Litchfield City

H1Stoky Of Meeker County Roman Catholic Church

The first sermon was preached in the spring of 1S58 at the house of John Flynn by Rev. Father Whitcomb of St. Cloud - the second by the same person at the house of John Dougherty in the Town of Harvey.

A church edifice was erected in 1866, at Forest City, costing $3.000 - individuals of all denomi¬ nations generously contributed to its erection - size 40 by 60 feet.

Trustees in charge of the erection of the church: Patrick Casey, John Dougherty, Sen. Daniel Dougherty and M. J. Flynn. The society orginally embraced about fifty families. Rev. Father John Byrnes officiated in this church from 1867 to 1870 - Rev. Father Arthur Hurley, from 1870 to 1873 - Rev. Father Cahill from 1873 to 1875 and Rev. Father McDermott since.

Source changes here: from Album of History and Biography of Meeker County, Minnesota, by Alden Publishing Company, [from Old Catalog] Comp, published 1888; 13,654 words in this source stream.

Litchfield City

f)'XRIOR to the advent of |p the iron horse in this part of Meeker county, there was nothing upon the site of the now ])rosperous vil- %( hige of Litchfield, exr-i\ cept a wheat field and pasture lands. It entirely owes its existence to that happy event, the coming of the railroad, which reached hei-e in the summer of 1809. the track-laying as far as til is place having been com- ])]ete(l, and the rirst train, a construction, running in August 13tli of tiiatyear. The town site was laid out and ]ilatted by the St. Paul & Pacific Kailroad (Company and George B. Waller, on the east half of section 11, Litchfield township. This was surveyed, platted and filed for record, July ft), ISOU.

whilst its greatest breath is about a mile. To the original town plat there have been added Weisel's addition in 1869, the second addition in 1873, Butler's addition in 1873, Crosby's addition in 187-4, the third railroad addition in 1875, Hansen's addition in 1879, Angier's addition and Greenleafs addition in 1887, and Bodano'e & Johnson's addition in 1888. The entire city is well laid out with wide streets and avenues, and the site is dotted all over with hand some residences, many of them surrounded with elegant and well-kept grounds. The business portion of the city presents a substantial and thrifty ap[)earance, owing to the large number of line brick stores, offices, hotels, etc., all of which are in fine taste. The stores are well filled with well-selected merchandise of a character above that usualh' found in cities of the size of Litchfield, and are doing a splendid business. The pride the citizens take in their home can be readily seen in tiie appearance of the place, in the many noble edifices, and their beautiful park. Tlie town drew its name from E. D. Litclilield, an English capitalist and stockholder in the St. I^aul tt Pacific Ilailroad, livini'- in I>ondon, and whose wife made such lib-

Litclilield is connected with the outer world by the St. Paul, Minneapolis & Manitoba Railroad, wliich passes diagonally north west and southeast through the town plat. This, whicii is one of the best roads in the State, affords ample facilities for marketing the products of this part of Minnesota.

At the regular election held November 2, 1869, tlie question ot the removal of the county seat from Forest City to Litchfield was submitted to the qualified electors of the county, and by a majority of 89, in a total vote of 927, it was decided in tlie affirmative, and the latter city became the seat of justice of Meeker county. The court-house, of whicli a descrijJtion is given in another place, adorns the north part of the town, and is really a very handsome and complete edifice. The location of the seat of justice at Litchfield and the presence of the railroad have both been important factors in the I'apid growth of the place, and have established it upon a firm basis.

George B. Waller, who had previously purchased the northeast c[uarter of section 11, in this township, came to this locality in the late summer of 1869, and settled, knowing that a town would be estaljlished near by. When the railroiul liad been graded through tliis county, he deeded to the railroad company an undivided half in his quarter of section of land to be laid out into town lots, reserving a lot of some ten acres in the northwest corner of the tract for his home. As soon as the road was constructed to this point, and trains were running, he shipped from Minneapolis the material with which to construct a house, which had already been fi-amed and gotten ready to put together, in the previous winter. In November, of the same year, he brought his family to the incipient village.

building his residence, J.M.Miller hauled the lumber for a house from Clearwater, and erected a dwelling. Shortly after this Truls Nelson put up another building in which to live, near where the town hall is now located. These were the first three buildings, the nucleus around which has sprang up this thriving and growing town.

B. F.Pixley put up the next house,and others soon followed. Mrs. C. 0. Porter was the first lady to take up her residence here, and Mrs. Pixley the second, the former dating her arrival from the 26th of August, 1869, and the latter, one day later.

The first store was erected by Heard & Ward, a firm composed of S. A. Heard and C. D. Ward, who opened what is known as a genei'al merchandise stock, in the embryo city, in the fall of 1869. The building which they occupied is the one that is used as a harness shop by Hugh Dowling, but originally stood on the site now occupied by the handsome brick store of D. E. Branham. Heard & Ward continued in business together until 1872, when Mr. Heard purchased the interest of liis partner, and carried it on until 1880, at which date he, too, sold out to Branham & Hickcox.

In November of this year, C. H. Strobeck,. who had decided to locate in the place,, erected a store building on the site of the present Ivronsbrick building, which he occupied in part, nnd })art of which he rented.

The first man to do turner's work in the village, was M. A. Brown, who jnit up a little shop on the site of the brick building now occupied by Birch & Nelson, where he carried on the business.

The pioneer hardware store was that of Vanderhorck & King, who commenced in that line in the fall of 1S69. The firm of King it Whyborn, who succeeded them,

W. S. Brill entered into business in the drue: line about the same time in the buihlingput up by C. H. Strobeck, and continued in trade here until 1882, when, selling out to Revell Bros., he I'emoved to St. Paul, wliere he now lives.

The first man to sell lumber in tiie newtown was .Io.sei)li James, but lie did not establish a yanl ; tlie first to enter into that line regularly was John Esbjornsson and C. Peterson, who. together, opened a lunil)er yard in tiie summer of ISG'.t, when there was scarcely a building 'on the town site. They quit this business the following winter.

E. A. Cami)bell moved to Litchfield in the fall of 18()9, with a stock of general merchandise, from Foi-est City. About a year later Jesse V. Branhani, Jr., became a member of the firm and they carried on the business for some time under the firm name of Campbell & Branham.

C. L. Angell, another pioneer of the village, came here in the fall of 1869, and commenced the establishment of the photograjihic art gallery that he still carries on.

Rapidly, as if by the stroke of a magician's wand, a Ijusy town sprang up w-ith a miraculous orowth, and where once the o-i-ound gave back oidy the sound of the footfalls of grazing cattle, came the busy hum of commerce, and the noise of the saw, plane and hammer, as building after building rose into view.

Among those who settled in the village in 1S69, not mentioneil above, were the following : William H. Greenleaf. J. P. Scarp, James Tinkham. J. II. Bacon, N. A. Tiren, Hamlet Stevens, E. A. Campbell, C. II. Strobeck, Dr. Geo. B. Weisel, O. B. Espin, W.

In 1870 there came to the new village quite a numl)er, among whom were - George H. Chapman, V. II. Harris, George Lyon, Lewis Laisoii, Chauncey Butler. ]\r. J. Flynn, W. W. Rollin, Wni. M." Campbell, Dr. F. E. Bissell. Henry Chase, R. W. Dunn, J. Q. A. Braden, John Patten. W. D. Stanton, Louis Ekbom, D. E. Potter, A. C. Smith and others.

Others who made settlements in the new village early in 1871,1872 and 1873 are easily named. Among the most prominent and best remembered are Frank E. Dagget, "W.

E. M. Eastman, Peter Bei-ens, Joseph Leaser, W. S. Adams, James Hooser, S. "\Y. Leavitt, R. S. Hershey, E. F. Roberts, J. B. Hatch, Joseph Mills, N. Anderson and many others. From this time on the settlement was rapid, and the village soon grew to be one of the commercial centers of this portion of the State.

Late in August, 1869, the Litchfield House was built and opened, and was, therefore, the fi st hotel in the city, as well as one of fii"st structures on the town site.

The pioneer religious services in the village were held in a small school-house, then in course of construction, but, as yet, without doors or windows, on the 15th of August,

1869, at which the Rev. D. B. Jackson, a Presbyterian clergyman in charge of the church at Kingston, this county, officiated. A Sabbatli-school was organized September 19th of the same year, by Eev. M r. Hall, a divine of the Congregational denomination, and Avas the pioneer of several others. The first church edifice was not finished until 1871, and was the house of the Presiiyterians, which was commenced in the fall of

1870. The firet donation ]iarty was held by the people connected with the Methodist Church, on an evening in December, 1869, at the house of Rev. J. S. Fassig, their minister. Gifts of §52 in cash and a great amount of other articles were left with the worthy recipient of their kindness.

Hans Mattson, the present Secretary of State, came to Litchfield in 1869, and established the railway company's land-office in the small building on the corner opposite the Howard House. Here he remained several years.

The first death in the community occurred in the year 1871, and was that of the little son of M. D. Bowen. About the same time a Swedish settler, while passing to his home west of the city, fell from the trestle bridge of the railroad near the western limits of the village, and broke his neck. Old residents are undecided as to which of these preceded the other, but as the former is the death of a resident of the vilhige it is given prominence.

