Wright County, Minnesota - Xix, 1915

Banks And Banking

Story of the Institutions on Which the Financial Integrity of the County Largely Depends - Early Banks in the County - Officers - Biography - Dates and Interesting Facts - Progress and Development - Compiled By E, H. Sherwin.

The first effort of the pioneer was to secure his location and to there erect a habitation. The question of livelihood was one of immediate importance, and no sooner was the pioneer and his family provided with a place in which to live, however poor or temporary, than he begun to eut off the timber or break the sod, and prepare the ground for crops. Mills for grinding the grain and sawing lumber were also an early necessity; and as there were many articles of daily use which the soil did not produce, the establishment of general stores could not long be delayed. But even in the most primitive community, money is a vital need. The money lenders followed fast in the footsteps of the pioneer.

Before long it became apparent that there must be some sort of an institution of financial exchange. Private banks were established. Some continued for a few years only, but others gradually assumed the importance of national or state institutions. This, to a large extent, is true of the early history of Wright county. Today the county is on a sound financial basis, and the prosperity of the community is shown by the financial statements of the various banks which handle the money of the people at large. Wright county now has twenty-five banks, one a National bank, and the rest State banks.

The first bank in Wright county was at Delano. It was started as a private institution by C. M. Dittman and C. G. Roosen in 1880, under the firm name of Dittman & Roosen. About two years later the partnership was dissolved, and Mr. Reosen continued the business alone until 1884, when the Wright County Bank was organized In October, 1910, the Wright County Bank was incorporated with the State Bank of Delano, which at the present time gives to the institution an unbroken history of thirtyfive years,

The second bank in the county was at Howard Lake. A man named Lynch conducted a private institution there for a while, and in 1884 sold out to C. M. Buck and Lemuel MeGrew, who established the Bank of Howard Lake, which is still in existence.

The third bank in the county was at Monticello. After disposing of his Delano interests C. M. Dittman, who had been one of the organizers of the first bank in the county, went to Monticello and started the Bank of Monticello. It had a short career, The failure of this bank was the only bank failure that Wright county has known.

The fourth bank in the county was at Buffalo, and waa started in 1886 by C. E. Oakley & Co., bankers, C, E. Oakley having been the first president of the Wright County Bank at Delano, already mentioned as the oldest bank in the county. The Oakley State Bank, incorporated February 1, 1905, succeeded C. E. Oakley & Co., and thus has an unbroken history of nearly thirty years.

The State Bank of Delano, July 15, 1908 (dates back through other banks to 1880); the Bank of Howard Lake, December 19, 1898 (dates back to befere 1884); the Oakley State Bank, February 1, 1905 (dates back to December, 1886}; the State Bank of Cokato, January 15, 1892; the State Bank of Waverly, April 27, 1893; the State Bank of Annandale, August 12, 1893; the Citizens' State Bank of Monticello, May 4, 1894; the Maple Lake State Bank, July 15, 1896; the State Bank of Buffalo, Septem- ber 1, 1900; the Farmers and Merchants' State Bank of Cokato, December 28, 1901; the Clearwater State Bank, August 10, 1902; the State Bank of Monticello, October 1, 1902; the State Bank of Montrose, May 4, 1903; the German-American Bank of Albertville, June 12, 1904; the State Bank of St. Michael, July 9, 1904; the German-American State Bank of Howard Lake, November 2, 1905; the First State Bank of Clearwater, April 20, 1905; the First State Bank of South Haven, August 13, 1906; the Security State Bank of Maple Lake, January 2, 1907; the Citizens' State Bank of Waverly, March 2, 1907; the State Bank of Rockford, August 1, 1907; the Hanover State Bank, July 1, 1907; the First National Bank of Delano, December 12, 1910; the First State Bank of Silver Creek, Hasty, July 11, 1914; the Farmers' State Bank of French Lake, September 1, 1914; the Citizens' State Bank of Annandale, December 26, 1907.

The German-American State Bank of Albertville, formerly called the German-American State Bank of St. Michael's, was incorporated June 12, 1904. The incorporators were: John M. Haven, J. P. Bull and J. H. Dick. These were the first directors. J. M. Haven was the first president; J. P. Bull and J. IL. Dick, the first vice presidents; and L. V. Klein, the first cashier. The bank opened for business June 20, 1904. The institution owns its own building, which was erected in 1904, The original capital stock of the bank was $10,000, later increased to $13,000. Janunary 4, 1906, A. B. Morse was added to the board of directors. November 7, 1906, R. H. Hawkins was elected eashier. August 15, 1907, he was followed by I. H. VonderHaar. January 7, 1908, a board was elected, as follows: J. M. Haven, president; J. P. Eull, viee president; I. H. VonderHaar, cashier. The directors were these gentlemen, with J. Hl. Tiernan and J. H. Dick, The next year the officers were the same, and the directors were J, M. Haven, J. P. Eull, J. H. Tiernan, K. Heuring and M. J. Duhr. In 1911 J. W. Morrell was eleeted director in place of M. J. Duhr. May 26, 1911, 5. J. Mealey was elected president and direetor. January 2, 1912, the directors elected were S. J. Mealey, J. P. Eull, A. Eull, J. H. Tiernan and K. Heuring. The officers were not changed. On the same day the date of the stockholders' meeting was changed from January to November, and the dividend period from January and July to November and May. Sinee Nevember 4, 1912, the officers and directors have remained as at present: President, 5. J. Mealey; vice president, J. P, Eull; cashier, I. H. VonderHaar; directors, S. J. Mealey, J. P, Bull, K. Heuring, R. Heuring and J. H. Tiernan.

Following is the financial statement rendered at the close of business March 4, 1914: Resources - Loans and discounts, $98,732.72; overdrafts, $147.76; banking house, furniture and fixtures, $5,600; due from banks, $4,515.29; eash on hand,

The Citizens' State Bank of Annandale was incorporated December 26, 1907, by George W. Rackliff, John J. Rennie, Gracia L. Jenks, F. William Klatt, Frank Schneider, Henry M. Lewis, Samuel H. McGuire, Martin A. Ransom, John A. Ferguson, John G. Hayter and William F. Krohn. The first board consisted of: 5S. H. MeGuire (president), John A. Ferguson (vice president), J. G. Hayter (cashier), A. M. Hayter (assistant cashier), F. William Klatt, Martin Ransom, George W. Rackliff, John J. Rennie. The bank commenced business December 26, 1907, and owns its own building, The capital stock is $15,000, and the surplus and profits amount to $4,000. The officers remain as at first, with the exception that in 1908 George G. Sawyer was elected cashier and P. L. Sawyer assistant cashier. The institution does a general banking business and makes a specialty of loaning money for investors at home and elsewhere in Minnesota on improved real estate, collecting their interest and looking after their business without charge.

