Waseca County, Minnesota - Chapter 23: New Richland Township and Village, 1887

Chapter 23: New Richland Township and Village

I HE township of New Richland lies in the extreme southeastern corner of Waseca County, and embraces all of congressional township 1(>5 north, range 22 west, and contains 22,653.47 acres of lanti, most of which is capable of use for agriculture and 7,925 acres of which is now improved. None of the land is too level, and in the east two ranges of sections, being included in what is called the morainic belt, is mostly covered with mounds, swells and hills, thirty to fifty feet above the intervening hollows. The western part is gently undulating, with prolonged, smooth swells, the highest of them being ten to thirty feet above the neighboring sloughs and lakes. The Le Sueur Riv^er intersecting this township, with its tributaries, affords ample drainage, which is largely assisted b\' the contour of the ground. Tiie soil is the black, unctuous, alluvial loam so common to southern Minnesota, which under favorable circumstances yields such a large return to the laboring agriculturist. Some of the best land in the county is found in this township, the rich lands ofthe valley of the Le Sueur having became almost proverbial.

On the fith of May, 1856, a band of Norwegian emigrants left Rock Count\', Wis., bound for the North Star State and new homes in the, then, wilderness. These were Anthony Sampson, H. H. Sunde, K. O. Rotegard, H. T. Handgrud, Ole Iv. Hagen, W. Anderson, Christian Knudson and E. O. I

Strenge. They had all left their home in Norway for a home in the " land of the free," and had settled in Rock County, but at the above date started out anew. They had with them twelve yoke of cattle, thirty cows, about fifty head of young cattle, and about $600 in gold. Slowly toiling on, on the 10th of June they came, after a tiresome journey, to what is now the town of New Richland, then an uninhabited land. Only a few Indians hunting the game that abounded were to be seen.

They at once commenced their labors toward a permanent occupation of the territory, each taking up 160 acres of land, and making up two breaking teams of working cattle each consisting of four yoke, began bi'eaking up the virgin sod. In this manner four acres were prepared for each family, which they immediately planted with flint corn, but when it had come uj) the gojihers and blackbirds took it nearly all. For two years the}' had a hard time, for they could raise but little and flour was $11 a barrel, and then they had to go seventy-five miles after it. But still they persevered and succeeded in establishing themselves. One of the mainstays of life among them was the fish that abounded in the lake and river, and had it not been for this food supplj', livinghad been almost impossible for a time.

Of tliis colony it may be said that they never had any great dissension amono- them. Whenever there chanced to arise an}' difi'ei'- ence among any of them, two or three Avould get together and settle the matter satisfactorily to all concerned. There never has been one of them in a lawsuit in this county.

Ole C. Knudson is a native of the town of New Kichland, "Waseca County, Minn., born November 12, 1857. He is unmarried, and lives on his farm on sections 13 and 15, where he has about 115 acres of land. His father, Christian Knudson, was born in Norwa}'', but came to America in 1853, and was one of the party who made the first settlement in this township in 1856, as given. He took up a claim on sections 13 and 2i. He died here, October 11, 1888. Ole's mother is now Mrs. Margaret Christianson, wife of Nels Christianson. The children of Mr. and ]\Irs. Christian Knudson were as follows : Betsy Sorenson, born October 11, 1845 ; Knudt Christianson, born in 1852, died in 1881 ; Julia Oleson, born in 1855 ; Ole C, born in 1857 ; Christian, born in 1859, now deceased ; Mary born in 1863; Gustaf, born March 2, 1865 ; Nena, in 1868, and Teena in 1871, died in December, 1886. The family are members of the Lutheran Church.

Ole Oleson Hagen is a native of this township, having been born on the farm where he now lives, on section 2, October 29, 1858. His father, Ole K. Hagen, a native of Norway, came to this county in 1856, as stated, and settled on this, the well known Pioneer Farm, putting up one of the first houses in the township. The farm now comprises some 240 acres of land on sections 2 and 3, on both sides of the Le Sueur River, and includes some 20 acres of fine timber. His house is a good comfortable modern cottage, and his barn is an immense one, with good stone basement. Grain, cattle and horses are tlie principal products of the place. July 16, 1880, Ole Oleson Hagen and Ingeberg Christofson were united in marriage. She w.is born in Norway, January 29, 1853. They have a family of five children : Sielie, born May 24, 18S1 ; Bereth Oienia, May 19, 1S82 ; Clai"a, January 22, 1884; Marit, June 6, 1885, and Olda Emilia, February 22, 1887. They are members of the Lutheran Churcli.

two weeks after the arrival of the Sampson colony. Koff'stad is still a resident of the townshi)) ; Miller, after a residence here of five years, removed to Berlin, Steele County, where he now lives ; Anderson migrated to Albert Lea, after living here about seven years.

Nels Christenson was born in Norway, September 16, 1828, and emigrated to America in ] 853. He settled in Illinois, near Chicago, where he remained until 1856, when he came to this township, and took up a claim on government land, where he still resides. He now has, besides his farm, about thirty acres of good timber land, and has a never failing spring of excellent water. He has a herd of about sixty head of cattle, and eight horses, and is one of the county's solid farmers. He has also a fine residence, and spacious barn, with excellent surroundings. He has been twice married, his first wife being Miss E. Johnson, who was born in Norway, June 15, 1843, to wliom lie was married in 1859. She died in 1876, having been the mother of eleven children, three dying in infancy, and eight are now living, whose names are: Christiannia, bornMa}'^ 11, 1861 ; John, May 28, 1863; Randine, December 29, 1864 ; Eline, November 19, 1865; Peter, February 18, 1867 ; Mary, March 4, 1870 ; Otto, March 28, 1871, and Nena, April 1, 1875. Mr. Christianson's second wife was Mary Knudson, born in Norway, January 10, 1826, to whom he was married July 29, 1885. The family are members of the Lutheran Church.

April 1, 1857, Hans O. Sunde came to New Richland Township, and made this his home until December 16, 1874, when he died of old age, being ninety-two years old.

J. S. Rice was a settler of the year 1857, also. He at first located in this town, but afterwai'd removed to the village of Wilton, about 1860. He was about that time appointed county treasui'er, and served two years. On the expiration of histei'm of office, he entered the service of the general government, to aid in suppressing the rebellion, and on his discharge, settled in Iowa.

John Benson is a native of Norway, born in March, 1S33. He came to the United States in 1853, and settled in Rock County, Wis., where he remained until 1858, when he came to this county and settled Avhere he now lives, on section 26, where he has most excellent improvements in the way of residence, barns, granary and a fine grove. He was united in marriage with Marie Olson in 1855. She was born in Norway, December 26, 1833. They have been the parents of six children : Peter, born January 22, 1856 ; Anna Marie, March 22, 1860 ; Henry, November 7, 1863 ; Martin, August 1, 1866 ; Theodore, April 6, 1868, and Betsy Oline, June 21, 1881. Mr. Benson now owns and cultivates one of the finest farms in this section of the county, having 400 acres of land. He is giving much attention to stock-raising, having some forty head of cattle, eleven horses and eighty sheep. The family are members of the Lutheran Church.

Nels Tyrholm, now a resident of the village of New Richland, came here in 1858 and settled on a farm, the place now owned by E. E. Verplank. He is the present furniture dealer of the village.

H. J. Hanson came to this township in 1858 with his parents, who settled on section 1 1 , near the Lutheran Church. He is a native of Norway, born September 27, 1848. In 1856 his father brought the family to America, and for two years thereafter they resided in Rock County, Wis., and then came here. Mr. Hanson bought part of the farm where he lives, on section 32, in 1868, but now owns land in all three sections - 32, 33 and 29. May 2, LS69, he was united in marriage with Anna F. Hedenstadt, who was born in Norway, February 10, 1848. They have been the parents of nine children, only four of whom are living : Paulina Amelia, Alfred Julian, Paulina Sophia, Olave, Carl Oliver, Peter, Carl Martin, Gearhard and one that died in extreme infancy. His father, Ole H. Sunde, was born in Norway in November, 1816, and is still living in this county. Mr. Hanson enlisted in Company L, First Minnesota Heavy Artillery, and was in active service until the close of the war, participating in many battles, and was discharged October 9, 1866, at Nashville. lie had three comrades who enlisted with him, and of the four he only survived. Mr. Hanson has an excellent place, good dwelling, barn, etc., surrounded with a thrifty grove. He has twentj'-four head of cattle, four horses, besides over thirty swine.

