Polk County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1916 (part 6 of 15)

Mr. Steenerson has favored the Hepburn Law, and all legislation for the effective control of interstate railroads and utilities, the conservation of natural resources, and progressive legislation generally. He has aided in opening large areas of the public domain to settlement and development, and, being familiar with pioneer conditions, and appreciating the courage, fortitude, and sufferings of the pioneer settlers everywhere, has favored liberal laws and administration in public land matters so far as the settler is concerned. He has frequently secured the passage of acts for the relief of settlers on the public domain, where the harshness of general rules or administration has justified such action. In northern Minnesota were large tracts of land ceded by Indians, which were subject to homestead entry only upon pa>nnent of from $1.2.^ to !|;4 per acre, the price at which the Indians had sold the land to the United States. This land was so wet and swampy as to be unfit for occupancy until drained. He secured the enactment of the Act of -lune 21, 1906, providing for a drainage survey of ceded Indian lands and free public lauds, which was executed by the United States Geological Survey, and the report thereon demonstrated the feasibility of the proposal. Later Congress passed the Act of May 20, 1908, which made public, as well as these ceded, unsold Indian lands, and entered lands not yet proved up, - all subject to the assessment for drainage improvements under the State law, the same as privately owned lands, and directed, in default of payment of such drainage assessment, the sale of the land to any qualified homesteader and the issuance of a patent to such purchaser upon his payment of the drainage assessment and the price, if any, due to the Indians. The effect of these laws has been the reclamation of more than two millions of acres of land and the construction of three or four thousand miles of main and lateral ditches without a single dollar having been expended from the United States Treasury-. The projects are initiated and carried out under state laws, and financed by the issuing of county bonds.

A son of a veteran, himself, Mr. Steenerson has always taken an active interest in legislation and administration aft'eeting the veterans of the Civil War. He has gladly devoted his legal ability sind his time to the prosecution of their claims, both before the Department, and before Congress.

His most important service to the public, however, has been rendered as a member of the Post Office and Post Roads Committee of the House of Representatives. He has aided in perfecting the laws against fraudulent use of the mails, he has favored the improvement of the postal semee in every branch, and has worked especially to better the wages and working conditions of the thousands of faithful and hardworking employees in the humbler and lower grades of the service. He was active in the establishment and development of the Rural Free Deliveiy Service, and the establishment of parcels post and postal savings lianks. He is a friend of civil service, and lead the opposition in the Sixty-third Congress to the proposition to abolish the position of "Assistant Postmaster," in first and second class offices, and to put rural delivery on a contract basis, as an attack on the merit system and civil service. Although these propositions were supported by the administration and a majority of the Democratic members of the House, they were defeated, largely through the skillful leadership of Mr. Steenerson, acting as ranking member of the Post Office Committee, and in charge on the Republican side.

Though a believer in reasonable military preparation, he has also been active in the cause of international arbitration and the peace movement. He is a member and one of the Vice-Presidents of the American Group of the Interparliamentary Union for International Arbitration, and was chosen a Delegate to represent this country at the last meeting appointed to be held at Stockholm, Sweden, in August, 1914, but which, on account of the breaking out of the European War, had to be abandoned. He, together with other delegates, started to attend the meeting, but on arrival in England, had to return home.

Personally Mr. Steenerson is of athletic build, stands 6 feet, 3 inches in his stocking feet, weighs 225 pounds, and is fond of out-door life, camping and fishing.

A study of the career of Mr. Steenerson - the noted, progressive Republican leader of Minnesota as narrated in the preceding pages, gives rise to the observation that rather remarkable is the likeness in his life with that of the eminent Democratic leader. Speaker Champ Clark, of Missouri. Steenerson 's father was a teacher, Clark 's father was an educator also. Steenerson was bom on a farm in Wisconsin, Clark was born a few months sooner, on a farm in Kentucky. Work on the farm in Minnesota developed Steenerson into one of the biggest and strongest men physically now in public life ; one of the two largest men of the Republican side of the House of Representatives in the Congress of this great republic. Work on the farm in Kentucky developed Clark into a physical giant. He towers above all of the men on the Democratic side of the House of Representatives, and he is easily the heavy weight of his party in Congress.

wholly unknown to each other. Each of these eminent and worthy statesmen worked hard when young and earned their education, and each entertained a laudable ambition to accomplish results really worth while in the higher walks of life. Clark went to Cincinnati, studied in one of the best law schools of that city, and then settled in the temperate climate of Missouri and began the practice of his profession. Steener.son went to Chicago, studied in a college of high reputation there and then returned to the severe climate of Minnesota and began practicing the same profession, immediately achieving success. Unknown to each other, the orbits of these patriotic statesmen were widening, and approaching each other. Finally, because of their worth, merit, dignitj^, honor and uniform courtesy, the number of their friends so increased that they were elected to Congress, and there each recognized in the other a man of merit. They have become great personal friends. Each one of them is recognized as a leader. No man on the Republican side of the House of Representatives can secure recognition of the Speaker sooner than Steenerson ; and, if the people only knew it, such recognition makes a man exceptionally valuable to his constituents and to his State.

As all who are versed in parliamentary procedure and customs know, no member of Congress can obtain an important chairmanship in the House of Representatives unless his people elect and re-elect him continuously for several years. Mr. Steenerson 's constituents have done wisely and well by returning him again and again for seven terms. Mark the result.

Because of seniority of faithful service Mr. Steenerson is now the ranking Republican member of the powerful and important Committee on Post-offices and Post-roads. That means much more than can be told in writing or in print. When the Republicans next have a majority in the House of Representatives Mr. Steenerson will be in all probability Chairman of that Committee; a position of great influence and power over the postal affairs of this vast Republic, from ocean to ocean, from the great lakes to the gulf, and over

Possessed of the genius of labor, Representative Steenerson is regarded as one of the most arduous and tremendous workers in the House of Representatives. In laying the foundation for a superstructure of a worthy and busy life, he, like Champ Clark, taught a country school while in his teens.

It is apparent that, early in life, Mr. Steenerson realized that in this woi-ld of strife and endeavor, to work strenuously and intelligently means to attain. His aim was high. He desired to achieve, and he has amply succeeded.

Work, faithful and disinterested, forms the keynote of the character of this man who is looked up to by his colleagues in Congress ; whose advice is sought by men from other states on almost all topics which call for consideration by the Congress. In the caucuses of his party, when considering questions affecting the prosperity and honor of this gi-eat nation, his colleagues always want to hear from Ilalvor Steenerson. They are usually glad to follow his counsel, because they know it will be sound and wise.

inherent force, expect Ilalvor Steenei-son to go ou achieving still greater things, as the days and yeai-s of his public life give further opportunity for nobler effort.

He married at LaCrosse, Wisconsin, in November, 1878, ^laria Fjaugesund, born on Fjangesuud estate, Thclemarken, Norway, daughter of Christoffer Fjaugesund and Maria, his wife. Mr. Steenerson and his wife had issue as follows : One boy, died in infancy. Clara N., born June 3, 1881, graduated from Crookston High School 1900, died 1901. Edwin, born 1882, died 1885. Benjamin Gilbert, born Feb. 21, 1884, graduated from George Washington University of Washington, D. C, 1906, drowned at Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, Feb. 16, 1908, while serving in United States Marine Corps, in an attempt to rescue a comrade who had fallen overboard.

Thus, to the great grief of the parents, none of their children survive. The earnest sympathy of every American citizen is theirs in their repeated bereavements but especially in the loss of their beloved son who died a hero and gave his life while trying to save that of another.

H. S. Aasen, the well known hardware merchant of Winger, was boni at Telemarken, Norway, January 20, 1874, and came to the United States and to Fillmore county, Minnesota, when seventeen years of age. He removed to Polk county ahout a year and a half later and was employed for a time in farm work. In 1896 he embarked upon his commercial career as the proprietor of a store at Gosseu in Winger township, in a building which had been erected and used for business purposes, by a Mr. Hughes. Mr. Aasen conducted a general store here for some eight years, starts ing with an investment of one hundred and thirty dollars and building up a profitable business. He also discharged the duties of postmaster until the office was discontinued. He located in Winger in 1906, after giving his attention to fanning interests for two years, and bought the hardware store which had been establislied by A. K. Ingebo. Under the management of ilr. Aasen, this enterprise has met with marked prosperity and a steadily growing trade. He has added a warehouse to the original building and handles a general line of hardware and agricultural implements.

the success of his operations readily appearing in the rapid increase in the capital invested from $2,000 to $11,000 and in the receipts of $32,000 in 1914 as compared with the eight thousand dollar trade of the first year. In 1913 he opened a hardware store at New Folden, in Marshall county, which has also enjoyed a large patronage. Aside from his mercantile interests, Mr. Aasen has conducted a successful real estate business and is extensively identified with the various business activities of Winger, being a stockholder in the Farmers State bank and elevator and in other local enterprises. He also gives his attention to the management of his farm property, owning two hundred acres in Polk county and is especially interested in the cultivation of clover. His substantial standing in the community and the notable success which he has won through his individual efforts, bespeaks his ability and worth as a business man and citizen. He has been active in all matters of public moment and has served as township clerk and justice of peace, occupying the former office for some seven years. He is a member of the Free Lutheran church. Mr. Aasen was married in 1901, to Lena Carlson of Winger and they have three children, Harold, Anna and Noi-^'al.