George G. Sawyer, banker and extensive dealer in real estate, is one of the leading citizens of Annandale. He has been a useful citizen in bringing in many new settlers to this part of the country, and his banking institution stands for everything that is sound and stable. In its dealings with the publie through Mr. Sawyer the bank has extended credit in such a manner as to develop the farming interests, and every accommodation consistent with sound banking is extended to all of the patrons. The gentleman whose name heads this brief sketch has been the moving factor in the institution, and his personality has been the foundation upon which much of its suecess has been built. George G. Sawyer was born in Tama county, Iowa, January 3, 1867, son of Robert. and Louisa Sawyer. He was reared on the home farm, attended the district schools and remained at home until 1884, For the next years he conducted farm operations in Iowa on his own responsibility. From 1894 to 1900 he was a traveling salesman, making his home in the meantime at Lakefield, in Jackson county, Minnesota. For the next three years he engaged in the sale of real estate, with offices in that place. He started in the banking business in 1903 by purchasing a controlling interest in the State Bank of Kimball, in Stearns county, this state. It was in 1908 when he came to Annandale and secured a controlling interest in the Citizens' State Bank of Annandale, of which he has since been the efficient cashier. Mr. Sawyer is especially prominent in fraternal affairs. He is noble grand of Annandale lodge, No. 198, I. 0. O. F., and has attained the thirty-second degree of Masonry. He also belongs to the Shrine and the Eastern Star of the Masonic order. Mr. Sawyer was married in 1886, to Miranda Poland, daughter of Silas and Melissa Poland, of Traer, Iowa, There are six children: Mabel and Abbie (twins), Palmer L., Earl, Dorothy and Lois. Mabel married O, L. Reeves, of Kimball, Minnesota. Abbie married A. H. Losfstrum, of Kimball, Minnesota. Palmer married Myrtle Krohn, of Annandale, Minnesota. He is assistant cashier of the Citizens' State Bank of Annandale.

The State Bank of Annandale was incorporated August 13, 1893, and is one of the strong financial institutions of the county. It is housed in a sightly building, and a general atmosphere of solidity and eordiality prevails about the place, the aim of the officials being to extend to the patrons every courtesy and accommodation consistent with the principles of conservative banking. The officers are: W.D. McDonald, president; H, C. Bull, vice president; John H. Buri, vice president; B, H. Thayer, cashier; G. A, Allen, assistant cashier. Directors- - -W. D. McDonald, John H. Buri, L. Cofield, all of Annandale, Minn.; H. C. Bull, Frank Swansen, both of Cokato, Minn.; C. T. McDonald, Delano, Minn.

Bert H, Thayer, one of the progressive and popular young business men of Annandale, was born in Fair Haven, Minn., March 10, 1887, son of Albert A. and Carrie (Hill) Thayer. He received a good common school edneation and then took a commereial course in the Curtis Business College at Minneapolis, from which he graduated in 1906. Thus prepared, he entered the State Bank of Annandale, July 1, of that year. From that date until August 21, 1913, he was teller. Since the latter date he has been cashier. He has a wide acquaintanee, he is a thorough master of the banking business, and his personality has had much to do with the splendid success which the bank has attained. Mr. Thayer was married in 1910 to Ruby Cofield, daughter of Alex. and May Cofield, of Wainwright, Alberta, Canada. Mr. and Mrs. Thayer have one child, Gordon H., born July 20, 1914.

William D. McDonald, president of the State Bank of Annandale, has been closely identified with the agricultural, business, and financial interests of this part of the county for many years. He aims to make his institution a real benefit to the eommunity, and every accommodation consistent with good banking is extended to all who come seeking financial encouragement. Wilham D. MeDonald was born in French Lake, in section 24, April 4, 1861; son of Andrew and Margaret (Ives) MeDonald. Andrew McDonald and his wife were natives of Nova Scotia. In 1859 they came to French Lake township, in this county, and took a homestead in section 24. They erected a log cabin and experienced all the privations of pioneer life in the wilderness. In 1863 Andrew McDonald enlisted in Co. C, Second Minn. Vol, Inf., and served three years. He was with Sherman on the March to the Sea. On this march he went through many sufferings and hardships, and the rigors of army life so altered his appearance that his family did not recognize him when he returned, William D. MeDonald was reared on the home farm, attended the district schools, and was trained to agricultural pursuits. In 1879 he started out for himself and taught school for two years. While he was still teaching he worked his spare time with L, Cofield, at Cokato, and after he stopped teaching he devoted his time entirely in this employ. In 1883 he and L. Cofield erected an elevator in Howard Lake, and operated it for five years. From 1888 to 1898 they operated a line of elevators in Wright and Stearns counties. In the meantime, however, in August, 1893, Mr. MeDonald had established the State Bank of Annandale, of which he became the cashier. This position he capably held until August, 1913, when he was elected president, in which capacity he is now so ably serving. Mr. MeDonald has been a leading man in the community for many years. In 1892-93 he sat in the lower house of the Minnesota legisiature. In 1896 he was a delegate to the National Republican convention at St, Louis. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M. Mr. MeDonald was married August 3, 1886, to Laura A. Allen, daughter of Samuel Allen, a contractor of Howard Lake, and Rebecea, his wife. Mr, and Mrs. MeDonald have three children: Ruth, Colin and Rebecea.

The Oakley State Bank. In December, 1886, C, E. Oakley, who had previously been a Buffalo merchant, opened a private banking institution under the firm name of C. E. Oakley & Co., bankers. The capital stock of the institution was $25,000, and the firm consisted of OC. E. Oakley, Charles V. Dudley and Willian

B. Dudley. This firm continued successfully until February 1, 1905, when the institution was incorporated as the Oakley State Bank, with a capital stock of $25,000. The incorporators were C. E. Oakley, C. V. Dudley, A. C. Heath, A. L. Oakley, E, 8. Oakley and W. D. Oakley. The original officers and board of directors, C. E. Oakley, president; A. C. Heath, vice president; and W. D. Oakley, cashier, are still serving.

Clarence E. Oakley, banker and man of affairs, Buffalo, was born on Long Island, New York, May 17, 1846, son of Timothy W. and Ruth (Carpenter) Oakley, natives also of Long Island. He received his early education in the public schools, and as a youth entered a large wholesale grocery concern in New York City as office boy. He remained with this concern from 1861 to 1873, gradually advancing by hard work and pluck. In the fall of 1873 he came to Minnesota, and in the spring of 1874 to Buffalo, where, in company with E. J. Cutts, under the firm name of Cutts & Oakley, he conducted a store on Gray street, then the center of the village. In 1877 the partnership was dissolved, and Mr. Oakley then continued alone until 1885, when he sold out his stock. In 1886 he started the private banking house of C. E. Oakley & Co. In 1905 the bank was incorporated as the Oakley State Bank, with C. BE. Oakley as president. When the Wright County Bank at Delano was incorporated Mr. Oakley was made president, and served in that capacity about ten years. In civie life Mr. Oakley has been equally active, having been village treasurer several terms and treasurer of the board of edueation about twenty years. In the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Oakley has likewise been an influential member, having been an elder in the Buffalo church since it was organized in 1876. Mr. Oakley was married at New York City, April 6, 1869, to Anna L. Dudley, of that place. In the family there are four children. Egbert S, is an attorney at Duluth, Minn. He married Mary Campbell. Frances B. has been a missionary to Corea. Her husband, George Leck, also a devoted missionary, died in Corea, and she and her son, George, now make their home with her parents. Walter D. is cashier of the Oakley State Bank. He married Catherine VanEvera, of Davenport, and they have one son, Vincent Dudley. Clara L. lives at home, and has charge, as librarian, of the Buffalo Public Library.

