Door County, Wisconsin - Biographical sketches, 1917 (part 4 of 13)

Milwaukee Medical College as a dental student and completed a course of study there with the class of 1904. For four years thereafter he practiced in Milwaukee and also devoted two years to the study of medicine. On the expiration of that period he came to Sawyer in May, 1908, and has here practiced since. He is displaying marked ability in his chosen calling, meeting all the requirements for able dental practice. His office is well equipped and he utilizes the most improved processes in the care of the teeth.

In 1900 Dr. Bentley was united in marriage to Miss Tessie Foate, of Sturgeon Bay, a daughter of A. J. and Rose (Arldt) Foate, and a high school graduate. They have three children: Virgil and Ardis, who are thirteen and ten years of age respectively; and Gail, who is one year old.

Dr. Bentley votes independently and does not care to ally himself with a party. He has been school commissioner for the past four years and the cause of education ever finds in him a warm friend, anxious and willing to do everything in his power to promote the interests of the public schools. He is a member of the Seventh Day Adventist church and is guided in all that he does by high and honorable principles.

John Buenzow

Many sterling traits of character have won for John Buenzow the stanch friendship and high regard of those with whom he has been brought in contact. He makes his home on section 35, Egg Harbor township, where he owns and cultivates eighty acres of land. He was born in Germany in September, 1853. and is a son of Mr. and Mrs. John Buenzow, who were also natives of that country, where the mother passed away in 1864. Five years later, or in 1869, the father came to the new world and made his way across the country to Wisconsin, settling in Manitowoc county, where he engaged in farming, his remaining days being devoted to the cultivation of his fields. He died in 1883.

When John Buenzow was sixteen years of age he accompanied his father to the United States. He had pursued his education in the schools of Germany and in 1871 he arrived in Door county, where he obtained employment as a farm hand. He had no money at the time of his arrival and it was imperative that he find immediate employment. Carefully saving his earnings, by 1881 he had accumulated a sum sufficient to enable him to purchase a farm and he became the owner of a tract of land in Nasewaupee township. With characteristic energy he began cultivating and developing this place, upon which he resided until 1909. He then sold that property and removed to Egg Harbor township, where he bought eighty acres of land on section 35. He has wonderfully improved his farm and has continually cultivated its fields, from which he annually gathers good crops. He is also engaged in raising high grade stock and both branches of his business are proving profitable.

In April, 1881, Mr. Buenzow was united in marriage to Miss Albertina Golomoll and to them have been born ten children: Emma, Annie, John, Albert, Margaret, Ella, Frank and Otto, together with Charlie and William, who have passed away. The religious faith of the family is that of the Lutheran church and in political belief Mr. Buenzow is a republican, always voting with the party yet never seeking office as the reward of party fealty. He has lived in Wisconsin for almost a half century and has therefore witnessed much of its growth and development, taking active part especially in promoting agricultural interests. Everywhere he is spoken of in tones of warm regard because of his upright life and his many sterling traits of character.

Captain Clifford B. Hart

Captain Clifford B. Hart, deceased, was long prominently connected with the navigation interests on the Great Lakes and was a well known and valued resident of Sturgeon Bay. He became vice president of the H. W. Hart Company, which owned the Hart Line of steamboats, and in later years he was president of the Hart Transportation Company, continuing in active connection with the business until his life's labors were ended in death. He was born in Green Bay, Brown county, Wisconsin, November 30, 1839, a son of Edwin and Eliza J. (Glass) Hart. His father was born in New London, Connecticut, May 5, 1807, while the mother's birth occurred in Clarksville, Ohio. Edwin Hart was a carpenter, learning the trade in Ohio, to which state he went in early life. In 1830 he came to Wisconsin, settling at Fort Howard, where he was engaged in the building of the fort in the employ of the government. Later he turned his attention to the lumber business in Brown county and also became connected with steamboat interests. He was a prominent, active and influential citizen and for many years served as justice of the peace in Oconto, where his remaining days were passed. He made an excellent official, his rulings being strictly fair and impartial C. B. Hart was reared and educated in Green Bay and in Oconto, where he remained with his parents until he attained his majority, but at the age of twelve years he began sailing on the Great Lakes and was captain of a ship when still quite young. His entire life's experience was along that line. He finally became a ship owner and in 1873 in company with H. W. Hart established the Hart Line. He became vice president of the company and sailed as a captain throughout the remainder of his life during those months when navigation is open. The brothers capitalized their company for one hundred and forty thousand dollars and operated the boats Fanny C. Hart, Eugene C. Hart, the C. W. Moore and the Welcome. The partnership was maintained until the death of H. W. Hart after which Captain C. B. Hart continued the business two years longer. He then sold his interests and came to Sturgeon Bay in 1905, where he organized the Hart Transportation Company, of which he became the president, with his wife as vice president, and in this business he continued until his demise, operating three boats. He was a well known figure at the ports along the Great Lakes and was considered an authority on many questions regarding navigation interests.

On the 25th of December, 1861, Captain Hart was married to Miss Harriet Ellen St. Ores, who was born at Mt. Carmel, Illinois, January 28, 1846, a daughter of Lewis and Mariette (Wheelock) St. Ores, who were natives of New York and came to Wisconsin in an early day, settling in Oconto, where the father engaged in the lumber business until 1862. He then removed to California, where he continued in the lumber trade for a number of years and also engaged in mining, spending his remaining days in the Golden State, where he passed away in 1893. He had long survived his wife, who died in 1876. Captain and Mrs. Hart had two children: Lewis E., who was born in October, 1874, and died in March, 1879; and Eugene C., born December 7, 1880, who is now president and manager of the Hart Transportation Company. The family reside in a pleasant home at the corner of Cottage and Church streets.

Captain Hart was a member of the Congregational church and of various fraternal organizations. He attained the thirty-second degree in Masonry and belonged to the Elks and Odd Fellows Lodges. His political endorsement was given to the republican party. Those who knew him esteemed him as a man of genuine personal worth and he was prominently connected with the navigation interests which have constituted so important an element in the development of the state. He had many sterling qualities and his death, which occurred March 19, 1913, after a brief illness, was the occasion of deep and wide spread regret.

Julius Kretlow

Julius Kretlow, who is successfully farming on section 33, Forestville township, was born in Saagen, Schónwalde, Germany, December i2, 1858, a son of Carl and Minnie (Keasow) Kretlow, who were farming people of Germany.

Julius Kretlow spent his early boyhood in his native country but left Europe for the United States at the age of sixteen years and made his way to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He secured employment on a dairy farm near there and afterward removed to Missouri, renting a farm near Bigelow. At a later period, however, he returned to Milwaukee and was again employed on a dairy farm. It was while residing there that he was married. For two years he was connected with the Hour and feed business in Milwaukee and in 1882 he came to Door county, settling in Forestville township, where he purchased his present farm of one hundred and twenty acres situated on section 33. There were old buildings upon the place, but the spirit of progress which he has manifested has brought a marked transformation in the farm. He erected a new brick house and now has fine buildings also for the shelter of grain and stock. A determined purpose has enabled him to accomplish what he has undertaken and as the years have passed he has brought his fields to a high state of cultivation and carried on the farm work with excellent results.

On the 15th of April, 1879, Mr. Kretlow was married to Miss Minnie Heintz, a daughter of Ferd and Catharine (Schmidt) Heintz. Mrs. Kretlow was born in Milwaukee, while her father was a native of Schónwalde and her mother ot Mettenheim, Germany. They came to the United States in 1854 and were married in Milwaukee. To Mr. and Mrs. Kretlow have been born ten children, namely: George; Alfred; Louisa; Julius, who died at the age of nine years: Otto; Edwin; Ella; Lillian; Annie; and Emily.

The religious faith of the parents is that of the Lutheran church, of which they are loyal supporters. Mr. Kretlow has concentrated his entire efforts and attention upon farming interests since coming to Door county and for thirty-five years has lived upon his present farm, which has become one of the productive and valuable properties of the district through his unremitting efforts.

Earl M. La Plant

Earl M. La Plant, president of the Door County News Company, has been identified with journalistic interests since 1914. Successive stages of business development brought him to his present position and his entire course has been characterized by a wise use of time, talents and opportunities. He was born in Sturgeon Bay, April 1, 1882, and is a son of Mitchell Francis and Althea (Birmingham) La Plant, who were natives of Canada and of New York respectively. The father came to Sturgeon Bay in 1878 and was here married in 1880, His wife is a daughter of Andrew Birmingham, who was one of the early settlers of Door county, where he successfully followed farming for many years. Mitchell F. La Plant engaged in the conduct of a barber shop at Sturgeon Bay for twenty-six years and passed away in the year 1913, being still survived by his widow. They had two children, Earl M. and Pearl, the latter now the wife of John M. Harvey, of Milwaukee. Both are graduates of the Sturgeon Bay high school. 1

After completing his education Earl M. La Plant started upon his business career as proprietor of a five and ten cent store, which he established in 1903 and conducted for two years. He then opened a general store which he carried on for some time but put aside mercantile interests to accept public office, having been elected county clerk in 1912. The excellent record which he made in that position led to his reelection in 1914, so that he remained the incumbent in that office for four years. He had already served as alderman of the first ward and in fact was filling the position when elected county clerk.