A. I. Solberg, cashier of the Farmers State bank at Winger, was born in Norway, July 23, 1863, and came to the United States when a lad of seventeen. On landing he came direct to Wabasha county, Minnesota, and for six years worked on the Mississippi river, employed on steamboats and in rafting logs. During the winter season he devoted his time to fitting himself for more efficient activity in the business world by attending the business college at La Crosse. He came to Crookston in January, 1887, as a salesman and bookkeeper in the store of Joseph and Andrew Locken, the latter being the captain of the steamboat on which he had been employed, and remained in that position for three years. The store being sold in 1890, Mr. Solberg and Andy Locken, a fellow clerk, made an independent commercial venture in Crookston, opening a clothing store which proved to be an unsuccessful enterprise. Subsequently he worked in the office of John Amundson the registrar of deeds and in 1895 again entered the mercantile business, investing a small capital in the grocery trade and conducted a prosperous business during the next three years. In 1899, selling his interests, he bought a one hundred and sixty acre farm in Knute township, five miles south of Erskine. Very little of the land had been developed and for the ensuing eight years he devoted his attention to its improvement, placing fifty acres into cultivation and equipping it for successful operation. In 1908 he became assistant cashier in the Citizens State bank at Mcintosh so serving for several years, in association with Mr. Charles L. Conger, the cashier. In 1912, he returned to his farm but soon becoming interested in the re-organization of the Farmers State bank at Winger, as one of the new stockholders, was made its cashier June 1, 1912. He made his home on the farm until 1914, when he sold and removed to Winger, where he platted a twelve acre addition, part of which he still owns. Aside from his private interests Mr. Solberg has been prominently identified with public activity and enjoys the esteem and regard of a wide circle of friends. He has been honored with various offices, serving while in Knute township as township clerk, justice of peace and member of the school board ; and, was elected probate judge for Columbia county, the action of the supreme court in dissolving its organization, annulling his office. Mr. Solberg is a Democrat and in 1910 was candidate for Clerk of Court, being the only member of his party on the county ticket in that election. Mr. Solberg was married January 1, 1892, to Mary E. Johnson, of Crookston, the daughter of Mrs. Annie Johnson, who had been a homesteader in Knute township in 1884. Five children have been born to this union, Agnes, who was a teacher in the Polk county schools for a time; Hilma, Phillip, Ralph and Arthur. Mr. Solberg is a member of the United Lutheran

Joseph Tagley

Joseph Tagley, cashier of the First State bank of Mentor and vice president of the State bank of Gully, has been associated for many years with the business interests of this section. He is a native of Wisconsin, bom in St. Croix county, October 26, 1867, the youngest of five brothers and one sister, children of John J. and Bertha Tagley. The family, after fourteen years residence in Jackson county, Minnesota, came to Polk county in 1883 and John J. Tagley became a homesteader in Woodside township about four miles southeast of the present village of Mentor. In the same year, in partnership with his father, Joseph Tagley engaged upon his initial venture in the business world with a small store at Rothsay, Minnesota, and three years later transferred his operations to Polk county, opening a store at the location of the Woodside postoffice, in section twenty-two, the first store and for a few years the only one in Woodside township. Under the able direction of the young merchant, this proved a most successful enterprise, he bought out his father's interest and rapidly advanced from his modest .start with a three hundred dollar capital to a two thousand dollar stock of genei*al merchandise. In 1892 he sold the building and removed his goods to Mentor, seven miles distant, where he opened a general store with a marked increase on his former activities, putting in a six thousand dollar stock. Although he was not able to entirely finance his operations during the first few months, this ambitious endeavor was made possible through the confident cooperation of the wholesale firms and one of the flourishing mercantile enterprises of the county was auspiciously started on its career. Mr. Tagley continued his prosperous relations with this business until 1900 and in the later years was conducting an annual business of $30,000. He then sold the store to 0. Moreau & Son but continues to be the owner of the building in which it is located. Upon retiring from the mercantile field, his interest turned to other financial activities and in 1901, in company with A. D. Stephens, he opened the Bank of ^lentor and has since given his attention to the direction of its affairs. In 1908 it was incorporated as the First State bank of Mentor, with a capital of $10,000. Mr. Stephens became president; Mrs. Tagley, vice president; and Mr. Taglej', cashier; in which capacity he has become well known in financial circles through the substantial results of his management. A more exhaustive comment on the merit and activity of this institution is made elsewhere in this work. Mr. Tagley also has extensive land interests in the state, owning some two sections in Polk, Clearwater, and Rosseau counties, over one-half of which is in Polk county. All of his Polk county land is being operated by Mr. Tagley through tenants. His agricultural interests have been mainly centered on grain and stock farming and he has given much attention to the improvement of stock, keeping a high grade and breeding Holsteiu cattle. He has further been identified with the business interest of the community in his association with A. D. Stephens, in the establishment of a creamery in 1900. LTnder the management of Mr. E. Axelson, this proved a valuable enterprise to the farmers of the territory. This led to the organization of a new company upon a cooperative basis which has now ninety stockholders, of whom Mr. Tagley is one. The importance and success of Mr. Tagley 's interests have inevitably contributed with the confidence and respect of his fellow citizens to make him a forceful factor in public affairs. In official capacity he has served as township clerk, village president, and in other local positions and was postmaster under the Cleveland administration. He is a member of tlie Modern Woodmen of America, having served as Venerable Council for fifteen years. I\Ir. Tagley has recently made a notable addition to the residence district of Mentor in the fine modern home which he has erected, which in addition to its architectural attractions, is provided with all the modem conveniences with which the village has not yet supplied its citizens, including an electric light and watering plant, power laundry, and hot water heating system. Mr. Tagley was married in 1895 to Milla Olson, of Pislier, Polk county, the daughter of Evan Olson, a retired business man of that place. They have one child, Elmer J. Tagley. ]\Ir. Tagley and his wife are members of the Congregational church.

Richard Mulcahey

Having been engaged in productive, jDrogressive and profitable fai*ming, live stock raising and dairying for sixteen years in Polk county, and having also taken a helpful part in promoting the development and improvement of the county in general and the township of Fairfax in particular, Richard Mulcahey, who is now living retired in Crookstou, has rendered this part of Minnesota good service and justly earned universal esteem and good will. His home farm comprises the west half of Section 17, in Pairfax township, and is just two miles southeast of the corporation limits of Crookston.

Mr. Mulcahey was born about seventy-five years ago and reared in the province of Ontario, Canada, and followed farming in a general way there until 1897, when he came to Polk county. He bought 480 acres of wild prairie, paying !|!l6 au acre for 320 acres and $23 au acre for the other 160 acres, and going in debt for nearly all the purchase price, as his capital, consisted of three horses, two cows and less than $100 in cash. He broke up the land and began raising grain and keeping horses and cows. In time he put up comfortable buildings, and by industry and good management has made it worth at least $100 an acre. He also bought a quarter section of land north of the city, for which he paid $7 an acre. This he broke up and improved, sunk an artesian well, and then sold at $23 an acre.

The stock-raising industry which Mr. Mulcahey carried on was rendered very successful and profitable by his excellent system of operating also an active dairying busLuess in connection. Keeping fourteen milch cows and makes butter for private customers. His daughters became expert butter makers, and one of them took many prizes at the county fair for the best butter. The father made a specialty of having live stock of a high grade, and he also made exhibits of prodiicts at the fairs. A deep artesian well furnishes an abundant supply of excellent water for stock and other pui-poses. He has experienced, however, some mishaps. One season being so wet that he was unable to cut his grain and another was so that he could do no plowing at the proper time. Two crops were also destroyed by hail.

In 1913, he gave up active work and took up his residence in Crookston, where he owns a pleasant home and other valuable property. While he has always manifested a deep and serviceable interest in the welfare of his township and the county, he has had no taste for public affairs and has never dabbled in politics or sought or desired a political office. His private affairs have so absorbed him that he has devoted his time and energies to them. He is a member of the Cathedral congregation of the Catholic church.

At the age of twenty-six Mr. Mulcahey was united in marriage with Miss Mary Jordan, who was, like liimself, a native of Canada. She died on the farm -Januaiy 13, 1910. They were the parents of seven children, two of whom are living in Canada and four in Polk county. A daughtei*, Agnes, died in this county while still in her teens. The living children in Polk county are: Prancis, who is managing the

Ignatius Kingman

Ignatius Kiugmau, of East Grand Forks, proprietor of the Kingman Pharmacy and one of the prominent and progressive business men of the county, is a native of Holland, born at Bakhuizcn, in the Province of Friesland, July 3, 1865. He was educated in his native land and remained there until twenty-four years of age, when he came to the United States and located in St. Paul aud there fitted himself for his .subsequent successful career as druggist. In 1896 he left St. Paul for Grand Forks and .spent a number of yeare there, employed as a prescription druggist and in 1903 removed to East Grand Forks and engaged in his present prosperous enterprise, which as tlic only pharmacy in that town and as one of the best equipped and most efficient in the northwest, enjoys a wide reputation and patronage which notably attests to the competence and ability of Mr. Kingman as a druggist and business man. Mr. Kingman is a registered pharmacist in Minnesota and

North Dakota and has proven himself amply fitted to conduct his business interests in a manner that insures a lasting prosperity and redounds to the substantial accomplishments in the community. The Kingman Pharmacy occupies a fine brick block and handles a complete line of drugs and the usual accessory lines of the drug store, to which has recently been added an attractive stock of victrolas and supplies. Mr. Kingman is the secretary of the Sacred Heart Catholic church of which he is a prominent and influential member. His influence is readily offered in every activity affecting the general welfare of the community and he is a well known member in club and fraternal circles, being affiliated with the Knights of Columbus, the Elk lodge and the Commercial club. His marriage to Johanna Ribbentrop, of St. Paul, occurred February 17, 1897, and they have three children, Gerhart, Josephine, wlio are memlwrs of the high school classes of 1916 and 1918, and Henry.

