Preble Township (part 2 of 2)

Toward theHOutheru boundary the rolling prairie continues, gradually lowering to the level of the river. Here, iu places, the prairie is covered with a growth of brush and timber, which, when removed, leaves the land in a fair, if not excellent, condition for cultivation. The eastern tier of sections is partially covered with heavy timl)er, and may be considered as among the best timber lands in the couuty.

The soil is mostly a dark loam, mixed with clay, although in some portions of the town it has a marked tendency to sandiness. It is capable of producing wheat and other cereals. But a very small portion of the town is unfit for cultivation by the processes and for the crops of to-day, and that part unsuitable for cultivation is useful for grazing and raisiug timber. The bottoms, along the river and creeks, are covered with good varieties of indigenous grasses, supplying hay and grazing for stock.

There is always manifest an absorbing interest as to who was the very first pioneer to cast his lot in a wild and unknown region in search of a suitable spot to establish a home, and, although parties are living who were connected and associated with the pioneer, there is much more uncertainty in regard to who it really was than is supposed by those who have never uudertaken to gather it. We resist the temptation to state the cause.

ization in the town of Amherst. They arrived here in the summer of 1852, and twk a claim in section thirty-six, where they broke about sixteen acres, and in the fall they went back to Illinois, but returned the following spring to further their * improvements. In August, 185!}, they sold this claim to Mr. E. P. Eddy, who has lived there since. The two Lashmidts lived in this and adjoining towns until 1866, when they removed to Missouri.

In the spring of 1853, Jacob Vought, the oldest settler now living in the town, arrived and selected a claim in section thirty-two. He still lives on the same farm, and has added many valuable improvements. He owns two hundred acres.

Early in the spring of 1853, another hardy pioneer and adventurer wended his way to Amherst, a Mr. Woodruff. He took a claim in section thirty-two, where Henry Onstine afterward lived. After living on the claim a short time his wife became alarmed on account of the Indians, which had been encamped throughout the township, and he sold his claim for a trilling sum to a party who afterward turned it over to Mr. Onstine, and he with his family and effects fled the country.

John Livingood came from Iowa in 1853, and located a claim in section thirty- five. He remained but a short time and sold to Michael Onstine, removing to Winneshiek county, Iowa. He was suspected of the murder of a Mr. Tellyer, whose body had been found in Pine Creek, and was arrested in Winneshiek county, and brought back. Upon trial, he was convicted and sentenced to ninety-nine years tmd one day's imprisonment at hard labor. After serving eight years of his sentence he was pardoned out on account of good behavior, and then di8apj)eared and has been lost to the pag( s of history.

Henry Onstine was bom on the 15th of September, 1793, in Canada. When hostilities began in the war of 1812, his family were suspected of being in sympathy with the States, and on this account his elder brothc rs left Canada and came to the United States. After the older boys had left, the British authorities arrested Henry and his father, and held them for some time. Prior to imprisonment some of the family had the forethought to suggest that they bury a considerable sum of money iu the woods so as to be provided for in case of an emergency. This suggestion was acted upon, and Henry, after his release, found the spot I and secured it. At the same time a large tract of land was confi8<2ated, which could now be recovered, except that the old deeds of the same have been carelessly destroyed, as they were supposed to be useless.

After the war Henry married, and when twentyfour yeai*s old, in 1817, he emigrated to Lorain county, Ohio, where he remained until his wife died in February, 1836, leaving him with a family of six girls, and a baby boy. His love of adventure prompted him to make a number of trips to the center of Wisconsin, and in 1847, he extended his trip to Fort Snelling and the Falls of St. Anthony. In 1852, he married Mrs. Tillottson, mother of B. F. Tillottson, who afterward became a ])rominent man in Fillmore county. Mr. Onstine soon decided to emigrate to the far west, designing to locate in southern Iowa or Missouri. With this intent he set out from Ohio, in April* 1853, in company with his son, Michael H., and his son-in-law, B. F. Tillottson. Henry and his companions pushed their way west into Wisconsin where he was joined by his brother, Michael, and family, and next into Iowa, where they were joined by another son-in-law, E. P. Eddy, who had prepreviously settled in the West. This made quite a settlement of the pioneers and the entire party pushed on to Buchanan county, Iowa, where they stopped awhile. Representatives of the colony traveled through Iowa and adjoining States in quest of a suitable location, but they returned dissatisfied.

Aft^r wandering around for some time and locating at St. Charles, Iowa, and Bradford, they selected claims on the LittleWapsipinicon River and commenced the erection of log cabins and put up several tons of hay. Here they were accidentally found by a nephew of Henry Onstine, Mr. J. B. Onstine, a young man who had located and was nrticticing law in Decorah. He discouraged them in various ways and persuaded them to come to Minnesota. They at once sent a delegation to Amherst who selected claims, and then returned for the families, who arrived in August. Henry Onstine bought the right of some claims held by J. Kelly and William McHenry, in the southern part of Amherst township, retaining one for himself and others for Eddy and Tillottson. He lo-

E. P. Eddy, not being satisfied with the claim which had been selected for him, and not being able to get water within a reasonable depth, selected another claim in section thirty-six, upon the northeast quarter. Mr. Eddy named the town Amherst, shortly after his arrival, in honor of the place in which his wife was born.

