Monroe County, Wisconsin - Chapter 55, 1912 (part 3 of 10)

liVmaii Dorwin. palt-rnal iii'aiHll'athcr of Sidney X.. was also a native of Vermont. wIumc Ik- lived and raised a family of four children. Samuel X. being the oldest. He was a tanner by trade, and upon his arrival in ^loni'oe coimty in the late fifties, he ])uilt and operated for several years the first tannery at Sparta. He later traded this ]iroper1y for a farm in Spai"ta township, which he made his homestead and lived there until his death at the age of eighty-two years. His wife, grandmother of our subject, died whei. Sanuiel X. was but twelve years of age. The second marriage of Lyman DorA\iii was with ^liss Cheida Hoyt. of Vermoiil. To this union one daughter, Agnes, was liorn ; she

Rollins, maternal grandfathei- of our subject, was a shoemaker by trade, and a native of ]\Iilton Falls, Vt. Lucy Rollins, maternal grandmother of ]Mr. Doi-win. was the oldest of a family of ten children. She died at St. Albans, ^'t.. the ]ilace of her birth, in 1909, aged eighty-eight years. Both the Dorwin and Rollins families were descended from English ancestry.

Sidney X. Dorwin was reared on the farm and attended the district schools until he reached the age of nineteen years, Avhen he became imbued with the advice of the late Horace Greeley to go West, he went to Dakota, where he secured a claim, but not finding the situation to his liking, he returned to "Wisconsin, and engaged for two years in farming. The luml)er Imsiness licing at this time at its height, he went to Cumberland. Wis., and Avas employed for three years by the Beaver Lake Lumber Company. He then worked in the mill and woods until 1886, when he came to Sparta and entered the employ of O. L. Irwin in 1886. \\'\\h whom lie remained until 1896. Mi-. Irwiu was then conducting the lumbei- business which has since consolidated with othei- plants and is now under the ownership of Brittingham & Hixon, with ]\lr. Dorwin as its manager until September. 1911, having been with the last named comi)any since 1896. Since that time lias been engaged as hnnber salesman in southern Wisconsin.

31 r. Dorwin is a devoted member of the ^Methodist Episcopal church, a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and of the I\Iodern Woodmen of America. On September 20, 1882. he was married to ]Miss Xettie J. llarvev. only child of

]\lieali A. and Delia (Chamberlain) Harvey, natives of New Hami)shire and early settlers of Angelo, Monroe county, Wisconsin. ]Mr. ITarvey is a mechanic liy trade, and is a highly respected citizen. His wife, mother of ]\Irs. Dorwin. died in 1898 at the age of sixty-two years.

Albert E. Drowatzky,* who resides on his farm of 280 acres in section tifteen, Adrian township, was born on the farm adjoining his on June 26, 1877. His parents, Frederick and Bertha (Holtz) Drowatzky, who reside on section ten, this township, are natives of Prussia. The father was born November 6, 1839, and is the son of .Joliii and .Mary (Jess) Drowatzky. also natives of Prussia, antl who came witli their son to ]\Ionroe county in 1856 and settled in Adrian township where our subject's father now resides. His l)rothers, Charles and Bernard, uncles of our subject, had preceded him in isr)4. and the three brothers took up six forties of government land and for many years resided in the same neipldiorhood. The farm where Albert E. now resides being that of Charles, wlio died there. Bernard, the other brother, now" resides in Tonudi. The grandparents of our subject died on the homestead farm and were buried in the cemetery at Jacksonville. The first buildings on the homestead farm where Frederick D. now resides, were a log house and stables which were later sujiplanted by a modern house built in 1876 from stone taken from the farm, and other up-to-date buildings followed as the times demanded. Tlie journey to this new home was made overland from IMadison w itli a team of oxen and the hardships experienced were many, and they had some difficulty in reaching the home, which was then only a wilderness. The grandfather had the misfortune of a broken limb and remained at ]\Iadison for some time before being able to join the rest of the family. The land was cleared by members of the family, who used three yoke of oxen in tilling the soil, which was transformed from the wild state to one of protliictiveness. and at this time, ]\Ir. Drowatzky 's is one of the fine farms of Monroe county.

In the early days of their residence in this county, the Indians were numerous and sometimes troublesome, often stealing their stock and otherwise annoying the newcomers. One year the smallpox scourge raged among them and they died so fast that their bodies laid piled up in one place on the farm until they could be given the Indian burial. Mr. Drowatzky. Sr.. is a representative of the sturdy pioneer of Adrian township, and a man of strict integrity and sterling worth, a standard citizen who enjoys the confidence and respect of the entire conununity.

The subject of this sketch, Albert E. Drowatzky. is the third child in order of birth in a family of eight children; of the others, Rudolph, resides in ^Montana ; William II. in 8an Antonio, Texas: Elizabeth is the wife of R. ]\1. Jones, of Bangor. La Crosse county; Louis resides at Tuniud City, this county: Arthur lives on the homestead farm; Emil resides in Oakdale township and jNIartha is in :Montana. On December 19, 1902, :\Ir. Drowatzky purchased his present farm from tiie heirs of his uncle, and has since there resided engaged in general farming. At the time of his ])urchase, the fai-m was considered little more than a pasture, which Mr. Drowatzky has transferred into a productive and desirable farm. The same year he settled on this place, he built a barn, and in 1903 erected a residence and in 1906 built a large and commodious barn ; the farm is now under a good state of cultivation, and contains the finest spring of pure Avater in that locality.

During his whole lifetime, Mr. Drowatzky has been a resident of his native town with the exception of four years when he was variously employed in ]\Iinnesota, southern Wisconsin and for one year was employed by the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Eailroad in building and contracting. On December 23, 1903. he was married to INliss Augusta Miscli, daughter of August and Reka (Trapp) Misch, residents of Grant township, Monroe county. The parents emigrated from Germany to this country when jNlrs. Drowatzky was three years of age. They have two children, viz : Leo Ray, and Elmer Raymond Drowatzky. Religiously iMr. and Mrs. Drowatzky affiliate with the German Lutheran church of Tomah.

Ben A. Drawver, one of the successful farmers of Sheldon township, was born in the town of Wells, Monroe county, on February 13, 1875, and is the son of Paul and Anna Drawver, both natives of Germany; the father came to America in 1873 and located first in Dane county where he worked a few months as a farm laborer. The same year, 1873, he came to Monroe county and settled in the tOAvn of Sheldon and for a time worked at carpentering and milling. He homesteaded eighty acres of land in section thirty-five, town of Wells, and lived there until 1909, when he moved with his family to the village of Norwalk, where he has since been generally successful in all his undertakings and active in the affairs of the Republican party. He was married in 1874 and reared a family of nine children.

Ben A. Drawver received his education in the common schools, and lived at home with his parents until he was twenty years of age. Thrown upon his own resources in early life, he began his career at various employment and small wages. At the age of twenty he went to North Dakota where he spent five years at the threshing machine business, and by his economy and perseverance he succeeded in saving enough whereby he purchased a farm in his own right near Oil City in Sheldon township, and is now one of the representative and popular citizens of the town. Besides his farming operations, Mr. Drawver has for the past twenty-one j^ears been engaged in the threshing machine and saw mill business, and has held various political offices in his town. He is a Republican in polities and active in the councils of his party. He served one year as supervisor and for seven years was clerk of the school hoard ; he was elected chairman of the town hoard in 1912.

On November 2, 1904, he was married in Sheldon to Miss Grace Curtis, daughter of Jed and P^tta Curtis. They have three children, viz : Wayne, born August 7, 1908 ; Wendell, born August 4. 1906, and Orlaiid. hnni April 5. 1910.

Charles Ducklow, deceased. To the young men of our land the life of tli<' subject of this sketch is an enduring example of the cai'dinal virtues of industry, uprightness and frugality, of si riot temperance and unwearied perseverance.

]\Ir. Ducklow was a native of Wisconsin, born Ai)ril 3. 1853, in the town of Ashippun. Dodge county. His parents were Thomas and Elizabeth (Nicholson) Ducklow, natives of Cork, Ireland, and who came to the United States and settled in Dodge county in the early forties. They were the parents of twelve children, Charles being the eighth in order of birth. Five brothers and three sisters still survive.

Charles Ducklow passed his boyhood in Dodge county and his early experiences w^ere those of the average poor boy of that region. He received his early education in the common schools of his native place, and in 1874 began the trade of carpenter and joiner, and followed this occupation in his home town, and also bought cattle in Calumet and Pierce counties. In 1879, he removed to Pierce county. AYisconsin. where he continued at cattle buying, until 1883, whence he moved to ^lodena, Buffalo county, and w^as postmaster under both the Garfield and Harrison administrations, and also engaged in mercantile pursuits, carrying on a successful business here until the spring of 1890. He then moved to Wilton, ]\Ionroe county, and resumed his mercantile trade in that place. In 1893 he added a lumber yard to his other line of business, which he enlarged from time to time as increasing trade demanded. In 1897 he disposed of his mercantile establishment and from that time on devoted his entire attention to his lumber interests, which grew to such large proportions, that at the time of his decease, November 26, 1911, his Avas among the largest enterprises of its kind in ]Monroe county. He Avas n man of excellent ability, keen foresight, and success crowned his efforts. In all his affairs. ]Mr. Ducklow was characterized by his ])romptiU'ss. good judgment and conservation, and admired by all Avho Avere brought into contact Avitli him for his honorable and inherent methods, and his passing aAvay was mourned as that

]Mr. Ducklow was reared an Episcopalian, l)ut contributed liberally to the support of other churches. He was prominent in ]Masonic circles, a member of Wilton Lodge, No. 203, Sparta Lodse. No. 19, R. A. M., Sparta Commandery, No. 16, "Wisconsin Consistory, Scottish Rite, and Tripola Temple, Mystic Shrine, Milwaukee. He Avas also a member of the Eastern Star, and Modern Woodmen of America. The burial was made at Woodlawn cemetery, Sparta, November 80, 1911. under Masonic auspices.