John Perry

Although he bought the farm on which he now lives as an investment, with no intention at the time of locating on it himself, John Perry, one of the principal farmers and leading citizens of Andover township, soon afterward became a permanent resident of the county, and has never had occasion to regret the circumstances which induced him to do so. His fine and highly improved farm is Section 15, Andover township, five miles southwest of the Crookston courthouse, and near the Girard elevator, embi'aces 632 acres, the whole of the section except the railroad right of way, and is one of the most d('sii"il)le in the county.

and Story counties, Iowa. In 1902 he came to Polk county, Minnesota, and bought tlie farm on which he now lives. It had been a grain farm and posses.sed only a small house and other inconsiderable buildings in the way of improvements. He intended to operate it as a tenant farm, but not being able to rent it satisfactorily he located on it himself in the spring of 1903. The land was in a foul condition, with many varieties of weeds greatly injuring the grain it produced. He paid $35 an acre for it, and he now determined to himself develop his purchase into a first-rate investment.

For four or five years he devoted his energies to raising wheat, then began the raising of live stock, corn and potatoes. He put fifty acres in corn and more in hay, timothy, clover and alfalfa, these being now among his principal crops. He also handles a great deal of yoniig live stock and milks ten cows to supply an active dairy trade. In 1912 he erected a new eleven-room dwelling house, with full basement and installed an acetylene gas lighting plant. He has two barns having stabling for all stock. One of these was built in 1915, being erected as a special horse barn.

The difiSculties which confronted Mr. Perry at the beginning have been removed by enterprise and determined industry. He has eliminated tlie noxious weeds and now raises excellent crops. In 1914 the yield per acre was 50 bushels of com, 20 bushels of wheat, 45 of oats and 20 of flax, and in 1915 his grain crops aggi'egated some 15,000 bushels.

through the fields and arranged to drain all pond holes. He has excellent facilities for tiling and a good outlet. He has also taken an active part in the affaire of the township, and during the last ten years has been either supervisor or township clerk. He was first married in Story county, Iowa, to Miss Laura Woodruff, who died in 1907, leaving five children, Clifford, Hazel, Clarence, Charles and Laura. His second marriage was with Miss Lena Grodal, a native of Norway. They have no children. Mr. Perry belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church. The present Mrs. Perry belongs to the Andover- Fairfax Ladies' club. The latter is a social organization which does a great deal to mitigate the loneliness of farm life and furnish entertainment for its members, who are some twenty-five of the leading ladies of the two townships whose names it bears.

Reverend William Klinkhammer

Reverend William Klinkhammer, pastor of the Sacred Heart Catholic church at East Grand Forks, is a native of Minnesota, born in Le Sueur county, April 21, 1879, the son of Peter and Louise (Wilt) Klinkhammer, who were natives of Germany. Peter Klinkhammer came to the United States as a child and to Minnesota in 1852 and as a pioneer settler of Le Sueur county, was identified with the hardships and privations of the early days and all the activities attending the organization and development of the prosperous farming community. In the troublous times of 1S62 the mother suffered the loss of friends and relatives in the Sioux massacre and he gave sei-viee himself, in a Minnesota regiment, in the quelling of the uprising and was a member of the guard in charge of the thirtyeight Sioux braves at Mankato. His influence was prominent in the organization of the St. Johns Catholic church in his home county and in all matters of public welfare. He was elected to various offices of local importance and gave able seiwice as a county commissioner. He is still living on tiie old homestead.

William Klinkhammer was reared on his father's farm and educated in St. Johns University, the leading Catholic school of Minnesota, where he was ordained in June, 1908, by Bishop Trobec of St. Cloud. His first pastorate was at Park Rapids, Minnesota, where he remained for three years, during which time the present church building was erected, and the parish well organized for efficient service. In July, 1911, he was transferred to the Sacred Heart Parish where his admirable ministrations have proven him amply qualified to advance the work of tliat ah'eady splendidly equipped organization. The Sacred Heart Parish was organized in 1893 by the Catholics of East Grand Forks and the surrounding territory and from its first establishment evidenced the vital and worthy activity which has marked its rapid growth. The loss of the newly finished church building, which was erected through the zealous efforts of the members, by fire in 1895 only resulted in a renewed strength of purpose and from the ashes of the first structure, rose a larger and finer building. The first pastor was Father Hend- ricks, who was succeeded in 1900 by Father J. F. Greene, who served the parish until his death in February, 1909. It was during this periotl that the present pai-soiiage was built at an expenditure of $8,000 and the furnishing of the chui'ch completed. After the death of Father Green, Father J. Hogan was put in charge and under his administration the organization of the various interests of the church advanced notably, Father Kliiikhammer succeeded Father Hogan after the return of the latter to his former diocese of Duluth which had been divided in 1910 for the establishment of the see in Crookston. Father Klinkhammer combines a rarely genial and companionable personality with a marked executive ability which has happily forwarded and consecrated labors of his life and resulted in the increased efficiency of the parish through the splendid parochial school which he instituted under the encouragement of Biahop Corbett of Crookston. The finely equipped school building was finished in September, 1912, and put in charge of seven teachers who are Sisters of St. Benedict from Villa Sancta Scholastica, Duluth. The school now enrolls two hundred pupils and furnishes an excellent curriculum of preparatory studies for the high school. The membership of the Sacred Heart church numbers some fourteen hundred souls.

Hon. Timothy A. Sullivan

Hon. Timothy A. Sullivan, well known real estate man of East Grand Forks and eminent citizen of Polk county has been most prominently identified ^yith the progress and development of northern Minnesota in the many interests of his career as business man and public spirited citizen and official. He was bom at Ferguson Falls, Ontario, August 18, 1864, the son of Timothy and Honoria (Enright) Sullivan, who were also natives of Canada. The former was born in County Lanark, Ontario, in 1829 and is one of the honored pioneers of Polk county, having been a leader among that notable band of men who by stalwart industry and enterprise laid the foundation for present prosperity. He came to Polk county in the fall of 1877 and located on land, two and a half miles northeast of East Grand Forks and also secured claims for four of his children, James T., who still resides on his farm; Michael, now living in East Grand Forks; Mary, who became the wife of James Mclh-ath and whose death occurred some years ago, and Catherine, who married Edwai-d Kennedy and lives at Houston, Texas. All of this land was located in the district, which upon its orgnization as a township, received the name of Sullivan in recognition of the worthy services of its pioneer. His influence was ever directed to advancement of the countrv and he was the first to insist upon the urgency of good roads, buying a road grader and making the first graded roads in Polk county. He was elected to various local offices and as chairman of the board of county commissioners gave able service for a number of years. The business interests of his career were devoted to his farm of four hundred and eighty acres which he developed into one of the fine properties of the county and part of which he later gave to his sons, Timothy A. Sullivan and Edward J. Sullivan. In 1889 he retired and removed to East Grand Forks, where he is now residing, in his eightyseventh year. The death of his wife occun-ed in 1906, at the age of seventy-six. ilr. Sullivan has always been an active woi'ker in the political field and a zealous supporter of the Democratic party. He is a member of the Catholic church and was a communicant in St. Michaels church at Grand Forks until 1893 when he became a member of the congregation of the Sacred Heart parisli at East Grand Forks. Of his family of seven children, all reside in Polk county, with the exception of Catherine, and Anna, who married C. L. Cumings and lives at Great Falls, Montana. Timothy A. Sullivan was a lad of thirteen years when he accompanied the family in their removal to Jliunesota and since that he has been allied in all the attainments and ambitious accomplishments of his successful career with the activities of this section, worthily discharging the responsibilities of citizenship as exampled in the life of his senior. He received his early education in the schools of East Grand Forks and later matriculated in the State University of North Dakota. In 1891 in partnership with his brother, Edward J. Sullivan, he entered the real estate and loan business in East Grand Forks. The active management of the business has always been directed by T. A. Sullivan and the firm of Sullivan Brothers is widely known as one of the most important and extensive operators in this field in northern Minnesota, their loans in the Red River valley having aggregated some two millions of dollsirs. They are also writers of insurance. Mr. Sullivan's real estate investments include farming lands in the far famed Red River valley and large interests in East Grand Forks, including several business buildings and a forty acre tract, known as the Lake Park addition, located in the most desirable residence part of the city and about half of which has already been transferred to private property owners. The same competent management and honest dealing that have marked his business enterprises have combined with an aggressive zeal for the public welfare and progress, to render his sei'vices in public affairs of signal foi-ce and prominence. In 1893 he was called to ofiScial position by the election to the office of mayor, on the reform ticket. After holding this position for two terms, in 1895, he was appointed by Governor Clough judge of the municipal court and was retained in that capacity by the voters for seventeen years. He has also held many other offices, his effective services marking him as a leader in aU matters of public progress and in the political arena, where he is a staunch upholder of the I^epublican party, being an active worker in conventions as a member of the County Republican committee. He was also a member of the State Central committee, during the candidacy of Hans Jacobson for the gubernatorial election. Mr. Sullivan was married at Hastings, Minnesota, September, 1894, to Maiy A. Shilling and they have five children, Linus, who is a student in the high school of East Grand Forks, Louis, Mary, Angela and i\Iadonna.