In the year of his reelection to the office of county clerk Mr. La Plant became one of the organizers of the Door County News Company, which was incorporated on the ist of July, 1914, for the conduct and publication of the Door County News. He became the president, with C. A. Lundberg as vice president and W. E. Wagener as secretary and treasurer. The company issues a ten or twelve page paper, all home print. The office is one of modern equipment, being supplied with a linotype machine and every other facility to advance the interests of the business. The company also does a full line of job printing and is accorded a liberal patronage in that connection, while the News has won a large circulation. Mr. La Plant is recognized as a man of firm purpose and indefatigable energy who carries forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes.

Mr. La Plant was married to Miss Alberta Rysdorp, of Sturgeon Bay, a daughter of John and Jennie (Boer) Rysdorp, of Grand Haven, Michigan, who became early settlers of Door county. Mr. and Mrs. La Plant became the parents of two children, John Mitchell and Shirley. After an illness of two years Mrs. La Plant died February 24, 1917. Fraternally he is connected with the Masonic lodge, chapter and council and in his life exemplifies the beneficent spirit of the craft. He has served as a past chancellor in the Knights of Pythias lodge and he is a memebr of the Congregational church. He also belongs to the Pleasure Park and Drive Association, of which he is the secretary. In politics he is a republican and he keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day. In every relation of life he has measured up to high standards of manhood and citizenship and his influence is always on the side of progress and improvement,

Albert Kalmbach

Albert Kalmbach, prominently and succesfully identified with commercial fishing at Sturgeon Bay for many years, in which connection he has built up a business of large extent and importance, came to this state from Pennsylvania, his birth having occurred in Hollidaysburg, Blair county, January 12, 1851. His parents, Godfrey and Christina (Sager) Kalmbach, were natives of Germany and about 1845 came to the new world, hoping to enjoy better business opportunities on this side of the Atlantic. Mr. Kalmbach had previously conducted a hotel in Germany and he continued in the same line of business in America for a time, opening a hotel at Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. Five years later he removed with his family to Cleveland, Ohio, and after a year come to Door county, Wisconsin, and took charge of a boarding house at Washington Island for J. W. Craw, who owned the harbor there. It was one of the most important harbors on the Great Lakes at that time, being a center of navigation interests and the fishing industry, great quantities of fish being there salted and shipped to various points. Mr. Kalmbach conducted his boarding house for four years and then removed to the southern part of the island, where he turned his attention to farming, his home being at Detroit Harbor, where he carried on general agricultural pursuits from 1860. Both he and his wife reached an advanced age, the former being eighty-seven years and the latter eighty-six years old when called by death. In their family were twelve children, of whom seven passed away in early life. Three of the number reached adult age but are now deceased, namely: Mary, who became the wife of Jacob Richter, both having now passed away; Minnie, who was the wife of H. W. Davis, for many years manager of the Blue Line Railroad of Cleveland, Ohio, but also now deceased; and Susan, who was the wife of Andrew Olsen. Those living are: Michael F., a resident of Duluth, Minnesota; and Albert.

The last named was a little lad of but six summers when with his parents he made the trip on the old side-wheeler City of Cleveland to Washington Island. His environment for four years was that of the boarding house, after which he enjoyed the free, open life of the farm for a time. He attended the district schools and at the age of eighteen he spent a winter season as a student in the Green Bay high school. Previous to this, however, he had begun earning his living as a fisherman, being at the time but sixteen years of age. It was then customary to use the "float-and-stone system" for net fishing, the nets being dropped from one of the old-time open sailboats. His catch was marketed at Washington Harbor and in following this pursuit he met with various hardships and sometimes faced grave dangers. He afterward operated the schooner Lettie

May for his brother in buying and selling fish, and later he established a wholesale fish business at Sturgeon Bay, where he has since remained. In the meantime he had passed through the era of many changes in methods of fishing, in which connection a contemporary writer has said: "He has kept abreast of the times, adopting the different methods as they have presented themselves, and discarding the old ways for the modern aluminum cork, steam lifters, gasoline lifters, steam tugs and gasoline boats. Although he began his career in the old school, he has been progressive and has always been ready to test new devices and give a trial to inventions. At the outset of his fishing experience he worked ten years for his brother, Michael F. Kalmbach, and then continued for different firms until 1893, when he embarked in business on his own account." It was in that year he removed to Sturgeon Bay. He had previously occupied the old Washington Island home for many years and continued its owner until the fall of 1913, when he sold it. In the twenty-four years of his residence in Sturgeon Bay he has developed a business of large and profitable proportions. He has handled an average of six hundred tons of fresh fish and a large amount of salt fish. He has thoroughly modern equipment for handling the trade and conducts both a retail and wholesale business.

On the 20th of November, 1879, Mr. Kalmbach was united in marriage to Miss Dora C. Higgins, a daughter of William R. Higgins, and they have become parents of a son and three daughters: Morris, who is connected with the engineering department of the Wisconsin Telephone Company of Milwaukee and married Miss May Carpenter; Jessie, the wife of Wilfred B. Chase, living in Madison, Wisconsin; Mabel, the wife of William J. Spencer, of Saginaw, Michigan; and Ethel, at home. ^

The family hold membership in the Congregational church and in the social circles of Sturgeon Bay Mr. and Mrs. Kalmbach have long been widely and favorably known. In politics Mr. Kalmbach is a republican. He belongs to the National Fraternal League of Neenah, Wisconsin, and is a charter member of the Royal Arcanum of Sturgeon Bay. His friends, and they are many, speak of him in terms of high regard and it is a delight to them to induce him to enter upon a series of reminiscences concerning his experiences and the developments of the fishing industry. He is at all times a congenial companion, courteous in manner and kindly in spirit. A resident of Door county from early boyhood, his memory forms a connecting link between the primitive past and the progressive present.

Dr. Rudolph A. Woerfel is a comparatively young man but already has attained success and prominence in the field of dental practice that many an older representative of the profession might weli envy. Door county claims him as a native son. He was here born on the 4th of April, 1887, a son of Antone and Augusta (Mills) Woerfel, natives of Germany and of Manitowoc county, Wisconsin, respectively. The father came to Door county in 1867 and was proprictor of one of the early sawmills here. He began operations at Little Sturgeon and afterward removed to Jacksonport, while finally he became a resident of Forestville. He had the first well drilling machinery in the county and for a long period was engaged in the pump manufacturing business and in wagon making. In 1892 he removed to Sawyer, where he embarked in the hotel business, in which he continued until his demise in the year 1895. He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and of the Sons of Herman. His widow still survives. Antone Woerfel was long and actively identified with industrial interests in this county and contributed in substantial measure to the promotion of its business interests. .

Dr. Woerfel, spending his youthful days under the parental roof, mastered the branches of learning taught in the public schools and was áfterward graduated from Marquette University at Milwaukee, where he completed a course in the dental department with the class of 1909. He first located for practice at Eagle River, Wisconsin, where he remained for four years, and in 1913 he opened his office at Sawyer, where he has since remained. He has a well equipped office supplied with all the latest dental devices and appliances, and in the use of the delicate little instruments he is an expert. His work has been highly satisfactory and has gained for him the liberal patronage which he now enjoys.

Dr. Woerfel also occupies an enviable position in public regard because of those qualities of manhood and citizenship which in every land and clime awaken confidence and respect. He guides his life by the teachings of the Congregational church, in which he holds membership, and he is also identified with the Masons and the Knights of Pythias. Politically he maintains an independent course. He is interested in all the forces which work for the benefit of the community and the uplift of the individual. He organized the Scout Troop 3 in 1915 for the Congregational church and was scout master for a year. He does everything possible to surround boys with those influences which work for the upbuilding of character and his interests are broad and varied, while his activities have been resultant.

Richard A. Noelck

Richard A. Noelck, actively engaged in the real estate business at Sturgeon Bay, was born in Chicago, June 17, 1880, a son of Adolph and Amelia Noelck, both of whom died during the infancy of their son Richard. He was reared in his native city and there acquired a public school education. When his textbooks were put aside he turned his attention to the dry goods business and he has had at different times experience in the field of banking, of real estate and insurance. In 1909 he caine to Sturgeon Bay and purchased a farm near Baileys Harbor, which he has since devoted to fruit anf dairy interests. It is splendidly equipped for carrying on business along those lines and his broad experience, practical knowledge and efficiency enable him to speak with authority upon questions relating to both dairying and horticultural pursuits. He likewise conducts one of the leading real estate offices of Sturgeon Bay and has carried on business there since 1912. He keeps thoroughly informed concerning the property that is upon the market and its value and he is thus able to assist his clients in making judicious purchases and profitable sales. Into still another field he has extended his efforts, for he has been engaged in the music business since June, 1915. He carries a general line of musical instruments and musical merchandise and his trade has constantly increased.

