Iowa County, Wisconsin - Chapter 17: Towns and Villages, 1881 (part 2 of 2)

There are deposits of mineral in the town, but to how great an extent is not known, as but little has been done in the way of mining for many years. The first discovery was made accidentally by a merchant of Mineral Point, while passing over the road to Centerville. By him, it was reported to N. P. Underwood, now of Puliski, but for some reason the discovery was neglected, so that nothing was done toward developing mines here until about 1840 to 1846, and long after the location of the first discovery was forgotten. It is altogether probable that there are beds of mineral here - galena, black jack and drybone - that, if developed, would yield a handsome revenue.

The history of Eden is necessarily, to a large extent, identified with Highland, to which the territory now embraced by its boundaries belonged, until it was set off, and, therefore, the names of very many of those who have, in former years, figured quite prominently in this section, will be found in the sketch of that town.

As to who the very first settler may have been, or was, is not accurately known. This was a sort of neutral ground, despised and neglected by the first comers of Mifflin, Centerville and Highland. On account of its possessing no recognized value, except for agricultural purposes ; therefore, for several years after those points were supporting quite a large population, these beautiful prairies were left lying dormant in the lap of Mother Nature.

So far as general accounts go, the first settler in what is now the town of Eden was Daniel Thorpe, who is remembered as having been located here as early as 1842, on the farm now owned by Daniel Zimraer, Section 25. He, it appears, fixed himself at that point for the purpose of accommodating the travelers who were passing to and fro on the old military road, and also for the purpose of mining ; as it is known beyond a doubt that he was engaged in developing "diggings," to a considerable extent at one time, but to how great a profit, or for how long a time, is not known. However, it is certain that a good deal of mineral was raised and taken to the old David Seely furnace, which stood about a mile east of Centerville, near what is now the town line between Highland and Eden, and which was erected about 1836 by Moses Meeker, the pioneer smelter of Galena, and one of the first in this county. The old furnace long since went to decay, and the old Daniel Thorpe " diggings " became filled with water, so that the mine is not now available to any appreciable extent.

Another of the old settlers of this town was H. M. Billings, who was really the first comer into this country who made a permanent home here, but the first years of his residence in the county were spent in what is now the town of Highland. Mr. Billings came to the county as early as 1834, and into this town about 1847. He was one of the stanchest of the old pioneers, and a man so well known and thoroughly identified with the history of the county and State development, that it is only necessary for us to mention his name to recall the man to his asso- ciates who still survive him. His career and death are noted in another chapter. He leaves a widow and highly respectable family, all of whom, with the exception of Mrs. Billings, who is now the last of the very first women, are natives of this town.

Of other old settlers of this town, we are enabled to mention Thomas Manning, Edward and Jacob Hayes. Andrew McKeady, Henry Pugh, E. P. Pritchard, Daniel Darnell, J. N. Lemon, Kund Holverson, Daniel Zimmer, S. N. Tregonning, James Thomas, Mr. Armfield, Thomas Comfort, Jacob Culber, John Holman, James Fox and John Coker, all of whom have contributed liberally toward the development of the country by their constant and assiduous efforts.

There are also many others who have been located in this section of the county for a good many years, many of them now being the representative men of the town in wealth and enterprise, of whom it would be highly gratifying to speak in general terms, but the limits of this work preclude all but a brief survey of the chief incidents in the growth of the country and a mention of those who were here first, so far as can be ascertained from local sources of information.

Of those who were here early, that have been here the longest, may be mentioned Messrs. McKeady, Pritchard, Lemon and Zimmer, all of whom, with many others not spoken of, are living in the enjoyment of a happy and prosperous old age.

One of the institutions of Lang Syne, well remembered by the oldest, was the old Cross Plains Hou.se, erected about 1848 by George Shep;ird and a man by the name of Popejoy. The house derived its name from its isolated position on the open plain traversed by the first stage road, and at that time, besides being the first hotel and only desirable stopping-place in this part of the country, it was almost the only house for miles around, for it must not be forgotten that as late as 1850, and almost up to war times, the country, now converted into fine farms, was very much of it lying untilled.

In connection with the old tavern occurs a remembrance of the old race-track and the sports of thirty years ago. The track, which was straight and as level as a house floor, lay near the tavern, and here, from miles around, on Sundays and holidays, would congregate the miners and sporting characters to have a bit of fun. Horse-racing was the chief amusement, but target-shooting and foot-racing were not at all uncommon, and an occasional fisticuff may also have been introduced in vindication of various political opinions and otherwise, or to test the validity of some one's claim to being the best man in "seventeen counties."

A post oflBce was established in town as early as 1850, Daniel Thorpe being Postmaster and keeping the office at the old tavern already mentioned. After continuing a few years it was abandoned, and no other office was established until the arrival of Martin Ash at what is now the village of Eden.

About the first ministers to visit this section of the country were Rev. T. M. Fullerton and Rev. Whitford, the latter. at one time being a resident of the town. After them (in 18.50) came "Parson" Williams, familiarly so called, who was chiefly instrumental in erecting the Episcopal Church, which was the first religious edifice in the town or in this part of the county. The church, which stands on Section 31, is a commodious edifice, having cost about $5,000 when it was built; the money, it is said, was obtained by Mr. Williams from abroad, as a contribution for the purpose. The other two religious edifices - Mount Hope Baptist Church and the Methodist Episcopal Church - were both built about five years ago.

Village Of Eden

This place, known under the various titles of Danville, Cross Plains, Cobb Post Office and Eden, is the only village in the township. It is a smart little town, one of the best for business in this portion bf the county, and bids fair, now that a railroad is to pass through or near it, to outstrip many of the adjacent and older and more pretentious places.

