Hastings City (part 1 of 2)

Hastings City

At the session of the Territorial Legislature in 1857, an act was passed, incorporating tlic city of Hastings, and at the election in May, tlie followiiig ofiicers were elected :

Dr. Hanchett resigned before his term expired, and Alderman Hope was elected Acting Mayor for the remainder of the term. Aldcrnuan Plant ah?o resigned and D. F. Langley was elected to fill thf? vacancy.

A new cliai'tor taking the place of the ohl one, on the 5t]i of June, 1858. The followhig named officers were declared elected for the ensuing year :

1859. Mayor - John F. Marsh ; Aldermen - Messrs, Mullonoy, Eichhorn, Dutton, and Casserly ; City Clerk - A. Mackeracker; City Justice - T. M. Ray; City Attorney - L. Smith.

Mayor Marsh resigned liis otHce in I^ovcniber of this year and Orrin T. ] lays Avas elected to fill the vacancy. In May, ISGO, the office of City Clerk was declared vacant, and L. W. Collins was elected to fill tlie vacancy.

In August Mr. Collins resigned tlie office of City "Olerk, and C. P. Fuller was elected his successor, but :in December^ lie also resigned and B. C. Howes was elected to the^vacancj, who in turn resigned the same month, and Charles Etheridge was selected to supply -the place.

In September Mayor Lovell resigned his office and Mark Wilson was elected to fill the vacancj^ Alderjiian Ainsworth also resigned and John White was -elected his successor.

K. J. Marvin; Marshal - Charles Lewis; Police Justice - David Barker. Mr. Barker resigned and E^ Parliman was elected in his stead as Police Justice.

The Board of Education of the city of Hastings consists of two school inspectors for each ward, six m all, organized by special act of the Legislature, passed

P. T. Chamberlin was elected President and is the present incumbent. Eev. C. S. LeDuc^was elected: Secretary and Treasurer, and resigned in September,..

1867. F. M.' Crosby was appointed to fill the va-, cancy, and resigned in March, 1868. Rev. I. M. Ray> was appointed*"- to fill the vacancy and is the present incumbent. '

Messrs. Chamberlain and Winslow were re-electedl at the annual election in 1867. J. B. Tozer was also, elected at the same election. In April, 1867, F. M. Crosby resigned and C. M. Churchill was appointed! to fill the vacancy. In December, 1867, Seagrave, Smith resigned and Pev. I. M.'Ray was appointed ta fill the vacancy.

The first bank in Hastings was merely a bank of exchange, and operated by Thorne 6z FoUett, in 1856. In lSo9 Mr. Thorne made it a bank of issue, with a capital of 825,000, called Thome's Bank. On the same day that the bills were issued, Messrs. Follett 6: Eennick issued bills on the Bank of Hastings. The Bank of Hastings is now known as the First National, and Thome's Bank as the Merchants' JSTational.

The Star Works Manufacturing Company went into operation in 1866, with the following officers: J. F. E-ehse President, W. F. Bacon Secretary, Charles Pearson Superintendent. They manufiicture all kinds of agricultural implements, railroad work, S:c.j and employ about fifteen men, doing an annual business of from 820,000 to 830,000.

Of the settlement at the the Falls we cannot do better ])erhaap3 than to give an extract of a letter from Gen, W. G. LeDuc on that subject. Mr. LeDuc says :

" Some time during the year 1S53 or 1851, I went from St. Paul, where I was then residing, practising law and in business, fishing to Trout P> rook, twelve miles below Hastings. On^my return, while fording +he Yermilion, I was met bv Harrison H. Graham, for whom I had some legal busiiie.ss in hand, and who informed me that he had made a claim of the quarter section embracing the Yermilion Falls, that there was a dispute in relation to the claim, and he wished me to defend his case ; that the party holding, James Main I think the name was, did not pretend to hold the claim for himself, hut said he held for Alex. Wilkin and others in St. Paul. I took the case, and after some litigation, succeeded in obtaining the patent for my client, Graham. He was poor, unable to pay any fees and had burrowed of n;ie betyroen one and two thousand dollars, and after entry v/as completed and patent issued, he of&red me one half of his claim in payment of indebtedness. Subsequently he borrowed more money, amounting to several thousand dollars, and became indebted to many other persons, and linally offered to sell me the remaining half interest if I would pay his debts, assume all joint debts on the property and give him $7,000 cash, which offer I accepted, and the property was transferred, I think, early in 185G. I"p to this time I had regarded my interest in the property in tho town site of Hastings, one-fourth of which I purchased of Alex. Faribault, as a mere specidative transaction. But afteibuying out Graham, I examined the ])ii.)pcrty thoroughly and found myself possessed of one of tlie most beautiful and desirable waterfalls in the world, with a little farm house of two rooms, and a clumsy back woods mill with two run of stone, the st-^'ues beingone four and a half and the other four feet in diameter and each placed on top of the water shafc which drove them, said shaft being a tree cut from the woods near and rounded roughly, the foot being rounded, and standing in a cast iron dish resting upon the lever which raised the stone. The mill machinery was driven by tlie friction of a wooden wheel on this shaft rolling, on a smaller wooden wheel, which had to be renewed as fast as worn out. I don't think there was a cogged wheel in the concern. The water wheels on the foot of the driving shafts were percussion wheels of wood made roughly by Graham, and answered the purpose of grinding the grain of the farmers around. I took out this machinery and rebuilt the mill, a millwright named Bowers superintending the work, and who was unfortunately drawn into the machinery, while starting the same for the first time, and crushed so that he died tlio next day. This mill I afterwards improved and enlarged, and previous to entering the army, sold, with twenty acres of land, to Messrs. Harrison of Illinois for $20,000. One of the Harrisons died, and the other sold the property to Stephen Gardner for $27,000. Mr. Gardner immediately ])roceeded to erect the substantial stone mill which now embelishes the north bank of the Yermilion at the Falls."

This mill is one of the finest in tlie country, and with an exhaustless supply of pewer, it is considered the most valuable mill property in this part of the State. Yerniilion mills flour bears an extra price in the market wherever it has become known. The Dakota Mills, situated on the lower Falls of the Yermilion, about a mile l)elow, is the property of Gov. Alexander Kanisov. The buildino: is of stone and has an excellent water power, but is not so easy of access as the Yermilion, neither are the mills of so great capacity, yet the power is sufficient to admit of enlarging to almost any extent the proprietor may wish.

a view of which we give, is perhaps as beautiful a waterfall as any in this land of ''sky-tinted waters." Longellow has probably not seen it, and so it has escaped the ^rythmic rhapsodies ^5^^^ he is wont to bestow upon the beauties- ^of natural scenery. IS'o dusky maiden^ sitting on its bank& has poured out her sad wail for broken icart-hopes for someswarthy brave, and consequently no travKRMiLioN FALL8. ditions or legends are connecled therewith ; yet to the admirer of nature's lavish beauties, it is one of the most enchanting scenes to be found, and new beauties arise Irom each separate stand-point. The sheer descent is about sixty iQQ\^ thougli broken for the first twenty-feet, and then the remaining forty ieet ialls in one unbroken sheet to the gorge below. The banks are precipitous on either side and to reacli the bed of the river at the foot of the falls one must go some distance below to find a place of safe descent. It only needs the pen of the poet or the pencil of the master artist to make Vermilion Falls one of the most enchanting scenes ever designed by tiie Master Architect and thrown out of nature's great storehouse for the benefit and delight of mankind.

The Hastings and Dakota Railroad is so completely identified -with the history and the interests of the city of Hastings, tliat it will not be inappropriate to give something of a sketch of its inception and progress.

As early as 1S5G, Hon. W. G. LeDuc succeeded in getting a bill passed by tlie Territorial Legislature ojranting a charter for the building of the Hastings, Minnesota Kiver and Red River of the Xorth Railroad. A company was organized under the provisons of tlie charter and the organization maintained up till the time of the breaking out of the war, when all local enterprises were forgotten or lai'd aside to attend to the demands of the country in its hour of peril, and railroads that had been projected but not commenced Avere all at a stand-still. Meantime the Minnesota Central, now Milwaukee, St. Paul and Minneapolis Railroad, was built through nearly the centre of the county, and consequently drew largely from the trade and business of Hastings. The business men of the city were somewhat depressed in spirit on account of the reaction and the cutting oil of the rich agricultural rea'ion which had heretofore been tributary thereto, and resolved to make another effort to put themselves in railroad coniniunication with the outside world, and during the session of the Legislature of 18C)G, Gen. LeDuc, who had just returned from the war, succeeded in getting a renewal of the charter for that road, as well as legislative authority for the city of Hastings to issue bonds to aid in the construction of the road. A memorial to C(r.]gres3 asking a grant of lands for this road was also V'assed by the Legislature. Mr. LeDuc, immediately upon the adjournment of the Legislature, repaired to Washirgton, and with the aid of the Hon. I. Donnelly, member- of Congress from Hastings, sustained by the whole delegation from Minnesota, a grant was obtained of tQii sections per mile. A competent engineer was employed to run a preliminary survey from Big Stone Lake to Hastings. The survey was pushed forward as fast as possible. As the first snows of winter whitened the landscape the last stake was stuck on the banks of the Mississippi. Early the following spring grading was commenced, and as the city had voted to issue bonds to the amount of $100,000 to aid the enterprise, people began to have some confidence in its ultimate success, feeling assured that the road would at least be built as far as Farmington, to connect with the Milwaukee, St. Paul and Minneapolis Railway, and thus give them a railroad connection with the East. AVork was pushed forward as rapidly as funds could 'be jn-oeured, and in 1867 nearly twenty miles of the road was graded.

