Wright County, Minnesota - Biographical sketches (2 of 2 so headed), 1915 (part 2 of 9)

Andrew G. Larson, carpenter aud contractor, now living in Buffalo, was born in Duluth, July 8, 1872, son of Peter and Betsey (Bloom) Larson. lie came to Wright county with his parents, attended the district schools, was reared to manhood on the farm, and after his marriage continued to live thereon for six years. In 1898 they moved to Minneapolis, but after nearly a year there went to Kandiyohi county, where they spent about one and a half years farming. In 1902 they came to Buffalo, where they have since resided, and where he has followed his trade as a carpenter and contractor. He owns, in addition to his village property, eighty acres of land in Silver Creek township, which he rents. The family faith is that of the Swedish Mission church of Buffalo. Mr. Larson was married, April 8, 1893, to Mary Olson, of Kandiyohi county, daughter of Aaron Olson. They have six children, Rudolph, Florence, Winnifred, Dewey, Gustave and Francis.

John L. Burkland, whose establishment at Buffalo is one of the leading mercantile stores in the county, was born in Sweden, May 13, 1870, son of John and Anna (Swenson) Burkland. The other children in the family were Jennie and Hannah. John L. was reared in his native country, and there received his early education. In 1887 he came to America and located in Kansas, where he remained from April to November. Then he joined his uncle, Charles Burkland, in Missouri. In March, 1888, he moved to Ottumwa, Iowa, where his parents and sisters joined him. He took a business course in the Ottumwa Business College, after which he secured a position with the Globe Tea Company, with whom he remained until 1901. That year he came to Buffalo and bought out G. G. Friberg, a general merchant. The store was at that time a small one, and carried a stock valued at about $3,000. The stock has now been increased to a value of .$25,000. By hard work, courtesy, absolute honesty and good commercial ability, he has built up a large trade. He enjoys the confidence of the people of the city and country, and is a successful man in every way. He carries a splendid stock of dry goods, groceries, hardware, household utensils, clothing, shoes, and in fact everything usually carried in a first-class department store. A believer in progress, he became one of the first members of the Buffalo Commercial Club. He has served on the school board for several terms. For the past twelve years he has been secretary of the Swedish Mission church, of which body he and his family are members. Mr. Burkland was married, June 12, 1900, to Frida Risberg, who was born in Sweden November 23, 1870. To Mr. and Mrs. Burkland six children have been born : Ruth, born August 12, 1901 : Paul, born July 13, 1904; Evelyn and Evangeline, twins, born February 4, 1907; Carl, born July 17, 1908; and Gordon, born January 17, 1913.

Henry T. Walker, whose pioneer experiences in developing the Northwest have been many and varied, was born in Ontario, Canada, September 14, 1831, a son of William and Agnes (Cunningham) Walker, grandson of John and Mary (Stewart) Walker, the landowners, and a descendant of John Walker, Bishop of Derry. The family came from County Down in the Ulster region, in Ireland. William Walker, with his wife, Agues, and one son, John, landed in Quebec, Canada, in 1819. His good qualities attracted the attention of a lumber dealer, who made him the manager of some extensive lumbering operations on the Ottawa and Sault Ste. Marie rivers, a capacity in which he was engaged for some thirty-four years. He died at the age of eighty-two and his wife at the age of eighty-one. Their children were : John (deceased), James, John, Henry T., William, Stewart, Robert (deceased), Robert, Mary Jane, Charity and Nancy. Henry T. Walker, now retired, was educated in Canada, there served seven years as apprentice and thoroughly mastered the trade of millwright. On September 15, 1855, he landed in St. Paul, prepared to win his way to success. As a carpenter he assisted in erecting many important buildings. He was prominently identified with the erecting of the earlier Wasliburn mills at Minneapolis. He helped to drive the first stake for the first Washburn mill, and assisted in the construction of the "A", "C" and Humbolt mills. He worked on the historic old Methodist Episcopal church on Jackson street, St. Paul. He also had charge of a carpenter crew on the St. Paul, Sioux City and Omaha Railroad. In 1878 he made an historic trip to the Black Hills in charge of an outfit for the purpose of delivering a mill at Deadwood. The mill had been shipped by rail to Breckenridge. Starting there witli his crew and four yoke of oxen, Mr. Walker made his way to Moorehead, on through Bismarck, across the Missouri river at Fort Abercrombie, on to Crook City, and then to Deadwood. Mr. Walker put up the mill, operated it until the autumn, and then with his oxen returned to Meeker county. After his return he managed a flour mill and saw null at Manannah, Minn. In 1882 he came to Buffalo and followed his trade of millwright and carpenter for several years. Mr. Walker was married January 1, 1858, to Betsy Ann Bryant, daughter of Ambrose and Narcissa (Merrill) Bryant, natives of Maine. Ambrose Bryant came to Minnesota in 1855 and in 1856 brought his family. His children were: Phoebe, Betsy Ann, Malissa, Helen, Flora, Oveldo, Adelbert, Alonzo, Clara, Freemont, Herbert and Eugene. Eugene died in the East. Mr. and Mrs. Walker have eight children, all living. They are : Agnes, Malissa, Charity, Narcissa, Adelaide, Ambrose, William and Stuart. Mrs. Walker died March 7, 1913, at the age of seventy-eight.

Edward G. Baslough, a Buffalo business man, was born in Mendota, 111., April 1, 1875, son of Jesse and Sarah (Otto) Baslough. Jesse Baslough was born in Pennsylvania. He married Sarah Otto, a native of that state but of French ancestry. Their oldest child, Jennie, was born in Pennsylvania. From Pennsylvania they came to Illinois, and there the other children were born, Mary, Samuel, Harry, Minnie, Edward G., Theadore, Ida, Cora and Bertha. Jesse Baslough has always been a farmer. He is still living and is nearly ninety years of age. His wife died in 1900 at the age of sixty-four. Edward G. was reared on a farm in Illinois, and attended the graded and district schools. At the age of nineteen he went to Iowa, where he learned general woodworking, including the carpenter and carriage-making trades. From Iowa he went to Portland, Me., where he worked as a carpenter for eight years. Then he returned to Mendota, 111., his home town, and with his brother, Harry, operated a livery stable for about four years. Subsequently he came to Minneapolis, and in a short time to Wright county. He seciu'ed a farm in Maple Lake township and engaged in stock raising. In 1909 he came to Buffalo and opened a livery stable. He has some splendid horses, and suitable vehicles, and his establishment enjoys a large patronage. In connection with his place, he operates an automobile livery, which also enjoys a liberal patronage.

George R. Covart, now deceased, for many years one of the most honored and respected residents of Wright county, was born in Sullivan county. New York, September 26, 1837, son of William and Anna Covart, natives of New York, and grandson of that Covart who fought in the Revolutionary war. The children in the family of William Covart were James, Joseph, William, Andrew, Harriett, Jane, Margaret and George R. George R. was the youngest in the family. He was educated in his native state and grew to manhood on the farm. As young men he and his brother, William, came to Wisconsin and took up farming. George was there married, and there lived until 1861, when he came to Wright county and located on 160 acres of land in Buffalo township, four miles north of Buffalo. A small building had been erected and the place partially improved. The progress of developing this farm was interrupted for a short time toward the close of the Civil war, when he was serving in Co. B, Eleventh Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. But when he returned he again took up his farm work. A man of much strength and ability, very industrious, and honest and straightforward in all his dealings, he achieved a large measure of success. As time passed he added to his original holdings, until he owned a fertile, welldeveloped tract of 316 acres, a valuable place still owned by the widow. Throughout the farm, Mr. Covart 's thrift, energy and taste are everywhere apparent. Mr. Covart was a member of the G. A. R. post at Monticello. He was for some years one of the supervisors of Buffalo township, and also a member of the school board of his district. He died March 6, 1908, and his death was sincerely mourned throughout the community. Mr. Covart was married in Wisconsin, July 3, 1857, to Eliza Leonard, born in New York, December 5, 1838, a daughter of Hiram and Elizabeth (Sprague) Leonard, also natives of New York. Eliza was the youngest in the family. The others were William, Warren, Walter, Webster, Mary, Olive and Jane, all now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Covart have had six children: George, born April 18, 1858; Adelaid, born October 4, 1859; Ella, born October 20, 1860, died September 26, 1899 ; Ernest, born June 29, 1862, died in 1912; Smith, born March 23, 1867; and Bertha, born November 3, 1868, died April 27, 1893. Mrs. Covart was the first president of the Women's Relief Corps and a charter member of the local Eastern Star. She is an active member of the Methodist Epis copal church and of the Ladies' Aid Society of that body.

William H. Covart, a pioneer, was born in New York state, son of William Covart, a New York state farmer, and grandson of Andrew Covart, a soldier in the Revolutionary war. William H. Covart was reared in New York state, and was there educated. He married Isabella Clark, who was born in Scotland and brought to this country by her parents when she was two years old. In 1857 the family, at that time consisting of William H. Covart, his wife, and two childi-en, Sylvester J. and William, left New York state and located in Dodge county, Wisconsin. There, another child, Annie B., was born. About 1860 the family came to Wright county and located on 160 acres of land in Monticello township, on Monticello prairie, two miles south of the village of Monticello. There their youngest child, Florence, was born. In a few years they moved to the village, bought a hotel, remodeled it, and gave it the name of the Covart House. A j-ear later it burned. Mr. Covart then retired and resided in Monticello, until he died in 1891, at the age of sixty-eight. Mrs. Covart died in 1913, at the age of eighty-five. Sylvester J. died in Monticello at about nineteen years of age. Florence died in Monticello township at three years of age.