The first settler here was Martin Ash, who came about 1850. At the time his log cabin was being rolled up, he ventured the prediction, which has since been fulfilled, that there would eventually be a village at this point. He subsequently, in 1859, erected the first hotel, known

The first business of the place was blacksmithing, by Thomas Comfort, and saloon-keeping, by John Tige and James McDonald. These were followed by Michael Schutte, in 1872, who opened the first store in the place in connection with a saloon.

The first regular mercantile establishment was started by John Fillback and H. Cunningham, in the fall of 1873, and is still in operation. The general business development made within the last few years, is best represented by the directory appended in conclusion.

The present post office (known as Cobb) has been in operation about fifteen or twenty years. It has been kept respectively by Martin Ash, J. W. Sherwood, Jacob Culver, William Rappson, Michael Schuette and the incumbent, John Fillback.

A depot is to be built here during the summer of 1881, on grounds located thirty-eight rods north of the village, on Sections 25 and 26. The grade of the road has already reached the place, and, within a few months, the snort of the iron horse will wake the echoes in the place.

The reader of the future, when he adjusts his spectacles and glances over the record of the past, will here find the names of the business men of 1880, and, perhaps, of a later date : Charles Fox, hardware ; W. J. Rappson & Son, hardware and drugs ; F. A. Cuninghan, groceries ; Joseph Bailey, hotel ; Gordan Andrews, Doctor ; John Fillback, general store. Postmaster and Town Clerk ; Patric Manning, shoemaker ; James Goldthorp, wagon-maker and blacksmith ; Daniel Zimmer, carpenter; Richard Manning, hotel and saloon; Peter Schutte, groceries; Thomas & Davie, furniture ; George Yickelson, butcher ; David Smith, blacksmith ; Michael Schutte, hotel ; L. E. Cooley, general store ; John Prideaux, wagon-maker and blacksmith ; Jacob Hayes, carpenter; Daniel Zimmer, Sr., Justice.

The town of Eden was set off from the town of Highland in the spring of 1877, according to the general desire of the inhabitants of the first-named town, and, on the 3d of April of that year, the first town meeting was held in the schoolhouse of District No. 9, and a regular organization effected. The following persons were chosen inspectors of the election : J. B. Johnson, C. D. Alexander and Andrew McReady. The town officers elected were as follows : Andrew McCready, Chairman ; John Jacobson and C. D. Alexander, Supervisors; John Fillback, Clerk ; Richard Manning, Treasurer, and John Billings, Assessor.

Town Of Highland

As is well known, the only industry that was considered of importance in an early day was mining; and as early as 1828, certainly large amounts of lead were raised here. The importance of this industry continued to increase for a good many years, and at one time this part of the country ranked very high among the best sections of the lead-producing regions of Iowa County. In after years, as agricultural pursuits came into vogue, the mining interests began to wane, and continued to fall off largely for a good many years, but at the present time this work is being pursued, apparently, with renewed vigor, and large quantities of lead, blende and calamine are being shipped out of the town daily from the vicinity of Highland and Centerville, or what is now known as Dry Bone Post Office.

The most extensive mining was once done in the vicinity of Highland, and the Maguire lead is usually considered as having been the best ever discovered. This was being worked to the greatest profit from 1850 to 1860. The mining is now being done chiefly near Dry Bone. To attempt to state accurately the amount of ore that has been sent from this section, would be futile; therefore, no figures are given; suffice it to say, the yield of black jack and drybone, frnm the mine of Kreull & Co., near Centerville, has been for many years enormous. Hundreds of thousands of pounds are shipped away annually, and during some portions of the year a perfect retinue of teams is required to convey the product to the railroad at Avoca, from which point the most of it is shipped to La Salle, 111. When it is understood that drybone has been at times as high as $75 to $80 per ton, or even higher, something of an estimate of the immense revenues realized from this industry may be realized. At the present time the price is much lower, but high enough to insure a handsome profit to the owners.

The general social status of the people is good. The schools and the churches receive a hearty and free support from a majority of the inhabitants. This indicates their true character. There are very many fine farms here - some that will compare favorably with any in the county - and throughout the town an evident pleasure and pride is taken in making substantial and useful improvements - those that will last and reilect credit upon the energies of the farmers and laboring classes.

Highland is the oldest village of consequence in the town and ranks in importance next to Mineral Point and Dodgeville, for, although removed from railroad communication, a large and remunerative business is done here. With the exception of milling, there is no manufacturing done in this locality. The oldest inhabitant is Mr. Blabaum, aged ninety-two years. The oldest settler now living is William Manning, who has been here since 1838. The present population of the town is 2,436. For census lists, see general history.

Who may have been the first white comer or comers into this town it is very difficult to determine, as none of those who first pitched their tents here are left to tell the story. But, without doubt, the first white man was a Frenchman, an Indian trader, by the name of Brisbois (as appears in the general history). The first " diggings," as they are familiarly called, were named after him, and, from being near the surface, could be easily worked, and therefore were sought by the Indians, who were really the first miners. This mine was situated about one mile north and west of the site of Highland, but was never worked very extensively, on account of the rocky nature of the land.