In 1908 Mr. Noelck was married to Miss Hedvig Olsen, a native of Moss, Norway, and they have two children: Richard, six and one-half years of age; and Hallward, aged four and one-half years. Mr. Noelck is prominent in Masonic circles, holding membership in Edgewater Lodge, No. 901, F. & A. M., of Chicago; Wiley M. Egan Chapter, No. 126, R. A. M., of Chicago; the Knight Templar Commandery of Green Bay; Wisconsin Consistory, A. & A. S. R.; Tripoli Temple of the Mystic Shrine of Milwaukee; and the Eastern Star. He is likewise identified with the Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, the Knights of Khorassan and the Elks. He takes an active interest in boating and it was he who organized the Peninsula Club, a social club for the men of the town, in 1914. His political endorsement is given to the republican party. He possesses social qualities which render him popular and ability which makes for leadership in everything that he undertakes. He has steadily progressed in business and his enterprise and determination have brought him into prominent commercial relations. What he undertakes he accomplishes, for in his vocabulary there is no such word as fail. He is determined and persistent and step by step he has advanced, winning material success and also gaining the goodwill and confidence of those with whom he has been associated.

Julius Schoenrock

Julius Schoenrock is a well known farmer residing on section 28, Nasewaupee township, where his birth occurred on the gth of September, 1879, his parents being Fred and Wilhelmina Schoenrock. The father, who was born in Germany, January 3, 1830, emigrated to the United States in young manhood and took up his abode in Door county, Wisconsin, in 1872. Here he purchased, cleared and improved a tract of land and his labors as an agriculturist have been attended with a most gratifying measure of success. He served for some time as school director and he is widely known as one of the venerable and highly esteemed old settlers of the community. In the year 1872 he married Miss Wilhelmina Pamkaph, who was born in Germany in June, 1839, and was brought to the new world in childhood. It was only two years after her arrival in this country that she became acquainted with Fred Schoenrock. She died on the 13th of January, 1908, and her remains were interred in the Shoemaker cemetery. Her children were six in number, namely: Frank, who is a resident of Los Angeles; Anna, living in Milwaukce; Julius, of this review; Laura, who is the wife of William Busse; Minnie, who gave her hand in marriage to Frank Whiple, of Los Angeles; and Ferdinand, who passed away in 1911, leaving a wife and one child.

Julius Schoenrock was reared to manhood on a farm and early became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. Farming has since claimed his time and energies and he is busily engaged in the cultivation of a tract of eighty acres on section 28, Nasewaupee township, the well tilled fields yielding rich crops annually. He is a stockholder in the Farmers Produce Company, the Farmers Elevator Company and the Sawyer & Western Telephone Company, of which he is likewise a director.

On the 25th of February, 1909, Mr. Schoenrock was united in marriage to Miss Bertha Marx, of Sheboygan county, Wisconsin, who was born September 27, 1883, and is a daughter of Peter Marx. To them have been born three children, namely: Linda, who was born January 23, 1910; Adeline, whose birth occurred December 28, 1912; and Lorna, born September 11, 1914.

In his political views Mr. Schoenrock is a stanch republican and for two terms he has ably served as town treasurer. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the German Lutheran church of Sawyer, and his life in every relation has been such that he fully merits the high regard and esteem which is accorded him.

Clyde M. Stephenson

Clyde M. Stephenson, well known in financial circles in Sturgeon Bay, entered upon his career in connection with banking in 1906 and in May, 1914, was elected to his present position as cashier of the Merchants Exchange Bank. He was born November 3, 1884, in the city where he still resides, his parents being S. R. and Jennie E. (Heaney) Stephenson, both of whom were natives of New York. They arrived in Sturgeon Bay in the '50s and the father, who was a marine engineer, continued his residence here until his death, which occurred in 1888. His widow survived him for more than a quarter of a century and passed away on the 6th of December, 1915.

At the usual age Clyde M. Stephenson became a pupil in the public schools and passed through consecutive grades to his graduation from the high school with the class of 1903. He afterwards spent three years in Lawrence University and thus liberal education well qualified him for life's practical and responsible duties, his thorough training constituting a broad basis upon which to rear the superstructure of his subsequent success. He has always devoted his attention to the line in which he embarked in early manhood. It was in 1906 that he secured a clerical position in the Merchants Exchange Bank and in that institution he has worked his way steadily upward, mastering the duties of each position and thus gaining that thorough understanding of the banking business so necessary in one who essays its administrative direction and executive control. He was called to the position of cashier in May, 1914, and has since served in that capacity.

On the roth of June, 1911, Mr. Stephenson was married to Miss Belle Bohnenkamp, of Escanaba, Michigan, a daughter of Henry Bohnenkamp, and they have one child, Janet, who is in her second year. In politics Mr. Stephenson maintains an independent course, voting for men and measures rather than party. He served as supervisor for one year and is now serving as alderman from the first ward. Fraternally he is connected with the Masons and the Knights of Pythias and in the former organization has taken the degrees of lodge, chapter and council, making an excellent record by reason of his exemplification of the splendid principles upon which the order is founded. Mr. Stephenson has spent his entire life in Sturgeon Bay and that his course has ever been worthy of confidence and regard is indicated in the large number of his friends who have known him from his boyhood to the present.

James Jirtle

Many countries have furnished representatives to the citizenship of Door county, including Bohemia, several of whose sons have become very substantial and valued residents of the county and have contributed in large measure to its upbuilding and progress. Among this number is James Jirtle, who was born September 16, 1861, and was a lad of nine years when his parents, George and Mary Jirtle, left their native country and brought their family to the new world. They did not tarry on the Atlantic coast but proceeded at once into the interior of the country and the father purchased forty acres of land, which he at once began to farm. As his financial resources increased he added to his original purchase a tract of eighty acres and with the aid of his sons he cleared the entire farm, which at first was covered with a dense growth of timber that must be cut down and disposed of ere the plow could turn the furrows that preceded the gathering of later harvests. James Jirtle cut wood from the age of eight years and thus aided in clearing and developing the old homestead. For an extended period the father was identified with agricultural interests in the county, where he passed away on the 14th of April, 1908, while his wife died November 25, 1890. Both were buried in the Catholic cemetery at Algoma. They had a family of eight children, namely: George and Conrad, living in Clay Banks township; Elizabeth, who is the wife of Matt Hruska, of Rapid River, Michigan; James, of this review; Joseph, a resident of Kewaunee, Wisconsin; Mary, who gave her hand in marriage to Frank Shillin, now deceased; Frank, of Algoma, Wisconsin ; and Peter, living in Chicago Heights, Illinois.

Little opportunity was given James Jirtle to attend school, so that he is practically a self-educated as well as self-made man. In the school of experience, however, he has learned some valuable lessons and he early realized the worth of industry, perseverence and diligence. As stated, he began to cut wood on his father's place at the age of eight and from that time forward aided in every phase of the farm work. He began farming on his own account in 1884 on the old homestead and in the intervening years his work has been carried forward with splendid results. He has improved the place with a beautiful residence and other attractive and substantial buildings which furnish ample shelter for grain and stock and which indicate his progressive spirit. The farm is bearing a good profit through the excellent crops which are annually gathered and in all of his work Mr. Jirtle is most practical.

On the 16th of April, 1890, occurred the marriage of Mr, Jirtle and Miss Katie Strnad, also a native of Bohemia, whence she came to the United States at the age of nineteen years. It was in Door county that she, became acquainted with Mr. Jirtle and to their marriage have been born seven children, namely :

The parents hold membership in the Catholic church of Algoma and Mr. Jirtle is a stalwart supporter of the democratic party, being one of the recognized local leaders. He has served as committeeman of his township and he does everything in his power to promote democratic successes. He has served as supervisor, also as road overseer for several years and for eleven years was school treasurer of district No. 1. He has also been town treasurer for the past four years and has made an excellent record as a public official, seeking ever the welfare and upbuilding of the community, while his duties are discharged with marked promptness and fidelity.

Henry Schmelzer

Henry Schmelzer is widely known as a successful cheese manufacturer, in which business he has engaged for the past twelve years, but it was in 1912 that he purchased his present cheese factory and general store at Vignes. He was well qualified by liberal educational training for the work which now engages his attention and he has done much to further the development of the county in this regard. He was born September 22, 1885, in Forestville township, a son of William and Minnie Schmelzer. The father was born in Manitowoc county, Wisconsin, in 1861 of German stock. For seventeen years he lived in his native county and then came to Door county in 1878. He not only became an active factor in its agricultural interests but also contributed in no small measure to its public progress and acceptably filled several local offices. He served as assessor for seven terms and was clerk of the school district for five years. At all times his political allegiance has been unfalteringly given to the republican party, while his religious faith is that of the Catholic church, his membership being with the Forestville parish. His wife was born in Germany and they became the parents of ten children, namely: Henry, of this review; John, a resident of Forestville; Frank; George; Anne, who is the wife of Joe Shoemaker; Ed; Tressie; Julia; Josephine; and Louise.

