Clark County, Wisconsin - Biographical sketches, 1918 (part 5 of 18)

Helmuth Blum, a farmer and stockraiser of Levis Township, who is doing a prosperous business, and ranks among the successful men in his line of industry in this township, was born in Pomerania, Germany, Noy. 13, 1848. He had a good schooling and learned the trade of brickmaker, also serving in the German army in 1870. On May 15, 1875, he was married to Caroline Wegner, who was born Sept. 21, 1848. In 1882 they set out for the United States, accompanied by three children - Helena, Johanna and Carl. Taking passage on a steamer at Hamburg on Aug. 13, they landed at New York, Aug. 26. Mr. Blum's intention was to get a farm, and knowing that the best opportunities were in the West and Northwest, he and his family came immediately to Clark County, Wis., arriving in Neillsville Sept. 17, with $100 in money, which was all they had left after paying the expenses of the journey from their native land. For a while they took up their residence in Neillsville, buying a cow, a stove, two chairs and bedstead, which purchases exhausted their funds, and Mr. Blum then went to work in the stave factory of Hine & Myers in order to earn enough to support his family. As soon as he had saved a few dollars he bought forty acres of land in Levis Township, paying $45 down, and giving a note for the balance on which he had to pay 8 per cent interest. He then started to clear his land as he found opportunity, continuing his residence in Neillsville, and walking to and from his land. After he had got five acres cleared he built a log house, 16 by 24 feet in dimensions, and a log barn of the same size. He and his family then moved onto the tract, where they lived two winters and one summer, he walking to Neillsville to work, as he had to earn money on which to live. Moving back to Neillsville, they lived there five years and then returned to the farm. He had before this bought his place in Neillsville, which he now sold, using the money received to purchase eighty acres of land adjoining his own, and he now began the work of farming, and clearing his land with an ox team. From that start, fairly made after suffering many hardships, Mr. Blum has steadily progressed along the road to prosperity. His land is now well cleared and under cultivation, and he has a barn 40 by 52 feet in size, and other good buildings, He raises Holstein cattle and other good stock, and he was a stockholder and a member of the company that built the Day Creamery, which has now been sold. He has also served as treasurer of School District No. 7. Mr. Blum is a member of the German Lutheran Church at Neillsville, which he helped to build, and which he and his family attend. The following is a brief record of the seven children which have been born to him and his wife. Their names, respectively, are: Helena, Johanna, Carl, Elizabeth, Martha, Johannas and Paul. Helena, who is the wife of Fred Schroeder of Neillsville, has ten children: Marie, Carl, Louise, William, Paul, Elizabeth, Agnes, Bernhardt, Rudolph and Gerhardt. Johanna resides at home with her parents. Carl was drowned near Portland, Ore., at the age of 21 years. Elizabeth is the wife of Jacob Wendel of Chicago, and has five children: Valentine, William, Carl, Gretchen and Herbert. Martha, wife of Henry Reigel of Radisson, Wis., has an adopted child, Emma. Johannes of Neillsville, married Minnie Raepke of Chicago, and has two children, Henry and Carl. Paul married Mamie Raepke and lives in Chicago. June 1, 1917, he sold his farm and moved to Neillsville and bought a home where he now lives, George Alexander Beeckler, a prosperous, general farmer and stockraiser, residing in Section 9, Levis Township, on the old pioneer farm of his wife's father and grandfather, Robert B. French, junior and senior, was born in Lynn Township, Clark County, Wis., Feb. 13, 1882. The scene of his birth was the log house of his maternal grandmother, and his parents were Ezra A. and Amelia (Jackisch) Beeckler. His paternal ancestors came from Holland at an early day, settling first in New York State. The grandfather of our subject, Alexander Beeckler, married Theresa Douglas, and removed from New York to Westminster, Canada, whence, after a short time, he came to Sheboygan County, Wis., and then to Clark County, where he spent the rest of his life in farming. His son, Ezra, who was a school teacher for many years in Clark and other counties of Wisconsin, is now living on a farm near Granton, and is a prominent citizen of Grant Township. George A. Beeckler was educated in the old Windfall school of Granton, his father being one of the teachers. He acquired a knowledge of farming and also learned cheese making, which occupation he followed for a year in Independence, Iowa, then for two years in Dunn County, Wis., one year in Chippewa County, this state, and later in Clark County, until 1911. In that year he took his present farm in Section 9, Levis Township, where he carries on general farming, raising good stock. He is a member of the Masonic order, the Mystic Workers and the Beavers. In 1910, Mr. Beeckler was united in marriage with Gladys French, who was born in Pine Valley Township, Clark County, daughter of Robert B., Jr., and Maryette (Rodman) French. Her father, who was born at the mouth of the East Fork of Black River, in Clark County, Wis., was a son of Robert B., Sr., and Ellen (O'Brien) French, and a grandson of Captain John and Nancy (Kennedy) French, Ancestors of the French family came to America in the Mayflower, and the grandfather of Capt. John was a soldier in the Revolutionary War at the age of 17 years. The Captain, himself, who was an officer in the War of 1812, settled in Pennsylvania, and in 1842 came West to Iowa. In 1855 Robert B. French, Sr., came to Black River and secured a tract of 160 acres of land on the bank of the river, where the subject of this sketch now resides. He soon became a prominent citizen of the locality, operating a sawmill located on the farm for a number of years. He also ran the hotel at Hatfield for nineteen years. At times, however, he suffered misfortunes, being burned out several times. His wife, Ellen, died in 1891, his own death occurring in 1909, His son, Robert B., Jr., followed farming on the old home place until he retired. Both he and his wife are still living. Their only child was Gladys, who married Mr. Beeckler.

Ezra Adolph Beeckler, a well-known and respected resident of Grant Township, whose well improved farm is located near the village of Granton, was born in Westminster, Canada, April 26, 1854, a son of Alexander and Theresa (Douglas) Beeckler. His paternal grandfather was John Beeckler, a son of Alexander Beeckler, who, in a Civil War that occurred in Holland during the time of the first Napoleon, saw his parents beheaded, he himself escaping to the United States. Alexander came of a good family, the name of which was originally spelled Bueckler, and he himself had received a good education under private tutors. Making their home in the state of New York, the family prospered in successive generations. Alexander Beeckler, the father of Ezra A., after marrying Theresa Douglas, moved to Canada, where, as already stated, Ezra was born. He then came to Sheboygan County, Wis., and there his family circle was enlarged by the birth of three more children - George, Charles and Kate. From Sheboygan County the Beeckler family came to Lynn Township, Clark County, locating on a tract of wild land, on which Alexander built a log cabin and began pioneer farming with the usual ox team. There he spent the rest of his life. He and his wife had ten children: Martha, John, Ruth, Julia, Frank, George, Charles, Catherine (usually called Kate), Ezra and Lucy. Ezra A. Beeckler, in his boyhood, attended a small wooden schoolhouse in Lynn Township, and afterwards the stone schoolhouse familiarly known as the "Little Stone Jug," in which two emporiums of learning he wrestled five days a week with the "three R's," reading, 'riting and 'rithmetic. Of these and other branches of knowledge he obtained such mastery that in time he himself became a schoolmaster, following the occupation of a teacher for twenty years, in Sheboygan, Clark, McLeod and Wood counties. In Clark County he taught in the townships of Lynn, Grant, Longwood, Easton and York, including the two room Windfall school of Granton. He finally located on his present farm near Granton village, where he has a comfortable home, and raises good stock. He has also taken an active part in local affairs, among other things having been one of the organizers of the co-operative creamery, and having taken a leading part in securing the erection of the four room graded school of Granton, which is equipped with a library. He has also held both school and township office. At the age of 14 he joined the Good Templar's movement, and has since affiliated himself with several of the best known fraternal societies, including the Odd Fellows, Woodmen, Mystic Workers and Masons, in which last mentioned order he had advanced as far as the Chapter, being a Royal Arch Mason. Bzra A. Beeckler was married to Amelia Jackisch, daughter of john Rudolph and Amelia Jackisch, who came from Germany to Clark County, Wis., about 1858, locating on a farm in Lynn Township. Of this marriage ten children have been born: George, Bessie, Pearl and Price (twins), Theresa, Benjamin, Vera, Haidee, Rex and Daphne. All these children are well educated and most of them have been teachers. Adelbert Rodman, more commonly known as Dell A. Rodman, a wellknown and respected resident of Neillsville, is a native of Clark County, having been born in Pine Valley Township, March 15, 1856. The home of his birth and childhood was a log house, 16 by 24 feet, which stood on the northwest part of the southwest quarter of Section 24, that being the homestead of his parents, Lyman Warner and Deborah Jane (Fisher) Rodman. Lyman W., the father, was a native of Ohio, but was reared on a farm in Illinois, and was married in that state. Coming later to Jackson County, Wis.. he located at Yellow Pine Grove, where he engaged in making railroad ties. He and his wife were both young and their first child, George, was born about that time and died in infancy. In 1855 Lyman W. Rodman and wife came to Clark County and resided for a few months in Neillsville, after which, in December, that same year, they located on their homestead in Pine Valley Township. It consisted then of 160 acres of wild land, and there were no roads in the vicinity. He had no team and had to grub in his first crops, but subsequently raised an ox team from calves. The residence of himself and wife was the log cabin above mentioned, which he built as soon as he took possession of his land. Mr. Rodmans' trading was done mostly at Black River Falls, to which place he often walked, bringing back flour and pork on his back, the journey taking a day each way. He also did some logging, but spent most of his time during the summer in clearing his land. During the winter he made shingles by hand for Mr. Katz, and for the Noyes Company of Winona. In addition to these activities he took part in public affairs, holding office on the township board and serving as justice of the peace, and for thirty or forty years he was the official sealer of weights and measures for Neillsville and Pine Valley Township. Taking a warm interest in educational matters, he also rendered service on the school board. When the Civil War broke out he tried to enlist, but was rejected on examination. He met an accidental death at the age of 65 or 66 years, being killed by falling from a scaffold. His wife, who survived him, died on the farm at the age of 64. Their children, born on the homestead, were as follows: Helen, now deceased; Adelbert, Margaret, who married Lot Garfield and is also dead; Almira, now Mrs. William Lapp of Neillsville, Wis.; Stella, now deceased, who was the wife of George Clin-