In 1827 and 1»28, when the grand influx of miners rushed into the county, a large number came here, prominent among whom were Capt. James Jones, Levi Gilbert and Daniel Moore. Many others came here about that time, the names of some of them appearing in the following list, which represents the number of voters in the town in 1838, carefully compiled from authentic official documents. Some of these will be remembered, by many of the oldest inhabitants now living, as having been men prominently connected with the early settlement of this portion of the county, while many of the names will stand unrecognized, they having been obliterated from memory by the oblivion which time and change bring, and from which there is no salvation except through tradition and history :

Levi Gilbert and Capt. Jones, it is generally conceded, opened the second mine, called the Walter Diggings. To enumerate all the various diggings, as Dry Bone, Blue River, etc., that were soon after being operated, is neither possible nor necessary to the interest of the narrative. Suffice it to say, within a few years the country in various directions was largely honeycombed by miners' pits, that went by any name the facetiousness of the owner might suggest.

While the war of 1832 was raging, the people were posted on the east half of the southwest quarter of Section 84, Town 7, Range 1, under the command of Capt. James Jones ; but during those three months of Indian troubles, the little garrison remained quiet, as the chief seat of the difficult}' was in the eastern part of this county and in what is now LaFayette County. In fact, it is said that the miners were not deterred from prosecuting their labors to any great extent by the unpleasantness, excepting those who chose to go out with the volunteers in quest of adventure and scalps. After the war, the increase of population must have been quite rapid, but so many were coming and going that a large part of those who were there in the first place had removed to other points.

The first lead lode of unusual value was discovered about 1834, by Thomas G. Lucas and a man by the name of Powers. This mine is described as having been the most productive and easiest worked of any ever opened up to that date, or indeed for many years after. It was located not far from Centerville. Not long after this, Vosburg Jennings, H. M. Billings and P. C. Underwood, Elihu B. Goodsell, Stephen P. Hollenbeck, Moses Meeter and many others opened mines here, some of which were worked with profit for a good many years.

John G. Parish brought a wife and family of seven children into the county, two of whom were daughters. One of these girls married Daniel Moore, and the other Levi Sterling, who was the first Sherift' of the county. The^e were the first marriages in the Blue River district, and among the very first in the county.

The first farm in the town was opened about 1836 or 1837, by Mr. Potts, in the south part, near the line of the town of Eden. A good many years before any other person had made any improvements of particular note, there was a large piece of land under cultivation here, and almost before any other person had begun farming in this section of the county, he had a thrifty young orchard, which was producing largely. This orchard was one of the very first in the county, and practically demonstrated that fruit could be raised successfully, when nearly every one supposed it would not grow in this country.

The first mercentile business was started in the town in 1836, by William Atchison, at the mining hamlet of Centerville, which should be mentioned as the chiefest place in the west part of the county at that time ; the metropolis of the Blue River district, as this part of the county was called for many years, and after which an incorporated company was subsequently named, which was organized to mine in this part of the county. Centerville received its name from being located directly on the line between Iowa and Grant Counties ; subsequently it was called Dry Bone, on account of the chief mineral product of the region. A post office was established here about 1840, with Hu'.^h McCracken, one of the early comers and second merchant in the town, as Postmaster. He was succeeded by Charles N. Mumford, in 184.5, who held it until 1852 or 1853, when it was discontinued ; the present office was established in 1878, with Anthony Kruel as Postmaster.

A Mrs. Townsend kept boarding-house at Centerville at a very early day, and, with two amiable daughters, dispensed the comforts of life to the bachelors of that region. These girls were among the first married in the town, a man by the name of Mills and another by the name of Samuels being the favored parties. A person by the name of Hyde also kept a boarding-house here at one time.

In the winter of 1874, an enterprising party named Thomas Allen erected a building and set up a large and complete mineral-washing apparatus, near Dry Bone; but, unfortunately, the investment of time, energy and money brought no reward, and last year theafiairs of the establishment had to be closed out. The expense incurred in this attempt to improve the mining interests of the country cost something like $20,000. Probably no one else will be so rash as to make a similar endeavor, although it would seem thjt such a business ought to prove successful and remunerative.

Before 1850, the business of Centerville changed its course and went to its more prosperous rival, Highland, and since that time the little hamlet has almost ceased to be a place. There is yet a store here where the post office is kept, and a blacksmith-shop and saloon. This is the only business, aside from mining and farming, done in the locality.

In early days the lead raised in the vicinity of Centerville was smelted, principally at Dr. Meeker's furnace. The value of blende and calamine was then unknown, and millions of this valuable mineral was lost.

Another of the early settlements was Simonsville, which received its nom de plume from a miner of "ye olden time," who first made this valley his place of abode, and who, it is said, dispensed the ardent almost before the recollection of any of the modern settlers. The location of the place is about all there is to it, as it never reached the dignity of a hamlet, although the early residents may have had hopes that some time there would be a village. The only business which has been done here for years in the way of trade has been by R. C. Lee, who keeps a grocery and meat market. At this point is the farm of Antony Emback, one of the very oldest living settlers.

Of the men who were in the town before 1850, not mentioned elsewhere, and many of whom have either gone over the river or moved to other places, we mention David McFarland, Patrick Manning, W. H. Hook, John Howard, Pat Smith, David Leman, Alfred Parmer, Pat Fitzpatrick, William Otterson, Russell Leech, Andrew and James McFarland, Ahab Bean, Timothy Burns, James Andrews, John Booth, Judge Strong, Theodore and R. L. Vance, Gilbert Corley, J. J. Jones, E. Watson, John Pettigrove, E. Dyer, W. W. Jennings, J. Mullamphy, J. D. Meeker, C. N. Mumford, J. B. Darnell, F. A. Hill, Dr. L. C. McKenna, John McDermott, Franklin Ward, P. J. Toll, W. S., John and Daniel Dudgeon, John Fultz, Mr. Gottschalk, Dr. J. P. Hamilton, John and Louis Suddeth, James, Pat and Edward Manning, J. Donahue. Joseph Daley and A. Galloway. Many of these are well remembered as representative men, and some of them have occupied the most distinguished or public positions in the gift of the people, as T. Burns, David McFarland. The oldest of the first settlers now living are Messrs. McFarland, Jones, EinhofF, Carley, Darnell and Manning. Nearly all of those enumerated in this connection were residents of the town before 1850, and some were here as early as 1840.

