Leon Township

Leon Township

This town is bounded as follows: Cannon Falls to the north, Belle Creek on the east, Wanamingo to the south, and Warsaw on the west. The surface is mostly rolling prairie, the only marked difference being six or eight sections in the northwestern part, which are considerably broken and sandy, the ridges being covered with a light growth of tim- ber, caused by two of the eastern branches of the Little Cannon River having their sources in this part of the township. These little streams flow to the northwest and cross the township line near the northwestern corner.

The first settler in this township was Haldro Johnson, a Norwegian, who came from Dane county, Wisconsin, in the fall of 1854. He made a claim on section twenty and spent the winter there. The following summer he went back to Wisconsin, married and returned with his wife to their new home, where they have since resided. During the spring and summer of 1855 the population was increased by the addition of the following settlers and their families, all Scandinavians: A. J. Malande, Andrew Larson, Guttrom Pederson, Ole Pederson, John Johnson Wamberg (now deceased,) John Bottolfson, M. Edstrom, C. A. Haggstrom, William Olson and Regnold Johnson. They at once proceeded to make claims and improve them. Nearly all are now living where they first located.

In the spring of 1856 a number of American families settled in the central and southeastern parts of the township, but only a few of them remained. The first birth was that of Frank Johnson, son of John and Johanna Johnson, born May 8, 1856, and died September 7, 1856 ; this was also the first death.

During 1857 E. A. Sargent built the first store erected in the township, and stocked it, but after a few years discontinued it. In 1868, M. T. Opsal built a small store and filled it with goods. Trade soon compelled him to enlarge the building, and he is now carrying on a thriving business.

July 5, 1858, the township organization was perfected, an election being held in the store of E. A. Sargent; the following officers were elected : Supervisors, Ellery Stone, chairman, George Leasons and William Olson; town clerk, Geo. F. Sargent; assessor, F. F. Dimick; collector, E. D. Stone ; overseer of the poor, John Bussey ; justices of the peace, D. 0. Stranahan and S. N. McGaughey ; constables, E. D. Stone and O. L. Stranahan. E. A. Sargent was clerk of election, and A. E. McGaughy forwarding clerk. Fifty votes were polled.

The township is now inhabited almost exclusively by a steady and industrious class of people, natives of Norway and Sweden ; the former residing principally in the southwestern portion of the township, the latter the northeastern. They are all, or nearly all, naturalized citizens ; and as their interests are thoroughly identified with the land of their adoption, they take a deep interest in the political and social welfare of the country. Many of them are men of education and ability, some of them having represented their districts in one or both branches of the State legislature, while others have filled local positions of trust and

In an agricultural point of view the township is one of the best in the country. Its cultivated fields, possessing a soil of marvelous fertilily, its broad acres of arable lands, its timber and water, beautiful residences, barns and granaries filled to repletion, flocks and herds ; and finally, the health and general prosperity of its inhabitants, are the living evidences of a section of country rich in natural resources and abounding in happy homes.

The first school taught in the township was about 1857, by a man named Daniel Van Amburg, in a log school house near where William Olson now lives. At the present time there are seven, in which schools are taught most of the year by competent teachers.

There is but one post office in the township, Wastedo, but there are offices near the line in adjoining townships which give ample mail facilities.

The churches within the limits of the township number but two, although as in case of the post offices, the neighboring townships help them out.

The oldest church organization is the Spring Garden Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Church, organized July 19, 1858, at the residence of Peter Johnson, on section fifteen, under the charge of Rev. P. Beckman.

The following are the names of those who composed the congregation at that time, M. Edstrom and family, C. A. Haggstrom and family, John G., Wanberg and family, Jacob Johnson and family, John P. Johnson and family, A. W. Johnson and family, Isaac Holm and family, Peter Johnson and family, Nils Challberg and family, Peter Lundell and family, Bengt Anderson and family, A. Enberg and family, Paul Nelson, John Holm, G. Holm, P. O. Holm, C. Holm, Johannes Holm, John Edwall, John Lagerstrom, and S. Anderson. The officers were : Deacons, M. Edstrom, for one year ; John P. Johnson, two years, and Peter Johnson for three years. Trustees, Jacob Johnson, one year ; Nils Challberg, two years, and S. Anderson, three years.

In 1862, a small church was built on section 11, which has since been replaced by a fine edifice, erected on the site of the original, and capable of seating 600 people. After the organization, Mr. Beckman continued as pastor until June, 1868, when he went away, and the people were without a regular minister until July 1, 1870, when the Rev. J. O. Cavallin, took charge of the congregation and is the present incumbent. The church has now a membership of about 300.

At present the officers are - deacons, J. P. Gustafson, Fred Anderson, Peter Berg, John A. Holm, Victor Anderson, and John Larson ; trustees,

The other church is located on section 30 ; the congregation is the out-growth of the Holden church at Wanamingo. It is styled the " Urland Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church." The organization took place the winter of 1871, and the building of a church was at once begun, which was completed and dedicated in 1874. It is an elegant structure, capable of seating 500 people.

The building committee were Rognold J. Onstad, Ed. L. Otterness and A. A. Flom. Rev. B. J. Muus, of Wanamingo, under whose charge they were prior to their organization, is their pastor, although he has been assisted since 1875 by Rev. M. O. Bockman, who preaches at the church every few weeks.

The first officers of this organization were : Trustees, Lars Flom, for three years ; Tosten A. Melhuus, three years ; Ole A. Melhuus, two years; Rognold J. Onstad, two years, and Johannes Ingebrigtson, one year. Members at date of organization numbered 296. There are at the present time about 650. Officers at the present time are : Trustees, Lars Nelson, Iver I. Wangen, G. P. Otterness, Hans Rasmusen and Wm. Olson.

