 1876 and came to this country early in life. Mr. and Mrs. (irefe are the parents of the following children: Katherine, Herman D., Rebecca, William and Lorine.

Herman < irefe and his wife have devoted much time and energy to the development of their farm. It was for the most part a wilderness of wild and undeveloped land when purchased by them, but by constant and patient labor they have seen their rough acres develop into a valuable tract. In the early part of their married life they built a new house and from time to time have added many substantial improvements, in the nature of outbuildings. barn and the telephone.

Mr. and Mrs. Grefe are members of the German Lutheran church and take an active part in the services. Mr. Grefe is active in the affairs of the community, being secretary and treasurer of the Farmers Society of Equity, he is secretary of the creamery that was established in 1905 with but forty patrons and under his wise and careful management the)' now have one hundred and thirty patrons. In 1015 the creamery paid out for butter fat to the fanners more than thirty-seven thousand dollars The Farmers Society of Equity is an organization of farmers for the purpose of buying and selling. They devote most of their energy to shipping and selling of stock During the past year more than thirty-nine thousand dollars worth of live -tuck has been shipped and sold by this organization. This society has handled in 11)15. more than forty-eight thousand dollars for farmers around 1 )tter Tail.

Leonard Johnson

Among the successful farmers of Compton township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is Leonard Johnson, who owns two hundred and forty acres in this township.

.Mr. Johnson is a native of Sweden, where he was born on June _'. 1 S ^ - His parents were John Anderson and Inga Lisa Magnuson, wdio were also natives of Sweden. Mr. Johnson's paternal grandfather was Andrew Anderson, a native of Sweden and a farmer in the old country. Tie was a member of the Lutheran church.

John Anderson, the father of Leonard Johnson, received military training in his native country, but farmed practically all of his life. For eleven years he was the overseer of a large tract of land. He died on November 29, [899, and his wife in June, [903. They were members of the Lutheran church and the parents of six children, of whom \ndrew is deceased. Two of the children, Leonard, the subject of this sketch, and Gustav. came to America. The other children, John Gustaf, August and Matilda O. live in Sweden.

Leonard Johnson was educated in the public schools of his native land. He came to America shortly after bis marriage on February 18, 1881. Mr. Johnson was accompanied to America by his wife. They landed in New York City on April 24. 1881, and came directly to Otter Tail county, Minnesota. Mr. Johnson purchased eighty acres of land in section 19, of Compton township. After living on the farm for twenty-one years, he has gradually increased its acreage until he now owns two hundred and forty acres. He paid six dollars and seventy-five cents an acre for the original tract of eighty acres, which consisted of wild land. Later he paid two thousand dollars for eighty acres which he purchased from his brother in 1899. He moved to the second farm two years later.

To the marriage of Leonard Johnson and Mary Anderson, there have been born eight children, all of whom are living, Allilda O.. Emma M., Selma J., John I... Gustav A., Hulda E.. Alma W. and Oscar W.

In 1 9 1 3 Mr. Johnson rebuilt his residence and in 1905 built a new barn. Leonard Johnson not only carries on general and mixed farming, but has made a specialty of stock raising, and has been very successful. Mr. and Airs. Johnson and family are members of the Lutheran church in Compton township.

Anders T. Noreen

\nders J. Noreen, the proprietor of one hundred and eighty-five acres of good farming land in Compton township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born on June 11. 1861, in Sweden, and is the son of Jons Jansson and Margaret Anderson, who were also natives of Sweden. Mr. Noreen's grandfather, Jan Anderson, was also a native of Sweden and a farmer by occupation. He owned a small farm in his native land. He and his wife were members of the Lutheran church.

Mi-. Noreen's father, Jons Jansson, was educated in the public schools of his native land and spent all of his life in Sweden. When a young man In- received the customary military training. In hi? native land his name was written Trap]) Jons Jansson. He died in September, 1005. and his wife in November, 1007. They were the parents of four children, of whom two, Nels and Vnders I., came to America. Karin. the second child. L deceased. rin- eldest child, Trapp Jons Jansson, lives in Sweden.

Anders J. Moreen was educated in Sweden and. after finishing his education, came to America. Me landed in New York City on Ma\ 26, 1882. and immediately thereafter proceeded to [owa, where he remained for two month'-. He then came to Otter Tail county, \linne^>i.i. and For two years , upon neighboring farms. \( the end of two years Mr. Noreen was able to purchase sixty-five acres of land in section 2t. of Compton township.

He has added to this original farm until he now has one hundred and eightyfive acres. In 1886 Mr. Xoreen built his first house. His original farm was purchased from the railroad company and most of it has been cleared at the present time. Mr. Noreen has live stock on the farm and has been successful, measured by the standard of the community in which he lives.

In 1886 Anders J. Noreen was married to Anna Johnson, a native of Sweden, and to them have been horn six children, all of whom are living and are unmarried. The names of the children in the order of their births are as follow : Fred William. George Henry, Ruth Emelia, Elsie Josephine, Ellen Augusta and Sophia Magdeline.

Mr. and Mrs. Anders J. Noreen and family are members of the Mission church and are active in church work. Mr. Noreen is chairman of the town board and has served as chairman for six years. He is a prominent citizen of Compton township and a man who wields a tremendous influence in behalf of worthy public enterprises.

Vernon Stedman Bemus

Vernon S. Bemus, a prosperous farmer of Compton township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, who owns a most attractive farm in the community where he lives and whose buildings are all practically new, both the house and barn having been erected in 1914, is a native of Dodge count v, Minnesota, horn on October 22. i860.

Mr. Bemus is the son of William and Elizabeth (Stedman) Bemus, natives of Clay county. New York, and Virginia, respectively. Mr. Bemus's father died in 1901 at the age of eighty-one. The father of William Bemus was a native of England, who, during the later years of his life, immigrated to America and settled in New York state. The Bemus family were farmers by occupation and attended the Methodist church.

The late William 1 Senilis was a carpenter and contractor until i860, when he moved to Dodge county, Minnesota. After working at his trade in Dodge county for one and one-half years, he took a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres in Dodge count}- and lived upon this farm until his death. He attended the Methodist church. His wife died in April, 1008. The\' were the parents of nine children, all of whom are living, George \\'., Cora, Luella May. Vernon S., Frank E., Florence F.., Henry ('., Eva and \lva V

Vernon S. Bemus received a good common-school education in the public schools of Dodge county, Minnesota. After his first marriage, Mr. Remus lived in Dodge county, Minnesota, for nine years, renting land for a time. Finally, he purchased two hundred acres, which he sold when he came to Otter Tail county on March 1. [912. At tin'-; time Mr. Bemus pur- chased two hundred and forty acres, but sold it in the fall of 1914 and purchased one hundred and sixty acres in the farm where lie now lives and eighty acres for his son, Harold. The barn on Mr. Bemus's place, which he erected in 11)14, 's thirty-two by sixty feet. Mr. Bemus is one of the enterprising farmers of this section, and is one of the foremost stock raisers of Otter Tail comity, where he owns and operates "Fair View Stock Farm," situated two miles east of the town of Deer Creek.