William Covart, merchant, financier and man of affairs, was born in Sullivan county, New York, March 11, 1854, son of William II. and Isabella (Clark) Covart. In 1857 he was taken by his parents to Dodge county, Wisconsin, and about 1860 he was brought to Monticello township. He was educated in the district school, and early in life took up farming as an occupation. Since he was fourteen the speculative feature of agricultural operation has appealed strongly to him, and while he has never farmed extensively, he has owned many farms in succession, and has prospered exceedingly by every exchange that he has made. In

1893 he engaged with a partner in the hardware business at Buffalo, under the firm name of Covart & Wickly. The same firm also has extensive sawmill and lumber interests in Carleton countj-, Minnesota, not far from Duhith. Mr. Covart was married, October 22, 1896, to Sarah Boerner, and they have two children, Helen and Marion. Both are students of the Buffalo High School.

Aaron F. Ames, who, after a life filled with varied experiences, is now living in retirement in Buffalo, was born in Chittenden county, Vermont, December 30, 1827, son of William and Polly (Brownell) Ames. William Ames was born and reared in Vermont and there spent a number of years in farming. After coming west he located in Boone county, Illinois, and kept a stageline tavern at Amesville, now known as Garden Prairie. At one time General Winfield Scott was a guest at the hotel, and the two men became fast friends. William Ames had twelve children, as follows : Eliza, Caroline, Adaliue, Harriett, Adelia, Emily, Sereno, George, Alson. William, Aaron F. and Eben. Of this family, George was the first to come to Minnesota. He fir.st secured twenty acres near the present site of the Hennepin county courthouse in Minneapolis. He considered the tract of little value, and abandoned it to locate in Rockford township, in Wright county. Aaron F. Ames received his early education in Illinois. In May, 1852, before the gold craze of 1849 had subsided, he started out in an ox team for California, accompanied by his brothers, Alson and Eben, and by another man named J. R. Ames, but not a relative. It was the intention of the party to reach Sacramento, but in September it was decided to stop at the Yaba river, ninety miles east of that city. Aaron F. at first secured work at $5.00 a day. but soon discovered that it took more than that to live, so he went prospecting. For three years he followed mining in various places, and then started home, making the trip by way of New Mexico, on the line of the pony express from Sacramento to St. Cloud. He farmed for a while in Garden Prairie, 111., and then went to McGregor, Iowa. At the outbreak of the Civil war, he recruited Co. L, Sixth Iowa Cavalry, and was mustered in as its captain, at Davenport. He served two years and nine months, and saw much active service on the Northwestern frontier against the Indians. In one engagement he was thrown from his horse, causing a rupture from which he has never fully recovered. He was mustered out at Sioux City, and returned to his home in Illinois, but shortly afterward he again came to ]McGregor and again engaged in the mercantile business. From McGregor he went to Cresco, Iowa. From there, in 1872, he came to Wright county and located on a place of 130 acres, one half mile north of the village of Rockford. This was wild land, and no improvements had been made thei'eon. Mr. Ames broke the land, erected modern buildings and successfully farmed until 1901, when he retired and moved to Buffalo. He is a member of the G. A. R. Post, and while in the township served as town clerk and town assessor. The family faith is that of the Episcopal church. Mr. Ames was married at McGregor, Iowa, in 1866, to Sarah Forsythe, born in Waddington, N. Y., May 29, 1843, daughter of John and Mary (Mathews) Forsythe. Mr. and Mrs. Ames have four children. Ros(^ and Frank were born in Iowa, and Polly and Edith in Minnesota. Rose lives in Buffalo. Frank died in 1876. Polly is now Mrs. Charles W. Lynd, of Medicine Lake, Mont. They have seven children, Edith, Ames, Milo, Lloyd, Roy, Vernon and Cleon. Edith is now Mrs. Irvin L. O'Meara, of Hennepin county, Minnesota. They have three children, Irvin, Edna and Lois. John Forsythe was a tailor by trade. lie was born in Scotland, came to New York at the age of sixteen, and married Mary Mathews, who was born in Montreal, Canada, of Scottish parents. P'roni New York they went to Wisconsin, and lived for a time near Watertown. Later they went to McGregor, Iowa, where they spent the i-emainder of their lives. John Forsythe enlisted at the first call for three months' men, and served throughout the Civil war. His son, William, served in the Sixth Wisconsin Cavalry, his son Robert in the First Wisconsin Cavalry, and his son George in the Sixth Wisconsin Infantry. The other children were : Samuel, James, Eben, Margaret, Jane, Sarah and Emma.

Robert Bredt, a successful farmer of Buffalo township, was born in Cologne-on-the-Rhiue, Germany, January 23, 1860, son of Titus and Agnes (Muller) Bredt. Titus Bredt was a man of considerable importance in his native city. A sugar refiner who had attained success in life, he was president of the local court of trade, and occupied other positions of trust and responsibility. He was bom January 28, 1813, and died June 30, 1885. His wife was born April 19, 1819, and died November 1, 1895. In their family there were nine children: Agnes, Titus, Marie, Henrietta, Caroline, Emil, Rudolpli, Helena and Robert. Of this family, Robert, the subject of this mention, was the only one who came to the United States. He had received a good education, had served the usual term in the army, and had worked in his fatlier's office. But desiring wider opportunities, he came to the United States in 1885, and upon reaching Wright county secured employment at ]\Iaple Lake with Herman Blume, an early settler, whose wife was Matilda (jenbeek. On December 27, 1886, Mr. Bredt married their daughter, Matilda Helen. They lived on the home place for several years and to them were born four children, Titus Herman, George Paul and Maria Matilda and Helen Agnes, twins. Titus Herman was born November 16, 1887, married Dorothy Reynolds, and lives on his father's farm in Buffalo township. George Paul was born July 10, 1890, nuirried Elizabeth Wegen, and lives in llinneapolis. The twins were born June 26, 1^92. Jlaria Matilda married Henry Arnold. They live in ]Montieello township, and have four ehildren : Evan, Helen, Clyde and Viola. Helen Agnes lives at home. Mrs. Matilda (Blume) Bredt was born in St. Louis, Mo., November 10, 1868, and died February 2, 1900. On June 5, 1901, Mr. Bredt married Anna Baker, born in Wright county, April 25, 1876, daughter of Joseph and Christina (Elseupeter) Baker, the pioneers. She has proven an able helpmate through all their married life, and has borne her husband two sons, Robert Rudolph, born March 23, 1904, and Carl Frederick, January 22, 1909. In 1896, Mr. Bredt purchased a farm of 161 acres in section 5, Buffalo township, and there successfully farmed until June 15, 1914, when he and his family moved to the village of Buffalo. The farm is now occupied and operated by the son, Titus Hernuin Bredt.

Norman Dyer is a name that is held in loving respect and regai'd by all the early settlers in the vicinity of Buffalo. One of Nature's own noblemen, he was endowed with a kindly, generous disposition, and without his philanthropy many of the pioneers would have failed and left the county. The world is truly the better for his having lived in it, and his memory will be cherished by the sons and grandsons of those whom he befriended. Norman Dyer was born in Trumbull county, Ohio, February 12, 1824. and was there reared and educated. In 1859 he and his good wife came to Wright county and settled on a farm. The country was then wild. They made a small clearing, erected a log cabin, and established their home in the wilderness. Gradually the land was cleared and developed, suitable buildings were erected, and they were soon nvimbered as among the most prosperous people in the connnunity. From the very first they were noted for their hospitality and liberality. No one ever went hungry from their door, and many a side of bacon or beef, many a pound of butter and tea, or sack of corn or wheat were sent to some less fortimate settler. Throughout his long life, Mr. Dyer delighted in aiding the neighbors. He extended credit to those who had recently arrived, and especially during the grasshopper ravages did he make it possible for many of the pioneers to stay here, by giving some work, by standing good for their accounts at the stores, and by furnishing them witli seed. Aside from such material aid, he was always ready with a word of cheer and encouragement, and no one ever met him without feeling the better for having met him. He served in a number of offices, but his greatest pride was in his farm, and he did not seek political life. He died April 15, 1890, ripe in good deeds, wisdom and honor, and the influence of his noble nature still remains. His wife, who ably seconded him in all his efforts, was Keziah Leeper, to whom he was married in La Grange county, Indiana, April 14, 1851. She was boi-n in that county, August 12, 1830, and died April 21, 1879.

George W. Burrows, Buffalo lumberman, now deceased, had a most important part in the upbuilding of the commercial prosperity, and in dying left the community the rich heritage of an unsullied name. He was born at Wyocena, Columbia county, Wisconsin, June 9, 1855, son of Henry D. and Emily H. (Britt) Burrows. This worthy couple were born in New York state and were there married, in 1853. Shortly afterward they came west and settled in Wyocena, Columbia county, where they secured 280 acres of land. Henry D. Burrows became a prominent man, served on the official board of his township, and was a village officer of Wyocena. He died in Buffalo, Minn., in 1900, at the age of sixty-eight. His wife is still living in Buffalo, having attained the good old age of eighty-two years. In the family there were four children, George W., Homer, John and Edith (deceased). George W. Burrows was educated in the schools of his native county, and devoted his early life to farming. He began his commercial career in 1880 by locating in Wadena, Minn., where for some two or three years he devoted his attention to grain buying. Mr. Burrows was married December 11, 1883, to Lillian M. Morrison, at Wadena, Minn. Mrs. Burrows is the daughter of D. R. Morrison, one of Minnesota's pioneer settlers, who came from New York state and located near Owatonna, Minn., in the early fifties. He was a veteran of the Civil war, and a prominent man in his township. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Burrows resided in Wyocena, Wis., for three years. In the fall of 1886, they came to Buffalo, and in partnership with George C. Carpenter, Mr. Burrows establislied the Burrows & Carpenter Lumber Company. They received the first two car loads of freight shipped into Buffalo, over the Sault Ste. Marie, and still retain as a memento, way freight bills Nos. 1 and 2. In 1896, the firm dissolved partnership, Mr. Carpenter going into politics and becoming state senator, and Mr. Burrows remaining as sole proprietor. He established and carried on a large and successful business, having lumber interests not only in Buffalo, but also in Wisconsin for over twenty years. Mr. and Mrs. Burrows have two children. Myrtle Maude and Byron Chanue. Their daughter. Miss Burrows, is a graduate of the Johnson Conservatory of Music at Minneapolis, and is an accomplished musician. She has been a very successful teacher for the past tliree years. Byron C. is one of the leading young business men of Buffalo. He was manager of his father's lumber business two years previous to his death, and has since conducted it in a most able manner. After passing through the graded schools, he attended the Buffalo High School one year and St. John's LTniver- sity, at Collegeville, this state, one year. September 17, 1913, he married Marie Reinshardt, daughter of ilr. and Mrs. William Remshardt, of Red Wing, Minn. Mr. Burrows is a member of Buffalo Lodge No. 141, I. 0. 0. F. Mr. and Mrs. George Burrows occupied a position of much trust and respect. Mrs. Burrows has served on the board of education for the past six years, having the honor of being elected president of that organization five years in succession. She was also president of the Ladies' Historical Club for three years, and a member of the Library Board. Mr. Burrows was leader of the Buffalo Cornet band for a number of years, and also took an active part in many home talent entertainments. Standing as he did in the community, it was natural that he should be called to serve three years as city recorder and two years as mayor. It was through his untiring efforts that the electric light plant was installed during his administration. His residence in Buffalo is one of the most sightly and best located homes in the city. Mr. Burrows was a great lover of music, of his home life, and of Buffalo. He died May 19, 1914, and his death was sincerely mourned.