On November 20, 1882, Mr. Ducklow was united in marriage to ]\Iiss Eva I. Shaw, daughter of John and Jerusha A. (Wheeler) Shaw, residents of Rock Elm. Pierce county. Mrs. Ducklow is a iiative of Dodge county, Wisconsin, where her parents resided for many years. Her father died in 1904; he was born in 1840. Her mother is still living.

To Mr. and Mrs. Ducklow were born four children, viz: William T., born October 22, 1883; Elmer E., born March 25, 1889; Charles E.. born IMarch 15, 1891, and Lynn S. Ducklow, born February 21, 1902.

Since the death of his father. William T. has been the active manager of the lumber business formerly conducted by his father. He is an enterprising young business man and gives promise of becoming one of Monroe county's most influential citizens, following in the footsteps of his father in many ways. He is also active in ]\Iasonic circles, being a member of the same bodies as was his father, with the exception of the Eastern Star.

]Mrs. Ducklow is a most estimable lady whose superior qualities of mind and heart attract to her the admiration of all who come within the range of her influence, and presides with grace and dignity over her beautiful home at Wilton.

Thomas Dunn was born in 1799 and married Rachel Satterlee in 1829; he was reared in the mercantile business wdiich he carried on when he came to manhood and also engaged in the real estate business; his early business career was at Eimira. N. Y. He came to Sparta, Wis., in 1862, where he died in 1871.

Rachel Satterlee, the mother of George D., was born in 1809 and died in 1885; she was the daughter of Elias and Elizabeth (Smith) Satterlee; their earlier life was spent at Elmira and tlu'v were ainoii^- the pitmeei's of that i)lat'e; Elias Satterlee, h(?r father. Avas a physician by profession and at the time of the Wyoniino; valley Indian niassaere his father's family were residents of the town of Wyoming. I'a.. and when the Indian ontbreak occnrred. they retnrned to Connecticut -. about the year 1804 Elias Satterlee moved to Elmira. N. Y. lie "was in the military service for a time as a surgeon in the war of 1812. and participated in the Battle of Lundy's Lane, Canada. After his return to Elmira he was accidentally killed by the discharge of a gun; his death occurred when Rachel, the mother of George D.. was six years of age. The family consisted of five children, two sons and three daughters; they were of English descent.

Mr. Dunn's ancestry were of Scotch descent and were among the earlier settlers of the state of Pennsylvania; William Dunn, jiateriuil grandfather of George D., settled at Hath, N. Y., wher he remained until 1804. then removed to Elmira. N. Y., when the father of George D. Avas five years of age. Charles Dunn, the brother of Thomas, was the first white child born at Bath, N. Y. ; the other members of the family were Thomas Dunn and Judge James Dunn and William Dunn, and two sisters, Susan and Elsie. They each raised large families w^hose descendants are to be found in the different parts of the United States.

George D. Dunn was the only son in a family of five children, and besides himself there is only surviving a sister, Fanny S., widow of S. N. Dickinson, now^ living at Sparta, Wis. George D. was educated in the public schools of Elmira. N. Y., and began his business career as clerk for the firm of Thompson Dunn at Elmira, at the age of sixteen. In 1856, he came West and located in Lodi, AVis.. where his uncle. Rev. John Lewis, was then located. A few months later he went to Janesville, and entered the employ of Chapman Brothers as clerk. After a time he was placed in charge of a branch store, of this firm at Albany, Wis., which he managed for about two years in that place. In June, 1861, the store was removed to Sparta, and ]Mr. Dunn continued in charge of the same.

In the fall of the same year he })urchased this branch store and has been since continuously engaged in the dry goods business at Sparta. His first store was located in a wooden building where the Stringham building now stands. In 1869, he erected the present store building which he has occupied ever since. !Mr. Dunn has been continuously engaged in business for himself and has made a remarkable record, being the only merchant in

AYhen Mr. Dunn came to Sparta in 1861, it was but a small village of about six or eight hundred people, and his competitors were, S. D. Jackson and Co., 0. D. Randall, brother of ex- Governor Randall, and G. W. Root. At present 0. D. Randall is the only one of the above merchants who is living besides Mr. Dunn.

Mv. Dunn was one of the original organizers and stockholders of the IMonroe county bank, which was inaugurated in 1894. At that time he was elected president of the board of directors and has continuously held that office since that time. Under his presidency the bank has built up a handsome business and is 02ie of the solid financial institutions of this part of the state.

During his long career in business Mr. Dunn has accumulated a comfortable fortune and his liberality in aiding in different enterprises has been one of the characteristics of his life ; many a struggling church has received a generous contribution from Mr. Dunn to aid it in building a building or for some other worthy purpose, all given unostentatiously and with a desire to do good; he was one of the principal instigators of the company w^hich originally built the armory now owned by the Aibonito Guard Association and he has been equally and at all times interested in public enterprises which were for the benefit of the city and surrounding country and has been free to give to objects which he thought were worthy and of benefit to the community at large.

Truly a remarkable record is that of Mr. Dunn in the mercantile business; his name is synonymous with square dealing, honesty and uprightness and when the last chapter of his life is brought to a close it may be truly said that the career of George D. Dunn, while modest in its way, was that of a typical American boy coming from good old pioneer stock, who steadily climbed the ladder of success depending entirely upon his own native gifts and perseverance.

Among the relatives of jMr. Dunn wiio helped to make history in the different parts of the country was an uncle by the name of Dr. Benedict Satterlee, who gave up his duties in the East and went as a medical missionary among the Pawnee Indians and was stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kan., in 1833, at a time when that M-as indeed a part of the far West and almost out of the reach of civilization. He left Elmira with his bride in that year, she dyinti' <ui the way. Ahoiit 1836 he was found dead, supposed to have been killed by the Indians, but years afterward an old trapper made a death-bed confession that he killed him for his gun. ]Mr. Dunn has in his possession letters written by Dr. Satterlee during the period of 1833 to 1836 which were sent across the country before the time lli.if the i)()stage stamps came into use. These letters contain aeeounts of the adventures of Dr. Satterlee in that count ly jiiid ;irc truly something very interesting.

L. M. Earle, cashier of the Bank of Cashton, was born November (i, 1873, in Tomah. AVis., the son of Watson and Emma (Turner) Earl, both of old New England ancestry, the father a native of New York state and the mother a native of Vermont.

After obtaining a good education in the schools of his neighborhood Mr. Earle early entered upon a business career, being a young man, courageous and of good habits, and feeling himself thoroughly competent to rely upon his OAvn resources. His first employment was as clerk for the banking house of I\I. A. Thayer & Co., at Tomah, where he remained for about one year, and from there he went to Hillsboro, N. D., and took a position Avith the National Bank of Hillsboro and worked for one year. He then returned to AVisconsin and from 1893 to 1909 he worked as bookkeeper in tlu; Bank of Tojuah, since which time he has been in his i)resent position, the officers of the bank being AVatsou Earle, president; L. W. Earle, vice-president, and L. M. Earle, cashier.

M. H. Easly,* a i)rogressive and ])rominent business uum of Tomah, was born at Cincinnati, Oliio, August 12, 1865. to Alicliael and Bridget (AFcBrearty) Easly, both natives of Ireland. Coming to America in 1848, the father located at CiiuMunati. where he engaged in business as a tanner and bought and dealt in all kinds of hides. Avhich in those early days was a profitable business. It was here that he married, made his home and raised his family until 1868. Avhen he went to Alissouri and engaged in farniintr in Jefferson county, where he lived until his death in 1903. He Avas thrifty and progressive and universally successful in bis undertakings, a man of influence in his connnunity and enjoyed the confidence and esteem of all Avho kncAV him.

in the district schools of his township. After completing his studies he followed the vocation of teaching school for a time, then went to Texas and secured employment with a bridge crew working on the Ateheson, Topeka & Santa Fe railroad. He came to AVisconsin in 1886 and spent some time in a sawmill in Jackson county ; he also spent some time in the logging business in the woods on the Yellow river in Wood county. After visiting other points he went to Grant county and engaged in farming. In the spring of 189-4 he came to Tomah and secured employment with the Crossette Manufacturing Company, with whom he remained until the destruction of their plant by fire in 1901. August 1, 1902. he w^as made game warden, which office he held until 1908, when he organized the Tomah Manufacturing Company.

A Eepublican in political views, he takes an active interest in the affairs of his party. In 1910 he was elected mayor of the city of Tomah, and dispatched the business of this office to the entire satisfaction of the citizens and with honor to himself. He was a delegate to the state convention in 1902 and takes an active interest in local and state politics.

Mr. Easly is a man of fine social qualities, generous, kind hearted and genial, and popular in the social circles of Tomah. He is identified with the Masonic fraternity, a member of the Blue Lodge, No. 172. His mother is still living at the age of seventy-one. and makes her home with her son at Tomah. Her fine mental endowments and high ideals in life make her a favorite among her wide circle of friends.