Spending his youthful days in his father's home, Henry Schmelzer attended the public schools of Forestville and later pursued a dairy course in the State University of Wisconsin at Madison, gaining much valuable knowledge concerning the scientific methods of caring for cattle and reckoning on their productiveness in relation to dairy products. Becoming thoroughly proficient in the matter of cheese making, he has devoted the past twelve years to that business and in 1912 he purchased the cheese factory at Vignes together with the general store and has since conducted business along those lines, winning a liberal patronage, so that his annual income is now gratifying.

On the 20th of October, 1908, Mr. Schmelzer was married to Miss Iva Brada, of Forestville, and they have one child, Ray, born February 20, 1914. The parents are members of the Catholic church of Forestville. Mr. Schmelzer exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the republican party and keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day. He is a thoroughly alert and energetic young business man, with comprehensive and accurate knowledge of cheese making, and his business interests are carefully and successfully conducted.

Captain Fordel Hogenson

With various activities Captain Fordel Hogenson has been identified. When but twelve years of age he began learning the carpenter's trade and followed that business for a number of years. He has also been connected with navigation interests and with general agricultural pursuits and is now largely giving his time and attention to the conduct of the Evergreen Beach Hotel of Ephraim. He was born in Melfjord, Norway, April 12, 1849, a son of Hogen and Dorothy (Fordelson) Johnson, who were natives of Norway and came to America with their family in 1873. The father was a farmer by occupation and on crossing the Atlantic became a resident of Door county, Wisconsin. He took up his abode at Ephraim, where he remained for a time, and afterward removed to Sister Bay, purchasing land near there in Liberty Grove township. With characteristic energy he began to develop and improve his place and continued its cultivation throughout his remaining days, his death occurring in 1890. His widow survived him for five years, passing away in 1895.

Fordel Hogenson was connected with both carpentering and fishing in his native country. As stated, he began to learn the carpenter's trade when a youth of twelve and continued to work at his trade in America for seven years. He also followed farming in this country for five years. He was a man of twentysix years when he came to the new world and cast his lot with the settlers of Door county, Wisconsin. After devoting considerable time to carpentering and to farming he built a vessel and began sailing on the lakes. Later he bought another boat and he and his sons engaged in sailing for five years. In 1897, however, he turned his attention to the hotel business, starting in a small way, but found that in order to accommodate his patrons he had to enlarge his quarters and today he is the owner of one of the excellent hotels of Ephraim, called the Evergreen Beach Hotel, furnishing accommodations for eighty people. He has continuously managed the hotel and has made it a very popular resort. In addition*he owns forty acres of land, which he cultivates, raising thereon many of the vegetables used in the hotel and also grain.

On the 23d of April, 1875, Captain Hogenson was united in marriage to Miss Lena Raenertson and they became the parents of seven children, namely; Herman, Reinert M., Nels B., Fred E., Lizzie, Sam and Lena G., of whom Lizzie and Lena G. are deceased. The wife and mother passed away in 1887 and the Captain was married again in May, 1889, his second union being with Thonet Tonason.

In his political views Captain Hogenson is a republican and he has filled the office of road overseer for two years. His religious belief is evidenced in his membership in the Moravian church, to the teachings of which he is ever loyal. The hope of bettering his financial condition brought him to the new world and he has never regretted the change which he made. Here he has found good opportunities and as the years have gone on he has steadily progressed, making for himself an enviable position in business circles, being now the possessor of a handsome property and a comfortable competence.

Charles B. Walker

Charles B. Walker, one of the representative farmers of Door county, residing on section 21, Sevastopol township, is one of Wisconsin's native sons, his birth occurring at Sturgeon Bay, July 20, 1856. His parents, John and Eliza Walker, were natives of England and Canada respectively and were married in the latter country, whither the father had removed during his youth. About 1852 they came to Door county, Wisconsin, and for the following five years made their home at Sturgeon Bay. Mr. Walker then took a homestead in Nasewaupee township, which he cleared and improved and continued to reside thereon until his death. He was killed by a falling tree about 1860 and his estate was the first probated in Door county. His widow continued to reside on the homestead for several years and afterward married Martin Peters, who was drowned. One child was born of this union. For her third husband she married Henry Martin, one of the early settlers of this county, and they continued to reside in Sevastopol township until her death. Her remains were interred in Bayside cemetery. There were six children born of the last marriage. The children of' the first union were as follows: two sons who died in infancy; Jane, who died at the age of seven years; Elias, who died at the age of nineteen years; John, who made his home in Chicago and died in 1913, but whose widow and three of whose children now live in Sturgeon Bay, while two other children live in Chicago; Eliza, the wife of Thomas Melville, of Sevastopol township, and Charles B., of this review.

During his boyhood and youth the last named attended the common schools, where he pursued his studies until twelve years of age and then worked on the home farm until he had attained the age of twenty-four. A year later he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Schumacher, a daughter of Louis and Rhodie Schumacher, early settlers of Nasewaupee township. Her mother is deceased and lies buried in a cemetery on a part of the old home farm, and her father died in July, 1917. To Mr. and Mrs. Walker have been born nine children, namely: Jenervie, the wife of Julius Zettel, of Sevastopol township; John, who is operating the home farm: Charles, also a resident of Sevastopol township; Pearl, the wife of Robert Stephenson, of the same township; Jennie, the wife of Fred Weigand, of Sevastopol township; Henry and Lloyd, both of whom are in the army; and Charlotte and Lettie, at home.

About the time of his marriage Mr. Walker purchased forty acres of land in Sevastopol township, which he cleared and improved, and lived thereon for a few years. He then bought an eight acre tract, which he sold in 1899, and at that time purchased the north half of the southwest quarter and the northwest quarter of the southeast quarter of section 21, Sevastopol township, which he has since converted into a highly cultivated and well improved farm. He is one of the self-made men of the community and all that he has acquired has come to him through his own well directed efforts. He supports the men and measures of the republican party and has taken quite an active part in local politics. For the past eight years he has efficiently served as constable, was a member of the township board two terms and has served as a member of the school board several times. He is widely and favorably known in this county, where his entire life has been passed, and he well merits the esteem in which he is held.

Joseph E. Cochennet

Joseph E. Cochennet has won gratifying success as a farmer and has also been connected with industrial interests of Nasewaupee township. He was born in Gibson, Wisconsin, April 17, 1858, but his parents, who were of Swiss descent, passed the greater part of their lives in Manitowoc county. He received a public school education and in 1876, when about eighteen years old, came to Door county, where for four years he worked for A.*W. Lawrence. In 1881 he invested his savings in one hundred and twenty acres of state land and erected a fine two story brick house, a large barn and other buildings and has also bought a farm for his son of two hundred and twenty acres on section 21, Nasewaupee township. The improvements on his place are thoroughly modern and everything is kept in the best of repair. His labors as a farmer have yielded him a competence and he is also a director and stockholder in the Farmers Elevator at Sawyer. He likewise helped to organize the local telephone company and in the '9os erected a cheese factory in his locality. It was also due in part to his efforts that rural route No. 3 was secured.

In the spring of 1881 Mr. Cochennet was married to Miss Ellen Lusier of Mishicot, Wisconsin, who was born in 1859. Their children are: Julia, who is now Mrs. John Mossemann, of Milwaukee; Louis, who is a farmer in Nasewaupee township; John, a resident of Oconto Falls; Adeline, the wife of John Schultise, of Nasewaupee township; and Oscar, Lucy, Elizabeth and Elmer, all of whom are at home.

Mr. Cochennet endorses the principles of the democratic party and for twentytwo years served as assessor while for one year he held the office of side supervisor. He has invariably discharged his official duties capably and conscientiously and the confidence reposed in him has been well merited. Fraternally he is connected with the Masonic Order and with the Eagles. In many ways his community has profited by his enterprise, sound judgment and public spirit and he is deservedly held in high esteem.

Christian H. Nelson

Christian H. Nelson, a resident of Sturgeon Bay, is engaged in farming and fruit growing and that he is an active factor in municipal affairs is indicated in his present service as a member of the city council. Widely and favorably known, his life record cannot fail to prove of interest to many of his fellow townsmen. He was born in Norway, June 18, 1873, and is a son of Nels and Inger (Anderson) Nelson, who were natives of the land of the midnight sun. The parents came to America in 1888, and the father, who had previously learned shoemaking in his native land, settled in Chicago, where he worked at his trade until his death, which occurred May 2, 1898. He survived his wife by only two weeks, as she died on the 22nd of April.

Christian H. Nelson was a lad of fifteen years when he accompanied his parents on their removal to the new world and his education, which was begun in the schools of Norway, was continued in the public schools of Chicago. He remained with his parents until they passed away when he was twenty-five years of age. He then began sailing on the Great Lakes and removed to Sturgeon Bay, where he established his home but sailed out of Chicago. In 1909 he invested his earnings in fifteen acres of land within the city limits and has since engaged in fruit growing. He has six acres in cherries and one acre in currants and also raises strawberries. For the past eight years he has successfully engaged in fruit growing and farming upon his place. He was one of the organizers of the Fruit Growers Association and he has served as a director of the Fruit Exchange. He has put all of the buildings on his place and now has a splendidly improved property, which is the evidence of his industry, his economy and his life's well directed energy and thrift.

