Wabasha County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1920 (part 23 of 27)

Joseph J. Schad, proprietor of the old Schad farm in sections 5 and 8, High¬ land Township, of which he is one of the most enterprising citizens, was born in the old family residence on this farm, in section 8, in April, 1875, son of Gottfried and Barbara (Lowry) Schad. He was reared on this place, which at the time of his birth was but partly improved, and in his boyhood attended the district school, though as soon as he was old enough to work he had to make himself useful on the farm, which has always been his home. At his father's death in 1880 the place contained 180 acres, which he and his brothers subse¬ quently increased to the present area of 300 acres. Having in 1900 bought the interests of the other heirs, he set about improving the farm, enlarged and re¬ modeled the house, making it into a good frame residence of ten rooms ; erected a barn 36 by 80 feet, and also a tool house, granary and other buildings. In addition to the usual crops, he raises cattle, hogs and horses, and is doing a thriving business. He is a stockholder in the Theilman creamery, now used as a cream station, and in the Farmers' elevator at the same place, of which he is a director. He has served two years as town treasurer and is one of the supervisors of Highland Township. In religion he is a Catholic. His sisters, Anna and Margaret, and his brother, Michael, reside on the farm with him.

John S. Loechler, a prominent representative of the agricultural in¬ terests of Highland Township, was born in Wabasha village, this county, April 18, 1878, son of Gabriel and Maggie (Mitmesser) Loechler. The father, who came to the United States from Germany at an early day, was married in Wa¬ basha, where he first located. He was variously employed, working for some time in a grocery store, on the railroad, and in the round-house of the narrowgauge road, and for a long time ran an engine in the saw and planing mill of Mr. Chamberlain. In such occupations he was employed until his death in 1911. His wife is now living in Minneapolis with her daughter, Mrs. Dennie Grogen. Mr. and Mrs. Gabriel Loechler had ten children, five sons and five daughters, all of whom are living: Anna, the wife of Nicholas Peters, lives at Degraff, Minn.; Henry, foreman at Big Joe Mill, Wabasha; Gabriel, a farmer in Pepin Township; Christine, wife of William Miller, a farmer residing in Buffalo County, Wis.; John S., subject of this sketch; Maggie, wife of Joe Kocpman, of Wabasha; Martha, wife of Dennie Grogen, of Minneapolis; George, a railroad man living at Red Wing, Minn.; Tillie, wife of Fred Cook, of Wabasha, her husband being an engineer on the C. M. & St. P. railway; and Charlie, who is a retired farmer living in Wabasha. John S. Loechler was reared in Wabasha, where he attended school, both the public school and that of St. Felix. For several summers he worked in a brick yard, and then engaged in railroad work for a time. After that for nine years he was a packer in the St. Joe Mill in Wabasha and for three years a general hand, then afterwards for two years a machine tender. In 1914 he bought 40 acres of land in Cook's Val¬ ley where he farmed for four years. At the end of that time he sold that farm and bought one of 310 acres in sections 3 and 10, Highland Township, where he has since resided. The farm is provided with a good red brick house of 12 rooms, a barn 30 by 40 feet, and other necessary buildings, and he is raising graded stock, including cattle, hogs and sheep, with good financial results. In 1920 he let a contract for a new frame barn, 36 by 80 feet, with an 8-foot cement basement. Mr. Loechler was married in Wabasha in 1898 to Sophia Tentis, daughter of John and Mary Tentis. Her parents, now deceased, came to the United States from Germany in a sailing vessel in 1878, and settled in Cock's Valley, Glasgow Township, this county and state. They had a family of ten children, of whom nine are now living, those in addition to Mrs. Loechler being: Adam, a farmer in Highland Township; John R., who is farming in Glasgow Township; Delia, wife of John Tebor, a farmer in Watopa Township; Jake, a farmer of Glasgow Township; Susie, wife of Ed Graner of Glasgow

Township; Allen, also of that township; Emil, a farmer in Minneiska Town¬ ship; and Frank, engaged in the same occupation in Glasgow Township. Mr. and Mrs. Loechler are the parents of six children: Albert J., Lawrence, Her¬ man, Mary, Susie and Sophia, all residing on the home farm, which the sons are helping to cultivate.

John Hostettler, a respected resident of the village of Kellogg, where he is living retired after an active and successful career in farming, was born in Switzerland, August 11, 1857, son of Christ and Hannah Hostettler, the father being a butcher by trade. Both parents died in their native Switzerland, neither coming to this country. They had four children, of whom John was the only son, and the only one to come to America, which he did in 1881.' From Wabasha, which was the first place he reached in this country, he came to Highland Township, where he located, and for ten years subsequently worked out on farms. After that he rented a farm, later buying a place of 40 acres in the woods, but not liking the latter place, he sold it and in 1905 bought 240 acres in sections 12 and 13, Highland. This place had a house on it and there was some timber, which he cleared. Since then he has improved and culti¬ vated the farm, erected a barn 32 by 62 feet, and other outbuildings. His early labors on the place were carried on under difficulties, as it was in the winter, there being no roads, and the ground was heavily carpeted with snow, but con¬ ditions have improved and his latter years on the farm were spent in com¬ parative ease. He was successful in all branches of farm work, raising grain, cattle and hogs and doing some dairying. In 1920 Mr. Hostettler retired and took up his residence in Kellogg on account of the poor heatlh of himself and wife. The farm is now operated by his son, Winfield. Mr. Hostettler was mar¬ ried in Switzerland to Elizabeth Zwallen, a native of that country, who came to the United States after him, in 1882. Her parents, John and Lizzie Zwallen, both died in Switzerland, never having come to this country. Mr. and Mrs. Hostettler have eight children, all living, namely: Alben, of Kellogg; Ernest, who is helping his brother Winfield on the home farm; William, who is employed on the Fox farm in Lake City; Clara, wife of Andrew Shouweiler of Kellogg; Winfield, previously mentioned; Matilda, who is keeping house for Winfield; Fred, residing in Kellogg; and Olivia, who is clerk in the Kellogg Co-operative store. All the members of the family are religiously affiliated with one church or another, dividing their membership between the Methodist and Lutheran churches.

Ignatz Evers, one of the leading farmers in Highland Township, operat¬ ing a farm of 240 acres, was born in Germany, November 6, 1853, son of Barney and Rosa Evers. The parents, who were farmers, lived and died in their native Germany. They had four sons and two daughters, only one son and one daugh¬ ter being now living, namely: Ignatz and Louise. The latter is the wife of Henry Angelbeck. In addition to these two, the two other brothers, Barney and Joseph, came to the United States and both died here. The other sister, Theresa, died in Germany. Ignatz Evers was reared on a farm and attended school in his native land. In 1878 he came to America, locating in Wabasha, Minn., where he resided, working out by the day until 1902, when he began farming for himself on the Caspar Schad farm, which he purchased. This farm, which contains 240 acres, lies partly in sections 4 and 5, Highland Town¬ ship, and partly in sections 32 and 33, Glasgow Township, and is provided with a good frame house of eight rooms; two barns, one 30 by 80, and the other 20 by 30 feet, with a granary attached; a machine shed, and other substantial buildings, each of which is lighted by electricity from Mr. Evers' own electric plant. Mr. Evers is successfully carrying on general farming and stock rais¬ ing, breeding horses, cattle, hogs and poultry. His farm is under good culti¬ vation and is ably managed, with correspondingly good financial results. In 1884 Mr. Evers was married in Highland Township to Mary Schad, who was born at McGregor, Iowa, July 16, 1857, daughter of Casper and Genevieve

Schad, her parents being old settlers and farmers in Highland Township. Both are now deceased, Mr. Schad dying August 17, 1902, and Mrs. Schad on May 26, the same year. They had three daughters, Lizzie, Mary and Anna, of whom Lizzie is the only one now living. Mr. and Mrs. Evers became the parents of three sons and one daughter: Theodore, Edward, Joseph and Bertha, all living at home. Mrs. Evers died December 9, 1910, since which time Bertha has kept house for her father and brothers. The family are members of the Catholic church, the sons belonging to the Knights of Columbus. Joseph C. enlisted in the Heavy Artillery and was attached to the 163rd Depot Brigade at Camp Cody, New Mexico. He was honorably discharged December 13, 1919.

Bernard Evers, who is numbered among the active and successful farmers of Highland Township, residing in section 13, was born in Wabasha Township, Wabasha County, Minn., in 1880, son of Joseph and Theresa Evers. The parents were natives of Germany and came to the United States in 1875, set¬ tling in Wabasha County, Minn., on a farm in Wabasha Township. After operating that farm until 1881, they bought one of 200 acres in section 4, High¬ land Township, to which they subsequently added until it reached its present area of 400 acres. Here Joseph Evers died July 4, 1907, and his wife in Sep¬ tember, 1914. After the mother's death the farm was purchased by two of the sons, Henry and Frank, wTho now operate it. When first taken possession of by Joseph Evers it was all new land, and he and his sons placed it under culti¬ vation. They also replaced the original log shanties with a good residence, a substantial barn and other necessary structures, keeping full pace with the general progress of the community. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Evers had a family of 11 children, of whom nine are now living. They were: Bernard, Henry, Frank, Louise, Lucy, Mary, Celia, Lizzie, Rose, Anna and Joseph. As before mentioned, Henry and Frank are on the home farm; -Louise is keeping house for Bernard; Lucy is the wife of Charles Kreyer of Glasgow Township; Mary is the wife of Henry Emerson of Highland; Celia is the wife of Will Demming of Oakwood Township; Lizzie and Rose are on the home farm, and Anna and Joseph are deceased. Bernard Evers was educated in district school No. 98, and was reared on the home farm, on which he became industrially active when old enough to work. There he remained until 1913, when he bought 160 acres in section 13, where he has since lived, and where he is now engaged in general farming, stock raising and dairying with profitable results. His resi¬ dence is a good stone house of eight rooms, his barn measures 40 by 60 feet, and he has a good granary, machine-shed and other outbuildings, all sub¬ stantial and in good condition. All the building's are equipped with electric light, and he uses electric power for operating his cream separator and for other purposes, his methods in all things being up to date and effective. He is a member of the Catholic church, belonging to Conception parish, and he is also a membei of the Knights of Columbus. Thus far he has not married, his sister, Louise, as previously mentioned, keeping house for him.

