Rosemount City

Rosemount City

The village of Rosemount is located in the center of section 25, township 115, range 19, and was laid out in 1866, by J. A. Case on land owned by Selah Chamberlain, of Cleveland, Ohio. The town has grown until it is now a flourishing village. It was incorporated in 1875 with the following officers: Frank Gallon, president; Frederick Kloepping, Michael Hynes, Frank Garry, council; J. C. Geraghty, treasurer; Andrew Keegan, justice of the peace; Louis Warweg, constable. The act of incorporation was approved by the legislature, February 16th, 1S75. These officers were to hold until the first Monday in April, following, on which day the first regular election took place with the following result: John Farquhar, president; Frederick Kloepping, Gottlieb Schmid, Frank Garry, council; J. C. Geraghty, treasurer; Andrew Keegan, justice of the peace, Phillip Caron, constable.

In 1876, the village authorities built a town hall at an expense of $700. It is 20x40 feet, and one story high. Considerable more money has since been expended for improvements, one end of the hall being fitted with two cells for the detention of prisoners. The present officers are: J. C. Rea, president; Louis Warweg, Gottlieb Schmid, James O'Brien, council: James Thompson, recorder; James Thompson, Andrew Keegan, justices of the peace; Peter Heinen, constable; Fremont Washburn, police.

The village at present contains one hall belonging to the village, another owned by the St. Joseph's Total Abstinence Society, one church, two hotels, one hardware store, two general stores, two wagon shops, two blacksmith shops, one harness shop, one shoe shop, one meat market, four saloons, and an elevator with a capacity of 40,000 bushels. The Catholic church society hold meetings in the hall belonging to the St. Joseph's Total Abstinence Society. A brass band was organized in 1879, consisting of twelve pieces, under the leadership of L. I. Casserly. The band now numbers eight pieces, and is led by J. H. Heinen.

The people in this village, though not large in numbers, show an enterprise that might be emulated with advantage by larger cities. In 1880, street lamps were placed at intervals on the streets.

Hardware. The firm of F. Kloepping and L. Warweg began business in 1875, buying the stock of G. Merrill, who had established the business about two years previous. They carry a good, general stock of hardware, wooden-ware, paints, oils and furniture. They are enjoying a prosperous business. Mr. Kloepping is also postmaster, and has the office in their sales-room.

General stores. In July, 1868, Frank Gollon established a general store, and continued the business alone ten years with success. At the end of that time, J. C. Geragt^ty was admitted as a partner, and after two years, Gollon sold out to his partner, who has since conducted the business, and enjoys a large trade. April 9th, 1881, the building occupied and a large share of his stock were destroyed by fire. The remainder of the stock was moved to the village hall, where he is now doing business, pending the completion of his new building.

The store of O'Brien and Brice was established in the fall of 1869, by Edward McMenorny, who conducted the business until he died in 1875. His wife conducted it until 1880, when James O'Brien and T. J. Brice bought the stock, and now manage the business. A bar is kept in connection with the store.

Blacksmith shops. About the year 1872, John Farquhar established a shop on the north side of Ash street, near Pine. In 1875, Dennis Hogan became a partner, and in 1878, Farquhar sold his interest, and Mathew Butler became a partner with Hogan. In September, 1880, Joseph Geiger bought an interest, and the firm is now Hogan, Butler and Company. They turn out some fine

The firm of Garry and Geiger was organized in the spring of 1869, and was formed by Frank Garry and Joseph Geiger. They built their shop on the west side of Pine street, and continued together until September, 1880, when Geiger sold out. Garry has since continued the business.

Wagon shops. Joseph Guth began business in the fall af 1875, occupying part of Garry and Geiger's blacksmith shop. In the fall of 1877, he built a shop on the lot to the south, where he has succeeded in gaining a good trade.

William Kurz established business in the fall of 1870, on the west side of Main street. The next fall he built a shop op the corner of Main and Cedar streets, which he moved into, also using part of the building for a residence.

Harness shop. In the fall of 1875, Peter Heinen opened a shop in the building now occupied by Henry Keeffe as a hotel and saloon. One year later he put up a building on the lot adjoining on the west and moved into it, using part of it as a residence. In the spring of 1880 he sold the stock to his brother John, who conducted the business one year, then sold back to Peter. They have built up a good trade.

Shoe store. This business was first begun by Gotlieb Schmid in the fall of 1870, as a shoe shop, and continued as such until the summer of 1880, when he bought a small stock and added a sales department.

The elevator was built by the railroad company in 1867, at a cost of about $12,000, and a capacity of 40,000 bushels. In 1877, Pratt and Robinson bought it, and in the fall of 1880 sold to M. Meeker of Farmington. Until 1878 it was operated by horse-power. At that time a steam engine was put in. J. C. Rea is the agent for the elevator.

Two saloons are run independent of other business. One was opened in 1875 by Patrick Gibbons. Since his death in June, 1879, his widow has run it. About the same time another was opened by Michael Ilynes, which he still runs.