Adelbert Rodman was reared to manhood on his parents' farm, and the first school he attended was two miles away. When old enough to work he made himself useful on the farm, and subsequently did farm work in the summer and logging in the woods in the winter. Later he bought twenty acres of wild land in Section 24, Pine Valley Township, and, building a frame house on it, began its cultivation. After a while he increased the size of his farm to forty acres. His wife - for he was already married when he moved onto the land - assisted him as well as she could, for he started with practically nothing but his .hands and one ox to work with. The struggle towards prosperity was a long and difficult one, but he kept the goal steadily in view and attained it at last through hard labor and perseverence. He resided on this farm from May, 1881, to Oct. 6, 1911, on which latter date he moved to Neillsville, his present home. Here he built a good residence, with barn, hen house and wagon shed, and is enjoying the fruits of his long years of industrial activity. Always interested as a good citizen in the welfare of his township, he aided in local government, serving as supervisor four or five terms, and also as a member of the school board. Mr. Rodman was married in 1880 to Hattie E. King, who was born in Buffalo, N. Y., Aug. 20, 1862, daughter of Edward and Elizabeth (Buss) King, her father being a native of England and her mother of New York State. They came to Clark County in 1856, locating at Pleasant Ridge, Grant Township. Later they removed to Minnesota, but after spending one winter there returned to Grant Township, where they spent the rest of their lives ona farm. Mr. King was the first man in this section to engage in the brickmaking industry, and made the brick for the court house, school and the first brick buildings here. His yard was located at the lower end of Hewett street, Neillsville. Mr. and Mrs. Rodman are the parents of three children: Warner, who is a farmer at Athens, Marathon County, Wis., is married and has five children; Ida, now Mrs. Gus Hagen of York Township, Clark County, and the mother of three children, and Horace, a farmer of Grant Township, who has three children. In 1900 Mr. Rodman joined the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is a member both of the lodge and encampment at Neillsville. For twelve or fourteen years he was a member of the United Workmen, and since then has belonged to the Equitable Fraternal Union. He is now but 61 years old, has laid down the heavier burdens of life, and may reasonably look forward to enjoying the fruits of his labors for a number of years to come. Mr. and Mrs. Rodman are members of the Rebecca Lodge.

Michael Johnson, part owner of a farm on 160 acres in Section 17, Levis Township, being in partnership with his father, was born on a farm in Norway, Dec. 19, 1872, son of Ole and Martha (Johnson) Johnson. In 1878, when he was about 6 years old, his parents emigrated to the United States, accompanied by their four children - John, Michael, Ole and Jennie. They arrived in Neillsville, this county, after a journey of three weeks and four days, and settled first on a tract of land in Section 18, Levins Township, which belonged to Mrs. Johnson's brother, Tobe Johnson. On that place they lived five years, during which time Michael attended school, walking three miles to the school at the Lynch bridge in Section 4, Levis Township. Ole Johnson then bought forty acres of the familys' present farm in Section 17, it being then covered with timber, and on it built a log cabin, 28 by 30 feet in size, which has since been enlarged and improved into the present family residence. Here Michael grew to manhood, and after his school days were over was of material assistance to his father in clearing the farm, and has ever since remained associated with him. He also worked in lumber camps eight winters, and in the drives on the river, working on the farm in summer. The farm is now well improved, having good buildings and silo, and Mr. Johnson and his father raise good stock, besides the usual crops. Michael Johnson is the present treasurer of Levis Township, and has held the position of school director for seven years. For four years, also, he was treasurer of the Dells Dam Cheese Factory, which he helped to organize. He helped to build the Presbyterian Church of Levis Township, of which he is a member, and which his parents attend. Mr. Johnson has never married. He is an industrious, practical farmer, and a man of influence in the community in which he lives.

Ole Johnson, part owner with his son, Michael, of a 160-acre farm in Section 17, Levis Township, was born in Norway in 1844, There he married Martha Johnson, and for a number of years they were engaged in farming, their estate being known as Myhrlukken farm. In 1878 they resolved to emigrate to the United States and, accordingly, set out with their four children - John, Michael, Ole and Jennie - making the voyage across the Atlantic on a steamer. After a journey of three weeks and four days they arrived in Neillsville, Clark County, Wis., having made the last lap of their journey by stage from Humbird. Ole Johnson went to work in the woods, and the family located on a tract of land in Section 18, Levis Township, the tract being owned by Mrs. Johnson's brother, Tobe Johnson. There was a log house on it, which they utilized for a residence. At that time there were only three settlers in the township, and of those three Ole is the only one now living. On that place they lived five years, and at the end of that time bought forty acres of land in Section 17, Levis Township, the tract being that which constitutes in part their present farm. It was then covered with timber, and the first thing necessary was to build a log house, which Mr. Johnson did, making it 28 by 30 feet in size, which was larger than the average pioneer dwelling. This building has since been enlarged and improved, and is the present residence of the family. Mr. Johnson also built a log barn, and since then other and more modern buildings have been erected by him, or his son Michael, including a good silo. In early days they used an ox team and jumper, and their surroundings were of the usual pioneer character, but they have kept up with the march of progress, and the farm is now well improved and adapted to the purposes of modern agriculture, which is successfully carried on. Ole Johnson and wife are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church, but as there is none of that denomination in this vicinity they attend and support the Presbyterian Church in Levis Township. In addition to the four children already men-

Otto Braun, proprietor of the Black River Cheese F actory in Hixon Township, was born in Manitowoc, Wis., Aug. 15,1876. His parents, Albert and Hannah Braun, were born and married in Germany, coming to America in 1871, and locating at Manitowoc, where Albert Braun worked as a laboring man for fifteen years, In 1886 they came to Clark County, settling in Colby Township, where he bought a farm of eighty acres, which was then merely a tract of wild land. Building a log cabin, he began the work of improvement, which he continued for many years, finally becoming prosperous. On one occasion in early days on the farm, a black bear made a raid on his pig and carried off the only pig he had at the time, a serious loss to him then, but an incident at which he could afford to smile in later years. He finally sold his farm and moved to Colby, where he is still living with his wife. They have had ten children - four sons and six daughters: Mrs. F. McMiller, of Unity; Mrs. A. A. Wert, Ashland; Otto of Hixon; Albert, Platteville; Mrs. William Welsch, now in Alta, Canada; Gustave, of Owen; Mrs. C. M. Anderson, Withee; Mrs. C. M. Halverson, Withee; Reynold, Junction City, and Minnie, living at home with her parents at Colby, All the sons are cheese makers but one. Otto Braun remained associated with his father until he was 21 years old. He had learned the cheese making industry at the age of 17 years, and now followed it as a regular occupation, which he has done since, except during a period of six years. In 1901 he began farming near Withee, but in the summer of 1913 his buildings were blown away by a cyclone. Beginning in 1914, Mr. Braun operated a cheese factory at Withee for one year, after which he started his present factory, known as the Black River Cheese Factory, which has already taken a high place among the similar institutions of the county. After running this factory for three years he sold it and bought an improved farm of eighty acres in the Town of Hoard, where he hopes to be known as one of the successful farmers of the day. Mr. Braun was married. Oct. 30, 1900, to Mary Nelson, who was born in Beaver Township, Clark County, Jan. 28, 1881, daughter of Nels and Johannah Mary (Christenson) Nelson, her parents being natives of Norway. The father died in 1888 at the age of 62 years, and the mother Feb. 28, 1909. Their family contained seven children - Julia, now living in Trempealeau County, Wis.; Fred, of Clark County; Christ, who is in Montana; John and William, of Clark County; Effie, deceased, and Mary, wife of Mr. Braun. Mr. and Mrs. Braun are the parents of three children born as follows: Myrl, April 28, 1903; Donald, March 23, 1907, and Alice, April 27, 1909.