Thus far everything had been done by tlie unaided efforts of the people of Hastings ; an unwearied search was meantime being made for capital with which to push the work to completion, which after many disappointments was at last crowned with success. An arrangement was entered into with Oakes Ames, of Massachusetts, to furnish $200,000 and take one half interest in the road, it being stipulated that the company should finish thirty miles of the road, and he should receive one half interest for the sum above mentioned. This arrangement was finally concluded in July of 1868, and the work thereupon hurried forward with the utmost rapidity consistent with economy. The company have now thirty miles of the road in operation, with freight and passenger cars running thereon. The iron used in the construction of the road is the Welch rail, weighing fifty pounds to the yard. The first engine was made in Providence, E. I., and named for the trustee of the company, Hon. J. B. Alley. It is the intention of the company to complete the road to the Minnesota river in 1869, and through to the w^estern boundary of the State within -^ve years.

Directors - J. B. Alley, Peter Butler, Oliver Ames, of Boston; William L. Ames, of St. Paul; Stephen Gardner, W. G. LeDuc, Peter Yan Auken, E. B. Allen, J. C. Meloy, of Hastings.

Billiard Saloons

Fisher lU-others, Second street. Howes &Tuttle, Second street. John F. Xorrish, Second street. Maeomber & Oliver. '2o:\ Second street. J. Guggenheim & Co., Second street, (^eori^e Newman, Second street. \Y. J. Van Dyke, Second street. E. B. Allen, Second street. Daniel E. Eyre, Second street.

Gun Shop Harness Shops

Tremont, Second street. Minnesota House, Second street. American House, Second street. Western Hotel, llamsey street. Burnett House, liamsey street. Dacotah House, near levee. Garden City House, Sibley street. Garibaldi House, Vermilion street. Waverly House, Vermilion street. Union Hotel, Fourth street. -Gilkey's Hotel, Vermilion street.

Wines And Liquors

, Hodgson, Eobert lEoore and Kansom F. Ean- "^iS'^^-^'dolph, came into the comity of Dakota and settled in what is now known as the town of Greenvale. Being tlie pioneers, they were for the time shut out from all societ}^ save among themselves, and their whole attention was given to tlie cultivation of their farms and making for themselves comfortable homes. Men of stout hearts and strong and willing hands, they soon reduced the barren prairie to cultivated and fruitful fields^ and in the autumn of 1855, a bountiful liarvest was gathered in as the first installment of thereturns for the labor bestowed. Some hardships and privations were of course endured, but only sucli as are generally experienced b}" the pioneers of a new country, and after the first harvest there Avere no ap-- prehensions of want or hunger coming to their doors.. On the 20th of Septem.ber, 1S55, a son was born "to William Kegg, who was christened William Kegg,. Jr., and whose death occurred on tlie 10th of October following, these being the first birth and death occuring in the town. On the third day of April, 1856, Miss Elizabeth Jane Symonds was married to Mr. Billions Pond, which is supposed to be the first transaction of that nature that occurred in Greenvale. la 1856 a school was opened by Mr.. Charles King, anci the young ideas of the neighborhood were taught to iiim liigli in their striving after education, fame and renown. Rehgions service was heki in 1856 by Rev. Thomas Dodge, though no church was at that thne organized. Agricultural pursuits are the only business of the town. -The soil is of a black, sandy loam, Tei;j quick in production, and yielding the best quality of grain, though not as large quantities, as in some towns that have a heavier soil, with clay subsoil. *Chub Creek is the principal stream that furnishes water, though no water power is afforded. There is plenty of timber for all purposes of fuel and fencing. At the time Greenvale was organized the following named gentlemen were chosen to administer the town government.:

In 1867 S. C. Howell was elected as Representative to the State Legislature. Mr. Howell has also -served as County Commissioner for some years.

No business aside from the agricultural pursuits of the farmers is carried on in the town. Xo wonders of natural scenery vary the beauty of the landscape, consequently the history of Grcenvalo is told in few words. The citizens arc of an enlightened and enterprising <class, and will niake it a wealthy and intiuential com- :munity as time and lauor develope the sources of material wealth that lie hidden in the soil.

'^^]Sr 1851 George AY. IT. Bell left Potosi, in "^yisconsln, and journeyed to the Territory of Minnesota. St. Paul was a qniet village, not. -yet disiniiied as a citv. Eeinir mncli interested' with the country, he climbed . St. Anthony Hill and looked over the face of tlie country on either side of the river, and with prophetic eye saw in the future a a beautiful and enterprising city on the bank-^. of the Mississippi, bustling with trade and coninieree, tlie arrival and. departure of steamboats and cars, and all the activity and life of a commercial town. But, unluckily for him, ho calculated the city on tliewest side of the river, and in accordance v/ith this, view, he found a canoe and crossed the river on an exploring expedition. Alexander McLcod and Henry Balland had claims and had l)uiit cabins. Tliomas Odell also had a claim on the top of tlie bluff, near his present residence, and was keeping a kind of trading post for the Indians. These were the only settlers on, this side of the river, and Mr. Bell becoming enamored, with the country, concluded to make a claim and remove his family, if they were wjlling. The spot ho selected was a fine table land elevated somewhat above the bottom lands of tlie Mississippi, yet sheltered bythe bluffs in the back ground. It was a lovely site. . and had the city been built on that side of the river it would have been one of the most desirable location- in the town. A treaty of peace liad just been made with the Indians, and all that section of country ceded to the United States, so that settlers had little to fear from them, other than occasional annoyances. Mr. Bell's claim was in the direct trail of Little Crow's band of warriors. Mr. Bell and family feeling that if they treated the red man as they would the white all would be well, concluded to try their fortunes on the site selected, and soon had tlieir cabin erected and themselves domiciled therein. It was sometime before other white settlers took up their residence on this side of the river, and it frequently tried the nerves of Mr. Bell and his family to remain in possession of tlieir <!laim, as there were times when the Indians under the influence of liquor would make such demonstrations 5is to alarm timid people and make watchful the stout- -est hearted.

In the spring of 1852 Morgan Sweeney removed to West St. Paul and settled on a claim adjoining Mr. Bell. But the Sioux having become restless on account of the delay in the ratification of the treaty, grew somewhat troublesome, and one day a party of squaws made a raid upon the family of Mr. Sweeney and drove them from their cabin, while the younger ones drove his cow to. the bluffs and gave such demonstrations that Sweeney thought it prudent to go back to St. Paul, which resolution he immediately put into execution. Many interesting incidents might be related of the first settlement and pioneer life among the Indians on the western shore of the i^reat I\^ther of Waters.

In the fall of 1857 the population had so much increased that the town was laid out and surveyed and preparations were active to build up a city, a charter was obtained, and West St. Paul immediately commenced to put on the dignity and airs of a city. At the municipal election that was held in the spring of 1858, the following named persons were elected to administer the government of the now city :

The first message of His Honor the Mayor was somewhat elaborate, and spoke of the wonderful future of the embryo city when it should become full-fledged and the termini of various i-ailroads that would inevitably centre here. Tlie people, e-\'er on the alert to possess themselves of every advantage that could be made available, proceeded at once to obtain a charter for the Minnesota and West St. Paul Railroad. The company was organized, consisting of William P. Marshall, James M. Winslow, D. W. C. Dunwell,

Pobertson and C. D Gilfillan . A percentage of the stock was paid in and the law in all respects conformed to. The route was surveyed, the right of way obtained, and all things seemed to be in a rlourishing condition, but when the Cedar Valley Railmad Company ftiiled it had a discouraging eifect upon other railroad enterterprises, and among otliers the I^Einnesota and West St. Paul road vras aban dinned.

Before tlie abandonment of tlie railroad project excitement ran high in regard to city property in "West St. Paul. Real estate reached the highest figures and transfers were very brisk. J. Yanderhorck built a store and opened a stock of goods. Mr. Alexander built a mill and other buildings followed rapidly, till it really appeared as though there was a brilliant future in store for the new city. There were four dry goods and grocery stores, a bakery, a hardware and tin store, two blacksmith shops, one hotel and three saw^ mills. Bonds were issued by the city and roads and bridges were built, and all seemed on the high road to prosperity. But in the spring of 1859 the Mississippi overflowed its banks, and a general inundation ensued. Scarce a house in the city escaped the flood of waters. A terrible reaction took place, and city bonds which were worth eighty-one cents in the market were hard to dispose of Jit thirty cents. An attempt was made at the next session of the Legislature to have the city charter repealed, but Anally the bill was withdrawn, and the city began to revive.

William Irvine was elected Mayor at the second municipal election, and he in turn was succeeded by a. W. II. Bell, D. W. C. Dunwell being the last one elected, as the springy floods of 1861 so ofl:ectually drowned the enterprise of the city as well as the city proper that utter depopulation followed, and at the next session of the Legislature the city charter was repealed. The population had reached some 700 or 800, but after the severe wetting of 1861 it fell off till there were very few left. Diirinir tlie war every a1)le- bodied man either enlisted or sent a snbstitnte to the army and left the working force at home very much reduced. The Indian massacres of the frontier also made a drain upon the home supply till the colony had scarcely a working man left. Business was left entirely at a stand still, and not until 1865 did it begin to revive. About this time several persons commenced diiferent branches of business, but were wise enough to locate on the elevated plateau above the bottom lands of the Mississippi. The present business of West St. Paul is represented as follows :

Dealers in dry goods and groceries, McAdams & Fabor, J. McCarty, Michael Itin and Matthias Itin ; a hardware store by M. Itin ; Joseph Minne and August Yost, blacksmiths ; II. G. Peters, wagon maker ; Strong, shoemaker ; M. J. Bell, postmaster.

The Catholics have a very neat church edifice, in which services are held every Sabbath. Kev. Father Ireland of St. P§,ul has charge of the church. The Methodists have a hall very well fitted up for service. Kev. Mr. Bolls is the pastor of the church.

There is only one school house in the town, though there are over one hundred pupils to receive the benefits of education, and at the last town election one hundred and ninety-nine votes were polled.