Patrick T. Norton, who is operating a 200-acre farm in Highland Township, carrying on diversified farming and stock raising, was born in this township May 26, 1865, son of Patrick and Mary (Flynn) Norton. Both parents were natives of Ireland, the father born in Limerick, and the mother in Kings County, in 1834. Both came to America when young with their respective parents, the mother at the age of 16, her parents going to Wayne County, Pennsvlvania. They were married in New York City in 1855, and subsequently resided in Chi¬ cago until April, 1856. Then they moved to Racine, Wis. In Mav 1858 thev arrived in Wabasha County, Minn., and settled on a farm in Highland Township, on which they subsequently resided for 47 years, or until 1905, engaged m agricultural pursuits. Then taking up their residence in Plainview, they remained there living retired for some six or seven years, at the end of which time they moved back to the home farm. There Patrick Norton, the father, died July 13, 1917. His wife survived him two years or more, passing away in September, 1919, having resided with her son, Patrick, after Mr. Norton's death. Their family numbered eight children, of whom four are now living, namely: Patrick, James, John and Ellen, the last mentioned being the wife of William Maher of Plainview. Those deceased are: Catherine, who married Michael Foley of Highland Township; Mary Ann, who died when 17 years old; Michael and Bartley. The father took a prominent part in all public matters pertaining to the welfare of the public. Patrick T. Norton acquired his edu¬ cation in the district school, and was reared on the home farm which he helped to develop. He remained with his parents until 30 years old, and then began farming for himself, buying 160 acres in section 35, Highland Township, to which he has since added 40 acres. When he first took this place he had to go into the timber to find a building spot, and erected a frame house of seven rooms, to which he has since made additions, transforming it into an 11-room residence, supplied with water. His barn is of modern construction, 34 by 58 feet, with a cement floor basement for stock, accommodating 12 head of horses and 18 head of cattle. He also has another cattle barn 30 by 30 feet, with cement floor, and a lean-to for sheep 16 by 30; a granary with basement and elevator, and a garage 12 by 20 feet. His sheep, of which he has a good-sized flock, are of the Shropshire variety, while he has also a good herd of Chester- White hogs. For six years Mr. Norton has been a member of the town board, of which in January, 1920, he was made chairman. He is a member of the Catholic church, the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Foresters. He was married October 23, 1895, to Mary Maher, daughter of William and Bridget (Tierney) Maher of Oakwood Township, her parents being natives of Ireland. Bridget Tierney came to America when 18 years of age with her brother, first locating in Ottawa, Canada. She was married to William Maher in New York, and after a few years' residence there, they came in 1856 to Wabasha County, Minn., and engaged in farming. They had seven children: Anna, Julia, Delia, William, Jr., Mary, Kate and Nellie. Anna married Michael Sullivan, whom she survives. Julia became the wife of Michael Judge, and Delia the wife of Daniel Judge, all of Highland Township. Kate married Walter Flanders, of Rochester, Minn. Mr. and Mrs. William Maher are both deceased, Mrs. Maher passing away in April, 1909, and her husband in the following year. There are now living thirty of their grandchildren and three of the great grandchildren. To Mr. and Mrs. Patrick T. Norton eight children have been born, of whom seven are living: Mary, wife of Henry Saggisor of Plainview, and the mother of two children, Francis and Charles; Aiden J., Delia, Julia, Wilfred, Joseph and Leslie. Delia and Joseph, Wilfred, Julia and Leslie are attending school. Mr. and Mrs. Norton's other child, Clara, died in April, 1911.

Henry Evers, a prosperous farmer of Highland Township, who, with his brother Frank is operating the old home farm established by his parents, sit¬ uated partly in Highland and partly in Glasgow Township, was born on this farm February 12, 1887, son of Joseph and Theresa Evers. The parents, na¬ tives of Germany, settled in Wabasha County in 1875, residing in Wabasha Township until 1881, and then removing to Highland Township, where they bought 200 acres in section 4 and subsequently developed a farm which they enlarged by purchase to an area of 400 acres. The father, Joseph, died in 1907, and his wife in 1914. They had a family of ten children, of whom nine are now living. Henry Evers was reared on the home farm and acquired his education in the district school. He assisted his father until the latter's death, and subsequent to that event he and his brother Frank carried on the farm for their mother. When she died Henry and Frank purchased the property and have since operated it together, each giving his attention to a certain portion. Henry's part consists of 250 acres, part in Glasgow and part in Highland Town¬ ship. He has a good farm house of nine rooms, and two barns, one 36 by 72 and the other 30 by 50 feet, with a good granary, machine shed and other build¬ ings. He and his brother follow general farming and stock raising, and are doing a paying business. Their sisters, Lizzie and Rose, keep house for them. The family are members of the Catholic church and Mr. Evers belongs also to the Knights of Columbus.

Henry F. Strauss, a well to do farmer of Chester Township, where, and in which vicinity, he is well known and personally esteemed, was born in this township November 22, 1877, son of Henry and Katherine (Prom) Strauss. The parents were natives of Luxemburg, who came to America in the early sixties, first locating in Wisconsin. After remaining in that state for a num¬ ber of years, they came to Wabasha County, Minn., settling in Chester Town¬ ship, where they bought 160 acres of land in section 4, on which Henry Strauss erected a new set of buildings and put up fences. There he was engaged in general farming, including stock raising, until his death on April 24, 1904. His widow now resides in the village of Belle Chester. They had 11 children, John F., Henry F., Stephan, Frank, Rose, Cecelia, Christina, who are living, and Stephan (first), Anton, Nicholas and Mary, who are deceased. The family are members of the Catholic church. Henry F. Strauss was educated in the Cath¬ olic school at Belle Chester. After becoming industrially active he worked for his father for a number of years. In 1908 he rented the home farm of his mother and operated it under rental until 1915, when he purchased it. He has followed general farming with good success, raising both grain and stock, and is one of the representative farmers of his township. On June 16, 1908^ Mr. Strauss was united in marriage with Katherine Delva, daughter of Mr.' and Mrs. Peter Del\a of Chester Township. Her parents came from Luxemburg to America in 1871, settling on the farm in Chester Township, this county, on which they now reside. Like the Strauss family, they are members of' the Catholic church. They have had eleven children, Michael, Anna, Clara, Kath¬ erine, Elizabeth, John; Nicholas, Joseph, Mary, Peter and Nicholas (second). The first Nicholas died young. To Mr. and Mrs. Henry F. Strauss four children have been born: Hildegard K., May 6, 1910; Alfred S., born August 1, 1911, who died at the age of four and a half months, on December 17, 1911 - Loretta

George Nehring, who owns and until recently operated a farm of 150 acres in section 21, Chester Township, was born in Hanover, Germany, February 21, 1863. He grew to manhood in his native land, where he was married Decem¬ ber 22, 1882, to Magdalena Zuhling. In 1905, with his wife and family, he came to America, and to Wabasha County, Minn., settling in Chester Township where until 1912 he operated different farms. He then bought his farm in section 21, Chester Township, on which he successfully carried on general farming and stock raising until August, 1920. He then Vented the farm to a tenant and moved to section 19, where he is now living retired. He is a mem¬ ber of St. John's Lutheran church. Mr. and Mrs. Nehring have had ten chil-

