Door County, Wisconsin - Biographical sketches, 1917 (part 1 of 13)

Biographical sketches

Inseparably interwoven with the history of Sturgeon Bay and of Door county is the name of Joseph Harris, Sr., who passed away in January, 1889, but whose memory is yet enshrined in the (hearts of those who knew him because of the prominent part which he took in the upbuilding of this section of the country and his active aid of all projects and measures for the general good. He was born in London, England, in 1813 and was about thirty-six years of age when he bade adieu to friends and native land and sailed for America, arriving in New York in 1849. In 1855 he came to Door county, locating at what is now Sturgeon Bay, his first home being an old log building known as the Haskell house. He turned his attention to the real estate business, in which he continued for many years, and his activities constituted an element in promoting the upbuilding and development of this section.

Mr. Harris deserves more than passing notice, as he was one of the organizers of the town of Otumba, now Sturgeon Bay. In company with Henry Schuyler he traveled on foot to Fish Creek, there being no trail north of Sturgeon Bay at the time. The following day the first meeting of the board of county supervisors of Door county was held and Mr. Harris was elected the first secretary of the board and otherwise took an important part in the initial steps which promoted the organization of the county. He and Squire Schuyler then started back by sail boat and were overtaken by a severe storm. The boat was driven across the bay and when it became daylight they discovered that they were at Flat Rock near Escanaba, Michigan. The deck of the boat was covered with ice and snow. In his public activities he ever looked beyond the exigencies of the moment to the needs, the demands and the opportunities of the future. He was chosen first county clerk and register of deeds of Door county and later held the office of county treasurer for a period of six years. In 1864 he was chosen to represent a district comprising three counties in the state senate and was a member of the upper house of the Wisconsin general assembly for two years during that most momentous period in the nation's history. He gave most thoughtful consideration to all the important questions which came up for decision and his aid and influence were always on the side of advancement and improvement. While a member of the senate he framed up the legislation in behalf of the Sturgeon Bay & Lake Michigan Ship Canal & Harbor Company and in 1866 went to Washington, where he procured a grant of two hundred thousand acres of land to assist in the building of the canal. He worked, however, upon the project for twenty-two years before he saw its fulfillment. For twelve years he acted as private secretary in Washington to Senator Sawyer, who was from this district, and throughout the entire period Mr. Harris put forth every possible effort in behalf of the canal, which was finally completed in 1881. It was built by private enterprise but was eventually purchased by the government. His labors in this connection were stupendous but were at length crowned with success and he well deserves to be known as the father of the Sturgeon Bay & Lake Michigan Ship Canal. There were many other phases of his activity whieh proved of the greatest possible public worth and his efforts were ever actuated by a most unselfish devotion to the general good. Along still other lines he left the impress of his individuality and became a leader of public thought and action. Jn 1861 he began the publication of the Door County Advocate in connection with Myron H. McCord and for some time was editor of that paper, of which his sons, Joseph and Harry, afterward became proprietors, conducting it for many years but eventually selling it. His political endorsement was ever given to the republican party from the time of its organization and he never hesitated to express his honest opinions concerning political questions or any of the vital problems concerning city, state or nation. When Sturgeon Bay and southern Door county were swept by fire in 1871 he aided largely in assisting the citizens in again making a start in business. Both necessity and opportunity were to him a call to action and to the call he never failed to make immediate response.

In 1833, when a young man of twenty years, Joseph Harris was united in marriage to Miss Charlotte Singleton, of London, England, and they became the parents of five children: Joseph, now deceased; Harry, a resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Charlotte, Elizabeth and Edith, all of whom have d away. Having lost his first wife, Joseph Harris was married in 1859 to iss Susan Perkins, of New York, and they became the parents of five children: Grace, who married Frank Smith and resides in Washington, D. C.; Arthur T., of Sturgeon Bay ; Washington, deceased; and Dewey and Mabel, both of whom died in infancy. The two sons of the first marriage, Joseph and Harry, were both veterans of the Civil war. The former rose to the rank of captain and on one occasion was wounded in battle. He was a boat builder by trade and eventually became light keeper at Baileys Harbor, at Green Island, at Dunlap Reef and later at Evanston, Illinois. After he left the lighthouse vice he and his son Edward established the Republican, a weekly newspaper at Sturgeon Pay, which they conducted for a few years. For one term he filled the office of postmaster, for one term was also mayor of the city and for some time occupied the office of justice of the peace, discharging his duties with marked capability and fidelity in these different connections. He was likewise honored with election to the office of commander of Henry Schuyler Post, G. A. R., and he ever enjoyed the fullest confidence and the warmest regard of his old army comrades with whom he had followed the stars and stripes on the battlefields of the south. He married Rosanna Rice and they became the parents of four children: Edward, who now resides in Milwaukee; Mrs. Lottie Pfeifer, residing in Sturgeon Bay; and Mabel and Raymond, deceased.

Harry Harris wedded Elizabeth Hanson in 1868 and they have become the parents of two daughters, Edith and Bessie. In early life Harry Harris learned the printer's trade and afterward purchased the Marinette Eagle, which he conducted for a time. Later he removed to Delaware, where he was engaged in the newspaper business, and he is now in Philadelphia, where he is associated with the publication known as the Practical Farmer. The sons, "to the manner born," early became connected with newspaper interests and have continucd active along that line during the greater part of their lives.

The daughter, Elizabeth Harris, now deceased, became the wife of Jesse Birmingham in 1860 and they resided at West Pensaukee, Oconto county, W consin. lt was Mr. Birmingham who brought the first team of horses to Door county in the "50s and he aided in cutting the timber where Sturgeon Bay now stands. He also carried the mail between Sturgeon Bay and Green Bay and later removed to Oconto county, where he engaged in lumbering and farming.

Charlotte Harris, in 1860, became the wife of David McIntosh, who was one of the carly settlers of Door county, and they removed to Englewood, then a suburb but now a part of Chicago, where she passed away in 1915.

Arthur T. Harris, of this family, was born in Sturgeon Bay in 1867 and was a youth of seventeen years when he first became connected with the Door County Advocate, with which he was associated for eighteen and one-half years. He then spent a few months in other connections but returned and has since been identified with the Dood County Democrat. He is today secretary and treasurer of the Door County Publishing Company. He married Harriett Higgins and , they have become parents of two children, Dorothy and Summer. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and is an active worker and loyal supporter of the Congregational church, in which he has served as trustee, as deacon and as secretary of the Sunday school. His political endorsement has always been unfalteringly given to the republican party but the honors and emoluments of office have had no attraction for him. He is much interested in boating and when leisure affords indulges his t in that direction. Through the columns of his paper and individually he has continued the work instituted by his father for the benefit of city and county and has been a cooperant factor along many lines which have led to the later upbuilding and progress of this section of the state.

Bert Carmody

On the roster of public officials in Door county appears the name of Bert Carmody who is filling the office of register of deeds and in this position is making an excellent record for capable and faithful service. He had previously been well known as a substantial business man and his fellow citizens, recognizing his worth, called him to public office. He was born in Egg Harbor, February 6, 1882, a son of Dennis and Mary ( Hanarahan) Carmody, who were natives of Ohio and Wisconsin respectively. The father came to Wisconsin with his parents when but two years of age. He took up the occupation of farming, purchasing land near Egg Harbor, which he improved and cultivated until 1908. He then retired from active business life and removed to Sturgeon Bay, where he has since resided, enjoying the fruits of his former toil. In 1908, he was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who passed away on the 12th of March of that year.

Bert Carmody was reared and educated in Door county and remained with his parents until he attained his majority. He then entered the employ of the Reynolds Preserving Company and remained with them for eleven years, during which time he made all contracts for the products which were canned. In September, 1916, he was elected to the office of register of deeds, in which capacity he is now capably serving.

On the 31st of December, 1907, Mr. Carmody was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Scholl, and they have one son, Raymond, born August 28, 1909. The parents are members of the Catholic church and Mr. Carmody belongs to the Catholic Order of Foresters and also to the Mystic Workers. His political allegiance has always been given to the republican party and in matters of citizenship he stands for progress and improvement.

Herbert L. Peterson

Herbert L. Peterson, banker, merchant and prominent business man, connected with various important commercial and financial interests of Sturgeon Bay, was born on the 16th of May, 1876, in the city where he still resides, his parents being Peter and Mary (Mathews) Peterson. The father was born in Norway and was a son of Andrew Peterson, a native of Stavanger, Norway, whence he came to the United States with his family about 1842, establishing his home in the Empire state. There he resided until the early '5os, when he removed to Door county, Wisconsin, and became a resident of Sturgeon Bay. Here he engaged in business both as a farmer and ship carpenter. His son, Peter Peterson, was but a young lad when the family home was established here, so that he was reared amid the scenes and environments of pioneer life. Following the outbreak of the Civil war in 1861, he responded to the country's call for troops, becoming a member of Company H, Twelfth Wisconsin Infantry. He was wounded near Atlanta, Georgia, in 1863 and was sent home to die. He lived, however, but was a cripple throughout his remaining days. His death occurred in March, 1907, but his widow, who was born in De Pere, Wisconsin, still survives. Peter Peterson had always followed the occupation of farming and thus provided for the support of his family. He gave his political allegiance to the republican party and he maintained pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in the Grand Army of the Republic. He also belonged to the Moravian church, of which Mrs. Peterson is stilla member. She is a daughter of Martin Mathews, one of the pioneer settlers of Green Bay, Wisconsin. He was a native of Ireland and at the time of the Civil war joined the army and gave his life in defense of the Union.