John George Zimmerman, who is operating in Neillsville one of the finest department stores to be found outside the large commercial centers, such as Milwaukee or Minneapolis, is a man who has well deserved the success he has attained. He was born on a farm in Grant County, Wis., Aug. 22, 1857, son of George and Catherine (Schmalendberger) Zimmerman, his parents being natives of Germany, but married in Grant County, Wis. The father, George Zimmerman. was born Feb. 9, 1815, on his parents' farm in Germany, and came to the United States in 1851. After spending two years as a laborer in Jefferson County, Wis., he secured a homestead in Hickory Grove Township, Grant County, it comprising 160 acres, and to this he subsequently added until he had 207 acres. He built his own log cabin, hewing out the shingles himself, and showed that he had all the requisite qualities of a good pioneer. In 1867 he moved to Avoca and there conducted a hotel until 1880, when he retired, his death taking place March 23, 1906. He assisted in building St. Joseph's Catholic Church of Avoca, of which he was a member, His wife, Catharine, was a daughter of Peter and Catherine Schmalendberger, and came to the United States with her parents and six sisters, they locating on a homestead in Grant County, Wis. Their voyage to America lasted thirteen weeks, which was two weeks more than Mr. Zimmerman spent on the ocean. The market for these families in Hickory Grove Township was sixty miles away, and when provisions were low they often ground corn in the coffee mill and used the grease dip for light. Mrs. George Zimmerman, who was born Oct. 23, 1836, died June 3, 1915, when in her 79th year. The children of herself and husband were: John G., the date of whose birth has been already given; Frederick William, born Oct. 21, 1866; Kate, born in April, 1869; Fannie, born in May, 1874; Theresa, born Sept. 30, 1876, and Louis, born March 25, 1883. John G. Zimmerman, in his boyhood, attended the log schoolhouse of his district, being a pupil during the Civil War period, which made an irapression on his mind, as his teacher had a husband and three brothers serving as soldiers in the war. He left school at the age of 14 to work at bridge construction on the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway, becoming a regular laborer and later foreman. While residing at Avoca he seems to have impressed his fellow citizens with the force of his personality, for he was elected justice of the peace when only 21 years old. He also held other offices, serving as township supervisor, township clerk and president of the village board of Avoca. In 1890 he opened a furniture and undertaking establishment at Avoca, but in the following year sold out and bought a half interest in a store at Muscoda, to which village he moved his famliy in March. On Aug. 15, 1901, Mr. Zimmerman bought a one-fourth interest in his present business, which was thereafter conducted under the name of Frayselorf & Zimmerman. On July 20, 1910, he purchased the interest of John Kohler, and on Oct. 12 of the same year, that of the estate of Mr. Frayselorf, who died Oct. 16, 1909. He then took John E. Halliday in as partner, the firm being known as the Zimmerman & Halliday Company. In January, 1912, Mr. Zimmerman bought out his partners' interest, and the business was conducted under his own name until 1913, when it was incorporated as J. G. Zimmerman & Sons, his town sons, George F. and Joseph A., becoming partners. The store is equipped with the cash register system, a display system of the latest models, and is exceptionally well lighted and ventilated. Mr. Zimmerman had no mercantile experience previous to his starting in the furniture business at Muscoda, but he had then at some extent shown what he was capable of by saving $2,400 from his wages as laborer and foreman on the railroad. From that sum, carefully invested and wisely managed, his present prosperity has grown, and he is now numbered among the most successful merchants in Clark County.

Mr. Zimmerman is also interested in the local canning factory, and owns stock in the Farmers Elevator and Lumber Yard, He has served on the auditing committee of the school board for the last five years. He belongs to the Blue Lodge and Chapter and Commandry of the Masonic Order at Neillsville, and also to the Woodmen. Mr, Zimmerman was married Sept. 25, 1883, to Mary Schenak, who was born in Castle Rock Township, Grant County, Wis., daughter of Joseph and Barbara (Wanek) Shenak, Her parents, who were born and married in Bohemia, came to the United States with one child about 1854, homesteading a farm in Grant County, Wis. Mr. and Mrs. Zimmerman have three children: Harry Francis, born April 3, 1898 ; George F., born Oct. 12, 1886, and Joseph A., born May 30, 1889. Mr. Zimmerman is a member of the Christian Science Church, and his wife of the Eastern Star Lodge, at Neillsville.

Alonzo Cook, a well-known citizen of Hewett Township, who owns a farm in Section 12, was born on his parents' homestead in this township, Sept. 6, 1869, son of Morton M. and Sarah (Metcalf) Cook, who came to Clark County from Ohio in 1867. Educated in the district school, he grew to manhood on the farm, and when a young man was engaged for a number of winters in logging, working on the drive in the spring, beginning that work at the age of 17 years, and continuing it uninterruptedly for sixteen years. He also farmed three years for George L. Jacques, and was employed in the tannery at Phillips, Price County, Wis., for about two years. His present place of forty acres in Section 12, which he purchased, was formerly the Dwight Metcalf farm. During the time the Clark County Drainage Company was operating he furnished the crew, while John Cook did the cooking. He served for over twelve years as road overseer, and has rendered valuable service as a member of the school board. Mr. Cook was married April 20, 1898, to Kate Abbott, who was bron at Sioux Falls, S. D., a daughter of Martin and Jane Ann (Smith) Abbott. Her parents came West from New York State, locating first in Jackson County, Wis., and later removing to South Dakota. There her father was killed in a South Dakota blizzard, Jan. 7, 1873. Her mother now lives with her. Mrs. Cook has one son, Bennie Hart, by a former marriage. He was born Nov. 9, 1891, and resides at home.

Morton M. Cook, a settler in Hewett Township, in 1867, who did good pioneer work, and was for a number of years one of the leading men of that township, was born in Springville, Seneca County, Ohio, April 20, 1837. He was a son of Roscoe Cook, a life-long resident of Ohio, who was a farmer and storekeeper, and also conducted a warehouse and an ashery. Roscoe had seven children, of whom Morton M. was the third in order of birth. The latter was given a good education, graduating from Sandusky College, Ohio, after which he took up the occupation of a teacher, which he followed in that state. In 1856 he was married, at Tiffin, Ohio, to Sarah Metcalf , and continued to reside in Ohio until the time of the Civil War. In 1862 he enlisted in the 164th Ohio Regiment, Company C; and performed military service with that organization until his honorable discharge Oct. 5, 1865, when he returned home. On going to the war he had left behind his wife and one child, George, whom he now rejoined, rejoicing that he had escaped the fate of so many other patriot soldiers who never returned to their homes and families. In 1867, Mr. Cook determined to settle in one of the states of the great Northwest, to which part of the country there was then a considerable emigration, the opportunity of obtaining rich land for nothing, or at a normal cost, attracting settlers from the more eastern states where good farms brought a high price. Accordingly, with his wife and four children - George, Emma, Sophronia and Morton W. - he set out from Adrian, Ohio, in a wagon with one horse headed for Wisconsin, with which equipment, after a journey of some weeks during which some pleasant days were spent in Gipsy fashion, the family arrived in Hewett Township, Clark County. Here Mr. Cook secured a tract of eighty acres of wild land in Section 12, and found himself confronted with the problem of establishing a home in the wilderness - a herculean task which many other pioneers were then facing. The nearest road, so-called, was an Indian trail a mile away, and the country around was almost one unbroken forest, his own farm being covered heavily with timber. The usual log house was constructed, in which he and his family made their primitive home, and as soon as possible he got an ox team, without which a pioneer farmer in this county was badly handicapped. For the first few years he had to work at logging, as most of the early settlers did in the winter. His superior education also came in useful, as he obtained employment teaching the first school near Mapleworks, boarding at the time with an old and well known settler named Howard. In time Mr. Cook succeeded in clearing sixty-five acres of his farm, and at one time owned a tract of 160 acres, of which he later sold eighty acres. From the time he first came to the township he served in public office, including service on the school board, to which he was a valuable addition. His religious affiliations were the Methodist Church, and he was a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. Mr. Cook died Jan, 27, 1905, at the age of 69 years, his loss being universally regretted, as he was esteemed by all as a good neighbor and loyal citizen. His wife, Sarah, who was born in Massachusetts in 1840, died Jan. 1, 1914. In addition to their children already mentioned, who accompanied them to Clark County from Ohio, six others were born to them in Hewett Township: Alonzo, now a farmer in this township; Laura, Jay, Ray, William and Sarah.

William Carl Thoma, road commissioner of Clark County, and a widely known and respected citizen, was born at Oak Creek, Milwaukee, Wis., Sept. 10, 1860, son of Ferdinand and Barbara (Haag) Thoma. The father was a German Lutheran minister, born in Pommern, Germany, who came to the United States as a missionary in 1848, making the voyage by sailing vessel. After a long and tedious journey he reached Milwaukee, which was then but a small hamlet of a few houses. Securing a piece of land, he erected a log dwelling. Here, also, he married Barbara Haag, who was born in Whittenburg, Germany, and had come to America in 1846 by sailing vessel. His time was devoted to taking care of his missions, which he visited regularly, making the journeys sometimes on foot and sometimes on horseback, this being his manner of life until his labors were terminated by his death three years after the birth of his son, William Carl. He and his wife had another child, Margaret, who died at the age of one year. After the death of her husband Mrs. Ferdinand Thoma removed to Jefferson County, taking with her her surviving child, William C. The latter attended school in that county, and when he grew old enough engaged in farm work, finally taking half a section of land between Delavan and Janesville, which he operated for sixteen years, Then, in 1892, he came to Clark County, locating on a tract of land in Sections 29, 30, 1 and 2, Weston Township. He was at this time already married, having been united June 5, 1881, to Amelia Floerke, a native of Jefferson County, Wis., and they had three children who accompanied them to this county, William, Paul and Benjamin. She was the daughter of August and Christiana Floerke, farming people of Jefferson County. Mr. Thoma gradually increased the size of his farm until he had 420 acres, all of which he operated, planting the usual crops raised in this region and breeding full-blooded Holstein cattle, Poland-China hogs and a good grade of horses. His farm was well equipped with good buildings and modern machinery, and was conducted by him in accordance with the most approved modern methods with profitable results. In 1913, Mr, Thoma took up his residence in the city of Neillsville, which has since been his home. Aside from his personal farming interests he has taken an active part for many years in township and county business, and also in other enterprises. Among other things, he helped organize the Clark County Butter Company, and was its president for ten or twelve years. While living in Weston Township he at different times held every local office, being township treasurer, assessor, chairman of the township board for a number of years, and - by virtue of that office - a member of the county board, and census enumerator. He was also county superintendent of assessors for four or five years. The branch of public business in which Mr. Thoma has taken the most interest, and in which, perhaps, he has rendered the most efficient service, is that relating to the construction of good roads. This came about through his election, about five years ago, to the office of county highway commissioner. On making himself acquainted with the duties of the office he found the subject so interesting in its bearing upon the welfare and development of the county, that it aroused his enthusiasm and he devoted himself to the work with all his energies. His labors have had a highly beneficial result, and may be seen in some of the excellent roads which traverse the county, which are an aid to quick transportation and more than pay for their cost in the time saved, and the lesser strain on vehicles of all kinds. Few public improvements are of greater importance, and in bringing this fact to the attention of his fellow citizens and gaining their appreciation of it, Mr. Thoma has performed an excellent public service. In addition to the three children previously mentioned, he and his wife have had two born in Clark County - Helen and Carl. He and his family are members of the Lutheran Church. Two of the sons are in distant states - William in Texas and Paul in South Kansas. Carl and Helen reside in Neillsville, while Benjamin resides on the home farm. Mr. Thoma takes an interest in all worthy local enterprises, and is a member of the Clark County Fair Association, and a stockholder in the Farmers' Co-operative Elevator of Neillsville, and many other enterprises in Clark County.