The State Bank of Buffalo was incorporated September 1, 1900, by the following: J. T. Alley, Claus Anderson, Erick N. Bonstrom, H. C, Bull, E, BR. Carlblom, C. J. Carlson, C. M. Carlson, Emma Church, Peter Chureh, Hattie Cruikshank, W. J, Ellis, Herman Ernst, Adolph Fremd, L. G. Gilbert, Thomas Hudek, O. H. Havill, Clement Ilstrup, 8. W. Junken, J. F. Lauzer, Adam Lidman, Dr. G. E. Means, P. J. Moody, E. M. Nagel, Laura Nagel, G. P. Olson, Clara O. Peterson, Mary Peterson, A. P. Peterson, C. R. Peterson, G. C. Perkins, Dr. E, A, Shannon, F. L. Shimmin, H. 8. Swanberg, B. Thurstenson, J. Van Valkenberg. The organization meeting was held on June 13, 1900, at which C. R. Peterson was chairman and H. S. Swanberg seeretary. At a later meeting Claus Anderson, H. C. Bull, Peter Church, Thomas Hudek, E. M. Nagel, C. R. Peterson and E. A. Shannon were elected the first board of directors, and organized by electing the following officers: H.C. Bull, president; E. M. Nagel, vice president; H. S. Swanberg, cashier. The bank opened for business on September 11, 1900, in its bank building erected for the purpose during the summer of 1900, with a capital stock of $15,000, with H. S. Swanberg and E. M. Nagel in charge. Mr, Nagel did not actively engage in the business, but resigned, and sold his stock to L. G. Gilbert, during the summer of 1901. Mr. Gilbert was elected vice president September 3, 1901, and served faithfully and with gréat credit to the bank in that capacity until his death, August 25, 1904. Claus Anderson wes elected vice president September 5, 1904, and served for one year, Adolph Fremd was chosen as vice president at the September 5, 1905, meeting, and has oceupied that office with eredit to himself and invaluable service to the bank until the present time.

H. S. Swanberg was acting manager and eashier of the bank until March 5, 1907, when he was elected president, to succeed H. C. Bull, who had resigned and disposed of his interest in the bank to Swanberg and others. In November, 1910, Swanberg sold his holdings of the bank stock to ©. A. Farel and J. E. Fox, of Wimbledon, N. D., and Loran Nichols, Courtenay, N. D. On March 8, 1911, Chas. A. Farel was elected president, and is still serving in that office. Bernard A. Bonstrom was elected clerk in the bank September 3, 1901; on March 3, 1903, he was elected assistant cashier, and on March 5, 1907, having acquired a controlling interest, together with Swanberg, he was elected director and cashier, which position he still holds. In point of continuous service he is the oldest member of the official foree. Albert E. Abel served as assistant cashier for two years, and was succeeded September 3, 1913, by Henry O. Wolff, who still holds that office. The sightly building which now houses the institution was erected and occupied in the summer of 1914,

Lars Gilbert (Gutormson), for many years one of the foremost men in Buffalo, had an important part in the upbuilding of several ventures which had for their objeet the commercial progress of the village. He was born in Aurdai, Norway, December 11, 1853, and was there reared. In 1871 he came to America, lived a while in Wisconsin, then located in Northfield, Minn., from there went to Rockford, in this county, and finally in 1877 located in Buffalo. He was a man of varied interests, With Simon Ilstrop he started the creamery which he later sold to the farmers, and which is now the Buffalo Co-Operative Creamery. He was active in the State Bank of Buffalo, and served as its vice president. He had extensive real estate holdings, and made many investments. All in all, his was a useful life, one which meant something in the community, and when he died his loss was sincerely mourned. Fraternally, he was a member of the United Workmen. In religion he adhered to the faith of the Lutheran church. Mr. Gilbert was married March 13, 1879, to Ida Dlstrup; to them four children were born, of whom one is living now, Mrs. Amelia VanRiper of Buffalo, May 19, 1892, he married Sigrid Ringstad, born in Vestre-Slidre-Valders, Norway, March 17, 1865, daughter of Knute Ringstad (Ferden) and his good wife, Sigrid Jensdotter. By this marriage Mr. Gilbert had four children: Florence Grace, Archie Raymond, Frances Ida Louise and Mabel Marie. Florence Grace married James Reddy, of St. Panl. The rest are at home. Knute Ringstad (Ferden) had six children: Sigrid (deceased), Ole (de~ ceased), Sigrid, Karie, Jens of Langby, Minn., and Anbjorg, who is in Norway.

The Clearwater State Bank. W. A. Shaw, banker, opened the Bank of Clearwater August 10, 1902. June 5, 1905, the institution was incorporated as the Clearwater State Bank, with W. A. Shaw as president, John Mitchell as vice president, and E. A. Shaw as cashier. The building was erected in 1912. The officers are the same as at the time of incorporation. D. EH, Shaw is assistant cashier. The bank has a capital of $10,000 and a surplus of $2,000.

Following is the statement at the close of business March 10, 1914: Resources - Loans and discounts, $106,768.20; overdrafta, $53.27; other bonds, stocks and securities, $1,100; banking house, furniture and fixtures, $4,788.17; other real estate, $641.03; total

Lars Gilbert

The First State Bank of Clearwater was incorporated April 20, 1905, with a eapital stock of $10,000. The building was erected in 1902, and the doors were opened for business January 1, 1903. The original officers, President Joseph Whittemore, Vice President M. G. Whittemore and Cashier C. D. Whittemore, are still serving, and W. W. Eccless is the assistant cashier,

The Farmers and Merchants State Bank of Cokato was incorporated December 28, 1901, by eighty farmers and business men of Cokato and vicinity. The first officers were: President, John A. Peterson; vice president, A. P. Peterson; cashier, C. J. Carlson; assistant cashier, F. B. Carlblom. The first directors were : John Nygren, A. F. Johnson, E, R. Carlblom, P. H. Johnson, A. P, Johnson, John A. Peterson and A. P. Peterson. The bank opened for business early in 1902, with a capital of $20,000. Since that date the bank has acquired a surplus of $10,000, all earned. The building was erected in 1904. The present officers are John A. Peterson, president; A. P. Peterson, vice president ; F. B. Carlblom, cashier; George A. Borg, assistant eashier, The directors are; John A. Peterson, A. P. Peterson, E. RB. Carlblom, P. H. Johnson, A. P. Johnson, Ole Nygren and L, L. Wanha. The policy of this bank from the start has been to serve the best interests of the people. It has been very liberal, and the wisdom of this policy is shown by its success.