Vernon S. Bemus has been twice married. He was first married on December i, [881, to Carrie May Baldwin, who died on February 14, 1890. By this marriage, there was born one son. Percy \Y. Mr. Bemus was married, secondly, on November 18, [892, to Emma Leibold, and to them has been born one child, Harold Earl, who married Mildred Arbuckle and lives in Otter Tail county.

Andy Veden

Andy Veden, who owns two hundred and twenty acres of line farming land, all of which is well improved and which is situated in Compton township, and who is the president of the Deer ("reek Co-operative Shipping Association, which did a business amounting to ninety-six hundred dollars in 1914, is a native of Otter Tail county, born here <>n November 6. 1874.

Mr. Veden is the son of Charles and Caroline (Johnson) Veden, both of whom were born in Sweden, the former in 1833. Charles Veden came to America before his marriage. He located in Chisago count}-. Minnesota, where he owned eight)' acres of land. Some time after the Civil War he sold the farm and moved to Parkers prairie. Otter Tail county, pre-empting oik- hundred and -i\tv acres of land at Horse Head lake. He lived on this farm until !<^7/. when he sold out and came to Compton township. Here he pre-empted one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 4. and here lived until his death, lie served three years in the Civil War, as a private in the Third Regiment. Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. Mr. Veden's father was a member of die Lutheran church and one of the organizers of the church in Compton township. He served as constable of his township for twenty-six years. He died in November, 1913, and his wife in June, 1914. They were the parents of seven children, two of whom. Theresa and Corena, are deceased. The living children are Mtora, John, Andy, Elot and Herbert.

Andy Veden was educated in the public schools of Compton township and has been engaged in fanning all of his life. He has lived on the farm, which he now occupies, for twenty years. In the beginning Mr Veden purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land, most of which was wild prairie.

He now owns two hundred and twenty acres, all of which is in one body. In i<)i.-, -Mr. Veden built a splendid house and in 1907 a large barn.

On June 24, [895, Andy \ eden was married to Charlotte Lngwald, who was born in Sweden and who is the daughter of Swan lngwald. Mr. and Mrs. Veden have seven children, all of whom are at home. Eleonora, Delia. Clarence. Lilly, Charles, Mable, and Donald.

Mr. and Mrs. Andy Veden are members of the Lutheran church and take an active interest in church work. Mr. Veden served fifteen years as constable of Compton township, but is no longer filling this position. He also served as assessor of Compton township for seven years and served seven years as clerk of school district No. 94.

Andrew V Peterson, a prosperous farmer of Eagle Lake town-hip. ()ner Tail county. Minnesota, was born in Sweden, September 6, [860, the son of Andrew and Cagse Peterson, who were also natives of Sweden. Mr. Peterson's father was a farmer in his native land and was engaged in agricultural pursuits until he came to America in 1S67. During the first two and one-half years of his residence in America, he was employed in the copper mines of Michigan. Subsequently, he immigrated to Missouri and, because of ill health, moved from Missouri to Iowa and, at the time of his arrival in Iowa, had only aboul fifty cents. In the spring of 1S74 he came to Eagle Lake township, Otter Tail county, and homesteaded one hundred and si\t\ acres of land, to which he added until he owned two hundred and forty acres before his death. He had a hard struggle to make a success in life, but he did succeed in a large measure and, at his death, left his family well provided with all of the comforts of life. Andrew and Cagse Peterson were the parents of five children, Andrew A.. John. Peter. Magnus and Daniel. The late Andrew Peterson was a member of the Swedish Lutheran church, and was identified with the Republican party.

Andrew \. Peterson was educated in the common schools of Eagle lake township and, until he was twenty-three years old, was employed on his father's farm. In 1 SS ; he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land, where he now lives and. the next year, moved to the farm. Mr. Peterson is engaged in general farming and stock raising. Most of the improvements which are to be seen on the farm today have been put here by Mr. Peterson's own hand. lie iris erected all of the buildings and practically all of the fences and installed most of the drainage.

father. Andrew A. Peterson is identified with the Democratic party, while his father was a Republican. Mr. Peterson has served as chairman of the township board as supervisor and as constable. The Peterson family are members of the Swedish 1 utheran church.

Andrew A. Peterson is one <>\ the most hustling farmers of Otter Tail count) and has ,1 variety of interests aside from his farm. He is a director in the Battle Lake Telephone Company, a director in the Melby State Bank, a director in the .\lelh\ Farmers Elevator and a director in the Melby Live Stock Shipping Association. All of these various interests demand a great deal of his time, lie is a man of engaging personality and extremely popular in the countv where he lives.

Ole O. Aune

Among the self-made citizens of Sverdrup township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and among its successful farmers, is Ole O. Aune, who was born on December 11, 1836, in Norway, the son of Ole O. Aune, Sr., who lived and died in bis native land.

Air. Aune was educated in Norway and immigrated to La Crosse, Wisconsin, in [869. Prior to coming to America, be had been engaged in shipbuilding in bis native land. After coming to this country be worked on the railroad in Huston county. Wisconsin, for a time and then went to Eau ( 'laire. Wisconsin, where he worked in a saw-mill. Later be worked in the pine regions of Wisconsin and. during the summer of 1S70. worked in the mills on the river, fie was taken sick in the fall of 1870 and in February of the following year, returned to work in the mills. Tn May, 1871, Mr. Aune set out for Minnesota. One of his companions purchased an ox team at St. Peter, Minnesota, and met Mr. Aune at Willmar, Minnesota, from which place the two made the trip to Fort Abercrombie, North Dakota. They moved to a place called Georgetown and then turned east and followed the Buffalo river in where the city of I law ley now stands. Here they built a In-' cabin, shortly after June. 1 S~ 1 . \ iter remaining at this place until the spring of [872 the) came to Fergus Falls, which at that time was ;i small \ illage.

Shortly afterward, Mr. Aune located on a farm of one hundred and forty-four acres, where he now lives. During the next few years, he was busil) engaged in clearing the land and in making miscellaneous improvements. Tie is a general farmer and stockman ami, in addition to bis farming interests, own- stork in the elevator and in a store and creamery at I biderwood.

have been the parents of two sons, Ole O., Jr., who was born on May 26, 1890, and who was educated in the schools of Otter Tail county, is a farmer and lives at home with his parents, and John O., born on November 30, 1893, was also educated in the public schools and lives at home on the farm. Mr. and Mrs. Ole O. Aune, Sr., are Lutherans. Mr. Anne is a Republican in politics, but in late years has not been especially interested in politics and has taken no part in it. He is a good farmer and has been successful as a result of his own personal effort.