Mr. And Mrs, Otto Schroeder

Otto Schroeder, who is making good progress in agricultural work on a farm of eighty acres in Washburn Township, was born in Saxony, Germany, Oct. 18, 1859, son of Gottlieb and Mary (Stange) Schroeder. The father died in Germany, leaving five children: Ernest, now deceased; Otto, Gottlieb, Edward and Amelia. A memoir of the parents and their family may be found in the biography of Edward Schroeder of Grant Township. Otto Schroeder was 24 years old when he came to the United States. He located in Clark County, where his first work was chopping wood. Afterwards he worked at the masons' trade, more or less, until about twelve years ago, being employed for the greater part of the time in the northern part of the county. About 1898 or 1899, Mr. Schroeder bought a tract of eighty acres of stump and brush land in Section 11, Washburn Township, on which he settled, and where he has since resided, having now about twenty acres cleared. He has also improved the place in other ways, having erected a good cement block house and silo, and is engaged in raising good stock on a profitable basis, He formerly served for a while as supervisor of the township, and has always proved himself a reliable citizen, as well as a good farmer. A German Lutheran in religion, he takes a warm interest in church work, and is ever ready to support any practical project for the religious, moral or material well being of the community. Mr. Schroeder was united in marriage in 1903 to Emma Bischenberg, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Eischenberg. Mr. and Mrs. Schroeder have two children - Rosa, aged 9 years, and Freda, aged 7.

John Short, a successful agriculturist of Washburn Township, was born in Jefferson County, Wis., June 4, 1850, a son of James and Betsey (Ritche) Short. John Short left home at the age of 19 years, and came to Clark County, settling in the woods, where he made a small clearing and built a log shack. After thus residing as a bachelor, for about a year, he married, May 6, 1869, Jennie MeGinnis, whose father, Peter McGinnis, a farmer of New York State, had come West, settled first in La Crosse County, Wis., where he and his family lived three years, and then located in Sherwood Township, Clark County, on a homestead. After his marriage John Short located on the parental homestead in Washburn Township, where he began to clear the land. He has since steadily advanced in prosperity, is conducting a profitable farm, and is a member of the Shortville creamery. His wife died Aug. 8, 1911, They had five childven: William, Inez, Edward, Elizabeth and Arthur.

Edward F, Short, proprietor of Lone Pine Tree Farm, Washburn Township, was born in this township, Feb. 18, 1880, son of John and Jennie (McGinnis) Short, mention of whom is made elsewhere in this volume. He was educated in the district school, and at the age of 13 struck out for himself, going to work for Mr. Griffith in Washburn. After two winter seasons in his employ he, in 1902, began to work for Mr. George Crother in general farm work, and was thus occupied for ten years, also taking several trips to the far West; one of these, which was a pleasure trip, was to Portland and back, by way of Canada, when he visited the exposition at Seattle. After this experience Mr. Short bought a tract of eighty acres of land in Section 4, Washburn Township, upon which he lived as a bachelor one year, being then united in marriage with Mrs. Clara Schroeder, who was a daughter of James Carter. She had a son, Ernest, by her former husband, whom Mr. Short adopted after his marriage. He has since brought his farm into good condition, and is profitably engaged in raising a good grade of cattle, Percheron horses, Poland-China hogs and Plymouth Rock chickens. His farm derives its name of Lone Pine Tree Farm from a pine tree that stands in the yard, which was saved from the brush burning by Mrs. George Short, an aunt of Mr. Short. The farm was first started by Joe Richmond. Mr. Short is a member of the Shortville Dairy Company. He also organized the Farmers' Institute of Washburn Township, which has now become an established institution. Fraternally he belongs to the Mystic Workers and to the Odd Fellows Lodge at Neillsville, and is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

Andrew O. Short, an early settler in Washburn Township, coming here forty-five years ago, and now a prosperous farmer of the township, was born in Jefferson County, Wis., May 28, 1849, son of James and Betsey (Ritche) Short. The parents were natives of Scotland, who were married in St. Lawrence County, N. Y. Later, they settled as farmers near Ft. Atkinson, Wis., locating in the woods at a place called Pumpkin Hollow, where James Short built a frame house and began clearing the land with an ox team. There he passed the rest of his life, dying at the age of 70 years. His wife died in Clark County at the same age. They were faithful members of the Presbyterian Church. Their family numbered ten children: Betsey, James, Stephen, George, Belle, Jane, Andrew, John, Mary and William. Andrew O. Short attended district school in Jefferson County and grew up on his father's farm. Later, he took up agricultural work on his own account, coming to Clark County in 1871. Here he settled on a tract of eighty acres in Section 3, Washburn Township, both the tract and surrounding country being covered with woods. In beginning operations he first erected a log dwelling, 16 by 24 feet, with two rooms and pantry, and then, with nothing but his hands to work with, started clearing the land. In the next year, on July 10, Mr. Short was married to Jennie Scott, daughter of William and May Scott of Jefferson County. He and his wife beginning housekeeping in the log residence. There were no roads and they had to walk to Neillsville to get supplies. Their stock consisted at first of one cow, one pig and a few chickens. For awhile Mr. Short worked in the woods during the winters, clearing his place in the summer. He raised an ox team from calves and in course of time finished clearing his farm. He also erected a frame residence on the site of the old log building. He now has a good farm of eighty acres, with substantial buildings and all necessary equipment, raising a good grade of stock, including cattle and hogs. Formerly he also raised sheep, his wife spinning wool to make caps, mittens and socks for the family. He has since very early times taken an active part in the affairs of the township, formerly being a member of the township board and school board. He also helped to start the Shortville creamery, of which he was president one year, being still a shareholder. He was the first postmaster in Washburn township, the office _being established in his log house, and the locality being named Shortville in his honor. He and his wife are the parents of three children: James, a farmer in Washburn Township, who married Onie Vanfleet, and has three children, Opal, Gale and Wanda; Ralph, unmarried, who resides at home with his father; and May, now Mrs. Walter Bell, of Washburn Township, has two children, Leland W., and Bruce A.

James A. Short, who is prosperously engaged in agriculture in section 10, Washburn Township, was born in the log cabin of his parents, Andrew and Jennie (Scott) Short, in this township, Aug. 17, 1875. A memoir of the parents, who were early settlers here, may be found in this volume. James A. was educated in the country school of his district, which was first a log and afterwards a frame building. He passed his boyhood and youth on his father's farm and then, when about 26 years old, he struck out for himself, beginning farming of a tract of eighty acres in section 10, Washburn Township. About twenty acres of the land was cleared, and the other improvements included a log house and a barn of the same construction. Mr. Short has since brought the property into the condition of a profitable farm, increasing its size by the purchase of forty additional acres. He has also built a frame house of eight rooms, a basement barn, 36 by 60 feet and a silo, 24 by 14 feet. He raises a good grade of stock. He was a shareholder in the Shortville creamery and its treasurer eight years before it was transformed into a cheese factory, and also served thirteen years on the township board as treasurer. Mr. Short was married Mar. 3, 1904, to Onie Vanfleet, a native of Ohio and daughter of J. W. Vanfleet, They have three children, Gale, Opal and Wanda. His wife died Jan. 26, 1917.