IHE history of the tu\vn of Douglas com- ^Kiw^mencGs with the year 1855, when John Russell,, 1:^1 Jai^-i<?3 Ivectley, Mr. Sedmau, Benjamin Hare, '^^^r^Zarah Taphn, Barney Gerringcr, Arnold Schweitzer and some others pitched their tents and resolved to try their fortunes in that locality. All beins: farmers their first efforts were of course directed to breaking the ]vrairie and preparing for future harvests. Ko startling events marked or marred the quiet of the neighborhood, but seed time and harvest with their labor and their rewards came in their regular season and crowned with success the hardy pioneer who had thus sought to make the wilderness blossom as the rose, and reduce the wilderness prairie to fruitful fields. Douglas is an eveiTgovernnient township, with just thirty-six sections of hind, w^ell watered by the Cannon Eiver and Trout Broolc. The river furnishes a very fair water power, which is as yet unimproved. Timber is plenty for fuel and fencing.

The first birth of a white person in Douglas was that of George Borrell on the 28th of February, 185C. The first death was of JVIr. dure in 1860, while the first marriage ceremony was postponed till the 8th of March, 186^, when S.^ S. Twitchell and Miss Sally Dance entered into an arranu'oment to have tlie mar;

In ISol) a school was taught by Mrs. A. Doxtader, and religious services held as early as 1858, by Kev. Mr. Shaw, a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church, from Hastings. There are no stores or hotels in the town. There are six school houses and one church edifice built, by Methodists in 18GG.

The^ following named persons have ofliciated as Chairmau of Supervisors and Town Clerk for tlie town of Douglas : Chair7nan. of Sujyer visors. Tovrn Clerl\

The following named have acted as Justices of the Peace: H. Van Auken, D. E. Twitchell, S. S. Twitclicl], Oliver Patch, Samuel Lamphere, William Grav, John McXamer, John Kerne and Henrv Pvle.

f" "' .^iHMJiJi^rri w;is iirst settled in 1854 by John Richmond, who made a, claim near the centre of the town. He was alone in his calory for all that season, as no other claims were made till 1855, T^^hen several others made claims and located on them. Richard Morrill, Charles Kern, D. B. Hnrlbnrt, William Fowler, Stephen Hicks and James Jacobs were about the only ones Tvho opened up farms this year. These with their families located in the town and commenced farming operations.

Randolph comprises only about one-third of a government township, being only two miles in width from north to south, and six from east to west. It is bounded on the north by the town of Hampton, east by Douglas, south by the town of Lillian in Goodhue county, and west by the town of Sciota.

The soil is somewhat varied, being sandy along the banks of Chub Creek, l)y which it is principally watered, while back from the stream the soil is a dark loam with a subsoil of clay, making the average yield of grain somewhat less in quantity than in some other parts of the county, yet the quality is considered of the best. The settlement progressed but slowly, as most of the claim seekers were afraid the sandy soil would not yield rich enough returns to satisfy their thirst for gain, and consequently looked further l)efore locating;.

The first birth tliat occurred in Randolph was that -of Charles Kleeberg, in April, 1856. The lirst death was that of Mrs. James Hassan, in December, 1857. On the last day of December, 1856, Miss Mary Morrill was married to Mr. Charles Lewis, the ceremony being performed by Rev. Mr. Barnes.

Miss Anna CiifTurd taught the first school in the summer of 1857, while the first religious service was held at the house Richard Morrill, in the spring of 1856, by the Rev. Charles Kearns, a Methodist itinerant minister. There are now two school houses in the town, but no church edifice.

;N"o business has been attempted except farming. The land is nearly all occupied, and a fine agricultural community is now seen wdiere the open prairie only was to be seen twelve or fourteen years since.

The town organization took place in 1858, at which time Ara Barton was chosen Chairman of Supervisors, and J. L. Armington Town Clerk, since which time the following named persons have occupied those positions :

The Cannon river runs along the tfunth lino of the town and affords an excellent water power just where the Granville Mills are situated. The mill is located on the south bank of the liver in Goodhue county, and affords sufficient milling accommodations to all that section of countrv tributarv thereto.

}?CIOTA was lirst settled by John C. Couper, John II. Couper, William H. Conver, Stephen Casey, Charles Lewis, Sr., Charles Lewis, Jr., A.J. Kibbey, J. Simmons, Edwin IIone,George Daniels, John Iloople, John E. Jones, C. B. Collins, E. B. Iliggins, H. Woodworth, IST. "Woodwortli and C. P. Bullock, all of whom settled in town the same year.

The lirst school was tar.ght by Miss Bosetta Emmons, and the first birth was that of Ida Bullock, while the first death was that of Mrs. A. J. Kibbey, in the winter of, 1S5G. Mr. Z. Lewis was married in December of 1855, and the first religious service was held by Rev. Timothy Wilcoxen, now of Hastings. Stephen N. Casey had the honor of building the first store, while C. B. CoUins has for erecting the first hotel. Most of the dates we have been unable to get accurately, and in consequence we have not given them. The land is nearly all a prai-rie, there being only about two acres of timber in the town. The soil is very sandy, and consequently not as well ada])ted to the cultivation of vrlieat as are many other towns in the county, the average yiekl of that cereal heing not more than from twelve to fifteen bushels per acre. The town is watered by the Cannon river and some small creeks. A village called Lewiston was platted and laid out by Charles Lewis, who afterwards sold an undivided interest to Steplien Casey, and there being an excellent water power added to many other natural advantages, made the pros2)ect for a thriving village at no very distant day rpiite flattering. But the town proprietors put their property right up to the highest speculative point, and far above the reach of those who would liave settled if they conld have procured lots at reasonable figures, and the conseqnenee was that the town never became full fledged, and in a short time it died a natural death, and sank into oblivion to rise no more.

Since the organization of the town under State authority in 1858, the following named persons have acted as Chairman of Supervisors and Town Clerk; Chairman of Super imor is. Town Clerh.

>^b|4LBERT WEBSTER, AYilliain A. Bissell, ' ^H. P. Sweet, David C, Murray, with some pothers, were the first settlers in Inver Grove, ^^ all of whom locatecVat Pine Bend on the Mis- -sissippi river, and commenced building a town, which was at that time known as Centralia, a post office having been established by that name and II. P. Sweet appointed postmaster. But little business was done till 1857, the only store being kept by the postmaster, Mr. Sweet, who kept on hand a small stock of groceries, but this year Hon. H. G. 0. Morrison, a lawyer from Maine, came to the place and invested considerable capital, erected a flouring mill, a saw mill and shingle mr»,chine, a store and several dwelling houses. Mr. Morrison had partners in each branch of business, the mills being operated by Morrison, Wright & Co., and the store b}^ Morrison & Wright. The same year the Chambers Brothers built and put in operation a large two-story building for a hotel and boarding house.

In 1858, Mr. Theophilus Cushing, an extensive lumber dealer from Maine, came to this town, bringing all the machinery for a large saw mill, which he located at Merrimac, five miles above Pine Bend, and on the northern line of the town. Mr. Cushing expended some $28,000 in the enterprise, but when the western bub1)lc burst in that year, this ^vas among those that coiikl not liold a footing, and witli tlio general crash this went too. This so disgusted the proprietors that they returned to Alainc, and the mill was finally sold to "Win. L, Ames, of St. Paul, or what the freshet had spared, who removed the machinery.

The town plat of Pine Bend was made by H. G. O. Morrison, AYilliam A. Bissell, Robert Foster and A. A. Lovejoy, and suiveyed by William Dwilley, Jr., in 1S57, and high hopes were entertained by the proprietors of soon seeing a large city, or at least a very enterprising one, built up at this point. Morrison and Co. kept their mills in operation till 1S62, and also the store, but the financial crisis of 1857-8 so crippled the business resources of the proprietors that other towns took the lead, and Pine Bend lost its prestige and became one of the things that were.

Some time in 1859 or 1860, Mr. Willoughby built a large house near the centre of Inver Grove, and opened it as a hotel, being on the direct road to St.- Paul from Cannon Falls and Hastings, it was a very great aocommodation^ and soon became a noted stopping point for travellers.

There is now in the town only one store, which is owned by E. F. Crocker, who is also present postmaster of Pine Bend, a large grain warehouse, owned by Thompson & Sanborn, one blacksmith shop, one physician, at Pine Bend, Dr. Munson, and one, Dr. Barton, at Merrimac. Dr. Barton has also in operation a fine steam saw mill, located about one mile above the site of Mr. Cushing's.

A Metliotlist cliurcli Vv^as erected in 1S5T at Fine Bend, and regular cliurcli service vv'as kept up for several years, but as the iiuaiicial pressure depopulated the town the sustaining of a minister was considered too expensive a luxury, and in 1868 ^ho building was sold to the school district and transformed into a first class school house, yet still occupied by the Methodists for church service. There aro live other scliool houses, in the town in convenient localities to accommodate the pupils of the different neighborhoods.

Tlio Catholics have a very neat church ediiice, located about a mile from Willoughhy's on the stage road to St. Paul; The German Protestraits have also a church building in the northern part of the town.

The town is well watered by small streams and little lakes, and has an {ibundant supply of timber ibr all purposes where hardwood may be used. The soil is mostly of a black sandy loam, lying on a clay subsoil. There are about ten miles of river coast in the town, i: being of very irregular shape, and twelve miles in length from north to south.

Mr. "William IT. Jarvis, formerly a St. Paul druggist, has a fine nursery of fruit, and ornamental trees, and a market warden; from which he furnishes larsje supplies for the St. Paul market.

y^^m^^ October 1852 a party of explorers started ) y iw from Cottage Grove in AVasliington county and ^y A traveled on till tliey came to the Indian cross- ^^lit>ing on Cannon river, where two of the party, Warren Atkinson and John Lanphear made claims, Atkinson's embracing the old Indian ford, jnst above the mill dam, in the town of Waterford. They staked out their claims and returned homo. In the following May Cliarles li. Atkinson made a claim adjoining that of his brother, and some breaking was done, but no crops were raised until 1854, when Warren and Charles Atkinson, built a log house and put in some fifteen acres of wheat and about eight or ten ti) corn and potatoes, and raised an abundant crop. They kept their own house and occasionally entert lined guests, which won for th.eir home tlie soubri- (_[uet of Bachelors' Hotel. But in the Septcml)er following Mr. Ami Nichols and his wife moved into the place and usurped the honors of host and hostess, which closed the Bachelors' Hotel to the public, and so disgusted AYarren Atkinson with single life tliat he entered into a copartnership with Miss Ellen A. Nichols, whereby they agreed to work and live together so long as life should last. The contract was ratified on tlie first of Jamiary; 1850, and the new couple commenced a new lire and a now year simullo8 'HISTORY OF DAKOTA COUKTY.