Part of the village of Pine Bend, as originally surveyed in 1857, was in the town of Rosemount. It covered the north-east north-west quarter of section 18, and the fraction of section 7 lying

The first religious services held in the town of Rosemount were by Rev. Kidder at the house of William Senescall on section 17, near the Mississippi river, during the summer of 1854. The house of worship was a small shanty and the congregation numbered about a dozen people, sufficient however, to fill the room. Meetings were held at this house several times during the summer.

The next spring they began to hold meetings at the house of William Strathern on section 13, township 115, range 19, where meetings were held for about two years. Then at other houses until a church was built at Pine Bend.

During the summer of 1855, a Sunday-school was organized in connection with the church, at the house of William Strathern, with Thomas Femberton as superintendent. The school numbered about fifteen scholars and removed to Pine Bend with the church.

Early in 1856, the Rev. Father Tissot, a Roman Catholic priest and missionary, began holding services at the house of John Murphy, on section 29, township 115, range 19. Services were continued at this house by different priests from time to time, until the erection of the Catholic church at Lakeville. Their first local priest was Rev. A. Oster, followed by Rev. Fathers Glennon and Quinn. The latter is the present local priest of Lakeville parish, of which this portion of the town is a part. In 1880, the church at Lakeville was blown down by a tornado, since which time services have been held in a hall in the village of Rosemount. The contract has been let for the building of a fine church in the village, which they hope to complete the present year. The people of the parish have built a fine residence for the priest in the village of Rosemount, just north of the hall of the Total Abstinence society.

The Rosemount Methodist church. Protestant church services in the western part of the town were instituted by Rev. Eaton, in the spring of 1856. The first meeting was held in J. W. Reed's claim shanty on section 30. Services were held there during the summer, and after that at different houses until the school-house was built in the town of Lebanon, one mile west. In 1867, the protestant people of Lebanon and Rosemount united and built by subscription, the church located on section 30, Rosemount just east of the line dividing the town. It was dedicated in December, 1867, by Elder Chaffee, of Minneapolis. The first local pastor was Rev. H. J. Shafner. He was succeeded by Revs. Chase, Hobart,Teter, Day, Learned, Sterritt and Rich. The latter is the present pastor, and resides in Farmington.

At the time the first services were held, in 1856, a Sunday-school was organized, with Ephriam Knight as superintendent, and numbered about a dozen scholars. For a time, both church and school prospered finely, but owing to the removal of many of the members, they declined, and at the present time services are held once in two weeks. J. B. Gilbert is the present superintendent of the Sunday-school.

The German Methodist church, in the village of Rosemount, was built in the summer of 1874 at a cost of $1,900. It is 24x36 feet, and seats with comfort 200 people. Previous to the building of the church, meetings were held at private houses. These meetings began in 1867, and were conducted by Rev. William Rotert. He was succeeded by Revs. Boetcher, Schute, Henry Dietz, George Hartung, and Philip Funk. The latter is the present incumbent, Rev. Rotert having been pastor for the second time, just previous to Rev. Mr. Funk. Services are held every Sabbath. A Sabbath school in connection with the church was organized in 1874, with Frederick Sprute as superintendent and about forty scholars. The school has been prosperous from the outset, and has about the same number in attendance as at the beginning. The present superintendent is John Kurz.

Post-Offices

In 1855, a post-office was established and the name of Rosemount given to it. Andrew Keegan was first postmaster, and held the office for about two years. He was succeeded by James Duffy, and he, in turn, by W. S. Hard wick, who held the office, with the exception of a few months, until Frederick Kloepping, the present postmaster, was appointed in 1877.

1867, with C. H. Can as postmaster. He kept the office at his house, on section 26, until 1864, when Thomas Abraham was appointed, and the office romoved about a half mile further south, to the place now occupied by D. G. Harrington. Thomas Clark was the next postmaster, and kept the office in his house, on section 23. In August, 1867, Mark Hole was appointed, and has since held the office at his home.

Stores And Hotels

In the fall of 1 861, a store was opened in a room in the Prairie house, about a half mile west of the village of Rosemount, by Mrs. O'Donnell. In 1862 her son erected a building for her just west of the hotel, into which she moved and kept the store until 1865, when it was sold to Lester and Hardwick. In 1870 they sold their stock to James Thompson, who sold the stock two years later. The building was moved into the village and used as a hotel.

The American house was formerly in use as a store and dwelling house, about a half mile west of Rosemount village, but about 1873 the building was moved into the village and used as a private house until 1878, when C. W. Stoddard fitted it up for a hotel. In January, 1881, it came into the possession of George Lester and Fremont Washburn. The hotel is 30x40 feet, two stories high and contains nine rooms besides the dancing halls.

The Rosemount house was first opened as an hotel by Henry Keeffe, in October. 1876. The main part of the building was put up by Michael Hynes in 1874, and occupied as a harness shop, then as a saloon. In 1877, Mr. Keeffe built an addition to the rear and the next year another on the east. It is a two story building, containing thirteen rooms, and accommodates twenty-five guests.