Henry Onstine took an active part in all public enterprises and was one of the first town officers. His wife died in 1862, and he some years later married Mrs. Nelson, mother of the County Treasurer, W. A. Nelson. He was calleJ upon by the Ruler of the universe to pass through the valley of death on the 10th of February, 1873.

A Mr. Laird was an early settler, arriving in Amherst in the winter of 1853 and '54, he, however, remained on his claim in section twentyseven but a short time, selling out and removing to Missouri. With Laird came Mr. Frank Richardson, from New York State, who located upon seotion thirty-six. He made his last earthly report a number of years ago, and his dust lies buried in Canton.

Mr. Wm. Barton, came in 1856, from Vermont, and located in section thirty-five. He remained on the claim until 1875, when he sold out and moved to Mason City, Iowa, where he still lives. He was a prominent man in Fillmore county polities, holding various offices at different times. He was sent to the legislature in 1869, and was also a County Commissioner.

Asel Winch moved into Amherst in 1858, and located in section twenty-five. He also asBsi&tcMl in the early settlement of Canton township, having lived there and built a saw-mill, before coming into this town. He removed to Dakota in 1881.

Phineas Underwood, a typical Yankee, was another of the pioneers, coming from Vermont and locating in section thirty, in 1855. He sold out several years later and moved to Missouri.

Geo. Ruggles was an early settler and a promi- ! nont man in Fillmore county. He also settled I near *'Stringt-own," but removed to Kansas in ! 1871.

Geo. and Nels Phillij)S were early settlers at I *'Stringtown." They were carried away to Kansjis in the stam})ede to that State in 1870 and '71. I Tiie same may said of the Lashmidt brothers, I wlio wert> among the first settlers.

Kev. (reo. Kingston came in about 1855, locating in section nineteen. He was a local Methodist preacher. His son, Wm. Kingston, enlisted and went to the war, but came home with the typhoid fever. His family were down with the fever shortly after, and the father and one child died. William now runs a store in Preston.

The township was organized on the 11th of May, 1858. The Messrs. Onstine, Henry and Michael H. and Ciileb C, father and son, were the principal spirits in organizing and getting the government wheels of the then *'back woods" township running. The first town meeting was held on the 11th of May, 1858, at the cabin of Caleb C. Onntine, and the first election resulted as follows: Supervisors, C. C. Onstine, Chairman, J. W.Smith, and H. Guuvalson; Clerk, M. H. Onstine; Assessor, 1). C. Phillips; Collector, Andrew Thompson ; Overseer of the Poor, Knud Knudson ; Jnstices of the Peace, John Everett and William Kimber; Constables, J. Durkin and G. R. Marshall.

The board met on the 15th of May, 1858, and made the organization of the town of Amherst a substantial fact, successfully starting the towii government, and it has since run with little jarring and no interruption up to this writing. The present officers of the town are: Supervisors, M. H. Onstine, Chairman, T. Tousley, and H. Guuvalson ; Clerk, E. L. Babcock; Assessor, T. Tousley; Constables, Ole M. Blo^svet and O. Dibble; Justices of I the Peac^, D. D.iuchey and Ole Allen.

as district No. 11. Tbe log schoolbouse was built by subscription iu tbe spring of 1857, standing just over tbe line in Canton township. Tbe first teacher was Miss H. A. Oburcbill. Tbe second was Mrs. M. H. On<itine. It was afterwards changed to No. 138.

DiSTicT No. 133. - Previous to tbe organization of this district, three terms of school bad been taught in tbe bouse of Norman Botton, by Miss Hattie Dauchey. In 1863, the organization of tbe district was effected under the caption of No. 133, and one year later their schoolbouse was erected in tbe center of section thirty -five. Mrs. Blackburn first caUed tbe school to order.

1868, a petition was made to tbe County Commissioners for a separate district, which was grunted, and the district was at once orgaaized. They soon after erected a neat frame structure on the east line of section sixteen, at a cost of about $300, size 18x26 feet. Tbe first teacher was Emerilla Sutherland.

DiHTRicrr No. 28. - Was organized late in the fifties, and a log house put up by contribution of labor. Some years later this was torn down and a neat and substantial schoolbouse erecteii on section four, in the southwestern part.

District No. 29. - Was one of tbe first districts organized iu the town, being organized in 1857, and a log house, 18x20 feet, erected for school purposes. This served as a schoolbouse until in 1876, when tbe present substantial building was erected in the northern part of section nineteen, at a cost of $1,000, size 21x36 feet. It is supplied with a full set of school room apparatus, patent desks, etc.

1869, a neat structure of stone, 24x30 feet, was built a short distance north of where the old one stood, and this still serves the purpose for which it was built. It stands in tbe northeast comer of section thirteen.

District No. 27. - This district was organized in March, 1857, and a little log cabin put up for school purposes at a cost of $50, size 14x16 feet, and stood where the present schoolbouse stands, the first school being taught by Mr. Kennedy, of Preston. In 1870, the present house was erected at a cost of $650, size 20x30 feet, and was sup- I

District No. 138. - This district was formerly known as No. 11, and the schoolhouse was in Canton. Tbe present house was erected in 1870, at a cost of $800. The first teacher was N. L Wilson. It now enrolls fifty-five scholars. M. H. Onstine has been Clerk for twenty -six years.