Herbert L. Peterson was the fourth in order of birth in a family of twelve children. He acquired a public school education and started out in business life as clerk in a general store at Sturgeon Bay, a part of his duty being the driving of a delivery wagon. He thus began his initial experience along commercial lines and, prompted by a laudable ambition, he saved his earnings until his industry and economy had brought him sufficient capital to enable him to engage in business on his own account. About 1899 he opened a general store in Sawyer as one of the partners in the firm of E. N. Anderson & Company. Later he conducted business under his own name and afterward admitted Joseph Hoslett to a partnership, the firm being now Peterson & Hoslett. They still conduct a general merchandise establishment and the business has long since become a profitable onc. Mr. Peterson entered the banking business in March, 1902, when the Bank of Sawyer was organized, of which he became vice president, and the following year he took active charge as cashier. In 1914 this bank was reorganized and removed to Sturgeon Bay, at which time the name was changed to the Door County State Bank, Mr. Peterson at that time assuming the presidency. This is now one of the leading and progressive financial institutions of the county, capitalized for fifty thousand dollars. About 1907 Mr. Peterson also became vice president of the Sturgeon Bay Stone Quarry and in 1911 was elected to the presidency. He is interested in several other important business enterprises of the county and is a contributing factor to the material progress and development of this section of the state. »

On the 8th of September, 1904, Mr. Peterson was united in marriage to Miss Martha I. Speigelberg, a daughter of Emil and Mary Speigelberg, the former a druggist, now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Peterson have become the parents of two children: Blanche, twelve years of age; and Herbert L., who is but a year old.

Fraternally Mr. Peterson is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In politics he is a republican and for six years has served as chairman of the republican county central committee, taking an active interest in promoting the growth and ensuring the success of his party. He was also elected presidential elector in Wisconsin in 1908 when William Howard Taft was elected president. For six years he has lived on his farm near Sturgeon Bay, where he has an orchard of sixty-five acres. His has been an active and useful life, fraught with good results and crowned with successful accomplishment. Moreover, he belongs to that class of representative citizens, who while promoting individual interests contribute also to the general prosperity, welfare and upbuilding.

Joseph Kerscher

Joseph Kerscher, who follows farming in Forestville township, is a representative of one of the pioneer families of Door county. This district was still largely wild and undeveloped when the family home was established within its borders and for a long period they shared in the hardships and privations of frontier life but came to enjoy the benefits of intelligently directed labor. Joseph Kerscher was born in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, on the 22d of March, 1868, and is a son of Anton and Mary (Brectel) Kerscher, who were natives of Germany. There they were reared and married. On coming to the United States they settled in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, where the father followed farming. He afterward removed to Forestville township, Door county, and purchased eighty acres of land which he converted into productive fields, devoting his attention to general farm- ing until his death. He was a democrat in his political views and both he and his wife were members of the Catholic church. She, too, has passed away.

Joseph Kerscher spent his boyhood in Manitowoc and in Forestville township, Door county, remaining with his father upon the home farm and gaining broad experience in every phase of agricultural life. At length he was married and purchased his present farm in 1893. He has since resided thereon, concentrating his efforts and attention upon its further development, and has made it one of the well improved properties in the neighborhood.

On October 19, 1892, Mr. Kerscher was married to Miss Katie Immel, a daughter of James and Katie (Hoover) Immel, who were natives of Germany and became early settlers of Door county, crossing the Atlantic in 1877. They settled in this county and in 1903 took up their abode in Forestville. The father has passed away but the mother is still living at the age of seventy-four years. Mrs. Kerscher was born in Algoma, Wisconsin, and by her marriage has become the mother of seven children: Leopold, Engelbert, Clement, Irene, Henry, Gabriel and Cecelia,

. seeker, preferring to concentrate his energies and attention upon his farm, which comprises one hundred and forty acres of productive land. He is a man of diligence and determination and his energy is bringing him success. His memory compasses the period when this country was wild and unsettled. His parents had to clear the land in order to plant crops. There was much wild game in the district and Indians were frequently seen, showing that the seeds of civilization had scarcely been planted on the western frontier. Mr. Kerscher has lived to witness remarkable changes and has borne his part in the agricultural development of the district.

Isidor Brandeis

Isidor Brandeis, actively engaged in the grain and elevator business in Sturgeon Bay, comes to the new world from Austria, his birth having occurred on the 1st of October, 1860, in Prague, Bohemia. He is a son of Sigmund and Eva Brandeis and remained under the parental roof until he reached the age of seventeen years, when in 1877 he crossed the Atlantic to the new world, establishing his home in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Two years later he was joined by his mother. He continued to reside in Milwaukee until 1893, when he disposed of the mercantile business which he had been conducting and then came to Sturgeon Bay. Here he entered into partnership with M. Teweles in the grain, seed and elevator business. They began business in a small way, but Mr. Brandeis has gradually developed and increased his interests and is now part owner of two large elevators and is conducting a wholesale grain trade. They have also enlarged their warehouse and are owners of ten acres of land and several lots in the third ward of the city. They also built and own the docks that are leased by the Sawyer Lumber Company. This is the bare outline of his business career, but those who reflect for a moment upon the record will recognize the fact that to have accomplished what he has done, building a business of such extensive pro- portions, must have taken the closest application, the keenest sagacity and the most unfaltering enterprise. He has thoroughly studied everything in regard to the grain trade, the crops, the buying, the sales and the shipment, and by his earnest efforts he has won a position among the leading grain merchants of this section of the state.

On the 20th of June, 1888, Mr. Brandeis was married to Miss Fanny Teweles, a daughter of Mr. Teweles of Sturgeon Bay, and they have become the parents of six children. Nana, the oldest, born March 20, 1890, completed a high school course and for four years was a student in the Milwaukee Normal School. She is now the wife of Harry Newman, a commercial salesman of Milwaukee. Irma, the second of the family, was born May 28, 1896. Sigmund died in infancy and a baby boy died at five days, both being buried in Dayside. Lucille, born in April, 1900, is attending high school. Stanley, born in August 1904, completes the family.

Mr. Brandeis holds membership with the Masons, the Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen and is loyal to the teachings and purposes of these organizations. He is the president of the Twenty Club and a member of the Commercial Club. In politics he is a republican and has taken a very active and helpful interest in public affairs. He served for one year as alderman and for the past eight years has been police commissioner. Several times he was county chairman of the republican central committee. He and Mr. Long were the first to suggest the establishment of a public library. It required five years for them to create public sentiment resulting in the council endorsing and providing for the movement. He circulated the petition for the lot and fought the idea of receiving tainted money for the institution. He is thoroughly American in spirit and in interests and has been a most effective and earnest worker for the upbuilding of his city and the advance of its material and moral progress, standing at all times for those interests and activities which are matters of civic virtue and of civic pride. He never has had occasion to wish that he had remained in his native land, for he found here the opportunities which he sought, readily recognizing and utilizing the chances for advancement and making payment for the advantages here received in capable and efficient service for the public welfare.

John F. Bertschinger

John F. Bertschinger, who engaged in business in Egg Harbor as a dealer in grain, potatoes and produce, in lumber, shingles and cement, came to Door county in 1904. He is a native of Switzerland, his birth having occurred in the land of the Alps, November 21, 1875. His parents were John and Bertha (Hoefer) Bertschinger, who were also natives of that country, whence they came to the new world in 1884. The father had followed the occupation of' farming in Switzerland and in the new world he took up his abode in Milwaukee county, Wisconsin, where he managed a large herd of cattle. Later he was actively engaged in farming on his own account, successfully tilling his fields for many years, but at the present time he is living retired from active business, he and his wife being now residents of Port Washington, Wisconsin.

John F. Bertschinger spent the first nine years of his life in his native land and then accompanied his parents to the United States, remaining under the parental roof until he attained his majority, at which time he began learning the molder's trade, which he followed for eight years, residing in Milwaukee during that period. In 1904 he came to Door county, settling in Egg Harbor, where for eight years he conducted a hotel and during that period he was engaged in buying produce and handling real estate. He afterward extended the scope of his commercial activities to include the sale of lumber and building materials. He likewise built a dock and is engaged in the transportation business. His boat carries about sixty tons and is used most largely in hauling his own goods. He has built up a substantial trade in grain, hay, potatoes and other produce and also in the sale of lumber, shingles and cement. He built the Harbor Inn which he sold in 1912. He owns two farms, one of one hundred and twenty acres and the other eighty acres, and he also owns one hundred acres of shore property, which is summer resort property. On his eighty acre farm he has an orchard of thirty acres, while the remainder is cultivated in the production of grain. He employs someone to operate this farm and rents the other place. Both are well improved and in addition to cultivating his fields he raises thoroughbred Holstein cattle and also deals in horses. He is also engaged in the operation of a planing mill and his business interests extend all along the shore even to Washington island.