The first school-house built in the town of Rosemount was located on the north side of section 20, township 115, range 19, on the Dodd road to Mendota. It was built during the spring of 1858, and was a log structure about 14x18 feet. Miss Margaret Cumming taught the first school that summer. This building was used until the present one belonging to district number 19, was

The first school taught in the eastern part of the town was at the house of Walter Strathero, on section 25. He was living in the house at the time and his wife taught the school. A granary was afterwards fitted up and used as a schoolroom for a couple of years, then a small house was erected and used until the present fine building was put up on the south-west quarter of section 24. It is 28x34 feet and seats eighty scholars. It cost the district $1,450 and belbngs to district number 20. The town now has six schoolhouses, all frame buildings and furnished with patent seats and desks, excepting district number 88, which still uses plain seats. There are four entire and three joint districts in the township.

The St. JaciL's Tctal Abstinence society was organized by Rev. A. Oster, February 16th, 1873, at the village of Rosemount, with twenty charter members. The first officers were: Michael Johnston, president; Bartholomew McCarthy, vice-president; J. C. Geraghty, recorder and corresponding secretary; Thomas Devitt, treasurer. The membership numbered at one time 150. At the state conventions of the order, this society has on three occasions received a gold medal for increase in membership in proportion to the number of Catholics in the parish. The present membership is ninety. In 1876 the society erected a hall in the village of Rosemount at an expense of $500. It is a fine building, and is well adapted to the uses of the society, which meets on the first and third Sundays of each month. Improvements on the building have been made, making the total cost about $800. The present officers of the society are: James McDonough, president; Timothy McCarthy, vice-president; Michael Mulrey, recording secretary; John O'Rourke, corresponding secretary; and Martin Lynch, treasurer. At the present time the hall is used by the Catholic church, on account of the parish church having been destroyed by a hurricane.

Rich Valley Grange Number 130. This society was organized January 25th, 1873, with twenty-five charter members and the following officers: Thomas Clark, master; William Strath- em, overseer; D. G. Harrington, lecturer; Thos. Hole, secretary; J. R. Wallace, treasurer; Walter Strathern, steward; Orville Wood worth, assistant steward; Mrs. Mark Hole, Ceres; Mrs. J. R. Wallace, Pomona; Mrs. Juliette Hole, Flora; Mrs. Thomas Clark, lady assistant steward.

In November, 1875, the grange bought the old school-house owned by district number 20, on the south-east quarter of section 24, and fitted it up for a hall. The present officers are: F. C. Maltby , and Drury Hildred, masters; D. G. Harrington, overseer, Thomas Clark, secretary; Thomas Wallace, treasurer; Thomas Clark, chaplain; Walter Strathern, steward; O. B. Velie, assistant steward; Mrs. William Strathern, Ceres; Mrs. D. G. Harrington; Pomona; Mrs. J. R. Wallace, Flora; Mrs. Thomas Clark, lady assistant steward.

Hope Grange was organized at the school-house in district number 92, a half mile west of the village of Rosemeunt, in the fall of 1873, with about eighteen charter members. The officers were: M. A. Sullivan, master; S. C. Headley, overseer; J. B. Gilman, lecturer ; John Gilman, secretary; £. A. Rice, treasurer; J. W. Reed, chaplain; W. H. Hardick, steward: Ira Sauger, assistant steward; Miss Belle Reed, Ceres; Mrs. W. H. Hardick, Pomona; Mrs. S. C. Headley, Flora; Mrs. John Gilman, lady assistant steward. Although this grange never reached a large number of members, it was strong and influential while in existence. In 1877, meetings ceased to be held.

Incident

In 1863, a Mr. Arnold of Cannon Falls, at that time a member of a cavalry company stationed at Fort Snelling, received information that there was sickness in his family at home. In order to visit them he obtained a furlough, and in company with two others, S. W. . Mattison, and another whose name does not appear, started out on foot. At noon they stopped for dinner at the Willoughby house, on the St. Paul and Cannon Fall* road, in the town of Inver Grove, about half a mile north of the line between that town and Rosemount. A number of farmers from the neighborhood were collected at the hotel and considerable drinking was going on. It was not long before a quarrel arose as the result of a political discussion and a general row ensued, the crowd against the three soldiers, or rather two, for Arnold took the part of peacemaker, and the two soldiers were soon worsted. They succeeded in getting away and concealing themselves. While the excited crowd were looking for them Arnold started down the road on his way home. The crowd failing to discover the other two, started after him in a wagon, driving at full speed. He jumped the fence and endeavored to escape through the field, but they overtook him and sprang upon him, beating and stamping him until life was extinct. About an hour later, Mr. Whittemore and others living near, went to him and found him terribly mangled. Although it was "town meeting 7 - day, but a few were aware of the crime committed in their midst until the next day.