The pioneer physician of Litchfield was Dr. George W. "Weisel, who came to this place from Forest City in the fall of 1869. He remained here in practice, according to the regular or alloi)athic school, for some years, but is now living in Williamsport, Lycoming coimtv. Pa. The second was Dr. F. E. Bissell, still a resident of the village. The third physician was a Dr. Bell, a follower of the homeopathic school, but who ditl not long remain in the place.

The pioneer bank was established in 1875, by Harrington & Lyon, who called it the Bank of Litchfield. They continued to run it for a short time, when it passed into the hands of Chauncey Butler, who continued its operations until December 27, 1877, when it collapsed.

The pioneer attorney of Litchfield was Charles H. Strobeck, who first came here in October, 1869. Newton H. Ciiittenden was the next to locate, and was followed, the same year, by Frank Belfoy. In 1870, Henry Hill, Charles B. Howell and A. C. Smith joined the resident members of the bar.

When Frank Belfoy came here in 1869, he brought from Forest City the press and material of the MceTcer County Keivs, the pioneer paper of the county, which became an important factor in the ujibuilding and development of the young village.

Among the business concerns of an early day were the following named, ivith such history as would be of interest as could be gleaned from those most intei'ested and best posted. These are the firms that have ceased to exist; those that still survive, or that are still operated by their successors, are treated of further on.

B. O. Esping came here in 1870 or 1871, opened the first jewelry store, and followed that business for several years. He is now engaged in the hotel business in Southern Minnesota.

W. II. Dart came to the village with a stock of goods from Forest City, in 1869, but was succeeded by "W. D. Stanton in 1870, wiio ran the business until 1874, when he sold out on account of ill iieaitli.

Eankin & Greenleaf were for some time enffatjed in the sale of hardware. Tiiev were succeeded bv S. W. Rankin, who ran it until 18S7, wlien he sold out.

The pioneers in the sale of agricultural implements were James Tinkham and Scarp & Anderson. The latter established the Inisiness in 1872, and it passed through many changes of firm until the death of John Scarp, by drowning, in a wreck on the Baltic Sea in 1 882.

A. W. Swenson, in 1877, started in the general merchandise line, continued in business two years, and then removed to Alexandria, this State.

Among the gentlemen who have been connected with the bar of Meeker county, resident at Litchfield, not mentioned before, or not hei'e at present, were : E. A. Campbell, S. A. Plumley, F. P. Olne}', L. C. Spooner and ]\rr Julian.

In order to have a just comprehension of the development and progress of the city, it is absolutely necessary to give a picture of the present business, religious, social and educational institutions of the city, with their histories; and they are herewith appended.

The genei'al merchandise firm of Cairncross & Palm, originated in 1871 with the Nelson Bros. Several changes have been made in the name and style, several parties having oiierated it, among whom were Cairncross A: Brother, who commenced in 1878. In 1881, Alexander Cairncross purchased the interest of his brother, Stewart, and ran the business until January 1, 1885, when, John Palm having acquired an interest, the present firm was formed.

The business house of Tharalson i Bro., dealers in general merchandise, was initiated July 1, 1878, by A. Tharalson, where the harness-making shop is now. N. Tharalson was general manager at that time. They remained in that building until October, 1881, when they purchased the store where they are now located, and moved in the same fall. February 23, 1887, N. Tharalson was admitted to a full partnershiji, and the firm name changed to its present form.

The stand of Nelson, Johnson tV- Larson originated in 1>180, l)v the formation of a firm under the above name, composed of B. P. Nelson, A. C. Johnson and Lewis Larson. They at once commenced the erection of their fine brick store building, which was put up at an expense of some $10,000, and

J. L. AVakefield, dealer in dry goods and general furnisliing materials, came to Litchfield in November, 1883, and opened a stock of general merchandise in the l)nilding where F. V. DeCoster is now located. A short time subsequently he removed to his present location.

The oldest drug house in the city is that of A. J. and N. F. Eevell, operating under the firm name of Eevell Bros., who are the successors of W. S. Brill, who started this establishment in 1869, the first of its kind in the village. The latter continued to manage it until 1882, when he removed to St. Paul, after disposing of it to the present proprietors, who are in the enjoyment of an excellent Inisiness. They carry a large and wellselected stock of drugs, fancy articles, as well as paints, etc.

V. II. Harris, who is also engaged in the drug business, was the second to open a store of that character in the village, commencing in the fall of 1ST3, under the firm name of Harris & Bell, in the building now occupied by the ])ostolEce. There they remained until IST'.t, when, having erected the second brick store building in the jilace, Mr. Harris removed into it, where he now carries on bu&iii' ss, which he has filled with a full and comp ete stock of first-class goods and is a leader in that line.

Tiie drug firm of W. W. Johnson & Co. originated in a business established by J. E. Upham and W. W. Johnson, in 1881, in the building now used as the postoffice, and there continued, under the firm name of Upham & Jolmson, until two years later, when Dr. George Newland purchased the interest of the senior partner, and the present firm was formed. Tiiree months later tiiey removed to the Howard House block, where they remained until the fall of 1886, when they took up their quarters in the Old Court House block, where the}^ are at present located. They, too, have a large stock and do a good trade.

Tiie grocery house of D. E. Branham was established in March, 1883, Ijy D. E. Branham and G. O. Hickcox, they buying out S. A. Heard, the pioneer merchant of theplace. They conducted tlie business until March, 1SS8, when Mr. Hickcox disposed of his interest to his partnei', and the firm name changed from Branham ct Hickcox, to its present one. His stock is full, complete and elegantly displayed, and his business is accordingly quite large and remunerative.

W. II. Dart, who is also engaged in dealing in groceries, etc., exclusively, occupies the stand established by Daniel McLane, in 1880, and succeeded that gentleman in 1887. He carries a very large and complete stock for a town of the size of Litchfield, and as a representative pioneer citizen, has a wide acquaintance in the county.

The hardware firm of AVindle & Anderson succeeded Anderson & Hanson, among the leading ones in that line. The latter Avas formed in May, 1887, by A. J. Anderson and N. C. G. Hanson. They entered at once upon the transaction of business, and carried it on until the spring of 1888, when they were succeeded by the present firm.

The hardware house of Johns Brothers, was established in April, 1887, by D. B. and W. H. Johns, under the above firm name and style. -They started l)y purchasing the stock of Daniel McLane, and later that of S. W. Eankin.

Peter M. Johnson is also engaged in the sale of all kinds of hai'dware in the city. He came here in July, 1880, and, in connection with M. A. Brown, entered into this line of

The establishment of Birch c*c Nelson, dealers in clothing, hats, caps and gents' furnishing goods, was commenced in 1880, by John Birch and Andrew Nelson, trading under the firm name of John Birch & Co. They 0))ene(l business in what is known as the old J>ank building, where the}' remained some five years. In the spring of 1884-, Andrew Nelson disposed of his interest to Rasmus Nelson, and the present firm was formed.

The Golden Eagle clothing house originated in March, 1886, at which time Jacob Kahn and M. Leon opened a stock in this line. The senior partner, who is a resident of Chicago, is a member of the wholesale clothing firm of Kahn Brothei-s & Co., and Mr. Leon is managing partner in this village.

F. V. DeCoster entered into the mercantde circles of Litchfield in the spring of 1871, opening a stock of general merchandise in the building, where he is now located, and operated in that line until 1870, when he commenced the sale of musical instruments, sewing machines and notions. This he continued until 1S87, when he added to iiis stock an invoice of watches, jewelry and silver-plated ware.

D. Elmquist came to Litchfield in 1876, and opened a jewelry store, in the building now occupied by Nelson & Winger as a tailor shop. He remained in that edifice for some four years, when he removed to Brown's corner building, and later from there to a store owned by Mr. Koerner. In 1886, he removed to his present location in the Okl Court House block.

The pioneer lumi)er yard of the city of Litchfield, was established in August. 1860, by Joh» Esbjornssen and C. Peterson, when the embryo town contained iiardly a building. The firm carried on the business until the following winter, Avhen it was dissolved. In 1876 Mr. Esbjornssen again entered into the lumber business, buying out the yard antl stock of S. W. Leavitt, and has continued to carry it on ever since, cariwing full stocks of all goods pertaining to the trade.

In 1878 W. II. Greenleaf bought out the lumljer yard of M. J. Flynn, and in 18SMthat of H. B. Brown, and consolidated the two and carried on the business alone until 1882, when he admitted to a partnership his son, Charles A., and the firm of Greenleaf & Son, thus formed, still conduct the business. They have also an interest in a wholesale lumberyard in St. Paul, and another retail yard on the ^linneapolis it Pacific Railroad.

During the year 1880 Chauncey F. Dart established a furniture store in Litchfield, and continued its operation until November, 1884, when he disposed of it to P. Berens, the present jiropiietor, who has largely increased the stock, and carries a large line of goods of the description usually making up stocks of this character, inchuling carpets, etc. His building, which he owns, is on the east side of Sibley avenue, and was erected in 1886 at a cost of over §5,000.