S. W. Franklin was among the pioneers of New Richland, coming here in 1857. He is still a resident of this town. He is a native of Essex County, N. J., born Febru ary 18, 1823. He was reared in Pennsylvania, and came here from Illinois, and settled on section 5, of this township. November 19, 1866, he married Eva Melissa Freelove, of Manchester, Iowa.

David Skinner, one of the pioneers of this settlement, located in New Richland Townshi]i during the year 1858. He resided here until the breaking out of the war, when he enlisted in Company F, Fifth Minnesota Infantr}', and while in the service, died at St Louis, Januarj' 13, 1863.

John Thompson made a settlement in New Richland Township in 1858, and resided here until about 1880, when he removed to Albert Lea. He represented this district in the Legislature two terms.

J. E. Christianson was born in New Eichland Township, on section 28, on the 27th of August, 1858, and was reared here. He was united in marriage, June 21, 1879, with Otilda Peterson, who was also a native of this county, born June 18, 1860, but who died July 21, 1883, leaving one child, Josephena Cecelia, born August 9, 1880. Mr. Christianson is by trade a mason and plasterer, doing all kinds of work in that line in all their various branches, and is an adept at it. He is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church, like many others in this township, and is a straightforward business man.

Andrew N. Berg, the proprietor of Oak Hill Farm, is a native of Norway, born November 12, 1835. He came to the United States in 1855, and settled in Rock County, Wis., and from there removed to Fillmore County, this State. Later he came here and made a permanent settlement, and now has a magnificent farm of 710 acres of land under excellent cultivation, and with an elegant residence, fine spacious barns and other fine buildings, all located in a beautiful grove. He has 110 head of fair grade cattle, and twenty-one head of horses, and is in excellent circumstances in every way. April 28, 1861, he was united in marriage with Isabell Johnson, who was also born in Norway, June 12, 1S13. They are the parents of fourteen children : Anna Jorgine, born February 1, 1862 ; Ingeborg Sophie, July 10, 1863; Andrew, December 23, 1864 ; Inge Maria, April 21, 1866 ; Ly verine Matkea, January 3, 1868 ; Elise Nicohne, July 3, 1870; Syvert, March 10, 1872; Otto, May 11,1873; Nils Edward, February 5, 1875; Martin, September 21, 1878 ; Ingoburg Allette, February 13, 1879, Thea Johanne, September 2, 1881 ; Darthea Elizabeth, May 13, 1884, and Christian August, September 11, 1886. The family are members of the Lutheran Church.

Peominent Citizens

Sketches, more or less biographical, are given here of some of the leading citizens of this town, they being good representatives of the population of the same.

J. H. "Wightman is a native of the State of New York, born February 3, 1822, and is the son of Rufus and Mary (Potter) "Wightman. His father died when J. H. was about <i year old, and he resided with his mother until 1849, when he went to Chicago, where he learned the tinner's trade, and since that time has been engaged in business on his own account. In July, 1857, he came to Waseca County from Wisconsin, driving throujrh, bringins: with him his wife and family, then consisting of three children. He then settled on section 24, in the town of Byron, where he remained until the spring of 1863, when he removed to the village of Wilton, where he went into the hardware business with P. C. Bailey. Two years later he sold out to G. W. Watkins, and bought out a boot and shoe store and carried on that line of trade for five years, when he closed out and removed to a farm in Otisco Township. After two years spent there, he bought the dry goods and grocer}^ store of Forrest & Stevens, at Wilton, and returned to that village and carried on that business at that point until the village of New Richland had commenced, when he removed tlie stock to the latter jjlace, bringing also a full line of hardware. He continued here in business until 1885, when he sold out to A. J. Newgard, and moved to his farm on section 16, where he now lives. He was married in 1853 to Mary Robinson, a native of New York. They have been the parents of fourteen children.

J. F. Hunt, a true representative of the refined and thrifty farmer of his native State, was born in Niagara County, N. Y., November 19, 1848. When but a boy the family removed to Wisconsin, where he remained until tlie fall of 1881, when he came here and settled on the southeast quarter of sec- tion 9, where he now lives. April 20, 18T8, he was united in marriage with Ettie Boardman, at Fairwater, Fond du Lac County, Wis., where she was born January 22, 1857. They are the parents of three children : Albert E., born February 22, 1879 ; Cora May, born October 12, 1881, and Jessie L. born January 4, 1886. Mr. Hunt is giving considerable attention to the raising of stock, in addition to his other farming operations. He and his excellent wife are members of the Congregational Church.

Andrew Breilein is a native of Washington Count}', Wis., born December 22, 1815. He came to Minnesota in the year 1873, and settled on a farm on section 9, near where he now resides. He now has a beautiful place of 200 acres of excellent land, within a mile of the village of New Richland, whither he looks forward to taking up his residence in the near future. He is the father of nine children, eight of whom are living : Mary, born July 3, 1870 ; Peter, born December 20, 1871 ; Elizabeth, born July 13, 1873 ; Frederick, born February 11, 1875 ; Lena, born September 10, 1876 ; Ida, born October 9, 1878 ; George, born April 7, 1880 ; Catherine, born February 11, 1882, died October, 1882, and Henry, born June 27, 1883. Their mother was formerly Mary Laudert, to whom he was married in Wisconsin in October, 18('>S. She was born in Wisconsin May 16, 1851. Mr. Breilein [runs a thrashing machine in season, and also owns and operates a feedmill in the village of New Richland. He is a member of the Christian Church.

Paul O. Qverna was born in Norway, October 22, 1 849, and worked in the silver mines and on his father's farm in that country until he had reached tlie age of seventeen years, when he emigrated to America, landing in this country in 1867, and coming direct to Waseca County. From here he went to Olmsted County where he remained some four years and then returned here and purchased 120 acres of land on sections 15 and 16, building his residence on the latter. July 28, 1875, he was united in marriage with Sophia J. Nelson, of Yellow Medicine County, who was born in Norwaj', October 1, 1851. They have a family of three boys: John Olaf, born May 1, 1876 ; Carl, born August 18, 1877, and Rudolph, born February 1, 1879. His father, Ole Sornson, worked in the silver mines for the govei'uraent in Norway for forty-nine years and now enjoys a pension in his retirement. Mr. Qverna has a fine herd of twenty head of graded cattle, and six head of horses, and has one of the finest farms in the township.

John Peterson was born in Sweden, May Kl, 1845, and came to America in 1859, settling in Wabash County, Ind. He remained there about four years, and then came to Red Wing, Minn., and from there to this county, and settled upon section 4, of this township, in 1863, on government land. His mother resided witli him while he was perfecting his title. In tlie year 1859 he was united in marriage with Anna Lawson, and they are the parents of thi'ee children : Charles Alfred, born May 24, 1860; Edwin Walford, born June 12, 1866, and Hulda Lucetta, born November 14, 1880. During the Indian outbreak he was a member of the Independent Company of Volunteers who went to Fort Ridgeley, and where they passed through many exciting experiences, and while on this trip saw and picked up many crippled and mutilated people and many more that were dead. He has a fine farm of 240 acres of land undei" excellent cultivation. He and family are Lutherans.

Nels J. Anderson, one of the solid farmers of New Richland Township, has a fine place of some two hundred acres of land on section 2, of which he has over one hundred acres in grain and forty acres of grass, besides twenty-five acres of fine natural timber. He is giving some attention to stock-raising, having a herd of twenty head of cattle, all good strains, and eight head of fine horses.

Uistoky Of Waseca Counut

He is a native of Sweden, born April 6, 1842, and was reared and educated in his native land, living there until the ye&v 1869, when he came to the United States, and on first arriving, settled at Albert Lea, Freeborn County, this State. In 1882 he purchased the place where he now lives, and moved to it in tlie year 1885, and has made it his residence ever since. This is one of the best farms in this locality.