In December, 1853, a post office was estabhshed called Waterford, and Warren Atkinson appointed postmaster, and when the township organization took place the name was given to the town by a vote of the people. Mr. Atkinson served as postmaster till December, 1850, when he was succeeded by S, A. Goss, who in turn was succeeded by G-. "W. Forsyth, who held the oflace till April, 1862, when Ami Kichols was appointed, wdio still retains the ofiice.

Some time in August, 1855, Jenette M. Howell, daughter of Hon. S. C. Howell, now of Greenvale, was born at the Bachelor's Hall, which was the first birth in town. This same year, a Sabbath school was organized, at the residence of K. C. Masters, and Ami M. Mchols elected Superintendent and Robert C. Masters Secretary. A very good selection of books for a library were made up for the benefit of the school.

The year 1855 was one of real prosperity to the infant colonv. In Auo:ugt, S. A. Goss built a store and opened a stock of goods, which made business appear quite brisk.

The first death which occurred in Waterford was that of Michael Simonds, who was drowne i in the Cannon river some time in April, 1856. His body was not recovered till tlie 5th of May following. The first religious service was held at the residence of K. C. Masters, in 1856, and a sermon preached by Rev. Lucian Farnham, of Kendall county^ Illinoisv

In the fall of that year L. L. Lewis & Co. erected a saw mill just below the Cannon crossing, hut during the hard times of 1857 they failed, and the enterprise was abandoned without their obtaining any title to the water power, which still remains unimproved, though it is said to be a good power and a fine opening for some capitalist to build and operate a flouring mill. In November Prescott Giles built a large framed house and operated it as a hotel. A blacksmith shop had been opened the previous year by Orange- Mattison, who still operates it, and nearly all the concomitants of a new town were gathered together, and the colony numbered thirty-two families. No school was taught till the summer of 185T, when Miss Lydia Alexander taught a term of six months.

Hon. Kobert C. Masters served two sessions in the Territorial Legislature, and the session of 1866 in the State Legislature. Henry W. Tew was elected in the fall of 1863, serving in the session of 1864.

There are two cemeteries in the town, known as the ^'Ked Eose Cemetery," situated in the northeast corner of section seventeen, the land for which was donated by Dr. Ziba Nichols, and " Oak Leaf Cemetery," the lands for which were donated by Hon. Robert C. Masters, is situated on section SO, in a beautiful little grove of native oaks, cherry, crab apple^ wild plums, &c., on a little hill with sides gently sloping to the south and towards the Cannon river. There have been but nineteen deaths in the whole time since the tow^n was settled, being somewhat over fourteen vears.

There are only about two sections of timber in the town, which lie in the southwest part and join what is called the "Big Woods" of the Cannon river.

The voters of TVaterford first decided to raise no tax nor give any bounties to soldiers, but when the draft was ordered, they responded very promptly by voting the issue of bonds to pay bounties to volunteers, paying as high as S3 75 bounty per man until more than the town quota had been enlisted.

In the tbregoing pa_a:es we liave given a statement of tlie early liistory of each town and incidents connected therewith, as nearly correct as we conld obtain them. We doubt not tliat we have been in some instances inaccurate, though we have taken great pains, by correspondence and personal visits to the old settlers, to obtain as correct statements as possible. Intwo or three instances we have received valuable information in regard to certain towns too late for use, the sketch of these towns having already gone to press.

The types, too, made us make a few mistakes. On page 24 ^ve have said the Milwaukee and Minneapolis railroad company operated 656 miles of road when it should have been 850 - and w^ill be next year about 1000. Again, on page 52, we are made to say that Dakota county lies on the east side of the Mississippi river, while the fact is that Dakota county is l)ounded on the eai5t by the Mississippi, In giving the number of acres- of land in the State, there are three cyphers too many annexed, making rather too large extenf of country.

We present the cut of the school house at Farmin^-- ton, on the last page, as the engraver could not get it ready in time to give it in connection with the sketch of the town.

The are also some other small mistakes ajid some which probably wc have not discovered. When such mistakes shall be discovered we shall feel under obligation to any friend who will inake them known to ns, that we may have them for future reference.

Hastings. Minn

Dr. Kurd feels eonlident that having had many years experience in the practice of his profession, he can assure the public that his work will give entire satisfaction to all who may give him their patronage.

Hard rubber or vulcanite used for plates, which is much better than gold or platina, and closely resembles nature in appearance. Particular attention given to cleaning and extracting teeth. Persons from a distance allowed $1 per day for board, while detained for the manufactiu'e of artificial teeth.

Ii. C. Wing, J. S. Eouxse. J. Rice

Office at his residence, west of depot. Calls promptly attended to, whether .by day or night, and "no postponement on account of the weather."

Railroad

This house is located at the junction of the Milwaukee, St. Paul and Minneapolis and the Winona and St. Peter Railroads, and passenger trains on both roads stop a half hour in going each way.

Cannot Be Excelled

Wool and Sheep Pelts taken in exchange for Cloth at the Factory on the most reasonable terms, or bought for cash at the highest market price.

Between

For pleasure Keekers, Tourists and Travelers generally, this route is unsurpassed. The Upper Mississippi affords some of the finest scenery on the continent.

No pains spared by the company or the officers of the boats to make passengers comfortable and ensure tjieir safety while on bo^rd the boats.

Teacher Of Instrumental Music

Mr. Johnson gives his patrons the benefit of years of experience in his profession, and believes he can safely challenge the State to produce a more thorough master of the art. Photographs done in oil in the most finished style. For proof of his claims to superior workmanship he refers to his magnificent collection of pictures, executed by him* lelf. He acknowledges no superior in the Weet.

Hand, Lift And

Steam Warming and Ventilating Apparatus erected in school houses, dwellings, public buildings, factories, stores, &c. Houses fitted with bath tubs, wash basins, with marble slabs, water closets, lift and force pumps, lead pipe and sheet leak, chandeliers, brackets, &c., &c., in a first class manner in any part of the tState. Send for our price list.

Source changes here: from History of Dakota County and the City of Hastings, Including the Explorers and Pioneers of Minnesota, by J. Fletcher Williams, published 1881; 10,809 words in this source stream.

Hastings City

of Indians ceded their lands on the west bank of the Mississippi. It was not ratified until the following year. Settlers however, waited for no such legal formalities, as ratification, removal of the Indians and government survey of the lands. They began at once to move in upon the soil as "squatters." From this date, the history of what is now Hastings, diverges.

At that time, the settlement at Olive Grove and at Vermilion falls, were far removed from each other, but since they are now made one, under the name of Hastings, and since squatters came contemporaneously to each, their history may properly be combined.

The First Squatter'S Lodge At Vermillion Falls, Van Rensalaer And Truax

In the summer of 1861 , George W. Van Ransalaer, a young man from Schenectady, New York, built the first white man's lodge at the beautiful Upper Fails of the Vermillion. This lodge was 6x8 feet in its proportions, and the material for it, was transported from Areola, in Washington county.

Van Bensalaer was under an agreement with Justus C. Ramsey, of St. Paul, and possibly others, whereby they were to keep him in supplies, and receive in return one-half of the future claim. Representing that Ramsey had failed to fulfill his part of the agreement, Van Ransalaer made endeavors to sell out.

He is known to have placed his figures at five hundred dollars, and early in 1853, on selling to Ramsey, and receiving, as he reported, twelve hundred dollars in payment, he departed for the Pacific coast.

Just below the falls, and on the other side of the Vermillion, in what is now section 34, Abraham Truax, a cousin of Van Rensalaer, also had a claim.

Abraham Truax was born in Canada, located on the above claim in 1851, and was for a long time, personally interested with the Bailly's. He was generous, to a fault, hardy in physique, and consequently,' possessed of no little influence in the squatter politics of the early days.

Dr. Thomas Foster, a native of Indiana, came to Olive Grove, in company with Alexis Bailly, Sr., on the 21st of August, 1851, and made a .claim, embracing the south shore of Lake Isabel.

He was the first man to settle near the town site after the signing of the treaty at Mendota. He was also the first practicing physician of this . region, and was a man of no little ability. He served as private secretary to Governor Ramsey, under both territorial and state administrations, and, in 1858, became editor of the Minnesotian, at St. Paul. This latter position he filled for some time. He was also member of the constitutional convention, and afterwards state librarian. In fact, he was an able, active and stirring man, and of late years has been editor of the first paper ever published at Duluth.

Dr. Foster proceeded, in the winter of 1851-'52, to erect the first house in Olive Grove, after the trading house. It was located on Lake Isabel, and the body of it was constructed of logs, which the three Baillys and old John "Blockhaute" assisted in putting together. David Hone, of Point Douglas, drew a load of lumber for this dwelling from St. Paul. Mr. Truax, Sr., of Point Douglas, and D. W. Truax. his son, assisted in the carpenter work. Edward F. Parker, a brother-in-law of Dr. Foster, and who must be considered as a settler of 1851, having come to Olive Grove in November, also aided in the labors of the occasion.

The Events And The Settlers Of 1852

These were, neither of them, astonishingly numerous at Olive Grove. In their bearing upon the future Hastings they were, nevertheless, important. Dr. Foster's house was completed early that year, though not occupied by his family until in the fall. The doctor left Olive Grove for an interval, as E. F. Parker did also, in the spring of 1852, having lodged at Henry Bailly's since January. On his return, Dr. Foster brought with him his family.