John Snell came to Litchfield in 1877, and bought out the furniture establishment originated by J. B. Hatch, in 1876, and has continued in that Ime ever since. In 1879 he erected the brick building where he carries on business, his store-rooms having a frontage of eig-htv feet. He has added undertaking to the other branches of his business, and controls a large trade.

The extensive business carried on by M. J. Flynn & Bro. has grown up with the town. In the sj)ring of 1870 Chauncey Butler established a lumber yard, which, in 1873, passed into the hands of J. H. Morris. One year later it was jnirchased by M. J. Flynn, who ran it until the fall of 1878, when he sold it to W. II. Greenleaf. In the same year, Mr. Flynn and liis brother Daniel, entering into partnersliip, commenced the sale of agricultural machinery, in which they are so largely engaged, succeeding in this line the firm of Butler, Campbell ct White, which originated with those gentlemen in 1872. In 18S0 M. J. Flynn & Bro. purchased the Butler elevator, with a storage capacit}' of 30,- 000 bushels, and are also engaged in handlinggrain, shipping 175,000 bushels of wheat alone in 1887.

McLane & Crowe are also engaged in the sale of agricultural implements, wagons, etc., having commenced this line of trade here in the spring of 1886. Tlie firm consists of Daniel McLane and L. D. Crowe. They are also extensively known as grain buyers, tliey operating one of the elevators at this point.

J. W. Johnson commenced the sale of agricultural implements, farm machinery, wagons, etc. in 1888, carries a full line of everything needed liy tlie farmer in that class of goods, and is quite a popular merchant.

George 11. Chapman, who is engaged in the manufacture and sale of harness, etc., commenced business in Litchfield in May, 1870, and has continued in that line ever since. He carries a full line of all horse accoutrements, and everything needed by a horseman. His business, which is a large one, is gradually increasing 3'ear by year.

E. J. Gould is also carrying on the harness-making trade in Litchfield, commencinothe business here in February, 1886. He carries everything needed in liis line.

The harness-making shop of Hugli Dowling was established in September, 1879, by the present proprietor, who carries a full stock of all manner of goods connected with his line of trade, and has built up for himself a fine business in this localitv, bv strict attention to business. On the 4th of March, 1885, lie met with the misfortune of losing his stock by fire, but has fully recovered from the stroke of adverse fate.

The flour and feed store of C. H. Dart owes its origin to Mr. Dart and George Gordon, wlio commenced its operation in April, 1880. The firm only existed for a short time, when the present owner assumed sole charge, and has continued to so run it. In connection with this business he is also engaged in jobbing cigars, having been in partnership in this department with E. S. Hershey until Jannary, 1887, when he purchased the interest of liis partner. In 1886, Mr. Dart erected the fine brick building where he is located, and moved into it the same fall.

Robert Yorys, who is engaged in carrying on a bakery and restaurant, initiated this business stand in 1886. He carries a stock of confectionery and tobaccos in connection, therewith.

Chris. Mortenson opened his bakery in the fall of ISS-t, on the corner of Second street and Marshall avenue, where he remained until June 19, 1886, when he removed to the corner of Ramsey and Second streets, where he operated a boarding house in connection with his bakery; but in April, 1888, he sold out to Heni'v Halvorson, Jr., who is now engaged in the same line.

Chris. Bertleson is occupied in running a blacksmith shop, having established that business here in 1883. He worked here for about two years, and then suspended operations for three years at this point, but came back to Litchfield on the expiration of that time, and re-opened his smithy.

Morris Neuman, blacksmith and wagon maker, commenced his business herein 1872, in a shop located on Marshall avenue. He erected the brick building he now occupies, in 1876, and moved into it the same year.

Barker it Andrews. The first mentioned firm commenced business in 1882, with John Paulson andC. C. Sather at the helm, and so continued until Jul}', 1885, when the former retired from lousiness, but in 18ST came back to Litchfield, anil again entered into partnership with the same i)arty with whom he was in business before. The firm of Barker ^ Andrews was formed in the fall of ISST l>y D. W. Barker and J. (,). Andrews.

David Gorman is engaged in running the Pioneer livery stable, which was established in the fall of 1869, by Chase & Dunn. Some time after the latter disposed of the business to R. "W. Dunn, and the firm of Dunn & Deymouth was formed. They ran it for a while, and were in turn succeeded by Deymouth it McCarger, and it was run by them until 1882, Avhen it passed into the possession of the present pi'o[)rietoi', who has operated it ever since.

There are eight places in the city of Litchfield for the sale of li(iuor. wine, beer, etc. The gentlemen who conduct them, for the most part, are excellent citizens, and receive the i-espect of the people generally, although there is a large element of prohibitionists in the community. The saloons are kept ijy the following named - John Konsbrick, A. von Eckstaedt, John Burns, Minton & Peterson, Xels Clements, S. A. Scarp, A. D. Eoos and Charles Foster.

Nelson & Winger, tailoi-s, C. B. Nelson and N. Anderson, boot and shoe makers, and A. Lofstrom, house and sign painter, are among tlie lea<ling artizans of the place, and helj) make up the business of the village.

There are four millinery establishments, also, in the town of Litchfield - namely, those of Mrs. Caswell, Mi's. Pixley, Mi-s. Cary and Miss Nygren.

The ])hotograpliic and art gallery of Angell & Weeks was estaljlished in 1860, in the infancy of the town, and is well entitled to the name of the " Old Pioneer Studio." C. L. Angell came to the site of the town when but few structures of any kind were erected, and at once commenced business in a small way. From this humble beginning he hns made it one of the finest estaljlishments in the State outside of tlie large cities, and furnishes woi'k equal to any.

J. 11. Bacon, who is also a resident dentist, is operating a ])hotographic gallery, commencing in this line in 1879, and carrying it on in connection with the duties of his profession.

C. II. Bigelow, dealer in books, stationery, notions, confectionery, cigars, tobacco, etc., commenced business here in March, 1880, in the building where the Golden Eagle clothing store now stands, where he carried on the business until June, 1881, when he removed to his present location.

J. W. Knight, who is a dealer in tubularwell su})plies. ]nimps of all descriptions, I'uljber goods and engine extras, commenced this line of trade in Litchfield in 1873, and has followed it ever since with considerable success.

The real estate, loan and insurance business of Aug. T. Koerner was established by that gentleman while he was register of deeds of the county, in 1879 or 1880, and on his retiring from that office he gave his whole attention to the business, which he carries on at the j)resent writing.

D. W. Emeiy opened a real estate, loan and collection agency in Litchfield, on coming to this locality in April, 1886, and still continues in that line of business.

Litchfield lias three progressive and al^ly edited local newspapers, all weekly - the Nevis-Ledger, tlie Review, and tlie Independent, a history of which has alread\' Ijeen given in the general history of the county, in connection with tiie annals of journalism. The Meeker County Bank was established in January, 1878, immediately after the failure and assignment of Chauncey Butler's bank, by Walter Mann and W. R. Merriam, vice-president and cashier of the Merchants National Bank of St. Paul. They opened business in the Carey brick building, in which it continued as long as it remained under the control of the originators. The officers of the institution were - Walter Mann, president ; W. R. Merriam, vice-president ; and H. B. Gates, cashier. It ran but a short time, when the stock company that now owns the institution was formed, which was incorporated in the summer of 1ST8, with a capital of ^25,000, and tlie following stockliolders - Andrew Nelson, II. B. Gates and E. P. Nelson, of Litchfield, and W. E. Merriam and Walter ]Mann, of St. Paul. Business was re-commenced in the small brick building opposite where the bank is now situated, where its predecessors had opened, with the following officers - Andrew Nelson, president; B. P. Nelson, vice-president ; and H. B. Gates, cashier. They carried on operations in this edifice until ISSl, when the present structure was erected by them at a cost of $6,400. In 1SS2 tlie officers chosen Avere Alexander Cairncross, president ; George S. Ciiandler, vice-president, and "H. B. Gates, cashier. On the Ttii of July, ISSi,

E. B. Benson was placed in the position of assistant cashier, and February 5, 1885, he was promoted to the office of cashier, and is at present filling that responsible post. The otlier officers are - Alexander Cairncross, president; P. E. Hansen, vice-president; and C. C. Upham, teller. The capital stock of the bank was increased in January, 1886, to the sum of |l32,000. The stockholders are at present the following named - A. Cairncross, P. E. Hansen, G. S. Ciiandler, A. E. Montford, D. B. Johns, M. S. Flynn, E. B. Benson, John Burke and 11. N. Peck, all of whom, witli the exception of Mr. Burke, constitute the board of directors.

The banking house of Stevens & Co. was established in 1881, by Hamlet Stevens and H. S. Branham, under the present firm name, in a wooden building on the site where Cairncross & Palm's store is now located. Business was carried on tliei-e until 1886, when tlie Iniilding which they now occupy was erected, into wliich they removed. They transact all kinds of business natural to linking institutions, liandle large quantities of veal estate in addition, and have acquired a prominence in the community well merited. They carry on a heavy business, and their financial resources are very extensive. The bank ranks as one of the most solid ami reliable institutions in tiie State.