Edgar H. Eddy. To attempt to write a reliable history of Monroe county and not give prominent mention to the name of Edgar H. Eddy would be something altogether impossible, for as almost a continuous resident of the county for so long a period he has very properly come to be regarded as a part of it. He was born in Vermont, December 16, 1824, the son of Royal and Sally (Joy) Eddy, natives of Vermont and Massachusetts, respectively. They married in Vermont, where they spent several years in Chittenden county, removing to St. Lawrence county, New York, in 1854. Royal Eddy, father of Edgar, w^as a son of Samuel Eddy, who lived first in Bennington county, Vermont, and who later went to Ohio in an early day, encountering many hardships incident to pioneer life, and there lived and died. Sally Joy, mother of our subject, was the daughter of David Joy, a descendant of an old and prominent family of ]\Iassachusetts. Edgar H. Eddy left St. Lawrence county. New York, in the spring of 1854 for the state of Wisconsin. He Avent first by team to Ogdensburg,

X. v.. llii'iicc rroiii llicrt* l)y walcr lo L('\vistt>ii. niul fi'oni there he aj;aiii li\i\ clcil on to KufT';il(» by tcciiii. where he took passage by boat for Monroe, ^lieh. .\niviii.i: at the hist named place, he traveled by rail 1i> Chicago, and Muain went forth ])y way of Lake ]\Iichigan to ^Milwaukee. On his arrival tliere he secured a team and starterl overhmd foi- .Monroe county, arriving at Sparta on June 20, 1854. aiul first stopped witli Andrews Lyman, who ran the old Globi; hotel, wiiieh stood where the Sparta Library now stands. A few days later he proceeded to Beaver Creek, in Sparla township, and located on section 8 on wliat is now known as the Shattuck farm and near tiie now famous Castle Rock, the top of whicii at that time was covered Avith red cedar trees. There was but one house then between Sparta and his claim. lie fir.st built a small shack for a house and began life in the then new country. That same season. hoAvever. he erected a frame liouse and began clearing the timber and making other improvements. Royal Eddy, his fathei". had preceded him one year to this locality in 1858 and preempted a half section of government land. On the arrival of ]Mr. Eddy he and liis l)rother George entered a (inarter section of wild land in 1854. At the end of the first year they had cleared eight acres. At that time the hills and forests were abundant with wild game, whicli furnished plenty of subsistence: at the end of the second year ]\Ir. Eddy sold his interest to his brother and ])roceeded to the lumber woods near AVitterville, Wis., where he was employed for three years. At the end of that time he returned to ]Monroe count}' and located on a rented farm in Bis creek, known as the Harr farm; after spending two years on tliat ])lace he moved to Sparta and at the breaking out of the Civil War he enlisted in Company A, Third "Wisconsin Cavalr\. and was nnistered into the service in December. 1862. and served on the frontier west of the ^Mississippi and for tAvo .vears Avas among the HusliAvhackers of ^Missouri and Kansas. He Avas honorably disclnirged at the close of the Avar and mustered out in Eel)ruary, 1865, and returned to ]\Ionroe coiuity and homesteaded a (|uarter section of land in sections 20 and 21 of Sparta toAvnship. Avhere he cleared five acres and established the family home, lie continued to clear and improve the land until he had fifty acres nndei- cultivation and there continued to nud<(' his home until .\pi-il 1, 1907, Avhen lie retired from active labor, and has since made his home with his daughter, Mrs. Walter IIoAvartl.

Edgar H. Eddy Biography 665

TiU'ker. To this union was born six rhildnMi - Ella, who married Charles Aniidon. is tleeeased; Royal lives in Hand county, S. D. ; Sarah is the ^vi(lo^^- of Joseph AYillard and resides at Salem, Ore.; Ed^ar N.. of Sparta township; ({eortie is deceased, and j\Iiniiie, Avife of Walter Howard, of Big Creek. Mrs. Eddy, who died Auiiust 16, 1890, at the a^e of fifty-six year.s, was a worthy helpmeet of her husband and shared the trials and hardships incident to pioneer life, and was held in high esteem by her wide circle of friends. Mr. Eddy is a man of quiet, unassnming manners, of strong physique, possessed of those sterling traits which win respect of the entire community. He is regarded as a man of great worth, and has always been a cordial supporter of the various enteri)rises of his town and county, and Avhile he has nearly reached the four-score-and-ten mark, he is mentally strong and vigorous and delights in relating the incidents connected with his early life in INlonroe connty. Pie is broad and liberal in his views and is well posted on the topics of the day, and delights in the membership of the John W. Linn Post, G. A. R., of Sparta.

Samuel D. Edwards, owner and proprietor of Sparta's modern and ui>-to-date bus line, was born at Cambria, Wis., March 20, 1858, the son of R. D. and Jane Edwards, who left Wales, their native country, in the early fifties for America. After arriving in. this country they came to Wisconsin and settled first near Cambria, where the.y engaged in farming for several years, when Mr. Edwards took up the jorofession of school instructor, teaching schools in the vicinity of Cambria, Bangor, Portland and New Cambria. In 1877 he came to Sparta and was for a time employed in the Letson furniture store, after which he removed to Rockland, Wis., and entered the employ of the Northwestern Railway Company as depot agent, remaining in this position for several years. After leaving this position they moved to Harvard. Ill, where they l)otli died - ]Mrs. Edwards in 1891. at the age of seventy years, and ]\lr. Edwards in 1893 at the age of seventy-six years.

Samuel D. Edwards is the second of a family of three children ; the others are Jane, wife of A. C. Astrup. and resides at Madison, Wis., and Benjamin, who is agent for the Northwestern railway at A\'ales, Wis. ]Mr. Edwards was raised on a farm and received his education in the public schools and learned the carpenters' trade, which he followed together with other lines of employment until he began operating a bus line at Sparta, September 13,

18!)4. On ()i't()l)er 1, ^S^.)r), lie purcluiscd the Ihildi P>iis Line and consolidated tliis and other lines with his own. and on November 6, 1905. he added the Hotel line, and in 1910 he built a concrete and brick barn, oOxlOO feet, modern in every detail and stocked w ilh twenty horses and seven buses. Tlic equipment and service which jNIi-. Edw;ir(ls has placed ;i1 the disposal of the public is the best to be found in any town in western AVisconsin.

On May 7. 1893. ^Ir. Edwnids was united in uuirriage with ]\Iiss Nancy I. Nicholson, dauijhtei' of .lolm and Nancy (Douglas) Nicholson, of Rockland. Wis.. wIkm'c botli died. The Nicholson family were of English descent. The early ancestors in this country were residents of New York. .Mrs. Ethvards is one of a family of six children; the others are .John, who lives ;it Watertown, S. D. ; George, deceased : Jennie, the wife of Daniel Traverse. resides at Rockland. Wis.: Thomas, of Watertown, S. D.. and Oharles, deceased.

Louis Errickson, a progressive farmer and representative citizen of Portland township, was born August 6. 1841. in Norway. When he Avas ten years old his parents, Andrew and Nickoline (Larson) Errickson, came to this country from their native land with a family of five children. One child died during the voyage and Avas buried at sea. They settled in Racine county. Wisconsin, where the father Avas employed four years in a fanning mill factory. At the expiration of that time they moved to Monroe county, and for a tinu^ the father followed mechanical Avork in Portland toAvnship. He then purchased forty acres of land in section twenty-five, and connnenced the life of a farmer, living there until 1858, Avhen he moA'ed to another forty-acre tract he had prcA'iously acquired, and there made his home during the remainder ol' his lifetime. He Avas progressive and industrious, and from time to time added to his original ]uiiThasc until at his death, Avhich occurred in 1899. at the age of eightythree, he OAvned 180 acres of land in Portland toAvnship. He Avas a successful farmer and turned his attention to raising grain for market. The death of his Avife. mother of our subject, occurred in 1875. They Avere members ol" the Lutheran church, ami in public affairs he took an acti\(' and prominent part. He Avas chairman of the tOAvn board and treasurer for several terms, ahvays interested in the affairs of the Republican party. They had a family of eleven children, three of Avhom are noAv (1912) living.

Louis Errickson received his education in the common schools of his native town and also in America, which he attended until he was fifteen years old. At the age of twenty he enlisted for service in the Civil AVar, in Company E, Fifteenth Regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. After serving six months with this regiment he was discharged on account of disability. In 1863 he again enlisted, this time in Company F, First AVisconsin Cavalry, and participated in many lively battles, among them being the battle of Resaca, Dallas, Calhoun, Big Shanty mountain, Kenesaw mountain in front of Atlanta, Georgia, Jonesboro and many other engagements and skirmishes, and after two years of honorable service he was discharged in 1865 and returned to his home in AVisconsin, and until 1880 was employed on the farm. He then purchased a farm of 160 acres in section thirty-six, town of Portland, near the village of Cashton, on which he has made many improvements and since resided. In 1898 he built his modern residence and substantial outbuildings ; in 1912 he erected a large and commodious barn, 36x80 feet, with 16-foot posts and basement 8 feet high, sheeted with oak, covered with galvanized iron, accommodating thirty head of cattle and six horses, and he will soon build a large silo in connection. This is the finest barn in the township. His farm is well supplied with modern machinery and labor-saving devices, and well stocked with a good grade of horses, cattle and hogs. Mr. Errickson uses the most up-to-date methods in his farming operations and is also engaged in the raising of live stock and dairy business. He is one of the well-to-do and public spirited men of his town and takes an active interest in public affairs. He has been treasurer of his town and is an ardent supporter of any movements pertaining to the betterment of his community.

On January 7, 1880, he was married in the town of Portland to Miss Helen Hansen Sveum, daughter of Hansen Sveum, a native of Norway, and early settler of Vernon county AVisconsin. Three children have been born to Mr. and IMrs. Errickson, viz. : Laura, born October 6, 1880, is now Mrs. John Benrud, of Vernon county; Amanda, born January 27. 1884, married Melvin AA^ang, of Cashton, and has two children. Henry, born October 20, 1887, received his education in the common schools and the Cashton High Scliool, graduating from the latter institution in the class of 1906, after which he spent two years at St. Olf College at Northfield, Minn., and graduated from the agricultural department of the AA^isconsin State Universitv in 1912. Mr. and Mrs.

Martin Erriekson. oldest l)rother of Louis. Avas a ineuiher of Company 11, Fifteenlli Wisconsin Lifantry. liavin<i,- enlisted in 186L and served until tiie close of ti;e war. He was with his regiment in the battles of Island No. 10, Union City, ]Murfreesl)oro, and was taken prisoner at Chiekamauga and confined in Libby prison, and was one of the 110 who tunneled out and nuide their esea])e. lie was recaptured and sent to Belle Island, and finally transferred to Andersoiiville, and was there until the close of the war. After his return to Monroe county he engaged in business at Sparta with W. XL Blyton, and while in partnership with iiim built a brick block, where he continued in business until his death in 1868, at the age of tAventy-nine years, the primary cause of which was a wound received at Murfreesboro.

Martin Erickson. In 1866 there came from Norway, their native land, Jolui and Karn 0. (Larsdater) Erickson. with a family of five children, who, after their arrival in America came to Monroe county, AVisconsin, and settled in the town of Portland and homesteaded 160 acres of land in section four, and there established a family home and lived until 1906, when the father sold the farm and moved to Leon, where he now resides in retirement, enjoying the Avell-earned fruits of his years of toil.