Swan E. Bratt, a prosperous contractor and carpenter of Buffalo, was born in Sweden, June 3, 1862, a son of Bi-ick Erickson and Christina Larson, who spent the span of their years in the old country. Erick Erickson was a builder, and erected many of the dwellings in his native town. He was twice married. By his first wife he had two children, Erick and Peter, and by his second wife, three children, Carrie, Stena and Swan E. Swan E. was the only one of the family to come to America. He was reared in his native land, thoroughly learned the building trades from his father, and in 1886 came to Buffalo, where he has since resided. Times were hard and at first it was almost impossible for him to get work in the building line. In fact, it was nearly two years before he got started. But after he secured his first work, his rise was rapid. He is a thorough master of the building trades, being a general mechanic, woodworker and finisher. When he takes a contract for a house he starts with a hole in the ground, and turns the house over to the owner ready for occupancy. He has erected some of the best buildings in Buffalo and hundreds of more throughout the county. The buildings occupied by the Nelson hardware store, the Sternberg general store, the Rettke confectionery and jewelry store, the Ellis hardware store, the Fryburg general store, the Berkland store and the Smidt store all stand as monuments to his building ability and fidelity. He did the carpenter work on the postoffice building at Buffalo and erected the Montrose Farmers' Co-Operative Store. He erected and at one time owned the Lamson, Lingberg, Schmidt and Almes residences. Among other dwellings built by him may be mentioned those of the Messrs. Saiders,

Dahlstrom, Kirkpatriek, Adams, Nelson, Frisk, Viekstrum, Berqiiist, Sudines, Rettke, Templeans, Norman, Lingstrum, Grant, Peterson, Anderson, Swenson, Dickson, Illstrup, Westphal, Sunt, A. Nordberg, A. G. Nordberg, McCullongh and many others. The Methodist and Presbyterian parsonages and the Free Mission Church, of Buffalo, are also his work. Mr. Bratt was married in 1893 to Mary Olson, born in Sweden, March 12, 1861, daughter of Olof and Gertrude (Larson) Olson. Mr. and Mrs. Bratt have five children, Erick Hiram (deceased), Walter, Harold, Clarence and Leonard. Olof Olson died in Sweden, leaving a widow and three children, Walberg, Christine and Mary. The widow married John Erickson, who brought the family to Buffalo in 1868. He died here, but she is still living at the good old age of eightyfour, and lives with Mr. Bratt. The family are members of Swedish Mission Church, of which Mr. Bratt is one of the trustees. Mr. Bratt has a vei-y beautiful home, which he built in 1902, with all modern conveniences, and a large sloping lawn with a fine evergreen hedge, overlooking Buffalo Lake.

John H. Beutner, proprietor of the Owl Drag Store at Buffalo, is one of the leading business men of the city. His selection of this place as a location showed his strong faith in its future, and that faith has been more than justified. John Beutner was born in Winona, Minn., February 27, 1878, son of Peter and Bertha (Klyce) Beutner. Peter Beutner was by trade a painter and decorator. He was born in Wisconsin, and there married Bertha Klyce, a native of the same state. In the seventies they located in Winona, where he died in 1914 at the age of fifty-nine years, and where she still resides. The children in the family were : John, Henry, Romey, Etta, Philip, Lillian and Herbert. John, the oldest of this family, was educated in the graded and high schools of Winona. After graduating from the latter institution, he entered the drug store of J. W. Lauer, in that city, and worked for three years. Then he entered the School of Pharmacy in Minneapolis, graduating in 1896. With this preparation, he returned to Winona and entered the employ of Frank Pittman, wholesale chemist. Four years later he went to Minneapolis, and for five years was in the prescription department of T. K. Gray & Co., wholesale and retail druggists. During all of these years he kept in mind his resolve to enter in business for himself, and at last the opportunity was presented. He had heard much of Wright county, and decided that Buffalo was a coming business center. Accordingly he came here in 1907 and opened a drug store which he named "The Owl." His success was assured from the very start. His stock is large and well-selected, and consists of drugs, eheniieals and medicines of the best and purest nature, stationery, cigars, toilet articles, temperance drinks and novelties. He is a registered pharmacist, and prescriptions are compounded with the greatest care and accuracy. The store is housed in a sightly, sanitaiy, light and airy structure, most admirably adapted to its purpose. The neat soda fountain does a large business. Aside from being skilled in his profession and a good business man, Mr. Beutner is a most pleasant and affable gentleman, and a general favorite among his friends. He is one of those men who have "made good," and his success is well deserved. Mr. Beutner is a member of the I. 0. 0. F., the M. W. A. and the Buffalo Commercial Club. Mr. Beutner was married September 20, 1900, to Mamie Myrtle Mulford, of Winona, daughter of Charles and Emma Colviu. There are three children in the family, Harry, Rayburn and Marjorie. Mrs. Beutner is a member of the Buffalo Lodge of Rebekahs. Her father, Charles Colvin, is a druggist in Portland, Ore.

Frank Bannochie, the popular and genial proprietor of the Lake Pulaski House, on the shores of beautiful Lake Pulaski, was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, March 19, 1863, son of Alexander and Agnes (Smith) Bannochie. Alexander Bannochie was a cattle buyer in Scotland. He was the father of eight children, Frank, Alexander, Jr., William, Agnes, Elizabeth, Alice, Nellie and Mary. Frank Bannochie was reared in his native land, and there received a good education and a good business training. His four years apprenticeship was spent in a wholesale drygoods house in Aberdeen, Scotland. In 1882 he came to America, having been sent to Providence, R. I., as a representative of a Scottish drygoods syndicate. A year later he engaged with a similar concern in Buffalo, N. Y., and still another year later he became buyer for the John Taylor Dry Goods Company, Kansas City, Mo. In 1885 he returned to the land of his birth, and there married Helen Finley Thompson, a native of Scotland, daughter of James and Hannah (Kennedy) Thompson. Then he returned to Providence, R. I., and was thi-ee months with the Scotch house of David Ilarley, dealer in ilrygoods. Then for two years and three months he was with William Donaldson, of the Glass block, Minneapolis. Subsequently, after two years with M. B. Faulconer, of Omaha, Neb., he was with the Minneapolis Dry Goods Company until 1893, having entire charge of their furniture de^ partment. Then for six years he was liead decorator and draper for Field, Slick & Co., of St. Paul. April 6, 1900, he came to Lake Pulaski and purchased Ween Olson's summer home and four and a half acres of land for the purpose of creating an ideal summer resort. Bannochie 's resort is one of the most popular in the Northwest. Beautifully situated on the banks of a crystal lake, in the midst of a spreading grove, with the best of roads stretching in every direction, the place has advantages which keep it crowded with guests throughout the summer season, and also brings them at other seasons of the year. The main building is the Pulaski House, 25 by 42 feet, with a 22-foot addition, fitted in bungalow style. The rooms are all cool and comfortable and well furnished, while the dining room is constantly swept by the cool and refreshing air from the lake. Aside from the main hotel there are seven comfortable cottages where guests are accommodated. There is also a houseboat, fifteen rowboats, a large launch, several sailboats, and in the winter some excellent iceboats. The large wharf gives opportunity for diving and other aquatic feats, while the sandy beach adds greatly to the enjoyment of bathing. The large dancing pavilion has a stage for the giving of small plays and vaudeville entertainment, and the management furnishes a five-piece orchestra for the dances. A large steel fireproof vault provides shelter for automobiles, and a bowling alley provides indoor athletic recreation. The food served at the place is excellent, the vegetables being raised on the place, and the milk being obtained from the owner's private dairy. An electric light plant makes it possible to furnish illumination at all hours desired, and the flowing well furnishes as good water as can be found in the state. The lake is probably as clear a one as any in Minnesota. It has a sandy bottom, and being fed entirely by springs, the water is at all times wholesome and sparkling. It has been extensively stocked with game fish ; no obnoxious fish are found here, and as Mr. Bannochie has been made special game warden, he is enabled to prevent violations of the law in the way of the destruction of the fish out of season. The lake has a beautiful shore line of seven miles; it is about two and a quarter miles across, and in the deepest place about 300 feet deep. It also connects with Little Pulaski lake, which covers about eighty acres. A lover of animals, Mr. Bannochie is an extensive breeder and importer of pure-blooded Scotch collie dogs, and has acted as judge at many bench shows. An affable, pleasant gentleman, and a believer in good-fellowship, Mr. Bannochie is a charter member of the Maccabees at St. Paid, and a member of the Elks at St. Cloiul, as well as several fraternal insurance orders. Mr. Bannochie and his wife have had four children. Two are dead. James Norville lives in St. Paul. He married Beronica Zahler, of St. Michael, and has a daughter, Helen. Helen, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bannochie "s only living daughter, is the wife of Joseph Metzgar. of St. Paul.

