Waseca County, Minnesota - Biographical Sketches - Reminiscbnses Op Early Days, 1905 (part 5 of 6)

Mr. Edwin R. Stevens

was born in Washara county. Wis., Oct. 29, 1859. He came to Vivian, this county, with his parents, who settled there in October, 1863, the next year after the Indian massacre. The family moved to Wilton in 1866, his father carrying on blacksmithing there for some years. Edwin went to Lake Benton in 1880, where he made his home until 1895. Nov. 30, 1S92, he married Miss Lura A. Gray, daughter of the late Wm. H. Gray, an eany settler of Woodville and an old soldier, now deceased. Lura was born in Woodville Nov. 11, 1866. In 1895 Mr. and Mrs. Stevens returned to Woodville and lived on a farm, east of Waseca, which they carried on until the spring of 1900, when they moved into Waseca. Since Aug. 11, 1902, Mr. Stevens has been mail carrier on route No. 2. Of Mr. Stevens' brothers and sisters, Franklin J. resides in Moorhead, Minn.; Olive A., Mrs. B. F. Roddle, and Fannie R., Mrs. W. H. Roddle, reside in Brookings, S. D.; Walter, in Waseca: Florence, Mrs. Mudgett, at Chattanooga, Tenn.; Charles F. enlisted March 24, 1864, and died at Helena, Ark., Sept. 1, 1864, of disease contracted in the service.

Mr. Charles P. Spillane

This active young attorney was born in Faribault county, Minn., March 15, 1873, and was brought to Woodville by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Spillane, in 1875. He was reared on his fathers farm, but upon reaching his majority, entered the law office of Hon. John Moonan of ^A'aseca, as a student. He went to North Dakota in the spring of 1901. Nov. 27, of the same year, he married Miss Agnes L Moonan, a native of this county, daughter of Mr. Patrick Moonan, who was an early settler. They returned to Waseca in 1903, and went to live in New Richland in the fall of the same year. Mr. Spillane was admitted to the bar in North Dakota in 1902, and is in active practice at New Richland. He is chairman of the democratic county central committee, and holds the office of deputy oil inspector for this county. He was a very strong supporter of W. J. Bryan during the campaigns of 1896 and 1900.

E. R. Conner And Family

This g'entleman and his family were among the early settlers in Blooming Grove. Mr. Conner was born in Indiana, Feb. 17, 1814. His wife, Sarah (Lilly) Conner, was horn in West Virginia, Dec. 16, 1824, and died in South Dakota, Jan. 3, 1900. They were married in Indiana March 13, 1845. Twelve children, six sons and six daughters, were horn to them. Three of the daughters died before reaching maturity. The family came to Waseca county with ox teams and covered wagons, arriving June 11, 1856, hoping thereby to escape the malaria, which was prevalent in Hoosierdom. They were six long, weary weeks In making the toilsome journey. Two of the sons enlisted in the Union army. John G. enlisted at the age of eighteen years in Company H, Third Minnesota regiment, and died at Pine Bluff, Arkansas. James L. enlisted Dec. 20, 1861, at the age of sixteen years, and served until July 19, 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Conner were noted for their hospitality. All the early farm settlers in the south part of this county will remember their many acts of kindness. On one occasion Capt. E. A. Rice (afterwards major) and about twelve of his men were caught in a heavy snow storm when going from Wilton to Ft. Snelling, and arrived at the Conner place at night. There was also a clergyman and a student from I'aribault along. They all asked to remain over night. There was but one room in the log house and not a large one at that, hut they all gathered in and most of them slept on the floor. Mrs. Conner gave them supper and was up nearly all night making ready for breakfast. The family experienced all the privations and hardships incident to pioneer life. In 1883 Mr. Conner sold out and removed to South Dakota with his family, so that the boys might secure farms m that then new country. At this writing, 1905, -he is still living in that state.

Mrs. J. W. Cleland, whose maiden name was Amanda C. Conner, is a daughter of B. R., and was born in Indiana, Sept. 11, 1852. She taught school for several years before she married Mr. J. W. Cleland, Oct. 3, 1877. [A sketch of Mr. Cleland's life is given elsewhere in this work.] Mrs. Cleland has four sons: Edgar J., born May 16, 1884; Spencer B., born Dec. 20, 1886; Jay Conner, born Dec. 21, 1889; and Ralph E., born July 20, 1893. Her home is pleasantly situated on the west shore of Clear Lake.

Mr. John Carmody, Sen

This man of rugged honesty is a native of Ireland, born in County Kerry, in the year 1821. He came to America with his parents in 1835 and lived on a farm in New York until 1843. That year he came with his parents to Wisconsin, and made his home on a farm in Milwaukee county. He married Miss Mary Purcel in September, 1851, and they continued their residence in Wisconsin until 1867, when they came to Waseca county and bought the Noah Lincoln farm on section 26, in Wilton, where Mr. Carmody still resides. Mrs. Carmody died Feb. 11, 1885, mourned by all who knew her. Bight children were born to them, two of whom died in infancy. John, Jr., is a lawyer and resides at Hillsboro, N. D. Mary is the wife of Ivir. John Curran, of Woodville, and was married to him Nov. 9, 1876. Margaret married John Murphy, of Byron, May 16, 1882. Thomas, Eliza, and Julia are living at the old home, which is one of the oldest and best farms in the county. It was first taken by Chris. Scott in February 1855, and contains prairie and timber land and running water.

Mr. James B. Hayden

a war veteran, born in Ireland Nov. 30, 1840, son of Peter and Anna Hayden, came to Canada with his parents when he was two years of age, and thence to Wisconsin, where, in 1862, Jan. 2, he was mustered into Company H, Seventeenth Wisconsin infantry, in which he served until May 5, 1865. He was in a number of battles, and at Atlanta received a wound in his left wrist, which has largely deprived him of the use of his arm. He went to live in Alton in 1865, and was elected clerk of court in the fall of 1871, holding the office for twelve years. He was express agent in Waseca for a few years and then received an appointment in one of the departments at Washington where he remained until the year 1904, when he retired from business, his health not being very good. His wife was Miss Goff, of Alton, and they have several children grown to maturity. Mr. Ed Hayden, of Alton, prominent as an ardent and consistent Populist, and. a successful farmer, is James' brother. He settled in Alton in 1865.

born March 5, 1839, in Norway, came to America in 1858, and to Minnesota soon after, working at whatever he could find to do. Jan. 22, 1862, he enlisted in the second company of Minnesota sharpshooters. He was afterwards transferred to the "Old First Minnesota," participating in all the bloody battles of the Chickahominy, and also the battles of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, North Anna, Cold Harbor and Deep Bottom. He was captured at Ream's Station August 24, 1864, and taken to the rebel prison pens of Libby and Belle Isle, Va., and Salisbury, N. C. He was finally paroled, reaching the Union lines March 13. 1S65. He was then in very poor health, and was sent to the parole camp at Annapolis, Md., and from there to St. Louis in a box car. At St. Louis he obtained a furlough and went to Chicago, where he became very ill and entered the hospital where he remained for some time. Getting better to some extent, he came on to St. Paul where he received his discharge. He then engaged in the grocery business at Faribault for two years, and then bought the Philo Woodruff farm in Blooming Grove where he has since resided. He married Miss Anna Olena Seim whose parents came from Norway. They have a very pleasant home.

Father Schuettb

FATHER SCHUETTB and his sons were among the early settlers of Blooming Grove. The mother died in 1868 and the father in 1883. Edward Schuette was ordained a German iMethodist clergyman at the age of twenty. Julius E. Schuette married Henrietta Saufferer, daughter of Hon. John L. Saufferer, in 1878. A. H., John H., brothers of Julius, and William E., a nephew, all live in the same neighborhood, in Blooming Grove, and all have well improved farms.

is a son of Carl Johnson who moved to section 19, Blooming Grove, May 17, 1857. Carl Johnson, the father, was born in Sweden, Sept. 22, 1825, and came to America in 1853, landing at New York Oct. 22. He came West to Milwaukee, Wis., and from there went to Rockford, 111., where he worked some two years. He next went into the Wisconsin pineries where he remained two years and then came to Minnesota. He married Miss Julia Johnson, of Vivian, July 16, 1862. She was born in Norway in February 1825, and came to America in 1853. She came to Vivian with her married sister in 1858. From there she walked all the way to Faribault where she worked until a short time before her marriage. Of such courageous stock come the sons and daughters of Waseca county. John C. and Christina are the only children and they are kindly caring for their father in his declining years. They have a very pleasant, comfortable home, and are highly esteemed by their neighbors. On May IS, 1896, John C. Johnson married Miss Emma Lee, daughter of Aleck Lee, of Blooming Grove. They have four sons - the oldest eight and the youngest three years of age.

Mr. James Hand

born Feb. 22, 1835, in the state of Ohio, son of Cornelius Hand, settled in Blooming Grove, in 1856. His grandfather, Cornelius, of New Jersey, was a soldier in the war of 1812-15. James married Lydia A. Sprague Aug. 24, 1856. He enlisted in Company E, Minnesota heavy artillery Nov. 15, 1864, and served until Sept. 27, 1865.

Mr. Kbyes Swift

MR. KBYES SWIFT, a native of Fond du Lac, Wis., came to Blooming Grove in 1856. He was left fatherless at an early age and thrown upon his own resources. He owns a valuable farm and has accumulated a handsome property. He was married July 3, and has two children. In 1896, he was the Populist candidate for representative of this district.

The Reverend J. C. Jahn

THE REVEREND J. C. JAHN, born in Prussia, July 1, 1839, came to America in 1846. He resided in Baltimore, Md., for a few years and then came to St. Paul. In 1861, he enlisted In the First Minnesota cavalry, and was in the battles of

Port Henry, Port Donaldson, Shiloh, and Granville. At the last place he was wounded and made prisoner. He was afterwards paroled, and honorably discharged in July 1863. He was married in 1864, then studied for the ministry and was licensed to preach in 1870. He was pastor of the Blooming Grove M. B. church in 1886. He was the father of ten children.

Mr. Henry Behne

who is now deceased, was born in Germany, near Hanover, April 29, 1839, and came to this country in 1853. He worked in Illinois until 1855, when he came to Minnesota. He married Hannah Muller, March 18,

1860, and settled down to farming. They had eight children: Henry W., Emma, (now Mrs. Henry Beck,) George, August, Mary, Ida, Willie, and Lewis.