On the homestead farm in Portland Martin Erickson was born November 2, 1869. He attended the district schools during his boyhood and remained on the home farm until lie reached his majority, and then leased the farm from his father, and for a short time engaged in farming on his own account. In 1893 he purchased ninety acres of unimproved land in s(H'tion twenty-two, Leon township; here lie erected a small house, where he lived until 1903. then built a modern ten-room lumse, and in 1909 a conniiodious barn 3()xr)() fei^t. Avhich, with other buildings and substantial impro\'enients. makes one of the ni)-to-date country Iiomi's of the township. In his fanning ojx'rations he uses the most modern methods and is a successful breeder of Guernsey cattle, and has raised leaf toliacco for several years. In connection with this he carries on an extensive dairy business from his herd of fifteen milch cows which pi-oduces a hnndsomi' revenue each year.

On November 18, 1890, in the town of Portland, ]\Ir. Erickson was married to ]\Iiss Mary Anderson, daughter of Gullic Anderson. They had a family of six children, of whom five are now (1912) living, viz.: Evangeline, born April 4, 1894; Gilmer, born

Biography 6G9

April 5, 1896 ; Otis, born September 14, 1898 ; Louise, born February 14, 1901, and Walter, born December 17, 1903. In religious affiliations I\Ir. and Mrs. Erickson are members of the Lutheran church, and in politics he is a strong progressive Republican.

Albert E. Evenson,* a native of Monroe county, was born in the town of Portland, February 23, 1872. He is a son of Martin and Maria (Ericson) Evenson, natives of Norway. It was in the early fifties that jMartin Evenson, father of our subject, came to America and first settled in Wabasha county, Minnesota, where his wife died. After two years he came to the town of Portland and homesteaded 160 acres. He afterwards disposed of this land and purchased a farm of John W. Jones in the Fish Creek valley, which he later sold, moving to Leon, where he now resides. His birtli occurred in NorAvay, where also his wife, the mother of our subject, was born. Mr. Evenson, the father of our subject, was twice married, and to the first union ten children were born, seven of whom are living, and to the second marriage tAVO children Avere born.

Albert E. attended the common school until his seventeenth year, and at an early age began as a farm laborer at twenty-five cents per day. He soon after received employment as section hand on the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul railway for a period of fifteen months, when his wages were increased. In 1895 he located on the farm of his grandfather, Andrew Evenson, where he resided for two years, when he removed to Leon, where he was employed on the farm of W. II. Davis for eight years, then removed to the Fred Swartzlow farm near Leon, and there resided for three years, thence to wliat is known as the Aylesworth farm, where he remained until 1908, when he purchased the farm of forty acres formerly owned by Mr. Aylesworth, where he now resides, and to which he has added valuable improvements, tilling the soil to the best advantage, rebuilt the residence, built a silo and made several other additions.

Our subject is a Progressive Republican and a great admirer of Senator LaFollette. He and his estimable wife are members of the Lutheran church, and in fraternal matters he is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. He has held the office of tax supervisor for three years and has been chairman of the town of Leon for seven years. On December 11, 1895, he was married at Cashton to IMiss Mary Ann Gilbertson. Two children have been born to this union, viz.: Herbert W., born December 1, 1896, and Lela J., born April 13, 1906.

Leo B. Evenson, a jMtpular i-lothit-r of Sparta, is a prodiu-t of IMiniu'Sota, and was liorn at Lanesboro, Fillmore foiinty, April 7, ]881. tho son of Ennl and ]Mary (Vieth) Evenson, natives of AViseonsin and I\Iinnes(>ta, respectively. The father died in IMay, 1887. at the age of thirty-two years, leaving the mother and two children. Leo B. and his sister Alildrcd. wife of AV. W. Card, all residents of Sparta.

Supplementing liis ]iublic school education with a course at the Lawrence T'niversity, Appleton, AVis., Air. Evenson began his career as a (dothing merchant in tiie employ of Dodge & Davis, in 1901, contiiniing in this position for two and a half years. He then engaged in the same line of Inisiness with George Grossman, under the name of Leo Evenson Clothing Company, Avhich later merged into the Pickwick Clothes Slioj). the Sparta establishment being one of a cliain of stores operating in tlie various towns around Sparta, the holding company being known as the Grossman AVardrol)c Company. Ti'.c Sparta store Avas the first one organizetl in lilO!), and is one of the chain of stores. The Tomali store is under the charge of AY. AY. Card, and the store at Elroy is operated by Louis Larson, all (tf Avhich are operated by the holding company under the name of the Pickwick Clothes Shops. The company is comjiosed of tlic following named gentlemen : George Grossman, president, treasurer and general manager: Leo B. Evenson, vice-president and assistant general manager: "NY. AY. Card, secretary. The directors are : Dr. AY. T. Sarles, C. Al. Alasters, AYilliam AIcBride, Dr. Carl B(>ebe. Harry Alastcrs. George Grossman and Leo B. Evenson.

Air. Evenson is one of the wide-awake and progri'ssive clothing men of this section, and his broad experience in the line has fitted him for the position he now occupies. lie is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Alodern AYoodmen of America, and is active in the social circles of Sparta.

On February 12, 1905. he was married to Aliss Julia Cholvin. daughter of Samuel Cholvin. a resident of AYilton, Alonroe county. Air. and Airs. Evenson linvc tliree children, viz.: Elizabeth. A'irgiiiia and Eleanor.

W. J. Ferries, a native son of Alonroe county, was horn on the ridge in Wilton township, on -Inly 9, 1862, the son of AY. 11. and Alargaret (Ilarland) Ferries, both natives of AYales. In the early fifties tile fatluM- came to America with his parents, and AV. J. Ferries, grandfather of our subject, homesteaded a (juarter section of land on the ridge, and was one of the earliest settlers in AVilton township. His brother, Avho came with him to America, also took a homestead of 160 acres. The great-grandfather was a farmer and hotel keeper and established the first hotel in Ridgeville. where the tourist and newcomer were treated to his hospitality. His son, father of our subject, who was his chief aid, managed the farm while he attended to the hotel business and was generally successful in his undertakings and was well known over the county as a kind-hearted, generous and public spirited man. highly respected by the entire community where he lived. In the cultivation of his wild land he used nine yoke of oxen to turn the sod. He lived on his farm for many years and finally sold the land and moved to Tomah. where he died in 1882. He had a family of three children, one of whom still 1 1912) survives, two sons deceased, and one daughter. Elizabeth, now living at Norwalk, at the age of seventy-five years.

W. H.. father of our subject, was twice married, first to Margaret Harland in 1853. by whom seven children were born, five sons and two daughters, five of whom are now living. Mrs. Ferries died in 1881, and two years later he married for his second wife IMrs. Catherine Pratt, who died in 1904. The father operated a threshing machine for about twenty-five years, and became well known all over the county as a high-minded and upright man. He acquired a farm of 160 acres in Wilton township and was also engaged in the furniture and undertaking business in the village of AVilton until 1898. where he resided and died in 1905. He was a staunch Democrat and was always active in the aft'airs of his party. He served as chairman of the town board for six years and was for many years a director of the schools. He was a thirty-second degree ^lason and was considered one of the most popular and Avell-kno^ATi men of the county.

"W. J. Ferries, our subject, had the advantages of the district schools up to his eighteenth year, and remained on the home farm. On September 7. 1890. he was married to ^liss Gusta Popp. daughter of Herman and Carrie Popp. Three children have been born to them. viz. : Lillian ^l.. who graduated from high school in 1910 and is also a graduate of the Wisconsin Business University at LaCrosse, 1911. was born May 4. 1891; Vilas, who is also a high school graduate, was 1iorn July 4. 1892. and Vern. born Xi^vember 23. 1895.

August Fetkenheuer,* a prosperous farmer who lives on section twenty-four. Adrian township, is a son of John and Marie (Ratke) Fetkenheuer. who spent their lives in Germany, where our subject was born August 23. 1856. He attended the common schools of his native town from the age of six to foui-teen years.

and was variously employed in the city of Staten until 1887, when he emigrated to the United States. Arriving in this country he first settled at Baltimore, and after a time came to Wisconsin and to Ilillsboro, Vernon county, where he remained but three months, when he went to the city of Tomah, and for ten years was in the employ of the Goodyear Lumber Company. In 1897 he purchased his present farm of 160 acres, ten of which he cleared, l)uilt two barns, granary and a comfortable residence. He has improved the land by cultivation and has made a most creditable showing for the years spent on the farm, using in his operations the most improved methods. Besides general farming, ]Mr. Fetkenheuer has always been a successful raiser of fine stock, and at this time his favorites are the Holstein breed of cattle.

He Avas married in November. 1880, to ]\Iiss Louisa Fick. also a native of Staten, Germany. The children ])orn to this union are "William, who resides at Two Rivers, AVis., is a veteran of the Spanish-American war, having served in the hospital cori)s of the Third AViseonsin Regiment ; Frank is deceased ; Paul A. lives on the homestead farm; Emma married Louis Herwig, of Wonowoc. Wis.; Edith is deceased; Anna, wife of Henry E. Zcllmar, Adrian township; Amanda, at home; Arthur, deceased, and Otto A., at home.

Besides being intensely interested in the affairs of his town Mr. and ]\Irs. Fetkenheuer are members of the German Tjutheran chureli of Tomah.

Herman M. Flock, one of the wealthy farmers of Ridgeville township, ]Monroe county, is the son of ]\Iatt and Elizabeth (Lang) Flock, l)oth natives of Germany. Herman was born August 27, 1868, in Ridgeville, this eount.y. Matt Flock came to America with his parents in 1857 and located in Monroe county, where they homesteaded 160 acres of land and were among the first settlers of that locality. Here they lived for many years and the father died on August 15, 1880, and tlie mother on January 29th, about eight years later. They had a family of six children and were considered one of the leading pioneer families. INIatt, with the others, received a good common school education and Avorked at farming all his life. He is now a prosperous general farnun- and lives in Norwalk. He was married at Watertown, Wis., in 1867, and they had a family of twelve children, nine of whom are now. 1912, living.