John Julius Johnson, owner and i)roprietor of the Buft'alo Flour Mills, Buffalo, was born in Carver county, March 11, 1871, son of John Henry and Mary (Bankson) .Johnson, natives of Sweden. John Hein\v Johnson was a skilled workman, a millwright by trade, and a general mechanic of much ability. He came to America at about the age of twenty, and secured varied employments. For a time he operated a sawmill at Muskegon, Mich. From there he came to Carver comity, Minnesota, where he operated a sawmill for many years. In the meantime he erected many flour mills, including those at Le Sueur, Belleplaine, Cokato, Delano, Paynesville antl Buffalo, in Minnesota, and Calamine, in Wisconsin. John Julius Johnson was educated at Belleplaine, in Carver county, this state, and early took up the milling business with his father on the home farm. This mill was twice burned, but was each time rebuilt. In 1895, when his father, John Henry, erected the mill at Buffalo, John Julius Johnson and a partner, August Meline, took charge of the mill and operated it until 1903, when Mr. Johnson bought out his partner and has since continued in business alone. He has made the Buffalo Flour Mills widely known for the excellence of their product. The mill itself is a substantial structure 36 by 52 feet, three stories high with a basement. The boiler and engine room is 36 by 36 feet. The warehouse is 30 by 30 feet, one story with a basement. The establishment has a capacity of about ninety barrels daily. The principal product is the "White Lily Brand" flour, but the mill also turns out rye and graham flour and breakfast food. The venture has been a successful one in every particular, and Mr. Johnson is one of the leading men in the community. Mr. Johnson married Hannah Jackson, of Cokato, daughter of Herman Jackson, an old settler of Wright county. Their children are: Raymond C, Edgar J. (died at four years of age), Harold, Julius Willard, Lloyd Emerson and Alvina, all at home. The family faith is that of the Lutheran church. Mr. Johnson is a member of the Woodmen.

Harry Ludwig Jensen, an estimable citizen of Wright county, now living a retired life in lUift'alo, was born in Sweden, April 1, 1845, son of John and Sophia (Nicholas) Jensen, who spent the span of their years in the old country. John Jensen was a man of high standing in his community, being a clergyman of the Lutheran faith. In the family there were four children, Ernest, Hilda, Esther and Harry Ludwig. Harry Ludwig was the oldest of this family. He was reared in Sweden, and in 1868 came to Cook county, Illinois, and took up farming. In 1883 he and his wife came to Wright county and secured 160 acres of land in Rockford township. There he farmed until 1904, when he retired and moved to Buffalo, where he still carries on farming on a small scale. The son of a pastor, it is natural that he should have taken an active part in the Lutheran churcli ; and being a man of ability, the people have availed themselves of his services as supervisor of Rockford township and as clerk of the school board of his district. Mr. Jensen was married in Cook county, Illinois, July 2, 1879, to Sarah Bennett, born in Wisconsin, the daughter of Caleb Bennett. She died in March, 1889, at the age of forty two, leaving two children, Lilly and Leah. Esther and Ella May are dead. Mr. Jensen married the second time in October, 1889,

Arthur J. Kelly, D. D. S., Buffalo, is one of the rising young professional men of Minnesota, and comes of one of the early pioneer families of the southern part of the state. He was born in Yucatan township, Houston county, December 13, 1889, on the farm of his father, and the homestead of his grandfather. The founder of the family in America was James Kelly, Sr. He was born in Scotland, but was of Scotch-Irish descent. His wife, Charlotte Carson, was a native of Scotland, a descendant of one of the substantial lowland families. The young couple came to America and took up their home in what was then the little handet of Chatfield, lying on the border between Olmsted and Fillmore counties. Here James Kelly, Sr., followed his trade as a carpenter, erecting many of the pioneer homes in that village. From Chatfield they moved to Yucatan township, in Houston county, and took a homestead. They built a log cabin, and experienced all the privations of pioneer life. The nearest neighbors were miles away, provisions were scarce and the country wild. The ground had to be broken and the wilderness subdued. But with the years they prospered and became leading and substantial citizens. Sightly buildings replaced the old log cabin, and the farm was as well developed as any in the neighborhood. James Kelly, who was designed to serve an important part in the political life of southeastern Minnesota, was born in Chatfield. He was reared on the home farm, attended the district schools, and devoted his life to agricultural pursuits. He early won the confidence of his community by his honesty and ability, and he was elected to numerous school and township offices. In the fall of 1888 he was pursuaded to run for a seat in the lower house of the Minnesota legislature. He was elected, and in January, 1889, took his seat. In the legislature he was a conspicuous figure. He easily won friends, and early in the session it was apparent that he was a force to be reckoned with. He served on important committees, and did most efficient work for his constituents and for the state. In 1890 his district elected him to a seat in the state senate, and here his influence and importance increased. After the expiration of his term of office he retired to the farm, where he still lives. He married Ellen Kelly, a native of Houston county, daughter of John and Mary (Conley) Kelly. Their children are : PVances M., Arthur J., Charlotte 1., Joseph J. and Mary V. Arthur J. Kelly was the second in the family. He was reared on the home farm, and acquired a good education in the district schools. His parents encouraged him in his determination to enter upon a professional career, and with this purpose in view he entered St. Thomas College, at St. Paul, where he made an excellent record. In 1909 he entered the dental college of the University of Minnesota, from -which he was graduated in 1912. While at college he was a member of the Delta Sigma Delta. Upon obtaining his degree he came to Buffalo, where he opened his oiifices. His success was assured from the start. A thorough master of his profession, and a pleasant and affable gentleman, he makes friends of all with whom he comes in contact, and his rapidly increasing practice embraces not only the village and its environs, but also the countrj'side for many miles in every direction. He has taken liis part in the life of the community, has won the esteem and companionship of the leading men of the county, and is in every way a desirable citizen. His offices contain tlie most modern appliances, and are beautifully furnished as well as completely equipped.

Dr. Kelly was married April 15, 1915, to Margaret D. Hill, who was born in Winnebago, Wis., .hnie 1, 1890, was brought to ilinneapolis in August, 1890, attended the graded schools, graduated from the East High school in 1909, and from the College of Science, Literature and Arts, University of Minnesota, in 1913. Her father, George E. Hill, was born in Michigan in 1851 of Welsh ancestry and was a mechanical engineer. He was married in Oshkosh, Wis., in 1878, came to Minneapolis in 1890, and died in 1898. His wife, Mary (Neary) Hill, was born in Neenah, Wis., in 1860, and now makes her liome in Minneapolis.

Austin Knight, for many years a well-known tigure in Wright county life, was born in Canada, May 24, 1839, and died at Minnehaha in 1903. He received his education in Canada, and in 1856 came to the United States with his brother John. They located near Minneapolis and engaged in teaming. Later Austin Knight was a stage driver, carrying mail and passengers, in succeeding years, from Minneapolis to Wayzetta, from Wayzetta to Watertown, and from Delano to Rockford. The roads were bad, four horses were often required to make a short trip, and sometimes horses and stage were piled together in some swampy hole, from which they were with difficulty rescued. It was about 1867 when Mr. Knight first settled in Wright county, coming from Wayzetta and taking up his residence in Rockford. While living in Rockford he operated a sawmill at Howard Lake. In 18 - he came to Buffalo, and with his brother-in-law, Orlando Bushnell, operated a sawmill near the site of the present creamery. A stave department was added, and Richard Knight became a partner. About a year later, Austin Knight and Orlando Bushnell sold out, and Austin Knight opened a livery stable at Howard Lake. A year and a half afterward, however, he returned to Buffalo and purchased the Winsor Hotel and livery barn. Several years later he sold the hotel but kept the stables. Subsequently, however, he sold the stables and retired. During all these years he had been handicapped by poor health. On August

20, 1862, he had enlisted in Company D, 9th Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and had served until mustered out as a corporal, June 9, 1865, and in this service he contracted disabilities that made him more or less of an invalid all his days. In his latter years his health became more and more feeble, and he died in the hospital of the Solders' Home at Minnehaha Falls. Mr. Knight was married July 9, 1866, to Elizabeth Buslmell, born in Beaverton, 111., September 30, 1839, daughter of Orlando and Abigail (Coe) Bushnell. Five children blessed their tuiion : Helen, now Mrs. W. D. Secombe, of Minneapolis ; Archie A. ; Corinne E., of Minneapolis ; Sarah, now of Minneapolis, and formerly for seven years a teacher at Manila, in the Philippines; and John Harold. Mrs. Knight is a charming lady of many accomplishments, and is prominent in churcli, society and charitable work. Her beautiful home overlooking Buffalo lake is noted for its hospitality and good cheer.

Orlando H. Bushnell, who was for many years connected with the official life of Wriglit county, was born in Illinois, November 27, 1844, son of Orlando and Abigail (Coe) Bushnell, who were born, reared and married in Hartland, Conn., then lived successively in New York and Ohio, and ended their days in Illinois. They were pioneers in Illinois, and often traveled to Chicago, then a small town fifty miles away, after supplies. Orlando H. came to Roekford in the spring of 1859 and engaged in farming and lumbering. In 1862 he enlisted in Company B, 6th Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and served until mustered out, August 19, 1865. He then returned to Roekford, and lived there until 1872, when he located in Buffalo, where he was engaged in the lumber, sawmill and stave business, with Austin and Richard Knight. He was prominent in public life and served as county commissioner, as well as assisting his township in the offices of town treasurer and town assessor, and his village as mayor. Always active in matters for improvement of the community, a friend to all in need, he was trusted and esteemed by all who knew him. In 1898 he moved to Utah, where he engaged in the lumber business and operated a small fruit farm. From there, in 1903, he went to Idaho, where he bought a ranch and planted an orchard. A few years later he moved to Eagle, Idaho, where he died January 14, 1911. Mr. Bushnell was married in 1872 to Ella Ackley, daughter of Amassa Aekley, who platted the village of Buffalo. She died in November, 1912. They had two daughters, Mary and Elizabeth. Mary is the wife of Charles Judson, of Eagle, Idaho. Elizabeth also resides in Eagle, Idaho.