Tohn T. Wold

John J. Wold., a well-to-do fanner and business man of Sverdrup township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Norway, January 28, 1854. Mr. Wold is a son of Jens and Johanna (Swenson) Wold, both of whom were natives of Norway. Mr. Wold's father was born in 1820, and his mother in the same year. They were married in Norway, and in 1868 they emigrated to America, locating first in Goodhue county, Minnesota. In 1872 they made the journey by ox team from Goodhue to Otter Tail county. Here they homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land, where their son. John J., now lives. They cleared and improved this farm and made it their home the rest of their lives. Mr. Wold's father died in 1891, and his mother in 1903. They were earnest and devoted members of the Lutheran church, and were active in religious matters in this township in the early days. Of the six children horn to Jens Wold and wife, Edward, the eldest, is deceased. The other children in the order of their birth are as follow: Sophia, John J.. Elizabeth. Ole and Theodore, all of whom are living.

John J. Wold received his education in the public schools of Norway, and also attended the schools in Goodhue county, Minnesota, after coming to this country. When Mr. Wold was eighteen years of age, he came to Sverdrup township. Otter Tail county, with his parents, and has lived continuously upon the farm where he now resides since coming to the county. After his father's death, in 1891, John J. Wold purchased the old homestead farm, and built thereon a fine residence. He has also made many other substantial improvements on the farm and now has one <<i the most desirable tracts of land in this pari of Otter Tail county. He is a general farmer and stockman.

On November 30, 180-'. John I. Wold was married to Karen Thronson, who was born in Norway, November 15, 1864, and whose parent- never left their native land. To this union have been horn three children ; Edwin, born on August 35, 1893, was educated in the public schools and lives at home with his parents; Clara Gelcna. horn on February o. [897, wa student in the public schools of her home- township, and is living at home; stockholder in the Underwood Co-operative Creamery Company, and in the co-operative mercantile store at Underwood, as well as the Farmers Elevator and Shipping Association, at Underwood.

Politically, Mr. Wold is identified with the Prohibition party. He lias served as supervisor of Sverdrup township, and as treasurer of the school hoard for seventeen years. Air. and Airs. John J. Wold and family are all very active members of the Lutheran church in this township. They are substantial and successful farmers, and well-known and valued citizens.

David

Portage county, Wisconsin. Later the) moved t<> Waupaca county and purchased a farm of eight) acres, to which they added fort)- acres. Mr. Rowe's father died in Waupaca count)- in [892 and his wife in [898. They were the parents of three children. David I... \ndrew L. and Olena. Mr. Lowe's mother had been previously married and by this first marriage, had three children, \~els, Susan and Kisti. The Rowes left Bergen. Norway, on May T7. 1852. and were ten weeks on the voyage from Norway to America.

David L. Rowe was four years old when the family arrived in Wisconsin He was educated in the public schools of that state and, when twenty-five years old. in 1873. moved to Mower count)-. Minnesota, where In- acquired a farm and where he lived until IQ03, when he moved to South Dakota. After living in South Dakota for eight years. Mr. Rowe immigrated to Otter Tail county and purchased a farm of two hundred and forty acres in sections o and 01, Everts township, lie is a general farmer and stock man and a breeder of llolstein cattle.

In 1877 Mr. Rowe was married in Mower count)-. Minnesota, to Kisti Monson, who was horn mi January 13. 1851. in Norway, and who is the daughter of Mons < ). ami Kari (Tomjum) Monson. Mrs. Lowe's parents came to Wisconsin in 1801, hut the same year immigrated to Union count). South Dakota. From Union county, the family traveled overland by ox tram to |,,wa. Later thev settled in Mower countv. Minnesota, purchasing one hundred and twenty acres of land, where Mrs. Rowe's father died. Her brother later sold the farm and moved to Union county, South Dakota, and now owns die farm which his father had owned in that county. Airs. Rowe's mother died in Smith Dakota in 1906.

Mr. and Mrs. David L. Rowe have been the parents of eight children. Lars, who is deceased; Clara, who is the wife of Leif Swennumson and has three children, Francis, David and Robert; Matthew, who was burn on September 29, 1881, in Mitchell county. Iowa, where his parents lived for three years, was educated in the public schools and is now a farmer, living at home with his parents; Lawrence, born on April 14, 1883, in Mitchell county, Iowa, was also educated in the public schools and the Leroy high school and immigrated t<> Hettinger count}'. North. Dakota, where he took up a claim and farmed for two years, now being clerk of Everts township, to which office he was elected in 1013; Olene, who is the wife of Raymond Hendrix, of Elk Point, South Dakota, has two children, Margaret and Raiman Rowe; Norman, who lives at Devon, Montana, has a claim of one hundred and sixty acres in that state and is unmarried; Carl Edward, who died at the age of three vears, and Esther, who lives at home.

Dll Berg

( He Berg, a very successful farmer, who owns two hundred acres of land in Compton township, besides one hundred and sixty acres in Canada, is a native of Sweden, his birth having occurred in that country on June 0. [856.

Mr. Berg's parents were Ole Olson and Margaret Anderson, both natives of Sweden. His grandfather was Ole Anderson, a farmer by occupation and a prominent member of the Lutheran church in his native country. In 1887 Ole Olson came to America, and after landing at Halifax, came direct to Otter Tail county. Minnesota. Here he purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land in sections 23 and 28. of Compton township, and took up farming. He is now living with bis son, Ole Berg, at the advanced age of eighty-nine war-. His wife died some years ago. He is a devout member of the Lutheran church, and in politics is a Republican.

Ole P>er>;\ the only child of his parents who grew to maturity, was educated in the schools of Compton township, and when old enough took up farming on hi- father's place, ami in this vocation has been verj successful, and besides having a splendid farm, it is improved to I he minutest detail whom are unmarried and who live at home with their parents. Mr. Berg and family are earnest and faithful members of the Lutheran church, and for many years have been active in church work. For the past five years Air. Berg has been treasurer of the local congregation. Aside from his interests in his church, Mr. Berg's whole interests are centered in his family and in hi- farm. He has a host of friends in this neighborhood.

Charley Eklund

Charley Eklund, another well known and enterprising farmer of Nidaros township. Otter Tail count}', Minnesota, is a native of Sweden, where he was born on July 7. 1864.

Mr. Eklund is the son of Ole and Hannah (Johnson) Eklund, both of whom were born in Sweden. Mr. Eklund' s father was born on January 22, 1836, and his mother on July [9,-1834. They were married in Sweden and, after some years, Mr. Eklund' s father came to America, settling at Litchfield in iS6;>. The family came to America the next year and settled with the father at Litchfield. In the fall of 1870, the family moved to Clitherall township, Otter Tail county, settling on a homestead farm in section 32. This farm had been pre-empted in [868. Mr. Eklund's father improved the land and erected excellent buildings. He died on the farm on March 1 1. 1910, and his widow is still living on the old homestead. He was one of the first members of the Swedish Lutheran church, known as the Eagle Lake church. By his marriage to Hannah Jsakson, there were born seven children, erne df whom, Elizabeth, is deceased. The living children are, John. Charley, the subject of this sketch. Inga, Sophia, Helnia and Otto. The last named lives on the old homestead.