In 1859 the Rev. Mr. Barnes organized a Presbyterian church, and about that time the Methodists; but the American families were too few, the organizations languished for want of proper support, and therefore have had no real existence for many years.

Fire Insurance Companies

There are two local fire insurance companies in the township. The "Leon Fire Insurance Company" was organized under an act of the State legislature, passed March 4, 1876. Its officers are : president, R.

The other company is styled the "Scandinavian Mutual Protection Association." It was organized in 1868, and by an act of the legislature incorporated in 1870. It insures against fire, lightning, storms and other calamities. No one can become a member unless he is conver- sant with the Scandinavian language. An admission fee of $1 is required, and members are taxed in case of loss to repair damage ; but so far no losses have occurred. John Miller is president ; vice president, John Holm; and the territory is divided into five districts, with two directors to each.

Here follows a list of the township officers from date of organization up to the present time ; the first named in the catalogue of supervisors is invariably the chairman. The following constituted the various boards of supervisors :

Constables, in order: E. D. Stone, O. L. Stranahan, B. F. Davis, John Lagerstrom, H. P. Davis, A. B. Crow, John Lagerstrom, A. Olson, H. M. Stranahan, B. F. Davis, Jonathan Poe, J. A. Holm, H. M. Stranahan, O. S. Urevig, John A. Holm, D. E. Berdan, O. S. Urevig, John Lewis, O. S. Urevig, P. J. Peterson, Ed. Berdan, K. K. Hougo and J. Holm.

ANDERSON, SWANTE, farmer, sec. 14, P. 0. Wastedo. Owns 507i acres, worth $20,000. Was born in Sweden, Sept. 17, 1828. Came to America in the fall of 1854, first settling in Rockford, 111., where he remained upwards of a year. In the spring of 1856 he came to this county, and made a claim where he now lives. He has held the offices of supervisor, chairman of board, assessor and county commissioner. Married Mrs. Johanna Anderson, in the fall of 1860. Their children are - John A., Anna C, Gustaf V., Ida M. and Luther E. Mrs. Anderson's children by her former marriage with Mr. Johnson, are - Carl J., Johanna. C, and Frank. Politically is a Republican, and a member of the Swedish Lutheran Church.

BUTLER, MRS. SAMANTHA A., sec. 6, P. 0. Cannon Falls. Was born in Nelson, Madison county, N. Y., April 18, 1825. She married in that county, Ephraim Youm, Oct. 6, 1842; he was born in Dutchess county, N. Y., Nov. 13, 1818. They moved to Lake county, 111., in 1852, where they were engaged at farming. Aug. 6, 1870, Mr. Youm died, and in 1872 Mrs. Youm moved to Dakota county, Minn. March 10, 1875, she married Peter Butler, and has since resided in this township. Her children are - Frances A., now Mrs. Scofield, who was born Dec. 1, 1845; Florence A., now Mrs. E. O. Flom, born Oct. 10, 1818. She has lost one son, Reuben, born Dec. 21, 1843, and died of wounds received in the army, May 18, 1862. She is a member of the Baptist Church.

CAVALLIN, REV. J. 0., pastor of the Spring Garden Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Church, resides on sec. 11, P. 0. White Rock. Was born in Sweden, Nov. 25, 1844. Came to America in 1863, settling in Nicollet county, Minn., but remained there only a short time, moving to Carver county. He there commenced his study for the ministry, and in 1866, entered Augustana College, at Paxton, Ills., from which he graduated in 1870; and on June 19 of that year, was ordained at Andover, Ills., and came at once to his present charge. Married Sarah Paulson, in Carver county, Minn., in 1866. She is a native of Norway. Their children are - Mary E., Heyno E., Spener A., Herman L., Esther D. and Martin Ph.

EDSTROM, M.9 farmer, sec. 21, P. 0. Wastedo. Owns 140 acres, worth $6,000. Was born in Sweden in 1812. Came to America in 1854, settling in Henry county, 111., where he remained until the spring of 1855, when he moved to this township, where he has since resided. Married Mary Eles in Sweden. Their children are - John A., Charles, Christine, August, Mary, Axel and Ferdinand. The eldest son, John A., resides on sec. 28, P. 0. Wastedo. Owns 135 acres, worth $6,500. He was born in Sweden, July 12, 1848. Came to America and to this township with parents. Was elected township clerk in 1873, and has been elected at

C. Magnuson, Aug, 3, 1872, in Vasa township. She was born in Sweden. They have had but one child, Albert M., born Jan. 18, 1877, but died when two months old. The second son, Charles, residing on sec. 16, P. 0. Wastedo, was born in Sweden, Feb. 14, 1850. Came to America and to this township with parents. Owns 130 acres, worth $6,000. Married Christine Johnson in 1876. She was born in this township. Their children are - Martha E. and Emma M. Has held the office of township supervisor, is Republican, and member of the Swedish Lutheran Church.

ENBERG, ANDREW, farmer, sec. 11, P. 0. Wastedo. Was born in Sweden, Jan. 31, 1824; came to America in 1855, first settling in Red Wing, where he remained until the fall of 1857, and moved to his present place, where he now owns 210 acres of land, worth $8,000. Mr. Enberg married Johanna Freeberg in Sweden, in 1854. They have two children - Eva Josephine, now Mrs. Swenson, who has one child, named Albert; and Charles B., who resides with his parents, born in this township April 5, 1859.