Great excitement prevailed, and the three most active participants in the crime were forced to hide for a time. Patrick Mehan fled to Iowa and escaped altogether. Thomas Eagan and Michael McHugh were arrested and taken to Hastings. Eagan was tried first and by the aid of a packed jury was acquitted. The prosecution seeing it was useless to try the cases in the vicinity, se- . cured a change of venue to Stillwater, and there McHugh was tried, convicted, and sentenced to the state prison for a term of years.

Mrs. Arnold, the widow of the murdered man, brought suit against Eagan for damages, and secured a verdict for a large sum. Eagan being apprised of the result in advance, was enabled to dispose of his property. He soon after left the country, and so far as known has not been seen in the county since.

Biographical

Mathew Butler, of the firm of Hogan, Butler and Geiger, blacksmiths and carriage-makers, was born in Michigan, October 1st, 1864. When two years old, he came with his parents to Minnesota, who settled in Dakota county, in Lake vi lie township. At the age of seventeen years, he began learning the trade of blacksmithing in Ham- ilton, Scott county. In 1877, he removed to Rosemount and entered into partnership with Mr. Hogan, and three years later, Mr. Geiger was added to the firm. Married June 22d, 1880, to Miss Anna Fehan, a native of St. Paul.

Michael Cahill is a native of Queen's county, Ireland, born March 1st, 1829. Here he lived until twenty years old, then came to America, landing in New York, and for seven years made his home near Patterson, New Jersey. In August, 1865, he came to Rosemount township and made a claim of one hundred and twenty acres, where he has since resided. Enlisted in 1865, in Company D,First Minnesota Infantry ,and served five months. Miss Margaret Keegan became his wife in November, 1861, and has borne him one son, Joseph.

Phillip Caron was born in Mississippi, March 8th, 1844. In 1862, he removed to New Orleans and there acquired a knowledge of the carpenter's trade. Enlisted in 1863, in the First Louisiana regiment, and served three years, participating in the engagements at Indian Bend, Fort Hudson and Vicksburg. On being mustered out, he returned to New Orleans, and in the spring of 1874, he came to Minnesota, locating his home in Rosemount. He has since followed his trad* of carpentering and contracting. Married January 2d, 1868, to Miss Kate Larkin: Mary, Catherine, Carolina and Phillip are their children.

Thomas Clark was bom February 28th, 1822, in Penobscot county, Maine, and after receiving such advantages as his native town afforded, he entered Newport academy, and here completed his studies. In 1846, he moved to Boston, residing five years, then returned to Maine, and in 1851. received the appointment of postmaster at Newport, occupying that position four years. In July, 1856, he came to Minnesota and settled on a claim of one hundred and sixty acres, which is still his home. He was elected one of the first justices of the peace in 1856, and in 1859, was elected town clerk, continuing as such until 1876. The second winter school in 1858-9, was taught by him; an old granary in section 24, owned by T. Raker, served for a school-house. Was appointed in 1863, enrolling officer for the provost marshal, Captain Keith, enrolling recruits from Rosemount, Empire, Lakeville, Castle Rock, Kureka, Green Vale, Waterford and Sciota. Enlisted in 1865, in First Minnesota Volunteers, and was with his regiment at the surrender of Lee. Has held the offices of assessor and census enumerator. Mr. Clark has been twice married, his present wife was Miss A. Louis, married in 1861. Their living children are: Willis G., Thomas L., Edward F., Lewis H., Benjamin H. and Mary R., twins, and Arvesta L.

Michael Cunniff, a farmer in Rosemount township, was born December 23d, 1860. His father, who was born in Ireland, came to this township and made a claim of 120 acres in 1855. He died February 13th, 1878, leaving his farm for Michael, on which he was born and has since resided.

John Davis is a native of Ireland, born in 1820. He was reared to manhood in his native country, and in 1850, came across the waters to America. His home for five years was in New York, then coming to Minnesota, made a claim in section 17, in Rosemount, which is his present home. Married in New York, in 1853, to Miss Bridget Flannigan. by whom he has had nine children, six now living: Thomas, Mary, Catherine, Walter, James and John.

HughDerham, born May 7th, 1829, is a native of Ireland. On reaching manhood, he came to America, and the first year in his adopted country was passed in New York at work on the Hudson canal. Moving to Wisconsin in 1850, he resided in that state five years, thence to Minnesota, and located in Rosemount on a claim of 160 acres. Was elected to the legislature in 1872; has also been county commissioner three years. Mr. Derham is one of the most successful farmers in the township, having 900 acres of land, 320 being cultivated under his supervision, the remainder being rented on shares. Has an elegant residence, fine orchard, and numerous shade and ornamental trees. Miss Mary Herly became his wife in 1858, and has borne him six children. The living are: Catherine A., Mary A., Emma and Bridget.