E. E. Verplank was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., October 22, 1835, and was reared in that locality. In his early manhood he worked in a woolen factory there, but in 1855 came west to Bradford, Iowa, but in the fall of the same year came to Minnesota, locating at Faribault, where he was engaged in the trade of painting. While a resident there, April 22, 1861, he enlisted in Company G, First Minnesota Infantr}', and was mustered into the service at Fort Snelling. The regiment being ordered to the front, he was struck down with a sunstroke near Washington, and on the 14th of July, 1861, he was discharged for disability and returned home. October 22, 1864, he was united in marriage with Sophia Hanson Sunde, who was born in Norway, August 1, 1844. They have been the parents of seven children, six of whom are alive : Edwin, born August 18, 1865, died September 10, 1865 ; Edwin, October 20, 1866;Leida Olevia, February 6, 1869 ; Willie, October 23, 1871 ; Hannah Maria, May 29, 1874,. Oscar, June 5, 1877, and Albert Martin, September 12, 1883. Mr. Verplank made a claim in this county in 1856, but abandoned it and returned to Faribault. He now owns some eighty acres of land where he now resides.

Joseph 1). Young is a native of Holland, born February 17, 1845. In 1853 the family came to the Uuited States and settled in Wisconsin, where he remained until 1873, when he removed to this State, and in 1875 came to Waseca County, and now has a good farm on section 18, where he moved in 1880. January 14, 1880, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Anna Dietling, formerly Anna Lauder, who was born in Wisconsin, July 15, 1845, and who had married John Dietling, October 15, 1868, and whose husband had died December 27, 1879, leaving her with a family of six children, one having died. Their names are : Theresa S., born Jul\' 31, 1869; Mary Catherine, July 21, 1871; John, November 17, 1872 ; Jacob, August, 1874, died August, 1875 ; Caroline, August 19, 1877, and Elizabeth, April 2, 1879. The family are members of the Catholic Church. Mr. and Mrs. Young- are the parents of four children : Joseph, born October 14, 1881 ; Peter J., March 11, 1883 ; Agnes Mary, July 4, 1885, died May 14, 1887, and Georgie, August 12, 1887. '

Ole Knudson Eekke is a native of Norway, born April 14, 1839. He came to America in 1852 with his parents, who settled at Spring Valley, Rock County, Wis., where they remained until 1856, Avhen they came to this county and township. March 2, 1863, he was united in marriage with Margeret Knudson Hagen, who was born in November, 1838. The same year they moved to the farm on section 2, where they now reside, and where Mr. Rekke owns 160 acres of good land, and where he carries on general farming and stock-raising, having sixteen head of cattle and six head of horses. Mr. and Mrs. Rekke are the parents of two children : Carra, born November 26, 1863, and Knud, October 31, 1865. They are members of the Lutheran Church.

Thomas Lajord is a native of Norway, born February 26, 1842. He was educated for a teacher, and being a Lutheran, was confirmed at Hamarstiff in 1857, and that year attended school to complete his education for his life work as teacher. He began his career in his native land January 10, 1859, and followed teaching there until April 4, 1870, when he immigi'ated to America and landed at New York. Ten days after his arrival he came to Goodhue County, this State, aiul from there to Dakota County, where he occupied his time in teaching until 1875, when he came to this count}' and purcliased forty acres of land on section 12, New Tiiclilund Township, where he still resides, lie held the position of teacher and choir leader in the church here until 1885, when some of the members thinking that he was too outspoken in his manner in regard to his views as to the way Christian people should live, and dissensions creeping into the church, he resigned his stewardship. June 26, 1869, Thomas Lajord and Maren Kattvold were united in mari'iage, and they have been the parents of four children : Thorstein, born October 27, 1876; Ingeborg, June 6,1879; Clara, July 8, 1882, and Hannah, March 3, 1887. Mrs. Lajord is a native of Norway, born December 24, 1850, and with her husband is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Lajord was the doorkeeper in the Legislature at the session of 1887. He is an upright Christian and a worthy citizen.

Knudt Olson Hagen was born in Norway, September 12, 1851. In Jul}', 1852, his parents brought him to this country, and settled at Rock Prairie, Wis., but four 3'ears later moved to Minnesota, among the old settlers of this township, and located on section 3, where jMr. Hagen now lives. Here he was raised and educated, and hei'e, November 19, 1874, be was united in marriage with Ella Tollefson, who was born in Norway, December 14, 1853. They were the parents of three children: Salma Mary, born August 31, 1875 ; Henry Otto, born October 22, 1876, and Tena Cecilia, born in July, 1877, died same month. Mrs. Hagen died November 15, 1883. On the 25th of June, 1887, he was again united in marriage, this time with Marreth Swenson, who was born in Norway, May 29, 1861. His farm consists of 240 acres of land under high state of culture, with good house, barn and other buildings, and he has a herd of some forty head of fine grade cattle. Tiie family are members of the Lutheran Church.

Torkel Lund \vas born in Norwaj'', December 7, 1829. He immigrated to America in 1850, and settled in Eock County, Wis., where he remained four years, then removed to Fillmore Count}', this State, and after four years spent there, came to this township and county, and settled on section 22, where he now lives. Before leaving his native land, in 1850, he was united in marriage with Gerete Berg, who was born on December 25, 1830. They have had a family of nine children : Tidman, born January 2, 1851, died three weeks later; Andrew, born in 1852, deceased ; Tidman, born June 4, 1853; Amelia, born October 1857, died February, 1863; Alfred, born November 15, 1860 ; Martin, born October 5, 1862 ; Sophia, born December 15, 1864; Amelia, born October 19, 1867, and Emma, born November 17, 1869, died May 12, 1886. Mr. Lund owns, in connection with his sons, 320 acres of land under a good state of cultivation. They have some fifty head of cattle and five horses. The family are members of the Lutheran Cliurch.

Ole O. Bommengen is a native of Norway, born August 8, 1834, and came to America in 1867, coming direct to this county and town, settling on section 23, where he now lives, and where he owns a fine farm of 200 acres of land under a good state of cultivation, fifty -four head of cattle, eight horses, Ijesides other stock. He was married in Norway, in 1855, to Cari'ie Mary Hanson, by whom he had three children; Louis Olson, born in Norway, May 1, 1859; Cassa, bornin Norway, February 11, 1865, and Edwin, born in Minnesota, March 25, 1871. He married his second wife, Martha Oleson, February 20, 1877. The family are members of the Lutheran Church. He is one of the good, substantial fanners of this township, and is striving to achieve, what he merits by his industr}' and energy, an easy competence.

Eev. O. A. Mellby was born in Aurdal, Norway, January 9, 1843. He received his education in his native land, graduating from the university of Christiana in 1872, and was ordained a minister of the Lutheran Church by the Bishop of Christiana, in October of that year. He started immediately for the scene of his hibors in New Eichland, having had a call from this parish while yet a student. He landed in New York on the 15th of December, 1S72, and a few days later was installed as pastor of the New Richland Church, and is the present incumbent of that position. January 9, 1867, he was united in marriage with Sigrid Grundt, who was born in Norway, February 18, 1839. The}' have had seven children : Carl August, born January 5, 1869, now at the college, Decorah, Iowa, class of 1888 ; Agnes Theodora, born September 25, 1870, now at Northfield College ; Oscar Michael and Marie Eliza, born April 23, 1873, and died September 1, 1873 ; Marie Elizabeth, born November 5, 1875 ; Oscar Frederick, born May 11, 1876, and Gisle Bernhard born May 24, 1879. Mr. Mellby has improved the parsonage farm since coming here, setting out a fine grove of ijOOO trees and cultivating the land highly.

N. M. Nelson was born in Sweden tn the year 1848, and came to the United States in 1868, settling in this county at that time, and for the last twelve years has been a continual resident here. He located on a farm of 160 acres in section 9, which he has brought to a high state of cultivation, and has a good comfortable dwelling and good outbuildings. He has held the office of county commissioner for seven years and enjoys the confidence of all. He was married to Lottie Johnson, in Waseca County, March 9, 1884. She was born in Indiana, and died January 8, 1885, leaving one child who was born January 2, 1885. Mr. Nelson carries on general farming and stock-raising and is in good, comfortable circumstances.