Charley Eklund was five years old when he accompanied his mother and the remainder of the family to America. He lived with his parents and attended the public schools for a number of years, after which he took up farming. From his father, who had purchased four hundred acres of railroad land in Nidaros township, .Mr. Eklund obtained one hundred and sixty acres in section [9, and has since added to that original farm until he now owns two hundred and forty acres. He .also owns forty acres in section 20. Mr. Eklund has forty-five acres in Clitherall township. In 1885 he moved l<i the farm located in section [9, where he now lives. He has a splendid home situated in a pretty grove and all of the buildings on this farm are thoroughly modern. Mr. Eklund is a general farmer and stockman. When tin- family moved to * >tter Tail county from Benson, Minnesota, the trip was made with an OX team and immediately upon their arrival, a sod house was built. for some time the family lived in this house, which had only a clay floor.

On September 6, 1885, Charley Eklund was married to Emma Johnson, who was born in Sweden, September 6, 1865, and who is the daughter of Carl Peter and Christine (Johnson) Johnson. Mrs. Eklund's parents were both born in Sweden, her father on July 27, 1839, and her mother on August _'4, 1844. They came to Meeker county, Minnesota, in 1870, and the next year moved to Otter Tail county, making" the journey with an ox team. They took a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres in Leaf Mountain township and here Mrs. Eklund's father died on February 3, 1890. Her mother is still living. They were the parents of fourteen children, Emma Xatolia, Hilda Ulrike, deceased; Elof William, Janni Amanda, Henrick Wicter, Hilma Ullrika, Ida Theresa, deceased; Anton Frittjof, Addvingd Wilton, Alma Victoria, Elena Alvia, Clifford Livingston, Hatfield and Cora Saraphena.

Mr. and Mrs. Charley Eklund have seven children, Alma Liventina; Florence Georginia, the wife of William Denoon, has one child, Kenneth Eklund Denoon; Edith Hafire; Lydia Elizabeth; Willie Luther Natanael; Mardel Adina, and Judith Eleanora.

Mr. and Mrs. Eklund and family belong to the Eagle Lake Swedish Lutheran church. Air. Eklund has served as a member of the school board in Nidaros township and has been otherwise prominent in local affairs. He has a host of friends in the township where he lives.

Erick E. Boen

One of the elder citizens and one of the highly respected farmers of Aurdal township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is Erick E. Boen, who was born on October 13, 1853, in Norway.

Mr. Boen is the son of Erick T. and fngeborg ( Bjorgo) Boen. who were natives of Norway and who, after coming to America, homesteaded eight}' acres of land in section 27, of Aurdal township. Mr. Boen's fatherdied in 1896 and his mother three years previously in 1893. They had a family of nine children, three of the suns are living and three of the daughters.

Erick E. Boen was educated in Norway. Upon his arrival in America in 1868, he settled in Moore county, Minnesota, but on October 13, 1871. came to Fergus Falls, Minnesota, and, for a year, was engaged in trapping and shooting. Mr. Boen did not enjoy the assistance of wealthy relatives or influential friends, but has made his own way in the world. Tn [873 he bought one hundred and sixty acres of internal improvement land in this county and it is upon this farm that Mr. Boen now lives. He has cleared the land and erected very fine buildings upon it.

Halverson, both of whom were natives of Norway. Mrs. Boen's parents came to America in the early fifties. In 1871 they homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land. Mrs. Boen's father died at the age of seventythree years, but her mother lived to be ninety-four and one-half years old.

Mr. and Mrs. Erick E. Boen have been the parents of eight children, as follow: Edith, the wife of Sigval Johnson: Clara; Ida, the wife of John Helden; Anne, who died in infancy; one who died unnamed; Edmund, who lives at home with his parents; Gustav, who married Ida Onstad, of Sverdrup township, and Mabel, who lives at home.

Mr. and Mrs. Boen and family are members of the Lutheran church. Mr. Boen has held practically all of the township offices except that of justice of the peace and township clerk.

The scion of a distinguished Norwegian family, Dr. Jorgen G. \ igen, 1- a well-known and successful physician of long standing at Fergus Falls, this county. Fie was horn on September jo, 1864, at Selbu, Trondhjem, Norway, a picturesque town situated on Lake Selbu, which is twenty miles in length and seven and one-half miles long. There is a small island in the lake composed mostly of towering rocks and an old fort, where King Sverre and his followers were wont to defend themselves one thousand years ago from his enemies. It was within a stone's throw of this historic old battlement that Doctor Vigen was born. I lis parents. (, under and Sigrid (Gulseth) Vigen, were natives of Norway, both members of old and prominent families there. Doctor Vigen's grandmother's brother, Mr. Norby, was a distinguished citizen of Norway many years ago. lie was a member of the Storthing, which is the highest legislative body in the country.

In [869 Jorgen ( i. Vigen, being then four years of age, came with his parents to America, the journey being made via Quebec. The family settled at VVanamingo, in Goodhue county, this state, where the father purchased forty acres of land and engaged in farming until [883, in which year he moved to New Solum, in Marshall count)-, and there be homesteaded one hundred and si\t\ acres and lived until his wife ami daughter died, after which he rented the home farm and retired from the active life of the farm.

Educated in the Red Wing Seminary at Red Wing. Minnesota, Jorgen (i. Vigen later attended the high school at St. Paul and was graduated with the class of 1891. Subsequently, be took a medical course of three years al the Universit) of Minnesota and was graduated in [894. After serving as an interne for one year in the city hospital in St. Paul, he went to Dawson, Lac qui Parle count}-, this state, and there began the practice of medicine. The field, however, was too small and the chances for advancement were too uncertain and in July, 1896, Doctor Vigen located at Fergus Falls, this county, where he is still engaged in the active practice of his profession and where he has built up a lucrative business. One of the honors which the people of Otter Tail county have bestowed upon Doctor Vigen is that of coroner of the county, in which office he is serving his third term. He also was city physician and health officer for several years.

By his marriage to Martha Bartelson. the daughter of Gunder and Bertha Bartelson, Doctor Vigen has two children, Harold D. and James H. both of whom live at home with their parents.

Dr. Vigen is a member of the Park Region Medical Society, the Minnesota State Medical Association and the American Medical Association. Doctor Vigen not only was well trained for his profession, but he has ever since his college days been a deep and thoughtful student of the latest developments in medicine and surgery, among his post-graduate studies having been a course of five months in the great medical school at Berlin, where he studied diseases of the stomach and intestines, and this, in a large measure, accounts for his splendid success. He is also a man of pleasing and agreeable personality and is popular not only as a physician, but as a man among his fellow townsmen.