Patrick Diffley is a life-long resident of this township, having been bora on his father's farm. His father, James Diffley, pre-empted his farm in 1855, and at his death, which occurred in 1877, left his farm to be divided between his four children, Patrick being the oldest. January 20th, 1880, he was united in marriage with Miss Jo-

Patrick Doyle, is a native of Carlow county, Ireland, born in 1828. He went to England in 1846, and two years later came to this continent, landing at St. John's, New Brunswick. He remained one year at Portland, Maine, and about seven years in New York. Coming to Minnesota in 1866, he located at St. Paul, where he was employed in the construction of the Catholic cathedral. Removed to Rosemount in 1860, and purchased one hundred and twenty acres of school lands, where he has since resided. His marriage with Miss Mary Lyons, a native of Ireland, took place in 1862. Their children are, Bridget, James, Daniel, Patrick, Mary, Michael and Ann.

William Ennis, a native of Ireland, was born in 1834. Came to this country with his father in 1849, and served as clerk in a drug store in New York about one year, then removed to Delaware county, of that state, where he gave his attention to hotel business. In 1866, he went to Canada, thence to Illinois, and during the fall of that year arrived in Rosemount, Minnesota. He preempted one hundred and sixty acres, a portion of which he has since sold to his brother. Married in 1866, Miss Mary Wilson, a native of Ireland. Six children have been born to them: Wilson, Matilda, Robert, Sarah, Elizabeth and Mary.

William Flanagan was bora in Addison county, Vermont, April 3d, 1832. He received the advantages of the common schools, and when eighteen years old removed to Saratoga county, New York, remaining five years. In 1866, came to Dakota county and settled on a claim of one hundred and sixty acres in Rosemount. This claim he held five years, then bought a farm in Lebanon. The next year he purchased two hundred and twelve acres in this township, on which he has since resided. September 4th, 1860, his marriage with Miss Eliza Nason occurred. She is a native of Ohio. Martha J., Alice M., George Francis Train, and William C, are their children.

Joseph Geiger, a native of Germany, wa3 born May 11th, 1844. Came to America in 1866, proceeding to Scott county, Minnesota, where he worked at the blacksmith's trade. He worked at his trade one year in St. Paul, and in 1869 opened a shop in Rosemount, continuing alone until 1880, then became a partner in the firm of Hogan, Butler and Geiger, blacksmiths and carriage makers. His wife was Anna Casey, married February 17th, 1878. Their living children are Mary, Annie, Joseph and Frank.

J. C. Geraghty was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, May 16th, 1849. When two years old his parents removed to Ireland, where he lived until attaining his majority. Returning to America in 1870, he proceeded directly to Minnesota and settled in the village of Rosemount, engaging as clerk for F. Gollon. In 1875 he returned to Ireland and married Miss Bridget Corcoran, and with his bride came again to Rosemount. In 1877 he formed a partnership with his employer, but soon after purchased his interests, being now sole proprietor of the establishment. They have four children living: John, Thomas, Joseph and Mary. Mr. Geraghty has been village treasurer nearly six years, and trustee of the parish.

William Geilland is a native of Prussia, born September 27th , 1842. Here he was reared to manhood, and in 1863 came to America. He located first in Eagan township, Minnesota, and purchased a farm of eighty acres. In September, 1880, he removed to Rosemount and purchased his present farm. Married, October 6th, 1870, to Miss Johanna Warweg, a native of Prussia. Five children have been born to them: Louisa S., Caroline J., William P., Martha E. and Laura M.

John Oilman was bora in Livingston county, New York, April 19th, 1834. He lived in his native place until reaching man's estate, then, in 1856, came to Minnesota and made his home in St. Paul two years, ne went to Stillwater in 1867, remaining one year, and in 1869, came to Dakota county, locating on a claim in Lebanon. Removing to this township in 1864, he purchased one hundred and sixty acres on which his dwelling now stands. He has since added another quarter section to his farm. Married November 5th, 1856, in New York, to Miss Helen M. Stoddard. They are the parents of eight children, four of whom are living: Mary L., John P., Fred n. and Gertrude K.

Drury Hilderd is a native of Lincolnshire, England, born August 30th, 1834. Came to this continent in 1866, and lived in Michigan two years. During the fall of 1866, came to Minne- sota and remained about one year; then returned to Michigan. In 1862 he went to England, and three years later returned to the United States, coming direct to Rosemount, and settled on his present farm. Married in England, May 16th,

Dennis Hogan, a native of Tipperary, Ireland, was born in 1843. When sixteen years old he went to Wales, and there lived three and onehalf years, working at the blacksmith's trade. He then went to Ashton, in northern England, for one year, and there met and married Miss J. Stevens, in 1864. The next year he came to America, and for four years worked at his trade in New York city; also spent four years in Ohio, in the employ of Morgan and Hunter. He came to Minnesota, May 7th, 1874, and settled in Rosemount, taking as a partner in 1877, Mr. Butler, and in 1880. Mr. Geiger, the firm now known as, Hogan, Butler and Geiger.