Frank B. Lamson, for many years a prominent figure in the official life of Wright county, was born at Mt. Carmel, Conn., October 14, 1867, son of Levi and Adelaide (Bailey) Lamson, of Colonial ancestry, and of Scotch, English and Dutch extraction. Levi Lamson was a department foreman of the Lamson & Sessions

Frank B. Lamson

Bolt Company, of Mt. Carmel, Conn. He i-emained in the East until 1886, when he came to Minnesota and located in Minneapolis, where he still resides. Frank B. Lanison was left motherless in infancy, and was reared by his maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred A. Bailey, with whom he moved to Sherwood, in Calumet county, Wisconsin, at the age of two years. There he saw something of pioneer life on a farm. When he was thirteen years old he started out for himself by finding a place where he could work for his board while attending the Appletou (Wis.) high school. At the age of seventeen he left school to assume the support of his grandparents. They removed to Dassel, in Meeker county, where Mr. Lamson became a teacher, a profession he subsequently followed in Meeker, McLeod, Chisago and Wright counties. In 1891 he became principal of the schools at Cokato, in this county. In 1889 he purchased the Cokato "Observer," which he edited and published for two years. While in Cokato he served as village recorder and as justice of the peace. In 1892 he was nominated by the Republican party as candidate for county auditor, was elected by a plurality of 169 votes, and in 1894 was reelected by a plurality of 1,563 votes. In September, 1897, he established the Buffalo "Standard," a weekly publication. The first number was issued September 8, 1897. The last issue was published April 25, 1900. Then it was sold to H. S. Saylor, and merged with the Buffalo "Journal." In the fall of 1896 Mr. Lamson took an active part in the political fight in the Sixth Congressional district between Page Morris, Republican, and Charles A. Towne, Democrat. In recognition of his services he was appointed postmaster at Buffalo, a position he filled from October 4, 1897, to July 1, 1910. In the campaign of 1910, Mr. Lamson was one of the speakers in the field for the Minnesota Anti-Saloon League, and as such delivered addresses in support of the campaign of Rudolph Lee (son of William B. Lee, candidate for governor in 1914) for state senator from the district comprising Todd, Wadena and Hubbard counties. Mr. Lamson also campaigned in Wright county, and did field work in Houston and Washington counties. At the conclusion of the campaign he accepted the secretaryship of the Minnesota Progressive Republican League, and had charge of the work leading up to the first convention held in this state for the purpose of organizing the progressive element in the Republican party. He represented the organization before the legislature of 1911, and resigned at the close of the session. In July, 1911, he accepted the position of deputy auditor of Wright county. He is also a member of the Buffalo board of education. The Presbyterian chui'ch claims his religious alliance, and for some years he was a member of the official board of that organization. Fraternally he is also active, and has passed through the chairs in local lodges of the

Odd Fellows and the United Workmen, namely, Buffalo Lodge, No. 141, I. 0. 0. F., and Buffalo Lodge, No. 184, A. 0. U. W. Mr. Larason is the compiler of the Lamsou Geneology, covering the period from 1635 to 1908. In preparing this work, Mr. Lamson visited many historic points in New England, including the place of his birth in Connecticut. Mr. Lamson was married, January 1, 1890, to Anna S. Nordine, born in the Province of Wermland, Sweden, April 24, 1867, daughter of Andrew and Agnes (Lind) Nordine, who brought her to America as an infant, and located first at Carver, in Carver county, Minnesota, and later in Dassel, in Meeker County, Minnesota, where her mother still resides, her father having passed away some years ago. Mrs. Lamson is au artist of more than usiial ability. Mr. and Mrs. Lamson have three children : Frank Vernon, born June 28, 1899 ; Ruth Marion, born March 24, 1906 ; and Edmond Herbert, born November 21, 1908.

Henry Varner, pioneer, a i-etired farmer now residing in Buffalo, was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, November 16, 1831, a son of John and Mary (Bitts) Varner, both natives of Pennsylvania, where they spent the span of their years as farmers. The Varner family in Pennsylvania dates back to the Revolutionary war, and the direct ancestors at one time carried on farming operations on the present site of Oil City. John and Mary Varner had twelve children: Solomon, Levi, Jacob, Daniel, William, Henry, .John, Jr., David, Susan, Polly, Katie and Lafayette. Of these, Solomon, Jacob, Henry, John, Jr., and Lafayette came to Wright county. The first to come were Henry and Jacob. They arrived in 1856. From St. Paul they walked to Monticello, where they erected a house and resided a year. In 1858 they each secured a homestead of 160 acres in Buffalo township. The land was wild, and no roads led past their claims. They erected a shack of poles, and started to prepare the land for farming. As time passed they purchased a yoke of oxen from traders passing on the old Red River trail. This is said to have been the first pair of oxen in the township. The two brothers lived alone until 1860, when Henry, on one of his frequent trips to Pennsylvania, married, and thus secured a mistress for his home. Henry Varner did not leave his claim during the Indian scare, but remained to defend his place. No Indians appeared. During the early years of their married life Henry Varner and his wife spent part of their time farming in the oil regions of Pennsylvania, alternating their work there with visits to the claim in Buffalo. In 1866 they located permanently on their claim and there resided forty-five years. He erected good buildings, made a success of farming, and did considerable dealing in real estate. For thirty years he operated a threshing machine. The respect in which he was held by his fellow citizens is shown by the fact that he served a miinber of years as chairman of tlie town board. In the kite nineties he retired and moved to the village of Buti'alo. Henry Varner, when a young man, owned and operated two coal mines in Pennsylvania. He sold one before coming to Minnesota and disposed of the other afterwards. He was married October 3, 1S60, to Anna Korb, born in Venango county, Pennsylvania, February 20, 1841, daughter of Adam and Mary Korb, natives of Germany. Adam Korb was a tailor and farmer. By his first wife, Mary, he had five children, and by her sister, his second wife, he had thii'teen children. Henry Varner and his wife had eleven children, all of whom are married. Mary is now Mrs. Bruce Mills, of Buffalo, and has five children. Amanda is now Mrs. Levi Elletson, and has nine children. Harriet is now Mrs. William Korb, and has five children. John married Reka Wetzig. Henry married Minnie Moss. They have five children. Ruben married Jennie Keefe. Adam married Emma Bectel. They have five children. George married Christine Bectel. They have six children. Milbrey married Lena Moss. They have four children. Archibald married Lulu Retzlaf. Nettie is now Mrs. Walter Sehwietering and has two children. This makes forty grandchildren - and there are thirteen living great grandchildren. Henry Elletson, grandson of Henry Varner and son of Amanda Elletson, became the father of triplets and twins. The triplets all died, but the twins are living. In 1910 Mr. and Mrs. Varner celebrated their golden wedding anniversary. The health of the Varner family is worthy of note. Mr. Varner is a man of the most robust constitution, and has never found it necessary to consult a physician. Several of his children, also, have never been attended by a physician. The grandchildren also inherit the same robust constitution. Mrs. Varner died May 16, 1914.

Paul Liederbach, Buffalo, extensive automobile dealer, was born on the old homestead in Rockford township, this county, February 26, 1875, son of Henry Liederbach, Sr., the pioneer. He was educated in the district schools of his neighborhood and in the graded schools of Minneapolis, after which he learned the carpenter's trade. He also became an expert operator of gas, gasoline and steam engines. Combining the two occupations of engineer and carpenter, he received extensive experience in North and South Dakota, Minnesota and Illinois. After this he was employed as a machinist and general repair man in Minneapolis. In 1913 he opened his present large place in Buffalo. Selecting a desirable location on the lake front, he erected a splendid garage, 36 by 70 feet, with a cement floor, and modern equipment. Aside from doing a large repair, storage and rental business, he has the agency for the Reo passenger cars and trucks and the Metz passenger ear. Mr. Liederbach still keeps his 120- acre farm in Rockford township, which he rents. He was married

August 126, 1902, to Josie McCardell, daughter of William Mc- Cardell, and they have one son, Menzo Marvin, born September 21, 1903. The family attend the Christian church.

William McCardell, for ovei- thirty years a resident of Wright county, now deceased, was born in what is now Pleasants county, West Virginia, January 11, 1846. When the people of western Virginia failed to follow that state into the Confederacy, and a new state, called West Virginia, was organized, Mr. McCardell joined the home guards and was commissioned second lieutenant in one of the companies of the Ninth Regiment, Second Brigade, First Division, West Virginia militia. In 1881, being then a young man of thirty-five, he brought his family to Wright county. He took up his residence in Montrose Village, and there lived until 1904, when he moved to Dickinson, Minn., and engaged in the general merchandise business until 1913, when he returned to Montrose. His life was an active and useful one, and his death, April 1, 1914, was sincerely mourned. Mr. McCardell was a sincere Christian, a whole-souled, honorable man who gave out brightness and good fellowship and brightened all the lives with which he came in contact. He was a noble husband, a kind father and a good neighbor. Mr. McCardell was married in 1874, at Shiloh, W. Va., to Emma J. Core. This union was blessed with three children, Cynthia, Effie and Josie. Cynthia is the wife of Robert Pryor, of Redwood Palls, Minn. Josie is the wife of Paul Liederbach, of Buffalo, Minn. Effie is dead.