The State Bank of Cokato was incorporated J anuary 15, 1892, with a capital of $30,000. The incorporators were: H. C. Bull, A. M. Woodward, F. E. Kenaston, Frank Swanson, S. J. Swanson, B. Thurstenson, A. P. Peterson, Peter Stevenson, Jacob Ojanpera and about twenty others, all citizens of Cokato. The first board of directors were H. ©, Bull, A. M. Woodward, Fred E. Kenaston, Peter Stevenson, A. P, Peterson, Jacob Ojanpera and B. Thurstenson. The first officers were: President, H. C. Bull; vice president, A. M. Woodward; cashier, Frank Swanson. In December of that year C. R. Peterson was elected assistant cashier. The officers are now the same, with the exception that S. J. Swanson has been elected as one of the vice presidents. C. E. Osterberg is teller. The bank opened for business March 2, 1892. It erected a banking house in 1900. The policy of the bank has been to take care of the local demand for money to help every worthy applicant with proper security or credit, to provide a safe depository for saving of the community. Since the organization of the bank the bank has paid off almost all of the eastern investments and mortgages held by insurance companies and trust companies; in other words, the officials have made the money, and savings of the community take care of the home demands that interest money, instead of being sent east, has been kept at home.

Henry C. Bull, financier, living in Cokato, was born in Jefferson county, New York, September 29, 1843, son of Alva and Louise (Packer) Bull, grandson of Elijah and Polly (Bump) Bull, great-grandson of Timothy Bull, and great-great-grandson of Crispin Bull. Crispin Bull was born in England. He came to Vermont and erected the first grist mill in his locality. He was also the owner of marble lands. A thorough patriot, he did valiant service as a soldier in the Revolution. Alva Bull was a blacksmith. He was born in Danby township, Rutland county, Vermont, led a useful life, and died in March, 1878, at the age of eighty, leaving six children, three boys and three girls, In this family Henry ©. was the youngest. He attended the district school and the Union Academy, and as a youth entered the mercantile business. In 1868 he came to Minnesota and took 4 contract to cut ties for what is now the Great Northern rail- road, between Howard Lake and Darwin. In 1869 he returned to Jefferson county, New York, and married Minnie E. Edmonds, born in Adams township, Jefferson county, New York, a daughter of Henry Edmonds. The young couple came to Minnesota at once after their marriage. Mr. Bull engaged in the mercantile business at Collinwood Lake, still continuing his contract work with the railroad. After ten years at Collinwood Lake he sold out and came to Cokato village. This was in 1879. With several partners he established the Standard Elevator under the firm name of Bull, Edmonds, Carlson and Anderson. The elevator erected was the first in this part of the country, In connection with this business Mr. Bull engaged in the real estate trade, selling thousands of acres of railroad land. He was organizer and first president of the Farmers' Elevator Co. at Cokato ; one of the organizers of the Cokato Creamery Association; and one of the organizers and present member of the executive committee of the Cokato Canning Company. Several years ago he began to organize banks in Stearns, Meeker and Wright counties, He has sold many of the banking interests, but he is still president of the State Bank of Cokato, the State Bank of Montrose, and the State Bank of Delano, as well as vice president of the State Bank of Annandale. In building up such a splendid success Mr. Bull has not been unmindful of the social and fraternal side of life. As a young man he served as captain of Co. F, Thirty-fifth N. Y. National Guards. He first became a Mason at Adams, New York, in 1866, and was later transferred to Rising Sun Lodge, No, 134, A. F. & A. M., Cokato. He also belongs to the Consistory, the Chapter, Commandery and Shrine. His wife is a member of the Eastern Star. A recent publication has said: '' The increase of commercial activity and the growth of business opportunity have brought about new conditions which men of enterprise recognize and improve. The term ' promoter,' although now a common one in business parlance, is of comparatively recent origin. It correctly expresses Mr. Bull's position in business circles in Wright county, for he has been a most active and efficient factor in promoting business interests, especially in the line of banking, and his labors have been of direct benefit to several communities. His practical experience and investigation have given him therough and comprehensive knowledge of the banking business, and the institutions which he has organized are valuable enterprises of the various localities in which they are located. Having settled in Cokato in 1869, it has been his privilege to see the little hamlet become the leading city of the county. Aside from being president of several banks, he is actively engaged in the real estate and loan business, and has a well-furnished suite of offices in the building of the State Bank of Cokato. He has lands for sale, not only in

Wright county, but also in adjacent counties. Mr. Bull is one of the well known and much respected men of the county, as is attested by the fact that he was elected to the state legislature in the fall of 1890. He took an active part on the floor of the house, and served as a member of the committees on Railroads, Judiciary, Finance, Soldiers' Home, Militia, Legislative Expenditures and Rules and Joint Rules. Mr. Bull is an exeellent example of what ambition, industry and honesty can accomplish. He merits that esteem in which he is held by the people,'' Mr. Bull has even taken an active interest in school matters, especially in the Industrial High School work, and made the first donation toward its establishment here, being also instrumental in floating the required bonds.

The State Bank of Delano was incorporated July 15, 1908, with paid up capital of $20,000. H. C. Bull was president, T. F. McClure and William Ziebarth were vice presidents, P. O. Skoglund was cashier. In October, 1910, the State Bank and the old Wright County Bank consolidated, and increased the capital stock to $30,000. The old Wright County Bank was incorporated in the year 1884. The State Bank of Delano at present (May, 1914) has capital stoek of $30,000; surplus, $5,000; deposits, $340,000; loans, $325,000. The present officers are H. C. Bull, president; William Ziebarth, T. F. McClure and Louis P. Prost, vice presidents; ©, T. McDonald, eashier; Hilding L. Eagle, assistant cashier.

The Wright County Bank of Delano was incorporated in 1884, with a capital of $25,000. C. E. Oakley was president; I, Gutzwiller, Jr., vice president; and C. G, Roosen, cashier. In October, 1910, the bank was consolidated with the State Bank of Delano.

The First National Bank of Delano was incorporated November 23, 1910, and opened for business December 12, 1910, with a capital stock of $25,000. The first officers were: President, George W. Dodge; vice president, John Lohmiller; cashier, Arthur Cunnington; assistant cashier, C. J. Lohmiller. The first directors were: George W. Dodge, William A, Angell, Fred Brueshaber, Joseph M. Wandok, John Lobmiller, Harry L. Turner and Arthur Cunnington. The present officers are: President, George W. Dodge; vice president, John Lohmiller; cashier, H. B. Hermsmeyer; assistant cashier, C. L. Lowmiller. The bank maintains a progressive, up-to-date banking policy, promoting the best interests of the locality.