; Catherine, January 12, 1899; Sophia, June 12, 1902; and Louis, April 14, 1904. The second Henry mentioned died April 30, 1910, at the age of 16 years. Katherine drnd October 23, 1918, in her nineteenth year. Gesiana is now the r l,,H , £ H- ^lohm' who 'S profitably engaged in agriculture in section 4, Gi ord Township, was born in West Albany Township, Wabasha County, Minn., August 18, 1860, son of Christian Joachim and Maria Anna (Yarcho) Blohm. The parents were natives of Mecklenburg, Germany, where they were married in 1854 and immediately set out for the United States, the journey to this country taking the place of a honeymoon trip. After four years' resi¬ dence at McKino, now included within the limits of Chicago, in 1858 they came to Wabasha County, Minn., settling in West Albany Township, on section 21, on a tract of wild land, on which he erected a log house 14 by 16 feet in size. In this little house they took up their abode and in time enlarged it by building additions, and Christian J. Blohm began the development of his farm, keeping up the work for seven or eight years, or until his death on January 17, 1868. By that time he had what was then considered a good house and other buildings. His widow continued on the farm until May, 1900, when she took up her resi¬ dence with her son, Henry H., who was then living in Lake City. On August 28, 1917, she died on his farm in Gillford Township. Mr. and Mrs. Christian J. Blohm had four children, all sons: William H., born in Illinois, who is liv¬ ing in section 1, Gillford Township, Wabasha County; Frederick W., who is a farmer at Asheville, New York; Henry H., of Gillford Township, and Frank G., who was a teacher and died at Wilmot, S. D., April 24, 1890. The three younger sons were born in West Albany Township, Wabasha County. Henry Blohm was educated in the district school in West Albany Township, and resided on his parents' farm until 1892. For some years he taught school in Wabasha, Nor¬ man and Marshall counties, Minn. On September 23, 1893, he married Mathilde E. Blom, who was born in Norway, March 3, 1876, daughter of Peter and Else Blom, afterwards residents of Lake City, Minn., but now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Blohm began housekeeping in Lake City, where he was employed by the C. E. Hinckley Furniture and Undertaking establishment until the fall of 1907. He had previously, in 1895, bought a farm of 160 acres in sections 3 and 4, Gillford Township, which in the meanwhile, while working in Lake City, he had rented out, but in the fall of 1907 he took up his residence on it with his family and has since made it his home. It is one of the best farms in the township and, it may be said, in the county, and is all under cultivation. Mr. Blohm carries on diversified farming with profitable results. He is a success¬ ful breeder of pure blooded Hereford cattle, Shropshire sheep and grade hogs, and has a good operating equipment. In 1914 he built a modern two-story stucco residence of ten rooms, equipped with hot water heating plant, and his other buildings include a good barn, 30 by 50 by 18 feet, with an "L" 20 by 20 by 12; a granary 20 by 30 by 14; machine shed 14 by 30; sheep barn 24 by 36 by 16; a tile silo 13 by 36, with a capacity of 110 tons, and a steel windmill. The barn and house are electrically lighted, and as a part of his modern outfit Mr. Blohm has an Overland car. He is a stockholder in the Farmers Co-operative Elevator of Zumbro Falls and in the Farmers and Merchants State Bank of Zumbro Falls. He was also one of the organizers of the Oak Center Creamery and was its vice president for four years, and he helped to organize the Farm¬ ers' Shipping Association of Zumbro Falls and the Farmers' Co-operative ele¬ vator of Lake City. Mr. Blohm belongs to several fraternal orders, including the Modern Woodmen of America, in which he has held the office of adviser for a year and a half; the Royal Neighbors, and the Modern Brotherhood of America. He and his wife are the parents of a son, Ralph H., who was born November 29, 1897, and who was educated in the common school and the School of Agriculture at St. Paul, and is now associated with his father in the oper¬ ation of the farm. The family are religiously affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal church at Oak Center, which Mr. Blohm is serving as steward. He may be termed a pioneer of the county by reason of his early birth here, and his parents were among the actual pioneers, arriving here poor with an ox team from Illinois, accompanied by John Schmidt and Henry Schmuser, who, like themselves, are now deceased.

John E. Searles, an early settler in Minnesota, for a number of years a resident of Chester Township, Wabasha County, and later of Mazeppa village, where he died in 1914, was born in Willis, Cambridgeshire, England, October 13, 1838, son of George and Ann (Clippold) Searles. The parents lived and died in their native land, where their son, John E., remained until 1865. Then coming to the United States, he made his way west to Pine Island, Goodhue

County, Minn., where he found employment on the farm of John Hardie, of which he became the manager after Mr. Hardie's death. On his marriage in 1873 he bought a farm near Lena, Goodhue County, which he operated until 1883. He then sold it and went to California, but soon returned from that far distant state and resumed general farming, buying 160 acres in Chester Town¬ ship, Wabasha County. Later he enlarged his farm by the purchase of 80 additional acres, and continued there until his retirement in 1903, when he moved to Mazeppa. He served as a member of the school board, and was a citizen of value to the community in which he lived. His widow is now the o\yner of the farm, but resides in Mazeppa. Mr. Searles was married January 3, 1873, at Pine Island, to Harriet Hallaway, who was born in Sussex, England, in 1848, daughter of John and Ruth Hallaway. Her ancestors belonged to a noble or high born English family, her grandfather being "lord of the manor" in his locality, and the proprietor of 750 acres of land. John Hallaway, father of Mrs. Searles, was born in England in 1819, and his wife in 1818. They came to the United States about 1861, when their daughter, Harriet, was 13 years old, settling on a farm in Pine Island, Goodhue County, Minn. There they made their home until 1893, when they came to live with their daughter, Mrs. Searles. The father died in 1897 and the mother in 1902. Of their eight chil¬ dren three are living, the two in addition to Harriet being: Julia, wife of Chailes Crouch, living on a farm in Goodhue County, four miles from Mazeppa; and Frederick, who is a farmer at Holloway, Swift County, Minn. Those de¬ ceased are John, Thomas, Mary, Harry and Elizabeth. Mr. and Mrs. John E. Searles were the parents of two children: George W., who married Laura Majerus, and is engaged in the real estate business in Mazeppa- and Pearl wife of S. J. Hopper, of Portland, Ore.

Bartholomew Klein, a pioneer of Wabasha County, and one of the first set¬ tlers in Highland Township, was born in Luxemburg and came to this country m 1856, first locating in Dubuque, Iowa. From there he came to Wabasha County, making the trip with an ox team. After entering this county, he crossed Greenwood Prairie to Glasgow Township, and then came on to Highand Township, where he took a claim in section 14, where his son John N.

now bves* He^e bmlt a sma11 log shanty, cutting the logs himself. Subsequentl^ when his farm had been properly surveyed, he found that one corner of hm house was right on the dividing line. The land was wild and covered \\i h timber, and he set to work to clear and develop the farm with the help trVrn0185e4amthPH4^arrl<id K/the,rin,e Shouweiler, who had come to this counm 1854 the Shouweiler family being among the first settlers here. Mr.

raisinfmteie^of' ffiSZn t* rePreSentat've of the agricultural and stock raising interests of Highland Towmship, was born on his parents' farm in section 14, m this township, June 12, 1861, son of Bartholomew and Katherine (Shouweiler) Klein. He was reared on the home farm \ 1 a barn 40 by 62 feet, and now has the farm and buildings in excellent condi¬ tion. He carries on general farming and is the only farmer in Highland Town¬ ship raising Jersey cattle. So well has he succeeded that in two years he took the first prize at the county fair for improvement in this kind of stock. He is also a successful breeder of Chester White hogs and Percheron horses. In addition to this, he does considerable dairying. To his original 160 acres he has since added 40 lying across the road from his farm, has bought 240 acres in Glasgow Township, ten acres of woodland, and owns 160 acres in northern Minnesota, near the International Falls, in Koochiching County. Mr. Klein is a stockholder in the local telephone company and the Smithfield creamery. He has been a member of the town board for many years and assessor for five years, besides having served on the school board twelve years, from which it may be seen that he is not only active and successful in business, but is also a useful citizen willing to devote a part of his time to the public service. Fra¬ ternally he belongs to several orders, including the Woodmen, Samaritans and the Knights of Columbus. Mr. Klein was married in 1885 at Minneapolis to Elizabeth Bricher, daughter of John and Mary Bricher, her parents, natives respectively of Luxemburg and Bohemia, being early settlers in Wabasha County, where they followed farming. Mr. and Mrs. Klein have had eleven children, of whom eight are now living, namely: Frank, Joseph, Ernest, Ralph, Clarence, Adolph, Hazel and Lavina. Frank is assistant cashier in the Theilman Bank, and Clarence is a barber in Kellogg. Ralph enlisted for military service in the war with Germany. He was a member of the 28th Division of Infantry and was eight months in France, taking part in the actions in the Argonne sector and at St. Mihiel Hill. Frank also enlisted and was sent to Leavenworth and Camp Dodge, Iowa, where he served in the clerical depart¬ ment. The children who died were: Maggie, who was five years old; Mary, who died at the age of three, and Dorothy, who married Ed McGrath and died of influenza October 29, 1918. The family are members of the Catholic church.

Nicholas Arendt, in former years one of the best known and most popular citizens of Chester Township, where he owned and operated a good farm, was born at New Trier, Dakota County, Minn., January 6, 1871, son of Philip and Catherine (Ludowissi) Arendt. When quite young he moved with his parents to Belle Chester, where he attended district school. After beginning indus¬ trial life he worked a number of years for his father, then, in 1896, he started out for himself, renting 240 acres in section 17, Chester Township, where he farmed until 1901. He then moved on to the Philip Arendt farm of 160 acres, and having also secured 200 acres in section 7, engaged in general farming and stock raising, in which occupations he continued successfully until his death, which occurred November 28, 1914, as the result of an accident. On Friday morning, the day before, he was sweeping the bin-top of his grain elevator, when he accidentally stepped off. He fell 12 feet, striking on his abdomen across a joist. From the joist he fell another six feet on an automobile which was just below. The fall caused injuries from which he died at 2 a. m., Sat¬ urday. During the day he was conscious and told the circumstances of the accident, giving directions to his wife and children for taking care of the farm and his personal affairs. Funeral services were held Monday morning from St. Mary's Catholic church at Belvidere, Father Funke officiating, and interment was made in the church cemetery. A large throng of relatives and friends attended the last rites and followed his remains to the grave, the funeral being one of the largest ever held at Belle Chester. The entire community was shocked and saddened by this calamity, which had removed in so sudden and tragic a manner one of its most respected citizens. Mr. Arendt was evei ready to aid a good cause, either with his purse or through personal service, and his geniality, kindness and generosity had made him hosts of friends. His business interests were large and successfully conducted. He was vice presi¬ dent of the Peoples State Bank and the Farmers Elevator of Mazeppa, and in- terested in many other undertakings, all of which profited by his support and counsel. In his death his family lost a kind and loving husband and father, the church a faithful member, and the general community one of its upbuilders and public spirited citizens. Mr. Arendt was married at Belle Chester, Minn., on November 24, 1896, to Bertha Reiland, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Reiland. Her parents were natives of Germany who, on coming to the United States, settled first in Wisconsin, and afterwards in Rolling Stone, Winona County, Minn., in which vicinity they spent the remainder of their lives in farming. Both are now deceased, the mother dying first on March 29, 1893, the father on August 8, 1914, seven months after the death of Mr. Arendt. They had five children: Michael N., Margaret, Anna, Mary and Bertha. To Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Arendt ten children were born, as follows: Martha K., June 12, 1898; Philip J., February 4, 1900; Edmond S., January 1, 1902; Hedwig a' March 8, 1903; Lawrence M., August 28, 1904; Walter P., June 23, 1906- Clar¬ ence H., November 13, 1907; Clemens J., July 1, 1910; Leonard P., December 2 1$12; and Christine H., August 19, 1915.