The Reverend Henry Singenstrtje

born in Oelber, Germany, Nov. 16, 1821, sailed for America in 1852, landing at New Orleans and coming north as far as Cincinnati. In 1854 he came to Red Wing, Minn., and bought a claim, remaining two years, when he was appointed missionary of the German M. E. church, a position which he neld for sixteen years. He married Salome Bider, a Swiss woman, in and family came to Blooming Grove in 1881. The parents came from Alsace, France, about 1846, and settled in Cook county. 111. There were nine children in this family: John, Charles, Christian W., Henry, William, Bertha, Carrie (who died in Illinois), Benjamin, and Edward.

Mr. John L. Bahr

born August 18, 1847, in Saxoiiy, Germany, came to America with his parents in 1853, and resided in Waukesha county. Wis. In 1867 his family came to Deerfleld, Steele county, where John L. remained until 1873. Having married Miss Julia Reineke, March 26, 1872, he began housekeeping on a farm in DeerHeld, where he remained with his family four years. They then bought a farm on section 15, Blooming Grove, where they now reside with their children. They are leading members of the German M. E. church.

Mr. Andrew J. Henderson

MR. ANDREW J. HENDERSON, born in Scotland, Aug. 15, 1849, bought a farm in Vivian in 1SS2, and for a number of years was extensively engaged in raising cattle and horses. Of the latter, he chose the Clyde breed. He was very successful in the business, and a short time ago retired from his farm to a home in Owatonna.

Mr. Herman Balduan

MR. HERMAN BALDUAN, one of the wealthy farmers of Byron and New Richland, born in Germany Jan. 10, 1847, settled in Byron in 1877 upon a farm containing two hundred forty acres. He married Augustina Dumpka, of Dunbar, Faribault county, April 5, 1878.

MR. E. W. PISKE, born March 8, 1851, in Oneida county, N. Y., came to Waseca in 1872. After following various employments, he engaged in the business of contraciing and building. He married Miss Kate I. Bailey, daughter of Hon. P. C. Bailey, Dec. 21, 1880. They now reside in Helena, Montana, with their family of five children.

Mr. John W. Johnson

"Bill Johnson," as he is familiarly called, was born in Provincetown, Mass., March 31, 1832. He came West to Paribault in 185G, where he was employed as clerk for his brothers-in-law. Puller & Smith, until the spring of 1857 when he went to St. Mary, and for a time "boomed" that ancient village. In 1858, after the first county seat contest, he moved to Wilton, and opened a store for the sale of merchandise in the firm name of J. W. Johnson & Co. There he remained ten years, when he came to Waseca and opened a grocery store, a business in which he is still engaged. He married Mary A. Marston, of Massachusetts, June 27, 1866. They have two sons, Edward P., married and an express agent at Port Dodge, Iowa; and William M., single and American express agent at Waseca. J. W. is a local politician whom the office seekers generally consult.

Peoples State Bank Op Waseca

This bank was organized in December 1880. The stockholders were W. G. Ward, C. H. Smith, A. P. Kelly, G. R. Buckman, Mrs. W. G. Ward, E. B. Collester, M. Madden, E. M. Broughton, W. J. Jameson, M. A. Green, and C. M. Star. The officers were: G. R. Buckman, president; A. P. Kelly, vice president; C. H. Smith, cashier; directors - Ward, Buckman, Broughton, Smith and Kelly. It started with a capital of $25,000. The capital was afterwards increased to $50,000, and again reduced to $25,000. The bank is now in a flourishing condition, with the following officers and directors: B. C. Trowbridge, president; D. S. Cummings, vice president; R. P. Ward, cashier; H. C. Didra, assistant cashier; R. P. Ward, D. S. Cummings, Marlon Buckman, E. C. Trowbridge, E. W. Ward, and C. H. Watson, directors.

The Honorable M. H. Helms

THE HONORABLE M. H. HELMS, born Dec. 19, 1831, in Cattaraugus county, N. Y., came with his parents to Dane county. Wis., in 1845, where he resided until 1861, when he enlisted in Company E, Eighth Wisconsin infantry and was commissioned as second lieutenant. He served until Dec. 12, 1865, when he was mustered out, and returned to Madison, Wis., where he remained until 1868, when he came to Waseca. He married Miss Eleanor M. Dodge, Nov. 30, 1870. She died June 30, 1877, leaving two daughters, Vinnie M., now Mrs. Rausch, of Grand Forks, N. D.; and Jessie R., now the wife of Dr. Lynn, of Waseca. Mr. Helms ably represented this county in the legislative house during the session of 1891.

Mr. Chris Hansen

a native of Denmark, born in 1845, came to America in 1869. He arrived at Waseca in 1872. For some years he was engaged in the saloon business, but now carries on a small farm north of Waseca, in Woodville. He has a family of bright and intelligent children. Aside from the business he followed, he is a good citizen.

The Reverend Father A. Christie

a native of Vermont, born in 1851, came to Waseca about the first of the year 1878. When he was yet a child, his parents came West as far as Adams county, Wisconsin, where they remained until 1866, when the family came to Austin, Mower county, Minn. Mr. Christie attended the public schools while a lad, and later attended the college of St. Joseph, near St. Cloud, Minn. He finished his school days at Montreal, Canada. He was a power for good works in Waseca, and remained here for a number of years. He is now the very able bishop of Alaska. He was succeeded by the Rev. Father J. J. Treanor, under whose management the present splendid church edifice was constructed.

a native of New Hampshire, born May 1, 1836, son of Reuben and Lovina Rollins, came to Minnesota in 1855, first living on a farm in Houston county. He moved to Freedom in 1866. In 1860 he married Martha M. Elmore, who was born Oct. 31, 1843. They have been the parents of six children. Mr. Rollins is an ideal American citizen. For years he was clerk of his township and treasurer of his school district. He now resides in Janesville, having retired from active business.

The Honorable W. G. Ward

(By his daughter, Mrs. D. S. Cummings.) William Grosvenor Ward was born December 26, 1827, in Boonville, N. Y., the sixth child in a family of twelve.

Possessing an inquisitive mind, naturally studious and reflective, he readily absorbed all that the high school was able to offer, and at an early age was graduated from the Boonville Academy where he had earned his tuition by tutoring the younger pupils. Although excelling in his favorite study, - that of mathematics in all its branches, - much of his time was devoted to perfecting his knowledge of Latin and Greek.

At the age of seventeen, having proved himself a hrilliant scholar and already showing those traits of character which made him conspicuous in later years, to the great grief of his mother, who fully realized his natural ability, instead of entering, a sophomore, in Union College, he began the practice of civil engineering, - his first position being that of assistant on the Black River canal.

Rapidly rising in the profession for which he was so well equipped, he became in turn chief engineer and road master on the Long Island railroad during the construction of two new branches, and superintendent of car and engine repairs of the entire road with headquarters in the city of Brooklyn.

At this time, the year 1852, occurred his marriage to Martha E. Dodge. This union was blessed by a family of two children, Clarence T. and Annie L. Soon after he became first assistant engineer on the Lake Ontario and Auburn railroad, after which he was given a similar position ffizh the Utica and Black River railroad. With visions of better things in the opening up of new country, the year 1856 finds him turning westward to take his place as chief engineer on the Watertown and Madison, (now Milwaukee & St. Paul) system, after which came the construction of the Oconomowoc and Columbus railroad.

The financial crash of 1857 which involved so disastrously the whole country, put a halt to further projection of railway systems, and Mr. Ward began the study of law in Madison, Wisconsin, with the firm of Wood and Blake. He was admitted to the bar and practiced only long enough to try one case when the war broke out, and he was appointed quartermaster in the Thirty-fourth Wisconsin. For three years after that, he held the appointment of postmaster in Madison. In 1865 he was called upon to sustain the loss of his wife who died in Jefferson. After taking his motherless children East to place them in the care of relatives, Mr. Ward returned West to resume railroading, this time as chief engineer in the construction of the Winona and St. Peter railroad. This line was completed in 1868. Investing largely in property in and about Waseca, he became one of the early promoters of resident industries. In 1867 ne was married to Ella C. Trowbridge, youngest daughter of the founder of Waseca. He built a home to which in time there came four children: Martha E., Roscoe Percy, Florence Trowbridge, and Earl W. Always an ardent politician, Mr. Ward spared neither pains nor expense in the support of republican candidates for oiEce, generally taking an active part in the campaign. He was twice elected to the legislature as state senator, and was, in 1880, the republican candidate for congress, but, owing to party differences, was not elected.

In whatever place we find him, as a youth in studies and athletics; or in maturer years, directing the laying out of many lines of traffic, or presiding with unwonted grace and dignity in the senate chamber, Mr. Ward was ever a leader of. men. His commanding presence attracted the be- holder whose attention was held by the eloquence and versatility of a ready talker. A constant student all his life, his mind was stored with learning, - science, history, theology, poetry, - the best the great minds had to offer, all were his. His last days of suffering were lightened and uplifted by the ennobling sentiments inspired by long hours of companionsnip with his beloved books. In September, 1892, after a long illness, death brought him relief from pain.

The poor had lost a friend to whom they never turned in vain, and, if his enemies did not regret the sharp spur of his active animosity, his hosts of friends do not yet cease to mourn the loss of one who never wearied in deeds of kindness for those who merited his esteem.

Mr. Luman S. Wood

MR. LUMAN S. WOOD, was born in St. Lawrence county, N. Y., in 1836, and came to Woodville in 1857. He was one of the patriots of the "Old First Minnesota." He married Miss Fannie Lansdale in 1867, and in 1872 emigrated to Oregon where he now resides.