District No. 30. - Was organized in 1857, and in 1858, a frame building was erected, but afterward sold and used for a blacksmith shop. In 1867, their present building was put up in section twenty -He ven, in the northern part, at a cost of $350. It is 20x30 feet with an addition. This was at one time the largest district in town.

A prospective village was laid out in 1854, by William Barton, with tbe same motive in view that stimulated Henry town's projectors. It was platted upon Mr. Barton's land on section thirty-five. A blacksmith shop was opened by Mr. Jesse Miller, and continued in operation for al)out one year, but tbe glory of the prospective city died out with the fire of his forge.

This village, if such it may be called, is situated in tbe southern part of the town upon the northwest quarter of section twenty-seven. It is upon the crossing of county roads, and is on tbe south branch of Hoot River. There is nothing there to indicate that the place is a village, except one store, a blacksmith shop, scboolhoose, and the Post-office.

The Post-office is named Amherst. It was established in 1864, with Wm. Winch as the first Postmaster, and was kept in Mr. Winch's store. Mr. E. L. Babcock is the present incumbent, the office being kept in the store which is knpwn as tbe "Stringtown Store." This was started in 1860 by William Winch, who ran it for a number of years, and sold to Mr. Ole Oleson. This enterprising Norwegian managed the establishment for a short time and then went out of the mercantile business, using the building for various other purposes. The store was again started a few years later by Mr. Ward, who ran it for a short titne. He subsequently removed to Whalan, where he died some years ago. The firm of Langley & Halvorson succeeded Mr. Ward, and they in turn sold to Mr. J. D. Elliot, who, after mnning it for a short time, sold to the present proprietor, Mr. Babcock. The store now has »he Post-office in connection with it, and carries a fair stock of general merchandise.

The name of the village is so singnlar, that a few words as to how it* came by it, will not be out of place here. The name it bears, "Stringtown," serves the very purpose to be sought in naming a town, t. d., prevents its beiug confounded with others beoatise of its o<ldity, and by it the town is appropriately characterized. The name came from the fact that all the settlers built their houses along the road in the ravine in which the would he village is located, thus stringing it out for some distance. For this reason the settlers commenced calling it a "Strung out town.'' This was shortened by common eonseut to "Stringtown."

In 1854, an effort was made to have the two southeastern counties in the State divided into three oounties. It was at this time that Henry town was projected, and it was platted with the intent that in such an emergency it might, on account of its central locality, become the county seat of the new county. It was laid out on the farm of M. H. Onstine, on sections thirty -two and thirty-three, at the crossing of the county roads. The boom lasted but a short time, however, as the prospects of the little settlement were blighted by the non-division of the countit^. The town was named in honor of M. H. Onstine's father, Henry Oostine, who is m3ntioned elsewhere in the history of Amherst. It now contains a Lutheran church, a schoolhouse, four or five residences, and a sorghum mill.

PosT-oppiCE. - The Post-office in this village was established in the year of 1858, and known as the Richland Post-office, with C. C. Onstine as Post-master, and it was through his efforts it was secured, it being moved from Lenora to this point. The office was first at the residence of Mr. Onstine, and remained there for about one year. In the spring of 1859, M. H. Onstine was appointed Postmaster, and he held it for about five years, when Mr. E. W. Bullis succeeded him, and it was soon after discontinued. Prior to the esfablishment of the Richland Post-office, and since its discontinuance, the residents of Amherst were, and now are obliged to go out of town for their mail.

Tnistees, John Jacobson, G. May land, and Ole H. Oppegaard; Treasurer and Clerk, J. N. Johnson. The first pastor to hold service for this denomination was the Rev. T. Larson, of Greenfield. In 1877, the members decided to build an edifice in which to worship, and all feeling that the prosperity of the organization demanded it, they commenced the erection of a church worth about five or six thousand dollar^, and completed it the same year. The lot for the church building was donated by Henry Onstine. Services are now held in the church once every three weeks.

The Henrytown Presbyterian Church was organized the 14tli of February, 1881, the officiating minister being Rev. Mr. Dalrymple, assisted by Revs. Drew and Carpenter. Prior to the organization of the church, services had l^n regularly held in the schoolhouse by M. H. Carpenter. Upon organization of the s(x;iety the following officers were appointed : Elders, Joseph Dawson and Wm. Patterson; Treasurer, M. H. Onstine; Secretary, J. Dawson. Tliere are now fifteen members of the society, having started with nine. Services are held every Sunday at the schoolhouse.

The Richland Prairie Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Chuich (Elstad Synod ) was organized in 1861, and a few years later erected a neat frame structure in which to worship. The bailding is located in the northwestern part of section ten, and is 30x40 feet. The first pastor to hold service for the denomination was Rev. Jensen, who remained for a number of years. The present pastor is Rev. Magelssen. In the spring of 1882, an 800 pound bell was placed in the cupola. The society's cemetery ground adjoins the church.

The manufacturing enterprises of this town are confined to domestic and local work. A number of the manufactories in which a man manipulates the bellows and hammers the anvil were established late in the fifties, but, with the exception of one or two, they have all succumbed before the opposition from the village blacksmiths. Soon after the town was organized, M. H. Onstine erected and commenced running a small steam saw-mill in Henrytown. When the mill was started, and in fact during the first year of the mill's existence, the water necessary for mnning was carried to the mill from a spring three-quarters of a mile away, in leaden pipes. This plan worked very well so long as the pipes were unmolested and iut<ict, bat the gophers finally inaugurated a raid on the leaden pipes and demolished them, obhging Mr. Onstine to dig a well. The machinery was afterwards sold to and put up by parties in Spring Valley.