James Mullally

James Mullally, of East Grand Forks, a retired railroad man and pioneer citizen, was actively associated with the development of Polk county, in the early days of railroad construction and was emploj^ed on the Great Northern road, in the vicinity of Grand Forks for almost twenty-six years. He is a native of Ireland, bom in County Tipperary, July 22, 1836, and when four years of age was brought to Lanark county, Ontario. After reaching manhood he engaged in farming and in railroad woi'k and had spent some nine years in tlie latter employment before coming to Polk county. On May 15, 1879, accompanied by his wife and their family of nine children, he removed to Grand Forks, where he made his home for a year, meanwhile buying a farm and taking a homestead claim in Nesbit township, about eight miles east of East Grand Forks. In January, 1880, he entered the employ of the Great Northern railroad and. for a short time worked on the construction of the side tracks at Grand Forks, his experience and ability soon winning him the position of foreman over a crew of twenty men and in the following year lie removed to East Grand Forks. The tracks from Fisher to the Red river had been completed and in February, 1881, after the erection of a temporary bridge, the first engine crossed the river. The crew on this historical trip were, John Burton, engineer, Peter Engles, fireman, Tom Stahl, conductor, with John Burnett and Peter Nolan, brakemen. After the completion of the main road to the river, Mr. Mullally was made foreman of a section running east of Grand Forks for six miles and often during the first years, personally discharged all the work on his section, which until the laying of new iron, required much cutting and patching of the track. During the summer months he was in charge of extra gangs of workmen, constructing the side tracks at various stations. He retired September 9, 1897, after twenty-six years as a successful workman and efficient employee of Jas. J. Hill, the empire builder of the northwest. During these years he had thriftily availed himself of the privileges of the Employees Investment Company, Limited, which received monthly payments from the road's employees until a total deposit of $5,000 had been made and paid seven percent interest on the savings, and had also erected a pleasant home in East Grand Forks, where he is a well known and highly respected citizen. He was married to Euphemia May, on June 2, 1859, and thirteen children were boni to them, of whom ten are now living. Thomas MuUally, a railroad bridge carpenter, died in Van Couver and one daughter, Mary, died in her eleventh year in Ontario. The surviving children are, Sai'ah, the wife of George Shannon, of Grand Forks; Daniel and Isabel, who ai"e twins, the fonner, a locomotive engineer on the Great Northern road, residing at Grafton, North Dakota ; and his sister, the wife of Morgan Curran, of Grand Forks, also an engineer on the Great Northern ; John, of Grand Forks, and James, of Staples, Minnesota, both railroad engineers, the latter on the Northern Pacific route; Alice, the wife of Hany McNichol, the Northern Pacific station agent at Grand Forks, and a fonner teacher in the I'olk county schools as is also her sister. Alberta, who married Gute Purcell, associated with Timothy Sullivan in the real estate and loan business; William and Edward, residents of East Grand Forks, and Lillie, wlio lives at Mandan, North Dakota, the wife of Otto Wurdemau, an employee of the Northeni Pacific railroad. ]Mr. Mullally was one of the original membere of the Sacred Heart Catholic church and is devoted to all its interests.

Edward A. Buckley

Edward A. Buckley, postmaster at East Grand Forks and well known citizen, is a native of Minnesota, born at Compton, Ottertail county, July 5, 1886. His father, Hugh Buckley, w^as born at Chatham, New Brunswick, and was married in Maine to Catherine Moore, a native of Ireland. In 1870 they came to Minnesota and settled on a homestead in Ottertail couut.y, where as a pioneer citizen, Mr. Buckley became prominently associated with public interests and was active in the organization of the township in which he lived. His death occurred on the old homestead in his sixty-third year. His wife survives him, making her home in East Grand Forks, where several of her children reside. Edward A. Buckley was reared on the farm and was seventeen years of age when the family removed to East Grand Forks, soon after the death of the father. He engaged in various employments, working in a mill and with his brother, William J. Buckley, until 1906 when he secured the position of bookkeeper in the First State bank and for some six years, maintained most propitious relations with that institution, his ability being recognized with the promotion to the position of teller. During this period he spent .several months in California, again taking up his work in the bank upon his return. In 1914 he received the commission to his present ofRce, an appointment w-hich received the hearty commendation of his fellow citizens and which has been justified by the splendid efficiency of his services. Mr. Buckley is a Democrat in political allegiance but party lines do not define his many friends and supporters in his home town. He is a communicant of the Sacred Heart Catholic cluirch and in fraternal orders is affiliated with the Knights of Columbus and the Modern Woodmen of America. He was married

August 15, 1914, to Anna Butler of Fargo, North Dakota. Mr. Buckley is a follower of the pleasures of the out-of-door sports and devotes his vacations to hunting, the sport so naturally favored by the sons of Minnesota. The postoffice at East Grand Forks reflects the prosperity of the region and was advanced a few years ago to a second class office. Its rapidly increasing business requires the services of three clerks and an assistant postmaster, which later position is capably filled by Miss Theresa Thoreson, who held the same office for eight years under her father, 0. A. Thoreson, the immediate predecessor of Mr. Buckley. The office maintains four rural routes, serving the localities of Northland, Davidson, Bygland, and Key West, where all local offices have been discontinued. Other well known citizens who have been identified with interests of the office as postmaster, previous to the administration of Mr. Buckley, are, W. C. Nash, J. R. Johnson, who served for eight years and 0. A. Thoreson, whose re-appointments to the position total twelve years of occupancy.

Aaron Brown

Aaron Brown, city treasurer of East Grand Forks and formerly a prominent building contractor of that place, has been a resident of Polk county since 1881, when he located in Fisher, then in the first days of its settlement. He is a native of Canada, born in County Dundass, Ontario, September 8, 1830, and until his removal to Polk county, made his home in his native land, employed as a stone cutter and brick layer. In 1881, the business district of Fisher consisted of a store and postoffice and two or three saloons, but other enterprises were under way and Mr. Brown engaged in the construction of an engine house for the elevator, which was being erected by Thompson and DeMere. He left Fisher after two years for East Grand Forks, where he has since resided. In the same year of his removal, 1883, he spent some time on the Indian reservation at Fort Totten, Devils Lake, North Dakota, employed by Major Cranby, the agent, in the building of the mission schools. In East Grand Forks, one of his first contracts was with Budge & Eshelman for the erection of the Syndicate block, one of the first brick edifices in the town and which is still standing. Subsequently, in his capacity as one of the most successful eontractoi-s of that region, he was identified with all the important building enterprises of the locality and continued his business operations for a number of years, retiring in 1905. Aside from his many private interests, he has ever acknowledged the responsibilities of good citizenship and has devoted his talent and ability to the promotion of the general welfare and has been honored by his fellow citizens with various offices of public trust. He is a member of the Republican party but in local politics, places the best interests of the community above the restricting bounds of party lines. He has given capable service as mayor for three years and has also served as alderman and justice of peace. In 1913 he was elected city treasurer and in this office, is in charge of the city funds of $32,000 annually. Mr. Brown is devoted to his home and enjoys all the interests of his own fireside and garden plot with the keen zest of the man who finds his greatest recreation in the cultivation of those interests. Of a personality, quiet but forceful, with his career marked by able accomplishment as business man and citizen, he enjoys the esteem of his many associates, most particularly among the substantial pioneer citizens, and has entex'- tained a friendship of many years with Judge Watts. He was married in Canada, in 1862, January 1st, to Helen M. Henry, who is a native of Scotland and several years have passed since the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of their union. Twelve children were born to them, three of whom are dead. The surviving membere of the family are, Ellen, who married William Benson, of East Grand Forks;

George, living at tlie same place; Agnes ; the wife of George Coulter, of Bemidji, Minnesota; James, who is a piano dealer; Libbie, the wife of Freeman L. Corliss, a contractor in East Grand Forks; Christie and Mai-y who are both married and at present residing on homesteads in Canada ; ]\Iargaret, who married

Arthur Yickeiy and lives in East Grand Forks, and Robert J., who resides in East Grand Forks. Mr. Brown is a member of the Presbyterian church, iu the organization of which he was influential and has continued to loyally sen'e its interests as an elder.