Mr. James M. Dunn

was born in Dumfrieshire, Scotland March 3, 1839, and came to America with his parents, Thomas and Isabella Dunn, in 1840. They first lived in Cattaraugus county, N. Y., and removed to Lee county, Illinois, in 1856, where the father was killed by a stroke of lightning Sept. 16, 1862. The family came to Minnesota in 1866. There were ten of the children, Ann, James M., Isabella (drowned), William, George T., Walter, John, Eliza, Andrew, and Isabella (second). In the spring of 1867, James M. bought eighty acres of land on section 36, Woodville, which was the beginning of what a few years ago, was the noted Oak Hill stock iarm. He married Miss Matilda Turnacliff, daughter of Ferdinand Turnacliff, July IS, 1868. For many years Mr. Dunn was engaged in breeding pure-blood horses and cattle. He kept Percheron and French coach horses, and Short Horn cattle. The health of himself and wife finally became impaired, and a few years ago he retired from farming and now resides with his family in Waseca. They are the parents of six children, four of whom are living.

another prominent cattle raiser and dairyman, born in Vermont, Nov. 19, 1841, came to this county in 1869, and bought the farm southeast of Clear Lake, in Woodville, now owned by George H. Wood. He enlisted in Company C, Eighth Vermont regiment Nov. 20, 1861, and served until Sept. 4, 1863. May 1, 1864, he married Lizzie P. Sterling, of Vermont, who was born Aug. 10, 1845. Mr. Leavitt's favorite cattle were pureblood Holsteins. He removed from the county some years ago and resides in Minneapolis.

Mr. John Curran

MR. JOHN CURRAN, of Woodville, a prosperous farmer, born near Milwaukee, Wis., Nov. 28, 1S47, came to Woodville, in this county, with his father's family, in 1874. He followed the saw mill business some seven years in the northern portion of the state before coming here. He finally settled on section 28, town of Woodville. He married Miss Mary Carmody Nov. 9, 1876, and they have a model home.

Mr. James Curran

MR. JAMES CURRAN, brother of John, learned the carpenter trade, but follows farming. He was born near Milwaukee, September 11, 1857, and came to Minnesota in 1877. Some years since he married Miss Rose Burns, daughter of Mr. Barney Burns, of Wilton. He has held the office of town supervisor and is one of the prominent men of the township of Woodville.

Mr. Loren A. Gage

MR. LOREN A. GAGE, of Woodville, section 4, was born in the state of New York, April 11, 1838. AS early as 1846, his father moved to Dodge county, Wisconsin, about five miles south of Waupun. Loren came to this county over forty years ago. His wife was Miss Catharine Collins, a native of Ireland. She died March 16, 1902, leaving no children. Mr. Gage lives on his little farm by himself and is an honest, upright man.

Mr. Thomas Kennedy

MR. THOMAS KENNEDY is one of the prosperous farmers of Woodville. He was born in Ireland, May 28, 1848, the son of Patrick and Mary Kennedy. His parents brought him to America the same year, going to St. Johns, N. B. They spent three years there, two years in Vermont and then came West as far as Wisconsin. Oct. 11, 1862, Thomas married Miss Rose Reynolds, also a native of Ireland, born Dec. 28, 1844. Their children are John, Mary, Rose, Thomas, Bernard, Joseph, William, and Edward.

Mr. Charles Lockwood

MR. CHARLES LOCKWOOD was born in Connecticut, Dec. 2, 1824, and settled in Alton in 1865. In his younger days he was a seafaring man, having followed a sailor's life for ten years. He married Louisa Merrill Sept. 3, 1855. She was born in Erie county. New York, May 9, 1832. They were the parents of four children - one son and three daughters.

Mr. George W. Dunham

MR. GEORGE W. DUNHAM was born in Fairfield county. Conn., Nov. 24, 1837. He came to the town of Alton, in 1866, and bought a farm on section 23 where he has since resided. He married Mary J. Lyon, Sept. 23, 1857. She was born in 1836 in Massachusetts. Four sons and two daughters have- been born to them.

Mr. Terrencb Hammel

1845. He is the son of James Hammel, who came to America in 1850. Terrence was married June 2, 1865, to Mary Smith, who was born in Ireland in 1847. They settled in Alton in 1866. They are the parents of ten children - one son and nine daughters.

Mr. Patrick Markham

settled near Alma City in 1867, on section 34, in Alton. He was a native of Ireland, born Dec. 25, 1805. He came to Canada when a young man. A sketch of his life and death appears elsewhere in this work.

and family came to the town of Alton in 1867, and made their home on section 25. Mr. Hopkins died Sept. 25, 1871, and Mrs. Hopkins passed away June 3, 1882.

son of M. S., was born in Ohio, Nov. 15, 1845. He has followed farming all his life, buying land in Alton in 1866, and carrying on farming until a short time ago when he sold the farm and removed to Minneapolis, where he now resides. He is an unmarried man of a somewhat poetical temperament.

Mr. Andrew Hogan

born in Ireland in the year 1835, came to America in 1856, landing in New York, and going thence to Ohio, where he remained until 1858 when he moved to the town of Janesville. In 1874 he went to live in Alton on section 3. He was married to Mary Handerhan in 1860, and they are the parents of three sons and three daughters.

Mr. James A. Vaughn

son of Edward and Mary Vaughn, born in Ireland in 1831, came to the United States in 1S38 with his parents, and in 1S73 moved to Alton. His parents died in Illinois - the mother in 1861, and the father in 1S66. James married Catharine O'Lochlin in 1859. She was born in Ireland July 26, 1843, and her parents - Mr. and Mrs. John O'Lochlin, came to this country in 1863. Mr. Vaughn is the father of four sons and four daughters.

Mr. George Hopeld

born March 4, 1838, in Germany, came to the United States in 1S54, and to Preedom in ISGS. He remained on the farm in Preedom until 1S77, when he sold it and entered the mercantile business in Alma City. He is an old school teacher, having taught some thirteen winters in all. He has held a number of town offices and is a reliable man. He was married to Anna Huff, of Michigan, July 5, 1868, and they have had five children, tnree sons and two daughters, one of the sons dying in infancy.

Mr. Prank Pield

a native of Illinois, born Nov. 1, 1855, came to Preedom June 6, 1864, when only a lad. His father is John H., born In 1834, March 19, also a resident of Preedom. Prank Field and Martha A. Boston were married in 1880. She was born in Wisconsin Feb. 23, 1850, and is a capable woman.

Mr. William Orcutt

now deceased, was born in Ohio, March 17, 1840, and came to Minnesota at an early day. He was a poor lad and commenced to earn his living at twelve years of age. June 29, 1861, he enlisted in Company C, Second Minnesota volunteer infantry, and served three years. -He settled in Preedom, in 1866. He married Miss Mary Morrirson, June 1, 1869. She being Louise Connor, by whom he had two daughters - Dora Belle, born April 31, 1876, and Anna Louise, born May 1, 1878.

This gentleman, born in St. Lawrence county, N. Y., June 29, 1820, settled in Preedom in 1866. He came a poor man, having with him a feeble old father, a sick wife, eight children and only $19 in money. He had no house of any kind. It was the scarce year in Minnesota with high prices: wheat $2 per bushel, potatoes $1, pork $25 per barrel, and butter from 25 to 50 cents per pound. He finally bought a small board shanty for $bO on credit, and managed to pull through and pay for his land in the course of six or eight years. He served in the Union army from Peb. 27, 1864, to July 27, 1865.

The Honorable John Wilkinson

a native of Wisconsin, born Peb. 28, 1846, bought a farm in section 4, Preedom, in 1866. He married Miss Mary Morrinson, June 1, 1869. She was born August 1, 1851. They now reside in Janesville. Mr. Wilkinson served in the house of representatives during the sessions of 1897 and 1899.

MRS. MARY (HEALY) HAYDBN. Of this lady, later Mrs. Henry Converse, the following is related in t.ie "History of Steele and Waseca counties:" "Mrs. Converse had an experience in the Indian troubles in 1862. It seems that she and her first husband, Mr. Hayden, then lived in Renville county. Hearing that the savages were murdering people within five miles of them, they fled from their house and their neighbors from theirs. When they had gone but a short distance, Mr. Hayden returned to the house for something or other, and was killed by the red fiends, who had just arrived. Mrs. Hayden and the neighbors pushed on as rapidly as possible, but they were overtaken by the Indians; the men with them were butchered, the women and cnildren taken prisoners. Mrs. Hayden leaping from the wagon, with her child in her arms, ran and hid in the woods till night, and then born in Scotland, July 28, 1840, came with his parents two years later to America and resided in St. Lawrence county, N. Y. He enlisted in Company A, One Hundred Forty-second N. Y. infantry, and served until June 15, 1865. He married Eliza Fields, March 14, 1867, and they settled in Freedom the next November, where they have since resided.

Mr. Samuel Hodgkins

a veteran soldier and farmer, born in St. Lawrence county, N. Y., June 15, 1839, son of William and Almira Hodgkins, enlisted May 1, 1861, in Company K, Eighteenth N. Y. infantry, and served until May 28, 1863. The following August 7, he again enlisted, this time in the heavy artillery, and while in that service received severe injuries. He was mustered out in September 1865, having served over two years in the artillery company. He married Lucretia Ackerman Dec. 28, 1865. He carried on his father's farm until 1870 when he came to Freedom, arriving April 7, 1870, and then bought eighty , acres of land for $500. He has since added to it until he has a large farm - half a section or more. He is a man of very decided opinions and is prominent in the community where he lives.

The Honorable Otto Hanson

a prosperous farmer of Otisco, born in Norway, March 16, 1850, came to the United States with his parents in 1867, and settled in Otisco. 'His mother died in 1809, and his father in October 1885. Otto married Miss Ellen Thompson, of Wisconsin, March 15, 1S74. He owns a large farm with fine buildings, cultivated groves and fruit trees. When he came to America he owed $35 for his passage. He first worked three weeks for a farmer for $5 and his board. How many young men would do that today? He worked through haying and harvest for $13 a month. During the winter he worked for $5 a month and board. And thus he labored faithfully for what he could get until to-day he possesses a competency He worked out among farmers by the month until 1873, when he bought an eighty acre farm on section 24, Otisco. This he cultivated for three years and then sold it. He then purchased the quarter section where he now resides.