Edward C. Sybilrud is the son of Christian C. Sybilrud, who was born in Norway, December 1, 1817, and Anna Mary, his wife, who is a native of the same country, born January 8, 1822, and both of whom reside with their son, Edward, who has a fine farm of 240 acres of land on section 25. He has a fine modern cottage, where he resides surrounded by a fine natural grove some seven or eight acres in extent. He is a native of Norway, born July 1, 1851, and came to America in the year 1870, settling where he now lives. December 25, 1877, he was united in marriage with Renegarde Burtnes, who was also born in Norway, December 25, 1861. They have been the parents of five children : Anna Mary, born February 25, 1879; Christian, born October 27, 1880; Thea Carrenia, born October 23, 1882, who died January 20, 1883 ; Oscar, born December 11, 1883, and Theo Knute, born February 2, 1886. The family are active members of the Lutheran Church.

Olave Anderson owns 160 acres of land on section 36, this township, and 175 acres in the adjoining county of Freeborn. He has about twenty head of cattle, including eleven milch cows and eleven horses. He is giving much attention to grading up his stock, and has among them some full-blood short-horns. His horses are one-half or better of Norman, or Clyde stock. He also owns and operates a steam thrashing machine. He is a native of Norway, born April 20, 1847. He left the country of his birth for the United States in 1867, and on his arrival came to Fillmore County, this State, and settling there remained for two years, and then removed to the farm where he now lives, in the year 1869. June 8, 1872, he was married to Lora Olson, Avho was born in Norway, July 1, 1852. They have had born to them five children : Anton, born January' 24, 1877; Nena, born October 14, 1879; Netka, born January 12, 1881 ; Emma, born August 2'2, 1884, and Ida, born August 24, ISSO. Mr. Anderson's mother, Mrs. Mary Anderson, lives with him. She was born in Norway, in 1815. The family are members of the Lutheran Church.

acres of land on section 21, is a native of Germany. He was born September 10, 1850, and remained in the fatlierland until 1873, when he immigrated to the United States, and for a time lived in Wisconsin. In 1874 he was married to Mary Steinhaus, a native of Wisconsin, born July 22, 1853. Later he removed to this county. He had learned the trade of miller in the old country, and for a year after coming to America he followed that occupation. He has a fine place, with excellent buildings and good stock. Mr. and Mrs. Schwenke are the parents of five children : Emil, Ida, Henry, Mada and Rowland.

Carl Kotegard was born in New Richland Township, Waseca County, Minn., on the place where he now lives, on section 12, July 27, 1863. His father, Knudt Oleson Rotegard, was a native of Norway, born April 14, 1813, died here November 19, 1878. His mother, Barbara (Oleson) Rotegard, was also a native of Norway, born September 7, 1820, and still resides on the old homestead. Carl was reared here, and on the 29th of October, 1883, was united in marriage with Hannah Kittelson, who was born in Norway, August 13, 1861. They have one child, Christian Olaf, born October 18, 1885. Carl has a farm of eighty acres of land which he cultivates. The family are meml)ers of the Lutheran Church.

Julius A. R. Kruger was born in Germany, December 18, 1852, and was brought to America by his parents in 1856. They settled at (irst in Jefferson County, Wis., where they remained until 1861, when they moved to Freeborn County, this State, where his parents still live. Mr. Kruger came to tlie place where he now lives, on section 34, in 1884. March 11, 1885, he was married to Mary Goertz, a native of Germany, born December 1, 1864. They have been the parents of two children : Martha Louisa, born March 22, 1886, and died April 9, 1886, and Louis Robert August, born May 22, 1887. Mr. Kri'ger's father, Frank Kruger, was liorn in Prussia, May 22, 1823, and his mother in the same principality, November 15, 1833. Part of the father's farm of 430 acres is in this and part in Freeborn County. Julius owns 160 acres where he lives, has a good new dwelling in modern style, surrounded by a grove of young, thrifty trees.

First Items

In 1862 the first schoolhouse was erected of logs, on a half acre of ground donated for that purpose by Anthony Sampson. Miss Northup was the first teacher. A special meeting of the district was held Julj- 6,

The Norwegian Lutheran Church on section 11, of this township, was built during the years 1875 and 1876, at a cost of about $5,000. It is 36x60 feet in size upon the ground, and 2(i feet high. An addition upon the rear is 20x20 feet in dimension. The sjiire is 16 feet square at the base, and has an altitude of 96 feet. The edifice has a seating capacity of 550.

The society was organized in the spring of 1861, and in 1862 a place of worship was erected of logs. This was 20x26 feet in size. Rev. B. Muse, the pastor of a Goodhue County congregation, was the first to minister to these people. After about two years, he was succeeded by Rev. N. A. Qvame, who officiated for seven years. In 1872 the Kev. O. A. Mellby was called from his faraway home in Norwa}% and is the present pastor. The first trustees were PI. Halvorsen, Anthony Sampson and H. Taraldson. The society own a fine parsonage on section 13 ; witli it is a fine farm of eighty aci'es of land, the land and building costing some $1,800.

The first meeting of this society was held at the house of Ole Arneson, on section 2, in the spring of 1858, by Eev. Laurs Larson. The same people held meetings in different places until the organization.

Organization

At the first meeting of the board of county commissioners on the 16th of March, 1857, the three townships of New Richland, Byron and Vivian, and the south one-third of Otisco Township, as constituted to-day, were thrown into one precinct and called Otisco. But on the 2d of IS^ovember, 1858, the board set off and organized congressional township 108 north, range 22 west, into a civil town under the name of Norway, but that was afterward changed to Richland, the New being added subsequently. The first town meeting for the purpose of organizing the township, was held on the 5th of April, 1859, at the house of John Larson. John Thompson was chairman, and on the meeting being called to order J. S. Rice was chosen moderator and S. "W. Franklin, clerk. The polls were duly opened at 10 o'clock. The first officers chosen were the followingnamed : John Thompson, chairman ; J. S. Rice and David Skinner, supervisors ; S. "W". Franklin, clerk ; Anthony Sampson, assessor ; Nels Christianson, collector ; J. S. Rice and John Larson, justices of the peace ; George W. Legg and Andrew Johnson, constables, and Ole Johnson, overseer of the poor. The present officers are as follows : W. F. Discher, chairman, and E. C. Sybilrud and E. O. Rotegard, supervisors ; Christof Wagner, clerk ; T. T. Lund, assessor ; J. O. Sunde,

Coesondale Stock Farm

No annals of this town would be complete without some reference to the noted stock farm owned by Messrs. Dunwoody & Corson, the enterprising owners of the model roller mill in the village of New Richland. This farm, one of the important factors in the development of this township, is composed of 880 acres of land, embracing the south half of section 20, the north half of section 29, the west half of the southwest quarter of section 29, and the northwest quarter of section 32, all in this township. Their farm buildings are located on the eastern part of this tract, about one mile due south of this village, upon a beautiful site, and were built with special attention to the care and comfort of their fine Norman horses and thriving herds of thoroughbred short-horns, Jerseys, grades and other stock.

At the time this farm passed into the hands of Dunwoody & Corson it was comparatively wild prairie land, but since that time it has been improved and cultivated, and is now divided into fields which are enclosed with strong wire fences. What portion is not required for the raising of feed for the stock (for no produce is marketed from this place) is seeded to clover and other tame grasses, which thrive exceedingly well in this country, the soil being peculiarly adapted to the growing of such.

Their original purchase of short-horns was forty head ; since that time (less than three years) they have sold eighteen head for $3,000, and now have on hand sixty-five head of as fine looking thoroughbred shorthorns as can be found in any herd in the Northwest, besides a large number of valu-

In 1883 they placed on theirfann six halfblood Norman and two common mares, and since that time each of them have raised colts from Bon Homme, their imported stallion. They also have two fine carriage horses bred to DeGraff's Alexander. In the past year they have sold three colts for $-l-50 and now have sixteen grade colts of both sexes, one half blood and one three-quarter blood Norman stallion, besides several colts of a recent purchase. Among these colts is an exceedingly promising trotter sired by Commodore Kittson's Blackwood Jr., dam, Mary Lane. » The house and barns are large, roomy and

On this place Messrs. Dunwoody & Corson have their imported Norman stalhon, Bon Homme, brought from France by them in 1882, and weighing 1,750 pounds, and other fine horses; Baron Glencoe, an imported short-horn bull, than whom there is none better in this country, and many mares, cows, Poland China and Jersey Red hogs and Plymouth Rock chickens, and in fact a large quantity of high grade animals of all kinds and descriptions. Among some of the most noted cows on this model farm, are Orange Blossom of Cedar 2nd ; Tuberose of Brownsdale ; several representatives of Miss Wiley of Brownsdale ; Arabella, and many others, besides about twent}' thoroughbred Jersey cows and grades, among them Sunny Sister and Sunny Morn.