Nicholas J. Almeter, head of the firm of N. J. Almeter & Sons, of Mazeppa, engaged in general blacksmithing, and also operating a garage and handling auto cars, was born in Sheldon, Wyoming County, N. Y., September 28, 1859. His parents were Frank and Mary (Clemens) Almeter, both of whom were born in Belgium. The father, who was a blacksmith, died in April, 1870, and the mother in 1874. They had seven children, one of whom died in infancy/ Another, Kate, who became the wife of Jake Steffen of Buffalo, N. Y., is also deceased! Those now living are: John, residing in Portland, Ore.; Louis F., of Los Angeles, Calif.; George F., of Texarkana, Ark.; Lena, wife of Mike Curry, of Rogers, Minn.; and Nicholas J., of Mazeppa. Nicholas J. Almeter remained in New lork btate until he was 19 years old, and there acquired his education. He then came to Minnesota, locating in Goodhue County, where he followed the blacksmiths trade. In 1884 he settled in Mazeppa, entering the employ of A. J. latt, a blacksmith, whose partner he subsequently became. After the part¬ nership had lasted six years, Mr. Almeter bought Mr. Taft's interest in the business which he conducted alone until 1920. He then took his three sons into the firm and the business is now conducted under the name of N. J. Almeter - & bons. In addition to carrying on a general blacksmith business and operating a garage, the firm handles Ford cars and accessories, besides doing general repairing. Mr. Almeter has twice served as a member of the village council

"tTw!lmay°r °,r Presi?ent of the village. He belongs fraternally to the United Workmen, and in religion is a Catholic. In June, 1887, he was united

Frank and John each took part in the World War, Frank enlisting'from Minne¬ sota and serving 13 months in the United States and France. John served one year, taking part in the fighting in the Argonne Forest, France

Deborah (Boynton) Rich. The parents were native Americans, the father born in Maine and the mother in Pennsylvania. In the early sixties they migrated west to Wisconsin, where they engaged in farming and resided until 1875 Thev then settled in Olmsted County, Minn., but remained there a very short time as in the same year they came to Mazeppa Township, Wabasha County, buyhig 50 acres of and in section 20. Here they made their home. John Rich erect ng a set of buildings and clearing and cultivating the land. He died on the farm in mi and his wife in 1916. They were among the early settlers in the town¬ ship and during their long career as residents here made numerous friends and acquaintances. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church

John Rich And Family

Their children were Elsie, Nie, Florence and John. Nie Rich, who was edu¬ cated in the district school, at an early age became active on his parents' farm, where, in his boyhood, there was abundant work for him to do. He remained associated with his father until 1893, and then started in for himself by renting a farm in Goodhue County, which he operated for five years. In 1898, having through industry and economy made some financial progress, he bought 80 acres in section 18, Mazeppa Township, on which tract he erected all the buildings except the house; and in 1917 he brought the area of his farm up to 182 acres by the purchase of the old home farm of his parents, containing 50 acres in section 20. His place is well improved and he is doing a successful business as a general farmer and stock raiser. He is affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal church and with the fraternal order of Modern Woodmen of America. On November 22, 1894, Mr. Rich was united in marriage with Ida Ingham, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Ingham. Her parents are now deceased, the father dying in 1910 and the mother about 1890. Mr. and Mrs. Rich have had the un¬ usual experience of becoming the parents of triplets - Doctor R., Dennis A. and Darrel J. - who were born April 24, 1903. They also have a daughter, Olive M., who was born June 28, 1906. All the children are residing at home. ,

Alexander Goetsch, an active and progressive farmer and town treasurer of Mazeppa Township, was born in Hanover, Germany, March 18, 1882, son of August and Mary (Piel) Goetsch. He was still a babe when in 1884 he accom¬ panied his parents to the United States. The family first settled at Watertown, Wis., but after a short residence there came to Wabasha County, Minn., and began farming in Mazeppa Township, an occupation in which they continued here for the rest of their lives. Both died in 1909, well known and respected. They were consistent members of the Lutheran church. Their children were Otto, Anna, Robert, Paul, Magdalis, Regina and Alexander. Alexander Goetsch acquired his education in the district school, and when he was old enough be¬ gan to make himself useful on his parents' farm. He worked for his father for several years, and then he and a brother took over the management of the farm, 40 acres of which his father deeded to him. He also bought 40 acres on his own account, and in 1914 another 80 acres. Later he bought ten acres of timber land, making in all 170 acres in section 20, Mazeppa Township. On this property he built a new barn and outbuildings, and is operating it with profit¬ able results as a general farmer and stock raiser, breeding high grade hogs. For the last five years he has served as treasurer of his township and is now serving in his third year as chairman of the school board of his district. Mr. Goetsch was married July 9, 1918, to Hulda Kuehn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Christ Kuehn of Mazeppa Township. Of this union has been born one child, Elena E., on May 18, 1919.

Paul Goetsch, proprietor of a farm of 185 acres in Mazeppa Township, was born in Pommern, Germany, February 11, 1875, son of August and Mary (Piel) Goetsch. He attended school for a while in his native land, and accompanied his parents to America in 1884, at the age of nine years. After a short resi¬ dence in Wisconsin the family settled in Mazeppa Township, Wabasha County, Minn., and here Paul attended district school and soon began helping on the farm. In time he became a useful assistant to his father, and was thus occu¬ pied until 1907. He then began farming on his own account, buying 125 acres in sections 21 and 28, and later by another purchase increased the area of his farm to 185 acres. He also erected all the present buildings, and has continued to carry on general farming, raising good stock. He is a stockholder in the Farmers' Co-operative Creamery of Mazeppa and a member of the Farmers' Shipping Association of the same place. On July 27, 1910, Mr. Goetsch was married to Emma Nickel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Nickel of Mazeppa Township. The parents came to this locality from Germany in 1886, and were engaged in farming there until 1918, in which year Mrs. Nickel died. Since then Mr. Nickel has resided with his daughter, Mrs. Paul Goetsch. The chil- dren in the Nickel family were Adolph, Emil, Mary, William and Emma. Those born to Mr. and Mrs. Paul Goetsch are: Severa E., July 17, 1911; Carl F., July 28, 1913; and Esther L., born August 2, 1916. The family are members of the Lutheran church.

Fred Busse, Sr., a well known farmer and respected citizen of Mazeppa Township, was born in Posen, Germany, March 11, 1846. He was educated in his native land and, like all German youths, was obliged to serve in the army, in which he spent three and a half years, including service in the Franco-Ger¬ man war of 1870-71. In the following year, 1872, he emigrated to the United States and for one year was a resident of Wisconsin. In 1873 he settled in Olm¬ sted County, Minn., where he spent 7 years, coming to Mazeppa Township, Wabasha County, in 1880. Here he bought a farm of 175 acres in sections 17, 20 and 29, and has since made many valuable improvements on it. Besides clearing most of the land, he has erected fences, and a fine set of buildings, and has set out trees and a good orchard. He is engaged in general farming and is raising Shorthorn and full-blooded Swiss cattle, besides other good stock, and has taken rank among the prosperous farmers of his township, which he served two years as supervisor. He has also been a member of the school board of his district for 20 years. For 35 years he has been appraiser for the Rochester Fire Insurance Company. Mr. Busse has turned over the active man¬ agement of his farm to his son, Leon, who operates it on shares. On June 8, 1879, Mr. Busse was united in marriage with Johanna Heimke, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Heimke. Her parents, formerly residents of Wisconsin, are both now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Fred Busse are the parents of three children: Fred, Jr., born April 1, 1880, who is a farmer in Mazeppa Township; Ella, born October 9, 1881, who is now Mrs. John Larson and resides at Colorado Springs, Colo., and Leonhart, better known as "Leon," born March 16, 1883. "Leon" Busse was married June 10, 1913, to Ida Freise, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gott¬ fried Freise, prominent farmers of Goodhue County. To Mr. and Mrs. Leon Busse have been born four children: Lenora F., July 8, 1914; Hubert L., No¬ vember 26, 1915; Norman F., April 10, 1917; and Erma M., October 14, 1919.