In August, 1904, Mr. Nelson was married to Miss Hannah Hendricks, a daughter of Ole and Astri (Benson) Hendricks. The father came to America in boyhood, crossing the Atlantic with his parents when about fifteen years of age. He removed to Door county in 1867 and engaged in farming in Sturgeon Bay township, where he and his wife still reside. Mr. and Mrs. Nelson became the parents of three children but all died in infancy. Their religious belief is that of the Moravian church, in the work of which they take an active and helpful part, Mr. Nelson now serving as the chairman of the board of trustees. In politics he is a republican and he is now a member of the city council, which position he has filled for four years. He gives thoughtful and earnest consideration to questions of general moment and exercises his official prerogatives in support of all plans which he believes will enhance the public good.

George J. De Keyser

George J. De Keyser, a resident farmer of Union township, is the owner of an excellent tract of land on which are many modern improvements. He was reared to agricultural life and has always continued in the same line of business, his intelligently directed efforts bringing him a substantial measure of success. He was born in Union township February 20, 1882, and is a son of Joseph and Matilda (Patris) De Keyser, the former a native of Brussels, Belgium, while the mother's birth occurred in Liege, the city which first felt the brunt of German oppression in the present war. The father left Brussels with his father, Gabriel De Keyser, and his brothers and sisters, sailing for the United States in 1854 in a sailing vessel which ultimately dropped anchor in the harbor of Quebec. The family then proceeded up the St. Lawrence river and on to Green

Bay, Wisconsin, soon afterward settling in Union township, Door county, where Gabriel De Keyser secured eighty acres of government land. Not a furrow had been turned nor an improvement made upon the place and in fact a dense growth of forest trees had to be cleared away ere the land could be brought under the plow. He built a log house and the family began living in true pioneer style upon this place. The grandfather continued his farming operations there until his later years, and passed away at the age of eighty-six, having long survived his wife who died at the age of sixty-five. Their son, Joseph De Keyser, eventually became owner of the farm property, and added to the old homestead until he was the possessor of three hundred acres of valuable and highly improved land. He is still living in the county at the age of eighty years, but his wife died three years ago at the age of sixty-seven. His political endorsement has always been given to the republican party since he attained the right of American franchise.

The boyhood days of George J. De Keyser were spent upon the old home farm in Union township, and after mastering the branches of learning taught' in the district schools he spent one year in the Green Bay high school. He started upon his business career as an employe of the Pierre-Virlee Company of Brussels township, remaining with them as clerk in their store for five years. He then returned to the old home place, a part of which he now owns. Upon this he has erected new buildings and has carried forward the work of further improvement and development with the result that his labors have brought good returns, classing him with the successful and representative agriculturists of the community.

In 1904 Mr. De Keyser was married to Miss Josephine Massardt, a daughter of John B. and Eliza (Quartimont) Massardt, who were natives of Belgium, where Mrs. De Keyser was also born. They have become parents of seven children, Martha, Clarence, Leona, Georgia, Louise, Anna and Lizzie.

Politically Mr. De Keyser is a republican, active in the local ranks of the party, and for four years he served as chairman of the board of Union township. He belongs to St. Mary's Catholic church, is deeply interested in its work and for ten years was its secretary.

Frank Angerer

Among the substantial citizens that Austria has furnished to Door cousty is numbered Frank Angerer, who is living on section 39, Egg Harbor township. where he owns and operates one hundred and forty acres of good land, being now known among the representative farmers of his district. He was born in Austria in February, 1864, and is a son of Joseph and Agnes (Maurer) Angerer, who were natives of that country. The father followed the occupation of farming in Austria, where he spent his entire life, there passing away in 1865. His widow survived him, her death occurring in 1898.

Frank Angerer remained in his native land through the period of his boyhood, youth and early manhood. He pursued his education in its public schools. but his opportunities in that direction were somewhat limited owing to the neces- sity that he early provide for his own support. In the school of experience, however, he has learned many valuable lessons and has become a well informed, capable man. He was but thirteen years of age when he left his mother's home in order to earn a living, working out in Austria until 1892 when he crossed the Atlantic with the hope of bettering his financial condition in the new world. He first made his way to Pennsylvania, where he was employed in the coal mines for nineteen years. He then came to Wisconsin, arriving in Door county in 1912, where he invested his savings in one hundred and forty acres of land on section 39, Egg Harbor township. He at once began the further development and improvement of this property, which he has since cultivated and he has now transformed his place into rich fields which are annually bringing forth good crops. He also makes a specialty of dairying, milking eleven cows, and this branch of his business adds not a little to his annual income.

Mr. Angerer is pleasantly situated in his home. He was married in August, 1899, to Miss Mary Kroll, and to them have been born six children, namely: Gotlieb, David, Joseph, Lucy, Frank and John. All are yet living with the exception of David.

In his political views Mr. Angerer has been a democrat since becoming a naturalized American citizen. He endorses the faith of the Catholic church and has ever been loyal to its teachings. He came to the new world when a man twenty-eight years of age, seeking a better chance for advancement than he could secure in his native country and as time has passed on he has wisely utilized his opportunities, working his way upward step by step until he is now the possessor of a good farm and a substantial competence.

Dr. Henry C. Sibree, actively and successfully engaged in medical and surgical practice at Sturgeon Bay, has been the pioneer in introducing many modern methods into Door county. He stands in the vanguard among those who are the exponents of modern scientific research and investigation and his labors have been attended with notably successful results. He was born in New York city, July 28, 1852, a son of Henry and Maria (Vreeland) Sibree, who were natives of Edinburgh, Scotland, and of New Jersey respectively. The latter was of Holland descent and the former came of Scotch Danish ancestry. Dr. Sibree is today the only man of the name in the United States. Many generations ago two Danes of that name removed from Denmark to Scotland and the name is found in England and New Zealand but not elsewhere. The father was a block printer by trade and later engaged in the express business in New York city. In 1858 he came to Wisconsin, settling in Manitowoc county, where he engaged in farming for four years. He afterward read law with J. D. Markham and was admitted to the bar. He practiced for several years and for one term served as district attorney. Both he and his wife passed away in Manitowoc.

Dr. Henry C. Sibree acquired a public school education in Manitowoc, passing through consecutive grades to the high school, and later he read medicine with Dr. Cokely. Subsequently he entered the Northwestern University Medical School at

Dr. Henry C. Sibree

Chicago, from which he was graduated with the class of 1878. For five years thereafter he engaged in practice at Peshtigo, Wisconsin, and for a short time maintained an office at Green Bay but in 1883 came to Sturgeon Bay, where he embarked in general practice, in which he has since continued, although in recent years he has specialized largely in surgery. His contributions to professional service here have been most valuable. He built the first hospital of Door county in 1901 and he brought the first trained nurse to the county. He also performed the first operation for appendicitis in the county and he has taken the initial step in much professional work here. He is surgeon for the railway company and in addition he has a large private and hospital practice.

On the 27th of November, 1878, Dr. Sibree was married to Miss Cora A. French, of Dover, Ohio, a daughter of A. B. French, and their children are: Gertrude A., the wife of A. J. Basford, living at Grand Rapids, Michigan ; Harry, who died at the age of fifteen months ; Lucy, at home ; and Margery, who is a nurse.

Dr. Sibree gives his political allegiance to the republican party and when in Peshtigo he served as county superintendent of schools in Marinette county. Fraternally he is connected with the Masons and formerly was an Odd Fellow. In the latter organization he filled all the chairs but has since ceased to be an active member of the order. He stands high professionally, is most conscientious in the performance of his duties, and he adds to his professional skill and ability a humanitarian spirit which is manifested in his ready sympathy and helpfulness.

William Moeller

Among those who were at one time active and valued citizens of Sturgeon Bay and who have been called from this life was William Moeller, who for a considerable period was proprietor of a hotel in Sturgeon Bay. He was born May 18, 1869, in the city in which he died, his parents being Marcus and Pulchira (Dangel) Moeller, who are mentioned in connection with the sketch of Frank J. Moeller, on another page of this work.

William Moeller wase reared under the parental roof and pursued a public school education in Sturgeon Bay. He continued with his parents until 1894 and was then appointed postmaster of Sevastopol township. He continued to act in that capacity for several years and when his father built the Union Hotel in Sturgeon Bay, William Moeller took charge of it and conducted it until his death, making it a popular and well patronized hostelry.

On the 7th of January, 1896, Mr. Moeller married Miss Mary Propson, a daughter of Peter and Catherine (Kartheiser) Propson, who were natives of Germany and came to America in early life. The father resided for a time in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and afterward came to Sturgeon Day. He had learned the carpenter's trade and followed this pursuit for many years, but eventually purchased land, a part of which was within the city limits. This he continued to cultivate and improve and upon his farm spent his remaining days, passing away in October, 1896. His widow survives at the age of sixty-nine years. To Mr. and Mrs. Moeller were born two children: Leo A., who was born March 1. 1900; and Mercedes, who was born September 30, 1905, and passed away

December 27, 1907. Mrs. Moeller was born in Sturgeon Day February 9, 1872, and she has always resided in Door county. Since her husband's death she has conducted the Union Hotel and she also owns and cultivates a small orchard, having two acres in cherries. She possesses excellent business ability and enjoys the goodwill and the respect of all who know her. She holds membership in the Catholic church, to which Mr. Moeller belonged and in that faith he passed away August 23, 1913. He was a member of the Catholic Knights, the Catholic Order of Foresters and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. His political support was given the democratic party and for two terms he filled the position of alderman. He had many friends in the community where he lived and his enterprise in business, his loyalty in citizenship and his faithfulness in friendship, together with his devotion to his family, made him one of the valued and most highly esteemed citizens of Sturgeon Bay.