To Messrs. Dunwoody & Corson, too much praise can hardly be given for their efforts in improving the stock in this part of the State, and anyone can at a glance see the incalculable value a few such model farms throughout the State would be to the rest of the farming community. The magnificent farm is well worth a visit.

The thriving village that bears the name of New Richland lies upon the southeast quarter of section 17, and was laid out and platted in August, 1877, by Henry T. Wells. Four additions to the town plat have been laid out subsequently bv Charles Zieger, H. T Wells and Jane McClane. The village is beautifully situated, and neatly and well kept, and is a OTOwing and thrivino- village. With abundant forethought, many of the residences are deeply embowered in trees, which lend beauty to the aspect of the place, and help shelter them from the icy blasts of winter.

The first building in the new town was put up by a man by the name of Buncho, in July, 1877, who opened up a saloon in it and ran it for about eight months, and then sold the building to James Murphy, who converted it into a residence and about a year later sold it to M. Murphy, who rented it to other parties a few years, and then disposed of it to Fred. Laudert, who uses it for a dwelling.

Thomas Lynch put up a building in the fall of 1877, which he rented. In it a saloon was opened, and during that winter was continued. The building is now occupied by Mrs. M. P. Lofty, as a millinery establishment.

In the fall of the same year J. H. Wightman erected a store building, and putting in a stock of hardware, ran it for about eight years, when he sold out to A. J. Newgard, the present proprietor, who carries a stock of general hardwai'e, pumps, barbed wire and Summit washing machines, and does a large and growing business.

A. J. Newgard was born in Gjovik, Norway, February 10, 18-t4, and is the son of Gorgenson G. and Agneta (Gulbranson) Newgard. Rearetl among the scenes of his childhood, the free spirit that dwells in the hearts of all mountaineers led him in 1S69 to leave his home and seek a new one in free America. For about a year after coming here he remained in Chicago, and then came to "Waseca County, locating in this township on a farm belonging to A. J. Stensvad, where he remained some two months. He then took a farm, which he worked on shares for a year, after which he purchased some improvements on some railroad lands of Anton Ciiristianson, of Steele Countj^ where he spent some eighteen months, selling out at tlie end of that time, and working at the carpenter's trade some eighteen months. He then removed to Owatonna, Steele County, where he was engaged in the lumber trade, as salesman for Thomas Kelh', for six months, and other emplovment in that line, and working at the carpenter or tinner's trade. In the fall of 1877 he came to the newly started village and opened up the lumber yard as detailed elsewhere, and continued in that line until 1S85, when he sold out and took a pleasure trip to Europe, to visit the scenes of his happy childhood's days, and to live over once more tiie old life. After spending some six months in this way, he returned to New Richland, purchased the hardware stock and business of J. H. Wightman, commenced trade in that line, in which he is now engaged. During the year 1865 he was united in marriage with Marie L. Steuseth. They have been the parents of the following children : Ingulf, born July 29, 1866; Carl, March 10, 1868 ; Gulbran, born January 2, 1872, died the 22d of the same month ; Andrew, born April 21, 1874 ; Emma, June 29, 1876; Lars, April 15, 1879, and Georgine. July 26, 1883.

The same year (1877) C. H. Hooper put in a stock of drugs and medicines and operated it for a few years, when the goods were closed out, and about 1880 the building was sold to Henry Jaehning, who is engaged in the furniture business and sale of undertaking goods.

Faribault, who put in a stock of general merchandise. They continued this business but a short time, when they closed out the stock. The building was occupied for several months with machinery, but in the fall of 1878 H. K. Stearns purchased the building and put in a well assorted stock of general merchandise, commencing business here January 1, 1879, and still continues in the same old stand, doing a lucrative business, and drawing trade from a large scope of countr^^

Ilalvor K. Stearns came to Waseca Count)' in 1862, and settled on a farm, on section 15, on the Le Sueur River, about two miles east of the present village of New Richland. He is a native of Nomedal, Norway, born December 25, 1836. He remained in his fatherland until he had passed the age of seventeen years, when he came to this countr}^ and settled in Rock County, Wis. This was in 185-t. While a citizen of that place, be was united in marriage April 20, 1860, at Rock Prairie, Rock County, Wis., with Betsy Sevets, who was born in Norway, June 10, 1840. Three years before coming to this county he had purchased the farm where he made his first settlement, and when he was ready to come to this State he took a team and wagon and drove the whole distance, taking some six weeks to make the trip. He had his wife and one child, all his his family at that time, with him, and on his arrival here about the 1st of June, settled at once on the farm. He did some plowing that summer and fall but did not raise any crops that season. He remained on his farm until March, 1880, when he removed to the village of New Richland, having opened a general merchandise store there in January previous, and has remained in that line of business ever since. Mr. Stearns served the county on the board of commissioners from January, 1874, until December, 1879, and always with credit to himself and the satisfaction of his constituents. Among the foremost businessmen of New Richland, he is a true representative of her better class of

Johnson & Murphy started in the hardware business in September, 1877, and are still engaged in that line, in the same building. They are handling all the lines of goods that go to make uj) a tirst-class hardware stock, and their business has grown to goodly proportions by strict attention to business.

The firm of Murphy & Johnson was formed in the summer of 1877, before there was any building in New Richland, or the railroad track had reached here. Anticipating the wants of those about to settle in the future village, they ordei'ed a stock of building hardware, which they hauled from Waseca by team. Not having any building in which to set up store, they opened shop on a lumber pile, weighing out nails in a market basket, on an old-fashioned steelyard. When night had come they laid down by their stock to protect it from marauders. Soon, however, they got up a building and from their small beginning have by energy and ability worked up a fine trade. They also carry on an extensive business in farm machinery, coal, wire, pumps, etc. They have also an establishment of the same kind at Hartland, Minn.

Michael Murphy was born October 1, 1849, in Davis County, Ind., and is the son of Patrick and Margaret Murphy. He remained in the Hoosier State until July, 1855, when, with his parents, he came to Waseca, settling in Blooming Grove Township. In this county he was reared, and approaching manhood he learned the trade of tinner' which he followed as journeyman until he came to this place and opened up this business, except during the years 1872 and 1873 when he was engaged in civil engineering on the Northwestern Railroad. May 1, 1872, he was united in marriage with Lizzie Delaney, a native of Toronto, Canada, born October 1, 1849. They are the parents of six children: Lettie, born March 14, 1873; Elain, July 5, 1875; Irean, December 25, 1879 ; William, Januar}' 1, 1877 ; Georgia, May 19, 1882.

Nels Johnson, who was born on a farm in Denmark, August 26, 1843, resided in the country of his birth until 1865, when he came to America. He is the son of John and Maggie Johnson. On landing in the United States he came to Minnesota, locating at Faribault, Rice County, where he remained until 1874, when he came to Waseca County. For about three years he was engaged in the hardware business at Waseca, when he came here. On September 27, 1869, he was married to Mary Erickson, a native of Norway, born on a farm there in 1848. They ai'e the parents of six children: Minnie, born May 21, 1871 ; Henry, June 11, 1874; Albert, February 20, 1876; Nellie, October 7, 1880; Freddie, May 25, 1884, and an infant, born August 26, 1887.

In the same month - September, 1877 - C. H. Brossard put up a store building, and putting in a general stock, continued in that line of trade for about two years, when he closed out the stock at publfc sale. The building was then sold to F. G. Schneider, who had come here from Dodge County, Wis., and who opened up a harness-making shop, therein. It is now occupied by F. G. Schneider & Co., a new firm formed in 1887, composed of Mr. Schneider and John Kreuzer. They handle harness, boots and shoes, trunks, etc., and are building up a fine business by attention to the wants of their customers.