Furnaces. - As early as 1828, Capt. Jones had a furnace, and within a few years there was another started by Moses Meeker, one of the most noted of the first settlers. This furnace stood east of the village of Highland, and was subsequently operated by David Seely for many years. From this, it will be readily understood that there must have been a large amount of mining done in Highland before 1850.

At a very early day, it was known among the miners that there was a magnificent spring west of the site of Highland, about a mile, and a good many were ambitious to start a furnace at that point, as there was also an abundance of wood convenient. Nothing was done, however, until 1836. Then, simultaneously, P. C. Underwood and J. B. Terry started out to find it, with the avowed intention of building the mooted furnace. As a result of the search, J. B. Terry found the spring, made a claim, and a furnace was erected soon after, called the Blue River Furnace, in which J. B. Terry, William S. Hamilton and Dr. Moses Meeker were chiefly interested. This furnace operated for a few years only and was abandoned. At one time there was talk of building a mill here, as the spring, which bursts from a hill some distance above the level, is one of great volume.

In 1847, a furnace was erected by Theodore Vance, Henry Corwith, of Galena, furnishing the necessary funds for the prosecution of the work, and being the most interested party. In 1850, the furnace became the property of Joseph Clemenson, who had previously operated it, and who continued to run it until about 1858, when he relinquished the business of smelting and abandoned the furnace to decay. It was located on Section 35,- and is now a mass of ruins.

About the time this furnace was discarded, the firm of Bennett & Hoskins built another about a mile east of Highland, at what is known as Simonsville, which is still standing, and is operated each season.

Mills. - The first mill was built by David Dudgeon about 1850, on the Hollenbeck Branch of Otter Creek, Section 13. This mill, which was but a small affair, containing one run of stone, was continued in active operation until 1870, when the building was removed to Rich- land County. At the present time there is talic of erecting a creamery on the old mill site, as the location and general surroundings are especially well adapted to that purpose.

Another and better mill was built by Roger Jones in 18(30, on Section 83, Town 7, on Baker's Branch of Otter Creek. This mill, which contains two runs of stone, is still in opera-, tion.

One of the noticeable enterprises engaged in about ten years ago, was the building of a wind-mil! by Thomas Bering. The intention was good, but, unfortunately, the business could not be made to pay ; some grinding was done, but the institution was rather too primitive in character and the wind too uncertain a motor to enable the proprietor to compete successfully with water-power, so the mill quickly passed into disuse.

The first school was taught in the town by a Mrs. H. Clarke, in 1846. The schoolhouse, a small frame building which is yet standing on the east side of iVIain street, in the south part of the town of Highland, and used for a private residence, was erected in 1845, the money for the purpose being raised by subscription. This served as meeting-house, town-house and schoolhouse.

An amusing episode connected with the first teacher is worthy of mention. It appears that Mrs. Clark(! did not give the best of satisfaction to some of her patrons, while others were well pleased and gave her a willing support. However, it was decided by the special management, that, after Mrs. Clarke's first school term was over, another teacher should be employed. Accordingly G. F. Meigs, now of Arena, was engaged. When the time arrived for opening his school, he came on only to find Mrs. Clarke holding the fort. S- P. HoUenbeck, one of the prominent early comers, was especially interested and went and requested Mrs. Clarke to retire, but she firmly refused to do so, maintaining her position by the right of possession, or the nine points in the premises. The night following this, after Mrs. Clarke was gone, Mr. Hollenback and others nailed up the windows and fastened the door securely, intending to come on in the morning with Mr. Meigs and take possession. But in the morning when they arrived on the scene, they found the redoubtable, and, by this time, highly irate Mrs. Clarke in possession and prepared for war. No argument or persuasion was of avail, and finally an attempt was made to eject her ; then she proceeded to belabor whoever approached. .'Vs a result, the storming party beat a retreat, leaving her in undisputed possession.

S. P. HoUenbeck, in spe;il<ing of the affair afterward, said that he received a blow that would have distinguished an Amazon. At any rate Mrs. Clarke carried the day, and it may be added, taught the school until the end, or as long as there were any scholars to teach. There are now six school districts with schoolhouses in the town, all being in a flourishing condition.

Ohurches. - Rev. T. M. Fullerton, now of Shullsburg, who preached in the county before 1840, was probably the first person who held regular religious services in this town, although previous to his time. Dr. Moses Meeker and others held meetings in their cabins. From the very beginning, in connection with the general development, religious and moral training became more general, constant and of a higher character, until at present there are four churches and church organizations which furnish every privilege that can be asked for religious enjoyment.

There is at present but one church in the town out of the village of Highland - a Norwegian Lutheran built in 1872 - which stands of Section 29, Town 7, Range 2. This is a handsome stone structure, one of the finest church edifices in the town, and is supported by a large and intelligent congregation. There is a cemetery connected with this church.

Post Offices. - The first post ofl3ce established in what is now the town of Highland, aside from Centerville, was at the village of the same name, in 1846. The next office was at what is known as Pine Knob, established in 1870, at the point of that name and which is sufficiently described thereby. The first and only Postmaster is Andrew Gulickson, who also keeps store here. The Union Mills Post Office, which was at first established in the town of Dodgeville, is now just over the line in the town of Highland. Mr. James is the Postmaster.