On the 13th of May, 1899, Mr. Bertschinger was married to Miss Anna Guenther, and to them have been born three children: Arthur, who is seventeen years of age; Wilbert, age fifteen years; and Clara, a maid of twelve years. The parents are members of the Union church and in politics Mr. Bertschinger is a stalwart republican who does everything in his power to promote the growth and insure the success of his party. He was town chairman in 1912 and he is the present justice of the peace at Egg Harbor. He was also instrumental in locating the state park here, and he has done everything possible to advance the interest and promote the upbuilding of the district in which he resides. His labors have been far-reaching and effective in advancement of the public good, while in the management of his private business interests he has displayed rare judgment and sound discernment which have brought him very substantial success.

John Leitner

John Leitner, a farmer residing on section 27, Nasewaupee township, has remained within the borders of Door county throughout practically his entire life, being but nine years of age when brought here by his father. His birth occurred in Manitowoc county, Wisconsin, on the ist of June, 1872, his parents being Fred and Katrina Leitner, natives of Germany. In 1865, when thirty years of age, the father crossed the Atlantic to the United States and took up his abode in Manitowoc county, Wisconsin, where he cultivated a farm of forty acres for some years. He then came to Door county and purchased a farm of eighty acres, to which he later added forty acres. The period of his residence in this county covers more than four decades and he is well known and highly esteemed as one of its venerable citizens, being now eighty-two years of age. To him and his wife were born eleven children, as follows: John, of this review; Dora, who is the wife of J. G. Krechma, of Wisconsin; Tressie, who is deceased and lies buried at Maplewood; Victoria, who gave her hand in marriage to William Birdsall, of Sawyer; Kate, the wife of William Bohne, of Algoma, Wisconsin; Lucy, who is the wife of H. E. Thompson, of Chicago; Matt, a resident of Birchwood, Wisconsin; Fred, living in Los Angeles; Frank, who died in childhood; Mary, the wife of Fred Pike, of Chicago; and William, who resides in Chicago.

John Leitner was but nine years of age when his parents established their home in Door county and here he acquired his education. He was reared to farm life and has devoted his attention and energies to agricultural pursuits to the present time, now cultivating one hundred and twenty acres of rich and arable land on section 27, Nasewaupee township. His place presents a neat and thrifty appearance and success is attending his well directed labors,

On the 2d of June, 1903, Mr. Leitner was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Schons, of Nasewaupee township, by whom he has six children, namely : Miranda, Anna, Laurence, Viola, John, Jr., and Lester.

Politically Mr. Leitner is a democrat and for one year he held the office of pathmaster. He belongs to the Catholic church at Maplewood and is a member of the Knights of Columbus. He is widely known in the community where nearly his entire life has been spent and the circle of his friends is almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintance.

Dudley S. Long

Dudley S. Long, who since his entrance into business life has been connected with the Sturgeon Bay Advocate and is proprietor of the leading garage and automobile business in Sturgeon Bay, was born September 12, 1879, in the city which is still his home, his parents being Frank and Agnes M. (Damkoehler) Long. He completed his public school education by graduation from the high school with the class of 1896 and later pursued a course in a business college. He then entered the office of the Sturgeon Bay Advocate, of which his father was owner, and thoroughly mastered every phase of the business, working his way upward through merit and ability to positions of responsibility. For ten years he was editor of the paper, but at the present writing is largely concentrating his efforts and attention upon the automobile business. In the fall of 1915 he embarked in this line and is today the owner of the largest garage in the city in partnership with William F. Hecht, their interests being conducted under the name of The Peninsula Company. They handle Studebaker cars and they have a large repair department as well as the department in which they handle automobile accessories and supplies. They have developed the business to extensive proportions, making it one of the profitable enterprises of the city. At the same time Mr. Long still owns the Advocate and gives much thought and attention to the capable conduct of the paper. Through its columns he has advocated and promoted the dairy interests of this section, disseminating knowledge of great benefit to the dairymen in the conduct of their business.

On the 5th of December, 1902, Mr. Long was married to Miss Stella J. Anger, a daughter of Captain: William and Anna (Killoran) Anger. The latter was born at Little Sturgeon, Wisconsin, and was a daughter of Luke Killoran, one of the earliest of the pioneers of this part of the state. Captain Anger came from England at an early day and was captain of lake vessels. Ie was also superintendent of the Two Rivers Manufacturing Company for many years and was thus closely associated with the business development of the state. Mr. and Mrs. Long have become the parents of one child, William Dean.

Mrs. Long attends the Congregational church and Mr. Long holds membership with the Knights of Pythias and with the Mystic Workers. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day but without desire for political office. He is well known in the city where he has spent his entire life and his business enterprise has carried him into important relations, the spirit of progress actuating him at all times and at every point in his career.

Henry Fetzer

Henry Fetzer, president of the Bank of Sturgeon Bay, was born in Forestville, Wisconsin, September 29, 1870. His connection with the institution of which he is the head dates from 1891 and, advancing through intermediate positions through a périod of sixteen years, he was called to the presidency in 1907. The bank is one of the strong financial institutions of Door county, its total resources amounting to a million dollars. Mr. Fetzer is married and has one child, Gretna.

Allen Higgins

For more than a half century Allen Higgins, who died in April, 1917, had made his home within the borders of Door county and for an equally long period he and his wife had traveled life's journey together. His first visit to the county was made in 1856, when he made a trip to Washington island. Moreover, Wisconsin claims him as a native son, for his birth occurred at Bristol, Racine county, on the 20th of May, 1839, his parents being William R. and Cynthia D. (Case) Higgins, who were natives of Connecticut and New York respectively. The former was a son of Fitch A. Higgins, a veteran of the War of 1812, while the latter was a daughter of Grove Case, who became a resident of Illinois in early pioneer times. The Higgins family was founded in Wisconsin by Fitch A. Higgins, who in the early 30s took up his abode in Racine county, near Kenosha, where he followed the occupation of farming. It was in that county that William R. Higgins and Cynthia D. Case were married. William R. Higgins was the first white man to settle in Bristol township, Racine county, now Kenosha county, where he took up government land. During the period of Allen Higgins' boyhood Indians were far more numerous than the white settlers in that section of the state and 'it seemed that the work of development and progress had scarcely been begun, but the family took an active part in promoting the work of civilization in that district.

No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of life for Allen Higgins during the period of his boyhood and youth but in August, 1862, when he was about twenty-three years of age, he responded to the country's call for troops and joined the Union army as a member of Company H, Thirty-third Regiment of Wisconsin Infantry. He was with his company in all of the battles and campaigns in which it participated and proved his loyalty on many a hotly contested field. Promotion came to him from time to time. He was first made sergeant, later became orderly sergeant and in September, 1864, was made sergeant major of his regiment. He took part in engagements in Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri and Alabama, and after participating in twentytwo battles, sieges and skirmishes he was mustered out at Vicksburg in August, 1865, and was honorably discharged at Madison the following month.

It was on the 3d of October, 1865, that Allen Higgins was united in marriage to Miss Rosanna M. Farnsworth, who was born in Washington, New Hampshire, September 5, 1844, and was brought to Wisconsin in 1851, when her parents settled in Kenosha county. The young couple, together with William R. Higgins, removed from Kenosha county to Baileys Harbor, where father and son built a pier and steamboat dock and became agents for the Goodrich Transportation Company. They got out wood, ties and lunfber and developed a good business. Allen Higgins also cleared a farm. The pier, which was called Higgins Pier, was destroyed by a storm in 1880. After the father's death, which occurred in the early '70s, Allen Higgins had conducted the business alone. From time to time he was called upon for public service and held various town offices and was chairman of the town board when appointed to the office of clerk of the court by Judge Meyers of the tenth judicial district. He then removed with his family to Sturgeon Bay and acted in that capacity for thirty-one years, beginning on the ist of October, 1881. He was elected at each election following his first appointment and made a most splendid record in office. No higher testimonial of capability and faithful service could be given than the fact that he was retained in the position for thirty-one years. In 1912, however, he declined to become a candidate for reelection. for he had passed beyond the allotted age of man of three score years and ten and he felt that the duties should be assumed by one of younger years. He was then the oldest clerk of the court in Wisconsin both in point of age and in years of continuous service. Moreover, he enjoyed the distinction of being the best informed clerk in the state on naturalization laws. He became known as the "father of the courthouse" and the younger generation that came into active service there was continually seeking his advice. He was held in the highest esteem, being honored and respected for his personal worth as well as his marked official ability. Upon his retirement those who were his associates in the courthouse manifested their high appreciation of his worth by tendering him a banquet, at which forty-three guests were present, including members of the county board, county officers, members of the Door county bar, representatives of the press and prominent citizens.