Anton Christianson operates a feed mill upon a small scale on his farm. His power is a wind-mill, and the capacity is about ten bushels per day.

Prior to the establishment of the saw-mill, lumber was pretty scarce in the town, the first lumber being drawn from Plymouth Rock, Iowa. The first shingled roof in town was upon the house of D. N. Fairbanks, on section thirty. They were made by hand.

Celebration

The first celebration of the anniversary of American Independence held in Fillmore county, took place on the 4tli of July, 1854, in the southeast corner of the town of Amherst, in a grove owned by Mr. E. P. Eddy, and this gentleman furnished lumber for seats, et-c. The opening of festivities commenced about 10 o'clock, A. M.,by firing eight guns - shot-guns and rifles - heavily charged. A. D. Gray was President of the meeting and Marshal of the day. The Declaration of Independence was read by Enos Gray, Rev. W. T. Bly opened with a prayer which was followed by a lengthy oration. Several other citizens made appropriate remarks, among the speakers being T. J. Fames, Euos Gray, and A. D. Grey. After the speeches and cheers ended, a basket pic-nic was next in order; conversations and chats continued during the balance of the day and not until the sun was hidden below the westem horizon did the meeting adjourn. The ground was decorated with a liberty pole from which the stars and stripes were waving in the breeze, and those who attended say that nothing in the line of celebrations they ever attended could equal this.

Military Company

In 1862, a militia company was formed and organized iu Amherst, composed of about 150 men. The following were the officers of the company: Captain, Simon Knudson; Lieutenants, John Peterson, Hans Gunvalson, and Knud L. Olson. * The company met for drill every Saturday on section twenty-one, their uniform being white pants with red stripes, and black caps with red 8trij>es.

Biogr.Vphical

Peter Anderson is a native of Norway. When he was five years old his father died, and since the age of fourteen he has supported himself. He came to America in 1853, resided in Wisconsin and afterwards in Iowa, coming to this township in 1858. BLe was married at the age of twenty-seven years, to Miss Betsey Ingebretson, who died in 18 - , leaving three children. Mr. Anderson served fifteen months in Company B, of the First Minnesota Heavy Artillery. He was joined in matrimony, on the 4th of July, 1878, to his present wife, Miss Betsey Anderson. They have been blessed with three children. Mr. Anderson first bought a farm in section thirteen, but in 1867, sold and moved to his present place in section twenty- seven.

Ole Allen, a native of "Norway was bom on the 2d of January, 1837, and emigrated to America with his parents in 1848. They first located in Kenosha county, Wisconsin, but soon moved to Rock county. In 1853, they removed to Spring Grove, Houston county, Minnesota, and were among the first settlers. Ole joined a party who w^ere going to Pike's Peak in 1859, but while in Iowa, heard a discouraging report and gave up the project. He then went to New York and sailed for California where he was engaged in mining three years, and afterwards farmed three years. He returned to Spring Grove in the fall of 1866, and a year and a half later, in company with Henry Harvey, opened a store in Newburg continuing in the business one year. He then sold and bought a farm in Canton township but soon after moved to his present farm which is located in section twenty-nine, Amherst. In 1878, he was elected County Sheriff and resided two years in Preston, has since filled a number of local offices and is at present Justice of the Peace. While in Preston he lost three children by scarlet fever.

Ole O. BL<KisvEDT is a native of Norway where his birth occurred on the 5th of March 1825. After his marriage he came to America and located in liock county, Wisconsin, where they remained four years, then moved to this place and settled in the northern part of the town, but a year later purchased their farm in section fifteen. They have a family of nine children.

whence he came to this place with his parents when but one year old. He remained at home nntil his marriage on the 11th of December, 1879, with Miss Lena Hansen, after which he bought a farm near his father's, Mons O. Blogsvedt. The latter was born in Norway on the 8th of June, 1823, and engaged in farming and lumbering until coming to America in 1852. He was married about a mouth before leaving his native place, his wife's maiden name being Kari Olson, who has borne liim nine children, seven of whom are living. They located in this township in 1856, and have since made it their home.

John Bosso dates his birth in Mecklenburg, Gtermany, on the 14th of February, 1836. He graduated from a seminary of that place in 1852, and the following year came to America. He resided with an uncle in Buffalo, New York, one year, then was engaged four years in farming in Niagara county. He was married in 1858, to IVIiss Colly Merchant. The union has been blessed with seven children; those Hving are, Pauline, Mary, and Cloe. Mr. Bosso enlisted in CJompany A, of the One Hundred and Fifth New York Volunteer Infantry in the spring of 1862; was chosen from the company and drilled for a scout, being so employed until the close of the war. Ho was in Sherman's army, and many times entered the Confederate line and gained valuable information, being obhged sometimes to enlist to secure the desired knowledge. In the spring of 1867, he came here with his wife and family and bought land in sections thirty -three and thirtyfour, which has since been their home.