Mark Holle was born in East Kent, England, April 23d, 1805. He served three and one-half years in the British navy, and in 1840, came to America. Landing in New York he made it his home until 1864, then came to Minnesota, and settled in Rosemount township. At that time he purchased his farm, and has since sold eighty acres to his son, having now eighty left. In 1866, received the appointment of postmaster of Rich Valley, which he has since held, Married in 1834, to Miss Mary Nash. Fifteen children have been born to them; the living are, Richard, Mary, Thomas, Ellen, Mark, Jr., Juliet, Alice, Leonard, Clara and Annie.

Henry Keeffe was born in New York, April 8th, 1856. His parents, John andBridget Keeffe, natives of Ireland, came .to America in 1852 and lived in New York fourteen years. They then came to Minnesota, arriving in Dakota county in

1866, and bought a farm which they deeded to their son Henry. In 1874 he began the improvement of his farm, but June 17th, 1877, the house, barn and contents were totally destroyed and carried away by a hurricane. Only the stone foundations were left, Mr. Keeffe and family barely escaped with their lives. He estimated his loss at $3,000. In 1878 he came to Rosemount and still engaged. Miss Mary Gorman, a native of New Jersey, became his wife in 1875. Four children have been born to them; the living are, John and Annie A.

Andrew Keegan, a native of Ireland, was born December 15th, 1814. He learned and followed surveying, and in 1848, came to America and lived six years in New York. He came to Min nesota in 1854 and settled in Rosemount, being one of the first settlers. His claim was made near the lake now bearing his name. In 1855 he was appointed postmaster, which position he held two years. He built the first house in the village; gave the village its name, in honor of one in his native country; was appointed justice of the peace in 1856 and has since held the position; was elected member of the constitutional convention in 1857, and has been county surveyor twelve years. In 1875, was elected to the legislature. Married November 24th, 1864, to Mrs. Kearney a native of Ireland. Maggie and Alice are their children.

Patrick Kelley was born in Mayo county, Ireland, March 15th, 1823. Came to America in 1847, landing at Quebec, then spent a few years traveling through from Maine to Virginia. In 1868 he came to Minnesota and bought a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in section 16, where he has since resided. Married in 1843, to Miss Margaret Twelleyn, who died in July, 1879, leaving five children : Michael, William, Patrick, John and Edward.

Frederick Kloepping was born in Germany, May 27th, 1845. He learned and worked at the carpenter's trade, and in 1870, came across to America. Locating in Rosemount he began the business of contracting and building, which he followed three years. He then purchased the hardware business of Mr. Merrill and entered into partnership with Louis Warweg, under the firm name of Kloepping and Company. They carry a stock of $3,000, and their annual sales are from seven to eight thousand dollars. In 1875 he received the appointment of postmaster, which position he has since held. November 17th, 1874, he was married to Johanna Sprute, daughter of Fred Sprute of this township.

ents. Removing to St. Louis, he remained three years, then came to Minnesota, settled in this township, and made a claim of 160 acres in section 22. In 1878, he purchased his present farm, consisting of 160 acres, it having been preempted by his father in 1856. Miss Sarah Devlin, a native of Liverpool, England, became his wife May 14th, 1866. Elizabeth, John, Margaret, James and Mary are their children.

Mrs. Anastasia Mulrooney was born in Queen's county, Ireland, January 27th, 1825. Came to America in 1850, and located in Patterson, New Jersey, where she lived five years. Was married to Dennis Mulrooney, a native of Queen's county, Ireland, in 1853. During the spring of 1855, they came to Minnesota, and the following fall located in Rosemount township. Her husband purchased 160 acres, and has since added until the farm now comprises 306 acres. Mr. Mulrooney passed away April 20th, 1879, leaving his widow and five children to mourn their loss. Mary, James, Sarah, Joseph, and Anastasia are the children. The eldest son, James, completed his education at St. John's college, and is now employed as clerk in Mr. Geraghty's store in Rosemount.

James Murphy was born in Kilkenny county, Ireland, in 1820. His childhood days were passed in his native country, and in 1848, came to America, and lived some time in Patterson, New Jersey, employed as clerk in a locomotive establishment. In 1853, went to Chicago and the next year to Rosemount. Here he made a claim of 160 acres, which he still owns. Miss Bridget Burns became his wife in 1861. She has borne him seven children, four of whom are living: Joseph E., John C, Mary E. and Bridget A. Mr. Murphy has been town clerk, town treasurer and chairman of the board of supervisors.

William Murphy was born in Queen's county, Ireland, in April, 1822. Coming to this continent in 1849, he located at Patterson, New Jersey, where he was employed as weigh-master and time-keeper in the Ivanhoe paper mills four years. In 1854, came to Minnesota, located in St. Paul, and engaged as clerk for the firm of Nicols and Burke, iron merchants. Was messenger in the territorial legislature, and was twice elected assessor of the city of St. Paul; was also clerk for the register of deeds. In 1861, he came to Rosemount and purchased 160 acres in section 28, which he sold for $3,000, then returned to St. Paul, in order to advance the education of his children. He now owns 466 acres, and moved his family to his farm in 1870, where he has since resided. His attention is now given principally to stock-raising, in which he deals quite extensively. In 1852, he married Miss Charlotte Mulholland, a native of Ireland. Kegan M., Bridget M., Jennie, Sarah and William are the living children.