Village Op Highland

This village, which is one of the four iacorporated towns in the county, is now the principal business place in the west part of the county, and has been for the last twenty-five years. Although at different times the inhabitants have suffered very severely through epidemics and fire, which have greatly deterred the growth of the village, yet it has managed, through the energetic character of the people, to keep pace with the times, and has been slowly but surely increasing in size and importance, from the time the first miner's cabin was erected until the present.

The first settlers here were principally Americans, with a few Irish and Germans ; but during subsequent years, a gradual change was wrought in this respect, until now there are but few Americans, the German and Irish elements constituting nearly the entire community. The situation is one of the best in the county in some respects, more especially on account of its high altitude, which renders the church steeples visible for many miles throughout the surrounding country, and on account of the extensive mineral deposits, and valuable farming lands which lie in the immediate vicinity. Considering the size of Highland, and the mixture of nationalities, there is no place in this part of the country that can boast of a better social condition, as evidenced by the four thriving churches and one of the best schools in Iowa County.

What the future may hold in store for the place can hardly be predicted, but if a short road is extended to Highland, from the Milwaukee and Madison Branch of the Northwestern Railroad, which passes through the county a few miles south, there can be no doubt of its future prosperity. Therefore, it is to be hoped that they may have a railroad.

Up to 1844, there was nothing done here or in the vicinity but mining, and previous to tha* time such a thing as a village was scarcely contemplated, the miners only caring for their present or daily success, and entertaining few thoughts and less hopes of anything in the future approximating what has since been realized.

First Settlers. - The first person to locate here was Elihu B. Goodsell, who built a log cabin probably as early as 1840, a little west of what is Main street, and began keeping house and entertaining travelers, having at the outset a male housekeeper, who was cook, table-waiter and chambermaid.

At this time, a drift of considerable magnitude was opened by Mr. Goodsell, at this point, in conjunction with William Suddeth, who was at that time his business partner, and who also worked for a time with him at Goodsell's Range, in Booth Hollow, so called after William S. Booth, who worked there as early as 18.31. As to the productiveness of the first Highland drift there are only uncertain accounts, but it is said to have been very rich and quite easy to work.

Mrs. W. S. Booth, in speaking of the times at " Goodsell's Range," says : " The customary winter pastime was sliding down hill," when she, as the only woman there, in company with two or three children, would go out with the men and coast for hours, Mr. Goodsell being the life of the party.

The principal part of the land where the village is located, was entered by E. B. Goodsell and John Barnard, who was the second interested settler here, in 1844-45.

Nothing was done of special importance toward making a permanent plat until 1846, although previous to that time the village had been partially laid out and named Franklin, in honor of a broker of Mr. Goodsell's, named Franklin, and in honor of a favorite boy, belonging to Mrs. William Suddeth, the wife of one of the early miners, who was the first woman in the village, and who subsequently became the wife of Amasa Cobb.

The village was regularly surveyed, platted, and the plat registered in July, 1846, by E. BGoodsell and John Barnard, and in October, 1860, a subdivision was platted by Joseph Lean.

The first house, already mentioned, was occupied as early as 1845 by John Barnard, who kept the first tavern. This building is standing yet, " a relic of by-gone days."

During 1845, several families and persons moved into Highland, the most noticeable of whom were, aside from those mentioned, William and John Suddeth and wives, Harvey Hall and family, William Smith and wife, John Harriman and wife, Andrew McCready and wife, and George Moore.

In the spring of the above year, the first child was born, a son of Andrew McReady, which soon after died, this also being the first death in the place. The second birth was a girl, Elizabeth, the daughter of Mr. Harriman, born during the same year, and who lived until the cholera trouble of 1850.

In 1845, the first frame building was erected by Mr. Goodsell, and rented to Henry Moore, who opened a store during the fall of that year or the ensuing spring. The establishment of a store, where the various necessities can be obtained, and where the ambitious descanters upon private and public topics can congregate, to exchange views and hear the news, is a matter of no small importance to a small or new community, although in itself it may be a signally insignificant affair. However, according to the general opinions, this store was quite a superior establishment.

The first mechanic came here in 1845, in the person of John Bratton, and started a blacksmith-shop. We say the first, but probably there were carpenters here previous to that time, and perhaps masons, but none of these had any fixed place of business. The first carpenters were William Withrow, Anthoney Eimhoff" and William A. Coons. The first known mason was Mr. James Finnel, who came here quite early, and in 1846 erected the first stone building in the place for Mr. Goodsell, and which is now occupied by Mrs. Goodsell.

In 1845, the marriage nuptials of Nicholas Murphy and Maria Ferrill were celebrated. Some of the circumstances connected with this occasion, which was the first of its kind, were quite amusing, and will be well remembered by many of the oldest inhabitants. It appears that Mr. Goodsell had often in a bantering way said that he would present the first couple with a lot, and finally laid a wager with Miss Ferrill, just at the time he was about to start East to get a wife, that no couple would get married before his return. The wager was accepted by Miss Ferrill, and sure enough when he returned in 1846 he found that her marriage had been consummated during his absence, and he was out a lot, which was the stake. True to his word, he gave the couple the lot, and on it the first frame dwelling-house in the village was erected.

The influx of settlers in 1846 was very rapid. In fact, there were not enough cabins to hold them, and during the entire summer large numbers had to live in tents, while on every hand the sound of the workman's hammer proclaimed the fact that the village was growing in a very substantial as well as rapid manner. A large majority of the people who were here then were New England people and Southerners, and among them were some of the best families of those sections, so that the society was unquestionably very good. Owing to the newness of the situation, all were striving to co-operate in a friendly manner, thus making the time pass pleasantly and harmoniously for each and every one.