FLOM, HON. A. A., farmer, sec. 18, Cannon River Falls, was born in Norway, March 25, 1838. Came to America in 1858, settling in Holden township, this county. January, 1862, he enlisted in the 2d Minn. Co. of United States Sharpshooters, which eventually joined the 1st Minn. V. I., at Yorktown, and was with the army of the Potomac until the close of the war; engaged in the battles of Appommattox Court House, siege of Richmond, Gettysburg, Antietam, Fredericksburg and many others; was promoted to the rank of sergeant, and honorably discharged May 22, 1865; returned to this State, thence to Norway, and aided in the emigration of many of his countrymen to America. In 1868, settled on this farm, where he owns 300 acres of land worth $8,000. He was elected justice of the peace in 1870, and has been re-elected at every election since that time. In the fall of 1872, he was elected by the Republican party, a representative to the 15th General Assembly of Minnesota, by a flattering majority. He married Maria E. O. Graff, in Cannon Falls, July 3, 1868. She is a native of Norway. Their children are - Gertrude, - Albert and Anna M. He is a member of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church.

HAGGSTROM, C A., farmer, sec. 9, P. 0. Wastedo. Was born in Sweden Aug. 6, 1826. Came to America in 1854. First settling in Henry county, 111., where he remained till the fall of 1855 and moved to where he now lives. Owns 250 acres of land, worth $10,000. Married Martha Christine Johnson, in Sweden, in 1852. Their children, are - John Gk, Frans, August, Tilda M. and Anna E.

John G., the eldest son, resides near his father on sec. 9, owns 167 acres, worth $6,500. He was born in Henry county, 111., Aug. 20, 1854, and was an infant when his parents moved to this place. Is now chairman of the board of supervisors and also school district clerk. Married Minne Magnuson, in this township, in Feb., 1876. She is a native of Sweden.

HOLM, GUSTAF, farmer, sec. 11, P. 0. White Rock. Was born in Sweden, Sept. 13, 1831. His father, Johannes Holm, was born in Sweden, March 14, 1794. He came to America with his family in 1853, and settled in St. Clair, Kane county, 111., where he remained until the spring of 1856, when he moved to this township, and settled on the northeast qr. of sec. 11. He died in November, 1861, aged 65 years. The subject of this sketch followed the fortunes of his parents from the old country to this county. When the family arrived in Red Wing he left his parents there, and struck out on the prairie to select a site for their future home, the result of his search being the selection of four quarter sections where the Holm families now live. He married Anna Felt, Feb. 2, 1861, in this township. Their children are - Jennie, P. M. Minton, John H., Ferdinand, Walter, Esther and Alice. He owns 330 acres of land, worth $13,000.

Holm, John A., farmer, sec. 11, P. 0. White Rock. Hanson, Oscar, farmer, sec. 15, P. 0. Wastedo. Hango, Knut K., farmer, sec. 30, P. 0. Wastedo. Haggstrom, Chas. A., farmer, sec. 9, P. 0. Wastedo. Harrison, Thomas, farmer, sec. 7, P. 0. Cannon Falls. Halvorson, Halvor, farmer, sec. 18, P. 0. Wastedo. Heggevik, Jokanne's L, farmer, sec. 32, P. 0. Wastedo. Johnson, Wm., farmer, sec. 15, P. 0. Wastedo. Johnson, Aaron, farmer, sec. 24, P. 0. Wastedo. Johnson, Peter, farmer, sec. 2, P. 0. Wastedo.

JOHNSON, F. I., farmer, sec. 1, P. 0. White Rock. Owns 215 acres, worth $11,000. Was born in Sweden, Dec. 25, 1810; came to America in 1858, settling in Stillwater, Washington county, Minn., where he was engaged in the lumber business until the Indian outbreak of 1862. Aug. 14, of that year, he enlisted in Co. C, 8th Minn. V. I., and was during that and the succeeding year, engaged in the protection of the settlements against the Indians. In the spring of 1864 the command was ordered south, where he was engaged in the battles of Murfreesboro, Newbern, N. C, Kingston and many others. Was discharged Aug. 1, 1865, and returned to Minn., settling in Vasa township, this county, where he remained until the spring of 1868, when he moved to this farm. Married Anna Larson in Red Wing, in the fall of 1865; she was born in Sweden and died in February, 1875, aged thirty-two years. His children by this marriage are - Edward A., Levi, Esther and Anthony. Married again, Christine Johnson, in the fall of 1875; she is a native of Canada.

LARSON, LEWIS, farmer, sec. 21, P. 0. Wastedo. Owns 170 acres of land. Was born in Sweden, Dec. 13, 1840, came to America with parents, in 1853. They remained in Chicago over winter, and the next spring, came to this State, settling in Washington county, where his parents still reside. He purchased this farm in 1866, and commenced its improvement but did not make a permanent residence here till 1872. Married Ellen C. Granquist, in Washington county, Minn., in 1869. She was born in Sweden in 1848. They are members of the Swedish Lutheran Church.

LEWIS, MALVIN, farmer, sec. 25, P. 0. Hader. Owns 80 acres of land, worth $3,200. Was born in Lower Canada in 1824. Came to the United States in 1843; lived a number of years in Green county, Wis. In 1862 he moved to this township, and settled on sec. 26, where he remained until the fall of 1865; then moved to where he now resides. Married Nancy Newell in Grant county, Wis., in June 1849. Their children are - Luzerne E., who was born in Green county, Wis., March 21, 1852; Lillian E., now Mrs. Hay ford, residing in Stanton township; Earnest M., Lemuel N., Ida E. and Clara M.