Herman is the oldest of the family, and like his father, has always followed the oci-upation of farming. He was married in Sparta on Mny 7, 1895, to .Miss Barbara Sclimitz. and tlu\v have had a family of eight children, seven of whom are now living: Matt, William, Alios, Freddie, Elizabeth, Joseph and Elnora. After his marriage Mr. Flock rented a farm for one year, and in 1901 he purchased 160 acres in section thirty-one, in the town of Ridgeville. His residence was built in 1886 and in 1902 he erected a new barn, which adds greatly to the prosperous appearance of his farm. He keeps the best grade of stock and uses the most up-to-date methods in conducting it. He is a Democrat in politics and has been supervisor for some time, and served also as chairman of the town board of Eidgeville for four years.

Charles L. Flume, who resides in section thirty-two, Lafayette township, is pre-eminently a self-made man. Starting out in life with nothing but his native ability, he has risen from obscurity to a place of prominence among the enterprising and influential citizens of Monroe county, and is widely known as the successful owner and proprietor of "Clover Dale Farm," which is unexcelled, if equalled, by any other farm in the county, A native of La Crosse county, "Wisconsin, he was born May 6, 1859, the son of Carl and Kate (Schladger) Flume, natives of Germany, who came to the United States, he in 1848, and she in 1856. "When he first arrived in America he was engaged for a time in the copper mines on the Eagle river, but later settled in La Crosse county, and where his wife also settled, and where they were married. They were among the early settlers of that locality and among the best class of pioneers. He lived to the age of seventy-one years, and died in 1893. His wife, mother of our subject, survived until 1903, when she passed aAvay at the age of sixty-eight years. They raised a family of six children, Charles L. being the eldest. The others are : Kate, who is the wife of Frank Kiel, of La Crosse county; Josephine, wife of Peter Haas, lives in La Crosse county ; Minnie, resides in Indianapolis ; William, also of La Crosse county, and ]\Iary, of Minneapolis.

Charles L. was raised on his father's farm, attending the common schools and assisting in the farm work until he became of age. He then went to Spink county, Dakota, where he remained one year. Returning to La Crosse county, at the end of that time, he was employed at farm work for the next seven years. Thrifty and economical, he saved his earnings until he had accumulated $1,200, and at the age of twenty-nine purchased his first farm of 220 acres, in Greenfield township, La Crosse county, where he made his home until 1900, when he removed to the ]Morse farm, w liicli lir had |)urchasecl the same year and which contained 620 acres, and has been known Foi- many years as thi' "Clover Dah' Farm."" lie has since sohl to the United States goverinnent 280 acres, wliicli forms a part of the government range in ^lonroe i-onnty. 1I<' is thorongldy systematic and np-to- (hitc ill his operations and liis farm, wliich is highly cnltivatcd and handsomely im])roved and cquippici, and well stocked with horses and registered Dnrham cattle, of which he is one of the Icatliiig hi'eeders in tiic coiihIn'. Jle carries on general farming and (hiirying, and in addilioii lo his blooded Dnrham cattle he raises J'oland China hogs. Mr. Flnme is a hard working man Avhd has made his way in the world by persevering and persistent effort, and by his straightforward, manly life maintains the confidence and esteem of all who know him.

On Jannary 17, 1888, Mr. Finnic was nnitcd in marriage with Miss ]\[aggie Kiel, danghter of Fred Kiel, a prominent citizen of La Crosse connty, and a native of Bavaria. To Mr. and Mrs. Flnme have been boi-n five children. J. F. carries on 160 acres of the home farm Avhich he rents from his father; (leorgia E. resides at La Crosse ; Viola, Forrest and AVilliam L. reside at home.

Nelson J. Forrest, of section 6. La Grange townshij). ^Monroe c(ninty, Wisconsin, was born here on -Jannary 4, 1868, the yonngest of a family of fonr children born to Thomas N. and Martha (Edgerton) Forrest. Of the others, Elizabeth is the wife of .1. AV. Taft, of Hood River, Ore.; Harriet is Ihe wife of Jacob Vandervort, of La Grange toAvnshii), and Charles \V., wlio resides at Grand Rapids, ]\Iinn. The fath.er. who was a native of Scotland, came to AVhitewater. AVis.. when he was twenty-one years of age. He later went to AValworth connty, thence to ]Monroe connty in 1855, and settled on the fai'in of 1"):^ acres Avhere onr snli.iect now resides. He was niari'icd Xovcmlx'i- (i. 1859, to ^Martha Edgerton, a native of Connecticnt, and danghter of Charles and ]\Iary Edgerton. who came west to AVisconsin in an early day and first located in .Jefferson county. From there tlicy came to ^Monroe county in 1856, and sjient the balance of their lives experiencing the hardships and |)ri\ations incident to pioneer life in La Grange township.

Thomas N. Forrest was one of IMonroe county's most influential citizens, straightforward and honorable in all his dealings, and a man with manv warm friends. He had one brother. AVilliam

Forrest, who came to "Wisconsin from Scotland, and settled at Whitewater, Wis., where he spent the balance of his life. His widow, whose maiden name was Huldah Rawson, still survives. ]\Irs. Forrest, mother of our subject, is a charming lady, and one of three survivors of a family of twelve children; the others are Frank Edgerton, of La Grange township, and Caroline, widow of William Sayre. He was a native of New York state and in about 1879 came to Monroe county, locating in section tive. La Grange township, on a farm of eighty acres, consisting mostly of unimproved land, and for a time lived near the present homestead. He started to improve his land and first built a log house, which was replaced with a jnodern one, where his widow and son, Clarence M. Sayre, now reside. Mrs. Sayre was born in 1831 and at the age of more than four score years is well preserved and enjoys good health. Mr. Sayre, after a long and busy life, died at the age of eighty-four years.

Nelson J. Forrest was reared on tlie home farm and received his education in the district schools and early devoted his time and attention to farming and the management of the homestead Avhere he has spent his entire life. He carries on general farming, dairying and stock raising, and makes a specialty of Duroc- Jersey hogs. The farm is under a high state of cultivation and the place is Avell improved with a good barn erected in 1903 and a modern residence erected in 1909, witli outbuildings to correspond, lie takes an active interest in local matters; has been treasurer of the town, supervisor two terms, and is now serving his third term as assessor. He is president of the Farmers' Cooperative Elevator Company and is a well-to-do and progressive man of aifairs. He was married February 17, 1892, to Miss Julia ]\Iininger, a native of Waukesha, AVis., and a resident of La Grange township. They have an interesting family of six children, viz. : Guy N., Gladys J., valedictorian of the 1912 class of the Tomah high school ; Raymond T. and Leroy C, twins ; Ruth E., and Chester W. Forrest.

Fred M. Foster, the popular and enterprising photographer of Sparta, a lifelong resident of that city, was bom June 25, 1862, the son of Hiram and Julia A. (Harvey) Foster, natives of Cattaraugus county. New York, and wdio early came to Sparta, where he built th(> Globe Hotel, the first frame building erected in Sparta and whieli stood on the ground now occupied by the Carnegie librarj'. He later engaged in farming in Sparta township, which he continued for several years, where he died in 1889 at the age of seventy years. His widow, mother of our subject.

died ill 1899. He has always taken a commendable interest in the affairs of his town and county and served as treasurer of his township. He is one of Sparta's most prominently and highly respected citizens. His father, Ezekiel Foster, was a native of Maine and followed his son to ^Monroe county, where he died.

Our subject, Fred ]\I., was the fourth child of a family of four sons. Tlie others are : Theodore, who resides at Santa Clara, Cal.; Orlando lives in AVasliingtun, and Edgar M. resides in Sparta. Fred was reared on his father's farm, attending the district schools and assisting in the farm work. When starting out in life for liimsclf. His first employment was that as clerk in the Winship Hotel at Sparta, and later he became clerk at the Jewell Hotel, at Winona, ]\Iinn., remaining there until he became engaged in the photograph business with Richardson Brothers, of Sparta, this arrangement continuing until the fall of 1894, when he purchased the studio at No. 101 South AVater street, whidi lie has continued with unabating success.

]\Ir. Foster is a man of decided artistic tastes and has made a thorough study of photography in all its phases and branches, and is recognized as a most skillful expert and operator in his class of art. His studio is a perfect model in all its appointments, equipped as it is with every facility and appliance for turning out the highest class of work, producing portraits on platinum, in water colors, sepia, etc., with every variety and style of finish and mounting.

Mr. Foster is a member of the Northwestern and the National Photographers' Associations, and is also a member of the Knights of Pjiihias. He was appointed captain and commissary of the Third Regiment, AYisconsin National Guard, April 7, 1912. He was married April 19, 1887, to Miss Georgie A. AVise, daughter of G. A. "Wise, of Michigan. They have one child, Gerald L. Foster.

Mrs. Louise B. Fox, Avidow of the late Benjamin F. Fox. Avas born in Sussex county. New Jersey, April 28, 1834. Her parents were natives of Ncav Jersey and the father by trade Avas a cooper and also folloAved farming. He Avas born in 1800 and died in 1884. The mother of Mrs. Fox Avas born in 1811 and died in 1867. They moved from Ncav Jersey to Milan, O., AA'here they lived for a short time, then moved to Huron county, that state, and lived for sixteen years. They had a family of scA'en children, three of whom are noAV (1912) living, viz.: ]\rrs. Fox, Avhose maiden name Avas Louise Be Dell : p]dAvin Be Dell, born June 24. 1836, and Jonathan N. Be Dell, born February 22, 1851, makes his home with his sister, Mrs. Fox, and looks after her business interests. He was formerly a resident of Oakland, Cal., a man of fine education and experienced in school teaching.

Benjamin F. Fox, deceased, was born April 1], 1821, at Milan, Erie county, Ohio. In 1851 he came west to Wisconsin and located in tlie Leon valley, Monroe county, and purchased 120 acres of school land one and one-half miles from the A'illage of Leon. He was married March 18, 1858, to Miss Louise Be Dell at Norwalk, 0. One son, George Collins Fox, was born to them in ]\Ionroe county, December 16, 1858, and died in 1878. Starting out in life with little else than his native ability, Mr. Fox by thrift, perseverance, hard w^ork and good management succeeded in accomplishing the greater part of his undertakings, and at the time of his death was enjoying the fruits of his labors in comfortable circumstances. He improved his farm and soon after his marriage built a modest residence, which was later replaced with a large and commodious residence, where they lived until 1905, and then purchased the comfortable home in the village of Leon, where he passed away in 1909, and where his widow now (1912) resides. He was a successful general farmer and one of the substantial and representative men of Monroe county, and owaied at the time of his death 200 acres of land in Leon valley. He w^as a typical American, self-educated, a great student and much interested in all matters of public importance ; a man of sound judgment. Avhose influence was felt by his neighbors and friends. He was strictly temperate in all things, never used tobacco in any form, and was an active member of the Congregational church, to which he contributed liberally. He was superintendent of the Sunday school and all worthy charitable objects found in him a liberal supporter. A Republican in politics, he was active in the affairs of his party and held nearly all of the minor offices of his town.