George C. Carpenter is one of Wright county's most distinguished citizens. Widely known throughout the state, his ability, worth and genial temperament have won him extended recognition and a large circle of friends. As sheriff, business man, state senator and lumberman he has had his share in the progress of the state, and his loyalty and efficiency have demonstrated that he is more than worthy of the many honors which have been showered upon him. A self-made man, who as a boy encountered difficulties and discouragements, he is ever ready to lend a helping hand to all those who are in need of advice, assistance or cheer, and his opinions upon all subjects are accorded respect and consideration. George C. Carpenter was born in Columbia county, Wisconsin, March 22, 1855, son of Amsa and Ophelonia (Bushnell) Carpenter. Amsa was a man of some prominence in his community and served in a Wisconsin regiment during the Civil war. He was born in Wisconsin. His father, John Carpenter, came from near Syracuse, N. Y. Amsa Carpenter and his good wife had four children, Edward, George C, Charles and Lasira. George C. was next to the oldest child. At the age of eight years he lost his mother, and he was bound out by his father to the family of Hiram W. Roblier. In 1864, when twenty years of age, Mr. Carpenter came to Minnesota, worked on farms and taught school in Dodge county. Subsequently he attended Waylaud College at Beaver Dam, Wis., two years. Then he was in the mail service four years. It was in 1886 that he located in Buit'alo. With George W. Burrows as a partner, he engaged in the lumber business until late in 1892, when he was elected sheriff of Wright county. He served until the close of 1896. Sheriff Carpenter was a good officer, and under his capable direction law and order were admirably maintained. When he retired from otSee he opened a drygoods and clothing store, which he still successfully conducts. In the fall of 1906 he was elected to the state senate, the position in which he served until January 1, 1915. He had been an influential member of that body and has attracted much favorable attention to the county. He has been a member of the Republican county and congressional committees, and of both of these he has been chairman. He served on the village board for several years and was village president for one term. Throughout his active service in Buft'alo he has been a prominent Republican, has served on various committees, and has been a delegate to many conventions. He is a member of the Odd Fellows, the Rebekahs and the Workmen at Buft'alo, and of the Elks at St. Cloud. Combining as he does true dignity and worth with a genial, affable disposition and a whimsical sense of humor, he is a welcome addition to any group of people, and his social connections are far extended. Robust and hearty of health. Senator Carpenter has made a hobby of outdoor life. He is fond of hunting and fishing and has done much toward the preservation of fish and game in Minnesota. Mr. Carpenter married Mayme Jones, of Wisconsin, who has been an able helpmate in all his undertakings. She is well known in social circles and is a member of the Rebekahs aiul the Chautauqua Club and prominent in church work. They have four children : Alice, Keith, Zella and Clara.

Emil T. Schmidt, druggist, proprietor of the Schmidt Pharmacy, is one of the most prominent business men of Buffalo. He is of the type that is knovra as a "booster" and he favors every move that has for its object the forward progress of Buffalo or Wright county. A native of this county, he was born on his father's homestead in Buffalo township, September 9, 1878, son of Traugott Schmidt, who is appropriately mentioned elsewhere in this work. Emil T. was reared on the farm, and like other boys of his neighborhood attended the ungraded district schools. Then he entered the Buffalo high school, where he made most commendable progress as a scholar. Thus prepared, he entered the College of Pharmacy of the University of Minnesota, from which he graduated in 1900. A short time later he entered the employ of the Schimmin Drug Company, of Buffalo. In 1904 he bought the establishment and gave it his own name. He carried a complete line of drugs, medicines, chemicals, stationery and novelties. He has a splendid ice cream fountain and enjoys a large trade. As a compounder of prescriptions he has few equals in the county. Aside from operating his store, Mr. Schmidt has taken the agency for the P^ord automobile for this vicinity, and handles a full line of machines and accessories. Mr. Schmidt's abilities have commended themselves to his fellow citizens, and since 1908 he has served on the city council. He is a member of the Blue Lodge, Chapter and Eastern Star of the Masonic order, and his wife is also a member of the Eastern Star. He has taken a particular interest in the Buffalo Commercial Club. Mr. Schmidt was married September 12, 1906, to Alice Wheeler, of Mankato, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew J. Wheeler.

William Verse, the pioneer, was born in Chenango county. New York, October 14. 1808, son of Henry Vorse, who served as a private in the Revolutionary war under Colonel Burgess. William Vorse was reared in his native state, and as a young man found his way westward to Ohio, where he married Lois M. Hart, a daughter of Randall Wentlield Hart, who had come into the western country from Massachusetts. It was in 1855 that the Vorse family left McHenry county, Illinois, and started for Minnesota. They made the trip overland to Galena, there took a steamer for St. Paul, and then came as far as the Boyanton stage house across the Mississippi river from Clearwater, by stage. From that point they were ferried across the river by the Winnebago Indians, and joined the family of A. M. Dow, who had previously located there. They at once erected a log cabin on a squatter claim in Clearwater township, and started to establish their home in the wilderness. In 1862 they moved to the village of Clearwater, where William Vorse died in November, 1883, at the age of seventy-five and his wife in the spring of 1869 at the age of fifty-six. Mr. Vorse was a member of the Masonic lodge at Clearwater.

Charles H. Vorse, one of the best known men in the county, was born in Garden Valley, McHenry county, Illinois, March 22, 1846, son of William and Lois (Hart) Vorse, the pioneers, who in 1855 brought him to Clearwater township in this county. As a young boy Mr. Vorse attended what was, perhaps, the first school taught in Wright county. This school was held in the summer of 1856 on the Big Bend of the Mississippi river, some three miles below the village of Clearwater. The schoolhouse consisted of a sloping roof of brush and leaves, held up by a pole placed across two crotched sticks. When a hard rain fell, this roof was but little protection. The books used were such as the children happened to have at home. The teacher, Mrs. Ellen Kent, was paid by a subscription taken among the parents. Among the pupils were Charles H. Vorse; Anna, Zell and Mannville Markham,

Cyrus and Fred Thrall, George Oakes and Maria Boyantou. At the age of sixteen, in 1862, he enlisted in Company E, Eighth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, under Captain Edward Hartley. He served on the frontier against the Sioux Indians, under Genei-al SuUey, and afterward went south and saw service with the Army of the Ohio in the Twenty-third Army Corps. He took part in the Battle of the Cedars and the Battle of British Cross- I'oads, as well as in many minor engagements and skirmishes. After three years of service he was mustered out at Charlotte, N. C, July, 1865. Then he returned to his home and attended school for three months, for although a seasoned war veteran he was not as yet twenty years of age. His schooling completed, he learned the trade of wheelwright from his father and followed this occupation for several years. About 1883 he became proprietor of the Morrison House, at Clearwater, then one of the best hotels northwest of Minneapolis and St. Paul. In 1884 he went to Delano. After conducting the Danforth and Brown hotels there he was in 1889 appointed postmaster under President Benjamin Harrison and served until 1895. Then in 1897 he was appointed clerk of court of the Fourth Judicial District for Wright county. He succeeded himself by election, and served until the close of 1903. Since retiring from office he has retained his home in Buffalo and has devoted his attention to the fire insurance business. Having the progress of the village at heart, he has done good service as a member of the village council. He is now a justice of the peace and the court commissioner. Mr. Vorse became a Mason at Clearwater in 1867 and is now a member of the Nelson lodge of Buffalo. At one time he was an Odd Fellow. He is an active member of John Cochrain Post, G. A. R., of Buffalo. Mr. Vorse was married December 24, 1872, to Mai'y Ella Bogenrief, of Clearwater, and they have had three children, Lois, Nellie and Vivian. Lois married J. W. McDonald, of Minneapolis, and they have one son, Russell. Nellie married Charles Carmen, of North Dakota, and they have a son, Ralph. Vivian is a teacher at Glenwood, Minn. She is a graduate of the St. Cloud State Normal.

John N. Olson, proprietor of a popular summer resort on Olson's Point, Buffalo lake, is familiarly known as "Johnny Olson" to all the leading outdoor sportsmen of the Northwest. He has achieved success in life and has done much to advertise Wright county as an ideal place in which to spend a vacation. He was born in Sweden, August 2, 1862, son of Olaf Nelson and Mai-y Storfall, who brought the family to Goodhue county, this state, in 1868, and in 1869 secured a homestead in Renville township, Renville county. They underwent many severe experiences as pioneers. During the hard winter of 1870-71, the cabin was completely covered with snow, so that they were unable to get out of the house for thi-ee days. Then they had egress only by tunneling through the snow. At the age of sixteen, John N. started in life for himself by securing employment herding cattle on the prairie for the neighbors. In the fall of 1881 he determined to come to Wright county. He had a horse, but no harness or vehicle. But with the resourcefvilness which has ever characterized his career, he set to work, and with ropes and odd straps, and with pieces of rock elm from his father's woodpile, he in five days and nights had completed his outfit. Then he drove to this coxmty. He stayed all winter and in the spring returned home. But he was convinced that Wriglit county was the best place for him, so he came back to Buffalo and secured employment in a sawmill. After working for a whole season and spending his money freely he found that he did not have enough left to buy a postage stamp, which then cost three cents. This determined him to settle down in earnest and save his money. So well did he persist in this resolve that in five years, though he received but a dollar or a dollar and a quarter a day, he had taken in .$1,011 and saved .$735. With this money he started a boat house on Buffalo lake at the edge of the village. He continued in the business of boat renting for four years. Then he operated a paint and paper store for four years. After that for eight years he followed the blacksmith trade. The next four years were devoted to a vacation. In speaking of this period, Mr. Olson often declared that idleness was more wearing than the most severe manual labor. In time Mr. Olson came to see the possibilities of Buffalo as a summer resort. He accordingly purchased the land on Buffalo lake, opposite Buffalo village, which has since borne his name. He built a stone house, and let it be known that his place was open for the entertainment of guests. Fishing parties immediately flocked there, sometimes as many as eighteen men being in the house at once. Mr. Olson did the work himself, and his cooking and baking became widely famed. But as the patronage increased he was compelled to secure assistance and to erect new buildings. He now has a full corps of assistants, and is well provided to entertain all who may come. From a point eighty rods from his house seven good fishing lakes may be seen, and the duck hunting is also good. He has a large fleet of boats, and everything that goes to make up a successful summer resort. One of the especially attractive features is his spring of the purest water, constantly flowing. Mr. Olson is genial and courteous, is greatly liked, and well deserves the unusual success with which he has met. Mr. Olson was married March 12, 1888, to Augusta Swenson. Tlie Buffalo "Journal"" of January 25, 1907, says: "Mrs. John Olson died Sunday, January 20, 1907, of tuberculosis. She had been a helpless invalid for seventeen years from the effects of a scald from hot water. Last summer she contracted tubercular trouble and was released from suffering by death. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Saudstroin Wednesday afternoon at the Mission Church. During these long years of suffering by this woman her husband, "Johnny" Olson, as he is generally called, has done his duty and has been highly commended. A tireless worker, never considering his own health or convenience, he was never too busy to perform acts of kindness for his invalid wife. His sunny disposition has been a wonder to the community, as he has never been known to complain of his difficulties and never found fault about anything. Such rare cases of fidelity and fortitude ought to have a good influence on grumbling humanity and help everyone to bear the burdens which appear heavy, but are light compared to the real afflictions of life."