Mrs. Hannah E. Foster, who was long resident here, was the second lady settler at the original town site. A young son of the Fosters, a mere lad at the time, will be remembered by the early settlers as having suddenly disappeared from home, and leaving no clue to his whereabouts. After the lapse of a year or two, he returned from the country of the Chippewas, on the St. Croix. Among whom he had been for that length of time an entirely voluntary resident. Later in I life, this same son journeyed over much of the

Fir8T Squatters At The Lower Fall Of The Vermillion

These were two brothers, by the name of Osborne. They" pitched their lodge in section thirty-four, and included the Lower Fall of the .Vermillion in their "claim." They came in 1852, probably in the summer, but were little known, and soon departed.

Narrative Of William Felton

On the departure of Dr. Foster and Parker in the spring of 1862, Olive Grove, or the original town site of Hastings, was again reduced in resident population to Henry G. Bailly and a halfbreed, or possibly two. Alexis Bailly, as principal proprietor and general head, had seen, from his home at Wabasha, some slow but sure development of his plans. His son Henry had been faithful, constant and denying to a degree that challenges our admiration. He was growing weary of the solitude, the inaction and the humdrum of life alone, when William Felton, Mahala D. his wife and their son Elias left Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in June of 1352 for the west.

They embarked on the Ben Campbell, and were going, they scarcely knew where, only that it was "west." They descended the Ohio river to the Mississippi, and turning northward made quarters with the Bailly family at Wabasha, June 13th, 1862. Alexis Bailly, pleased with the appearance of his guests, and still hopeful of a future for Olive Grove, delegated his son, Alexis P. Bailly, to accompany Mr. Felton thither on a tour of reconnoissance. Early in the morning of July 8d, the two set out on horseback; a third horse, two colts and a pair of Indian dogs following to complete the caravan. They followed the well-marked Indian trail, passing the Indian village at lied Wing without stopping.

There was no white settlement anywhere on their route. Late in the evening, when it had become dark, and themselves, as well as their horses, were much fatigued, they camped for the night The morning disclosed to them that they were unexpectedly near their destination, their

At the trading house they found Henry Bailly, a French boy named Louis, and Gabriel, a halfbreed, who was afterwards killed in the upper country in a quarrel with the Indians. Dr. Foster's house was up, but untenanted.

In the centre of what is now called, in consequence, House street, in addition thirteen, Mr. Gillson had a log house- greet e d; B ut his home was still at Point Douglas. A little f urther to the west, and in the northeast extremity of section 29. John Blakely, from Canada, also had a log dwelling; bnt like Mr. Gillson he still made his home at Point Douglas. Both these latter dwellings were considered at that day to be considerably u out" from the townsite.

The shanties of Van Rensalaer, Truax and the Osbornes, on the Vermillion, together with their occupants, completed the entire description of men and dwellings within the present limits of Hastings.

Mr. Felton remained here four or five days and returned to Wabasha on a steamer, which stopped at Olive Grove to take him aboard. He was well pleased with the situation and soon arranged with Alexis Bailly, at Wabasha, to return to Olive Grove as a permanent resident.

While he was at Wabasha, in August, of 1862, the old chief of that name, came down from St. Paul, by steamer, on Sunday morning, and hastening to the Baillys, informed them that the treaty had been ratified, and that the whole populace of St. Paul "were wild and huirahing."

Mr. Bailly was no less delighted, and insisted on Mr. Felton's going out with him, before breakfast, and staking out "a claim." This entirely useless procedure was gone through with; useless because the "claims' 7 so staked were embraced in the "half-breed tract/'

The first white woman settler on the original town site was Mrs. Mahala D. Felton. The family continued the above arrangement with the Baillys until the following spring. On their arrival at Olive Grove they found the trading house deserted, except that Van Rensalaer was stolidly sitting in the sun outside. Mrs. Felton, after much hunting and difficulty, prepared a supper, and soon introduced such civilized comforts into Olive Grove, as only a genuine woman can bring to any community. She made butter from the cows, cooked for the men, and later on for all new comers, by whom her hospitality was thankfully acknowledged and long remembered.

Other Settlers Of 1852

Just previous to the arrival of the Feltons, some time in August of 1852, Mr. Gillson, with his wife and two daughters, moved into the log house previously alluded to and continued to occupy it for about two years, when they removed to Missouri.

The Foster family also entered their house on Lake Isabel, and as to E. F. Parker, the following extract from a recent letter dated at Washington, D. C, 1881. will explain why he had for a season, left Olive Grove. "July 5th, 1852/- he writes: " I married Cynthia A. Pond, who had resided with her brother-in-law, Levi Hertzell, at Point Douglas. I was the first white man who lived at what was then called Olive Grove, now Hastings, who married; but I had to go into civilization to hunt a wife. I was married by Rev. Boutwell, near Stillwater.

"In the winter of 1852, I occupied a claim, afterwards called Barker's addition, which was in controversy between Dr. Foster and Alexis Bailly. My shanty in the woods, down by the slough was noted for its beautiful interior and real comforts. The house was 12x14 feet, eight feet high, chinked with moss, and with a quarter pitch roof. The bed chamber was the attic, neatly decorated as a gorgeous tent, and as tasty as a refined and delicate lady could make it; and after once reaching it, in its seclusion, with a beautiful and honorable wife, the wealth of India could have added nothing to make the bower more happy, or of more contentment. After descending from the attic in the morning, the ladder ascending thereto, was taken out of doors, and we stood in the little parlor. Soon a curtain was withdrawn from a corner of the room, where, for a brief period, half of the room was converted into a kitchen, which soon disappeared, so that a stranger coming in could never dream that we ever ate or slept in that sweet shanty home."

The First Justice, First Marriage And First Birth

"In the year 1852," Parker continues: "I was appointed justice of the peace, with a jurisdiction extending in Wabasha county, from Pine Bend, fifteen miles below St. Paul, on the Mississippi river to the Iowa line, and westward to the Missouri, and as a justice, I married Stephen Graham, to Jeanette Felton (in 1854), the first white couple, who were joined in union in that vicinity. April 17th, 1853, Cora E. Parker, my daughter was born in the Dr. Foster house, she being the first white child that saw the light at Olive Grove. I may add, that in the year 1870, she was the first white lady who got married at Duluth, Minnesota."

They were few in number, but happy and contented. There was very little society to be sure, but when mankind got "near to natures heart," as they must do, when living in cabins and in the wilderness, it is remarkable, with what a little of any further companionship, they are satisfied. Still it is under those very circumstances, that they are the most free hearted, most generous and hospitable to the stranger.

An Interesting Agreement

Up to September, 1852, the Baillys were interested alone in the town site of Olive Grove. At least, that was the case to all outward appearance. September 25th, 1852, an "agreement was made and recorded at Mendota, to the following effect, between Alexis Bailly, H. G. Bailly, H. H. Sibley and Alexander Faribault. The first two persons sold to the last two, for one hundred dollars, one half interest in the two claims, "each of hundred and sixty acres," and "one fronting on the Mississippi river/ 1 which the Baillys "had made at Olive Grove, and known respectively as the Olive Grove and Farm claims." The agreement recognizes the contemplation of laying out a town plat on the aforesaid claims, and provides that any deeds of lots thereafter given, shall be signed by all the parties to the agreement or by their duly authorized agents; also for the erection "of a dwelling and outbuildings, suitable for a public house or tavern," in the future town, "should it be deemed best for the interest of those concerned, by general consent."

"It is further agreed upon and understood that when surveyed by the government, and exposed to public sale, according to law and usage, the land comprised within the said claims shall be purchased and paid for by the parties hereto, in equal proportion, and the certificate and patent therefor shall be taken out in the name of the said parties hereto, or that of their legal heirs or assigns."

The above document was witnessed by Martin McLeod and W. G. E. Paulet, and the acknowledgement taken by Hypolite Dupuis, justice of the peace, at Mendota. That agreement affected the settlers of Olive Grove very little, in the winter of 1862-53. An Indian squaw pitched her lodge near the Feltons, and with her little Indian girls was Mrs. Felton's most frequent caller, and principal lady visitant. Whether the calls were as brief as those of to-day, or not, they were certainly far more taciturn.

The Year 1863

This year brought many newcomers, and really marks the first effective breaking of the seals, set by primitive and untamed nature upon Olive Grove. In February, Bruno Paul, a Frenchman, came from Point Douglas, and lived in a log house put up adjoining Dr. Fosters, and belonging to Alexis P. Bailly. Paul soon removed to what was afterwards Barker's addition, and £. F. Parker occupied the Bailly house. A. P. Bailly afterwards came himself and resided here for some years. He is at present a resident of Wabasha.

Thomas Howes, the first blacksmith, a native of England, came to the Vermillion river in the spring of 1863, and took a claim of one hundred and sixty acres in section 33. Here he built the first blacksmith shop in this vicinity. He first introduced generally the arts of Tubal Cain, and was much resorted to by the early settlers, for the sharpening of their plows.

The First Death

Was that of a little child, in the Howes family, the year of their arrival. The Feltons attended the funeral, with an ox team, and the little one was buried on the Vermillion.

O. T. Hayes, genial and long to be remembered, located a claim in section 32, and extending to the river. Here he bought out the interests of the Feltons, who had previously marked out their boundaries. Mr. Hayes brought his family the following year.

In 1863, the Allison family came. William S. , the father, made a claim extending in both sections 28 and 29. William E., his son, and Rebecca, his daughter, made claims in section 28. Robert Allison, another son, now in Arkansas, settled in sections 32 and 33, and his claim embraced the Ennis mill aite. Morrison, his brother, now in Chicago, settled on section 20. James Main took Van Rensalaer's place in holding the claim at the upper falls of the Vermillion, for Justus C. Ramsey, while Elbert H. Halstead and brother, carpenters, bought out the Osborne interest at the lower falls.