MILLER, HON. J., farmer, sec. 12, P. 0. White Rock. Was born in Sweden, May 15, 1821. In 1851, he emigrated to America; settled in St. Charles, Kane county, Ills. ; next year purchased a residence at Geneva, Ills., where he engaged at his trade, that of stone mason in summer, and in winter worked in a machine shop. In 1856, he came to Minnesota, and made a claim on the land which he now owns. In the spring of 1857, he moved to Red Wing, bought a lot and built a house on it, where he lived until 1865. Was engaged as organist in the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Church in Red Wing, five j'ears. 1865, he moved to this farm, built a small granary 16x24, into which he moved his family. 1866, he was elected justice of the peace, which office, with the exception of two years, he has held since. 1869, he was elected representative to the 12th General Assembly of Minnesota. While in the House, he was a hard worker, and we find on page 418 of the Journal, the following resolution: Resolved, "That the thanks of this House are due to Hon. John Miller, for the energetic and able manner with which he has conducted his emigration project.*' Which was adopted. He married Maja Lena Holm, in Sweden, June 25, 1847. She was born Oct. 25, 1821. Their children are - Maria Christina, born in Sweden, Feb. 27, 1848 - who was married to M. Swanson, July 26, 1872, and has three children, Agnes Helena, Anna Marsella, and Alfe Mathelda - Hada Mathelda, was also born in Sweden, Oct. 25, 1850; married Victor Anderson, Dec. 9, 1875; Gustaf Oscar, born in Sweden, Oct. 29, 1852; married Mary Nelson, January, 1877; Albert, born in St. Charles, Ills., Dec. 9, 1854; married Ida Malberg, July 18, 1877 - they have one son, Johan; Hulda Elizabeth, born in Red Wing, March 25, 1857; and Carl Anton, born in Red Wing, Sept. 2, 1863. Mr. Miller's father, Adolph Miller, came to America with him, and died at his residence March 5, 1863, aged 69 years. Mr. M. owns 200 acres of land, worth $10,000, all in a high state of cultivation. He is, and always has been, a strong Republican.

MALBERG, JOHN, farmer, sec. 3, P. 0. Cannon River Falls.. Was born in Sweden, April 23, 1827. Came to America in 1853, settling in Tippecanoe county, Ind., where he remained until the spring of 1857, working at his trade, that of carpenter and joiner. In the latter named year, he came to Red Wing, where he was engaged at his trade until 1860, when he moved to this township, and pre-empted 120 acres of land, where he now lives. He now owns 160 acres, worth $6,000. Married Christine Johnson, in Red Wing, in 1857. She is a native of Sweden. Their children are - Peter B., Ida H., (now Mrs. Albert Miller, who was married July 18, 1877, and has one son, named John Rutherford,) Phebe M., Olive, Amos, Adelia, and John S. The family are members of the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Church.

MILLER, LEWIS, farmer, sec. 15, P. O. Wastedo. Owns 80 acres of land, worth $3,500. Was born in Sweden, Oct. 13, 1833. Came to America in 1854, and worked in a machine shop in Chicago a number of years. In 1862, he came to this county, and settled where he now lives. Married Mary Johnson, in 1859. She is 'a native of Sweden. Their children are - Ida M., Albertina, Hetty R., Adelf E., Julia, Nancy, Frederick R., Ellen, and Anna. Politically a Republican, and is a member of the Swedish Lutheran Church.

NELSON, JOHN, farmer, sec. 12, P. 0. White Rock. Owns 160 acres of laud, worth $7,000. Was born in Sweden Sept. 27, 1843. Came to America in 1855, settling in Chisago county, Minn., from there he enlisted, Aug. 1862, in Co. I, 6th Minn. V. I. Was engaged in protecting the settlements from Indian raids till 1864, when his command was ordered south, and they joined the 16th army corps at New Orleans. Participated in the battles of Mobile, Spanish Fort, and was discharged Aug. 19, 1865. He then spent one year and a half traveling through Montana, Kansas and other portions of the west, and in 1867, returned to Minnesota and settled on his present farm. Married Sarah Tholander, in 1869. She is a native of Sweden. Their children are - Mary, Henry W., Aaron W., and Herman B.

OLSON, WILLIAM, farmer, sec. 29, P. 0. Wastedo. Was born in Norway, December 2, 1826. Came to America in 1849, stopping in Summit, Waukesha county, Wis., remained about six mouths and moved to Lake Mills, Jefferson county, Wis., and lived in that portion of the State until the fall of 1855, when he moved to this county, settling where he now lives. Owns 180 acres of land, worth $7,500. Has held the office of township treasurer fifteen years, and other offices. Married Anna Olson, in Stoughton, Wis., in 1855. She was born in Norway. Their children are - Lewis J., Oliver, Christine, Isabella, Caroline, William, George and Lovise.

OPSAL, M. T., dealer in general merchandize, hats, caps, boots and shoes, groceries, patent medicines, &c, store on sec. 21, P. 0. Wastedo. He was born in Norway, Sept. 22, 1837. Came to America in 1862, settling in Red Wing. Enlisted in March, 1864 in the 2d Minn. V. I., Co. I. Was discharged in July of the same year, and returned to this county, where he has since resided. Has been postmaster, township clerk, and is now township treasurer. Married Gunnild Christopher, in this county in 1870; she is a native of Norway. Their children are Christine M., born Oct. 22, 1873; Hannah, born Dec. 6, 1875; and Caroline, born April 9, 1878. Politically is a Republican, and a member of the Norwegian Lutheran Church.

Source changes here: from Goodhue County, Minnesota, Past and Present, by [Hancock, Joseph Woods], published 1893; 1,550 words in this source stream.

Leon Township

This township is bounded on the north by Cannon Falls, east by Belle Creek, south by Wauamingo, and west by Warsaw. The surface of the northwest portion is somewhat broken by the Little Cannon river and its branches ; the residue is rolling prairie ; soil good. It is one of the best farming towns in the county.