George L. Lloyd, one of the notable pioneers of Clark County, still surviving, whose early life was crowded with interesting experiences, was born in Lake County, Ohio, fifteen miles east of Cleveland, Aug. 9, 1839. His parents were Lester and Sarah (Osborn) Lloyd, the father born at Bloomfield, Mass., on the Connecticut River, son of John and Roxana (Ramey) Lloyd. John Lloyd was also a native of Massachusetts, some members of the Lloyd family settling in that state at an early date and taking part in the Revolutionary War. Others settled in Virginia and Pennsylvania. John, the grandfather of our subject, removed from Massachusetts to Trumbull County, Ohio, where it seems he became a large land owner, as he gave to two of his brothers 500 acres each. His three children were Thomas, Lester and Roxana, who all grew to maturity and accompanied their father to Ohio, settling on the tract of land he purchased there. Thomas Lloyd was killed by being thrown from a horse during a military parade. The sister, Roxana, married a Mr. Smith. Lester Lloyd was an officer in the Ohio militia and a very patriotic man. He was a Democrat in politics but held no public office. He and his wife had nine children: Thea, Charles, Elizabeth, Anna, Robert, Lester, George L., Hattie and Almira, of whom only Charles and George L. came to Wisconsin. George L. Lloyd in 1859, at the age of 20 years, joined a party of 57 persons who left Geneva, Ohio, for the gold fields of Denver, Colo. The far west was wilder then than it is today, and the journey - especially the overland route - was fraught with many dangers. Only twelve of the party reached their destination, among whom was Mr. Lloyd. After fol- lowing the occupation of a miner until September, 1859, without growing suddenly wealthy, he decided to come to Wisconsin, making the journey by stage to lowa City and Davenport, then up the Mississippi River on the old steamer Itasca to La Crosse, from which place, in company with three others, he set out for the Black River district, intending to join his brother, Charles, who was then on a farm near Loyal. That winter he spent in a camp on Popple River, engaged in logging, and from the spring to the fall of 1860, was with his brother on the farm, helping him to build his barn. He also practically built the first schoolhouse in that section. He then worked for Mr. Bright, a logging foreman, in the woods. The winter following Mr. Lloyd had a logging camp of his own on Popple River, it being known as No. 281. A part of his crew were drafted for service in the Civil War, but he continued his operations and subsequently spent many years in the lumbering industry. In 1869 Mr. Lloyd formed a partnership with O. P. Wells in the hardware business at Neillsville and they continued together until 1873, in which year he bought out Mr, Wells' interest and subsequently operated the business for himself, also engaging in logging. The latter occupation he followed on all the branches of Black River, except Wedge's Creek. The store which he and Mr. Wells established was the first in Neillsville. The first year Mr. Lloyd obtained his supplies from Sparta, to which place he often walked; also walking down the Black River, floating his Jumber, and returning on foot with pork and bread. In 1877 Mr. Lloyd built the white brick building now occupied by the Cash Hardware Store. He also, in company with Judge Dewhurst bought a lot, 66 feet front and 100 feet deep, and, subsequently buying the Judge's interest, erected a store building, breaking ground May 7, 1877. Before winter he had his store stocked with $30,000 worth of goods. This proved an unfortunate investment, however, as business was exceptionally bad, the contractors going bankrupt on account of lack of snow, and Mr. Lloyd, himself, losing one-half of his investment. He saved himself only by putting in tram-cars on which he got logs to the river to float down with the rise of water. As there were but a few logs floated down he got a good price for his, which helped materially to recruit his finances. He also secured an extension of time on payment for his stock and was finally able to pay up his indebtedness, though he lost several thousand dollars. At that time he was selling the very finest kind of lumber at $10 per thousand feet. Mr. Lloyd helped to locate the railroad from Merrilan to Neillsville, constructed in 1881, working with the engineers, and contributing money and tools gratis for the benefit of the community. In 1885 he sold out his hardware store to North & Davidson. He then speculated in southern pine and also became interested in the timber lands of the state of Washington, where his son Clyde, a veteran of the Spanish-American War, is now located. This son, whom he helped to start in the timber business there, now has holdings of 100 million feet of timber. Mr. Lloyd's present fine residence in Neillsville was built in 1895 and stands on a tract of forty acres on the edge of the city. Mr. Lloyd was first married to Dora Marshall, who died, leaving one child named Dora, who is also deceased. His present wife, Ida, is a sister of his first, and of this second union five chil- dren have been born: Glenn, Clyde, May, Irene and Lois. Glenn is now inspector for several lumber companies in the state of Washington and also cargo inspector at Victoria, B. C. Clyde, already mentioned in part, is intimately connected with his father in timber speculations and is connected with the Cedro Veneer Company, of Cedro Valley, Wash. May is the wife of Lewis B. Ashbaugh, of Chippewa Falls. Irene resides at home, and Lois is the wife of Thomas E. Barnhardt, of Dixon, Ill. Robert Lloyd, an elder brother of our subject, long a resident of Ohio, and now aged 8&6, is spending his declining years with the latter at Neillsville, the brothers being closely united by ties of affection.

Christ H. Nissen, a prosperous farmer of section 30, Hoard Township, was born in Denmark, Nov. 22, 1865, son of Soren and Mary (Christenson) Nissen. The parents passed their lives in their native land of Denmark, where the mother is still living. The father, Soren Nissen, died in 1906, at the age of 70 years. Christ H. Nissen came to America in 1886, locating in Black Hawk County, Iowa. He had learned the trade of miller, which he followed at Cedar Falls, that state, working for others there until 1899, when he came to Clark County, Wis. On arriving here, or soon after, he purchased his present farm of eighty acres, the land then being raw and uncultivated. On it he built a small frame house, which in later years he has enlarged and improved into a very nice and convenient residence. He also has two large barns, with other out-buildings, and in 1913 built a concrete silo of 100 tons capacity. Fifty-eight acres of his land are now under the plow. He keeps graded Guernsey cattle, milking nineteen cows, and also raised graded Percheron horses and Duroc-Jersey hogs. On twenty-five acres of his farm he raises hay, has eleven acres planted for silage, and on the remainder raises oats, potatoes, etc. Mr. Nissen is also district agent of the Lynn Mutual Fire Insurance Company, of Clark County. He was appointed road supervisor in 1908 and 1911, ard in 1909 was elected assessor of Hoard Township. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers' Co-operative Creamery of Withee and in the Clark County Telephone Company. His fraternal society affiliations are with Owen Lodge and Popple River Camp, No. 4179, M. W. A., while religiously he is a member of the Danish Lutheran Church at Withee. Mr. Nissen was first married in 1887 to Maria Lind, who was born in Denmark, March 9, 1867. She died June 7, 1897, leaving five children, who were born as follows: Robert, in 1888; Anna, 1889; Catherine, 1890; Martha, 1892, and Martin, 1894. On Oct. 29, 1899, Mr. Nissen married for his second wife, Marie Sonne, also a native of Denmark, born Mar. 28, 1867, daughter of Anton and Marie (Kofod) Sonne. Her father is still living in Denmark, and is a widower, his wife having died in 1912, at the age of 72 years. Of Mr. Nissen's second marriage three children have been born: Elsie, 1901; Karen, 1904, and Anton in 1906. Only two are now living, Karen having died in 1907.

Clark Peterson, who for nearly twenty years has been successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits in section 35, Hoard Township, is a native of Norway, having been born April 26, 1852, son of Knute and Carrie (Tostenson) Peterson, The father, who was a farmer and stockman, died in his native land in 1864, having always lived there. He and his wife had six children: Toston, now in South Dakota; Juel, in North Dakota; Clark, of Hoard Township; Ole, deceased; Mary, now Mrs. Ole Arnson, of Areadia, Wis., and Albert, also of Arcadia. Clark Peterson came to the United States at the age of 14 years, and was followed a year later by his mother. He first located at Winona, Minn., where he lived five years, being employed in the Youmans & Hogden sawmill, for the most part, but also doing some farm work. In 1873 he went to Eau Claire County, Wis., where for five years he worked for a milk concern, afterwards taking a position with the Badger Sawmill Company of that place. In 1894 he moved to Owen, Wis., and entered the employ of the Owen Lumber Company, remaining there until he bought his present farm in Hoard Township, Clark County, Wis., which he did in 1898. At that time only fifteen acres were ready for the plow, and the improvements consisted of a log house and barn and a frame hay shed. He has now sixty acres of plow land and in 1909 built a large barn, 36 by 60 feet, and in 1911 a silo of 100 tons capacity. In 1916 he erected a new frame residence of eight large rooms, with cement basement, which is one of the finest houses in the locality, being equipped in modern style and tastefully designed. Mr. Peterson is engaged in breeding Holstein cattle, milking from twenty to twenty-five cows, and constantly raising the grade. He has his son Charles as assistant and partner, and they are doing a profitable and increasing business. Mr. Peterson was elected a member of the school board in 1904 and 1916. He was married in November, 1879, to Lena Lee, who was born in Norway, Feb. 14, 1856, daughter of Ole Toston. Her parents had five daughters, she and three sisters coming to America in 1874 and settling at Eau Claire, Wis. Mr. and Mrs. Peterson have four children: Charles and Otto, residing on the home farm; Clara, who lives in Duluth; and Agnes, who is at home.

Jay Isaac Staples, a successful agriculturist of Dewhurst Township, who has also made a notable success in the growing of strawberries, and is now serving as township treasurer, was born at Austin, Mower County, Minn., Mar. 8, 1872, son of Carlo B. and Abbie (Hill) Staples. The father was a native of Vermont and the mother of Massachusetts, but they were married at Ripon, Wis., where Carlo B. Staples followed the dental profession during the period of the Civil War. Later he removed to Austin, Minn., where also he practiced dentistry, and became a prosperous man, but owing to failing health sold out and in 1882 he removed to Brookins County, Dakota, where he engaged in farming until January, 1891, when he came to Clark County, Wis. Here he bought 320 acres in section 19 - the south half of that section - Dewhurst Township, the tract being at that time just as the lumbermen had left it. A road had just been constructed past the place. Here Carlo B. Staples resided until his death at the age of 76 years. His wife, who survived him, is still living and makes her home at Merrillan, Wis. Jay I. Staples grew to manhood on his father's farm in Brookins County, Dakota. He had no opportunity for acquiring an advanced education, but attended the little red school house of his district. His industrial education was not neglected, however, as he early learned to handle the plow and do other farm work. He came to Clark County in November, 1891, about eleven months after his father, and after arriving here, bought the west half of the 320-acre tract his father had purchased. This he sold later and after the father's death bought eighty acres of the tract last owned by the latter, and in 1915 he bought the remaining eighty acres. He is now successfully engaged in farming the 160 acres which his father owned. The place is well improved and provided with good buildings and Mr, Staples carries on general farming with profitable results. He has also taken a prominent part in local government affairs, having held the office of township treasurer for eight years, and was formerly a member of the side board, being the second officer of the township. He has also served ten years on the school board. His fraternal affiliations are with the Woodmen and Beavers of Merrillan. Mr. Staples married Alta M. Devan, daughter of Ralph P. Devan of Brookings, S. D., where he was a pioneer, being the second white man to locate in the county. Mr. and Mrs. Staples are the parents of seven children: DeVan, Bessie, Muriel, Ralph, Willis, Robert and Donald.