Mr. and Mrs. Higgins became the parents of a son and daughter: Dr. Allen F. Higgins, now residing in Tampa, Florida, with whom they occasionally spend the winters; and Mrs. Arthur T. Harris, of Sturgeon Bay. This worthy couple celebrated their golden wedding on the 2d of October, 1915, after enjoying fifty years of happiness and health together. They had met together the hardships and privations of pioneer life, for this was a frontier district when in 1865 they removed to Door county. Mr. Higgins had previously visited the county in 1856, when he went to Washington island to get a stock of evergreens for a nursery. He returned about a decade later and thereafter made his home here until his death, April 2, 1917. He was held in the highest esteem and the circle of his friends was almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintance. The official career of few residents of Door county perhaps has extended over so long a period and none has been more faultless in honor, fearless in conduct or stainless in reputation. In his passing Door county lost not only a worthy pioneer, but a man who was honored and respected by all who knew him.

Louis Rubens

Louis Ruvens, who is engaged in the hotel and liquor business and is also conducting a general store in Lincoln township, Kewaunee county, has been a life long resident of this section of the state. He was born in Kewaunee, December 27, 1867, a son of Charlés and Antoinette (Romdenne) Rubens. The father was born at Pietrebais, in the province of Brabant, Belgium, in 1827 and came to the United States in 1856 with his wife, who was born in the same locality in 1824. They were married in Belgium, March 19, 1849, and on coming to the new world settled at Robinsonville, Brown county, Wisconsin, where the father took up land and began the development of a farm. After a short time, however, he removed to Kewaunee county, where he followed the trade of shoemaking, which he had previously learned in his native land. He was thus engaged until 1871 when he purchased a saloon at Rosiere, Wisconsin, but the same year his establishment was destroyed by fire. He then purchased a farm of forty acres which he improved and upon which his son Louis is now residing. The father erected log buildings on that place - a store, a saloon and a log house, and later replaced these with others of more modern construction. He continued to spend his remaining days upon that place, passing away July 3, 1902, while his wife survived for a decade and died on the 16th of August, 1912.

Louis Rubens spent his boyhood on the old homestead farm, pursued his education in the district schools and then entered into business with his father. At the latter's death he and his brother Antone took charge of the business and some time later, or in the spring of 1904, he purchased his brother's interest and began to improve the place. He erected new buildings, including the finest dance hall in northern Wisconsin. In addition he has a general store and a saloon, which he conducts and is in every way a progressive, alert and enterprising business man who perhaps has done more than any other man of the locality to further business progress and development in this section. His buildings are all of brick and prove substantial and attractive features of the landscape.

Belgium, while Mrs. Rubens was born in Brussels, Wisconsin. By her marriage she has become the mother of five children: Elmer, Libby, Laura, Harry and Emma. In the community in which his entire life has been passed Mr. Rubens is widely known. He has led the life of an active, energetic business man, giving his entire attention to his business and his close application and unremitting industry constitute the basis of his success.

Hon. Nathaniel C. Garland

Hon. Nathaniel C. Garland, serving for the second term as mayor of Sturgeon Bay, was reelected as an endorsement of his efficient administration during his first term and in managing municipal interests is bringing to bear the same spirit of enterprise, keen sagacity and sound judgment which has characterized the conduct of his private business affairs.

Sturgeon Bay claims him as a native son. He was born January 22, 1868, his parents being John and Elizabeth (Crowel) Garland. The father was born in Devonshire, England, May 21, 1825, and in early life was a sea captain. In 1850 he wedded Elizabeth Crowel, whose birth occurred in St. John, New Brunswick, February 9, 1833. In 1853 he brought his family to Sturgeon Bay and here turned his attention to the land and real estate business. His prominence and his capability led to his election for public office and he served as county clerk, as register of deeds and in various other positions during the days of Sturgeon Bay's villagehood. In 1877 he removed to Chicago, but returned to Sturgeon Bay in 1888 and here spent his remaining days, his death occurring in that year. His widow still survives at the advanced age of eighty-four years. They had a family of fourteen children. The parents were consistent Christian people and aided in the organization of the first Methodist church of Sturgeon Bay. Mr. Garland was also an exemplary representative of the Masonic fraternity and assisted in organizing the lodge at Algoma. His political endorsement was given to the republican party.

Nathaniel C. Garland is indebted to the public school systems of this city and of Chicago for the educational opportunities which he enjoyed during his boyhood and youth. He began work with the Chicago Newspaper Union, there learning the printer's trade, which he has since followed, concentrating his efforts along this single line with the result that he has achieved success in his chosen field. In 1889 he returned to Sturgeon Bay, where he became connected with the Advocate, working his way upward to the position of assistant editor, and following the demise of Frank Long in 1913 he was chosen editor.

On the 26th of June, 1890, Mr. Garland was united in marriage to Miss Louise M. Coghlan of Chicago, a daughter of Daniel and Mary (Barnette) Coghlan, who were natives of Ireland and of Quebec, Canada, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Garland have become parents of five children: Thomas, who is manager at Berlin, Wisconsin; Josephine, the wife of Clarence Benedict of Akron, Ohio; Marvel; John; and Nathaniel C.

Mr. Garland holds membership with the Knights of Pythias and with the Modern Woodmen of America. His political support has always been given to the republican party since age conferred upon him the right of franchise and from r9or until 1903 he filled the office of city clerk. In 1905 he was elected alderman and served in the city council until 1914, when he became the successful candidate for the office of mayor and at the close of a two years' term was reelected in 1916, so that he is now the chief executive of the city. In his position he studies questions of municipal progress, reform and improvement and his aid and influence are stanchly given to those measures and movements which he deems of benefit to the city and its people.

Dr. Horace F. Eames is numbered among the most capable and distinguished representatives of the medical profession in Door county. Making his home in Egg Harbor his practice extends over wide territory and he enjoys not only the patronage of the public but also the confidence and goodwill of his colleagues. In addition to his professional interests he is one of the leading orchardists and dairymen of this section of the state, broad and thorough study giving him expert knowledge along those lines.

Dr. Eames was born in Masham, Quebec, Canada, May 30, 1859, a son of Iforace William and Asenath ( Mougin) Eames, who were natives of Vermont and New York respectively. The father was a farmer by occupation. About 1857 he went to Quebec and purchased land, and engaged in the lumber business with his father-in-law. In 1876 he arrived in Door county, Wisconsin, where he again bought land, turning his attention to farming. He continued to cultivate and improve that farm throughout his remaining days, his death occurring March 6, 1904, when he had reached the age of seventy-six years. For some time he had survived his wife, who died in October, 1890.

Dr. Eames was reared and educated in Canada. When seventeen years old he came to Door county, Wisconsin, where he taught school for five years, thus providing himself with the means to continue his education. He entered the Valparaiso (Ind.) University, from which he was graduated in 1884 with the degree of Bachelor of Science. He next became a student in the medical department of the University of Illinois, from which institution he was graduated in i889. Having thus prepared himself for professional duties, he returned to Door county, where he has since followed his profession with the exception of three years spent in Michigan. He has made rapid and substantial progress in his chosen profession, keeping in touch at all times with the trend of modern scientific thought and investigation.

That he has the confidence and goodwill of his prof indicated by the fact that he has many times been elected to the presidency of the Door County Medical Society and he also belongs to the Wisconsin State and \merican Medical Associations.

In addition to his medical practice Dr. Eames has other business interests. Ile is now president of the Door County Telephone Company and he is the owner of four hundred acres of rich and valuable land in this county, which he has improved and cultivated. He has one hundred and twenty acres in orchard.

Dr. Horace F. Eames

mostly planted to cherries, apples and plums, and he has a large herd of dairy cattle. He makes his home on his farm, known as The La Vista Farm and Orchard, which is situated a quarter of a mile from the village of Egg Harbor on sections 19, 21 and 30, Egg Harbor township. He also conducts a drug store in the village, of which he has been proprietor for twenty-three years, and he is the owner of the Eames steamboat dock which he bought in 1902. In this connection he enjoys an extensive patronage as all freight is shipped by boat.

On the 6th of April, 1887, Dr. Eames was married to Miss Emma F. Baker, a daughter of Russell and Jeanette (Rittenberg) Baker, who were natives of Vermont and Ohio respectively. The mother was a relative of William F. Cody, better known as Buffalo Bill. The father was a fisherman and came to Door county at a very early day, settling on Washington island about 1851. In 1857 he removed to Egg Harbor, where he engaged in farming throughout the re- 'mainder of his days. He died in 1884 and his widow is now living with Dr. and Mrs. Eames at the advanced age of eighty-seven years. Seven children have been born to Dr. and Mrs. Eames, namely: Gladys, the wife of Oscar F. Meredith, of Chicago; Grace A. and Enid, both at home; Frank, who is serving in the United States army; Bernice, who died June 31, 1917, at the age of nineteen years; Spencer and Harold, both at home.

Dr. Eames has served as chairman of the county commission on education and has filled other public offices, manifesting at all times a marked devotion to the general good. His political endorsement is given to the republican party and he is chairman of the county campaign committee. He belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America and his religious faith is that of the Methodist church. He is a man of marked activity, of many sterling qualities, actuated by a spirit of progress and improvement in all that he undertakes for individual benefit and for the betterment of the public interests. His labors have been a most effective force in the upbuilding of the district in which he resides and he is a splendid type of American manhood and chivalry.