In 1863, also, came a young man, Gibson, from Baltimore, described as a "gentleman" and son of slaveholding parents. He boarded at the Buckhorn, where he was much liked, but he never intended to make settlement here.

James C. Dow, Hastings 7 first editor, came from Concord, N. H., this year as a lawyer. M. O. W. Truax, first deputy sheriff in the county, was another comer, while P. T. Chamberlain, a son-in-law of the Feltons. came from Pennsylvania, and Elijah Wilson, a pilot on the Mississippi, and afterwards son-in-law of the Feltons, came about the same time. The latter settlers made claims in Nininger, but for a time boarded at the Buckhorn, which had become a general resort.

Although these settlers had come in, it must be remembered, that no houses were builf this year, except shanties on claims, mostly outside of the town. The site of Hastings was covered with burr oaks, and in the low places, hazel.

alder and Kinnikinick bushes. There were no streets, and everything centered about the Buckhorn, which, with its live stock, presented much the appearance of a primitive New England farm, except that such a farm would be adorned with better buildings.

The First Frame Building

Was erected this year, and is known as the Bailly warehouse. It still stands, fronting the^ alley in block 3, and with its rear to the levee. It is two stories high and about thirty-five feet by eighty feet on the ground. It has a basement opening on the river, and solidly laid up with limestone. It was built by the town proprietors, as indicated by the agreement above, and completed in the fall. One Knox, a contractor from St. Paul, was the builder, and the Halsteads assisted in the carpenter work.

The Baillys put in a stock of goods £nd continued as merchants until 1856. At that date Levi Hertzell, a heavy dealer of Point Douglas, took the " warehouse." It was necessary in these days to stock up in the fall sufficiently to last until the opening of navigation in the spring.

Mr. Hertzell left Hastings in 1857 to buy his stock, having, on his person, some 140,000. He was never seen or heard from after that date, and undoubtedly was the victim of some dark crime, actuated by a lust for spoils. In 1857 Smith and Monser were established in Mr. HertzelFs quarters.

Henry G. Bailly was manager of the "warehouse." His Indian life had made him indolent. A customer asking for an article was directed to "look for it," and on finding it made his own change and did up his own bundles.

The Town Is Surveyed And Named

In 1853 John Blakely, surveyor, and assisted by young Gibson, both previously and hereafter mentioned, "platted" the town. Mr. Blakely drew the plat roughly, from his field notes, and it was redrawn by Charles L. Emerson and sent to New York, to the lithographer. The survey was made under direction of Alexis Bailly, "agent for the Olive Grove claim." The plat was received from New York early in 1854.

Mr. Bailly, Sr., wished to call it Sibley, after one of the honored proprietors. General Sibley would not consent. Olive Grove was suggested, but Dr. Foster scouted the idea of an olive grove | in this rigorous climate. Finally, the four pro- I pretors each put a name into a hat, on a slip of I paper, and Hastings, the middle name of General Henry Hastings Sibley, was drawn and adopted by universal consent. From this time on, therefore, we bid adieu to "Olive Grove," and its use as a name for the still undeveloped "paper" town.

In the year 1853, Henry G. Bailly had built him a private residence, of logs, principally, now in use by J. A. Ennis, as a constituent part of the beautiful edifice which marks its place in addition 13.

I First Religious Services

j These were held in 1853, first by Father Ravoux, i Catholic priest, from St. Paul, who said mass at the "Buckhorn," and later in the same year, by Rev. T. R. Cressey, Baptist clergyman, who ; preached at the same place, j The Feltons knew no difference between | "Tyrian and Trojan," and the walls of their cabin ! reflected alike the tones of the Protestant preacher, ; or re-echoed the holy mass.

I Some Events And Settlers Of 1854

| With the opening of navigation, settlers came ; in greater numbers than previously. The Bucfchorn tavern refused to serve longer, as church, court of justice, hotel and private dwellings. It seems incredible that forty-three people could rel main of a night, in the pent-up compass of its walls. Nevertheless, such is the fact. Men slept under the table, on the floor, and on the table. Accordingly, in the spirit of the "agreement articles," the town proprietors proceeded to erect the New England house. Mr. Knox was again the contractor and the first legitimate -'tavern," was located at the corner of what are now Sibley and SeranAstreets on the site of the post-office building. It was a frame building of two stories and is at present occupied by John Van Slyke as a residence, it having been removed to Ninth street It had no sign except the word, "Hotel,' but was called the Dakota House, but, soon after, the New England house; by which name it is universally known.

In June, 1854, David Barker and family came to Hastings from Prescott, Wisconsin, and took up quarters as the first exclusive hotel keepers. They occupied the Dakota House until the following year, when M. O. W. Truax succeeded them. Hotels never lacked for custom, and during the years '64, '56 and '56 it was often an exceedingly difficult matter to find lodgings, there was such an influx of all castes, conditions, and characters, in search of business, homes and land.

The first blacksmith shop in the " town " was built by Michael McAvoy in 1854. It was built of logs and occupied a place on Second street, in block 4. Its proprietor was chipper and cheery, a good workman, and when challenged, did not hesitate to try conclusions with whoever should cast the gauntlet at his feet. Another settler of 1854, was Jas. Lyons, a native of Redfield, Maine. He had come to St. Paul in 1851, and worked in a saw-mill at that place. But in the third year thereafter he floated a raft of lumber down the river to Hastings Landing. Embarked upon it, were his family, with their cooking stove, as well as his domestic animals, consisting of a cow and cat.

Mr. Lyons had the make-up of a genuine pioneer, and, being unable to hire a team for the purpose, he carried the lumber with which to build his house on his back one mile and a quarter to his claim, on the Vermillion, in the southwest quarter of section 33. Here 'he built the first house in that immediate neighborhood, where he still lives.

lawyer by profession, came to Hastings in 1854, and made a claim in section 32, bordering the Vermillion river, and adjoining his brother's. He became quite a prominent man in the town, afterwards serving as a member of the second state legislature in 1859-'60. He died in 1868, and is well remembered.

William White, a carpenter, also came this year, and added his mechanical skill to the growing town. Previous to his arrival, however, we must note that of William Lee, who figured as the first contractor and builder at Hastings, and the first carpenter after the Halsteads, who settled on the Vermillion. Mr. Lee settled on a strip of land, running just east of the center and entirely across section 29. Here he found trees, with the name cut upon them " Rebecca Allison." Miss Allison, not being the head of a family, had no pre-emption rights, however, and Mr. Lee entered into the undisturbed possession of his claim. The lady was well known to all the settlers of the early days, and appears to have been quite a favorite in the early society. She afterwards married a gentleman from Chicago, where she still resides. Lake Rebecca perpetuates, as it bears her name.

Chauncey Johnson and family are also found among the settlers of 1854. They came from Ohio, and took claims within the present limits of both Hastings and Marshan.

The same year, Pliny Stowell made a claim in section 33. He came in June, and in the autumn, returned to Massachusetts for his family. Dow, father of James C. Dow, accompanied by Emory Burgess, came from Concord, New Hampshire, in 1854, and built themselves frame residences at Hastings. Silas Baldwin, who returned to Illinois, also came in 1854, and settled in the corner of Second and Ramsey streets.

John Van Hoesen completes the list and serves as authority for the census of that year. He is a native of New York state, and arrived at Hastings, November 9th. He lived on the levee from that time until February of the next year, when he made a claim in sections 32 and 33. On his arrival in 1854, Van Hoesen states that the population of Hastings, consisted of seventy-two whites, and that there were eight hundred Sioux Indians in the vicinity, three hundred above, and five hundred below the site of the present city

These seventy-two white people formed but a few families, and the frame dwellings could easily be counted on the fingers of one hand. New comers' who did not sojourn at the hotel, erected temporary and rudely constructed huts, which they soon abandoned. They then usually departed to claims made outside the present limits of the city. Thus for several years, there was something of a floating population. But this was more noticeable in the years of ISSS-'se, when immigration was at its height

Hastings had then the reputation of an exceedingly muddy town. From the corner of Second street on the southern side, and extending to Vermillion street, there was a bog formidable enough to compel passers to seek the edge of the bench of land extending to Third street, rather than to traverse the bog. It was covered by a growth of alder, hazel and kinnikinick bushes, and presented a far different appearance after having been cleared of its rank growth and filled in and made substantial soil for the erection of comely blocks. The burr oaks and underbrush as well as the swampy places were then in many localities regnant where the skill and toil of enterprising men have since wrought an almost incredible transformation.

Early Buildings And Business Enterprises

In 1854, William Felton built the first wharf on the levee at Hastings, and the same year established a ferry across the Mississippi. He fixed the rate of crossing at ten cents, and at the commencement of his experiment earned nothing. But the tide of immigration setting in strongly, soon afterwards, he reports from eight to fifteen dollars as the receipts for a single day.

The Bailly warehouse and "hotel" have already been described as having been built respectively in 1853 and '54. The third frame building erected and the first frame, private jwelling, was b uilt ^ by William Lee, for OT~T. Hayes, on the corner of Second and Vermillion streets, in block

13. Messrs. Burgess and Dow, each built themselves residences on Second street v bloefe 12, but V they were set back near to the alley. Silas Baldwin, previously mentioned, was the next to build a private frame residence, which occupied the co rner of bloc k 18. and was the nucleus of the . present Tremont house. All these dwellings were erected in 1854, and in the order named.

No business houses were built this year, to rival the Bailly warehouse, but the year 1855 following, saw Hastings developed into an important business center.

The first business house after that of the Baillys, was probably that of C. W. Smith, who opened a stock of " Yankee notions," and also did something of a millinery business, on Ramsey street, across v the alley, in block 15. ~~~ "

About the same time, if not a very little before, Messrs. North and Claflin built thfi^stonfLffarehouse now occupied by the "Gazette" oflftce^in the rear of-Week three. They were commission and general merchants.

