Stearns County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1915 (part 7 of 12)

Mrs. Becker is the daughter of Jacob and Margaret (Zenner) Lemm. The Lemm family settled in St. Augusta township in 1859, purchased land in sections 30 and 31, and successfully carried on general farming until 1907, when they sold to Nick Becker and moved to Luxemburg. There Jacob Lemm died June 15, 1913. His widow still lives in Luxemburg village. Jacob Lemm was a veteran of the Civil War, having served three years in the Second Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. In the family there were fifteen children: Henry, Philip, Joseph, Jacob, Mathias, Katie, Nick, Anna, William, Wendelin, Ignatius, Domonick, Leo, Adelaide (deceased), Mathias (deceased).

Yasent A. Barthelemy, a leading farmer of St. Augusta township, was born in France, November 30, 1848, son of John N. and Mary Barthelemy, who brought him to America in 1853, lived in New Jersey for a while, then went to Reading, Penn., came from there to Sauk Rapids in this state, then to

St. Cloud, and finally, in 1857, to St. Augusta township, where they took a claim of 160 acres in section 8. Of this they had to surrender eighty acres to pay for the land warrant, but later they repurchased the eighty acres. In time they were enabled to erect a sightly brick house. This was destroyed by fire in 1891, but was rebuilt the following year. On this place the parents followed farming the remainder of their lives, the father dying July 29, 1898, and the mother, March 18, 1900. The children in the family were : Edward N., of St. Cloud; Yasent A., of St. Augusta; Sarah who died in 1892; and Mary, who lives in St. Cloud, widow of "William Goedker. Yasent A. Barthelemy attended school in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Minnesota. He farmed with his parents until 1898 when he came into possession of the home place, on which he has lived since 1857. The farm consists of 160 acres in section 8, 40 acres in section 17 and 120 acres in section 7, St. Augusta township. He also owns forty acres of farm land in St. Cloud township, and 20 acres of timberland in section 33, St. Augusta. The home farm is well kept, and has every evidence of prosperity due to the hard work and never-tiring efforts of its amiable owner. Mr. Barthelemy was married July 8, 1884, to Emilia Greven, who was born in Berlin, Ohio, November 8, 1861, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Greven. The children are : Eleanor, born August 9, 1886, is now Mrs. Louis Kraus, of St. Cloud township, John Nicholas, born March 20, 1888, is associated with his father on the home farm; Mary, born May 30, 1890, is the wife of Joseph Steichen, of St. Cloud; Andrew, born April 14, 1893, and George, born November 25, 1896 ; both at home ; and Alfred, born May 2, 1899, and died April 27, 1901. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Greven are Ignatz, of St. Cloud ; Mary Ann, who died at the age of twenty-one years ; Molly, who died in infancy; Catherine, of Walla Walla, Wash., widow of Aloysius Lommel ; and Emelia, wife of Yasent A. Barthelemy, of St. Augusta. Paid Bach, general merchant at Luxemburg, in St. Augusta township, was born in Germany, January 1, 1860, son of Jacob and Barbara (Laur) Bach, the former of whom died in Germany in 1863, and the latter of whom came to America in 1884, settled in Murray county, Minnesota, engaged in farming, and died in 1903. Paul Bach received a thorough education in the land of his birth. In the fall of 1883 he came to America, and for six months lived in Pennsylvania. The next spring he located in Murray coiuity, Minnesota, where he remained until 1886. Then he went to Miner county, South Dakota. First he proved up on a claim in Rock Creek township, then bought another 160 acres, and on these tracts successfully conducted general farming until 1906, when he sold out and returned to Minnesota. In the meantime he had been prominent in public affairs and had served as supervisor and assessor of Rock Creek township. From that township he came at once to St. Augusta township, and opened a general store at Luxemburg, better known as Luxemburg postoffice. He carries a full line of goods, and keeps a tavern and a feed barn for the traveling public, and has a seventyfour acre farm which he conducts in connection therewith. He is a good business man, thrifty and honest, and has achieved a well-deserved success. Mr. Bach is a member of the St. Wendel Catholic Church and of the German Catholic Benevolent Society of Minnesota. Paul Bach was married in South

Michael D. Dries, proprietor of the old "Neenah Mill," was born at Port Washington, Ozaukee county, a short distance north of Milwaukee, Wis., October 27, 1866, son of M. D, and Anna (Baurmieh) Dries, natives of Luxemburg, who came to America about 1855, were married in this country, and died, each at about the age of forty-five, at Holy Cross, Wis. Michael D. Dries received his early education in the public and parochial schools of his native place. In 1886 he came to Minnesota and located at Minneapolis, where he secured employment for three years with the Pettit Milling Co. Then he came to St. Cloud, and for some twelve j^ears was employed with the Tileston Milling Co. In August, 1903, he purchased the mill of which he has since been the proprietor. In addition to this he owns 304 acres of good farm land, part of which he operates, and part of which he rents. In 1907 he was elected town clerk, and has since held that position continuously. He belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. Dries was married February 7, 1893, to Tracy Ruhland, who was born in Bavaria, Germany, April 14, 1870 and came to America in 1889. Their children are Ursula T., Olga J., Alice E., Thelma, Daniel T., Silvea and Donald (deceased). The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Frank Hurrle, one of the leading farmers of St. Augusta, was born in the township where he still resides, January 16, 1866, son of Francis and Mary (Shoemaker) Hurrle, natives of Germany who came to America about 1850, located at St. Anthony where the father worked in a sawmill, came to St. Augusta in 1856, took a claim in section 17, went through all the rigors of pioneer life, and became representative citizens of the community. The father died November 15, 1900, and the mother died December 8, 1913. The children in the family are: Elizabeth (deceased), Henry, of St. Cloud; Kate, of Minneapolis; Agnes, now Mrs. Emil Grams, of Minneapolis; Frank, of St. Augusta ; Anna, now Sister Mary Annastatia, O. S. B., of Duluth ; Mary, now Sister Mary Theresa, 0. S. B., of Little Falls, Minn.; John, of St. Cloud; Xavier, of Buckman, Minn., and Theresa, now Mrs. George Krebs, of St. Augusta. Frank Hurrle received his edvication in the schools of St. Augusta, and remained at home until twenty-two years of age. Then he branched out for himself, and rented the Fred Goenner farm of 320 acres. In 1897 he purchased this farm, and to it he has since added eighty acres, making 400 acres in all. Mr. Hurrle represents the best and highest type of the modern farmer. He gives careful attention to every detail of the place, and believes thoroughly in the best comforts for himself, his family and his livestock. In 1910 he built a modern home which is a model of its kind, with hardwood finish on the interior, hot water heat, bath, running hot and cold water, individual illuminating gas plant, and many other conveniences. His fine large barn, his towering silo, and his set of outbuildings, all connected with the house and the park-like lawns with cement walks, are also models of their kind. He makes a specialty of Shorthorn cattle and Percheron horses. In the latter line he has high grade Percheron brood mare, and an imported Percheron stallion of 1,940 pounds, for which he paid $1,700. His poultry and swine are also of good strains. Mr. Hurrle was married September 27, 1892, to Philomena Goenner, born June 3, 1873, daughter of Fred and Mary Goenner, the pioneers. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Hurrle are : Rosa, Leo, Siegfred, Edward, Philip, Adeline, Alma and Cresentia. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church. Fred and Mary Goenner, parents of Mrs. Frank Hurrle, were born in Germany, came to America, located in Cincinnati, Ohio, and from there came in the middle fifties to St. Augusta where they took a claim in section 10, on which Frank Hurrle now lives. They became leading members of the community. Mr. Goenner died October 18, 1907, and his wife September 27, 1897. Their children are as follows : Two died in infancy in Cincinnati, Ohio; Anna (deceased) ; Joseph, of Clear Lake, Minn.; Henry, of Clear Lake, Minn.; Theresa (deceased); Elizabeth (first), who died in infancy ; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Nicholas Weis, of Clear Lake, Minn. ; Frank, of Clear Lake, Minn.; and Philomena, wife of Frank Hurrle, of St. Augusta.

John Sebastian Held, one of the substantial farmers and land owners of St. Augusta township, was born in Cleveland, Ohio, October 27, 1857, son of John and Barbara (Uenbeck) Heid, natives of Germany, who came to America as young people about 1855, were married in Cleveland, Ohio ; about 1859 moved to the copper region of Michigan, where he followed his trade as a cooper until 1869, then came to Minnesota and settled on a farm in St. Augusta township which he had purchased two years previous in section 32 ; broke and improved the land, erected his home and a set of outbuildings, and there lived until 1900 when they moved to Browerville, Todd county, Minn., where he died in June, 1909, after which she moved to St. Cloud, where she now resides. In the family there were eight children : John Sebastian, of St. Augusta township ; Thomas and Charles, of Browerville, Minn. ; Father Kilian, a teacher in the commercial department of St. John's University at Collegeville, this county ; Mary, now Mrs. Fred Shelar, of Maine Prairie township; Julia (deceased), Elizabeth, now Mrs. Henry Lommel, of St. Cloud; and Mollie, now Mrs. Joseph Eaton, of Browerville, Minn. John Sebastian Heid received a good education in the public schools of Michigan, and came with his parents to St. Augusta township in 1869. He worked with his father in agricultural pursuits until twenty-six years of age, when he purchased 170 acres in sections 31, 32 and 33, and engaged in farming on his own responsibility. He has brought his land to a good state of cultivation, has erected a suitable residence, and a substantial complement of other buildings. Aside from his original place he owns 133 acres in section 6, Fair Haven township, which he also operates. Mr. Heid is broad minded, a deep thinker, and a good farmer. He is a Democrat in politics, has done valuable service on the town board, and for the past six years has been treasurer of School District No. 36. He and his family are members of the Church of St. Wendelin, to which he is a liberal contributor. Mr. Heid was married September 26, 1885, to Gertrude Harren, born March 4, 1865, daughter of Joseph and Marthalena (Bauer) Harren, mention of whom appears elsewhere in this work. To Mr. and Mrs. Heid, eleven children have been born : Lena, now Sister Mary Adeline, 0. S. B., of Watkins, Minn. ; Barbara, who resides at home ; Christine, of St. Cloud ; Marie, bookkeeper at Rush City, Minn. ; Elizabeth, a student at St. Joseph

Seminary, St. Joseph, this county; Dora, a student at the St. Cloud State Normal School; and Mathilda, Angela, Bertha, John B., and Kilian, at home.