About the same time the firm of Clark & Swann put up a building and filled it with a finely assorted stock of drugs, medicines, fancy toilet articles, etc., and still continue to cater to the wants of the public in that line. J. R. Swann is the managing partner,

John li. Swann is a native of Sweden, born January 13, 1853, and came to the United States with his parents when he was eleven years of age. They settled in St. Paul, but are now residents of Chisago County, Minn. John R. lived with them until he was some sixteen years of age, when he entered the drug store of H. "W. Robinson, of St. Paul, where he remained almost three years. From there he went to Wilmar, this State, and was in the employ of his present partner for about five years, when he bought an interest in the concern. One year later they removed to this place. December 1, 1877, he was united in marriage with Sophia B. Quale, of Hudson, Wis. They have a family of four children : Ella, Richard, Sarah and Walter.

Nels Tyrholm & Son put up a building at about the same time in 1877, which they immediately stocked with furniture, and are engaged in the same line of business at the present.

The same fall (of 1877) a building was erected by John Larsen, who opened in it a stock of general merchandise. In this store was kept the postoffice, Mr. Larsen being the first postmaster. He continued in this building for about eight years, when, having erected the new brick store on the west side of the street, the goods were moved into that, and is now occupied by his son, M. C. Larsen, who carries on a general merchandise business.

The old building formerly occupied by John Larsen was sold to M. A. Larsen, a barber, who put in a stock of general merchandise. He runs the barber shop in connection with the store.

M. A. Larsen came to Waseca County in 1873, settling on section 1.5, this town, where he remained until 1878, when he purchased a farm in Berlin Township, Steele County, where he moved. After one year's residence there he came to the village of New Richland and opened a barber shop, which he ran for about three years, and then removed to Minneapolis, where he spent a year, and then returned to this place and reopened his barber shop. He afterward, in connection with it, put in a stock of confectionery. He now has a stock of general merchandise, as related above. He is also local agent for six large steamship lines plying between this country and Europe, supplying tickets, drafts on Europe, etc., having been in that line of business since 1873. He was born in Christiania, Norway, Februarj' 22, 1846, and came to the United States in 187:i. He was married March 21, 1877, to Anna S. Mork, a native of Soleur, Norway, who died July 17, 1882, leaving one child, Guia Adina.

The same fall (of 1877) a building was put up by Fenton Keenan, which he rented to W. Blake & Son, who put in a stock of readymade clothing. These parties ran it but a short time, when they moved the stock to Waseca. From this time for several years it was used as a saloon by different parties. It then passed into the hands of the present owner, who rents it to Peterson & Peterson, general merchants, and who have the postoffice.

About the year 1881 Peterson Bros, put up a brick building in which they opened up their saloon. This is now owned and occupied for the same purpose by Peter Peterson.

I. Sorenson, about the same time, put up a building, and put in a stock of groceries and crockery, and for a short time continued the business, finally closing out. The village afterward purchased the building, and now uses it for an engine house for the fire department.

Joseph Smith & Co. put up a building in the latter part of 1877, and opened a stock of dry goods, clothing, groceries, etc., and continued in business for about seven years, when they moved the stock to Red Lake Falls. This building is now occupied by Johnson & Sunde, as detailed elsewhere.

E. E. Ellifson put up a building in 1877 also, in which he carried on the tailoring business for five or six years, when the building was-sold. It is now the property of Emma Bettner, who carries on the harness-mating business, the mechanical work being under the management of her father. Fred. Bettner.

A building was put up by Hunt Bros, in the fall of 1877, and it was used as a saloon for about a year, when it passed into the hands of Fred. Bettner, who uses it at present as a residence and ice cream parlor.

Fred. Bettner erected a building on the east side of the town, and ran a saloon in it for a while, finally removing the buildinff on to the main street. He used it for a residence for a time, when he sold it to Gill Gorgan, who uses it as a residence and grocery store.

About the year 1875, J. Torgerson & Co. opened a store for the sale of general merchandise, on section 1, of this township. This firm continued in business for about sixteen months, when C. B. Johnson purchased an interest of one of the partners, and the business was thereafter carried on. until the starting of the New Richland, by the firm of Torgerson & Johnson. In October, 1877. they removed both building and stock to tliis place. In the following spring, Torgerson sold his intei-est to Paul O. Sunde. and the firm name changed to its present one of Johnson it Sunde. A few years later they made additions to the old building they occupied and remained there until the spring of 1885, when they purchased the store building of Joseph Smith & Co., and are now the occupants of that edifice. They carry on a general merchandise trade, which draws a liberal support from the surrounding country.

Charles B. Johnson is a native of Sandsvar, Norway, born September 5, 1852, and came to this country with his parents when he was but eighteen months old. The family settled in Wisconsin, where they remained for three vears and then removed to Berlin

Township, Steele County. Charles remained with his parents, growing to manhood there, until he started for himself on a farm of his own in Steele County. In 1875 he started the store on section 1 with James Torgerson. as already mentioned. He was united in marriage October 8, 1877. with Tena Sunde. They have a family of three children : Olaf, William and Selmer. Mr. Johnson is one of the leading business men of the village, and is also one of the most popular merchants, owing to his steady adherence to strict integrity in dealing with all his customers and his invariable good nature.

Paul O. Sunde is a native of Norway, born July 25. 1851. but when he was but five vears of age was brought to this country bv his parents, O. H. and Annie M. Sunde, in 1856. AVhen they came here they settled in Rock Count}', Wis., where they remained for about two years, and in 1858 came to this county, locating upon section 11, of New Richland Township, where the father still lives. The mother died there in May, 1886. P. O. Sunde began life for himself in 1874, woi'king at the carpenters trade in summer and spending the winter in school. This he followed the next year, and then was employed in a lumber yard. In 1878 he was in the firm of Torgerson &. Johnson, dealers in general merchandise, and is now one of the firm of Johnson &: Sunde, among the leading merchants of the village. February 26, 1880, he was united in marriage with Lizzie C. Tyrholm, and they have a family of four children : Minnie, Harry, Cora and Ella. Mr. Sunde was town clerk of New Richland for seven yeai-s, recorder of the village two years, and is the president of the village board this year, 1887.

In October. 1877, a lumber yard was opened by Randall. Botter & Co.. A. J. Newgard being the '-company." The latter being the resident partner, had the management of the business at this point. Six months later the interests of Randall & Botter were purchased by Charles Zeigei', and the firm name changed to ISTewgard & Zeiger, who continued in the business for about sixteen months, when Mr. Zieger died. Four months from then A. J. Newgard purchased his deceased partner's interest, and continued the business alone for about one year. About 1880 the lumber yard then run by C. D. Haven & Co. was consolidated with his, and the new firm formed, which was known by the style of A. J. Newgard & Co. This continued until about eighteen months had passed, when Mr. Newgard purchased the interests of his partners, and for two years ran it alone, when he associated with himself C. A. Wagner, and they remained in the business about two years, when he sold to his partner the entire busmess. including all the real estate in that vicinity, and the latter associating with himself his brother Christoph, formed the present firm of Wagner Bros. They do an extensive business in this line, handling lumber, sash, doors, blinds, etc. They have also a yard at Hartland, Minn., under the management of J. C. Sybilrud.

In the latter part of 1877, also, a lumber yard was started by Isaac Lincoln & Co., who continued the business about six months, when they sold out to A. J. Stensvad, who eighteen months later sold out to C. D. Haven & Co., who ran it until its consolidation with the yard and business of A. J. Newgard, as already stated.

The first and only bank in the town was initiated by Dunwoody & Corson in the autumn of 18SU, in their office at the mill, where they do a general banking business.

On the 5th of July, 1877, O. P. Olson started a blacksmith shop on the farm of Peter Ecternock, in this township, and continued at that place until the village was laid out in the fall, when he removed thither and opened the first smithy in the place. He ran this for about five years, when he sold it to John Kreuzer. Olson then removed to Preston. Fillmore County, but three years afterward returned here and

T. Thompson, in the fall of 1877, opened a blacksmith shop in the new village. This was in what was known as Zeiger's addition. About eight years he carried on the business, when he sold out to John Ilestvedt, who immediately formed a partnership with Alexander Blyhl, which firm is now carrying on the business.