James O'Brien, merchant, was born in Kilkenny county, Ireland, August 20th, 1841. Here he lived until twenty-four years of age, then came to America and settled in Lakeville, Minnesota, remaining two years in agricultural pursuits. In 1867, he went to Arkansas, and two years later to Renville county, Minnesota, and made a claim of one hundred and sixty acres, which he still owns. He clerked in a store for Mrs. McMenomy, remaining until he purchased her interests in 1880. Married Miss Kate Mc- Menomy, February 14th, 1876, by whom he has two children: Stephen J. and Annie.

B. H. Pettingill, Jr., mail carrier and farmer, was born in Boston, Massachusetts, May 4th, 1858. When a lad of ten years, he came to Minnesota, and in 1878, made a brief visit to Dakota territory. He has been mail carrier between Rich Valley and Hastings for the past two years. His home is with his father in section 19, Rosemount township.

Rev. Father Michael Quinn, pastor of Rosemount and Farmington parishes, was born at Lockford, Ireland. April 6th, 1855. After receiving such instruction as his native place afforded, he went to Dublin and finished his theological studies in All Hallows college, and was there ordained in June,- 1878. During September of that year, he was sent to America, arriving at Rosemount after a short voyage, and assumed charge of the parish.

J. C. Rea was born on the Atlantic ocean, December 1st, 1846, while his parents were on their way to America, and is of Scottish descent. In 1848, his parents went to Canada, and two years later returned to the United States and located near Milwaukee for five years. Their son J. C. enlisted in the First Chicago Board of Trade Company in 1864, and went south; was detailed as clerk in the quarter-master's department with Colonel S. H. Stephen. Received his discharge in 1866, and went to Madison, Wisconsin, where he embarked in the contracting and building business. In 1 873. came to Minnesota, and settled at Blooming Prairie, engaged in wheat speculation. Came to Dakota county, in 1878, and was placed in charge of the elevator in Rosemount, which position he still holds. March, 1876, he married Miss Carrie Fuller, a native of Vermont.

Michael O'Rourke was born in Ireland, in September 1828. Came to America in 1848, and lived in New York nearly two years, removing thence to Ohio. He came to Minnesota in 1855, and settled in Rosemount township, where he made a claim of one hundred and sixty acres in section 21. He has subsequently added to it until he now has four hundred and eighty-three acres. Married in 1852, Miss Mary McKinney. Twelve children have been born to them: Thomas, Margaret, John B.. Patrick S., Francis J., Mary T., Annie J., Bridget E., Eliza J., Monica A. and Felix J. Mr. O'Rourke has held all the town offices of trust.

John Russell is a native of Limerick county, Ireland, born in 1820. Coming to America in 1849, he landed at New Orleans, and for two years made his home in St. Louis, removing at that time to Alton, Illinois, and engaged while there, in railroad work. He came to Minnesota, and became a resident of Rosemount in 1861, and has since been engaged in agricultural pursuits. His farm now comprises four hundred acres, all under good cultivation. At St. Louis, October 26th, 1857, he was united in marriage with Margaret McMahon, a native of Ireland, by whom he has had eleven children. The living are, William, Mary A., John and Ann J.

Gottlieb Schmid, a native of Germany, was born January 28th, 1843. Here he learned the boot and shoe trade, and served five years in the German army. Came to America, in 1869, and for one and one-half years lived in Philadelphia, then in 1870, proceeded to Minnesota, and embarked in the boot and shoe trade at Rosemount, which business he still continues. Married June 22d, 1871, to Miss Anna Kachel, a native of Germany. Henry, Edward, Samuel, George and William are their children.

Frederick Sprute was born in Germany, September 1 1th, 1824. He lived in his native country until 1870, and was a tiller of the soil. Coming to America, and to Minnesota in 1870, he settled in Rosemount township, where he has since followed agricultural pursuits, owning a farm of one hundred and sixty acres. Miss Sophie Warweg became his wife in 1850, and has borne him five children, four of whom now survive: Johanna, Frederick, Caroline and August.

Walter Strathern was born in Scotland, February 21st, 1832. He crossed the waters to this continent in 1851 and worked as a sawyer two years in New York. Came to Minnesota in 1853 and settled in Rosemount township, he and his brother being the oldest living settlers. The next year he made a claim of one hundred and sixty acres, where he now resides, having since added to it by purchase. Enlisted in August, 1862, in Company F, Eighth Minnesota Volunteers, and first served on the frontier against the Indians, under Gen. Sibley. He participated in the skirmishes and battles in which his regiment engaged; was wounded and disabled for further service at the battle of the "Cedars." Received his discharge at Fort Snelling and returned to this township, where he has since lived. Married to Miss Mary Tracey, March 2d, 1860. Seven children are living: John, Walter, Paul, Thomas, Moses; Roland and Rose May, who are twins.