Benson S. Fox, of Leon, is the son of George ^Y. and Candice (Lee) Fox, and was born at New Hartford, Minn., February 4, 1861, and is the eldest in a family of three children, all sons, wlio are now living. The father came from Ohio in an early day and settled at New Hartford, Minn., wdiere he was married in 1863, and in 1873 removed to the town of Leon in Monroe county. By hard work, thrift and economy he acquired 280 acres of land and there lived until his death, which occurred August 30, 1911. His widow, mother of our subject, still survives at the age of sixty- eight years. He was a man of imicli foree and highly respected by the citizens of his eoinnninity. He was moral and upright and gained many friends by his honest dealings, and was one of the most respected and highly esteemed citizens of Leon. lie served as a member of the town board, was school director for many years, and assessor for two years. The paternal ancestors of onr subject came over with AVilliam Penn and settled in ]Massachusetts. Peter Clow, the grandfather of the subject's mother, was a soldier in the war of 1812. Grandfather Lee lived in Canada during the French and Indian Avar, and because he refused to take up arms against the United States he was forced to leave Canada and removed to New York, the English government confiseating all his property. After the war lie returned to Canada but failed in his efforts to regain his property. He emigrated to ^Minnesota when the mother of our subject was thirteen years old, going overland with ox team from Rockford. 111., where the family had lived a short time. He Avas born in Jefferson county, Ncav York, in 1820, and died in 1904. The grandmother Avas born in 1822 and died in 1872. He enlisted in 1862 during the Civil War in Company D, Seventh Regiment, ]Minnesota Volunteers, and served until the close of the Avar.

Benson S. attended the public schools until his seventeentli year and remained at home until he l)ecame of age. He Avas married December 4. 1884. to ]\Iiss Aurella Smith at Sparta, the daughter of Alcander and Catherine Smith. To this union Avere born three children, of Avhom tAVO are noAV living, viz.: Herbert L., born September 25, 1885. and B. Earl, born June 24, 1895. Mrs. Fox died January 17, 1912. The farm, Avhich Avas homesteaded and OAvned by Mr. Smith, father of Mrs. Fox, Avas purchased by Mr. Fox and he there made his home for tAveuty-fiA'e years, successfully engaged in farming, and Avhere he made many of the A'aluable improA-ements. ]\Ir. Fox for many years has taken an active interest in the affairs of his toAvn. and has held many local offices. For tAventy years he Avas school director, has been supervisor and assessor, and for nine years treasurer of the toAvn. and is the present incumlient. An extract from the La Crosse Tribune says of him: '"Ben Fox, treasure!- of the toAvn of Leon, has made his annual settlement Avith County Treasurer Babcock. and again presents a book clean of all delin^iuents, not a dollar being returned on either real estate or personal propeity. His total roll amounted to >1<10,060.79. This is the tenth year that :Mr. Fox has served as the treasurer of the toAvn of Leon, and for the past six vears he has collected nil tlie taxes on the roll."

In polities Mr. Fox is a La Follette Republican, and takes an active interest in the affairs of his party. He has served two years as justice of the peace. On February 28, 1909, he moved into the village of Leon, where he owns considerable property besides his commodious residence Avhere he now resides.

Capt. Frank Lyon French, who has attained to a prominent position among the military men of the country, is a product of Monroe county, AVisconsin, and was born October 29, 1862, the son of Jacob Jewell and Elizabeth C. (Lyon) French, natives of East Jeffery, N. H., and Benton Center, N. Y., respectively. In 1860 Jacob J. French removed from his native state to Wisconsin and settled in La Fayette township, JMonroe county. Here he remained until 1866, when he moved into the city of Sparta and embarked in the grocery business, and in 1868 he engaged in hop and stock raising, and still later was engaged with the firm of French & King from 1870 to 1886, who were extensive dealers in hops and live stock. During the administration of President Cleveland, Mr. French was, in 1886, appointed postmaster of Sparta, and continued to dispatch the duties of this office for five years. His next business venture was in the fruit business, which continued to be his occupation until his death, which occurred on February 7, 1903, in his eighty-fifth year, he having been born August 21, 1818. He took an active part in all matters pertaining to the betterment of his city and county, was prominent in business and social life, and was at one time president of the village board, city treasurer and promoter of Sparta's North park. In 1872 he held the honor of being the champion rifle shot of the LTnited States, and was an active member of the original Masonic lodge in Sparta.

Elizabeth C. Lyon French, mother of our subject, was born July 14, 1845, and died April 28, 1902. She was the youngest of a family of six children, one of whom, James R. Lyon, of Kendall, a pioneer of JMonroe covmty, is still living. Those deceased besides Mrs. French are : John C, Myran F. and Harriet C, wife of Rev. J. R. Jaques.

Samuel C. Lyon, maternal grandfather of Frank L., was born in the state of New York in July, 1800. and was one of the first settlers in the town of Glendale, Monroe county, AA^isconsin. He died November 5, 1873. His wife, Lois Elizabeth Kendall Lyon, maternal grandmother of our subject, was born in August, 1802, and died May 4, 1873. She married Samuel C. Lyon, at Benton Center, N. Y., in 1824.

of Thomas Freiu-h, Jr., of East Jeft'cry, N. H. His fatlun-, Thomas French, was a native of Dunstable, N. 11. The mother of Thomas French, Jr., Avas Hannah Cnmmings, and the mother of Jacob Jewell French was Sophia Jewell, of ]\Iarlborough, ]\Iass., and she was a daughter of Jacob Jewell, of England, and her mother, Polly Smitli, came originally from Ireland.

Frank Lyon French Avas married Septeiid3er 25, 1897, to ]\Iiss ]Mabel Laura Masters, daughter of Bissill ]\I. and Helen (Cross) ^Masters, of Sparta. The father of ]\Irs. French, Bissill ]\1. blasters, was born in Springfield, Mass., in 1838, came west in 1865, was on the coast during the San Francisco earthquake in 1908, and is now a resident of Sparta. ]\Ir. ^Masters Avas a son of John I\Iasters, Avho was born April 4, 1805, and died in his one hundredth year. He traces his ancestors ])ack to the Huguenots of France in 1562. His wife was Laura Bissill, born October 28, 1807. ]\Irs. Helen (Cross) ^Masters, the mother of ]Mrs. French, Avas born .March 16, 1847, and died April 15, 1888. The maternal grandfather of Mrs. French Avas AndrcAA' Cross, a natiA'e of Ncav York state, Avho came to Sparta and Avho Avas at one time sheriff of his natiA'e county. He Avas born in October, 1804. and died February 11, 1878. His Avife AA'as Mary Moak, of Ncav York, born August 11, 1810. Other members of this family Avere Katherine, born December 21, 1818; Emonzo. liorn ]March 31, 1824; John, born ^lay 13, 1836 ; Alexander, born December 14, 1839 ; Virgene, born December 16, 1843, and Germane, born Septembei- 24. 1849. The children of Mr. and Mrs. French are Helen Elizabeth, born December 27, 1898; Virgene, born July 31, 1902; Katiiryn Belle, born September 9, 1903. Mrs. French Avas graduated from the Sparta high school Avith the class of 1891.

Captain French AA'as educated at the public schools of Sparta, and on October 13, 1879, began to learn telegraphy at Viroqua, AYis., and followed that A'ocation until NoA'ember 5, 1880. Avhen he entered the emplo}- of the Chicago, Mihvaukee & St. Paul Raihvay C()nii)any as telegrapher at the Sparta station, continuing here until ]\Iay 11, 1881, avIkmi he entered the service of the NorthAvestern Raihvay Company in the train dispatcher's office in November, 1882, at Huron, S. D., and in December of the same year Avas transferred to Pierre, S. D.. in charge of the AYestern Union, Chicago & NorthAvestern, ;iiul the government telegraph lines, continuing here until July 8, 1883, Avhen he made a trip to the Black Hills, thence to northAvestern "\Yyoming and the ]\rontana buffalo range, Avhere he remained until December 15, 1883, when he returned to Sparta, but soon after went to Glendale and took charge of a store of general merchandise for J. R. Lj^on, remaining here until October, 1886. He was then appointed assistant postmaster of Sparta, under his father, in November of that year, continuing in that capacity until December, 1891, when he engaged in the l)ook and stationery business in Sparta, whicli he followed for seven years, or until April 28, 1898, when he entered the service of the United States in the Spanish-American war as first lieutenant of Company L, Third Regiment, Wisconsin National Guard Volunteers, and was made captain September 13, 1898. He served with his regiment through the Porto Rican campaign until January 11, 1899, when he was mustered out with his regiment. He was appointed captain of the Thirty-fourth United States Volunteers, July 5, 1899, by President McKinley, and entered upon his two years' service in the Philippines. He was promoted to battalion commander August 11, 1900, and discharged with his regiment April 17, 1901, when he returned to Sparta, where he was engaged in the fruit business until September 1, 1904, he was appointed njail agent for the rural route service. He has been commander of the American post of Spanish-American war veterans, and a member of Valley Lodge No. 16. A. F. & A. M., since 1891.