Thomas F. Baker, familiarly known as "Tom" Baker, for years a prom¬ inent representative of the farming industry in Mazeppa Township, but now livmg retired m Mazeppa village, was born at Farm Hill, Olmsted County, Minn*, November 9, 1867, son of Stephen H. and Maria (Butterfield) Baker. The parents were natives of New York state who came to Minnesota in the early sixties and settled in Zumbro Township, Wabasha County, taking a homestead of 160 acres which they proved up. * Subsequently, they sold that farm and located m Farm Hill, Olmsted County,, where they were engaged in farming until the death of Mrs. Maria Baker on October 21, 1890. After that event Mr. Baker lived with his son, Tom, until his death, September 30, 1899. He was a man held in high regard for his public spirit and helpful qualities in the com¬ munity, being always ready to aid a good cause, and for some years served as supervisor on the town board. He and his wife were affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal church. They had five children, Alonzo S., William G., Edwin S., Thomas F. and Carrie S., the last mentioned of whom is now deceased "Tom" Baker was educated in the city of Rochester, attending the ward school, and being a pupil for one year in the high school. After that he worked for his father until 1891, in which year he rented a farm in Olmsted County, which he operated for five years. In 1896 Mr. Baker bought 160 acres in Zumbro Town¬ ship, Wabasha County, a farm which he greatly improved by the erection of a new set of buildings. He resided there engaged in general farming and stock raising until 1904, and then rented out the farm (which he afterwards sold) and moved to Zumbro Falls. In that village he lived for five years, engaged in the farm machinery business and also in buying cream. In 1909 Mr Baker went to Montana, where he took a land claim and remained one year Then re¬ turning to Mazeppa Township, Wabasha County, he purchased his present farm of 360 acres in sections 5 and 6. This he improved by the erection of one of the best barns in Wabasha County, a cow barn 36 by 110 feet in giound dimen¬ sions, provided with the West Bend barn equipment. As a general farmer and dairyman Mr. Baker met with much success and accumulated a competence. He is now serving in his third year as a supervisor on the town board, and is a man of influence in the community. He belongs to the Masonic order and the Modern Woodmen of America, and is religiously affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal church. On November 24, 1890, Mr. Baker was united in marriage with Cora Morrisey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Morrisey. He and his wife have been the parents of 12 children, who were born as follows: Viola E., November 15, 1891 ; Fannie, August 12, 1893; Hattie, April 10, 1894, Floyd, August 23, 1897; Thomas, May 10, 1899; Cora and Clara (twins), June 14, 1902; Ethel, October 9, 1904; Julia and John (twins), June 1, 1906; Esther, August 30, 1907; and Stanley, June 25, 1910. Viola E., who became the wife of Truman Mack, died November 13, 1912. Fannie is now Mrs. Fred Knaup of Zumbro Township. Hattie is the wife of Ray Bowers. Thomas (Tommie) died when a little over a year old, on May 18, 1900. Ethel died at the age of four months and one day, on February 10, 1905. Floyd was drafted into the United States service October 21, 1918, but owing to the termination of the war soon after, saw no active service. James Morrisey, father of Mrs. Baker, was born in Canada and came to Minnesota in 1876, settling in Zumbro Township, Wabasha County, where he resided until two years before his death. He died in Olmsted County May 1, 1889, and his wife, who was a native of Pennsylvania, on Sep¬ tember 19, 1880. They were members of the Catholic church. They had three children: Cora, John and Clara.

George Nei, a retired farmer residing in Mazeppa Township, of which for a number of years he has been one of the leading citizens, having served not only in local office, but also as county commissioner, was born in Goodhue County, October 9, 1862, son of Peter and Catherine Nei. The parents were born in the Duchy of Luxemburg and came to America in the early fifties, set¬ tling in Goodhue County, Minn. There they spent the rest of their lives, Mrs. Nei dying in 1895 and Mr. Nei in 1900. They were members of the Catholic church. They had six children, the first born of whom, Lizzie, is now deceased. The others were John, George, Matthew, Anna and Peter. George Nei was edu¬ cated in a district school in Goodhue County, and after beginning industrial life, worked for his father until 1888. His father then gave him 80 acres of land and a wagon and team, with which he was able to make a start for himself. In 1892 he bought 120 acres in sections 19 and 30, Mazeppa Township, Wabasha County, and began to improve the place, erecting a new set of buildings and supplying some needed fencing. There he was actively engaged in diversified farming, including the raising of stock, until 1918, in which year he retired, renting the farm to his son-in-law, P. W. Clemens, but retaining his residence on it. During his active years as a farmer Mr. Nei became widely known as a man of ability and reliable character, and it was no surprise to his neighbors and acquaintances when in 1912 he was elected county commissioner from the Third District, in which office he served by virtue of successive re-elections for eight years. He was also for six years a supervisor of Mazeppa Township, was 16 years town assessor, and for 15 years served on the school board of Dis¬ trict No. 76. In all these positions he justified the confidence of his fellow citi¬ zens, showing good business acumen and ready comprehension of the public needs. In religion he is a Catholic. Mr. Nei was married in 1888 to Lizzie Huberty, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Huberty. Her parents were natives of Belgium who settled in Goodhue County, where the fathei is still living, the mother being now deceased. They had five children, John, Elizabeth, Kath¬ erine, Jacob and Margaret. Mr. and Mrs. Nei are the parents of two children: Lena K., born September 20, 1888, now Mrs. Robert Seibert of Mazeppa Town¬ ship, and Clara K., born May 31, 1890, who is the wife of W. P. Clemens and has two children, Donald George and Geneva Elizabeth.

Gustave H. Nibbe, a representative farmer of Mt. Pleasant Township, re¬ siding in section 34, was born in Belvidere Township, Goodhue County, Minn., August 31, 1881, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Nibbe. The parents, natives of Ger¬ many, came to the United States when young, and made each other's acquaint¬ ance in New York state, being married in New York City. John Nibbe worked six or seven years as a farm laborer in New York state, without making any headway in the world, until, feeling the necessity of doing something to better his circumstances, he resolved to emigrate to the west. It was hard to find the means, as he was very poor, but in some way he scraped together the necessary amount to pay for the transportation of himself and family, and made his way to Goodhue County, Minn., where he settled. There his wife died December 23, 1888, when her son Gustave was seven years old, and Mr. Nibbe, still being in poor circumstances, Gustave was given a home by a neighbor, Peter Reincke, with whom he remained until he was 14. Up to that time and for about a yearlater he attended district school, making himself useful out of school hours. From the age of 14 to that of 22 he worked hard as a farm laborer. Then he started in for himself, renting the Merkins farm in Belvidere Township, Goodhue County, which he operated for four yars. In 1907 he moved to the Louis Juers farm in section 20, Mt. Pleasant Township, Wabasha County, a farm of 200 acres. He was industrious and saving, and was gradually getting along in tue world. In 1911 Mr. Nibbe bought his present farm - formerly known as the Grogan farm - of 240 acres in section 34, Mt. Pleasant Township, of which he now has 220 acres under the plow. He has improved the house, which is a two-story frame structure, and in addition to the original barn he has built a new one of modern construction, 40 by 72 by 16 feet, with a 9-foot basement under all for cattle and horses. It is provided with cement floors, and the James system of steel stanchions, refuse carrier and running water He has also erected a double corn crib 18 by 22 by 8, with an 8-foot driveway, and other buildings. The farm, which is five and half miles southeast of Lake City is very productive and well cultivated. Mr. Nibble has eight fine work horses with a full equipment of machinery, including a five-passenger Buick auto car. formerly a Republican, he is now a member of the Non-partisan League. On June 9, 1905, Mr. Nibbe was united in marriage with Lena Luva, daughter of Peter and Adelia Meerkens of Mt. Pleasant Township, where she was born December 27, 1873. To him and his wife six children have been born: Melinda Elizabeth, November 29, 1906; Orlin John, December 28, 1907; Marvin Deidrich f:PrlliJY 19.12c W"alt®r H> June 3> 19131 R°y Gustave, January 8, 1918; and Donald Emil September 10, 1919. The family are members of the Lutheran church and of Trinity congregation in Gillford Township.

r i I If Ar^TV, J'n S'ewert' proprietor of a successful general store at Oak Center, Gillford Township, is a good type of Wabasha County's enterprising business men He was born on a farm in Goodhue County, Minn., October 4 1892 so" o? Frederick and Adelheit (Oelers) Siewert. The parents were natives of Ham

CRy' whence"^! em'gratefd * Mj"ta « 1875, entering the state at Lake City, whence they went on to Goodhue County. There the father Frederick

Goodhue County and in 1911 was graduated from the Red Wing Business Col¬ lege. He remained on the parental homestead until 1911. In 1913 he engaged in mercantile business at Oak Center in partnership with Charles Kreitf but after a short time their store was burned, which ended the partnershin On January 6 1914 as sole proprietor, he opened his present store in a new stucco building which he had erected, beginning with an $8,000 stock, and hi" subse¬ quent career as a merchant has been one of continued advancement In i 919 he bought and shipped fourteen thousand dollars worth of eggs alone and h!

is energetically and successfully pushing all branches of his business. He owns a beautiful modern home - a stucco building - at Oak Center, and also a farm of 280 acres and good buildings in the Township of West Albany, and in addition to these interests he is a stockholder in the Farmers' Packing Co. at Newport, Minn., the Oak Center Creamery Co., of which he was one of the organizers and has been treasurer since 1913; and is a member of the Oak Center Poultry Association, which he helped to organize for the purpose of increasing the interest in poultry raising, and which he has served as secre¬ tary and treasurer for three years. On February 23, 1914, Mr. Siewert was united in marriage with Sophia M. Buchholtz, who was born on a farm in Goodhue County, June 13, 1890, daughter of John and Mary Buchholtz. Mr. and Mrs. Siewert have two children: Violet, born November 26, 1915, and Bernard, born May 25, 1919. Mr. Siewert is a Republican in politics, though with independent tendencies. He has served Gillford Township two years as assessor, and is one of the live citizens of the township who are on the lookout, not only for their own advancement but for the general welfare of the com¬ munity, ready to lend a hand to any good cause.