Mrs. Hanson was born in Hadeland, Norway, Oct. 23, 1851, and came to America with her parents in 1861. They were thirteen weeks and three days on the ocean. Seven children, four boys and three girls, all living, have been born to them. Martin O., born July 7, 1875; Helma S., Sept. 1870; Emill Theodore, May 19, 1879; Minnie, Jan. 16, ISSO; Henry O., Jan. 13, 1885; Selmer, Nov. 5, 1887; and Ella C, Jan. 2S, 1S92.

board for twenty years, president of the Farmers' insurance company for twelve years, and representative in the legislature in 1889. He is one of the trustees of Augsburg Seminary, Minneapolis, and a director of the First National bank of Waseca. Besides his large farm in Otisco, he owns two farms in Western Canada.

Mr. Benjamin L. Ballard

son of the late Daniel Ballard, was born in St. Mary, where he now resides, June 7, 1877. He spent the years 1899, 1900, and 1901 in Montana. With the exception of these years his home has been in St. Mary. He married Christine Johnston Sept. 24, 1903. She was born in Scotland, Nov. 3, 1877, and in 1881 came to America with her parents, who settled in Milwaukee, Wis. Mr. and Mrs. Ballard have one son, born Dec. 22, 1904. Mr. Ballard is an industrious, frugal farmer.

Mr. William A. Henderson

This gentleman was born in Menstrie, Clackmannonshire, Scotland, on the 5th day of May, 1838. At the age of thirteen years, he came to this country in company with a maiden aunt, and stopped in Dane county, Wisconsin. Two years later his father and the rest of the family followed, and they made their first home in Springdale, Dane county, in 1852. This was Mr. Henderson's home until he was twenty-eight years of age. At that age, he had saved from his earnings in working in the pinery in the winter, rafting in the spring, breaking grub land in early summer, and running a threshing machine in the fall, the sum of $2,000. The harvest times were given to his father during these years since his majority and so helped relieve the old homestead of debt.

In 1867 Mr. Henderson located his present home in Minnesota by the purchase of two hundred eighty acres of land in the town of St. Mary. In this purchase, the $2,000 of savings was invested, and a debt of nearly $5,000 incurred, bearing 7 and 10 per cent, interest.

In 1868 Mr. Henderson was married to Miss Grace Hunter, who is still living. They have five children, four sons and one daughter. For the first few years of his farm life in Minnesota, Mr. Henderson was a wheat raiser, but in 1878 he determined to change his mode of farming, and made a visit to Scotland to study sheep-husbandry as a preparation for his new pursuit. He followed sheep farming for several years, and then changed to diversified farming. He has one of the finest farms in the county which he keeps under a high state of cultivation. He is also a stockholder and director in the First National bank of Waseca.

On May 18, 1905, his team ran away with him, on Second street, Waseca, throwing him out of his buggy at the Grant House and severely injuring him, though no bones were broken. He was compelled to remain at the Grant House for nearly four weeks before he could be taken home. It was a narrow escape from death.

Mrs. Michael Burke

of Janesville, is one of the enterprising women that came West at an early day. She moved with her family from Ripon, Wisconsin, in 1865, and settled in Janesville where she still resides.

Mr. Robert Marzahn

is a native of Iosco, having been horn in this county on July 27, 1866. His father, Wm. Marzahn, was a native of Germany, and settled in Iosco in 1856, having arrived in America in 1855. The father died June 27, 1893, at the age of seventy-three years. Robert married Miss Lydia Miller, of the same town, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Miller, Feb. 25, 1891. They have one son and tw^ daughters: Mason, Esther, and Adeline. Mrs. Marzahn's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Miller, were among the early settlers of Iosco, and reared a family of four sons and five daughters. Mr. Miller died Aug. 2, 1900, and Mrs. Miller Nov. 14 of the same year. Mr. Robert Marzahn's mother is still living at Morristown. Robert owns a valuable farm of three hundred twenty acres in sections 1, 2, 10 and 11, in that township, and is one of the prosperous young farmers of the county.

Mr. William Cahill

of Janesville, came to this country from Ireland when young. He settled on section 35, Janesville, in June, 1858, where he has since resided. He married Miss Bridget McCarthy, of Marysburg, Minn., in 1873. Ten children ha-'-e been born to them, seven of whom are living - four sons and three daughters.

Mr. Thomas Cahill

born in Ireland in the month of November, 1825, came to America in 1847, lived tor a time in Kentucky, then came West to Iowa and finally settled in Janesville April 9, 1857, on section 27. Here he secured the ownership of seven hundred ninety-flve acres of fine land. He married Mary Harney, also a native of Ireland, in March 1855. She was born August 15, 1831. They have been the parents of five children.

Mr. Albert Jameson

a native of Norway, bought a farm on section 19, Blooming Grove, in 1893. His wife's maiden name was Mary Olsen, of the same town. They have one child, a daughter. Mr. Jameson's father's name was Jens Longlle. He resided in this county a number of years, but moved to Steele county in 1896.

Mr. Segurd Jackson

born in Blooming Grove, July 29, 1863, is a grandson of Segurd Johnson, one of the very early settlers of Iosco. His wife's name was Christina Wad; she was also a native of Blooming Grove. They have one daughter.

Doctor R. O. Craig

a native of the state of New York, was born in 1834. He studied medicine at Ogdensburg and, in 1855, graduated at the Albany, N. Y., Medical college. He practiced medicine in that city one year, served as assistant surgeon in the U. S. army five years on the Pacific coast, and was appointed surgeon of the Tenth N. Y. infantry serving until the close of the war. He moved to old Janesville to practice as a physician about the year 1866. He served as county superintendent of schools in 1870-71, and for several years as county commissioner. In 1874 he entered the drug business with Hon. J. O. Chandler. They are also largely interested in farming operations as farm proprietors. He was state senator in 1883 and 1885, and again in 1891 and 1893. He married Miss Lamb, a sister of Hon. M. H. Lamb, of Alton. She died some years ago without issue. The doctor is an active member of the society of the 6. A. R., and prominent in all public affairs. He has the confidence of the people in a marked degree and is worthy of it.

The Honorable J. O. Chandler

is a native of the state of Maine, born Sept. 21, 1837. He came to Minnesota in 1857 and resided at Pleasant Grove. He went to Idaho in 1858, returning in 1859, to make his home in Winona. In 1863 he entered the military service as paymaster's clerk and served until 1865, when he returned to Minnesota and was traveling salesman for J. D. Blake & Co., of Rochester, Minn. A year later he opened a store at Janesville. He was postmaster of Janesville from 1867 to 1870. In 1873 he disposed of his old line of goods and joined with Dr. R. O. Craig in the drug store business. He served this county in the legislative house during the session of 1877. He has always been active and prominent in the public affairs of Janesville. His first wife died many years ago, and he afterwards married Miss Elizabeth Reid, one of the early school teachers of the county and one of the best and most successful. Her father was a Scotchman and one of the early settlers of Freedom, afterwards removing to California.

of Iosco, born in Milwaukee county, Wis., Jan. 9, 1841, came to this county March 21, 1866. Rochester was then the terminus of the railroad, and from there on the stage fare was ten cents a mile. Mrs. McAnany's maiden name was Ellen Dyson, and she was bom in Milwaukee county August 16, 1848. They are the parents of seven children, five sons and two daughters. Mr. McAnany owns a fine farm and is a prosperous farmer and stock raiser.

Mr. Frank H. Miner

This gentleman was one of the early settlers of New Richland, and started in as a "granger." He was born in the year 1840, in the state of New York. The family came as far west as Wisconsin when Frank was a lad. In 1863, they settled upon a farm in New Richland. In 1867 Frank moved to Waseca and formed a partnership with A. W. Jennison in the machinery business. When the W. & St. P. railway was extended to Janesville, they were among the first to open a general stock of merchandise there. He remained with Mr. Jennison for fourteen years, when Mr. S. F. Shepherd bought the Jennison interest. Mr. Miner was married to Miss Addie Wookey in 1869. He has accumulated a competency and is a Die to take life easy.

Mr. Charles Gutfleisch

a native of Germany, born in 1856, came to Waseca in 1872, where he worked at tailoring until 1878, when he moved to Janesville and carried on business for himself. He suffered from the 1887 fire, but soon after formed a copartnership with R. L. H. Britton. They erected a brick building and opened a stock of men's clothing, Mr. Gutfleisch having charge of the tailoring department. He is a popular man and served one term as president or chief magistrate of the village.

whose early settlement is elsewhere noted in this book, was born in the Highlands of Scotland March 26, 1820, and came with his parents to America when a small boy. They settled near Guelph, Canada, where he endured the hardships incident to making a home in a heavy timbered wilderness. In 18.54 he and his brother Hugh came West to Iowa, and in the fall of 1855 to what is now Otisco. Here they took land. About 1858, Hugh returned to Canada, but Robert packed his "traps" and, with his faithful horse, traveled over prairie and mountain to the gold mines of the western mountains and the Pacific coast. In 1861 he returned, stopped for a few weeks in Otisco and then went back to the old home in Canada. There he remained until 1S66. On the 6th of April of that year, he married Anna McKersie, of Rockwood, Ontario, and they immediately came to their farm in Otisco where he resided until his death, which occurred Jan. 15, 1SS7. Nine children were born to them: Catharine L., Nov. 7, 1866, now Mrs. Jos. S. Root, of Wilton; Anna R.; Mrs. Frank Erfurth, deceased, born July 22, 1868; Janett C, born March 26, 1S70, now Mrs. Eugene Turnacliff, of Otisco; w'm. W., born August 12, 1S72; Robert B., born June 15, 1S74; Margaret G., born May 6, 1S76, now Rlrs. Walter Brisbane, of Stevens county; Bessie C, born March 1, 1S7S, now Mrs. Aldis Brisbane, of Stevens county; Isabelle M., born Nov. 4, 1880, now Mrs. Walter Johnston, of New Richland; and Hugh P., born April 27, 18S2. The sons are all single and live (except Hugh) at or near Malta, Montana. Catharine has five children; Anna left surviving two sens and a daughter; Janett C, has two girls; Bessie has two children living, one dying in infancy; Margaret has three children and Isabella has three. Mr. Brfurth and his children live at Malta, Montana. Mrs. McDougall is with her aged parents in Rockwood, Ontario. Hugh McDougall, the elder, resides at Guelph, Canada, and has never visited Minnesota since his early settlement here.

