Wabasha County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches, 1920 (part 26 of 27)

Stephan J. Reding, for a number of years a substantial farmer and esteemed citizen of Chester Township, whose life came to a sudden and tragic end on October 26, 1918, was born in Sheldon Township, Wyoming County, N. Y., December 31, 1868, son of Stephan and Josephine (Peiry) Reding. In 1870, when two years old, he accompanied his parents to Goodhue County, Minn., where he was reared to manhood, the family home being in the vicinity of Crystal Spring, Belvid%re Township. For a number of years he worked for his father, and subsequently rented 160 acres of his father in Goodhue County. He later bought a farm of 160 acres in section 16, and 80 in section 17, Chester Township, Wabasha County, which he subsequently developed and brought into excellent condition, remodeling the house and erecting a good barn, and where he carried on general farming and stock raising with profitable results until his death, which was the result of an automobile accident. On the afternoon of Saturday, October 26, 1918, Mr. Reding and his son Nicholas had motored to Wabasha to transact business with the local draft board. They left the city at about 4 p. m. to return home. Not far from the railroad tracks the car sloughed or was leaving the road. Probably in endeavoring to bring it back in the road too sudden a turn was made - at any rate the car made a complete turn forward, landing again on the wheels and throwing out Mr. Reding and his sen. The latter regained consciousness in a short time, and on looking for his father found him lying in the road a short distance away, devoid of life. His skull was fractured, some of his ribs broken and he had sustained other serious injuries. Nicholas suffered no injuries except some cuts on his fore¬ head. Aid was summoned and the Knights of Columbus of Mazeppa took charge of the remains and brought them to his former home on Sunday. The funeral was one of the largest ever held at Belvidere. About 75 Knights of Columbus from neighboring towns were among those present. Mr. Reding was a man held in high esteem for his probity, genial manners, and all the qualities of a good neighbor and a good citizen. His death left a void that was hard to fill and was mourned by the entire communty. Stephan J. Reding was married August 29, 1893, to Susan Arendt, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Philip Arendt of Chester Township, whose farm in section 8 now comprises 795 acres of land. In 1901 her parents moved to Little Falls, Morrison County, Minn., where Mrs. Arendt died in 1909. Mr. Arendt now resides at Maple Lake, Wright County. They had a family of 15 children: Nicholas, Susan, Josephine (first), Josephine (second), Mary, Peter, August, Katherine, Margaret, Frank, Rose, Lena, John, Joseph and Stephan. The first Josephine died in infancy, and the second of the name, who became Sister Theclita, of Notre Dame Convent, Milwaukee, died May 22, 1906. August, John and Stephan are also deceased. Margaret is now Sister Agneta of Notre Dame Convent, Milwaukee. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Stephan J. Reding, ten in number, were born as follows: John, August 4, 1894; Mary B., January 25, 1896; Philip D., July 18, 1897; Nicholas L., October 18, 1898; Leo P., February 4, 1900; Bert L., August 25, 1901; Flor¬ ence H., September 25, 1903; Katherine C., January 1, 1905; Veronica M., Jan¬ uary 6, 1910; and Evelyn M., December 9, 1912. John was drafted into the United States service September 5, 1918, becoming a member of the 334th Headquarters Company. He was discharged December 9, 1919. Philip D. was drafted October 24, 1918. He was discharged in 1919 and on August 10, 1920, married Gertrude Musty of Red Wing. Mary B. is now the wife of Lawrence Majerus, of Chester Township.

David L. Philley, who came at an early day to Wabasha County, and after an interval of some years, made a permanent settlement, was born in McDon¬ ough, Chenango County, N. Y., September 8, 1823, son of Isaac and Eliza Philley. His grandfather, Remembrance Philley, served through the Revolu¬ tionary War under Washington. The family name is of Irish origin, but the mother of Remembrance was Scotch. David L. Philley was reared on a farm and received a meager common school education. At the age of 21 he began to teach and educate himself, teaching eight winters in all. He also bought farms and sold them after making improvements. He was married March 5, 1849, to Clarissa L. Eaton, who was born in Willet, Cortland County, N. Y., and whose father, John Eaton, was born in Utica. In 1857 Mr. Philley came to Wabasha County, Minn., on a prospecting tour, and bought 240 acres of land in Chester Township, subsequently returning East. In 1868 he came back to Minnesota, bringing with him his family, and they settled on his land in Chester Township, which he improved, carrying on agriculture there until 1875, when he moved to Lake City. About a year later he came to Mazeppa, where he built a good residence, and engaged in the buying and selling of land, an occupation in which he continued until his death on March 28, 1903. He had been a wid¬ ower for over ten years, his wife having passed away December 23, 1893. Of their six children, five are now living: Melinda, a widow residing in Mazeppa, her husband, Albert Stowell, having died in 1905; Isaac L., a hardware mer¬ chant in Lewisburg, Minn.; John E., of Mazeppa; Murray, who lives in Can¬ ada; and Viola, who married Edward Noonan of Portland, Ore. The one de¬ ceased is Sherman. Mr. Philley was at one time, in the early eighties, the owner of 2,100 acres of land, of which 1,300 acres were in Lac Qui Parle County. He was a member of Mazeppa Lodge, I. O. G. T.

John E. Philley, now living retired in Mazeppa, after a number of years spent in farming and stock raising in Chester Township, was born in Chenango County, N. Y., September 9, 1856, son of David L. and Clarissa (Eaton) Philley. He was in his twelfth year when he accompanied his parents to the farm they had purchased in Chester Township, this county, and he was there reared to manhood, acquiring under his father a practical knowledge of agriculture. On his father's death in March, 1903, he fell heir to the farm, which he conducted until April, 1912. He then rented the place to a tenant and came to Mazeppa, where he has since lived retired. He has been school dirctor for several years, and for three years justice of the peace, and is a man held in esteem by his fellow townsmen for his sterling qualities as a neighbor and good American citizen. He is fraternally affiliated with the United Workmen. Mr. Philley was married April 3, 1880, to Clara A. Ford, daughter of Orton and Finette (Hogan) Ford. Her grandfather, Joseph Ford, was one of the earliest set¬ tlers on the site of Mazeppa, pre-empting 160 acres of land in the north half of section 6, and he and his son, Orville D., who settled in the south half of the same section, laid out and platted the village, the site of which was owned by Joseph. Mr. and Mrs. Philley are the parents of three daughters: Olive, wife of Delbert Cunningham, of Zumbrota, Minn., and Almeter and Elsie, re¬ siding in Mazeppa, the latter being clerk in Nichol's store. A son, Clarence, is now deceased.

Charles A. Swanson, head of the firm of Swanson & Sons, of Plainview, engaged in buying and shipping produce, was born in Wabasha County, Oc¬ tober 30, 1871, son of Mr. and Mrs. August Swanson. He acquired his educa¬ tion in the district schools, and at the age of 19 years began working out as a farm laborer. This occupation he followed for a few years and then rented the Patton farm in Elgin Township, this county, which he was engaged in operating for 14 years. Afterwards he bought an 80-acre farm in the same township, on which he lived for seven months, in 1909 selling the farm and moving to Plainview in order that his children might enjoy better educational opportunities. For a while after coming here he followed teaming, carpentry, painting and interior decorating, and is now, in company with his sons, engaged in buying and shipping such farm produce as cabbages, onions, and potatoes. In 1918 he bought a farm of 80 acres in Oakwood Township, this county. Enterprising and energetic, he has made good progress on the road to affluence, and is recog¬ nized as one of the prosperous and reliable citizens of the village. Mr. Swan- son was married December 24, 1894, to Lulu M. Sexton, who was born in New York state May 11, 1877, and acquired her education in the Plainview, Minn., public and high schools. The children of this union are Charles A., Theodore S., Earl Ervin, Clarence August, Levi Lewis and Velva Lila Maude. Charles A., born November 1, 1895, after graduating from the Plainview high school at the age of 16 years, in 1912, entered the Winona Business College, from which he received four diplomas. For a time he was with the Huntley moving picture people at Winona, after which he worked as bookkeeper at Cooperstown, N. D. From there he went to Redwood Falls, Minn,, where during the war he was em¬ ployed in the draft office, and at the end of his term of service was. accorded honorable mention as not having made a single mistake. On May 13, 1919, he became cashier in the freight depot at Tracy, Minn. His wife, Minnie, to whom he was married November 1, 1895, by a previous marriage, had one child, Leland. Theodore S. Swanson, born July 2, 1897, acquired his education in the common and high school of Plainview. He then engaged in farming at Eagle Grove, Iowa. On April 1, 1918, having been selected to serve his coun¬ try, he went to camp at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and was there for about a year, being discharged April 14, 1919. He was married at Mason City, Iowa, to Emma Mitchell, and they reside at Eagle Grove, Iowa. Earl Ervin Swanson, born June 24, 1899, was graduated from the Plainview high school in 1918, and had the honor of being at the head of his class of 32 pupils. In September, 1918, he went to Minneapolis, where he entered the S. A. T. C., remaining three months. In January, 1919, he entered a business college in that city and was graduated in the same year. Clarence August Swanson, born November 5, 1900, is now a student in the Plainview high, school. Levi Lewis, born January

I, 1902, is attending school in Plainview, being in the eighth grade. The young¬ est child, Velva Lila Maude, was born March 27, 1911, and is in the third grade of the same school. All the older children have shown exceptional ability, and the younger are bright and promising, the family apparently being possessed of good mental endowments.