Anton Christianson was born in Norway on the 24th of December, 1850. He came with his parents to America in 1860, and located in Winnebago county, Illinois, where his uncle had resided since 1840, he being the first settler in the county. They remained there three years, then moved to this townsliip and located in section fifteen. Anton was married on the 17th of December, 1876, to Miss Augusta Thompson. He has held a number of local offices since his residence here. In 1876 he made a trip to Illinois, and two years later went to Lake Kampeska, Dakota, where he took land. Thence to Otter Tail county, Minnesota, and afterward to Lyon and Yellow Medicine counties, then returned to his farm near Lake Kampeska and remained during the summer of 1880. For several years Mr.

Christiansou was engaged in selling farm' machinery for H. Paine, of Decorah, Iowa, but is now agent for the Altbanse Wind Engine. In the spring of 1882, he, with a partner, bought a store in Highland, and has since carried on the same.

Orrin Dibble is a native of Essex county. New York, bom on the 17th of February, 1833. At the age of seventeen years he left home and was engaged in a saw-mill until twenty, when he started with a friend for the West. They worked their way through and finally reached Canada, where Orrin found an uncle and brother, who obtained for him a situation in a saw-mill. After haying, at which he found employment, he started in starch of friends whom he supposed to be in Spring Valley, but not finding them he engaged to go in the pineries, where he beared that his acquaintances were in Spring Grove, instead of the former, and immediately set out for that place. In 1853, he went to Bay City, Wisconsin, and the three following winters were spent on an island in the iVIississppi River,. where he took a claim. The Sioux Indians were also encamped there, and Mr. Dibble tells many interesting stories connected with his life those few years. In the spring of 1856, he returned to his former home in New York, and married Miss Mary Johnson, the ceremony taking place on the 1st of October in the same year. He had previously bought land in Spring Grove, to which he came iioou after his marriage, his wife remaining at her home in consequence of her mother's illness, for fourteen months. In 1869, Mr. Dibble sold his land in Spring Grove and came to this place, locating a farm in section thirty-five, where he still lives. He has a family of eight children. The second daughter is married to E. L. Babcock, who was bom in Cortland county. New York, in 1855. He received an edncation-at the. Homer Academy, in Cortland county, came west in 1876, and taug^ht school for four years in Harmony and Amherst. The marriage ceremony took place on the 2d of May, 1880. The union has been blessed with one child. Mr. Babcock owns a store in which the Post-office is located, he being Postmaster and also Town Clerk.

Eric M DrRDAti, a native of Norway, was bom on the 22d of June, 1836. He was married in 1862, to Miss Leve Enfinson. They came to America in 1868, and resided in Iowa for three years, then moved to this township and settled on their present farm in section twenty- three. Mr. and Mrs. Djrdal have had five children, one of whom died in infancy; Martin E., James, Karl, and Alfred are living.

Andrew Evenson was bom in Norway on the 22d of October, 1827, and reared to agricultural pursuits. When twenty-one years old he married Miss Guniel Evenson, who bore him six children. They came to America in 1857, and first located in Spring Grove, Houston county, remained three years, and came to this place, which has since been their residence. Mr. Evenson enlisted in the First Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and participated in four battles, in one of which he was wounded. His wife died in 1871, and two years later he married Miss Aelia Evenson. The fruits of this union are three children.

Earl S. Emmons was bom in Pennsylvania on the 13th of Febmary, 1817. When about sixteen years old, he went to Ohio and worked at the wagonmaking trade in winter, and on the lakes in the summer. In 1841, he started for Iowa, but finding employment at his trade in Illinois, remained there. The maiden name of his wife was Prudence Wiser, whom he married in Illinois on the 4th of December, 1845. In 1854, they came to this township, arriving on the 7th of April, bought land near "Stringtown," where they lived thirteen years, then moved to their present farm in section nineteen, Amherst township. Mr. Emmons was the first judge of election, and has held the office of Constable. Mr. and Mrs. Emmons have two children; William J., who lives near his father, was bom on the Ist of July, 1849, and married on the 6th of July, 1875, to Miss Mary Vought; the daughter is now the wife of E. Eimber.

Ethan P. Eddy, one of the early settlers of this place, is a native of New York, bora in Wyoming county, on the 12th of January, 1819. When he was young, his parents moved to Allegany county, and when about twelve years old to Chautauqua county, but soon after to Lorain county, Ohio. They removed to Michigan in 1832, and four years later Efclian left his home ani learned the carpenter trade, after which he was engaged on farms for a time. In 1839, he returned to Ohio, and was employed on the farm of Henry Onstine. On the 28th of February, 1841, he married Miss Julia Onstine. The following year he resumed his trade and continued at that and ship building until 1850, when he came to Green county, Wisconsin, where he took one hundred acres of wild land. In 1853, his father-in-law, Henry Onstine, came with a party to the West; Mr. Eddy joined them in Iowa and came to this place, arriving in August. He bought land of A. and J. Laahmidt, who were probably the first settlers in this township. He was one of the first County Commissioners, and has since held different local offices and been elected to the State Liegislature. Mr. and Mrs. Eddy have five children; one son who is married and lives with his father, and four daughters, two living in Iowa, one in Nebraska, and one in Cottonwood county, Minnesota.