Andrew Tweten

Andrew Tweten, a successful farmer and stock man of Everts township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Dane county, Wisconsin, September 12, i860. Mr. Tweten is a son of Ole and Karen Tweten, both of whom were natives of Norway, the former born in 1812. Mr. Tweten's father came to America and settled in Dane county, Wisconsin, in 1839 The voyage occupied eighteen weeks from Norway to America, coming over in one of the old-fashioned sailing vessels. He was married in Dane county, Wisconsin, and there his wife died in 1870, at the age of about forty years, leaving seven children. Julia, Ole, Kare, deceased; Engbret, Andrew, Erick and Johannes. In 1874 the family moved to Everts township, Otter Tail county, and purchased a farm of one hundred and eighty-three aero, and here Mr. Tweten's father died on January 7, 1900.

Andrew Tweten was reared on his father's old homestead farm in Dane county, Wisconsin, and on the farm in Otter Tail county. He remained with his father on the old home farm until his marriage in 1887. and now owns the old farm.

In 1SS7 Mr. Tweten was married to Sena Ledel, who was born in 1869 in Dane county. Wisconsin, and who is a daughter of John and Mary Ledel, both of whom were natives of Norway and early settlers in Dane county. ,20b")

Wisconsin. Subsequently, however, they emigrated to Everts township, Otter Tail county, where Mrs. Tweten's father died in 1915, at the age of seventy-eight years. Airs. Tweten's mother died in Everts township several years ago.

Andrew Tweten and wife are the parents of eight children as follow: Ando, who lives at home; Olger J., Thorfin, Warner. Cora. Geneva, Lillian and Irene.

Mr. Tweten and his family are all earnest and faithful members of the Lutheran church. Mr. Tweten has never been active in politics, but has devoted his energies and his time rather to his chosen vocation, in which he has been very successful.

Benjamin F. Young

Prominent as a farmer and dairyman in Henning, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was Benjamin F. Young, a well-known citizen of the township and a native of Sibley county, Minnesota, where he was born on December 10, 1S57. Mr. Young was the son of Benjamin L., Sr., and Polly 1 Snyder) Young.

Mr. Young's parents were both natives of Pennsylvania, his father being born on August -'4. 1830. His parents came to Sibley county. Minnesota, in 1855, and a little while thereafter pre-empted one hundred and sixty .acres of land. There Mr. Young's father now resides. His wife died on \]iril 3, 1015. at the age of eighty-four years. They were the parents of eight children, of whom four, John Quincy, the eldest, Ella, Benjamin F. and Emma, are deceased. The other children are Harry, Charles, Anna and William.

Benjamin !-'. Young was reared in Sibley county. Minnesota, except four years which he spent in Pennsylvania, where his parents lived before they moved to Minnesota. He was educated in the public schools of this state and was always engaged in farming. On May 28, r88o, Mr. Young came to Henning township and took a homestead of one hundred and twenty acres of land in section 6 He subsequently added forty acre-- to the farm and in all owned one hundred and sixty acres. Mr. Young made a specialty of keeping dairy cattle and had about twenty head of cows. He was also a general farmer and stockman.

On January 17. [882, Benjamin F. Young was married to Mary E. Bi He-, who was born in the state of Wisconsin on May ,^. 1863, and who is the daughter of William and Martha Bones. They came from Wisconsin to Sibley county, Minnesota, and both died in this county. Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin F. Young were the parents of six children, of whom one.

Mr. Young had a well-improved and fertile farm. He erected all of the buildings which' now stand on the farm and they are kept well painted and in first-class state of repair. He was a progressive citizen who believed in enjoying all of the comforts which are available to people who live in the country.

Benjamin F. Young was clerk of the local school board. Although he never took an active part in politics and never aspired to political office, he was a man of wide influence in the community where he lived, and especially in matters pertaining to agriculture. He enjoyed the confidence of a host of friends in his home neighborhood. Benjamin F. Young died suddenly of apoplexy, on August 12, 1915.

Lars Olson

bar- Olson, a prosperous farmer of Henning township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Olmstead county, Minnesota, June 1, 1858. He is a son of Ole and Kari Olson, both of whom were natives of Norway, the former of whom was born on November 16, 1816, and the latter born August 14, 1S21. Mr. Olson's parents came to the United States from Norway in 1847, locating first in Wisconsin. Later they moved to Iowa, and in 1855 came to Olmstead county, Minnesota, where they homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land. On this land more than three hundred Indians were at one time encamped. They gradually added to this original tract until at one time the family had more than two hundred acres of land, ami it was on this farm that Mr. Olson's father died on September 20, 1899. His mother had passed away more than a quarter of a centurv previously. August 3. 1872. Ole Olson and wife were the parents of seven children, of whom only three, Thomas, Olaus and Lars, are living. The deceased children are Ingeborg, Halvor, Helge and Helena.

Lars Olson received his education principally in the schools of Olmstead county, Minnesota, and for a time was a student in the Benson high school, and also spent one term at St. Olaf's College, Northfield, Minnesota. He was reared to the life of a farmer, and in 1884 came to Otter Tail county, purchasing fort) acres of land in section 17, of Henning township. At this tini'- he also owned an eighty-acre farm in section [9 of the same township, lie disposed of this land, however, and purchased one hundred and sixty acres in Folden township, hut for the past seven years has lived in Henning township on a farm which is situated in section 17.

Grovdal. Mrs. Olson's parents came to Dodge county, Minnesota, in 1876, and here her father died in 1895, while her mother died in Otter Tail county three years later in 1898.

Mr. and Mrs. Lars Olson are the parents of seven children, of whom one, Lawrence, is deceased. The living children are Oscar, Carl, Emma, Harris. Edwin and Lillian.

Mr. Olson and family are earnest members of the United Lutheran church, in which they take an active interest. Mr. Olson has served his township as assessor for seven years, holding that important office at the present time.

Orrin H. Vargason

Orrin H. Vargason, who is a native of Iowa, but who owns a splendid farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Inman township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born on June 19, 1883.

Mr. Vargason is the son of Charles H. and Orena ( Curtis) Vargason, both of whom are natives of Iowa. Charles H. Vargason was born in Buchanan county, Iowa. May 28, 1859, and his wife, who before her marriage, was Orena Curtis, was born in Buchanan count}-, Iowa, March 3. 1865. They were married on June 17, 1882.