The Farmers' State Bank of French Lake was organized August 3, 1914, incorporated September 1, 1914, and opened for business September 19, 1914. The majority of the stockholders are farmers of French Lake township, and the bank was organized with a view to supplying the need of a financial institution in this immediate district. The bank opened in a temporary building. Work was at once started on a substantial building, 24 by 40 feet, two stories high with basement, covered with atneco work, and equipped with a brick vault 6 by 10 feet. The capital is $10,000 and the surplus $2,000. The officers are: President, G. G. Luhman; vice president, H. W. Vogel; cashier, C. N, Anderson; directors, John Zech, Carl Imhman, 8S. R. Walter, G. G. Luhman and H. W. Vogel. The bank owns eight and threequarters acres of land, and it is expected that quite a settlement will spring up around their institution.

Charles Nicholas Anderson, the efficient cashier of the Farmers State Bank of French Lake, was born at Milan, Minn., January 21, 1886, son of Peter J. Anderson and Maret (Storaas) Anderson, of Chippewa county, this state. At the age of seventeen he went to St. Paul, and entered the Globe School of Telegraphy, from which he graduated. In October, 1903, he became telegraph operator for the Great Northern Railway at Wahpeton, N. D. In June, 1905, he was transferred te Morris, Minn., where he occupied a similar position. He was station agent at Baneroft, 8. D., from July, 1906, to May, 1908; at Tintah, Minn., from May, 1908, to February, 1911; and at Howard Lake, this county, from February, 1911, to August, 1914. September 19, 1914, he became cashier of the Farmers' State Bank of French Lake. His business training, his popularity, and his long experience in dealing with the public make him a valuable man for the position. Mr. Anderson served on the village council at Howard Lake, and was also recorder of that village for a while, He is a member of Howard Lake lodge, No. 82, A. F. & A. M., and has been senior deacon in that body. He also belongs to Howard Lake camp, Modern Woodmen of America. His wife is a member of the Degree of Honor. Mr. Anderson was married, September 29, 1906, to Ethel Cook, daughter of Andrew J. and Martha J. (Thomas) Cook, who farm near Morris, Minn, Mr, and Mrs. Anderson have two children: Beatrice Ethel, born July 28, 1908, and Edith Mary, born February 11, 1913.

The Bank of Howard Lake. In 1884 C. M. Buck and Lemuel MeGrew bought the banking business of - - - - - - - - . Lynch, and conducted it as a private bank, with a capital of $10,000, under the name of the Bank of Howard Lake, a name which has remained unchanged to the present day. Im 1898 the bank was reorganized as a State Bank, with a capital of $15,000, with the following named officers: President, C, M. Buck; vice president, J. 8. Graves; cashier, Lemuel MeGrew; directors, John Ferrell and John F. Pearson. This same board continued in office unti) 1904, at which time A. A. Narverud became a director, and John Ferrell was elected vice president in place of J. S. Graves, who moved from this lecality and sold his interests to A. A. Narverud.

In January, 1908, the capital stock was increased to $20,000, with ©. M. Buck as president; John Ferrell, vice president; Lemuel McGrew, cashier, and O. P. and M. W. Comer, assistant cashiers; William Wildung, M. M. Woolley, A. A. Narverud as directors. In April, 1912, death took from the officers Lemuel MeGrew, who had been cashier for about twenty-eight years, and O. P. Comer was elected to fill that vacancy. The present officers are E. E, MeGrew, president; William Wildung, vice president; O, P. Comer, cashier; M. W. Comer and H. A. Weeckwerth, assistant cashiers. The building was remodeled in 1909.

The German-American State Bank of Howard Lake was incorporated November 2, 1905, by Mart Fileener, G. G. Luhman, C. A. Wilson, W. F. Nott, Miles E. Wegner, Edward C. Tuttle, A. RB. Klopfieisch, Gottlieb Eppler, Joseph Claessen, Carl Luhman, George Painter, Michael Folz, F, J. Redmer, Julius Redmer, August Gerber and E. E. Ritchie. The first officers were: President, Mart Fleener; vice president, C. A. Wilson; cashier, G. G. Luhman. These three, with M. E, Wegner and Michael Folz, comprised the first board of directors. The institution opened for business November 16, 1905, in its own building. This was later disposed of and the bank now rents from the Howard Lake Realty and Investment Company, having the finest banking house in Wright county. Of the first officers Mart Fleener served until September, 1908, when he was succeeded as presftlent by A, A, Zech, C. A. Wilson served as vice president until January, 1910, when he was succeeded by F. E. Latham, G. G. Luhman has been cashier continuously since the organization of the bank. The present officers are: President, A. A. Zech; vice president, ¥. E. Latham; cashier, G. G. Luhman; assistant cashiers, John Zech and ©. B. Cochran, The bank stands for the progress and development of the community, and the officials are courteous to all and liberal in their treatment of those who are worthy. The bank has an authorized capital of $50,000 and a paid up capital of $15,000. The capital and surplus is $18,000; the deposits, $285,000; the loans, $250,000; and the amount due from banks, $37,000.

August A. Zech, educator and financier, superintendent of Wright county schools, and president of the German-American Bank, of Howard Lake, was born in Prussia, August 31, 1858, son of Frederick and Julia Zech, who brought him to section

Thomas Madigan Mr, And Mrs. James Madigan

31, Victor township, this county, in 1879, He attended the district schools, and then the Howard Lake High school for three years. Then he taught country schools for five years. Subsequently he entered the St. Cloud State Normal school, graduating in 1894. Then for two years he taught in the grammar department of the Howard Lake High school, and in 1896 became principal of the Annandale High school, and served for four years. Since 1900 he has served in his present position in charge of the schools of the county, te which position he was recently re-elected, Aside from being president of the German-American Bank of Howard Lake, Mr. Zech has other financial interests in Wright and other counties. In 1902 he was married to Anna H. Klatt, also a teacher of six years' experience in Minnesota and Colorado.

The Maple Lake State Bank was established as a private bank July 15, 1896, by W. E. Feeney, and was incorporated May 3, 1904, by W. E. Feeney, Thomas Madigan, Thomas Jude, Owen Daily, W. Westrup and J. BE. Madigan. The first officers were: President, W. E. Feeney; vice president, J. B. Madigan; cashier, Thomas Madigan; directors, W. BE. Feeney, Thomas Jude, Owen Daily, J. E. Madigan and A. Westrup. The bank erected its own building in 1896. The officers and directors remain unchanged, except that Frank Jude, on January 2, 1906, took the place of A. Westrup as one of the directors. The capital of the bank is $15,000, the surplus $5,000. The motto of the bank is '' Security, Courtesy and Service,''? and the institution has done its part toward the progress and development of the community. It is a eredit to the bank and an evidence of the progress of the patrons that the business has shown a steady increase each year since its establishment in 1896.