Mr. Joseph S. Root

son of James Root, was born in Wilton, April 16, 1865, and was married to Miss Catharine L. McDougall Sept. 24, 1891. With their five children, four girls and one boy, they reside on the old James Root homestead, one of the best farms in Wilton. James Root, born Feb. 26, 1832, in Cattaraugus county, N. Y., came to Wilton in 1859, settling on section 34. He married Miss Hannah Brisbane, daughter of Hon. William Brisbane, Dec. 12, 1859. They were the parents of eleven children: Charles E., Grin E., William L., Joseph S., Cora B., Hattie M., James A., Maggie J., Freddie, deceased, Dora E. and Marvin L., deceased. Joseph was chairman of the town board of Wilton for several terms and has held other ofiBces. In 1900 he was democratic candidate tor county commissioner in the Fifth district and lacked only eight votes of an election.

Mr. Edgar Cronkhite

was born Jan. 26, 1826, at Glens Falls, N. Y. He entered Williams college in 1845. From 1848 to 1852 he traveled extensively in the South, making headquarters in Washington, D. C. He studied law at Buffalo and was admitted to the bar in 1853. He then came West to Neenah, Wis., where he practiced law and was register of deeds one term. He came to Rochester, Minn., about 1860. He served as lieutenant in Company L, Second Minnesota cavalry during the Indian war and from Dec. 18, 1863, to May 4, 1866. He enlisted as a private and was promoted to second lieutenant Oct. 11, 1864. After his discharge, he returned to Rochester where he practiced law to some extent. In 1867 he went to live in Alma City on a farm, which he has since made his home. In 1870 he was elected coimty auditor of this county and served ten years by re-election, although a democrat, the county being largely republican. He has always been a generous hearted man without show or parade. He is a man of education and of much ability and refinement. He has lived a single man, and has no relatives in this section of the country. Some years ago his eyesight became impaired and of late he has been nearly blind - not able to read at all.

Mr. C. N. Smith

son of J. R. Smith, was born in Blooming Grove, Jan. 25, 1857. He married Miss Mary A. Simons, daughter of Orlando Simons, of Janesville, Aug. 17 1878, and they live on their farm in Janesville, a mile and a half south- west of Elysian. They have had three children: Bessie C, born Aug. 12, 1879; Prank J., born Mar. 27, 1888, died Mar. 22, 1889; and Dessie A., bom Aug. 10, 1893. Joshua R. Smith and wife were early settlers, both American born. Joshua was born Jan. 26, 1833; Almeda Smith, daughter of Simeon Smith, was born July 5, 1836. They were married at West Union Iowa, in 1854, and went to live in Blooming Grove, on what is now known as the James Bowe place, in June, 1856. They were the parents of six children: Agnes, born at West Union, Iowa, Jan. 21, 1855; C. N. Smith, born Jan. 25, 1857; Clara Smith, Nov. 20, 1859; John, Feb. 12, 1861; Ida Dec. 30, 1863. The last four were born in Blooming Grove. Etta, tne youngest, was born in Elysian, LeSueur county. Mr. Smith served in the Union army at the time of the Rebellion, and after the close of the war, in 1865, sold his farm in Blooming Grove and engaged in the sawmill business at Elysian for two years. He then sold the mill and bought an Elysian farm on which he lived until 1891, when he removed to Delano, Cal., with all his children except C. N. Mrs. Smith died there Oct. 20, 1895, and Mr. Smith, July 31, 1900.

Mr. Gottlieb Grams

born in Germany, Sept. 7, 1828, came to America in 1853, and settled on a farm in Janesville township in 1857. October 16, 1855, he married Miss Louisa Wandrie, who was born in 1833. Four children were born to them: Charles, Ottila, Eliza, and Pauline.

The Reverend George W. Morse

George Warren Morse was born at Williamstown, Yt., April 23, 1847. His wife's maiden name was Lizzie J. Baker, and she was born in Erie county. Pa., Dec. 22, 1847. They were married at Deerfield, Minn., April 5, 1868. They have one son living, Orwin A. Morse, who is director of the music department of Stetson University, DeLand, Florida. He is married.

In June, 1856, Mr. Morse, with his parents, moved to Steele county. Territory of Minnesota, in what afterwards became Deerfleld township. At the age of seventeen, he began teaching school, and continued this work for twelve years. His wife was likewise a school teacher, and at one time taught in the McKune district, Waseca county. In 1876 Mr. Morse purchased the Mantorville Express and engaged in the newspaper business. In 1880 he purchased the Waseca Leader. At the same time his former foreman, S. M. Rose, bought the Waseca County Herald, into which the leader was merged. Mr. Rose died in 1S83, and Mr. J. F. Murphy bought Mrs. Rose's interest in the business. In 1885 Mr. Morse sold his interest in the business to J. E. Child and removed to Battle Creek, Mich., his present place of residence, to engage in editorial work with the Review and Herald Publishing company. Three years later he was sent by that company to Toronto, Ont., to establish and conduct a large book publishing business. He remained in this work nine years.

Mrs. Anna Carmody Hon. John Carmody

He then accepted an invitation of the International Medical Missionary and Benevolent association to go to Australia to superintend a sanitarium enterprise. He remained in Australia three years and then returned to Battle Creek where he Is now pastor of the Seventh-Day Adventist church at that place, with a congregation of about three thousand people.

The Honorable John Carmody

John Carmody, Jr., attorney-at-law, living at Hillsboro, N. D., is a man whose public spirit and excellence of character have never been questioned. He is a life-long Jeffersonian Democrat and total abstainer.

Mr. Carmody was born in Granville, Milwaukee county, Wis., on Jan. u, 1854, and moved with his parents to Waseca county, in the spring of 1868, to the old Lincoln place on the banks of the LeSueur river in Wilton township, where his father, brother, and two sisters still reside. He received his education in the common and public schools of Waseca a: J. Faribault, teaching school for several years thereafter.

He next studied law in the office of James E. Child, and was admitted to the bar in March, 1880. He held the office of municipal judge and city justice of Waseca. In August, 1885, he removed to Hillsboro in the territory of Dakota, now North Dakota, entering into partnership in the practice of law with Hon. L. E. Francis, a boyhood friend.

On July 12, 1886, he was united in marriage with Miss Anna Madden, eldest daughter of the late Malachi Madden, of Waseca county. Three children have been born to them: Winifred M., now a student at Villa Maria, Montreal, Canada; Irene Frances and George Christie, in attendance at the Hillsboro schools.

Mr. Carmody is widely known in fraternal society circles and holds membership in the American Order of United Workmen, Independent Order of Foresters, Knights of Columbus, Brotherhood of American Yeoman, and the Elks.

For twenty-five years he has been an enthusiastic fireman, having been a member of the department while in Waseca and also taking an active part in the Fireman's Association of North Dakota. He is now president of the state organization. He has held the office of city attorney of Hillsboro for fourteen years, has served as mayor of the same city, and as prosecuting attorney of Trail county. North Dakota.

Mrs. Carmody was born in Blooming Grove, June 29, 1862. She received her education in her home district, in Professor Carman's select school, and Waseca's public schools. She taught in the various schools of the county for a number of years.

Mr. Malachi Madden

lately deceased, was born in Ireland, near the city of Tuam, on Nov. 3, 1828. He came to America when but a youth of sixteen years and took up'^hls residence at New Orleans, La. From this city he moved to St. Louis, Mo., where he lived for twenty years. Sept. 9, 1861, he was married to Miss Mary Loftus, of the same city, and came North to Waseca county, settling on the old Isaac homestead, in Blooming Grove. There were but few people save Indians in the vicinity at that time, but this young pioneer had most abundant faith in the future of Minnesota. Always sober and industrious, he labored faithfully for forty-one years to subdue the wilderness that surrounded his home and saw Waseca county surpass even his fondest dreams of her future greatness.

During the latter years of his life a complication of diseases fastened themselves upon him, against which he fought with indomitable courage, until January 29, 1902, when in his seventy-fourth year, he arose at the call of the Master and journeyed forth into the shadows.

Mrs. Malachi Madden was born in Galway, Ireland, June 29, 1842. In 1851 her parents came to America and made their home in St. Louis. Mrs. Madden has borne and reared four sons and six daughters. Three daughters are married - Mrs. A. E. Paulson, of Kenmare, Ward county, N. D. ; Mrs. John Carmody, of Hillsboro, N. D. ; and Mrs. Richard Maloney, of this county. Mrs. Madden is a woman of refinement and has performed well her part in life. She deserves well of her kindred and neighbors in her declining years.

Mr. Mark Pomeroy Leslie

now of Wheatland, Wyoming, is the son of Samuel Leslie, of this county, and was born in this county June 6, 1871. He married Miss Laura Jorgenson, of Steele county, in 1898, and they have three children, two sons and a daughter. They moved to Wyoming three years ago where they are engaged in farming.

Mr. Omer H. Sutlief

born May 2, 1836, in Warren county, Pa., came to Waseca county in IS 56. Dec. 11, 1860, he married Mary Holbrook, daughter of Zachariah Holbrook, who settled in Otisco in 1856. They have one son and four daughters. Mr. Sutlief volunteered in the old First Minnesota regiment in April, 1»61, served three years and three months, taking part in twentyone battles, and having one thumb shot off. He owns a farm near New Richland, but lives in the village with his family.

Mr. Harry A. Read

born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1846, came to Iowa with his parents In 1S56. He enlisted in the Union army in 1863, and served until 1865. He commenced railroading as fireman and engineer in 1869. He has run an engine on the W. & St. P. division of the C. & N. W. railroad for over twenty years, and is one of the oldest engineers on the road.

Mrs. Malachi Madden

1S32, came to America in 1854. He married Margaret Beck, also a native of Germany, in 1855, at Guttenberg, Iowa. They settled in Meriden early in the summer of 1856. In 1880 H. W. Bluhm married Mary Remund, dauguter of John Remund, an early settler. Mary was born Sept. 2, 1857, in Blooming Grove. They have one son and two daughters. The son and elder daughter are married, the younger daughter being at home. They settleu on their present farm in 1880. Mr. H. W. Bluhm was town clerk for eight years, assessor for several years, took the United States census in 1900, and the state census in 1905. He was county commissioner from 1892 to 1896. His father and mother own a farm in Freedom, are still living and reside with him.