Henry Imholte, a prosperous farmer of St. Augusta township, was born on the farm where he still resides, January 11, 1864, son of Anton and Mary (Kemker) Imholte. The parents were born in Oldenburg, Germany, came to America in 1854, located in Cincinnati, Ohio ; came with the first German colony to Stearns county in 1856, took a homestead in the old town of St. Augusta, and two years later purchased eighty acres in section 3, St. Augusta township, where they erected a log cabin and outbuildings, and engaged in general farming, sharing with their neighbors the hardships of early pioneer life. They prospered with the years and added to their possessions until they had a good farm of 120 acres. In 1888 they retired and moved to the village of St. Augusta, where he passed away July 2, 1900 and she May 24, 1906. In this family there were eleven children, of whom seven are still living : Mary (deceased); Anton J., of Clear Lake, Minn.; Elizabeth, now Mrs. William Sheitz, of St Cloud ; John, of Clear Lake, Minn. ; Barney (deceased) ; Joseph, of Clear Lake, Minn.; Henry, of St. Augusta; Minnie, now Mrs. Casper Meahrens, of St. Cloud; Theresa (deceased) ; Annie (deceased) ; and Valentine, of Clear Lake, Minn. Henry Imholte received a good public school education and was reared to agricultural pursuits. For nine years he farmed in Sherburne county, this state. In 1888 he went to Colorado, but returned to St. Augusta in 1889, and purchased the old home farm of 120 acres in section 3. By hard work and a progressive spirit he has prospered greatly, having much improved the farm and buildings. In 1900 he erected a splendid brick residence, and he has also built a roomy barn. In addition to carrying on general farming he specializes in dairying, and raises some fine Guernsey cattle. Mr. Imholte has served six years as town treasurer. He is now treasurer of school district 34. He is a director in the St. Joseph Farmers' Mutual Insurance Co. Mr. Imholte was married October 1, 1895, to Annie Moeller, who was born May 28, 1873, and died January 7, 1908. She was a fine type of woman, a true and loyal wife and a loving mother. The children are : Magnus, born September 27, 1896; Frances, June 10, 1898; Norbert, June 20, 1900; Linus, November 17, 1902; Veronica, April 22, 1905; and Hilda, January 3, 1908. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Joseph Kronenberg, an early settler of St. Augusta township, was born in Germany, and there received a good education. Early in life he married Margaret Zuth, who throughout the years of their marriage proved a true wife and loving mother. Upon coming to America, they first located on a farm in section 25, St. Augusta, but a little later took up a homestead of 160 acres in section 22. He erected a comfortable home, and all necessary outbuildings for the housing of his crops, cattle and machinery, and became one of St. Augusta's representative farmers. He died September 8, 1888, and the good wife and mother died" July 20, 1898. Six children were born : Agnes, now Mrs. Henry A. Block, of St. Augusta; Margaret, now Mrs. Henry Pramann, of Fair Haven township ; Joseph; now of Fair Haven township ; John J., of St. Augusta township ; Johanna, now Mrs. Barney Meyer, of St. Cloud, and Ursus, now of St. Augusta township.

Ursus Kronenberg, a substantial farmer of St. Augusta, was born on his father's farm in section 22, this township, August 6, 1870, son of Joseph and Margaret (Zuth) Kronenberg. He received his education in the school in district 35, and farmed with his father until the latter 's death, when by the purchase of the various interests in the estate, he came into possession of the home place. He erected a good residence, barn, and outbuildings, and carried on general farming there until 1911, when he sold out and purchased his present farm of 160 acres in sections 29 and 30, to which he moved in the spring of 1912. One of the improvements he has m^de on this place has been the erection of a modern residence, equipped with a hot water heating system, and other conveniences. He is regarded as one of the most progressive men in his community. He has been supervisor for three years, and a member of the school board for two years. Mr. Kronenberg was married September 22, 1891, to Mary Weiler, who was born in the township of St. Augusta, July 13, 1869. They have six children: Mary M., born August 18, 1892; Arthur B., June 19, 1894; Clara A., December 16, 1896; Andrew J., July 27, 1898; Agnes F., September 9, 1904; Amelia M., April 9, 1906. Mrs. Kronenberg is the daughter of Jacob and Mary (Klein) "Weiler, who came to St. Augusta in an early day, settled in section 29, and took up general farming. Mr. Weiler died October 30, 1910. Mrs. Weiler lives in St. Cloud. They were the parents of thirteen children: Margaret (deceased) ; Elizabeth, now Mrs. William Schafer, of Santa Cruz, California; Cresentia, now Mrs. Henry Branch, of Rockville township ; Frances, now Mrs. John Schafer, of St. Cloud ; Anna, now Mrs. Stephen Schafer, of St. Augusta township; Agnes (deceased) ; Lucy, now Mrs. Peter Warner, of North Dakota; Katie, now Mrs. Christ Harren, of North Dakota; Nicholas, of Bellfield, North Dakota; Mary, now Mrs. Christ Kramer, of North Dakota; and Frank and Jacob, twins, of St. Cloud.

John Kloeppner, deceased, for many years a hard-working and respected farmer of St. Augusta township, was born in Ikesville, Germany, March 7, 1849, attended the public schools, was reared to agricultural pursuits, and grew to manhood. In 1880 he came to America, and shortly afterward found his way to Stearns county, where he purchased 160 acres of land in section 26, St. Augusta township. By industry and close application to business, he prospered and became one of the leading and representative farmers of the vicinity. He erected a good home and a substantial set of outbuildings, and in time increased his holdings to 240 acres. On this farm he toiled until he found rest in death, March 13, 1907. In politics he was a Democrat. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Mr. Kloeppner was married May 18, 1881, to Theresa Kilian, who was born in St. Cloud township, December 2, 1859, daughter of Henry Kilian, the pioneer, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work. To Mr. and Mrs. Kloeppner were born ten children: Elizabeth, now Mrs. Ferdinand Weber, of St. Cloud; Henry, of St. Augusta, married to Agnes Wolters; Theresa, now Mrs. David Borch, of Faribault, Minn. ; Helena, now Mrs. John Reischl, of St. Cloud ; Rose, now Mrs. Theodore Wolters, of St. Augusta, and Edward, Alphonse, Agnes, Hilda, and Martha who are on the home farm with their mother. Since the death of Mr. Kloeppner, Mrs. Kloeppner has continued to operate the home farm. She is a capable manager, a good business woman, and a kind and loving mother. Under her care with the help of the children many improvements have been made, and general farming operations are successfully conducted.

Bernard Kenning, one of the oldest living settlers of Stearns county, was born at Hanover, Germany, December 1, 1821, son of Arnold and Elizabeth (Heiker) Kenning, the former of whom died in 1835 and the latter in 1830. Bernard Kenning received his education in his native country, and there grew to manhood. In 1852 he came to America, and located in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he spent some three years and a half. Then after spending a summer in Iowa, he came to Minnesota in 1856, and located in the town of St. Augusta, where he purchased 160 acres of railroad land in section 9. Here he erected a rude log cabin, and underwent all the hardships of early pioneer days. By hard work he prospered. As means permitted he built a good residence and outbuildings, and added to his original possessions until he owned 600 acres of excellent land. He carried on general farming until 1908, when he retired and purchased a home in the village of St. Augusta, where he is now enjoying a well-earned rest after so many years of honest toil. At the age of ninetytwo years he is still hale and hearty, and at the time of this writing was found working in his garden patch digging potatoes. In his younger days he was active in public affairs, and served both as supervisor and as school treasurer. Mr. Kenning was married in the summer of 1859, to Margaret Schweiters, who was born in Germany, May 14, 1836, and died in St. Augusta, December 14, 1887. In the family there are ten children : Joseph and Henry, farmers in St. Augusta; Anna, now Mrs. Ferdinand Flory, of Princeton, Minn. ; Mary, now Sister Mary Benigna, C. P. P. S., of Bellevue, Ohio ; Elizabeth, who since the death of her mother has taken full charge of the home and looks after the needs and wishes of her aged father ; Barney, of St. Cloud ; Herman, who lives on the old home farm in St. Augusta, Philomena who is at home ; Bernadine, twin sister of Philomena, who is now Mrs. George Kiffmeyer, of St. Augusta ; John, of St. Paul ; and Bernard, who died in infancy. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Joseph Kenning, a well-known farmer of St. Augusta, was born in the township where he still resides, July 12, 1860, son of Bernard Kenning, the pioneer. He received his education in the public schools of his neighborhood, and remained at home until twenty-five years of age. Then he purchased a farm of 120 acres in section 9, St. Augusta. To this he later added 60 acres, so that he now has a splendid farm of 180 acres. He has built a fine residence, and a good set of barns and outbuildings, and his operations have been very successful. His interest in the advancement and development of the township and county has been many times demonstrated. He is a good farmer and a desirable citizen, and is well regarded in his community. On May 23, 1910, Mr. Kenning met with an unfortunate accident. He was grubbing land with an engine when the cable broke, crushing the lower half of his leg. November 24, he had the limb amputated. Undaunted by this disaster he purchased an artificial leg constructed along the latest approved lines, and he is now able to do as much work as ever. Mr. Kenning was married April 30,