1847 is remembered in Highland as the year of the first celebration, when people came here from far and near. Among other attractions on that occasion was a brass band from Platteville, and a military company, and Dragoons from Mineral Point. It is said that Judge Cothren then made bis maiden speech, standing on a dry goods box, under a clump of trees on Main street. Old settlers say that this was a very grand affair, with noise and glorification enough to make the day one to be long if not favorably remembered.

Of the very first merchants after Moore, who established themselves here before 1850, we are enabled to mention Mr. Hollob, Isaac Ocheltree, J. B. Wijley, W. Gray, Wesley Johnson, and Phelps, Mr. Miller, J. Gunlac, Charles Gillman and Hugh McCracken ; there were also some others, but their names are unknown.

The second hotel was the old American House, built in 1847 by Anthoney Eimhoff for a Mr. Chandler. This hotel, which has grown old in the service of travelers and various landlords, is now styled the Highland House and kept by Mrs. Fitzpatrick.

Not long after the opening of the American House, Andrew Bolster erected a tavern on the site of Dr. Eagan's house. This hotel was burned and rebuilt a few years after, the second house being a large structure. Eventually that was burned also, so that now nothing remains, only the remembrance of the generous and hospitable fare that could always be obtained there.

The Blackney House, which is now the principal hotel in the place, was built in 1868 or 1869 by Mr. Pothold, a native of Poland. It is at present the property of Thomas Blackney, the ex-County Sheriff.

The first brewery, a log building, was erected by Jacob Gunlach in 1846. In 1847, Phillip Gillman put in the necessary feeding apparatus, and during the same year the first beer was made. Eventually the building was converted to other uses, until it was burned in 1880. The present brewery was built by Peter Seigut & Bros, in 1855. In 1862, it burned, and in 1863, on the old foundation, the building now in use was erected by the Lampe Brothers, Anthone Eimhoff and John Topp. Since that time it has been in constant operation, although changing hands occasionally, and has the name of producing very good beer.

Of the present old settlers living in the village, we are enabled to mention George Lampe, B. H. Lampe, Patrick McGum, S. H. Fitch, John Biehn, Jacob Dannerhausen, Mrs. Goodsell, Mrs. George Strong, Michael Muldoon, Charles Ohlerking, Richard Kennedy, Thomas McGuire, J. Newmeyer and Robert Grace. Nearly all of these were here before 1850, and a few almost from the very first, and nearly all of them, have been largely identified with the general growth of the place; there are doubtless others here who came before 1850, but their names were not known. The names of many that were once residents of the village, will be found in the town history.

Epidemics. - In July, 1850, the village was terribly ravaged by the cholera, some sixtynine individuals having died from its effects. That, together with the exodus to California, may be said to have nearly depopulated the place. Isaac Darnell, a school-teacher, was the first victim, by catching it from a family named Shepard, that was passing through Highland while leaving Wingville, which was then afilicted with the same epideifiic. Within ten days after Darnell was taken, the disease was raging to a terrible extent. Many who were able to get away left ; among them both of the physicians, Drs. Hamilton and Moffett, to save their lives. It seemed for a time that none would escape that remained.

During this terrible ordeal, brave men and women were not wanting to perform the offices of humanity for the dead and dying. A general attendance committee was formed, consisting of Amasa Cobb, Henry Moore, Frank Ward, Benjamin Ringold, Joseph Daley, William Hook, James Hook, Chester Olds, .James Galloway, J. Figgins and a man by the name of Morris, who did all that men could do to alleviate the sufferings of the afflictel. lion-fires were kept burning and cannons were fired to purify the atmosphere, but all to no avail ; the fell destroyer was upon them and the harvest of death must be and was satisfied This was, doubtless the greatest calamity that ever befell the place, the scenes and misery of which will never be forgotten by those who were there, and that pen or tongue can not adequately describe.

In the winter of 1877, the place was visited by the small-pox in the form of an epidemic, and which was so generally prevalent that almost one-half of the houses had the sanguinous signal displayed. The village was quarantined, and, for a time, all sorts of business came nearly to a stand-still. At this period there were about ten deaths, and a very large number who were sick recovered.

Murders. - During the early mining days. Highland was usually considered a pi-etty rough place, where a man could be accommodated with almost any kind of treatment, from good to bad. But this is all changed now, as, with few exceptions, the villagers are very quiet and orderly, and, since the charter was obtained, the various ordinances and efficient officers effectually prevent disorder to any considerable extent. The worst crimes ever perpetrated here were two murders. The killing of an old man, Francis Moran, by splitting his head open with an ax, was the most aggravated and brutal. The crime was perpetrated apparently to obtain money, and the murderers were never discovered. The otiier was the shooting of a Frenchman by the name of LaMott, by a tavern-keeper named Zar. LaMott, it appears, in a fit of intoxication attempted to force his way into Zar's house, causing the disaster. Eventually Zar was tried and acquitted on the plea of self defense.

Fires. - In the course of the career of Highland, as mentioned, it has sufiered severely from fires, some of which, for a place of this size, have been of considerable magnitude. The first one of special note occurred in 1848, when a building started by a Mr. Leider, the first tailor, for a hotel, was burned before it was entirely completed. Of the many fires that occurred afterward, we mention only the worst. The burning of the brewery in 1862, and within a few years the destruction of Dr. Hamilton's drug store and a cooper-shop standing near ; also the burning of the old Wisconsin House, and the drug store of David & Muldoon and P. S. Sheldon's tin-shop ; and again in 1877, the new Wisconsin House and Dr. Stanley's property. The last and worst of all was the terrible conflagration of November 20, 1880. This fire swept oif several of the best business houses in the village, and left a large bare spot on the northwest corner of Main and Mineral Point streets, that will not, in all probability, be re-covered with buildings for some time to come.