Tlie LitchHekl AYoolcn l\rill was established in tlie fall of 1885 by a t^tock coinpanv forinotl at tliat time for the purpose, witli a stock of $25,(100. The officers elected on organization were - J. IVf. Howard, II. Stevens, B. P. Nelson, John Rodange, N. W. Ilawkinson, I) Flynn and D. ]\Iethven, directors; John Rotlange, secretary and treasurer; and D. Me'thven, manager. The building, which they erected, is, in the main part, 35 x 80 feet in size, two stories high, and has connected with it an engine house and dry room, 35 X 42 in size, also two stoiies in height. The warehouse for the storage of wool is a separate structure, 20 x 45, and two stories high, and an office completes the list of buildings, which are all of l^rick veneer, and substantially constructed. Their manufactures have already achieved a good reputation, and are in great demand. The mill is well equipped witii Correy macliinery, and power is furnislied by a powerful steam engine.. During the projier season this institution furnishes employment for some thirty people, and about 300 spindles are set in motion. Blankets, satinets, mackinaws, flannels, yarn, etc., are manufactured, all of superior excellence. Between 40,000 and 50,000 pounds of wool were made up by them in 1887, besides doing some $2,500 worth of custom Avork. In 1887 tiie capital stock was increased to $50,000. While digging a well, two flowing subterranean streams were struck, which afford an ample supply of water. At the election in February, 1888, the following officers were ciiosen - M. J. Flynn, president; H. Stevens, treasurer ; Jolm liodange, secretary and general nuinager ; J. U. Moore, foreman ; and J. ]\I. Howard, Andrew Nelson, B. P. Nelson, II. Stevens, A. Cairncross, M. J. Flynn, and John Rodange, directors.

Adams, and "W. S. Brill, who continued its operation until the following year, when Messrs. Adams and Brill sold out tlieir interests to their ]iartners. In 1874 it cliangetl owners again, passing into the possession of R. S. Ilershey & Co. In 1877 it was pureiiased by Shaw k, Ehlers, who have continued its operation ever since. It was of the old fashioned type until 1882, when these gentlemen remodelled the establishment and i)ut in the present roller system. They manufacture and ship about a car-load of flour every day, besides supplying the local trade. In connection with the mill they, also, own an elevator, and ship the surplus in the rough state, when they have more than they can grinil. They run a flour and feed store in the village, but the bulk of the pi'oduct of their mill is shipped to and sold in the British Isles. They give employment to a force of nine men, besides several coopers, and are ranked among the prominent business men of the place. Tiie mill cost, in the first place, about $20,000, but a considerable sum has since been expended upon it, until it is one of the most complete in this region of the country.

urer; and S. W. Lenvitt, secretary and general manager. The company commenced business, and manufactured and sold some 35,000 lbs. of butter the first year. They have increased this amount, by the superiorit}' of the article made, which takes a front rank in the markets, to 75,000 lbs., and, with their machinery driven by tiie eight horsepower engine, have the capacity of turningout 8,000 lbs. per day, or a total of 2,500,000 lbs. per year, if crowded to the uttermost. They pay out annually the sum of $25,000 for material and help, which all goes into the pockets of the farmers and laboring classes of this vicinit}', and has proved of much benefit to the community.

The Litchfield Bottling Works of John Rodange was established by that gentleman in 1882, and in it is caiTied on the manufacture of all kinds of carbonated waters and beverages. A general jobbing business, amounting to some $8,000 per annum, is done. For several years, from 1SS3 to 1888, the proprietor carried, in connection with this, the jobbing of Milwaukee beer, but has discontinued that branch of his business.

The Litchfield Baling Co. was established in May, 1885, by O. W. Topping and others, for the purpose of baling hay and straw, and the enterprise is already- assuming large proportions, they shipping some 12,000 tons of those articles to the Minneapolis market, besides supplying the local trade. They are also the proprietors of a feed mill, which they purchased in the fall of 1887, and are dealers in coal and other fuel.

Charles A. Laughton's machine and ijlacksmith establishment is one of the institutions of the village that occupies a prominent place. In 1881 this gentleman established an agency for the sale of agricultural implements made by J. I. Case & Co. In the spring of 1887 he added to that business the machine shop, where he is fully prepared to make all kinds of repairs, making a specialty of engine work. The blacksmith shop is for general farm work. The motive power of the machinery is furnished by a fine steam engine, and the entire plant cost over $7,000. He gives employment to some eight or ten men during the busy seasons of the year, and to a less number at other times.

The feed, graham and corn-meal mill of Israel Miller was erected by him in 1885. He came to Litchfield the year previous, and built a steamboat, which he plied upon the bosom of Lake Ripley that summer, after whicii he put up this mill.

The marble works of William Grono were established by the present proprietor, about November 1, 1885, and is the first and only institution of the kind in Litchfield. All kinds of marble and granite woi'k are done there, and monuments of all characters are made to order.

The town hall and Masonic lodge room was built conjointly by the town trastees and Golden Fleece Lodge, A. F. & A. M., in the fall of 1871, at a cost of about $1,000. It is 26x72 feet in size upon the ground, and two stories in height. The various Masonic bodies occupy the upjier story, which they have fitted up for their use in a handsome manner, including all tlie proper paraphernalia incident to the ortler. The body did not finish their portion of the building nor occupy it until the spring of 1875. Most of the money was raised by the issue of stock to the members, in $20 shares, which bore an interest of 10 per cent., and found a ready sale. All of the other indebtedness has been paid off by the lodge, as well as some of the stock. The lower room is fitted up with seats and a stage, and in it are held all the entertainments given in the village, either by traveling troops or home talent.

The first elevator in this village was erected by Commodore Davidson, in connection with the railroad company in 1860. It was at that time quite small, antl has been since its sale to its])resent owner, the Millers' Association of Minneapolis, considorably enlarged and improved. This was is 187!). A. U. Eoss has the charge of it at the present time.

AYhat is now the grain elevator of M. J. Flvnn ct ]>r<>. was erected in 1870 b\' Chauncey Butler, who o])erated it until the time of his failure in 1877, when it was purchased by James B. Atkinson. This gentleman continued its management for about two years, and, finding that it was an uoremunerative investment, re-sold it to the assignees of Ciiauncey Butler, who disposed of it to its present projirietors, Flynn Bros., in 1880.

The Farmers and Merchants Cooperative Association's elevator was put up by that company in the fall of IS.'sri, and has storage of capacity of 85,000 bushels. John Lindgren is the efficient manager.

The Howard elevator was erected by Col. J. M. Howard in 1872, and Avas the first independent institution of the kind on tlie line of the St. Paul, Minneapolis & Manitoba Railroad. It continued under the management of the owner until 1884, when it was sold by him to its present projtrietors. Cargill Bros.

The Minnesota and Dakota Elevator Company are also running an elevator in the village. This edifice was constructed in 1883 by a local stock comjiany, known as the Litchfield Elevator Company, composed of Alexander Cairncross, Andrew Nelson, W. W. Eollins, Nels Larson, B. P. Nelson and others, who operated it until 1SS7, when it passed into the hands of the present owners.

The Litchfield Brewery was established in 1874, by Lenhardt and Roetzer, and afterward passed into the ownership of the present projirietor, Ehrliardt Lenhardt, on the north shore of Lake Ripley. During the first year, he manufactuied about 100 barrels of beer, but tiie business has increased, until now he makes and (lisj)oses of over 2,000 barrels each year. This institution furnishes employment for five men.

The Litchfield and Meeker County Nursery, the only one in Central Minnesota, is owned and operated by G. W. Fuller and son. The senior ])artner came to this ]5lace in the spring of 1872, and purchased the Litchfield Nursery, or what there was of it, and that year started some 10,000 evero-reen trees. He deals largely in all kinds of ornamental, shade and fruit trees, and all descriptions of small fruits, etc., and has a large and increasing trade.

The greenhouse and market garden of W. J. Whittington is one of the institutions of the city that must not be ovei'looked. The proprietor came to Litchfield in 1878, and, September 12th broke ground on two town lots which lie bought on the corner of Third street and llolcomb avenue, for the purpose of establishing his biisiness here. After raising a crop of vegetables, and later making a grand floral display on the grounds that year, he continued to inake that his ]ilace of business for about two years, but finding it too circumscribed, tlecided to remove to his present location in Greenleaf's adilition to the town site, where he now has five acres of land. Part of this is matle into a private Park, known as Garfield park, and is used for the i>urpose of floral and landscape gardening displays. In this is hold an annual horticultural fair and festival, given to the friends and patrons of the proprietor. Connected with the establishment is a market garden for the raising of early and choice vegetables, and as he has telephonic communication with the town, affords eas}'^ facilities for procuring those necessaries at the shortest notice.

lage, was built by Charles Almqiiist and his brother in 1S69, and was at once rented to L. W. Perkins, who was the landlonl for a year. He was succeeded by M. T. Hayford in 1870, and the business was carried on by the latter gentleman until about 1880, when C. C. Sturdevant became the proprietor. A short time afterward it passed back into the hands of Mr. IIayford,who remained at the head of its affairs until the fall of 1885, when Mr. Hayford died, and the charge of it was assumed In' M. E. Bauni, the present proprietor.