Sam T. Evanson

Sam T. Evanson, a prosperous farmer of King township, came to Polk county in 1894 and has since devoted his interests to the affairs of this community as citizen and farmer. He was born in Dane county, Wisconsin, June 25, 1858, and in early diildhood accompanied his family to Goodhue county, Minnesota, where his father took a preemption claim and resided until his death. Sam Evanson remained in the parental home until twenty-one years of age and then availed himself of the homesteader's privilege in Trail county. North Dakota. Here he took an active part in the organization of the pioneer community, faithfully performing the duties of citizenship in the establishment of township and county. During the years of his residence there, he gave his attention to his agricultural interests and developed his land into a productive farming property, which he later sold for $25 an acre. On removing to Polk county, he bought the former homestead of Ole Quale, in section twenty-four of King township, two and one-half miles east of Mcintosh, and this has since been his home. He also was the owner of another quarter section of Polk county land which, after improving it for cultivation, he sold in 1914. His home farm has developed under his able management into one of the prosperous estates of the section.

Upon coming into his possession, but thirty-five acres had been cleared and the usual log buildings of the settlers, occupied the place. The clearing of the remainder of the land which was covered with brush presented years of arduous labor. He has now one liundred acres under cultivation and has equipped his property witli buildings of modern convenience and appearance. In his agricultural operations, he has given his efforts to the various farming enterprises and is a patron of the co-operative creamery, keeping a herd of twelve cows. Mr. Evanson was married, in Polk county, in 1895, to Lena Bagstad, of North Dakota. She was a native of Norway and had come with her pai'cnts, as a young eirl, to her home in North Dakota. Her death occurred April 11, 1912. Their only child, Ilenrj^ died at the age of sixteen. Mr. Evan.son survives with the two nieces of his wife, Clara Brovold and Sena Brovold, who since their entrance into the Evanson household in their childhood, have been reared as daughters of the home. Clara Brovold is the home maker for Mr. Evanson and Sena Brovold is the wife of Odwin Johnson, residing on a farm two miles distant, in Brandsvold township. Mr. Evanson is a trustee in the Synod Lutheran church, where he and his family have always been devoted members.

Hans Olus Rosaaen

ing for a number of years, with centers of business of Polk coiinty and one of its most useful and enterat several different places, the late Hans Olus prising citizens in connection witli its public affairs

He was born at Stavanger, Norway, February 19, 1860, which was also the native place of his parents, Ole and Gunhild (Sebby) Rosaaen, who came to the United States in 1861 and settled near Sheldon, in Houston county, Minnesota.

The father took up a homestead, and in his time improved 480 acres of wild land. He died in 1871. The mother was 89 when her death occurred in 191-1. They wei'e the parents of five sons and three daughters. During the Indian uprising of 1862 they had some very exciting experiences and narrow escapes from the brutality of the savages. Their son Hans was reared to the age of 19 in Houston county, and in 1879, accompanied by his broMier James, came to Polk county and found employment in a lumber yard at Hillsboro, where he worked for one year. Afterward he bought a lumber yard at Pisher, making the purchase of a Mr. Mallery, and later owned other yards at Halstad, Shelly, Nielsville, Climax and Crookston, to all of which he gave close personal attention.

After confining his energies to the management of his lumber business for a number of years he and his brother James founded the Citizens' Bank at Fisher, of which he was president until his death. In addition he carried on a general loan and real estate business. He was married on May 8, 1889, to Miss Maggie Hansen, a daughter of Christopher and Marion (Hansen) Hansen, who came to Polk county in 1874 and took up their residence three miles west of Crookston, journeying to this county direct from their native land of Norway. The father served as county commissioner and also as township clerk, and both he and his wife died here.

Mr. and Mrs. Rosaaen became the parents of five children, Clarence, Mabel (now Mrs. W. E. Peterson), Orrin R., Hugh and Arnold. The father was a Republican in political faith and allegiance and a member of the Methodist Episcopal church in religious connection. His widow and children now live in Crookston, where they are universally esteemed. Mrs. Rosaaen 's parents were pioneers, and she and her mother were left alone on the homestead, which was in the wilderness and among the Indians, while the father worked at Grand Forks, 30 miles distant, to support them, and made his trips to and from that place on foot. Indians often came to the cabin and ate all the food in it, and sometimes remained over night, harming nothing, however, but the larder and the garden, which they always left empty.

Charles McCarty, a prominent farmer of King township and well known citizen of the county, has given able service as township clerk for twenty years and has ever maintained an active cooperation with the public affairs of this section. He was bom in Vermont, at Northfield, June 4, 1856, but has been a resident of Minnesota since infancy, the family having located in Scott county in 1857. His father, F. McCarty, was a native of Ireland and became a homesteader in Scott county, where he lived some fifteen years and then removed to Stearns county. Here he again took up the labors of the pioneer fanner and gave his attention to the development and cultivation of his land until his death in his seventieth year. Charles McCarty left the paternal home as a lad of sixteen to seek his own fortunes and found employment as a farm laborer. In 1882 he came to Red Lake Falls, then in Polk county and worked there until the reopening of the Thirteen Towns for settlement, in 1883, when he filed a claim and secured the land which has since been his home, two miles west of Mcintosh, in .section twenty-three of King township. He erected a claim shanty and the first years witnessed the slow progress and laborious task of clearing the land, during which time he worked in the harvest field to finance his enterprise. The present prosperous farm attests to the capable management and ambitious industry which have marked his career. Beside the original homestead he also operates an eighty acre tract about one mile distant. All phases of his farming activities have been brought to a high standard of efficiency and he engages extensively in dairy and stock farming, breeding Short Horn cattle, which he regards as the most profitable double purpose stock. He has put all the land under cultivation and has erected good barns and a pleasant home, which is surrounded by the equally attractive and protective grove which he set out over twenty-five years ago. His improvements on the farm have included some drainage. Since the first meeting held for organization of the township, Mr. McCarty has displayed an active interest in the welfare and progress of the community. On that historic occasion, Ephriam King, an honored pioneer was elected township clerk and the township became formally known by his name. Mr. King and his four sons, Ephriam, John, Paul and Peter, had been early settlers in the northern part of the township and were prominent in early affairs. Mr. McCarty has been honored with a number of offices of public trust, the commendation of his worthy services having kept him in the office of township clerk for twenty' yeara. He has also served as assessor and chairman of the township board. In 1896 he was elected county commissioner and continued in that capacity for eight years. He was prominently associated with the short history of Columbia county, being appointed auditor for tlie new county by the commissioners and serving during the five months of its existence, when lie resumed his interrupted duties as commissioner of Polk county. Of later years he has not been a candidate for county office, preferring to give his attention to local responsibilities. Aside from his official service, he has ever given his influence and support in all matters of public enterprise and is a stockholder in all the cooperative business activities of tlie community, including the creamery, elevator and stock shipping association. His marriage to Georgia Halvorson, a native of Meeker county, Minnesota, occurred in 1885, in Ci'ookston and they have the following children, Fred, Mae, Frank, Ruby, Florence Leona. Mr. ilcCarty and his family are members of the Congregational church at Mcintosh. In fraternal circles, Mr. McCarty has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for many years, during which he has occupied all the chairs and has been a representative to Grand Lodge.

Anderson Brothers

Succeeding to a farming and .stock raising industry which their father started and conducted with enterprise and profit, Andrew and Arnold W. Anderson, live on and cultivate the northeast quarter of Section 33, in Andover township, this county.

Andrew was born in Wabasha county, Minnesota, on February 21, 1872, and Arnold W. in Wabasha connty, Minnesota, on April 18, 1880. They are the sons of Andrew and Sarah (Bordahl) Anderson, natives of Norway. The father emigrated to the United States in 1863 and located at Reed's Landing on the Mississippi river, in Wabasha county, Minnesota. He was a carpenter by trade and built boats for use on the river and also put up houses for dwellings and other purposes, many of which are still standing. He was married in Wabasha county to Miss Sarah Bordahl, and in 1881 they came to Polk county, where the father purchased of the railroad company the land on which the sons now live, paying $6 an acre for it with a rebate.

In 1881 the family settled on the farm and the father began to clear and cultivate it. He also worked at his trade, building houses and doing other carpenter work for his neighbors. He took an active part in the public affairs of his township, serving on the board of supervisors for a number of years. His death occurred on his farm in 1903, March 17, when he was about sixty-seven years old, and the mother died there on November 13, 1909. He put up good buildings on the farm, but the house burned down later, and the present dwelling was erected by the sons soon afterward.

When the parents took up their residence on this land in 1881 they were farther out on the prairie than any other residents. There were no roads to the place and for several years the crops were light. But the father persevered, got all his tract under cultivation and then bought another quarter section in Section 32. This was an old homestead and he paid $1,200 for it. Of the children born to him and his wife three are living: Julia, who is the wife of Ole Volland, of Andover township, and the two sons.

Carl A. Gronberg

Taking an earnest and intelligent interest in the affairs of his locality, in mercantile, governmental and agricultural circles, and exhibiting progressiveness and public spirit of a very commendable character in connection with them all, Cai'l A. Gronberg, one of the enterprising and successful farmere of Vineland township, this county, is proving himself to be a very forceful factor in the life of his township and a useful and estimable citizen of the county in every particular.