Captain French was a member of the local militia company from August 31, 1887, to May 11, 1898. During that time he was promoted to the rank of first lieutenant, his duties consisting of general instructions in shooting. He was a member of the state rifle team for several years and attended several interstate shoots. He also won the General King revolver for best revolver shot. The military record of Captain French, Avhich follows, is one that he may .justly be proud of :

Recommended by Maj. J. A. Penn, Thirty-fourth Infantry, U. S. v., for commission as major by brevet for gallant and meritorious services in action at Tangnadan mountain, December 4, 1899, and in pursuit of General Tinios' forces, December 5 to 11, 1899. Actions at Bandi, December 8 ; Banna Canon, December 9 ; also recommended he be commissioned lieutenant-colonel by brevet for especially hazardous and meritorious services in the rescue of Lieutenant Gilmore, U. S. navy, and twenty-five American prisoners, etc., December, 1899. Approved by Lieut. -Col. Robert L. Howze and Gen. S. B. M. Young.

9 to 1]. 1899; Colonel Ilowze's expedition from Aliaga, Luzon, via Victoria and Rosales to Bautista, November 13 to 20, 1899; General McArtlmr's advance, Bautista to Dagupan, November 21 to 24, 1899; General Young's expedition up west coast of Luzon, November 25 to December 11; pursuit of General Tinio, December 5 to n, 1899; Gilmore relief expedition, December 14, 1899, to January '.i, 1900. Assisted in rescues: I'idigan Abra, December 6, 1899, 300 Spanish soldiers; Banquet, Al)ra, December 6, 1899, 1,100 Spanish soldiers; La Pax, Abra, December 8, 1899, three Americans; Dingras, I. N., December 10, 1899; General Pena, 450 Spanish officers and 450 Spanish soldiers; Salsona, I. N., December 10, 1899, 100 Chinese; Gaset, upper Abulug river, December 16, 1899, three Americans; Lannae, upper Abulug river, December 18, 1809. Lieutenant Gilmore, V. S. Navy, and nineteen Americans. Participated in captures: Dunlas, Abra, December 8, 1899, great qiumtity of arms and war material : Banquet. Abra. December 6, 1899, insurgent arsenal.

December 7, 1899, defeated insurgent forces at La Pax. Abra, killing General Quesada, insurgent paymaster, and captured his money and payrolls.

Upon his return to AVisconsin from the Philippines he was presented with a beautiful solid gold medal by the state of "Wisconsin. This medal was designed by Gov. J. O. Davidson and Gen. C. R. Boardman. Engraved on one side were tiie words: "AVisconsin - Distinguished Alilitary Service," and on the reverse, "Presented to Capt. Frank L. French. Sparta. Wis., late of the Thirty-fourth T'. S. Y., by act of tli.> Legislature, 1901." His Sparta friends presented him Avitli a handsome gold-mounted sword and scabbard, with a sole-leatln^r trunk case for same. Captain French was tendered a commission in the regular army 1)y President j\IcKinley, but decided to remain a citizen of Sparta.

Joseph Gasper, a successful fanner who resides in section seven, l^orthmd township, was born in LaPorte county, Indiana, November 9, 1858. His parents, AVilliani and Lena (Green) Gasper, were natives of Germany, and after their marriage, came to Illinois and located in Chicago in 1848. which at that time was a small village. He first found employment in a brickyard, and after three years, moved to LaPorte county, Indiana, where he carried on farming for twelve years. In 1865 the family moved to La Crosse county, Wisconsin, and settled on 120 acres of wild land in Washington township which the father immediately set to Avork to clear and soon he erected a log house and some outbuildings which sufficed until the dawn of better days, and here they experienced the hardships of pioneer life and passed the remainder of their days. He died at Tunnel City, ]\Ionroe county, in 1886 at the age of seventy-four years, and Mrs. Gasper passed aAvay in AVashington township. La Crosse county, in 1882 at the age of sixty-three. They had a family of thirteen children, viz: Peter, deceased; John resides in ]\Iichigan City, Ind. ; j\Iary, now ]Mrs. John Keef er, lives at ^Michigan City; Kate and Mary are deceased; Nicholas lives in INIichigan City; Emma is deceased; Anna, wife of S. Strittmatter, of La Crosse county; William, of Adrian toAvnship ; John, who was a twin brother of our subject, is deceased, as is also Eliza- ])eth ; John Henry is road master for the Chicago, IMilwaukee & St. Paul Railroad Company, resides at Chillicothc Mo.

In 1882 Mr. Joseph Gasper was united in marriage with ]Miss Clara Brecht, daughter and fourth child in a family of five children born to John and Katherine Brecht. early settlers of La Crosse county. The others are Katherine, wife of Amil Moser, of Cripple Creek, Colo. ; Anna, wife of August Hunt, deceased ; Margaret, wife of C. F. Brown, resides at Desota, Wis., and John of La Crosse. To ]\Ir. and Mrs. Casper have been born six children, viz: Laura, wife of Frank Zebell. of Portland township ; Louisa, married Henry AA^hitehead, and resides at Bangor, La Crosse county; John, Frank J., AVilliam and Katherine reside at home.

Mr. Gasper received his education in the district school and remained on the home farm until twenty-four years of age when he started farming for himself on a rented farm. Seven years later he purchased 160 acres of land in AVashington township. La Crosse county and after four years, in 1892, he disposed of his interests in La Crosse county and purchased his present farm of 160 acres, 120 of which is under a high state of culti- ration. AVhen ]\Ir. Gasper first moved to his present farm, there were no biiiklings but an old log house; he has since erected a commodious dwelling, substantial barns, machinery shed, windmill and made other improvements, l^esides general farming and dairying, he is engaged in raising ITolstein-Fresian cattle and Poland-China hogs, and is one of the most progressive men of the community. At the age of eighteen ^Iv. Gasper started to run a threshing machine which he followed eaeh season for seventeen years. He takes an active interest in the affairs of his townshij), has been supervisor for three years, chairman of the board one year, and treasurer for twelve years of school district number five and is now serving as clerk of school district number five of Portland toAvnship.

Emil Gerke,* Avho noAv resides on section nineteen. Sparta township, is one of the M'ide-awake and enterprising young farmers of Monroe county, was born in La Crosse county, AVisconsin, ]\Iay 81, 1882, the son of Fred and Dorothy iC'lements) Gerke. The father, a native of Germany, came to the United States when fifteen years of age, located in La Crosse county, AVisconsin, where he married, and there spent the greater part of his life engaged in farming. He was one of the representative citizens of La Crosse county, a kind father and husband, and at the time of his death, Avliich occurred Jime 24, 191L ;it the age of sixty years, held the confidence and esteem of his wide circle of friends. Air. and Mrs. Gerke had a family of seven children, as follows: Frank lives at La Crosse, Con Peter is on the home farm, Louisa is the wife of Edward Smaltz, of Bangor, AVis. ; Christina is the Avife of Frank Kirschner. of La Crosse county; Emma is the wife of Charles Stark and resides in Sparta township; Sophia and Maggie reside at home with their mother.

Emil Gerke attended the distri<'t schools at La Crosse county, and remained on the home farm until he was fift(^en years of age. During the next seven years he was variously employed at farm work, his last employer being AYilliam Cassel, Avho died on June 1, 1904, and in 1905, Mr. Gerke purchased the farm, which he has since successfully carried on, and has made extensive improvements. He has l)uilt a barn, 36 by 96 feet, erected a silo. wiiKlinill. and made oilier improvemciils. Tinland is under a high state of cultivation, from whii li he reaps an abundant harvest each year.

On July 24, 1906, Mr. Gerke was married to ]\Iiss Lena Leek, daughter of Fred and Amelia (Patz) Leek, of Sparta township. ]\Irs. Gerke died in Xovendier. 1911. leaving besides lici- worthy husband, two children named Clara Amelia and Dorothy Hulda. In religions faith Mr. Gerke is a member of St. Patrick's Catholic chnrch of Sparta.

Henry F. Gerke, one of the influential and successful farmers of Ridgeville toAvnship, was born in Hanover, Germany, September 12. 1846, the son of H 0. and Sophia (Klingo) Gerke.

Mr. Gerke emigrated to America in 1866 and located first in Milwaukee, where he worked out at odd jobs, and made his home with his uncle, Gus Kling. He remained there three years, then came to Tomah and remained one year with a sister, then Avent to Olmstead county, Minnesota, where he remained for a time, then in 1871 returned to Monroe county and purchased 160 acres of land in section tw^o, Ridgeville township ; he later sold eighty acres of land to his brother, but since has acquired by purchase, additional acres until he now owns 320 acres in sections two and three.

Being thrown on his own resources at an early age, Mr. Gerke started out in life with nothing but his native ability, and has by hard work, thrift and economy worked his way to a commanding position of influence in his town. When he purchased the homestead, where he now resides, the land Avas raw and in a wild state ; he erected a modest house in M^hich he lived for fifteen years, and set diligently to work to clear and improve his land. He worked hard and overcame many obstacles, and in the end gained success. In 1909 he built a large and commodious residence, and with his large lawn and handsome shade trees, all set out with his own hands, his well built barn and outbuildings, makes his one of the ideal country homes in Ridgeville township. Mr. Gerke takes pride in making his farm one of the best in the county, and keeps it well stocked Avith Percheron horses and Durham cattle. He uses the latest up-to-date methods in his farming operations, and his place is well supplied Avith modern labor-saving devices. Mr. Gerke is one of the solid men of his town and is well known as one of the public spirited and successful citizens. He is active in all matters of interest in his community, and secretary of the German Mutual Insurance Company, Avhieh Avas organized in 1876, and incorporated in 1895. Its total assets are $8,990.37, and in every way on a sound foundation. AVinand Mullenburg is its president. In politics Mr. Gerke is independent, Avhile in religious matters he and his wife are members of the Lutheran church.

Mr. Gerke Avas married at OconomoAVOc, Wis., in October, 1871, to Miss Dorothy Winzenburg, whose parents also came from Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Gerke have a family of eight children, as

William H. Gerke, a successful German farjiicr of Wilton township, ami owner of al)out 4H0 acres of fine farm land, is tile son of Henry and Soi)liia (Clin<i) (ierke, natives of Germany, where the mother died, and AVilliam was born on June 5, 1S')(). He came to America with his father in 1869 and iirst located in Tomah, but after a short time moved to the town of Adrian and later to Ridoeville. Avhere the father died in 1873. William worked as a farm hand and attended school until he was seventeen years old. 11(> was a steady and economical young- man, and through his faithful etfoi-ts, lie managed to accunndate saviugs sufficient to purchase a lOd acre fai'm in Wilton township in 1877, to which he added from time to time, including a half section, wliich he pui'chased in North Dakota, until he now owns about 460 acres. lie has made many lasting and valuable improvements on his farm in way of cultivation and ])uildings. In 188:j he erected a new modern residence and the following year a commodious barn aiul other outbuildings to correspond. He makes a specialty of dairying and raises the best grade of stock of all kinds. He is a Democrat in ])olitics. was treasui'er of the town of Wilton for two years, ehainnan of the board for four years, school treasurer for twentythree years and a mend)er of the Lutheran church.