The principal sufferers were Charles Ohlerking, Richard Kennedy, Thomas McGuire, Patrick Grant and H. B. Lampe. All of the buildings were insured, but not heavily - in all about $5,600 - which was paid. The estimated loss was $7,500. The men, women and children worked like heroes, and saved a large amount of goods ; but in spite of everything that could be done, and owing to a high wind, the fire could not be extinguished, and only stopped for want of more fuel. One young man, Bernard Goodsell, received a very severe injury in trying to save one of the buildings.

Schools. - As stated in the town sketch, the first schoolhouse was built in the south part of the village, and is now occupied for a private dwelling. This building was the only schoolhouse until 1855 or 1856, when by the general wishes of the voters the district (18) was divided, the line of separation between the two sections being principally Main street. After the division was effected, those in the east portion built a good-sized frame schoolhouse, and those in the west section erected a stone schoolhouse. No change was eff"ected from this time on, save to improve the standing of the schools, until 1875. Then, at the time of the annual school meeting, the property owners of the two sections met and voted to again unite, and by consolidating their forces, to establish a graded school and erect a high-school building. The structure was begun and finished to such an extent during the same year that a winter school could be taught ; but, the small-pox coming on, the school was not opened, although a teacher had been employed, to whom regular wages were paid. The schoolhouse is a large two-story frame building, well finished, lighted and furnished throughout, and is an ornament to the place and credit to the ambition of the inhabitants. The total cost was about $5,000. There are three departments, and the general standing is very good throughout. The citizens of Highland have just cause to be proud of their present school, for certainly it is one of the best in the county.

Post Office. - For a career of change begetting change, of Postmaster after Postmaster, ad libitum, and offices the same, during the last thirty-five years, nothing on record can show a wider range of experience and, perhaps, vicissitude in a public way, than this official institution.

The office was established in May, 1846, with E. B. Goodsell as Postmaster, the office being kept in the store of George Moore. In 1849, Amasa Cobb, who was then in the prime of young manhood, and just returned from the Mexican war, where he had won distinction, was appointed, partially at the desire of the people, who wished to show their appreciation of him in so far as possible, by giving an office. He first kept the post office in his law office, then moved it to Dr. J. B. Moff"ett's store, in the meantime, while the cholera was raging in 1850, having left the village, office and all, for two or three weeks. Cobb was elected District Attorney in 1852, and then Dr. Moff"ett was appointed. In 1853, another change was eff"ected, and L. M. Strong, afterward Judge, became Postmaster. He kept the office in a small building that stood near where Dr. Eagan's house now stands. This appointment lasted until 1856 ; then Mark Corrin appear? in the wheel of change, and held forth in the Town Clerk's office. This building since burned.

Corrin was a strong Republican, and on account of his politics was soon ousted. Applicants for the position of Poscmaster at that juncture were exceedingly few : in fact it is said no one could be found to take it but a tinker named Morehead, who transported the office to his tin shop. The spring following (1857), Morehead left the village, and Squire Fitch was then appointed, and removed the office to the Town Clerk's room again, where he kept it until 1860, when he resigned in favor of Charles Gillman, who took the office to his store on the corner of Main and Mineral Point streets. This appointment only lasted until 1861, then B. H. Herrick was installed Postmaster, and again the office was moved, being kept by him in the old American House, and subsequently in another building. The next year the inevitable change came, and Dr. A. C. Byers, a new-comer, was appointed. He first kept the office in his dwelling in the north part of town. Then moved it down town ; and at last settled it in the house now owned by Richard Kennedy, in the south part of the village. In 1865, Charles Gillman was again appointed and removed the office to the store where the Louis Brothers now keep ; two years after, H. G. Ellsworth became Postmaster, he having, with C. C. David, purchased Mr. Gillman's establishment. Mr. Ellsworth's partner, David, next took the office in 1868. In 1873, Mr. David resigned, and the office was kept by Richard Kennedy, for about a month at his store. This change not being agreeable to the people, James Clemenson either became deputy or received the appointment, and again the office was moved to Mr. David's store, where Clemenson was then a partner. The next appointment, probably, after Mr. David, was J. P. Smelker. Under him the post office was kept in William Kenear's store building, now owned by T. Wall, and from that it was moved to James Ramsden's place across the street. When the small-pox was raging in 1877, the office was taken to Mr. Smelker's law office, and thence to B. H. Kreal's store. In the fall of 1877, Mr. Ramsden was appointed Postmaster, and the office was then kept in Lampe's stone building. After him, in the spring of 1879, James Perkins became Postmaster, keeping the office in his store until October of 1880, when the incumbent, James George, was appointed, and thus ends the list. Who comes next ?

Secular Societies. - The first secret society organized here was the Franklin Lodge, No. 16, A., F. & A. M. The dispensation was extended August 3, 1847, and, on the 15th of January, 1848, the charter was granted to Adolphus Hollobs, W. M. ; J. C. Bratton, S. W. ; H. M. Billings, J. W. Among the prominent early members were R. L. Vance, A. Palmer, Charles Harvey, J. B. Dobson, A. Sylvester, Moses Meeker, Andrew Bolster and J. C. Chandler. The lodge flourished here until 1857, when, the membership having become small, the charter was taken to Avoca, in the town of Pulaski, where the lodge now is.