Mr. Gronberg is a native of Vineland township and has passed his life to the present time (1916) on the farm on which he is now residing. His life began May 20, 1882, and he is a son of Andrew and Mary Gronberg, who were bom in Norway and came to the United States in the early summer of 1882. Three years later they located on Section 32, Vineland township, where the father came into possession of 160 acres of land. He passed the remainder of his years on this land, dying on the farm in the spring of 1904, when he was fifty-four years old. The mother is still living. They became the parents of six children, John, Carl, Olaf, Marten, Inga and Emma, all of whom are living. Inga is now the wife of Andrew Dale.

Carl A. Gronberg was reared on the farm on which he now lives, and on which he has labored from his boyhood. He obtained a common school education, and since leaving school has been continuously engaged in farming, and cultivating now 200 acres of fruitful and valuable land. He has been a justice of the peace for a number of years and has also rendered the public good service as road overseer for Vineland township. In addition he is president of the Climax Co-operative Mercantile company.

Hon. Reuben Reynolds

The Honorable Reuben Reynolds formerly a judge in this Court died at his home in the City of Crookston on the eighth day of March, A. D., 1889. Judge Reynolds was bom at Covington, Genesee county. New York, on the 25th day of April A. D., 1821. He early removed to Michigan and came to the Territory of Minnesota in the year 1835, since which time he has held the offices of Judge of Probate Court, Clerk of District Court, Receiver of United States Land Office and Judge of District Court in this State.

Memorial

We, the Members of the Bar of Polk County in the State of Minnesota deem it appropriate that we should place upon the record an expression of our sense of the great loss to our State and to our profession caused by the death of Hon. Reuben Reynolds, a former Judge of this Court which occurred on the eighth day of this month after a long and painful illness.

time Court was first established in this County until his elevation to the Bench in March, 1885. He was really a remarkable man, endowed with great strength and clearness of judgment, close application, and a fluent, earnest and forcible speech. Though he did not begin legal study until past the meridian of life, he excelled in all branches of the profession of the Law and stood foremost at the Bar in this part of the State.

The same qualities made him one of the most effective public speakers, and he was ever ready to give his time and talents to the promotion of morality and temperance and the advancement of projects and principles that he deemed to be for the public weal.

By his natural endowments and attainments he was peculiarly fi.tted for judicial life. His learning and ability were quickened by strong sense of justice and

In his death our profession has lost one of its brightest ornaments, the community a useful and upright citizen and his family a devoted husband and father. We deeply mourn his loss and extend our .sincere sympathy to his family in their bereavement.

We respectfully request the Court to direct that this expression of our respect for our departed brother be entered upon its records with such other proceedings as may be had in connection therewith, and that a copy thereof be transmitted to his family.

Addresses were then made by Wm. Watts, H. Steenerson, and P. C. Schmidt of the bar and by Hon. Judge Mills. By Order of the Court the memorial was entered upon its records and out of respect for tlie memory of Judge Reynolds, Court was adjourned.

One of the enterprising and progressive farmers, extensive and successful potato growers and accomplished musicians of Polk county, W. S. Brekke, whose attractive farm is located in Section 30, Hubbard township, is a useful resident of the northwest in many ways, and is esteemed in accordance with his usefulness and genuine merit as a farmer, a man and a citizen. He takes an earnest interest and a helpful part in everything that seems likely to promote the welfare of his township and the county generally, and can always be depended on for assistance in any worthy undertaking in this line.

Mr. Brekke is a native of Norway, where his life began April 3, 1873, but he has lived in this county since he was nine years old. He is a son of Saave and Gunield (Gunhild) Brekke, also Norwegians by nativity, and the first bom of their ten children. In 1882 the parents brought their family to the United States and found a new home in Hubbard township, this county, where the father bought 160 acres of land. He was a blacksmith but continued to reside on his fann and cultivate it until his death on March 17,

From the time of his arrival in the county until now W. S. Brekke has had his home on the fann purchased by his father in 1882, and which he purchased in 1905, but he has enlarged it to 280 acres and greatly improved it with good buildings, abundant fences and other necessaries, and made it highly productive by skilful farming. He makes a specialty of raising potatoes on an extensive scale, his crop in 1914 aggregating 18,600 bushels, which he raised on about 125 acres of land. Since January, 1907, he has also been one of the rural mail carries in this section and covers in his route about twenty-four miles a day with a machine.

Mr. Brekke has given a great deal of attention to the cultivation of his natural talent for music, having been a close student and an industrious practitioner of musical science and having pursued a course of special training at the Northwestern Conservatory of Music in Minneapolis. After leaving the conservatory of music at Minneapolis he has been a pupil a long time of the world's famous violinist and teacher, Maximillian Deck. He was married in Hubbard township, this county, February 3, 1904, to Miss Clara Hanson,

Brnt M. Bennes

The whole of the life of this estimable citizen of Polk county to the present time has been passed iu cultivating the soil and raising live stock, and l)y strict attention to his business and industry and good judgment in conducting it he has been very successful iu it, making substantial gains for himself and contributing essentially to the improvement of the country around him. He has taken an earnest interest and an active part in the public affairs of his township and illustrated the ))est qualities of its citizenship in his own record of success in his business and useful service.

Mr. Bennes was born in Norway October 18, 1859, and lived in that country until he reached the age of nearly twenty years, working on his father's farm and obtaining his education there. In July, 1879, he emigrated to the United States, landing at Philadelphia and coming at once to Brown county, Minnesota. In that county he worked out at farm labor until June, 1880, then came to Polk county and took up a claim of 160 acres in Garden township, where he lived until 1900. In that year he moved to Section 11, Garfield township, iu which he owns 166 acres, well improved with good buildings and iu an advanced state of cultivation, on which he has made his home

Mr. Bennes was married October 13, 1900, to Mrs. Margaret H. (Messeth) Solheim, who was boi'n in Norway February 7, 1867, and was the widow of Andrus 0. Solheim, who died in 1897. The late Thomas Messeth was her brother. By her first marriage she became the mother of two children, Selma and Aleda. She and her present husband are the parents of five children, four of whom are living, Melvin, Henry, Edwin and Ivel. Their only daughter, Ida, died when she was five years old. The parents are members of the United Lutheran church and actively interested in all the undertakings of the congregation in which they hold their membership.

Mr. Bennes' business has been general farming in the main, but he lias for some years given a good deal of attention to raising sheep of superior strains, the Shropshire breed being his favorite product. In this department of his industry, as well as in his general farming operations, he is studious and careful and his success is pronounced. By means of it he has also contributed essentially to the improvement of the standard of live stock in his own township and others.

Hans H. Bangen

repaying it with interest in his elevated manhood and good work for liLs community for the opportunities for advancement to consequence it has given him.

Mr. Bangen is a native of Norway, where his life began December 24, 1838, and where he was reared and educated. In 1866 he emigrated to this country and took up his residence in Freeborn county, Minne- sota, where he lived seven years industriously and profitably engaged in farming. In July, 1873, he brought all the family he then had to Polk county, and in 1874 settled on the farm in Section 11, Vineland township, this county, on which he has lived continuously since that time. He first bought 160 acres, and to this he has added 100 acres by a subsequent purchase. He has also erected good buildings on the place and lias all of his land under cultivation.

On May 30, 1870, Mr. Bangen was manned in Freeborn county, Minnesota, to Miss Eline Thompson, who is also a native of Norway. They have had nine children, eight of whom are living, a daughter named Laura having died in infancy. The living children are : Mina S., who is the wife of John Saugstad ; Anton, who is now farming the home place; Marie, who is the wife of Peter Hauske; Clara, who is the wife of Helmer Estenson ; Thea, who is the wife of John Stubson; Laura, who is the wife of Olaf Stromsmo ; Theo, who married Miss Emma Berg, and Hebner, who is still living at home.

active part in the affairs of the township. He is a member of the Free Lutheran church, and he has led the singing in its religious services and been one of its most liberal and faithful supporters from the time when the church edifice was built. The members of his family also attend and support this church.

Anton Bangen, the oldest son and second child of the household, is a resident of Vineland township and conducts the operations on his father's farm. He was bom in Freeborn county, Minnesota, March 22, 1873, and was brought by his parents to Polk county when he was about four months old. All of his subsequent life has been passed in this county and in Vineland township and the daughter of Hans II. Berg. They principal occupation. On December 27, 1913, he was married to Miss Sarah Berg, a native of Vineland township, and he has always followed farming as his have one child, their daughter Harriet E. Like his father, Mr. Bangen takes an earnest interest and an active part in the affairs of his township, and is regarded as one of its most useful and representative citizens.

Lewis E. Flint

This gentleman, who is a resident of East Grand Forks, and who is passing his days and nights in useful service to mankind as a passenger conductor on the Northern Pacific Railroad, is exemplifying now the spirit of industry and abiding interest in the welfare of his fellow men that has characterized him in all previous periods of his manhood and every occupation he has engaged in from his youth. He is a native of West Randolph, Vermont, where his life began May 25, 1872, and a son of Joseph J. and Clara L. (Ford) Flint, also natives of Vermont.

The parents came west in 1879 and located at Jamestown, North Dakota, whei-e the mother is still living and where the father passed the remainder of his life, which ended November 11, 1888. He was a contractor of prominence and success, and was well known and highly esteemed throughout the northwest. Two children were born in the family, Lewis E. and his older brother Harry C, both of whom came with their parents to this part of the country. Harry is still a resident of Jamestown, North Dakota.