Mr. Patrick Campion

son of Malachi Campion, was born in Ireland, In October, 1842, and came to America with his parents in 1849. They landed in New York and proceedea thence to Cleveland, Ohio, where they lived three years. They then came as far West as Wisconsin and lived near Watertown. In 1858 they came to Minnesota and resided near Winona. Some time after, the family moved to near Rochester, Minn. In 1865, Patrick invested in lands in Waseca county and the next year broke thirty-eight acres. His brother John came at the same time and lives a single life. Patrick was married in 1871 to Miss Margaret Mahoney, at Rochester, Minn. They are the parents of four sons and three daughters. Mr. Campion has seven hundred twenty acres of land all under a high state of cultivation, except forty acres of timber. His father died August 31, 1885, and his mother, Aug. 11, 1894. He was chairman of the town board for seven years and was a school officer of his district for many years. He is one of the wealthiest farmers of the county, and enjoys the confidence of all his neighbors. He takes an active interest in public affairs - not as a politician but as an independent citizen desiring the welfare of his country.

residing in Iosco, is the son of the late Christopher McGuigan. He was born in Wisconsin, May 13, 1865. His father, Christopher, was born in Londonderry, Ireland, in 1822, and came to America when twenty years of age arriving in the month of September. He landed in New York and soon after went to Pittsburg, Pa., where he remained two years. He then went to St. Louis, Mo., where he resided several years. We next find him in LaFayette county. Wis., where, in 1855, he married Miss Rose Bradley She was also a native of Ireland. They settled on the farm in Iosco In 1867. They were the parents of three children, two of whom, James and Susan, are living. Mrs. McGuigan died Nov. 1, 1868, and Christopher died April 10, 1900.

was on the bond of that smooth rascal, and suffered a loss, all told in the way of costs, expenses, attorneys, etc., of close to $4,000. Some of the bondsmen slank out of their share, and Tim Sullivan, of Janesville, and Mr. McGuigan, had to bear the heavy part of the loss. James and his sister have a fine estate and they seem to enjoy life. They have traveled quite extensively. James has indulged moderately in local politics, not on his own account, but for the benefit of others. He was an enthusiastic supporter of W. J. Bryan.

Mr. John T. Jordan

of St. Mary, farmer and dealer in cattle and horses, was born in St. Mary June 22, 1862. His father was Martin Jordan, who settled in St. Mary as early as 1857. Martin, son of James and Mary Jordan, was born in Ireland Nov. 12, 1824, and came to America in 1844, landing at New York. He remained in the New England states until 1846 when he went to the South spending three years at St. Louis, Mo., in railroad employ, and some time in Illinois at the same business. He followed the building of the railroad from Chicago to Milwaukee and thence to Watertown, Wis. He then returned to New York state and in 1852 married Mary Gallagher, who was also born in Ireland. Her mother's name was Shanley and she was a relative of Bishop Shanley of North Dakota. John's parents then came to Illinois where they remained until they came to Minnesota. For a number of years, Martin was yard master in the employ of the Illinois Central railroad, and was a brakeman on one of the first trains run by that road. He was well acquainted with young Guiteau, the murderer of President Garfield and with Guiteau's father, who worked for the same railroad company. Martin, after a well-spent life, died Jan. 8, 1904, respected by all who knew him. John T. was married to Miss Elizabeth Brady, of St. Peter, Oct. 12, 1896. She was born Oct. 15, 1S72. John T. has been in the cattle and horse buying and selling business, more or less, for the last ten or twelve years, and is a prosperous farmer.

Mr. Edgar C. Trowbridge

son of the late Ira C. Trowbridge, founder of the city of Waseca, was born at Woodstock, 111., about 1854, and came to Waseca with his parents in August 1866. He is president of the Peoples State bank of Waseca, and an extensive owner and dealer in Waseca real estate. He was for many years engaged in the hardware business. On May 29, 1901, at Sacramento, he married Miss Stratton, daughter of Judge Stratton, of California. She is a native of Santa Barbara, Cal. Mr. Trowbridge has been an efficient member of the board of education of Waseca for eleven years.

Mr. John A. Johnson

born in Otisco, in this county, July 25, 1801, is the son of Charles and Christine Johnson, early settlers in this county. His father, Charles Johnson, was born in Sweden Dec. 11, 1829, and came to America about 1S52.

B. S. Lewis, Esq

He married Miss Cliristine Anderson, also a native of Sweden, about 1856, wliile living in Indiana. He remained in that state until 1860, when he came to Otisco with his family and made his home on section 16. Here he purchased one hundred sixty acres of land, which he still owns. Some fifteen years ago Charles became so afflicted with rheumatism that he quit his farm and bo'ught him a home in Waseca where he has since resided with his family. John A. Johnson married Miss Anna Larson, of Idaho. She was born in Sweden in 1869, and came to America while young. They are the parents of six children, two sons and four daughters. He owns one hundred sixty acres of land in section 16, and his residence is surrounded by one of the finest groves in the state. He has been town supervisor for a number of terms and is prominent in the public affairs of his town.

Mr. Benedict S. Lewis

This gentleman was born in Courtland county, N. Y., Dec. 20, 1839. He was of Welsh descent, and his father was a clergyman. His parents came West to Columbia county, Wis., in 1851, and he came with them. He received his education after leaving the public schools, at Union college, N. Y., and at the State University of Wisconsin in Madison. He read law with Gregory & Pinney, of Madison, and was admitted to the bar in 1867. He came to Waseca in 1868, where he practiced law the remainder of his life very successfully. In addition to nis local business he was the retained attorney of the M. & St. L. railway company from 1884 until the close of his life. He was united in marriage with Miss Mary Eaton, of Wisconsin, July 7, 1869, and four children were born to them, one son and three daughters - Harlow E., Esther, Irma, and Mary B. (deceased). Esther is the wife of Mr. Guy W. Everett, of the firm rf Everett, Aughenbaugn & Co., of Waseca. Irma is the wife of James M. Hanley, Esq., a prominent attorney of Mandan, N. D. Harlow E. is connected with the milling business of Mapleton, Blue Earth county, Minn., and is doing a prosperous business. He married a daughter of Hon. M. R. Everett, a lawyer and banker, and for a number of years a state senator, of Waterville, Minn.

Mr. B. S. Lewis died of bronchial consumption May 16, 1891, after many years of suffering. Judge Buckham and all the members of the bar of Waseca county attended his funeral in a body. Mr. Lewis was a very thorough student of law and an able attorney, always true to the interests of his" clients. He was public spirited and took an active interest in the welfare of his adopted city.

born at Beechwood, Ontario, Canada, came to Minnesota with his parents when he was nine years of age. His parents settled on a farm in Watertown, Carver county, which they still own and reside upon. W. F. married Miss Mary Suel, at Credit River, Scott county, Minn., in 1882.

She was born at Dayton, Ohio, and came to Minnesota with her parents when she was a babe. They settled on a farm in Credit River township. In 1882 Mr. Rourk engaged in the construction of cement wallis at Minneapolis, and carried on the business in the Twin Cities for eighteen years. In 1900, he came to Waseca and established a factory for the manufacture of cement stone especially for sidewalks, crossings, curbs, gutters, hitching posts, etc. He also owns a neat residence property in Waseca, although he does a great deal of work in other places. Thus far his work has been highly satisfactory, and cement-stone walks are taking the place of lumber walks. His address is Waseca, Minn.

The Honorable S. P. Child

Simeon Potter Child, son of Zabina and Orrilla (Rice) Child, was born Nov. 16, 1835, in Medina county, Ohio. His boyhood days were spent in Ohio, St. Lawrence county, N. Y., and in Wisconsin. He lived in the latter state from 1844 to 1855. He came to Waseca county in January and February, as elsewhere detailed in this book. At the age of twentyone years, he claimed and pre-empted a quarter section of land on sections 23 and 24 in Wilton township. In 1855, as soon as he was able to walk, after freezing his feet so badly, he entered the employ of the United States as chief cook for the employees of the government at the Winnebago Indian Agency. In 1856, he was put in charge of a large number of breaking-team crews engaged in breaking lands for the Winnebagoes. Soon after he commenced improving his own claim. On the eighth of August, 1858, he was united in marriage with Miss Clarissa Armenia Northrup, daughter of Caleb Northrup, one of the pioneer settlers of this county. She was born in the town of Horner, Steuben county, N. Y., Nov. 5, 1841, and came to Wisconsin a babe in arms, and to Waseca county with her parents in 1856. With the exception of one winter which S. P. spent as clerk in a, Wilton store, he remained upon his farm until the Sioux Indian massacre in August 1862. Upon receiving news of the Indian outbreak, he at once tendered his services to the government, and was formally mustered in as a corporal of Company B, First regiment of Minnesota mounted rangers, Oct. 17, 1862. Hon. Horace Austin, afterwards governor of our state, was captain of the company. His company went into winter quarters at St. Peter, after having performed patrol duty on the frontier from the time of enlistment. Mr. Child was detailed for hospital duty at St. Peter during a portion of the winter, but was with the company at the hanging of the Sioux at Mankato, Dec. 26,*1S62. Nothing otner than the execution of the Indians transpired during the winter worthy of note. He kept a diary while following the Indians of which extracts are here given, as follows:

"Saturday, June 20. - Moved above Camp Release, making about fifteen miles. Weather very cold; a little rain. The camp is on the river. We call it McPhail.

"Monday, June 22. - Broke camp early, made about fifteen miles, crossed the Lac Qui Parle river and camped near a small lake. Weather warm and ground very dry.

"Tuesday, June 23. - Traveled fifteen miles. The ground is so dry the grass is all dead or has not grown any this season. There are no -lakes of clear water in this section - only nasty frog ponds. There is occasionally a spring, but, as a rule, water is very scarce and of poor quality. Camped by a little lake - called it Camp Averill.

"Wednesday, June 24. - Broke camp at 5 a. m., crossed the Yellow Earth river. Earth completely parched, and almost all the lakes dry. No timber along the river near which we camped.

"Thursday, June 25. - Made ten or twelve miles. Country more hilly; uplands bare; some grass in marshes. Stone on the surface. Camped at a beautiful lake two miles west of Big Stone lake. Named the camp 'Jamison.'