John H. Fairbank is a native of Franklin county, Massachusetts, where his birth occurred the 7th of July, 1833. His mother died when he was nine years old, the family was separated, and John made a living by gardening, farming, etc., and attended school when possible. In March* 1854, he started for the West in company with two brothers. He stopped in Illinois and bought a team, which tbey drove to this place, one brother remaining in the latter State. John was joined in matrimony with Miss Harriet E. Kimber, daughter of one of the first settlers of this township, who came from New Tork in 1854, and now lives in Iowa. In 1867, Mr. Fairbank sold his farm and made a trip through Missouri in search of a home, but soon retumed here, and now lives in section twenty. He has filled the office of Constable two years. Mr. and Mrs. Fairbank have a family of five daughters and one son.

Daniel N. Fairbank is a native of Vermont, bom in Windbam county on the 21st of July, 1828* When fifteen years old he came to Wisconsin, and lived in Waukesha, Fond du Lac, and Winnebago counties, engaged at the blacksmith trade. In 1846, he returned east, and worked in a cutlery factory in Massachusetts four years. While there he married Miss Betsey Viner, the ceremony taking place in 1851. They came to Fillmore county in 1857, bought land in this township, and in 1862, Mr. Fairbank engaged in trade at Leuora, remaining in business four years, then purchased a farm in Canton township, but soon after returned to this place, which has since t)een his home. His wife died in July, 1872. The maiden name of his present wife was Minnie Moratz, a daughter of Godfrey Moratz, who was bora in Prussia in January, 1818, and brought his family to America in

1853, and to this place three years after. He now makes his home with Mr. Fair bank. The latter has held a number of town and county offices since bis residence here.

Anbkbw GiiiBERTSON was bom in Norway on the 18th of January, 1837. In 1861, he left the **Old Country" and emigrated to this place. His parents came as far as Canada with him, and two years later joined him here. They all lived together until his mother's death in 1866, since which time the father and son have resided on the farm of the latter in section twenty-two. Mr. Gilbertson was married to Miss In gar Anderson in January, 1874. The result of the union is four children.

Christen Heloeson dates his birtli the Ist of March, 1842, in Norway. He came with his parents to America in 1861, and located in Rock county, Wisconsin. In the spring of 1864, Christen removed to Spring Grove, Houston county, where he found employment and remained until coming to Amherst. Soon after coming he married Miss Christine Knudson, whose father was among the early settlers of Houston county. Mr. Helgeson owns a fine farm in section twentyseven, where he makes his home.

Anotew Johnson was born in Norway on the 24th of October, 1818, and since the age of fifteen years has supported himself. In 1850, he married Miss Mary Olson, who bore him one son, Martin A., who was born in Norway on the 25th of January, 1853. In 1861, Mr. Johnson, with his wife and son, came to America, and located on section thirty-one in this township, where he has since lived. Mrs. Johnson died after three years residence in this county, on the 4th of September, 1864.

Knud S. Knudson was bom in Norway on the 23d of December, 1818. He emigrated to America, and settled in Rock county, Wisconsin, in 1846. In the spring of 1853, he married Miss Gune Gutumsdatter. They came to this place and took one hundred and sixty acres of land, upon which he erected a log-house, 12x14 feet, which is still standing. He has added to Lis farm, and now owns six hundred acres. His wife died in July, 1880, leaving six children, five having died before her.

Christ Knudson is a native of Norway, and dates his birth the 25th of July, 1835. He came to America in 1861, and directly to Amherst township, where he found employment with farmers one season, then engaged to go in the pineries, but remained only one winter. He then purchased land in Preston, where he lived a few years. While there he was united in marriage with Miss Hannah Anderson, in 1864. They came to this township, and located in section thirty-five, which is still his home. His wife died on the 18th of Febraary, 1880. They had six children, only two of whom are living; two died the same year as their mother.

1835, and has supported himself since the age of fourteen years. He came to America in 1856, and settled in Stoughton, Wisconsin, thence to Iowa in 1860. While there he married Miss Martha Peterson, the ceremony taking place on the 1st of March, 1861. In the spring of 1873, they moved to this township, locating a farm in section twentyfour. They had eight children, three of whom are living. Mrs. Larson died in the spring of 1877.

1836. When he was ten years old he came to Wisconsin«with his parents who located in Jauesville, where his father died the same year. In 1856, four of the brothers came to Fillmore county and took claims, but all lived on Joseph's claim for about six years. Samuel was the first to marry and removed to a farm north of Preston. Joseph was married on Christmas, 1873, to Miss Sarah Travers, who has borne him two children. Mr. Newell was engaged in the butcher business in Lanesboro with his brother Franklin for two years. The latter now resides just north of that place William, the eldest, married a wife in 1844, who died in Pennsylvania; he now lives near the subject of our sketch.

Canute K. Ness is a son of Knud K. Ness, who was bora in Hallingdahl, Norway, on the 14th of November, 1830. He left home when fifteen years old, and moved to Wig, near Bergen, where he remained till the spring of 1853, when he came to America. He stayed during that summer in Chicago, being employed in lumber yards. In October, 1853, he married Miss Gtertrade Kamsey and moved to Boone county, Illinois, where they lived, in a house on the site of Capron, which is now a good- sized village. In 1857, they moved to Winneshiek county, Iowa, and three years later bought a farm near Decorah. In 1871, tlie family came to this township and located in section thirty-six, where they still live. Canute, the subject of this sketch was bom in Capron on the 23d of September, 1854, and came with his parents to this town. He attended the Decorah Institute during the winter of 1876, and in 1876 and 77, the Business College at La Crosse, graduating in the latter year. On the 13th of December, 1878, he was married to Miss Randy Monsen. Mr. Ness was elected J ustioe of the Peace in 1880, and served two years.