Joseph J. Klaverkamp

1889, to Bernidena Bruns, who was born, April 15, 1867, in St. Augusta township, daughter of Henry and Lena (Eyles) Bruns, natives of Germany, who settled in St. Augusta township in 1860, the former dying in February, 1908, and the latter in May, 1906. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Kenning are : Anna, now Mrs. Barney Voigt, of St. Augusta; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Fred Meyer, of South Haven, Minn.; Frank (deceased), Leo (deceased), and Edward and Norbert, both at home. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Henry Kenning, a representative farmer of St. Augusta, was born in the township where he still resides, February 3, 1862, son of Bernard Kenning, the pioneer. Like the other youths of his time and location, he grew up on the farm, acquired a sturdy body by doing the chores usually allotted to farm boys, and secured a good education in the district schools. He learned farming from his father and remained at home until twenty-seven years of age. In 1889 he branched out for himself and purchased a farm in section 4, St. Augusta. He has prospered year by year, and now has a fine farm of 200 acres, constituting a place which in its houses, barns and other buildings, its crops and stock, its fences, equipment and tools, its meadows, fields and woodlands, speaks of his thrift, shrewdness, hard work, good taste and prosperity. In every way, Mr. Kenning is a good citizen, and his opinions are often sought and are highly valued by his neighbors. Mr. Kenning was married December 22, 1892, to Katrina Messraann, and they have five children, all living at home. They are Paulena, Minnie, George, Emeline and Frances. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Joseph Klaverkamp, an estimable citizen of St. Augusta, was born in Germany, September 30, 1849, son of Joseph and Sibilla (Knappmoeller) Klaverkamp, who spent the span of their years in the old country. Joseph received his education in Germany. As a youth he served in the German army, and also learned the carpenter trade. In the spring of 1875 he came to America, and after one month's sojourn in Wisconsin he came to Minnesota and located on section 13, St. Augusta. He worked hard, erected a good home and other buildings, and increased his holdings to 250 acres. Mr. Klaverkamp was married October 7, 1875, to Frances Schulte, who was born in Germany the same day that he was, and came to St. Augusta in the fall of 1875. They have had ten children : Barney, Joseph J., Mary, Fred, Hubert, Anna, Frances, Leo, Felix and Lena. Barney lives in St. Augusta. He married Clara Rosha, and they have five children: Olive, Irene, Edwin, Alvina and Lucile. Joseph J. is appropriately mentioned elsewhere. Mary is the wife of Zeno Moser, of Richmond, and they have three children : Aloysius, Lawrence and Loretta. Fred married Theresa Winkelraan. They live in Benton county, Minn., and have three children : Rosa, Adella and Anna. Anna is the wife of Andrew Voigt, of St. Augusta township. Hubert, Frances, Leo and Felix are at home. Lena died in infancy. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Joseph J. Klaverkamp, proprietor of the Hedge Grove Stock farm, one of the show places of St. Augusta, was born in the township where he still resides, September 26, 1877, son of Joseph and Frances (Sehulte) Klaverkamp, natives of Germany, who are appropriately mentioned elsewhere. Joseph J. attended the schools of St. Augusta, completing his education with courses in the St. Cloud State Normal School and in a business college in Sauk Centre. For several years he engaged in different occupations such as brick making, threshing and carpenter work. In 1905 he rented, and in 1907 purchased, 120 acres of his father's farm in sections 13 and 24. This farm he has greatly improved in every way. He has fenced nearly all of it anew, and has made the most of all its acres. In 1902 he erected a modern barn, and in 1913 a new silo, and from time to time he has put up smaller buildings as necessity required. The farm is prettily located, and is as well-kept as any in the township. Mr. Klaverkamp is a scientific farmer, a deep thinker, and a close student of his chosen calling. He takes great pride in his herd of Red Poll cattle in which he specializes both for beef and dairy purposes. He also specializes in Poland China hogs and they always command the best prices. Mr. Klaverkamp was married, June 6, 1906, to Gertrude Landwehr, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Landwehr, of St. Augusta. This union has resulted in three children : Veronica, born July 22, 1906 ; Alma, born February 22, 1911 ; and Magdaline, born April 23, 1913. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Joseph Loehrer, dairyman and agriculturist, now of St. Augusta township, was born in Fair Haven township, this county, July 27, 1875, son of Anton and Adeline (Benoit) Loehrer, the former a native of Switzerland and the latter of France. Anton Loehrer was by trade a millwright, a carpenter and a powder manufacturer. Upon coming to America, he located in St. Louis, Mo., where he followed his trades. In 1861 he enlisted in the Union Army, and served three years. It was in 1867 that he came to Stearns county, married, and took a homestead of eighty acres in the township of Fair Haven. Later he added eighty acres by purchase. In 1880 he purchased a farm in St. Augusta township, where he farmed until 1912, when he retired and moved to St. Cloud, where he died in November, 1913. Of their nine children, five are still living. They are: Adeline, now Mrs. Frank Mund, of Fair Haven township ; Joseph, of St. Augusta township ; Edward, of St. Cloud ; Anton, of St. Augusta township; and Lena, of St. Cloud. Joseph Loehrer received his education at home from his father, who was a school teacher in Stearns county for some twenty years. He remained at home until 1902, when he went to Pearl Lake, Rockville township, and there farmed until 1909, when he purchased his present farm of 120 acres in section 28. He was married, September 9, 1902 to Margaret Lemm, who was born in Rockville, this county, June 19, 1880, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph H. Lemm, the former of whom was a school teacher and merchant in Ohio, came to Rockville township in 1860, and was here a school teacher and farmer. Mr. Lemm sang in church choirs in Ohio and Minnesota for over fifty years. He died on his farm in Rockville township, April 10, 1910, and his wife still resides on the home place. They were the parents of twenty-one children. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Loehrer have five children : Anton, born June 3, 1903 ; Joseph, born May 23, 1904; Arthur, October 6, 1907; Paulena, July 13, 1909; and Law-

August Landwehr, an active farmer of St. Augusta, was bom in the township where he still resides, December 4, 1885, son of Barney and Barbara (Weyrauch) Landwehr. He attended the district schools of his native town, and took a course in the Vath Business College, at St. Cloud, as well as one year in the St. Cloud State Normal School. Then he engaged in agricultural pursuits with his father until 1910. At that time he rented from his father the farm on which he now resides, consisting of eighty acres in section 7, St, Augusta township, and forty acres in section 12, Rockville township. In 1913 he was enabled to purchase this farm. He is a progressive man, and a close student of his work. In addition to general farming he makes a specialty of stock breeding, raising Red Poll cattle and Poland-China hogs. He has not sought public office, but has done good service as road overseer. Mr. Landwehr was married May 3, 1910, to Henrietta Kloeppner, and they have two children, Paul and Norbert. The family faith is that of the Catholic Church.

Henry Weyrauch, one of the early settlers of Stearns county, was born in Germany, and there married Mary Brester. They came to America at an early day, and reached Stearns county with one of the first German colonies. They located in St. Cloud township, and became successful and influential farmers. Mr. Weyrauch died in December, 1880. Mrs. Weyrauch remained on the farm until 1901, when she moved to St. Cloud where she now lives. Of their thirteen children, twelve lived to adult years. They are : William, of Lynden township, this county; Barbara, now Mrs. Barney Landwehr, of St. Augusta ; Anna, now Mrs. Barney Goerger, of St. Colud ; John, of Raymond, Minn.; Henry, of St. Cloud; Mary (deceased) ; Barney of Minneapolis; Joseph, of St. Cloud; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Herman Kiffmeyer; of St. Cloud; Josephine, now Mrs. W. H. Landwehr, of St. Cloud ; Frances, now Mrs. Theodore Fischer, of St. Cloud; Lena, now Mrs. Joseph Berger; and Theresa, now Mrs. George Deering. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Henry Landwehr was born in German}^, served in the German army, and came to America at the age of twenty-four years. He married Gertrude Kiffmeyer, who was born in Germany, and came to America at the age of twenty years. In 1859 they came from Clinton county, Illinois, to St. Augusta township, where they purchased 160 acres in section 2, on which they engaged in agricultural pursuits until the death of Mr. Landwehr in 1881. The widow now lives in Oregon with her son, Henry. Mr. and Mrs. Landwehr had the following children : Henry, of Portland, Oregon ; Barney, of St. Augusta township ; August H., of North Dakota ; John who died December 12, 1893 ; Frank, of Sedan, Minn. ; William H., of St. Cloud ; and Mary, wife of William Goerger, of Jordan, Oregon.

Barney Landwehr, one of the solid representative farmers of St. Augusta township, was born in Germantown, now Carlyle, Clinton county, Illinois, August 31, 1858, a son of Henry and Gertrude (Kiffmeyer) Landwehr, by whom he was brought to St. Augusta in 1859. He attended the schools of his neighborhood, and early in life engaged in agricultural pursuits. He made a study of the soil, and by dint of hard work and close application to business he has made a success and is now one of the leading farmers of St. Augusta. Some years ago he purchased the home farm in section 2, consisting of 200 acres. He has made many improvements thereon, and the whole place shows thrift and foresight. Aside from the home farm, Mr. Landwehr owns a farm of 120 acres in Rockville township, this county. He makes a specialty of stock raising and dairy farming. His active interest in the affairs of the town has resulted in substantial progress, and he has held many township offices with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his fellowmen. He has been a member of the board of supervisors seven years; assessor five years; clerk of school district No. 34, twelve years; and at various times the occupant of minor offices. In politics he is a Democrat. His fraternal affiliation is with the Catholic Order of Foresters. June 1, 1880, Mr. Landwehr married Barbara Weyrauch, who was born in St. Cloud township, October 16, 1857. She has proven a capable wife and a loving mother. The children are as follows: Mary, wife of George Goettle, of Ward county. North Dakota; Gertrude, wife of J. J. Klaverkamp, of St. Augusta township ; Anna, at home ; August, of St. Augusta township ; Barbara, John, Clemens and Lorenz, at home.