Michael James Sullivan, a representative farmer of West Albany Town¬ ship, owning and operating a good farm of 285 acres in section 30, was born on this farm May 18, 1868, son of Jeremiah and Margaret (Burke) Sullivan. The parents were natives of County Kerry, Ireland, where they made each other's acquaintance. Both came to America in 1850, and in 1851 they were married in New York City, soon after theW marriage coming to Wisconsin and settling on a farm near Milwaukee. In 1855 they came to Wabasha County, Minn., and settled on 160 acres of the land now occupied by their son, Michael

J. , which they subsequently entered under the homestead law. The land was wild, but there was a small shanty standing on it, which obviated the necessity of building a house. Other improvements were made in time and the land de¬ veloped into a farm, on which the parents resided until their death. The father died May 27, 1881, and was survived by his wife for nearly 21 years, her death occurring May 7, 1902. Their family numbered six children: Jeremiah, a farmer in West Albany Township, adjoining the old home farm; James, de¬ ceased; Mary, now Mrs. John Howard of Milwaukee; Johanna, deceased; Daniel, deceased; and Michael James, the subject of this sketch. Michael James Sullivan was reared on his parents' farm, and attended District School No. 23 in West Albany Township, until the age of 16 years. In 1892 he became owner of the farm, which in the fall of the same year he leased out, and went to Minneapolis, where he remained until 1904. While in that city he was em¬ ployed for a number of years in the Syndicate Block on Nicolet avenue, and for four or five years was in the employ of the United States Express Co. In 1904 he returned to his farm in West Albany Township, which he has since been engaged in operating. He has built a comfortable frame house, barns, granary and ether necessary buildings, and has also added to the original area, having now 285 acres of land, of which 200 are under the plow. His equipment is up to date and complete and includes a good auto car. Mr. Sullivan carries on general farming on a profitable basis, his farm, which lies 12 miles south of Lake City, being well stocked with grade Shorthorn and Hereford cattle. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers' Elevator Co. of Millville. He is a Democrat politically and for seven years was treasurer of his school board. On October 3, 1893, Mr. Sullivan was united in marriage with Nellie, daughter of Michael and Anna (Worth) Sweeney, of St. Paul, Minn. She was born on a farm in Goodhue County, Minn., January 31, 1871. Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan began home making in Minneapolis, where he was then employed. They have had three chil¬ dren : John, born August 9, 1894; Marion, born October 5, 1895; and Mildred, born May 9, 1898. John died in infancy. Marion, who was graduated from the Lake City High School in the normal school course, has been a teacher for the past seven years. She resides on the farm with her parents. Mildred is the wife of Ralph Harlan, a farmer near Plainview, and has one child, Edward.

Joseph Bernhardt Freese, who settled 36 years ago in West Albany Town¬ ship, where he began agricultural improvements that have since resulted in a good farm now conducted by his son John, was born in Germany, February 23, 1830. He grew to manhood in his native land and was there married. In 1866, with his wife, Mary Elizabeth, and six children - five sons and one daughter, the youngest, John, being then only eight months old - he took passage on a sailing vessel for New Orleans, reaching that port safely, and then came by boat up the Mississippi river to Bellevue, Iowa, which place the family reached November 14, the same year, owing $60 for transportation. In his native land Mr. Freese had been a farmer, and in Bellevue he engaged in ordinary labor, whatever he could find to do. He and his family remained there until the fall of 1879, when he came to Wabasha County, Minn., locating on a farm on Wabasha Hill, three and a half miles from Wabasha village, which he rented from Charles Roemer. There he remained four years, engaged in agricultural pur¬ suits. In the fall of 1884 Mr. Freese rented the Henry Curry farm in section 13, West Albany-Township, to which he and his family moved. He continued to operate it pntil 1889, when he retired, and it was purchased by his son, John, the present owner. Mr. Freese died January 9, 1902. His wife, who was born October 24, 1838, passed away only three days before him. -They were the parents of eight children: Clement, now of Breckenridge, Minn.; Bernhardt, a retired farmer living in Wabasha; Theresa, now Mrs. Bernhardt Kreye of Pepin Tov/nship; Joseph, a prosperous farmer of W^est Albany Township; Henry, who is farming in Glasgow Township; August, a farmer in West Albany Township; Mary, now deceased; and John, residing on the old home farm.

John Freese, a prominent representative of the farming interests of West Albany Township, where he has resided for over 40 years, was born in Han¬ over, Germany, March 6, 1866, son of Joseph Bernhardt and Mary Elizabeth Freese. As a babe he accompanied his parents, together with a sister and four brothers, to the United States, Journeying on a sailing-vessel to New Orleans, and thence up the river to Bellevue, Iowa, where he attended the common school, and where the family remained until the fall of 1879, when they came to Wabasha County, Minn. Here his education was supplemented by three months in the Sisters' school at Wabasha, and was afterwards associated with his father on the home farms, first on Wabasha Hill, and then in section 13, West Albany, where he now lives, until the father's death in 1902. He then bought the farm, which his father had rented, and has since remained its pro¬ prietor, carrying on general farming and successfully breeding Shorthorn cat¬ tle and Duroc-Jersey hogs. The farm, v/hich is now one of the best in the township, has been made so largely by his own exertions. It contains in all 216 acres, of which 160 acres are improved land in section 13, and the other 56 acres timber land on the Zumbro bottoms, near by. The original buildings were poor, the house being partly of frame and partly of log construction. Mr. Freese has replaced it with a large two-story frame house, consisting of an up- right and wing, and has built a good frame barn, a machine-shed, double corn crib, hog house and other necessary structures. He raises from 40 to 50 head of cattle annually and about the same number of hogs, and is doing a prosperous business. His operating equipment includes the usual farm machinery and some eight or ten horses, and. he owns a fine Oakland auto. In politics Mr. Freese was formerly a Republican, but has joined the Non-partisan League. He has served his township several terms as supervisor, is still serving in that office, and has been a member of the local school board for years. In addition to his direct farming interests, he is one of the directors of the Theilman State Bank, is treasurer of the Farmers' Elevator Co. of Theilman, and is a stock¬ holder in the Terminal Packing Co. of St. Paul, and in the Wabasha "Leader" (now his party's organ), and of the "Daily Star" of Minneapolis. He is also a member of the Equitable Fraternal Union of St. Paul. Mr. Freese was married October 7, 1902, to Augusta Markus, who was born in Trout Creek Valley, Glasgow Township, this county, June 29, 1876, daughter of Henry and Mary (Krull) Markus. Of the six children born to him and his wife, one died in in¬ fancy. Those living, with their birth dates, are as follows : Marie C., February 14, 1904; Gertrude, March 8, 1908; Arthur J., March 19, 1910; Elizabeth B., May 16, 1912; and Clarence J., May 26, 1914. Mr. Freese was reared a Cath¬ olic, and he and his family are members of St. Joseph's parish at Theilman, he also being a trustee of the parish.

Garrett Roseboom, formerly engaged in agricultural pursuits in Zumbro Township, was born in New Jersey, September 23, 1848. In 1862 he came to Wabasha County, Minn., with his parents, Ares and Elizabeth Roseboom, who settled in Zumbro Township, and until 1864 he worked for his father. After that for several years he did farm labor, working for others. In 1868 Mr. Rose¬ boom started in for himself as an independent farmer, buying 80 acres in sec¬ tion 35, Zumbro Township, and building a house on his land. There he was engaged in general farming and stock raising until his death on November 15, 1886. Mr. Roseboom was married January 15, 1878, to Louise Renoux, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Renoux. Her parents were natives of France who came to America in 1845, settling near Lake City, Minn., on a small farm. Mr. Renoux dying in the following year, his wife subsequently operated the farm and reared her family. They had seven children: Mary, Victoria (deceased), Joseph, Louisa, Emma and Alice (twins), and Harriett. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Roseboom, all now living, are as follows: Nathaniel A., born October 22, 1880; John J., born February 28, 1883, now residing in Olmsted County; Lydia H., born February 28, 1885, who is the wife of Arley Disney of Olmsted County; and Garrett, born July 14, 1887, who is operating the home farm for his mother, who has conducted it with the assistance of her sons since her husband's death. She has improved the place by the erection of a barn and outbuildings, and also bought 80 additional acres of land in section 36. The farm is now well improved and the family prosperous and respected.

Nathaniel A. Roseboom, a member of a prominent family of Zumbro Town¬ ship, and who for a number of years has been engaged in agricultural opera¬ tions here, was born in this township October 22, 1880, son of Garrett and Louisa (Renoux) Roseboom. His father dying in 1886, he subsequently worked on the home farm for his mother until 1897. Then he and his brothers, John and Garrett, rented the home farm and were associated together for 21 years, operating in all 520 acres - 200 acres in Wabasha County and 320 acres in Oronoco Township, Olmsted County. In 1918 he branched out for himself, farming 200 acres of his own. On settling his father's estate he had inherited 40 acres, and in 1912 he bought 80 acres of land adjoining in section 36, Zumbro Township. Later he purchased another 80, making in all 200 acres, the farm on which he now lives. He has built a barn and outbuildings, repaired the fences and made other improvements, and is successfully carrying on general farming, raising high grade Durham cattle. He has also devoted a part of his time to public affairs, having served seven years as chairman of the town board of supervisors, and six years as a member of the school board of District No. 69. Mr. Roseboom was married June 22, 1910, to Jessie M. Cooke, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Cooke of Rochester, her parents having formerly resided many years in Zumbro Township. Mr. and Mrs. Roseboom are the parents of two children: Kenneth N., born January 11, 1912; and Jennie L., born February 26, 1920.

John J. Roseboom, well known in Zumbro Township, where for a number of years he was engaged extensively in agriculture, though now a resident of Olmsted County, was born in Zumbro Township, Wabasha County, February 28, 1883, son of Garrett and Louisa (Renoux) Roseboom. He was educated in the district school, and after his father's death in 1886 worked for his mother on the home farm until 1897. Then he and his brothers rented the farm for two years, and were associated together subsequently in farming operations until 1919, operating 520 acres in Wabasha and Olmsted Counties. In 1919 John J. Roseboom bought 120 acres in Olmsted County, where he is now engaged in general farming and stock raising. He has built a barn and machine-shed and put his new property into good condition. He was married June 20, 1906, to May R. Cooke, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Cooke of Rochester. Of this union three children have been born: Mildred L., October 21, 1908; Clifton J., August 14, 1909; and Percy, February 19, 1916.