Charles Meyer, a prosperous young farmer of Gillford Township, who saw service at the front in the World War, was born in this township, June 2, 1892, son of Hans and Margaret (Volers) Meyer. The parents were born and mar¬ ried in Germany and came to Wabasha County, Minnesota, many years ago. They had three children born in Germany, John, Henry and Claus, and four born in this country, Louis, Charles, Sophia and William. Louis is now in Montana, and Sophia and William on the home farm in Gillford Township. Charles Meyer acquired his education in the common school. He was reared on his parents' farm, which he managed for some years up to 1916, after which he started in on his own account, renting the John Busch farm in Gillford Township. On May 27, 1918, he was drafted into the United States' service, was sent to Camp Lewis, Wash., where he trained for four weeks, and was assigned to Company C, 160th Infantry. Then followed four weeks at Camp Kearney, Calif. He left for overseas July 20, and after arriving on the other side was transferred to Co. B, No. 308, 77th Infantry Division. Within two weeks he was on the front in the Argonne, where he served until two days before the signing of the armistice. After spending four weeks in a hospital, he was assigned to service with a casualty company. He left for America March 27, 1919, and on his arrival in this country was sent to Camp Mills, and from there to Camp Grant, Illinois, where he was mustered out April 27, and returned home. At liberty to resume agricultural operations, Mr. Meyer bought 173 acres in sections 6 and 7, Gillford Township, the place having an old set of buildings. In 1920 he built a new barn, 38 by 90 feet, with a tile basement of 8 feet and modern equipment, accommodating 50 head of cattle and 10 horses. He is successfully breeding pure blooded Percheron horses, Shorthorn cattle, Poland-China hogs and grade Shropshire sheep, and is a stockholder in the local creamery. The soil on his farm is productive, and with adequate buildings and a good operating equipment, he is making financial progress. Mr. Meyer was married September 24, 1919, to Anna, daughter of Peter and Catherine Luhmann of Gillford Township. He and his wife are members of the Lincoln congregation of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran church. Politically Mr. Meyer is a Republican.

Wendelin Krismer, a well known and highly respected citizen of Gillford Township, was born in the Austrian Tyrol, November 25, 1857, son of Anton and Johanna Krismer. The father was a carpenter by trade, and in 1867, when the subject of this sketch was ten years old, he, with his family, emigrated to America, settling on a farm in La Crosse County, Wisconsin, where they re¬ mained 14 years. They then sold the place and moved into La Crosse, where Anton Krismer followed his trade. Wendelin Krismer obtained most of the schooling he ever got in his native land. He followed the fortunes and shared the experiences of his family until they moved to the city of La Crosse, and then came to Wabasha County, Minnesota, locating in the vicinity of Theilmam Having learned the carpenter's trade under his father, for two years he worked at it in this county, alternating it with work as a farm hand. In 1884 he went to Minneapolis, where he worked at his trade. While there he was married, September 11, 1883, to Veronica, daughter of Peter and Hilda Noll of Highland Township, Wabasha County, where she was born December 17, 1859. Mr. Krismer and his wife remained in Minneapolis until 1900, when they came to Wabasha County and took up their residence near Theilman, Mr. Krismer working at his trade until the fall, when they moved to the farm which they have since made their home, which he had purchased in the spring of that year. This farm at the time contained 160 acres, and is located in sections 25 and 26, Gillford Township. Mr. Krismer also owns 80 acres adjoining, and has 160 acres of his land under tillage, the rest being in pasture. There is a good set of buildings, including a frame house, a barn 36 by 80 by 14 feet, with a full stone basement for stock, and equipped with steel stanchions and' man¬ gers. The farm is well stocked with high grade Shorthorn cattle, as well as with a good grade of hogs and sheep, and general farming and dairying are carried on, Mr. Krismer milking from 18 to 20 cows, for which he has installed a modern double-unit milking machine. Mr. Krismer still works at his trade to a considerable extent, leaving the management of the farm to his three sons Louis, William and Christian. He is clerk of the school board of his district' and is independent in politics. Mr. and Mrs. Krismer have had eight children:' Henry J., born December 31, 1885; John P., August 21, 1886; Wendelin Jr

L, who is a carpenter in Lake City, married Cora Locher and they have five children : Marcella Helen, Agnes, Jacob, and John. John P. the second child, died m infancy. Wendelin, Jr., is now a farmer in Gillford Township. He married Margaret Mason and has four children, Veronica, Cornelia, Florence and Robert Joseph A- married Johanna Laqua and has three children, Ade- on the^mmp fhllStla? R ^ Mary P* &re aS yet unmarried and are residing on the home farm. ^ Louis J. served in the World War, being inducted into the

Mrs. Hilda Noll diedTn mi being Tury yed hr M^ "v Highland Township. his death occurred in 1901 Of their children tv, ^ us^and for 30 years> as

Fred Busse, Jr., engaged in agriculture in Mazeppa Township, was born in Olmsted County, Minnesota, April 1, 1880, son of Fred and Johanna (Heimke) Busse. The father came to the United States from Germany in 1872, after service in the Franco-German war, and after a year's residence in Wisconsin, settled in Olmsted County, Minnesota, whence he came with his family to Mazeppa Township, Wabasha County, in 1880. Since then he has been one of the township's most prominent farmers. Fred Busse, Jr., was a babe when he was brought by his parents to this township. His education was acquired in the district school, and he subsequently worked for his father until 1904. He then began farming for himself, buying 20 acres in section 19, Ma¬ zeppa Township, and on his land erected a set of buildings. He later bought 15 acres more, thus bringing his farm up to an area of 35 acres, on which he is raising pure-bred Duroc-Jersey hogs, high grade Durham cattle, full-blood Rose Comb and Brown Leghorn chickens, and Bourbon Red Turkeys. Mr. Busse is also manager of the Mazeppa Live Stock Shipping Association, to which position he was elected in 1917, and is also secretary of the Mazeppa Creamery. For the last 14 years he has held the office of town clerk, and for 16 years has been a member of the school board of District No. 76. He is fraternally affili¬ ated with the Masonic Order. On August 22, 1905, Mr. Busse was united in marriage with Edna Mack, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dan Mack of Mazeppa, where Mrs. Mack now resides, the husband and father being deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Mack were the parents of three children, Fred, Edna and Lottie. To Mr. and Mrs. Busse five children have been born: Leona J., October 25, 1906; Ruth H., July 6, 1908; Manley M., April 8, 1911; Freda E., September 18, 1912, and Lottie L., January 30, 1915.

Dick Klindworth, one of the self-made farmers of Gillford Township, who started poor and is now well off, was born in Hanover, Germany, October 3, 1869, son of Herman and Anna Klindworth. The parents never came to Amer¬ ica, the mother dying when the subject of this sketch was a child. He attended common school in Germany and at the age of 16 came to Minnesota, locating in Goodhue County, where ,he had a sister already living. There he attended school for six months, and for four years worked as a farm hand. He also learned the carpenter's trade with John Oelkers and worked at it until 1898. In that year, which was the year of his marriage, he bought a farm of 80 acres in section 4, Gillford Township, Wabasha County. The place was but slightly improved, there being only a small shack for a residence and no barns. Through his own exertions he now owns 168 acres, all under the plow, and he has a good set of buildings, including two good barns, a tool shed, granary, corn cribs, garage and silo, the garage having been erected to shelter his Ford car. His farm is now in good shape and he has a complete equipment, including all nec¬ essary machinery. As a general farmer he is making good progress, being successful in crop raising and in the breeding of grade Shorthorn cattle and Poland-China swine. His farm is situated nine miles southwest of Lake City, which is his usual market. In politics he is independent. Mr. Klindworth was married September 4, 1898, to Katherine Marion, daughter of Diedrich and Margaret Dankers. She was born in Germany April 29, 1876, and came to the United States with her parents at the age of three years, the family settling in Mt. Pleasant Township. Mr. and Mrs. Klindworth have had five children, all residing at home, namely: Alfred Henry, born June 8, 1902; Edna Margaret, born February 19, 1905; Esther Johanna, born January 12, 1907, who died March 30, the same year; Frederick Herman, born May 5, 1910, and Wilbert Otto, born June 1, 1916. The family are members of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran church (known as the Lincoln Congregation), of which Mr. Klind¬ worth has been a trustee and the treasurer for the last seven years.

Henry L. Hoops, a prosperous citizen of Gillford Township, engaged in agriculture, was born in Belvidere Township, Goodhue County, Minn., Novem¬ ber 20, 1873, son of Hans and Mary (Clare) Hoops. The father, Hans Hoops, was also a native of Hanover, Germany, born April 20, 1847. He came to the United States at the age of twenty, locating first in Osakee County, Wis., where he remained two years. He then came to Goodhue County, Minnesota,' where on March 13, 1872, he was married to Mary Clare, who was born in Hanover, Germany, April 14, 1853. In Goodhue County Hans Hoops engaged in farming, which he carried on there for 23 years. He then moved to Gillford Township,' Wabasha County, where he took a farm on which he lived until 1908, when he retired and moved to Lake City. He and his wife had three children: Henry L., subject of this sketch; Martha, now Mrs. Charles McCroden of Lake City; and one who died in infancy. Henry L. Hoops acquired his education in the district school in Goodhue County, and remained with his parents until 1897. On September 15, that year, he married Julia Burfiend, who was born in Belvidere Township, Goodhue County, July 3, 1877, daughter of Henry and Lena Burfiend. At the same time he bought 80 acres of his father's farm in section 3, Gillford Township, and started in for himself. His father had erected a good set of buildings, which he still uses, and include the following: a barn 40 by 68 feet, with a stone basement 8 V2 feet; a tool shed 16 by 40; granary 28 by 40 by 12; poultry house 16 by 24; tile silo 14 by 41, and a steel windmill. Mr. Hoops has enlarged the area of his farm and now operates 160 acres at his original location, where he resides, and 100 acres more on the Schafer farm, or 260 acres in all. With a good equipment he follows general farming, breeding grade Shorthorn cattle, having a pure blooded sire, and Poland-China swine. Me is enjoying a prosperous career and is a stockholder in the Oak Center Creamery, the Farmers' Elevator at Lake City and the Terminal Packing Plant at Newport, and is a member of the Lake City and Zumbro Falls Shinning Association. Politically he is a Republican. He and his wife were parents of even children who were born as follows: Amanda M., June 22, 1898- Fritz