Fred Meyer, proprietor of the Trout Brook Dairy farm, St. Augusta township, is a splendid example of the type of men who start life with no financial resources and by sheer pluck and hard work secured for themselves a leading place in the community. He was born in Germany, April 30, 1859, son of Fred and Adelaide (Moeller) Meyer, natives of Germany who came to America in 1885, located on a farm in St. Augusta township, and there became substantial citizens. The father still lives in St, Augusta township. The mother died in 1911. Fred Meyer received a good education in Germany, came to America in 1882, located in St. Augusta township, worked out three years, and then bought eighty acres in section 27. With this small beginning he increased in property and influence. His place consists of 360 good acres, on which the buildings have all been erected by himself. The brick residence and the array of barns and outbuildings are well arranged and sightly. In addition to the home farm, he owns twenty six acres in Fair Haven township. Mr, Meyer has given the town good service for over two decades as a member of the town board, part of the time as chairman. In the spring of 1914 he was elected town treasurer. He is also treasurer of school district 35. He belongs to the Farmers' Shipping Association of which he is one of the directors. Mr. Meyer was married September 16, 1886, to Theresa Kieke, born in St. Augusta township, December 22, 1861, and their children are John F., a farmer of Fair Haven township, married to Lizzie Kenning; Frank, Mary, Barney, Henry, Lena and Edward, The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

John Mayer, the oldest living merchant in St. Augusta, was born in Mercer county, Ohio, March 25, 1846, son of Balser and Elizabeth (Hagerdorn) Mayer, who came to St. Augusta township on October 7, 1865, purchased 160 acres in sections 13 and 24, and there followed farming the remainder of their days, the father dying in 1890 and the mother in 1905. John Mayer received a good public school education in the state of his birth, there grew to manhood, came to St. Augusta with his parents in the fall of 1865, and remained with his parents until 1882, when he opened a general store in the village of St. Augusta. For many years he carried a large stock of groceries, hardware, drygoods and clothing. Now his stock is somewhat smaller. He has been an active figure in the events of the neighborhood, and his voice and influence have ever favored those moves which had for their object the betterment of the town and county. He has consistently voted the Democratic ticket. Mr. Mayer was married January 25, 1881, to Ida Fietsam, and to this union there have been born seven children : John, who is at home with his father ; Sophia, now Mrs. Joseph Beumer; Amelia, who lives at home; Hermena, now Mrs. Andrew Woeste, of Arago, Minn. ; Pauline, now Mrs. John Hayes, of St. Cloud ; Flora, of St. Cloud; and Arthur, at home. The family faith is that of the Eoman Catholic Church.

George Messmann, one of the early substantial farmers of St. Augusta, was born in Germany, May 31, 1829, and as a youth became a cabinet maker, mastering all the details of that trade with an exactness and skill unknown in the present day. After coming to America he located in Cincinnati, Ohio, from which city he came to Stearns county in 1856. He was among the first of the large number of Germans who later populated the county and contributed to its importance. He spent his life in this county in St. Augusta, and died May 17, 1910. His wife, Theresa Wolters, died April 19, 1906. They had no children.

William F. Messmann, dairy farmer of St. Augusta, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, September 23, 1869, son of Fred and Mary (Rieman) Messmann. He lost his father when he was three years old and his mother when he was nine years old. In 1879 he was brought to St. Augusta by his uncle, George Messmann. When he was thirteen years old, he started out in life for himself. For five years he worked for farmers. At the age of eighteen he went to St. Cloud, and learned his trade as an engineer in the old city pumping station. Then he returned to St. Augusta township, and became engineer for the old "Neenah Mills." This also gave him an opportunity for learning the milling trade. At the end of seven years, he and his brother-in-law, Frank H. Beumer, purchased the mill. They conducted the mill together for five years. Then they traded the mill for farm property in Benton county, this state. Later Mr. Messmann sold out his interests to his partner. " He spent a vacation of six months in Denver and other Western points. Upon his return he entered the employ of Henry Hess, as an engineer, first for two years in the ''Neenah Mills," and then for two seasons in the brick yards. Subsequently he again became engineer at the St. Cloud pumping station. But he was after fifteen months called to St. Augusta by the illness of his iincle. At the time of his uncle's death. May 17, 1910, he came into possession of his uncle's property, and there he now carries on general farming, in connection with dairying of which he makes a specialty. Mr. Messmann was married April 28, 1891, to Theresa Beumer, and they have three children, Mary, Frank and Clara. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

William H. Schabel, one of St. Augusta's leading farmers, was born in the city of St. Cloud, August 7, 1865, son of Ignatz and Mary (Fueh) Schabel, natives of Germany, who came to America, settled in Ohio, were there married, kept a store, boarding house and place of refreshment, came to St. Cloud in 1865, purchased 107 acres in sections 19 and 20, St, Augusta township, and there followed farming the remainder of their days, the father dying January 8, 1884, and the mother October 1, 1898. In the family there were nine children: Mary, who died October 17, 1898; Joseph, of Holding, Minn., who has seven children, Mary, John, Katie, Gertrude, Nicholas, Lena and Edward ; Katie, now Mrs. Nicholas Hubarty, of Watkins, Meeker county, Minn., who has three children, Mary, William and John ; Louise, now Mrs. Mathias Scheifer, of Holding, Minn., who has two adopted children, Henry and Agnes ; John, of Graceville, Minn., who has eleven children, Annie, William, Joseph, Julia, Otelia, Frank, Johanna, Catherine, Theresa, John and Clara; William H., of St. Augusta; Wendelin (deceased); Valentine (deceased); and an unnamed infant (deceased). William H. received his early education in the schools of Luxemburg village. He then engaged in farming with his father. After his father's death he managed the home place for his mother. At the time of her death in 1898 he came into possession of the home place. He has added ten acres so that he now has 117 acres, on which he has made extended improvements, including a new house, barn, and outbuildings. He has made a success of general farming, and is progressive and well liked. He and his wife belong to the Central Insurance Co. Mr. Schabel was married January 29, 1895, to Anna Plachta, who was born in Germany, September 6, 1875. They have nine children: Wendelin (deceased), Valentine M., Oswald J., Clothilda C, Philomena M., Pauline A., Leonard W., Alma K. and Lucilla. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church. Mr. Schabel belongs to St. Wendelin 's Society, while his wife belongs to the Margueritta Society of St. Cloud, and the Christian Mothers' Society. Mrs. Schabel is the daughter of Casper and Theresa (Vesper) Plachta, natives of Germany who came to America in 1892, located at St. Cloud, soon moved to Collegeville, and there made their home for a few years while the father worked in St. John's University. He died August 1, 1903. The mother lives in St. Cloud. In their family there are seven children : Anna, now Mrs. William H. Schabel, of St. Augusta; Julia, now Mrs. Hubert Hansen, of Garrison, North Dakota; August, now Rev. Father August Plachta, of Royalton, Minn. ; Paulina, now Sister Mary Degnati, 0. S. B., Melrose, Minn. ; Frank, of Breckenridge, Minn. ; Theresa, now Sister Mary Cordelia, 0. S. B., at Richmond, Minn.; and John (deceased).

John Schlagheck, supervisor of St, Augusta township, was born in Ohio, February 9, 1865, son of Henry and Mary (Meyer) Schlagheek. The father was born in Germany and the mother in Ohio. They came to Stearns county in 1867, and engaged in agricultural pursuits. By toiling early and late they in due time became prosperous farmers and representative citizens. Of this family there are living four children : John, of St. Augusta ; Henry, of Wisconsin; Herman, of St. Cloud; and Minnie, now Mrs. Fred Michaels, of St. Cloud. Henry Schlagheek died in 1902 and his wife in 1913. John came to br. Augusta with his parents in 1867. He attended the district schools, was reared to farm pursuits, and for some years engaged in brick making on his father's farm. He next went to St. Cloud, and after working one year there purchased an ice business which he conducted for a year. After selling out there, he returned to St. Augusta, followed blacksmithing for a time, and then bought eighty acres of land, on which he successfully followed general farming. He built a good barn and other buildings, and improved the place in various other ways. In the spring of 1914 he sold his farm and purchased the old Beumer place at St. Augusta village where he now resides. In 1911 he was elected a member of the board of supervisors, a position which he still retains. Mr. Schlagheck was married, November 10, 1891, to Mary Beumer, born January 10, 1873, a daughter of Frederick Beumer. To Mr. and Mrs. Beumer four children have been born, Albert, Theresa, Martha and Masada. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Stephen J. Schafer, chairman of the board of supervisors of St. Augusta township, was born in Maine Prairie township, June 28, 1873, son of John and Margaret (Hoffmann) Schafer. John Schafer was born in Germany, and there attended the public schools. He came to America in 1860, lived in Minneapolis for a while, and came to Stearns county about 1864. He was married in St. Cloud, took up land in Maine Prairie township, and engaged in farming. He died October 18, 1904. His wife still lives in that township. In the family there were ten children : John, of Rockville township ; William, of Santa Cruz, California; Joseph, of Rockville township; Stephen J., of St. Augusta township ; Susan, now Mrs. Peter Meas, of Meeker county, Minnesota ; Peter of Cold Spring ; Mary, now Mrs. Anton Bauer, of Kenmare, North Dakota ; Katie, now Mrs. Bonaiice Hiltner, of Dresden, North Dakota ; Margaret, now Mrs. John Hiltner, of Dresden, North Dakota ; and Cecelia, who lives at home with her mother in Maine Prairie. Stephen J. Schafer received his education in the district schools of Maine Prairie. As a young man he went to Rolette county, North Dakota, where he proved up on a claim, and farmed five years. He was called home by his father's failing health, and took charge of the home place in Maine Prairie until 1907, when he purchased the old Weiler homestead of 160 acres in section 29, and sixty acres in section 19, St. Augusta township. He has erected a large barn, and made other improvements. In addition to carrying on general farming, he makes a specialty of raising Black Poll cattle, principally for beef purposes. He is one of the enterprising farmers of the community, and has been a member of the town board since 1908. Mr. Schafer was married November 23, 1897, to Anna Weiler, born June 10, 1877, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Weiler, a notice of whom appears elsewhere in this work. Mr. and Mrs. Schafer have three children living and one dead. Elenora was born in North Dakota, November 23, 1898 ; Valentine was born in North Dakota, March 7, 1902 ; Alphonse was born in Maine Prairie, Minn,, September 3, 1905; Frances was born May 15, 1910, and died the same day. The family worships at St. Wendel's Church.