Lewis E. Flint obtained his education in the schools of Jamestown and for about three years after leaving school was employed as a clerk in a store in that city. At the end of that period he entered the employ of the Northern Pacific Railroad company as a brakeman, and three j'ears later he was raised to the position of conductor, in which capacity he has been rendering the railroad company and the general public good service ever since.

gan, March 16, 1880, and is a daughter of John G. and Matilda (Zemlin) Bradford, the former a native of London, England, and the latter of Berlin, Germany. Mrs. Flint's father has been in the employ of the Northern Pacific Railroad company since prior to 1875, and is now its station agent at Staples, Minnesota. Mr. and Mrs. Flint have three children, all sons, Hari-y L., Jerome E. and Charles B. The parents stand well in the estimation of the people of East Grand Forks and richly deserve the regard that is bestowed upon them wherever they are known.

Chris Eickhof

Having passed all the years of his mature life to the present time in carpenter work, contracting and building, and thereby contributed to the growth and development of the several communities in which he has lived, Chris Eickliof, one of the esteemed residents of Crookston, has been a useful citizen, making his time and energy tell to the advantage of the people around him as well as to his own benefit. He was bom near the great commercial city of Hamburg, German}', September 25, 1849, and lived in that country until

When he landed in New York in April, 1881, he came west at once and located at Red Wing, Minnesota, where he remained about one year. In May,

1882, he changed his residence to Crookston, and here he has ever since made his home and followed his chosen line of constructive work, building many houses of various kinds and for different purposes, all of which have aided in the expansion and improvement of the city and contributed in a substantial and enduring way to the comfort and general welfare of its residents.

Mr. Eiekhof was married in Gei-many May 9, 1875, to Miss Johanna Dammaun, who was bora near Hamburg, Germany, November 19, 1854. They have nine children living: Bertha E., who is the wife of J. W. Risch ; Hannah M., who is the wife of Gustaf Sommers; Dora B., who is the wife of Arthur Zaiser; Flora W., who is the wife of J. Arthur Williams ; Otto J., who is associated with his father in business under the firm name of Eiekhof & Son; Anna S., who is a school teacher; Nettie G., who is living at home; Frances E., who also is teaching school, and William C, who is stiU under the parental roof tree. All the membera of the family are persons of worth and are esteemed as such.

Joseph 0. Sargent

Joseph O. Sargent, of Crookston, a well-kno-wn pioneer of the State, was born May 26, 1846, in Rock county, Wisconsin, the son of Zeblin L. and Louisa (Young) Sargent, and is a member of a family that has been identified with the history of the building of the nation as sturdy pioneers and in notable military service and is himself one in the fast dwindling ranks of the Grand Army of the Republic that so valiantly defended the Union in its great crisis. His maternal grandfather, Simon Young, was a soldier in the War of 1812 and was wounded and became a pensioner of that war. Zeblin Sargent was a native of Penobscot county, Maine, born at Exeter in 1818, and in 1839 began his journey into the western frontier countiy, living for several years in Illinois, and in 1844 removed to the territory of Wisconsin, where he spent ten yeare. In 1854 he went to Cannon Falls, Minnesota, and continued to reside in this state until his death at Crookston, in 1904. His wife survived him eight years, living to the advanced age of ninetythree years. Of their family of twelve children nine are now living. Three of the sons and the father were soldiers iu the war of tlie i-cht-Uioii. The latter was made a sergeant in his eonipany and for three years was detailed to detached service in the western campaigns under General Grant. He also took part in the Indian war of 1862. Joseph 0. Sargent was reared in the pioneer home and was familiar from earliest childhood with the privations and hardy influences of frontier life. He secured what educational advantages the country afforded and the favorite recreations of his boyhood were fishing and hunting trips in which the native Indians were his frequent companions. He was nine years of age when the family settled in Minnesota, in territorial days, and from the experiences of a long and eventful career, recalls many interesting and significant incidents. He enlisted when eighteen years of age, February IS), 1864, in Company C of the Sixth Minnesota volunteer infantry, and was in active service during the remainder of the war, in the compaigns of the IMissis.sippi river, the Red river and the gulf coast, taking ])art in tlie l)attles of ^Io))ile, Fort Blakeley and Arkansas Post and in a number of minor maneuvers against the forces under General Price. After the close of the war he returned to Minnesota and located on a farm iu Rice county and spent several years farming and oi)eratiug a wagon and blacksmith shop at Dundas, near Northfield, and at tlie lime of the raiding of that town by the -James and Yonngers, was one of the posse who trailed and cai)tured the notorious band. In 1879 he came to Polk county and took a homestead claim in Hamlin townshij), where he was the first settler. His first home was a frame shanty and he again lived among primitive surroundings, engaging in the task of clearing wild land for cultivation. He developed a fine farm and remained on the place for fourteen years and then disposed of his farming interests and removed to Crook.ston and became a building contractor. He conducted a prosperous business for a number of years, erecting many of the public buildings and homes in that city, and is one of its most highly respected citizens. Mr. Sargent has always been a loyal supporter of the Republican ])artv and has given valuable service in offices of public trust, in township affairs, as a member of the school board of Handin township, and also supervisor and assessor, and for six years served on the city council of Crookston. He was married in 1870 to Lucinda Kingsbury, who was born in Iowa county, Wisconsin. Two daughters were born to them but neither are now living.

Andrew N. Hoffe

Having come to the United States at the age of twenty years, and having made good use of every opportunity tliat lias presented itself to him to improve his condition and advance his interests, Andrew N. IToffe, one of the leading farmers of Liberty township, this county, has made steady progi'ess to a condition of liberal and substantial comfort in a worldly way, and has, in liis useful and progressive career, given a fine illustration of the possibilities open to industry, frugality, upright living and good business management in this land of almost boundless wealth and opportunity.

the age of twenty and obtained his education. He was reared on a farm, and throughout his subsef|uent years he has adhered to the occupation with which he began his industrial record. In the spring of 1876 he emigrated to this country, landing at Philadelphia and coming at once to Houston county, ^Minnesota, and there working out as a farm laborer for two or three years. His wages were small and the work was hard, but his spirit and determination kept him at it, and he was careful in saving what he could of his earnings.

From Houston county Mr. Hoffe moved to Goodhue county, this state, and there he continued to work as a farm lal>orer for four vears. In 1883 he came to

Polk county and purchased 160 acres of land southeast of the village of Fertile, paying $800 for the tract. He improved his land as much as he could, but as he was still compelled to earn his living by working for other farmers, his efforts in this direction for some time were limited. But he continued them until the spring of 1899, when he moved to the farm on which he now lives, and he has kept them up ever since, both on that farm and on all his other tracts. He now owns 1,240 acres of fii'st-rate land improved with good buildings and constituting one of the most desirable and valuable homes in his township, all of

Mr. Hoffe was married in Grand Foi*ks, North Dakota, in the spring of 1888 to Miss Sarah Dall, who, also, is a native of Norway. They have two children, their sons Nels and Peder 0. The head of the house has served for some years on the township board and also as a member of the school board, and he is one of the directors of the Farmers' State Bank of Fertile. He and his wile are members of the Synod Lutheran church.

William Holley

William Holley was for a quarter of a century actively engaged in farming in Polk county, but since 1905 lived retired from active pursuits and making his home in East Grand Forks, until his death December 9, 1915. William Ilolley contributed a liberal share of enterprise and assistance in building up and developing this county, and won the lasting esteem of all who knew him by the uprightness of his life, his successful management of his own affairs and his cordial and helpful interest in the progress and enduring welfare of his locality.

Mr. Holley was born near Toronto, Canada, August 1, 1842, and remained there until 1880 progressively engaged in farming after leaving school. In March, 1880, he became a resident of Polk county, locating in Grand Forks township, where he purchased a farm of nearly eighty acres. He developed and improved this farm and made his home on it until the autumn of

1905, when he retired from business and changed his residence to East Grand Forks. His farm now comprises 240 acres and is all under cultivation and well improved with good buildings and all necessary equipment for its vigorous and systematic tillage according to the most approved present-day methods. On February 6, 1877, Mr. Holley was married in Canada to Miss Margaret Wallace, of the same nativity as himself and born March 4, 1859. They had one child, their son William Henry Wallace Holley, who was born in Grand Forks township, this county, August 31, 1890. The parents were zealous and active members of the Presbyterian church, and the father always took a good citizen's part in the work of pushing the progress of Polk county forward along all lines of wholesome development and seeing that its public affairs were wisely, honestly and economically managed.

Ole F. Bruun

Coming to the United States at the age of eighteen, with no capital but his resolute spirit, active mind, habitus of industry and frugality and quick perception of opportunities for advancement, and using all his chances to better his condition to good advantage, Ole F. Bruun, one of the leading and successful farmers of Vineland township, this county, has accumulated a well-earned competency for life and raised himself to influence and general esteem among his fellow men by his sterling citizenship and useful services to his community. His career furnishes a striking illustration of the value of pluck, energy and persistency,

Mr. Bruun is a native of Norway, bom October 27, 1862. In the spring of 1880 he emigrated to the United States and located first in Ottertail county, Minnesota, where he arrived May 24 and worked at farm labor until October. He then came to Polk county, and here he continued to work out as a farm hand until the spring of 1888. On June 4, of that year, he was united in marriage with Miss Gea Thoreson, who was born in Filhnore county, Minnesota, September 8, 1868.