Christ Wallmuth, a well-known and successful farmer of section 22, Dewhurst Township, was born in Prussia, Germany, Nov. 19, 1847, the son of John and Mary (Odean) Wallmuth. The father, who was a laborer by occupation, was born, reared and married in Statien, Germany, and there he and his wife had five children born to them: Christ, Charles, John, Theodore and Ricka. John Wallmuth, Sr., died in his native land. Christ Wallmuth remained at home until he was 15 years of age, working out on farms for ten years. On Oct. 20, 1871, he married Sofia Spanholtz, whose father, John Spanholtz, was a farm laborer. After his marriage Mr. Wallmuth continued to reside in Germany for two years longer, or until 1873, in which year he came to the United States, locating at Elgin, Ill., where he worked at various occupations for about seventeen years; after which he was employed in the condensery there for thirteen years. He then bought 200 acres of wild land in section 22, Dewhurst Township, Clark County. Here he built a frame house of six rooms and later a barn 30 by 64 feet in dimensions. He began farming here with one cow and now has a good stock farm, being engaged in raising Holstein cattle, besides sheep and hogs, for which he finds a ready and profitable market. His farm is well improved and in addition to giving it his personal attention, he has conducted a threshing crew for about three years. One of the leading citizens of the township, he has served as township supervisor three years and as road commissioner. The following is a brief record of the children born to him and his wife: William, residing at home; Fred, who married Lillian Heneise; Emma, now Mrs. Wm. Cash, of Elgin, Ill., who has two children, Alain and Mildred; Freda, now Mrs. Fred Nolte, of Elgin, Ill., and Malinda, wife of Herman Janholtz, also living in Elgin, Ill. Fred, who is now residing at home, has bought forty acres of land in section 34, Dewhurst Township, on which he is erecting buildings. He has two children, Ruth and Mildred.

Peter Cramer, a prominent agriculturist, for many years in Washburn Township, but now living on a farm close to Neillsville, is a native of Wisconsin, having been born in Washington County, Feb. 10, 1848, son of Joseph and Mary (Anderson) Cramer. The parents, who were farmers, were natives of Germany, where they were married. In 1846 they left

Germany with one child, Joseph, a daughter, Anna, who was left behind, never coming to this country. After a four-weeks' voyage on a sailing vessel, they landed on this side of the ocean and proceeded to Washington County, Wis., whither some acquaintances from Germany had gone before. There Joseph Cramer bought eighty acres of timber land, on which he put up a log building with straw roof. After awhile he got an ox team, raising the animals from calves. While residing there three other children were born to him and his wife: Martin, who died in infancy; Peter and John. After clearing that farm he and his family moved to Jackson County, where he rented some wild land for a short time, subsequently returning to Washington County on business matters and dying there in 1859. His widow, after coming to Clark County, married Chris Rexter, and resided in Grant Township, later moving to Mentor Township, where she died at the age of 86 years. They were members of the Catholic Church, Peter Cramer was 13 years of age when the family settled in Jackson County. There, after his father's death, he had to look after his mother, as well as himself, his brother Joseph going to the war. At the close of the war the family came to Clark County, Peter going to work on the river and in the mills and woods, in which various occupations he continued until he located on land of his own in what is now Washburn Township, but which was then known as Levis Township. Here he got a quarter section of land covered with timber and far away from a road, and it was not until six years later that a road was cut through. Shortly before he moved onto that place, or on March 16, 1871, he married Jane Phillips, whose parents, Jonathan and Mary Phillips, had located on a homestead in the same (Levis) township, Mr. Cramer and his wife began houskeeping on his farm in 1872, Mr. Cramer building a log house and barn on that part of it that lay in section 11, the other part being in section 2. The house contained only one room and measured 16 by 24 feet, Mr. Cramer splitting his own shingles out of pine wood, and the floor being constructed out of rough pine boards. They had a straw mattress with bed-tick on top, resting on poles that were supported on pegs driven into the wall. His tools consisted of an axe and grub hoe and he had to raise his ox team from calves. Groceries had to be carried on the back from Neillsville, Mr, Cramer often carrying as much as fifty pounds in a pack. In time he finished clearing the farm, and had built a frame house and a basement barn, 40 by 60 feet in size, a silo and other buildings. He raised Holstein cattle and horses, both of good grade, and became a member of the Farmers' Co-operative Elevator and Lumber Company, of Neillsville. He also helped to start the creamery at Shortville and to build the Union Church there. In February, 1917, Mr. Cramer sold his farm in Washburn Township, and purchased a fine farm of twenty acres, lying just outside the city limits of Neillsville, where he now resides, together with his son George and family. He has always taken a warm interest in township affairs, supporting all practical measures for the public benefit, and has served as chairman of the township board and formerly as a member of the school board. His wife, who was born Nov. 8, 1848, died nine years ago. They were the parents of four children, only one of whom, George, is now living. The other three were Bertha, Essie and

Nora. Bertha was the wife of George Bishop. Essie died young. Nora, who married Ed Schroeder of Granton, died at the birth of her son Norman, who has been educated by his grandfather and is now a school teacher serving in his fourth year. George Cramer has resided with his father since the death of Mrs. Peter Cramer. He owns a farm of eighty acres in Washburn Township, which he works, besides assisting his father with the latter's farm, and he moved with his father to the new farm at Neillsville. George married Iva Lowery, a daughter of Levi Lowery, and he and his wife have two children, Guy and Hazel. Guy, who was born Aug. 13, 1897, married Eunice Carter, and they reside on a farm in Washburn Township. Hazel, born July 7, 1901, is a graduate of Neillsville high school, class of 1918.

Charles Justus Dickinson, township clerk of Dewhurst Township, generally known as "Dick," was born on a farm in Patch Grove Township, Grant County, Wis., July 30, 1878, son of Charles F, and Amelia (Parker) Dickinson. The parents were both natives of Grant County, of which their respective parents were pioneers, and there they grew up and were married. Charles F. Dickinson, who was a member of the Republican party, and somewhat active in local politics, was elected county clerk of Grant County in 1898. He was a member of the Masonic and Woodmen orders. He and his wife had three children: Alma, Nelle and UVharles Justus. Charles Justus Dickinson, who was his parents' eldest child, was educated in the district school and the high school at Lancaster, Wis., where he went to reside at the age of 18 years, and where he served as deputy clerk under his father. In 1901 he came to Clark County and purchased 240 acres of land, the S. 4% of S. W. 14, section 29, and N. W. 14 of section 32, Dewhurst Township, a tract commanding a beautiful view of the country, shaded by picturesque rocky bluffs, and making an ideal home location. He has a fine farm, which he has cleared from the woodland, of which the tract consisted when he first came here, and carries on general farming. Mr. Dickinson was the first chairman of Dewhurst Township and has held office as township clerk for some five years. He has also served on the school board for six or seven years. As a progressive citizen, mindful of the best interests of the community, he takes a warm interest in good roads, Dewhurst Township having better roads for its population than any other in Clark County. Mr. Dickinson was married Dec. 10, 1902, to May Meyer, who was born in Columbia County, Wis., daughter of John Meyer, a farmer of Jackson County. He and his wife have two children: John Charles, born Feb. 21, 1904, and Albert William, born May 28, 1907.

Frank Firnstahl, one of the leading merchants of Colby, Wis., where he is engaged in the boot and shoe business, was born in Austria, Oct. 4, 1857. In 1875, at the age of 18 years, he accompanied his parents, Michael and Katherine (Wermes) Firnstahl, to the United States, first locating at Nashville, Tenn., and then removing to Louisville, Ky. Their stay in both places was short, for they soon came to Wisconsin, residing in Stevens Point for a short time and then coming to Colby. Michael Firnstahl then bought forty acres of land in Hull Township, Marathon County, where he built a log cabin, in which he resided for two years. He then built a frame house, which was his subsequent home and which is still standing. He was engaged in the dairy business, keeping Holstein cattle, with the care of which he had been familiar from early youth. He died in 1893 at the age of 70 years. His wife survived him a number of years, her death occurring in 1909 when she was 82 years old. Their children were Michael, Jr., Peter, John, Joseph, Nicholas, Mathew, Frank, Paul, Stephen and Michael, second. Of these children all are now dead, except Frank, Paul and Michael. Paul is living on the old homestead. Frank Firnstahl finished his school studies at the high school of McGregor, Iowa, in 1877, and then began to learn the shoemaker's trade there, remaining one year. Then coming to Colby, he worked for others here for three years, and then started in business for himself. He is now the only merchant in town dealing exclusively in boots and shoes, and has built up a thriving business. In 1886 his place was destroyed by fire but in the following year he erected the building in which he has since been located. He is a stockholder in the Colby Cheese-box Silo Company. Mr. Firnstahl has been active in county politics for many years, giving his allegiance to the Democratic party. In 1896 he was elected justice of the peace, in which office he is still serving. He was also city treasurer for seventeen years, being elected in 1895. His society affiliations are with the Beavers Reserve Fund Fraternity and the Equitable Fraternity Union, in both of which orders he has been through all the chairs. Mr. Firnstahl was married May 2, 1882, to Rose Adrains, who was born in Freedom, Wis., May 18, 1865. She died April 29, 1885, leaving two children: Lucilia, now Mrs. William Wendt, of Monroe, Wis., and Rose, who resides at home with her father. Mr. Firnstahl married for his second wife, Feb, 25, 1897, Augusta Hertz, who was born in Dodge County, Wis., May 8, 1875, daughter of Mr, and Mrs. Carl Hertz. Of this second union six children have been born: Floyd, Richard, Alpheus, Lea, Louis and Lawrence. The daughter, Lucilia, has four children, William, Howard, Agnes and Robert.