Henry Sorenson

Henry Sorenson, who resides in Clay Banks township, his home being on section 8, where he has an excellent farm of one hundred and twenty acres to which he has added many modern improvements, was born September 10, 1870, in Norway, his parents being Edward and Mary Sorenson, who arrived in Door county about 1872. Thinking to better their financial condition in the new world, they severed home ties and crossed the Atlantic to the United States. The father then purchased a forty acre tract of land, upon which their son Henry now resides, and throughout his remaining days he was closely associated with the agricultural development of his district. He was also a factor in its moral progress and was one of the founders of the Norwegian Lutheran church at Vignes. The mother died June 13, 1915, at the age of seventy-nine years, at which time her remains were interred in the Tanum cemetery by the side of her husband, who had passed away July 27, 1914.

to Door county. He devoted several years of his youth to sailing but eventually returned to the home farm and purchased his father's place. To this he has since added two forty acre tracts, making one hundred and twenty acres in all. He put up all the improvements of a modern character found upon the farm and he now has a well developed property, substantial buildings standing in the midst of highly cultivated fields, while the latest improved machinery facilitates the work of gathering the crops. In addition to his farming interests he is a stockholder and one of the directors of the Shiloh Telephone Company, with which he has thus been connected for four years.

Mr. Sorenson has been married twice. In 1893 he wedded Miss Jenny Halvorson, who passed away in 1895, leaving a daughter, Mabel. For his second wife he chose Miss Carrie Halvorson, a sister of his first wife, their marriage being celebrated in 1898. Eleven children have been born of this union, namely: John, Mary, Elmer, Jeannette, Gretchen, Kenneth, Leona, Lawrence, Bernice, Virgil and Curtis, all at home.

Mr. Sorenson is a devoted member of the Norwegian Lutheran church and in politics he is a stanch republican. His fellow townsmen, appreciative of his worth and ability, have several times called him to office. For two terms he was a member of the school board, serving as treasurer and director; for six years he was township treasurer; for four years was supervisor; and for the past three years has been chairman of the town board. He studies closely the questions which are of interest as bearing upon the welfare and progress of his community and he cooperates in all plans and measures for the general good. Those who know him esteem him as a reliable business man, as a progressive and loyal citizen and as a faithful friend.

Henry W. Goettelman

Henry W. Goettelman, who is engaged in general merchandising at Sawyer as a member of the Goettelman-Warner Company, which owns and controls one of the leading stores of the town, was born March 22, 1878, at the place where he still resides, his parents being John and Phillipina Goettelman. The father, who was born in Germany in 1844, came to this country in 1874 and conducted one of the first hotels at Sawyer, where he continued in the business until his death, which occurred in 1913. He was married at West Bend, Wisconsin, and his widow still survives at the age of sixty-seven years.

Henry W. Goettelman acquired a public school education and in the school of experience he has learned many valuable and practical lessons. Starting out in the business world, he secured a clerkship with Lyon Brothers & Company and for eighteen years remained a salesman in that establishment. In 1912 Lyon Brothers & Company sold out to P. J. Lindon, who conducted the business until 1915, when he sold the store to Mr. Goettelman, William Warner and Miss Alice Samuelson, who then organized the firm now operating under the name of the Goettelman-Warner Company. They conduct a general merchandise establishment at Sawyer, having one of the leading stores of the town. It was remodeled in 1916 and is a two-story and basement structure forty by eighty feet, well equipped for the purposes for which it is used. They carry a large and carefully selected line of dry goods, groceries, crockery, men's furnishing goods, rugs and linoleum and are constantly studying the best methods of meeting the popular taste and enlarging the field of their trade. Their business methods are thoroughly reliable, courteous treatment is ever extended their patrons and efficiency is their watchword in the conduct of their interests.

On the 18th of June, 1902, Mr. Goettelman was united in marriage to Miss Dorothy Taube, a native of this county and a daughter of Herman Taube. They have two children, Edna May and Royal. The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and in politics Mr. Goettelman maintains an independent course, casting his ballot according to the dictates of his judgment. He has never sought office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs. His entire life has been devoted to commercial interests and not a little of the success which he has achieved is due to his close application, his persistency of purpose and his laudable ambition.

Alfred Olson

Door county with its long shore line, caused by the frequent bay indentations, and its attractive and equable climate, is a splendid summer resort. Many of its citizens, therefore, have turned their attention to the hotel business in the entertainment of summer tourists. Mr. Olson is among this number and is proprietor of the Pine Grove Hotel at Ephraim. He was born at North Bay, in Door county, January 7, 1881, a son of Samuel and Serena (Larson) Olson. The father is a native of Norway, but came to America when about fifteen years of age and settled in Door county, where he followed farming and fishing, devoting many years to those pursuits. In fact he is still engaged along those lines and is making a specialty af horticulture, having a large orchard of fifteen hundred cherry trees and several acres planted to other fruit. He has closely studied fruit production in relation to soil and climate in this district and has succeeded in so propagating his trees that excellent results are annually secured. In 1893 he was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who passed away in March of that year.

Alfred Olson spent the days of his boyhood and youth in Baileys Harbor township, his home being in North Bay. He worked for his father and acquired his education in the district schools near his father's home. Following his marriage he removed to Ephraim and turned his attention to the hotel business, erecting a nice hotel on the bay and also four cottages. His place is called the Pine Grove Hotel and has accommodations for forty people. In addition to this property Mr. Olson owns forty acres of land in State Park, which he also cultivates. He operates a launch on the bay and he puts forth every effort to enhance the comfort and pleasure of his guests, so that his resort is liberally patronized.

Mr. Olson was united in marriage on the &th of December, 1908, to Miss Augusta Jarman, a daughter of Charles and Christina (Foster) Jarman. The father was born in 1841 in Clifton, England, while the mother was a native of

Sweden. It was about 1855 that the father crossed the Atlantic to the new world and established his home in Dodge county, Wisconsin. He made farming his life work and took up government land upon his removal to Door county, securing a tract in Gibraltar township. He was its pioneer settler and the first one to engage in farming in that township. As the years passed he carefully and systematically developed his fields and continued successfully to operate his farm until 1902, when he sold his property and retired. He made his home in Ephraim during the remainder of his life, his death occurring February 16, 1917. His widow still survives and enjoys the goodwill and high regard of an extensive circle of friends, as did her husband. To Mr. and Mrs. Olson has been born a son, Lloyd, whose birth occurred on the 22d of April, 1911.

In' political belief Mr. Olson is a stalwart republican, exercising his right of franchise always in support of the men and measures of the party. His religious faith is that of the Moravian church, while his wife holds membership in the Lutheran church. Both have many sterling traits of character which have endeared them to all with whom they have come in contact.

John M. Laurie

John M. Laurie occupies the old home of the Laurie family, about three miles from Sturgeon Bay. He has for a long period been actively engaged in the operation of a stone quarry and in this connection has developed a business of extent and importance. In matters of citizenship, too, he has taken an active interest and has furthered the work of progress and improvement, especially in the building of macadamized roads, leading to the development of a system of highways in Door county of which it has every reason to be proud.

Mr. Laurie was born in Sturgeon Bay, May 17, 1862, and is a son of Robert and Catherine (Monroe) Laurie, both of whom were natives of Glasgow, Scotland, in which country they were reared and married. They came to the United States in 1852 and for two years were residents of Buffalo, New York, but in 1854 arrived in Door county, Wisconsin, at a period when few white settlers had penetrated into the region and the seeds of civilization had yet to be planted in this district. Robert Laurie took up government land on the outskirts of what is now Sturgeon Bay and began the difficult task of clearing the timber and preparing the fields for the plow. He also entered the field of ship building and in 1857 built the Peninsula, which was the first vessel ever built at this point. It was a sailing boat of sixty tons capacity and was used for carrying freight and passengers. It made the trip from Green Bay to Sturgeon Bay in four hours and fifteen minutes, and Robert Graham, who built the first sawmill at Sturgeon Bay, was a passenger on that trip. Later Robert Laurie built a number of vessels, which were operated on Lake Michigan, and in connection with Soren Peterson, he conducted the first general store at Sturgeon Bay, this becoming the initial step in the business development of the district. Mr. Laurie also opened a lime kiln about 1869 and it was he who brought the first cherries to Door county, planting trees in the early '60s. In the early days he would walk from Sturgeon Bay to Green Bay, a distance of fifty miles, to do his banking, and he would not only make the trip but would also cover ten miles of the return trip on the same day. In the summer months he went by boat but in the winter had to go on foot. There were few horses in the county at that time and one was lucky if he possessed an ox team. There were no phases of pioneer development and progress in Door county with which Robert Laurie was not familiar and his labors were of the utmost benefit in the upbuilding of this section. He was highly esteemed by all who knew him and he had the warm friendship of all of his brethren of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He died October 15, 1889, and was long survived by his wife, who passed away in February, 1908. In their family were seven children: James, now residing in Montana; Aleck, living in Sturgeon Bay; Katherine, the wife of William Snyder, of Sturgeon Bay; John M.; Christina; Isabel, the wife of William Drumb, editor of the Tribune of Grand Rapids, Wisconsin; and Elizabeth, the wife of A. Forge, of Sturgeon Bay.