The Howard flouse, the leading hotel of Litclilield, now under the able jiroprietorship of Franl: W. Minton, was erected by Col. J. M. Howard in 1880, at a cost of some $19,- 000. It is a beautiful and tasty edifice, built of cream-colored brick with brown trimmings; is about 75x90 feet in size, three stories, surmounted with a mansard roof, which adds another story to its height. It contains a comfortable office, complete barroom, ample dining-room, and a large number of comfoi'tably furnisiied betlrooms, with all of the usual additional rooms proper to the carrying on of a first-class hotel. The owner of the edifice has never assumeil the responsibility of catering to the traveling public, preferring to rent it to some one more conversant with the business. The first landlord was Harry S. Lilligar, who remained imtil 188J:, when he was succeeded by Richard Knights. Afterward Knights & Gorman ran it until May, 1885, when they were succeeded by Frank Minton, the present host. Mr. Minton is admirably fitted for the position of landlord, his kindly, genial disposition and accommodating manners making him a general favorite with the traveling community, a great number of which frequent this part of the State.

that year. It is a fine building, two stories in height, built of cream colored brick, is thoroughly fitted and furnished tiirougliout, and offers superior inducements to travelers.

The Exchange Hotel, another of the hosteli'ies of tiie village, was erected by W. S. Knappen early in 1873, and was situated on Sibley Avenue, opposite to where the Meeker County Bank is now located. Mr. Knappen continued to fill the post of "mine host " here for about two 3'ears, but in January, 1875, he disposed of it to Thomas Ryckman, who owned it until it was purchased by H. "W. Simons, who removed it to its present site on Marshall avenue, and enlarged it, and ran it for some time. He finally sold it to J. B. Hatch, who presided over its destinies for about a year, when, not beingable to meet his payments on it, it reverted to Mr. Simons, who sold it to S. A. Scarp, who I'ented it to A. J. Lee. The latter continued its landlord untd tlie fall of 1887, when Henr^' E. Freeman became host, and has filled tiiat position ever since.

The St. Cloud Hotel was erected in 1880 by M. L. O'Lauglilin, and continued under his management until his death, since which time it has been run by his widow.

The Lake liipley House was built by Gould & Co. in 1870, and was first rented by James Tinkham, who ran the house for a little over a year, when he was succeeded by P. E. Christian, who was followed soon by John Scarp. A short time afterward 0. D. Webb became the landlord, and continued to hold that position until the fall of 1872, and was followed by Otto Campbell, and then G. H. Fountain entered upon the possession of the house. He remained to fill the duties of host until March, 187C. when he was succeeded by L. D. Marshall, who "was in town, followed by Otho H. Canijibell, and he by R. AV. Dunn. For a short time the house was run by tiie latter when he was in town, succeeded bv Z. B. Fifield.

Peter Weissenburg liecame the landlord in 1S80, and continued so until his deatli January 5, 1884, since which time the house has been presided over by his widow and son Nicholas.

The United States Land Office was l)rouglit from Greenleaf to Litchfield in December, 1869, at which time J. C. Braden was the receiver, and J. M. Walden, register. The office was located in this place until the 16th of September, 1S7G, when, in obedience to the mandate of tlie powers that were, it was removed to Benson, this State. At tiie time of this removal, "W. H. Greenleaf, now of Litchfield, was receiver, and J. C. Braden, who died in December, 1S77, was register.

Board Of Trade

One of the prime factors in the substantial growth and progi'ess of Litchfield is tiie Litchfield Board of Trade. It was organized in 1880, with eighty-two charter members, and may be said to have had its origin in the movement which established and put the Litciifield Creamery in successful operation. The first officers of the board were as follows: ^Y. S. Brill, president: E. P. Peterson, secretary; M. J. Flynn, treasurer; Henry Ames, W. M. Campbell, P. Eckstrom, S. A. Heard, H. B. Johnson, N. C. Martin, Jacob Koerner, J. H. Morris, A. Xelson, A. D. Boss, John Rodange, S. AV. Leavitt and S. Cairncross. The board of directors has full power for the transaction of all routine business, and the aiding and encouragement of such enterprises as it nuiy deem beneficial to the town and community. In 1885 the board took in hand the project of establishing a woolen manufactory^ and the result was - the close of the year found one of the most creditable enterprises of its kind in the State established and in operation in the village. The present officers of the board are ; J. M. Ilowai-d, president; W. D. Joubert, secretary; Andrew Nelson, treasurer.

The postoffice in Litchfield was established in August, IbCiy, and J. A. C. "Waller commissioned as postmaster. He was succeeded by II. B. Johnson, and the latter by Frank E. Daggett. The next to hold the position was James II. Morris, who was followed by A. D. Ross, the present incumbent.

Frank Daggett Post, No. 35, G. A. R., was organized at Litchfield on the 8th of July, 1883. with f(,)urteen cliarter members. The books, however, were held open until the next meeting, when additional names were added, making the luunber appearing on the rolls as charter members, twenty-seven. The following is a list of these, the original " fourteen" being named first - J. M. Howard, G. H. Chapman, J. B. Atkinson, Jolin Lockwood, Y. II. Harris, Carl Smith, William Heath, N. C. Martin, S. II. Hoffman, F. E. Bissell, Thomas G. Crump, George Siioles, A. J. Anderson, Carl Schultz, John Knights, Peter Stiern, August T. Koerner, J. S. Mc- Neal, Peter Mclntyre, Patrick McKarney, James Dearey, Robert Vorys, William Mc- Stotts, Isaac il. Russell, Christian M. Mortenson, Samuel Gleason and A. D. Simons.

The first officers of the Post were as follows - J. M. Howard, commander; John Lockwood, senior vice-commander; J. B. Atkinson, junior vice-commantler ; G. H. Cha])man, officer of the day ; \ . II. Harris, quartermaster; N. C.Martin, adjutant; F. E. Bissell, surgeon ; T. G. Crump, chajilain, ami George Sholes, officer of the guard. Colonel Howard held the position of commander until January 1, 1884, when he was succeeded by Y. H. Harris, who served one year. N". C. Martin was then elected commander, and has since been his own successor, being the pi'esent commandei'. Tlie Post was organized in the old court-room building, but held regular meetings in the judge of

]>robate's office at tlic court-house until the summer of 1SS5, wlien the present G. A. R. l)iiikhng, "Memorial Ilall," was erected. The corner-stone was laid on Memorial Da v, in May, 1885. The cost of the building and grountls was !?5,0n0, aiul it is one of tlie tinest furnished and finished buildings of that cliaracter in tlie county, and the only one owned by the uiembers of the order in JMinnesota. Thei'e is a fine libraiy room in the hall, in wiiicli the Post have a nundjer of interesting and valual)le relics of the rebellion and "Indian massacre times." Among these relics are the two l)ullets which were fired at a mark on the tree by Jones and Baker with the Indians, on the 17th of August, 1862. Tiiey were cut from the tree on the first of January, 1886. The gavel, which is now in use by tiie commander, was made from tlie wood of a log taken from one of the log caljins in wiiich the Jones and Bakei' faiuilies were killed.

It may be of interest to state that tne Post was named in honor of Frank E. Daggett, who was a lieutenant in the Sixth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry-. He was the first grand commander of the Department of Minnesota, G. A. P., and was well known tiiroughout the State. A sketch of him is given in the biographical department of this work.

Edward Branhani Post, G. A. P., was an institution of ]iast days, formed under the old organization of the order. Their meeting room was ov^er Dart's store on the east side of Siljley Avenue

The Relief Corps, No. 16, auxiliary to Frank Daggett Post, No. 35, G. A. R., was organized January 2, 1886, with the following sixteen charter mend:)eis - Mrs. J. B. Atkinson, Mrs. M. J. Flynn, Mrs. F. E. Bissell, Mrs. J. M. Lockwood, Mrs. William Caiupbell, JSlrs. J. B. Sherman, Mrs. J. B. Hatch, Mrs. N. C. Martin, Mrs. A. Phelps, Mrs. Israel Miller, Mrs. George Chajiman, Mrs. L. Perry, Mrs. J. McNeal, Mrs. F. V. DeCoster, Mrs. L. Damutli and Mrs. C. L. Angell. The following is the roster of the first officers who were elected on organization - Mrs. J. B. Atkinson, P.; Mrs. M. J. Flynn, S. V. P.; Mrs J. McNeal, J. V. P.; Mrs. J. B. Sherman, S.; Mrs. F. E. Bissell, T.; Mrs. G. L. Angell, C; Mrs. J. M. Lockwood, Con.; Mrs. A. Phelps, Asst. Con.; Mrs. N. C. Martin, G.; Mrs. J. B. Hatch, Asst. G. These officers were installed the same evening by Mrs. Becker, department installing officei-, assisted by Mrs. Stai'kweather, the department treasurer. The corps soon hceiveil applications for new membershij), ;i;id has always held interesting meetings and done much good ^'arious ways of obtaining funds for their treasury were devi.sed, such as giving dinners, snjipei'S, entertainments, making and selling ice cream, etc., witli happy results. In the year 1886 relief was given to the needy to the amount of §^85 in provisions ami clothing, and, in 1SS7, to $53. In addition to this the ladies have jriven to the G. A. R. Post money to the amount of $215 since their organization. The officers were reelected the second year, with the exception of Mrs. J. M. Howard being chosen J. Y. P., and Mrs. Miller, guard.