Gustave Rettke, one of the old settlers of Franklin township, was born in Germany, in June, 1842, and was there reared. As a young man he married Wilhelmina Senkel, who was born in October, 1839. In 1870 they left Germany with their child, Henry, and started for America. Another child, Emil William, was born on board ship. After landing, the family came on to Jefferson county, Wisconsin, where another child, Bertha, was born. In 1872 they came to Wright county and located in Franklin township. For a time they rented land, but in October, 1876, they obtained a homestead on Fountain lake in that township, where for many years they made their home. At the time of the purchase there were no improvements on the place. They erected a log cabin, cleared the land with the aid of an ox team, and in time had an excellent farm, with modern buildings and equipment. In the meantime Mr. Rettke followed to a certain extent his trade as a stone mason. The work which he donated in this line was one of the features which made possible the building of the German Evangelical Church of Delano Village, a church in which he was trustee for many years. In May, 1905, Mr. and Mrs. Rettke moved to Buffalo, where they now live. Their children born in Wright county are : Ernest, Aurora, Minnie, Matilda, Paulina (died in infancy) and Herman.

Emil William Rettke, leading jeweler of Buffalo, is also one of its most progressive merchants. A man of genial temperament and a thorough master of his business, he enjoys a constantly increasing trade, and is highly regarded by all with whom he comes in contact. He has forged ahead by hard work and energy, and is well deserving of the full measure of success with which he has met. He was born on shipboard, on the Atlantic ocean, in May, 1870, son of Gustave and Wilhelmina (Senkel) Rettke, the early settlers. He was reared on the banks of Fountain lake in Franklin township, attended the district schools, farmed with his father, and learned the trades of carpenter and mason. From his youth, however, he had cherished a desire to be a merchant, and consequently, in November, 1895, he moved to Buffalo and opened a confectionery store. At times he sold jewelry, and in 1905 he determined to install a full line. Consequently he opened a jewelry and repair store, wliich he has since conducted with such marked success. In politics, Mr. Rettke is a Republican. He is very active in public affairs and is a prominent man in every respect. In 1903 he was elected as a member of the council and did good work in that capacity. For many years he has occupied a foremost place in the local lodge of Modern Woodmen of America, in which he is a prominent member. On June 28, 1905, Mr. Rettke married Nellie J. Johusou, daughter of Christian Johnson, and they have one child, Donald Herbert.

John Richards, a farmer living in Buffalo, was born in Toronto, Canada, January 3, 1864, son of Emmanuel and Eleanor J. (Wilson) Richards. Emmanuel Richards was born in England and there took up the meat business. As a young man he came to Canada, where he followed the same line at Toronto. He was married in Canada, and in 1867 came to Buffalo, bringing the following children : David, Susan C, John and Abraham L. (now deceased). One son, Emmaniu4, Jr., was born in Minnesota. The family located on a tract of 197 acres in section 20, Buffalo township, which they purchased from the Gilbert estate. The place was at that time badly run down. But by industry, thrift and hard work they brought it to a high degree of cultivation, adding eighty acres and equipping it with everything necessary for the carrying on of successful farming. Emmanuel Richards died in the winter of 1891 at the age of sixty-four years and Mrs. Richards now resides at Santiago, Cal., with her daughter, Susan C. McKee. John Richards was educated in Buffalo township, was reared on the home farm, and as his father's health failed, took general charge of the place. Later he bought out the other heirs and successfully followed general farming until 1913, when he moved to the village of Buffalo, where he now resides. He has" sold the old homestead but still retains land in section 20, Buffalo township. Mr. Richards has been a respected, hard-working man, and is highly esteemed by all who know him. On July 17, 1890, Mr. Richards married Kate McGary, a native of this state, and they have three children, Jolin Preston, of Belle Plain, Minn., and Edna and Elsie Helen, both at honu>.

Samuel L. Cronk, veteran of the Civil war, and retired farmer, now living in Buffalo, was born in Steuben county, New York, son of Philip and Marj^ (Lawrence) Cronk, natives of Pennsylvania, who some years after the birth of Samuel L. moved back to Bradford county in their native state and there spent the remainder of their days. Philip Cronk as a young man was a blacksmith. Later in life lie took up farming. Himself a soldier of the Civil war, he gave tive sons to the service. The children in the family were as follows: Joseph, Adeline, Edgar (veteran), Malissa, Samuel L. (veteran), William (veteran), George (veteran), Josiah (veteran), Mariah (twin to Josiah) and Calvin. Of these sons, William came to Wright county in the fifties and located in Rockford township. Samuel L. came to Minnesota in 1859 and visited his brother at Rockford, but spent the larger part of his time in the vicinity of Red Wing. In 1861 he enlisted in Company H, Third Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and served within a mouth of four years. He went south with the regiment and was assigned to the Army of the Cumberland. He was captured at Murfreesboro, but was soon afterward paroled and sent to fight the Indians in the vicinity of Wood lake. Later he was again sent south with the regiment and assigned to the Army of Tennessee. He was mustered out of the service in Arkansas, paid off at Ft. Snelling and discharged. After the war he came to Wright county and followed his trade as a carpenter wherever he could find work. He was one of those who assisted in erecting the Wright County Court House in 1877. He also built the first Presbyterian church in Buffalo. Later he secured eighty acres on the banks of Lake Pulaski, cleared up the land, erected buildings and did some farming. In 1896 he retired and moved to Buffalo, where he took up his residence in a house which he had erected about 1875. Mr. Cronk became a member of the Masonic lodge at Rockford, but when the lodge was organized at Buffalo, December 12, 1879, he became one of the charter members of Nelson Lodge, No. 135, A. F. & A. M., and was the first Tyler of the lodge. He is also a member of the G. A. R. His wife is a member of the Eastern Star and of the Relief Corps. The family worships at the Presbyterian church. Mr. Cronk was married, as a young man, to Matilda Stokes, a native of England, who died and left him one son, Arthur. In November, 1869, Mr. Cronk married Harriett Gilchrist, by whom he has two children, Willard and Irene. The parents of Mrs. Cronk were Archibald and Elizabeth Gilchrist, who brought her from Indiana at the age of eleven years and located on eighty acres lying on the township line between Buffalo and Monticello. John Dixon, well known in Buffalo and vicinity, was born on the old homestead in Frankfort township, April 2, 1857, son of James Dixon, the pioneer, who is appropriately mentioned elsewhere in this work. John Dixon remained at home until his marriage, January 17, 1889, after which he located on a farm in section 8, Rockford township, where he farmed 160 acres for fifteen years. His was a true pioneer venture. When he moved onto the tract it was entirely covered with timber. He cut off the wood and brought the land under cultivation, living in the meantime in a smaU frame house and sheltering his stock in a log barn. Later these buildings were replaced with more modern structures. A barn, 44 by 80 feet, which he constructed, was, when it was new, one of the very finest in the county. It was on November 20, 1903, that Mr. Dixon and his good wife moved onto lot 24, which included lots 9, 10 and 11, on the picturesque banks of Lake Pulaski. A brick house which had stood on the place had been remodeled and renovated and put in proper shape to be opened as a first-class summer hotel. Guests began to flock to the place faster than they could be accommodated. Mr. Dixon enlarged his park to some eighteen acres by purchasing lots 8 and 12, and provided for his increasing patronage by erecting six cottages, a good barn and a dancing pavilion 36 by 74 feet, with a garage underneath. Boats of various descriptions and other attractions were also secured. Business continued to prosper until the venture assumed larger propoi'tions than Mr. and Mrs. Dixon cared to handle. Consequently on May 1, 1913, they sold out to other parties, retaining, however, a small tract of land on which to erect a private residence for themselves. This tract consists of lot 17 and seventeen acres besides, on which he has erected a building wliich he intends to equip with cottage apartments. Mr. Dixon, on coming to Buffalo village, purchased the Heiller property. He has remodeled the residence, installed a hot water heating plant and made other extensive improvements. John Dixon was married January 17, 1889, to Louise A. Elhardt, and they have five children : James, on the old farm, section 8, Rockford ; June, Chester and Francis, at home, and Charles, deceased. The daughter is a teacher. Louise A. (Elhardt) Dixon was born in Milwaukee, Wis., December 11, 1862, daughter of Adam and Ernestina (Frederick) Elhardt, and granddaughter of Herman and Catherine Elhardt and Gotlieb and Sophia Frederick. Herman Elhardt was the head of a family that came from Hesse, Germany, and located in Milwaukee. He was a cooper by trade. His son Adam was nineteen years of age when the family ari'ived in this country. Gotlieb Frederick brought his family from Saxony, Gernumy, and located in Milwaukee, where, after working for a while at his trade as a baker, he became a farmer. Adam and Ernestina (Frederick) Elhardt had thirteen children: Louise A. (Mrs. Jolin Dixon), Herman, Amanda, Emily, Emma, Jacob, Helen, Ida, Ella (deceased). Alma, Fred, and two who died in infancy.