Mr. Belden opened a stock of general merchandise soon after, in block^fqur, on Second street, and occupying the present site of IfrrffcHugh's building.

H. Butteroff, who still pursues his calling in Hastings, was the first furniture dealer of the town, and located across the alley, on Ramsey, street, in block 14. Peter Smith, the pioneer Jeweler of the county, also occupied a portion of the same building with Mr. Butteroff.

Campbell and Van Duzee occupied the corner of Ramsey and Second streets, where the Centennial block of Frank Yanz now exposes its fine front Bement and Riley were among the earliest firms, and located on lot 8. of -block 14, on Ramsey street.

The first hardware store was opened by Walwrath and Baker, on lot five, of block two. They sold out not long after to Messrs. Blodgett and Pringle.

The first drug-store was established by G. W. Edfgpj^ on Second street, and one side of the building was occupied by Mr. Tripp, the pioneer clothier. The site of the building was that now occupied by the Pierson millinery store.

All these were business enterprises of 1855, and marked the beginning of an era of business prosperity, which has already been long, and which has justified the expectations of the former days. This year, 1855, also marks the commencement of the milling interest, as respects both flour and lumber, at the falls and on the levee. But an account of this is reserved for its proper place.

Altogether the growth of Hastings was rapid, yet substantial, throughout 1855. The first of January, 1856, saw a population of quite seven hundred, most of whom had gathered at this point within one year.

The prairies, throughout the county, fairly laughed with fertility and paid their tribute to the husbandman, who in turn paid tribute to the town. Commerce climbed the river and wedded Minnesota to the gulf states and the east. Prosperity drew her scepter over all this youthful country, in which Labor was the sole potentate and the plow the one great instrument of conquest.

But the year 1856, was the crowning one in the growth of Hastings. From the date of the opening of navigation, to the 1st of the month of July, there were seventy-three stone and frame houses built in the town, beside some one hundred of a temporary character, which gave way in the autumn to durable and tasty residences. New enterprises were established, Mr. Campbell reported twelve hundred dollars as his trade for a single day. Mr. Hertzell reported twelve thousand dollars as his trade in Hastings for the month of March. Everything was thriving, active and progressive. Money flowed from one hand to another, cheerfulness was everywhere prevalent and the citizens of Hastings, hopeful and sanguine for the future of their town.

A school census was taken toward the close of that year, and shows the population to have doubled, almost trebled in the number of the population, in the year previous. The Hastings

Journal gives the result as follows: "The census of Hastings was taken during the last week in December, 1856, and the first week in January, 1857, including one school district, or the town proper. The actual residents only have been included. The several hotels have not been called upon to give the number of strangers, or travelers, the average to keep over night, as is usual in western census-taking. The families of many of the business men of the place have not yet arrived, but will be here in the early spring. None of those have been included in the count, neither have several of the most prominent business men, whose families reside on the other side of the river, been included. The result as compared with the two former years is as follows: Two years ago there were a trifle over one hundred persons in the place; one year ago less than six hundred and fifty.

u According to the census recently taken there are four hundred and twenty-five scholars, between the ages of four and twenty-one years. There are seven hundred and ten minors. There are twelve hundred and eight persons of full age. There are seven hundred and eighty females, and eleven hundred and thirty-eight males. Whole number of inhabitants, nineteen hundred and eighteen. Of this number, twelve hundred and eighty came in since the opening of the river navigation, April 18th, 1856; more than twothirds. More than three-fourths of all the buildings in this place have been erected since that time."

During the years 1857 and '58, there was an era of hard times. The financial crash that visited all parts of the country alike in the former year, and has passed into its general history, was especially severe in this new country, where rates of interest were high and money in great demand. Speculation had become almost a frenzy, previously, and it was often a most melancholy truth that men were "land poor." Five per cent, per month was paid upon notes, after their maturity, and consequently debts would double themselves in twenty months. Twenty thousand dollars in gold was offered for a lot that was afterwards foreclosed for a $500 mortgage," and yet Hastings grew in many ways, notwithstanding all this. The Hastings Independent of July 25, 1857, notes the making of several improvements and the erection of several buildings. It also speaks proudly

In 1868, bonds were issued to the amount of $15,000, to aSd in the erection of county buildings; they bore eight per cent, per annum, and were all paid at the rate of $1,500, each year.

The outstanding bonds of the city of Hastings are as follows: February 19th, 1867, the school board was authorized, by a special act, to issue bonds to the amount of $20,000 for school buildings and sites. But in 1879, whatever school bonds were unpaid, were taken up by a new issue of $8,000, bearing eight and three quarters per cent interest. This last issue is still outstanding.

Under a special act of March 7th, 1867, the city of Hastings proceeded that year to issue bonds for $100,000, bearing seven and threetenths per cent, interest, in aid of the Hastings. Minnesota River and Red River of the North railroads, under the new name of the Hastings and Dakota railway, as a bonus to insure the building of that railway from Hastings to a point of junction on the Central railroad^ (now the Iowa and Minnesota division), near or at Farmington, as speedily as practicable.

By authority of a special act of March 10, 1873, this railway bonded indebtedness was adjusted, and compromised at fifty cents on the dollar, so there still remain outstanding $7 ,500 uncompromised bonds, and $46,714 compromised bonds, the latter bearing mostly seven per cent, interest.

Again, in accordance with the provisions of a special act of March 6th. 1868, in the following year the city of Hastings issued bonds to the amount of $25,000 to aid in the construction of the St. Paul and Chicago railway, (now the river division of the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul railway.) The object was to secure a road from St. Paul to Hastings, and thence to Red Wing and Lake City, making connections at the latter point with Milwaukee and Chicago.

This completes the bond issues of the city, which with the matter given previously, includes everything of interest in its civil history, except what may be found hereafter, in connection with special topics.

City Officers

At the session of the territorial legislature in 1857, an act was passed incorporating the city of Hastings, and at the election in May the following officers were elected:

Dr. Hanchett resigned before his term expired and Alderman Thos Hope was elected for the remainder of the term. E. Parker was elected to fill Alderman Hope's place. March 1st, 1858, Alderman Plant resigned and D. F. Langley was elected to fill his position.

In November of 1859, Mayor Marsh resigned, and Orrin T. Hayes was elected to fill the vacancy. In May the office of city clerk was declared vacant, and L. W. Collins was elected to fill the vacancy.

1860. John L. Thome, mayor; Marvin, Eichhorn, Dutton and Leach, aldermen; F. Kennerson, city clerk; C. A. Baker, treasurer; James M. Kennerson, marshal and collector; P. Hartshorn, city justice; D. F. Langley, assessor. In November, Kennerson resigned, and L. W. Collins was elected to fill the vacancy as city clerk.

worth, Meloy and Johnson, aldermen; L. W. Collins, clerk; O. T. Hayes, justice; F. M. Crosby, attorney; C. Lewis, marshal; D. F. Langley, assessor, R. J. Marvin, treasurer. In August, Collins, resigned the office of city clerk, and C. P. Fuller was elected his successor; shortly after he resigned and B. C. Howes was elected to fill the vacancy, he also resigned and Chas. Etheridge was elected.

1869. J. L. Thorne, mayor; Messrs. Kiel, Haas, Cook, Baker, Peller and Ferry, aldermen; G.S.Whitman, clerk; R. J. Marvin, treasurer; T. R. Huddleston, attorney; S. Smith, assessor; George Egbert, marshall; W. DeW. Pringle, justice, who afterward resigned, and S. Smith was elected to fill the vacancy.

wind spread the flames and the entire wooden block, on that street, besides the building owned by Drfkota lodge, on the opposite side of the street was destroyed. The loss was about $4,500. The next fire occurred August 30th, following. The livery stables of Charles Damerel, including the stock were destroyed, the loss amounting to $8,- 000. The following Wednesday, the Hayes building corner of Second and Vermillion streets took fire, and nine buildings between Vermillion street and J. H. Twichell and Company's buildings were consumed, causing a loss of about $4,* 600.

The cjjty of Hastings has four public schools. The Irving, situated on Eighth, between Sibley and Ramsey streets, has 473 scholars enrolled. The Bryant, on Spring street, between Fifth and Sixth, has fifty-two scholars. The Cooper, on Vermillion street, near the residence of General Le Due, has fifty-seven pupils. The Everett, located on Second street, in Barker's addition i enrolls sixty-seven scholars, making a total enrollment of 649.

The schools of Hastings were under the management of the county system of districts until February, 1866, at which time the legislature passed an act making the city of Hastings an independent school district, and providing that all children between the ages of five and twentyone, should be admitted to the schools free. The school government was vested in a board of education, elected each year by the people, at the regular city election.

The first school taught in Hastings was held in one of the rooms in* the "Buckhorn" hotel, then kept by William Felton. The teacher was a Mr. Gibson; it was a private school. The first public school-house was built in 1854, and was located on the site of the Bryant school building. It was also used for holding religious services by the different denominations. About 1864 the building was burned. Miss Mary Nicols taught the first term of three months. The first directors were Martin Poor and James Lyons. Chauncey Lyons was enumerator for the first school census, taken in 1865.

I tion of P. T. Chamberlain as president and Rev.C. | S. Le Due as secretary and treasurer. G. S. j Winslow and C. S. Le Due were appointed a | committee to ascertain the indebtedness of the ; district, which was found to be $239.13. It was voted to hold terms of school, of two and onehalf months, commencing April 30th.

The committee appointed for the purpose of securing rooms for holding schools, reported that the Twichell house could be leased at a rental i of |200 per year, the Tyrrell house at $6 per | month, and a house at Vermillion for $6 per | month. The committee was instructed to rent them at those figures. J ' The first teachers employed by the board under the present system, April 16th, 1866, were Mrs. j Pride, Miss Turnbull and Miss McHugh.