August Thiele, a prosperous land owner of Chester Township, where he formerly engaged in farming, but is now retired, was born in Hanover, Ger¬ many, Octobr 23, 1856, about the time when this county was receiving its pioneer settlers. He was educated in his native land and remained there until 1878, in which year he emigrated to the United States and settled in Goodhue County, Minn. There until 1882 he was engaged in farm work in the vicinity of Belvidere. Then starting in for himself, he rented a farm in Chester Town¬ ship, Wabasha County, which he operated for ten years, or until 1892. He then bought 80 acres in section 31, Chester, and set cut to improve the place, erecting a new set of buildings and fences and clearing most of the land. Later he bought 160 acres in section 32, which he subsequently sold to his son, Edward. His last purchase was the farm of 80 acres on which he now lives, situated in section 31, and which is operated by his sons John and Henry, Mr. Thiele hav¬ ing retired in 1912, after a successful career as a farmer and stock raiser. A man of energy and ambition, he helped to develop the resources of the township in which he settled, and has become well known and respected throughout the part of Wabasha County. August Thiele was married July 27, 1884, to Lenora Fricke, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Fricke, natives of Germany, both of whom are now deceased. Mrs. Fricke came to America and until her death in 1916 resided with her daughter, Mrs. Thiele. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Thiele have been as follows: John H., born November 22, 1885; Henry A., born November 4, 1888; Edwin H., born April 7, 1892; Rhinehart F., born May 7, 1893, who died September 4, the same year; Clara L., born February 4, 1895, now the wife of Ben Lemke; Elsie M., born March 3, 1897, who is keeping house for her brothers John and Henry; Sadie M., born September 11, 1899, and Lydia E., born November 17, 1903, both of wThom are residing at home.

Charles L. Wyatt, an enterprising and successful farmer of Zumbro Town¬ ship, was born in Zumbro Township April 30, 1869, son of Daniel and Anna (Stevens) Wyatt. The father was a native of New Hampshire and the mother of Maine. They came to Minnesota in the late fifties, first settling in Mazeppa Township, Wabasha County, and later in Zumbro, where Daniel Wyatt took a claim of 80 acres in section 13. He subsequently increased the size of his farm to 200 acres and built a house, barn and outbuildings. After remaining in the same location until 1905, he removed to a place a mile and a half east, but later tcok up his residence in Zumbro Falls, where he died May 4, 1908. His wife died February 6, 1913. They were members of the Congregational church and were widely known and respected. Their family numbered nine children, Frank, Minnie, Henry, Lillie, Eugene, Laura, Ella, Anna and Charles. Henry, Laura and Ella are now deceased. Charles L. Wyattt acquired his education in the district school and was trained to agriculture on the home farm. He worked for his father until 1898, in which year he rented a farm in Bear Valley, Chester Township. After operating that farm for three years, he removed in 1898 to Gillford Township, where he bought 80 acres, which also he operated three years, or until 1901, after wrhich he spent a year on a dairy farm in At¬ kins County. In 1902, returning to Wabasha County, he bought 240 acres in sections 12 and 13, Zumbro Township. On this place, where he resided 15 years, he built a barn and outbuildnigs. Selling it in 1917, he bought 156 acres in section 24, Zumbro Township, which is the farm he is now living on, though he has since increased its area to 236 acres, and has built a garage and made other improvements. His operations as a general farmer and stock raiser have been successfully conducted and he is now numbered among the well to do citizens of his township. Mr. Wyatt was married February 6, 1894, to Nannie Cliff, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Addene Cliff. Her parents were natives respec¬ tively of England and New York State, the father coming to this country in the early sixties. After their marriage they resided in Connecticut for two years, and then came to Wabasha County, Minn., and engaged in farming in Chester Township. Mr. Cliff died April 7, 1898, and Mrs. Cliff July 8, 1912. They were members of the Wesleyan Methodist church. Their children were Carrie, Nannie, Samuel and William. To Mr. and Mrs. Charles Wyatt eight chil¬ dren have been born, as follows: Carl J., May 19, 1895; Lela M., November 29, 1897; Norman E., August 16, 1898; Theodore R., July 1, 1900; Beth A., October 23, 1902; Frank D., December 25, 1904; Myrtle J., June 17, 1907, and Lawrence C., October 20, 1910. The eldest son, Carl J., was one of those noble American youths, who, when this country was drawn into the maelstrom of the great World War, without waiting to be called on, enlisted in its service, the date of his enlistment being December 17, 1917. At first a member of the H. M. O. R. S., he subsequently transferred to the 2d Battalion, First Division, and went over seas to France. Though he was not called on to serve at the front, he gave up his life, falling a victim to influenza, and his body is still in France. Lela M. is now the wife of Percy Anderson. Norman E. is employed in the garage at Hammond. The other children are residing on the home farm. Mr. Wyatt and his family are affiliated religiously with the Congregational church, and he also belongs to the fraternal order of Modern Woodmen of America.

Albert F. Fuerstnau, a prominent business man of Hammond, where he is engaged in the hardware and agricultural implement business, and also, with his wife's assistance, operates a hotel, was born in Germany in 1866, son of William and Eva (Ristau) Fuerstnau. The parents were born in Germany, where the father died in 1873. Thirteen years later, in 1886, his wife came to this country, settling in Indiana, where in time she died. She left two sons and two daughters: William Herman, Gusta, Henrietta and Albert F. Gusta is now Mrs. Ed Werner of Thief River Falls, Minn. Henrietta is the wife of F. Dickman of Hammond. Albert F. Fuerstnau came to the United States in 1882, settling first in Indiana, where he remained three years. Then coming to Hammond, Wabasha County, Minn., he farmed in this vicinity for six years, after which he opened a hardware store. After working four years in the creamery he became a partner with Peter Ilgen in the hardware and machinery business, being thus occupied for six years. After that he was connected for a short time with the Roberts general store, and was then employed for some time in the Kitzman hardware store. Subsequently he worked 18 months for the Standard Oil Co. Mr. Fuerstnau then bought Albert Kreinbring's interest in the hardware store of which he is now proprietor. In the fall of 1919 he opened a hotel of nine rooms, which his wife takes care of. Besides oidinar\ hardware he carries everything in the line of farm machinery, and is doing a flourishing business, based on honesty, courtesy and prompt service. Mr. Fuerstnau was married in October, 1903, to Anna Dosdall, daughter of Fred and Rosa (Gneiser) Dosdall of Hammond. He and his wife are the parents of four children: Eva, Alden, Leona and Helena, all living at home. Eva attends school at Rochester.

Fred Dosdall, a well known and respected citizen of Hammond, where he is engaged in the carpenter's trade, was born in Germany in 1849, son of Michael and Wilhelmina (Johns) Dosdall. The parents came to the United States from Germany in 1863, first locating near Princeton, Wis., where they remained for about four years. They then moved to Olmsted County, Minn., and engaged in farming. Family differences caused them finally to separate, and Mr. Dosdall subsequently died in the state of Washington. His wife after¬ wards became the wife of Mike Johnson and died at Ripon, Wis., February 4, 1914. Of the children of Mr. and Mrs. Dosdall, three sons and two daughters are now living, namely: Christ, Mike, Fred, Amelia and Bertha. Amelia is the v/ife of E. N. York of Hammond. Bertha is the widow of Charles Uhl and lives at Ripon, Wis. Fred Dosdall was reared on the home farm, and in his boyhood attended district school. On reaching the age of 17 he abandoned the farm to learn the carpenter's trade, which he has since followed, as an additional occupation running a threshing machine during threshing time. He owns 80 acres of timber land in Hyde Park Township. Mr. Dosdall has resided in Hammond for 34 years, having taken up his residence here in 1886, at which time there were but three houses in the village, so he is well known here and throughout the vicinity and enjoys considerable popularity. He was married at Ripon, Wis., June 4, 1876, to Rosa Gneiser, a native of that state, who died Feb¬ ruary 28, 1895. They had been the parents of eight children, of whom six are now living, namely: Anna, wife of Albert F. Fuerstnau of Hammond; Laura, who married Ernest Brown of Menomonie, Wis.; Lillie, wife of Will Wegner of Zumbro Township; Ella, wife of Fred Dittmer of Hammond; Charles, who is married and lives in Hammond, and Fred E., a painter and decorator of Ham¬ mond. In 1889 Mr. Dosdall married Josephine Brandt-Schroeder, who was born in Wisconsin, daughter of George and Mary Brandt, her parents being natives of Germany who settled in Wisconsin in the early fifties.

Francis A. StowelJ, one of the pioneers of Mazeppa, was born in Paris, Maine, April 18, 1816, a son of Daniel Stowell. His first ancestors in this coun¬ try came from England to New England at an early day. In 1849 or 1850 he came w^est to Platteville, Wis., and there married in September, 1850, Eunice L. Deming, who was born at West Rutland, Vt., October 8, 1829. In 1855 he came with his family to Mazeppa, Minn., taking a claim near the village, where he resided until 1870. For seven years he served as justice of the peace in Mazeppa. In 1870 Mr. Stowell removed to Lac Qui Parle County, settling on a farm near the village of the same name, where he lived until 1903. He died at Cashmere, Wash., November 20, 1906. His wife died January 9, 1901. They had a family of eleven children, of whom nine grew to maturity, and six are now living, namely: Elmer E., April 8, 1861; Addie M., born March 6, 1863; Winona M., February 16, 1865; Samuel F., December 1, 1867; Francis Eugene, May 28, 1871, and Alice E., October 7, 1873, who married Evan Taylor. Those deceased are Albert D., Louis F., Irene, Eunice, Louis Francis and Leslie B.