Henry Ness, a native of Germany, was born in Hohenstein on the 22d of October, 1825. When he was but six years old his father died, and since the age of twelve he has supported himself. He served three years in the war against Denmark, and participated in five battles. In 1857, became to America and directly to this county, locating in Harmony township. Misa Margaret Hahn became his wife on the 15th of July, 1860. In 1863, Mr. Ness enlisted in the Third Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, Company B, and served fifteen months. - He sold his land in Harmony in 1866, and purchased a farm in section twenty -seven of this township. He devotes the greater portion of his time and land to the cultivation of fine fruit trees, berries, grapes, etc., also gives some attention to the raising of live stock. He has been a member of the board of Supervisors, and held other offices. Mr. and Mrs. Ness have two daughters; Mary, who married W. Patterson, resides in the town of Scotland, and Sarah lives with her parents.

R. O'BiviEN was bom in Ireland on the 9th of August, 1820. His father died when he was sixteen years old, and being the eldest of ten children, the chief support of the family devolved upon him. They lived on the farm until 1848, when they were ejected from their home by a sheriff and his posse for a "non title*' after the rent had been paid. When the house was attacked Mr. O'Brien and one sister were the only occupants. He asked of the land agent on the outside a consideration of twenty pounds for improvements made on the farm while they occupied it. This request was at first refused, but as the inmates remained firm, the promise was given but broken after he had gained possession. Disgusted with such laws they sailed the same year for America. Their mother died on the voyage and the family located in Freeport, Illinois. The subject of our sketch was married to Miss Mary Mooney in 1854.

During the late war he was tax collector for a time in a part of Stephenson county, Illinois. In September, 1871, he rented his farm and came to Minnesota, and three years later purchased his present farm in this township. He was a member of the board of Supervisors for two terms, one of which he was Chairman. Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien have five children; Catharine, the wife of James Moriarfcy of this town; James, a farmer in Fountain ; Ellen, a Sister of the Notre Dame order in Milwaukee; and Lawrence and Mary, residing with their parents.

Michael H. Onstink was bom in Lorain county, Ohio, in August, 1835. He was the youngest child and only son in a family of eight children, and when but two years old his mother died. His father, having a taste for adventure, spent most of his time in traveling, and when Michael was eight years old he accompanied him on a trip to Pennsylvania. In 1847, they crossed the country to Galena, Illinois, thence on the steamer "Highland IVtary" to Fort Snelling. While at the Falls of St. Anthony the boat left them, and they crossed the country to St. Paul where they remained about two weeks, boarding with. Mr. Bass, who kept the first hotd in that city. They then embarked on the steamer "Ben Franklin" which was then engaged in the removal of the Winnebago Indians to the Crow Wing reservation. They descended the river as far as the mouth of Chippewa River where they joined a crew of raftsmen, and labored at the sweeps for seven days before reaching the ferry opposite Galena. Mr. Onstine came to what is now Fillmore county and secured his present home in August, 1853. In 1858, he formed the acquaintance of Miss Augusta E. M. Osgood, whom he married the same year. She was one of the first school teachers in this section of country, and the daughter of John Osgood, one of the first settlers of Northem Iowa. In 1858, Mr. Onstine was elected Town Clerk and served eleven years. He has also held other offices of trust and always has been a leading man in public affairs.

Jacob A. Rose was bora in Harrison county, Ohio, on the 10th of August, 1826. When eighteen years old he commenced learning the blacksmith trade, and in 1850, enlisted in the United States Marine service, on board the "Susquehanna." Was in Commodore Perry's expedition to Japan and China, visited the East Indies, and in 1855, sailed for borne, arriving in San Francisco in October of the same year, thence around Cape Horn, stopping at a number of places of interest in South America and West Indies, and landed in New York on the 8th of the following March. He was soon after discharged, and returned to Ohio where he was engaged in farming until coming to Bfinnesota in 1860. On the 4th of September, 1856, Miss Christina E. Eanoth became his wife. The union has been blessed with two girls and one boy. Mr. Rose enlisted in the Seventh Minnesota Volunteer Infantry on the 15th of August, 1862, was in the Indian massacre the first year, then went sonth and remained till the close of the war. He then returned to his home in this place and resided with his father until the death of the latter, since which time he has Dccupied the homestead. His father, Henry Rose, was bom in Bucks county, Pennsylvania, in 1796, and was one of the first settlers of Harrison county, Ohio. He came to this place with his son in 1860. Mr. Rose, the subject of our sketch, met with an accident about four years ago in falling from a hor8e,and has since been lame. He has practiced veterinary surgery for the past twenty years. Has held a number of local offices and is now Notary Public.