William Strathern was born in Scotland, April 5th, 1829. He learned the trade of sawyer, and after attaining majority came to America. He visited New Jersey, Elmira, New York, and the principal cities of Canada, in the pursuit of his trade. In 1853 he came to Minnesota and settled in Rosemount township, in company with W. Senescall, making a claim of one hundred and sixty acres. They were among the earliest, if not the earliest settlers in the township. The farm now occupied by him, he purchased in 1861, his sister Mrs. Wallace owning his former farm. He has held all the offices of trust and has been town treasurer about nine years. Married in New Jersey, to Miss Margaret Hastie, a native of Scotland. James, Maggie B., Sarah M., Agnes H., Samuel W., Charles R. and Willis J. are their children.

completed his studies at Racine college. When eighteen years of age, he began learning telegraphy, and in 1878 was employed as night operator at Austin, Minnesota, for the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul railway. In April, 1880, he took charge of the station at Rosemount, where he still remains.

James Thompson was born August 29th, 1815. He served as an apprentice in the dry-goods trade five years, then went to Dublin, and for twelve years engaged in that business. Coming to America in 1846, he lived in New York city until 1866, and that spring came west to Iowa. He opened a large dry-goods store in Davenport, which was totally destroyed by fire the next year. Making a prospecting tour through Minnesota, he finally located on a farm in Burnsville township, Dakota county, which he occupied only one year, but retained until 1876. Settling in Rosemount in 1876, he was appointed justice of the peace and recorder, which office he still holds. Married in Dublin, in 1836, to Miss Dalton, of that city. Ten children have been born to them, five of whom are living. Four sons took active part in the late war, two of them being killed. His wife departed this life February 14th, 1876.

Elias Tompkins was born in Saratoga county, New York, January 22d, 1835. Coming to Minnesota in 1857. he remained a short time in Glencoe, McLeod county, and during the summer removed to this township. He purchased forty acres of his present farm at that time, having since added eighty more. Enlisted in the First Minnesota Regiment, Company A, in March, 1865, serving six months. Was discharged at Fort Snelling. He has held all the offices of trust in the township, and was elected representative in 1878-79. Married Miss Sarah A. Woodworth in 1858. Their living children are: Fred., Sydney J., Mary F., Alfred and Florence.

Obadiah B. Velie is a native of New York state, born March 28th, 1834. He grew to manhood in his native place, and there learned the carpenters' trade. Came to Minnesota in 1855, and settled in Dakota county. Enlisted, in 1862, in the Seventh Minnesota Volunteers, Company F, and was engaged in the campaign against the Indians, then went south in 1863. Received his discharge in 1866, after a three years' service. On his return, he came to Rosemount and located on the farm he had purchased previous to the war, and on which he has since lived. Married in Northampton county, Pennsylvania, to Annie E. Cook, in 1859. Nine children have been born to them, three of whom are living: Charles H., Sarah E. and Minnie O.

John Volkert, a native of Missouri, was born in Cook county, December 15th, 1855. When he was eight or nine years old, was brought by his parents to Minnesota, and until the age of fifteen years lived in Corcoran township, and while there attended the district schools. In 1879, he came to Dakota county, and, in company with George Franzmeier, purchased of George Senescall his present farm, which he has since operated. On the 15th of October, 1879, Mr. Volkert married Miss Christiana Franzmeier, a native of Minnesota. They have one child, Margaret M.

Louis Warweg, of the firm of Kloepping and Company, was born in Jefferson county, Wisconsin, April 8th, 1851. When seventeen years old he left the parental roof and after prospecting through Illinois, settled in Rosemount township, where his parents bought a farm of one hundred and sixty acres. His father died December 22d, 1 872. He purchased the hardware business of H. G. Merrill in 1875, in company with his present partner. Mr. Kloepping received the appointment of postmaster with Mr. Warweg as assistant. He is also a member of the village council.

William T. Wiley was born in Maine, October 28th, 1823. His home was in his native state until 1863, then coming to Minnesota, settled in Rosemount. He invested in a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, with only forty acres under cultivation. Married in Washington county, Maine, in 1847, to Miss Harriet A. Coulton. They have had eight children, five of whom are living: George, Oscar, Charles, Alice and Laura.

Mary J. Woodfill is a native of Warwickshire, England, bora January 13th, 1825. She married Thomas Woodfill, a native of Leicestershire, England, in her native place. In 1855 they came to America, landing in Philadelphia, where they rived one year. Removing to Minnesota they settled in Fine Bend, and in 1866, purchased a farm in Rosemount. Her husband died in 1871, leaving his widow eight children: Sarah, William, George, Joseph, Thomas, Joshua, Mary and Leonard.