Hon. Fred S. Hanson

Hon. Fred S. Hanson, who has done valuable public service as a member of Congress and as state dairy inspector, which position he is now filling, was born in Denmark, March 6, 1865, a son of Jorgen and Karen ( Marquard) Hanson, who were also natives of Denmark. The father was a contractor in the old country and never came to the new world, but passed away in Denmark, in 1881, while his wife died in 1882.

Fred S. Hanson spent his youthful days under the parental roof and was educated in the schools of that country, spending one year as a student in a military school. At the age of fourteen years he began learning the butter making trade, and when nineteen years of age he enlisted in the Danish army with which he served one year. For several years he conducted creameries at Schleswig, Denmark, and in Sweden, but, attracted by the opportunities of the new world, at length left Europe to try his fortune in America, crossing the Atlantic in 1893. He made his way at once to Kewaunee county, Wisconsin, where he secured employment in operating a creamery for a year. That was the first creamery in the county and Mr. Hanson became the pioneer butter maker in this part of the state. In 1894 he removed to Door county and at Jacksonport established the first creamery within the borders of this county, conducting the business successfully for five years, after which he sold out and removed to Forestville, where he established another creamery which he conducted for a year and then sold. He next engaged in merchandising at Egg Harbor where he also bought dock property. He resided there for four years and during that time filled the office of postmaster. On disposing of his business there, he came to Sturgeon Bay in 1904, and purchased a large tract of land within the city limits along the bay shore. This he platted and then sold many lots. He also engaged in fruit growing and dairying for some time and upon his place erected a fine modern residence, called Hanson's Villa. His fellow townsmen, appreciative of his worth and ability, have called him to several offices of public honor and trust. He has always been a stalwart republican and upon the party ticket he was elected to the state legislature, receiving twelve hun- dred and twenty-six votes, against six hundred and seventy-four votes cast for E. N. Anderson the independent candidate, and seventy-four votes cast for J. P. Seaquist, the prohibition candidate. This was in 1914. He made an excellent official, giving careful consideration to the questions which came up for settlement. In February, 1917, he was appointed state dairy inspector and has eight counties to cover. He is well qualified for this position and is doing excellent service in that connection. He is also a member and the secretary of the Equitable Fraternal Union.

In November, 1893, Mr. Hanson was united in marriage to Miss Anna McCoshey, a daughter of Michael and Anna (Witchpalek) McCoshey, who were natives of Poland and Bohemia respectively. Coming to America they settled in Kewaunee county, Wisconsin, where the father purchased timber land near Algoma. He cleared away the trees, took out the stumps and plowed the fields, which in due course of time brought forth good crops. For many years he successfully carried on farming and he is now living retired in Algoma, where he and his wife occupy a comfortable home and are enjoying the competence that came to them as the reward of their former labors.

Mr. and Mrs. Hanson have become the parents of two children: Leo J., who was born March 11, 1895, and has just completed a course in medicine in the State University at Madison; and Theodore Roosevelt, who was born in August, 1898, was graduated from the Sturgeon Bay high school in 1917 and expects to become a medical student in the State University. The religious faith of the family is that of the Catholic church. Mr. Hanson has made steady progress since he came to the new world as a young man, winning success in business and gaining for himself a creditable position as a citizen whose devotion to the public welfare has been manifest in many tangible efforts for the public good.

Gilbert J. Anderson

Gilbert J. Anderson is a retired farmer living on section 25, Forestville township. For many years he was actively identified with general agricultural pursuits, so that he now deserves the rest which has come to him. He has reached the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten - in fact has passed the seventy-second milestone on life's journey, his birth having occurred in Norway, February 17, 1845, his parents being Andrew and Mary (Jensen) Anderson. He had reached the age of twenty-two years when on the oth of April, 1867, he left Norway for the United States, taking passage on a sailing vessel which was eleven weeks in reaching Quebec, Canada. From that point he proceeded to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, where he first engaged in carpenter work, while later he operated a sawmill up the river. He also gave some attention to farming in that locality but on the 1st of September, 1871, he left Manitowoc for Door county and in connection with his brother-in-law, Eric Nelson, he purchased three forty acre tracts of land. They cleared a part of the farm and later divided it, Mr. Anderson coming into possession of the sixty acres which he now owns. Through all the intervening period, covering forty-six years, he has been identified with

In 1866 Mr. Anderson was united in marriage to Miss Dorothy Nelson, a daughter of Nels and Sarah (Erickson) Nelson, who were married in Norway. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have six children, namely: Mary, John, Sophia, Nicholas, Anton and Edward. In his political views Mr. Anderson has been a republican since becoming a naturalized American citizen and has never faltered in his allegiance to the party. In the spring of 1872 he was elected supervisor and for thirty-three years he served on the school board, actively interested in the cause of public education with an earnest desire to provide the young of the district with adequate opportunities in that direction. He also served as school clerk. He has, moreover, been the champion of good roads and has done everything in his power to further public highways. He is one of the oldest members of the Norwegian church and his entire life has been actuated by high and honorable principles, making him a man whom to know is to esteem.

Andris M. Bursen

Andris M. Bursen of Sturgeon Bay is one of the proprietors of the Sawyer Garage Company, Incorporated, and in this connection is handling a successful and growing business. He was born in Chicago, Illinois, in July, 1888, a son of Martin and Karen (Salvesen) Bursen, who were natives of Stavanger, Norway, and at an early day came to the new world, establishing their home in Chicago. The father was a sail maker by trade and before coming to the United States worked for Thomas Lipton in London. He continued at his trade until 1905, when he came to Door county and established his home on a farm which he had purchased in 1896. For twelve years he has continued to cultivate and develop this property and has added to it many modern, substantial improvements. Both he and his wife still reside in Sturgeon Bay township.

Andris M. Bursen was reared and educated in Chicago. For eight years he was employed in the Englewood State Bank and also spent four years in the employ of his father on the farm. In the spring of 1916, however, he left the bank and came to Sturgeon Bay. On March 1, 1917, he became associated with Ed Hunt and David J. Machia in the automobile business, which they incorporated under the name of the Sawyer Garage Company, with Mr. Hunt as the president, Mr. Machia as vice president and Mr. Bursen as secretary and treasurer. They handle the Overland car exclusively and have the agency for the entire county except Forestville. They also do a general repair business and carry automobile supplies.

On the 4th of April, 1916, Mr. Bursen was united in marriage to Miss Alma Goerler, a daughter of Bernard and Marie (Wegman) Goerler, who were natives of Germany and of Door county, Wisconsin, respectively. In early life the father came to the new world and cast in his lot with the pioneer settlers of Door county, where he opened a saloon and engaged in the business for many years. He now conducts a restaurant in Sawyer. Mr. and Mrs. Bursen have one child, Andris B., born May 24, 1917. The religious faith of the family is that of the Lutheran church, and in his political views Mr. Bursen is a republican. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias and to the Royal League. He is now well known in Sturgeon Bay and has contributed in no small measure to the successful upbuilding of the business in which he is now engaged.

Dr. Arthur J. Gordon, engaged in the practice of dentistry in Sturgeon Bay for sixteen years, is now a well known representative of professional interests in Door county. He was born in Brodhead, Wisconsin, August 18, 1877, and is a son of Alexander and Alice (Jelliff) Gordon, who were early residents of Brodhead, establishing their home at that place about 1874. They are now residents of California. The father devoted his early life to farming and afterward became connected with the oil business.

Dr. Gordon acquired a public school education and afterward entered the Wisconsin College of Physicians and Surgeons, becoming a student in the dental department, from which he was graduated with the class of 1901. In August of the same year he came to Sturgeon Bay and opened an office which he has since maintained. Its equipment in the intervening years has been changed to correspond with the improvements which modern scientific research and later-day inventions have brought to light. He possesses in large measure that mechanical skill and ingenuity so necessary in successful dental practice and in all respects he is well qualified for the work which has devolved upon him. That his efforts are highly satisfactory to the public is indicated by the many who have given him their professional support through all these years.

In 1902 Dr. Gordon was married to Miss Maude Marie Roderick, of Brodhead, and they have two children, Roderick and Philip. Dr. Gordon belongs to the Knights of Pythias, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America, while his political views are indicated in the stalwart support which he gives to the republican party. The honors and emoluments of office, however, have had no attraction for him, as he has always preferred to concentrate his energies and attention upon his practice. He has ever remained a student of dentistry and his conscientious work well merits the success which is his.