' Mav 14 1920 the rfflnhutm0t4er' M,rS' J" la Ho°Ps« dled February 11, 1913. On r. nV4' l;20, dau5hter, Amanda M., was married to William Tiedemann of Gil ford Township. Mr. Hoops and his children are members of the Evangel ical Lutheran Trinity church, known as the Lincoln congregation *

George La Mont, engaged in farming in section 4, Gillford Township was born in Hyde Park Township, Wabasha County, February 14 1877 son of <wt

(Heath) La MOnt The father born in New York State March 28, 1848, and came to Wabasha County, Minnesota, in 1857, becoming a farmer

It St Pan? tWF° rarS cou*'se from 1894 to the agricultural college at St. Paul. From an early age until he was fourteen he resided with his independent farming in 1903, he was thus occupied for five years in Hyde Park Township. In 1908 he bought his present farm in Gillford Township, section 4, all of it being improved land and one of the best farms in this section. Mr. La Mont has added to the buildings, having erected a barn 30 by 56 by 16 feet, in which he has modern equipment, including the Perfection milking machine, a tool shed, silo and other structures. He has also installed on his farm an individual Lally farm lighting plant, which furnishes light for his residence, barn, outbuildings and yard. He carries on diversified farming, his stock con¬ sisting chiefly of grade Holstein cattle and Chester White hogs, and his equip¬ ment in tools and machinery is ample and up to date. In his herd of pure bred Holsteins are from 14 to 20 milch cows. Mr. La Mont is president of the Gillford Farmers' Insurance Company, a member of the Lake City and Zumbro Falls Shipping Association, secretary of the Oak Center Creamery, and a mem¬ ber of the Farmers' Elevator at Lake City, the Terminal Packing Plant at New¬ port, the Farmers' Co-operative Milling Co. of Lake City and the Wabasha County Leader. Politically a Republican, he has served four years as town assessor. Mr. La Mont was married March 16, 1897, to Alice E. Walters, who was born in Gillford Township, October 16, 1876, daughter of Edwin R. and Mary J. Walters. Three children have come to enlarge his home circle: Ada Laura, born April 4, 1899; Edwin S., born July 5, 1901; and Ina M., May 31. 1910. Ada Laura is now the wife of George Pinson, a farmer of Saskatchewan, Canada. Mr. and Mrs. La Mont have a good social standing in Gillford Town¬ ship, and attend and help to support the Methodist Episcopal church of Oak Center.

John O'Brien, in former years well known in Lake City as a successful farmer and stock raiser in this vicinity, was born in St. Lawrence County, New York, November 3, 1837, son of John and Jane O'Brien. The parents were na¬ tives of Ireland, and although of the same family name, were not related to each other save by their marriage, which took place in St. Lawrence County, N. Y. There they settled down on a farm, on which they resided many years, John O'Brien, Sr., dying in 1880. He was survived by his wife, who finally followed him to the other world. They were the parents of nine children, of whom five are now living. John O'Brien, Jr., the subject of this sketch, re¬ ceived a good common school education, as well as a thorough training in the principles of economy and thrift during his early youth on the farm. In the spring of 1857 he came to Lake City, Minnesota, where he followed his trade - that of mason - for three years. At the end of that time he bought a farm of 160 acres of government land in Lake Township and engaged in agriculture. In the same year he married Miss Hannah Mahony. After ten years' residence on that farm, Mr. O'Brien purchased a smaller one in Lake City and removed to town, where his wife died in February, 1871. His second marriage was in February, 1874, to Mrs. Sarah Failing, formerly Miss Sarah Munger, a native of Syracuse, New York. Mr. O'Brien's end came suddenly, on Monday, July 11, 1898. On the previous Friday he had been seen on the street, and that morning he had been feeling so well that he concluded to go out to the farm, as was his usual custom. He accordingly did so, but got overheated, and did not feel so well on Saturday. On Sunday he remained home from church, which was a very unusual thing for him to do; but on Monday morning he felt so much better that he began making preparations to go out to the farm, but while in the barn began to feel ill again and went to the house. For a few minutes he recovered, and then the symptoms recurred. A doctor was sent for, and after telling the doctor how he felt, while the doctor was preparing some medicine. Mr. OBrien threw up his hands with a gasp and passed away. He was recog¬ nized as one of the leading farmers of Wabasha County, wras strictly honest, always doing as he would be done by, and never allowed an opportunity to pass to do a kind act to a fellow being. His death was a great shock to his family and friends. He was a devoted Catholic and died happy in that faith, and a large concourse of friends followed his remains to their final resting place. Mr. O'Brien was the father of seven children, of whom six were by his first wife, namely: Mary J., who married John Steel of La Crosse, Wis.; J. Syl¬ vester, Frank M., and James R., who are farmers in Mt. Pleasant Township, and Catharine B. By his second wife he had one son, George A. In addition to his farm within the city limits, Mr. O'Brien owned a fine farm of 620 acres in Lake and Mt. Pleasant Townships. In politics he was independent, support¬ ing the man rather than the party.

John Sylvester and Frank Michael O'Brien, who, under the style of O'Brien Brothers, are conducting an extensive farming business in Mt. Pleasant Town¬ ship, wTere born in section 18, Lake Township, John Sylvester on December 3, 1860, and Frank on December 15, 1863. They are sons of John and Hannah (Mahoney) O'Brien, who came to Lake City in 1868. There John S. and Frank M. attended school, Lake City being their home until 1880. In the meanwhile their father had purchased and begun the operation of a farm in sections 13 and 24, Mt. Pleasant Township, on which the two brothers took up their resi¬ dence on completing their schooling. In 1898 they formed a partnership with their brother James to operate the farm, and the three brothers were associated together for several years. Then James withdrew and John S. and Frank have since continued the business together, from time to time enlarging their sphere of action as they became more and more prosperous. They now own and oper¬ ate 378 acres in Mt. Pleasant Township, also 240 acres adjoining in Lake Town¬ ship, having 420 acres under the plow. In addition to the above mentioned property, they own a 200-acre farm in section 26, Mt. Pleasant Township, which they rent out. On the Mt. Pleasant farm operated by themselves is a good set of buildings, including a two-story frame house, a frame barn 46 by 70 by 18 feet, with a full stone basement of eight feet, a tool shed, poultry house, wagon shed, sheep house and granary, all good substantial buildings, and the land is \vell cultivated and productive. They are doing general farming and stock raising, theii stock consisting of Shorthorn cattle, Duroc-Red hogs and Shropshiie sheep, of which they have 100 ewres. For each herd they have fullblooded sires. Of cattle and sheep they ship annually one car load of each to the Chicago and St. Paul markets. Their 200-acre farm, which they rent, has 180 acres under the plow, and is in a good state of cultivation. It also has good buildings, the house being a two-story frame; the barn measuring 20 by 30 by 16 feet, and the other out-buildings including a granary, tool shed, wagon shed, and a shop, woodshed and summer kitchen combined. Industrious and capable, the O'Brien Brothers have taken rank among the most prosperous farmers of their township. Politically they are Democrats, and John S. has served as township treasurer for seven years, also for some years as a member of the school board. As yet he has not married. Frank O'Brien was married m 1909 to Elizabeth, daughter of Maurice Schaffer -of Goodhue County. She died a little more than a year after her marriage, and the household is now presided over by Catherine O'Brien, a sister of John and Frank. Their mother died m 1871 and the father, who subsequently remarried, died in 1898. The family are Catholics in religion and members of St. Mary's parish at Lake City. They are people of wide acquaintance and are doing a valuable work in devel¬ oping the agiicultural resources of their locality, thus contributing materiallv to the aggregate wealth of the county in its most important industry.

Andrew Boss, an early settler in Gillford Township, and at one time one of the leading citizens of Wabasha County, was born in Kinross, Scotland. July 6, 1835, and came to America at the age of 17 years. For two years h remained in New York City, being employed as clerk in a drug store. ^He the came west and at Janesville, Wis., about 1859, he met and married Jeanett Nesbit. In 1863 Mr. Boss came with his wife to Wabasha County, Minnesota buying a homestead claim on section 15, Gillford Township. The place was but slightly improved, only a small part of the land being broken, the house being a shack, and straw sheds in use as a substitute for stables. Mr. Bdss at once started to develop a good farm, erecting a substantial house and other buildings. He worked hard, made good progress, and was very successful as a farmer. For a long period he served as town clerk, and in time acquired such local popularity that he was elected to the state legislature, in which he served for two years, in politics being a Democrat. He died on the farm August 22, 1897, and was survived by his wife, who passed away in 1905, also on the old homestead. Their children were as follows: Marcia, now Mrs. A. H. Lamb of Oak Center; Jean, wife of J. E. Knight of Sherwood, Ore.; Andrew, an in¬ structor in the Minnesota Agricultural College at St. Paul; William, who holds a similar position there; Bessie, deceased, who was the wife of E. M. Anding of Dumont, Minn.; James, of Zumbro Falls, Minn.; Alexander, of Sherwood, Ore.; David, now proprietor of the old home farm in Gillford Township; John, who is deceased, and two others who died in infancy.