On March 15, 1877, he Avas married in Wilton to ]\Iiss Caroline Behrens. daughter of Fred and ]Mina Behi-ens. both natives oi Germany, who came to America in 18G7 and located in Wilton on a farm of 140 acres in section five, where they lived until 1897; the mother died two years previous. ^Mrs. Gerke is one of a family of twelve children, two of wliom are living. Her ])eo])le Avere mend)ei's of tlie Lutheran church.

Arthur N. Getnian"-, a |)rogressi\-e farmer of st'ction nine, LaGrange township, is a native of Alonroe county, antl was born on the farm where he resides on August 23, 1868, the son of William and Fidelia (Vandervort) Getman, who were also natives of Wisconsin, having been born in AVaukesha c<iunty. this state.

They came to JMoiiroe county in 1866 and settled on the farm where our subject now resides. The farm at this time being mostly wild land, the father started to improve the place and establish the family home. He erected a small frame house, 16 X 20, which for a few years was used as a dwelling, which was afterwards remodeled and changed to a convenient and substantial residence. He cleared the timber and made other improvements as conditions and circumstances ati'orded, following his trade of shoemaker in the_ meantime. He was possessed of that thrift and progressive spirit common to his German-Scotch ancestry, and at the time of his death, which occurred on January 6, 1884, at the age of forty-two years, had his land under a good state of cultivation and was held in high esteem by his many friends. His widow still survives and is now the wife of M. L. Johnson, of LaGrange townshij). By a previous marriage to Al Featherly. she had one son, Albert Featherly, who now resides at Seattle. AVash. In the Getman family there are five children, viz. : Arthur X.. Harry lives in IMichigan, Frank resides at Tomah, Jennie is the wife of Pete Richerson, of Ohio, and Lester, w^ho lives at Evanston, 111.

Arthur X. spent his boyhood on his father's farm, attending the district school. He early found employmeJit with the Goodyear Lumber Company and was thus employed by them and others for about seven years. In 1888 he purchased the homestead farm and has since continued to make that his home. He has cleared ten more acres, erected all the present buildings and otherwise made many lasting improvements. jNIr. Getman is one of the hustling men of ]\Ionroe county and is wide awake to all matters pertaining to the betterment of his town and county. He has been school treasurer of his district for seven years ; has been overseer of highways and is now serving as township treasurer. He is a member of the ^Modern Woodmen of America.

On January 27. ]891, Mr. Getman was married to Aliss Hattie Steele, of Valley Junction, Wis. Their children are Deeda, wife of Harry Sueat, of Grant township : Katie, Jennie, Wallace, Edgar and Ruth Getman.

George Gilbertson''', one of the wide awake native sons of ]\lonroe county, was born in the town of Leon, October 24, 1870, and is the son of Ole G. and Rebecca (Peterson) Gilbertson, both natives of Xorway. The father came to America in 1865, and located in the Leon valley, where he worked as a farm laborer for three years. He then bought a homestead right to 160 acres of land, title to which he obtained from the

Government. There he made his home for forty-two years. In his family were nine ehildren, eiglit of wliom are now living, viz.: George, Mary, Anton, Oscar, Milton, Emma, Otto and Albert. He received a good common school education in his native country, was a great reader and kept himself well jjosted on all current events. In politics he was a Republican and a leader in the aifairs of the parly. ;ind exerted a powerful influence in the Leon valley, and was an intimate friend of the Hon. John R. Jones, and tiie two were considered stalwarts. He w.as chairman of the Republican county convention and for many years chairman of the township comniiti CO. and was a delegate to many conventions. He held the office of assessor of the town of Leon for twent}'' years, and in religious matters lie was affiliated with the Lutheran church, as is his widow. Born February 9, 1843, he died October 11, 1911. His wife, mother of our subject. Avas born Deeonibcr 11. 1846. and still survives.

George, the subject of this sketch, was reared t)n the farm and attended the district schools until he was fourteen years of age. He then found employment on the farm for $15 per month, and so Avell did he attend to the duties assigned him. his salary was soon raised to $18 and finally he received $25 per mouth. Being economical and saving he soon accumulated cpiite a sum of money which he placed in a bank at Sparta. During financial difficulties the bank failed ami his earnings were lost, which necessitated his commencing anew, and by hard Avork and economy he soon overcame his misfortune. He started farming on his own account and for thirteen years worked a rented farm, at the end of that time, in 1911, he purchased 200 acres in the town of Leon, where he now resides. He is a i)rogressive and successful general fariner and makes a specialty of raising a good grade of cattle and hogs, and is considered one of the Avell-to-do farmers of his section. In politics he is a Republican and takes an active interest in the afl'airs of the party, while in fraternal matters he is a mcmlier of the IModern Woodmen of Anioi-ica and \hc Bi-otherhood of American Yeoman.

He was married in Leon to ]\Iiss Ella Olson, daughter of Peter Olson. Three children have been born to ^Ir. and ^Irs. Gilbcrtson, viz. : Herman, born September 22. 1899; Chester, born January 24, 1901. and Roy. l)orn August 2. 1904.

John H. Gilliland, who resides on his farm of 213 acres in the town of Leon, where he was born August 18, 1857, is a son of A. II. and Sarah (Sherlock) Gilliland. both natives of Ti-eland. The father cnmo to America when a young man and first located in the state of New York, where he was employed at farm work for several years, five years of the time being spent in the employ of one man. Beginning life as a poor boy he worked his way to independent circumstances. He left the state of New York for the West, going first to Iowa, but not finding that state satisfactory to his idea, he set out for Wisconsin. Taking boat at Dubuque he came up the river to La Crosse, and overland from the latter place to the Leon valley, arriving at his destination about 1850; being impressed with the then new country, he purchased 800 acres of land and set to work to improve its condition and establish a home. To his original "purchase he added from time to time until he had acquired 720 acres, disposing of a part of the land, he owned at the time of his death, which occurred in 1885, 600 acres. He was quarried at about the time he came west and had a family of four children, two of whom are now living, viz. : Mary A., who is the widow of Dr. W. B. ]\Iorley, resides at Shell Lake, Wis., and John H., our subject. On arriving in the Leon valley he built a small shanty on the river, where his family lived, until circumstances permitted of the erection of a comfortable residence close to the village, "where he spent the remainder of his life. He was a successful farmer and breeder of cattle, hogs and sheep, and during his lifetime took an active interest in politics, being an active Avorker in the ranks of the Democratic party. His educational advantages were limited, but by constant reading, became self-educated and was well posted on all live subjects of the day. His wife, mother of our subject, who was a lady of many womanly virtues, died in September, 1883, loved and respected by her large circle of friends.

John II. attended the district school until he was twenty years old, and spent one winter in the public schools of Sparta. He remained with his parents until their decease, and then remained on the homestead farm for a time, and on August 23, 1887, was married at Sparta to Miss Elizabeth Lennon. Mr. Gilliland's farm of 213 acres, lies three-quarters of a mile from the village of Leon, and is one of the good farms of this valley. He is one of the successful and progressive general farmers of that town, and his modern residence, erected in 1890, and substantial barn, built in 1895, together with other improvements, makes his one of the splendid country homes of the valley. In politics a Democrat ; he is active in the affairs of his party and has held several local offices. He has been town clerk, and for several years school treasurer.

To ]\Ir. and ]\Irs. Gillilantl have been born three children, viz.: Carl Glenn, a graduate of Annapolis Naval Academy, now ensign on the battleshij) Arkansas-. John Forrest, at lioiiic. and ^Margaret E. Oilliland.

Mrs. Lizzie Gilliland, wife of Albert E. Gilliland. deceased, and a dauglilcr of Jlcurx \'an Etten, of ^lonroe county, was born J)eceni])ei" 12. 1868, in the town of Leon. She was educated in the common schools of the county, and was married in 181KJ at the age of twenty-two years to Albert E. Gilliland. To them were born four children, three of wlnnii ni'c now (1012) living, viz.: Roy A., born February 19. 1894: Alexander, born August 4, 1901, and Hazel, born January 11, 1907.

All)ert E. Gilliland was a son of A. H. and Sarah (Sherlock) Gilliland, natives of Ireland. He was born September 18, 1860, in Leon. Wis. His education was acquired in the common schools and at La Crosse lousiness College. He was reared on his father's farm and remained Avith his parents during their lifetime. His mother died in 1883 and the death of his father occurred October 29, 1885.

Ml". Gilliland was one of the solid, enterprising and successful general farmers of Leon, and took pride in breeding and raising good horses, and his farm of HOO acres. 140 acres of which was under a good state <if cultivation and improved Avith a substantial residence and outbuildings. He stood high in his community and en.ioyed the confidence of all who knew him. He Avas an honorable, upright citizen, fond of his home and family, and his death. Avhich occurred August 1. IIHI, was mourned by a large circle of friends and acquaintances.

Rev. John George Glaeser, jiastor of the St. Paul's Lutheran church of Tomah. one of the finest churches of this denomination in Monroe count.w was boi-n at Platteville. Wis.. November 24, 1865, the son of John and Hai-bara (Gilbert) Glaeser. both natives of Germany. The father emigrated to the T'nitcd States in 1852 and first located at Pottsville. Pa.. Avhere he lived tAvo years, Avorking the Avhilc in the coal mines at that place, removing thence to Platteville. Wis.. Avhere he acquired sixty acres of land Aviiich he tilled and Avhere the family lived for fifty years. Li 1907 he i-etired fidiii active labor, and with the mother now lives in Platteville. he at the age of seventylive and she at the age of sixty-seA'en years.