Lewis Polster

Since 1890 Lewis Polster has carried on farming in Door county and is now the owner of a well improved and valuable farm on section 2, Sevastopol township. A native of Wisconsin, he was born in the town of Russell, Sheboygan county, November 22, 1865, and is a son of Charles and Anna Polster, who were born in Germany but came to the United States during their youth and were married in Sheboygan county, this state, where the father purchased a farm and engaged in agricultural pursuits for a number of years. He died in December,

1886, and the mother departed this life December 28, 1916, both being laid to rest in the Russell cemetery. In the family were six children, Lewis being the second in order of birth, but only two of the number are now living, the younger being Otto, who still resides on the old homestead in Sheboygan county.

Like most farmer boys, Lewis Polster early became familiar with all the duties of the farm and at the same time pursued his studies in the district schools as he found opportunity until sixteen years of age. He then worked for his father until he was twenty-two years old and afterward rented the home farm for one year. The following two years were spent at Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, where he worked as a railroad section hand, but on the 10th of September, 1890, he came to Door county and purchased the west half of the northeast quarter of section 11, Sevastopol township, twenty-eight acres of which had been cleared. He removed the timber from the remainder of the tract and made all of the improvements upon that place and later purchased the west half of the southeast quarter of section 2 of the same township, whereon he has resided ever since. He has erected good and substantial buildings for the shelter of grain and stock and is a progressive, wide-awake farmer who has made a success of his chosen calling.

On the 15th of March, 1888, Mr. Polster married Miss Amelia Henschel, a daughter of Herman and Mary Henschel, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Wisconsin. For some years her father followed farming in Sheboygan county, this state, but later removed to Sturgeon Bay, Door county, where he passed away, his remains being interred in Bayside cemetery. Mrs. Henschel is now living at Russell, Sheboygan county. Of the six children born to Mr. and Mrs. Polster, Florence died at the age of thirteen months and the others are still living, namely: Amanda, at home; Lottie, the wife of Joseph Pichette, of Egg Harbor; Selma, of Racine, Wisconsin; and Eda and Helen, both at home.

The family hold membership in the German Lutheran church and Mr. Polster is a supporter of the republican party, taking a commendable interest in public affairs. He has served as school director and pathmaster for one term each but prefers to give his attention principally to his business interests and is regarded as one of the representative farmers of his community.

The student of history cannot carry his investigations far into the records of Door county, and especially of Egg Harbor township, without learning of the important part which Fred Martens has played in the agricultural development of the district. He has not only carried on farming himself but he has reared a family who have done much to further the development of the county along that line. He was born in Germany, July 2, 1852, a son of Frederick and Elizabeth Martens, who were natives of Germany, where the father followed the occupation of farming throughout his entire life, there passing away in 1905. He long survived his wife, whose death occurred in 1862.

country worked upon the home farm and also in the city until 1881, when, at the age of twenty-nine years, he decided to try his fortune in the new world. He had previously served for three years in the German army. When he came to the United States he made his way to Chicago, where he lived for three years, and in 1884 he came to Door county, Wisconsin, purchasing land in Egg Harbor township. His place is on section 15, and when it came into his possession it was a wild and undeveloped tract. He at once began clearing and improving the property and successfully continued its cultivation until 1913, when he retired from active farm life, retained an acre of land for himself and then sold the remainder of the place to his son. He was at one time the owner of two hundred acres, which constituted one of the desirable and valuable farms of Egg Harbor township, and was visible evidence of his life of well directed energy and thrift.

In October, 1882, Mr. Martens was united in marriage to Miss Mary Kamming, and they have become parents of six children; Ida; Fred; William; Charlie; and Annie, all at home; and Walter, who died in September, 1892. Mr. and Mrs. Martens hold membership in the Lutheran church and his political allegiance is given to the democratic party. He served as school treasurer for nine years but otherwise has not been active in public office. For a third of a century he has resided in Door county and was long one of its leading and enterprising farmers, while the rest which he is now enjoying is well deserved.

Fred J. Martens

Fred J. Martens, successfully engaged in general farming and dairying, his home being on section 22, Egg Harbor township, was born in Chicago, Illinois, in June, 1884, a son of Fred and Mary (Kamming) Martens, who are mentioned elsewhere in this work. He was reared in Egg Harbor township, Door county, where he attended the public schools. When not occupied with his textbooks he worked upon the home farm and remained with his father until after attaining his majority, when he purchased his present place of eighty-six acres on sections 22 and 23, Egg Harbor township, his buildings being upon the latter section. He at once began the task of developing and improving his farm and the result of his labors is seen in one of the most attractive places in his part of the county. Wild land has been transformed into richly cultivated fields and he has an acre of land planted to cherries. He also engages in dairying, making a specialty of handling thoroughbred Holstein cattle, milking twelve cows. He has excellent equipment for his dairy business, which is conducted along the most sanitary and scientific lines.

On the 13th of June, 1906, Mr. Martens was united in marriage to Miss Katie Zettel, a daughter of Albert and Caroline (Wolske) Zettel. Mr. and Mrs. Martens have become parents of five children: Mabel, who was born April 20, 1907, and died August 18th of that year; Edna, who was born July 11, 1908; Arthur, who was born November 27, 1909; Lester, born April 24, 1912, and a twin of Lester, who did not live.

recognizing his worth, have called him to several local offices. For two years he was township supervisor, has been school clerk for four years and is the present school treasurer. High regard is entertained for him by all who have business or social relations with him.

Charles F. Martens

Charles F. Martens is a representative of an old and well known family of Door county. Reared to the occupation of farming, he is now successfully engaged in carrying on general agricultural pursuits on section 15, Egg Harbor township. He was born July 6, 1888, a son of Fred and Mary (Kamming) Martens, who are mentioned on another page of this work. He was reared and received his early education in Egg Harbor township and continued his studies in the State University at Madison, Wisconsin, thus receiving liberal training. He remained at home with his parents until his father retired from active business life, at which time he purchased one hundred and fifty-nine acres of the old home place, which is situated on sections 15 and 16, Egg Harbor township, with the buildings on the former section. He has since improved the place to a large extent and has successfully cultivated his fields, which annually produce rich crops. The improvements upon his place are thoroughly modern and he follows the most progressive methods in the care and development of his fields and in his stock raising interests. He has five acres planted to cherries and apples and he is making a specialty of dairying, keeping pure bred Holstein cattle and milking eighteen cows. He also raises Poland China hogs and his live stock interests are an important feature of his business.

On the 8th of February, 1914, Mr. Martens was united in marriage to Miss Ella Graf and they have one child, Robert Phillip, who was born April 16, 1917. Their religious belief is that of the Lutheran church and Mr. Martens belongs also to the Moose lodge but in politics maintains an independent course. He is well known as a representative of one of the old and prominent families of Door county and his own life record is one which has gained for him the esteem and warm regard of those with whom he has been brought in contact.

William L. Martens

The history of agricultural development and progress in Egg Harbor township would be incomplete were there failure to make reference to the Martens family, of which William L. Martens is a representative. He now resides on section 16 and, moreover, he is a native son of Egg Harbor township. He was born on the 12th of January, 1887, of the marriage of Fred and Mary (Kamming) Martens. His youthful days were spent under the parental roof and his education was acquired in the public school. Through the summer months he worked in the fields and was thus trained to the labor which he has made his life work. He continued to assist his father until he reached the age of twenty years, when he purchased his present place, comprising one hundred acres on section 16, Egg Harbor township. This he at once began to clear and develop and today he is the owner of a splendidly improved farm which he has continuously operated, bringing his fields to a high state of cultivation. He makes a specialty of dairying and handles graded Holstein cattle. His farm is well equipped for the conduct of a dairy business and his interests along that line are conducted in a most sanitary and scientific way.

On the 5th of September, 1907, Mr. Martens was united in marriage to Miss Emma Schuster and they have become parents of five children: Mildred, Evelyn, Wilmer, Helen and Loretta. Mr. Martens exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the democratic party and his religious faith is that of the Lutheran church. He has been a lifelong resident of this county and he has many friends among its more substantial citizens, enjoying the goodwill and confidence of those with whom he has been associated.

Alexander Morrow

Alexander Morrow, who follows farming on section 10, Sevastopol township, is a native of Wisconsin, born May 24, 1846, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Houle) Morrow, natives of Canada and Wisconsin respectively. When our subject was small his father was employed in sawmills in many parts of this state but later purchased a farm and lived thereon until the last few years of his life. For a time he made his home in Sturgeon Bay but his last days were spent with our' subject, passing away here September 1, 1882. After his death the mother made her home with a daughter in Medford, Michigan, where she died and was buried. The remains of the father, however, were interred in a cemetery at Sturgeon Bay. To this worthy couple were born nine children, but the family became widely scattered and our subject knows of but one brother and one sister now living, these being William, a resident of Medford, Michigan; and Amanda, the wife of George Green, of Chicago.

Alexander Morrow was quite small when the family located on a farm near Green Bay and amid pioneer scenes he grew to manhood, his early educational advantages being such as the district schools afforded at that time. After laying aside his textbooks at the age of sixteen years he worked as a farm hand in Door county for some time but was finally able to purchase the south half of the southeast quarter of section 10, Sevastopol township, which he cleared and improved, converting it into a good farm where he now resides.