At the time of the foundation of the village, in 1877, P. A. Holt started a wagonmaking shop, and continued in that line until 1884, when he closed out all his material, and forming a partnership with others, under the firm name of Holt, Anderson & Co., opened a small lumber yard. This firm added to their business a sash and door factory, and continued together for about six months, when Anderson sold his interest to G. N. Husely. The firm of Holt, Husely & Co. continued together for about a year, when Mr. Husely sold out to his partners. P. A. Holt & Co., the present firm, are doing quite an extensive business in the manufacture of sash, doors, blinds and " Favorite " washing machines. They have never handled lumber very extensively, but are able to fill all orders on short notice.

P. A. Holt is a native of Norway, born May 8, 1847, and came to America in June, 1861; came at once to New Richland Township, where he went on a farm. From here he went to Decorah, Iowa, and then back to Owatonna, where he learned the carriagemaking trade. In 1877 he came to the village of New Richland and started a wagonshop and carried on that business untd 1885, when the present business was inaugurated. He enlisted in November, 1863, in Company G, Twelfth Iowa Infantry, and saw considerable service with that gallant regiment. He was married November 23, 1875, to Carrie Olson. They have two children: Emma and Anna.

1876 in compam' with his brother George, locating at first in Faribault, Eice County, this State, where he attended school for about a year, and afterward was emplo^'ed as clerk in a hardware store. He came to New Richland in 1877 and opened a boot and shoe store, remaining in that line for six years. After that he was engaged in selling farm machinery for about a year. When the firm of P. A. Holt & Co. was formed he was one of the company, and has since continued in this business. He was united in marriage with Mary Larsen in New Eichland, December 25, 1878. She is a daughter of John and Petrie Larsen. They have two children : Oscar Henry, born October 11, 1879, and Anna Helena, October 21, 1882. Mr. Bokke is the present village recorder, having been elected to that office March, 1887.

The pioneer jeweby establishment was opened in the fall of 1877, by O. A. Tififany & Bro., Avho did all kinds of repairing in that line, in connection with a general stock they had.

The Washburn House was built in the latter part of 1877 by N. J. Eobbins. who ran it about a year and then disjjosed of it to J. O. Culver. This gentleman continued in the hotel business in this building for about six years, when it was sold to Alex. Brisbane, who, after but a few montlis' hotel-keeping, rented it to Thomas Eice. This party kept it for about eighteen months, wlien Brisbane sold it to its present owner, Sophronia Wilson. The Washburn House is kept in a most excellent manner by the present landlord, O. H. Bronson.

What is known as the Commercial House was erected in the latter part of 1877, by Ole Johnson Moe, who ran it for a few years as a hotel. It was then sold to F. B. Hanks, who kept it open for three or four years, when he disposed of it to Christian Hanson,

The American House was built by Charles Brunell in the fall of 1877, who rented it to Goldsmith & Johnson, who opened and ran a saloon in it for about a year, and to others afterward. It was sold finally to Mrs. Gibson, the present owner, and is occupied as a residence.

New Richland, also, has a neatly printed and ably conducted weekly newspaper, known as the JVo?-f/i Star, a history of which is given in connection with the annals of the journals of the county in this volume.

One of the leading institutions of the village, and one that first strikes the eye of a visitor, is the Model EoUer Mill. This, which is one of the finest in this part of the State, was erected by the present proprietors. Dunwoody <fe Corson, in the fall of 1879, at an expense of $40,000. It is 40x60 feet in size, three stories high, exclusive of the basement, and is surmounted by a cupola. In addition to this is the engine and l)oiler house, 30x00 feet in size. In this latter is a very fine engine of 200 horse power. The mill is one of the most complete exponents of the system known as that of rollers, having twenty-two pair of rolls and two 4-foot stones, and has in addition all the latest improved machinery in the way of purifiers, bolters, etc., that go to make up a first-class establishment of this kind. The mill, which has been constantly improved and added to since its first erection, manufactures about three hundi'ed barrels of the finest grades of flour, running night and day.

In addition to the main building there are several others grouped about it, among which are : the storehouse, 28x48 feet on the ground, two stories high; baghouse, 12x18 feet in size ; cooper-shop, 30x50 ; barrel-house, 24x28 ; stockhouse, 16x24; elevator, 40x40; warehouse, 40x60, and an office. 16x28, the latter neath' and tastefully fitted up, and supplied with all the necessary conveniences fordoing business.

The elevator and warehouse spoken of above were put up by this firm in the fall of 1877, on their coming here, and they have a combined storage capacity of 60,000 bushels of wheat. Large quantities of the product of this mill are exported to London, Liverpool, Glasgow, while the markets of Philadelphia and the principal cities of Iowa furnish a nearer market for its sale.

During the year an average of two car loads a day is shipped from this mill. The firm gives employment to about fifteen or twenty men, and puts into circulation about $150,000 annually.

The firm, which is composed of E. E. Dund woody and H. H. Corson, was formed in the fall of 1877. Mr. Dunwoody came first, quite early in the season, and started to put up the elevator, when he was joined by Mr. Corson, and the elevator and a feedmill was built. Shortly after this a feed and flour mill was put up by them where the cooper-shop now stands, but this they toi'e down to make way for the present elegant and finely equipped merchant mill. At first this had only a capacity of turning out about 140 barrels a day, but by remodeling it and additional machinery its capacity is more than doubled.

E. E. Dunwoody, the senior member of the firm, was born in Delaware County, Pa., April 30, 1848, and is the son of James and Hannah (Hood) Dunwoody. He was reared among the hills and valleys of the old Keystone State, around wiiich many loving memories linger, and rem.iined there on a farm until he had attained the age of twentyfour years, when he went to Chicago. In that city he was engaged in the grain, seed and druggist glassware business for about eighteen months. After that he made atour through most of the eastern States, and then returning west, located, in the fall of 1875, at Benson, Swift County, Minn., at which point he was engaged in buying and shipping wheat. In the fall of 1877 he came to the new village of New Richland and entered into partnership with H. H. Corson, and the firm thus formed has been carrying on Inisiness ever since. It can truthfully be said that to no other two men in the village is it indebted in so great a degree for its growtli and development as to the membei's of this firm. September 12, 1883, he was united in marriage with Susannah E. Lewis, daughter of Joseph and Eli/.abeth Lewis, and a native of the same county as her husband. Her parents were also natives of the grand old Keystone State.

H. H. Corson, the junior partner, is also a native of Pennsj'lvania, having been born in Montgomery Count}', September 19, 1847. He is the son of Elias II. and Emily H. (Harris) Coi'son, and was reared in the county of his birth until he had attained his eighteenth year, when, having studied and graduated as a civil engineer, he commenced life in the practice of that profession. After coming west, in 1869, he was engaged as civil engineer on the Northern Pacific Railroad, and was city engineer for the city of Minneapolis during the years 1871, 1872 and 1873. For two years succeeding that he was engaged in building mills and other edifices. In 1875 he removedto Wilmar, Minn., where he commenced banking operations. In 1 877 he came to this village, and has been identified with it and its interests ever since. December IS, 1872, Mr. Corson was united in marriage with Sallie Abraham, the daughter of Jonatlian and Sarah T. Abraham, who had come from Delaware County, where Mrs. Corson was born, to Minnesota, in 1857, and located in Minneapolis. Her parents are dead ; two sisters live at the old homestead in the latter city.

One of the promising and growing institutions of New Ricliland, which has been and will be of great benefit to the community, is the cheese factory, which was started in the spring of 1886, and which took the first premium for the excellence of its product, at the State Dairj'men's Association, at Albert Lea, in the fall of the same vear that it was insti-

In the spring of 1878 A. H. Laughlin and C. M. Palmer, under the firm name and style of Laughlin & Palmer, opened an agricultural implement depot, and continued in that business for about five years, when the business VYas closed up by John Laughlin, a brother of A. IL, the firm having removed to Lisbon, D. T., where they have grown quite wealthy. T. W. Laughlin. who had charge of this business here after the firm left this place, was killed here by the cars, on April 13, 1883.