Adolph Voigl;, one of the influential farmers of St. Augusta to^vnship, was born in Germany, February 21, 1869, a son of William and Theresa (Meyer) Voigt. The family came to America in 1879, located in St. Augusta township, purchased 200 acres in sections 11 and 12, and there established their home. William Voigt died December 27, 1881, and his wife and children conducted the farm until 1892, when the oldest son was given possession. Theresa (Meyer) Voigt died February 19, 1911. Adolph Voigt attended the schools of his . native town and of St. Cloud, and remained on the home farm until 1891, when he purchased 200 acres in sections 11 and 12. Six years later he added forty acres more, so that he now has a splendid place of 240 acres. He carries on general farming, has been successful in his operations, and has improved the place in various ways. He has not cared to mingle in public affairs, but consistently votes the Democratic ticket.

Mr. Voigt was married November 17, 1891, to Elizabeth Dorenkemper, a daughter of Fred and Gertrude (Plake) Dorenkemper. Mr. and Mrs. Voigt have two children, Hubert and Angeline. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Fred Dorenkemper was born in Germany and there married Gertrude Plake. They came to America, and reached Stearns county with an early German colony in 1856. They settled in sections 11 and 12, St. Augusta, and as the years passed became prosperous and progressive farmers. Mr, Dorenkemper died November 19, 1905, and his wife January 6, 1894. Their farm is now occupied by their son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Voigt.

William Voigt, a progressive farmer of St. Augusta, was born in Saxony, Germany, May 7, 1853, son of Ignatz and Mary K. (Glorious) Voigt. He received a thorough education in the land of his birth and there grew to manhood. In 1880 he came to America, located in the township of St. Augusta, and purchased the old Henry Messmann farm of 250 acres in section 11. Later he sold forty acres, leaving him a fine farm of 210 acres. Mr. Voigt 's untiring industry has resulted in success and prosperity. He broke the land, erected a suitable residence and a good set of outbuildings, and today is registered among the leading farmers of his community. Every acre of his farm shows his thrift, care and foresight. Mr. Voigt was married October 19, 1881, to Mary K. Messmann, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Messmann, the pioneers. Mrs. Voigt died November 23, 1905. The children are: John, Barney, Paul, Anna, Mary, Elizabeth, August, Tobey, Vincent and Alphonse. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Gerhard Wolters, for many years a respected farmer of St. Augusta, was born in Germany, in October, 1845, and there received a good education. In 1867 he came to America, and located in St. Augusta township. In time he purchased the Henry Fibbe farm of 200 acres in sections 7, 8 and 18, and became one of the solid men of the community. He died May 2, 1897. He was married November 22, 1869, to Philemina Fibbe, born April 9, 1855, daughter of Henry and Mary A. Fibbe, yyho settled near the mouth of Johnson's creek with a colony in 1854. Mrs. Wolters was the first white child born in St. Augusta township, and with the exception of short visits, has spent her life on the farm where she first saw the light of day. Mr. and Mrs. Wolters have had seventeen children : Gerhard, Jr., on the home farm ; Theresa, of St. Augusta; Ann (deceased); Mary (deceased); Henry (deceased); Clara, now

Mrs. Thomas Marsh, of St. Paul; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Arnold B. Ergen, of St. Augusta ; Dora, now Mrs. Henry Toenys, of Buckman, Minn. ; Theodore, of St. Augusta, twin brother to Dora ; Lena, now Mrs. John Toenys, of Buckman, Minn. ; Henry, John and Frank, of St. Augusta ; Agnes, now Mrs. Henry Kloeppner, of St. Augusta, twin sister of Frank ; Joseph and Josephine, twins, deceased; one not named (deceased). Gerhard Wolters, Jr., who conducts the home farm was born October 7, 1870, received a good education, and has devoted his life to farm work.

Rev. Father James Walcher, pastor of the Church of St. Mary, R. C, in St. Augusta, was born in Bavaria, Germany, December 14, 1867, son of John and Anna Walcher, who brought him to Stearns county in 1872. The boy, who afterward became Father "Walcher, received his early education in the district schools. In 1881 at Meire Grove the family joined the Catholic Church. In 1884 he entered St. John's University at Collegeville, in this county, and remained there until 1887. From 1888 to 1890 he taught school. From 1890 to 1896 he was a student at the Mt. Angel Seminary, at Mt. Angel, Oregon. In 1896 he again entered St. John's University to study theology, and in June, 1899, he was ordained priest by the Right Rev. Bishop James Trobec. For three years he was curate at Melrose. Then he was transferred to Alexandria, Minn., for two and a half years, later to Tintah, Minn., for four and a half years. In 1909, returning to Melrose he was given charge of St. Patrick's Parish at that place. October 18, 1911, he became pastor of his present parish.

Witschen Brothers are among the most modern and progressive farmers in St. Augusta township. Reared as they were to agricultural pursuits they have taken their deepest pleasure in watching the growing of stock and of crops, and few young men are better versed in all the science of farm life than are they. The founder of the family was Bernard Witschen, Sr. He came to America as a young man and for a time did railroad work in St. Louis. In 1856 he came to Minnesota, and found his way to Stearns county. Here he met and married Clara Berger, whose parents were also pioneers of this county. Mr. and Mrs. Witschen settled on a preemption claim of 160 acres in section 24, St. Augusta township. He erected a log cabin and started farming with one yoke of oxen. When the railroad came through from St. Paul to St. Cloud he assisted in its construction. Most of his life, however, was passed on the farm. To his original tract he added forty acres in section 23, and still another forty acres in section 34, making in all a splendid farm, on which he successfully carried on farming operations the remainder of his life. He erected a good house and commodious barns, and in time became one of the leading farmers in the community. He retained all of his farm except five acres; when he died in 1896 he left his children a comfortable competence as well as the heritage of a good life and a spotless name. His wife died in 1892. In the family there were five children : Bernard, Joseph, August, Henry and Elizabeth. Henry lives in St. Cloud, and Elizabeth is the wife of Frank Schindt, of Lynden township. Bernard, Joseph and August constitute the partnership known as the Witschen Brothers. Bernard was born November 8, 1871 ; Joseph was born November 14, 1875 ; and August was born July 14, 1877. When the father died he left his property to his children in five equal shares. Bernard bought out the shares of Henry and Elizabeth, so that he now owns three-fifths of the property, and Joseph and August each one-fifth. The three brothers work the farm together except during the summer seasons, when August is employed as a bricklayer. They have greatly improved their farm in every way and their stock and equipment are of the best. They believe in modern methods and they are hard workers, and their splendid place with its sightly buildings, its well-kept fences, its spreading and well-tilled acres, its sleek stock, its supply of implements and tools, and its automobile is in striking contrast to the early days when their father lived in a log cabin and worked with a yoke of oxen. The three young men have never married. They keep house for themselves, and it would be hard to find anywhere three more contented men, or better fellows, or more progressive farmers, than these same Witschen brothers.

Stephen Zenner, one of the representative men of St, Augusta township, was born in Germany, in 1856, son of Philip and Mary (Rausch) Zenner, also natives of Germany. The mother died in the old country. The father came to America in 1861, and located in St. Augusta township, where he acquired eighty acres of land in section 30. Later he added eighty acres more and became a substantial land owner. He died in 1889. The children are : Henry, a retired farmer of St. Cloud; Stephen, of St. Augusta township; Mathias, of Buckman, Minn.; Margaret, of St. Augusta, widow of Jacob Lemm; and Barbara (deceased). Stephen received his education in the district schools, and farmed with his father for several years. He first started farming for himself on eighty acres, which he purchased from his father in Rockville township. Later he sold that tract and purchased 158 acres in Maine Prairie township. There he followed farming until 1910, when he sold out and purchased 39I/4 acres in section 19, St. Augusta township, where he still resides. He also owns a good farm of 153 acres in the same township, which is now operated by his son, Mathias. Mr. Zenner is a worthy citizen in every way. He served for some time as school treasurer. Mr. Zenner was married February 27, 1878, to Margaret Scheifer, born May 17, 1859, and they have had seven children: Mathias, a farmer of St. Augusta; Paul, at home; Clara, now Mrs. Joseph Pohl; Barbara, now Mrs. Henry Henz; Gertrude (deceased); Susan, now Mrs. Thomas Finnemann ; and Pauline, at home. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church.

Henry Scheifer was born in Germany and there married. In 1860 he and his wife, Clara, came to America, and located in St. Augusta township, this county, and engaged in farming. At the outbreak of the Civil War he enlisted. During that conflict he M^as taken prisoner and died in a southern prison. His wife died in 1900. Their children were : Mary (deceased) ; Gertrude, wife of Peter Mohs, .of St. Martin township; Mathias, of Holdingford; Katie (deceased); Margaret, wife of Stephen Zenner, of St. Augusta; and Susan, wife of Paul Rausch, of St. Cloud.