Charles H. Vargason was the son of Charles Vargason, a native of Towanda, Bradford county, Pennsylvania, ami the latter was born on May 27, 1836. He was married to Cordelia Merrill, a native of Xew Vork state, who was born on June 14, 1838. She was a daughter of R. G. Merrill, who was a soldier in the Civil War, a member of the Third Iowa Cavalry and who owned a farm of eight}- acres in Buchanan county. Iowa. R. G. Merrill, after serving about one year in the army, returned to his home, was taken ill and died shortly afterwards. Charles Vargason was the son of Hiram Vargason, a native of Towanda. Pennsylvania. Hiram Vargason was the son of Henry Vargason, a native of Wales, who. after coming to America, settled in Pennsylvania and later moved to Iowa. Hiram Vargason was a farmer by occupation and an active anti-slavery advocate. He married Elizabeth Dalton, and, after his marriage, farmed in Pennsylvania for a time Later he moved to Michigan and, after a few years' residence in that stale, moved to Wisconsin. Still later he moved to towa and settled in Buchanan county, where be owned one hundred and twenty acres of land. Charles Vargason, the father of Charles 11. and the grandfather of Orrin II.. was educated in the common schools and was a farmer all of his life lie died <'ii November _'. [859, when his son, Charles II.. was only five months old. lie was a member of the Methodisl Episcopal church. \i\w his death, hi- w 1 t'e remained in the Hawkeye state, (diaries H. Var- gason was educated in the common schools and, from his earliest years, was a young man of very studious habits. He spent a great many of his nights in patient and unremitting study. After his marriage in 1882 to Orena Curtis, he located on a farm in Buchanan county, Iowa, but sold out and moved to Otter Tail county, purchasing land in section 10, where J. A. Allen later lived. After three years, however, he sold the farm and exchanged for a farm of one hundred and twenty acres, which he now owns. Mr. Vargason has erected all of the buildings on the farm, but in 1913 a fire destroyed his house and barn, which have since been replaced. Charles H. and Orena (Curtis) Vargason have been the parents of five children, Orrin H., Clara, Floyd, Florence, who died at the age of eighteen, and Eva. The Vaigasons are members of the Baptist church. Mr. Vargason is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and the oldest member in his camp. He served on the school board for thirteen years and, until last year, was overseer for a period of fourteen years. Mr. Vargason is a Republican in politics. During the early years of the local creamery company, he was president of the organization.

Reared on a farm in the state of Iowa. Orrin H. Vargason was educated in the public schools. In 1899 he moved to Otter Tail county, and located in Tnman township, where he began renting land. In 191 1 he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 14, and has followed general farming and stock raising.

In 1909 Mr. Vargason was married to Belle Fletcher, who was born in Nidaros township. Otter Tail county, and who is the daughter of James A. and Rose ( Murdock ) Fletcher. James A. Fletcher was born at Old Clitherall on February 17. 1866, and is the son of Edmond ami Sarah (Muir) Fletcher, the former of whom was probably born in Pennsylvania, but moved to Indiana, when only six years old. He also lived in Illinois and Iowa. but on May 6, 1865, came to Otter Tail county with a colony. Edmond Fletcher settled at Oldtown and worked at the blacksmith's trade for a time. Later, he engaged in farming with his two sons. Emery and James. They put chased three hundred and twenty acres of land in Nidaros township and Girard township. Here Edmond Fletcher lived until his death on July 26, 1906. His wife, a native of Michigan, had come with her sister, Mary, to Otter Tail county. Site was horn in [842 and is still living. They were the parents of four children, Louisa, who married Harry McLoughlin and live- at ('arson Lake. Minnesota: James A.; Emery, who is a farmer 01" Girard township, and Elsie, who married Frank Whiting, of Shelbrook, Canada.

James A. Fletcher was educated in the public schools at Oldtown. In [890 Mr. Fletcher, in partnership with his brother, purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in Nidaros township and has since been engaged in general farming and stock raising. He and his wife are members of the church of Jesus Christ and Mr. Fletcher is a trustee in the church. Airs. Fletcher is the daughter of Hiram Murdock. Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher have three children, Belle, who is the wife of Mr. Vargason; Clyde, who was educated in the Clitherall high school and who is a farmer and lives at home, and Lee, who also lives at home.

Mr. A'argason is a stockholder in the Deer Creek Shipping Association and also in the Farmers Potato Warehouse, of Deer Creek, Minnesota. He is a well known farmer and substantial citizen.

Carl Gustav Wemstrom

Carl Gustav Wemstrom, a well-known farmer of Everts township. Otter Tail county, Minnesota, was born in Sweden, August 2, 1858, ami is the son of Xels and Hellena Gustina (Lundbeck) Wemstrom, both of whom were born in Sweden and who lived and died in their native land.

Carl Gustav Wemstrom was reared in Sweden and educated in that country. In 1801 Air. Wemstrom came to Chicago. Illinois, shortly after his marriage in Sweden. In 1893 his wife and family also came to Chicago. Mr. Wemstrom moved thereafter to a farm in Will county, forty miles southwest 'if Chicago and. fur the next seventeen years, rented land. In 1910 Air. Wemstrom came to Otter Tail county and purchased a farm of two hundred and twenty-five acres, where he lived until a short time ago, whin he sold the farm, lie paid forty-two dollars an acre for the farm ami suld it for seventy-five dollars an acre.

On December 22, 1S7S. Carl G. Wemstrom was married in Sweden to Matilda Monson, who was born in Sweden on February 3, 1857. Airs. Wemstrom's parents spent their entire lives in their native country. Fight children base been horn to Air. and Airs. Wemstrom as follow: Xels, in iN;w: Kare < hestin, in [884; Manges, in 1886; John, in [889; Marie, in [894; Ida, in r8g6; Carl, in 1898, and Clara Floreda, in 1901. Of these children, Nels, who is a farmer in Illinois, married Rosa Wemstrom and has seven children, John, Andrew, Carl. John, Joseph, Marjorie Rose and Rose Marie, the two latter being twins. Rare Chestin is the wife of Xels Xelsen, of Illinois, and has two children, Hilda and William Xels. Marie is the wife of Edwin Andersen and lives 'Hi a farm southwest of Fergus halls. I he remainder of the children are at home.

Toiix Persons

John Persons, of Oak Valley township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is an enterprising and up-to-date farmer, who lias made a splendid success of agriculture.

Mr. Persons was bom not far from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. March 12, 1851. lie is the son of William and Marsha (Bagley) Persons, natives of Xew York state and Vermont, respectively. Mr. Persons' paternal grandparents were Brainard and Lucretia ( Burrows) Persons, who were early settlers in X'ew York state and who later came to Wisconsin. Brainard Persons died in the state of Wisconsin, hut his wife died in Xew York state. The maternal grandparents of Mr. Persons were George and Sarah Bagley. bcth of whom died in the state of Vermont.