Albert D. Stowell, who was one of the early arrivals in Mazeppa, and for many years a prominent figure in this part of the county, was born at Platte¬ ville, Wis., August o, 18ol, son of Francis A. and Eunice L. (Deming) Stowell. He was only four years old when he accompanied his parents to Wabasha County, locating with them on a farm near Mazeppa. Subsequently , he , at¬ tended school in Mazeppa, and spent a year and a half at the Minnesota State University. During the rest of his life he followed farming in Chester Town¬ ship. He served in various local offices, being justice of the peace and at differ¬ ent times town treasurer, a member of the board of supervisors, and a member of the school board. In 1863 he enlisted in the army for service in the Civil War, and was discharged September 27, 1865, at Nashville, Tenn., with an hon¬ orable record. Mr. Stowall was married September 19, 1873, to Melinda Philley, daughter of David L. and Clarissa L. (Eaton) Philley, her parents being natives of New York state who settled in Chester Township, Wabasha County, Minn., in 1868. Her father subsequently acquired over 3,000 acres of land in this state. He died March 28, 1903. His first wife, Clarissa, died December 23, 1893, and on December 19, 1894, he married Mrs. Elizabeth Campbell, of Lac Qui Parle County, who survives him, and resides in Mazeppa. Albert D. Stowell died June 25, 1905, and was survived by his wife, who is also a resident of Mazeppa. Mr. Stowell was to all intents and purposes a pioneer of this county, and left a good record of duty well performed and valuable work ac¬ complished as a builder up of the county. His name will occupy an honorable place in its annals.

Frederick Thierstein, deceased, was a man who, through his agricultural years in Wabasha County, accomplished things. A hard worker, thorough in all his undertakings, strong of heart and character, he was honored and re¬ spected by his family and neighbors. He was born in Canton Berne, Switzer¬ land, May 30, 1833, was educated in his native land and grew to manhood on his father's estate. When a young man he learned both the miller's and baker's trades, which he followed until coming to America. While in Switz¬ erland he was a soldier in the standing army, being attached to the artillery. On October 22, 1858, he was married in Switzerland to Anna Verna Gaumann, who was born in Canton Berne, October 1, 1836. In 1868 they came to America and for eight years were located at La Crosse, Wis., where Mr. Thierstein was engaged in farm labor. In 1876 they came to Wabasha County and located in Gillford Township, buying first 80 acres in section 31. At different times Mr. Thierstein added to his possessions until he had 240 acres, all in Gillford Town¬ ship, except 40 acres across the line in Chester Township. He also bought 160 acres in Franklin County, Wash. He erected a fine set of buildings on his Gill¬ ford farm and there successfully followed diversified farming until his death, October 7, 1908. When in Switzerland he and his wife were members of the Reformed church, but after coming to this country they joined the Methodist Episcopal church. To them were born eight children: Fred O., of Gillford Township; Anna O., who married W. W. Churchill and died in 1883; Ida E., who after her sister's death married W. W. Churchill and now resides with her husband in Rochester, Minn.; Lina T., now Mrs. J. B. Radabaugh of Gillford Township; Rosa L., now Mrs. C. W. Radabaugh of Zumbro Falls; Rudolph J., of Portland, Ore.; Bertha R., wife of F. G. Heise of Red Wing; and one who died in infancy. Mrs. Thierstein, who is still living, is a very accomplished lady, thoroughly informed on all county, state and national affairs. She speaks, reads and writes four languages, having educated herself in English after coming to the United States. Though now 84 years old, she is still in full pos¬ session of her faculties, in fact, is a living encyclopedia, and it is a great pleas¬ ure to converse with her. Both her parents were born in Canton Berne, Switz¬ erland, her father, Nicholas Gaumann, in 1812, and he died there in 1874. He was a man of more than ordinary ability, the owner of a large farm or estate, and for five years was county treasurer, which in his country was considered a high office, accorded only to men of high merit. Mrs. Thierstein's mother, Anna (Durig) Gaumann, was born in 1813 and died in 1844.

Jackson Brandt Radabaugh is a farmer and considerable land owner in Gillford Township. He was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, on May 8, 1852. His parents were both born in the United States. Samuel Radabaugh was born in 1825 and Catherine (Brandt) Radabaugh on October 30, 1822. They were married iri Ohio. In 1856 they emigrated to Iowa, where they remained two years. In 1858, with five small children, they emigrated to Wabasha County, Minn., in a covered wagon with a team they owned while still in Ohio. This was the first team of horses in Gillford Township. They homesteaded 160 acres of wild land in section 30, Gillford Township. An Indian trail from Wabasha to Faribault ran through their farm, along which the Indians frequently passed. Samuel Radabaugh volunteered his services during the Civil War on February 20, 1864, and was mustered into the 10th Minnesota Infantry. After a few months of service he died on September 27, 1864, of typhoid fever at Ft. Snelling. He assisted in building the Lincoln church in Gillford Township, and was the first superintendent of the Sunday school there, also president of the first temperance society. His wife and six children survived him, namely: Naamen, now living in Minneapolis; Emma, of Boise, Idaho, widow of Benjamin Clark; Ethel, deceased; Jackson, of Gillford Township; Charles, residing near Zumbro Falls, and Catherine, of Seattle. Wash. Mrs. Radabaugh died De¬ cember 17, 1904. Jackson Radabaugh remained on the homestead which he and his brother Charles operated for their mother until 1895, when he moved to a farm of 93 acres one-half mile south of the old home. Since then he has added considerable to his holdings and now he and his wife together own 600 acres of land all in Gillford Township, of which 500 are tillable and the rest pasture and timber. He is engaged in general farming, keeps good stock, and has full operating equipment. He is a stockholder in the Farmers' Elevator, Farmers' Co-operative Creamery and the Farmers' and Merchants' State Bank, in which his wife and son are also stockholders. He is also a member of the Farmers' Shipping Association. Mr. Radabaugh was married June 29, 1888, to Lena T. Thierstein, daughter of Frederick and Anna Thierstein of Gillford Township. She was born in Canton Berne, Switzerland, May 22, 1865, and came to Wabasha County, Minn., with her parents in 1876. Her father died October 7, 1908; her mother, who was born October 1, 1836, is still living. Mr. and Mrs. Radabaugh are the parents of two children: Rudolph C., born March 17, 1890, and Nina Catherine, born July 1, 1895. She is a graduate of the Mazeppa High School and also attended Carleton College at Northfield, Minn. Dr. Rudolph C. Radabaugh graduated from the Medical School of the Uni¬ versity of Illinois at Chicago in 1916. He is now located at Hastings, Minn. He served as First Lieutenant in the Medical Corps of the U. S. army during the World War, first at Columbus Barracks, Ohio, and later for several months at Camp Custer, Michigan. He had received his equipment for over sea service when the armistice was signed. Dr. Radabaugh holds the degree of Bachelor cf Science from the University of Illinois. He is a member of five college fra¬ ternities, *is commander of the American Legion Post at Hastings, Minn., and is prominent in Masonry, having taken all the degrees. He is a member of the Saladin Temple of the Mystic Shrine in Michigan. He also belongs to the In¬ dependent Order of Odd Fellows and is president of the Commercial Club at Hastings, Minn. Jackson Radabaugh and family are Republicans politically and have always been strong advocates of prohibition. He and his family oc¬ cupy high social standing in Gillford Township.

John H. Wood, a well known farmer of Zumbro Township, where he owns and operates a farm of 150 acres in section 31, was born in Grant County, Wis., January 25, 1853, son of Samuel and Mary (Williams) Wood. The father, who was a native of Indiana, died while serving in the Civil War. The mother was a native of Kentucky. John H. Wood was educated in the district school, and remained in Wisconsin until 1874, when he came to Minnesota. For a few years he rented a farm, and then bought 80 acres in Olmsted County, which he later sold, at the same time buying his present farm of 150 acres in section 31, Zumbro Township. Here he has since been engaged in general farming and stock raising with profitable results, and is respected as an industrious and useful citizen. Mr. Wood was married October 6, 1878, to Lucy Jenkins, daugh¬ ter of Mr. and Mrs. James Jenkins, who were early settlers in Zumbro Town¬ ship. The issue of this marriage has been twelve children, of whom nine are living, the full list being as follows: Ned, Albert, Samuel, Matie (now Mrs.

William Carley of Oronoco), Clarence (deceased), Walter, Rose (now Mrs. William Fetzer), Arthur (deceased), Helen (deceased), William, Lila and John. James Jenkins, father of Mrs. John H. Wood, was born in Augusta, Maine, and his wife in Illinois. They came to Minnesota with their respective parents. They were married in Wabasha County, where they engaged in farming for the rest of their lives. Mr. Jenkins served as clerk of Zumbro Township for 20 years. He died in 1897 and his wife in 1896. They had two children: Lucy, wife of John H. Wood, and Elmer, who resides in Minneapolis.

Edward M. Lair, proprietor of a paying confectionery business in the vil¬ lage of Elgin, was born here November 16, 1889, son of Charles M. and Martha (Beyer) Lair. The father was born in Trenton, N. J., and was there reared and educated. For a number of years he followed the trade of a painter, and was later employed as a cheese-maker in Elgin, Minn., until his death on December '25, 1886. He was a Free Mason and a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He and his wife were the parents of two children: Lottie, born March 27, 1887, now Mrs. Oscar Scharlow of Rochester, Minn.; and Edward M., the subject of this sketch. The latter received his education in the Elgin village school. After working on his parents' farm until the age of 20 years, he fol¬ lowed the trade of painter until 1910. For eight years subsequently he was engaged in buying cream and hides. Since he gave up that occupation he has carried on his present business as proprietor of a well equipped confectionery store in Elgin. The business has grown and is on a profitable basis, and Mr. Lair is numbered among the enterprising and successful men of the village. He was married September 6, 1912, to Eva McCullough, and he and his wife are the parents of two children: Ronald B., born June 28, 1914; and Violet, born June 29, 1917.