John M. Laurie, spending his boyhood and youth under the parental roof, acquired a public school education and when his textbooks were put aside became the active assistant of his father in carrying on the business enterprises in which the father engaged. In 1880 he opened the Laurie Stone Quarry and in this connection an extensive, important and profitable business has been developed. John M. Laurie is still operating along that line and fills many contracts for stone each year, his business now bringing to him a most substantial annual return.

Mr. Laurie is a chapter Mason and is also identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and in 1904 he became chairman of the board of supervisors of Sevastopol township. While in that office he established the first macadamized roads in the county and has since been active in road development here. He was made road commissioner in 1907 and again in 1915 and has labored so earnestly and effectively to further the public highway improvements that the county is today famous for its good roads. Mr. Laurie occupies the old homestead, three miles from Sturgeon Bay, and remains one of the active and progressive citizens of Door county. The splendid work for public improvement which his father instituted in pioneer times he has carried forward by giving active cooperation to all movements for the general good.

Edward M. Moeller

Edward M. Moeller, a worthy native son and representative agriculturist of Door county, owns and operates an excellent farm of eighty acres on section 21, Sevastopol township. His birth occurred in that township on the 22d of February, 1885, his parents being Marcus and Pulchira Moeller, natives of Germany. Emigrating to the United States, they took up their abode in Door county, Wisconsin, and were here married. Their children were eight in number, as follows: William, deceased, who was buried in the Catholic cemetery ; August, an agriculturist of Sevastopol township; Anna, who is the wife of Joseph Hoberlie, of Sevastopol: Frank, a resident of Sturgeon Bay; Josephine, twin sister of Frank, who is the wife of William Schmidt, of Forestville, Wisconsin ; Matilda, who gave

The last named acquired his education in the public and parochial schools of this county and when fourteen years of age began assisting his father in the operation of the home farm. On this place he has remained to the present time and it is now in his possession, for he purchased the property from the estate in 1912. It comprises eighty acres of rich and productive land on section 21, Sevastopol township, and in its cultivation Mr. Moeller is meeting with success, the well tilled fields annually yielding golden harvests in return for the care and labor which he bestows upon them. In the years 1911, 1912 and 1913 he served as secretary and treasurer of the Cooperative Creamery.

On the 11th of June, 1907, in Door county, Mr. Moeller was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Kenny, her parents being Ed and Mary Ann Kenny, the former a native of Ireland and the latter of this county. To them were born seven children, namely: Ella; John; Berdie; Joseph; Mrs. Mary Moeller; Genevieve; and Grace, who is the wife of L. C. Davis, of North Dakota. Mr. and Mrs. Moeller have two children: Grace, born March 31, 1908; and Gordon, whose birth occurred May 1, 1914.

Mr. Moeller is independent in politics and served as town clerk in 1912, He was also chosen school director of district No. 4, Sevastopol township, and acted as registrar of Sevastopol in 1917, ever discharging his public duties in a most prompt, systematic and capable manner. He is a devout communicant of the Catholic church and also belongs to the Catholic Order of Foresters and the Catholic Knights of Wisconsin. His life is upright and honorable in every relation, winning him the respect and esteem of those with whom he has been associated.

John H. Carmody

John H. Carmody, proprietor of Harbor Inn, a popular hotel at Egg Harbor, and also connected with other business interests of the town, was born October 6, 1871, a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Gonyon) Carmody, the latter a native of Summer Island, Door county. The father was born in Iceland, and in early life came to the new world, settling at Columbus, Wisconsin, where he was in the employ of the railroad for several years. He then went to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, where he also spent a number of years and later he removed to Door county, taking up a homestead claim in Egg Harbor township. This he developed and improved, continuing its cultivation until 1907, when he retired from active business life. He is now residing in the Soldiers' Home at Waupaca, Wisconsin, having served for a year and a half as a soldier in the Civil war, with the Wisconsin Infantry. His wife died in 1897 at the age of forty-six years.

John H. Carmody spent the days of his boyhood and youth in Door county and at the age of eighteen years left home in order to earn his own living. He worked in the lumber woods and in the sawmills for several years and afterward purchased land in Egg Harbor and this he improved and cultivated for a decade. He performed the arduous task of clearing fifty acres of this and he brought it under a high state of cultivation. In 1912 he came to the village of Egg Harbor and purchased the Harbor Inn and saloon which he has since conducted. He is a popular hotel proprietor, carefully looking after the interests and comfort of his guests. He is also a stockholder in the Peoples Store of Sturgeon Bay.

On the 26th of May, 1896, Mr. Carmody was married to Miss Phoebe LaFontaine, and they have become the parents of eight children: Luella, who died in April, 1897; Walter, Maude, Amy, Frederick, and Eleanor, all at home; Orin, deceased; and Louis. The religious faith of the family is that of the Catholic church and Mr. Carmody belongs also to the Fraternal Order of Eagles. His political endorsement is given the democratic party, but he does not seek nor desire office, giving his entire attention to his business affairs and as proprietor of Harbor Inn he is now meeting with success.

Charles L. Nelson

Charles L. Nelson, the president of the Merchants Exchange Bank of Sturgeon Bay, which he organized in 1891, has been connected with banking interests in Door county longer than any other man and has wisely directed the affairs of the institution of which he is the head, making it of great service to the community. In many other ways he has also aided in the advancement of the public interests and there is no citizen of the county held in higher esteem than he. He was born February 14, 1845, in Norway, Europe, a son of Andrew and Caroline Nelson, who on emigrating to America with their family made their way at once to Ephraim, Door county, Wisconsin, where they arrived August 24, 1854. At that early date practically this entire region was covered by virgin forests and the work of development appeared scarcely to have been thought of. For a time the father engaged in carpentering and later purchased twenty-one acres of timber land near Sturgeon Bay, then only a small village. He cleared his land and engaged in raising the usual crops. That farm is now a part of the fourth ward of the city of Sturgeon Bay.

Charles L. Nelson, who is one of a family of eleven children, four sons and seven daughters, attended school at Sturgeon Bay. When eighteen years old he began his independent career and at length purchased the homestead although his father continued to reside there until his death. For eight or ten years Mr. Nelson of this review was variously employed and for three years of the Civil war period he was clerk in a general store conducted by a Mr. Schjoth. Subsequently he was for seven years a clerk for A. W. Lawrence & Company and then formed a partnership for the conduct of an insurance business with C. M. Smith. The firm was very successful, and, recognizing the need for banking facilities in the county, began to engage in banking to some extent in connection with their other interests. This arrangement continued until 1886, when Mr. Smith disposed of his share in the business to George O. Spear, who remained in partnership with Mr. Nelson until 1891. In that year the banking business was organized under the name of Merchants Exchange Bank with Mr. Nelson as president and W. A. Lawrence as bookkeeper. The institution has had a very prosperous career and is now one of the most solid banks in all northeastern Wisconsin. The present officers are: Charles L. Nelson, president; William A.

Lawrence, vice president; Clyde M. Stephenson, cashier; and Julia E. Clark, assistant cashier. The excellent condition of the bank reflects great credit upon its officers, all of whom are energetic, capable and thoroughly reliable, and the bank has the entire confidence of the community. The capital and surplus is now more than $62,500 and the assets are over $536,000. The Merchants Exchange Bank is the oldest banking house in the county and its success is due in large measure to Mr, Nelson, who has been its chief executive officer during the entire period of its existence. He also owns valuable city and farm property and is a firm believer in the future of Door county.

Mr. Nelson was married in 1870 to Miss Eliza Coleman, a native of Geneva, Illinois, and one of the early school teachers of Door county. They have had six children, as follows: Herbert, a resident of Kansas City; Charles L., Jr., who is a graduate of the State University of Wisconsin and is now in the United States army; Sidney R., of San Diego, California; Jessie, the wife of Sam Swanson, assistant attorney for the Northwestern Mutual Insurance Company of Milwaukee; Lillie, who is the wife of Charles Camp, a rancher living near San Diego, California; and Florence, who died when ten years old.

Mr. Nelson was quite prominent in the local councils of the republican party and took an active part in public affairs. For four years he was village treasurer, for two years town treasurer, and for six years city treasurer, his repeated elections to office indicating the confidence reposed in him by his fellow citizens. He is quite well known fraternally, belonging to Henry S. Baird Lodge, No. 211, A, F. & A. M., of Sturgeon Bay, to the Knight Templar Commandery at Green Bay and to the consistory and Mystic Shrine at Milwaukee, and being also a charter member of both the Knights of Pythias and the Odd Fellows lodges at Sturgeon Bay. He and his wife have traveled extensively throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico and the many-sided contacts with life thus secured have made him a man of liberal views and of wide information, He is a very agreeable companion as well as a business man of more than usual insight and power and as a citizen his public spirit has been proven time and time again.