John Weber, a capable farmer of St. Augusta township, was born in Luxemburg, May 10, 1844, son of Peter and Anna Katrina (Schurahan) Weber, also natives of Luxemburg. The parents came to America in 1855, took a claim of 160 acres in St. Augusta township, erected a log cabin, started life in the wilderness, and later became prosperous and successful, erecting a good house and outbuildings, and increasing their holdings to 320 acres. The father died in March, 1889, and the mother in January, 1883. In the family there were five children: John, of St. Augusta township; Nicholas (deceased) ; Anna, now the widow of John Plattes, of St. Cloud; Katherine, now Mrs. John Hammerel, of St. Cloud; and John Nicholas (deceased). John Weber received his education in Germany, was brought to St. Augusta township by his parents in 1855, and has since lived continuously on the same farm. He and his father farmed in partnership for many years. He bought the home farm a short time before the father's death. He now has 417 acres located in sections 5, 6 and 28, and has made many improvements of various kinds, in lands and buildings. He is far sighted, a hard worker, and a real leader among the people. The march of human affairs, whether ancient or modern, has been the subject of his special thought and observation, and he is a pleasant conversationalist on all subjects of historic and modern significance. He was chairman of the town for two years, and treasurer of School District No. 37, for some thirty-three years. Mr. Weber was married, June 26, 1875, to Cuniguta Hartmann, who was born in St. Cloud township, July 26, 1855. Mr. and Mrs. Weber have fifteen children : Peter, of St. Cloud ; Ferdinand, of St. Cloud, who married Lizzie Kloepner, and has three children : Loretta, Louise and Alfred ; Anne, now Mrs. Robert Ford, of Washington ; Susan, who married Michael Hammerel, of St. Cloud, and has two children: Marcella and Clarence ; Michael, of St. Cloud ; John, twin brother of Nicholas, killed by a dynamite explosion near Fargo, North Dakota; Nicholas, now of Flaxville, Montana, who married Anna Lemm, and has one son, Harold ; Rosa, now Mrs. Louis Heimans, of St. Cloud township ; Margaret, who married Ignatius Lemm, of Duluth, and has one son. Homer Francis ; Amelia, of Duluth ; Charles, of Farmington, Minn. ; Arthur, of Washington ; Leo, of St. Cloud ; Paul, who died at nine years of age, and Margaret (first), who died in infancy. The family faith is that of the Roman Catholic Church. Mrs. John Weber is the daughter of Ferdinand and Margaret (Schlerer) Hartmann, natives of Germany, who came to the United States, located in Buffalo, New York; and in 1854, came to St. Cloud township with the earliest settlers. The mother died in 1888. The father was killed in a runaway accident in 1894. The five children living are : Cuniguta, Philip, Susan, Katie and Charles.

Christ Walkley was born in Maryland in January, 1834, came to St. Augusta township in 1856, and since that time has been engaged continuously in farming in section 31. He married Emma Roach, in December, 1861. She died January 15, 1895. They had twelve children : Ida, Alice, Nettie, Carrie, Rose, Martha, Mary, Grace, Eugene, George, James and Oscar.

John Schenk was born in Germany in 1830, came to America in 1853, lived five years in Louisville, Kentucky, came to St. Augusta township, in 1858, engaged in farming until 1912, and then sold to his daughter with whom he now lives, on the old homestead. He was married in 1855 to Helena Braun, and of their seven children two are living. Mr. Schenk served both on the town and school boards.

Peter Maus was born in Prussia, Germany, December 24, 1832, and came to America in 1854, being 163 days on the ocean. He lived in Henry county, Ohio, for two years and in 1856 came to Stearns county and located on a farm in St. Augusta township in 1858, since which time he has devoted his life to farming. In the early days he was a school teacher. He served as chairman, supervisor, road overseer and school clerk. In February, 1863, he married Margaret Diedrick, who was born in Prussia, December 6, 1840. Their ten children are : Anna, John, Elizabeth, Susan, Kate, Nicholas, Peter, Mary, Margaret and Henry C.

Stephen Strack was born in Germany, October 16, 1859, and came to America in 1868, with his parents, Philip and Gertrude (Diedrick) Strack. He attended the district schools and became one of the leading farmers. He is secretary and treasurer of the Luxemburg Creamery Co., of which he was one of the organizers. For three years he was chairman of the town board. Mr Strack was married February 8, 1882, to Kate Theilen, and they have fifteen children: Anna, Anton, Joseph, John, Mary and Nicholas (twins), Christina, Gertrude, Matilda, Alphonse, Andrew, Sylvester, Veronica, Thomas (deceased), and Katie (deceased).

Wilbur F. Fisk, an estimable citizen and worthy pioneer, now deceased, was born in Lunanberg, Vermont, September 10, 1830, son of Henry and Lucinda (Keys) Fisk, who came of a distinguished family prominent in the annals of the Methodist Episcopal Church. About 1835 the family moved to Whitefield, N. Y., where the father died in 1858, and the mother in 1847. In 1851, Wilbur F. Fisk went to Peterboro, N. H. Later he returned to his birthplace. It was in 1857 that he came to Minnesota. He reached Clearwater June 10, and soon after that took in that vicinity the claim that thereafter continued to be his home. February 14, 1865, he enlisted in Company E, First Minnesota Heavy Artillery, and was assigned to garrison duty at Nashville, Tenn., where he was mustered out, September 21, 1865. He then returned to his farm, took up the round of daily duty, and became a leading and substantial citizen. He died December 23, 1904. Mr. Fisk belonged to that class of men who honestly, faithfully and quietly meet the everyday duties of life, and who make up the solid and safe element of citizenship upon which the nation's prosperity mainly rests. He was a prominent member of the Old Settlers' Association. Mr. Fisk was married May 9, 1867, to Sarah M. Townsend, and they had two daughters: Lillian Estella and Sarah Emily. Lillian Estella married Azro Darling and they have four children : Sarah E., Howard F., Edith E. and Ira A. Sarah Emily married Willard Dakin, and died in 1909, leaving two children, Willard F. and Marguerite E.

Sarah M. Townsend, noAV Mrs. Wilbur F. Fisk, is the daughter of Alvin and Harriet (Patrick) Townsend, natives of Pennsylvania. Alvin Townsend was a carpenter by trade. In 1855 he came to Minnesota, and settled in Lynden township, where he secured a part of what is now the Clifford place. The following year his wife and his daughter, Sarah M., came, making the trip from St. Paul in a wagon. Mrs. Fisk is an estimable woman, a good wife and mother, and a good housewife, noted for her hospitality and cheerful temperament, as well as for her abilities as a home maker. She is a member of the Old Settlers' Association, also a member of the Charles Gibbs Circle, No. 11, G. A. E-., Clearwater, Minn, She is a communicant of the Congregational Church. Recently she has taken a homestead claim in North Dakota.

Henry Kiffmeyer, a leading citizen residing on his splendid farm in Lynden township, was born in Richmond, Stearns county. May 10, 1862, son of Bernard and Elizabeth (Landwehr) Kiffmeyer. Bernard Kiffmeyer was born in Westphalia, Germany, October 3, 1834. In the early fifties he came to America and came west to Illinois. It was about 1854 or 1855 when he started for Minnesota. He drove an ox team all the way, leading his cattle. He first took a homestead in Richm.ond, in "Wakefield township, this county. There they lived for several years. It was in 1865 when they moved to St. Augusta, and purchased a tract in sections 1 and 2. In his latter years, Bernard Kiffmeyer sold this farm and moved to the village of St. Augusta, where he died September 1, 1906. In the family there were twelve children : Henry, Barney (deceased), Herman, Gertrude, Elizabeth, Mary, John, Theresa, Annie, George, Lena and Rose. Henry Kiffmeyer was reared on the home farm, and was educated in the old log house where Henry Krebs kept school. When he was twenty-four years of age he bought 160 acres of wild land in sections 28 and 29, Lynden township, and on it built a shack in which he lived for about a year. Then he erected his present sightly residence. He has also erected a good barn, and other sheds and outbuildings. The farm embraces 200 acres and in addition to this Mr. Kiffmeyer owns another farm of 160 acres. He is a prosperous, progressive man, a desirable citizen in every respect, one who has assisted materially in the development of the community. Mr. Kiffmeyer married Mary Ergen, daughter of Arnold and Frances (Daub) Ergen, and they have seven children: Joseph (deceased), Arnold, William, Pauline, Sophia, Balbina and Edwin. Pauline married Earl Storm. Sophia married George Thole.

Benjamin F. Lyons, a leading and influential farmer of Lynden township, was born in St. Paul, September 12, 1856, son of Benjamin T. and Lydia (Wince) Lyons. He came to Lynden township with his parents shortly after his birth, was reared on the home farm, and attended school in District No. 53, one of his teachers being D. D. Storms. As he reached manhood, his father presented him with a farm of ninety-seven acres. To this he has added from time to time, and has at intervals erected suitable buildings, until he now has a splendid place, well improved in every way. He has the best of equipment and successfully carries on general farming and dairying. Mr. Lyons is one of the progressive farmers of Lynden. He is particularly interested in the welfare of his community and has done good service on the town board. For many years he has been a prominent member of the Old Settlers' Association. Benjamin F. Lyons married Ann Mitchell, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Deacon) Mitchell, and they have five children: Maria J. (wife of Waite Hoskins), James L., W. Hamline, A. Elizabeth and Esther M. The family faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Clearwater, in which Mr. Lyons has been an official for many years.

Benjamin T. Lyons, one of the earliest settlers of Lynden township, is remembered as one of the founders of the countj^. His memory is honored and revered throughout the community in which he lived, and his kindly influence still lives in his descendants. He was born on a southern plantation in Warrentown, Virginia, and as a youth found his way to Ohio. He was there married, October 15, 1839, to Lydia Wince, also of Virginia, and settled down to farm life in Newark, Licking county, Ohio. In 1854 they moved to Illinois, and located in Champaign county. It was in 1856 that they set out for Minnesota with two yoke of oxen, one pair of horses, one cow and a colt. They reached St. Paul September 10, and camped for a month on the present site of that city. In October they drove to Clearwater, and secured 160 acres in section 17, Lynden township. The family took up their home in two log cabins, equipped with an old fashioned fire place. They had lost their freight, and had to make the best of such home made furniture as they could manufacture. The beds were made by boring holes in the walls and driving in stout poles for a frame. About three years after their arrival the family moved to section 6, in the same township, where they secured 160 acres of wild land. Here they also lived in a log house, and stabled their stock in a log barn. Later other buildings were erected. Benjamin T. Lyons died November 27, 1888. He was born December 11, 1814. His wife died July 27, 1877. She was born January 16, 1816. He was a staunch Democrat in politics and held many offices. He was an official in the Methodist Episcopal Church. Benjamin T. Lyons was the son of Robert and Sarah (Tolson) Lyons. Robert Lyons was a native of Virginia, a southern planter, and a soldier of the War of 1812. The Tolsons were also well-to-do Virginia planters. Lydia Wince was the daughter of Jacob and Ann (Hittle) Wince. Jacob Wince was a Virginia farmer. In 1840 he moved his family to Ohio, and settled in Licking county. It is interesting to note that when Benjamin T. Lyons came North, three of his brothers, Henry, Robert and John, remained in the South. Henry became a Baptist clergyman. Robert and John joined the Confederate army. Robert was killed at the Battle of Winchester. John, who served as lieutenant, was wounded and taken prisoner. Lieutenant John Lyons also had a son, who served in the Confederate army. On the Union side, Benjamin T. Lyons had two sons, John and James Lyons, who did valiant service for the Stars and Stripes. They fought on the Union side at the battle in which their Uncle Robert was killed.