"Friday, June 26. - Traveled about ten miles. Ruble's company killed a buffalo to-day. Five buffaloes were seen on left fiank. Camped on the Minnesota river.

"Tuesday, June 30. - A portion of our command was dispatched for Fort Abercrombie for supplies under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Averill. Here a mule driver broke his leg. Moved about ten miles and

July 2. - Scouts saw signs of Indians but no redskins. Traveled about ten miles. Vegetation all dead except around margin of lakes. Camped at Skunk lake - water shallow - plenty of fish.

was sent to Fort Abercrombie, a distance of forty miles. Land in this section is of the poorest kind, very little grass and no water. There are elks and buffaloes here. Two buffaloes were killed to-day. We arrived at Fort Abercrombie that evening where we stayed over the 6th and into the 7th until the mail arrived from the east. On the evening of the 7th we started on our return to the Cheyenne and camped at Rice river. Here Latowell got lost. I took Fay and started back to hunt for him; got back to the fort about 2 o'clock next morning. On the 8th and 9th on the 11th we moved up the river twelve miles where we found plenty of hay and wood and springs of good water. ... July 12. - Sunday; remained in camp all day. Found fresh signs of Indians in vicinity

July 13. - Moved ten miles and camped between two small lakes. Found plenty of grass, but no wood, and no water except lake water. Fresh buffalo tracks numerous. . . .July 14. - Traveled about fifteen miles. Camped on bank of river. Plenty of wood and water. Weather cold and windy. ....July 15. - Marched about ten miles. Found many small lakes, grass better. Camped near a good sized lake; water very poor - too much country with many small lakes, ponds, and marshes, most of them nearly dry now. To-day the boys killed an elk, and two half-breed Indians came into camp. Camped on the shore of a pond; plenty of grass, but very miles and camped on the shore of a beautiful lake. Here a man of Company L was accidentally shot by a lieutenant of Company G. Remained in camp over Sunday July 20. - We made a long march, some eighteen miles, over a broken and stony country. Water poor - has a brackish taste. Weather cold for time of year and no wood. In the evening another man was accidentally shot and wounded. Here several

21. - Made only about ten miles and camped at a lake where there is a little timber... July 22. - The expedition made about twenty miles and went into camp near a large grove of timber. Grass rather poor, water not fourteen miles over a broken, stony, rolling country with some lakes. Camped near a long, narrow lake; had good grass and water, but no wood!

Was an exciting day. Got an early start and made about ten miles when we came within sight of a large body of Indians camped about four miles from our army. We went into camp about 1 o'clock to await results The train was brought into corral by a shallow lake under the shadow of a high hill, called Big Mound. The Indians appeared in large numbers on this mound and in larger numbers still at the west of it. They asked to have a personal conference with General Sibley, but he, having been warned of treachery, declined. Doctor Weiser, surgeon of the mounted rangers, however, ventured to go among the Indians, many of whom he linew personally, and returned to the Sibley camp saying that they only wanted peace. He was permitted, at his own request, to return to the top of Big Mound, with two or three other rangers, and was almost immediately shot and killed. His companions escaped by fast riding and the poor marksmanship of the murderous Indians. General Sibley immediately ordered the Minnesota mounted rangers to attack the Indians. They did so, followed by companies of the Sixth and Tenth infantry regiments. The ground was so rough and steep that the rangers had to dismount and fight their way up the hill on foot, driving the Indians before them. A terrific thunder storm occurred during this battle, and John Murphy, of Waseca County, was killed by lightning v-ithin a few yards of me. One section of the battery was brought into action and did most effective service. The Indians had a dread of artillery and soon began to retreat. The battery and the mounted rangers followed them closely until the artillery horses tired out and could go no further. The rangers continued the pursuit, following the Indians closely for about fifteen miles. The Indians were completely routed and demoralized. They threw away everything that would impede their retreat. Several Indians were killed and many wounded. The horses were tired and the pursuit ceased about sundown. Besides Murphy, who was killed by lightning, a man named Stark was killed by being shot in the abdomen. Lieutenant Freeman, while hunting in the morning, had been waylaid and killed, and his body badly mutilated. Wm. Hazlep, was shot in the shoulder, and Andy Moore was shot in the thigh and bowels. A sergeant of Company L received a wound in one leg. We had no ambulance, and carried our dead and wounded in buffalo robes for some distance, and finally loaded them into an ammunition wagon. We traveled all night in returning to camp."

Captain Wilson, in his account of the expedition, says the mistake of the campaign occurred at the close of the battle that day. Lieutenant Beaver brought an order to Colonel McPhail to "return" to camp. General Sibley said his order was to "go into camp."

As Lieutenant Beaver soon after died, the mistake or blunder rests with him. No doubt the mistake was made either by Beaver or McPhail, for General Sibley had started the infantry out in the morning to support the rangers before the latter reached the camp. The cavalry should have camped upon or near the battle field and awaited the arrival of the infantry. The Indian squaws and children were close by. They could not have escaped if they had been pursued the next day. But, on account of the blunder, they got two days the start.

On the 26th of July, at Dead Buffalo lake, the Indians made a dash for some men and mules that were out gathering hay. The mounted rangers at once went to the rescue and charged upon the Indians. It was a smoky day, and the horses of whites and Indians made such a dust that it was often difficult to distinguish friend from foe. The fight lasted for half an hour when the Indians made a hasty retreat. The savages were led by Grey Eagle, who fought bravely but was soon killed. The Indians left several of their number dead on the field.

The last battle was at Stony Lake. As the train was moving along on the morning of July 28, the Indians appeared in great numbers, mostly mounted warriors, and attacked with great boldness. They made frequent charges but were easily repulsed. The artillery was too much for them, and they soon abandoned the field and made haste to cross the Missouri river."

Mr. Child was mustered out November 9, 1863. He returned to his farm for a few days and then went into the quartermaster's department and went South with the Federal army. He was placed in charge of the Little Rock & Memphis railroad, where he encountered more dangers than when in the ranks. He was engaged in the transportation of men and supplies and in keeping the road in repair. He returned home in the spring of 18G4, with his health much impaired. He remained ill for nearly two years, but finally got better, sold his property in Waseca County, and removed to Blue Earth City, where he engaged in private banking, real estate and collections. He also opened a brick yard and manufactured brick for a number of years.

He served in the state legislature as a member of the house from Faribault county in the years 1872, 1873, and 1877, and as a member of the senate in 1874 and 1875. He was appointed assistant postmaster to the United States senate in 1875, and held the position until June 29, 1878, when he was appointed postoflice inspector. He held this position continuously until June 30, 1886, when he resigned. He was requested by Postmaster-General Vilas to serve in the Department of Justice to aid in the prosecution of the star-route thieves and he remained in that capacity until January 14, 1887. The latter years of his service as Inspector were largely devoted to the work of detecting and bringing to trial the starroute rascals, and In that work he traversed large portions of New Mexico, Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, Indian Territory, and California. In New Mexico he drove one pair of horses over one thousand miles in searching for witnesses and looking up evidence.

In 1887 he came home and gave attention to his private affairs, remaining until July 27, 1889, when he was again appointed postofflce inspector. This time he held the position until April, 1893, when he resigned to accept the agency of the American Surety company of New York, with headquarters at St. Paul. This position he held for ten years, resigning November 30, 1903. While holding this position he had supervision of portions of Wisconsin, Iowa, all of Minnesota and all of the two Dakotas.

Since that time he has devoted his attention to the management of his large farm, five miles east of Shakopee, known as the Harden farm. Mr. and Mrs. S. P. Child have been the parents of six children, four of whom are living. Ruth, now Mrs. Forrester, of St. Paul; Eugenia, Mrs. John McLoughlin, of Blue Earth; Edith, Mrs. Andrew Bottleson, of Blue Earth; and Hugh Child, mail route agent between St. Paul and Omaha.

was born in Wilton, December 13, 1857. She married Theodore J. Reibeling July 5, 3 880. Theodore was born in the town of St. Mary, April 1, 1859, and died March IS, 1903. Mrs. Reibeling is a daughter of Mr. Robert Moore, one of the early settlers of Wilton. Nine children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Reibeling, six of whom are living: Robert T., born April 27, 1881; Wm. H., born November 30, 1884; Elmer S., born April 6, 1887; Martha I., born September 9, 1890; Theo. J., born March 22, 1896, and Leland R., born April 21, 1898. Mrs. Reibeling, with the aid of her children, is bravely carrying on her farm in St. Mary and making a comfortable living.

Mr. Henry Krobger

of Iosco, was born in Schleswick-Holstein, Germany, February 28, 1832. His wife, Anna (Sommers) was born in the same country August 22, 1842. They came to America In the early spring of 1866, and settled in Iosco, May 8, 186G. They have been the parents of eight children, four of whomare living: John, Henry W., Herman O. and Louise.

Henry W. Kroeger

Henry resides in Wilton on a farm of one hundred and sixty acres. He was born in Iosco, February 7, 1870. October 30, 1895, he was married to Miss Ida Manthey, of Iosco, who was born October 30, 1869. They are the parents of two girls. Henry W. is one of the prosperous farmers of his township.

The Reverend Alvin Ketchum

This gentleman, a Baptist minister, came from Ohio to Rice county, Minnesota, in 1856. He moved to Blooming Grove in 1857, on the "Bliven's Hill," near where John Diedrich now lives. He afterwards moved to Morristown where he died in 1863. While living in Blooming iQrove, Rev. Ketchum and Joshua Smith carried on a shop, the first in the county, for the manufacture of chairs, bedsteads, stools, spinning wheels, woodenware, etc. They had a turning lathe run by foot power. Rev. Ketchum preached in what is known as the Bowe school house up to the time of his death in 1863. His wife died some years before he passed away. They left surviving them, Rosalia, now Mrs. W. H. Gray; Orrilla, now Mrs. D. A. Erwin; Charles F., then a young lad; Alvin, since deceased; Wm. K. now a resident of Wisconsin, and Luman, now dead. Charles was about a year old when his parents came to Minnesota, and he Itnows a good deal of the hardships of pioneer life. He is married to Alice Luceba Smith, daughter of the late A. C. Smith. They now live within forty rods of where Mrs. Ketchum was born.