August Rieboldt

No record of industrial development and activity in Sturgeon Day would be complete without extended reference to August Rieboldt, who since 1890 has been actively associated with the interests of Sturgeon Bay as a shipbuilder. There is in his life history much that is commendable for the story shows what can be accomplished when there is a will to dare and to do, giving proof of the fact that in America "labor is king." Mr. Rieboldt is a native of Prussia. He was born in Falkenwald, in the province of Brandenburg, January 23, 1849, but was only about two years old when brought by his parents to the new world. Reared in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, he spent a few terms as a student in the Lutheran parochial school and when a youth of thirteen was confirmed in that church. The following year he made his initial step in the business world by entering upon an apprenticeship at furniture making at a period when practically all furniture was made by hand. He did not get along well with his first employer and at the end of a year left, but soon afterward entered upon another apprenticeship under a Herman Wolter, under whose directions he acquiréd a competent knowledge of the trade. He received during the first year a wage of six dollars, for the second year twelve dollars and for the third eighteen dollars. Although the money received was very small it was better than some apprentices, for at that time it was not an unusual thing for a youth to pay for the privilege of learning rather than to receive any wage. After working at furniture making for a short time Mr. Rieboldt in 1866 changed his occupation somewhat by accepting a position in the shipyards at Sheboygan and while thus employed he also sailed at various times on the brig Sailorboy and other vessels, for from early youth he had practical knowledge of sailing. At one time he was also a member of the volunteer life saving crew and many rescues have been reported to his credit. Hardships came to him in connection with his experience as a sailor but all these things called forth in him the qualities of manhood and courage and also developed quickness of thought in emergencies.

In the fall of 1869 Mr. Rieboldt went south to spend some time at Memphis, Tennessee. Important events often come in the guise of commonplaces. It seemed. no particular event in the life of Mr. Rieboldt when in 1870 he entered the employ of the Wolf & Davidson Company of Milwaukee at their shipyard, yet it was this step which led him into his present important field of labor. He not only worked in the yards but also as master commanded a sailing vessel for that firm during two seasons, and in 1883 and 1884 he had charge of the wrecking tug boat Leviathan. In 1885 he entered into partnership with Joseph Wolter, who was then foreman of the Wolf & Davidson Company, to establish a shipbuilding yard at Sheboygan. Their first boat was the tug Sheboygan, and from that time on they have been kept constantly busy in the construction of boats, some large, some small, until the number now reaches about sixty, They were the builders of the Helena, which at one time was the largest sailing vessel on the lakes. They were also builders of the Marion, the John Schroeder, the E. A. Shores and many others. The firm has ever maintained an unusual reputation for the integrity of its methods as well as the thoroughness of its work, and the growth of the businesss leads to the employment of two hundred and forty workmen at the present time, most of whom are skilled in this particular line of labor. They have built over 60 vessels of various kinds. Mr. Rieboldt is also one of the stockholders of the Wisconsin Dredge & Dock Company which has executed very important government and other contracts along the line indicated, and he also owns stock in the Bank of Sturgeon Bay.

On the sth of October, 1876, Mr. Rieboldt was united in marriage to Miss Maria Davidson, a native of Milwaukee where her father settled in pioneer times. She passed away November 16, 1905, her death being deeply regretted by many friends as well as her immediate family because of the nobility of her character, her social charms and her many kindnesses to those who needed assistance. Mr. and Mrs. Rieboldt were the parents of six sons and a daughter, Edward, Henry L., William A., Frederick H., Arthur D., Mabel and Clarence E.

Mr. Rieboldt is independent in politics. It is characteristic of him that he does not hesitate to express his honest convictions nor support those principles in which he believes. He is well known in masonic circles, holding membership in lodge, chapter and counsel at Sturgeon Bay and he also belongs to the Knights of Pythias. He is likewise a member of the Twenty Club composed of Sturgeon Bay's most prominent citizens, and of this he has been vice president. He stands for all that is most progressive in the public life of the community and his influence is always given on the side of those activities which are a matter of civic virtue and civic pride.

Austin Owen

Austin Owen, a well known agriculturist residing on section 31, Sturgeon Bay township, came to Door county twenty-one years ago and has since been actively and successfully identified with its farming interests. His birth occurred in Norway, on the 20th of January, 1859, and when a young man of twenty-two years he crossed the Atlantic to the United States, taking up his abode in Renville county, Minnesota, in 1881. His parents later also emigrated to the new world and spent their last days in Renville county, Minnesota, where they were buried. The year 1896 witnessed Mr. Owen's arrival in Door county and here he purchased the farm of Lonie Anderson, comprising eighty acres on section 31, Sturgeon Bay township, on which he now resides and which he has cultivated continuously to the present time. He follows enterprising, progressive methods in the conduct of his agricultural interests and annually gathers rich crops which find a ready sale on the market.

On May 10, 1892, Mr. Owen was united in marriage to Mrs. Marie Johnson, a native of Norway, by whom he has two children: William, born September 12, 1895; and Daniel, whose natal day was September 26, 1902. By her first husband Mrs. Owen had a daughter, Olga Johnson, who was born in 1889.

Since becoming a naturalized American citizen Mr. Owen has supported the men and measures of the republican party. He has ably served as supervisor for three terms and for two terms has been director of school district No. 5. He belongs to the Farmers' Urfion and is a devoted and consistent member of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Coming to the new world in early manhood, he here found the opportunities which he sought and in their wise utilization has won a place among the substantial agriculturists and respected citizens of his community.

Herbert C. Scofield

Herbert C. Scofield is the secretary and treasurer of the Scofield Company of Sturgeon Bay, which owns and controls the largest hardware store of the city and the second largest in the state. His birth occurred in Pensaukee, Wisconsin, November 25, 1859, his parents being Charles and Maria H. (Stacy) Scofield, who were natives of Champlain, New York, and Minot, Maine, respectively. Both came to the west as young people and were married at Pensaukee in 1858. The father turned his attention to the lumber industry and figured prominently in that connection for many years. He acted as foreman for the F. B. Gardner Lumber Company at Pensaukee and in 1867 he went to Green Bay, building a sawmill on Shawano road. This he sold to Cook & Foster in 1869. It was also in that year that he purchased the lumber mill of Louis Van Dyke at Red River, Wisconsin, and admitted John Leathem and Thomas Smith to a partnership in the business. This association was maintained until 1881, when Mr. Scofield sold out to his partners. In 1869 he removed to Kewaunee county, where he conducted a lumber business until November, 1880, when he came to Door county and established a lumberyard at Sturgeon Bay. During the period of his residence in this county Mr. Scofield figured prominently in public affairs and left the impress of his individuality for good upon public thought and action. In 1875 he represented his district in the general assembly. He also served on the school board of Sturgeon Bay and, moreover, is entitled to distinction as the first mayor of the city. His political endorsement was always given to the republican party and he studied closely those questions and interests which are to the statesman and the man of affairs of gravest import. He belonged to the Congregational church and to the Masonic fraternity and these associations indicated the nature of his interests and the rules that governed his conduct. He was called from this life October 20, 1891, while his widow survived until June 15. 1904. They were the parents of six children: Herbert C.; H. F., who is president of the Scofield Hardware Company; Nellie, at home; Fannie M., who married H. P. Hendricks and is now cashier with the Scofield Hardware Company at Sturgeon Bay; Florence, who is a nuse in Mercy Hospital of Chicago; and Jessie, the wife of Dr. R. M. Parker, of Chicago.

Herbert C. Scofield acquired his education in public schools of this state and in the Green Bay Business College. He then became associated with his father in the lumber business and for three years, from 1879 until 1881 inclusive, was upon the road as a traveling salesman, representing the wholesale clothing house of Clement & Sayer of Chicago for a year and the firm of Bierman & Heidelberg, wholesale clothiers of New York, for two years. He afterward came to Sturgeon Bay and entered the employ of the Sturgeon Bay Lumber Company as buyer. He continued in that capacity for about seven years, at the end of which time, or in 1888, he organized the firm of Scofield & Hendricks for the conduct of a hardware business. The following year his brother, H. F. Scofield, purchased the interest of Mr. Hendricks and the Scofield Company was then organized. The business was incorporated in 1900, with H. F. Scofield as the president and Herbert C. Scofield as the secretary and treasurer. This is the oldest and largest hardware store of the city and with one exception is the most extensive in the state. The business has grown to very gratifying proportions and its development has been based upon the most substantial business principles and most progressive commercial methods.