The first settler was Haldro Johnson, who came from Dane county. Wis., iu the fall of 1851. He made his claim on section 20, built a cabin and speut the winter there. The following summer he went back to Wisconsin, married, and returned with his wife to their new home, where they have since resided. During the sum- mer of 1855 the population was increased by the following named settlers and their families : A. J. Malande, Andrew Larson, Gutrom Pedersou, Ole Pederson, J, J. Wamberg, John Bottolfson, M. Edstrom, C. A. Haggstrom, William Olson and Regnold Johnson. Many of these are luw living '.vliere they first located their claims. In the spring of 1856 a number of American families settled in the central and southeastern parts of the township, but few of them remained permanently.

The first birth was that of Frank Johnson, son of John and Johanna Johnson, born in May, 1856, and died the same year, his being also the first death.

During the year 1857, E. A. Sargent built a store on the plat which was laid out as the village of Wastedo. A store was afterward built by M. T. Opsal. This building has been enlarged and continues to be the principal trading point in the township. There is a blacksmith shop, and public school house, with several residences near. A post-ofhce is kept here, called Wastedo.

The town was organized for political purposes in 1858. The following were elected as the officers: Supervisors, Ellery Stone, chairman, George Leasons and W^m. Olson ; town clerk, G. F. Sargent ; assessor, F. F. Dimmick ; justices, D. C. Stranahan and S. N. McGaughey. This town is now inhabited by an industrious class of citizens, mostly natives of Norway and Sweden with their descendants, who take a deep interest in the political and social welfare of their adopted country. Many of them are well educated.

The first school was taught by Daniel Van Amberg, in a log building near where Wm. Olson now resides. There are now seven good school houses in which schools

The oldest church organization is the Spring Garden Swedish Evangelical Lutheran, organized in July, 1858 ; trustees, Jacob Johnson, Nels Challberg, S. Anderson. They met for worship in private houses and school houses till l.S(j2, Avhen a moderate sized church was built. This has since been replaced by a fine edifice, capable of seating 600 people. The present membership is between three and four hundred.

The other church is styled the Urland Norwegian Lutheran church which is located in the southwest part of the township. This organization was effected in the winter of 1S71. Trustees who first served were Lars Flom, T. A. Melhus, Ole A. Melhus, Rognold J. Onstad, J. Ingerbretson. Their church building was completed and dedicated in 1874 It is an elegant and costly structure capable of seating 600 people. The present membership is larger than usual for country churches.

There are two fire insurance companies which have their headquarters in this township, keeping farming property well insured in this and the adjoining towns, against losses by fire, at the least possible expense. An admission fee of one dollar is required, and members are assessed to pay damages in case of loss. As yet losses have been comparatively few.

It has been well remarked of Leon, " that its cultivated fields, possessing a soil of mirvelous fertility, its broad acres of arable land, its timber and water, beautiful residences, barns and granaries, flocks and herds, and finally, the health and general prosperity of its inhabitants, are the living evidences of a section of country rich in natural resources and abounding in happy homes."

This township is bounded on the north by Belle Creek, east by Zunibrota, south by Roscoe and west by Wauaniingo. The north branch of the Zumbro runs through it from west to east ; numerous springs and rivulets flowing into the same, along its winding course, afford plenty of water. Natural groves of forest trees abound, and growing shade trees are seen surrounding nearly every farm house.

The first claim was made by Christian Peterson, in May, 1855, on section 26. This first habitation was constructed of brush, but was improved in the fall by the addition of some boards. In June, the same year, John Mabee and A. C. Erstad came and marked out claims, sharing together the hardships of settlers remote from civilized society during the folloAving winter. Mr. Mabee returned to his native country, Norway, the next spring. Mr. Ersted remained and the records of his prosperity are now clearly seen in his fine buildings with tasteful surroundings and highly cultivated farm. And he is not alone, but surrounded by neighbors, in similar circumstances of prosperity, having all the advantages of churches, schools and good society.

A number of other settlers came here in 1856, ajnoug whom were Daniel Eames and Julius Peck. Mr. Peck brought the first team of horses into the town. Mr. Eames participated in the self-denials and struggles of the time, till he had but just begun to reap the benefits of his toil when he was called to his eternal home. He died in October, 185*.) ; his being the first death among the settlers in the town. A native of New England, he

A grist mill and flouring mill was built by Nichols & Ford in the southeast part of the town at a very early day, which, with additions and improvements, is still in operation.

Messrs. A. J. Gro»'er and J. B. Locke, botii early settlers of Minneola, and who have represented the county in the State legislature, are still living here and enjoying the fruits of their labors, in beautiful residences, on highly cultivated grounds.

The larger portion of the inhabitants emigrated from Europe. The first church was built by the Norwegian Lutherans at a cost of $3,500. It is located in the southeast part. The same people have since erected another large church in the north part of the town ; both have large congregations. The German people have also two fine churches. One is called the German Lutheran, the other German Methodist. The town contains several fine public school buildings. The first school was taught by Charles Locke, no public school district having been organized at the time. The first public school was taught by Mrs. Daniel Eames in her own house. The first child born was Eddie Crowell in 1857. The first marriage that occurred was between George Reese and Harriet Wightman in Jane, 1858.