Mr. Persons' parents, William and Marsha (Bagley) Persons, were married in New York state, hut shortly after their marriage, immigrated to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Later, they moved to Rock county, Wisconsin, and still later to Green count). There William Persons died in 1859. His wife survived him more than a half century, passing away in 1910 in Green county. Wisconsin. To them were born live children. William, Byron, John, Oscar and Myron, the latter being deceased. Mr. Persons' mother was married afterward to David Heathman and to them was horn one child. Henry.

John Persons was reared on a farm in Green county. Wisconsin, and educated in the public schools of that state. In 1880 Mr. Persons immigrated to Iowa and purchased a farm in Pocahontas county, comprising two hundred and forty acres. He resided in Iowa until 1898, when lie moved to Otter Tail count}", purchasing eighty acres of land in section jq, of < >ak Valley township. Since that time, Mr. Persons has added one hundred and sixty acres and now has eight) acres of the farm cleared and well improved. While a resident of Iowa. Mr. Persons was a member of the school hoard.

On Jul}- jo. [872, John Person- was married in Green county, Wisconsin, to Jane Meredith, who was horn on May -'3. 1 N 5 5 . in Wales, the daughter of Edward J. and Mary (Evans) Meredith. They were both natives of Wale- anil in [866 came to Green count)-. Wisconsin. Mrs. Persons' father was a shoemaker by trade, hut he owned several farms in Green count). Wisconsin, which he subsequently sold. Finally, he and his wife moved to Chicago, where the latter died on February 21, 1906, at the age of seventy-four. \fter her death, he moved to Lansing. Michigan, where he lived with his daughter. Mollie Mch'adden, until his death in 1011 at the age of seventy-seven. Mrs. Person- is one of eight children horn to her parents, -lie being the second child Two of the children, Man Ann, the

Mr. and Mrs. John Persons have six children, Mary, Lillian, Myron, Anna, Edwin and John. Mary, born on June 23, 1874, is the wife of Frank Chase, of Todd county, Minnesota, and has eleven children. Pearl, Paul, Frank, Man-, Clara, Lloyd, Eunice, Melvin. Alpha, Irene and Fred. Lillian, born on November 19, 1877, was the wife of Adrian Chase and had two children, Lottie and Esther. She died on April 6, 1912. Myron, born on May 11, 1881, married Carrie Townley and has four children, Ruth, Ivis, Dorman and Lillian. Anna, September 6, 1886, is the wife of Roy Martin and to them have been born five children, Eva, deceased: Hazel, Cecil, Vera .and Edwin. Edwin, March 1, 1890, is unmarried. John, December 5, 1895, lives at home with his parents. The Persons family is highly respected by all of the people of Oak Valley township. Mr. and Mrs. Persons have reared an industrious and hard-working family and well deserve the respect and confidence of their neighbors.

Oscar Nordmarken

The name Trondhjem, given to the township in which Oscar Nprdmarken resides, suggests the fact that the community was first settled by Norwegians, but there is nothing in the name to signify what feats of bravery were accomplished by those pioneers who met the clangers of both land and ocean in order that they might enjoy an independent life in a country where liberty and success go band in band. The story of the achievements of these men must be left to the biographer, who can do little more than outline the rugged course pursued bv these men of Norwegian birth in the county in which they now reside.

Oscar Nordmarken was born on the 20th of November, 1873. in Trondhjem township on the farm where he still resides. He is the son of Gilbert Nordmarken and Martha Haaogth, among the oldest settlers of that part of Minnesota in which their son now resides. No more tragic example of the pioneer days in that section of the country can be related than that of the struggles "i Ole and Thora Haaogth, the parents of Martha Haaogth, who, after arriving in America, came to [Minnesota for residence. The journey across the Atlantic in those days covered a period of sixteen weeks, during which perilous encounters were met and thrilling dangers passed. After remaining only a short lime in Fillmore county. Minnesota, where the) iirst settled upon their arrival in this country, (lie and Thora Haaogth, made a journe) to Otter Tail county, during one of the most severe winters ever known in that locality. During a heavy snow storm which came up during the course ol the trip, 1 >le Haaogth was frozen and died shortly after- ward, leaving his wife to meet the hardships of an unpopulated farm region, alone and unknown. She proved to be a woman of remarkable strength of character, however, and reared her family to respect the highest princi] le right living. Her death was the culmination of a life of usefulness and unremitting toil. She died in Norwegian Giove ! ', here she had

The parents of Oscar Nordmarken were born in Hadeland. Norway, his father*s birth having occurred on the 29th of October, 1845, ancl n>s mother's on the 28th of March, 1842. Martha Haaogth came to America with her parents, in 1866, and lived with them in Fillmore county, Minnesota, where she met Gilbert O. Nordmarken, the man who later became her husband, and who had come to this country also in the year 1866, on the same ship. Gilbert Nordmarken rented a farm in Fillmore county during the first five years of his residence in America. His second move was to Otter Tail county, where he went by a team of oxen, in a covered wagon. In this locality he homesteaded two hundred acres of land in section 20, which was located in Trondhjem township. The character of the farm was wild with prairie vegetation and the first piece of labor was that of putting up a log cabin which was a task of strength and ability. As success came to Mr. Nordmarken, he began to buy by degrees, pieces of land in other communities. One of the sections of land owned by him was located in North Dakota, near Mooreton and Granville.

To Air. Nordmarken belongs the honor of having been a pioneer in the truest sense of the word. The hardships encountered by him in the early da\> of agricultural development can scarcely be comprehended by the modern generation of nun who arc living in an age of comfort. The remarkable fact evident in the lives of these soldiers of the wilderness is that, notwithstanding their humble beginnings in the field of labor which they chose, they were able to reach a high place in the field of industry and were often looked upon later in lite as nun of wealth and prosperity.

Probably no greater example of success through difficulties can he given than that of the life of Gilbert Nordmarken. One of the first disappointments of his life occurred when the house he had labored to build was totally destroyed by a storm. For three consecutive years his crops were ruined by swarms of grasshoppers. Once during these years of hopeless striving, he succeeded in saving pari of the crop, which he carried main miles to a market. At the time of the sale it was discovered that the -rain was so full of grasshopper wings as to render it of no value. In relating the incident in later years, Mr. Nordmarken often referred to it as the greatest disappointment of his life. But he was not a man to be conquered h\ despair. lie looked about him at the resources of the community and turned loss into gain. For the greater part of that winter he kept his family by killing game. The following years of his life were filled with success happiness. In [897 he retired to Fergus Falls, where he and his wife nii! they passed away. He often returned for short visits to the farm he had made and looked upon its prosperity with satisfaction.