Thomas Madigan, banker, Maple Lake, was born in the township of Maple Lake, January 7, 1861, son of James and Mary 0. (Laughlin) Madigan, natives of Ireland, who came te America about 1854, located for a while in Ohio, and in 1857 came to Wright county and took up farming in Maple Lake township. The father died July 31, 1910, and the mother now makes her home in Maple Lake. In the family there were seven children; Mary, widow of J. W. Murry, of Foley, Minn.; Andrew (deceased) and Thomas, twins; Bridget (deceased); James E., an attorney; Anna, wife of R. M. Glynn, of Maple Lake: and Emma, wife of William P. Strait, of St. Paul. Thomas Madigan received a district and High school education, and was reared to agricultural pursuits. He spent one year in buying and shipping wheat in North Dakota. In 1897 he assisted in organizing the Maple Lake State Bank, of Maple Lake, and became its cashier, a position he still retains. His personality and standing have been important factors in the success of that institution, He is a Democrat, and a member of the A. O. U. W. and the M. B. A. He has served on the village council. The family church is the Catholic. Mr. Madigan was married, January 4, 1904, to Grace Desmond, of Maple Lake, and they have two children: Timothy Irving and Paul James. Timothy Irving is a student at the University of Minnesota. He holds a medal as champion amateur lightweight (135 pounds) wrestler. Paul James attends the High school.

The Security State Bank of Maple Lake was incorporated January 2, 1907. The board consists of: Albert Westrup, president; Joseph F. Baker, vice president; Daniel Flaherty, cashier; N. D. Vandergon, assistant cashier; directors, Albert Westrup, Maple Lake, Minn.; Joseph F. Baker, Monticello, Minn.; Adolph Herold, N. D. Vandergon, J. A. Elsenpeter, Following is a statement of the condition of the bank at the close of business June 30, 1914: Resources - Loans and discounts, $118,288.80; overdrafts, $387.96; banking house, furniture and fixtures, $4,470; due from banks, $22,516.53; cash on hand, $4,009.30; checks and eash items, $81.38; total, $149,753.97. Liabilities - Capital stock, $10,000; surplus fund, $2,000; undivided profits, net, $203.14; deposits subject to check, $23,857.69; cashier's cheeks, $1,099.51 ; time certificates, $112,593.63; total, $149,753.97.

The Citizens' State Bank of Monticello was incorporated in 1894. The first incorporators were BE. B. MeCord, Charles Bradford, N. 5. DeMille, Sophia A. DeMille, T. G. Mealey, G. R. Wedgewood and W. W. Marvin; the first directors, E. B. Me- Cord, N. S. DeMille, Charles Bradford, W. W. Marvin and G. R. Wedgewood. The first officers were E. B. MeCord, president; T. G. Mealey, vice president; Charles Bradford, cashier. The bank opened for business in May, 1914, with a capital stock of $20,000. The present officers are G. R. Wedgewood, president; C. EK. White, vice president; Charles Bradford, cashier; Frank D. Bradford, assistant cashier. This bank was first started as a private bank in 1886 by E. B. McCord, N. 8. DeMille, Charles Bradford, George W. Herrick, Albert Herrick and Nathan Herrick, and changed to a State bank in 1894. The policy of this bank is to run it on a safe and conservative basis, so that depositors will not lose anything, and yet as liberal as safety will permit. Its capital is $20,000 and its surplus $10,000.

The State Bank of Monticello was incorporated October 1, 1902, by S. J. Mealey, E. H. Sherwin, George A. Brasie and Gustav Eggena. The first directors were 8. J. Mealey, George A. Brasie, E. H. Sherwin and Gustav Eggena. The first officers were 8S, J, Mealey, president; E. H. Sherwin, vice president; Gustav Eggena, cashier. The bank opened for business on November 3, 1902, with directors and officers as follows: Directors: S. J. Mealey, E. H. Sherwin, George A. Brasie, Gustav Eggena and Edward Longworth; officers: 8. J. Mealey, president; EH. H. Sherwin, vice president; Edward Longworth, cashier. Edward Longworth resigned as cashier on August 23, 1903, and retired from the bank, and on August 24, 1903, E. H. Sherwin resigned as vice president, and was elected cashier, and George A. Brasie was elected to fill the vacancy as vice president. From that date te the present time there has been no change in the directors or above-named officers of the bank, except that on January 2, 1912, Gustav Eggena was elected vice president. From August 24, 1903, the following persons have held positions as assistant cashiers of this bank: Gustav Eggena, Arthur L. Boock, Clarence BE. Nickerson, Henry C. Brasie, Oscar L. Johnson and Carl W. Peterson. The present officers are as follows: 8. J. Mealey, president; George A. Brasie, vice president; Gustav Eggena, vice president; BE. H. Sherwin, cashier; C. W. Peterson, assistant cashier, the first four named composing the board of directors. The capital steck of the State Bank of Monticello at organization was $12,000, but was increased on July 1, 1914, to $25,000.

The bank rented its banking house from date of organization to January, 1909, when the banking house furniture and fixtures of the Seeurity State Bank were purchased, that bank having consolidated with the Sherburne County State Bank of Big Lake, Minn, This building they have occupied since that time, and made extensive improvements thereon in the summer of 1914. This bank has had a steady growth in deposits and patronage since its organization, The policy of the State Bank of Monticello has always been: Safety first; second, to give accommodations to the local people to assist in upbuilding the village of Monticello and the surrounding country. It has always been active In co-operating with the progressive element of the vicinity for better farming, better improvements and a better community and village in which to live.