This township was at first united with Zumbrota under one organization, in the spring of 1858. I, C. Stearns, T. D. Rowell and George Sanderson were the first supervisors. In December, 1859, a notice was posted in several places, signed per order, requesting the voters living in township 110, range 16, to meet on the fifteenth of that month at the residence of the late

Daniel Eames, to take into consideration the expediency of a separate organization, choose a name for the town, and, if deemed best, elect the necessary officers for doing town business. At the meeting held as above called, N. Mulliken was called to the chair and J. B. Locke chosen secretary. Two names were presented, Paris and Minneola. The latter was finally agreed upon as the name for the new organization. Minneola is an Indian term, signifying mucJi waier. There were thirty-two voters present and it was agreed upon to elect town officers and send a report of this action to the meeting of the county board, to be held in Red Wing, January, 1860.

The following officers were elected : J. 13. Locke, Brant Thompson, J. Clark, supervisors ; R. Person, town clerk ; Henry E. Siiedd, assessor ; A. J. Grover and N. INIulliken, justices ; W. B. Williams and E. L. Kingsbury, constables. A. J. Grover and J. B. Locke were app nnted a committee to present this action to the county board. They did so, but the matter was deferred by that board until after a meeting of both townships should act upon the matter of separation. The town of Zumbrota, at its annual meeting in the spring of 1850, approved of the separation. The county board met again in June and after acting upon the matter the following notice was issued by Hans Mattsou, county auditor:

Whereas, The board of county eoniiiiissionors of said county have on the fouitli instant detached town 110, range IG, from the town of Zumbrota, and organized the same as a separate town by the name of Minneola; Therefore, no'tice is hereby given that a meeting will be held at the residence of J. B. Locke, in said town of Minneola, on the eighteenth day of June, 1860, for the purpose of electing officers of said town, to-wit : Three supervisors, one clerk, one assessor, two justices, two constables and all other town officers. Hans Mattson,

Source changes here: from History of Goodhue County, Minnesota, by Curtiss-Wedge, Franklyn, published 1909; 3,155 words in this source stream.

Leon Township

Leon constitutes government township 11, range 17, and is bounded on the north by Cannon Falls, on the east by. Belle Creek, on the south by Wanamingo and on the west by Warsaw. It is drained by branches of the Little Cannon in the northwestern portion, these streams causing the land to be somewhat broken in that locality. In the valleys there is a light growth of timber. The eastern part of the township is drained by the waters of Belle creek. The soil is rich and causes Leon to be one of the most desirable farming sections of the county. The people are educated and progressive, being for the most part Americans of Norwegian and Swedish descent, although a few of the sturdy old pioneers of Norwegian and Swedish birth still remain to tell the story of their early struggles to their children. Of Leon it has been truthfully said: "Its cultivated fields, possessing a soil of marvelous fertility, its broad acres of arable land, its timber and water, beautiful residences, barns and granaries, flocks and herds, and finally the health and general prosperity of its inhabitants, are the living evidences of a section of country rich in natural resources and abounding in happy homes."

The first settler, Haldro Johnson, a Norwegian, came here from Dane county, Wisconsin, in the fall of 1854. He made a claim on section 20, built a rude cabin and spent the winter there. The following spring he went back to Wisconsin, and married, bringing his bride with him to the new country, where tliey were to establish their rooftree and live in happiness. In the summer of 1855 came the following Scandinavians and their fami- lies : A. J. Rlalande, Andrew Larson, Gutrom Pederson, Ole Pederson, J. Wamberg, John Bottolfson. M. Edstrom. C. A. Haggstrom, William Olson and Rognold Johnson. They at once staked out claims and broke the land, most of which still remains in the possession of the families of the original claimants. In 1856 came Albert, Calvin, Samuel, David and Horace McGaughey, F. F. Dimmick, James Cox, Seth Davis. Charles A. Johnson, William Greaves and Ellery Stone with his sons. The eastern people who settled in the central and southeastern part of this township in the early days did not as a rule remain long, and consequently few of their names have been handed down to posterity in this county, although several attained prominence in the localities where they afterward settled.

Frank Johnson, born May 8, 1856, and died September 7 the same year, was the first white child born and the first person to die in the township. The first school was taught in 1857 by Daniel Van Amberg, in a log schoolhouse near where William Olson afterward took up his residence.

Among the early settlers came H. Ferrell, who laid claim to a section of land and surveyed and laid out town lots, naming the place Wastedo. His dreams of a future great city were not realized, and a larger part of the village plat is now devoted in farms. In 1857 E. A. Sargent built a store and stocked it with general merchandise, and the next year Martin Thompson built another store. Blacksmith shops were opened in 1857 and 1865. In more recent years the store of M. T. Opsal at this point became the trading center of the town. The postoffice at Wastedo was discontinued some years ago and Cannon Falls R. F. D. No. 1 was substituted.

Of Leon, thirty years ago, it was written: "The township is now inhabited almost exclusively by a steady, industrious class of people, natives of Norway and Sweden, and their descendants, the Norwegians residing principally in the southwestern portion of the township, and the Swedes in the northeastern. They are all, or nearly all. citizens of the United States, and as their interests are thoroughly identified with the land of their adoption, they take a deep interest in the political and social welfare of the country. Many of them are men of wide education and ability, some of them having represented their districts in one or both branches of the state legislature, while others have filled local positions of trust and honor." This is no less true today.