In 1848, the benevolent order of Odd Fellows established a lodge here, the twenty-second in the State. This organization flourished until 1861, when the war broke out; then it rapidly ran down, and, in effect, soon ceased to exist. Among the prominent early members were L. M. Wells, W. H. Hook, Joseph Daley, R. L. Vance and J. Galloway.

Before 1850, a Sons of Temperance Society was organized here, and flourished for a few years. Nothing further was done toward promoting temperance principles until 1878, when the red ribbon movement was set afoot here, and within a short time a large number of converts had been made. Father Stephen Trent was largely influential in advancing this work, and through his influence, and owing to the fact that the organization was not secret in its character, a large number of Catholics took the pledge. The club held meetings and flourished for two years, doing a great deal of permanent good by efi"ecting the reform of several inebriates.

In 1873, a German benevolent society was founded by Father Syler, which is now flourishing. According to the code of this order, in the case of sickness a member is paid $2 per week and care of members. In case of death, an appropriation of $25 is made to defray funeral expenses. In this connection, it may be said such an organization as this is a credit to any community. The first officers were George Lampe, President ; B. H. Lampe, Secretary ; John Tapp, Treasurer. Father Syler was evidently a man of social proclivities, and quite publicspirited (as may be said of Father Stephen Trent, whose memory is held dear by nearly all ^classes), for under his instigation, about five years ago, the Highland Brass Band was started.

The organization now numbers fourteen members, and is one of the two which are at present in existence in the county. The band is said to be in a very flourishing condition, and is acknowledged to play exceedingly well.

Churches. - Religious services were held in the village very soon after the first schoolhouse was built in 184.5, by Elder Penman, a Methodist, and during the season a class was organissed, consisting of John Luddeth and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Harriman, Mr. and Mrs. Edgington, Jonathan Meeker and wife, Mrs. Greenash, Mrs. Hall and Mrs. Smith. Mr. Penman was the minister for some time ; then his place was taken by a circuit rider named Close. Another of the early ministers was Elder Whitford.

In 184:7, the community had largely increased, and a society of the Church of the Disciples, of considerable size, was formed ; this society alternated with the Methodists and the Catholics, who were also here by that time in large numbers ; the first Catholic Priest who officiated here was Father Johannes, a Frenchman. The Campbellites sometimes held their services in a little grove south of the village; this society was prosperous until the California exodus and cholera broke them up.

A Presbyterian Church society was also formed with the Rev. Allen as minister, he officiated for several years, but by 1850, the organization began to wane, and, eventually, became extinct, or was merged into the German Presbyterian Church. The first Sabbath school was started in July or August of 1846, with S. H. Fitch as Superintendent.

An Irish Catholic Church was built in 1848, a small frame building which was the first in the place ; this was first built for a schoolhouse, but there not being many scholars it was used as a church. In 1852, another building was erected, and the small building united with it. This continued to be their only church until 1871, when, under the management of Father Stephen Trent, the large stone church was erected; this edifice, which is unquestionably one of the very best in the county, cost not less than $15,000, and is not only an ornament to Hin-1 - land, but it is also a credit to the enterprise and liberality of the congregation. The Priests have been Father Johannes, Father Smith (who was the first resident Priest), Father MacDonald, Father Flannery, Father Dolan, Father Ryan, Father Trent and Father Dempsey.

The German Presbyterian Church society was organized in 1856, by E. Kudobe, with some seven or eight members, and the church was built not long after. Mr. Kudobe was the Pastor for several years ; then came the Rev. Cobb, who was again replaced by Rev. Kudobe, who eventually resigned and Rev. Schwab took the charge ; there are now about fifty-five memburs in good standing, and the church is entirely out of debt.

About the time that the Presbyterian Church was built, the Methodist denomination also erected their church ; this church has always been provided with a minister from some other locality ; the society was, at first, quite strong, and for many years maintained a good standing and had regular services, but at the present time there are but a few of the church here, and preaching is held very irregularly. It is scarcely probable that the church will ever be revived, unless it be by the German Methodists, large numbers of whom live in this section.

The German Catholic society was formed some time before the war and held their services until 1863 in the Irish Catholic Church. A fine stone building begun in 1861, was completed and dedicated by Archbishop Henni, of Milwaukee. This church is second in size and expense only to the Irish Catholic, and though it cost only $7,000, or less than half the price of the latter, yet it is nearly as commodious, and is altogether a very handsome building. The Priests of this church have been Fathers Foisen, Weinhart, Lang, Seller and Radermacher. Both of the Catholic Churches have cemeteries, that of the German Catholic being in connection with the church, and tiiat of the Irish Catholic being in Section 3-3, south of the village and near the public cemetery ; this is the oldest burying-ground now in use in the town.

Government. - Previous to the time the village was incorporated, in 1874, Highland, as in the case of all unincorporated places, was entirely under the control of the town authorities, and necessarily subjected to numerous inconveniences, if not abuses, thereby. The most important, or, rather, most disagreeable of these, was the want of suitable sidewalks, and, more particular still, a license system that would amply protect the village from the abuses arising from insufficient restraints, and also secure to the place whatever pecuniary benefits might arise from licensing.

Officers. - The first election for village officers was held on the 13th day of January, 1874. The whole number of votes polled was 131. and the following persons were elected :

On the 5th of May following, a special election was held, and a vote taken to raise money for building sidewalks, but there was no money raised. The officers then elected were: B. H. Lampe, President ; Richard Flynn, S. Niedemeyer, B. H. Kreull, R. Woodward, Thomas Manning and J. P. Smelker, Trustees ; Matt Burns, Clerk ; George Lampe, Treasurer ; E. B. Goodsell, Assessor; S. A. Fitch, Police Justice; C. C. David, Supervisor.