August Lulloff, an early settler in Green Grove Township, now living in Colby, was born in Sheboygan County, Wis., son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Lulloff. He became a farmer, and coming to Clark County in 1878, bought 160 acres of land in Green Grove Township, where he built a log cabin and began breaking and clearing his land with an ox team in true pioneer fashion. He had to carry supplies on his back from Colby, coming through the woods, as no roads were then open. In course of time he developed a good farm, residing there until June, 1906, when he and his wife removed to Colby, where both are living. Of late years, to keep occupied, he has been engaged in bee culture. While farming he raised Guernsey and Durham cattle, milking about fifteen cows. For years he served in the office of assessor when Colby and Green Grove were one township. He was also for a number of years a member of the local school board. In politics he is a Republican. He and his wife, whose maiden name was Louisa Grambort, had a family of four children: Ferdinand W., a merchant of Colby; Bertha, now Mrs. Fred Dipping, of Chicago; Adolph F., a partner with his brother, Ferdinand, and Alin, who now reside in Jerome, Arizona.

Mr. And Mrs, Henry W. Wilhelmi

Ferdinand W., and Adolph F. Lulloff, who are engaged in the furniture and undertaking business in Colby, Wis., are sons of August and Louisa (Grambort) Lulloff, who came from Sheboygan County, Wis., and settled in Clark County, in 1878, developing a farm in Green Grove Township. There Ferdinand W. was born May 17, 1880. Leaving home at the age of 20 years, he began to learn the machinist's trade, first at Oshkosh, Wis., and later following it in Quincy and Winthrop, Ill. In 1906 he returned home and in company with his brother Adolph, went into his present business, in which they succeeded R. H. Hart. Their store is now the leading one in town and they have a thriving and growing trade. In 1916 F. W. Lulloff was elected city clerk. He is a member of the Equitable Fraternity Union. His course of study in undertaking was taken at the H. 58. Eckels College at Cincinnati, Ohio. He was married, Sept. 21, 1910, to Bertha Baumgart, who was born in Colby Township, Dec, 8, 1886, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Baumgart. Her mother died when she, Bertha, was young, but her father, who is a farmer, is still living. Their children were: Mary, Carl, Godfrey, Otto and Bertha. Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Lulloff have one child, Margaret, who was born Nov. 24, 1911. Mr. Lulloff is a member of the Wisconsin Funeral Directors' and Embalmers' Association. Adolph F. Lulloff was born in Green Grove Township, June 18, 1884. He took an undertaking course at the C. L. Barnes College at Chicago, graduating in 1909. Like his brother, F. W., he is a member of the Wisconsin Funeral Directors' and Embalmers' Association, and of the Equitable Fraternity Union. He was married Dec. 27, 1911, to Minnie Wieland, who was born May 12, 1890, in Unity, Wis., daughter of Ferdinand and Minnie (Amglang) Wieland, her father being a farmer. Both parents are living. They had eight children: Bertha, Albert, Herman, Annie, Charles, Mary, Minnie and Walter. Mr. and Mrs, A. F, Lulloff have one child, Harold, born Nov. 15, 1912.

Henry W. Wilhelmi, a well-known farmer of Mayville Township, residing in section 25, was born in Waukesha County, Wis., son of Charles and Minnie (Holznagel) Wilhelmi. The parents, coming from Germany to Clark County, Wis., in 1878, homesteaded forty acres of land in Mayville Township, later increasing the size of their farm by twenty acres more. On the original tract there was a log cabin and hen-house and two acres of the land was cleared. The father started the work of improvement with oxen and continued it until his death in 1890. His wife survived him nineteen years, dying in 1909. They had one daughter and three sons: Bertha, now Mrs. Peter Wilbert of Mayville Township; Charles, of Abbotsford, Clark County; Henry W., subject of this sketch, and Gust, of Abbotsford. Henry W. Wilhelmi remained on the home farm except for a period of five years, during which he was working out. After his father's death he came in possession of the homestead and has since improved the barn and house, the latter now having five rooms. He is also about to build a silo of seventy tons. He milks twelve cows of the Holstein breed and also keeps a flock of sheep, shearing about sixteen pounds of wool per head. In addition, he raises hay, oats and other crops, and is doing a successful business. Mr. Wilhelmi was married May 15, 1901, to Emma Huebscher, who was born in Switzerland, Nov. 6, 1880, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Walker) Huebscher. Her mother died when she, Emma, was nine days old and her father came to the United States in 1886, locating in Milwaukee, whence he removed in 1891 to Holton Township, Marathon County. He is still living. He was married four times, Emma's mother being his first wife. By his third wife he had one child, Henry. Mr. and Mrs. Wilhelmi have had three children: Fred, born May 22, 1902; Herbert, born July 11, 1903, and Alfred, born April 3, 1906, who died Aug. 8, 1906. The family are members of the German Lutheran Church. Mr. Wilhelmi is a stockholder in the Farmers' Co-operative Mercantile Co., of Abbotsford, and a member of the KE. F. U.

Emil D. Prange, a successful farmer and cheese manufacturer of Grant Township, and former proprietor of the North Star Cheese Factory, now giving entire attention to farming, in section 15, Grant Township, was born at Sheboygan Falls, Sheboygan County, Wis., July 20, 1880. His parents were William and Wilhelmina (Herman) Prange, both natives of Germany, William being from the Rhine provinces, and his wife from Spieker. William was born Feb. 20, 1836, and at the age of 16 years came to America, locating in New York. He afterwards visited many other places in this country, finally taking up his residence in Sheboygan County, Wis., where he took land in Herman Township, lived for years in a log cabin, and with an ox team cleared up a good farm. He died Mar. 11, 1917, at Sheboygan Falls. He and his wife celebrated their golden wedding, May 20, 1916, at Sheboygan. To them thirteen children were born: Emma, Herman, Albert, Edward, Gusta, Laura, Emil, Rudolph, Lois, William, Walter (who entered the U. 8S. service as a member of the Third Regiment, Wisconsin N. G.), Minnie and Fred. Emil D. Prange grew to manhood in Herman Township, Sheboygan County. He attended district school and at the age of 15 years was sent to Sheboygan Falls high school. After that he had to work at home for two years and then continued his education in a business college at Sheboygan, attending one year. The next six years of his life were spent on the farm of Henry Habishorst. At the end of that time he began to learn the trade of cheese-making in the employ of H. M. Scott, of Sheboygan County, remaining with him three years, after which he made cheese for a year for Fred Raceburg of Sheboygan County. Being now in a position to support a wife, he was married Dec. 5, 1908, to Amanda Spicker, a native of Sheboygan County and daughter of Frank Spicker, a German settler there. Then, with his wife, he came to Clark County, locating in Grant Township, where he bought what was known as the South Grant Cheese Factory, which he operated for three years, increasing the output. Then, selling his interest in that factory he purchased the Ebby Cheese Factory, at Marshfield and conducted it for two years. At the end of that time he came to Granton and rented the Mike Kline farm, which he is still operating. In the fall of 1915 Mr. Prange bought the cheese factory now known as the North Star Cheese Factory, but which was formerly the Dodge Creamery. This he is now running on a profitable basis, having twenty-four patrons and turning out sixty-one or sixty-two hundred-weight of full cream cheese per year, finding a ready market at Marshfield. Mr. Prange is also a member of the Lynn Telephone Company and of the Lynn Insurance Company. He and his wife have four children: Relia, Oswald, Orvill and Alvin.

Oscar Eugene Counsell, a well-to-do citizen and prominent agriculturist of Grant Township, was born in a log cabin on his parents' farm in this township, Mar. 17, 1869. The parents were Henry and Susan M. (Pope) Counsell, a memoir of whom appears elsewhere in this volume. Oscar E. was their fourth child and when a boy attended the Wilding schoolhouse and later the Reed schoolhouse and the Neillsville high school. He also assisted his father in clearing the home farm. For five years he worked for C. A. Youmans, who owned a farm in the vicinity. Finally, securing 120 acres of the home place, he engaged in general farming, which has been his occupation up to the present time. He raises pure-bred Holstein cattle, Percheron horses, Berkshire hogs and Oxford and Shropshire sheep, all the branches of his business being conducted on a profitable basis. In addition to this, he helped to organize the Pleasant Ridge Creamery, of which he has been treasurer for twenty-five years, and is a stockholder in the Farmers' Co-operative Elevator and Lumber Company of Neillsville and in the First National Bank of Neillsville, For many years he has served as a member of the school board, and is now treasurer of Grant Township. In politics he is a Republican. Mr, Counsell was married, Oct. 5, 1892, to Minnie Heaslett, who was born in Neillsville, Aug. 4, 1868, daughter of William and Margaret (Johnson) Heaslett. Her father was born in County Antrim, Ireland, Mar. 17, 1836, son of William Heaslett. His wife was born in Dorchester County, Canada East, Sept, 12, 1837, daughter of David and Anna Johnson. She was a member of the Episcopal Church. In the fall of 1868 they came to Clark County, and Mr. Heaslett, who was a carpenter by trade, found empioyment with Hewett & Woods Lumber Company and helped to build the First Methodist Church of Neillsville and other early buildings. In 1875 he went to work for Sam Green in the gun shop, and later he bought the shop and operated it himself, continuing in the business to the end of his life. He became quite an expert workman and built up a good trade. Fraternally he was affiliated with the Masonic and Odd Fellows' Lodges and was an official of the Presbyterian Church. His wife, Margaret, died Feb. 21, 1904, leaving a son, Victor Hugh, and two daughters, Minnie and Laura, and he subsequently contracted a second marriage, with Mrs. W. T. Hutchinson, whose maiden name was Eliza Austin, She was born in Ferrington, England, Jan. 24, 1841, and had three children by her first husband - Edward, William and Charles. Mr. Counsell married for his second wife, Jan. 14, 1914, Anna Laura Heaslett, a sister of his first wife, Margaret, and who was born in Neillsville, Wis., Aug. 21, 1863. There are no children by this marriage. Mrs. Counsell belongs to the Royal Neighbors of Neillsville and to the Ladies' Aid Society of Pleasant Ridge.