S. J. Mealey, one of the leading business men of Wright county, was born in Monticello, in which village he still lives, October 18, 1857, son of Tobias Gilmore and Catherine J. (Prescott) Mealey. He passed through the graded schools, graduated from the High school, and in 1875 and 1876 attended the University of Minnesota. He and his father then engaged in the mercantile business at Monticello, under the firm name of T. G. Mealey & Son, until 1886. Subsequently for three years he was interested in the implement, loan and insurance business. About this time he took up the potato starch business. In 1888 he established a company, became its president, and erected a factory at Monticello. Later, at various times, he promoted companies and erected factories at River Falls, Grantsburg, Colfax and Osceola, Wis. and Hillsboro, N. D. He is still president and principal owner of all of these concerns, but for the past few years, owing to the increased demand and high price of potatoes, little business has been done. In 1893 he purchased his father's mereantile business, and established the firm of S. J. Mealey & Co. At that time the store building was 24 by 70 feet, and the place was about the average village establishment. Now he has a sightly building with 120 foot front, and a full line of goods. It is one of the finest small-town concerns in the Northwest, and would be a credit te a city of ten or fifteen thousand people. His well-selected stock, his reasonable prices, his substantial standing in the community, and his fair dealing have won him an enviable trade. It was in 1903 that he became interested in banking. That year he organized the State Bank of Monticello and was elected president, a position he still retains. He is alsd interested in a chain of banks in Minnesota and North Dakota, being president of the State Bank of St. Michaels (Minn.), of the German-American State Bank of Albertville (Minn.), vice president of the State Bank of Rogers (Minn.), and a director in the Scandinavian National Bank at Minneapolis. He is also president of the Monticello Preserving Company at Monticello, and manager of the Monticello Mill and Elevator Company, operating the mill and elevator at Monticello. The sale of Minnesota farm lands also occupies much of his attention. In politics Mr. Mealey is a Democrat. He has been a member of the Democratic State Central Committee, and was a delegate to the National convention held at St. Louis in 1904, For two years, during Governor John A. Johnson's first administration, he was a member of the State Board of Equalization. He has done good service to his neighbors as member of the village council for several terms, and as president of the board of education, Mr, Mealey was married on Thanksgiving day, November 29, 1883, to Mae E. Sherwin, and they have four children: Louise, Marguerite, Helen and Howard Gilmore. Louise is a graduate of the National Park Seminary, and lives at home. Marguerite is a graduate of Welles College, and is now in charge of a department in the Training School for Young Ladies at Sauk Centre. Helen is a graduate of Welles College, and is now at home. Howard Gilmore graduated from the St, Cloud High school, and attended the University of Minnesota, where he achieved membership in the Psi Upsilon. He is now with his father.

Edward H. Sherwin, banker, man of affairs, and publicspirited citizen of Monticello, was born in Belle Plaine, Scott county, Minnesota, November 18, 1862, son of John Edward and Cynthia W. (Windsor) Sherwin, both natives of Vermont. He lost his father while still an infant, and in 1868 was brought to Monticello by his mother. At the age of sixteen he left school, and became an apprentice to his stepfather in the harness trade. Finally he succeeded to the business. In this eapacity he heeame one of Monticello's leading men. He was skillful, genial, fair dealing and honorable; he made many friends, and easily won the confidence of all with whom he came in contact. He sold out the harness establishment in January, 1914. In the meantime, since 1903, he had been cashier of the State Bank of Monticello, a position he still oceupies. His standing and capability have been important factors in the suecess which this institution has attained. During his long residence in Monticello he has had the interests of the community deeply at heart. He is the president of the Commercial elub, and has done good work on both the village council and the board of edueation. Mr. Sherwin is a Seottish Rite and a Mystic Shrine Mason, and also a member of the Modern Woodmen. He is a Republican in polities, and the family faith is that of the Baptist church. Edward H. Sherwin was married July 25, 1887, to Rose White, a native of England, and they have four children: Eva RK., Rena M., Ruth M. and Carroll W. Carroll W. and Ruth M. are students at the University of Minnesota. Rena M. is at home, Eva R, married J. A. Sende, of Emerson, Manitoba, and they have a daughter, Miriam Esther. Mr. Sende is immigrant inspector, with headquarters at Winnipeg, Canada.

John Edward Sherwin was one of Minnesota's heroes, and gave up his life in defense of her peace and integrity. He was born in Vermont, early became a earpenter, and came to Scott county, this state, with the early settlers. During the Indian uprising he enlisted as a citizen soldier in defense of the frontier, was wounded at the Battle of Birch Coulie, and died at Ft. Ridgley. He left a widow, who is still living at Monticello at the age of eighty-two years; and three children: John J., of Idaho Springs, Colo.; Mae E., wife of S. J. Mealey, of Monticello; and Edward H., of Monticello. After the death of John Edward Sherwin the widow married H. W. Brookings, and to this union there was born a son, William W. Brookins, of Boise, Idaho.

The State Bank of Montrose was incorporated and began business May 4, 1903, with H. C. Bull, Frank Swanson, ©. R. Peterson, 5. J. Swanson, C. A. Stolzman, F. E, Belden, O. E. Mapes, L. F. Miller, Albin Allen and Emanuel Nelson as incorporators. The members of first board of directors were: H. ©, Bull, L. F. Miller, C. R. Peterson, 8S. J. Swanson and ©. A. Stolzman. The first officers were: President, H. C. Bull; vice president, L. F. Miller, and cashier, E. W. Swanson, who still hold their respective offices. In 1903 the bank erected a solid brick banking house, which building it still oeeupies. This bank, situated in a farming community, is especially interested in the accounts of farmers, and has at all times been partial in investing its funds in farm loans and loans to farmers to assist them in the improvement of their farms, and for providing more and better live stock.

The State Bank of Rockford was incorporated August 1, 1907, the incorporators being F. H. Johnson, C. M. Johnson, EB. W. Johnson, J. E. Johnson and A. F, Clifford. All of the above were directors, and F. H. Johnson was elected president; E. W. Johnson, vice president, and C. M. Johnson, cashier. The bank opened for business August 1, 1907, as an incorporated bank, but had been operated as a private bank since 1899 under the name of ''Bank of Rockford, Johnson Bros. & Co., Bankers.'' February 27, 1911, J. BE. Johnson and A. F. Clifford dropped out as stockholders and since that time the stock has all been held by ¥F. H. Johnson, C. M. Johnson and E. W. Johnson, who constitute the board of directors. The present officers are F. H. Johnson, president; E. W. Johnson, vice president; C. M. Johnson, eashier, and W. F. Johnson, assistant cashier, The bank owns its building, which was built in 1908.

Following is a statement of the condition of the bank at the close of business March 4, 1914: Resources: Loans and diacounts, $209,452.45; overdrafts, $140.26; banking house, furni-

The First State Bank of Silver Creek, Hasty, was incorporated July 11, 1914. The first directors were: S. J. Mealey, B. H. Sherwin, Guy A. White, F. D. Bradford and R. E. Nord. The first officers were: E. H. Sherwin, president; Guy A. White, vice president; R. E. Nord, cashier, The bank opened for business on July 13, 1914. There have been no changes in officers and directors. The following is a statement of the condition of the bank at the close of business, April 23, 1915: Resources; Capital stock, $12,000.00; interest and exchange received, $1,173.71; time certificates, $10,108.40; commercial deposits, $13,- 684,48; eashier's checks, $583.49; total, $37,550.08. Liabilities; Loan and discounts, $22,293.74; furniture and fixtures, $1,116.09; expenses, $1,291.19; due from banks, $10,486.38; eash and cash items, $2,362.68; total, $37,550.08.