To the Civil War Leon contributed the following soldiers: George Brockman, Charles Berdan. A. J. Bailey, W. D. Bryant, Ephraim A. Bard, Harry Bristol. John Banks, Lewis Butterson, David E. Burden. Edwin Cox, Almeran Davis, Peter Froyd. II. M. McGaughey, Eward G. Bailey, Elec Albertson. Christian Lud-

July 5, 1858, the first township election was held in the store of E. A. Sargent. Mr. Sargent was clerk of election and A. E. McGaughey was the forwarding clerk. Fifty votes were polled? -From that time until 1879 the officers were as follows, the first named of the supervisors under each year being the chairman : Supervisors, 1859, Ellery Stone, George Seassons, William Olson; 1860, S. X. McGaughey. John Ingebrightsen, J. Vanderberg; 1861, Alexander Merritt, A. Larson, J. K. Stranahan; 1862, Alexander Merritt, John Ingebrightsen, Seth Davis ; 1863, James McGinnis, A. Larson, F. I. Collins; 1864, Alexander Merritt, S. Anderson,

The oldest church in the township is the Spring Garden Swedish Evangelical Lutheran church. The Urland congregation of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church was organized in the winter of 1871.

In 1859 the Rev. Mr. Barnes organized a Presbyterian church, and during the following year the Methodist people perfected an organization, but both of these attempts expired, owing to lack of support.

George Wright Matchan, deceased, will long be remembered for his sterling worth and noble Christian character. One of a family of fourteen children, he was bom at Hilton. Yorkshire, England. August 8, 1830. in the house where his parents settled at their marriage, and where both died, after a continuous residence of more than sixty years of happy life. Here was spent his boyhood and early manhood, and in April. 1850. he married Mary Ann Shields, daughter of William and Frances (Miller) Shields, also born a1 his native place. April, 1858, the family consisting of Mr. and .Mrs. Matchan and three young sons, George. Robert and William, emigrated to Canada, taking passage in a sailing vessel of the type of thai day. After a stormy, trying voyage of forty-nine days at sea, l hey landed at Quebec, from whence they went to Farmersville. Ontario, subsequently settling on a farm near the village of Green Bush, about twelve miles westerly from Brockville. on the St. Lawrence. Here were born to them two children. Alinira and Edward. April, 1864, the family ('migrated to the United States, living for a few months at Waukesha, Wis. During the summer of 1864 Mr. Matchan, leaving his family at Waukesha to follow later, started for Minnesota in quest of a home, and in the fall of that year rented the farm of James Seofield, in the town of Roscoe, where his family joined him. remaining until the spring of 1866, and where was born to them another daughter, Laura. The summer and winter of 1866-7, they lived on the farm of T. D. Rowell, east of the village of Zumbrota, moving thence to the farm lying soiithwesterly from Zumbrota village, in the town of Roscoe, which Mr. Matchan had purchased in the fall of 1865 of Josiah Thompson, then living at Zumbrota. This farm consisted of 160 acres, for which he agreed to pay $800, paying $100 cash and $100 per annum, with interest at ten per cent. Here were born to them another daughter, Annie, and a son, "Wesley.

Many were the trials and great the discouragements encountered before the final victory over debt and necessary farm betterments, but the good old farm yielded not only a comfortable living for the family during all the years of its subjugation and improvement, but in response to good cultivation made possible the purchase of an additional eighty acres adjoining, at a much greater price per acre than its own first cost, and the building of a hue home in the village of Zumbrota, at a cost, including the lands, of over $5,000, to which the family, then consisting of himself, wife, Annie and Wesley, removed, remaining until the fall of 1906, when, because of declining years and health, he sold with the idea of purchasing a home of less size, where he and the wife and mother might pass the last years of their lifetime with the least care and responsibility. In this respect, however, his calculations were defeated. He died at the home of his dauediter, Mrs. Laura Secore, Red Wing, February .">. 1907. At the tillage home above mentioned, April. 1900. Mr. and Mrs. Matchan celebrated the fiftieth (golden) anniversary of their wedding, at which were in attendance all of their eight children, the wives of those married, all their grandchildren and most of their nephews and nieces, numbering in all fifty-five persons. Mr. Matchan from his early boyhood was identified with the Methodist church, being one of the few original organizers of the First Methodist Episcopal church at* Zumbrota, with which he was identified as member, and in one and another official capacity, until the time of his death. Mr. Matchan was a man of positive character and intense conviction, clinging at all cost to the right, frowning publicly and privately upon that he considered wrong. His word once given was sacred, and no inconvenience or sacrifice was too great for him to suffer that he might fulfill the simplest promise. Heg left surviving him five sons and three daughters, and his wife. Mary Ann.

The oldest son, George L., is a prominent attorney residing at the city of Minneapolis. The second son, Robert D.. a well known physician and surgeon, also resident of Minneapolis, where for two decades he has continuously occupied the chair of surgery in the homeopathic department of the medical school of the State University of Minnesota. The third son, William, resides at Milton, N. D., where he is engaged in the lumber and grain business. A daughter, Almira Osborne, resides at Payette. Idaho. Edward M. resides on the old home farm in Roscoe, where he is making good both as a farmer and citizen. Laura, wife of J. A. Secore, resides at the city of Anoka, where her husband occupied the important position of superintendent of the department of manual training in the public schools of that city. Annie, wife of Rupert Staiger, resides at Zumbrota. where they own their home and large grounds, which represent no inconsiderable increment indicative of their thrift and future prosperity. Wesley G., the youngest of the eight, was a graduate of the medical department of the State University, and for eight years and more until his death, occupied an envious position in his chosen profession in the city of Bismarck, capital of our sister state of North Dakota, where he died July 21, 1909, cut off before reaching the prime of his manhood, for he was less than thirty-three years of age at the time of his death. He had nevertheless, by persistent effort and consistent living, attained a standing in his profession and in business and social circles of his home city, not often reached by men of maturer years, and because of his manly character and genial kindly nature, his death was mourned by the entire community, men, women and children, representing all walks in life, pausing at his bier for that last look of homage to the memory of their dead friend. The wife, mother, widow, now seventy-five years of age, residing at the old, new, village, Zumbrota, sad because of the loss of her loved ones, yet contentedly happy in the reflection of their victories and in the possession of the respect, affection and love of all her living offspring, relatives and friends, which are legion. She still works while waiting, firmly secure in the knowledge, resulting from a life of practiced Christian faith and works, that the future holds for her only good, gleaning in her declining years the honey of the flower of a life well spent, basking in the sunshine of the hope of the meeting in that great beyond, where awaits for such as she, life eternal, and the "well done, thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy lord." The homely, trustful, energetic, faithful life work of these two old Goodhue county pioneers will shine forth in the pages of this history of the achievements of those who made Goodhue county what she is, in the galaxy of stars which make up the great state of Minnesota, as a guide for others here and to come, to whom is left the completion of a great work so inauspiciously begun.