William Henry Lyons, for many years a conspicuous figure in the life and progress of Lynden township, was born in Licking county, Ohio, June 2, 1840, son of Benjamin T. and Lydia (Wince) Lyons. He received a good education in Ohio, and was taken by his parents to Champaign county. 111., in 1854. He came to Stearns county with his parents in 1856, underwent with them the rigors of pioneer life, and under the tuition of his father became a proficient farmer. In October, 1862, at the age of twenty-two years, he enlisted in Company D, First Minnesota Mounted Rangers, and was sent to the Northwestern frontier aganist the Indians. In November, 1863, he was honorably discharged for disability. Then he returned to Lynden, and worked on the home farm until 1882. In the meantime he had taken a homestead in section 6, Lynden township. In 1882 he was married, and he and his good wife moved onto this farm and started life together. In 1885 the home and other buildings were destroyed by fire, but undaunted by this disaster, they erected a new home, and barns, and continued their work. Prosperity crowned their efforts and they were numbered among the most honored and respected members of the community. The farm was increased to 193 acres, and the thrift, energy and good taste of the owners was everywhere apparent. In the Old Settlers' Association they took deep pleasure, and were very active at all of its meetings. After a life filled with good deeds, he died April 1, 1906, as the result of being injured while working about a circular saw. His remains are laid at rest in the Acacia Cemetery, in Lynden township. A man of quiet habits, of upright character, and for more than thirty years a consistent and faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, he was held in high esteem by his friends and neighbors. William Henry Lyons was married October 26, 1882, to Susanna M. Mitchell, born in County Leitrem, Ireland, June 28, 1853, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Deacon) Mitchell. To Mr. and Mrs. Lyons have been born six children : Lydia E., Samuel W., John A., Henry B., Susanna Jane and George R. Lydia E. is a graduate of the St. Cloud High School, and is a proficient teacher. Samuel W. and John A. conduct the home farm. Henry B. graduated from the Clearwater High School, took a special course in engineering at the Southern Minnesota Normal College at Austin, Minn., and is now a successful teacher. Susan Jane is a graduate of the Clearwater High School and is likewise a competent teacher. George R. is a student in the Clearwater High School.

James M. Lyons, a most estimable citizen of Clearwater village, has had his share in the progress and development of the community, and is highly regarded by all with whom he comes in contact. He was born in Licking county, Ohio, August 19, 1846, son of Benjamin T. and Lydia (Wince) Lyons, the pioneers. With them he went to Champaign county, 111., in 1854, and with them came to Lynden township, this county, in 1856. He was reared amid pioneer conditions, and learned agricultural pursuits from his father. On February 26, 1864, he enlisted in Company E, Eighth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and served until July 1, 1865, being discharged at Charlotte, N. C, and mustered out at Ft. Snelling. For several years thereafter he devoted his time to various pursuits, including logging and rafting. Later he took a homestead in Fair Haven township, and bought 120 acres in section 5, Lynden township. He there erected a shack and engaged in farming about ten years. He then purchased 160 acres in section 9, Lynden township. This farm he improved and developed, adding forty more acres, and bringing the place to a high degree of cultivation. In 1900 he rented the farm, and purchased a residence in the village of Clearwater. For several years he was the village marshal. On August 24, 1913, he purchased his present establishment. He sells ice cream, confectionery, canned goods, cigars and tobacco, and conducts a restaurant and lunch room. He has built up a good business, and has proven himself the right man for the place. Mr. Lyons has been interested in many movements and organizations, and is senior vice commander of the A. C. Collins Post, No. 112, G. A. R., of Clearwater.

Mr. Lyons was married September 19, 1878, to Mary F. Ridley, who was born in Silver Creek, Wright county, September 17, 1862. Mrs. Lyons has proven a most capable helpmeet throughout their married life. She is an energetic manager, a keen business woman, and a good wife and understanding mother. Mr. and Mrs. Lyons have two children: Frank D. and Elsie May. Frank D. lives in Minot, North Dakota. He married Jennie Simley and they

Elsie May lives on the old homestead. She married Charles Lumley, and they have five children : Lucile, Margaret, Charles, George and Vernon.

Mrs. James M. Lyons is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L. Ridley, natives of Maine. They came to Minnesota in the early days, lived for a while in Minneapolis, and then came to Silver Creek township, Wright county, where they engaged in agricultural pursuits. Mr. Ridley died in 1865 and his wife in 1868. Aside from Mrs. Lyons there was in the family one son, Victor E. Ridley, of Sand Point, Idaho.

Homer T. Heaton, a successful farmer of Lynden township, was born in Waterbury, Green county, Vermont, July 16, 1851, son of Tertius and Fatima (Perkins) Heaton, natives of Vermont, who came west to Wisconsin in 1857, and in 1859 to Stearns county, where they located in Lynden township, and here spent the remainder of their lives. Homer T. Heaton came to Lynden township with his parents, attended school here, and has devoted his life to farming. He has been a successful farmer and has a good place of 175 acres, which he has improved and developed in various ways, erecting all the buildings himself. Mr. Heaton was married April 3, 1880, to Ida M. Slattery, and they have seven children: Mollie, now Mrs. Clarence Bentley; Kate Pearl, now Mrs. Willard Clayton ; James ; Fay A. ; Jennie, now Mrs. Clarence A. Miller; Hollis E. and Blanche.

Clarence A. Miller, a splendid example of the modern type of farmer, was born in Lynden township, July 23, 1883, on the homestead where he still resides. His parents were Daniel D, and Harriet (Dawson) Miller. He attended the district schools and learned farming from his father. While still a young man living with his parents, he bought eighty acres in section 20, adjoining the homestead, and by hard work and untiring effort cleared and grubbed it, and brought it to a high stage of cultivation. On his father's death he also came into possession of the homestead, so that he now has a fertile farm of 160 acres, where he successfully carries on general farming. He is of the progressive type, and aims to follow the most modern methods of agricultural science. He has erected a new barn and outbuildings, and is now planning a modern residence. He is especially interested in good stock, and he is well started toward a full blooded herd of cattle and drove of swine. Mr, Miller is constable of the township. He and his wife are justly popular among their many friends and neighbors, and their home is one of the most hospitable to be found in Lynden. Mr. Miller was married, December 5, 1911, to Jennie Heaton, daughter of Homer T. and Ida M. (Slattery) Heaton.

Daniel D. Miller, now deceased, one of the early settlers of Lynden township, was born in Ohio, April 6, 1843, and was there married April 9, 1867, to Harriet Dawson, who was born in the same state, May 16, 1845. It was in 1867 that they came to Minnesota and settled in Lynden township, where he purchased the rights of a homesteader who had settled in section 20. He opened up a good farm, broke and grubbed the land, and erected a splendid set of buildings. In course of time it was discovered that the farm contained an excellent quality of lime stone, and for several years Mr. Miller successfully engaged in lime burning. His latter years, however, were devoted to farming. He was always loyal to the town, held many town and school offices, and was highly respected by all who knew him. He died June 1, 1908. His wife died July 16, 1911. Mr. and Mrs. Miller had ten children : E. C, Carrie L., Lee N., Ella, Edna, William B., Clarence A., Lottie L., Olive and Hattie. E, C. is a prominent citizen of Lynden. Carrie L. married Samuel Stokes, of Lynden township. Lee N. lives in Clearwater, He married Laura Livingston, who died in October, 1912, after being terribly burned, leaving three children. Ella lives in Annandale. She married F. N. Nugent, and they have four children. Edna lives in Clearwater, Wright county. She married Orville A. Smith, and they have three children. William B. lives in Canada. Clarence A. lives on the home farm. He married Jennie Elizabeth Heaton, Lottie L. lives in Clearwater, Wright covinty. She married Fred Dixon. Olive lives in Clearwater. She married Hughgene Dixon, and they have two children. Hattie, twin sister to Edna, died at the age of two months.

Ernest C. Miller, a prosperous and scientific farmer of Lynden, was born in Fair Haven township, February 4, 1868, son of Daniel D. and Harriet (Dawson) Miller. He was brought to Lj^nden township when only a few months old and has since continued to reside here. He attended the public schools, learned farming from his father, and remained on the home farm until 1886. Then he purchased 40 acres in section 16. Later he purchased eighty acres more. All this land was wild. He cleared, grubbed and broke it himself, and has brought it to a high degree of cultivation. He also erected a good house and sightly barns, doing nearly all the carpenter work himself. Year by year he has achieved prosperity until now he is one of the leading men of his community. He is a hard worker, a deep thinker, a wide reader and a good business man. His farming is conducted along the lines of the latest discoveries. His herd of mixed Jerseys have brought him a large income, producing the best of milk and cream. His Poland-China swine are also the pride of the neighborhood. He has also achieved good results with the usual crops, Mr. Miller, with all his busy life, finds time to devote to public affairs, and he has been director for some years of School District No. 169, as was his father before him. He was one of the members that aided in incorporating the Clearwater Co-operative Creamery, and is also a member to the Farmers' Club, Mr. Miller was married March 30, 1895, to Mary S. Meacham, who was born in Osseo, Minn., June 5, 1877. This union has been blessed with five children : Morris Alvin, born April 12, 1896 ; Theodore Willis, born April 9, 1900, and died two months later; Julia Olive, born September 14, 1906; Floyd Clifford, born April 30, 1908; and Effie Adelia, born April 15, 1910. Mary S. Meacham, now wife of Ernest C. Miller, is the daughter of William M. and Julia (Chinver) Meacham. William H. Meacham was descended from the Meacham family, which dates in America from 1613, and figures prominently in the Colonial annals. He was the father of six children: John N. of Long Beach, California; Mary S., wife of Ernest C, Miller; Agnes, wife of

Henry Jones, of Minneapolis; Adelia, wife of William Delaney, of St. Paul; Rachael, wife of Alva Newman, of Fair Haven township; and Nettie, a half sister to the others.