After his marriage Mr. Bruun took up his residence on a farm in Section 24, Tynsid township, Polk county, buying eighty acres of land, which he still owns and which he has improved with good buildings and made highly productive. In 1901 he bought 363 acres in Section 2, Vineland township, and changed his residence to that tract, on which he also erected a fine set of buildings. He now owns 683 acres in all, and has the whole extent under cultivation and yielding excellent crops under his judicious and progressive tillage. He has served as a member of the township board of supervisors, township treasurer, assessor and treasurer of his school district. For some years he has also been the treasurer of the Lutheran Free church, of which he and his family are members.

Mr. and Mrs. Bruun have twelve children : Clara, Julia, Helga, Freda, Thelma, Frederick, Ida, Harold, Georga, Olinda, Norman and Alpha. Clara is the wife of Ole Dahlen, and has her home in Crookston. The other children are living at or near the home of their parents.

Ole N. Olslund

Neither the favors of fortune nor adventitious circumstances, except as he found or made them, have had anything to do with the progressive and successful career of Ole N. Olslund, one of the enterprising and prosperous farmers of Polk county, whose comfortable and attractive country home is located in Section 24, Reis township. Every step of his advancement in life has been hewed out by himself, and all his acquisitions and possessions are the fruits of his own diligence, thrift, good management and fine business capacity.

Mr. Olslund was born in Norway December 3, 1856, and when he was betwen eight and nine yeai*s of age came to the United States with his father and brother John. They located first at Rockford, Illinois, and two years later moved to Allamakee county, Iowa. The father died in that county at the age of seventy years, and Mr. Olslund 's brother John also died there when he was about twelve. Mr. Olslund himself continued to live in Allamakee county, Iowa, until he reached the age of nineteen, and then made his home at different places until 1881. In April of that year he became a resident of Polk county, Minnesota, taking up a homestead of 160 acres in Section 14, Reis township. He improved his land and lived on it for some years, then sold it and bought the fine farm of 200 acres in Section 24, Reis towaiship, on which he now has his home, and on which he ei'ected the buildings.

The public affairs of the county, especially those of his own township, have always deeply and practically interested Mr. Olslund, and he has been of great service to the people in helping to administer them wisely, having filled every local office except that of township clerk, and winning high approval by the excellent record he made in each. As a private citizen, too, he has been very useful by the force of his example, his enterprise, progressiveness and breadth of view in all undertakings for the general welfare, and his unhesitating readiness to assist in promoting them.

Mr. Olslund was married March 13, 1884, to Miss Hannah Johnson, a native of Allamakee county, Iowa, and the daughter of John G. Johnson, who settled in Reis township in 1879, and was one of its revered pioneers. He died in that township in the autumn of

1914, when he was about seventy-six years old. Mr. and Mrs. Olsluud are the parents of ten children, Elmer, Grace, Milton, Orley, Harrietta, Myrtle, Reuben, Ethelyn, Curtis and Lewis. Grace is now the

Erick 0. Stortroem

This progressive and successful farmer of Vineland township, Polk county, is one of the foreign born men of sturdy and sterling worth who have come to this country for better opportunities for advancement than their native lands seemed to offer and have not only helped themselves but have also aided vastly in the development and improvement of the country by tloing so. He is a good representative of the reliable manhood of Norway, where he was born September 1, 1855, and where he was reared to the age of twentytwo and obtained a common school education.

In June, 1877, Mr. Stortroem emigrated to this country and located first in Pierce county, Wisconsin, where he remained until the spring of 1878, then came to Polk county, Minnesota, and pre-empted 160 acres of land in Section 20, Vineland township. Two and a half years later he turned in that 160 acres as part of a homestead in the same section, and on that he lived until the fall of 1883, when he moved to Section 19, on which he has since had his home. He now owns 200 acres, all of which tract is improved and under advanced cultivation according to the most approved

Mr. Stortroem has taken a cordial and helpful interest in all the public and business affairs of his township and rendered the people good service in connection with many of them. He has held the ofiSce of secretary of the Vineland Mutual Fire Insurance company for ten years and now held the same position again, and has been township treasurer, township assessor and for a long time a member of the board of supervisors, of which he has been chairman for a number of years. He is also treasurer of the Sand Hill Norwegian Lutheran church, to which he and the members of his family belong.

On June 1, 1883, Mr. Stortroem was united in marriage with Miss Mary B'angen, who is, like himself, a native of Norway. They have seven children, Serena, Ole, Jennie, Walberg, Stella, Mabel and Ernest. Serena has become the wife of Thomas Gilbertson. The rest of the children are still members of the parental family circle.

Ole H. Dale

Since the age of twelve years Ole H. Dale, one of the successful and progressive farmers of Knute township, Polk county, and at the time of this writing (1915) chairman of the township board, has been a resident of the United States and the northwest. He is, therefore, fully in touch with the residents of this section of the country and heartily in sympathy with all their proper aspiration and undertakings. The people of his township regard him as one of their most useful and enterprising men and a representative citizen among them, sterling, sturdy, public-spirited and reliable.

Mr. Dale was bom in Norway July 3, 1850, the son of Halvor T. and Anna (Jacobson) Dale, who belonged to families long domesticated in that country. In 1862 they emigrated to America and took up their residence in Dane county, Wisconsin, where they remained about two years. At the end of that period they moved to Faribault county, Minnesota, and on a homestead in that county, which he took up soon after his arrival there, the father died in 1871 aged nearly eighty-three years. The mother also died in that county in 1891 at an advanced age and well esteemed, as was the father wherever he was known.

Their son Ole reached manhood on his father's farm in Faribault county and completed his education in the State Normal School at ilankato. For a number of years he taught school in Waseca county, Minnesota, and in the spring of 1883 came to Polk county and filed on 160 acres of land in section 27, Knute township. For the first fifteen years of his residence in this county he again taught school while improving his farm and bringing it to productiveness, but since the expiration of the period named he has devoted his energies wholly to his farming operations except what have been i-equired in the performance of public duties to which the people have chosen him. lie has the

Mr. Dale has always taken an active and serviceable part in the public affairs of his township. He has served as assessor three years, town clerk six years, justice of the peace fourteen years. During the last thirteen years he has been chairman of the town board.

In 1886 Mr. Dale was married in Knute township to Miss Anna Levorsoii, a native of Waseca county, this state, and tlic daughter of Ilalvor Levorsou, who was one of Waseca county's pioneei-s. Jlr. and Mrs. Dale have had five children. Hilda, Agnes, Henry and Ella are living. Emma died September 16, 1913, at the age of sixteen years, four months and two days. The parents are active members of the United Lutheran church.

Cyrus H. Holmes

Born and reared in the west, and with the whole of his Life to the present time (1915) passed in the Mississippi Valley, part of it amid the privations and hardships of the frontier, Cyrus H. Holmes, one of the prominent farmers and public-spirited citizens of Onstad township, this county, is thoroughly imbued with the spirit of this section of the country and fitly represents its stalwart, sturdy manhood and elevated, progressive citizenship.

Mr. Holmes is a native of Pike county, Illinois, VFhere his life began January 19, 1857, on a farm located about four miles from Pittsfield, the seat of the county government. When he was about twelve years old his parents moved to Champaign county, in the same state, and there the son remained until October, 1880, when he went to Kansas and located on a farm near Wellington, Sunmer county, on which he lived about two years and a half. In the spring of 1883 he became a resident of this county, and the next year he settled on the farm on which he now lives, in Section 21, near the village of ]\lelviii, in Onstad township, the tract being 160 acres which he

In the year last named Mr. Holmes moved his family to Litchfield for the purpose of obtaining better educational facilities for his ciiildreu, and in that city he remained six years, his fann being operated by a tenant during that period. In 1903 he returned to the farm and lived on it three years longer, and in 1906 went back to Kansas, locating at Moran, in Allen county, and engaging in the oil business during the next three years. He retumied to his farm in lf)10, and since then he has made it his home continuously. He has added forty acres to his original purchase and now owns 200. In 1909 the railroad companj' opened a gravel pit on his farm, and this has proven very profitable to him. He has erected good buildings on the farm, set out a fine grove and added other features which have greatly increased its value and attractiveness as a rural home, and he has carried on a general farming industry with studious attention to the qualities of the soil and aecording to the most approved methods of present-day farming.

On February 23, 1881, Mr. Holmes was married in Sumner county, Kansas, to Miss Addie Dillon, who was born near Danville, Illinois, July 28, 1862, and reared to womanhood in the adjoining county of Champaign. They have three children, Mabel E., Melvin D. and Roland W. Mabel is the wife of Reinhold Lohi. Melvin married Miss Jessie Cunningham and lives at Melvin. Roland is a student at the high school in Fertile. Mr. Holmes has taken an active part in township affairs and has filled with credit to himself and benefit to the people several township offices. He has been assessor, treasurer and supervisor in Onstad township, and has served as a justice of the peace for many years. He and his wafe and children are members of the Christian church.