Bissoll, P.; ]\ri-s. Howard, S. V. P.; Mrs. Cliapnian, J. V. P.; Mi's. Sherman, S.; Mrs. Soulo, T.; Mrs. Perry, C; Mrs. Angell, Con.; Mrs. Pljelps, Asst.Con.; Mrs. McNeal, G., and ]\[rs. Martin, A. (4. The Corps is in a floni'ishing condition, having at pi-esent over tiiirty members in good standing.

J. C. Braden Cani]i, No. 10, Sons of Veterans, was originally known as YerrickCamp, and was organized at the village of Dassel, December 5, 1885. In August, 1887, the camp was moved to Litchlield, and the name changed, though the original membership was retained and eight new members addeil, the camp being officered as follows: F. B. Lawson, captain; C. A. Perry, first lieutenant; Charles Phdps, second lieutenant; F. H. Haven, first sergeant; J. B. Atkinson, Jr., quartermaster. At present (1888) the camp musters twenty members in good standing, and has the following officers: C.

Masonic

The Masonic Fraternity is exceptionally strong at Litchfield, there being a representative of three of the different branches of the order in full operation, namely - Golden Fleece Lodge, Eabboni Chapter and Melita Commandery, besides the lodge for tiie conferring the Eastern Star degree.

All of the brandies of the Fraternity are in splentiid cutidition, Ijoth financially and socially, and great interest is taken in the work by tlie members.

The Blue Lodge erected the hall, in lS7i, as related elsewhere, and rents the use of it to the other societies. It is a finely furnished and comfortable lodge-room, and manifests considerable taste in the fitting and furnishing.

Fidelity Ciiapter, No. 17, Eastern Star, was organized under dispensation, March 3, 18Sn, with the following list of officers and members, all of wiiom were initiated into the order by Golden Fleece Lodge, No. 89: Mrs. Narcissa H. Heard, "VV. Matron; Charles H. Strobeck, W. Patron; Mrs. Carrie E. Strobeck, assistant matron ; Mrs. Eunice A. Hayford, treasurer; ]\lrs. Tlieo. Ehlers, secretary ; Mrs. Elizabeth M. Ross, conductress ; Mrs. Elizabeth S. Newland, assistant conductress; ilrs. Louisa M. Hayford, Adali ; Mrs. Ida H. Joubert, Ruth ; Mrs. Alice E. Wright, Esther; Mrs. Ida ]\I. Johnson, Martha; Mrs. Ellen M. Crump. Electa; A. J. Revell, warder; Charles II. Bigelow, sentinel; Mrs. Frances S. Patrick, Mrs. Jennie Revel, Mrs. Frances R. Bigelow, Mrs. C. D. Patrick, Mrs. Sarali Thomas, Mrs. Frances L. Salter, J. D. Hayford. Theo. Ehlers, A.

Meeker Counjy, Minnesota Other Socikties

Litchfield Lodge, No. 50,Ancient Order of United Woi'knien, was instituted February 23, 1878, with the following charter members - N. C. Martin, II. Angier. S. Cairncross, S. A. Heard, \\. P. Nelson, A. Nelson,

The Litchfield Library Association was chartered untler the laws of the State, on September 15, 1875. The capital stock was fixed at $5,000, 1,000 shares being issued, at $5 each. The articles of incoijioration defined the general ])nr])oses of the associaLion to l)e " for iiisti'iu-tion and mental iiii|iiii\ement in the arts and sciences, and for lilciary and social cultuie by means of the establishmeiil and maintenance of a librai'y of miscellaneous l)ooks, the collection and preservation of curiosities, works of art and skill, and object illustrations of natural science, and Ijy lectures, addresses, and literary, scientific, musical and dramatic entertainments." The officers and charter members of the Association were as follows - A. C. Smith, ])resident; AV. M. AYhite, vice-president; AY. S. Brill, secretary and librarian; Charles II. Strobeck, treasurer; F. Daggett, J. 0. A. Braden, AY. M. Campbell, AY. II. Greenleaf, S. A. Plumley, A^ P. Kennedy, F. A^ De- Coster, H. S. Lasher, directors; F. Belfoy, Dr. F. E. Bisseil, S. AV. Leavitt, A. NelsJn Fosen, J. Esbjornsson, Leonard Leight, Henry McGannon, Nelson J. Marsh, C. F. Dart, E. A. Campi)ell, M. J. Flynn, ,1. 11. I5ac(m, J. A. C. Waller, James 11. INIorris ami C. (i. Topping. The library is at present in the (irand Army of the Re|)ublic hall, in the immediate care of Post No. 35, though still the ])ropcrty of the Association.

The Litchfield Dramatic Association was organized January 13, 1877, with the following members - J. C. Braden and wife; Chauncey Butler and wife; J. 11. Morris and wife; Col. J. M. Howard and wife: ('. II. Strobeck and wife; Rev. T. (L Crump and wife; S. W. Leavitt and wife; A. D. Ross and wife; S. A. Plumley and wife; AV. M. AVhite and wife; J. E.sbjornsson, O. n. .Itilinsiii), Hamlet Stevens, AV. D. Joultert,

S. W. Frazier, II. J. Laslier, Dr. 8. L. Barr, Dr. J. II. riacon, and Misses lluttie Camp bell, Nettie JI. Ti.xley, and Ilattie 15. Siniuns. On organization the following oiticers wei-e elected to attend to the govei'nnient of the society: S. W. Leavitt, nianagei'; Dr. J. II. Bacon, assistant manager; O. B. Johnson, treasurer, and W. D. Joiibert, secretary. By one of the by-laws of the Association the number of members was confined lo forty, half of whom were to be of the gentler sex. It has proven a brilliant success, and has a full membershi]!, each of whom takes an individual interest in its woi'kings. The present officers are the following - S. W. Leavitt, manager; J. II. Bacon, assistant; James \\. Mori-is, treasurer; E. B. Weeks, secretary.

The Scandinavian Temperance Society was organized in the autumn of 1886, as an open society, by the citizens of that nationality or descent, with a meinbershi)i of alioiit twenty. It has accomplished much gond in liel])ing on the cause in this locality, and has increased rapitlly in size, having now some 275 members. Meetings are hekl semimonthly at the Swedisli Methotlist Episcopal Church, and great interest is manifested in them. The first otiicers wei'e - E. B. Nelson, pi'esident ; Halvor Burgliii, vice-pi'esidcnt ; O. Ringdahl, secretary ; and Charles Hanson, treasurer. Elections are held every four months, and the present ollicers are the followiuy named oentlemen : Ber"!! Anderson, president; J. G. Johnson, vice-president; Edward Benson, secretary; and S. Peterson, treasurer.

The First Presbyterian Church Societj' of Litchfield, was organized temporarily on the 2d of day January, 1870, under the ilirection of a committee from the St. Paul Pi'esbytery, alth<jugh services had been irregularly held four or live months ])i'evious in a newly erected school-house, Eev. D. B. Jackson officiating. On the 10th of Maich following a ]iermanent oi'ganization was effected, when Henry Hill, A. N. Grenier and II. A. Bunions were chosen as trustees. The following named persons comprise the original membership of the church : A. N. Grenier, Mrs. Eusebia Grenier, Miss Bachel A. Grenier, Miss Isabella Grenier, Henry Hill, Mrs. Mary L. Hill, HenryWilson and Mrs. Martha Gordon, and D. B. Jackson, pastor. Rev. Jackson was a most conscientious Christian worker, and, by infusing his followers with his own earnestness and zeal, his labors resulted in laying the foundation for some of the most effective religious work in the history of the county. During the summer of 1870, c|uite a handsome fund was raised by the society through donations, general subscriptions and otherwise, and two lots were deeded it by the railroad company, on which the erection of a church etlilice was innuediately begun. Tlie building was finished and occupied the following year (1871), the total cost being al)out :j;+,()Ou. A parsonage has since been erected at a cost of $1,400. Rev. Jackso7i was succeeded in turn as pastor, by the following ministei's - lievs. W. C. Hai'ding, Prescot Fay, A. J. Buel and John S. Sherrill. In April, 1887, the present pastor. Rev. I). E. Evans, was called to the charge, and the church has made excellent jjrogress under his administration, more than thirty new memljers haviu"- been received durinohis first year. The society now has a membership of ninety-tour, and everything jkm'- taining to the church and its work is indeed promising for the future.