Andrew Binner, of Greenfield Township, who is engaged in mixed farm¬ ing, including the raising of garden produce and stock, was born in this town¬ ship December 7, 1885, son of Matt and Bridget (Weber) Binner. He was edu¬ cated in the district school and spent his early years on his parents' farm, working for his father, during which period he acquired a good practical knowledge of agriculture. In 1905 he changed his occupation, going to work at the carpenter's trade, which he followed for a while. After that, for six t/inters, he was engaged in operating a jig-saw, while in the summers he con¬ ducted a dray line in Caledonia, Minn., in partnership with Keating and Clifford. In 1907 he bought a team and did some farming near Wabasha village, and during the following three years did team work in the village. In 1915 Mr. Binner again turned his attention to farming, this time on a more extensive scale and on his own account, renting 202 acres of land in Greenfield Township known as the Amerland farm. At the end of four years he bought the place, which he is still operating, and which he has improved by the erection of a chicken-house, garage and other buildings. He raises good stock and is doing a paying business. As a good citizen he is alive to the general interests of the community, and has rendered service on the school board of district No. 30. Mr. Binner was married September 3, 1913, to Margaret Grass, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Grass of Wabasha village. Her parents were both born in this county. Mrs. Frank Grass died June 13, 1898, and Mr. Grass subse¬ quently married for his second wife Mrs. Mary Tuma. To Mr. and Mrs. An¬ drew Binner three children have been born: Franklin A., January 15, 1916; Joseph M., September 29, 1917, who died October 18, the same year; and Doro¬ thy T., born November 19, 1918. Mr. Binner and his family are members of the Catholic church, and he also belongs to the Knights of Columbus and the St. Joseph Society.

Howard H. Bigelow', a respected citizen and prominent farmer of Elgin Township, was born in this township, May 4, 1880, son of Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Bigelow. He was educated in the schools of the village and township, and until 21 years of age remained on the home farm, where he gained skill in agri- culture. On coming of age he rented 200 acres of the farm from his father, which he operated on his own account until 1911. In that year he bought his first 80 acres, and has since purchased some land each year, now owning 400 acres in sections 28 and 29, Elgin Township. His improvements have kept pace with his land purchases and his place is well developed, the land productive and the buildings in good condition. As a general farmer he is adding to his ov/n wealth and is a useful factor in the agricultural improvement of his town¬ ship. In religion he is a Catholic, and belongs fraternally to the Knights of Columbus and the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. Bigelow was united in marriage, October 7, 1908, with Matilda Schad, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Chris¬ tian Schad. Six children are the issue of this marriage, namely: Leo H., born April 8, 1912; Frank C., March 25, 1913; Charles E., in November, 1914; Louis, June 25, 1916; Lucile M., and Irene A., the latter born March 17, 1919.

Harry J. Koepsell, who is engaged in general farming and stock raising in section 20, Elgin Township, was born in this township, March 11, 1898, son of Ferdinand H. and Mary (Nelson) Koepsell. The father was born in Dodge County, Wisconsin, May 9, 1867, and came to Elgin Township, Wabasha County, Minn., in 1895, buying 80 acres of land in section 23. In 1899 he sold that farm and bought one of 340 acres in sections 20 and 21, where he engaged in general farming and stock raising, and now has a fine home with good build¬ ings. He served three years as a member of the town board. His marriage to Mary Nelson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Nelson, took place January 29, 1896, and they lived together in happy wedlock for 22 years, or until her death after being seven years in poor health, on May 10, 1918. They were the parents of four children: Arthur D., born November 5, 1897, who died in December, 1898; Harry J., subject of this sketch; Henry E., born March 14, 1900, residing at home; and George A., born April 2, 1902, who is employed in a bank sft Rochester, Minn. Harry J. Koepsell was educated in the Elgin village school, and received a practical training in agriculture from his father, for whom he worked until 1919. He then rented his present farm of 120 acres in section 20, where he is now carrying on general farming and stock raising on a profitable basis, and is recognized as one of the enterprising and successful farmers of this township. Harry J. Koepsell was married March 28, 1919, to Agnes Maas, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Maas. He and his wife are members of the German Lutheran church, in which he was reared and to which his father belongs.

Jacob J. Sprenger, one of the leading citizens of Chester Township, where he owns and operates an excellent farm, was born in La Crosse County, Wis¬ consin, June 8, 1867, son of Jacob J., Sr., and Catherine (Scholer) Sprenger. The father was born at Zurich, Switzerland, January 3, 1824. He was reared to manhood in his native land and there married his first wife. With her and their two children, Mary and Anna, he came to the United States in 1854, in April of that year settling in La Crosse County, Wisconsin. There his wife died in the spring of 1865. Of the two daughters mentioned, Mary is deceased, .and Anna is now Mrs. F. Sugg, of Zumbro Falls, Wabasha County. By his first wife Jacob J. Sprenger, Sr., also had a son, Henry, who is now residing in Tacoma, Washington. In 1866 Mr. Sprenger married for his second wife Cath¬ erine Scholer, of Glasgow Township, Wabasha County, Minn. For nine years longer he continued his residence in La Crosse County, and then, on October 2, 1875, he moved with his family to Wabasha County, Minnesota, locating on a homestead in Chester Township, near Zumbro Falls. There he died September 5, 1877. He had three children by his second wife, Catherine, namely: Jacob J., Jr., subject of this sketch; Christina, who died in infancy, and Emil, who is now living on the old homestead. Mrs. Catherine Sprenger survived her hus¬ band many years, passing away on the old home farm in Chester Township, on July 29, 1906. Jacob J. Sprenger (Jr.) attended district school in Chester Township to the age of 16 years, and pursued additional studies for one winter at Galena, Ill. In 1902 he took an extended short course in the Minnesota Agricultural College. Previous to this, however, he had married, having been united January 19, 1891, with Louisa W. Moechnig, who was born in West Albany Township, October 2, 1868, daughter of Frederick and Caroline (Deppa) Moechnig. For ten years he and his wife resided on his parents' homestead. In 1895 Mr. Sprenger had bought a farm of 232 acres in section 36, Chester Township, to which he moved with his family in the fall of 1901, and in the same year (1901) he purchased 100 additional acres. The land was improved, but the buildings small and poor. He has since bought other land, now own¬ ing 500 acres all in one body. In 1902, the year after he moved onto the farm, Mr. Sprenger began a series of improvements, erecting a modern barn, the main part of which measures 38 by 80 by 16 feet, with a full stone basement of nine feet, and with a wing 26 by 60 feet, used for hay. In 1908 he built a fine twostory brick residence of eleven rooms, and with modern equipment; in 1909 he erected a tile silo of 180 tons' capacity, and in 1911 a second silo of 150 tons' capacity. He has also a good set of other buildings, including toolsheds, a granary, poultry-house, and corn cribs. The farm lies one mile west of Zumbro Falls, in sections 25 and 36. Mr. Sprenger is operating 200 acres of his land, carrying on diversified farming, another part of the farm, containing 180 acres, being operated by his son-in-law, Albert Starz. Still another section of it - of 120 acres - is seeded and fenced for stock. At one time Mr. Sprenger was extensively engaged in dairying, milking as high as 30 cows. He raises high grade Holstein cattle to a yearly average of 100 head; also from 30 to 50 head of pure blood Duroc-Jersey hogs. His horses are all pure bred Belgians, and his farm equipment includes a tractor, threshing machine and cloverhuller, with all other necessary tools and machinery. For the past twelve years Mr. Sprenger has been actively engaged in Farmers' Institute work in Minne¬ sota, the first three years as an assistant and the last seven years as conductor. He is a director and stockholder in the Farmers and Merchants State Bank of Zumbro Falls; a stockholder in the Farmers' Co-operative Creamery and the Farmers' Elevator Company of the same place, being a director in the latter company; and is a stockholder and the president of the Farmers Telephone Company of Zumbro Falls. In addition to these numerous activities, Mr. Sprenger has devoted a part of his time to public affairs. He served four years in the office of county commissioner, was chairman of the county board two years, and is treasurer of School District No. 80, consolidated schools. He and his wife have been the parents of seven children: Clara C., born December 28, 1892; Henry F., February 2, 1894; Anna May, April 4, 1898; Bessie L., August 10, 1901; Ruth E., May 9, 1903; Edwin L., September 23, 1905, and Joyce J., February 18, 1908. Clara C. was married, December 19, 1912, to Edward Starz of Chester Township, and died June 16, 1919. She was the mother of three children: Ruth, born December 23, 1913; Elmer, born Feb¬ ruary 23, 1915, who died in infancy; and Elvin, born May 10, 1916. Ruth and Elvin Starz are residing with their grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Sprenger. Henry F. Sprenger died in his fourth year, October 5, 1897. Anna May was married, May 28, 1919, to Albert Starz, a farmer of section 35, Chester Town¬ ship, who served in fhe World War. They have a son, Alfred G., born February 18, 1920. Mr. Sprenger and his family are members of Zumbro Falls M. E. church, of which he is a trustee. He also teaches a Sunday school class which has a membership of forty. He has for many years been a strong advocate of Prohibition, though politically a Republican. As a man of enterprise who has achieved marked success in his personal affairs, and has taken helpful part in the governmental matters of his township and county, he is well known throughout this section, and he and his family highly respected.

Albert Starz, who is successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits in Ches¬ ter Township, was born at Lockhart, Norman County, Minn., April 2, 1892, son of Gottlieb and Rose (Scholer) Starz. The parents were farmers who retired in 1914 and moved to Zumbro Falls, where they are now living. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. They have had the following named children: Charles, Lydia, Caroline, Clara, Edward, Matilda, Lillie and Albert (twins), Emil and William. Matilda and Lillie are now deceased. Albert Starz acquired a common school education at Lockhart, and worked for his father until 1909. He then came to Chester Township, Wabasha County, and for several years was engaged in farm labor. Then for 17 months he drove a mail route. On September 17, 1917, he was drafted into the army from Wa¬ basha, and became a member of Co. H, 136th U. S. Infantry, from which or¬ ganization he was transferred across seas to Battery F, 119th Field Artillery. For ten months he saw service in France, and during three months and a half was at the front. He was discharged from the army May 17, 1919, and is now a member of the American Legion. After his return home Mr. Starz bought his present farm of 40 acres in section 35, Chester Township, on which he is engaged in general farming and stock raising, breeding high grade cattle and Duroc-Jersey hogs. He was married May 28, 1919, to Anna M. Sprenger, daughter of Jacob J. and Louise W. (Moechnig) Sprenger, her father being a prominent farmer and leading citizen of Chester Township, where she was born April 4, 1898. Mr. and Mrs. Starz are the parents of one child: Alfred G., who was born February 18, 1920.