On the 16th of May, 1873, Mr. Morrow was united in marriage to Miss Frances Kunsela, a native of Bohemia who came to America when sixteen years of age, but her parents never crossed the Atlantic and are now deceased. The children born of this union are as follows: George, who died at the age of fortyfour years, leaving a widow and five children, now residents of Sevastopol township; John and Jerome, both dredge captains in Boston, Massachusetts ; Edward, a resident of Buffalo, New York; Frank, who is now operating the home farm; Mary, the widow of Michael Donovan, living near Oneida Reservation, Michigan; and Ethel, at home. The family are communicants of the Catholic church and Mr. Morrow is a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters. Wherever known he is held in the highest esteem and he is regarded as one of the leading citizens of his community.

Arthur D. Rieboldt

Arthur D. Rieboldt is conducting a well equipped photographic studio in Sturgeon Bay. He is well known in this city, where the greater part of his life has been passed. He was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, October 6, 1884, and is a son of August Rieboldt, who for many years has been prominently connected with the shipbuilding interests of this city and is thus controlling a most important industrial enterprise of Sturgeon Bay.

Spending his youthful days under the parental roof, Arthur D. Rieboldt acquired a public school education. He became a high school student and when his textbooks were put aside he entered the employ of his father, with whom he worked for a few years. He then became government stone inspector, which position he filled for several years, and he still does that class of work. At the present time, however, he is conducting the Rieboldt Studio, which was established by O. R. Moore and was purchased by Mrs. Rieboldt in 1909. Mr. and Mrs. Rieboldt are now associated in the management of the enterprise and have made it the leading photographic gallery of Sturgeon Bay. They employ the most modern and improved scientific processes in making pictures and have succeeded in producing splendid effects in light and shade and, moreover, have the faculty of obtaining a natural expression and pose on the part of their subjects. '

In 1910 Mr, Rieboldt was married to Miss Jessie Batchelder, of Sturgeon Bay, a daughter of Peter Batchelder, a well known representative of navigation interests who for many years has been a captain on the lakes. Mr. Rieboldt belongs to the Masonic lodge, chapter and council and also to the Knights of Pythias and is loyal to the teachings of these orders, which recognize the brotherhood of mankind and the obligation thereby imposed.

Dr. Timothy A. Egan, who for twenty-one years has practiced dentistry in Sturgeon Bay, was born in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, January 24, 1869, a son of William and Hannah (Kelley) Egan, both of whom were natives of Ireland, the former born in Tipperary and the latter in Cork. The maternal grandfather brought his family to Wisconsin in 1849 and cast in his lot with the pioneer settlers of Manitowoc. It was in,1852 that William Egan became a resident of Manitowoc, where he engaged in business as a grain buyer. He passed away in 1906 at the age of sixty-eight years, his birth having occurred in 1838. His widow survived him for a long period and had reached the age of sixty-eight when she was called to her final home in 1915.

After completing his public school training in the high school of Manitowoc, Dr. Egan entered the Chicago College of Dental Surgery, from which he was graduated in 1896. Immediately afterward he came to Sturgeon Bay, where he established his office and has since followed his profession. He is most careful in the conduct of his work and to mechanical skill and ingenuity he adds broad scientific knowledge.

On the 15th of August, 1901, Dr. Egan was united in marriage to Miss Clara Ryan, of Sturgeon Bay, a daughter of Patrick and Clara (Damnkohler) Ryan. They have four children, John, Mary, William and Cathryne. The family are members of St. Joseph's Catholic church and Dr. Egan belongs to the Knights of Columbus, the Catholic Order of Foresters and the Modern Brotherhood of America. His political allegiance is given to the democratic party, but he does not seek nor desire office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his professional duties, which are continually becoming more extensive.

Jacob Staats

Jacob Staats, who is living on section 36, Egg Harbor township, his time and energies being concentrated upon general argicultural pursuits, was born in Washington county, Wisconsin, July 2, 1853, a son of John and Elizabeth (Hartman) Staats, who were natives of Germany and crossed the Atlantic in an oldtime sailing vessel at an early date. John Staats was a lad of nine years at the time. The family home was established in Erie, Pennsylvania, and when he was eighteen years of age a removal was made to Washington county, Wisconsin, where he afterward took up a homestead on which not a furrow had been turned nor an improvement made. With characteristic energy he began the development of the property and this he cleared, afterward plowing his land and planting his crops which in due course of time brought forth rich harvests. His remaining days were devoted to agricultural pursuits upon that farm, which continued his place of residence until his death in 1880, when he was fifty-four years of age. He had long survived his wife who died in 1856.

Jacob Staats was reared and educated in Washington county, having the usual experiences of the farm bred boy who attends the district schools and works in the fields and thus becomes trained for life's activities and responsibilities. He remained at home until he reached the age of twenty-seven years, when he came to Door county and for a year was employed at farm labor. He then rented land, which he cultivated for a short time, and, carefully saving his earnings, he was afterward able to purchase his present place of eighty acres, which he at once began to clear and develop, transforming it into rich and productive fields. He afterward bought one hundred and sixty acres more and now has an excellent farm of two hundred and forty acres, which he is successfully cultivating. He started out empty handed and today is the possessor of one of the best improved places in the county. His buildings are all on section 36, while eighty acres of his land lies in section 35, Egg Harbor township. In addition to cultivating the cereals best adapted to soil and climate he raises high grade and some pure bred Holstein cattle, and milks fourteen cows.

On the 19th of August, 1880, Mr. Staats was united in marriage to Miss Magdalena Puehler, and they have become parents of twelve children: May, the wife of John Swichenberg, a resident farmer of Egg Harbor township; Elmer, who follows farming if Canada; Laura, the wife of John Graf, a farmer of Montana; Hattie, the wife of John Benuchner, who is living in Egg Harbor township; Edward; Albert; Clara; Jacob; Norman; and three children who died in infancy.

Mr. Staats votes with the democratic party since attaining the right of franchise but has never been an office seeker. His religious faith is that of the Lutheran church and he is held in high esteem as a man loyal to his principles and honorable in business relations.

Nicholas Moeller

Among the respected citizens of Sturgeon Bay is Nicholas Moeller, who engaged in farming in Door county for many years but at length put aside the work of the fields and removed to this city, where he is now living retired. His birth occurred in Germany, in September, 1853, and he is a son of Adam and Catherine (Cress) Moeller, also natives of that country. The father, who was farmer by occupation, died in 1857, and the mother's demise occurred in 1854.

Nicholas Moeller received his education in Germany and after putting aside his textbooks worked as a farm hand for one year. He then learned the cabinetmaker's trade and in 1871 when eighteen years old emigrated to America. He ,made his way across the country to Door county, Wisconsin, where some of his relatives were living, and found work in the lumber woods. During the winters he was employed in the woods, while the summers were devoted to work in a hotel. Later he drove a team at Horseshoe Bay for a Chicago firm and his wife operated a boarding house. At the end of fourteen months of this work, however, he bought eighty acres in Sevastopol township, and at once set about clearing the land, for the entire tract was wooded. He placed more than sixty acres under cultivation and for twenty-two years concentrated his energies upon the operation of that farm. At length he sold that place and bought one hundred and sixty-three acres in the same township, upon which he made improvements from time to time. He was very successful in his farm work, accumulated more than a competence and purchased an additional forty acres, making his total holdings two hundred and three acres. In 1910 he sold his land to his sons and retired from active life, removing to Sturgeon Bay where he has since resided.

Mr. Moeller was married in August, 1874, to Miss Minnie Hempen, a daughter of Christian and Minnie (City) Hempen, who were natives of Germany. Mrs. Moeller was but four years old when her parents removed with their family from the fatherland to the United States. They came at once to Door county and the father purchased land in Liberty Grove township, which he cultivated until his death in 1887. The mother reached the venerable age of ninety-three, dying in 1915. Mrs. Moeller passed away May 2, 1912, after an illness of two weeks, and her demise was deeply regretted by her many friends as well as her family. She was the mother of seven children, namely: Catherine, who is in a convent in Milwaukee; George M., who is farming in Door county; Christina, who is the widow of James Long, who passed away in 1912; Ludwig T., who is also on the home farm; Harry A., residing at Whitefish Bay, Sevastopol township; William F., who is farming in that township; and Ida W., who is the wife of Joseph Carmody and housekeeper for her father.

Mr. Moeller is a strong democrat in politics and has been an active factor in local affairs. While living on his farm he served as road commissioner of Sevastopol township, was chairman of the township board for six years and held the office of school director for ten years. After his removal to Sturgeon Jay he was elected a member of the county board of supervisors and he has also served for two years as alderman. His repeated election to office is evidence of his efficiency and devotion to the public welfare. He is secretary of the Soldiers' Relief Committee and is president of the local organization of the Catholic Knights, which connection indicates his religious faith. Through continued and well directed industry he has gained a measure of financial success that enables him to live retired and he is putting the leisure that is now his to good use, as he is devoting his time to work for the good of his community.