William Mitchell and his good wife, Elizabeth Deacon, were born in County Leitren, Ireland, there received their education, grew to adult years, and were married. After being married for some years, William Mitchell determined to seek for himself and family the wider opportunities and greater freedom of the new world. Consequently in February, 1865, he set sail for America. On reaching New York he at once enlisted in a New York regiment, and was sent south. He was honorably discharged at the close of the conflict at Cloud's Mills, Virginia. Upon his return to civil life he came at once to Stearns county, and took a homestead in Fair Haven township. In July, 1866, his wife and children joined him. After proving up on the homestead he moved to Lynden township, and purchased eighty acres in section 5, Lynden township, where he built up a place which, for that time, was an unusually good one. He became one of the leading men in the community, and died in 1872. To Mr. and Mrs. William Mitchell were born seven children : Susanna M., now Mrs. William Lyons, of Lynden; Eliza Jane (deceased) ; Alexander, of Lynden ; Ann, now Mrs. B. F. Lyons, of Lynden ; John, of Lynden ; Samuel (deceased) ; and W. L. P., of Montana. The youngest son was born in Fair Haven, and the rest in Ireland.

Mitchell Brothers. That the farmer is the backbone of the nation is an expression often used, and as the years pass by it is increasing in meaning. The man who develops a farm, and by toiling early and late thereon, provides food for the use of the human race, is taking an important part as a producer, and is helping to solve one of the greatest problems of mankind. Among those who have devoted their lives to the advancement of agricultural conditions in this county may be mentioned Alexander and John Mitchell, widely known as the efficient proprietors of the Lake Maria Stock & Grain Farm, formerly known as the Poplar Grove Stock & Grain Farm. The place is located in sections 5 and 32, Lynden township, and its many natural advantages have been brought to the highest stage of perfection by cultivation, intelligence and care.

Alexander Mitchell was born in 1858 and John Mitchell in 1862. They were born in County Leitren, Ireland, sons of William and Elizabeth (Deacon) Mitchell. The parents came to America in 1866 and located for a short time in Fair Haven township, this county. Then they came to Lynden township, and here the father farmed until his death in 1872. For several years thereafter the mother, and the sons and daughters operated the place. Then John and Alexander bought out the interests of the other heirs, and became the sole owners and proprietors. They are of the most progressive type of farmers, and their success is due to their hard work, their intelligent enthusiasm, and their strictly honest business principles. Their farm, which consists of 350 acres, is one of the best in Lynden. They have erected a modern dwelling, and some splendid barns and other outbuildings. John Mitchell has served as supervisor of the township of Lynden for ten years. He was married June 24, 1908, to Mary E. Ross, who was born in Ontario, Canada, April

Mr. And Mrs. John Mitchell

22, 1877. She moved to St. Cloud in early childhood, with her parents, where she grew to womanhood. She is a graduate of the St. Cloud High School, also of the advanced course of the St. Cloud Normal. She taught successfully in the public schools of Minnesota for a period of ten years previous to her marriage.

Frederick J. Ponsford, a well-known resident of Lynden township, was born in Herkimer county, New York, December 22, 1856, and there spent the first four years of his life. It was in 1860 that he came to Clearwater, in Wright county, with his parents, Joseph and Sarah (Vaur) Ponsford. Joseph Ponsford, the father, took a claim of 160 acres, lying partly in Clearwater township, Wright county, and partly in Lynden township, Stearns county. There he successfully farmed for many years, and there his wife died. He died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Orin Dorsey, in Lynden. Frederick J. Ponsford was reared on the home farm. In 1885 he purchased 160 acres of railroad land in section 29, Lynden township, and on this tract he still lives. He has developed an excellent place, erected a comfortable home and suitable outbuildings, and successfully carries on general farming. Mr. Ponsford married Minnie Beilstein, a native of New York state, and they have four children: Walter, Leroy, Mabel and Archie. Walter married Maude Smith and they have had three children : Ruth and Vernon living, and Glenn, who died at two years of age. Leroy married Blanche Phillips, and they have had four children : Vivian and Wendell, living, and Arnold and Stanley, who died at the age of about one year. The family faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

D. D. Storms, educator, agriculturist and man-of-affairs, was born in Hannibal, Oswego county. New York, August 17, 1839, son of John Post and Elizabeth (Dady) Storms, natives respectively of New Jersey and Massachusetts. The father was a hatter by trade, but also carried on agricultural operations. He and his wife lived for several years in Oswego county. New York, and in 1860 moved to Paterson, New Jersey, where they spent the remainder of their days, D. D. Storms received his early education in the public and select schools of Hannibal, and completed his studies at the Academy, at Rome, New York. With this preparation he became a teacher, surveyor and farmer. When he first taught he received $14 a month, and boarded around at the different homes. In 1860 he came west to Onarga, Iroquois county, Illinois, to visit his brother, and there he taught school for a short period. But the Civil War broke out and he enlisted in the Band of the Twenty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. About eight months afterward the band was abolished and Mr. Storms returned to New York state. For some years he taught school winters and farmed summers. In 1867 he started for Denver, Colorado, but on the way stopped to visit his uncle, the Rev. William Dady, who was then preaching at Clearwater. Mr. Storms was so impressed with the advantages of this locality that he abandoned his trip to Denver, partly on account of the Indian outbreak on the plains, and purchased 160 acres of land in section 30, Lynden township, this county. For this tract he paid $700. The land was wild and covered with brush. He broke and grubbed the land, built his home and a set of buildings, and engaged in farming. He also became one of the leading school teachers of the county. Thus teaching and farming, his industry, his strong will and his ability won him success and he became an important factor in Stearns county life. His first house was rebuilt from an old wagon shop which he moved from Clearwater. This, however, soon gave way to more commodious structures. In addition to his original purchase he bought forty acres of railroad land and homesteaded eighty acres of government land. On his large farm, thus acquired, he lived for many years. In 1904 he retired from the more strenuous duties of farm life and turned the home place over to his son, Frank F. In 1907-08 he was at the Standing Rock Indian Reservation, in North Dakota, with headquarters at Fort Yates, as industrial teacher to the Indians. In the spring of 1914 Frank F. Storms built a cottage home next to the old home, and D. D. Storms now resides with him. D. D. Storms has taken a deep interest in the affairs of his township, and his opinions are eagerly sought and looked upon with the utmost respect. He has served for a long period as clerk of the school board. For some twenty years, at different periods, he has been assessor. He has also been justice of the peace and town supervisor. He is a member of Clearwater Lodge, No. 28, A. F. & A. M., and has been especially active in the G, A. R. For six years he was commander of A. C. Collins Post, No. 112, G. A. R., and is now senior vice commander. He has been a delegate from the G. A. R. posts in the Sixth Congressional District to National Grand Encampments at Salt Lake City, Utah ; Los Angeles, California ; Atlantic City, New Jersey, and Rochester, New York, and Detroit, Mich. Mr. Storms was married, April 18, 1863, to Mary Ann Ketcham, who died December 12, 1884, leaving one son, Frank F., who was born March 9, 1866. Frank F. Storms is one of the prominent men of the township. He conducts the old home farm, and is regarded as a substantial and successful man in every way. He was married April 9, 1886, to Laura Foster, and they have two sons, Lewis D. and Earl F. Lewis D. was born April 5, 1885, and married Regina Thole. They live in Lynden township. Earl F. was born December 19, 1890, and married Pauline Kiffmeyer. They occupy the old home residence, making the third generation that has lived there. D. D. Storms came from a patriotic family, his grandfather having served in the War of 1812, and he, with four brothers, having served in the Civil "War, no two being in the same regiment. The four brothers were : L. P., J. C, H. and E. C. There would have been two more, H. C. and E. G., but they were too young.

Samuel Stokes, an influential farmer of Lynden township, was born in Herkimer county. New York, June 5, 1859, son of Luke Hillis and Mary (Weilding) Stokes, who brought him to Lynden township, this county, in 1867. He obtained a good education in the district schools, and was reared to agricultural pursuits. After his father's death he purchased the old homestead of 120 acres, in sections 19 and 20, and by hard work and close application to business he has become one of the leading and representative farmers of his county. To the original place he has added eighty acres in section 16. The whole place is an unusually attractive farm property, and is in a high state of cultivation. He has remodelled the residence and has erected a large and roomy barn, together with a good set of outbuildings. He

Mr. Stokes was married, December 23, 1886, to Carrie L. Miller, who was born in Lynden township, August 9, 1869, daughter of Daniel D. Miller. Mr. and Mrs, Stokes have two children : Jennie Olive, born December 20, 1887, and Arthur D., born January 16, 1891,

Luke Hillis Stokes, a pioneer, was born in England, and was there educated and reared. He there married Mary Weilding, a native of the same country. In 1849 they came to America, and located in the Bronx, Westchester county. New York, now one of the boroughs of New York city. Later they moved to the northern part of the state and a year later moved to the westward and settled in Herkimer county, in the same state. His trade was that of carpenter and joiner, and this is the line of work he followed until 1866. In that year he came to Stearns county, Minn,, and secured a farm of eighty acres in section 20, Lynden township. He erected a pleasant home and a good barn and outbuildings, and developed the farm. His character and worth soon caused him to be regarded as one of the substantial and representative men of the community. He died in 1886. His good wife died in 1888. In the family there were four children : George W., a retired farmer of Lynden township, now living in Clearwater; Mary (deceased); Mattie (deceased), wife of Isaac Philo (deceased) ; and Samuel, who owns and operates the old home farm in Lynden township.