M. C. Larsen started a hay-press here in 1885, which is run by horse power, and is capable of baling ten tons of hay per diem. It gives emplo3'ment to ten men.

A. J. Stensvad started a steam hay press in the fall of 1886, which also gives emjjloyment to about ten men, and can turn out about ten tons of baled hay in a day.

Benjamin F. Weed, who is the principal dealer in wood for fuel in the village, was born in Eupert, Vt., April 3, 1834, and while but a child, moved with his parents to Genesee County, N. Y., and from there to Oswego County. There he lived until he Avas twelve years old, when he went to work, driving on the Erie Canal, and remained at that employment some three years, and at other business in his native State until 1854. He then came to Jackson County, Iowa, and engaged to work for Silas O. Kellogg on a farm for a year, for eightj^ acres of land and $25 in money. December 6, 1855, he and Nellie Brisbane were united in marriage, and in the spring of 1856 he came to Waseca Count}', settling in Wilton Township, on section 23. There were not many settlers here at that time, and Mr. Weed is claimed to have taken the first prairie claim in the township. On going to Winona to enter his claim, he found that he had to have his wife on his land, and consequently went after her to Jackson County, Iowa, Kellogg coming back to this vicinity to keep any one from jumping the claim. He resided here until December. 1861, when he enlisted in Companj' F, Fifth Minnesota Infantry, and was mustered into the service January 24, 1862, and served three years and four months, and was in some twenty engagements. He was discharged from the service March 23,

1865, and returned to his Minnesota home, where he lived until 1877, when he sold out and moved up the river, and in 1884 moved to the village of New Richland, where he now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Weed are the parents of five children : W. Frank, born November 28, 1856, married Susan R. Stearns, January 7, 1878, Avho died October 13, 1883, leaving one child, Margaret Jennie ; Edwin S., born September 20, 1858, married March 10, 1885, to Lida Kellogg ; Jennie R. born August 22, 1860, married George B. Stearns, July, 1877 ; George L., born September 16,

B. H. Schlosser, who deals in wines, liquors, cigars, etc., and has a real neat and tastily fitted-up establishment, came to the county of Waseca in 1875, and settling on a farm on section 22, of New Richland Township, remained there tilling the soil, sowing and reaping the fruits of his labors until 1SS4, when he removed to the village of New Richland and opened his present business place, wiiere only good goods are kept and evervthine; is done for the accommodation of his many customers. Mr. Schlosser is a native of Washington County, Wis., although of German extraction. He was born January 21, 1857, and was reared and educated in the place of his birth until early manhood, when starting out in the world for himself he caine to this county and has since resided here.

was engaged in carpentering for about two years, that Ijeing liis trade. At the expiration of that time he opened the place where he is now doing business. lie has a large, fine room, well supplied, and is alwaj's ready and willing to meet his customers and supply their wants. He is a native of Germany, and came to this countrj'^ with his parents when some fourteen years of age. He remained with the old folks until 1862, when he commenced to learn the carpenter trade, which he followed up to the time of opening his saloon.

Martin Laudert came to this township in 1871, and settled on a farm, on section 17, where he lived for seven years. He then rented his place and removed to the village of New Richland. Two years later he started a meat market which he continued for two years, when he was elected city marshal, and held that position for three years. He then bought another farm on section 17, and moved there, but eighteen months later rented it and moving back to town started his present meat market. He is a native of Germany, born in 1849, and came to this country in 1871, and, on landing, came directly to this county as mentioned above, and has ever since been a resident here. He is an able, energetic man, of good business talents, and is doing his part toward the development of this section of country.

S. E. Christianson was born in Minnesota, January 29, 1860, and was reared in this vicinity. He was united in marriage in 1880, with Olenia Peterson, who was also a native of this State, born June 17, 1864, but who died April 28, 1881, leaving one child, Samel Olein, born April 21, 1881. Mr. Christianson is the owner of the New Eichland dray line, and employs his time in that business. May 8, 1883, he was united in marriage with Sophia Hanson, born in America, April 27, 1869. The family are members of the Lutheran Church.

and is also acting as insurance and collecting agent in this vicinity, came to this place in the falj of 1877, when the village was in its infancy, and commenced business as a millwright, putting in the machinery in the elevator and mill for Dunwoody & Corson, and remained with tiiat firm for three years, and then started in business for himself. In 1883 he was elected justice of the peace, and has filled that office ever since. For the last year or so has also handled farm machinery in addition to his insurance and collection business. He is a native of the State of Pennsylvania, born in the year 1833, and is the son of Ozias and "Wealthy Sparks. When D. B. had attained the age of seventeen years he commenced to learn the trade of carpenter and joiner, which he followed until he came to this place. In 1869 he was united in marriage with Clara West, of Illinois.

William Lauder was born in Washington County, Wis., Januai-y 1, 1852, where he resided until 1876, when he came to Minnesota and settled on section 19, New Richland Township. After some residence there he sold that farm and purchased some eighty acres of land on section 8. He made his liome there until recently, but now lives in the village of New Richland. July 28, 1875, he was united in the holy bonds of matrimony with Bertha Joeeks, who was born in Germany, February 23, 1854. They have been the parents of six children, five of whom are now living. The names of the children are as follows : Mary E. M., born November 9, 1877; William F., born October 30, 1879 ; Charles F., born November 27, 1881 ; Ida Elizabetli, born May 26, 1883, died October 24, 1883 ; Clara Anna, born September 5, 1884, and John F., born October 23, 1886. The family of Mr. Lauder, with himself, are active members of the Lutheran Church.

tinued in this position until 1886, wlien he was succeeded by N. L. Peterson, the present incumbent of the office. The office was made a money -order office in July, 1879, and the first order issued on the 7th of that month to O. A. Tiffany, payable to Little & Beresford, St. Paul, for $8. On the same da}'' two others, each for the sum of $50, were issued to John Larsen, payable to Andrew Wilson, Rochester, Minn. One for $9 was issued the same day to Frank Kruger, to Continental Insurance Company, Chicago.

The first church erected in the embryo town was by the Congregational denomination, in the fall of 1882. It was put up at a cost of about $1,500. The first meetings of this society were held at the waiting-room of the depot, Kev. "Wilbur Fisk officiating. This gentleman continued to hold services for some time, and it was due to his labors that the society was organized in 1882. Meetings were held in empty store buildings and at the school building until the church was erected. It has always had a light membership, even from the start, and has not increased materially. Tiie church building is a very pi-etty one, and handsomely and tastefull}' fitted up inside, manifesting the culture of those who were foremost in the good work in putting it up and finishing it. The present pastor is Ilev. Eaker.

The Norwegian Lutheran Church was erected in tlie summer of 1883, at a cost of $2,500. The first meeting of this society in the village was held at II. Larson's hall, in the fall of 1877, Rev. O. A. Mellby presiding. He continues to preach in the church to this day. Meetings wei'e held in the schoolhouse, prior to tlie building of the church.

The sciiool Ijuikling was oi'ected in the north part of town, during the summer of 1878, at a cost of about $1,200. It remained in that locality until the autumn of 1886, when it was removed to its present location, nearer the center of the town. It was then remodeled and additions made, until the total cost of the building is al)out $-3,700. The first teacher in the schoolhouse was O. A. Tiffany.

Tiie first school in the village was held in Lai'son's hall, and it was taught for aljout four months by Miss Marian Dunbar, at a salary of $25 per month. The schoolhouse can accommodate some two hundred scholars in its four rooms, but only three rooms are in use, three teachers being employed.

The depot at the Minneapolis ik St. Louis Railroad at this village was erected in the fall of 1877, and E. Davis was the first agent. He remained for about five years. The position is filled, at present, by S. V. L. Meigs.

In the spring of 1885 a fire company was organized at this village, under the name of Rescue, No. 1, with D. B. Sparks as engineer and M. Murphy, captain. In July of the same year a hand fire engine was purchased, which has places for eighteen men on the levers, and has done excellently well, paying for itself within a j'ear from its purchase, at the fire that occurred at the planing mill of P. A. Holt & Co.