William Davies, an estimable citizen, now deceased, was born in Breckenshire, Glaseburg, South Wales, March 7, 1823, and was there reared and learned the trade of shoemaking. Later he became an extensive shoe dealer. In 1869 he came to America and located in Maryland. In 1877 he came to Wright county and engaged at his trade in Buffalo. After his arrival here he l)urchased two acres of land on Lake Pulaski, erected a log cabin, and walked to and from his work in the village. In time he remodeled the log cabin, and tliere he spent his declining years. He died in Jlay, 1895. He was a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and did much to materially assist in its growth and progress. Mr. Davies was married in July, 1861, to Mary Ann Thomas, born in England October 20, 1836, daughter of Stephen and May (Davis) Thomas, and to this union eight children have been born: William Morley (deceased), Lillie (deceased), Clara, Edith and Elizabeth Gertrude, wife of Abram Richards, botli now deceased. Three others died in infancy. The four daughters named above all taught in tlie schools of this county. Stephen Thomas was born in England, and as a young man became a butler. When he moved to South Wales he became interested in mining, and by gradual promotion he became superintendent of supplies for an important mining company. Lake View House, conducted by Mrs. William Davies, is one of the most popular summer resorts in this vicinity. Situated on the banks of beautiful Lake Pulaski, in a pretty grove of trees, and supplied with a splendid well two hundred feet deep, it lias many natural advantages, and the atmosphere of quiet and refinement, with the homelike comforts, attract a desirable class of people seeking rest and recreation. Cottages have been built in addition to the original home, and everything is done for the convenience and joy of the guests. Many years ago Mrs. Davies began by taking as boarders a few people who were attracted by the beauties of the lake, and gradually the demand for accommodations became so great that Mrs. Davies established a regular summer resort. The food is of tlie best, the accommodations are adequate and there are ample provisions for outdoor recreation and sport. Mrs. Davies is the soul of hospitality, all her guests are made to feel like old friends, she has a hearty greeting for all, and is a cheerful, capable woman in every respect.

Aaron W. Furtney, an estimable citizen now living in retirement in Buffalo, was born in Ontario, Canada, August 19, 1842, son of Joseph and Charlotte (Hilker) Furtney. Joseph Furtney was the son of Jacob and Elizabeth .Furtney, who brought the family from Pennsylvania to Ontario, Canada, at the close of the Revolutionary war. Charlotte (Hilker) Furtney was brought to America from Germany at the age of fifteen by her parents, Aaron and Charlotte Hilker. Joseph Furtney and his wife had eleven children : Aaron W., Josiah, Joseph, Henry, William, John, Henrietta, Lydia, Hannah, Elizabeth and Jacob. Aaron W. was reared in Canada, and mastered farm pursuits. In 1861 he located in Saginaw, Mich. At the opening of the Civil war he enlisted from Rochester, N. Y., in Company C, Eighth New York Heavy Artillery, and served until the close of the conflict. He was captured at the Battle of Petersburg and taken to Richmond.

There he was put to work as fireman on an engine. But one day, beiug cut off from the guards, he and the engineer escaped to the Union lines after two months' captivity. He was mustered out at Louisville, Ky., and after the war worked as a fireman on Ohio river steamers. Later he returned to his home in Michigan, and entered the pine woods, having experience both at chopping and driving. From there he went to Decorah, Iowa, where he learned the trade of masonry. For a while he worked as a contractor in Austin, in this state. Then he worked in the "Soo" Railroad shops in Minneapolis. In 1896 he came to Frankfort township, in this county, and purchased thirty-four acres on the banks of Lake Charlotte. The land at that time was wild and covered with brush and had no buildings of any kind. He cleared the land into a park-like tract and erected a rustic log cabin. Later he sided over the cabin, built a large dining room, and opened a summer hotel known as the Furtney resort. In connection with his hotel he kept twelve rowboats and a launch, and his place was very popular. In 1912 he sold out to a group of philanthropists, who use the place as a fresh air resort for city boys. Mr. Furtney now resides in Buffalo, where he has a comfortable cottage home. After his life of interesting experiences he is now enjoying a well-earned rest from the pressing activities of life. At the age of twenty-nine, Mr. Furtney married Martha Hibbert, a native of Norway, daughter of Jacob and Dorondo Hibbert. Mrs. Furtney died in Minneapolis at the age of fiftytwo, in 1891, just twenty years from the time she was married. She left four children, Dora, Edward, Minnie and Ella. In 1894 Mr. Furtney married Albina Dupont, born in Canada, near Montreal, daughter of Eli and Delima (Gardbois) Dupont, who settled near St. Anthony in 1865. In the Dupont family there were sixteen cliildren.

Samuel 0. Hehner, an estimable citizen of Buffalo, now retired, was born in Wood county, Ohio, son of Philip Van Rensselaer and Hannah (Swain) Helmer. The Helmers are descended from a family that came from Holland in the seventeenth century. Philip was one of four brothers, Philip, Peter, John and James. Peter settled in Indiana and James in Wisconsin, while John remained in New York. Philip, after having married Hannah Swain (daughter of Horace Swain, of New York, who afterward located in Indiana, where he died), came westward about 1845 and located in Ohio, where he hauled boats on the Miami canal, which had just been completed. About 1851 he located in LaGi-'ange county, Indiana, where he farmed. He died there about 1860. His wife died in 1902 at the age of seventy-four. Samuel O. was the only child in the family. He received a good education in the schools of Indiana and was reared to farm pursuits. As a young nmn he learned the carpenter's trade. In

April, 1869, he came to Wright county and for a short time stopped at Dean lake, in Rockford township, some four miles south of Buft'alo. Later he purcliased 1(30 acres in section 29, Buffalo township. On this place there was standing at that time a small house, and seven or eight acres had been cleared. He moved into the little house, installed his mother as housekeeper, and witli a yoke of oxen started to clear the land. After his marriage his wife and he continued to improve the place. For many years they toiled together, working early and late, and by diligent endeavor attained success. Mr. Helmer was supervisor of the township for many years and chairman a part of that time. He was assessor for several terms, and served on the school board of his district a long period. In 1910 he and his wife took up their permanent home at Buffalo. Mr. Helmer was married in November, 1S70, to Margaret C. Smith, born in Licking county, Ohio, daughter of Harrison and Margaret Smith, natives of Virginia. Mr. and Jlrs. Helmer have had two children, Cora B. and Lloyd Harrison. Cora B. was born in 1872, married Charles H. Aldrich and has six children, John H., Helen, Frank, Alice, Florence and James. Lloyd Harrison was born July 3, 1877, and married Helen S. Major. He was drowned in Lake Pulaski July 8, 1906. A son, Lloyd Major, was born after his death, July 21, 1906.

Thor Thompson, a leading jeweler and music dealer, with headquarters at Buft'alo and branch stores at Maple Lake and Aimandale, was born in Pope county, this state, February 17, 1877, son of Thomas and Guro (Hanson) Thompson, natives of Norway, who were married in Telemarken, Norway, came to the United States in June, 1872, and settled in Pope county, Minnesota. In 1877 they homesteaded 160 acres in the town of Reno, Pope county, where they lived till their death. The mother died December 7, 1892, and the father January 21, 1902. Thor Thompson was reared on the home farm. He became a true Chi-istian at the early age of fourteen years and at the age of nineteen he felt he was called to devote his time to religious work. With this high ideal in view he became a member of the Scandinavian Mission Society of the United States of America, and as a member of this society he spent over thirteen years as a missionary. Doing missionary work, he traveled in Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Washington, Oregon and California. For a period of that time he served as settled pastor. Mr. Thompson was married in 1903 at Windom, Minn., to Ida Mary Lundman, a native of Westbrook, Cottonwood county, Minnesota, daughter of Peter G. and Anna (Carlson) Lundman, who were born in Sweden and married in the United States. In 1911 Mr. and Mrs. Lundman moved to Buifalo, where they still reside. Mr. and Mrs. Thompson made their home in Clarissa, Minn., for a short time and from there they moved to Buffalo, this state, and later to Minneapolis. On account of spending most of his time as traveling missionary, Mr. Thompson's health commenced to fail and he was obliged to engage in some other line of endeavor. Consequently he returned to Buffalo, in the spring of 1910, and in the fall of the same year he opened a jewelry and music store, starting on a small scale. By his honest dealing and courteous and pleasant manners customers are made to feel their welcome, and owing to the fact that his goods are of the highest quality and his workmanship the very best, his establishment has grown to such an extent that there is not a business concern in Wright county that can show such a record. In the fall of 1913 Mr. Thompson established a branch store at Maple Lake, and placed his brother-in-law, Albin Lundman, in charge. In May, 1914, he established a branch store at Annandale. Theodore Lundman, also a brother-in-law of Mr. Thompson, has charge of the store at this place. In all three stores is carried a full line of jewelry, pianos and musical instruments, typewriters, sewing machines, novelties and the like. Mr. Thompson is an authorized dealer in Edison phonographs in Maple Lake, and from his store in that place will fill orders for Edison goods to any part of the country. In need of anything in his line, everyone from a grown person to a little child can with confidence go to his store and be sure to get the right goods at the right price. He makes watch repairing a specialty, and he takes pride in repairing watches where others have failed. In addition to this Mr. Thompson is agent for the Twin City Fire Insurance Company, of Minneapolis. Mr. and Mrs. Thompson have four children, Stanley Rosswell, Archie Bernard, Myrtle Viola and Chester Irvin.