Trinity Protestant Episcojial Church was the outgrowth of a mission of that denomination established here previous to the layingout of the village. Services were held in the place shortly after the reception of Litchfield, and at a meeting held at the Masonic Hall, March IS, 1871, the parish was organ-

The Methodist Ej)iscopal Church of Litchfield was instituted in this neighborhood, as an auxiliary to the Forest City Church, in 18G(i, a board of trustees being ap]iointed and a temporary organization being effected in July of that year. Rev. T. J. Woodworth was the first pastor to labor with the people, services being held ii'regularly in jn'ivate houses. In 18(>!1, on theii- removal to Litchfield, meetings were hehl in the old schoolhouse, a permanent organization was effected, and the first (piarterly conference was in November of that vear. At that time the jiastor was Rev. J. S. Fasig, who was succeeded, in September, 1871, by Rev. AVUIiam Copj). Under the administration of Rev. Copp the erection of the present church edifice was begun and completed, at a cost of $2,600. For a year jji-evious to its completion services were held in the hall over a saloon on Sibley avenue. In 1872 Rev. Levi Gleason came to the charge, and in 1873 he was succeeded by lie v. Isaac II. Riddick, whose circuit inclnde<l Litchfield. Gi'cenleaf, Spi'ing Grove and Cedar Mills. He continued as pastor until September 27, 1870, when he was succeeded by Rev. Samuel Wood, who resigned tin' charge, on account of failing health, in July of the following year. Rev. C. W. Savidge completed the conference year, and was returned for the second \'ear. The succeeding pastors wei-e - Rev. Hoyt V>. Hunt, 1878-80; Rev. L. Hall, 1881-2; Rev. N. M. Learned, 1882-3; Rev. J. C. Gullett, 1883-1; Rev. A. J. Brock, 188-L-r.. In 1886 the present pastor, Rev. T. W. Butler, was called to the charge. The church membership is now 120, anil the society is in a wi^vy ])rospei"ous condition. L)uring the year 1887 some .s300 worth of improvements wei-e put njion the church, and a parsonage was erected at a cost of $1,400. S<j satisfactory has been the progress of the church, during the })ast few years, that the society now has in contemplation the erection of a new church building, in order lo more nearly meet the necessities of the times. The Swedish Methodist Episcopal Church of Litchfield was organized early in the year 1S71-, the first meetings being held in the English Methodist Episcopal church, with Rev. C. J. Nelson, presiding elder, and Rev. Louis Dahlijrenofliciatin'r. Anions' the orininal members and workers were Air. ami ilrs. Peter Palm and Mr. and JNIrs. Peter Hansen and others. Later in the year a coinf(n'table church building was erected, at a cost of $1,400. For the first eleven j'ears the church belonged to the Atwater Circuit, the piilpil being filled by the pastor from that charge. A I'cgiilar pastor was provided in 1885, the first one being Rev. P. M. Alvin. In tlie fall of ISSO he was succeeded h3' Rev. Joiin Anderson, the present jiastor. The church has made wonderful progress during the past year and a half (s|)ring of 1888), increasingits membership fully five-fold. The present menibershii) is over sixty. Some $200 worth of improvements have been put upon the church building during the past year, and a parsonage has been erected at a cost of $050, besides purchasing an atlditional lot at a cost of $60.

The Church of Christ, often called the Christian Church, was initiated at Litchfield by a disc(;urse delivered by L. Y. Bailey, in the old school-house, in the summer of 1870. He was the teacher of the school, and, during that year preached occasionally, being I'egularly ordained as a minister of that communion. In 1871 the church society was duly organized with L. Y. Bailey and wife, Mi's. J. V. Branham, Jr., C. J. Rowley, Chauncey Butler and wife, O. B. Knajip and wife, and several others as mendjers. They rented Asher's hall, where they held services for a time. Mr. Bailey had charge of the church as long as lie was a resident of Meeker county, which was for some three or four yeai's subse([uent to the organization of the society, having been connected with the educational interests of the county, either as teacher or as county superintendent, and gave his services to the church without remuneration, as a matter of principle. In the early part of 1872, the present church edifice was erected, at a cost of about $3,000, and the membership largely increased. The successor of Mr. Bailey Avas Elder Grant, who remained with this people about a year; after which, for a period of several years, the interest somewdiat abating, there was no pastor until 1882. In April of that year. Elder

E. W. Knapp came here, and, taking charge of the ministerial duties, occupied the pulpit until September following, when he was succeetled by Elder R. C. Bryant, who attended the sjiiritual welfare of the church foi- about a year. After him came anotiier interval, when there was no pastoi'. In ]\[;ii'ch, 1S84, L. A. Pier was duly installed as pastor, and continues in that ])osilionat th(! present time. The parsonage connected with the church was erected in 1883, at a cost of about $1,000. The membershi}) of the society is now al)out eighty, with the following officers - V. H. Harris, Thonuis McGannon and Timothy Jayne, Jr., trustees; Thomas McGannon and Timothy Jayne, elders; A. T. Koerner, Henry McGannon and J. "W. Knight, deacons; V. II. Harris, clerk; and J. M. Russell, treasurer.

The Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Church Society was oi'ganized on the 28th of August, 1873, with the following members - N. M. Hentzia and w^ife, Nels Agren and wife, C. J. Zettergren and wife, J. P. Scarp and w'ife, N. Anderson and wife, A. II. Lofstrom and wife, A Palmquist and wife, B. P. Nelson and Alfred Zettergren. The first officers chosen were - Rev. J. G. Lagerstroin, chairman ; Rev. Fred. Peterson, secretary ; C. J. Zettergren, A. Ilentzer, and Nels Agren, deacons; and B. P. Nelson, A. H. Lofstram, and J. P. Scarp, trustees. The first regular pastor was Rev. P. Dittner, who was settled heie in fSTfi, and was succeeded in 1881 by Rev J. S. Ryding. November 1, 1883, the present ministei'. Rev. L. A. Hocanzan, succeeded the latter gentleman. The church edifice was erected at a cost of some $t),000, in 1884, and is a brick veneered building, 38x62 feet in size, 21 feet high. The sacristy is 18x24 feet in dimensions, and the tower and spir(>, which is 14 feet scpiaie, rises to a height of 87 feet. It is well furnished inside, is heated by first-class furnaces, and is handsomely liuished in fresco.

The present officers are tlie rolluwiny named - llev. L. A. IIocanzMii, pastor; A. Palniqiiist. organist; Aaron landliolni, secretary ; Carl Hanson, treasurer; A. Palniquist, John Sncll, and Swen Nelson, deacons; and Andrew Nelson, Carl Hanson, and Nels Anderson, trustees. The clmrcli has a total niendicrsliip of I'lo, of whom 117 are communicants. The Sunday-school, which meets every Sabbath, is under the superintendency of J. A. Elvblad. A parish school is hehl during some eight weeks in the year in con nection with the church, and a ladies society meets once a month.

The Roman Catholic Church at Litchfield was organized as a part of the parish of Forest City, in 1871, by Rev. Father Arthur Hurley, who remained pastor of it until 1873, when he was succeeded by Rev. Fatliei' Caiiill, under wiiose direction a pai-sonage was j)urciiased, and one room therein was fitted u]) as a chapel, in wliich mass was celebrated. In 1875 Rev. Fatiiei' John Mc- Dermolt became the spiritual director of the church, and organized, during his ministry, the first total abstinence society in Meeker county, and lots were xwi'chased, and the foundation of the cliurch laid in 1881. Rev. Father I'atrick Kinney, the next priest, came in the spring of 1882, and the churcli edifice was built under his direction, at a cost of $4.()(H). Rev. Father 11. McDevitt took charge of tlie parish in iss.'i, and remained about a year, when lie was succeeded by Rev. Father P. J. Roland, the present pastor. In tile summer of 1887 tlie present handsome parsonage was erected at a cost of !B2,0()0.

These are matters upon wliieii the cili/.i-ns of Litchfield take a just pride. At tJiis writing iheir schools are well graded, and have; been in tlie past, and are to-day, among the best managed schools in the State. There is not a city of tlie same size in Minnesota where ; the |>ublic schools ai-e rated higher, or educational facilities and privileges more excellent than in Litchfield, and the citizens justly feel proud of their institutions.

The first olficial school meetiiiji' on the present site of Litciilield was iield on the 'itltli of March, 187n, when tiie following officers were elected: J V. I'ranliain, Jr., director ; C. H. Strobeck, clerk, and Bengt Hanson, treasurer. This i)erfecteil tlie organization of the district. The lirstschool on the town site was held in a small frame building which stood on block 41, and was valued at S250. It is presumed that the district had bought this building, but the I'ecords do not show anything of the purchase, altiiough it appears upon the reports as school property. The total enrollment of scholars during that year (1870) was forty-six, and there was only one teacher employed - Flora !Mitc!iell. She was paid ii;25 per month. The term lasted three months, and the total expenditure for school purposes during the year 1870 amounted to only $U8.78.