Gilben Nordmarken was one of the first chairmen of the board of supervisors and had a prominent part in the laying out of the roads in the township where he lived. He and his wife were enthusiastic members of the Lutheran church, where fur twenty years Mr. Xordmarken served as minister. A strange coincidence brought the death of Air. and Airs. Gilhert Xordmarken in the same year, she having passed away on the 4th of October. IQ14, and he on the 13th of the following month. Of the children born to this couple the following facts are given: Tena. who married A. J. Moen at Battle Lake, died in 1912; Mollie died in infancy; Oscar is the subject id this sketch: Oliver resides in Minot, North Dakota; Alfred, a twin brother to Oliver, is living at Minneapolis; Minna, who married X. G. Lelovold, is living in Granville, North Dakota; Mollie married A. S. Larry and resides in Wolf Point. Montana.

Oscar Nordmarken received his early education in the schools of Trondhjem township and later at the high school in Fergus Falls. While he was fully appreciative of the educational advantages received, he owed the greatest influence on his character to the early discipline of the farm on which he was reared. For some year-, after he finished the high school course. Mr. Xordmarken rented the home place and farmed until 1902, when he went to Xorth Dakota for the purpose of homesteading one hundred and sixtv acres of land in Ward county. He remained on the claim for two years and at the expiration of that time returned to the homestead of his father, which he rented until 11)05. 'n that year his ventures in the field of agriculture had proven so profitable that he was able to purchase the home place, which covered two hundred and forty acres of land. He has improved the farm since the time of the purchase and has turned hi" attention to general farming. Mr. Nordmarken is a man of broad mind and wide interests; his chosen line oi work' has in no way made him narrow, for he has reached out into other fields For -even years he acted as manager of the Rothsay Telephone Company and was also director in the farmer-. Elevator Company, at Rothsay, which he helped to organize. In 1893 he helped organize the Trondhjem Co-operative Creamery Company, and after its organization acted as director of the concern for a number of years.

strengthened the faith of the public at large in his ability and competence. On the nth of January, 1899, Oscar Nordmarken was united in marriage to Annie Freng, a native of Pelican Rapids, and the daughter of Christian and Helga Freng, natives of Norway, and numbered among the oldest settlers in the Norwegian colony of Minnesota. Since the death of his wife. Christian Freng has made his home with his four sons in Canada. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Nordmarken are Gordon, Harry and Alide, all of whom are living in Trondhjem township.

Albert C. Carpenter

Albert C. Carpenter, of Dead Lake township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota, is an agriculturist of ability and honesty, and is much respected in his locality. He first saw the light of day on May 3, i860, in Freeborn county, Minnesota, and is the son of Willard L. and Prudah M. (Bullock) Carpenter, both natives of Jefferson county. New York, near Ellisburg.

The paternal grandparents of Albert C. Carpenter were George and Kaziah (Macumber) Carpenter, who were natives of Vermont, but removed in 1830 to Jefferson county, New York, where they settled on a farm in the southern part of the county and remained there until 1844. At that time they removed to Kenosha county, Wisconsin, where they purchased land and engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1 8 5 5 , when they changed locations to Freeborn county, Minnesota. George Carpenter purchased land and cultivated the same until his death, in 1879. lie served his country in the War of 1812. Kaziah (Macumber) Carpenter passed away in 1865. They were the parents of five children and were both members of the Baptist church. The names of the children follow: Rebecca. Phoebe. Willar.d L., Yzubah and Washington G. Rebecca became the wife of Samuel Reynolds and they lived in Wisconsin, where her death occurred: Phoebe married Stephen Barber, and they also lived in Wisconsin, wliere she died: Azubah was united in marriage to Lemuel E. Bullock, a native of Jefferson county, New York, and her death occurred in Becker county, Minnesota: Washington G. is a veteran of the ('nil War. having served in the Ninetieth Regiment, Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and a former resident of Otter Tail county, .Minnesota, but now living in Eland, Wisconsin, where he is retired.

The maternal grandparents of Albert C. Carpenter were \sa and Sarah (Blanchard) Bullock, both natives of Vermont and early settlers in Jefferson count)-. New York, where they were neighbors of George and Kaziah (Macumber) Carpenter. Asa Bullock had been a messmate of George Carpenter during their service in the War of r8i2, both having been members of Belknap's Company. Asa Bullock was a shoemaker by trade, but after his removal west, he settled in Lake county, Illinois, and engaged in saw-mill work. In 1855 he removed the family to Freeborn county, Minnesota, where his death occurred soon after, in 1859. Sarah (Blanchard) Bullock, his wife, passed away in Illinois, before their removal to Minnesota. They were the parents of ten children, Asa, Sarah, Nathan. Cyrus, Joel, John, Maria, Lemuel E., Prudah M. and Harrison. Asa was a farmer of Freeborn county, Minnesota, where his death occurred in 1864; Sarah became the wife of Reuben Babcock, and died at her home in Freeborn county, Minnesota; Nathan was a farmer, living in Freeborn county, and his death occurred in 1878; Cyrus, a veteran of the Civil War, was a member of the Tenth Regiment, Alinnesota Volunteer Infantry, and died in Becker county, Minnesota; Joel was also a soldier, in the Fifth Minnesota, and passed away in 1895, while a resident of Dead Lake township, Otter Tail county, Minnesota; John died in Illinois, just after having reached his majority; Maria died at the age of sixteen years; Lemuel was also a soldier in the Civil War, in the Tenth Minnesota, and his death occurred in the state of Oregon; Prudah M., the mother of Albert C. Carpenter, passed away on October 1, 1906, and Harrison, a soldier in the Civil War and comrade of old Judge Baxter and Mr. Niebles, served in the Fourth Minnesota, and his death occurred in the state of Washington.

Willard L. Carpenter, father of Albert C. Carpenter, was born on November 10, 1832, and removed to the west with his parents, who settled in Freeborn county, Minnesota, where he remained until his marriage to Prudah M. Bullock, whose birth occurred on December 23, 1835, and who also removed west with her parents. After their marriage, they resided in Oakland township, Freeborn county, until 1871). at which time they settled on seventy-four acres of homestead land in section jo, of Dead Lake township, Otter Tail county, .Minnesota. This land was entirely unimproved and almost surrounded by the waters of Dead Lake and formed a peninsula into the lake. A lug house was built and improvements were begun. The original house of logs stood on the site of the present home. It was while engaged in the cultivation of this farm that his death occurred, on October 19, 1912. lie was a stanch Republican and was elected to office while a resident of Freeborn county. He. as well as his wife, was a member of the Baptist church and was also a member of the Good Templars. They were ilk- parents of only one child. Albert C.

Albert C. Carpenter received his education in the public schools of Freeborn county, Minnesota, and in tin- graded schools of Austin, of the same state. His early life wa-. spent on the home farm and he removed to ( >tter Tail county. Minnesota, with his parents, in 1879, and continued to assist his father in the duties of the place until his father's death, at which time he assumed the entire charge and is still cultivating and managing the homestead. He is a breeder of Shropshire sheep and keeps a herd of eightysix always on the place. Politically, he is a stanch Republican and has held the office of township clerk for the past ten years and has acted as supervisor for the period of two terms.