August 13th, 1866, the board authorized school , terms of nine months' duration, commencing j October 1st of that year. The first principal of i public schools was J. W. Fralick, with Miss Mc- | Hugh, E. Churchill, Annie Turnbull, S. Leach, j and H. Langdon as assistant teachers. 1 Proposals were invited, for the building of two ' school houses, each to be 24x36 feet. Contract j was awarded to C. B. and W. M. Spencer at j $1,770. This party, soon after, refused to fulfill | the contract, and it was awarded C. W. Churchill, ! who agreed to build a school house, according to I plans furnished, for $1,650. Work was com- ' menced in July, 1866, on the building, on School i square, in Barker's addition, now known as the 1 Everett school. August 13th, same year, P. ! Stowell was awarded contract to build a schoolhouse in the Third ward, a frame building, to cost $1,600. The building was finished in October, and is now known as the Cooper school. The ward boundaries have been changed, and this is now in the Fourth ward.

The Bryant school was built in 1867, on lots 7 and 8, block 38. The building known as the Irving school was built by the Minnesota State Baptist Association, and was designed for a preparatory department to the State University. The building was enclosed and one room finished, in which the Baptists opened a school, with Rev. Mr. Thicksten as teacher for the first two years. The school was maintained for three or four years, when the building was sold under a mortgage, which had been given when the land was purchased. The property was bought by Ennis and Plant, and redeemed by the Baptist church of Hastings and P. Stowell. The latter sold his interest to the church. ,

The Baptists failed in their project to make the school a success, on account of the lack of funds and opposition met with in St. Paul and Minneapolis. The property was purchased by the city school board for $6,000 in August, 1867. About $10,000 has since been expended in completing and furnishing the building. The first principal was J. W. Fralick, who was succeeded by G. H. Warren, and he, in turn, by J. H. Lewis, the present principal. There are 478 pupils enrolled at this school, which is the largest in the city.

Board Of Education

The board of education of the city of Hastings consists of two school directors for each ward, six in all, authorized by special act of the legislature passed February 28th, 1866. At the first election, April 11th, 1866, the following officers were elected: P. T. Chamberlain, president; Rev. C. S. Le Due, secretary and treasurer; resigned in September, 1867; F. M. Crosby was appointed to fill the vacancy, and resigned in March, 1868; Rev. I. M. Ray was appointed to fill the vacancy; Chamberlain and Winslow was re-elected at the annual election in 1867; I. B. Tozer was also elected. In April, 1867, F. M. Crosby resigned and C. M. Churchill was appointed to fill the vacancy. In December, 1867, Seagrave Smith resigned, and R. I. M. Ray was appointed to fill the vacancy. At the annual election, April 21st, 1868, the following officers were elected: P. T. Chamberlain, president; J. W. Ray, secretary, treasurer and superintendent; G. S. Winslow and M. McHugh, school inspectors first ward; I. B.Tozer and C. M. Churchill, second ward; P. T. Chamberlain and D. B. Truax. third ward.

Parochial Schools

Patrick Gegan as teacher. It continued two or three years under the instruction of lay teachers, and failed for want of funds to support it. In September, 1879, the school was re-organized, with J. Healy as teacher. In 1880, the school was placed in charge of the Sisters of St. Boniface Convent, under the superintendence of Rev. Father Halton. The school numbers forty-flve pupils.

St. Boniface Convent was founded in September, 1872, at the request of the Catholics of Hastings as a boarding and day school for females. The building is a three-story frame structure, 38x50 feet. There are forty scholars attending. Sister Seraphine was the first superior, and was assisted by seven sisters, two at the School of the Guardian Angels, two at St. Boniface school, and three at the convent. Sister Aloysius is the present superior, and has six sisters as assistants.

St. Boniface school was organized in December, 1871, by the German Catholics. It was built by the church as* a school for religious instruction in both German and English. Not having a sufficient fund to carry out the design, a stock company, consisting of the principal members of the church, was formed in 1876, and under this management the school prospered. In 1880, the school was placed in charge of the parish. The building is located on the corner of Sixth and Ramsey streets, and is of brick, 30x50 feet, containing four rooms.

St. Luke's parish school was organized in September, 1874. by Rev. John Williams, who taught for three years. At first school was held in private houses. In 1875, the parish erected a frame building on the corner of Tenth and Eddy streets, 28x40, with an L sixteen feet square. The school has an average attendance of thirtythree. Rev. Mr. Johnson is now in charge.

Mt. Moriah Lodge, No. 35, A. F. & A. M.

This lodge was organized August 13th, 1860, under a dispensation granted July 14th, preceeding, by A. T. C. Pierson, grand master of Minnesota. The first officers were: C. W. Nash, W.M.; S. S. Eaton, S. W.; A. B. Tyrrell, J. W.; J. B. North, treasurer, A. M. Pett, secretary; J. M. Bracken, S. D.; J. L. Powers, J.D.; S. G. Tyler, tyler. The lodge received its charter October 24th, 1860. In less than two years after the organization, this lodge ranked among the largest in the state. In 1862-3 a considerable number of its working members enlisted in the army, and for two or three years the lodge was in a state of inactivity and demoralization. At the close of the war, it was with difficulty that a number sufficient to open work could be brought together. A few energetic members devoted themselves to the task of re-organization and soon had the satisfaction of seeing the lodge regain its former prosperous condition, and large membership, which it has since retained.

Methodist Episcopal Church

Hastings was near at hand, and filling rapidly with inhabitants who were in need of additional facilities for religious worship. Mr. Johnston held the first Methodist services here, in the year of his pastorate at Prescott, and preached in the school-house on Spring street.

In the early part of 1856, the services were held at the new Smith hall, which had been built, on Ramsey street, and which was then much more accessible to the "town."' The Minnesota conference had been organized in the autumn of 1855. and in the fall of the succeeding year, Hastings appears, with Rev. G. W. Richardson as the first regular appointed Methodist pastor.

The church consisted of twenty-four members, and seventeen probationers. The salary for the preceding year had been $260. Hastings was a part of the Red Wing district of the Minnesota conference, and Rev.T. M. Kirkpatrick was at that time the presiding elder.

In the fall of 1857, Rev. A. G. Perkins succeeded as pastor, and found the church with sixty members. March first of this year the Union Sunday school was dissolved, and the report for 1857 shows the M. E. Sunday school as consisting of thirty-seven members. The total receipts of the church are also reported as $500.

1858, Rev. John Pugh was pastor in charge, and reports forty-nine members in the church and one hundred and six in the school. From May of 1859 until fall Rev. W. C. Shaw officiated, and after him Rev. E. G. Tucker supplied the church until in the fall of 1860, Rev. J. D. Rich was ap-

In the fall of 1861 a church was built on Vermillion street, between Fifth and Sixth. Previous to this time services had been held at the Twichell school building on Fifth street. In 1862 Rev. Thomas Gossard succeeded. The average salary in the conference was reported this year as $318.75, an average per member in the conference of the eighth district of only $3.60. Rev. J. M. Rogers was appointed in 1864. The following year one I dred and four members are reported. In 18 , ev. G. W. T. Wright officiated, and the value of the church was estimated this year at $2,000. In 1868 there were one hundred and twenty one members. During Mr. Wright's pastorate a parsonage was also built.

Rev.C.Hover came in 1869, and Rev. E.P. Lathrop in 1870. This year the church was removed to its present site, and a tower and vestibule added to its architecture. Rev. J. W. Klepper, succeeded in 1671, and Rev. Norris Hobart in 1873. The membership was one hundred and fifty at the close of the latter year, and there were ninety-seven attendants, in the Sunday school.

Rev. S. T. Sterritt came in 1875, and Rev. J. O. Rich, in 1878. One hundred and fifty-four member* were reported in 1875, and one hundred and nine in 1878. At the coming of Rev. Rich, the clmreli cleared all of its indebtedness by the sale the parsonage.

Rev. Henry J. Crist, the present pastor, succeeded Rich in 1879, and found the membership in the fall of that year, eighty-six. In the fall of 1880, one hundred and five members were reported, and the Sunday schools connected with the church at Hastings, Spring Lake and Rich Valley, numbered one hundred and eighty attendants.

The church contributions for benevolent purposes, were $42.00 in 1870; $65.00 in 1875, and $117.40 in 1880. During the latter year also, $173 were reported for incidental expenses, and $775 for the pastor's salary.

The first Episcopal service held in Hastings was conducted by the Rev. Timothy Wilcoxson, missionary, on the morning of January 7th, 1855, in the dining-room of the old Dakota house, on the corner of Second and Sibley streets, the site of the present poetrofflce. Occasional services were afterwards held in the old school-house, near the site of the Bryant school. The corner stone of St. Luke's church was laid on the 6th of May, 1856, by the Right Rev. Jackson Kemper, D. D., bishop of the north-west. The church was opened for the first time November 16th, 1856, the Rev. £. P. Gray, of Winona, preaching the sermon. It was unfinished, and the clergy and and the congregation both occupied boards supported by nail kegs, as seats. The morning service included the administration of the communion and the baptism of a child. In 1857 Mr. Wilcoxson held service every other Sunday morning at this place, going in the afternoon to Point Douglas, and in the evening to Prescott. The church was consecrated October 8th, 1857, by Bishop Kemper. The first settled rector was the Rev. M. L. Olds, who remained three years. He was succeeded by the Rev. J. A. Merrick. D. D., who resigned after one year on account of failing health. Rev. Charles Rollitt then had charge of the parish for three years, followed by Rev. John Williams, who continued in charge nine years. During his rectorship the chancel, vestry-room and organ-room were added, the east window purchased, also the organ. In 1878 Mr. Williams removed to Omaha, and the Rev. J. E. Johnson, the present incumbent, succeeded to the charge. On the evening of December 28th, 1880, during the holding of the annual Christmas tree festival, the church took fire from some of the candles used in the decorations, and had soon obtained such headway as to defy all efforts for the salvation of the building. The night was bitter cold, and the supply of ladders and water was scarce, so that it was soon apparent that nothing could be saved except the furniture, organ, etc. The loss was estimated at $5,000; insurance, $2,000. The foundation of a new church is now being laid.