This gentleman was among the honest, sturdy farmers that settled in Janesviile in 1S56. He was born in County Galway, Ireland, In 1825, and came to America in 1845, landing in New York. He went thence to the state of Vermont where he worked on a farm seven years. In 1852 he came West, stopping in Wisconsin four years, and then coming to the town of Janesviile, where he made a fine home, and where he lived until his death, which occurred November 2G, 1896, of paralysis. He married Miss Hannah Kelly, of Faribault, in 1866, who survived him.

The Honorable John L. Saufferer

Hon. John L. Saufferer, one of the 1856 settlers, is a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, and was born January 20, 1821. At the age of twenty-four years, he came to America, landing in New York; from here he made his way to Lawrence county, Ohio, where he found steady employment as a farm laborer, thus fitting himself for the calling in which he has been so successful. He then went to Clay county. 111., and purchased a farm of his own. At the age of thirty-one, needing a housekeeper, he returned to his native land, married Miss Henrietta Miller, and again sailed for the "land of the free" where they arrived safely without any incident of note. After some five years, he sold his Illinois farm and came to Blooming Grove. They are the parents of twelve children, ten of whom are living. He was elected a member of the lower house of the legislature in 1872, where ne served with fidelity to his constituents. He is one of the wealthiest men in the township, and, in politics, is a Populist or freecoinage advocate. He has always been popular with the people of his town, having held some town oifice nearly every year since the town was organized. He is at this writing in his eighty-fifth year and remarkably well preserved.

The following named children were born to them: George, born October 25, 1852, deceased; Henrietta, born November 14, 1853; Charles John, born March 19, 1855; Maria Anna, born January 26, 1S57; Caroline, born April 9, 1859; Matilda W., born December 1, 1860, deceased; Henry, born October 12, 1862; Amelia J., born September 19, 1864; Lydia, born October 23, 1866; John G., born February 25, 1869; Benjamin, born January 6, 1874; and Louis, born June 27, IS 76.

Mr. Frank Erfurth

MR. FRANK ERFURTH. This gentleman was born at Madison, Wisconsin, April 13, 1863. He came to Minnesota in 1884, and married Miss Annie R. McDougall, January 1, 1886. She was born in Otisco, Minn., July 22, 186S. They resided in this county until 1898, wlien they emigrated to Malta, Montana, where Mr. Erfurth still resides. Mrs. Erfurth while here on a visit in 1902, was taken ill of typhoid fever and died October 25, 1902. Three children were born to them: Mary A., February 10, 1887; Robert F., February 25, 1888; and Ronald E., April 19, 1890. Mr. Erfurth carried on a sheep ranch for a number of years, but is now engaged in the grocery and confectionery business. He was at one time elected sheriff in the county where he now lives, but declined to serve. His children are with him in his Montana home.

Mr. Samuel Dodge

was among the early settlers of this county, having moved near Wilton in 1856. His family came the next year. He was born in the state of New York about 1823. He married Myra Azuba Dix, who was born in Pennsylvania about the year 1827. They were the parents of eleven children live of whom are living: Hon. D. J. Dodge, of Janesville; Mrs. P. C. Bailey and Mrs. N. Garland of Waseca; and Mrs. Myers and Mrs. Draper of California. Mr. Dodge started from this county to Missouri, but died before reaching his destination. There has always been some suspicion that he was murdered on the road, although no official investigation was ever made.

Mr. Seth W. Loisg

one of the most popular sheriffs Waseca county ever had, was born in the state of New York, June 29, 1821. He married Sarah Broughton December 6, 1842. She was a native of England, born June 23, 1821, and died at Janesville, March 8, 1876, of congestion of the lungs. Nine children were born to them - three sons and six daughters - four of whom are now living. Mr. and Mrs. Long resided upon a farm on the east shore of Lake Elysian, afterwards kept a hotel at Okaman, and in 1863 moved to Wilton where they kept hotel. Mr. Long was elected sheriff in 1868 and held the office for ten consecutive years. He was not a money-getter, but he was an honest man and a good neighbor.

Mr. George Wilfred Strong

MR. GEORGE WILFRED STRONG is a son of Nathan B. Strong, one of the very early settlers of Waseca county, who now resides in California. The maiden name of G. W. Strong's mother was Sarah Ide. She was one of the 1855 settlers of Minnesota. G. W. is one of the "Wilton group" of four boys, and was born in Wilton May 31, 1867. His parents came to Waseca soon after and remained here until about 1885 v/hen they removed to Pomona, California, where they still reside. George W. returned to Waseca in 1897, and entered the mill of Everett, Aughenbaugh & Co. He and Miss Jennie Aughenbaugh were united in marriage February 8, 1898. They are the parents of one son, Harry. Mr. Strong is still in the milling business as miller. He is

Mr. Joseph Clayton

This gentleman is one of the pioneers of Woodville, having come to the romantic shores of Gaiter lake in April, 1857. He was born in England, July 24, 1830, and came to America in 1852. His father Matthew, came over to America in 1851, and they made their home at North Lee, Mass., where Joseph engaged in the manufacture of woolen cloth. He afterwards resided at Uxbridge.

In 1856 there came to the New England residents glowing accounts of Minnesota as a very paradise, and Joseph and his father decided to come West and get land. They left their Massachusetts home April 7, 1857, in company with ten others. Three days after they started, a number of the company got homesick and returned. The others came on and reached Lake Pepin, which was still closed by ice. There they were compelled to transfer from Reeds Landing to Red Wing by stage. At Red Wing they met posters issued from the Pioneer oflBce calling for volunteers to fight the Ink-pa-du-tah band of Sioux Indians that had murdered over forty people near Spirit Lake and carried four women into captivity - Mrs. Marble, Mrs. Noble, Mrs. Thatcher and Miss Gardner. Of these, Mrs. Thatcher and , Mrs. Noble were killed and Mrs. Marble and Miss Gardner were afterwards released. This report of Indian fighting was too much for all the company except the Messrs. Clayton, and all save them returned to Massachusetts. The Messrs. Clayton came on and took a half section of land, less that portion of Gaiter lake included in the half section. They arrived here the latter part of April. They did some early breaking and planted corn, potatoes, etc. The elder Mr. Clayton returned in the fall, leaving Joseph to bachelor housekeeping and pioneer life. Joseph knew little or nothing of farm life or farm work. Everything went awry. The oxen that he bought would run away on slight provocation and he was obliged to lead them with ropes. He had never done any chopping timber or felling trees, and when he went to "hooking" government timber with the other fellows, on the island, the "Yankees" had some sport at his expense. His trees wouldn't fall where they ought, and when he came to loading his first load of logs, he lost all patience. After finally getting the logs on he went only a short distance when his sled broke down, and he was compelled to leave his load. It was only by the most persistent perseverance that he accomplished his farm work. The winter of 1857-8 was a very cold one - nobody knows how cold. Along about the first of March, Mr. Clayton greased his shoes and put them under the stove to dry when he went to bed. The next morning he found them burned .to a crisp. He had no other shoes and was obliged to go without for a time. When at work out doors he used to draw his pantaloons down over his feet and tie them over his toes with a cord. On one occasion, in March, 1S5S, he had nothing but potatoes to eat.

They soured in his stomach, so he and his neighbor, McKinstry, tools some seed corn to one of their neighbors and ground it in a coffee mill, thereby enabling them to indulge in corn bread made of water, salt and meal. But soon, after, two of his cows commenced to give milk, his hens produced some eggs, and he lived off the fat of the land.

In the fall of 1858, having enjoyed batching alone for over a year, he concluded to return to the land of steady habits. There he again engaged in the manufacture of woolen goods. He was superintendent of woolen mills at Lowell, Mass., for eleven years. He then took a trip to Europe, visiting his old home in England. He came to Minnesota again _in 1875, spent a short time here and then went to Rhode Island where he accepted the position of superintendent of the Carolina mills, owned by Roland Hazzard, a very wealthy man whose wife was an Indian woman. He remained there until 1877. He then spent some six months in Laconia, N. H., and three months in Philadelphia, working at his trade. In 1878 he returned to his land in Woodville and began improvements on it. C. I. Woodbury, a nephew of Mr. Clayton's second wife, came out with him. They cleared and broke a quantity of land ready for a crop for the ensuing year and erected a large farm house and other farm buildings. Soon after, Mr. and Mrs. C. I. Woodbury were married and moved to the farm here. Mr. Clayton then accepted the position of superintendent in the Lawrence, Mass., woolen mills where he remained until 1881, when he came West to Jacksonville, 111., and took charge of the Jacksonville woolen mills. He was in charge of these mills until 1886, when he bought an interest in a large grocery store with his son-in-law, Mr. Wm. A. Jenkinson. They soon after changed it into a wholesale establishment and are now running it as such.

Mr. Clayton married Miss Urania Taft, his first wife, March 31, 1857, by whom he had two daughters - Mrs. Susan Woodbury, of Waseca, and Mrs. Ellen Jenkinson, of Jacksonville, 111. His first wife died in May,

He married his second wife. Miss Harriet Ann Chase, at Pelham, N. H., January 1, 1872, by whom he also has two daughters, Annie Urania and Maud, both of whom are at home.

For a number of years Mr. Clayton has spent his summers in Minnesota and occasionally rehearses the experiences of his first two seasons on his farm in Woodville. He tells a story of a kingbird that lived during the winter and spring in an old treetop that he had hauled up in front of his cabin. The kingbird, as is well known, is a great fighter, and Mr. Clayton took great satisfaction in watching^is pet pitch into the hawks that hovered around watching for chickens.

Mr C I Woodbury, who married Susan Clayton, is a nephew of Mr. Mr Clayton's second wife. Mr. and Mrs. Woodbury have purchased one hundred acres of the original half section, and Mr. Clayton has added to it fifty-two acres.

Mr. Austin Vinton And Sons

Austin Vinton, whose life, public services and death are noted else where, was born in 1816. He settled in Woodville, September 29, 1856 He had two sons. Wilfred Vinton was born in Ellington, N. Y., Decern ber 11, 1843. He married Ada M. Beebee in 1874. She was bom at Mt. Vernon, Ohio, in 1849, and died in 1892. One son was born to them Herbert W., in 1879. Wilfred enlisted in Company F, First Battalion Minnesota Volunteers, March 22, 18G5, and was mustered out July 14 following.