Jesse E. Lewis, proprietor of a good farm of 80 acres in section 2, Elgin Township, was born in Viola Township, Olmsted County, Minn., July 11, 1890. For the last thirty years his parents, Charles E. and Etta (Ross) Lewis, have resided in the village of Beaver, where the father operates the mill. They have had three children: Jesse, Gladys and Verda. Gladys is now the wife of Robert Richardson. Jesse E. Lewis was educated in the Beaver village school. For several years he followed the occupation of farm laborer in the vicinities of Beaver and Plainview. Finally he started in for himself, in 1910 renting a farm of 120 acres in Whitewater Valley, where he resided for several years. Then he took another farm of 120 acres in the same valley, afterwards a farm of 80 acres, and then a farm near Beaver village, all of which he rented. In 1907, having made good financial progress he bought his present farm in section 2, Elgin Township. Here he has built a beautiful modern seven-room house, to¬ gether with a good barn and outbuildings. On November 19, 1910, Mr. Lewis was united in marriage with Mary Cassidy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Cassidy, formerly of Grand Rapids and Minneapolis, Minn. He and his wife are the parents of three children: Jessalyn R., born October 4, 1911; Gaylord E., born June 9, 1913; and Charles E., born September 12, 1916. Mr. Lewis and his family are members of the Catholic church, while fraternally he is affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of America.

Edward H. Goetz, proprietor of a good 80-acre farm in Plainview Town¬ ship, which he has brought into good condition, was born in this township April 15, 1888, son of August Goetz, Sr. He was educated in the rural school of his district, and remained on the home farm in section 28 until 22 years old, working for his father. He then rented the farm for four years, and at the end of that time purchased it. Since then he has made some needed improvements in the property, having remodeled the buildings. He carries on diversified farming and truck gardening, raising cabbage, onions and potatoes with profitable re¬ sults, and also breeds Guernsey cattle and Percheron horses. Mr. Goetz was married September 14, 1911, to Anna Holst, who was born in Plainview Town¬ ship, March 7, 1891, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Holst. Of this union two children have been born: Kenneth D., August 10, 1912; and Everett E., May 26, 1914. Mr. Goetz and his family are members of the Lutheran church. As an industrious farmer and good citizen he commands respect, and is mak¬ ing steady progress in worldly prosperity.

Robert Funke, who is extensively engaged in farming and stock raising in Highland Township, and is financially interested in several important indus- tries more or less related to agriculture, was born in Glasgow Township, Wa¬ basha County, Minn., April 19, 1869. His parents, Christ and Wilhelmina (Reichenbach) Funke, were natives of Germany, the father coming to the United States at the age of 21, and the mother at the age of 12 with her parents. He came directly to Wabasha, Minn., where he lived for six or seven years, being engaged in rafting on the Mississippi river, during which time he made several trips by raft to St. Louis. At the end of that period he came to Glasgow Township, Wabasha County, and homesteaded 160 acres in section 21. There he farmed for about fifty years, or until he retired and moved to Wabasha, where he is now living. He still owns the farm, renting it out to a tenant. Of the twelve children born to him and his wife, eight are now living: Bertha, a widow residing in California; Gusta, wife of Gust Fitzer of Minneapolis and California; Pauline, wife of Hubert Hoffman of Highland Township; Lawrence, who is on a farm in Glasgow Township; Mary, wife of Jake Schones of Cali¬ fornia; Frances, wife of John Balow, a button cutter of Iowa; Lavina, wife of Harry Hanson of Wabasha, and Robert of Highland Township. Those deceased are Thomas, Louisa, Maggie and Minnie. Robert Funke was reared on his parents' farm in Glasgow Township and educated in the district school. After remaining at home until 25 years old, he began farming for himself, buying 200 acres in section 6, Highland, to which he has added until he now owns 530 acres in sections 5, 6, 7 and 8, having 250 under cultivation, with the balance in woodland and pasture. He has remodeled the frame house which stood on the farm, has built a barn 36 by 102 feet with 16-foot posts, a cement floor in the basement, and with Franklyn stanchions capable of holding 60 head of cattle and horses ; also a granary and hay shed. As a general farmer, stock raiser and dairyman, he is doing a large and profitable business. When 19 years old Mr. Funke bought a threshing outfit and subsequently followed threshing for 32 years, doing work for others until recently, though now he only threshes for himself. He cleared and grubbed 50 acres of his farm. Some years before he came to his present place, there was an old flour mill on the creek, known as the Hanby Mill, which was operated by water. This mill burned down, and two years later, when Mr. Funke came to the place, he built a new mill, operated by the water power from the creek, for grinding feed and meal, which he operated for twelve years. He is a stockholder in the Theilman Bank, the Theilman Creamery, the Wabasha County "Leader," and the Farmers' Terminal Packing Co. of St. Paul. He is also president of the Theilman Elevator Co. His forceful and energetic character has placed him in the front rank of Highland Town¬ ship's most respected citizens, and for four years he was a member of the board of supervisors. He also served on the school board for 20 years and is now school treasurer. On October 30, 1894, Mr. Funke married Bertha Wag¬ ner, daughter of Gottlieb and Mary Wagner of Kellogg. She was one of a family of eleven children, of whom eight are now living. Mr. and Mrs. Funke are the parents of six children, Ervin C., Viola, Wilfred, Irene, Elmer and Emil, all residing on the home farm, which Ervin is helping to cultivate. Mr. Funke and his family are members of the Catholic church, and he belongs also to the Modern Woodmen and the Modern Brotherhood of America.

Knud Johnson, in former years a well known farmer and prosperous citi¬ zen of Pepin Township, was a native of Norway, and came to this country as a young and single man. At Read's Landing, Wabasha County, Minn., he was married to Laura Stenerson, who, like himself, was born in Norway, and after his marriage he began farming on the river bottoms. After a short time, how¬ ever, he removed to a farm on top of the ridge in Pepin Township, which farm he spent the rest of his life in developing, his improvements adding to the agri¬ cultural resources of the township. In 1907 he became a widower, but sur¬ vived his wife until October, 1915, when he, too, passed away. Mrs. Laura Johnson was his second wife, as by a previous marriage he had five children, and by her, six. Those by the first marriage were: John, Jennie and Charles, residing on the home farm, the last mentioned of whom married Emma Rother of Theilman, Wabasha County; Emma, now residing in Winona, the wife of H. C. Stahman; and James, who resides in Crookston, Minn. The children of Mr. Johnson's second marriage were: Tena, wife of Will Bruner, living in Cali¬ fornia; Mabel, who married Fred Bade and resides in Lake City, this county; Idella, wife of Frank Higgins, of Columbia Falls, Mont.; Will, a resident of Wabasha, who married Anne Churchill; Eva, who married Henry Gierdt, and lives in San Andres, Calif.; and Lloyd Kenneth, a well known farmer of Watopa Township.

Lloyd Kenneth Johnson, a rising young farmer of Watopa Township, where he owns an excellent farm, was born in Pepin Township, Wabasha County, Minn., March 27, 1891, son of Knud and Laura (Stenerson) Johnson. On his parents' farm he acquired an early knowledge of agriculture through practical experience, but his education was not neglected, as, after attending the common schools, he continued his studies in the high school at Wabasha until about 16 years old, and later spent two years in the agricultural college at St. Paul. At the age of 20 he rented a farm of 300 acres in Lake Township, this county, which he operated for two years in partnership with his brother Will. He then bought a small place of 80 acres at Wabasha, on which he spent two years, and at the end of that time bought his present farm of 240 acres well up the ridge in Watopa Township. This place, when he took it, presented a very different appearance from what it does today, as' the buildings were poor, and it had not been well taken care of. Through his own exertions he has since made it one of the best farms in the township, having carried out extensive improvements, including the construction of good buildings of ample capacity, the putting up of a large amount of fencing, the erection of a good silo, and the installation of all necessary machinery of modern type. He is engaged in diversified farm¬ ing, and keeps good stock, including Guernsey cattle and Duroc-Jersey hogs. His residence is also a neat and commodious building, well painted and kept in excellent condition, and he is regarded by his neighbors as a man who knows how to do things, and who, in the natural course of events, has a bright future before him. Mr. Johnson was married May 4, 1915, to Minnie Isabelle Failing, who was born in the town of Lake, January 2, 1891, daughter of Eugene and Ida (Watson) Failing. The father was a native of New York state, but came to Minnesota when young; the mother was born in Goodhue County, this state. Both are still living on the home farm. Their family numbered seven children: Herbert, residing at home; Florence, wife of Harry Beck, of Lake City; Clar¬ ence, of Seattle, Wash.; Minnie Isabelle, now Mrs. Lloyd K. Johnson; George, a physician, who married Ida May Willoughby, and resides at Lewiston, Minn.; Ernest and Jesse, who are living at home with their parents. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have one child, Laura Isabelle, who was born April 28, 1916. Mr. Johnson formerly belonged to the Congregational church at Wabasha. His fraternal affiliations are with the Modern Woodmen of America. Mrs. Johnson is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church at Lake City.