Minneola, originally a part of Zumbrota township, but organized separately in June, I860, comprises township 110, range 16, and is bounded on the north by Belle Creek, on the east by Zumbrota, on the south by Koscoe and on the west by Wana- .mingo. It is crossed, east to west, by the north branch of the Zumbro, which is augmented along its winding course by springs and rivulets which supply the township with plenty of water, making the farms well adapted for agriculture and stock raising. The surface has great changes of level. The highest land is in the northwestern part of the town and the lowest is in the valley near the village of Zumbrota in the southeastern part. The changes, however, except in the immediate descents into the

History Of Goodhue Counts L97

Zunibro valley, are gradual, making in general an undulating surface. The soil is rich, deep and fertile. In several portions are a few natural groves of forest trees, and shade trees surround many of the houses, adding beauty and sheltering houses and barns from storms.

The first claim in the township was made by Christian Peterson on section 26 in May, 1855. Mr. Peterson erected a rude hut of brush, banked with sod, which did service during the summer while he was breaking the land and planting the first crop. In the fall he improved this habitation with the addition of some boards. In June of the same year John Mabee and A. C. Erstad arrived, and shared with Mr. Peterson the rigors of that first winter in what was practically an unbroken wilderness. Mabee located his claim on section 35, where he lived until the spring of 1856, when he returned to Norway. Erstad made his claim on section 26, and in 1856 occupied the deserted claim of Mabee, which he continued to make his home and where he later erected a beautiful residence, In 1856 there came a number of other settlers, among whom were Daniel Eames, the Swenson brothers and Julius Peck, and probably, according to an ancient authority, Andrew Christopherson as well. Mr. Peck had the distinction of having brought into the township the first pair of horses. Previous to this time oxen had been the only beasts of burden in the township, being used for plowing, for draught purposes, and even for conveying the pioneers from place to place. Daniel Eames died in 1859, his being the first death in the township. The first birth in the township was that of Eddie Crowell in 1857. Another early birth was that of a child to Albra Twombley. also in 1857. Church service was held by the Rev. Charles Shedd early in 1856, soon after his arrival. The first marriage Avas that of George Rees and Harriet Wightman, June, 1858. The first school was taught by Charles Locke in the home of Julius Peck. This school was supported by private subscription, there being at that time no regularly organized school district. A public school was taught by Mrs. Daniel Eames in her own house.

A tragedy of the early days occurred in July, 1862. A violent thunder storm arose, during which time a bolt of lightning fell upon the house of A. J. Grover, striking the roof and parting, a portion of the electricity passing down the roof and the other portion to the person of Mrs. Grover, who was in a chamber, killing her instantly. The other persons in the house were not so seriously injured, though severely shocked. The house was also set on fire, but prompt assistance saved il from destruction.

Another mill was erected, probably by the Messrs. Nelson and Olson, about six miles above the first mill, located on the ljne between Minneola and Wanamingo.

In 1867 the Norwegian Lutherans erected the first frame church, in the southeast corner of the township, at a cost of $3,500, with a seating capacity of about 500 people. The first minister was the Rev. B. A. Muus. The same denomination later built another large church in the northern part of the town.

The Methodists organized a society in 1868. Later German Lutheran and German Methodist churches were organized. Rev. Mr. Walton preached an early sermon in the home of Daniel Eames. Mary Dickey was an early school teacher. In 1871 a schoolhouse was erected on section 23, and was first taught in by John Aldrieh. A company composed of Ezra Wilder, H. H. Palmer, T. P. Kellett and others built, in the early days, a large cheese factory on section 26, within the limits of this township.

The township was first united with Zumbrota under one organization. The first supervisors were I. < \ Stearns, T. D. Rowell and George Sanderson. In December, 1859, a notice was posted in several places, requesting the voters living in township 110, range 16. to meet on the fifteenth of that month at the residence1 of Daniel Eames to take into consideration the expediency of a separate organization, choose a name for the town, and if deemed best, to elect the necessary officers for doing town business. At the meeting held in accord with the order, N. Mulliken was called to the chair and J. B. Locke chosen secretary. The names of Paris and Minneola were presented for consideration. Tin1 latter was finally agreed upon as the name for the new organization. Minneola is an Indian term, signifying "much water." There were thirty-two voters present, and it was decided to elect town officers. This election resulted in the following officers: Supervisors, -I. B. Locke ('chairman), Brant Thompson. J. (lark: clerk, R. Person; assessor. Henry E. Shedd; justices. A. J. Grover and N. Mulliken ; constables, AY. B. Williams and E. L. Kingsbury. A. J. Grover and J. B. Locke were appointed a committee to present this action to the county board. They did so, but the matter was deferred by that board until both townships could act on the matter. The township of Zumbrota. at its annual meeting in the spring of 1860, approved of the separation. The organization was perfected by a meeting held at the home of J. B. Locke June 18, 1860.