J. Mott Tompkins, a prominent citizen of the village of Granton, was born in Essex County, N. Y., Oct. 16, 1853, son of John and Margaret (Lindsay) Tompkins. The parents were both natives of New York State, the father of Stillwater and the mother of North Hudson, and they were also married there. John Tompkins spent his life in Essex county and there came to an accidental death by drowning four months before the birth of his son, the subject of this sketch. By occupation he was a lumberman and contractor. J. Mott was his parents' only child. When he was ten years old his mother contracted a second marriage, with James E. Pond, of Essex County, N. Y. When he was 13 he went to live with an uncle, Ed Lindsay, at Davenport, Iowa, but after spending three years there he returned to Essex County, where he remained until he was 21. He secured a good education at Davenport and in the commercial college at Troy, N. Y. In 1874 he came to Clark County, Wis., and worked on a farm for his uncle, Jones Tompkins, now of Neillsville. After that he spent fourteen years working for his uncle, Free Lindsay, of Neillsville. In 1900 Mr. Tompkins was appointed postmaster at Granton, and held that position until the recent change of officials, since which time he has served as clerk for Mr. Schroeder, as postmaster. Mr. Tompkins was married Dec. 25, 1864, to Marian FE. Farr, of Essex County, N. Y., daughter of Bushrod and Olive Farr. He and his wife have had four children: Grace Olivia, Robert F., Fred Bushrod and Frank Edwin. Grace O. married Charles Lapham, of New York City, where he is engaged in the real estate business, and has one child, Marjorie. Robert F., now a resident of Rhinelander, married Mae Browne of Rhinelander, daughter of Paul Browne, a prominent business man, then owning a paper-mill and government experiment station. He has one child, Edward. Fred B., who resides at Rice Lake, Wis., married Myrtle Ross, daughter of Judge Frank Ross, of Superior, Wis., and has four children: Lucille, Yale, Caroline and John. Frank Edwin resides in Staples, Minn., where he is engaged in railroad work.

Herman Carl, a well known farmer and popular citizen of Clark County, now residing in the village of Neillsville, was born in Pommern, Germany, Nov. 25, 1864, a son of Gustaf and Johanna (Gumz) Carl, who were natives of the same province. The father, born in 1838, was a carpenter and contractor, which vocation he followed all his life. He died in 1911 at the age of 75 years. His wife, born in 1843, is still living in Germany. They were the parents of six children: Herman, Augusta, Ernest, William, Bertha and Anna. Herman, subject of this sketch, was the eldest of the family, and was the only one that came to America. He was educated in the public schools of Germany, and, like his father and grandfather before him, learned the trade of carpenter, which he followed in Germany until 1883. In September of that year he came to the United States, locating in the city of Chicago, where he followed his trade until July 22, 1887. In that month he came to Clark County, Wisconsin, locating in Granton, where he followed carpenter work and contracting during the summer months, working in lumber camps during the winter. In 1890 he purchased a tract of forty acres in section 4, Pine Valley Township, on which stood an old log shanty, 12 by 16 feet in size, and an old log barn, these being all the improvements on the place. Into the shanty he and his good wife moved with their two children, Gustaf and Alfred. Mr. Carl at once set to work, beginning the arduous labor of clearing, grubbing and developing the tract into a farm. He also followed carpentering and con- tracting, erecting many of the farm houses and barns throughout the vicinity. These occupations he kept up for about ten or twelve years. As the years passed the Carl family prospered and in time the place became well improved and increased in acreage, until it now contains 167 acres, and is considered one of the best farms in Pine Valley Township. Mr. Carl erected a fine dwelling-house of thirteen rooms, a large and commodious barn, 36 by 72 feet, a silo 14 by 33 feet, also a large machine-shed and granary combined, with basement, and two stories above, the basement and first floor being used for housing his machinery, while the upper story is the granary. Aside from this he has a number of small out-buildings for the housing of his swine, fowl and small stock. Mr. Carl always reared good stock, as well as the usual crops, and became one of the prosperous and representative men of his township. In public life he served seven years as clerk of his school district, and did efficient work for five years as township treasurer. He was also for one year a member of the board of supervisors, and has served three times as juryman. He is a member and director of the Farmers' Co-operative Elevator & Lumber Co. of Neillsville, and a stockholder in the First National Bank of Neillsville, the Neillsville Butter Co., the Neillsville Canning Co., and the Wausau Packing Co, He is also a member of the Lynn Fire Insurance Co., and has done good work as agent for this company in this section. In 1917 Mr. Carl moved to Neillsville, purchasing a comfortable home. He still retains the farm in Pine Valley Township. Being of an active nature, he did not come to town to remain idle, but industriously follows his trade and other vocations. On April 16, 1886, at Chicago, Il., Mr. Carl was united in marriage to Martha Elizabeth Martin, daughter of Johannas and Anna Elizabeth (Ohlwein) Martin. Mrs. Carl was born in Germany, Dec. 17, 1866, and came to America with her parents in April, 1884. Mr. and Mrs. Carl are the parents of eight children, all of whom are living: Gustaf, born Jan. 1, 1888, now a member of the machine gun squad at Camp MacArthur, Waco, Tex. ; Alfred, born Feb. 10, 1890, who rents and conducts the old farm in Pine Valley Township, and who, on April 16, 1917, was married to Clara Weiting; Arthur, born Nov. 18, 1892, who following the family tradition, is a carpenter in Neillsville; Ervin, born Sept. 18, 1895, who is a wagon-maker and blacksmith, of Neillsville; William, born Aug. 31, 1897; Harry, born Aug. 2, 1899; Ernest, born June 12, 1901; and Elizabeth, born July 28, 1906. Religiously Mr. Carl and his family are affiliated with the German Lutheran Church.

Alonzo Thomas Huckstead, an enterprising and prosperous farmer of Grant Township, was born in Buffalo, N. Y., Nov. 26, 1860, son of Thomas and Ann (Vine) Huckstead. The father was a native of Kent, England, who came to the United States before the Civil War and was married to Ann Vine in Buffalo. She had been first married to a cousin by the name of Robert Vine, a native of England, and son of Richard Vine, and who had seven children: Daniel, Thomas, Fred, Jesse, James, Robert and Sarah, all of whom came to this country except Sarah. Thomas Huckstead on coming to America worked at whatever he could find to do and just before his marriage had made a trip to the South with a contractor.

He and his wife resided for some years in New York State, where two children were born to them - Alonzo and Edward. In 1862 the family came to Wisconsin, driving with a team during the entire journey and on their arrival in Clark County went first to the home of an uncle, Edward Huckstead, who lived as a bachelor on a claim in Grant township. The party included, in addition to Thomas and his wife, the latter's children by her first husband, of whom there were three - William, John and Elizabeth, and her children by Mr, Huckstead - Alonzo and Edward; also John Vine and his wife, Elizabeth, and their two children - Augusta and Matilda. They were a month on the trip and on arriving at Portage, Wis., heard of the Indian uprising, upon which Thomas Huckstead and John Vine rode horseback to Clark County to ascertain if there was any danger, and on finding that there was not, returned for their families. Thomas Huckstead located on the homestead of the uncle, Edward, who went away to the war, where he died. Thomas on learning of his death, bought out the heirs and took up his permanent residence on the place, which was his home for the rest of his life. It was located in section 20, Grant Township, and consisted of 160 acres, to which he subsequently added sixty acres more, improving the place and erecting good buildings. He died in 1898 at the age of 76 years, his wife dying in 1896 at the age of 67. They were members of the Methodist church and worthy people who won the respect of their neighbors. Alonzo T. Huckstead, in his boyhood, attended the log schoolhouse in the old Wilding district and grew up on the farm, working in the woods during the winter. He learned the carpenter's trade and helped to build many of the residences in Clark County, as well as other buildings. This trade he followed more or less up to 1915, when he assisted in the construction of the new Reed school in Grant Township. At one time he owned a half interest in a wagon and blacksmith shop at Neillsville, He also helped to build the hub and spoke mill at Cameron, Barron County, and subsequently worked in the mill. While thus engaged he had purchased a tract of forty acres in section 21, Grant Township, on which he built a good brick house of eight rooms, and a barn . In the fall of 1913 he located permanently on this place, which is his present home. Here he carries on farming successfully, keeping a good grade of stock. Mr. Huckstead helped to start the Pleasant Ridge Creamery Company, being one of its incorporators, and now a stockholder. He has also twice constructed the building, as it was once burned down. He has served in the office of township supervisor and, fraternally, is a member of the orders of Royal Neighbors and Woodmen of Neillsville. Mr. Huckstead was married Mar. 14, 1893, to Phebe Hoag, a native of Toma, Wis., and daughter of Phillip and Neoma Hoag. He and his wife have one child, May, who is attending the high school at Neillsville.