Frank J. Tentis, a native of Wabasha County, who is engaged in operating a farm of 220 acres in Watopa Township, was born in Glasgow Township, Oc¬ tober 17, 1895, son of John and Mary (Seiwart) Tentis. He acquired his edu¬ cation in the school of his district, and until the age of 16 years remained on the home farm, assisting his father. Then he and his brothers bought 360 acres in Glasgow Township, where he did general farming and stock raising until 1911. In that year Frank J. sold his interests to his brothers. In 1916 he worked at the carpenter's trade, and in 1917 and 1918 was employed in a garage. He then resumed farm work for a year. In 1919 he rented his present farm of 220 acres in Watopa Township, and is here doing a good business as a general farmer and stock raiser. He is a member of the Catholic church, and fraternally of the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. Tentis was married No¬ vember 25, 1919, to Myrtle C o-x. daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles T. Cox, of Highland Township, this county. Mrs. Tentis' father is now deceased, hav¬ ing passed away May 18, 1916, but her mother is still living in Highland Town¬ ship. Mr. and Mrs. Tentis are the parents of a daughter, Rachel J.

Henry Anderson, a well known and respected citizen of Elgin, proprietor of a truck line from Elgin to Rochester, was born in Steele County, Minn., De¬ cember 28, 1894, son of Ole J. and Mary (Ellingson) Anderson. The father, Ole J. Anderson, was a native of Wisconsin, born June 19, 1866. He came to Minnesota with his parents when young, and was educated in the district schools of Berlin Township, Steele County. In 1887 he bought from- his father 120 acres of land in that township and began farming on his own account. Later he purchased 240 acres, which he farmed until October, 1919. Then, sell¬ ing his farm of 320 acres, he moved to Greenbush village, Roseau County. Still later he bought a farm of 160 acres in that county, where he now resides, en¬ gaged in general farming. He was chairman of the town board four years, secretary of the creamery three years, and secretary of the telephone company five years. He was married to Mary Ellingson in 1887, and he and his wife have been the parents of twelve children, John, Anna, Eddie, Clara, Harry, Joseph, Jennie, Mary, Edna, Louisa, John and Ole. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Henry Anderson was educated in the district schools of Berlin Township, Steele County, Minn. He lived on the home farm until the age of 18, and after that worked on other farms until February 2, 1914, when he came to Elgin village, finding employment in the creamery, where he worked until March 18, 1915. He then rented his father-in-law's farm until May 1, 1918, and subsequently bought a farm of 120 acres in sections 24 and 25, Viola Tov/nship, Olmsted County, which he operated until August 1, 1919. Since that date he has been engaged in his present business, residing in Elgin village. Religiously he is affiliated with the German Lutheran church. Mr. Anderson was married March 24, 1915, to Adella A. Schmiedeberg, daughter of Frank L. and Otillia E. (Roempies) Schmiedeberg. Her father was born Jan¬ uary 31, 1869, in Beaver Dam, Wis. When young he came with his parents to Olmsted County, Minn., and was educated in the district schools of Viola Town¬ ship. He lived on his parents' farm until 24 years of age, and afterwards was engaged until 1907 in farming 120 acres which he had bought of his father in that Township. Subsequently until 1915 he worked as a well driller and clerk in a hardware store, and still later in a garage in Elgin village, until his death on November 30, 1917. His marriage with Ottilia E. Roempies took place No¬ vember 16, 1893. She was born in Pommern, Germany, January 5, 1871. Their children were: Emma H., now Mrs. Bert Raymond, of Rochester, Minn.; and Adella A., wife of Henry Anderson of Elgin. The Schmiedeberg family are affiliated with the German Lutheran church.

Ole O. Peterson, a well known and respected citizen of Watopa Township, assistant in agricultural work to some of the prominent farmers of the town¬ ship, was born in Sweden, July 30, 1850, son of Paul and Julia (Anderson) Peterson. He came with his parents to the United States and to Wabasha County, Minn., in 1854, when an infant, the family settling on Hoosier Ridge, Watopa Township, which locality has been his home for much of the time since. Here his parents took a farm of 120 acres, which they proved up in 1859, and which the father operated as a general farmer and stock raiser until his death in 1898. His wife had previously passed away in 1893. Their chil¬ dren were: Peter, a Civil War veteran still living; Paul, who resides in Ne¬ braska; Tenna, now Mrs. A. G. Winters of Minneiska; Mary, who is now de¬ ceased; and Ole O., of Watopa Township. Ole O. Peterson was reared in this township, in his boyhood attending the district school. He worked on the farm for his father until 1873, and then, cutting loose from home, went to Washing¬ ton Territory, where he remained for two years. In 1875 he returned and for a few years remained at home. Once more, however, he wandered from his native haunts, going this time to South Dakota, where he spent six years. Re- turning at the end of that time to Watopa Township, Wabasha County, he has. since resided on Hoosier Ridge, working at farm labor, and at the present time being in the employ of John Rollins. He belongs to the Old Settlers' Associa¬ tion of Wabasha County, and is a member of the Swedish Lutheran church.

John Gillespie, the owner of farm property in Chester Township, who has followed an agricultural career since first becoming industrially active, was born in this township August 24, 1873, son of Patrick and Katherine (Dunn) Gillespie. The parents came to the United States from Ireland in 1848, locating in Pennsylvania, in which state they remained two years. Then in 1850 they came to Wabasha County, Minn., and were among the first settlers of Chester Township, pre-empting 320 acres of land in section 6, which, of course, at that early period was all wild. With everything to do and little to,do it with, Patrick Gillespie applied himself to the hard task of developing a farm from the wilder¬ ness, and in time was successful, clearing most of his land and erecting a full set of buildings. He energetically continued his operations until they were brought to an end by his death in 1888. His wife, Katherine, survived him a number of years, passing away in 1919. They were faithful members of the .Catholic church. Their children were Margaret, Michael, John, Patrick, Fran¬ cis, Julia, Catherine, Mary, who died in infancy, and Mary E., who is also now deceased. John Gillespie in his boyhood attended district school in Chester Township, and was brought up on the home farm, where he acquired his very practical knowledge of agriculture. After his father's death he conducted the farm for his mother, and in 1910 he bought a part of it, renting the balance. He is a man of high reputation in Chester Township, and served 17 years on the town board, during a part of the time being its chairman. He has also served ten years on the school board of his district, being chairman during that period, and is still holding that office. A man of public spirit, his participation in pub¬ lic affairs had been to the interest of the township and school district. He is a member of the Catholic church and belongs to the fraternal order of Yeomen Mr. Gillespie was married June 26, 1901, to Mary Majerus, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John N. Majerus of Mazeppa. The issue of this marriage is nine children who were born as follows: Mildred C., June 7, 1902; Geneva H., November 24 1904; Odella J., November 27, 1906; Francis P., October 8, 1908; Elmer M. and Wilmer P. (twins), May 16, 1910; Rosella M., February 28, 1911; Margaret F. August 28, 1913, and Louisa L., February 27, 1918.

Frank H. Beyer, manager of the Oelkers & Frisch general store at Elgin was born in Hammond, Minn., January 16, 1897, son of Herman and Dora (Sum¬ mers) Beyer. Both the father and mother came from Germany with their re¬ spective parents, and Herman Beyer has followed general blacksmithing in Hammond for the last 25 years. Their children are: Robert, who lives in Austin, Minn.; Norton, residing in Hammond; Frank H., of Elgin; Carl, of Millville; Fred, who lives on a farm near Hammond; Della, who is taking an educational course in La Crosse; and Elsie, residing at home. Frank H. Beyer was educated in the Hatnmond school and the Winona high school. He began industrial life as his father's assistant in the blacksmith shop, and after leaving school worked three years as clerk for Tom McGuigan of Millville. In October, 1918, he enlisted in the 126th U. S. Engineers, and was in the service in this country until discharged at Camp Dodge in June, 1919. After his return home he re-entered the employ of Mr. McGuigan at Millville, remained there four, months, and then, coming to Elgin, went to work for Harry Engel. The latter subsequently sold .his store to Oelkers and Frisch, who made Mr. Beyer man¬ ager, which position he is now filling to the satisfaction of his employers. The concern has added a complete line of dry goods and men's furnishings to their original stock, and are now operating one of the best general stores in this part of the county. Mr. Beyer has joined the new patriotic order of the Ameri¬ can Legion belonging to the post at Plainview, which has about 200 members He also belongs to the Millville camp of Modern Woodmen of America and the

Red Men's lodge at Millville. A young man of 23 years, he has already shown business ability and has associated himself with a large and patriotic organiza¬ tion which includes a considerable percentage of the young men who fought, or offered their services to fight, for their country in the great World War.

Alfred F. Kenitz, a respected resident of the village of Elgin, where he is living retired after a successful career in agriculture, was born in Olmsted County, Minn., July 25, 1878, son of Herman and Elizabeth (Schacht) Kenitz. The father came to America from Germany with his parents, who first settled in Wisconsin, removing to Olmsted County, Minn., when he was 16' years old. There he resided until 1911, when he moved to Lake City, his present place of residence. His wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Kenitz, died in 1910. She was born in Cook County, Ill., on the site of the city of Chicago, where her father owned and operated 160 acres of land now included within the city limits. Not being able to foresee the wonderful growth of the city, he sold the land and moved to Winona, Minn., subsequently taking a farm a mile from Potsdam. Mr. and Mrs. Herman Kenitz had a family of eleven children, of whom the nine now living are: Emma, Aaron, Walter, Frances, Clarence, Anna, Evaline, Edna and Harry. Emma is the wife of A. W. Hogerty, a farmer of Olmsted County. Anna is the wife of Lester Fiegel of Rochester, her husband being auditor of Olmsted County. Walter married Anna Schultz and lives in Elgin. Clarence married Emma Kruger and resides on a farm half a mile south of Potsdam, Minn. Alfred F. Kenitz spent his early years on the farm. He was educated in the district school, in the public school of Elgin, which he attended for two years, and at Rochester Business College. Upon completing his studies he rented a farm, which he worked for three years. He then purchased 340 acres in Wabasha County, which he operated for two years. At the end of that time he sold the property and bought the home farm in Olmsted County, where he subsequently carried on general farming and stock raising until the fall of 1919, when he sold, that also and moved to Elgin. A good practical farmer, he had a successful career and gained a competency which he is now enjoying. For four years Mr. Kenitz served as clerk of Farmington Township, and was school treasurer five years, showing efficiency and a commendable interest in public affairs. Mr. Kenitz was married October 15, 1905, in the town of Farmington, to Edith Thedens, daughter of Joseph and Anna (Podalsky) Thedens, her parents being natives of Germany who settled at an early day on a government claim in Olmsted County, Minn. Mr. Thedens died in 1908 and Mrs. Thedens in 1917. They had a family of eleven children, of whom there are living: Clara, wife of L. W. Beneke; Lena, wife of Gust Schultz; William, who first married Ella Blanchard, and secondly, Mamie Siem, a widow; and Henry, who married Clara Wanke and lives on the home farm. Mr. and Mrs. Alfred F. Kenitz are the parents of two children: Erwin, born in 1906; and Alpheus, born September 29, 1917.