The First State Bank of South Haven was organized August 13, 1906, with a capital of $10,000 and a surplus of $2,000 has since been added. The organizers were August Bragg, of South Haven; M. T. Weum, of Moorehead, Minn.; 8. S. Dalen, of Perley, Minn.; F. S. Holmes and John Kurtzenacker. The first officers were: President, M. T, Weum; vice president, F. 8. Holmes; cashier, Augustus Bragg. These officers with S. 8. Dalen and John Kurtzenacker were the first directors. The present officers are: President, M. T. Weum; vice president, G, Strecker; cashier, Augustus Bragg. The directors are these gentlemen with Mrs. Augustus Bragg and John Oberg, of Moorhead, Minn. The first bank home, a frame building, was opened for business August 13, 1906, being first rented and then purchased. It was remodeled and furnished and used until April 11, 1910, when it was destroyed in the big fire. Then the present building was erected. It is of brick, one story high, 24 by 44 feet, and furnished with modern equipment. The vault is 10 by 12 feet, built according to the plans of the Diebold Safe & Lock Co. The safe is burglar and fire proof, and is of the most modern description. Following is a statement of the condition of the bank at the close of business, March 4, 1914: Resourees - -Loans and discounts, $102,318.60; overdrafts, $155.94; banking house furniture and fixtures, $5,164.00; total cash assets, $23,086.20 ; checks and cash items, $67.80; paid out for expenses, etc. in excess of earnings $269.61; total, $131,062.15. Liabilities - -Capital stock, $10,000.00; surplus fund, $2,000.00; total deposits, $119,- 062.15; total, $131,062.15.

of Hezekiah and Mary (Howe) Bragg, the former of New York state and the latter from Glasgow, Scotland. Hezekiah Bragg brought his family to Red Wing in the fifties and was a eontractor there. Later he moved to Morris, Minn., and farmed near there until his death in 1894 at the age of fifty-nine. Augustus received a good education in the publie schools and was reared to farm pursuits. From 1886 to 1896 he was a builder and contractor. Then he became an accountant and insurance agent at Morris, Minn. In 1904 he secured a position as credit man for a large wholesale concern in Minneapolis. In January, 1906, he took charge of the State Bank of Perley, Minn, He sold this bank in July, 1906, and opened the First State Bank of South Haven, of which he is still the cashier. Mr. Bragg is @ member of the A. F. & A. M., the I. 0. O. F. and the M. W. A. He is a village treasurer, and has served on the village and school boards. Mr. Bragg was married in January, 1913, to Louisa Kronenberg, daughter of Mr, and Mrs. Joseph Kronenberg, retired farmers of South Haven.

The Hanover State Bank was incorporated July 1, 1907. The board is constituted as follows: Charles A. Farel, president ; F. A. Diethert, vice president; John Hurley, vice president; H. KE. Kirscht, cashier; Mina Hurley, assistant cashier. Directors, Charles A. Farel, Buffalo, Minn.; F. A. Diethert, John Hurley, H. E. Kirscht, Frank Klemm, Hanover, Minn.; Charles Roehlke, Loretto, Minn. ; Theodore Hohensee, Rockford, Minn.

The State Bank: of St. Michael was incorporated July 9, 1904, by Henry Berning, S. J. Mealey, H. G. Berning, Nick Linneman, Henry Linneman, Joseph Berning and H. W. Dick. The first board consisted of 8. J. Mealey (president), N. Linneman (viee president), Henry Berning (cashier), H. G. Berning and H. W. Dick. The bank opened for business July 1, 1904, in the Jasper building. Its own building, which it now occupies, was started in August, 1905, and occupied the same year. The bank was founded for the purpose of conducting a conservative general banking business and developing the agricultural and business interests of the community. The present board is as follows: S. J. Mealey (president), W. J. Elliott (vice president), BR. A.

William J. Elliott, vice president of the State Bank of St. Michael, and one of the leading citizens of that village, was born in Frankfort township, this county, November 24, 1862, son of William and Anna (Gallagher) Elliott, the pioneers. He was reared on the home farm, attended the district schools, and learned farming from his father. As he grew to manhood he secured a part of the home place, and on this for many years he conducted general farming, making a specialty of raising Poland China hogs and good grade steers. He served as supervisor and school clerk, and held stock in the Rural Telephone Co., of Osseo, and in the Sunflower Co-operative Creamery Co. In 1911 he retired and moved to St. Michael, where he has since lived. It was in 1904, when the bank was organized, that he assumed his present position in the bank. Mr, Elliott married Catherine Schmidt, daughter of Nicholas Schmidt, of Stearns county. She was born in Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Ellictt have three children, Agnes, Vietor and Theresa.

William Elliott, a pioneer, was born in Ireland, and came to the United States in 1854, After two years in New York state he came to Minnesota in 1856 and stayed for a while at St, Anthony, now a part of Minneapolis. That same year he took a claim of 160 acres in section 20, Frankfort township, this county, but he did not locate permanently here until 1859. Then under the most primitive conditions he started life in the wilderness, His live stock consisted of one cow and one ealf and it was several years before he could get a yoke of oxen. He put in his first crops with a hoe. Provisions had to be brought from St. Anthony. On one occasion he came from that settlement with forty pounds of nails on his back, and with tea and shot in his pocket. At the time of the Indian panic he and his family took refuge on an island in Beebe lake, where they were prepared to defend themselves from attack. But no Indians came and they soon returned to their cabin. A short time afterward he enlisted in Company A, First Minnesota Heavy Artillery, and served nine months to the close of the war. He helped to establish the Catholic church near Pelican lake, and in the early days attended the missions held near that lake. He helped to organ- ize district 44, and was one of its first officers. In polities he was an Andrew Jackson Democrat. He was unusually successful as a farmer, and at the time of his death he had erected a new home and modern buildings and had added to his possessions until he owned 480 acres. He died in 1911 at the age of eightyfive. His wife died in 1908 at the age of eighty-four, They had three children. One died in infancy. William J. is a banker. John lives on a part of the home farm.

The Citizens State Bank of Waverly was incorporated March 2, 1907. The board is constituted as follows: Patrick J. Boland, president; Thomas F. Gleeson, vice president; William H. Boland, eashier. Directors, Patrick J. Boland, Litchfield, Minn.; Thomas F. Gleeson, St. Paul, Minn.; Mary J. Boland, William H. Boland, Waverly, Minn.

The State Bank of Waverly was incorporated April 27, 1893, by John M. Bartlett, John N. Haven, Austin B. Morse, George D. Bartlett and William N. Morse. The first officers were: President, John M. Bartlett; vice president, George D. Bartlett; cashier, Austin B. Morse. The institution opened for business May 2, 1893, and erected its own building in 1907. John M. Haven has been president since November 9, 1894, succeeding J. M. Bartlett. On the same date George D. Bartlett was succeeded as vice president by William N. Morse, who served until January 27, 1911, when he was succeeded by Austin B. Morse, who is still serving. Austin B. Morse was cashier until January 27, 1911, when he was succeeded by the present cashier, Carl D. Michalson. At the annual meeting held in May, 1914, it was voted to increase the capital stock to $25,000.