On the 6th of December, 1883, Mr. Scofield was married to Miss Augusta M. Uecke, of Seymour, Wisconsin. Their children are: H. R., who organized the Scofield Auto Music Company, a very successful business enterprise of Columbia, South Carolina; Howard, who died in 1898, at the age of twelve years; Stanley M., of New York, who is a graduate of the Art Institute Chicago and is now a commercial designer and artist of the eastern metropolis; and Lloyd M., residing in New York city with his brother Stanley.

purposes of the craft, and he is also connected with the Knights of Pythias. He is president of the Rayside Cemetery Association and is now serving for the second term of three years as president of the Commercial Club. He has been honored with the presidency of the State Retail Hardware Association, which position he filled in 1912 and 1913 - a position which indicated the high regard entertained for him in commercial circles. He was also elected a delegate to the National Hardware Association for five years. He was also elected president of the Door County Council of Defense, organized May 10, 1917. In politics he has ever been a stalwart republican and has again and again been called upon for public service. For four terms he represented the first ward in the city council and afterward was elected from the second ward. In 1899 he was a candidate for mayor against George Nelson and was elected by three votes. Such was the splendid record which he made in office that at the succeeding election he was elected without opposition. He has since served again for two terms in the city council and was one of the first three to be elected on the utility commission. There is no man who occupies a more enviable position in public regard than Herbert C. Scofield, not alone by reason of the success which he has achieved but also by reason of the straightforward business policy which he has ever followed and the prominent part which he has taken in furthering the general welfare and advancing the interests of the city. He has been a close and discriminating student of all vital public problems and has been actuated in his official service by a singleness of purpose that none have questioned. People may differ from him in policy, but they never doubt his fidelity to his honest convictions and many tangible evidences of the value of his work can be cited. The name of Scofield has indeed figured prominently upon the pages of Sturgeon Bay's history since his father became the first mayor of the city, and the progressive work instituted by the father had been carried forward by the son to the benefit of all residents of Sturgeon Bay.

William Struck

William Struck is actively identified with one of the most important industries of Door county, that of cheese manufacturing, which he successfully follows in Union township. He was born in Chicago on the 20th of March, 1882, and is a son of Albert and Augusta (Frend) Struck. The parents were natives of Germany, where they were réared and married and in 1881 they came to the United States, settling in Chicago, Illinois, where the father worked as a carpenter and mason contractor. Later he came to Door county, establishing his home in Gardner township, where he purchased a farm which was then covered with a dense growth of native trees. He cleared the place and improved it, converting it into an attractive property, upon which he resided for a number of years, becoming one of the prosperous agriculturists of his community. Eventually he removed to Florida, where he now resides. His wife is deceased.

William Struck spent his boyhood in Gardner township and was there reared and educated. After his textbooks were put aside he learned the business of cheese making and in 1904 went to Sevastopol township, where he engaged in the manufacture of cheese for a year. In 1908 he took up his abode in Gardner township, where he purchased the Gardner Cheese Factory, there carrying on business for two years. In 1906 he located in Brussels township, where he continued in cheese manufacturing for eight years and in 1914 he removed to Union township, where he is engaged in the same line of business and is controlling extensive and important interests of that character. He has built a fine cheese factory, thoroughly modern in its equipment, and also built an excellent store building and has erected other buildings. He follows the most modern processes in cheese manufacturing, and the excellence of his product insures a liberal patronage, for he is recognized as a man of thoroughly progressive and reliable business methods.

In 1910 Mr. Struck was united in marriage to Miss Bertha Schwede, a daughter of August Schwede and a native of Nasewaupee township. She taught school for ten years before her marriage. They have one child, Donald. . Both Mr. and Mrs. Struck are well known in their locality and enjoy the warm regard of all with whom they have been associated, having many friends in the district.

James E. Johnson

James E. Johnson, secretary and superintendent of the utilities commission of Sturgeon Bay, was born in Brown county, Wisconsin, May 29, 1874, a son of Harry A. and Anna (Hanson) Johnson, both of whom were natives of Norway. The former crossed the Atlantic in 1872 and made his way across the country to Green Bay, Wisconsin. He had learned the ship carpentry trade in his native country and continued to work along that line at Green Bay for three years, In 1875 he came to Sturgeon Bay, where he again worked at his trade for twenty years. He finally built for himself a boat and sailed on the lakes as its captain for a long period, but later lived retired with his son James. He passed away July 15, 1917. He reached the advanced age of eighty-three years and had long survived his wife, who passed away in November, 1893.

James E. Johnson was but a year old when his parents removed to Sturgeon Bay and here the days of his boyhood and youth were passed, his education being acquired in the public schools. He sailed with his father for three years and afterward learned the electrical business, working as an electrician in Holland, Michigan; until 1896. He then removed to Milwaukee, where he continued to follow his trade until 1914. He afterward returned to Sturgeon Bay and was elected to the position of secretary and superintendent of the utilities commission, in which capacity he has since served. He has charge of all the public utilities including light, water, heat and the toll bridge and he manages the affairs of the office with businesslike precision, as carefully and as wisely directing these public interests as if they were matters of individual concern.

Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Julia Erickson, of Valders, Wisconsin, May 5, 1900, and to them have been born three children: Jessie B., who was born in November, 1901; Thelma A., who was born in 1904 and died in January, 1913; and Allen E., born in June, 1910.

gives his political allegiance to the republican party, while fraternally he is connected with the Masons and the Knights of Pythias. He has many sterling traits of character which have won him high regard, he is loyal in friendship, prompt and reliable in office and faithful at all times to the duties which devolve upon him either of a public or a private nature.

For forty-four years William A. Lawrence has been a resident of Sturgeon Day and for a quarter of a century has been connected with the banking business, being now vice president of the Merchants Exchange Bank. He is one of the substantial citizens that New England has furnished to Wisconsin, his birth having occurred in Garland, Maine, November 5, 1856. His parents, Jonathan C. and Livonia B. (Brockway) Lawrence, were both natives of New Hampshire, but their marriage occurred in Maine. The father was a son of Bennett Lawrence, of New Hampshire, who was descended from an old Massachusetts family. In the year 1890 Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan C. Lawrence came to Sturgeon Bay, where their remaining days were passed.

Their son, William A. Lawrence, had previously settled here in 1873, when a youth of seventeen years. He had acquired a public school education in New England and on coming west he secured a position in the office of A. W. Lawrence & Company, who were engaged in the conduct of a mercantile and lumber business, the senior partner being his uncle. William A. Lawrence remained with his uncle until he sold out to L. M. Washburn and then in 1891 he became connected with the Merchants Exchange Bank, entering upon that line of activity which in the course of years has brought him to his present position. He was for a considerable period cashier of the bank and in 1914 was elected to the vice presidency. He has long had voice in its management and control and has been an effective factor in establishing its policy upon a safe and substantial basis. In a word, he is thoroughly familiar with modern banking principles and methods and has ever recognized the fact that the bank is the most worthy of patronage which most carefully safeguards and protects the interests of depositors.

Mr. Lawrence married Miss Josephine N. Nelson, who was born in Sturgeon Bay. They have become the parents of a son and a daughter, Harry and Clara C. The former is a graduate of the high school of Sturgeon Bay and pursued a business course in Lawrence University and a special course in Marquette University. He is now head office man and private secretary to August Bech of the Bech Lumber Company of Milwaukee. He is married but has no children. The daughter, Clara, is the wife of William F. Swanston, of Milwaukee. She was graduated from the Sturgeon Bay high school and for a time successfully engaged in teaching here.

Mr. Lawrence votes with the republican party and is a firm believer in its principles. He has served for ten years as a member of the city council and for four years as a member of the county board of supervisors, in both of which positions he put forth every possible effort to further the interests and welfare of city and county. He was also at one time a member of the school board of Sturgeon Bay, serving for about ten years. He attends the Congregational church and he holds membership with several fraternal organizations, including the Masons, the Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias. In Masonry he has attained the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite. He became a charter member of Henry S. Baird Lodge, No. 211, of this organization in 1878 and has since advanced through the various degrees of Masonry, becoming a Consistory member in Milwaukee and also a member of Palestine Commandery No. 20, K. T., of Green Bay. His life, upright and honorable in its purposes, has been attended with good results. Not only has he won individual success, but through his active labors in connection with public affairs he has also contributed to the general progress and prosperity of the community.

Carl F. Krueger

Carl F. Krueger is the owner of an excellent farm on section 33, Egg Harbor township, on which he has splendid improvements, indicating his progressive spirit and efficient methods in carrying on his farm work. He was born in Germany, September 14, 1853, and is a son of Carl and Mary (Stieber) Krueger, who were also natives of Germany, where the father followed the occupation of farming throughout his entire life. He there passed away in 1907, while his wife died in 1901.

Carl F. Krueger was reared and educated in Germany and, when not busy with his school books, worked in the fields, being thus employed until 1881. He was in his twenty-eighth year when he bade adieu to his friends and native country and sailed for the United States, thinking to better his business opportunities on this side of the Atlantic. Making his way to Door county, he was employed as a farm hand here for two years and then purchased his present place of one hundred and twenty acres on section 33, Egg Harbor township. With characteristic energy he began to cultivate and develop his farm until he now has one of the best improved farms in the county. His home is a modern, two story, brick residence, built in an attractive style of architecture, and he has a large and well equipped barn and all the latest improved machinery on his farm. At one time he owned more land but has sold it, retaining only his original tract. In addition to raising grain, he engages in feeding cattle, of which he keeps a good grade.