Robert W. Bartz, proprietor of an up to date plumbing establishment in Elgin village, was born in Elgin, August 4, 1886, son of Julius and Amelia (Radle) Bartz. The father, born in Germany, came with his parents to the United States when eight years old, locating in Potsdam, Minn. After his marriage here he and his wife took a farm in Elgin Township, Wabasha County, on which they spent 20 years of their lives. Julius Bartz died in 1914 and his widow is now living in the village of Elgin. They had twelve children, all of whom are now living, namely: Herman, August, Julius, Edward, Alfred, Rob¬ ert, Emma, Alvina, Amelia, Bertha, Otellia and Luella. The father was a Civil War veteran, having enlisted at the age of 15 years and served two years. Rob¬ ert W. Bartz was reared on the home farm, attending the district school and the Elgin high school. He remained at home until 24 years old, and then for five years operated a rented farm on his own account. Coming to Elgin at the end of that period, he engaged in the plumbing business with his brother Herman. This was in 1915, and in 1918 Robert purchased his brother's interest and has since conducted the business alone. He handles a full line of plumbing and heating equipment, employing a journeyman assistant, and enjoys a monopoly of the trade here, his place being the only plumbing establishment in town. Mr. Bartz was married in 1911 at Pine Island, Minn., to Anna Radke, whose parents came from Germany, locating on their farm in Pine Island in 1900. Their children, four daughters and two sons, are all now living. Mr. and Mrs. Bartz are members of the Lutheran church, and industrious and useful mem¬ bers of the community. Mr. Bartz's brother Alfred served 28 months in the U. S. navy during the recent World War.

Henry C. Maiwald, of Plainview, was born in West Albany Township, Wa¬ basha County, Minn., March 22, 1877, son of Ernest and Mary Maiwald. The parents were natives of Germany who came directly from their native land to Wabasha County, Minn., in the late sixties, settling on a farm in West Albany Township. There the father died in 1890, at the age of 55 years, and the mother in 1915, at that of 72. They had a family of nine children, Anna, Fred, Amelia, Pauline, Emma, Lena, Henry, William and Herman. Anna married Oswald Kuehn, of Wabasha, who died leaving her with three children. Amelia mar¬ ried August Schmuser, and resides in Lake City; she had a son who is now deceased. Pauline is the wife of Ed Wempner of Plainview and has two sons. Emma, Lena, Fred and Herman are deceased. William resides on the old home farm in West Albany Township. Henry C. Maiwald married Mary Radtke September 6, 1907. Her parents were William and Wilhelmina Radtke, who came to the United States from Germany in 1878, settling in Plainview village, Wabasha County, Minn. For several years Mr. Radtke worked out by the day, but in 1884 took a farm in Plainview Township, where his wife died in 1900. After the marriage of his daughter, Mary, in 1907, he gave up farming aqd came to live with her and his son-in-law, Mr. Maiwald. He died in the fall of 1919 at the age of 74 years. There were six children in the Radtke family, of whom three are now dead - Rudolph, Bertha and Eduart, of whom the two former died in Germany, where they were born. The three living are: Mima, wife of Otto Briese; Fred; and Mary, wife of H. C. Maiwald. Mr. and Mrs. Maiwald have one daughter, Florence, who was born June 5, 1907, and who is residing at home. Mr. Maiwald served in various minor offices, including those of school director and pathmaster. In politics he is independent, while he and his family are members of the Lutheran church.

William Zarling, one of the skilled agriculturists who helped to develop the resources of Highland Township, was a native of Germany. He married Catherine Laske, a native of the same country, and they settled in St. Charles Township, Winona County, Minn., where Mr. Zarling was engaged in diversified farming until 1892. He then sold out his interests there and came to Wabasha County, purchasing 360 acres in Highland Township, which farm he operated successfully until his death, August 24, 1909. His wife died April 2, 1917. They were the parents of eleven children, namely: Bertha, Lizzie, Herman, August F., Emil, Maggie, Lena, Luddie, William, Caroline and Albert.

August F. Zarling, who, though a comparatively young man, has already acquired a competence in the farming industry, and is at present living prac¬ tically retired in Plainview, was born in St. Charles Township, Winona County, Minn., May 22, 1886, son of William and Caroline (Laske) Zarling. He was educated in the district schools of Winona and Wabasha Counties, and grew to manhood and was trained to agriculture on his parents' farm. In 1910 he started in for himself, buying a farm of 160 acres near the home place, and he and his brother Emil conducted the two farms for six years. August then sold his farm and bought another, of 180 acres, which he greatly improved by fenc¬ ing and rebuilding some of the buildings and erecting others, including a silo and hog-shed. There he followed diversified farming and stock raising, keeping a gocd herd of Shorthorn cattle, with a full-blooded sire at the head. His man¬ agement was good and produced such satisfactory financial results that in the fall of 1919 he rented the place to a tenant and moved to Plainview village, where he purchased a nice residence in which he and his family now make their home. He is a stockholder in Smithfield Creamery in Highland Township. Mr. Zarling was married September 29, 1915, to May Miller, who was born in St, Charles Township, Winona County, Minn., December 28, 1891, daughter of Albert and Minnie (Milbrandt) Miller. The children of this union are: Ruth May, born August 26, 1916; and Lorna Dora, born January 28, 1919.

Albert Miller, father of Mrs. A. F. Zarling, was born in Germany, and was married to Minnie Milbrandt in Winona County, of which she was a native. They settled on a farm in St. Charles Township, that county, where they re¬ sided until 1903. They then sold that place and moved across the line into Olm¬ sted County, where they purchased a farm on which they are still residing engaged in agriculture. They have six children, Clarence, Roy, May, Della, Edward and Goldie.

Louis J. Juers, whose enterprise along agricultural lines has placed him among the leading farmers of Mt. Pleasant Township, was born in Hanover, Ger¬ many, December 6, 1875, son of Peter and Catherine Juers. He came to the United States with his parents in 1876, the family settling on an improved farm in Mt. Pleasant Township, this county, and in time Peter Juers became the owner of about 800 acres of land in the township. Louis J. acquired his education in the district school and began industrial life as soon as he was old enough to be useful, for a number of years being engaged in assisting his father. A new epoch in his life began when, on August 14, 1899, he was united in marriage with Mattie Hinsch, daughter of Henry and Margaret Hmsch, of Goodhue County. They began housekeeping on his parents' farm in section 29, Mt. Pleasant Township, and for over 22 years enjoyed a happy married life, which was brought to an end when, on April 9, 1912, Mrs. Mattie Juers died after undergoing an operation for appendicitis. After his wife's death Mr. Juers re¬ moved to his present farm, the house being in the same section. The farm now embraces 440 acres, of which he operates 280 acres and rents the balance. His land is situated in sections 20, 29 and 30, Mt. Pleasant Township. It is fertile, and the buildings include a fine two story frame house; a frame barn 42 by 72 by 14 feet, with a full 8-foot basement; a granary 24 by 32 by 14; two machine sheds, a poultry house, a garage and other necessary structures. Mr. Juers has an adequate equipment of modern machinery and owns a seven-passenger Studebaker auto car. He is doing a thriving business, both in grain and stock, keeping high grade Shorthorn cattle, of which he milks on an average of ten cows, Chester-White hogs and Shropshire sheep. For each of his herds he has full-blooded sires, and is constantly improving his stock. Politically he is a Republican, while he and his children are members of the Lutheran congrega¬ tion at Belvidere. His first born child, Peter Henry Emil, born October 19, 1900. died in infancy. The others, who are living, are as follows: Lillie Mar¬ guerite Catherine, born December 24, 1901; Mattie Emma, May 31, 1903; Eman¬ uel Henry John, March 15, 1905; Amandus Henry, November 11, 1906; Henry Claus Louie, October 16, 1908; and Norman Gustav, December 27, 1910.

Otto Fieck, Jr., a well known young farmer of Plainview Township, where he is engaged in operating his father's farm, was born in Prussia, Germany, January 28, 1892, son of Otto, Sr., and Louise (Rarberg) Fieck. His education was begun in his native land, and he subsequently attended district school in Plainview Township after coming to this country with his parents in 1905. After beginning industrial life he was engaged in farm labor near the village of Lewiston, Winona County, Minn., until 1915, since which time he has worked for his father.

Otto Fieck, Sr., proprietor of a good farm of 110 acres in section 33, Plainview Township, was born in Prussia, Germany, May 30, 1863. He was there educated and married Louise Rarberg. With his wife and family he came to the United States in 1905, taking his present farm, where he is successfully en- gaged in general farming and stock raising. He has made improvements on his place, including the erection of a good cow barn, and has shown himself to be a man of industry and enterprise of the same type as those who laid the foundation of this country's prosperity. In the work of the farm he is ably assisted by his son, Otto Fieck, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Otto Fieck, Sr., are the parents of ten children: William, now in North Dakota; Emma, wife of Charles Bcetke of St. Charles, Minn.; August, residing in North Dakota; Anna, wife of Frank Fieck; Otto, already mentioned as working on the home farm; Louise, wife of James Lemon of North Dakota; Gust, a resident of Winona; Helen and Herman, who are living in North Dakota; and Eleanor, who is at home. The religious affiliations of the family are with the Lutheran church.