James Boss, a prosperous farmer residing in section 31, Gillford Township, was born in this township, October 12, 1876, son of Andrew and Jeanette (Nesbit) Boss. He acquired his education in the school of district 88, and sub¬ sequently for one year attended the Minnesota Agricultural College. He re¬ mained on the home farm until the spring of 1896, and the summer and fall of that year he spent in Crookston, Minn., working on the State Experimental Farm. Then returning to Wabasha County, he remained on the home farm until 1901. That fall he began farming for himself on a rented farm at Oak Center, where he remained two years. He then bought an 80-acre farm in Gillford Township which he operated three years, and then sold, at the end of that time renting a farm of 260 acres in Gillford Township adjoining the old homestead. His next move was to Zumbro Falls, where he lived for two years employed as rural mail carrier. In 1913 Mr. Boss bought his present farm of 120 acres in section 31, Gillford Township, adjoining the village of Zumbro Falls, it being an old improved farm with a good house and other buildings, and he has since been profitably engaged in its operation. He has 108 acres under the plow, has a good tile silo, and an adequate equipment, and does gen¬ eral farming. His stock consists of grade Shorthorn cattle, Poland-China hogs and Shropshire sheep. In addition to his work on the farm, for the last five years he has been manager of the Farmers' Shipping Association of Zumbro Falls. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator Co., the Zumbro Falls. Telephone Co., and the Farmers Co-operative Creamery of Zumbro Falls. Mr. Boss was married October 29, 1901, to Media Ann Claflin, who was born in Big Stone, Minn., April 5, 1883, daughter of William H. and Adda M. Claflin of Zumbro Falls. Her parents, who were among the early settlers in Gillford Township, are now living at Sweet Briar, N. D. Mr. and Mrs. Boss are the parents of two children : Beth May, born November 29, 1903, who is attending Zumbro Falls high school; and Clifford James, born November 20, 1907, who is a student in the seventh grade of the common school.

Dedrick Reincke, better known as "Dick," the owner and operator of a good farm of 160 acres in Gillford Township, was born in Hanover, Germany, August 13, 1875, son of Herman and Catherine Reincke. About six years after his birth his parents emigrated to Minnesota, settling in Belvidere Township, Goodhue County, v/here they engaged in farming. Both are now deceased, the mother having passed away October 8, 1901, at the age of 69 years, and the father in the spring of 1911, at the age of 76. His parents being poor, Dedrick Reincke had to begin work at an early age, but attended district school in Bel¬ videre, as he had opportunity, up to the age of 14 years. Since boyhood he has supported himself. On June 11, 1902, he was married to Mary H. Dose, who was born in Mt. Pleasant Township, October 8, 1884, daughter of Frederick and Margaret Dose. In the same year he began farming on his own account,' rent¬ ing the Fred Laqua farm in West Albany Township, Wabasha County. In the fall of 1904 he removed to the E. C. McCall farm on section 8, Gillford Town- ship, 'which he operated under rental for nine years, buying it in 1912, and it has since remained his home. It is situated on section 8, and contains 160 acres, all tillable. When he took possession it had a fair set of buildings, but finding them inadequate, he has since erected others, including a barn 44 by 66 by 16 feet, with a full tile basement of 9 feet; a machine shed 24 by 60, a poultry house 14 by 36 by 8, and a steel windmill. He is engaged successfully in general farming, raising both grain and stock, his farm being well stocked with grade cattle and hogs. It is ten miles southwest of Lake City, which is his usual market. In addition to his direct farming interests, Mr. Reincke is a stockholder in the Oak Center Creamery, the Farmers' Elevator at Lake City, and St. John's Hospital of Red Wing; and is a member of the Shipping Asso¬ ciations at Lake City and Zumbro Falls, and secretary and treasurer of the Gillford Mutual Fire Insurance Company. He has rendered some' public ser¬ vice as clerk of school district No. 15. Mr. and Mrs. Reincke have been the parents of six children, of whom five are now living, the record, in brief, being as follows: Alvin H., born May 12, 1905; Verna A., born August 16, 1908; Frederick E., born August 23, 1910, who died January 19, 1913; Wilbur A., born March 31, 1913; Thelma M., born January 25, 1915; and Linnea C., born Janu¬ ary 6, 1917. Mr. Reincke and his family are members of the Evangelical Lu¬ theran Congregation, commonly known as the "Lincoln Church," of Gillford Township.

Augustus H. Lamb, an active and prosperous farmer of Gillford Township, was born in this township July 6, 1862, son of Ezra G. and Laura J. (Wilson) Lamb. The parents were pioneers of the township, arriving in 1860 and sub¬ sequently developing a farm. August H. was reared on his parents' farm, on which he has always resided, and is now the owner. The farm is now one of the best in the township, and has been improved considerably by the subject of this sketch, who has built a good barn, tool sheds, granary and other build¬ ings. He carries on diversified farming, raising high grade Shorthorn cattle, Shropshire sheep and Duroc-Jersey hogs. His operating equipment is modern and complete and includes two good auto cars. Among his herd are 16 milch cows, and he has installed on his farm two double-unit milking-machines. Mr. Lamb served for a number of years as a member of the school board of district No. 70. In politiics he is a Republican with independent tendencies. Mr. Lamb was married December 4, 1884, to Marcia Boss, daughter of Andrew and Jeanette Boss of Gillford Township. She was born at La Prairie, Wis., June 17, 1863, and accompanied her parents to Lake City, Wabasha County, when she was six months old, they subsequently settling on a farm in Gillford Town¬ ship. To Mr. and Mrs. Lamb were born five children: Eva, April 6, 1887; Harvey April 6, 1890; John, November 18, 1892; Chester, July 12, 1895; and er ru(^e' ^e^ruary 1900. Eva, who is a graduate of the normal course in the Lake City high school and also of the Minnesota Agricultural school, has been a teacher for the past seven years. Harvey is a farmer in Gillford Towna graduate of the Lake City high school, is assistant cashier of the Lake City Bank of Minnesota. Chester, who is now with his father on the home farm, was a pupil for one year in the Lake Ciy high school, and also for a year in the Minnesota Agricultural School. On September 19, 1918, he volun¬ teered to serve m the World War, and was sent to Minneapolis, where he trained as auto mechanic in the Dunwoody Institute. He finished the course two days before the signing of the armistice and was discharged at Minne¬ apolis, December 12, 1918. Gertrude is a graduate of the Lake City high school ; she studied for one year in the Winona Normal school and is now a teacher. Mr. Lamb and his family attend and help to support the Methodist Episcopal church. In addition to his direct farming interests Mr. Lamb is a stockholder in the Oak Center Creamery, of which he was a director for one year; also in the Farmers' Elevator at Zumbro Falls, and in the Zumbro Falls Telephone Company, being a director in the latter. He and his family are among the most respected residents of Gillford Township.

Ezra G. Lamb, one of the early settlers of Gillford Township who did pioneer work in developing a farm from the wilderness, was born in Vermont, August 28, 1820. He was married in the same state in 1841 to Laura J. Wilson, and in 1860 came with his family to Wabasha County, Minnesota. Here he arrived with but little means, but began farming in Gillford Township, he and his family living in a log house. He developed a farm of 160 acres in section 7, which farm is still in the family, being now the property of his son August. With the help of his sons Mr. Lamb brought his property into good condition, building a comfortable frame house and other buildings. He was successful as a farmer and was respected and esteemed as a man and a citizen. Polit¬ ically a Republican, he had served while living in Pennsylvania in several local offices, but here took no active part in local affairs. He and his wife spent the rest of their lives on their farm, Mrs. Lamb dying September 26, 1914, and Mr. Lamb December 29, 1905. They were the parents of six children: Erastus, Lovina, Thaddeus, Julius, Gould and Augustus H. Erastus, who served in the Civil War, suffered hardships in the army which left him in poor health for the rest of his life and is now deceased. Lovina and Thaddeus are also dead. Julius is living at Monrovia, Calif., Gould is in Lake City, Minn., and Augustus H. is on the old home farm in Gillford Township, Wabasha County.

Leroy W. Adams, who has been established for a number of years as a general farmer and stock raiser in Zumbro Township, was born in this town¬ ship, September 2, 1870, son of Eugene and Victoria (Hammons) Adams. The father was a native of the state of Maine, who came to Wabasha County with his parents, Robert L. and Mary Adams, at an early day, and who was married to Victoria Hammons in 1869. Her parents were pioneer settlers here also, and it was in honor of Mr. Hammons that the village of Hammond was named, with a change in the final letter of the name. The parents of the subject of this sketch are now living retired in Zumbro Township after a prosperous career in agriculture. Leroy W. Adams acquired his education in the district school and gained a knowledge of agriculture on his parents' farm, continuing as his father's assistant until 1891. He then began an independent career, buying a farm of 80 acres in section 14, Zumbro Township, which farm, how¬ ever, he sold in 1893. Later he bought his present farm of 120 acres, of which 80 lie in section 13 and 40 in section 14. He has improved the place by the erection of buildings and fences, and is carrying on general farming and stock raising with good success. Mr. Adams has been twice married: first on May 11, 1891, to Lesie Anderson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Welcome Anderson. She died April 5, 1892.

Alfred Klindworth, a member of the firm of Klindworth Bros., hardware dealers and garage proprietors, of Zumbro Falls, was born in Chester Town¬ ship, this county, August 26, 1893, son of Claus and Katherine Klindworth. The first 22 years of his life was spent on his parents' farm, and his education was acauired in the district school. At the age of 22 he came to Zumbro Falls and entered the employ of Gray & Klindworth, the latter member of the con¬ cern being his brother John. After three years he bought Mr. Gray's interest and became his brother's partner, the name of the firm at the same time being changed to Klindworth Bros. They do a profitable business in hardware, also selling auto cars and tractors, and running a repair shop in connection with their garage. Alfred Klindworth was married in 1915, in Gillford, Wabasha County, to Evas M. Gerken, daughter of John and Katherine (Heitman) Gerken. Her parents were farmers, the father being a native of Massachusetts and the mother of Germany. They had six sons and three daughters: Richard, Alfred, John, Henry, Frederick, Clarence, Evas, Lorena and Anna. The two latter are now residing in Lake City with the parents. Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Klindworth have two children, Roderick and Lois.