Knudt Regnolds was bom in Wisconsin on the 3d of August, 1853, and came to Fillmore county with his parents when an infant. When he was sixteen years old he entered a drug store at Lanesboro remaining several years, thence to Chatfield and Albert Lea in the same business. His wife was formerly Miss Jennie Nelson, of Decorah, Iowa, whom he married on the 20th of May, 1875. Her father, Nels Agrimson, was bora on the 30th of July, 1812, and followed the tailor trade until coming to Wisconsin in 1852. Three years later he moved with his family to Iowa, where they lived twenty-four years, then came to this place and located on the farm Mr. Regnolds now owns. Mr. and Mrs. Regnolds came here in the spring 1880. They have one child.

Theodore L TousLEris a native of Comiecticut, bora in Salisbury, Litchfield county, on the 2d of November, 1835." When an infant he moved with his parents to Ohio, where they were among the the early settlers, and where his father died in 1840. Theodore made a trip to Jefferson county in 1857, but returned to Ohio in about eight months. In 1859, he accompanied a party to Pike's Peak, and on his return engaged with a farmer in Trempculeau county, Wisconsin, and remained during the summer. In November, 18 - , he drove a team to Holt township, where he married Miss Mary Jones. They made a visit to Ohio, and in the spring returned to this county, driving the entire distance. In 1862, Mr. Tousley enlisted in Company C, of the Seventh Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and was wounded in the battle of Tupelo. After his discharge he retumed to Ohio where his wife had resided during his term of service. While in the army he purchased a farm in this township to which he removed in the spring of 1867. Mr. Tousley was the first to raise amber cane in this place. He has filled the office of Town clerk seven years, also Justice of the Peace, Assessor, and Supervisor.

John Peterson STENsnoEii is a native of Norway, bora on the 27th of October, 1836. He came to America in 1854, with his father, Peter Olson, who took a claim in Canton township, where he remained until his death in 1874. John was employed in farming at home and by neighbors until 1800, when he took land in Holt township. He married Miss Laura Larson on the 5th of February, 1800. They have six children. Mr. Stenshoel was Lieutenant of a home militia company in the war of the Itebellion. Since coming to this township, in 1864, he has been a member of the board of Supervisors a number of terms, and also filled the same office while a resident of Holt.

George Turner was bom in Lower Canada on the 10th of November, 1843, and moved with his parents to Illinois when about ten years old. They soon after came to Iowa, and in 1859, to this place, and took the land where George now resides. The first few years they encountered the usual hardships of pioneer life. During the war Mr. Turaer enlisted in the Second Minnesota Cavalry, Company A, was in Sully's expedition against the Sioux, and tells many thrilling incidents concerning their depredations and cruelty. When returaing to Fort Kidgely they suflFered terribly from cold, remained there during the winter, and in the summer were stationed to guard the frontier. In February they started for Fort Snelling, but were caught in a blizzard, and many froze to death, Mr. Turaer finding his way back with one other of the company, and received an honorable discharge on the 22d of April, 1865. He then retumed to his farm, and has since made it his home.

William H. Travis is a native of New York, bom in Dutchess county on the 11th of August, 1842. When eleven years old he became employed in the print works of Gamer & Co., remaining there until seventeen years of age. In 1861, he came to this township with his parents, who settled on section thirty- one. William resided with them until his marriage, when he located on a faraa of his own in section thirty -six, Preston township, but now resides on the old homestead in Amherst. The maiden name of his wife was Rachel Finney. She is a native of Pennsylvania, and was married to Mr. Travis on the 3d of December, 1866.

Jacob Vought, the oldest settler in this place, is a native of Westtrhester county, New York, where he was bom on the 21st of January, 1810. When he was an infant his parents moved to Orange county, where his father died in 1819, and his mother in 1822. Jacob was united in marriage with Miss Margaret Andrews on the 22d of January, 1833. They came to Janesville, Wiscou; sin, in 1847, and in April, 1863, started for Fillmore county, and located a farm near Lenora, but only remained a short time, and then selected their present claim in this township. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Vought are, James, who lives in Jackson county; Andrew, who served four years in an Illinois regiment, and while in the army contracted a rheumatic affection from which he has never recovered, and is a great sufferer; he married Fannie Prescott, and lives in section twenty in this township; John enlisted in a Wisconsin regiment, and died on the 6th of December, 1869, .

from the effects of exposure while in the nrmy ; Henry, bom in Bock county, Wisconsin, enlisted when fifteen years old in the Seventh Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, was with Sherman*s army four months; he is now farming in Dakota; Nicholas resides at home with his parents; Isabel married John Sever, and lives in Watonwan county; Emily was married to J. G. Finney, who died in January, 1877« and she has since resided with her parents; Ella is the wife of Frank Newell, living near Laneeboro; Mary married William Emmons of this place, and Julia is now Mrs. J. Turner.

John Wakd is a native of Ireland, bom in Carlow county. He emigrated to America with his parents, and for two years resided in New Jersey, then came to Green county, Wisconsin, from which place, in the winter of 1856, John walked to this town. He took a claim in section twenty-nine, and commenced improvement immediately. He has since added to it, and now owns the largest farm and is the most extensive stock raiser in this section. On the 24th of October, 1861, he enlisted in the First Minnesota Light Artillery, serving three jears, and participating in twenty-two engagements. In the battle of Shiloh he received a wound in the head, was supposed to be dead, and left by his comrades, but soon recovered, and was with Sherman at the siege of Vicksburg. After his discharge he returned to bis farm in this place. In 1867, he was joined in matrimony with Mrs. Hannah Ward, his brother's widow. The union has been blessed with four children.