On the 8th of February, 1871. a special school meeting was held, at which it was decided to buikl a new school-house, to cost not more than !f;3,00(>, and to be located on the northeast quarter of block 51. The contract was let June 19, 1871, calling for the completion of a two-story, four-room building. The building was occiipietl in the winter of 1871-'72, there being an enroUment during tiie term of ninety two. The total iimount paid teachers during 1871 was^3(i5, the totiil amount expended for school purpcjses being !?3,:}t);t.54.

The sciiool gr;idii;illy advnnceil mid grew in numbers until it became necessary to erect a larger schonl-building. A hot contest, lasting from March 15 until April 26, 1879, took ])lace over this question, which is referred t(j as the " North and South side war." Each side wanted the building erected in their own part of the town, the railroad track being the dividing line. The question was finall}' decided, and a splendid school structure was erected on the north side of the track, being located on block 124. The building is of brick, and contained eight rooms, although only four were furnished at the time. The total cost of the building was $10,000, while the site and furniture cost §2,000 luore.

In August, 1880, Litchfield was organized as an independent district, with the following school board - S. W. Leavitt, president ; Bengt Hanson, treasurer; J. H. Morris, clerk ; M. J. Flynn, W. H. Greenleaf and Henry McGannon, trustees. The schools were graded during this year.

In April, 1886, an additional building was erected at a cost to the city of $3,500 including the grounds. This building is located on the south side of the railroad. In the fall of 1887 it was found that the necessities of the schools required still another building, and one was rented and furnished, which is now used as first primary. This makes three buildings in all, with a total of eleven rooms. Eleven teachers are emplo\'ed, Y. W. Brokaw being the present principal. The present enrollment of the schools is 550 scholars. The total amount paid as teachers' salaries during the year 1887 was $6,815.

Fire Depaktmext

The first movement toward the fo)'mation of a fire department at Litchfield, was a volunteer company which was brought into existence in 1873. Among those who were active workers in this organization were the following named - A. E. Potter, A. E. Howe, J. D. Hayford, John Mosette, H. J. Lasher, E. F. Koberts, John Ilayford, J. P.

Scarp, James McCabe, John Peterson, A. T. Koerner, W . II. Myers, F. P. Zimmerman, John Anderson, Henry McGannon, M. W. Damuth, P. Eckstrom, II. J. Brinkman, P. Berens, AV. D. Joubert, S. Y. Gordon, S. P. Chipman, S. AV. Frasier, Chauncey Butler, Jacob Koerner and others. This organization was maintained until the present company was incorporated in 1877.

At the time of organization the department was equipped with one Babcock extinguisher, together with the usual hooks, ladders, etc. In November, 1883, the city seeing the necessity of better protection against the fiery element, furnished the department with a Cataract hand engine, two hose carts and a thousand feet of hose, at a cost of $2,350. The building then in use as an engine house was the old frame schoolhouse located on block 51. This was used as an engine house until 1886, when the present brick engine house was erected on the corner of Second and Ramsey streets. It is a substantial, two-story building, convenientl}' dividetl,and containing a fireman's hall and council room. The building cost the city $1,865 in money, besides which,

A few additional items in regard to the history of the dejjartnient may be of interest. On thelTth of Feln-iiary. 1877, a committee was appointed to solicit subscriptions for the purchase of a bell. The bell was secured during the following summer at a cost of $80. The first time the present department turned out for drilling purposes was in June, 1878. The first delegates to the State Fire Department, were P. Eckstrom and A. T. Koerner. On the Oth of March, 1882, the village council appropriated $50 for the purpose, and tlie dt'iiartniont secui'ed fifty helmets and belts.

In addition to the organization given above, the village also lioasts of a " bucket brierade," which was organized on the !>tli of Mav, 1882. It then had twenty-five members. The organization has been sustained up to the present time, and the "brigade" now has thirt\- members, and is in good working order. The i)resent officers are - N. F. Reveli, captain ; N. Thoralson, secretary; and S. A. Scarp, assistant. "Water is drawn from four cisterns which hold about 450 barrels, and the supjily is practically inexhaustible. They have three force pumps.

About 1878 an imlepeiulent company was organized here, which was known as the " Litchfield Rifles." It was comjiosed of about forty members, and was commanded by the following officers - S. W. Leavitt, captain; J. II. Morris, first lieutenant; and A. T. Koerner, second lieutenant. This oi-ganization was maintained for about two years, when their guns were called for, as they were needed in the West for actual service. As the guns were not I'elurned, the organization was finally abandoned.

was organized at Litchfield with sixty-two members. The following were tiie first and are the present officers of the company - S. W. Leavitt, captain ; J. H. Morris, first lieutenant ; and A. T. Koerner, second lieutenant. The organization is still maintained, and the company now has sixty-four men, including both rank and file, and is under an excellent degree of disci]iline.

The first brass band in the county was organized in Litchfield in 1871, with fourteen members - H. J. Lasher, J. H. Bacon, S. "W. Leavitt, H. S. Branham, D. E. Branham, Y. II. Harris, II. Mc(4annon, August Lundcrantz, N. A. Yiren, John Black well, George Waller, Henry Chase, IMartin Thurien and B. F. Pixley. It was not only the pioneer organization in musical matters, but also in dramatic and other entertainments. The first dramatic and literary society was instituted by its members, which is still in existence and fioui'ishing under the name of the Litchfield Dramatic Association. The Litchfield Band maintained its organization for about three \'ears, and proved the jirincipal stepping-stone for amusement enterprises of almost every kind in the village.

The Litchfield cornet band was organized Xoveml)er 5, 1885, and was officered for the first year as follows - F. M. Phillijis, president ; I). Elmquist, vice-president ; A. Leidholm, secretary ; F. P. Zimmerman, treasurer. On the 5th of Noveml)er, 1.SS7, the band was incorporated under the laws of the State. It is now in a flourishing conditii^n, owns a set of fine instruments, wiiich were paid for entirely out of its own funds, and enjoys the reimtation of being one of the best bands in this i)ortion of the State. The present officers and members are as follows - I. N. Nelson, jjresident; August Ericson, vice-president ; M. O. Oathcart, secretary ; A. Palmquist. treasurer ; O. A. Olson, leader

Probably no village of its size in the Northwest can boast of a more beautiful park than Litchfield. It is called Central Park, and occupies one block, bounded by Sibley and Marshall avenues, and Third and Fourth streets. The land was donated the village bv the Manitoba Eailroad Company, who caused trees to be set out in it, in 1870. These trees died, and the following year the citizens, under the direction of Jesse Y. Branham, Jr., took it in hand, broke and prepared the ground, and the next year ti-ees and shrubbery were planted in it through private donations. Since that time it has been cared for and improved by tlie village council, until it has become one of the most l)eautiful ]iarks in the State, and the pride which the citizens manifest in its preservation and imjM'ovement is indeed a ]iardonable one. The general ])icturesqueness of tlie park is greatly added to by a handsome pagoda, which occupies a circle in the center of the park, where suuimer-night concerts are given regularly by the Litchfield cornet band.

There are two other parks belonging to the village, one in the northwest portion and one in the southern part of town, both of which are being improved and ornamented with trees and shrubbery, and which will eventually become a ci"edit to the village.

Not the least among the many commendable enterprises of Litchfield is the Litchfield Driving Park, which is located on a beautiful tract of land on the north shore of Lake Piplev. which was formerly the ])roperty of the Meeker Count3' Agricultural and Mechanical Association. It is the design of the corporation to convert it into a fir.st-class driving park, with a perfectly level half-mile track, amphitheater, stables, etc. The ground is more admirably adapted for the purpose than any in this locality, and the backing which the enteri)rise has insures its success beyond pei-adventure.

The village of Litchfield was chartered by act of the Legislature, February 29, 1872. On the first Monday in April of that year, an election was held in accordance with the provisions of the charter, when the following officers were chosen - Jesse V. Branham, Jr., president; J. Q. A. Braden, recorder; Charles B. Howell, attorney; Y. H, Harris, justice; John Esbjornsson, treasurer; S. Y. Gordon, constable; George ]'. Waller, J. C. Brailen, Nels Swanson, trustees. The election was held under the supervision of Jesse Y. Branliam, Jr., Miciiael J. Flynn and Nels Swanson. The first meeting of the council was held on the .5th of April, in the LTnited States land ofiicc, whieii was then located in the building occupied by W. II. Dart, the grocer.

Tlie second year in the history of the incorporated village the original officers were I'eelected, with the exception of members of the council, as follows - G. W. Weisel, president; M. A. Brown, C. O. Porter, Andrew Nelson .

In 1887 the village charter was amended, empowering the extension of boundaries, dividing the village into wards, and giving it the powers generally possessed by municipal corporations at common law. The following officers were elected untler the new regime - j\1. J. Flynn, mayor; J. L. Wakefield, recorder; W. H. Dart, treasurer; E. P. Peterson, attorney ; II. M. Angier, marshal; A. T. Koerner, justice of the jieace. Council: J. M. Howard, president; N. J. March, C. A. Greenleaf, first ward ; J. Esbjornsson, A. D. Ross, second ward; J. M. Howard, N. W. Hawkinson, third ward. These were the officers at the time this manuscript went to press (February, 1888).